Norsk Hydro has announced a significant uptick in its first-quarter adjusted EBITDA for 2025, reaching NOK 9,516 million, a notable increase from NOK 5,411 million in the corresponding period last year. This financial uplift is attributed to higher alumina and all-in aluminium prices, alongside favorable currency effects. Despite facing challenges such as increased raw material costs and reduced Extrusions volumes and margins, Hydro's strategic initiatives have enabled an adjusted RoaCE of 10.7 percent over the past twelve months and a free cash flow of NOK 1.3 billion.
The company's upstream operations, particularly in Bauxite & Alumina, have reported a record quarter, underscoring Hydro's resilience in navigating the complexities of global trade uncertainty. With limited direct exposure to tariffs and a strong cost position, Hydro is well-placed to mitigate risks associated with fluctuating demand and economic unpredictability. Eivind Kallevik, Hydro's President and CEO, emphasized the strength of the company's integrated business model in delivering long-term value amidst a rapidly changing global landscape.
In a strategic move to support Europe's energy transition, Hydro has entered into a long-term agreement with Denmark's NKT to supply low-carbon aluminium wire rod for power cable production. This deal, valued at approximately 1 billion euros, is part of Hydro's broader investment in expanding its aluminium capacity in Norway, with a new facility set to commence production in 2028. The partnership with NKT not only reinforces Hydro's commitment to sustainability but also positions the company as a key player in Europe's push towards renewable energy and critical raw materials security.
Europe's energy transition efforts are gaining momentum, with Hydro's low-carbon aluminium playing a pivotal role in upgrading the continent's grid infrastructure. The metal's classification as a critical material by the EU, coupled with Norway's significant contribution to its production, highlights the strategic importance of Hydro's operations. As Europe seeks to reduce its dependency on fossil fuel imports and enhance its renewable energy capabilities, Hydro's initiatives offer a glimpse into the future of sustainable industrial practices and energy security.
Inozyme Pharma, Inc. has reported encouraging interim data from its ENERGY 3 trial, showcasing INZ-701's potential to alter the disease trajectory in patients with ENPP1 Deficiency. The clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company highlighted sustained increases in phosphate levels alongside a favorable safety and immunogenicity profile, marking a significant step forward in addressing this rare disease.
The ENERGY 3 trial, which completed enrollment in January 2025, is on schedule to deliver topline data in the first quarter of 2026. Douglas A. Treco, Ph.D., CEO and Chairman of Inozyme Pharma, expressed optimism about the trial's progress, noting the absence of patient dropouts, dose adjustments, or discontinuations. This consistency across key metrics underscores the potential of INZ-701 to become the first approved therapy for ENPP1 Deficiency, a condition with significant unmet medical needs.
Adding to the company's momentum, Petra Duda, M.D., Ph.D., has been appointed as Chief Medical Officer. Her expertise is expected to bolster Inozyme Pharma's clinical development efforts as it advances INZ-701 through pivotal trials. The appointment comes at a critical juncture, with the company poised to make significant strides in rare disease therapeutics.
As Inozyme Pharma continues to navigate the clinical development landscape, the progress of the ENERGY 3 trial and the strategic addition to its leadership team underscore its commitment to innovation in rare disease treatment. With the anticipation of topline data in early 2026, the medical and investment communities are closely watching INZ-701's journey toward potential approval and its impact on patients with ENPP1 Deficiency.