Votes of our corporate clients

"HVB and Commerzbank effectively operate in the same market segment. A merger would result in a significant reduction of the combined loan portfolio of both banks. This gap could only be filled, if at all, with considerably higher lending rates. And there is a risk, especially in times of crisis, that foreign banks, which would otherwise step in, may swiftly pull back from the market."

"The biggest challenge and greatest value destroyer in bank mergers is IT integration. There are numerous examples in the market underscoring this issue. Commerzbank spent 10 years integrating the IT systems of Dresdner Bank in a protracted and highly complex process. Should HVB and Commerzbank now be forced onto a single platform, it would undermine both banks and the German Mittelstand."

"The German Mittelstand expects competent local advisory services and timely credit decisions within Germany. An independent Commerzbank ensures this nationwide today. This is something that should not be jeopardized, particularly in times of crisis."

"Commerzbank understands our business as a family-owned company and has always been a strong supporter of the German Mittelstand. Commerzbank has been an integral part of our core banking circle for 30 years. And that’s how it should remain."

"Europe needs strong banks – but Mittelstand needs reliable credit lines and fast decisions. Consolidation is only progress if it measurably improves credit availability and client service – this is precisely the crucial point."

"As a globally operating company, Dräger needs strong, reliable banking partners who understand and support our business and make quick credit decisions. Commerzbank is an important partner for us. Experience shows that after an acquisition, companies are predominantly occupied with internal matters and hardly focus on their customers. This would be bad for our business."