These are based on the existing resolution for the strategy Commerzbank 5.0. The Board of Managing Directors of Commerzbank then passed a resolution to book additional provisions for restructuring measures of a total of 610 million euros in the fourth quarter 2020. These are attributable to the reduction of 2,300 full-time positions. The formation of provisions is yet subject to approval by the auditor.

“As announced, we are posting additional restructuring expenses in the fourth quarter. As a consequence, we are creating the basis for absolutely necessary future cost savings,” said Bettina Orlopp, Chief Financial Officer of Commerzbank.

In the third quarter of 2020, the Bank had already formed restructuring provisions in the amount of around 200 million euros to cover various issues including a part-time retirement programme. A planned reduction of around 2,900 full-time positions results from this measure and from the provisions formed in the fourth quarter. In September 2019, the Bank had announced a reduction by 4,300 full-time positions overall.

The restructuring provisions will have a correspondingly negative impact on the net result in the fourth quarter of 2020.

The bank is planning further restructuring measures as part of the new strategy to be announced in the first quarter of 2021. Details on this have yet to be worked out and decided.