Deutsche Bank plays its last card - and it might just work

A last-ditch restructuring plan could save Deutsche Bank, but the debacle reflects poorly on Germany’s claim to leadership in Europe and in the eurozone

D is for Deutsche Bank. In the decade since the global financial crisis began to reshape the banking industry, Germany’s mightiest financial institution has tried everything to maintain its position in banking’s premier league. Plans A, B and C were pursued, and as each one failed, the bank moved a little closer to the relegation zone.

Now comes Plan D, involving a shrinking of Deutsche Bank’s global investment banking ambitions, mainly in its ...