Hello, yesterday a third very deadly accident—this time involving illegal migrants in Chios—cast a shadow over our daily life. Hopefully, it will not happen again, and hopefully, one day a way will be found to stop the scourge of illegal immigration, which unfortunately often ends in human tragedies. No one wants this, not even the coast guards who risk their lives for a low salary, nor any government. That’s why the “accusatory statements” from the opposition are rather misplaced, especially when not even 24 hours have passed since the incident. Now, fundamentally, what should a government do in the face of systematic illegal immigration over more than a decade? Perhaps PASOK should answer that first, because the rest of us already know what they stand for… the “they sunbathe and then leave” approach of Tasia under SYRIZA. Incidents like these, with murderous traffickers of illegal migrants who, when approaching Greek territorial waters, throw people into the sea to trigger the international rescue protocol, are handled by the Coast Guard every day in Chios, Lesvos, and other Aegean islands. If yesterday the Coast Guard did not handle it correctly—which is not indicated anywhere—Justice will find out. Otherwise, if PASOK and the Left want, they should tell the public clearly: to open our maritime (and land) borders and welcome thousands of illegal migrants from everywhere.

De Gress-Karystianou

Now let’s move to some lighter political gossip to ease the mood a bit, one of which again emerged from the communications legend Nikos Karachalias, who said that in an interview he gives to ANT1, Pavlos De Gress leaves the door open for political activity and thus could cooperate with President Maria. Karachalias’ rather free starting point seems to be that the Larissa lawyer Sourlas, who covers for lawyer Maria Gratsia and also represents Karystianou, is somewhat pro-monarchist, or somewhat far-right, something like that. However, this has nothing to do with the actual facts, resulting in the De Gress press office denying the related information that spread at lightning speed since yesterday. President Maria, meanwhile, remains firm in her plan to avoid live discussions, although it circulates that she is going to record an interview, and in February she is preparing to release a declaration of principles for the new party, but not yet the name.

Bakoyannis in Athens A’? Dora?

It is probably well-known that Kostas Bakoyannis has been considering running in Athens A’. He was thinking recently of running for the Athens municipality “to get his revenge” from Mayor Doukas but ultimately will not, to Doukas’ disappointment because he believes that “his influence in the municipality has not been preserved in four years against the same opponent.” However, no one really knows, and the ongoing polls are neither clear nor reliable. If Kostas runs in Athens A’, will Dora run in Chania? It’s a question, but I think this will be something Mitsotakis will have to face (truly) around the end of the year.

The Spirit of Hatzidakis

The presentation yesterday by Vice President Hatzidakis regarding the bill that includes 14 interventions for a more citizen-friendly state is part of the strategy K.M. has outlined until the elections: to highlight the government’s positive work and show that reforms, large or small, are being made. Hatzidakis says the bill follows “simple logic,” meaning it doesn’t make a breakthrough in time but addresses daily yet significant problems for citizens, e.g., certificates that the state requests repeatedly or state claims based on Turkish firman. Of course, with the Greek public sector, the obvious is not always obvious. Ask a bit about what happens in urban planning offices, the land registry, municipalities, and wherever eGov management has not yet been fully implemented.

The Authority Investigates the President of GSEE

According to confirmed information, the Authority for Money Laundering is investigating a case in which the president of GSEE is allegedly involved. The same sources indicate that the investigation is ongoing, and the Authority continues its inquiry.

Innovation Centers

Yesterday, Mitsotakis visited the Epirus Innovation Center in Ioannina—before going to the ND Pre-Congress—which had been inaugurated by Sofia Zacharaki. This is a primary school that had closed and is reopening as an innovation hub with resources from the Recovery Fund and is part of the nationwide network of 13 Innovation Centers in each Regional Education Directorate, with scientific and pedagogical support from ITYE “Diophantus.” The center has AI, robotics, and emerging technology infrastructure, with a humanoid robot integrated into the learning process. Interesting.

Approaching a Solution for the Real Consulting Shareholding “Puzzle”

Developments at Real Consulting, where the main shareholder remains Nikos V. Vardinoyannis, seem increasingly close. Information reinforces the sense that the IT company is heading toward a deal with broader business implications. Since rumors circulated about a possible deal with a shipping group—allegedly considering listing part of its activities—the market is trying to “read” the next steps. A merger scenario has also been suggested, though no official confirmation exists. The activity has sparked speculation, with more than two or three well-known shipping names discussed in financial offices. Still, observers emphasize that nothing should be taken as certain. Another rumor line speaks of forming an investment group with prominent business figures, possibly including a significant foreign investor—an evolution that could further enhance the company’s investment profile. In any case, the market is watching the next moves with interest, as it may be a deal with a broader impact on the tech sector. Sunday—short holiday.

