Daily Roundup

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Duratec Expands Capabilities with Pacific Welding Australia Acquisition

Duratec Limited has announced an agreement to acquire 100% of Pacific Welding Australia (PWA), a welding and fabrication company based in Newcastle, NSW. The $12 million deal will enhance Duratec's self-perform capabilities and service offerings in the Energy and Mining & Industrial sectors. PWA's expertise in project-based welding, mechanical services, and specialist fabrication will complement Duratec's existing capabilities, allowing the company to better serve key clients along the East Coast.

Northern Star Delivers Strong Production, Announces Share Buyback

In a double dose of good news, Northern Star Resources has provided an upbeat production update and unveiled plans for a $500 million on-market share buyback. Preliminary gold sales for the March quarter totaled 381,000 ounces, prompting the company to revise its FY26 production guidance upwards to over 1.5 million ounces. Meanwhile, the share buyback aligns with Northern Star's disciplined capital allocation, allowing it to return cash to shareholders while maintaining a strong balance sheet.

X2M Secures Smart Community Deal, Eyes Expansion

X2M Connect Ltd has signed a significant agreement with Resi Ventures to deploy its X2M Smart Energy solution across the 1,000-lot McMahon's Place estate in Echuca, Victoria. The integrated offering includes upgraded solar, home energy management systems, and access to a community battery. X2M estimates a $2 million revenue opportunity from the deal, with further upside potential as it looks to expand the smart community model to around 4,000 additional lots in Victoria and Queensland.

Vanguard Announces Final ETF Distributions

Vanguard Investments Australia has released the final distribution amounts and timetable for a range of its Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) listed on the ASX. The ex-distribution date is set for April 1, 2026, with the record date on April 2 and payment on April 20. Investors have the option to reinvest their distributions through Vanguard's Distribution Reinvestment Plan, which is available for all the listed ETFs.