ASX Posts Full-Year Profit Growth as Trading Activity Surges Amid Volatility | LeapRate
The Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) reported a rise in underlying profit for the financial year ending 30 June 2026, as market volatility and strong listings activity boosted revenue across all four of its business units.
Operating revenue climbed 13.3% to $1.25 billion, while underlying net profit after tax rose 5.2% to $536.4 million. However, statutory net profit fell 3.5% to $484.9 million, weighed down by one-off costs tied to the settlement of legal proceedings brought by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC), along with other significant items.
Total expenses rose 21.1% to $557.4 million, which the company said came in below the midpoint of its previous guidance. The increase was largely driven by ongoing technology upgrades, additional staffing to support new platforms, and higher depreciation costs.
ASX declared a fully franked final dividend of 104.7 cents per share, bringing the total dividend for the year to 206.5 cents, down 7.5% on the previous year.
Interim CEO Darren Yip described the year as “consequential,” pointing to heightened regulatory scrutiny alongside continued progress on technology and product development.
He highlighted the successful rollout of CHESS Release 1, a major upgrade to the exchange’s clearing infrastructure, as a key milestone.
The company also reported its strongest year for new listings since 2022, with 100 new entities joining the exchange, adding $32.6 billion in market capitalisation.
Looking ahead, ASX reaffirmed its expense and capital expenditure guidance for the 2027 financial year, while noting that global market volatility and a strengthening listings pipeline continue to support activity.
