Markus Braun, the former chief executive officer of collapsed German payments company Wirecard AG, has revealed plans to return to work following his release from custody. In a rare interview with German magazine Stern, the Austrian manager who has been in investigative detention since summer 2020 expressed optimism about his professional future despite his ongoing legal challenges.

"I still feel much strength and energy within me," Braun told the publication when asked about his post-detention plans. The former executive, who once led one of Germany's most prominent fintech companies, stated definitively: "I will definitely dedicate myself to new topics and work until old age." Braun added that he looks forward to this prospect, emphasizing his belief that "the art of life consists of making the best possible out of every situation."

Braun remains the main defendant in the massive fraud trial surrounding Wirecard's collapse that began in December 2022. The former billionaire has consistently maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, arguing that he himself was deceived by the true perpetrators. In his interview, Braun described his situation as "an unforeseen setback, a black swan, that hit me with existential force" but insisted this would not deter him from future professional endeavors.

The interview marks an unusual occurrence as prominent detainees rarely speak publicly while in custody. Braun has criticized the Munich judiciary, calling the trial "a farce from the beginning." His statements come amid ongoing legal proceedings where co-defendant Oliver Bellenhaus has accused Braun of spreading a victim myth, while prosecutors have repeatedly rejected Braun's claims of improper investigation. Despite the allegations and his detention exceeding five years, Braun's comments indicate he anticipates resuming his career once the legal process concludes.