Capital News
Commerzbank: Ceberus acquires substantial shareholding
On July 26th, Cerberus announced a shareholding of 5.01 percent in Commerzbank AG, thus confirming prior market speculations. The news reflects regained institutional interest in the bank. Following the acquisition of Dresdner Bank, Commerzbank had to deal with a severe crisis, requiring massive capital injections by shareholders and the German government to keep the bank afloat.
The investment by Cerberus can be interpreted as a signal for a new confidence in the company, but the intentions of the new investors need to be seen. Apart from the 5 percent holding by Cerberus, the German government still owns 15 percent, while Blackrock and Capital Group are other important shareholders in the bank.