The benchmark S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) has given back its strong morning gains but is still higher in afternoon trade. At the time of writing the index is up 0.1% to 5,835.9 points.
Four shares that have climbed more than most today are listed below. Here's why they have started the month on a high:
The BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) share price has pushed 3% higher to $33.23 after the mining giant announced that it has completed the sale of its onshore shale assets. As a result, management has advised that it will conduct a US$10.4 billion shareholder return program. This will be achieved through the combination of an off-market buy-back and a special dividend.
The Credit Corp Group Limited (ASX: CCP) share price is up 5% to $20.00. This morning the debt collector lifted its guidance ahead of its annual general meeting. Credit Corp now intends to purchase $170 million to $190 million in debt over FY 2019, compared to its original guidance of $150 million to $170 million. This has led to management forecasting an FY 2019 profit of $19 million, which would represent growth of 18% on the prior corresponding period.
The Corporate Travel Management Ltd (ASX: CTD) share price has bounced 7.5% higher to $21.57. The short seller target was given a boost today when Morgan Stanley released a broker note confirming that it has retained its overweight rating and $35.00 price target on the corporate travel specialist's shares. While I agree that it is a buy, I feel it might be best to let the dust settle before investing.
The NEXTDC Ltd (ASX: NXT) share price has jumped 6.5% higher to $6.25 despite there being no news out of the data centre operator. But with NEXTDC's shares falling heavily in October along with the rest of the tech sector, I suspect bargain hunters have been swooping in today.
