# Jurnalul Oficial C 216/2009

| | ISSN 1830-3668
  doi:10.3000/18303668.C_2009.216.ron |
| --- | --- |
| Jurnalul Oficial
  al Uniunii Europene | C 216 |
| | |
| Ediţia în limba română | Comunicări şi informări | Anul 5210 septembrie 2009 |

ISSN 1830-3668

doi:10.3000/18303668.C_2009.216.ron

Jurnalul Oficial

al Uniunii Europene

C 216

Ediţia în limba română

Comunicări şi informări

Anul 5210 septembrie 2009

---

| Informarea nr. | Cuprins | Pagina |
| --- | --- | --- |
| | II   Comunicări |
| | COMUNICĂRI PROVENIND DE LA INSTITUȚII ȘI ORGANE ALE UNIUNII EUROPENE |
| | Comisie |
| 2009/C 216/01 | Autorizație pentru ajutoarele de stat acordate în conformitate cu dispozițiile articolelor 87 și 88 din Tratatul CE – Cazuri în care Comisia nu ridică obiecții (
  1
  ) | 1 |
| 2009/C 216/02 | Non-opoziție la o concentrare notificată (Cazul COMP/M.5606 – UNIQA/Veneto Banca/JV) (
  1
  ) | 4 |
| 2009/C 216/03 | Non-opoziție la o concentrare notificată (Cazul COMP/M.5575 – ORBEO/Parts of Onecarbon) (
  1
  ) | 4 |

Informarea nr.

Cuprins

Pagina

II   Comunicări

COMUNICĂRI PROVENIND DE LA INSTITUȚII ȘI ORGANE ALE UNIUNII EUROPENE

Comisie

2009/C 216/01

Autorizație pentru ajutoarele de stat acordate în conformitate cu dispozițiile articolelor 87 și 88 din Tratatul CE – Cazuri în care Comisia nu ridică obiecții (
  1
  )

1

1

2009/C 216/02

Non-opoziție la o concentrare notificată (Cazul COMP/M.5606 – UNIQA/Veneto Banca/JV) (
  1
  )

1

4

2009/C 216/03

Non-opoziție la o concentrare notificată (Cazul COMP/M.5575 – ORBEO/Parts of Onecarbon) (
  1
  )

1

4

| | IV   Informări |
| --- | --- |
| | INFORMĂRI PROVENIND DE LA INSTITUȚIILE ȘI ORGANELE UNIUNII EUROPENE |
| | Comisie |
| 2009/C 216/04 | Rata de schimb a monedei euro | 5 |
| | Fondul European de Investiții |
| 2009/C 216/05 | Decizia Adunării Generale din 30 noiembrie 2007 de modificare a Statutului Fondului European de Investiții pentru alinierea sferei geografice a operațiunilor fondului la cea a Programului-cadru pentru competitivitate și inovare | 6 |

IV   Informări

INFORMĂRI PROVENIND DE LA INSTITUȚIILE ȘI ORGANELE UNIUNII EUROPENE

Comisie

2009/C 216/04

Rata de schimb a monedei euro

5

Fondul European de Investiții

2009/C 216/05

Decizia Adunării Generale din 30 noiembrie 2007 de modificare a Statutului Fondului European de Investiții pentru alinierea sferei geografice a operațiunilor fondului la cea a Programului-cadru pentru competitivitate și inovare

6

| | V   Anunțuri |
| --- | --- |
| | PROCEDURI ADMINISTRATIVE |
| | Parlamentul European |
| 2009/C 216/06 | Invitație de depunere a candidaturilor pentru alegerea Ombudsmanului European | 7 |
| | Comisie |
| 2009/C 216/07 | Programul EPSON 2013 – Cerere de propuneri și de manifestare a interesului | 9 |
| | PROCEDURI REFERITOARE LA PUNEREA ÎN APLICARE A POLITICII ÎN DOMENIUL CONCURENȚEI |
| | Comisie |
| 2009/C 216/08 | Ajutor de stat – Belgia – Ajutor de stat C 18/09 (ex N 360/09) – Recapitalizare și salvare a activelor în favoarea KBC – Invitație de a prezenta observații în temeiul articolului 88 alineatul (2) din Tratatul CE (
  1
  ) | 10 |
| 2009/C 216/09 | Notificare prealabilă a unei concentrări (Cazul COMP/M.5365 – IPO/EnBW/Praha/PT) – Caz care poate face obiectul procedurii simplificate (
  1
  ) | 22 |

V   Anunțuri

PROCEDURI ADMINISTRATIVE

Parlamentul European

2009/C 216/06

Invitație de depunere a candidaturilor pentru alegerea Ombudsmanului European

7

Comisie

2009/C 216/07

Programul EPSON 2013 – Cerere de propuneri și de manifestare a interesului

9

PROCEDURI REFERITOARE LA PUNEREA ÎN APLICARE A POLITICII ÎN DOMENIUL CONCURENȚEI

Comisie

2009/C 216/08

Ajutor de stat – Belgia – Ajutor de stat C 18/09 (ex N 360/09) – Recapitalizare și salvare a activelor în favoarea KBC – Invitație de a prezenta observații în temeiul articolului 88 alineatul (2) din Tratatul CE (
  1
  )

1

10

2009/C 216/09

Notificare prealabilă a unei concentrări (Cazul COMP/M.5365 – IPO/EnBW/Praha/PT) – Caz care poate face obiectul procedurii simplificate (
  1
  )

1

22

| | Rectificări |
| --- | --- |
| 2009/C 216/10 | Rectificare la invitația adresată persoanelor fizice pentru exprimarea interesului în vederea constituirii unei baze de date de experți independenți capabili să asiste serviciile Comisiei în activități referitoare la Programul de sprijinire a politicii în materie de tehnologie a informației și comunicațiilor (TIC) din PIC (Programul-cadru pentru inovație și competitivitate) (JO C 123, 5.6.2007) | 23 |
| 2009/C 216/11 | Rectificare la autorizația pentru ajutoarele de stat acordate în conformitate cu dispozițiile articolelor 87 și 88 din Tratatul CE – Cazuri în care Comisia nu ridică obiecții (JO C 212, 5.9.2009) | 23 |

Rectificări

2009/C 216/10

Rectificare la invitația adresată persoanelor fizice pentru exprimarea interesului în vederea constituirii unei baze de date de experți independenți capabili să asiste serviciile Comisiei în activități referitoare la Programul de sprijinire a politicii în materie de tehnologie a informației și comunicațiilor (TIC) din PIC (Programul-cadru pentru inovație și competitivitate) (JO C 123, 5.6.2007)

(JO C 123, 5.6.2007)

23

2009/C 216/11

Rectificare la autorizația pentru ajutoarele de stat acordate în conformitate cu dispozițiile articolelor 87 și 88 din Tratatul CE – Cazuri în care Comisia nu ridică obiecții (JO C 212, 5.9.2009)

(JO C 212, 5.9.2009)

23

| | |
| --- | --- |
| | (1)   Text cu relevanță pentru SEE |

---

(1)   Text cu relevanță pentru SEE

1

| RO | |
| --- | --- |

RO

---

II Comunicări

COMUNICĂRI PROVENIND DE LA INSTITUȚII ȘI ORGANE ALE UNIUNII EUROPENE

Comisie

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/1 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/1

---

Autorizație pentru ajutoarele de stat acordate în conformitate cu dispozițiile articolelor 87 și 88 din Tratatul CE

Cazuri în care Comisia nu ridică obiecții

(Text cu relevanță pentru SEE)

2009/C 216/01

| Data adoptării deciziei | 17.7.2009 |
| --- | --- |
| Numărul de referință al ajutorului | N 183/09 |
| Stat membru | Lituania |
| Regiune | — |
| Titlu (și/sau numele beneficiarului) | Kaimiškųjų vietovių informacinių technologijų plačiajuosčio tinklo plėtra |
| Temei legal | Lietuvos Respublikos elektroninių ryšių įstatymas, ii) Lietuvos plačiajuosčio ryšio infrastruktūros 2005–2010 metų plėtros strategija, iii) Lietuvos plačiajuosčio ryšio infrastruktūros 2005–2010 metų plėtros strategijos įgyvendinimo veiksmų planas, iv) 2007–2013 m. ekonomikos augimo veiksmų programa, v) 2007–2013 m. ekonomikos augimo veiksmų programos papildymas, vi) projekto, vykdomo pagal Ekonomikos augimo veiksmų programos 3 prioriteto „Informacinė visuomenė visiems“ įgyvendinimo priemonę Nr. VP2-3.2-IVPK-01 „Plačiajuosčiai elektroninių ryšių tinklai“ finansavimo sąlygų aprašas. Remiantis Tarybos reglamentu (EB) Nr. 1083/2006 RAIN projektas priskiriamas didelės apimties projektams. |
| Tipul măsurii | Ajutor individual |
| Obiectiv | Dezvoltare regională |
| Forma de ajutor | Subvenție directă |
| Buget | Buget global: 209 milioane LTL |
| Valoare | — |
| Durată (perioadă) | Până la 31.12.2014 |
| Sectoare economice | Servicii de poștă și telecomunicații |
| Numele și adresa autorității de acordare a ajutorului | Informacinės visuomenės plėtros komitetas prie Respublikos Vyriausybės ir Lietuva |
| Vilnius st. 18 |
| Vilnius |
| LITHUANIA |

