A Geraldton servo's price jumped from $1.76 to $2 overnight after bombs dropped on Iran—is this price gouging?
The episode opens with hosts Mark Pownall and Tom Zornmeier introducing the week's topics, focusing on the Middle East war's immediate effect on oil prices, citing a Geraldton servo's price jump to $2. They note Woodside's share price rise above $30 and discuss broader market movements, including iron ore stability and gold miner declines. The conversation shifts to local transactions, starting with Complete Filtration Systems' sale to private equity, referencing a potential $60 million benchmark. Genus Plus's acquisition of Rail Train for $55 million is analyzed as a diversification into metropolitan rail maintenance. Pertaman's developments are detailed, including a $3 billion Helios solar farm near Karratha and a $6.5 billion urea plant, aiming for green ammonia production. Pertaman's acquisition of Amanda Energy Solutions is mentioned, alongside the hiring of political advisor Dave Coggan. Hotel projects are reviewed, with a Golden Sadeu resort in Burswood and a $13 million luxury hotel in Exmouth, where water shortages hinder development. Rio Tinto's $1.1 billion desalination plant in the Pilbara, co-funded by the state government, is discussed as a solution to groundwater disputes. The episode concludes with Cheeky Monkey Brewery's plan to open a CBD venue, part of a trend of regional breweries entering Perth. Throughout, the hosts provide context on WA's business landscape, touching on political connections, infrastructure challenges, and market dynamics.
