The ASX keeps its head above water as tech cops another flogging, oil heats up and takeover fever sends a few stocks flying.

As it advances a scrip merger with Microba, Genetic Signatures has called on 23% holder BCAL to clarify its intentions.

Energy and banks kept the ASX green while tech slipped again and takeover fever lit up Cleanaway and Challenger.

Skylark Minerals triples gold resources at Zaranou to 1.2Moz, Eminence acquiring five gold exploration projects in Côte d’Ivoire.

Special Report: Vertex Minerals has poured its first gold bar at the Reward mine in NSW, adding an on-site smelting milestone as it advances the transition from development to production.