It has been another underwhelming day for the S&P/ASX 200 (Index: ^AXJO) (ASX: XJO). In afternoon trade the benchmark index is lower by 0.2% to 5,749 points thanks largely to heavy declines in the energy and materials sectors.
Not all shares have dropped lower today though. In fact, four shares in particular have made notably strong gains today. Here's why:
The Ardent Leisure Group (ASX: AAD) share price has jumped 5% to $1.74. Today's gain means the entertainment company's shares have now climbed around 12% since the company provided an update on the performance of its theme parks on Tuesday. Although revenue and visitor numbers in February were still lower than the prior corresponding period, they were a big improvement on December and January's numbers. I think this could be an opportune time to snap up its shares.
The Galaxy Resources Limited (ASX: GXY) share price has surged around 5.5% to 47 cents today despite there being no news out the company. The shares of this leading lithium miner have fallen sharply in the last month due to concerns over reports of increasing supply. Whilst supply is expected to increase strongly over the next few years, I believe the incredible demand for lithium's use in batteries for smartphones and electric vehicles will help sustain current high prices.
The Tatts Group Limited (ASX: TTS) share price has climbed 3% to $4.20 after the ACCC released a statement of issues in relation to its proposed merger with Tabcorp Holdings Limited (ASX: TAH). Tabcorp's management believes it is well advanced in addressing the issues identified by the ACCC. Judging by the market's reaction, investors appear to believe this will be enough to receive approval.
The Zelda Therapeutics Ltd (ASX: ZLD) share price has rocketed a staggering 39% to 7.1 cents. Although there was no news out of the fledgling medical marijuana company today, interest in the sector has grown strongly since the government announced plans to loosen regulations around the use of medical marijuana in the treatment of chronic pain and cancer patients. This has caused the majority of "pot stocks" to rally significantly higher.