Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT) is giving investors something else to consider after a rough start to 2026.
The financial services group is higher on Friday after announcing a new acquisition and an update on its debt position.
At the time of writing, the Perpetual share price is up 2.13% to $15.84.
It was stronger earlier in the session, reaching $15.96 in morning trade before some investors took profit.
The move offers some relief after a difficult run for the stock.
Even after today's gain, Perpetual shares are still down around 15% in 2026.
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Perpetual makes a new acquisition
According to the release, Perpetual has entered a share sale deed to acquire 70% of Interfi Systems Pty Ltd.
Interfi is a loan servicing technology business with around $55 billion in assets under administration (AUM).
The company provides loan administration, arrears management, recovery, collections, and special servicing services.
Perpetual said the deal is part of its plan to grow its Corporate Trust business and expand its Digital and Markets division.
The acquisition price was not disclosed.
Perpetual said the deal will be funded from internally generated cash flows and is expected to be completed before the end of June.
The company also has an option to acquire the remaining 30% of Interfi shares by FY31.
Interfi founder and Managing Director Michael Dilworth will continue with the business.
Why investors are buying
The market appears to be focusing on both sides of today's update.
On the acquisition side, Interfi gives Perpetual more exposure to loan servicing technology, which sits alongside its existing corporate trust operations.
Management expects the acquisition to contribute to growth in the Corporate Trust Digital and Markets division in FY27 and beyond.
Chief Executive Bernard Reilly said the deal supports Perpetual's aim of building a broader digital ecosystem and automating end-to-end loan functions.
The balance sheet update is also likely helping sentiment.
Perpetual said its gross debt is expected to fall by about 15% over the six months to 30 June.
Gross debt stood at $742 million at 31 December 2025.
Debt remains a key focus
Perpetual has been under pressure this year, and investors are still watching the balance sheet closely.
The company has been trying to tidy things up after several years of deals and corporate changes.
Its wealth management, asset management, and corporate trust operations have all been under the microscope as investors look for a simpler business.
So, the lower debt guidance is a welcome sign, especially after such a difficult run for the share price.
