Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Record profitability was achieved in the first nine months of 2025, with revenues at EUR 24.4 billion, aligning with the full year goal of around EUR 32 billion before FX effects [3] - Adjusted costs remained consistent with guidance, with a post-tax return on tangible equity of 10.9%, meeting the target of above 10% [3][4] - The cost-income ratio stood at 63%, consistent with the target of below 65% [3] - Pre-provision profit increased to EUR 9 billion, up nearly 50% year on year, or nearly 30% when adjusted for Postbank litigation impacts [3] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Net commission and fee income rose by 5% year on year, while net interest income across key banking segments remained stable [4] - All four business lines delivered double-digit profit growth and return on tangible equity in the first nine months [6] - The Corporate Bank saw strong fee growth of 5% and was recognized as the best trade finance bank [7] - The Private Bank's profits surged by 71%, and assets under management in Wealth Management grew by EUR 40 billion year to date [7] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Loans grew by EUR 3 billion adjusted for FX effects during the third quarter, with strong underlying quality [9] - The deposit book expanded by EUR 10 billion in the third quarter, with significant growth in the Private Bank [10][11] - The liquidity coverage ratio was managed to 140%, demonstrating the strength of the balance sheet [11] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company is on track to meet or exceed all 2025 strategy goals, with a compound annual revenue growth rate of 6% since 2021 [4][5] - Operational efficiencies of EUR 2.4 billion have been delivered or are expected, nearing the EUR 2.5 billion goal [5] - A second share buyback program of EUR 250 million was launched, bringing cumulative distributions since 2022 to EUR 5.6 billion [5] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed confidence in achieving a return on tangible equity above 10% and a cost-income ratio below 65% for the full year [17] - Despite uncertainties in commercial real estate and the macroeconomic environment, lower provisioning levels are anticipated in the second half of the year [17] - The company remains focused on growing its franchise and expanding market share, particularly in the Corporate Bank [10] Other Important Information - The CET1 ratio increased to 14.5%, with a surplus above regulatory requirements [12][14] - The MREL surplus increased by EUR 2 billion to EUR 26 billion, providing flexibility for future issuance [15][16] Q&A Session Summary Question: Future Return on Tangible Equity - Management indicated that a 10% return on tangible equity could be a reasonable floor for future performance, emphasizing structural profitability improvements [20][21] Question: Private Credit and Commercial Real Estate Exposures - Management noted that private credit is not a concern, while commercial real estate remains a watch item, particularly in California and Washington State [22][23] Question: Receivables Financing Exposure - Management acknowledged some exposure in trade finance and ABS but emphasized it is not significant [28][29] Question: Tier 2 Capital Stack - Management confirmed that Tier 2 instruments remain valuable, but the focus has been on Tier 1 capital needs [32] Question: Sustainability Competitive Disadvantage - Management does not view the sustainability landscape in Europe as a competitive disadvantage, highlighting progress in their sustainability agenda [30][31] Question: Commercial Real Estate Issues - Management detailed that issues are concentrated in West Coast exposures, with ongoing efforts to work with sponsors for value preservation [36][39]