Electronic technology stocks rose 1.5% at midday Friday, helping the broader Australian benchmark index trade higher.
Energy minerals were also among the biggest gainers, with Gold Road Resources (ASX:GOR) up nearly 3%. Gold rose 0.2% to $2,673 per ounce amid demand for safe-haven assets.
On the flip side, utilities struggled, with stocks down nearly 0.7%. Mercury NZ (ASX:MCY, NZE:MCY) led the decline as shares fell nearly 7% despite the lack of key news from the company.