ABC Learning to tap Morgan Stanley for funds-source

SYDNEY, June 10 (Reuters) - A.B.C. Learning Centres Ltd (ABS.AX), Australia's top childcare operator, is expected to raise about $80 million by selling new shares to Morgan Stanley Private Equity, a source familiar with the transaction told Reuters on Tuesday.

Earlier, ABC shares were placed on trading halt ahead of a planned capital raising.

Morgan Stanley declined to comment, while A.B.C. could not be reached for comment. ($1=A$1.05) (Reporting by Denny Thomas)