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Prysmian Daily News Update
Prysmian Daily News Update
Author: Prysmian S.p.A.
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“Daily News Update” is Prysmian’s internal audio bulletin, created to share updates on company developments and industry trends. It covers the most relevant news about Prysmian, our sector, and beyond.
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As of Febraury 13, today’s news is dominated by Prysmian’s major supply agreement with Enedis and fresh developments around U.S. tariffs on aluminium, with knock-on effects on market pricing and trade flows. Prysmian has signed a contract worth up to 550 million euros to become the supplier of the full range of medium-voltage cables for Enedis, over a seven-year period (2026-2032), which includes three optional years, the company said in a statement. Prysmian has been a long-term partner to Enedis, and the signature reinforces French manufacturing excellence as Prysmian commits to supply cables from its Gron (Yonne) and Montereau-Fault-Yonne (Seine-et-Marne) sites. Meanwhile, the U.S. aluminium market experienced fluctuations following reports by the Financial Times about potential tariff reductions. Price reactions were characterized by a dip to a one-week low before partially recovering as the market digested the possible impact of these changes on trade flows and pricing. Market analysts indicated that while a reduction in tariffs on derivative aluminium products might not significantly affect global prices, a rollback on primary aluminium tariffs could lead to broader consequences for aluminum markets. From the international front, France is set to enhance its decarbonized electricity production by 20% over the next decade, driven by nuclear and renewable energy sources. Finance Minister Roland Lescure emphasized the government’s commitment to developing electrification plans, which aim to significantly boost electricity generation while moving away from fossil fuels. The new energy planning law targets to produce 585 terawatt-hours of decarbonized electricity by 2030, an ambitious goal reflecting the nation's shift toward sustainable energy. In the U.S., PJM Interconnection's proposal aimed at managing the growing energy demands of data centers could lead to increased collaborations between data center operators and independent power producers. As electricity demand climbs, driven partly by advancements in artificial intelligence, new power supply deals are anticipated to become increasingly crucial to ensure grid stability. Finally, Stellantis is quietly resurrecting diesel versions of at least seven car and passenger van models across Europe as it retreats from electric vehicles, according to a review of dealer websites and company statements to Reuters.
As of February 12, today’s news highlights significant developments in energy policy, particularly relating to France's revised renewable energy plans, alongside corporate shifts in various sectors. In a change to its energy strategy, France trimmed its planned installation of total wind and solar capacity up to 2035 by as much as a fifth, under a new 10-year energy planning law (PPE) announced by the finance minister today, as electricity demand growth was set to slow. The law also reverses a previous legal mandate to shut down 14 nuclear reactors. Meanwhile, in a significant environmental development, the EU has witnessed a decline in utility stocks, driven by a sharp drop in carbon allowances, as German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested a possible softening of the EU's carbon market regulations. Among other market shifts, Fincantieri is pivoting towards military shipbuilding, planning to invest approximately 1.9 billion euros by 2030. The company will enhance its production capacity in Italy while reallocating other production to Romania and Vietnam, signaling a strategic focus on defense at a time of increased global tensions. Siemens has raised its profit outlook for 2026 on the back of a strong demand surge for AI-driven data center infrastructure, resulting in a notable rise in its stock prices. In contrast, Iveco reported a 28% decline in its adjusted operating profit, beset by weaker demand in the European truck market and production delays. On the international front, the Pentagon's policy chief has called for NATO to evolve into a partnership model rather than one of dependency, amid ongoing discussions about the organization's future and U.S. involvement. Finally, the administration of President Donald Trump today plans to announce the repeal of a scientific finding that greenhouse gas emissions endanger human health, removing the legal basis for federal climate regulations. The move represents the most sweeping climate change policy rollback by the administration to date, after a string of regulatory cuts and other moves intended to unfetter fossil fuel development and stymie the rollout of clean energy.
