Italy has successfully sold off about 12.5% of Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena SpA for approximately €650 million ($704 million). This move is in line with the state's plan to divest from the bailed-out lender. The sale, led by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government, involved the divestment of 157.5 million shares at €4.15 each. Notably, this price includes a 2.5% discount on Monte Paschi’s closing value. The positioning also saw a 42% increase compared to the government’s previous placement in November, demonstrating a positive growth trajectory.