Germany’s direct and indirect 28.6% stake in Deutsche Telekom is more than a legacy of state ownership, according to a Handelsblatt commentary. As Washington and Beijing use companies as instruments of power, the state’s share gives Berlin influence over one of the country’s largest corporations, the article argues.
That influence could weaken if Deutsche Telekom proceeds with a merger with its US subsidiary. The combined company could become the world’s largest telecommunications group, while the German state’s stake would be diluted.
The merger could also transform the company from a DAX-listed group headquartered in Bonn into a global business with German roots. The commentary argues that Berlin should not give up its leverage over Deutsche Telekom.
Sources: Handelsblatt.