UniCredit raises profit forecasts and softens merger criteria to drive growth
The Italian bank raised its 2028 profit target to 13 billion euros while easing merger rules. Shares hit their highest level since late 2009 following the news.
Insights:
UniCredit announced on February 9, 2026, that it has raised its profit outlook and lowered the minimum return threshold for mergers and acquisitions. This strategic update from the bank, which is headquartered in Italy 
IT, led to a sharp rise in its share price, with the stock gaining approximately 6% to reach its highest level since late 2009. Chief Executive Andrea Orcel confirmed that the institution will for now retain its stakes in peer banks, describing the current position on its holdings while adjusting its criteria for future deals.
IT, led to a sharp rise in its share price, with the stock gaining approximately 6% to reach its highest level since late 2009. Chief Executive Andrea Orcel confirmed that the institution will for now retain its stakes in peer banks, describing the current position on its holdings while adjusting its criteria for future deals.
