UniCredit, Italy's second-largest bank, has acquired a 4.1% stake in Generali, one of Italy's largest insurance companies, valued at approximately €1.97 billion. The bank clarified that this is a financial investment without strategic intent, as it remains focused on other priorities, including its takeover bid for Banco BPM and investments in Commerzbank. Generali's shares rose by 1.3% following the announcement. This move by UniCredit, led by CEO Andrea Orcel, adds to the ongoing consolidation activity in the Italian financial sector, often referred to as 'risiko bancario.' UniCredit also holds an additional 0.6% in Generali through client-related services and hedging operations, bringing its total stake to nearly 5%. The acquisition comes amid broader strategic maneuvers in the financial sector, with Generali itself involved in a potential merger with France's Natixis and facing shareholder disputes over its governance, including a key shareholder meeting in May. There are also unconfirmed rumors that UniCredit may hold a stake in Mediobanca.