As of February 11, today’s news features developments in the energy and metals markets, with a focus on the evolving demand driven by artificial intelligence and geopolitical dynamics surrounding critical minerals. Siemens Energy has experienced nearly a tripling of net profit in the first three months of its fiscal year, fueled by a surge in demand for gas turbines and grid infrastructure related to AI initiatives. As major tech firms planned to invest approximately 600 billion dollars in AI by 2026, Siemens Energy's market value soared to 137 billion euros, marking a 5.2% increase in share prices and hitting a new record. Meanwhile, CME Group is reportedly planning to launch the first-ever futures contract in rare earths, aiming to offer a hedge against the fluctuations of this critical sector dominated by Chinese supply. This move is crucial for diverse stakeholders, including governments and manufacturers, as major elements like neodymium and praseodymium are vital in the energy transition and technology sectors. Turning to market dynamics, Voestalpine reported a narrow miss in its core profit expectations for the first nine months, impacted by an ongoing industrial downturn in Europe and weaknesses in the automotive sector. Despite solid performance in niche markets and planned emissions-cutting investments, generational uncertainties in demand are causing concern among investors regarding the company's broader economic resilience. In energy scenarios, Europe's natural gas demand may grow due to significantly low snow cover affecting hydropower generation in Italy and Austria. With local utilities relying more on gas-fired power to compensate for this shortfall, gas output has already increased markedly compared to last year. Should this trend continue, it could tighten regional gas inventories further, presenting lucrative opportunities for major LNG exporters. Furthermore, industry leaders are also urging the European Union to reduce energy prices, emphasizing the urgent need for competitive pricing similar to that in the U.S. and China. As discussions approach EU leadership meetings, the calls reflect a growing concern for economic viability in an increasingly competitive global landscape. Nickel prices have surged in connection with a reduced output quota from Indonesia's leading nickel mine, illustrating a broader recovery in base metals as global demand remains robust. Meanwhile, other metals such as copper and aluminum are experiencing positive momentum, further driven by favorable market conditions as the dollar weakens. On the international front, the U.S. has initiated "Project Vault," a strategic 12 billion dollars stockpile plan for critical minerals, reflecting a growing multilateral approach to mitigate dependency on China amid rising technological demands. This shift promotes collaborations and agreements with various nations for sourcing essential resources.
As of February 10, today’s news is dominated by advancements in energy infrastructure, particularly in Spain, where Prysmian has completed a significant acquisition. Prysmian has completed the acquisition of ACSM, a leader in solutions for submarine installation, route planning and seabed preparation activities, as communicated in January 2026. With the closing complete, ACSM will be fully consolidated into the Prysmian perimeter for financial reporting as of February 2026, the company said in a statement. In related energy developments, Spain’s power grid operator, Red Electrica de España, announced the completion of a subsea electricity interconnection linking the Canary Islands of Tenerife and La Gomera. This project, which included a 36-kilometre double-circuit cable at 66 kV and new substations, represents an investment of about 145 million euros. The interconnection aims to enhance supply security and facilitate a greater integration of renewable energy, allowing La Gomera to export surplus electricity to Tenerife, thereby contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Turning to market updates, copper prices are experiencing downward pressure amid rising inventories and subdued trading as traders in China prepare for the Lunar New Year. On the London Metal Exchange, copper dipped 0.8%, with demand slowing as pre-holiday buying winds down. Analysts noted a notable 12.3% drop in China’s fourth-quarter copper consumption year-on-year but projected a 4% increase in overall demand for 2025. Meanwhile, in the oil sector, BP announced the suspension of its share buyback program while absorbing approximately 4 billion dollars in charges related to its renewables and biogas assets. The decision, attributed to an incoming CEO and a focus on reducing debt, led to a decline in BP’s shares by over 4%. In broader global scenarios, Australia’s wholesale electricity prices have fallen to their lowest in four years, demonstrating the potential for a renewables-focused energy system to lower consumer costs. This shift supports the idea that overhauls in power infrastructure can provide tangible economic benefits. From the international front, tensions remain between the U.S. and Europe. French President Emmanuel Macron has urged the EU to prepare for renewed friction with the U.S. and to consider the current geopolitical climate a critical moment to push for necessary reforms, enhancing the bloc's global standing. Lastly, Iran is gearing up for renewed discussions with the United States, facilitated by Oman, as both parties aim for a diplomatic resolution ahead of potential military escalations in the region. The visit signals a cautious optimism for ongoing negotiations that could prevent further conflict.
As of February 9, today’s news sees Prysmian's strategic developments and market assessments, alongside broader market dynamics impacting technology and critical minerals. Prysmian is now aiming to strengthen its position in submarine telecommunications, the second pillar of its Transmission business. As reported by Corriere della Sera today, leveraging its well-established expertise, the group plans to capitalize on growth driven by data centers and artificial intelligence to become a global player in subsea telecoms as well. Meanwhile, Deutsche Bank moved its recommendation from “Buy” to “Hold” and raised its target price on Prysmian to 100 euros from 97 euros. Banca Akros has confirmed its “Accumulate” rating on Prysmian, maintaining a target price of 93 euros. On the broader market front, the U.S. is intensifying its efforts to secure critical minerals in Africa, utilizing offtake deals to compete with China in securing copper and cobalt supplies, especially from the Democratic Republic of Congo. This shift highlights the global prioritization of resource acquisition for future technologies, including electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. In technology markets, concerns are mounting as stocks related to artificial intelligence have experienced volatility, raising questions about the sustainability of the AI market's growth amid underlying market corrections that have affected software stocks globally. Finally, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will lead a sizeable U.S. delegation to the Munich Security Conference starting on Friday, underscoring the importance of transatlantic relations despite a "crisis of trust", the head of the forum said.
