ASX 200 (ASX:XJO) midday update: Telstra CEO steps down, Fortescue confirms E.ON deal

The ASX 200 is on form again on Wednesday. Here's what's happening…

A business person directs a pointed finger upwards on a rising arrow on a bar graph.

Image source: Getty Images

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 Wednesday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to record another solid gain. The benchmark index is currently up 0.7% to 7,514.9 points.

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

Telstra CEO to retire

The Telstra Corporation Ltd (ASX: TLS) share price is in the red today. This follows news that the telco giant's chief executive officer, Andrew Penn, will be stepping down from the role at the end of August. He will be replaced by the company's current chief financial officer, Vicki Brady. She will take over on 1 September but will be working with Penn over the coming months to ensure that the transition is a smooth one.

Eagers Automotive announces acquisition

The Eagers Automotive Ltd (ASX: APE) share price is pushing higher today after the automotive retailer announced a major acquisition. According to the release, Eagers Automotive has entered into a non-binding agreement with WFM Motors to acquire a portfolio of dealerships and associated properties located in Canberra for approximately $205 million. The portfolio covers a range of brands including Toyota, Ford, Volkswagen, Jeep, Lexus, Subaru, Mitsubishi, Volvo, and GMSV.

Fortescue's deal with E.ON

The Fortescue Metals Group Limited (ASX: FMG) share price is rising after the mining giant confirmed the signing of a memorandum of understanding with Germany's E.ON. As part of the agreement, the company's Fortescue Future Industries business will aim to supply Germany with green hydrogen by 2030. Fortescue estimates that it will require a US$50 billion investment but isn't committing to this expenditure at this stage.

Best and worst ASX 200 performers

The best performer on the ASX 200 on Wednesday has been the Magellan Financial Group Ltd (ASX: MFG) share price with an 8% gain. Investors may believe this fund manager's shares have been oversold following a severe decline this year. The worst performer has been the Incitec Pivot Ltd (ASX: IPL) share price with a 5% decline. This is despite there being no news out of the agricultural chemicals company.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia owns and has recommended Telstra Corporation Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Share Market News

Winning woman smiles and holds big cup while losing woman looks unhappy with small cup
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was a dour Tuesday for ASX investors.

Read more »

Broker looking at the share price.
Broker Notes

Broker ratings on 6 ASX shares about to join the ASX 200

These 6 companies will enter the ASX 200 in the December quarter rebalance. Should you buy them?

Read more »

Percentage sign on a blue graph representing interest rates.
Share Market News

ASX 200 turbulent following the RBA interest rate decision

ASX investors will need to accept plenty of uncertainty on the outlook for interest rates in 2026.

Read more »

Piggy bank on US flag with stock market data.
Share Market News

US stocks outperform ASX 200 for third consecutive year: Is it time to bail?

In the year to date, the S&P 500 Index is up 16.4% while the ASX 200 is up 5%.

Read more »

A happy elderly woman smiles and cheers as she looks at good investment news on her laptop.
Broker Notes

Macquarie forecasts this $3.4 billon ASX healthcare share is set surge 33%

Macquarie tips material outperformance from this ASX healthcare share in 2026.

Read more »

Cheerful businessman with a mining hat on the table sitting back with his arms behind his head while looking at his laptop's screen.
Share Market News

Regis Resources delivers gold exploration update

Regis Resources released an exploration update, reporting positive drilling results at Garden Well, Beamish South, Rosemont, Ben Hur and Tropicana.

Read more »

Buy now written on a red key with a shopping trolley on an Apple keyboard.
Share Market News

10 most-traded ASX shares last week

Some new companies joined the top-10 list for the first week of December.

Read more »

A large transparent piggy bank contains many little pink piggy banks, indicating diversity in a share portfolio.
Best Shares

Wesfarmers shares offer one thing no other ASX 100 stock does – can it last?

This company offers a unique, key advantage for investors.

Read more »