Vakakis Talks About Diets, Emotions, and… Sex

Apostolos Vakakis appeared noticeably slimmer and stylish at yesterday’s General Assembly. He explained that one day he woke up and said, “I stopped drinking; Trump stuck it in my head. A libertine like Trump said stop. No beers, nothing,” adding, “I cut bread and pasta completely. Unfortunately, I bend on sweets.” His best line during the two-hour assembly (which had only two topics) was his answer about recent investment bank reports expressing caution about Jumbo: “We speak with numbers, not with emotions.” On the same issue, he also said, “I made it clear to people that here we save. We don’t play stock games. Most rockets explode on the platform, and half of those who leave don’t return.” His view on addressing the demographic issue was also interesting: “Some must stop theorizing and start having sex.”

The Titan Trio

Titan Cement Group has made three acquisitions in recent months, all strategically important and with a common factor: proximity to ports, which strengthens international market connections and increases export flexibility. The most recent move is the acquisition of Vracs de L’Estuaire, which operates a state-of-the-art clinker grinding unit in the port of Le Havre, Northern France, with an annual capacity of 0.6 million tons. Combined with the acquisition of Traçim Cement in the broader Istanbul market and Keystone Cement Company in the United States, this forms a trio of investments expected to serve as a key driver for the medium-term goal of increasing EBITDA by 11%–13% by 2028. Analysts explain that this strategic choice is particularly important in a U.S. market characterized by limited supply, creating opportunities for producers with strong export capacity. With the new facilities serving both local and international markets, Titan aims to safeguard future profitability and increase resilience to demand fluctuations. Titan Cement has a stock market value around €4.3 billion, though the price on the board has dropped a few sessions after the historic high of €58.80.

Grimaldi

Emanuel Grimaldi’s investment in the port of Igoumenitsa is proving to be highly profitable, as earnings are rising rapidly, naturally boosting dividends as well… In fact, the Igoumenitsa Port Holdings Company under Paul Kyprianou—the “vehicle” through which the consortium Grimaldi Euromed, Minoan Lines S.A., and EKEB AE acquired 67% of the Igoumenitsa Port Authority in 2023 in a deal worth €84.17 million—will also pay an interim dividend this year. In the preliminary statements released, covering the eight-month period from January to August 2025, the net profits of the Holdings Company reached €3.94 million.

Alexis Yfantis vs. Dimitris Vintzileos

The battle in the domestic processed meat market, worth approximately €450–500 million annually, now clearly tilts in favor of Alexis Yfantis. The head of the historic Yfantis meat processing company, with sales of €215.4 million and net profits of €10.2 million in 2024, seems firmly at the top. And with the deal to acquire Nika, he will increase consolidated sales and aims to have a clear lead this year in a rapidly consolidating market. On the other side, Dimitris Vintzileos, four years after taking over Creta Farms following the “civil war” of the Domazakis brothers that almost destroyed it, continues to struggle to return it to profitability. Recently, the company released its financial statements for 2024. According to these, sales fell slightly to €145.9 million, and net losses rose to around €1 million, from €105 thousand in 2023.

New Faces

New firepower for the country’s Industrial Associations as key positions are filled with experienced professionals from public administration. George Christopoulos was appointed General Director of SEV (Hellenic Federation of Enterprises); among other roles, he has served as General Secretary for Economic Policy and Strategy at the Ministry of National Economy and Finance, member of the Executive Board of the Hellenic Corporation of Assets and Participations, deputy governor of OAED (Manpower Employment Organization), advisor at the Ministry of Energy, and advisor at the Ministry of Labor. Similarly, Vicky Loizou takes a comparable role at SVE (Hellenic Confederation of Professionals, Craftsmen, and Merchants) with experience as General Secretary for Economic and Development Policy Coordination at the Prime Minister’s Office, General Secretary for Private Investments and Industry at the Ministry of Development, General Secretary for International Economic Relations and Extroversion at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and General Secretary for Tourism Policy and Development.

