Guess which ASX 200 CEO just sold $3.64 million worth of his company's shares?

We take a look at why the CEO offload his shares.

| More on:
A man in his 30s holds his laptop and operates it with his other hand as he has a look of pleasant surprise on his face as though he is learning something new or finding hidden value in something on the screen.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

Key points

  • IPH shares shrug off the news of CEO Blattman selling a portion of his holdings, edging 2.13% higher to $9.60 
  • The company said the sale was to satisfy personal tax obligations 
  • A couple of brokers recently weighed in on the IPH share price, both implying a significant upside over the next 12 months 

The IPH Ltd (ASX: IPH) share price is edging higher during Friday afternoon.

This comes despite the announcement by the intellectual property services company that its CEO has offloaded some of his shares.

At the time of writing, IPH shares are swapping hands at $9.60 apiece, up 2.13%.

IPH CEO sells shares to 'satisfy personal tax obligations'

Investors appear to be unfazed by the company's latest news, sending the IPH share price into positive territory.

According to the release, IPH managing director and CEO, Andrew Blattman sold a parcel of his shares through an on-market trade.

In total, 400,000 IPH shares were disposed on 24 August.

While the average price per share sold isn't listed, we do know that $3.64 million went into Blattman's pockets. This would suggest that each share that was sold was around $9.10 per share.

The company listed the reason for the sale was "to satisfy personal tax obligations arising from the issue of shares under the company's long term incentive plan."

It's worth noting that this is not uncommon, as directors and CEO's alike sell for various reasons over time.

A catalyst for the IPH shares remaining afloat today despite the sell down can be attributed to some recent broker notes.

According to ANZ Share Investing, the team at Macquarie raised its price target by 45% to $11.95 for IPH shares. Based on the current share price, this implies an upside of roughly 25%.

Furthermore, Canaccord Genuity also bumped up its rating by 15% to $11.65 per share.

It seems that both brokers believe that the IPH shares are undervalued from where they trade today.

IPH share price summary

IPH shares have travelled in circles over the last 12 months, registering a slight gain of 3.7%.

Although, when looking at year to date though, its shares are up 9%.

In particular, the past month has been extremely positive for shareholders with its shares 16% higher following the company's full-year results.

Based on today's price, IPH commands a market capitalisation of approximately $2.08 billion, with 218.82 million shares on hand.

Motley Fool contributor Aaron Teboneras has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has recommended IPH Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended IPH Ltd. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Industrials Shares

a man clasps his hand to his forehead as he looks down at his phone and grimaces with a pained expression on his face as he watches the Pilbara Minerals share price continue to fall
Industrials Shares

Is this ASX 200 industrials stock a buy after crashing 9% today?

Better times ahead after tough day for investors?

Read more »

Miner looking at his notes.
Industrials Shares

Forget BHP, this little known gem is roaring 30% in FY 2026

This little-known services company is quietly capitalising on mining and infrastructure activity across nine countries, and investors are starting to…

Read more »

A railway worker walks along the train tracks in a visi vest and speaking into a walkie talkie.
Broker Notes

Why did Macquarie just downgrade Aurizon shares?

Here's what the broker has to say about the stock.

Read more »

Industrials written in orange.
Industrials Shares

These 3 industrial shares are quietly outperforming on the ASX

From defence to transport construction services, these under-the-radar stocks have delivered impressive gains and upgraded guidance.

Read more »

Image of young successful engineer, with blueprints, notepad and digital tablet, observing the project implementation on construction site and in mine.
Industrials Shares

This ASX share is up 115% in a year — and flying under the radar

Strong margins, repeat clients, and a surprise dividend have helped this industrial player quietly outperform some of the market’s biggest…

Read more »

Two people lazing in deck chairs on a beautiful sandy beach throw their hands up in the air.
Dividend Investing

Why Macquarie expects this high-yielding ASX 200 dividend stock to outperform

Let's find out.

Read more »

A cool young man walking in a laneway holding a takeaway coffee in one hand and his phone in the other reacts with surprise as he reads the latest news on his mobile phone
Industrials Shares

Macquarie names top 2 ASX industrials defensive stocks

These defensive shares present a good potential upside.

Read more »

A young woman lifts her red glasses with one hand as she takes a closer look at news about interest rates rising and one expert's surprising recommendation as to which ASX shares to buy
Industrials Shares

5 ASX industrials stocks to buy today: expert

The broker emphasises defensive positioning, favouring quality growth stocks.

Read more »