Origin Energy's shares jumped as much as 8.1% after the Australian utility raised its fiscal 2026 underlying EBITDA guidance for its Energy Markets division to A$1.55 billion-A$1.75 billion, up from the previous A$1.40 billion-A$1.70 billion range. The upgrade, driven by improved electricity business performance and cost savings, sent Sydney-listed shares to a high of A$11.97 before paring gains to trade 4.5% higher at A$10.91.

Despite the positive market reaction, Origin reported a statutory first-half profit of A$557 million, down from A$1.02 billion a year earlier. The decline reflected softer earnings in Integrated Gas and a lower contribution from Octopus Energy. However, the Energy Markets division showed strength with underlying EBITDA rising to A$860 million, supported by higher electricity gross profit and disciplined cost control.

Origin also announced a fully franked interim dividend of 30 Australian cents per share, unchanged from the prior year. The company's ability to maintain dividend payments while upgrading guidance for its key division signals confidence in its operational turnaround strategy, particularly in its electricity retail business.