Australian data center operator NextDC's shares plunge 40% after it slashes earnings forecast

The company cited power supply delays at its Melbourne facility amid local community and stakeholder opposition for lowering earnings forecast.

Australian data center operator NextDC's shares plunge 40% after it slashes earnings forecast

TL;DR

  • NextDC shares dropped 39.5% due to slashed fiscal 2027 revenue and earnings guidance.
  • Power supply delays at the M3 Melbourne data center are attributed to community opposition and safety concerns halting infrastructure upgrades.
  • Electricity distributor Jemena expects to resume work no earlier than February 2027.
  • Citi notes that earnings impact could extend beyond 2027 due to expansion approval and transformer upgrade delays.
  • The Australian government is working on national standards for data center investment amidst growing local community and environmental concerns.
  • NextDC shares have declined for seven consecutive weeks.