In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) looks set to start the week with a decline. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.3% to 7,280.8 points.
Four ASX shares that have not let that hold them back are listed below. Here's why they are pushing higher:
Australian Clinical Labs Ltd (ASX: ACL)
The Australian Clinical Labs share price is up 2.5% to $5.05. This morning the pathology company announced the successful completion of the acquisition of Medlab Pathology for $70 million. It is a leading Australian privately-owned independent pathology provider, with two laboratories and 288 collection centres across NSW and Queensland.
Humm Group Ltd (ASX: HUM)
The Humm share price has jumped 20% to 89 cents. This morning, the financial services company revealed that it has received approaches from third parties to acquire all or part of it. No details on the approaches have been provided. However, the Humm Board intends to engage with these potential suitors to determine whether their proposals are capable of becoming definitive offers.
Neometals Ltd (ASX: NMT)
The Neometals share price is up 1% to $1.05. Earlier today Neometals advised that its joint venture company, Primobius, has successfully commissioned its commercial shredding plant in Hilchenbach, Germany. From early next year, up to 10 tonnes per day of battery-grade metal sulphate chemicals will be able to be safely recycled into new battery production.
Viva Energy Group Ltd (ASX: VEA)
The Viva Energy share price is up 3.5% to $2.23. This follows the release of guidance for FY 2021 from the fuel retailer. According to the release, the company expects its operating earnings to almost double to between $470 million and $490 million. Viva achieved strong fuel sales growth across both Retail and Commercial segments in FY 2021.