As of February 6, the news landscape is significantly shaped by Stellantis' substantial writedown amidst a broader reassessment of electric vehicle strategy, while updates from the energy sector also capture attention. Stellantis, the automotive giant, announced a staggering charge of 22.2 billion euros related to a strategic pullback on electric vehicles. This announcement has led to a dramatic drop in its shares, which fell as much as 25% following the news, marking their lowest level since the company was created through the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group in 2021. The company cited misjudgements in the EV transition, compounded by a slowdown in demand, particularly in China, and increased competition from cheaper Chinese alternatives. Stellantis plans to reveal a new business strategy in May, aiming to align its product offerings with current market demands. Turning to market updates, NKT entered a long-term partnership with Mainova for the upgrade of the Frankfurt grid, which will run until 2033, focusing on 110 KV HVAC cables, highlighting ongoing infrastructure investments in Europe. In related energy news, the International Energy Agency released its "Electricity 2026" report, predicting rapid global power demand growth driven by the electrification of various sectors, including AI and data centers. The report emphasizes the necessity for increased flexibility in power systems and a keen focus on upcoming trends and policy changes. Additionally, significant news emerged in the technology sector, where concerns over AI impacts intensified market jitters. Global tech stocks experienced declines amid fears regarding extensive capital expenditures, with Amazon notably falling 9% after announcing a planned 200 billion dollars investment for the year. This spending is part of a broader trend among major tech companies, who are expected to invest over 630 billion dollars in AI and related technology this year. From the international front, talks between the U.S. and Iran in Oman have shown promise, with the Iranian Foreign Minister noting a "good start" to discussions centered on nuclear issues, though conditions remain challenging as the U.S. seeks to broaden the scope of negotiations.
As of February 5, the news is marked by an interview with Prysmian CEO Massimo Battaini on the group’s growth outlook, alongside a key executive appointment at NKT. Speaking to Milano Finanza, Class CNBC today, CEO Massimo Battaini commented on Prysmian’s strong share performance. A milestone that, according to the CEO, should be seen not as an endpoint but as a new starting line. The rally has been underpinned by a clearly defined growth strategy, with M&A playing a central role. Looking ahead, Battaini pointed to the main drivers of future growth, ranging from electrification and data centers to investments tied to the energy transition, all areas where the group plans to remain firmly positioned. Meanwhile, NKT has announced the appointment of Michael Yong as its Chief Financial Officer, effective from April 2026. In industry news, Rio Tinto today ended takeover talks with rival Glencore, saying the two companies were unable to reach an agreement that would deliver sufficient value to shareholders. The proposed merger, first announced in January, would have created the world's largest mining company, with a market value exceeding 200 billion dollars. Turning to market conditions, Aurubis, Europe's largest copper producer, reported a decline in first-quarter operating earnings due to lower treatment and refining charges amid a maintenance shutdown at its Hamburg facility. The firm recorded an operating core profit of 164 million euros, slightly below analysts' expectations. Despite the current challenges, Aurubis remains optimistic about future earnings, lifting its forecast for 2025/26. Copper prices have been notably impacted this week, falling due to a stronger U.S. dollar and rising inventories. Recent trading reflected a price reduction, with three-month copper on the London Metal Exchange down to 12,950 dollars per metric ton. This drop was influenced by general market trends affecting precious metals and the ongoing economic climate. Moreover, Anglo American reported a 10% decrease in its copper output for 2025, coupled with a reduction in its 2026 production guidance. Factors affecting performance include lower yields at its Collahuasi mine in Chile. The company is also moving ahead with its plan to merge with Teck Resources, further signaling a transformative period for the mining industry as it adapts to the increasing demand for copper in renewable energy applications. On a wider economic front, the European Commission is preparing a revision of the EU carbon market to address potential issues of "carbon leakage." This initiative aims to prevent industries from relocating to regions with less stringent emissions standards, ensuring that European entities remain competitive while meeting climate targets for 2040.