Data adoptării deciziei

17.7.2009

Numărul de referință al ajutorului

N 183/09

Stat membru

Lituania

Regiune

—

Titlu (și/sau numele beneficiarului)

Kaimiškųjų vietovių informacinių technologijų plačiajuosčio tinklo plėtra

Temei legal

Lietuvos Respublikos elektroninių ryšių įstatymas, ii) Lietuvos plačiajuosčio ryšio infrastruktūros 2005–2010 metų plėtros strategija, iii) Lietuvos plačiajuosčio ryšio infrastruktūros 2005–2010 metų plėtros strategijos įgyvendinimo veiksmų planas, iv) 2007–2013 m. ekonomikos augimo veiksmų programa, v) 2007–2013 m. ekonomikos augimo veiksmų programos papildymas, vi) projekto, vykdomo pagal Ekonomikos augimo veiksmų programos 3 prioriteto „Informacinė visuomenė visiems“ įgyvendinimo priemonę Nr. VP2-3.2-IVPK-01 „Plačiajuosčiai elektroninių ryšių tinklai“ finansavimo sąlygų aprašas. Remiantis Tarybos reglamentu (EB) Nr. 1083/2006 RAIN projektas priskiriamas didelės apimties projektams.

Tipul măsurii

Ajutor individual

Obiectiv

Dezvoltare regională

Forma de ajutor

Subvenție directă

Buget

Buget global: 209 milioane LTL

Valoare

—

Durată (perioadă)

Până la 31.12.2014

Sectoare economice

Servicii de poștă și telecomunicații

Numele și adresa autorității de acordare a ajutorului

Informacinės visuomenės plėtros komitetas prie Respublikos Vyriausybės ir Lietuva

Vilnius st. 18

Vilnius

LITHUANIA

Alte informații

—

Textul deciziei în limba (limbile) originală (originale), din care au fost înlăturate toate informațiile confidențiale, poate fi consultat pe site-ul:

http://ec.europa.eu/community_law/state_aids/state_aids_texts_ro.htm

| Data adoptării deciziei | 7.8.2009 |
| --- | --- |
| Numărul de referință al ajutorului | N 337/09 |
| Stat membru | Spania |
| Regiune | — |
| Titlu (și/sau numele beneficiarului) | Prorroga del fondo para la adquisición de activos financieros |
| Temei legal | Real Decreto Ley 6/2008, de 10 octubre; Orden EHA/3119/2008, de 31 octubre; Orden EHA/3748/2008, de 23 diciembre |
| Tipul măsurii | Regim de ajutoare |
| Obiectiv | Ajutoare destinate remedierii unei situații de perturbare gravă a economiei |
| Forma de ajutor | Aport de capital de risc |
| Buget | Buget anual: 30 000 de milioane EUR; Buget global: 43 250 de milioane EUR |
| Valoare | — |
| Durată (perioadă) | 7.8.2009-31.12.2009 |
| Sectoare economice | Intermediere financiară |
| Numele și adresa autorității de acordare a ajutorului | Dirección General del Tesoro y Política Financiera |
| Paseo del Prado, 6, 6a planta |
| 28014 Madrid |
| ESPAÑA |

Data adoptării deciziei

7.8.2009

Numărul de referință al ajutorului

N 337/09

Stat membru

Spania

Regiune

—

Titlu (și/sau numele beneficiarului)

Prorroga del fondo para la adquisición de activos financieros

Temei legal

Real Decreto Ley 6/2008, de 10 octubre; Orden EHA/3119/2008, de 31 octubre; Orden EHA/3748/2008, de 23 diciembre

Tipul măsurii

Regim de ajutoare

Obiectiv

Ajutoare destinate remedierii unei situații de perturbare gravă a economiei

Forma de ajutor

Aport de capital de risc

Buget

Buget anual: 30 000 de milioane EUR; Buget global: 43 250 de milioane EUR

Valoare

—

Durată (perioadă)

7.8.2009-31.12.2009

Sectoare economice

Intermediere financiară

Numele și adresa autorității de acordare a ajutorului

Dirección General del Tesoro y Política Financiera

Paseo del Prado, 6, 6a planta

28014 Madrid

ESPAÑA

Alte informații

—

Textul deciziei în limba (limbile) originală (originale), din care au fost înlăturate toate informațiile confidențiale, poate fi consultat pe site-ul:

http://ec.europa.eu/community_law/state_aids/state_aids_texts_ro.htm

| Data adoptării deciziei | 14.8.2009 |
| --- | --- |
| Numărul de referință al ajutorului | N 460/09 |
| Stat membru | Regatul Unit |
| Regiune | — |
| Titlu (și/sau numele beneficiarului) | Temporary aid in the form of subsidised interest rates (amendment to N 257/09) |
| Temei legal | Housing and Regeneration Act 2008 |
| Tipul măsurii | Regim de ajutoare |
| Obiectiv | Ajutoare destinate remedierii unei situații de perturbare gravă a economiei |
| Forma de ajutor | Împrumut cu dobândă redusă |
| Buget | Buget global: 8 000 de milioane GBP |
| Valoare | — |
| Durată (perioadă) | Până la 31.12.2010 |
| Sectoare economice | Toate sectoarele |
| Numele și adresa autorității de acordare a ajutorului | — |
| Alte informații | — |

Data adoptării deciziei

14.8.2009

Numărul de referință al ajutorului

N 460/09

Stat membru

Regatul Unit

Regiune

—

Titlu (și/sau numele beneficiarului)

Temporary aid in the form of subsidised interest rates (amendment to N 257/09)

Temei legal

Housing and Regeneration Act 2008

Tipul măsurii

Regim de ajutoare

Obiectiv

Ajutoare destinate remedierii unei situații de perturbare gravă a economiei

Forma de ajutor

Împrumut cu dobândă redusă

Buget

Buget global: 8 000 de milioane GBP

Valoare

—

Durată (perioadă)

Până la 31.12.2010

Sectoare economice

Toate sectoarele

Numele și adresa autorității de acordare a ajutorului

—

Alte informații

—

Textul deciziei în limba (limbile) originală (originale), din care au fost înlăturate toate informațiile confidențiale, poate fi consultat pe site-ul:

http://ec.europa.eu/community_law/state_aids/state_aids_texts_ro.htm

---

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/4

---

Non-opoziție la o concentrare notificată

(Cazul COMP/M.5606 – UNIQA/Veneto Banca/JV)

(Text cu relevanță pentru SEE)

2009/C 216/02

La data de 31 august 2009, Comisia a decis să nu se opună concentrării notificate menționate mai sus și să o declare compatibilă cu piața comună. Prezenta decizie se bazează pe articolul 6 alineatul (1) litera (b) din Regulamentul (CE) nr. 139/2004 al Consiliului. Textul integral al deciziei este disponibil doar în limba engleză și va fi făcut public după ce vor fi eliminate orice secrete de afaceri pe care le-ar putea conține. Va fi disponibil:

| — | pe site-ul internet al Direcției Generale Concurență din cadrul Comisiei, la secțiunea consacrată concentrărilor (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). Acest site internet oferă diverse facilități care permit identificarea deciziilor de concentrare individuale, inclusiv întreprinderea, numărul cazului, data și indexurile sectoriale, |
| --- | --- |

—

pe site-ul internet al Direcției Generale Concurență din cadrul Comisiei, la secțiunea consacrată concentrărilor (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). Acest site internet oferă diverse facilități care permit identificarea deciziilor de concentrare individuale, inclusiv întreprinderea, numărul cazului, data și indexurile sectoriale,

| — | în format electronic, pe site-ul internet EUR-Lex (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) cu numărul de document 32009M5606. EUR-Lex permite accesul on-line la legislația europeană. |
| --- | --- |

—

în format electronic, pe site-ul internet EUR-Lex (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) cu numărul de document 32009M5606. EUR-Lex permite accesul on-line la legislația europeană.

