ASX 200 midday update: Boral rockets, big four banks tumble

The ASX 200 is rebounding on Wednesday…

A man working in the stock exchange.

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 rebound from yesterday's selloff. The benchmark index is currently up 0.6% to 7,138.1 points.

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

Boral rockets on new CEO appointment

The Boral Limited (ASX: BLD) share price is rocketing higher on Wednesday. This follows news that the building products company has appointed Vik Bansal as its new CEO. Mr Bansal stepped down from the role of CEO of Cleanaway Waste Management Ltd (ASX: CWY) last year amid a scandal which saw him accused of creating a culture of workplace bullying. This overshadowed an otherwise highly successful six years at Cleanaway.

Big four banks tumble

Australia's big four banks are tumbling today. The worst performer in the group has been the Westpac Banking Corp (ASX: WBC) share price with a 4% decline. This appears to have been driven by concerns that an aggressive tightening cycle by the Reserve Bank could create challenges for the banking sector. The market was previously expecting a more gradual and measured tightening cycle.

Uranium shares take off

The Paladin Energy Ltd (ASX: PDN) share price is taking off on Wednesday along with other uranium shares. This follows news that the United States is seeking to wean itself off Russian uranium for its nuclear reactors. The Biden Administration is seeking support for a US$4.3 billion plan to help with the transition.

Best and worst ASX 200 performers

The best performer on the ASX 200 on Wednesday has been the Atlas Arteria Group (ASX: ALX) share price with a 16% gain. This follows news that IFM Global Infrastructure Fund has acquired a 15% stake in the toll road operator at a significant premium to its last close price. Going the other way, the worst performer has been the Westpac share price with a 4% decline amid weakness in the banking sector.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has positions in Westpac Banking Corporation. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Westpac Banking Corporation. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Scott Phillips.

More on Share Market News

Fancy font saying top ten surrounded by gold leaf set against a dark background of glittering stars.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

Let's also take a look at what the various ASX sectors were doing this Wednesday.

Read more »

Two male ASX 200 analysts stand in an office looking at various computer screens showing share prices
Broker Notes

Top brokers name 3 ASX shares to buy today

Here's what brokers are recommending as buys this week.

Read more »

A young women pumps her fists in excitement after seeing some good news on her laptop.
Share Gainers

Why Argosy Minerals, Immutep, Pointsbet, and Regis Resources shares are racing higher

These shares are having a strong session on Wednesday. But why?

Read more »

A young man clasps his hand to his head with his eyes closed and a pained expression on his face as he clasps a laptop computer in front of him, seemingly learning of bad news or a poor investment.
Share Fallers

Why Chalice Mining, Cleanaway, Kogan, and Perpetual shares are sinking today

These ASX shares are having a tough time on Wednesday. But why?

Read more »

Man looking at his grocery receipt, symbolising inflation.
Share Market News

Why the ASX 200 just crumbled on today's inflation print

ASX 200 investors are hitting the sell button following the latest Australian inflation news.

Read more »

man grimaces next to falling stock graph
Share Fallers

Why did this ASX 100 stock just crash 11%?

Cleanaway shares have been on a crazy roller-coaster over the past 24 hours.

Read more »

a man in a british union jack T shirt hurdles high into the air with london bridge visible in the background.
Mergers & Acquisitions

Nick Scali shares halted amid $60m capital raising and UK expansion news

This furniture retailer has its eyes on the UK furniture market.

Read more »

An arrogant banker pleased with himself and his success winks at his mobile phone while taking a selfie
Share Market News

Are ASX 200 bank shares like CBA 'too expensive' right now?

Are banks overpriced or good value today?

Read more »