As of February 4, today’s news sees developments in the cable and energy sectors, particularly involving players like Nexans and NKT. Nexans has announced a landmark framework contract with Enedis, the French electricity distribution network operator, valued at 600 million euros. This contract will span seven years, with optional three-year extensions and deliveries set to commence in the first quarter of 2026. In parallel, NKT has secured a long-term Power Purchase Agreement with Uniper for a duration of ten years. This contract involves the supply of renewable electricity from Uniper's new photovoltaic facility in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. The green energy sourced through this agreement will support NKT’s manufacturing sites located in Cologne and nearby Nordenham, aligning with the company’s strategic efforts towards decarbonization across its operational activities. Meanwhile, Norway's Socialist Party has withdrawn its support for a proposal to block Equinor's Hammerfest liquefied natural gas plant from receiving a planned onshore power connection, clearing the way for the grid development to proceed. Turning to broader market updates, the European Union is making strides in stockpiling critical materials, with Italy, France, and Germany at the forefront to reduce dependency on China, four sources with knowledge of the matter said. This initiative aims to cushion Europe's economy against supply chain disruptions stemming from China's export controls on various industrial metals and minerals since 2023. Notably, such strategic reserves are seen as crucial for safeguarding defense production and supporting energy transition goals. On the international front, a notable energy crunch in the U.S. driven by a flurry of demand for gas turbines is causing a global supply shortage, potentially accelerating the transition to cleaner energy alternatives. The rush for gas-fired power capacity has resulted in delivery timelines pushing into the 2030s, amidst falling costs for utility-scale solar projects combined with battery storage. Additionally, U.S. congressional discussions are underway to reauthorize significant funding for the US Export-Import Bank, aimed at supporting initiatives related to critical minerals, further cementing the United States' efforts to bolster its domestic manufacturing capabilities against increasing international competition. From a global perspective, the U.S. and Iran are set to engage in nuclear discussions in Oman following Iran's request to limit the scope of negotiations. The emphasis will primarily be on Iran’s nuclear program, with indications that Tehran remains firm on its ballistic missile capabilities, which it deems non-negotiable. In other international news, tensions between the EU and China have escalated as China responds to an investigation into the Chinese wind turbine manufacturer Goldwind, claiming unfair treatment and possible protectionist motivations from the EU.
As of February 3, today’s news features Prysmian’s share price increase following its contract win in Scotland, alongside developments in the global energy and technology sectors. Prysmian gained 2.5% as several analysts reacted positively to its contract for the Eastern Green Link 4 project in Scotland, awarded by SP Energy Networks and National Grid Electricity Transmission. Turning to market updates, Orsted announced its plan to sell its European onshore business to Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners for 1.44 billion euros. This move is part of Orsted's strategy to stabilize its finances amid challenges in the U.S. offshore wind sector. Meanwhile, Siemens Energy is set to invest 1 billion dollars to enhance power grid and gas turbine production in the U.S. as demand surges, particularly from tech firms expanding data centers. In a strategic partnership development, the European Union aims to establish a critical minerals partnership with the U.S. to reduce reliance on Chinese supply chains, while Germany has secured a 25.1% stake in the grid operator TenneT for 3.3 billion euros, reinforcing state control over significant energy infrastructure. Looking at broader macro trends, the rush among U.S. utilities for gas turbines appears to be creating a global shortage, which may accelerate the transition to cleaner electricity sources. Furthermore, China will expand its strategic copper reserves and explore creating a commercial stockpiling system led by state-owned enterprises, a senior official at the China Nonferrous Metals Industry Association said today. In Europe, Amazon reported that the lengthy process of connecting to power grids is complicating its data center expansion plans, highlighting the urgent need for investment in energy infrastructure. On the global stage, the Middle East is bracing for crucial discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program, with emphasis on avoiding escalating tensions following U.S. military movements in the region.
As of February 2, today’s news is dominated by a major contract announcement by Prysmian, significant developments in commodity markets and shifts in global economic and trading scenarios. Prysmian has signed a contract for the delivery of the Eastern Green Link 4 electrical cable interconnector project with GB transmission owners, SP Energy Networks’ transmission business and National Grid Electricity Transmission plc, the company said in a statement. The contract is worth over 2.3 billion euros and will now enter Prysmian’s backlog of projects. Eastern Green Link 4 is a new high voltage direct current electrical link that will connect Fife in Scotland with Norfolk in England. It will be able to transmit up to 2GW of clean renewable energy – enough to power around 2 million homes, and is one of five similar projects being developed that will significantly increase the capacity of the electricity network between Scotland and England. Turning to broader market updates, commodity markets experienced a notable slump, particularly in precious metals, as gold and silver prices fell sharply due to market reactions to Federal Reserve leadership changes. Gold prices declined by 5%, and silver fell over 7%, reflecting investor concerns about a more hawkish monetary stance expected under the newly appointed Fed Chair Kevin Warsh. Alongside precious metals, oil prices dropped nearly 5%, signaling a widespread retreat from risk assets and influencing global market sentiment as well. In the realm of copper, prices continued to retreat following record highs achieved last week. Speculative pulling back was noted, albeit tempered by positive factory data from China. This data provided some stability in the market, which remains volatile but is still underpinned by strong demand fundamentals. Globally, hedge funds are diversifying their investments away from North America amid ongoing geopolitical tensions and volatility. Interest in Asia-focused strategies has notably risen, reversing the previous year's trends and highlighting a shift in investment preferences. Additionally, Oracle announced plans to raise between 45 billion to 50 billion dollars this year to expand its cloud infrastructure, a move indicative of the substantial financing demands driven by its AI growth initiatives. The company’s efforts come amidst scrutiny over its future profitability and infrastructure investments. On the geopolitical front, President Trump has indicated a reduction in tariffs on Indian goods, contingent upon India's commitment to cease purchases of Russian crude oil. This trade adjustment aims to strengthen US-India relations further.
