UniCredit-Commerzbank Deal Hinges on ECB Approval

UniCredit's bid to acquire Commerzbank is nearing a crucial decision from the European Central Bank. According to an internal document, the regulator is inclined to approve UniCredit's plan to raise its holding in Commerzbank to just under 50 percent.

The market's positioning makes this moment particularly delicate, with UniCredit shares trading at around 85.34 euros, only 0.7 percent below their 52-week high of 85.96 euros.

The ECB has expressed concerns about 'significant integration risks' and is demanding more robust governance measures from UniCredit before giving its approval.