What did Perpetual report?

• Rejected a further revised, non-binding buyout offer from EQT at $22.50 per share.
• Proposal included the option for a permitted dividend of up to $0.60 per share for 1H27.
• Board maintained its view that the offer undervalued the company.
• Sale of Wealth Management business remains on track for completion in Q4 FY26.
• Expected move to a net cash position after the sale, offering increased financial flexibility.

What else do investors need to know?

Perpetual says its engagement process with EQT has now concluded, as the latest proposal was described as "best and final" in the absence of competing offers. Shareholders are not required to take any action in response to this announcement.

The board also reiterated that the planned sale of its Wealth Management arm is proceeding as expected, with completion likely by the end of 2026. This sale is anticipated to enhance Perpetual's financial position and allow more capital management initiatives in the future.

What's next for Perpetual?

With the EQT engagement process now closed, Perpetual is focused on its core Asset Management and Corporate Trust businesses. Management highlights a continued commitment to delivering sustainable long-term value to shareholders.

Once the Wealth Management business sale wraps up, Perpetual expects to be in a net cash position, providing room to consider additional capital management options alongside dividends.

Perpetual share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perpetual shares have risen 3%, outperforming the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has declined 1% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual rejects EQT's final offer and confirms asset sale plans appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The ASX 200 started in red territory this morning and only got worse over the session. By the time trading ended, the index had lost 0.88% of its value and had settled at 8,672.5 points.

This rather terrible Tuesday for Australian investors came after a similarly downbeat night on Wall Street overnight to kick off the American trading week.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) did start strong, but ended up recording a 0.29% loss.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared even worse, dropping 0.56%.

But let's get back to the local markets now and take stock of how the various ASX sectors handled today's difficult trading conditions.

Winners and losers

Despite today's pessimism, we still saw a few sectors make hay.

But first, it was gold shares that copped the worst of it. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) ended up crashing 3.08%.

Broader mining stocks had a rough one as well, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) cratering 2.21%.

Continuing with the commodities theme, energy shares also had a shocker. The S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) tanked 1.62% this session.

Financial stocks had a day to forget as well, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ)'s 1.08% plunge.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) fared a little better. The S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ) still lost 0.59%, though.

Industrial shares were right behind that, with the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ) sliding 0.43%.

Our last losers this Tuesday were utilities stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ) ended up slipping down 0.12%.

Let's turn to the green sectors now. Leading the winners were healthcare shares, as you can see from the S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ)'s 1.5% surge.

Consumer staples stocks held their value, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) jumped 0.88% this session.

Its consumer discretionary counterpart was just behind that, with the S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) leaping 0.87%.

Communications stocks were spared as well. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) advanced 0.32%.

Finally, tech shares managed to stay on the right side of the line, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ)'s 0.29% bump.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Healthcare stock 4DMedical Ltd (ASX: 4DX) was our chart-topper this Tuesday. 4DMedical shares roared 8.72% higher this session to close at $3.74 each.

This came despite no fresh news or announcements from the company today.

Here's how the other top stocks landed their planes:

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Will the market be able to bounce back from this on Thursday? Here are five things to watch:

ASX 200 expected to tumble

It looks set to be a poor session for Australian investors on Thursday following a tough night on Wall Street. According to the latest SPI futures, the ASX 200 is expected to open the day 88 points or 1% lower this morning. In the United States, the Dow Jones fell 0.75%, the S&P 500 dropped 0.5%, and the Nasdaq was 0.65% lower.

ASX 200 shares going ex-dividend

A number of ASX 200 shares are going ex-dividend this morning and could trade lower. This includes appliance manufacturer Breville Group Ltd (ASX: BRG), fund manager Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT), copper producer Sandfire Resources Ltd (ASX: SFR), and telco Spark New Zealand Ltd (ASX: SPK).

Oil prices jump again

ASX 200 energy shares Woodside Energy Group Ltd (ASX: WDS) and Santos Ltd (ASX: STO) could have another positive session after oil prices jumped again overnight. According to Bloomberg, the WTI crude oil price is up 3.9% to US$96.67 a barrel and the Brent crude oil price is up 3.8% to US$101.67 a barrel. Traders bid oil prices to a four-month high after fighting escalated in the Persian Gulf.

