The S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO) is expected to trade higher today following mixed leads from international markets overnight.
Here's a recap:
- Dow Jones (USA): up 0.12%
- NASDAQ (USA): up 0.28%
- FTSE 100 (UK): down 0.08%
- DAX (Germany): down 0.02%
- CAC 40 (France): down 0.78%
In Europe, shares were mostly flat as commodities markets failed to fire. FTSE-listed shares of BHP Billiton Limited (ASX: BHP) and Rio Tinto Limited (ASX: RIO) closed 0.9% and 0.3% lower, respectively.
In the US, the energy sector weighed on markets but a lift in the healthcare and telecommunications sectors helped markets edge higher.
Closer to home, the Sydney Futures Exchange is tipping an 11-point, or 0.2%, rise in the S&P/ASX 200.
Shares in focus will include TPG Telecom Ltd (ASX: TPM). The telecommunications company, which recently acquired iiNet, today reported an 84% jump in revenue and 90% increase in profit for its most recent half-year. Earnings per share climbed 83%.
Meanwhile, Kathmandu Holdings Ltd (ASX: KMD) released its half-year report showing a 9% increase in revenue and a profit of NZ$9.4 million. The company said the results were in line with its expectations.
New Hope Corporation Limited (ASX: NHC) reported a 14% decline in half-year revenue but a net profit after tax of $2.7 million – up from a loss of $23 million last year.
Litigation funder, IMF Bentham Ltd (ASX: IMF) announced its intention to raise between $30 million and $50 million via a notes (i.e. debt) offer. The proceeds will be used for general corporate purposes and to fund growth initiatives in Australia.
Silver Chef Limited (ASX: SIV) shares are in a trading halt pending an announcement of a capital raising.
Finally, in broker news, UBS analysts downgraded Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ASX: ANZ) shares from 'Buy' to 'Neutral', according to Dow Jones Newswires.
