News

The share market has lost ground as investors pulled back following five straight sessions of gains.

Melbourne-based Crocmedia, which is merging with a listed company backed by Perth investment group Viburnum Funds, has been announced as the radio partner of Optus Stadium for the next five years.

Local tech company Nuheara has partnered with multinational manufacturer ams AG to launch its new noise-cancelling earbud product, LiveIQ.

The right kind of government assistance could provide a timely fillip for WA’s startup and innovation community.

Melbourne-based shell company Public Holdings (Australia) is set to move into gold exploration after striking a deal to acquire a group of Western Australian gold tenements from prospector Denis O’Meara, while also announcing plans for a $7.5 million capital raising.

Insurance giant QBE has appointed Vivek Bhatia as chief executive of its Australian and New Zealand business.

Indonesian group Eastern Field Developments has extended the offer period for its hostile 23-cents-a-share bid for Finders Resources, while also raising a number of concerns with the copper miner’s supplementary target statement.

Perth-based BCI Minerals has signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding with Chinese steel producer Sinosteel to assess potential development of BCI’s Buckland project in the Pilbara.

The Australian share market has opened up after key indexes around the globe finished stronger with some hitting fresh highs.

James Cullen has emerged as the major shareholder at new listing Babylon Pump & Power, which is led by Michael Shelby, formerly general manager at Mr Cullen’s former company Resource Equipment.

Fraser’s Kings Park is among the early takers for a new program aiming to bring loyalty back to Perth’s food scene.

Perth-based Eden Innovations’ concrete admixture has been approved by the Oregon Department of Transportation, with EdenCrete now permitted for use in 11 US states.

Approvals for the construction of new homes have jumped by 11.7 per cent in November, boosted by a spike in apartment and townhouse construction activity in Victoria, Western Australia and Tasmania.

Perth-founded online design company Canva has raised $US40 million ($50 million) from private investors as it continues to expand on a global scale.

The share market has closed slightly higher as gains by miners and energy companies offset weakness in the retail and healthcare sectors.

Perth-based Volt Resources has raised $4.7 million through a strongly supported exercise of listed options, with the proceeds to be used to develop the company’s Tanzanian graphite project.

A number of asset classes are facing the likelihood of a bust this year, with WA watchers’ eyes trained on the lithium sector.

Engineering and construction group Valmec has tapped investors for $5.1 million through a strongly supported share placement that will strengthen the company’s balance sheet.

The Australian share market has started the day on positive footing, buoyed by the major miners following the recent lift in the price of iron ore.

Forrest-backed clinic urges cancer research revolution

Australian shares have closed slightly higher despite the market giving up most of its early gains, lifted by support for big banks, telcos and healthcare stocks.

City of Perth Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi says she is focused on diversifying the city’s economy away from the mining industry as she returns to work after a four-month absence.

Troubled sandalwood producer Quintis says its board intends to advise shareholders to vote against a series of resolutions to spill the board, while also announcing a one week extension on its forbearance agreement.

Mustang Resources has secured a $19.9 million funding package from US institutional investor Arena Investors LP through a multi-tranche convertible note facility, while also announcing plans to raise up to $4 million via an entitlement offer.

The state government has announced six more local businesses that will operate at the new $75 million Yagan Square development, set to be opened next month.

Australia have completed a 4-0 Ashes series win, with Pat Cummins' express pace easing his side to victory by an innings and 123 runs in the SCG finale.

The Australian share market has opened comfortably higher after key indexes around the globe made solid gains.

Power mess still needs to be fixed

Australia is in a commanding position after the second day of the final Ashes test, sitting at 2-193 with Steve Smith unbeaten on 44 and Usman Khawaja on 91.

The state government has approved an application from local business Old Salt to install a $2 million event barge on the Swan River near Elizabeth Quay.

Belgium has secured the tie win against Canada in the Hopman Cup at Perth Arena today.

Australian shares have closed higher on broad-based gains, led by banking stocks and a materials sector boosted by rising commodity prices.