Lend Lease (ASX:LLC)The annual general meetings of major construction and investment companies have concluded this week and are in the spotlight. Shareholders heard that the company is giving a cautious outlook for next year as the construction sector continues to struggle due to pandemic-era projects and rising costs. The company declined to change its fiscal 2025 earnings forecast (54 cents to 62 cents per share), but announced a $500 million share buyback conditional on the sale of certain assets. CEO Tony Lombardo emphasized that gearing levels are expected to return to the targeted 5-15% range by the end of FY26. The company is focusing on improving market conditions in its investment sector, aiming to become a highly profitable fund with operational growth and higher co-investment yields. The stock is trading 1.81% higher at $6.76.

apa group (ASX:APA) There was a significant 3 percent increase. Investor interest has been piqued by the company’s announcement that it maintains its normalized EBITDA outlook for fiscal 2025, which is higher than the prior year. APA Group’s first quarter revenue increased to $256.4 million from $237.6 million in the previous quarter. However, normalized EBITDA decreased slightly, from $15.6 million to $14.8 million in the same period. The reasons for this drop require further investigation. Although details are unclear, the market will likely continue to closely monitor the company’s performance.

Altech Batteries Limited shifts focus to small-cap stocks (ASX:ATC) has successfully raised $4 million in funding and is attracting strong investor interest. This oversubscribed placement saw a 50% premium over the recent rights issue price. Funds raised will be used to advance major battery projects, including the CERENERGY® and Silumina AnodesTM projects. These projects include securing project financing, offtake arrangements, and environmental approvals. The arrangement also included the issuance of free attached listed options, further increasing its attractiveness to investors. The stock is trading 11.59% lower at 6.1 cents.