13.1.3 Structure of this chapter

In the context of the third pillar, the Commission assesses whether the compensatory measures are sufficient to mitigate the competition distortions stemming from the State aid. Whether the compensatory measures are sufficient to mitigate the competition distortions depends essentially on two aspects. Firstly, it depends on the type and nature of the compensatory measures. Secondly, it depends on the competitive impact of the State aid (in other words: the need for compensatory measures).

For this reason, the present chapter is divided into two parts. Part I discusses the characteristics that are relevant to the assessment of the need for compensatory measures, while Part II discusses the various compensatory measures. In particular, the following compensatory measures will be discussed: market- opening measures (see section 13.4), divestments (see section 13.5), balance sheet reduction and other forms of downsizing (see sections 13.6 and 13.7), growth limitation (see section 13.8), acquisition ban (see section 13.9), price leadership ban and other pricing restrictions (see section 13.10), ban on aggressive commercial practices (see section 13.11) and exit from State aid (see section 13.12). These compensatory measures can be considered as relevant characteristics. For instance, the fact that the bank is subject to a price leadership ban contributes to the conclusion that the distortions of competition are sufficiently addressed.