Commerzbank Deploys €1 Billion Defense Against Takeover Bid

In a bold strategic move, Commerzbank has announced a substantial share repurchase initiative valued at up to €1 billion, signaling a robust defense against UniCredit’s escalating stake in the German financial institution. This countermeasure emerges as the Italian banking group systematically increases its ownership position, setting the stage for a high-stakes corporate confrontation between Frankfurt and Milan.

The share buyback program, scheduled to commence on September 25, represents the fifth such initiative since 2023 and will continue through February 10, 2026. All repurchased shares are designated for cancellation, delivering a clear message to financial markets and potential acquirers about the bank’s commitment to maintaining independence.

Commerzbank CEO Bettina Orlopp emphasized that “returning capital to our shareholders forms a fundamental component of our value... Read more...