As of January 30, today’s news is dominated by a shift at the Federal Reserve and growing distortions in global copper trade driven by tariff risks. In a significant announcement, President Donald Trump has nominated former Federal Reserve Governor Kevin Warsh as the new head of the Federal Reserve after meeting with him at the White House. Trump's decision prioritized candidate more closely aligned with his desire for lower interest rates, a shift from his earlier support of Jerome Powell. Meanwhile, China's net imports of refined copper last year were the lowest since 2017 at 3.03 million metric tons, according to the World Bureau of Metal Statistics, which sources data from China's General Administration of Customs. While inbound shipments dropped by a relatively modest 5% relative to 2024, the big change was a dramatic jump in exports. The world's largest buyer of copper shipped out almost 800,000 tons. The unprecedented counter-flow was driven by the global dislocation created by the threat of U.S. import tariffs and the resulting high premium for physical delivery to the United States. In corporate developments, China's Aluminium Corporation and Rio Tinto have jointly acquired a controlling stake in Companhia Brasileira de Aluminio for approximately 903.61 million dollars. This acquisition, likely to lead to a delisting from the São Paulo exchange, marks a significant partnership, allowing Chinalco and Rio Tinto to strengthen their market position in Brazil’s aluminum sector. On the energy front, Octopus Energy from the UK has officially ventured into China through a joint partnership with PCG Power aimed at trading renewable energy. This arrangement, which coincided with Prime Minister Keir Starmer's state visit, illustrates Britain's strategic inclination to export energy technology internationally while enhancing bilateral ties with China. On the telecommunications front, Verizon has exceeded market expectations for annual profit forecasts, boosted by a rise in wireless subscribers, marking its highest growth in six years. The company plans to leverage aggressive promotions to further enhance its market position alongside a significant share repurchase program. Looking at broader macroeconomic trends, the EU has stipulated that any post-Brexit energy deal with the UK will necessitate financial contributions to poorer EU member states. This condition may complicate forthcoming negotiations around re-establishing the two sides' energy markets, reflecting ongoing tensions in UK-EU relations post-Brexit.
As of January 29, the news is focused on shifts in the commodities market, renewable energy advancements, and corporate strategies from major global companies, particularly in the technology sector. Copper surged to record levels, reaching over 14,000 euros a metric ton, prompting investor interest and speculation. This increase is attributed to supply concerns and robust demand tied to the green energy transition, with many funds flocking to physical assets amidst geopolitical tensions and a weakening U.S. dollar. Among other developments, ABB reported optimistic outlooks for 2026, citing strong demand in electrification, rail, and marine sectors, while announcing a 2 billion dollars share buyback plan following a fourth quarter that exceeded growth expectations. The engineering group has garnered over 10 billion dollars in new orders, indicating robust business momentum, particularly benefitting from the AI boom through partnerships with tech firms like Nvidia. In the copper sector, Glencore reported an 11% decline in its copper production in 2025. This coincides with mounting anticipation around a possible takeover bid from Rio Tinto. Prices for copper have escalated anticipating supply constraints, an important driver as the industry shifts towards sustainable energy solutions. On the tech front, significant spending patterns are emerging as major corporations, particularly in the AI sector, look to expand their infrastructure. Meta Platforms announced plans to allocate up to 135 billion dollars this year towards data center enhancements, reflecting a stark contrast to Microsoft, whose increased spending was met with slowing cloud growth, leading to a dip in its stock price. This serves as a reminder that investor sentiment is closely tied to tangible growth outcomes. In renewable energy developments, Australia has achieved a new milestone by generating over 50% of its electricity from renewable sources, driven by increases in wind and solar output. Meanwhile, Spain's rooftop solar installations showed signs of slowing growth following the withdrawal of tax incentives, highlighting challenges within the renewable energy sector. On the global stage, significant discussions took place between UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Chinese President Xi Jinping, focusing on economic partnerships underscored by AstraZeneca's 15 billion dollars investment in China.
Leadership Talk – a Prysmian podcast created to share insights and discuss the latest news with our leadership team. In this episode, Raul Gil, EVP Transmission BU at Prysmian, offers an overview of the business, with a deep dive on the recent M&A in the submarine telecom sector.
