ASX 200 (ASX:XJO) midday update: Tabcorp demerger update, BHP higher, Block tumbles

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

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 Thursday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to extend its winning run. The benchmark index is currently up 0.35% to 7,540.6 points.

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

A group of market analysts sit and stand around their computers in an open-plan office environment.

Image source: Getty Images

Tabcorp demerger update

The Tabcorp Holdings Limited (ASX: TAH) share price is pushing higher today after the release of a demerger update. The gambling company intends to spin off its lotteries business and retain its wagering businesses. Shareholders will be given one new share in the lotteries business for every Tabcorp share they own. The Tabcorp board determined that the demerger is the most certain and timely path, with lower regulatory impediments, to maximise value for shareholders.

Mining shares storm higher

It has been a great day for ASX 200 mining shares such as BHP Group Ltd (ASX: BHP) and South32 Ltd (ASX: S32). Thanks to a decent rise in base metal prices during overnight trade, these mining giants are recording solid gains and helping to drive the S&P/ASX 200 Resources index 2% higher at lunch.

Tech shares slump

Things haven't been anywhere near as positive in the tech sector today. A poor night of trade on the tech-focused Nasdaq index has led to the S&P ASX All Technology index falling 1% today. Among the worst performers in the sector have been Block Inc (ASX: SQ2) and Xero Limited (ASX: XRO) shares, which are down 4% and 3%, respectively, at lunch.

Best and worst ASX 200 performers

The best performer on the ASX 200 on Thursday has been the Champion Iron Ltd (ASX: CIA) share price with a 4.5% gain following a strong night for base metals. The worst performer has been the Harvey Norman Holdings Limited (ASX: HVN) share price with a 6% decline after trading ex-dividend.

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. owns and has recommended Block, Inc., Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd., and Xero. The Motley Fool Australia owns and has recommended Block, Inc., Harvey Norman Holdings Ltd., and Xero. 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

Red buy button on an Apple keyboard with a finger on it.
Opinions

If I had $10,000, this is the ASX stock I'd buy right now

WiseTech’s pullback may offer a rare entry into a global software leader.

Read more »

A man with a beard and wearing dark sunglasses and a beanie head covering raises a fist in happy celebration as he sits at is computer in a home environment.
Share Market News

ASX 200 tech shares rocket 13% as long-awaited sector rebound accelerates

A strong technology sector turnaround in the Australian and US markets began on 31 March.

Read more »

A smiling woman holds a Facebook like sign above her head.
Broker Notes

Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy next week

Brokers gave buy ratings to these ASX shares last week. Why are they bullish?

Read more »

Three people in a corporate office pour over a tablet, ready to invest.
Broker Notes

Brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy right now

Here's why brokers are feeling bullish about these three shares this week.

Read more »

Person with thumbs down and a red sad face poster covering their face.
Broker Notes

6 ASX 200 shares downgraded by the experts this week

Brokers have reduced their ratings on six ASX 200 shares, including PLS Group and Westpac this week.

Read more »

Disappointed man with his head on his hand looking at a falling share price his a laptop.
Share Fallers

Why Dateline Resourcs, Northern Star, Rox Resources, and Wesfarmers shares are dropping today

These shares are ending the week in the red. But why?

Read more »

Woman leaping in the air and standing out from her friends who are watching.
Share Gainers

3 ASX 200 stocks leaping higher in this week's slumping market

Investors sent these three ASX 200 stocks rocketing 24% to 28% in this week’s sliding market. But why?

Read more »

A young woman holding her phone smiles broadly and looks excited, after receiving good news.
Share Gainers

Why Eden Innovation, Elsight, Paladin Energy, and Zip shares are racing higher today

These shares are ending the week on a high. But why?

Read more »