European Movers: Getlink (GET FP) +2.0%, Alstom (ALO FP) +1.6%, Close Brothers (CBG LN) +1.3%, Air Liquide (AI FP) +1.2%, Diageo (DGE LN) +0.6%, Unilever (ULVR LN) +0.5%, Casino -4.4%
Air Liquide (AI FP) upgraded to Buy from Hold at Kepler Cheuvreux
Alstom (ALO FP) - Alstom signs a new systems contract in the AMECA region, as part of a consortium; total project value of USD 2.75bln. (Alstom)
Casino (CO FP) – Final FY 2025 (EUR): Sales 8.26bln (exp. 8.32bln), Adj. EBITDA 655mln (prev. 576mln Y/Y). (Casino)
Diageo (DGE LN) upgraded to Buy from Hold at Deutsche Bank
Getlink (GET FP) - Mundys confirms it has raised its stake to 9.5%. Mundys will hold 19.0% of Getlink’s share capital and up to 24.9% of its voting rights confirming itself as one of the main shareholders of the company. (Getlink)
UK Motor Finance / Lloyds (LLOY LN) / Close Brothers (CBG LN) - UK says lenders face GBP 7.5bln car loan redress bill vs. prior GBP 8.2bln; FCA says estimated total bill to firms is down from 11bln to 9.1bln. (FCA)
Unilever (ULVR LN) - Co. confirms that it is in talks with McCormick (MKC), regarding its food unit. Work remains ongoing to agree and finalise a transaction and it is possible that an agreement could be concluded today. (Unilever)
This headline outlines several key corporate developments in Europe, notably upgrades for Air Liquide and Diageo, reflecting improved market sentiment towards these stocks. Getlink's increase in stake by Mundys adds to its liquidity profile, while Unilever's discussions with McCormick suggest potential strategic moves in their food unit that could reshape their operations. Such corporate actions often influence overall sector performance, prompting investors to reassess positions based on changes in market expectations and strategic direction.