MPS proposes a merger to create a new leader in the banking sector
Zeta Italy News. Banca Montepaschi di Siena (MPS) launches an offer to acquire all Mediobanca shares, valued at €13.3 billion. The deal includes an exchange of 2.3 MPS shares for each Mediobanca share. MPS explained in a statement that the merger would create a new major Italian banking group. Mediobanca considers the offer hostile, and its board will meet in the coming days to evaluate the proposal.
Almasri deported to Libya after arrest warrant, Piantedosi cites “security reasons”
Najeem Osema Almasri, accused of migrant trafficking and torture, was repatriated to Libya on January 21, following the international arrest warrant issued on January 18. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi explained that the expulsion occurred for security reasons, with the government ready to provide more details on the case and the timing of the warrant, with a related briefing.
Migrants to be transported in Italian migration centers in Albania
The Navy patrol boat Cassiopeia is reportedly near Lampedusa, ready to transfer migrants to the Albanian centers of Shengjin and Gjader. In October and November, judges had not validated the detention of asylum seekers there. The Flow Decree, approved on January 11, updates the list of safe countries for repatriating healthy adult male migrants and grants Courts of Appeal jurisdiction over accelerated repatriations for those not granted refugee status.
Upcoming railroad strike
Trains in Italy will be halted from 9 p.m. on January 25 until 9 p.m. on January 26. The Ferrovie dello Stato group’s bulletin has announced significant disruptions to rail services, with potential cancellations of high-speed, Intercity, and Regional trains, which could start earlier and continue beyond the strike’s scheduled end. This marks the 16th work stoppage since the beginning of the year, Codacons reports.
Bishop apologizes as report reveals decades of sexual abuse in South Tyrolean church
Bishop Ivo Muser of Bolzano and Bressanone apologized for the sexual abuse cases involving minors within the South Tyrolean church. A report revealed 67 cases of abuse, with 59 confirmed victims and 29 priests implicated between 1964 and 2023. Muser emphasized the need for a cultural change, warning that such incidents could happen again if the issue is ignored.
Teenager stabbed in Rome after school dispute
A 17-year-old student was stabbed in the neck in Piazza Testaccio, Rome, and was rushed to the hospital in critical condition, though his life is not considered to be in danger. The incident reportedly stemmed from a dispute at school with another student, who is believed to have called an accomplice to intervene. The police are investigating the matter.
The final of the Australian Open is Sinner vs Zverev
Italian tennist Jannik Sinner defeated Ben Shelton 7-6 , 6-2, 6-2 in the semifinals of the 2025 Australian Open, securing a spot in the final. The world number 1 and defending champion will face Germany’s Alex Zverev, who advanced after Novak Djokovic retired in their semifinal. Sinner, on a 20-match winning streak, aims for his 19th career title and third Grand Slam victory.
Mattarella celebrates Italian sailing’s success and growth
President Sergio Mattarella met with the Italian sailing community to celebrate the federation’s century-long history and recent achievements, including two gold medals at the Paris World Championships and victories in the America’s Cup Women and Youth events. Mattarella praised the sport’s growth and its deep connection with Italy, nature, and technology, citing Luna Rossa as a prime example.
Lazio into Europa League last 16 with win over Real Sociedad
The final match for the group’s top spot will be against Braga. Lazio advances to the Europa League round of 16 with a 3-1 win over Real Sociedad at the Olimpico stadium. The home team scores early, capitalizes on their numerical advantage after a red card, and seals the match with two quick goals before halftime. The visitors score late, but it’s not enough to change the outcome.
Independent publishing and artists’ books fair in Milan
The event brings together publishers, artists, and typographers, with a program including exhibition booths, workshops, talks, and performances. The fair dedicated to independent publishing and artists’ books—The Art Chapter—kicks off its seventh year at BASE Milan and runs through January 26. Since 2024, the fair has explored the link between publishing and music, connecting sound projects with books.
