Portuguese Banking Giant BCP Surges Toward 1 Euro Per Share as Ageas and Fosun Circle Stakes
BCP stock rose 0.56% to 0.9616 euros, approaching the 1 euro mark and becoming the third largest company on the Portuguese stock exchange (PSI). The bank achieved a market capitalization exceeding 14 billion euros. Belgian insurer Ageas is evaluating a 5% stake acquisition while Chinese group Fosun explores options for its 20.45% stake. Shareholders approved distribution of 90% of profits through dividends and share buybacks totaling over 900 million euros. The bank earned over 300 million euros in Q1, surpassing analyst expectations.