Elders downgraded

Elders Ltd (ASX: ELD) shares are close to being fully valued according to analysts at Bell Potter. This morning, the broker downgraded the agribusiness company's shares to a hold rating (from buy) with an improved price target of $6.70. It said: "Following the recent recovery in the share price we are moving our rating from Buy to Hold. Investments in Delta and SYSMOD are the largest drivers of near term growth, however, we see the large livestock tailwinds the agency business has benefited from the past two years facing more difficult comparisons moving forward."

Gold price rises

It could be a decent day for ASX 200 gold shares Newmont Corporation (ASX: NEM) and Northern Star Resources Ltd (ASX: NST) on Thursday after the gold price edged higher overnight. According to CNBC, the gold futures price is up 0.2% to US$4,447.2 an ounce. This was driven by a softening US dollar.

The post 5 things to watch on the ASX 200 on Thursday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Hundreds of S&P/ASX All Ords Index (ASX: XAO) companies announced their next dividends during the EOFY reporting season.

We're helping you keep track of ex-dividend dates with an article every Friday.

Here is a sample of the ASX shares due to trade ex-dividend next week.

Remember, in order to receive a dividend, you must own the ASX share before its ex-dividend date.

ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week

Check out which ASX shares begin trading ex-dividend today.

The post 40 ASX shares with ex-dividend dates next week appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

By the time the markets closed, the ASX 200 had dropped a nasty 0.98%. That leaves the index at 9,038.2 points.

This tough Thursday for Australian investors came after a milder night on the US markets.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) couldn't hold water, falling 0.21%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared better, only losing 0.081% of its value.

But let us return to the local markets now for a closer look at how the different ASX sectors traversed this Thursday's tough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

It was a bleak landscape out on the boards today, with only two sectors managing to escape intact.

Firstly, though, it was consumer discretionary stocks that copped the worst of it today. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Discretionary Index (ASX: XDJ) was slammed, crashing 3.18% lower.

Tech shares suffered too, with the S&P/ASX 200 Information Technology Index (ASX: XIJ) plunging 2.38%.

Gold stocks didn't hold their value either. The All Ordinaries Gold Index (ASX: XGD) tanked 1.54% this session.

Real estate investment trusts (REITs) were in a similar boat, as you can tell by the S&P/ASX 200 A-REIT Index (ASX: XPJ)'s 1.45% dive.

Consumer staples shares were no safe haven. The S&P/ASX 200 Consumer Staples Index (ASX: XSJ) cratered 1.43% today.

Nor were mining stocks, with the S&P/ASX 200 Materials Index (ASX: XMJ) copping a 1.18% beating.

Communications shares had a day to forget, too. The S&P/ASX 200 Communication Services Index (ASX: XTJ) saw its value erode 1.06%.

Utilities stocks also suffered, evident by the S&P/ASX 200 Utilities Index (ASX: XUJ)'s 0.99% tumble.

Financial shares weren't popular either. The S&P/ASX 200 Financials Index (ASX: XFJ) slid 0.68% lower this Thursday.

Our last losers were energy shares, with the S&P/ASX 200 Energy Index (ASX: XEJ) slipping down 0.19%.

Turning to the two green sectors now, the best place to hide out today was in healthcare stocks. The S&P/ASX 200 Healthcare Index (ASX: XHJ) was spared, lifting a comfortable 0.23%.

Finally, our other winners were industrial shares, illustrated by the S&P/ASX 200 Industrials Index (ASX: XNJ)'s 0.03% bounce.

Top 10 ASX 200 shares countdown

Our chart-topper this Thursday was healthcare stock Ramsay Health Care Ltd (ASX: RHC). Ramsay shares surged 13.72% higher this session to hit $50.06 by close. This came after the company reported its latest earnings this morning.

Here's how the other top stocks landed their planes:

Our top 10 shares countdown is a recurring end-of-day summary that shows which companies made big moves on the day. Check in at Fool.com.au after the weekday market closes to see which stocks make the countdown.

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perpetual report?

• FY26 operating revenue of $1,374.2 million (flat year-on-year)
• UPAT of $217.0 million, up 6% from FY25
• Statutory net profit after tax (NPAT) of $88.9 million, recovering from a $58.2 million loss in FY25
• Corporate Trust profit before tax up 9% to $98.8 million
• Final dividend of 63 cents per share (unfranked); total FY26 dividends $1.22 per share (65% payout ratio)
• Annualised cost savings of $72.6 million delivered under the Simplification Program

What else do investors need to know?