---

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/4 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/4

---

Non-opoziție la o concentrare notificată

(Cazul COMP/M.5575 – ORBEO/Parts of Onecarbon)

(Text cu relevanță pentru SEE)

2009/C 216/03

La data de 3 septembrie 2009, Comisia a decis să nu se opună concentrării notificate menționate mai sus și să o declare compatibilă cu piața comună. Prezenta decizie se bazează pe articolul 6 alineatul (1) litera (b) din Regulamentul (CE) nr. 139/2004 al Consiliului. Textul integral al deciziei este disponibil doar în limba engleză și va fi făcut public după ce vor fi eliminate orice secrete de afaceri pe care le-ar putea conține. Va fi disponibil:

| — | pe site-ul internet al Direcției Generale Concurență din cadrul Comisiei, la secțiunea consacrată concentrărilor (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). Acest site internet oferă diverse facilități care permit identificarea deciziilor de concentrare individuale, inclusiv întreprinderea, numărul cazului, data și indexurile sectoriale, |
| --- | --- |

—

pe site-ul internet al Direcției Generale Concurență din cadrul Comisiei, la secțiunea consacrată concentrărilor (http://ec.europa.eu/competition/mergers/cases/). Acest site internet oferă diverse facilități care permit identificarea deciziilor de concentrare individuale, inclusiv întreprinderea, numărul cazului, data și indexurile sectoriale,

| — | în format electronic, pe site-ul internet EUR-Lex (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) cu numărul de document 32009M5575. EUR-Lex permite accesul on-line la legislația europeană. |
| --- | --- |

—

în format electronic, pe site-ul internet EUR-Lex (http://eur-lex.europa.eu/en/index.htm) cu numărul de document 32009M5575. EUR-Lex permite accesul on-line la legislația europeană.

---

IV Informări

INFORMĂRI PROVENIND DE LA INSTITUȚIILE ȘI ORGANELE UNIUNII EUROPENE

Comisie

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/5 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/5

---

Rata de schimb a monedei euro (1)

9 septembrie 2009

2009/C 216/04

1 euro =

| | Moneda | Rata de schimb |
| --- | --- | --- |
| USD | dolar american | 1,4522 |
| JPY | yen japonez | 134,13 |
| DKK | coroana daneză | 7,4437 |
| GBP | lira sterlină | 0,87930 |
| SEK | coroana suedeză | 10,2308 |
| CHF | franc elvețian | 1,5173 |
| ISK | coroana islandeză | |
| NOK | coroana norvegiană | 8,6110 |
| BGN | leva bulgărească | 1,9558 |
| CZK | coroana cehă | 25,522 |
| EEK | coroana estoniană | 15,6466 |
| HUF | forint maghiar | 271,25 |
| LTL | litas lituanian | 3,4528 |
| LVL | lats leton | 0,7024 |
| PLN | zlot polonez | 4,1240 |
| RON | leu românesc nou | 4,2488 |
| TRY | lira turcească | 2,1660 |
| AUD | dolar australian | 1,6836 |
| CAD | dolar canadian | 1,5690 |
| HKD | dolar Hong Kong | 11,2550 |
| NZD | dolar neozeelandez | 2,0819 |
| SGD | dolar Singapore | 2,0698 |
| KRW | won sud-coreean | 1 781,61 |
| ZAR | rand sud-african | 10,9518 |
| CNY | yuan renminbi chinezesc | 9,9168 |
| HRK | kuna croată | 7,3457 |
| IDR | rupia indoneziană | 14 411,86 |
| MYR | ringgit Malaiezia | 5,0776 |
| PHP | peso Filipine | 70,297 |
| RUB | rubla rusească | 45,2000 |
| THB | baht thailandez | 49,397 |
| BRL | real brazilian | 2,6497 |
| MXN | peso mexican | 19,3687 |
| INR | rupie indiană | 70,4320 |

Moneda

Rata de schimb

USD

dolar american

1,4522

JPY

yen japonez

134,13

DKK

coroana daneză

7,4437

GBP

lira sterlină

0,87930

SEK

coroana suedeză

10,2308

CHF

franc elvețian

1,5173

ISK

coroana islandeză

NOK

coroana norvegiană

8,6110

BGN

leva bulgărească

1,9558

CZK

coroana cehă

25,522

EEK

coroana estoniană

15,6466

HUF

forint maghiar

271,25

LTL

litas lituanian

3,4528

LVL

lats leton

0,7024

PLN

zlot polonez

4,1240

RON

leu românesc nou

4,2488

TRY

lira turcească

2,1660

AUD

dolar australian

1,6836

CAD

dolar canadian

1,5690

HKD

dolar Hong Kong

11,2550

NZD

dolar neozeelandez

2,0819

SGD

dolar Singapore

2,0698

KRW

won sud-coreean

1 781,61

ZAR

rand sud-african

10,9518

CNY

yuan renminbi chinezesc

9,9168

HRK

kuna croată

7,3457

IDR

rupia indoneziană

14 411,86

MYR

ringgit Malaiezia

5,0776

PHP

peso Filipine

70,297

RUB

rubla rusească

45,2000

THB

baht thailandez

49,397

BRL

real brazilian

2,6497

MXN

peso mexican

19,3687

INR

rupie indiană

70,4320

---

(1)  Sursă: rata de schimb de referință publicată de către Banca Centrală Europeană.

---

Fondul European de Investiții

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/6 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/6

---

DECIZIA ADUNĂRII GENERALE

din 30 noiembrie 2007

de modificare a Statutului Fondului European de Investiții pentru alinierea sferei geografice a operațiunilor fondului la cea a Programului-cadru pentru competitivitate și inovare

2009/C 216/05

ADUNAREA GENERALĂ A FONDULUI EUROPEAN DE INVESTIȚII,

având în vedere că data de 19 iunie 2000 a marcat intrarea în vigoare a modificării Statutului Fondului European de Investiții, semnat la 14 iunie 1994,

având în vedere că, în temeiul articolelor 12 punctul (viii) și 34, Adunarea Generală poate modifica Statutul fondului la propunerea Consiliului de administrație,

având în vedere propunerea Consiliului de administrație din 29 octombrie 2007,

DECIDE:

Articolul 23 din Statutul Fondului European de Investiții, care definește sfera geografică a operațiunilor fondului, se modifică după cum urmează:

„Articolul 23

Sfera geografică

Fondul își poate desfășura activitățile pe teritoriul statelor membre ale Comunității, în țări candidate și potențial candidate la Comunitate și în țările Asociației Europene a Liberului Schimb (AELS).”

Pentru Adunarea Generală

Președintele

P. MAYSTADT

Secretar

R. WAGENER

---

V Anunțuri

PROCEDURI ADMINISTRATIVE

Parlamentul European

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/7 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/7

---

INVITAȚIE DE DEPUNERE A CANDIDATURILOR PENTRU ALEGEREA OMBUDSMANULUI EUROPEAN

2009/C 216/06

având în vedere articolele 21 și 195 din Tratatul de instituire a Comunității Europene și articolul 107d din Tratatul Euratom,

având în vedere statutul și condițiile generale pentru exercitarea funcțiilor Ombudsmanului, adoptate de Parlamentul European la 9 martie 1994 (1), în special articolele 6 și 7, cuprinse în anexa XI la Regulamentul de procedură al Parlamentului European,

având în vedere, de asemenea, articolul 204 din Regulamentul de procedură al Parlamentului European,

întrucât Ombudsmanul European va fi numit de Parlamentul European pentru durata legislaturii parlamentare 2009-2014,

întrucât Ombudsmanul European are dreptul să fie numit pentru un nou mandat,

întrucât Ombudsmanul European este ales din rândul persoanelor care sunt cetățeni ai UE, care se bucură de toate drepturile lor civile și politice, care prezintă toate garanțiile în ceea ce privește independența lor și care îndeplinesc condițiile necesare pentru exercitarea celei mai înalte funcții judiciare din țara respectivă sau au competențe și experiență recunoscute, necesare pentru îndeplinirea sarcinilor Ombudsmanului,

| 1. | Prin prezenta sunt solicitate candidaturi în vederea numirii de către Parlamentul European a Ombudsmanului European. |
| --- | --- |

1.

