17:09 - 17.08.2026

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August 17, Fineko/abc.az. According to sources, some officials believe that selling state shares to UniCredit is an acceptable outcome—provided the price is right and commitments are made regarding Commerzbank's future—given that the Italian lender is likely to gain control. However, sources noted this position does not represent official government policy.

Sources added that the primary condition for prospective talks between Berlin and UniCredit is for Commerzbank’s current management to support the Italian rival’s plans.

A German government spokesperson stated that the government's position has not changed and declined to comment further.

Berlin is Commerzbank’s second-largest shareholder and holds two seats on its supervisory board. Selling its stake to UniCredit would push the Italian bank's holding from just under 50% to over 60%.

While the government previously rejected a potential sale to UniCredit, it softened its resistance after the Italian bank effectively secured a voting majority through a public takeover offer. Officials have since highlighted Commerzbank’s critical role in financing the national economy and committed to maintaining Frankfurt as a financial hub.