Stefano Di Stefano, the General Director of the Ministry of Economy and Finance in Italy, is currently facing an insider trading investigation led by the Milan Public Prosecutor's Office. The inquiry stems from his financial activities where he reportedly bought shares of Mediobanca and Mps for approximately 100,000 euros during a takeover bid involving the Siena-based institution. The investigation highlights possible misconduct related to his role on the board of directors and his access to confidential information concerning the public exchange offer initiated by Mps aimed at acquiring Mediobanca.

This case is part of a broader investigation, referred to as the 'banking risk', where several prominent figures in the financial sector, including Francesco Gaetano Caltagirone, Francesco Milleri, and Luigi Lovaglio, are also implicated. They are facing charges related to obstacles in supervision and market manipulation. The prosecutor, Roberto Pellicano, along with a special team focusing on economic crimes, is scrutinizing these transactions as they may have serious implications for market integrity and public trust in financial institutions.

Di Stefano's role as head of the corporate participation and strategic asset protection department at the MEF and his membership on the board of Rocca Salimbeni from 2022 adds another layer of complexity to this investigation. His access to sensitive information, particularly regarding the public exchange offer for acquiring Mediobanca, raises concerns about the ethical implications of his investment decisions. The outcome of this investigation could ripple through the financial sector, stressing the importance of transparency and accountability among senior officials in public institutions.