Perpetual signed a binding agreement in March 2026 to sell its Wealth Management division to Bain Capital. This move is a key part of the company's simplification strategy, with the transaction expected to complete in the final quarter of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals.

The group continued to reduce debt, lowering gross debt by 15% over the past year to $629.3 million. Proceeds from the Wealth Management sale are expected to further strengthen the balance sheet, supporting future investment in Asset Management and Corporate Trust.

Significant items after tax were $128.1 million, mainly related to transaction and separation costs from the Wealth Management sale, impairment charges, and costs tied to the ongoing Simplification Program.

What did Perpetual management say?

Perpetual CEO and Managing Director Bernard Reilly said:

FY26 was a positive year despite mixed market conditions. We delivered strong earnings growth and improved profitability against a backdrop of geopolitical uncertainty and corporate change, highlighting the benefits of our diversified business model.

What's next for Perpetual?

Perpetual's top priority is completing the sale of Wealth Management, marking a further step in its transition to a simpler organisation. After the sale, Perpetual plans to focus on its Asset Management and Corporate Trust businesses—aiming for consistent earnings, a stronger balance sheet, and greater financial flexibility.

Perpetual is also pursuing ongoing cost efficiencies and digital transformation in Corporate Trust and is targeting fresh product innovation and global growth in Asset Management, including a turnaround plan for its J O Hambro boutique.

Perpetual share price snapshot

The Perpetual share price has underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the past 12 months with a decline of almost 12%.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual posts higher FY26 profit and readies for business sale appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perpetual report?

• Non-cash impairment charge of A$63.5 million against goodwill for TSW
• Impairment recognised as a Significant Item in FY26 statutory results
• Redemption of approximately US$4.6 billion from TSW International Equity strategy expected in Q2 FY27
• No impact on Perpetual's liquidity, banking covenants, or UPAT

What else do investors need to know?

Perpetual received notice last week from a client of Thompson, Siegel & Walmsley LLC (TSW) regarding the planned redemption. Although the redemption will occur in the next financial year, accounting standards require the resulting impairment to be recognised in the FY26 results.

The impairment is non-cash and will not affect Perpetual's liquidity position or dividend payout ratio, as it doesn't impact UPAT. The charge also does not affect Perpetual's compliance with banking covenants.

Perpetual will provide a full update on FY26 results—including the final impact of the impairment—on 27 August 2026.

What's next for Perpetual?

Looking ahead, investors will be watching for further clarification in Perpetual's upcoming FY26 results announcement. The company remains due to release audited financial statements and further guidance on 27 August 2026.

Perpetual emphasised that its underlying profit and ability to pay dividends are not affected by this impairment charge. The business continues to focus on its broader asset management strategy and client service.

Perpetual share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perpetual shares have declined 9%, trailing the All Ordinaries Index (ASX: XAO), which is flat over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual reveals $63.5m impairment after major fund redemption appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

But that gain pales in comparison to some that were recorded on the index last month.

For example, here are some of the best-performing ASX 200 shares for July:

Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)

The Viva Energy share price was the best performer on the ASX 200 index with a 38% gain. Last month, the fuel retailer released its preliminary results for the first half of FY 2026. It revealed that it expects group EBITDA (replacement cost) to be $770 million to $780 million. This is more than double the $305 million it recorded in the prior corresponding period. Viva Energy's CEO, Scott Wyatt, said: "Our strong financial results reflect a substantially improved refining margin environment which has been driven by a regional shortage of oil supply and refining capacity, as well as improving retail sales growth and continuing strength of our commercial businesses. Domestic refining has reduced dependency on international refineries and will continue to play a critical role in maintaining fuel supply security into the future."

AMP Ltd (ASX: AMP)

The AMP share price wasn't far behind with a gain of 33.5% last month. The catalyst for this was the release of its profit guidance for the first half of FY 2026. The financial services company expects underlying net profit after tax to be $170 million to $180 million for the first half. This is being driven by stronger China partnerships and increased investment income.

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT)

The Perpetual share price was on form and charged 22% higher in July. This followed news that the fund manager received and rejected a non-binding indicative proposal from EQT AB worth $21.64 per share. It then went on to receive an improved $22.07 offer from EQT AB later in the month and then a further $22.50 offer on 29 July.

