UniCredit CEO: 'Not given up' on Commerzbank takeover

Core Viewpoint - The company is experiencing record performance and is optimistic about future growth, with a focus on shareholder returns and exceeding key performance indicators (KPIs) [1][4][22] Financial Performance - The company has achieved a record third quarter and nine months, indicating a trajectory towards its best year ever [1] - Capital generation has exceeded expectations, with an acceleration in performance compared to initial three-year plans [2] Investment Strategy - The company plans to continue investing to enhance performance in 2026, 2027, and 2028, despite considering the magnitude of these investments [3][4] - New investments will focus on technology, AI, and network expansion to drive growth [8][9] Shareholder Returns - Shareholder remuneration is expected to remain top-tier, with dividends increasing and share buybacks slightly down, but overall distributions aligning with previous levels [5][6] - The company has invested €6.5 billion in two stakes, contributing an additional €1 billion to projections for 2027 [5] Market Position and Partnerships - The company has consolidated its position with Alpha Bank, indicating a strong partnership that is expected to yield significant value [10][11] - The company recognizes the growth potential in Greece, which is outperforming core EU countries in GDP growth [11] Economic Outlook - The company acknowledges the complexities in the near-term economic environment, particularly regarding interest rate adjustments and their delayed impacts [20][21] - There is a belief that performance dispersion among institutions will create opportunities for the company to exceed market expectations [22]