Rexel shares edge up on GCG acquisition
** Shares in Rexel RXL.PA rise 1.5% after the French electrical parts supplier on Friday said it would acquire US infrastructure distributor GCG for $1.4 billion by the end of 2026
** "We view Rexel’s acquisition of GCG as a strategically attractive move," J.P.Morgan said
** JPM noted that the deal expands Rexel's presence in the fast-growing North American market and should lift its margins before any synergies
** The transaction also increases exposure to data centres and provides an entry into new end markets such as utilities at an undemanding valuation, the brokerage added
** Up to the previous session's close, shares were up 8.1% YTD