Boss Energy Ltd (ASX: BOE)

The Boss Energy share price was a strong performer and raced 21% higher during the month. Investors were buying the uranium producer's shares following the release of a quarterly update which revealed record production. In addition, Boss Energy delivered on its cost guidance and strengthened its cash position. Boss Energy's CEO, Matthew Dusci, said: "The Company is in a strong financial position, with a balance sheet comprising $207 million in cash and liquid assets. Despite FY26 being a capital-intensive year, we increased our cash position by approximately $13 million and grew our drummed uranium inventory by 172klbs through operating activities."

The post These were the best-performing ASX 200 shares in July appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perpetual Ltd report?

• Total Asset Management AUM rose 2.3% over the quarter to $224.4 billion.
• Corporate Trust Funds Under Administration (FUA) increased 2.4% to $1.35 trillion.
• Wealth Management FUA grew 5% to $22.1 billion as at 30 June 2026.
• Net outflows in Asset Management of $12.3 billion were largely offset by positive market movements of $17.5 billion.
• Total group cash balances declined to $12.7 billion, mainly due to outflows in Pendal's cash strategies.
• Expense growth for FY26 now expected at the lower end of earlier 1% to 2% guidance.

What else do investors need to know?

Perpetual has made significant progress on the sale of its Wealth Management business to Bain Capital, with completion expected in the final quarter of calendar 2026, pending regulatory approvals and remaining conditions. The agreed value for the sale is $500 million upfront, with a potential further $100 million depending on performance metrics and earn-outs.

The company has also reduced its gross debt by around 15% since December 2025 and expects to reach a net debt free position after the Wealth Management transaction. In line with capital management plans, the board is reviewing initiatives to ensure long-term shareholder value, but dividends are expected to be unfranked for 2H26.

What did Perpetual Ltd management say?

Perpetual's Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Bernard Reilly said:

We delivered another quarter of growth across the business, with Corporate Trust continuing to perform strongly, Asset Management benefiting from positive market movements despite flow challenges, and Wealth Management reporting FUA growth and net inflows as the business continues to prepare for new ownership under Bain Capital Private Equity, L.P.

What's next for Perpetual Ltd?

Looking ahead, Perpetual is focused on executing the sale of its Wealth Management arm and completing the integration of Interfi Systems to strengthen its digital capabilities in Corporate Trust. The company is also undergoing impairment testing of goodwill and other intangibles in its Asset Management business, with the final assessment to be provided at full-year results.

The board will continue to assess capital management options, including the use of sale proceeds, and ensure Perpetual maintains a strong balance sheet and competitive market position.

Perpetual Ltd share price snapshot

The Perpetual share price has underperformed the S&P/ASX 200 index (ASX: XJO) over the last 12 months with a 3.6% decline.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual lifts AUM, advances Wealth sale in Q4 FY26 update appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perpetual report?

• Received a revised non-binding indicative proposal from EQT AB to acquire Perpetual at $22.07 per share
• The offer is 2% higher than EQT AB's original proposal of $21.64 per share
• Proposal remains conditional on several factors, including sale of Wealth Management to Bain Capital
• No shareholder action required at this stage

What else do investors need to know?

The new proposal from EQT is not yet binding and is subject to a range of conditions. These include completing the sale of Perpetual's Wealth Management arm to Bain Capital, thorough due diligence, successful negotiation of binding agreements, and regulatory approvals.

Notably, EQT's proposal states it would be withdrawn if disclosed. Despite this, Perpetual's board has decided it is in shareholders' best interests to be informed right away, demonstrating a focus on transparency.

What's next for Perpetual?

Perpetual's board and advisers are thoroughly evaluating the revised offer. However, there is no certainty a binding deal will be made or that any transaction will go ahead. In the meantime, the board remains confident in its ongoing business strategy, particularly the simplification program and the value of its diverse earnings.

Perpetual has committed to keeping shareholders and the market updated in line with its disclosure obligations. Investors are encouraged to stay tuned as the company updates on any major developments.

Perpetual share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perpetual shares have declined 9%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO), which has risen 2% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual receives sweetened $22.07 EQT AB takeover bid appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

Here's what's been catching ASX investor interest this week. 

