Consistent with its statement on 11 September 2024, UniCredit submitted the required regulatory filing for acquiring a stake in Commerzbank in excess of 10% up to 29.9%.
Meanwhile, UniCredit has today entered into financial instruments relating to ca. 11.5% Commerzbank shares, Physical settlement under the new financial instruments may only occur after the required approvals have been obtained. Together with the position of ca. 9% communicated previously, UniCredit's overall position now totals ca. 21%.
The majority of UniCredit's economic exposure has been hedged to provide it with full flexibility and optionality to either retain its shareholding, sell its participation with a floored downside, or increase the stake further. This will depend on the outcome of engagement with Commerzbank, its management and supervisory boards as well as its wider stakeholders in Germany.
UniCredit believes that there is substantial value that can be unlocked within Commerzbank, either stand-alone or within UniCredit, for the benefit of Germany and the bank's wider stakeholders. However, as was the case for UniCredit, such potential requires action for it to be crystalized.
In line with the recent EU Commission report, UniCredit shares the belief that a strong banking union within Europe is key to the continent's economic success and through it, the prosperity of each one of its nations. Ensuring growth and competitiveness within the German banking sector is critical for both the German economy and for Europe as a whole.
In every one of the 12 markets where we are present across Europe, UniCredit has proven itself to be a committed, supportive and respectful participant. Specifically in Germany, we have been present for nearly 20 years, supporting our employees and serving our clients, faithfully delivering an all-round comprehensive product offering and performance.
Whilst this situation and what it could lead to requires careful consideration, the primary focus for UniCredit's management team remains on the continued execution of UniCredit Unlocked and the delivery of sustainable profitable growth and distributions for shareholders. Indeed, this is where UniCredit continues to believe it can extract the most value for all its stakeholders.
Milan, 23 September 2024
Contacts:
Media Relations: e-mail: MediaRelations@unicredit.eu
Investor Relations: e-mail: InvestorRelations@unicredit.eu