Saint-Gobain is expected to return to modest sales growth in the second quarter as underlying demand gradually improves following a weak start to the year, Deutsche Bank Research analysts say in a note. The analysts expect Southern Europe and Asia-Pacific to remain the main growth drivers, supported by stronger residential construction activity, while Northern Europe shows early signs of recovery despite continued weakness in the U.K. Recent price increases should benefit the Americas later in the year, they add. The French building-materials supplier's profitability remains positive and recent portfolio disposals should lift margins from 2027 onward, they say. Shares trade 1.4% higher at 80.3 euros. (nina.kienle@wsj.com)