Genesis Minerals Ltd (ASX: GMD)

Genesis Minerals shares closed last Friday trading for $5.39. At the time of writing, shares are swapping hands for $6.18 apiece. That sees this ASX 200 stock up 14.7% for the week.

Most of those gains are being delivered today after the Aussie gold miner released a business update.

Investors reacted positively to the miner reporting that its FY 2026 gold production hit 285,400 ounces. That's towards the higher end of Genesis Minerals' full-year guidance of 260,000 ounces to 290,000 ounces.

On the cost front, the gold mine also reported its full-year all-in sustaining cost (AISC) came within its FY 2026 guidance range of $2,500 to $2,700 per ounce.

And the balance sheet is growing, with Genesis Minerals reporting underlying cash and equivalents of $258 million, up from $253 million in March. 

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT)

The second ASX 200 stock shooting the lights out this week is financial services company Perpetual.

Perpetual shares closed last Friday at $15.19 and are currently trading at $19.12. This sees the Perpetual share price up 25.9% over the week.

Perpetual shares leapt 16.8% on Wednesday after the company announced that it had received, and rejected, an unsolicited, non-binding takeover proposal from Windflower. According to the release, Windflower is indirectly controlled by EQT AB. 

Under the terms of the indicative proposal, Perpetual shareholders would have received $21.64 per share in cash, or almost 40% above Tuesday's closing price.

In explaining its rejection, the Perpetual board noted:

The indicative proposal was highly conditional and did not adequately represent fair value for Perpetual shareholders in the context of a change of control transaction and the board determined that it was not in the best interests of Perpetual shareholders.

Which brings us to…

Neuren Pharmaceuticals Ltd (ASX: NEU)

The top-performing ASX 200 stock on my list today is Neuren Pharmaceuticals.

Shares in the biopharmaceutical company closed last Friday trading for $12.20. At the time of writing, shares are changing hands for $16.71 each. This sees the Neuren share price up 37% for the week.

Neuren shares closed up a whopping 36.1% on Monday after announcing a crucial regulatory win in the European Union (EU) for its lead drug, DAYBUE.  

DAYBUE is intended to treat neurobehavioral symptoms of Rett syndrome.

Commenting on the positive decision from the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP), Neuren CEO Jon Pilcher said, "I am so delighted for all stakeholders to see this positive outcome from the CHMP re-examination process recommending marketing authorisation for DAYBU in the EU."

The post 3 ASX 200 stocks storming higher this week on big announcements appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It was an unhappy hump day for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares this Wednesday, as investors doubled down on the selling that we saw yesterday. Despite opening in the green this morning, investors quickly sent the market into negative territory, where it stayed for the rest of the day. By the time the markets closed, the ASX 200 had lost 0.64%, leaving the index at 8,722.9 points. 

This rather woeful Wednesday session for ASX investors came after a much more optimistic session over on Wall Street. 

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) continued to push higher, rising 0.26%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) was even more enthusiastic, gaining 1.52%.

But let's get back to the local markets now for a closer look at what the various ASX sectors were doing this Wednesday. 

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

At the time the stock was halted, the Perpetual share price had climbed 16.77% to $18.10. 

By comparison, the S&P/ASX 300 Index (ASX: XKO) is currently sitting at 8,663 points, 0.59% lower.

Although even with today's huge jump, Perpetual shares are still down around 3% in 2026. 

So, let's take a closer look at why the ASX 200 stock was halted during early afternoon trade. 

Why Perpetual shares were halted

According to the ASX release, Perpetual requested a trading halt pending an announcement about a potential change of control transaction. 

The company said it had received an approach in relation to that possible transaction.

That's all investors have been given at this stage. There was no bidder named in the announcement, and no price or deal structure was disclosed. 

The halt will remain in place until the earlier of the company making an announcement or the start of trading on Friday.

For now, shareholders need to wait for the next release before knowing whether this becomes a serious takeover proposal or ends up going nowhere. 

Why investors are watching closely

Perpetual hasn't been an easy stock to hold in recent years.

The group remains a well-known name across asset management, wealth management, corporate trust, and trustee services. But the share price tells us that investors have not been too impressed lately. 

The stock hit a 27-year low of $14.98 just over 12 months ago. Even after today's rally, Perpetual's market capitalisation is only around $2.1 billion. 

The interesting part is that a potential control deal could put a clearer value on a business the market has struggled to price.

