ASX 200 (ASX:XJO) midday update: Crown jumps, WiseTech tumbles

Here's what's happening on Friday…

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

At lunch on Friday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is fighting hard to stay in positive territory. The benchmark index is currently up 0.1% to 7,384.4 points.

Here's what is happening on the ASX 200 today:

Man looks shocked as he works on laptop on top a skyscraper with stockmarket figures in graphic behind him.

Image source: Getty Images

Crown jumps on takeover approach

The Crown Resorts Ltd (ASX: CWN) share price surging higher after it received a takeover approach from private equity firm, Blackstone. According to the release, Blackstone has made an unsolicited and non-binding proposal to acquire all of the shares in Crown by way of a scheme of arrangement at a price of $12.50 cash per share. This will be reduced by the value of any dividends or distributions declared or paid by Crown.

WiseTech falls on AGM update

The WiseTech Global Ltd (ASX: WTC) share price is ending the week deep in the red. This follows the release of the logistics solutions platform provider's annual general meeting presentation. In the presentation, management reaffirmed its guidance for FY 2022. It continues to expect revenue of $600 million to $635 million (18% to 25% growth) and EBITDA of $260 million to $285 million (26% to 38% growth). It appears as though the market was expecting a guidance upgrade.

Lithium miners fall

It hasn't been a good day for lithium shares. A number of ASX lithium shares are falling on Friday and are weighing on the index. Orocobre Limited (ASX: ORE) and Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS) are both down around 3% at the time of writing. This may be due to profit taking from some investors after strong gains this year.

Best and worst ASX 200 performers

The best performer on the ASX 200 on Friday by some distance is the Crown share price with a 16% gain following its takeover approach. The worst performer has been the ALS Ltd (ASX: ALQ) share price with a 4.5% decline. This is despite there being no news out of the testing services company.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro owns shares of Orocobre Limited. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns shares of and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool Australia owns shares of and has recommended WiseTech Global. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on ASX Share Market News

Wooden house models on a table with a man using a calculator.
Broker Notes

Why this expert believes it's time to exit positions in REA Group shares

One broker is calling time on this ASX 200 stock.

Read more »

A group of young ASX investors sitting around a laptop with an older lady standing behind them explaining how investing works.
ASX Share Market News

Light & Wonder vs Aristocrat Leisure: Which gaming share wins?

Light & Wonder or Aristocrat Leisure: see how the ASX gaming leaders stack up head-to-head – and which one I’d…

Read more »

Five young people sit in a row having fun and interacting with their mobile phones.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a slightly sour end to the trading week this Friday.

Read more »

Two miners at a mine site on their tablets, with mining machinery behind them.
Share Fallers

Why has the Mineral Resources share price fallen 12% this week?

It’s been another tough week for Mineral Resources shareholders.

Read more »

Graphic depicting Australian economic activity.
ASX Share Market News

ASX 200 slips into the red after a positive start. Here's why

The benchmark index is seesawing again.

Read more »

Happy young couple riding a motorbike together.
Broker Notes

7 ASX 200 shares with reaffirmed buy ratings this week

Brokers retained a positive view on Santos, Zip, AMP, and other shares this week. 

Read more »

Sad man sitting at desk and grabbing his head as he looks at a laptop.
Broker Notes

Downgrade alert! 5 ASX 200 shares downgraded by experts this week

Brokers reduced their ratings on Wisetech, Harvey Norman, Ansell, and other stocks this week. 

Read more »

Woman holding several shopping bags.
Broker Notes

ASX retail shares are down 13% in 2026. Here's what Morgan Stanley is worried about

The sector has fallen hard, and concerns remain.

Read more »