July 26, 2024

Stellantis: production crisis in Italy in 2024

In the first half of 2024, Stellantis' production in Italy declined by 25.2 per cent, with 303,510 vehicles produced. Cars decreased by 36%, while commercial vehicles increased by 2%. Pomigliano saw an increase of 3.5%, but Melfi and Mirafiori suffered declines of 57.6% and 63% respectively.
July 12, 2024

Italy could have earned 12 billion from the Europeans

Italy, eliminated from the 2024 European Championships, could have benefited economically from a victory. The FIGC estimates that a triumph would have increased the GDP by 0.7 per cent, or around EUR 12 billion. The victory would have increased domestic consumption, improved consumer confidence, stimulated sporting activity and improved the international perception of the country, with positive effects on exports and tourism. The expected economic growth would have affected several sectors, bringing widespread benefits to the Italian economy.
June 28, 2024

The economic and social impact of the European Football Championships

The European Football Championship is an event of great economic and social significance for the host countries. These tournaments bring significant investments in infrastructure, such as the renovation of stadiums and the modernisation of transport, with lasting benefits for the local economy. EURO 2016 in France generated a turnover of EUR 1.9 billion, while EURO 2020 closed with almost EUR 1.8 billion, despite the pandemic.
June 21, 2024

WeWork: from bankruptcy to rebirth

WeWork, the coworking giant, is undergoing debt restructuring under Chapter 11 protection in the US, with a plan that also involves Italy. The company declared bankruptcy in November and embarked on a financial and operational restructuring that included a $450 million capital injection. In Italy, WeWork reduced its locations in Milan, but saw a 9% increase in occupancy in the remaining locations. Globally, the reorganisation led to significant savings on rents and a reduction in financial commitments. Under the new agreement, the senior creditors will receive control of WeWork in return for a significant investment.
June 15, 2024

ECB cuts rates: real estate on the upswing?

the European Central Bank could cut interest rates by 25 basis points, a much-anticipated event that could significantly affect the housing market. Francesca Zirnstein already sees benefits in the banking sector and anticipates growth in the real estate market due to more affordable credit conditions. Emiliano di Bartolo, while confirming these expectations, remains cautious due to possible impacts from international geopolitical and political situations. Both experts foresee a potential revival of the real estate market, conditioned, however, by the evolving global macroeconomic environment.
June 7, 2024

London like New York: 600 skyscrapers in 10 years

By 2030, London expects to reach ten million inhabitants, and in response to this population growth and limited space availability, the city is growing in height with the planned addition of 583 new skyscrapers over the next ten years. This vertical development is part of a broader urban strategy to optimise space and respond to growing residential and commercial demand. Despite the approval of the urban plans by various mayors, a mixed reaction emerges from the citizenry: while some see the benefits of this expansion, others are overwhelmed by the rapidly changing urban landscape. The challenge for London will be to balance growth and sustainability to effectively navigate the complex landscape of demographic and economic pressures.
May 31, 2024

Stellantis and Leapmotor: the era of Chinese cars in the EU

In September 2023, Stellantis launched Leapmotor electric car sales in Italy and Europe, with the aim of capitalising on the growing interest in electric vehicles. The partnership saw Stellantis acquire 20 per cent of Leapmotor, forming the joint venture Leapmotor International. The models introduced include the C10 SUV and the compact T03, both aimed at an urban audience and competitive in the electric vehicle market. This strategic move is part of Stellantis' “Dare Forward 2030” initiative to strengthen its position in the global electric vehicle sector.
May 24, 2024

Gazprom at a loss for the first time in its history

In 2023, Gazprom, the Russian energy giant, suffered its first financial loss in almost a quarter of a century, recording a liability of 629 billion roubles, approximately 6.5 billion euro. This historic event was mainly caused by the repercussions of the war in Ukraine, which led to international sanctions and a reduction in gas exports to Europe. The European Union, which remains partly dependent on Russian liquefied natural gas (LNG), is considering new restrictions in the Russian energy sector. Despite some existing restrictions, Europe increased its imports of Russian LNG, particularly through Belgium, France and Spain. Gazprom's losses reflect the complex dynamics between Russia's domestic energy management and geopolitical relations with Europe, highlighting persistent challenges in energy and politics.