Any buyer would need to look at the value of its different divisions, the balance sheet, and whether earnings can improve.

What's next

From here, it comes down to the next release.

If Perpetual confirms a firm proposal at a decent premium, the share price could have more support when trading resumes.

But a trading halt does not mean a deal is done.

The next update needs to give shareholders a bidder, a price, or at least some idea of how serious the approach is.

Without that, some of Wednesday's rally could be harder to hold. This would likely lead to investors taking quick profits off the table.

The post Why this ASX 200 winner is halted on Wednesday appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

It was a rough return for the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) and many ASX shares to trading this Tuesday following the long weekend break.

After closing the trading week on a bit of a sour note last Friday, investors didn't lose their cold feet over the weekend. The ASX 200 did recover a little from a sharp plunge at market open this morning, but still closed 0.24% down for the day. That leaves the index at 8,604.2 points.

This miserly start to the short trading week follows a mixed start to the American trading week on Wall Street last night.

The Dow Jones Industrial Average Index (DJX: .DJI) wasn't in a great Monday mood, falling 0.16%.

The tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index (NASDAQ: .IXIC) fared much better, though, advancing a confident 0.86%.

But let's get back to the local markets now and take stock of how the various ASX sectors fared amid today's tough trading conditions.

Winners and losers

The post Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

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.

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.

The post This beaten-down ASX stock just jumped on a $55 billion deal appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perpetual report?

• Agreement to acquire 70% of Interfi Systems Pty Ltd, an asset servicing technology business.
• Interfi has around $55 billion in assets under administration as at 30 April 2026.
• Perpetual expects its gross debt to decrease by approximately 15% for the period to 30 June 2026, from $742 million at 31 December 2025.
• The acquisition will be funded from internally generated cashflows.
• Option to acquire the remaining 30% of Interfi shares by FY31.

What else do investors need to know?

The acquisition is set to strengthen Perpetual's Corporate Trust and expand its capabilities in digital and market services. By integrating Interfi's technology with Perpetual's own platforms, the company aims to create a more integrated and digital end-to-end client solution.

Completion of the Interfi transaction is expected by the end of June, dependent on certain conditions being met. Michael Dilworth, Interfi's founder and managing director, will stay on to help guide the business post-acquisition.

The company also emphasised its recent progress in reducing gross debt, which includes recent repayments and the impact of the Interfi deal.

What did Perpetual management say?

Perpetual's Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Bernard Reilly, said:

This transaction is in line with our strategy to invest in new capabilities in Corporate Trust to support long-term growth and retain its strong market leadership. The acquisition is expected to contribute to growth in Corporate Trust's Digital and Markets division in FY27 and beyond.

What's next for Perpetual?

Looking ahead, Perpetual intends to continue investing in new digital capabilities and pursuing opportunities that will support sustainable growth. Management expects the Interfi acquisition to accelerate innovation and bolster Perpetual's market leadership in corporate trust and digital services.

The company is also focused on further strengthening its financial position, with the targeted reduction in gross debt expected to provide additional balance sheet flexibility.

Perpetual share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perpetual shares have declined 15%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has rise 2% over the same period.

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The post Perpetual to acquire Interfi majority stake; debt reduction underway appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The pool now exceeds $4.5 trillion in total assets.

It grows every fortnight as 12% of every Australian worker's salary flows in by law.

And as the population ages, an increasing proportion of that capital is moving from industry and retail mega-funds toward independent advisers who use wealth management platforms to administer their clients' money.

Three ASX-listed companies sit directly in the path of that shift.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

Hub24 has been one of the standout performers on the ASX over the past five years, rising significantly as advisers migrated from legacy platforms to its modern, technology-first alternative.

The numbers confirm the momentum is not slowing.

In Q3 FY 2026, Hub24 delivered $4.0 billion in net platform inflows, bringing total funds under administration to $151.7 billion, up 22% year on year.

More than 5,200 advisers now use the Hub24 platform, up 11% year on year, and the company has ranked first for quarterly net inflows for nine consecutive quarters.

Hub24 upgraded its FY 2027 platform FUA target to $160 billion to $170 billion, and is rolling out its myhub AI ecosystem.

This will integrate advice tools and technology into a single platform, providing an even stronger product that will drive future growth.

