European Markets Rise as Merz Clinches German Election Victory

National Grid Divests US Onshore Renewables Division
National Grid PLC is poised to sell its US onshore renewable energy division for US$1.7 billion (£1.3 billion). Brookfield Asset Management has agreed to acquire the business, which specialises in developing and operating solar, onshore wind, and battery storage projects. Currently, the division boasts 1.8 gigawatts of operational capacity with an additional 1.3 gigawatts under construction. This move is part of National Grid’s broader strategy to concentrate on its core network operations and streamline its overall business portfolio. The deal, with an enterprise value of US$1.7 billion, will have its final cash consideration determined ahead of closing, scheduled between the first half of this year and March 2026.

FTSE 100 Set to Benefit Amid European Market Gains
London’s blue-chip index is expected to rally as stocks across Europe climb following the German election win by Friedrich Merz and the conservative party. Although securing approximately 20% of the vote, Merz’s victory now hinges on coalition talks. Early Monday trading saw the euro rise by 0.51% to US$1.0514, reflecting growing investor optimism. Meanwhile, Asian markets experienced mixed results after Wall Street’s downturn—with the Dow Jones dropping 1.7% amid lingering tariff concerns. Investors are now gearing up for a hectic week of earnings reports from industry giants such as Rolls-Royce, Nvidia, Aviva, and British Airways.

This strategic reshuffle in both the renewable energy sector and the broader market underscores the dynamic nature of today’s global economic landscape.

(Sources: investing.com, proactiveinvestors.co.uk)