German Lobbyists, Economists See Value in Commerzbank Deal (2)

A growing number of German experts are voicing support for a possible acquisition of Commerzbank AG by a rival, potentially adding pressure on the government to soften its stance in response to a recent approach from UniCredit SpA.

Germany’s banks need to grow to be “reliable partners” for small- and medium-sized companies, said Christoph Ahlhaus, head of the business association Mittelstand. “If, in the case of Commerzbank, a merger with another European bank contributes to this, we welcome it,” he said.

Monika Schnitzer

Photographer: Alex Kraus/Bloomberg

Ahlhaus’ comments echo those of DZ Bank Chief Executive Officer Cornelius Riese as well as ...