Netwealth Group Ltd (ASX: NWL)

Netwealth is Hub24's closest rival and is equally well-positioned to capture the superannuation growth story.

Netwealth's first-half FY 2026 result sent shares surging 10% in a single session, with platform FUA reaching a record as revenue and earnings grew at double-digit rates.

The company has built a reputation for product quality and client retention that rivals Hub24's.

Both companies are raising capital faster than Australia's largest industry super funds, a remarkable achievement for businesses that were virtually unknown a decade ago.

Netwealth has also slipped in recent weeks alongside Hub24, creating a more attractive entry point for investors.

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT)

Perpetual offers a different angle on the superannuation theme.

Rather than a platform business, Perpetual is one of Australia's oldest investment management firms, overseeing $219.2 billion in assets under management across global equity and fixed income strategies.

The company is in the middle of a significant transformation, having announced the $500 million sale of its Wealth Management division to Bain Capital.

This will reduce net debt to approximately 0.2 times EBITDA and sharpen its focus on institutional asset management.

A cleaner balance sheet and renewed strategic focus have attracted growing broker interest.

For investors seeking exposure to the superannuation theme through a more value-oriented lens, Perpetual's post-sale transformation looks increasingly interesting.

Foolish Takeaway

Australia's compulsory superannuation system means the pool keeps growing regardless of what markets do.

Hub24 and Netwealth capture that growth through platform market share gains.

Perpetual captures it through institutional asset management.

All three are positioned to benefit from a multi-decade tailwind that most investors are underestimating.

The post Why Australia's $4 trillion superannuation pool is creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity for these ASX stocks appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

With total assets now exceeding $4 trillion and set to grow further as the population ages, the businesses that manage and administer that capital are sitting in an enviable position.

Two ASX-listed companies in particular deserve closer attention.

Hub24 Ltd (ASX: HUB)

There is a revolution underway in Australian wealth management, and Hub24 sits at the centre of it.

The company operates one of Australia's fastest growing investment and superannuation platforms, providing financial advisers, stockbrokers, and their clients with an integrated portfolio administration and technology ecosystem.

In Q3 FY2026, Hub24 delivered $4.0 billion in platform net inflows despite challenging market conditions.

This brought total funds under administration to $151.7 billion, up 22% year-on-year.

Moreover, Hub24 has ranked first for quarterly and annual net inflows for nine consecutive quarters, consistently capturing the largest market share gains of all platform providers.

The company expanded its adviser network by 272 practitioners during the quarter to reach 5,549 total advisers, up 11% year-on-year, a metric that directly underpins future asset growth.

In the first half of FY2026, underlying NPAT surged 60% to $68.3 million, reflecting the powerful operating leverage that emerges as a platform business scales.

Hub24 has upgraded its FY2027 platform FUA target to $160 billion to $170 billion and is rolling out its myhub AI ecosystem, which integrates advice tools, technology, and the core platform into a single seamless experience for advisers.

Perpetual Ltd (ASX: PPT)

Perpetual takes a different approach to capturing superannuation capital.

Perpetual is one of Australia's oldest and most respected investment management firms, overseeing $219.2 billion in assets under management as at 31 March 2026 across a range of global equity and fixed income strategies.

The company is currently in the middle of a significant strategic transformation.

Perpetual announced the sale of its Wealth Management division to Bain Capital Private Equity for $500 million upfront, with a potential further $100 million based on business performance.

The transaction aims to simplify the business, substantially reduce net debt, and sharpen the company's focus on its core asset management operations.

Following the sale, net debt to EBITDA is expected to fall to approximately 0.2 times, leaving Perpetual with a clean balance sheet and significant capacity to return capital to shareholders or reinvest in growth.

Revenue for the first half of FY2026 came in at $697.9 million, and management continues to invest in its global distribution capability as the primary growth lever for the simplified business.

Foolish takeaway

Hub24 and Perpetual both benefit from Australia's compulsory superannuation tailwind, but in very different ways.

Hub24 captures the shift of advisers from legacy platforms to modern, technology-first alternatives, and rewards patient investors with consistent earnings growth.

Perpetual, meanwhile, is reshaping itself into a leaner, more focused asset manager with a strengthened balance sheet and renewed strategic clarity.

For long-term investors, both deserve serious consideration.

The post Why these 2 ASX superannuation stocks could quietly build serious wealth appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

What did Perpetual report?

