The S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is having a better session on Friday. In afternoon trade, the benchmark index is up 0.3% to 7,215.3 points.
Four ASX shares that are climbing more than most are listed below. Here's why they are rising:
ANZ Group Holdings Ltd (ASX: ANZ)
The ANZ share price is up 2% to $23.92. Investors have been buying this banking giant's shares after it impressed with a record half-year cash profit. ANZ's first-half cash earnings from continuing operations came in 12% higher at $3,821 million thanks to solid performances across the board. This allowed the bank to declare an 81 cents per share fully franked dividend.
Block Inc (ASX: SQ2)
The Block share price is up almost 3% to $92.68. This has been driven by the release of a strong quarterly update from the payments giant. For the first quarter, Block reported a 32% increase in gross profit to US$1.71 billion. This was driven by a 49% increase in Cash App gross profit to US$931 million and a 16% lift in Square gross profit to US$770 million.
Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS)
The Pilbara Minerals share price is up almost 4% to $4.39. Investors have been buying Pilbara Minerals and other ASX lithium shares today despite there being no news out of them. However, there is optimism around the market that lithium prices may have bottomed now after some recent positive movements.
SSR Mining Inc (ASX: SSR)
The SSR Mining share price is up 8.5% to $25.02. This follows the release of the gold miner's quarterly update this morning. SSR had a solid quarter, reporting an operating performance in line with expectations. In light of this, management believes it is on track to achieve its guidance for the full year.
