AI & Enterprise

Europe tech stocks surge on AI boom; semiconductor and optical network shares more than double

European tech shares tied to artificial intelligence infrastructure are surging this year, with some stocks posting triple-digit gains. Aixtron has risen 189 percent, while Technoprobe, STMicroelectronics and Nokia have also climbed sharply. The rally reflects expanding AI investment into data centres, networks and semiconductor equipment. Analysts say Europe’s lack of pure-play AI names is concentrating flows into a few proxy beneficiaries, even as regulatory and power constraints may limit broader momentum.

Mobility

EV charging costs depend on time-of-use rates and efficiency, analysis says

An analysis said EV charging costs can be much lower than many drivers assume. It said the key drivers of running costs are time-of-use household electricity rates and EVs’ higher energy efficiency compared with gasoline cars, not fast-charging prices. Korea’s home charging rates vary sharply by time band, and charging off-peak can cut costs. The analysis also cited perception gaps, cheaper Level 2 charging and cases of free charging.