AirAsia shares plunge to 4-year low after route absorption report

AirAsia Group Bhd shares plummeted as much as 21% to their lowest level in nearly four years following reports that the Malaysian government had discussed potential takeovers of the financially struggling carrier's domestic routes. The government talks with Malaysia Airlines Bhd and Batik Air are part of scenario planning as authorities keep a close eye on AirAsia's financial health, according to Reuters, citing two sources familiar with the matter.

Shares of sister company Capital A Bhd also fell by as much as 18%, reaching their lowest point in over a year. AirAsia's stock reached its lowest level since 2022, raising concerns about the carrier's financial position. Earlier this month, the airline reported its largest quarterly loss in four years. AirAsia is currently seeking to modify the terms of a USD200 million private credit loan, as revealed by Bloomberg News.

Earlier in the month, the company announced plans to raise over USD1 billion in fresh funds to refinance high-cost debt, countering media reports that it was trying to bolster liquidity. Financial pressures have intensified for AirAsia due to soaring energy prices following the start of the war in the Middle East, and the airline's limited fuel hedging has exacerbated the situation.

The stock has lost nearly 70% of its value this year, marking the worst performance among the 56 airlines included in the Bloomberg World Airlines Index.