15:42 - 16.10.2026

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October 16, Fineko/abc.az. The European Central Bank (ECB) has authorized Italian lender UniCredit to increase its stake in Germany's Commerzbank beyond the 30% threshold. UniCredit stated that the ECB laid no upper limits on further share acquisitions, calling the decision a major milestone in the takeover process.

Subject to remaining regulatory approvals expected by year-end, UniCredit could secure around 50% of voting rights, gaining potential control over Commerzbank's management. However, the takeover bid faces strong political resistance in Berlin, particularly from German Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil, as the German government holds a 13.3% stake in Commerzbank.