Prin prezenta sunt solicitate candidaturi în vederea numirii de către Parlamentul European a Ombudsmanului European.

| 2. | Candidații trebuie să se bucure de sprijinul a cel puțin patruzeci de deputați în Parlamentul European, provenind din cel puțin două state membre, și trebuie să prezinte toate documentele doveditoare necesare pentru a demonstra concludent faptul că îndeplinesc condițiile impuse de statutul și condițiile generale pentru exercitarea funcțiilor Ombudsmanului, precum și să își asume solemn angajamentul că, în cazul în care sunt numiți, nu vor desfășura nicio altă activitate profesională, lucrativă sau nu, pe durata mandatului. |
| --- | --- |

2.

Candidații trebuie să se bucure de sprijinul a cel puțin patruzeci de deputați în Parlamentul European, provenind din cel puțin două state membre, și trebuie să prezinte toate documentele doveditoare necesare pentru a demonstra concludent faptul că îndeplinesc condițiile impuse de statutul și condițiile generale pentru exercitarea funcțiilor Ombudsmanului, precum și să își asume solemn angajamentul că, în cazul în care sunt numiți, nu vor desfășura nicio altă activitate profesională, lucrativă sau nu, pe durata mandatului.

| 3. | Candidaturile trebuie transmise Președintelui Parlamentului European cel târziu la 9 octombrie 2009 (2). |
| --- | --- |

3.

Candidaturile trebuie transmise Președintelui Parlamentului European cel târziu la 9 octombrie 2009 (2).

Președintele Parlamentului European

J. BUZEK

---

(1)  JO L 113, 4.5.1994 (astfel cum a fost modificat prin deciziile din 14 martie 2002, JO L 92, 9.4.2002, și din 18 iunie 2008, JO L 189, 17.7.2008).

1

(2)  Candidaturile urmează să fie transmise la următoarea adresă:

2

| The President of the European Parliament |
| --- |
| (Applications to the post of European Ombudsman) |
| Louise Weiss Building |
| Allée du Printemps |
| BP 1024/F |
| 67070 Strasbourg Cedex |
| FRANCE |

The President of the European Parliament

(Applications to the post of European Ombudsman)

Louise Weiss Building

Allée du Printemps

BP 1024/F

67070 Strasbourg Cedex

FRANCE

sau

| Paul-Henri Spaak Building |
| --- |
| rue Wiertz/Wiertzstraat |
| 1047 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

Paul-Henri Spaak Building

rue Wiertz/Wiertzstraat

1047 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

Comisie

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/9 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/9

---

Programul EPSON 2013 – Cerere de propuneri și de manifestare a interesului

2009/C 216/07

În cadrul programului EPSON 2013, la 16 septembrie 2009, vor fi lansate 5 cereri:

| 1. | Cerere de propuneri pentru proiecte de cercetare aplicată:






  — | Atractivitatea regiunilor și orașelor europene pentru locuitori și vizitatori (buget: 850 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- | --- |

1.

Cerere de propuneri pentru proiecte de cercetare aplicată:

—

Atractivitatea regiunilor și orașelor europene pentru locuitori și vizitatori (buget: 850 000 EUR),

| — | Modele europene de utilizare a solului (buget: 800 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Modele europene de utilizare a solului (buget: 800 000 EUR),

| — | Cooperarea teritorială în zone transnaționale, precum și peste frontierele interne sau externe (buget: 850 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Cooperarea teritorială în zone transnaționale, precum și peste frontierele interne sau externe (buget: 850 000 EUR),

| — | Accesibilitatea transporturilor la nivel regional sau local și modele în Europa (buget: 700 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Accesibilitatea transporturilor la nivel regional sau local și modele în Europa (buget: 700 000 EUR),

| — | Poli de creștere secundară în dezvoltarea teritorială (buget: 750 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Poli de creștere secundară în dezvoltarea teritorială (buget: 750 000 EUR),

| — | Perspective europene privind tipuri specifice de teritorii (buget: 900 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Perspective europene privind tipuri specifice de teritorii (buget: 900 000 EUR),

| — | Dimensiunea teritorială a inovării și a economiei bazate pe cunoaștere (buget: 750 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Dimensiunea teritorială a inovării și a economiei bazate pe cunoaștere (buget: 750 000 EUR),

| — | Structuri și fluxuri teritoriale continentale (globalizare) (buget: 1 000 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Structuri și fluxuri teritoriale continentale (globalizare) (buget: 1 000 000 EUR),

| — | Mări europene în dezvoltare teritorială (buget: 800 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Mări europene în dezvoltare teritorială (buget: 800 000 EUR),

| — | Indicatori și perspective pentru servicii de interes general în coeziunea și dezvoltarea teritorială (buget: 1 000 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- |

—

Indicatori și perspective pentru servicii de interes general în coeziunea și dezvoltarea teritorială (buget: 1 000 000 EUR),

| — | Sensibilitatea teritorială și regională a directivelor UE (buget: 250 000 EUR). |
| --- | --- |

—

Sensibilitatea teritorială și regională a directivelor UE (buget: 250 000 EUR).

| 2. | Cerere de manifestare a interesului de către părțile interesate în analize specifice (buget: 3 500 000 EUR alocați pentru o cerere de propuneri ulterior). |
| --- | --- |

2.

Cerere de manifestare a interesului de către părțile interesate în analize specifice (buget: 3 500 000 EUR alocați pentru o cerere de propuneri ulterior).

| 3. | Cerere de propuneri de analize specifice:






  — | Potențialul regiunilor rurale (buget: 210 000 EUR), |
| --- | --- | --- |

3.

Cerere de propuneri de analize specifice:

—

Potențialul regiunilor rurale (buget: 210 000 EUR),

| — | Metodă transnațională de sprijinire a cooperării europene (buget: 150 000 EUR). |
| --- | --- |

—

Metodă transnațională de sprijinire a cooperării europene (buget: 150 000 EUR).

| 4. | Cerere de propuneri în cadrul platformei științifice:






  — | Indicatori și indici teritoriali (buget: 400 000 EUR). |
| --- | --- | --- |

4.

Cerere de propuneri în cadrul platformei științifice:

—

Indicatori și indici teritoriali (buget: 400 000 EUR).

| 5. | Cerere de propuneri pentru activități transnaționale în rețea:






  — | Activități de puncte de contact în rețea EPSON (buget: 2 000 000 EUR). |
| --- | --- | --- |

5.

Cerere de propuneri pentru activități transnaționale în rețea:

—

Activități de puncte de contact în rețea EPSON (buget: 2 000 000 EUR).

Pentru informații suplimentare, vă rugăm să vizitați cu regularitate site-ul http://www.epson.eu

---

PROCEDURI REFERITOARE LA PUNEREA ÎN APLICARE A POLITICII ÎN DOMENIUL CONCURENȚEI

Comisie

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/10 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/10

---

AJUTOR DE STAT – BELGIA

Ajutor de stat C 18/09 (ex N 360/09) – Recapitalizare și salvare a activelor în favoarea KBC

Invitație de a prezenta observații în temeiul articolului 88 alineatul (2) din Tratatul CE

(Text cu relevanță pentru SEE)

2009/C 216/08

Prin scrisoarea din 30 iunie 2009, reprodusă în versiunea lingvistică autentică în paginile care urmează prezentului rezumat, Comisia a comunicat autorităților belgiene decizia sa de a iniția procedura prevăzută la articolul 88 alineatul (2) din Tratatul CE cu privire la măsura menționată anterior.

Părțile interesate își pot prezenta observațiile cu privire la măsura în legătură cu care Comisia inițiază procedura în termen de o lună de la data publicării prezentului rezumat și a scrisorii de mai jos, la adresa:

| Commission Européenne |
| --- |
| Direction générale de la concurrence |
| Greffe des aides d'État |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |
| Fax +32 22961242 |

Commission Européenne

Direction générale de la concurrence

Greffe des aides d'État

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

Fax +32 22961242

Aceste observații vor fi comunicate autorităților belgiene. Păstrarea confidențialității privind identitatea părții interesate care prezintă observațiile poate fi solicitată în scris, precizându-se motivele care stau la baza solicitării.

