Crédit Agricole expands its presence in Germany with the acquisition of IKB Deutsche Industriebank

Crédit Agricole has signed an agreement to acquire 100% of the share capital of the German bank IKB Deutsche Industriebank from Lone Star Funds. This acquisition is part of Crédit Agricole's ACT 2028 strategic plan, which aims to strengthen its position in Germany, Europe's largest economy.

IKB, established in Düsseldorf in 1924, is recognized for its key role in supporting the German Mittelstand. The bank, with approximately 600 employees, posted a balance sheet of €14.3 billion in 2025. Its acquisition will allow Crédit Agricole to expand its offering to SMEs in Germany, while leveraging its expertise in France, Italy, Poland, and Ukraine.

The operation, subject to regulatory approval, is expected by mid-2027. It will reduce Crédit Agricole SA's CET1 capital ratio by 20 basis points upon completion.