Midday: Aus shares defy upbeat US data

Market Reports

Defying upbeat US growth data and positive leads from Wall Street the Australian share market dipped at open and is trading steady at noon. Most sectors have moved lower including the gold-sub-index which has back-flipped from yesterday’s gains brought on by the US Federal Reserve’s tapering announcement. While the local benchmark is moving either side of the opening mark in choppy trade, David Jones Limited (ASX:DJS) has jumped after revealing it received an approach from rival retailer Myer Holdings Limited (ASX:MYR) last year.  
 
Figures
 
The S&P/ASX 200 index has added 1 point and is sitting at 5,189. On the futures market the SPI is flat. 
 
Company news
 
Veterinary services provider Greencross Limited (ASX:GXL) has completed its acquisition of Mammoth Pet Holdings and appointed Jeff David as its new Managing Director and CEO. 
 
Gold explorer Alacer Gold Corp (ASX:AQG) has met its annual production guidance, posted record output from its flagship mine and forecast continued strong performance.
 
Renewable energy business Infigen Energy Limited (ASX:IFN) has reported a 4 per cent rise in its first half production and an 11 per cent rise in its interim revenue. 
 
Energy company Blue Energy Limited (ASX:BUL) has inked a sale and purchase deal with Beach Energy Limited (ASX:BPT) concerning the Maryborough Basin Permits in Queensland. 
 
Best and worst performers 
 
The best performing sector is utilities, gaining 61 points to 5,418. Shares in SP AusNet (ASX:SPN) have risen 2.29 per cent and trading at $1.23. Shares in DUET Group (ASX:DUE) and Spark Infrastructure Group (ASX:SKI) are also stronger. 
 
The worst performing sector is consumer staples, falling 16 points to 9,676. Shares in Coca-Cola Amatil Limited (ASX:CCL) have eased 0.59 per cent, trading at $11.72. Shares in Goodman Fielder Limited (ASX:GFF) and Wesfarmers Limited (ASX:WES) are also lower. 
 
Gold and the dollar
 
Gold is trading at $US1,245 an ounce. 
The Australian dollar is buying $US0.8812.

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