Mps Launches €13.3 Billion Bid to Acquire Mediobanca
In a bold move reshaping Italy’s banking sector, Monte dei Paschi di Siena (Mps) has announced a €13.3 billion voluntary public exchange offer to acquire all Mediobanca shares. The deal, entirely stock-based, aims to create a new national banking leader with complementary products, resilient services, and significant synergies. The merged entity would boast a 14% pro-forma return on equity, a robust 16% CET1 ratio, and a sustainable, increasing dividend. Mps CEO Luigi Lovaglio described the merger as a transformative step, combining the strengths of both brands to foster innovation, growth, and enhanced support for families and businesses. Mediobanca shareholders stand to gain €1.2 billion in tax credit benefits, further underscoring the deal’s strategic and financial appeal.
Teenager Stabbed in Rome’s Testaccio Square
A 17-year-old boy was critically injured after being stabbed in the neck near the fountain in Piazza Testaccio, Rome. Emergency responders rushed him to San Camillo Hospital in critical condition, where he remains in intensive care. The victim, of Filipino descent, told police he did not recognize his attacker. Authorities suspect a group of at least seven individuals fled the scene, potentially following a school-related dispute. Investigations are ongoing to clarify the incident.
CasaPound’s Controversial Take on Mussolini TV Series Sparks Debate
CasaPound ignited controversy with banners across Italy quoting Mussolini—“You hate me because you still love me”—to critique the new TV adaptation of Scurati’s book. The far-right group claimed the debates around Mussolini reveal a lingering fascination masked as hatred, accusing critics of distorting his image to suppress “dangerous temptations.” Their statement, framing this discourse as a “secret act of love,” drew sharp criticism amidst Italy’s ongoing challenges, fueling polarized reactions.
Rise in Scams Targeting the Elderly Across Italy
Criminals posing as police officers or lawyers are increasingly targeting elderly victims in Italy, using urgent pretexts to extort money. In Alto Adige, a fake carabiniere attempted to scam three women, while similar cases occurred in Oristano, Barletta, and Lucca, involving false arrests or fabricated emergencies. Scammers often use deceptive tactics like fake emergency calls, keeping victims on the line to reinforce their schemes. Online scams are also surging, with a 32% increase in reports in 2024, reaching €181 million in damages. In the U.S., AI-generated voice scams are a growing concern, though not yet reported in Italy. Authorities urge vigilance and immediate reporting of suspicious activity.
Ostia Named Among Worst Beach Destinations by The Telegraph, but Local Authorities Disagree
According to The Telegraph’s travel section, Ostia has been ranked the second-worst seaside destination in the world, following Monaco. Blogger Tim Jepson criticized the area’s water quality and modern buildings, claiming it lacked appeal. However, Mario Falconi, president of Rome’s Municipio X, firmly rejected these claims, citing ARPA reports certifying the water’s “excellent” quality for three consecutive years and highlighting the protected marine biodiversity of Tor Paterno and the archaeological treasures of Ostia Antica. Falconi condemned the ranking as outdated and sensationalistic, emphasizing Ostia’s unique beauty and cultural heritage.