REZUMAT

I.   PROCEDURĂ

| (1) | KBC a beneficiat de o infuzie de capital de la autoritățile federale belgiene în valoare de 3,5 miliarde EUR (măsura 1), pe care Comisia a aprobat-o la 18 decembrie 2008 (1). KBC a prezentat un plan de restructurare cu privire la această primă recapitalizare la 18 iunie 2009. La 6 februarie 2009, Regiunea Flamandă a depus un proiect de notificare pentru o nouă infuzie de capital în valoare de 3,5 miliarde EUR către KBC (măsura 2). Alte informații au fost primite la 27 februarie și în timpul unei reuniuni la 9 martie. Comisia a primit informații suplimentare la 10 iunie 2009. La 14 mai 2009, a fost anunțată o măsură de salvare a activelor în favoarea KBC (măsura 3). Comisia a primit informații cu privire la această măsură la 19 mai 2009 și 10 iunie 2009. Atât măsura 2, cât și măsura 3 au fost notificate oficial Comisiei la 18 iunie 2009. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

KBC a beneficiat de o infuzie de capital de la autoritățile federale belgiene în valoare de 3,5 miliarde EUR (măsura 1), pe care Comisia a aprobat-o la 18 decembrie 2008 (1). KBC a prezentat un plan de restructurare cu privire la această primă recapitalizare la 18 iunie 2009. La 6 februarie 2009, Regiunea Flamandă a depus un proiect de notificare pentru o nouă infuzie de capital în valoare de 3,5 miliarde EUR către KBC (măsura 2). Alte informații au fost primite la 27 februarie și în timpul unei reuniuni la 9 martie. Comisia a primit informații suplimentare la 10 iunie 2009. La 14 mai 2009, a fost anunțată o măsură de salvare a activelor în favoarea KBC (măsura 3). Comisia a primit informații cu privire la această măsură la 19 mai 2009 și 10 iunie 2009. Atât măsura 2, cât și măsura 3 au fost notificate oficial Comisiei la 18 iunie 2009.

II.   DATE FACTUALE

| (2) | Beneficiarul măsurii este KBC, un grup bancar și de asigurări integrat, care oferă servicii în special clienților cu amănuntul, întreprinderilor mici și mijlocii (IMM-uri) și clienților care utilizează servicii bancare private. KBC este cea de-a treia instituție financiară ca mărime din Belgia, însă are și o prezență importantă în Europa Centrală și de Est. KBC este prezentă și în Rusia, România, Serbia, mai multe țări din Europa de Vest și, într-o măsură mai mică în Statele Unite ale Americii și în Asia de Sud-Est. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

Beneficiarul măsurii este KBC, un grup bancar și de asigurări integrat, care oferă servicii în special clienților cu amănuntul, întreprinderilor mici și mijlocii (IMM-uri) și clienților care utilizează servicii bancare private. KBC este cea de-a treia instituție financiară ca mărime din Belgia, însă are și o prezență importantă în Europa Centrală și de Est. KBC este prezentă și în Rusia, România, Serbia, mai multe țări din Europa de Vest și, într-o măsură mai mică în Statele Unite ale Americii și în Asia de Sud-Est.

| (3) | Principala sursă a dificultăților KBC a fost reprezentată de deteriorarea ratingului de credit al portofoliului său CDO (Collateralized Debt Obligations – obligațiuni garantate cu creanțe). KBC a emis CDO sintetice în valoare de 27 de miliarde EUR. Tulburările care au lovit piețele financiare începând cu anul 2007 au afectat în mod negativ valoarea portofoliului CDO al KBC. Agențiile de rating de credit au crescut în mod dramatic estimarea lor cu privire la situațiile de incapacitate de plată în cazul creditelor, ceea ce a obligat KBC la reduceri substanțiale ale valorii acestor CDO. Aceste reduceri au afectat negativ structura capitalului KBC. Expunerea KBC la pierderi în legătură cu portofoliul său CDO a sporit, de asemenea, atunci când MBIA, un asigurător privat care acoperea 14,4 miliarde EUR din expunerea CDO a fost restructurat, ratingul acestuia fiind ulterior micșorat de către agențiile de rating, ceea ce a ridicat îndoieli semnificative cu privire la valoarea asigurării și, prin urmare, a activității de finanțare structurată a KBC. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

Principala sursă a dificultăților KBC a fost reprezentată de deteriorarea ratingului de credit al portofoliului său CDO (Collateralized Debt Obligations – obligațiuni garantate cu creanțe). KBC a emis CDO sintetice în valoare de 27 de miliarde EUR. Tulburările care au lovit piețele financiare începând cu anul 2007 au afectat în mod negativ valoarea portofoliului CDO al KBC. Agențiile de rating de credit au crescut în mod dramatic estimarea lor cu privire la situațiile de incapacitate de plată în cazul creditelor, ceea ce a obligat KBC la reduceri substanțiale ale valorii acestor CDO. Aceste reduceri au afectat negativ structura capitalului KBC. Expunerea KBC la pierderi în legătură cu portofoliul său CDO a sporit, de asemenea, atunci când MBIA, un asigurător privat care acoperea 14,4 miliarde EUR din expunerea CDO a fost restructurat, ratingul acestuia fiind ulterior micșorat de către agențiile de rating, ceea ce a ridicat îndoieli semnificative cu privire la valoarea asigurării și, prin urmare, a activității de finanțare structurată a KBC.

| (4) | În acest context, autoritățile belgiene au decis să intervină sub forma unei măsuri de recapitalizare și salvare a activelor depreciate. Măsurile de ajutor includ:






  (i) | o a doua recapitalizare reprezentând 3,5 miliarde EUR capital de bază de rangul 1 (Tier 1) din partea autorităților flamande sub forma unor titluri de valoare hibride fără termen de rambursare și fără drept de vot (măsura 2), comparabilă cu recapitalizarea deja aprobată de către Comisie în legătură cu KBC (măsura 1). Recapitalizarea va lua forma unei infuzii de capital hibrid care poate fi calificat drept capital de bază de rangul 1. Titlurile de valoare emise nu pot fi convertite în acțiuni ordinare și pot fi răscumpărate doar la 150 % din prețul de emitere. Titlurile de valoare nu conferă drepturi de vot. Veniturile provenind din infuzia de capital în valoare de 3,5 miliarde EUR vor fi împărțite între KBC Bank și KBC Insurance în așa fel încât [0-1] miliarde EUR se vor adăuga la capitalul KBC Insurance, crescând rata de solvabilitate a KBC Insurance de la [...] (2) % la [...] %; restul veniturilor ([2,5-3,5] miliarde EUR) se vor adăuga la capitalul de bază de rangul 1 al KBC Bank; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(4)

În acest context, autoritățile belgiene au decis să intervină sub forma unei măsuri de recapitalizare și salvare a activelor depreciate. Măsurile de ajutor includ:

(i)

o a doua recapitalizare reprezentând 3,5 miliarde EUR capital de bază de rangul 1 (Tier 1) din partea autorităților flamande sub forma unor titluri de valoare hibride fără termen de rambursare și fără drept de vot (măsura 2), comparabilă cu recapitalizarea deja aprobată de către Comisie în legătură cu KBC (măsura 1). Recapitalizarea va lua forma unei infuzii de capital hibrid care poate fi calificat drept capital de bază de rangul 1. Titlurile de valoare emise nu pot fi convertite în acțiuni ordinare și pot fi răscumpărate doar la 150 % din prețul de emitere. Titlurile de valoare nu conferă drepturi de vot. Veniturile provenind din infuzia de capital în valoare de 3,5 miliarde EUR vor fi împărțite între KBC Bank și KBC Insurance în așa fel încât [0-1] miliarde EUR se vor adăuga la capitalul KBC Insurance, crescând rata de solvabilitate a KBC Insurance de la [...] (2) % la [...] %; restul veniturilor ([2,5-3,5] miliarde EUR) se vor adăuga la capitalul de bază de rangul 1 al KBC Bank;

| (ii) | o garanție din partea autorităților federale belgiene cu privire la 15 CDO, în valoare noțională totală de 20 de miliarde EUR (măsura 3). Atât riscul în legătură cu titlurile acoperite de MBIA (14,4 miliarde EUR), cât și cel în legătură cu titlurile deținute de KBC (5,5 miliarde EUR în total) sunt acoperite de garanție. Măsura 3 cuprinde trei tranșe. O primă tranșă de pierderi pentru o sumă de 3,2 miliarde EUR va fi suportată în întregime de KBC („prima pierdere”). Pierderile suportate într-o a doua tranșă reprezentând 2 miliarde EUR peste prima pierdere stabilită mai sus sunt compensate, la cererea KBC, de către stat în proporție de 90 % (însemnând 1,8 miliarde EUR, în timp ce restul de 10 % din risc este suportat de KBC) prin intermediul subscrierii de noi acțiuni ordinare KBC sau titluri de valoare hibride la valoarea de piață („cota de capital – Equity Range”). Toate pierderile peste cota de capital (până la 14,8 miliarde EUR) sunt compensate de către stat în numerar până la nivelul de 90 %, în timp ce 10 % din risc revine în continuare KBC („cota de numerar – Cash Range”). Prima pierdere, cota de capital, cota de numerar, precum și termenul garanției se determină în funcție de fiecare instrument. Pentru cota de capital, KBC plătește un comision de subscriere de 650 pb pe an (respectiv 120 de milioane EUR anual). Pentru cota de numerar, KBC plătește un comision de garantare egal cu pierderile preconizate la portofoliul CDO (1,13 miliarde EUR). |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

