In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) has followed Wall Street's lead and dropped into the red. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is down 0.2% to 8,609.6 points.
Four ASX shares that are not letting that hold them back are listed below. Here's why they are rising:
Brightstar Resources Ltd (ASX: BTR)
The Brightstar Resources share price is up over 1% to 46 cents. This morning, this gold explorer released positive results from reverse circulation (RC) drilling at the Bull Oak and Havilah deposits, which are part of the Sandstone Hub. Brightstar's managing director, Alex Rovira, commented: "These results from our Sandstone Hub continue illustrate the significant potential growth to our existing MRE. All of these drillholes, at both Havilah and Bull Oak, targeted zones outside of the existing resource and confirmed significant mineralisation in these areas."
Immutep Ltd (ASX: IMM)
The Immutep share price is up 24% to 31.75 cents. Investors have been buying this late-stage immunotherapy company's shares following the release of a promising announcement after the market close on Monday. Immutep has entered into a strategic collaboration and exclusive licensing agreement with Dr. Reddy's Laboratories for the development and commercialisation of Eftilagimod Alfa (efti) in all countries outside North America, Europe, Japan, and Greater China. The agreement will see Immutep receive an upfront payment of US$20 million (~A$30.2 million). It will also be eligible to receive potential regulatory development and commercial milestone payments of up to US$349.5 million (~A$528.4 million), as well as double-digit royalties on commercial sales in these markets.
Pilbara Minerals Ltd (ASX: PLS)
The Pilbara Minerals share price is up 2% to $4.11. This may have been driven by a broker note out of Morgan Stanley. It notes that increasing use of energy storage systems due to the AI boom is driving demand for lithium. Given its strong organic growth opportunities, the broker feels that it is well-placed to benefit from any improvements in lithium prices.
Race Oncology Ltd (ASX: RAC)
The Race Oncology share price is up 8% to $2.89. This follows news that the oncology company has received and accepted an offer of a private placement from a supportive group of existing sophisticated shareholders. The company notes that the proceeds will fund the HARNESS-1 Phase 1a/b non-small cell lung cancer trial of RC220 in combination with Tagrisso. Race Oncology's CEO, Dr Daniel Tillett, commented: "Race Oncology is extremely grateful to the shareholders who approached us to ensure that the HARNESS-1 trial is started without delay. We are blessed to have such supportive shareholders who share our belief in the potential of RC220 to transform cancer patients' lives."
