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

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

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:

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

A man sees some good news on his phone and gives a little cheer.
Broker Notes

Why analysts say Hub24, New Hope, and Xero shares are buys

Let's see why they are bullish on these names this week.

Read more »

Young businesswoman sitting in kitchen and working on laptop.
Broker Notes

Buy, hold, sell: BHP, CSL, and Endeavour shares

Let's see if analysts are bullish, bearish, or something in-between with these shares.

Read more »

A woman sits at a table with notebook on lap and pen in hand as she gazes off to the side with the pen resting on the side of her face as though she is thinking and contemplating while a glass of orange juice and a pair of red sunglasses rests on the table beside her.
Share Market News

Corporate Travel Management announces major leadership changes

Corporate Travel Management announces founder Jamie Pherous retires and Ana Pedersen becomes Acting CEO, focusing on resolving accounting matters.

Read more »

A man in a business suit whose face isn't shown hands over two australian hundred dollar notes from a pile of notes in his other hand to an outstretched hand of another person.
Opinions

2 incredible ASX shares I'd buy with $2,000 right now

These two investments have very compelling futures…

Read more »

A woman with a mobile phone in her hand looks sceptical with a puzzled expression on her face with an eyebrow raised and pursed lips.
Share Market News

GrainCorp shares: FY26 earnings guidance forecasts lower profits

GrainCorp has issued lower FY26 earnings guidance as oversupply and weak global prices put pressure on margins.

Read more »

Smiling female CEO with arms crossed stands in office with co-workers in background.
Share Market News

BlueScope Steel: New CEO Tania Archibald sets out fresh value-focused agenda

Tania Archibald begins as BlueScope Steel’s new CEO, unveiling strategies to deliver greater value for shareholders.

Read more »

Broker looking at the share price.
Share Market News

2 ASX shares highly recommended to buy: Experts

Lots of analysts rate these stocks as a buy. Here’s why…

Read more »

Close up of a sad young woman reading about declining share price on her phone.
Share Market News

These are the 10 most shorted ASX shares

Let's see which shares short sellers are targeting this week.

Read more »