The Australian stock market at noon today was firmer as takeover activity helped lift it from a weak start. In early trading, the market was lower on the back of a soft lead from United States markets and falling commodity prices, but picked up as billion dollar-plus takeover offers were made for Hardman Resources and healthcare firm DCA Group. https://www.financialstandard.com.au/feed/latest?story=15415 en-AU Copyright 2026 Financial Standard 5