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UniCredit Pitches Overhaul as It Presses Commerzbank Takeover

The Italian bank aims to win support after crossing the 30% threshold that forces a full bid.

Overview

  • UniCredit laid out its Unlocked plan to refocus Commerzbank on Germany and Poland with new tech and AI investment, claiming €1.1 billion in added value by 2030 and about €600 million more net profit in 2028.
  • If it gains control, UniCredit says it would keep Commerzbank separate for roughly 18 months before a possible tie-up with its German unit HypoVereinsbank.
  • German rules require a full takeover offer once a shareholder tops 30%, and UniCredit’s bid is reported at about €30.80 per share for a deal valued near €35 billion.
  • Commerzbank’s board has rejected a deal by saying there is no basis for a value‑accretive agreement, and the German government, which owns about 12%, has given a frosty response.
  • Trading showed a valuation gap as Commerzbank’s stock sat above the offer price while UniCredit’s shares fell, underscoring investor doubts about terms and execution.