Half-time round-up: Stocks are on target for a new 2009 closing...

Half-time round-up:

Stocks are on target for a new 2009 closing high if they hold this morning's gains into the close.

At lunchtime the ASX 200 was up 20 points or 0.46% at 4471 after a broad-based rally. This year's previous best close, set two weeks ago on August 14, was 4461.

This morning saw both defensive and cyclical sectors advance. Health stocks gained 1.8%, energy was up 1%, utilities +10.9%, financials +0.5% and miners +0.2%.

Chinese stocks were sliding once more, recently down 2.95% and dragging Hong Kong down 0.73%. Japan was stronger at +0.54%. Dow futures were flat at -3. Oil futures slipped nearly 30 cents to $72.56.

A subdued end to the week here but profitable after bounce scalps in NUF and WEC. Exited IVC for brokerage at the open. Small position taken in AFR.

Potential overnight holds: FLT, HDF, LLC or RCR on breakout. Perhaps MMR on potential reversal - tight stop essential.