Unicredit is allowed to increase Commerzbank shares to 29.99 %-what now?

Unicredit is allowed to increase Commerzbank shares to 29.99 %-what now?

UniCredit: Cartel office allows the shares in Commerzbank

The Italian bank UniCredit has received approval from the Bonn antitrust authority to increase its share in Commerzbank to up to 29.99 percent. This decision enables Unicredit to further expand its position as the second largest shareholder after the federal government after it has already held 9.5 percent of the shares. The bank plans to promote the acquisition of shares, which is related to the efforts, to achieve a greater impact on Commerzbank.

Permission to increase the shares was also the focus of the European Central Bank, which had previously also given its consent. The approvals of both institutions are based on the assessment that there is still competition in almost all areas between the two banks. However, it was noted that if Unicredit exceeds the 30 percent brand, it would be obliged to present a public takeover offer (grandpa).

Commerzbank itself, however, has unequivocally expressed its intention to remain independent, which indicates resistance to Unicredit's takeover plans. The takeover is rejected in an economic context in which banks try to maintain their independence and market position, especially in the current volatile financial situation.

This is not the first time that UniCredit is in the discussion about a possible takeover of Commerzbank. In the past there has already been speculation about a merger, but so far this has been slowed down by regulatory concerns and the position of Commerzbank itself. However, the current developments could increase the pressure on Commerzbank to develop new strategies to secure their independence.

Overall, it remains to be seen how the situation between Unicredit and Commerzbank develops. The achievement of a higher participation in Commerzbank could have far -reaching effects on the German banking sector and creating new dynamics in the European financial market. The overall economic conditions and the reaction of both banks to the regulatory permits will also have a decisive influence on further development.