Although the S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) has had a couple of wobbles in recent days, it has still carved out an impressive gain of 9.5% in 2019.
Whilst this is undoubtedly a strong gain, some shares on the index have outperformed it by a significant margin.
The Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) share price has been a strong performer in 2019 with a massive gain of 51.5%. This gain has been driven largely by the significant rise in iron ore prices following the Vale dam disaster in Brazil earlier this year. This disaster has led to concerns that supply might not be able to keep up with demand in the short term. In addition to this, the narrowing of the discount between Fortescue's ore and the benchmark 62% fines has supported its share price.
The Nanosonics Ltd (ASX: NAN) share price has stormed a remarkable 44% higher since the start of the year. Investors have been fighting to get hold of the infection control specialist's shares after it released a strong half year result last month. In the first half of FY 2019 Nanosonics delivered a 36% increase in sales to $40.7 million and a 195% lift in operating profit before tax to $11 million. This impressive result was driven by the increasing demand for its leading trophon EPR product. During the half the product's installed base grew to a total of 19,310 units, which was a 20% increase on the same period last year.
The Webjet Limited (ASX: WEB) share price has surged 37% higher this year. The online travel agent's shares have been on fire since the release of a stronger than expected half year result last month. Webjet posted a 33% lift in half year revenue to $175.3 million and a 42% jump in EBITDA to $58 million thanks partly to the strong performance of its WebBeds (B2B) segment. From its continuing operations, the WebBeds segment grew bookings by 50% and EBITDA by a massive 136% to $30.1 million. The good news is that management believes the segment can continue its strong form for some time to come thanks to its global growth opportunities.
