DAVOS (dpa-AFX) - Deutsche Bank CEO Christian Sewing does not want to consider a merger with another major financial institution for the time being. "I wouldn't say it's at the top of my priority list, to be honest," the manager told CNBC on Thursday on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum in Davos. He has been saying for years that mergers and acquisitions in the banking sector would have to happen at some point - especially in Europe. However, certain conditions would have to be met for this to happen - including the completion of the (European) banking union.

A few days ago, the news agency Bloomberg reported that Deutsche Bank had recently intensified internal discussions about possible takeovers. This had also involved European institutions such as Commerzbank and the Dutch ABN Amro. Spokespersons for the banks did not wish to comment on this. Deutsche Bank and Commerzbank held official takeover talks in 2019, but ultimately called off the project.

In Sewing's view, the sharp rise in interest rates could currently make mergers and acquisitions in the sector more difficult. For example, there could be gaps in the appropriate valuation of many banks' mortgage books. "I therefore do not believe that this is a priority for this year," said Sewing.

Deutsche Bank is therefore concentrating on its own business, said Sewing. However, he did not rule out smaller takeovers. If there are opportunities and options, such as the recent purchase of the British investment bank Numis, "we will of course take a look at it"./stw/jsl/he