News Corporation Announces Update on \$1 Billion Share Repurchase Program
Key Highlights:
- News Corporation (“the Company”) has confirmed ongoing activity under its existing stock repurchase program, authorizing the buyback of up to \$1 billion in aggregate of its outstanding Class A and Class B common stock.
- The repurchase program covers shares listed on both the NASDAQ and the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), with the associated security codes being NWSA (Class A, NASDAQ), NWS (Class B, NASDAQ), NWSAA (Class A, ASX), and NWSAB (Class B, ASX).
- The Company is required under ASX rules to disclose daily transactions related to the buyback and also provides quarterly and annual updates to the market.
- The repurchase program is intended to enhance shareholder value.
- As of the latest notification, the Company has purchased shares for a total consideration of approximately US\$76.99 million in Class B shares and US\$1.85 million in Class A shares in recent buybacks, with the most recent buybacks being on April 30, 2026.
- The lowest price paid in recent transactions for Class B shares was US\$29.87 per share (as of February 13, 2026).
- Total number of shares on issue in Class A: 364,533,165.
- Total number of shares on issue in Class B: 141,138,786.
- The Company confirms that the buyback is for cash consideration, and the price for Class B shares is not fixed but determined through market transactions.
- No shareholder approval is required for this on-market buyback, nor are there additional conditions for its execution.
- All buybacks are conducted under the 2025 Repurchase Program.
- Forward-looking statements are included, and the Company may alter or update its plans subject to market conditions and other factors.
Details Investors Need to Know
- Price Sensitivity: Share repurchase programs are typically viewed positively by the market, as they reduce the number of shares in circulation, potentially increasing earnings per share and supporting the share price. The active buyback and material outlays signal management’s confidence in the Company’s valuation and future prospects.
- Ongoing Commitment: The Company has not set a minimum number of shares to be bought back but has stated a clear maximum (up to \$1 billion in aggregate for Class A and Class B shares combined). This provides flexibility but also leaves room for further market-moving purchases.
- Disclosure and Transparency: Daily disclosures to the ASX mean that investors have access to timely information regarding the volume and value of shares repurchased, which is important for market pricing and transparency.
- Potential Impact on Share Value: The buyback is explicitly aimed at enhancing shareholder value. By reducing the float, especially at attractive price levels (e.g., lowest price recorded at \$29.87 for Class B shares), the program could support or lift the stock price, subject to other market conditions.
- Forward-Looking Statements: The Company notes that all forward-looking statements are subject to market risks, including price fluctuations, legal/regulatory factors, and alternative investment opportunities. No obligation is undertaken to update these statements unless required by law.
Potential Share Price Movement
The announcement of continued buyback activity, especially at significant volume and value, is generally considered price sensitive. It signals to the market that the Company sees its shares as undervalued or as a sound investment, which can underpin or boost the share price. Investors should monitor further disclosures for the pace and price of buybacks, as well as any changes to the program.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute investment advice. Forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially. Investors should conduct their own research and consult with qualified financial advisors before making investment decisions. The Company is not obligated to update forward-looking statements except as required by law.
View NEWS CORP Historical chart here
