ASX Lingo Decoded

Published: 6 Sep 2025 · 4–5 min read

This guide uses everyday language first, then names the term investors use. Learn the idea; learn the word.

Core ideas

Company code: the short code in your brokerage app (e.g., CBA, BHP). Label: ticker/ASX code.
Company size: roughly share price � number of shares. Label: market cap.
Dividends: cash payments from profits; may include franking credits.
Ups and downs: how quickly prices move. Label: volatility.

Trading pause: temporary halt while important news is prepared. Label: trading halt.
Price-moving news: updates that can move the share price (earnings, guidance, acquisitions).
Raising cash: new shares sold to fund growth placements (institutions) or SPPs (existing holders).
Buybacks: a company buys it’s own shares, often signalling confidence or capital return.

Reading tip: in announcement PDFs, scan for the numbers and assumptions; words like one-off , non-cash , or guidance add context.

Educational content only — not financial advice.