The German government has admitted that it does not have the power to prevent a potential hostile takeover of Commerzbank AG by UniCredit SpA.

The finance ministry has stated that, due to the bank's public listing and diverse shareholder base, it would not be able to obstruct a majority acquisition.

This highlights the limited control that the German authorities have over significant corporate transactions involving major financial institutions.

The government's opposition to the deal is clear, but they also acknowledge the market structure surrounding Commerzbank.