Epstein Files Implicate Deutsche Bank

Latest release of documents shows late financier had up to 40 accounts with German bank.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The latest release of documents related to the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein has revealed that he had up to 40 accounts with Deutsche Bank, Germany's largest bank. This has led to further scrutiny and criticism of Deutsche Bank's relationship with Epstein, with the bank acknowledging its mistake in accepting him as a client in 2013 after his former bank, J.P. Morgan, had severed ties with him.

Why it matters

The Epstein scandal has already led to a string of resignations and further investigations at Deutsche Bank. The bank's problems appear to be primarily of a moral nature, as it has been suggested that the bank should have been more careful in its dealings with Epstein, given his dubious business activities and criminal history.

The details

According to the German page of Wall Street Online, Deutsche Bank stock fell by 5.49% on February 4 after additional Epstein files detailing his criminal activities were made public. The United States Justice Department has said no more Epstein files will be released. Deutsche Bank has already been forced to pay out money in this case, with the US Federal Reserve imposing a fine of more than $180 million and the bank ordered to pay $75 million as part of a settlement to a group of Epstein's victims.

  • The latest release of some 3 million documents related to Epstein's activities occurred on February 12, 2026.
  • Epstein died in August 2019, officially by suicide, while in custody awaiting trial for further charges.

The players

Deutsche Bank

Germany's largest bank, which has come under scrutiny for its relationship with the late financier and convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Jeffrey Epstein

A late financier and convicted sex offender who is thought to have managed a large part of his assets through around 40 accounts at Deutsche Bank.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Banks have an obligation to monitor their business partners' circumstances, regardless of legal regulations and compliance guidelines.”

— Bernd Villhauer, Philosopher and specialist in financial ethics (DW)

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of banks exercising due diligence and moral responsibility in their business relationships, even if those relationships may be profitable in the short term. Deutsche Bank's handling of the Epstein accounts raises questions about the ethical standards and reputational risks that banks must consider in their operations.