The FTSE MIB rose 0.8% to close at 44,793 on Wednesday, extending gains for a third session to its highest level since January 2001 with support from banks as markets awaited the likely end of the US government shutdown. Mediobanca, recently acquired by MPS (+2.3%), led the index with a 3% gain. Overall, the financial sector traded higher, with UniCredit up 2.1%, Intesa Sanpaolo 1.6%, Poste Italiane 1.8%, and Generali 0.9% prepare to report stronger results according to estimates. Recordati rose 2.4% despite warning that its 2025 core profit will likely hit the lower end of guidance, citing adverse exchange rates and a weak economy. The utilities sector posted losses, as A2A plunged more than 9% after its updated strategic plan showed near-term earnings below expectations, even as long-term targets were raised. Enel (-0.2%) and Terna (-0.3%) will report results tomorrow.