o garanție din partea autorităților federale belgiene cu privire la 15 CDO, în valoare noțională totală de 20 de miliarde EUR (măsura 3). Atât riscul în legătură cu titlurile acoperite de MBIA (14,4 miliarde EUR), cât și cel în legătură cu titlurile deținute de KBC (5,5 miliarde EUR în total) sunt acoperite de garanție. Măsura 3 cuprinde trei tranșe. O primă tranșă de pierderi pentru o sumă de 3,2 miliarde EUR va fi suportată în întregime de KBC („prima pierdere”). Pierderile suportate într-o a doua tranșă reprezentând 2 miliarde EUR peste prima pierdere stabilită mai sus sunt compensate, la cererea KBC, de către stat în proporție de 90 % (însemnând 1,8 miliarde EUR, în timp ce restul de 10 % din risc este suportat de KBC) prin intermediul subscrierii de noi acțiuni ordinare KBC sau titluri de valoare hibride la valoarea de piață („cota de capital – Equity Range”). Toate pierderile peste cota de capital (până la 14,8 miliarde EUR) sunt compensate de către stat în numerar până la nivelul de 90 %, în timp ce 10 % din risc revine în continuare KBC („cota de numerar – Cash Range”). Prima pierdere, cota de capital, cota de numerar, precum și termenul garanției se determină în funcție de fiecare instrument. Pentru cota de capital, KBC plătește un comision de subscriere de 650 pb pe an (respectiv 120 de milioane EUR anual). Pentru cota de numerar, KBC plătește un comision de garantare egal cu pierderile preconizate la portofoliul CDO (1,13 miliarde EUR).

| (5) | Măsura 2 și măsura 3 împreună vor conduce la o rată a capitalului de rangul 1 de 11 % și la o rată a capitalului de bază de rangul 1 de [...] %. Garanția va reduce în continuare activele ponderate în funcție de risc cu 6,3 miliarde EUR. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

Măsura 2 și măsura 3 împreună vor conduce la o rată a capitalului de rangul 1 de 11 % și la o rată a capitalului de bază de rangul 1 de [...] %. Garanția va reduce în continuare activele ponderate în funcție de risc cu 6,3 miliarde EUR.

III.   EVALUARE

| (6) | Comisia a decis să aprobe temporar măsurile 2 și 3 pe o perioadă de șase luni, cu condiția ca autoritățile belgiene să prezinte un plan de restructurare detaliat, deschizând în același timp procedura oficială de investigare cu privire la anumite aspecte în legătură cu măsura 3. |
| --- | --- |

(6)

Comisia a decis să aprobe temporar măsurile 2 și 3 pe o perioadă de șase luni, cu condiția ca autoritățile belgiene să prezinte un plan de restructurare detaliat, deschizând în același timp procedura oficială de investigare cu privire la anumite aspecte în legătură cu măsura 3.

| (7) | În ceea ce privește măsura 3, Comisia consideră că îndeplinește anumite aspecte din Comunicarea privind activele depreciate (3), și anume eligibilitatea activelor [...]. Pe de altă parte, pe baza informațiilor disponibile, Comisia are îndoieli cu privire la adecvarea evaluării și determinării valorii economice reale a portofoliului CDO care, potrivit autorităților belgiene este de [...] miliarde. Mai precis, Comisia are îndoieli cu privire la exactitatea ipotezelor și metodologiei, corelarea ipotezelor privind titlurile ABS și corporative subiacente ale portofoliului, ipotezele privind prețurile de pe piețele imobiliare și nivelurile de incapacitate de plată ale întreprinderilor utilizate în model. Deoarece îndoielile referitoare la evaluare afectează și evaluarea realizată de Comisie în privința împărțirii sarcinii și remunerării, Comisia nu poate formula o concluzie cu privire la aceste principii. De asemenea, Comisia nu a primit suficiente informații pentru a evalua dacă principiul transparenței și comunicării informațiilor a fost respectat. |
| --- | --- |

(7)

În ceea ce privește măsura 3, Comisia consideră că îndeplinește anumite aspecte din Comunicarea privind activele depreciate (3), și anume eligibilitatea activelor [...]. Pe de altă parte, pe baza informațiilor disponibile, Comisia are îndoieli cu privire la adecvarea evaluării și determinării valorii economice reale a portofoliului CDO care, potrivit autorităților belgiene este de [...] miliarde. Mai precis, Comisia are îndoieli cu privire la exactitatea ipotezelor și metodologiei, corelarea ipotezelor privind titlurile ABS și corporative subiacente ale portofoliului, ipotezele privind prețurile de pe piețele imobiliare și nivelurile de incapacitate de plată ale întreprinderilor utilizate în model. Deoarece îndoielile referitoare la evaluare afectează și evaluarea realizată de Comisie în privința împărțirii sarcinii și remunerării, Comisia nu poate formula o concluzie cu privire la aceste principii. De asemenea, Comisia nu a primit suficiente informații pentru a evalua dacă principiul transparenței și comunicării informațiilor a fost respectat.

| (8) | KBC a depus deja, în legătură cu infuzia inițială de capital, un plan de restructurare la 18 iunie 2009. Cu toate acestea, având în vedere amploarea și natura repetată a măsurilor, Comisia este de părere că este necesar un plan de restructurare detaliat. Prin urmare, Comisia solicită autorităților belgiene să depună în termen de trei luni un plan de restructurare detaliat care ține seama de ajutorul acordat KBC prin cea de-a doua și cea de-a treia măsură. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

KBC a depus deja, în legătură cu infuzia inițială de capital, un plan de restructurare la 18 iunie 2009. Cu toate acestea, având în vedere amploarea și natura repetată a măsurilor, Comisia este de părere că este necesar un plan de restructurare detaliat. Prin urmare, Comisia solicită autorităților belgiene să depună în termen de trei luni un plan de restructurare detaliat care ține seama de ajutorul acordat KBC prin cea de-a doua și cea de-a treia măsură.

TEXTUL SCRISORII

„The Commission wishes to inform the Belgian authorities that, having examined the information supplied by your authorities on the measures referred to above, it has decided to raise no objections to both measures and temporarily approves them for six months. However, at the same time it will initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty with regard to the asset relief measure since the Commission has doubts as to the compatibility of certain aspects of the measure when assessed in the light of the Commission's Communication on the treatment of impaired assets.

1.   PROCEDURE

| (1) | In December 2008, KBC received a capital injection by the Belgian authorities of EUR 3,5 billion (hereafter “measure 1”), which was approved by the Commission on 18 December 2008 for a period of six months (4). On 6 February 2009, the Belgian authorities submitted a draft notification of its intention to inject another EUR 3,5 billion of capital into KBC in two tranches of EUR 2 billion and EUR 1,5 billion (“measure 2”). The Commission received further information regarding this measure on 27 February and met with the Belgian authorities on 9 March. The Commission received additional information on 10 June 2009. |
| --- | --- |

(1)

In December 2008, KBC received a capital injection by the Belgian authorities of EUR 3,5 billion (hereafter “measure 1”), which was approved by the Commission on 18 December 2008 for a period of six months (4). On 6 February 2009, the Belgian authorities submitted a draft notification of its intention to inject another EUR 3,5 billion of capital into KBC in two tranches of EUR 2 billion and EUR 1,5 billion (“measure 2”). The Commission received further information regarding this measure on 27 February and met with the Belgian authorities on 9 March. The Commission received additional information on 10 June 2009.

| (2) | On 14 May 2009, KBC announced that it had reached an agreement with the Belgian authorities on an asset relief measure (“measure 3”). The Commission received further information on this measure on 19 May 2009 and 10 June 2009. Measures 2 and 3 were notified to the Commission on 18 June 2009. Both measures will be implemented upon Commission approval. |
| --- | --- |

(2)

On 14 May 2009, KBC announced that it had reached an agreement with the Belgian authorities on an asset relief measure (“measure 3”). The Commission received further information on this measure on 19 May 2009 and 10 June 2009. Measures 2 and 3 were notified to the Commission on 18 June 2009. Both measures will be implemented upon Commission approval.

| (3) | In conformity with the Commission's decision in Case N 602/08 regarding measure 1 the Belgian authorities submitted a plan for KBC on 18 June 2009. |
| --- | --- |

(3)

In conformity with the Commission's decision in Case N 602/08 regarding measure 1 the Belgian authorities submitted a plan for KBC on 18 June 2009.

