At lunch on Monday, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to start the week with a solid gain. The benchmark index is currently up 0.8% to 7,411.9 points.
Here's what is happening on the ASX 200 today:
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CSL confirms acquisition talks
The CSL Limited (ASX: CSL) share price is trading flat after confirming media speculation that it is in talks to acquire Swiss-based Vifor Pharma. While no further details have been provided, there is speculation that a $10 billion deal could soon be reached. Vifor Pharma is a leader in iron deficiency, nephrology and cardio-renal therapies.
Charter Hall upgrades guidance again
The Charter Hall Group (ASX: CHC) share price is charging higher today after upgrading its guidance for FY 2022 once again. According to the release, almost all of its properties have been independently valued, leading to a net valuation uplift of ~$3.5 billion. This is expected to have a positive impact on funds under management and performance fees. As a result, it now expects FY 2022 operating earnings per share no less than 105 cents. This is up from its previously upgraded guidance of 83 cents per share.
Brickworks guidance
The Brickworks Limited (ASX: BKW) share price is pushing higher after it provided first half earnings guidance for its Property business. Management advised that it expects to report record Property EBIT in the range $290 million to $310 million for the half. This compares to Property EBIT of $253 million in the whole of FY 2021.
Best and worst ASX 200 performers
The best performer on the ASX 200 on Monday has been the Charter Hall share price with a 4.5% gain following its guidance upgrade. The worst performer has been the Insurance Australia Group Ltd (ASX: IAG) share price with a 3.5% decline. This follows news that UBS has downgraded its shares to a sell rating.
