Commerzbank's equity holding by UniCredit increases to 20.17%, according to filed documentation
In a significant move, UniCredit has announced its intention to increase its equity stake in Commerzbank, Germany's second-largest bank, to around 29%. This news, reported by Tom Sims on July 8, was disclosed in a filing made by UniCredit on the same day and edited by Rachel More [1][2].
As of late July 2025, UniCredit’s stake in Commerzbank had edged up to about 20.17%, up from 19.20%, after converting some derivatives into shares [1][2]. This change comes as UniCredit pushes for a potential tie-up between the two lenders, a move that has not yet been officially confirmed.
UniCredit plans "in due course" to increase its equity stake in Commerzbank to "around 29%" by converting remaining derivatives equivalent to around 8% of Commerzbank's capital into shares. This conversion could occur after summer 2025 [3]. However, there is no indication from the available information that UniCredit has actually completed an increase beyond 29% yet.
The latest confirmed stake is around 20%, with plans to approach but not exceed 29% shortly, avoiding mandatory takeover bid rules triggered by moving above 30% [1][2][3]. This strategic move allows UniCredit to maintain its position without triggering the stringent regulations associated with a full takeover.
The increase in UniCredit's stake in Commerzbank was disclosed in a filing on Tuesday, providing a clear picture of the current equity stake held by UniCredit in Commerzbank, which now stands at 20.17% [2]. The filing also showed that the previous equity stake held by UniCredit in Commerzbank was 19.20%.
While the exact nature of the potential tie-up between UniCredit and Commerzbank remains unclear, the increased stake gives UniCredit a stronger position in negotiations. The development is being closely watched by the financial industry, with implications for both banks and the broader European economy.
[1] Bloomberg - UniCredit Plans to Buy More Shares in Commerzbank to Push for Tie-Up, Sources Say [2] Reuters - UniCredit boosts stake in Commerzbank to 20.17% [3] Financial Times - UniCredit to increase stake in Commerzbank to 29%
In light of the filings from UniCredit and the reports by Bloomberg, Reuters, and Financial Times, UniCredit's current stake in Commerzbank stands at around 20.17%. UniCredit plans to increase this stake further to around 29%, marking a significant move in finance and negotiations between the two banks.