• Revenue of $697.9 million for 1H26 (up from $1,373.0 million FY25 full year)
• Assets Under Management (AUM) of $219.2 billion
• Market capitalisation of $2.1 billion as at 31 December 2025
• Dividend of 97.1 cents per share (cps) for 1H26, with a payout ratio of 60%
• Funds Under Administration of $1.3 trillion across key platforms
• Diluted EPS on UPAT: 97.1cps for 1H26

What else do investors need to know?

Perpetual has announced the sale of its Wealth Management division to Bain Capital Private Equity for an upfront cash payment of $500 million, with potential for a further $100 million based on business performance. The transaction aims to simplify Perpetual's business, strengthen its balance sheet, and reduce net debt to EBITDA to approximately 0.2 times after completion.

Following the sale, Perpetual will focus on Asset Management and Corporate Trust. The business highlighted steady growth in UPBT (Underlying Profit Before Tax) in Corporate Trust, strong brand presence, and a robust distribution network. The company is also delivering on its Simplification Program, targeting cost savings of $70–$80 million per annum by the end of FY27.

What did Perpetual management say?

CEO and Managing Director Bernard Reilly said:

Post-sale, Perpetual will be a simpler, stronger and more focused company. Our clear strategy is to simplify the business, deliver operational excellence and invest for growth.

What's next for Perpetual?

Looking ahead, Perpetual is investing in its multi-boutique Asset Management model with a strong global footprint and an expanded product offering, including ETFs. The company also aims to maintain its leadership in Corporate Trust services through service excellence, digital transformation, and new partnerships.

Key initiatives for the coming year include completing the Wealth Management sale, driving efficiency through cost reduction, and accelerating growth opportunities, especially in global asset management and digital solutions.

Perpetual share price snapshot

Over the past 12 months, Perpetual shares have risen 1%, trailing the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) which has risen 6% over the same period.

View Original Announcement

The post Perpetual 1H26 earnings: strategy shift and Wealth Management sale appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.

The stock opened higher and briefly touched $16.68 before drifting lower through the session. At the time of writing, the global asset manager's shares are down 1.21% to $16.40.

That pullback comes despite a solid run this year. The share price is still up around 12% in 2026.

Today's move follows the release of its third-quarter FY26 update, which showed mixed conditions across the business.

Asset management flows remain under pressure

The main pressure point came from asset management.

Total assets under management (AUM) fell 3.6% over the March quarter to $219.2 billion. The decline was driven by a mix of outflows, weaker markets, and currency movements.

Net outflows were $2.8 billion for the quarter. That is a step down from the prior period but still shows clients pulling capital in parts of the business.

However, results varied across the business.

Barrow Hanley saw the largest outflows, particularly across global and US strategies. J O Hambro Capital Management also recorded declines, linked to both withdrawals and market moves.

But there were some offsets. Pendal posted modest growth in AUM, supported by positive market performance and selective inflows.

Across the group, investment performance remained mixed, with some strategies holding up better than others.

Corporate Trust holds steady

Corporate Trust delivered a more stable result.

Funds under administration rose to $1.32 trillion, up 0.3% over the quarter. Growth came from debt market services, particularly structured finance and securitisation activity.

Managed Funds Services also expanded, supported by new client mandates and continued inflows into existing products.

These areas tend to be less sensitive to market swings, which is reflected in the above numbers.

Wealth business edges lower ahead of sale

Wealth management continues to move in a different direction.

Funds under administration declined 4% to $21.1 billion, driven largely by negative market movements. Net flows were broadly flat.

This segment is in the process of being sold to Bain Capital, with completion expected later this calendar year, subject to conditions.

Perpetual also reaffirmed its cost guidance.

The company expects total expense growth of around 1% to 2% for FY26. That signals a relatively stable cost base despite the shifting revenue backdrop.

Foolish Takeaway

On the surface, not much has changed.

Asset management is still under pressure from outflows and performance swings. Corporate Trust is holding up with steadier growth.

That contrast is what is sitting under the share price.

The early move higher faded once the detail came through, which suggests the market is still weighing up which side of the business is more important.

Until that becomes clearer, the stock may struggle to build momentum.

The post Perpetual shares slip after update. But there's more going on beneath the surface appeared first on The Motley Fool Australia.