As of January 28, today’s news highlights geopolitical tensions, energy market shifts, and corporate developments. In the world of geopolitics, U.S. President Donald Trump urged Iran to negotiate a nuclear deal, warning of more severe repercussions if they fail to comply. Trump emphasized the urgency, highlighting that previous warnings led to military action in June. Iran has responded assertively, indicating it would retaliate fiercely to any new attack. Meanwhile, copper climbed today after the U.S. dollar slid to a four-year low, while aluminium surged to multi-year highs on supply woes. Turning to market updates, Corning reported strong fourth-quarter earnings, posting net income of 540 million euros, or 62 cents per share, which surpassed Wall Street expectations. Adjusted earnings reached 72 cents per share, bolstered by revenue of 4.22 billion euros, exceeding forecasts. For the upcoming quarter, the company anticipates earnings between 66 cents and 70 cents per share and revenue ranging from 4.2 billion euros to 4.3 billion euros. In the energy sector, RWE's CEO Markus Krebber indicated that geopolitical shifts are ushering in a new era in energy supply, with a growing focus on long-term resilience and reduced dependencies. Germany, facing high energy costs exacerbated by its withdrawal from Russian supply, is seeking to reinforce its energy strategies as it navigates new alliances amid changing global dynamics. On the technology front, Google has agreed to pay 135 million euros to settle a class-action lawsuit regarding unauthorized data collection from Android users. This settlement, which denies any wrongdoing by Google, affects users of Android devices since late 2017 and requires court approval. Furthermore, the Federal Reserve is expected to hold interest rates steady today in a pause that investors see lasting beyond U.S. central bank chief Jerome Powell's final meetings in March and April, with his successor expected to take office by the summer and policymakers split over whether more reductions in borrowing costs are warranted. From the international front, Greenland's Prime Minister Jens-Frederik Nielsen expressed the need for increased surveillance and security in the Arctic region, emphasizing concerns over Russian aggression. During discussions with Denmark's Prime Minister and French President Macron in Paris, the leaders acknowledged the necessity of reinforcing defensive postures in light of geopolitical tensions in the Far North.
As of January 27, today’s news features Prysmian’s surge to fresh all-time highs, alongside significant advancements in energy cooperation within Europe. Prysmian has made headlines with a notable stock performance, closing up 2.35% at 99.48 euros after reaching an intraday high of 100.70 euros, marking a new historical peak. Looking at broader energy trends, European nations have agreed to collaborate on a substantial offshore wind initiative. At the North Sea Summit, countries including the UK, Germany, and France committed to creating 100 gigawatts of offshore wind capacity, a critical move to reduce reliance on U.S. natural gas imports and lower renewable energy costs. This agreement follows an earlier pledge to achieve 300 gigawatts by 2050, reflecting the urgency prompted by the ongoing energy crisis stemming from Russia’s actions. Meanwhile, the largest U.S. power grid, PJM, issued alerts to manage unprecedented energy demand forecasted due to a severe winter storm affecting a large portion of the eastern United States. The storm's impacts extend to substantial grid challenges, with PJM anticipating record peak demand levels sustained over several days. On the international trade front, India and the European Union finalized a landmark trade deal that reduces tariffs on a vast majority of goods, aiming to bolster trade and minimize dependence on the U.S. The agreement is expected to double EU exports to India by 2032, highlighting a strategic pivot amid rising global trade tensions. Google is facing scrutiny from EU regulators as they develop guidelines aimed at enhancing access for rival search engines and AI developers to its services. The guidance stems from ongoing concerns over Google's dominant market position and aims to ensure a more equitable competitive environment. In automotive news, sales of fully electric vehicles in the EU have surpassed those of petrol-only cars for the first time, although hybrids continue to hold the largest market share. This marks a notable shift in consumer trends towards electric mobility, even as regulatory conditions may allow traditional combustion engines to remain relevant for longer. Finally, Donald Trump's border zar, Tom Homan, was set to take over the president's sweeping immigration operation in Minneapolis today, as the White House tries to tamp down national outrage over the second fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen this month by federal agents.
