Deutsche Bank Chief Executive Christian Sewing said the bank’s key profit metric — return on tangible equity — will continue rising each year, beginning in 2026, as the lender works to strengthen competitiveness in global financial markets. He also outlined ambitions to elevate its U.S. fixed-income and currency business from seventh to fifth place, marking a renewed push into one of the world’s most lucrative financial hubs.

Sewing emphasized that the bank has achieved significant progress in restructuring and cost control, setting the stage for future growth. He highlighted improvements in credit quality, balance-sheet health and operational efficiency, noting that the groundwork laid over recent years is now enabling more confident forward planning. Analysts say the transparency of the targets is meant to rebuild investor trust.

Deutsche Bank CEO (source: Bloomberg)

Despite this optimism, the bank still faces challenges from economic uncertainty, evolving regulation and intense competition from American and Asian lenders. Market specialists noted that global credit conditions are tightening, which means banks must balance risk carefully while seeking expansion. Deutsche Bank’s success will depend heavily on disciplined execution.

The U.S. expansion plan has drawn attention because the market is dominated by several large players, leaving limited room for newcomers. Sewing said the bank will rely on strong relationships and targeted product offerings to grow market share rather than broad-based aggressive expansion. This approach, he said, will reduce unnecessary risk exposure.

Financial analysts believe Deutsche Bank’s renewed ambitions signal a broader shift among European banks, many of which are repositioning themselves for higher returns and greater global presence after years of restructuring. The coming year will test whether the bank can translate its strategy into measurable gains.

Source: Reuters.