Helloworld Travel (HLO) H1 2026 earnings summary

Executive summary

• TTV for 1HFY26 reached $2.1 billion, up 1.8% year-over-year, with strong forward bookings into FY27 and robust network stability across 2,600 agencies and over 10,000 professionals in Australia and New Zealand.

• Underlying EBITDA rose 12.1% to $30.5 million, with margin improving to 28.0%; net profit after tax nearly doubled to $31.1 million, and EPS increased to 19.0 cents.

• Multiple strategic, earnings-accretive acquisitions completed, including full consolidation of MTA, Gilpin Corporate Travel, and Brighton Travelworld.

• Interim dividend of 5.0 cents per share, fully franked, declared for March 2026.

• Technology investments enhanced efficiency, with 98% of tickets issued via automated systems.

Financial highlights

• Revenue increased 10.1% year-over-year to $108.6 million, with revenue margin up to 5.1%.

• Underlying EBITDA margin improved to 28.0%, with a target to achieve 30% in the second half.

• EBITDA (including significant items) was $44.7 million, up 48.8% year-over-year; EBITDA margin rose to 41.1%.

• Net profit after tax from continuing operations nearly doubled to $31.1 million; basic EPS up 95.9% to 19.0 cents.

• Cash and equivalents at $67.7 million as of 31 December 2025; $35 million debt facility drawn to fund acquisitions.

Outlook and guidance

• FY26 Underlying EBITDA guidance reaffirmed at $64–$72 million, excluding Webjet remeasurement impacts.

• Forward bookings remain robust through FY26 and into FY27; January 2026 TTV up 11.6% year-over-year.

• Ticketed air sales for 2HFY26 up 14% in Australia and 9% in New Zealand versus prior year.

• Management aims for the upper end of guidance if current trends persist.

• Focus on cost control, technology investment, and sustainable profit growth.