Overview of Shaw and Partners’ TechRise Conference Insights
Shaw and Partners recently held its TechRise conference, where it highlighted several companies that are showing promising performance in the technology sector. The firm has provided detailed insights into these companies, along with their expectations for future growth. Below is a comprehensive look at the key players and what they have to offer.
Playside Studios Ltd (ASX: PLY)
Playside Studios has been making waves with the release of its game, Mouse: P.I. For Hire. This title has been performing exceptionally well, with significant sales figures reported. According to an update to the ASX this week, the game has sold approximately 730,000 units, generating estimated gross sales revenue of US$21.4 million. The net revenue for Playside is around US$13 million.
The game continues to be popular among players, with a 94% review score on the Steam platform. Playside has also noted that the game remains on player wish lists, indicating sustained interest.
In light of the strong performance of Mouse: P.I. For Hire, Playside has upgraded its FY26 revenue guidance to between $50m and $53m. This represents a significant increase from the previous forecast of exceeding FY25’s reported revenue of $48.7m. The upgrade is attributed to stronger-than-expected unit sales and ongoing wishlist conversion across PC and console platforms, despite the delayed launch and lack of major external project wins.
Shaw and Partners believes that the performance of Mouse: P.I. For Hire has exceeded expectations. The firm has set a price target of 44 cents per share for Playside, compared to the current price of 25.5 cents.
Hansen Technologies Ltd (ASX: HSN)
Hansen Technologies, which provides software solutions to the utilities and telecommunications sectors, delivered a “constructive update” at the TechRise conference, according to Shaw and Partners. Management reiterated that FY26 is expected to be weighted towards a stronger second half, with DigiTalk contributing approximately $10–11m in revenue.
FX remains a top-line headwind, but there is growing confidence in margin improvements. Management suggested that ‘30% plus’ margins are realistic over the medium term, supported by AI-driven productivity gains.
Mergers and acquisitions continue to be a central part of Hansen’s growth strategy. With the company expected to move to a net cash positive position later this year, there is potential for more deals to be made.
Shaw and Partners has set a price target of $7.60 for Hansen shares, compared to the current price of $4.93.
Objective Corp Ltd (ASX: OCL)
Objective Corp, led by founder and CEO Tony Walls, presented a confident and assertive update at the TechRise conference. Shaw and Partners noted that the company is in its strongest position in years, despite broader SaaS disruption narratives.
Management maintained its FY26 ARR guidance at 10–14%, with a long-term target of 15% reiterated. The Information Intelligence division has exceeded expectations during the half, and the Build Australia division is on track to have customers signed and live by June 30, becoming a more meaningful contributor in FY27.
Management also indicated that margins are increasingly within its control and pushed back constructively on concerns about AI disruption.
Shaw and Partners has set a price target of $22.10 for OCL shares, compared to the current price of $11.17. OCL is valued at $1.07 billion.
Conclusion
Shaw and Partners has identified several technology companies that show strong potential for growth. Playside Studios, Hansen Technologies, and Objective Corp are all positioned to benefit from their respective market strategies and performance. Investors considering these stocks should carefully evaluate their investment goals and risk tolerance before making any decisions.