As of January 26, today’s news sees analyst assessments of Prysmian and rising political pressure on the US Federal Reserve. In particular, Prysmian has garnered attention as it continues to strengthen its portfolio with strategic acquisitions. Specifically, Intesa Sanpaolo has reaffirmed its "buy" recommendation for Prysmian, maintaining a target price of 99.5 euros, following the group's acquisition of the Spanish company Acsm, a leader in submarine cable installation solutions. Analysts believe this move is not only accretive but strategically aligns with Prysmian's goals. Conversely, Intermonte has maintained a "neutral" rating on Prysmian, with a target price of 85 euros, noting that while the acquisition enhances the company’s global leadership in the submarine cable sector, its financial impact is seen as non-material. Meanwhile, the Federal Reserve is expected to hold interest rates steady this week at a meeting overshadowed by a Trump administration criminal investigation of US central bank chief Jerome Powell, an evolving effort to fire Fed Governor Lisa Cook, and the coming nomination of a successor to take over for Powell in May, Reuters said. In broader market terms, copper prices have shown volatility, hovering near a one-week high, influenced by a weak dollar, while tin has retracted from its recent record levels. The price for copper on the Shanghai Futures Exchange closed up by 1.26%, while the London Metals Exchange reported a slight drop. This fluctuation is attributed to geopolitical concerns which are affecting investor sentiment and thus impacting commodities. On the renewable energy front, a notable pact among several European nations, including the UK and Germany, will see a commitment to develop 100 gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind capacity. This agreement signifies a strong unified stance on green energy as European countries seek to bolster their energy security, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions. Market activity was also spurred by USA Rare Earth, which saw its shares jump significantly following reports of a major investment from the Trump administration aimed at establishing a foothold in the critical minerals sector. This development is part of broader efforts to enhance domestic capabilities in strategically important materials. Across international markets, Nvidia's substantial investment in CoreWeave reflects the increasing demand for AI infrastructure, signaling the tech industry's strong growth trajectory. The 2 billion dollars investment aims to accelerate the build-out of data centers that are critical for supporting AI technologies. In other news, Brazil's decision to apply antidumping tariffs on Chinese fiber optic cables has raised concerns within its telecommunications sector, indicating a potential increase in costs for the expansion of broadband services.
As of January 23, today’s news is dominated by Prysmian's significant acquisition in the submarine cable sector and continued commitments by European governments towards renewable energy expansion amidst external criticisms. Prysmian will acquire ACSM, a Spain-based leader in solutions for submarine cable installation, including subsea surveying, route planning and seabed preparation activities with over 20 years of experience in the offshore cable sector. The transaction value is 169 million euros, the company said in a statement. The transaction will strengthen Prysmian’s global leadership in submarine cables. Integrating ACSM will broaden Prysmian’s range of solutions for energy and telecom customers as a one-stop shop and accelerate the full vertical integration of its submarine activities, bringing in-house industry leading know-how and assets. Meanwhile, European nations, including Germany, the UK, and Denmark, are doubling down on their commitments to offshore wind energy despite criticism from US President Donald Trump. A draft declaration from a recent summit indicates plans to enhance offshore wind capacity significantly, targeting a total of 300 gigawatts by 2050. Turning to the markets, copper prices have seen a modest rise following a strike at Capstone Copper's Mantoverde mine in Chile, which has put production on hold. This supply disruption is anticipated to influence copper pricing moving forward. Concurrently, Freeport-McMoRan reported that a significant portion of production at its Grasberg mine is expected to resume in the latter half of this year, following previous operational setbacks. In Australia, the government has announced three new offshore wind permits that could introduce 4 gigawatts of renewable energy. This move signals a renewed effort in offshore wind generation following previous project setbacks. From a broader perspective, US stocks have dipped as Intel faced challenges meeting the strong demand for AI-related data-center chips due to supply chain issues. This downturn, coupled with lingering geopolitical tensions, has affected market sentiment and contributed to a decline in major indexes. Finally, on the global stage, geopolitical dynamics are being recalibrated between Europe and the US as leaders navigate Trump's assertive stance, particularly concerning territorial discussions like those surrounding Greenland.
As of January 22, today’s news features easing geopolitical tensions in Europe and a notable executive shift in the cables sector. European stocks rose for the first time in five sessions, after Donald Trump dropped his threat of new Greenland-linked tariffs, lifting trade-exposed names. Prysmian stood out among industrials, jumping around 3% to a record closing level, alongside gains in Siemens and Schneider Electric, while defense stocks lagged on the geopolitical de-escalation. Meanwhile, Pérez Mackenna has informed Nexans that he has accepted an invitation to join government of Republic of Chile as Minister of foreign affairs. Turning to market updates, copper prices have remained largely stable amidst rising inventories in U.S. warehouses, which surpassed 500,000 metric tons for the first time, reflecting ongoing tariff concerns. Meanwhile, the London Metal Exchange saw a slight increase, with benchmark prices ticking up to 12,811 dollars per ton. Analysts at Sucden Financial indicated that the rising inventory levels may be easing the copper market from previously tight conditions. In nuclear energy news, Tokyo Electric Power Company has announced the shutdown of the No. 6 reactor at the world’s largest nuclear plant, Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, due to a malfunction detected shortly after it was brought back online following a 13-year hiatus. The reactor will remain offline while TEPCO investigates the cause of the malfunction. In the telecommunications arena, French giants Orange, Bouygues Telecom, and Iliad’s Free are reportedly engaged in discussions to purchase a significant portion of Altice Group's telecommunications activities in France. This comes after a previous bid for Altice's assets, estimated at 17 billion euros, was rejected. Analysts speculate that a successful acquisition could consolidate the fragmented European telecom market and enhance competition. Looking at broader macro trends, predictions indicate that wind and solar power will surpass fossil fuels in the European Union’s power generation mix by 2025, driven by a robust increase in solar output. Wind and solar generated a record 30% of the EU’s power last year, overtaking fossil fuels which contributed 29%. Furthermore, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright has called for a substantial increase in global oil production at the World Economic Forum in Davos, emphasizing the ongoing reliance on fossil fuels despite the growing focus on energy transition. This statement aligns with recent discussions on balancing energy strategies. Finally, President Donald Trump said his message to Russian leader Vladimir Putin was that the war in Ukraine has to end, after what he said were "good" talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Davos today.
