Why Challenger, CSL, NRW, and Woodside shares are pushing higher

These ASX shares are on form on Thursday…

| More on:
Green arrow with green stock prices symbolising a rising share price.

Image source: Getty Images

You’re reading a free article with opinions that may differ from The Motley Fool’s Premium Investing Services. Become a Motley Fool member today to get instant access to our top analyst recommendations, in-depth research, investing resources, and more. Learn More

In afternoon trade, the S&P/ASX 200 Index (ASX: XJO) is on course to record another solid gain. At the time of writing, the benchmark index is up 0.6% to 7,330.9 points.

Four ASX shares that are climbing more than most today are listed below. Here's why they are pushing higher:

Challenger Ltd (ASX: CGF)

The Challenger share price is up 6.5% to $6.73. Investors have been buying the annuities company's shares following the release of its half year results. Challenger reported a 21% increase in normalised net profit before tax to $238 million. This means the company is on track to achieve its FY 2022 normalised net profit before tax guidance of between $430 million and $480 million.

CSL Limited (ASX: CSL)

The CSL share price is up 4% to $274.49. This follows a positive response from brokers to the biotherapeutics company's half year results. For example, both Morgan Stanley and Ord Minnett upgraded the company's shares to overweight and accumulate ratings, respectively.

NRW Holdings Limited (ASX: NWH)

The NRW share price has jumped 14% to $1.97. This follows the release of the mining contractor's half year results. For the six months ended 31 December, NRW delivered a 26% increase in operating earnings to $74.6 million. This represents the high end of its guidance range. In light of this strong form, management has narrowed its full year guidance towards the top end of its previous range.

Woodside Petroleum Limited (ASX: WPL)

The Woodside share price is up almost 5% to $27.87. This follows the release of the energy producer's full year results, which revealed the more than tripling of its profits in FY 2021. Thanks to a modest increase in sales volumes and a surge in realised prices per barrel, Woodside reported a 93% increase in operating revenue to US$6,962 million and a 262% jump in underlying net profit after tax to US$1,620 million.

Motley Fool contributor James Mickleboro has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool Australia's parent company Motley Fool Holdings Inc. owns and has recommended CSL Ltd. The Motley Fool Australia has recommended Challenger Limited. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This article contains general investment advice only (under AFSL 400691). Authorised by Bruce Jackson.

More on Share Gainers

Man with rocket wings which have flames coming out of them.
Share Gainers

Guess which ASX All Ords stock just rocketed 34% on strong earnings growth

Investors just sent this ASX All Ords stock surging 34%. Here’s what’s happening.

Read more »

A businessman looking at his digital tablet or strategy planning in hotel conference lobby. He is happy at achieving financial goals.
Share Gainers

Why Dimerix, Newmont, Regal Partners, and Titomic shares are storming higher

These shares are having a good finish to the week. Let's see why.

Read more »

Two happy excited friends in euphoria mood after winning in a bet with a smartphone in hand.
Share Gainers

Why Fortescue, Lynas, PEXA, and Regis Healthcare shares are charging higher

These shares are having a strong session on Thursday. But why?

Read more »

A young man talks tech on his phone while looking at a laptop. A financial graph is superimposed across the image.
Share Gainers

Why Capricorn Metals, Insignia, Perseus Mining, and Qoria shares are storming higher

These shares are having a strong session on Tuesday. But why?

Read more »

A man clenches his fists in excitement as gold coins fall from the sky.
Share Gainers

Why Amaero, AMP, Block, and South32 shares are racing higher today

These shares are starting the week on a positive note. But why?

Read more »

Ten happy friends leaping in the air outdoors.
Share Gainers

Here are the top 10 ASX 200 shares today

It was another momentous session for ASX shares this Friday.

Read more »

Overjoyed man celebrating success with yes gesture after getting some good news on mobile.
Share Gainers

Why BHP, Catalyst Metals, Mesoblast, and Pilbara Minerals shares are shooting higher

These shares are ending the week with a bang. But why?

Read more »

Doctor doing a telemedicine using laptop at a medical clinic
Healthcare Shares

The Mesoblast share price just rocketed 38%! Here's why

ASX investors just sent the Mesoblast share price up 38%. But why?

Read more »