"Asciano notes recent market speculation regarding its intentions in relation to Brambles," Asciano said in a statement to the Australian stock exchange.

"Asciano confirms that it has no current intention of making a takeover bid for Brambles.

"Asciano also advises that it presently intends to retain its 4.09 per cent shareholding in Brambles."

Asciano and transport and logistics group Toll Holdings Ltd, which owns a small stake in Brambles of less than one per cent, have both been touted as predators for Brambles since establishing their holdings.

Asciano shares were 59 cents higher at $8.90. Brambles was down 13 cents at $12.30