Stock Market: 5+5 Blue Chips Reach New Heights

The Athens Stock Exchange receives a boost from heavyweight stocks, managing to break the 2,400-point barrier just seven sessions after reaching 2,300 points. Allies in this new surge were 10 large-cap stocks, five of which closed at record highs, while another five hit multi-year records. In banking, Piraeus Bank reached just shy of €9, a five-year high, with a market value exceeding €11 billion. Alpha Bank extended its 10-year record, now trading around €4.5. Coca-Cola HBC hit a record €48.8, just days before releasing its 2025 annual results, remaining the most valuable listed company on the ASE, with a market capitalization exceeding €18 billion. GEK TERNA continued its ascent toward new highs, approaching €35 for the first time, while Motor Oil almost reached €36. DEI remains solidly above €20, levels last seen in summer 2008. New historical records for Viohalco and its affiliate Cenergy, with the former at €13.4 and the latter approaching €20; CENER is valued above €4 billion. Another subsidiary, ElvalHalcor, reached a 19-year high, approaching €5 for the first time since July 2007.

HelleniQ Energy and Institutional Call Options

Trading in HelleniQ Energy shares is increasing, particularly among institutional portfolios, with a market capitalization exceeding €2.8 billion. Many see the stock as a “call option” bet (currently fashionable). In addition to high dividend yield and stable cash flows, HelleniQ Energy invests heavily in its Chevron joint venture. In the coming weeks, the path will open for the start of seismic surveys in the Ionian Sea. Chevron, the American giant with 11.1 billion barrels of oil equivalent in reserves, will deploy a next-generation seismic vessel to explore the four-block area “A2,” “South of Peloponnese,” “South of Crete I and II,” covering 47,000 square kilometers at depths up to 3,000 meters. International statistics indicate a success probability (finding immediately exploitable oil or gas) of 18–20%. If successful, the joint venture’s, and thus HelleniQ Energy’s, value would skyrocket. For institutional investors, the bet resembles a call option at a favorable price: you buy a dividend yield of 6–7% while simultaneously buying the right to sell if and when the exploration yields positive results.

Ferry Shipping: New Large Ships from 2026–2027

Behind the scenes, fleet renewal discussions have reached a new level in ferry shipping. This is not merely an observation but growing pressure from islands, the market, and the companies themselves as old ships near their limits. Sources say the plan is beginning to “fit”: funding from the Green Fund, collaboration with the European Investment Bank, and access to loans and grants to replace or modernize aging vessels. The need is real, especially for islands dependent on ferry connections. Large groups have already made moves. It is expected that from 2026–2027, new large ships will enter the routes. The real challenge lies with smaller companies, where every euro counts and each ship makes a difference. The government insists this time the “small players” won’t be left out. The question is whether the plan will progress at the required pace.

Wall Street’s View on the Greeks’ Coordinated Turn to Tankers

The picture emerging in early 2026 leaves no room for misinterpretation. Greek shipowners are making a coordinated, almost “political” turn toward crude oil tankers, better reading the global risk-return cycle than many. In market terms, this is a conviction trade. Leading names are Dynacom with 16 VLCCs, Cape Shipping of the Andrianopoulos family with a 319,000 dwt VLCC, confirming coordinated heavy capital movement. In Suezmax, it resembles a well-organized syndicate: Lavinia Tankers (Panos Laskaridis), Stealth Maritime (Haris Vafias), JHI Steamship (Giannis Inglesis), and New Shipping (Adamantios Polemis) place aggressive positions with seven new orders. Stealth Maritime also strengthens its footprint in oil products with two new LR2 vessels, showing diversification but no doubt about the sector. Meanwhile, the lack of significant moves in dry bulk, except for two Kamsarmax vessels by Safe Bulkers, silently acknowledges that the story there is not selling. High costs of new builds, fragile supply-demand balance, and limited visibility. Delays in IMO Global Net Zero Framework discussions, combined with geopolitical tensions and sanctions on old tankers, create what Wall Street would call a textbook bull case. Greek shipowners are strategically positioning, not just chasing freight rates.

Aftermath of Kimberly’s Presence at the Propeller Club

Ripples continue from U.S. Ambassador Kimberly Guilfoyle’s appearance at the Propeller Club Port of Piraeus event. It is now clear that Washington views Greece as a stable hub in an unstable neighborhood, which the ambassador reaffirmed. Not only due to geography but because of Greece’s ability to combine shipping, infrastructure, and energy security. Ports, shipyards, and LNG projects remain high on the U.S. agenda, seen as far from incidental. With its maritime strength and institutional stability, Greece appears as a low-risk, high-return choice. In her speech at the Propeller Club, the ambassador—who communicates directly with Donald Trump—used political language, avoiding diplomatic clichés, presenting shipping as a tool of stability and power, directly linking it to secure sea lanes and free energy and trade flow. These messages were not addressed only to Athens. Behind the scenes, the assessment is that the U.S. invests strategically in reliable partners, as the Eastern Mediterranean remains a competitive field.

