Shares declined 3.9% after earnings, reflecting investor disappointment with deceleration in key metrics and cautious outlook signals despite solid headline profit growth. The market appears to have reacted negatively to signs of margin pressure and a subdued outlook on growth drivers.
- Reported net profit after tax rose 8.3% to $2.9 billion, excluding prior year significant items.
- Divisional earnings grew 6.2%, led by Bunnings, Kmart, and WesCEF, but growth showed signs of slowing.
- Bunnings sales increased 3.9%, with 25% growth in its marketplace GMV, yet underlying core retail growth appears moderate.
- Operating leverage delivered earnings growth outpacing sales, but margin compression concerns remain unaddressed.
- Management highlighted continued investment in AI tools, new store formats, and platform expansion, but investors likely interpreted cautious outlook commentary and weaker segment momentum as headwinds.
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