Count (CUP) H1 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• Statutory revenue rose 12% year-over-year to AUD 82.8 million, with underlying EBITA up 19% to AUD 16.6 million and underlying NPAT attributable up 45% to AUD 7.2 million; statutory NPAT surged 133% to AUD 9.2 million.

• Wealth segment was the primary growth engine, supported by organic growth, equity partnerships, and robust M&A activity, with adviser numbers and funds under management increasing significantly.

• Nine M&A transactions completed in the half, including acquisitions such as McGing Advisory, Brigden & Partners, and increased ownership in WSC Group.

• Interim dividend increased 14% to 2.00 cents per share, fully franked, reflecting profit growth and strong cash flow.

• Strong operating leverage and margin expansion achieved through scale, technology-driven productivity, and disciplined execution.

Financial highlights

• Statutory EBITDA up 50% to AUD 18.7 million; underlying EBITDA margin improved to 20%.

• Funds under advice grew 11% to AUD 40.2 billion; funds under management surged 49% to AUD 5.3 billion.

• Operating cash flow conversion around 90%, supporting dividend growth and debt reduction.

• Earnings per share rose 131% to 5.49 cents; net assets per share (including intangibles) at $0.85.

• Interim dividend funded from operating cash flows; payout policy targets 60%-90% of maintainable NPATA.

Outlook and guidance

• Strategic plan targets AUD 10 billion in funds under management and 50% take-up of outsourcing and education products within five years.

• Priorities include scaling employed planners, disciplined M&A, accelerating investment solutions, and deepening service uptake.

• Continued focus on robotics and AI for productivity and compliance, while monitoring emerging risks.

• Management expects continued strong demand for wealth advice and investment solutions, supported by industry tailwinds and regulatory reforms.

• Directors believe the group has sufficient liquidity to meet current liabilities, with $21.5 million in undrawn facilities available.