UniCredit has significantly expanded its position in Commerzbank, pushing its stake in the German lender to more than 44 percent.
The Italian bank disclosed the increase following the close of its takeover offer, which ran from early May until last Friday.
The move marks a decisive escalation in the months-long battle for control of Germany’s largest bank.
The surge in ownership comes as UniCredit prepares to announce the final outcome of its bid on Wednesday.
With the threshold for a successful takeover now within reach, the Italian lender is poised to determine the future structure of the Frankfurt-based institution.
The development underscores the intensity of the contest, which has seen UniCredit steadily accumulate shares despite resistance from Commerzbank’s management.