Wesfarmers Ltd – Market Activity and Corporate Actions
Wesfarmers Limited (ASX: WES) recorded a decline in its share price on 30 October 2025, falling to AUD 84 from a 52‑week high of AUD 95.18. The drop was part of a broader sell‑off in Australian discretionary equities, as noted in market commentary on 31 October 2025. Gold‑mining shares provided a buffer, but the overall index finished slightly lower, with the decline in Wesfarmers contributing to the negative trend.
Corporate Actions
| Date | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 30 Oct 2025 | Annual General Meeting (AGM) | Wesfarmers held its 2025 AGM. All resolutions presented in the notice were passed by poll. No material changes to corporate governance or strategy were reported. |
| 31 Oct 2025 | Return of Capital | The company announced a cash return of capital of AUD 1.10 per ordinary fully paid share. This payment is available to shareholders and reflects the company’s commitment to returning value to investors. |
| 31 Oct 2025 | Rights Notice | A rights announcement (ISIN AU000000WES1) was filed with the Mexican Stock Exchange, indicating that Wesfarmers is extending rights to its holders under a new corporate event. The notice is fully confirmed and complete. |
Market Context
- Australian Shares: The decline in discretionary stocks, including Wesfarmers, was attributed to easing expectations of policy‑easing. Gold miners and several major banks posted gains, offsetting the broader sell‑off.
- Asian Markets: On 31 October 2025, Asian shares were mixed. Japan’s Nikkei reached a record high, while Chinese and Hong Kong markets retreated following a survey that showed China’s factory activity shrinking for the seventh month in October. These global developments likely influenced Australian investors’ risk appetite.
Financial Snapshot (as of 30 Oct 2025)
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Close Price | AUD 84 |
| 52‑Week High | AUD 95.18 |
| 52‑Week Low | AUD 66.27 |
| Market Capitalisation | AUD 96 090 000 000 |
| Price‑to‑Earnings Ratio | 32.85 |
Wesfarmers remains a diversified player in the consumer discretionary sector, operating retail chains, mining operations, insurance, and industrial distribution. The company’s recent activities demonstrate a focus on shareholder value through capital returns while maintaining its governance standards through the AGM.
