Commerzbank posts record first-half profit as UniCredit takeover standoff continues
Commerzbank $CBK posted a record H1 2026 net profit of 1.81 billion euros, up about 40% year over year. The bank confirmed its full-year target of at least 3.4 billion euros, even as UniCredit $UCG nears majority control after building its stake close to half of Commerzbank's sha
Commerzbank $CBK reported a record first-half 2026 net profit of 1.81 billion euros on Thursday, up roughly 40% from a year earlier, as operating profit rose 14% to 2.7 billion euros and revenue climbed 7% to 6.5 billion euros. The German lender confirmed its full-year 2026 outlook, including a net profit target of at least 3.4 billion euros, and plans to return about 3.2 billion euros to shareholders, including further share buybacks. The results land as Italy's UniCredit $UCG, led by CEO Andrea Orcel, has built its stake in Commerzbank close to half of the bank's shares over roughly two years, with Orcel recently saying he expects to gain control of the Frankfurt-based lender. Commerzbank CEO Bettina Orlopp said the bank is ready for constructive discussions with UniCredit, adding that even with a majority stake, UniCredit could not unilaterally decide on major structural measures. The German government still holds a stake of just over 12% in Commerzbank. The record results strengthen Commerzbank's negotiating position just as the ownership standoff with UniCredit enters a more decisive phase.