Voestalpine Shares Surge as Landmark Order Validates Strategic Pivot

The equity of Austrian steelmaker Voestalpine has been on a sustained upward trajectory for months. This impressive rally now has a powerful fundamental catalyst: a historic single contract secured in Turkey, demonstrating the company's ability to unlock growth beyond its core, yet currently struggling, automotive sector.

Voestalpine's Metal Forming Division has landed the largest single order in its history. The contract, valued at approximately €41 million, involves constructing a massive logistics center in Istanbul for a leading Turkish service provider. The project features a hybrid system combining high-bay and small-parts storage, with the facility stretching 222 meters in length and reaching nearly 40 meters in height. Completion is scheduled for April 2027.

This deal is part of a broader strategic success. The warehousing technology segment is establishing itself as a reliable profit pillar, following the recent completion of high-bay warehouses for JYSK in the Netherlands and ongoing projects in the United Kingdom. This provides a crucial counterbalance to the continued pressure from weaker demand in the automotive industry.

The division's financial contribution is already significant. In the 2024/25 financial year, it generated EBITDA of €169.3 million on revenue of €3.1 billion.

Should investors sell immediately? Or is it worth buying Voestalpine?

Stock Performance Reflects Confidence

Investors on the Vienna Stock Exchange are rewarding this strategic broadening. The share price is currently trading around €39.60, testing the psychologically important €40 threshold.

The performance metrics over the past year are striking:
* 12-Month Gain: An increase of over 130% (more than doubling the share price)
* Year-to-Date 2026: An advance of nearly 5%
* Recent Low: As recently as January 2025, the shares traded at around €17

Navigating Challenges Amid Growth

Despite the record-breaking order and bullish market performance, Voestalpine continues to face headwinds. Structural issues are forcing adjustments at its Austrian sites in Kindberg and Mürzzuschlag, leading to the loss of approximately 340 jobs. Additionally, US import tariffs are weighing on business operations.

Nevertheless, management has reaffirmed its guidance for the current 2025/26 financial year. The executive board anticipates an operating result (EBITDA) in the range of €1.4 billion to €1.55 billion. The new mega-order from Turkey substantiates the company's strategy to diversify its business base and provides tangible evidence that these targets remain achievable despite economic crosscurrents.