Prysmian profit jumps as data-center deals and US growth drive outlook - 30 April 2026

As of April 30, today’s news is dominated by Prysmian’s robust financial performance and growing interest in renewable energy driven by geopolitical tensions. Prysmian reported a strong start to 2026, with first-quarter net profit up 64% to 253 million euros and revenue rising to 5.22 billion euros, driven by 5% organic growth. Adjusted EBITDA climbed 14% to 601 million euros, lifting margins despite currency headwinds. CEO Massimo Battaini said results beat expectations and could support an upgrade to full-year guidance later in the year. The group is also close to signing long-term deals with hyperscalers to expand its optical cable business in data centers. Battaini also said a potential dual listing in New York would ideally be combined with U.S. M&A opportunities, with North America remaining a key growth market. Prysmian said capital will remain focused on M&A and organic growth, especially in North America, digital solutions and transmission, while buybacks remain a last option. In broader market developments, Schneider Electric reported a slight revenue beat in the first quarter, with figures up 11.2% to 9.77 billion euros, driven by heightened demand from the AI data center sector. Analysts predict massive investments exceeding 600 billion dollars from hyperscalers in AI infrastructure this year, reinforcing Schneider's critical position in supplying power equipment for data centers. On the global stage, the International Energy Agency's (IEA) head reaffirmed that the world is facing its most significant energy crisis due to disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict with Iran. Brent crude prices surged past 120 dollars per barrel, intensifying concerns over economic repercussions. Meanwhile, the U.N. climate chief noted that this conflict could accelerate the global transition to renewable energy as nations strive for energy independence from volatile fossil fuel markets. In competitive news, solar manufacturers in China reported mixed results amid optimism that the war in Iran could spur overseas demand for renewables. However, domestic demand in China is expected to decline, impacting overall global growth forecasts for solar products. The evolving Iranian situation continues to influence oil prices, with Iran threatening retaliatory action against the U.S. if hostilities resume, complicating efforts to reopen critical shipping corridors and exacerbating price volatility in crude markets.