NKT target nudged higher as copper rallies and grids test AI ambitions - Feb 25, 2026

As of February 25, today’s news features developments in the cable and energy sectors, particularly regarding NKT and broader trends impacting the market. NKT has garnered attention with JP Morgan raising its target price for the company from DKK 748 to DKK 752, suggesting positive investor sentiment amid ongoing strategical moves. This update follows NKT's conservative adjusted-Ebitda guidance for 2026, predicted to be between 360 million euros and 410 million euros. This outlook reflects a modest reduction in expectations at the midpoint but aligns with the company's historical pattern of conservative projections, as evidenced by a similar trend in its 2025 targets. Notably, while NKT's 2025 Ebitda guidance was initially set at 330 million euros to 380 million euros, it was later increased to 390 million euros, indicating a potentially revised approach toward future estimates. Meanwhile, industry player Schneider Electric is preparing for its earnings report, with analysts anticipating full-year sales of around 39.96 billion euros, a notable increase from previous figures. The forecasted net profit of 4.35 billion euros suggests a marginal growth compared to the previous year's results. Turning to Iberdrola, Europe’s largest utility, the company has also projected higher earnings, forecasting an adjusted net profit exceeding 6.6 billion euros for 2026, buoyed by its strategic investments in power networks, particularly in the U.S. and Britain. This optimism surrounds the ongoing installation of final turbines for the Vineyard Wind 1 offshore project, indicating significant growth in the renewable energy segment despite challenges in other areas such as lower power prices for renewables. Looking at broader macroeconomic indicators, the U.S. technology sector is under scrutiny as infrastructure challenges may hinder the ambitious 600 billion dollars investment plans for artificial intelligence so far outlined by major tech companies. Electricity grid limitations, high power demand, and rising electricity prices signal potential obstacles ahead as the market grapples with scaling energy resources to meet growing tech needs. The rising demand for electricity has also impacted the copper market, which has reached two-week highs following the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling against previous tariffs. This decision has bolstered optimism regarding demand, particularly in China, thus encouraging renewed interest in industrial metals. Lastly, as the clean energy sector in Europe prepares for possible policy shifts, concerns arise over impending regulatory decisions impacting carbon pricing and overall market valuations. Analysts highlight that while investor interest in AI may spur demand, a rebound in electricity consumption might not materialize in the immediate future, placing additional emphasis on policy navigation and market readiness.