The ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) was eventful again this week. Here are four big stories you may have missed that affected the ASX 200 index:
REA Group Limited (ASX: REA) keeps on growing
Despite falling house prices and a declining number of property listings, REA Group managed to reveal another quarter of revenue and earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA) growth in its third quarter result of FY19.
Revenue after broker commissions grew by 7% and EBITDA increased by 6%. Free cash flow went up by 27%.
Shock ACCC decision
The ACCC shocked most of the telco sector when it rejected the idea of TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPM) and Vodafone Australia merging together to create a large third player in the telco space.
However, all hope is not lost as far as TPG is concerned. The two businesses will continue to pursue a merger in the Federal Court. TPG said it has no plans of launching its own mobile offering as a separate entity.
Qantas Airways Limited (ASX: QAN) surprises with more revenue growth
The market was positively surprised after the Flying Kangaroo company revealed revenue growth in its March 2019 release despite the headwinds that it is facing including higher fuel costs.
The Qantas third quarter revenue was up 2.3% to $4.4 billion compared to the same period last year.
Afterpay Touch Group Ltd (ASX: APT) challengers get stronger
The Afterpay share price had a bit of a wobble this week as one of its Australia competitors, FlexiGroup Limited (ASX: FXL), announced that it has made progress in a number of areas with its humm business.
FlexiGroup said it has signed up IKEA, JB Hi-Fi Limited (ASX: JBH) New Zealand and Myer Holdings Ltd (ASX: MYR), among others.
