** Shares of GPT Group GPT.AX up 0.7% at A$4.61
** Retail assets operator says it has established a partnership with the GPT Wholesale Shopping Centre Fund (GWSCF) for its retail asset Rouse Hill Town Centre
** GPT says it will also acquire an additional 8.33% stake in Highpoint Shopping Centre from GWSCF
** "In our view, 2025 will be a foundational year for GPT in funds management and the announcement is another step towards implementation" - brokerage Citi
** Stock rises as much as 0.9% earlier in the day
** Stock up 5.5% this year, including the day's move
(Reporting by Roushni Nair in Bengaluru)
((Roushni.nair@thomsonreuters.com;))