ASX (ASX:ASX) said it is guiding towards a fiscal 2026 total expense growth range of between 8% and 11%, with the operating expense growth rate driven by increases in technology costs from software license charges, costs associated with delivery of the Accelerate Program, and legal costs associated with the ongoing Australian Securities and Investments Commission actions, according to a Thursday filing with the Australian bourse.
The company's fiscal 2025 total expense growth rate is expected to be at the mid-point of the previously provided guidance range of between 6% and 9%, while its operating expense growth during the period is expected to also be at the mid-point of the guidance range of between 4% and 7%.
Fiscal 2025 capital expenditure is expected to be within a narrowed range of between AU$170 million and AU$180 million, while the fiscal 2026 capital expenditure forecast has narrowed to a range of between AU$170 million and AU$180 million. The fiscal 2027 range was maintained at between AU$160 million and AU$180 million.
The company plans to maintain its capital management settings for a dividend payout ratio of between 80% and 90% of the underlying net profit after tax.
The exchange operator's shares fell nearly 2% in early trading on Thursday.
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