As of January 21, today’s news sees Prysmian’s positive assessment from Barclays, along with relevant developments in energy production and geopolitical maneuvering. Prysmian captured attention as Barclays upgraded its target price to 112 euros from 102 euros, reaffirming its overweight rating. Analysts noted Prysmian’s strong positioning within the cable sector, spotlighting its robust presence in the US market and its transmission business. Turning to other market developments, Rio Tinto reported a fourth-quarter production that exceeded expectations for both iron ore and copper. This performance, which comes as Simon Trott recently assumed the CEO role, is poised to bolster Rio Tinto's position as a leading global producer, particularly as it navigates merger discussions with Glencore. Under UK regulations, Rio Tinto must formally respond to Glencore by February 5, indicating the urgency of this potential merger. In the energy sector, Tokyo Electric Power Company has restarted a reactor at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, marking Japan’s first move into nuclear power since the Fukushima disaster in 2011. The operational status of the 1.36 gigawatt reactor indicated progress towards Japan's energy stability amidst rising global energy challenges. On a broader scale, escalating trade tensions linked to geopolitical issues have resurfaced as a concern for Europe, particularly regarding its dependency on the U.S. for liquefied natural gas (LNG). Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Europe shifted away from Russian gas, dramatically increasing its LNG imports from the US and now relying on it for nearly a quarter of its total gas consumption. Elsewhere in international affairs, U.S. President Trump's attempt to renew interest in acquiring Greenland has met with strong resistance from Denmark's government, reinforcing the complexities of transatlantic relations. Denmark's officials firmly rejected any discussions of relinquishing territory, emphasizing their commitment to existing diplomatic channels. Finally, US President Donald Trump said today he would meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Switzerland, adding that he felt Zelenskiy and Russian President Vladimir Putin were now at a point where they could reach a deal to end the war.
As of January 20, today’s news features geopolitical developments and market reactions, particularly surrounding energy and technology sectors. US President Donald Trump has reiterated his aggressive stance regarding Greenland, emphasizing that there is “no going back” on his ambition to control the territory. This raises concerns over NATO unity and could potentially reignite tensions in US-European trade relations, as Trump utilizes AI mock-ups to bolster his claims. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent attempted to mitigate fears regarding the reactions of European allies, insisting that the concerns around Greenland are exaggerated. Meanwhile, Ukraine's Chornobyl Nuclear Power Plant has been connected to the country's power grid following an overnight Russian air attack on Ukrainian energy facilities, and radiation levels are normal, Kyiv's energy ministry said on Monday. Turning to the markets, copper prices are experiencing a downturn as industrial consumers resist paying high prices amidst record inventory levels. Copper on the London Metal Exchange fell by 0.8% to 12,868 dollars per metric ton, driven by a recent wave of speculative buying. Analysts note that buyers are beginning to hesitate at elevated costs when supplies are peaking. Furthermore, Leonardo's chairman today rowed back on comments he made about a possible merger with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, dismissing them as a light-hearted quip. Stefano Pontecorvo floated the idea of a future combination between the two state-controlled groups at a business conference in Milan on Monday. Meanwhile, Japan’s Inpex plans to resubmit its environmental proposal for a significant carbon capture and storage project off Australia's coast after temporarily withdrawing it. The company awaits clarity on new environmental laws, reflecting a broader trend of tightening regulations in Australia that aim to streamline approvals while enhancing compliance measures. From the international front, the European Union is set to phase out high-risk technology components, particularly targeting suppliers like Huawei and other Chinese firms. This initiative, part of revisions to the EU's Cybersecurity Act, stems from escalating cybersecurity threats and a desire to reduce technology dependence on potentially problematic sources. Meanwhile, the UK government has approved China’s plan to establish its largest embassy in Europe, despite concerns regarding espionage, indicating a complex balancing act as it seeks to improve bilateral relations. The energy landscape continues to shift as Trump's support for the oil industry clashes with market realities. US oil and gas production is projected to rise significantly, with potential implications for global supply dynamics.


