ASX lifts capex to speed tech modernisation

ASX has increased its capital expenditure guidance as it accelerates a technology modernisation programme, including its expanded "Accelerate" initiative. The bourse operator lifted FY27 capex guidance to A$180–200 million and now expects FY28 capex of A$170–190 million, citing technology cost inflation and new product development.

The company said the higher spending is intended to address prior underinvestment and to support customer-driven growth through accelerated technology upgrades. The modernisation programme is aimed at updating core systems and enhancing the platform that underpins Australia’s securities markets.

ASX attributed the revised capex outlook to rising technology costs, ongoing development of new products and the scaling up of its technology modernisation efforts. The expanded "Accelerate" programme is a central element of this push, with investment focused on infrastructure and capability improvements.

Alongside the capex increase, ASX issued guidance for higher operating costs in FY27. The company forecast total expenses growth of 18–21% compared with FY26, with operating expenses excluding depreciation and amortisation expected to rise by 13–16% over the same period.

Management framed the expense outlook as a consequence of the intensified investment cycle required to upgrade systems and support future growth. The guidance signals that elevated spending will extend beyond capital items into day-to-day operations linked to the technology programme.

In a related move, ASX agreed to sell its 49% interest in property settlement provider Simpli to its joint-venture partner ATI Group for a nominal amount. The transaction represents ASX’s full exit from the Simpli venture.

The sale will result in an after-tax loss of about A$12 million, which ASX said will be recorded as a significant item in FY26. The company did not disclose additional financial terms beyond describing the consideration as nominal.

The updated guidance and portfolio changes come against the backdrop of a relatively stable local equity market. Australia’s benchmark ASX 200 index stood at 8,652 points on May 25, 2026.

On that date, the index declined by 0.06% from the previous session. The move indicated only a marginal change in broader market levels as ASX outlined its higher investment plans and the Simpli divestment.