Daily summary of the Czech economy: inflation, AstraZeneca and Modella AI, U.S. Bancorp, Rio Tinto, Setpoint and Davos (14 January 2026)

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Overview of the latest economic events in the Czech Republic

The Prague Stock Exchange strengthened slightly on Tuesday after Monday's weakening. The PX index rose 0.09 percent to 2,743.44 points. The growth was mainly driven by banking stocks, while most other traded shares stagnated or ended the day in the red. Investors remain cautious and are mainly watching interest rates and inflation expectations. Activity was particularly evident in titles Erste Group Bank a Commercial Bank, which benefited from the relative stability of the banking sector and expectations of solid economic results. In contrast, equities CEZ or Moneta Money Bank showed only limited movement.

Macroeconomic data published by the Czech Statistical Office confirmed the stabilisation of inflation. Consumer prices rose by 2.1 percent year-on-year in December, the same rate as in November. For the full year 2025, inflation reached 2.5 per cent, a slight increase from 2.4 per cent in 2024. Analysts said the year-long acceleration was mainly driven by a rise in food prices, while energy and fuel prices were rather anti-inflationary. The data confirm the scenario of gradual price stabilisation, which is key for the Czech National Bank's future decision-making.

Foreign investment

Pharmaceutical group AstraZeneca announced the acquisition of US technology company Modella AI, focused on the use of artificial intelligence in the development of cancer drugs. The transaction aims to accelerate clinical research and strengthen competitiveness in the field of innovative therapies.

The company's plan has attracted attention in the banking sector U.S. Bancorp, which has agreed to take over the investment bank BTIG. With this acquisition, the company aims to strengthen its capital markets activities and expand its service offering for institutional clients.

Negotiations between the mining giants have reopened in the raw materials sector Rio Tinto a Glencore on a potential strategic transaction that would create one of the largest global players in the metals and minerals sector.

Another confirmed transaction is the approved takeover of the company Gulf Island Fabrication by IES Holdings, which is due to be completed in mid-January.

In the technology and finance segment, the company Setpoint expanded its portfolio by acquiring inTENT Fulfillment, strengthening its position in digital finance and debt management. These steps confirm the ongoing trend of consolidation across sectors.

Significant events outside the Czech Republic with global impact

Global economic attention is focused on the upcoming annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos. The United States will send its largest and most senior delegation to date, led by President Donald Trump. At least five key ministers will be part of the US participation, underlining the importance the US attaches to this year's forum. Trade policy, geopolitical risks and developments in the global economy are expected to be the main topics.

Oil prices continue to rise in commodity markets. North Sea Brent crude oil moved to two-month highs during Tuesday and Wednesday in response to geopolitical tensions and concerns about possible supply constraints. Higher oil prices could reopen the debate on inflation risks in Europe and the United States in the coming weeks and affect investor expectations in financial markets.

gnews.cz - GH

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