Arena REIT H1 profits up amid portfolio growth

Arena REIT (ASX:ARF) announced a strong financial performance for the first half of the 2026 fiscal year, characterised by growth in both statutory profit and shareholder distributions.

The specialist property group reported a net operating profit of $39 million, marking a 9% increase over the previous corresponding period.

Statutory net profit surged by 202% to $110 million, reflecting a substantial appreciation in asset values and a disciplined investment strategy.

The half-year results underscore a period of active capital recycling and portfolio optimisation.

Arena completed eight Early Learning Centre development projects and acquired three operating ELCs, while divesting six properties to maintain a high-quality asset base.

The activity contributed to a 7% rise in total assets, now valued at $1.98 billion, and pushed the net asset value per security up by 5.2% to $3.64.

Managing Director Justin Bailey attributed the results to a "disciplined investment strategy" and "contracted rental growth."

With a pipeline of 29 ELC development projects slated for completion over the next two years, Arena REIT reaffirmed full-year distribution guidance of 19.25 cents.