The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) has had a disappointing start to the week and been dragged notably lower by declines in the banking sector. At the time of writing the benchmark index is down a sizeable 0.5% to 6,040.2 points.
Four shares that have not let that hold them back are listed below. Here's why they have started the week on a high:
The IDP Education Ltd (ASX: IEL) share price has continued its positive run and is up a further 3.5% to $14.40. The education services provider's shares have been on fire since the release of a strong half year result last week. Analysts at Macquarie were impressed enough to retain their outperform rating and lift the price target on them to $15.20.
The Japara Healthcare Ltd (ASX: JHC) share price is up over 7% to $1.34. The aged care provider was given a lift over the weekend when the Federal Government announced a new $662 million funding package for the aged care sector. Approximately $280 million is to be committed for 10,000 additional home care packages and $320 million will be allocated to aged care providers to help increase support.
The JB Hi-Fi Limited (ASX: JBH) share price has climbed 3.5% to $23.33 following the release of a solid half year result. The retailer delivered growth across its whole business, leading to total half year sales rising 4.2% to $3,843.7 million and net profit after tax increasing 5.5% to $160.1 million. This was ahead of the market's expectations.
The Sigma Healthcare Ltd (ASX: SIG) share price has pushed 4% higher to 58.2 cents. This morning the pharmacy chain operator and wholesale distributor released a market update which went down well with investors. Following the conclusion of a business review, management revealed that it has identified a strong future for the company underpinned by over $100 million in cost savings.
