Macquarie Asset Management has made a major move in the logistics sector with a $7.5 billion offer to acquire Qube Holdings, one of Australia’s largest port and intermodal operators. The bid pushed Qube’s stock to a record high, with shares jumping nearly 20% following the announcement.
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The offer is $3.45 per share in cash, which represents a 28% premium over Qube’s last closing price before the bid was made. Macquarie has already secured an exclusivity agreement that allows it to conduct detailed due diligence through early February.
Qube said this marks Macquarie’s second attempt to take over the company. An earlier offer was rejected, but the board said it will recommend this deal if no higher offer emerges.
“This proposal highlights the strength of Qube’s assets and operations,” said Qube Chairman John Bevan. Analysts say the deal could become one of the largest logistics acquisitions in Australia this year, and possibly one of the biggest globally among port and terminal operators.
If the acquisition goes through, Macquarie would gain control of assets tied to freight terminals, bulk handling, rail services, and import/export operations across Australia. Industry watchers say the move reflects a larger global trend — investors are increasingly interested in physical logistics infrastructure tied to real-world trade flows.
The deal is still subject to regulatory review, shareholder approval, and final agreement. Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board and competition regulators are expected to review the proposal in early 2026. The exclusivity period runs through February 1, and observers say other bidders could emerge before then.
