Core Viewpoint - U.S. private equity firm Carlyle is engaging in exploratory discussions with UAE investors to potentially bring in partners for the acquisition of Russian firm Lukoil's international assets, contingent on the success of the initial agreement [1] Group 1 - Carlyle is considering partnerships with UAE investors as part of its strategy to acquire Lukoil's international assets [1] - The discussions are in the exploratory phase, indicating that no formal agreements have been reached yet [1] - The acquisition of Lukoil's assets is significant, reflecting Carlyle's interest in expanding its portfolio in the energy sector [1]

Acquisition Announcement - Reddy Ice, LLC announced an agreement to acquire Arctic Glacier, LLC, a North American provider of premium ice products and services, from Carlyle [1] - The terms of the transaction were not disclosed [1] Strategic Vision - Reddy Ice aims to create increased operational efficiency across a diverse footprint in the US, Mexico, and Canada through this acquisition [2] - The combined companies are expected to enhance customer service and operational capabilities, aligning with Reddy Ice's vision to improve health, welfare, and quality of life through superior products and services [2] Company Profiles - Reddy Ice is the largest manufacturer and distributor of packaged ice products in North America, operating over 115 manufacturing and distribution centers [4] - Arctic Glacier has been in operation for over 140 years, producing and delivering over 2.5 billion pounds of premium ice annually, with 77 manufacturing facilities and distribution centers across the US and Canada [5][6] Leadership Statements - Reddy Ice's CEO expressed pride in welcoming Arctic Glacier and emphasized the commitment to exceeding customer expectations [2] - Arctic Glacier's CEO highlighted the company's focus on innovative ice solutions and operational excellence [2] Financial and Legal Advisory - Latham & Watkins LLP served as legal advisors for Reddy Ice, while BMO Capital Markets Corp. acted as financial advisor [3] - For Arctic Glacier, Debevoise & Plimpton LLP and Rule Garza Howley LLP served as legal advisors, with Deutsche Bank as financial advisor [3] Regulatory Considerations - The acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals, and Reddy Ice will divest four facilities and associated customer contracts as part of the DOJ Antitrust Division's review [2]

Core Viewpoint - Centerra Gold Inc. has suspended operations at its Langeloth Metallurgical Facility due to an explosion caused by an uncontrolled chemical reaction, with no fatalities reported but several injuries [1] Group 1: Incident Details - The explosion occurred on January 29, 2026, at approximately 6:15 p.m. Eastern Time [1] - Two contractors were hospitalized with injuries, and two employees were taken to the hospital for precautionary reasons [1] - There is currently no indication of a significant environmental release, and relevant regulatory agencies have been notified [1] Group 2: Company Overview - Centerra Gold Inc. is a Canadian-based gold mining company focused on operating, developing, exploring, and acquiring gold and copper properties in North America, Türkiye, and other markets worldwide [2] - The company operates two mines: the Mount Milligan Mine in British Columbia, Canada, and the Öksüt Mine in Türkiye [2] - Centerra also owns the Kemess Project in British Columbia, the Goldfield Project in Nevada, and operates a Molybdenum Business Unit in the United States and Canada [2]

Group 1 - Carlyle Group is set to acquire the majority of Lukoil's foreign assets, which are initially valued at $22 billion by analysts [1]

Group 1 - The Kremlin does not comment on reports regarding a ceasefire agreement between Russia and Ukraine concerning energy infrastructure, emphasizing the importance of respecting the interests of Lukoil [1] - The Kremlin is awaiting a response from the U.S. regarding President Putin's proposal to extend the nuclear treaty limitations [1] - The Kremlin refrains from commenting on the Carlyle Group's acquisition of a majority of Lukoil's overseas assets, stating that these are corporate agreements [1] Group 2 - The Kremlin urges all parties involved in the Iran crisis to exercise restraint and avoid the use of force, warning that military action could lead to chaos in the region and extremely dangerous consequences [1] - There remains potential for negotiations regarding the Iran issue, despite the current tensions [1] - Discussions between President Putin and Syrian President Assad included topics related to Russian military bases [1]

Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration has recently blocked a deal involving commodities trader Gunvor, indicating a shift in regulatory stance towards such transactions [1] Group 1 - The news follows a previous decision by the Trump administration to block a deal with Gunvor, highlighting ongoing scrutiny in the commodities trading sector [1]

Core Viewpoint - Wizz Air reported a third-quarter operating loss that met analyst expectations, while also raising its growth forecast due to additional Airbus deliveries and the return of operations [1] Group 1 - The company experienced an operating loss in the third quarter, which was in line with analyst predictions [1] - Wizz Air has recently increased its growth forecast, indicating a positive outlook for future performance [1] - The growth forecast improvement is attributed to the delivery of additional Airbus aircraft and the resumption of operations [1]

Group 1 - The Swiss drugmaker expects sales to grow in the mid-single-digit range [1] - Core EPS growth is anticipated in the high-single-digit range at constant currencies [1]

SK Hynix has overtaken Samsung Electronics in operating profit for the first time, marking a shift in South Korea's semiconductor hierarchy as artificial intelligence reshapes the memory market. The c... ...

Core Viewpoint - Russia's second-largest oil producer, Lukoil, has agreed to sell its foreign asset management unit, LUKOIL International GmbH, to the U.S. private equity firm Carlyle Group [1] Company Summary - Lukoil is a major player in the Russian oil industry, being the second-largest oil producer in the country [1] - The sale involves LUKOIL International GmbH, which is responsible for overseeing Lukoil's foreign assets [1] Industry Summary - The transaction highlights ongoing trends in the oil and gas sector, particularly the involvement of private equity firms in acquiring foreign assets from major oil producers [1]