Unclear How We Get Out of Negative Rates: Commerzbank CFO Stephan Engels

The transcript discusses the economic challenges faced by banks due to negative interest rates and the ECB's policies. It highlights the impact on profitability, consumer behavior, and the German banking system. The discussion also covers the macroeconomic view, the role of the ECB, and potential solutions like banking union and cross-border mergers.

What are the potential benefits of a banking union as mentioned in the text?

How might cross-border mergers contribute to solving the issues faced by the banking sector?

What are the implications of the current economic situation for the future of the European banking system?