2.   DESCRIPTION OF THE MEASURES

2.1.   The beneficiary

| (4) | The KBC Group NV is the holding company of KBC Bank, KBC Insurance and KBL European Private Bankers (i.e. KBL EPB). KBC is an integrated bank insurance group, catering mainly for retail customers, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and private banking clientele. KBC is one of the main financial institutions in Belgium. Besides its activities in Belgium, central and eastern Europe, KBC is present in Russia, Romania, Serbia, several Western European countries and to a lesser extent in the US and Southeast Asia. |
| --- | --- |

(4)

The KBC Group NV is the holding company of KBC Bank, KBC Insurance and KBL European Private Bankers (i.e. KBL EPB). KBC is an integrated bank insurance group, catering mainly for retail customers, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and private banking clientele. KBC is one of the main financial institutions in Belgium. Besides its activities in Belgium, central and eastern Europe, KBC is present in Russia, Romania, Serbia, several Western European countries and to a lesser extent in the US and Southeast Asia.

| (5) | KBC is publicly quoted. As of 31 December 2008, the majority of the shares (54,3 %) were held by a number of large shareholders: KBC Ancora (23 % of the ordinary shares), Cera (7 %), MRBB (12 %), and other core shareholders (11 %). KBC group companies hold 5 % of the ordinary shares and the free float constitutes 42 %. |
| --- | --- |

(5)

KBC is publicly quoted. As of 31 December 2008, the majority of the shares (54,3 %) were held by a number of large shareholders: KBC Ancora (23 % of the ordinary shares), Cera (7 %), MRBB (12 %), and other core shareholders (11 %). KBC group companies hold 5 % of the ordinary shares and the free float constitutes 42 %.

| (6) | For 2008, total assets on the balance sheet of KBC amounted to (non-audited) EUR 355,596 billion. The market value of KBC has fallen significantly, from EUR 23 billion on 1 August 2008 to EUR 5 billion on 15 June 2009. KBC employs 56 716 people worldwide, 19 196 of whom are in Belgium and 31 947 of whom are in Central and Eastern Europe and Russia. KBC has 8,2 million customers in Central and Eastern Europe and Russia (estimates 2007). |
| --- | --- |

(6)

For 2008, total assets on the balance sheet of KBC amounted to (non-audited) EUR 355,596 billion. The market value of KBC has fallen significantly, from EUR 23 billion on 1 August 2008 to EUR 5 billion on 15 June 2009. KBC employs 56 716 people worldwide, 19 196 of whom are in Belgium and 31 947 of whom are in Central and Eastern Europe and Russia. KBC has 8,2 million customers in Central and Eastern Europe and Russia (estimates 2007).

| (7) | KBC’s management structure consists of the following five main business units:






  (i) | Belgium Business Unit: it groups all the banking and insurance activities in Belgium. This includes the retail and private banking activities of the KBC Bank in Belgium, the activities of KBC Insurance in Belgium and a number of Belgian subsidiaries. |
| --- | --- | --- |

(7)

KBC’s management structure consists of the following five main business units:

(i)

Belgium Business Unit: it groups all the banking and insurance activities in Belgium. This includes the retail and private banking activities of the KBC Bank in Belgium, the activities of KBC Insurance in Belgium and a number of Belgian subsidiaries.

| (ii) | The Central & Eastern Europe and Russia (CEER) Business Unit: it comprises all group banking and insurance activities (i.e. retail bancassurance and merchant banking) pursued in Central and Eastern Europe and in Russia. |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

The Central & Eastern Europe and Russia (CEER) Business Unit: it comprises all group banking and insurance activities (i.e. retail bancassurance and merchant banking) pursued in Central and Eastern Europe and in Russia.

| (iii) | Merchant Banking Business Unit: it groups the services provided to bigger SMEs and corporate customers, and all market activities worldwide (including Belgium, but not Central and Eastern Europe and Russia). |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

Merchant Banking Business Unit: it groups the services provided to bigger SMEs and corporate customers, and all market activities worldwide (including Belgium, but not Central and Eastern Europe and Russia).

| (iv) | European Private Banking Business Unit: it comprises the activities of both the KBL European Private Bankers group (KBL EPB) and the insurance company, VITIS Life. |
| --- | --- |

(iv)

European Private Banking Business Unit: it comprises the activities of both the KBL European Private Bankers group (KBL EPB) and the insurance company, VITIS Life.

| (v) | Shared Services & Operation Business Unit: it provides support to and serves as a product factory for the other business units. It encompasses a number of divisions that deliver products to the group’s other business units. |
| --- | --- |

(v)

Shared Services & Operation Business Unit: it provides support to and serves as a product factory for the other business units. It encompasses a number of divisions that deliver products to the group’s other business units.

| (8) | Profit contribution of the five business units is as follows (1H2008): Belgium Business Unit: 52 %, CEER Business Unit: 32 %, Merchant Banking Business Unit: 14 %, European Private Banking Business Unit: 8 %, Shared Service & Operations Business Unit: 6 %. |
| --- | --- |

(8)

Profit contribution of the five business units is as follows (1H2008): Belgium Business Unit: 52 %, CEER Business Unit: 32 %, Merchant Banking Business Unit: 14 %, European Private Banking Business Unit: 8 %, Shared Service & Operations Business Unit: 6 %.

| (9) | KBC has a strong position in the Belgium financial sector, more specifically on the following submarkets (market shares 2007): funds [...] (5), home loans [...], commercial credit to companies [...], commercial credit to natural persons [...], credit cards [...], current accounts [...], deposit accounts [...], bank cards [...], Branch (Tak) 23 [...] and damage insurance [...]. |
| --- | --- |

(9)

KBC has a strong position in the Belgium financial sector, more specifically on the following submarkets (market shares 2007): funds [...] (5), home loans [...], commercial credit to companies [...], commercial credit to natural persons [...], credit cards [...], current accounts [...], deposit accounts [...], bank cards [...], Branch (Tak) 23 [...] and damage insurance [...].

2.2.   Events triggering the measures

| (10) | In December 2008, KBC benefited from a capital injection of EUR 3,5 billion into the Group (measure 1). At the time, the intervention was needed as KBC had announced 3rd quarter losses of EUR 906 million, which were a consequence of provisions it was forced to make because of the downward revaluation of its Collateralized Debt Obligations (“CDOs”). The revaluation lead to a loss in confidence on the market as regards KBC that was reflected in the share price and CDS spreads. Also, in view of the financial crisis, markets started to expect higher capital ratios for banks. As a result of the Belgian State’s intervention as approved by the Commission (6), KBC’s ratios were restored in line with market requirements. |
| --- | --- |

(10)

In December 2008, KBC benefited from a capital injection of EUR 3,5 billion into the Group (measure 1). At the time, the intervention was needed as KBC had announced 3rd quarter losses of EUR 906 million, which were a consequence of provisions it was forced to make because of the downward revaluation of its Collateralized Debt Obligations (“CDOs”). The revaluation lead to a loss in confidence on the market as regards KBC that was reflected in the share price and CDS spreads. Also, in view of the financial crisis, markets started to expect higher capital ratios for banks. As a result of the Belgian State’s intervention as approved by the Commission (6), KBC’s ratios were restored in line with market requirements.

Measure 2 —   The capital injection by the Flemish authorities

| (11) | In January 2009, Moody’s announced that it was going to change the models used to value CDOs. This had the effect of further lowering the ratings of a large majority of corporate synthetic CDOs (7). Reason for this was a strong increase in the likelihood of default for all corporate credits in synthetic CDOs as well as an increase in the default correlation Moody's applies to corporate portfolios. As a consequence, investors in KBC were uncertain as to the consequences of this announcement for the value of KBC's CDO portfolio, causing its share price to drop by more than 20 % in a day. |
| --- | --- |

(11)

In January 2009, Moody’s announced that it was going to change the models used to value CDOs. This had the effect of further lowering the ratings of a large majority of corporate synthetic CDOs (7). Reason for this was a strong increase in the likelihood of default for all corporate credits in synthetic CDOs as well as an increase in the default correlation Moody's applies to corporate portfolios. As a consequence, investors in KBC were uncertain as to the consequences of this announcement for the value of KBC's CDO portfolio, causing its share price to drop by more than 20 % in a day.

| (12) | Upon Moody's announcement, KBC took a number of measures, the most important of which is the write-down of all non-super senior CDO notes in its portfolio to zero, resulting in markdowns of EUR 2,6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2008. These write-downs negatively affected KBC’s capital ratios. The core Tier-1 ratio dropped to 7,2 % and the Tier 1 ratio to 9,7 %. [...] |
| --- | --- |

(12)

Upon Moody's announcement, KBC took a number of measures, the most important of which is the write-down of all non-super senior CDO notes in its portfolio to zero, resulting in markdowns of EUR 2,6 billion in the fourth quarter of 2008. These write-downs negatively affected KBC’s capital ratios. The core Tier-1 ratio dropped to 7,2 % and the Tier 1 ratio to 9,7 %. [...]

| (13) | Because of the decrease of its capital ratios, KBC needed strengthening of its capital base. Against this background, on 22 January 2009, the Flemish government announced that it was prepared to strengthen the capital base of KBC by up to EUR 3,5 billion. |
| --- | --- |

(13)

Because of the decrease of its capital ratios, KBC needed strengthening of its capital base. Against this background, on 22 January 2009, the Flemish government announced that it was prepared to strengthen the capital base of KBC by up to EUR 3,5 billion.

