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Mulpha Considering Buying Stake in Centro, Australian Reports

By Stuart Kelly

Feb. 7 (Bloomberg) -- Mulpha International Bhd., a Malaysian property company, and an unidentified Middle East- based investor may each buy a stake in shopping mall owner Centro Properties Group, the Australian reported, citing stock market speculation.

Mulpha Australia, a local unit, couldn't be contacted to comment on speculation it may seek to add Centro stock to its portfolio of Australian resorts, car parks and luxury hotels, the newspaper said.

Industry Superannuation Property Trust is one of four parties bidding for Centro's A$2 billion ($1.8 billion) wholesale fund, which is up for sale as the company struggles to repay debt, the Australian reported.

To contact the reporter for this story: Stuart Kelly in Sydney [email protected]

Last Updated: February 6, 2008 15:37 EST