QuickFee’s Capital Return and CEO Shift: What Risks Lie Ahead?

Sale Completion and Capital Return

QuickFee Limited has successfully completed the sale of its US Pay Now business to Aiwyn, Inc. for US$26.35 million (approximately A$40 million). This strategic divestment allows QuickFee to streamline its focus on its core Finance product offerings in both the US and Australian markets. Following the transaction, QuickFee retains its US Finance business and a loan book valued at US$7.5 million.

In a move welcomed by shareholders, QuickFee has proposed a capital return of 7.5 cents per share, amounting to roughly A$28.4 million. This return, subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming Annual General Meeting scheduled for 18 November 2025, is funded from the proceeds of the recent sale. The company plans to deploy the remaining proceeds towards debt reduction and reinvestment in the business.

Leadership Change, Founder Takes Helm as CEO

Founder and Executive Director Bruce Coombes has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Coombes will oversee the entire group, including the US Finance business, while continuing to manage the Australian operations. This leadership consolidation signals QuickFee’s intent to sharpen its strategic focus and operational execution under experienced guidance.

Mr. Coombes’ employment package includes a base salary of $453,455 and performance incentives aligned with FY26 financial targets, underscoring the company’s confidence in his ability to drive growth.

FY26 Earnings Outlook and Strategic Focus

QuickFee has updated its FY26 earnings guidance, forecasting an EBTDA range of A$3.75 million to A$4.25 million, weighted towards the second half of the fiscal year. This outlook excludes any accounting profit from the recent sale. The company anticipates lower US Finance transaction volumes in Q1 FY26 but expects operational efficiencies and a focus on high-margin lending products to support profitability.

A key growth driver will be the newly established reseller agreement with Aiwyn, which integrates QuickFee’s Finance product into Aiwyn’s payment options, potentially expanding market reach in the US.

Capital Return Mechanics and Shareholder Impact

The capital return will be executed as an equal return of capital to all ordinary shareholders, preserving proportional ownership stakes and company control. This approach was chosen over on-market buybacks for its immediacy and equitable treatment of shareholders. The return will reduce QuickFee’s capital base but is balanced by a strong cash position and ongoing operational cash flows.

Adjustments to option exercise prices have been made to reflect the capital return, ensuring existing option holders maintain fair value. Shareholders are advised to consider potential tax implications of the capital return.

Looking Ahead

QuickFee plans to provide a business update for Q1 FY26 around mid-October, which will offer further insight into the early impact of its strategic refocus and leadership change. Investors will be watching closely to see how the company leverages its streamlined operations and reseller partnership to drive growth and profitability in the coming year.