3.6.4 Confidential information in the decisions

Some information is regarded as confidential. This information is therefore omitted in the published versions of the decision.1 Sometimes, the information is completely deleted (and replaced by a few dots between square brackets) and sometimes (between square brackets) a range is given in order to allow a non- confidential approximation of the figure. Normally, the removal of confidential information means the removal of one word. However, in some cases, entire paragraphs are treated as confidential.2

Which information is usually considered as confidential? If an ailing bank is sold through a tender procedure, the identity of the acquiring bank is of course mentioned in the State aid decision. However, the identity of other banks that have expressed an interest in acquiring (parts of) the ailing bank, is not always revealed in the State aid decision.3