Bylot Hopes for Better Days

After a challenging period, Intalot—now Bylot—shows signs of returning to normality, with a market capitalization near €2 billion, amid rumors of acquisitions that could strengthen its share of the U.K. betting market. It is said the announcement will come in the next few days, proving that the heavy tax increase in the U.K. created a growth opportunity for Bally’s Intralot.

“Small” TREK Hits the Market

TREK Development debuted on the Alternative Market of the Athens Stock Exchange on November 17, 2025, at €1.40 with a capitalization of €11 million. Today the stock trades at €3.17, and its market cap reached €25 million yesterday. The company designs, finances, and implements specialized infrastructure projects in energy, climate, and digital transformation. The Papapolyzos siblings’ company does not build roads but develops smart cities, energy efficiency in public buildings, and digital infrastructure for local governments. With zero bank debt and a high order backlog, it is now looking for acquisitions of specialized companies, i.e., productive units that supply it in small industry, technology, and construction. Management has already planned a bond issuance to fund the first wave of acquisitions and has received inquiries from foreign institutional portfolios for placement—all within three months of its stock market listing.

First Money in Greek Biotechnology

With the launch of the first Greek “Life Sciences Venture Capital Fund” at the end of 2025, Kos Biotechnology Partners (Dr. Simos Symeonidis and Alexandros Tzoukas) made its first investment in Epikast, founded by Stelios Papadopoulos, the “patriarch of biotechnology” in the U.S., along with other investors. Epikast, headquartered in New York with a presence in Athens, offers advanced technological solutions for the biopharmaceutical industry. The Life Sciences VC Fund plans investments in Boston and San Francisco, collaborating with top U.S. venture capital funds, while supporting the development of specialized scientific talent and infrastructure in Greece.

Suddenly, GPUs Are Not Enough

Until recently, many GPU providers, mainly due to huge government investments in AI data centers, struggled to find customers (tenants) to consume the massive computing power. Last week, the opposite happened: customers are desperately seeking AI cards in large data centers and cannot find them. The reason is a new “open” model by Moonshot AI, the Kimi K2.5. It is powerful enough for demanding tasks with “agents,” and, crucially, usage costs are much lower than top closed models like Anthropic’s Opus 4.5. This combination of affordability and quality triggered a shift from Opus to Kimi in many workloads, leading to high demand for powerful GPUs within days. Several online providers report pressure/limited availability. This is not a trend or temporary hype—it resembles the frenzy seen last year with Deepseek.

Elon Musk Wants to Become a Champion in Energy

He chose a small town in California to turn into an experimental energy production lab. Tesla submitted plans to build a $140 million energy storage facility in Ripon, California, producing over 150 Megapacks—giant batteries capable of powering thousands of homes. Elon Musk wants to transform Tesla from a tech and automotive company into an energy giant. Tesla’s Megapacks can be installed worldwide, turning cities into massive batteries that store solar and wind energy and release it when needed. Megapacks aim to replace polluting generators, providing electricity during frequent blackouts, especially in California summers. While President Trump advocates “drill, baby, drill,” Musk wants to deploy Megapacks quickly, like software updates.

China Profits from the Sun

In H1 2025, China installed 256 GW of solar capacity. The rest of the world combined installed 124 GW. China installs twice as much solar as the U.S., India, Germany, Brazil, and all other countries combined. In the same period, Chinese electric vehicles captured over 65% of global EV sales. From 20% in 2010, China gained two-thirds of the market in just 15 years. While the West talks about “energy transition” with 2030 targets, China is implementing it now. Solar capacity jumped from 37 GW in 2022 to 256 GW in 2025—a +590% increase in 3 years. Meanwhile, BYD surpassed Tesla in global sales, and Chinese EV brands dominate markets in Europe, Asia, and Latin America. China secures energy independence, floods the market with cheap solar panels and EVs, making competition impossible for Western manufacturers, while creating technological dependence. Just as the world once relied on Saudi oil, soon it will rely on Chinese solar panels and lithium batteries. Europe and the U.S. react with tariffs, but it is already too late.