Firmus Technologies abandoned its highly anticipated ASX listing on Friday after failing to secure sufficient investor demand during its bookbuild process, despite initial claims of overwhelming interest. The datacentre company had planned to raise over $7bn at an $11-per-share valuation, but concerns about lock-up provisions and lack of domestic and international investor demand forced the withdrawal, potentially protecting retail investors from a poor investment.
Burger King is accelerating its U.S. comeback by selling approximately 200 company-operated restaurants to franchisees by end of 2026, with local operators like Jeremy Kline expected to drive modernization efforts. The refranchising strategy follows the parent company Restaurant Brands International's $1 billion acquisition of largest franchisee Carrols in 2024, aiming to create a lighter asset model while improving restaurant performance.