Berlin, Germany - July 01, 2024

On July 1, 2024, Bank employees across Berlin and Brandenburg initiated a strike, significantly impacting several major banks, including Deutsche Bank, Sparkasse, and Commerzbank. The strike, organized by the Verdi union, is a strategic move to exert pressure in ongoing wage negotiations. Notices were prominently displayed on the affected bank buildings, informing customers of the strike. Signs reading "Heute Streik" (Strike Today) were placed outside. This action is part of a broader effort by Verdi to secure better pay for approximately 200,000 employees in the banking sector, split between public and private institutions. Verdi's demands include a 12.5% salary increase or a minimum of 500 euros per month for employees and a 250 euro monthly increase for trainees. Further strikes are anticipated if the negotiations remain unresolved.