UniCredit, under CEO Andrea Orcel, is pursuing multiple strategic initiatives, including a potential hostile takeover of Germany's Commerzbank. Orcel stated that UniCredit would need at least three to four quarters to evaluate the feasibility of the bid. UniCredit currently holds a 28% stake in Commerzbank. Commerzbank, led by CEO Bettina Orlopp, has announced a defensive strategy to resist the takeover, including cutting 3,900 jobs, restructuring costs of €700 million, and increasing its focus on profitability. The German bank also plans to expand hiring in Poland through its subsidiary mBank. Meanwhile, UniCredit's 2024 financial results showcased strong performance, with €9.7 billion in profits and a return on tangible equity of nearly 18%. Orcel has ambitious goals for 2027, targeting €10 billion in annual profits and a return on equity exceeding 17%, alongside a 15% capital return target. Additionally, UniCredit is exploring other M&A opportunities, including Banco BPM in Italy, where its offer is valued at approximately €13 billion. Orcel's leadership has positioned UniCredit as a major player in the European banking consolidation landscape, with involvement in Generali adding further strategic complexity.