Own Macquarie shares? This could be the company's next energising investment

This could be the next major investment move to make headlines.

| More on:
A male investor sits at his desk looking at his laptop screen holding his hand to his chin pondering whether to buy Macquarie shares

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

  • EnergyAustralia is the third largest retailer of energy in Australia
  • It recently implemented large price increases for customers
  • Macquarie is reportedly in the running to buy a stake of EnergyAustralia

Macquarie Group Ltd (ASX: MQG) shares could be energised by the investment bank's reported plans to invest in one of Australia's largest energy retailers.

The ASX financial share's exposure is across a wide array of different sectors and assets. Banking is a rapidly growing area for the company, but energy is another sector that Macquarie is looking to increase its exposure.

While a lot of its energy efforts have been focused on green energy, it is reportedly looking to increase its presence in a different way.

EnergyAustralia interest

According to reporting by the Australian Financial Review, Macquarie is one of the leading candidates to buy a stake of up to 50% in EnergyAustralia, which is Australia's third-largest electricity and gas stumping.

The owner of EnergyAustralia is CLP Group, which is listed in Hong Kong. It has been trying to find a partner that can assist with the investments into the energy transition away from coal, to low-carbon energy.

It's certainly not a done deal, with Macquarie only one of a number of other interested parties.

The AFR reported that, currently, Macquarie's main involvement in the domestic energy market is its investments in battery storage with Eku Energy as well as the hydrogen projects. On top of that, it aims to grow its presence in wind energy generation.

After asking EnergyAustralia, Macquarie and CLP for comment, none of them gave a comment to the AFR. However, last year in August, CLP chief executive Richard Lancaster said:

We are open to partnerships for parts of the business, for projects and even for the whole business.

We do see a need to invest in the energy infrastructure in Australia in order to go through an energy transition.     

Is profitability about to jump?

It's an interesting time for energy retailers. EnergyAustralia is reportedly increasing energy prices significantly for both electricity and gas for customers following a large increase in energy prices last year.

Investors recently heard from AGL Energy Ltd (ASX: AGL) that said in FY24 it's expecting its underlying net profit after tax (NPAT) to go up at least two times to a range of between $580 million to $780 million.

AGL put that profit increase forecast down to a few factors, including "sustained periods of higher wholesale electricity pricing, reflected in pricing outcomes and reset through contract positions." It also mentioned the closure of the Liddell Power Station.

EnergyAustralia can benefit from the higher energy prices that it's going to charge customers, which could be one of the main reasons why Macquarie is interested in the business.

Time will tell whether Macquarie can share in the resurgent conditions for energy retailers.

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

More on Financial Shares

Man smiling at a laptop because of a rising share price.
Financial Shares

AMP share price lifts 8% in October amid improved cashflows

Investors were impressed with AMP's third-quarter report.

Read more »

Smiling man sits in front of a graph on computer while using his mobile phone.
Share Market News

This ASX All Ords stock is down 37%, and one insider just bought up over $500,000 worth

This company director just raised his stake by 1,735%.

Read more »

A young boy reaches up to touch the raindrops on his umbrella, as the sun comes out in the sky behind him.
Financial Shares

IAG share price lifts amid AGM and FY25 guidance

The insurance giant held its annual general meeting today.

Read more »

Delighted adult man, working on a company slogan, on his laptop.
Financial Shares

Top Australian financial stocks to buy now

These companies are well-positioned to grow, brokers say.

Read more »

Shot of a young businesswoman looking stressed out while working in an office.
Financial Shares

$25 billion ASX 200 stock falls on ASIC probe

This blue chip is facing civil penalties, declarations and adverse publicity orders.

Read more »

Man pointing at a blue rising share price graph.
Financial Shares

Up 119% in a year, here's why this ASX financial stock is rocketing again on Tuesday

Investors are optimistic about the outlook for this soaring ASX financial stock.

Read more »

A geeky business man scratches his head as he looks at many stacks of books piled up on the floor.
Share Market News

Here's how the ASX 200 market sectors stacked up last week

ASX financial shares led the 11 market sectors last week with a 4.07% gain.

Read more »

Close-up photo of man's hands holding silver platter with coins and young plant growing out of pile of money
Financial Shares

This ASX All Ords share just reported a 24% leap in a key metric

The ASX All Ords stock completed a key transaction in September.

Read more »