StocksMedium11 September 2026
2 min read

Shopify’s Australia Expansion via Affirm Bolsters International Growth

Key Facts

1Shopify delivered 34% revenue growth in Q2 FY2026 with free cash flow reaching $654 million.
2Shop Pay Installments, powered by Affirm, expanded into the Australian market to strengthen the merchant ecosystem.

Following weeks of anticipation regarding the e-commerce sector's performance, Shopify has reported robust financial results that underscore its operational resilience. According to analyst reports, the company delivered a 34% revenue increase in the second quarter of fiscal year 2026, with free cash flow reaching $654 million. This growth is complemented by the strategic expansion of Shop Pay Installments, powered by Affirm, into the Australian market, a move designed to capture international market share and strengthen the merchant ecosystem.

In terms of operational context, Shopify is leveraging AI-driven commerce initiatives to improve merchant retention and bolster long-term cash flow. Per market data, Affirm (AFRM) remains a critical partner in this trajectory as the companies scale 'Buy Now, Pay Later' services globally. While analysts maintain a bullish outlook based on fundamental growth, the broader software sector's valuation remains a key point of consideration for investors moving forward.

At the close on September 10, 2026, SHOP was priced at $126.6, while AFRM stood at $67.99. Market participants are now monitoring how consumer behavior shifts following recent data, such as the Westpac Consumer Confidence change in Australia which fell by 5.2% on September 8, potentially impacting the initial adoption rate of the newly launched installments service.