Measure 3 —   The asset relief measures by the Federal government

| (14) | On 18 February 2009, MBIA Inc., headquartered in Armonk, New York, a private insurer hedging EUR 14,4 billion of KBC's CDO exposures, announced its decision to split its operating business into two sister companies. One would continue the municipal bond insurance business of MBIA, and the other would be structured as an entity for the run-off of the CDO/RMBS and structured finance business. Following this restructuring, the entity containing MBIA's obligation concerning CDO/RMBS and structured products was downgraded by Moody's from Baa1 to B3. This led to a considerable decrease in the value of the insurance KBC had bought from MBIA to absorb losses on its CDO portfolio. The deterioration of KBC's credit profile of corporate CDOs made it necessary for KBC to increase the counterparty risk associated with MBIA through a provision increase booked as a Credit Value Adjustment (“CVA”) (8). KBC's CVA on MBIA was increased from 40 % at the end of 2008 to 60 % in May 2009. Total provisions taken by KBC for counterparty risk associated with MBIA amount to EUR 2,5 billion. |
| --- | --- |

(14)

On 18 February 2009, MBIA Inc., headquartered in Armonk, New York, a private insurer hedging EUR 14,4 billion of KBC's CDO exposures, announced its decision to split its operating business into two sister companies. One would continue the municipal bond insurance business of MBIA, and the other would be structured as an entity for the run-off of the CDO/RMBS and structured finance business. Following this restructuring, the entity containing MBIA's obligation concerning CDO/RMBS and structured products was downgraded by Moody's from Baa1 to B3. This led to a considerable decrease in the value of the insurance KBC had bought from MBIA to absorb losses on its CDO portfolio. The deterioration of KBC's credit profile of corporate CDOs made it necessary for KBC to increase the counterparty risk associated with MBIA through a provision increase booked as a Credit Value Adjustment (“CVA”) (8). KBC's CVA on MBIA was increased from 40 % at the end of 2008 to 60 % in May 2009. Total provisions taken by KBC for counterparty risk associated with MBIA amount to EUR 2,5 billion.

| (15) | Apart from the adverse changes in the CDO portfolio resulting from MBIA's restructuring, KBC was also experiencing increased volatility in its P&L account due to the volatility in credit spreads that were directly impacting the market valuation of KBC's CDO portfolio. The widening of the credit spreads and the worsening economic conditions resulted in a negative mark-to-market value adjustment of KBC's super senior holding of EUR 1,3 billion. |
| --- | --- |

(15)

Apart from the adverse changes in the CDO portfolio resulting from MBIA's restructuring, KBC was also experiencing increased volatility in its P&L account due to the volatility in credit spreads that were directly impacting the market valuation of KBC's CDO portfolio. The widening of the credit spreads and the worsening economic conditions resulted in a negative mark-to-market value adjustment of KBC's super senior holding of EUR 1,3 billion.

| (16) | Combined, the evolution of the credit spreads and the restructuring of MBIA's business resulted in a negative value adjustment of EUR 3,8 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2009. This also negatively influenced KBC's capital ratios, which dropped to 5,3 % core Tier-1 and 7,1 % Tier-1, while the solvency ratio for the insurance business was reduced to 93 %. Following these events, KBC reached an agreement with the Belgian authorities on an asset relief measures. |
| --- | --- |

(16)

Combined, the evolution of the credit spreads and the restructuring of MBIA's business resulted in a negative value adjustment of EUR 3,8 billion at the end of the first quarter of 2009. This also negatively influenced KBC's capital ratios, which dropped to 5,3 % core Tier-1 and 7,1 % Tier-1, while the solvency ratio for the insurance business was reduced to 93 %. Following these events, KBC reached an agreement with the Belgian authorities on an asset relief measures.

2.3.   The measures

Measure 2 —   The capital injection by the Flemish authorities

| (17) | The recapitalisation will take the form of an injection of hybrid capital which qualifies as core Tier 1 capital. The terms of the deal are practically identical to the previous capital injection approved by the Commission on 18 December 2008 for a period of six months, except that the securities are not convertible into ordinary shares, and are only redeemable at 150 % of the issue price. |
| --- | --- |

(17)

The recapitalisation will take the form of an injection of hybrid capital which qualifies as core Tier 1 capital. The terms of the deal are practically identical to the previous capital injection approved by the Commission on 18 December 2008 for a period of six months, except that the securities are not convertible into ordinary shares, and are only redeemable at 150 % of the issue price.

| (18) | According to KBC's initial plan, the capital injection measure would consist of two tranches. Tranche 1 was to be issued, subscribed to, and paid in full on the issue date, at the rate of EUR 29,50 per security. The total value of tranche 1 would amount to EUR 2 billion and would be used to strengthen KBC's core Tier 1 capital immediately. Tranche 2, amounting to EUR 1,5 billion, would be called upon if and when KBC Group's capital basis required it. However, as a consequence of the deterioration of its capital position since the first quarter, KBC announced on 14 May that it will take up the second tranche immediately after the Commission's approval of the measure. |
| --- | --- |

(18)

According to KBC's initial plan, the capital injection measure would consist of two tranches. Tranche 1 was to be issued, subscribed to, and paid in full on the issue date, at the rate of EUR 29,50 per security. The total value of tranche 1 would amount to EUR 2 billion and would be used to strengthen KBC's core Tier 1 capital immediately. Tranche 2, amounting to EUR 1,5 billion, would be called upon if and when KBC Group's capital basis required it. However, as a consequence of the deterioration of its capital position since the first quarter, KBC announced on 14 May that it will take up the second tranche immediately after the Commission's approval of the measure.

| (19) | The EUR 3,5 billion securities issued under the two tranches, will produce an annual interest equal to the higher of:






  (i) | EUR 2,51 per security (equivalent to interest of 8,5 %), non-cumulative, payable annually in arrears (9); |
| --- | --- | --- |

(19)

The EUR 3,5 billion securities issued under the two tranches, will produce an annual interest equal to the higher of:

(i)

EUR 2,51 per security (equivalent to interest of 8,5 %), non-cumulative, payable annually in arrears (9);

| (ii) | 110 % of the dividend paid on ordinary shares for the fiscal year 2008 (for interest due in respect of the year 2009); |
| --- | --- |

(ii)

110 % of the dividend paid on ordinary shares for the fiscal year 2008 (for interest due in respect of the year 2009);

| (iii) | 120 % of the dividend paid on ordinary shares for the fiscal year 2009 (for interest due in respect of the year 2010); or |
| --- | --- |

(iii)

120 % of the dividend paid on ordinary shares for the fiscal year 2009 (for interest due in respect of the year 2010); or

| (iv) | 125 % of the dividend paid on ordinary shares for the fiscal year 2010 and onwards (for interest due in respect of the year 2011 and onwards). |
| --- | --- |

(iv)

125 % of the dividend paid on ordinary shares for the fiscal year 2010 and onwards (for interest due in respect of the year 2011 and onwards).

| (20) | The interest will only be paid if a dividend is paid on the ordinary shares and will be paid in cash. Furthermore, interest on the securities will only be due and payable on a non-cumulative basis, if and when a dividend is approved, provided that the KBC's capital adequacy position is and remains satisfactory both before and after the payment in the opinion of the Belgian Banking Finance and Insurance Commission (“CBFA”). |
| --- | --- |

(20)

The interest will only be paid if a dividend is paid on the ordinary shares and will be paid in cash. Furthermore, interest on the securities will only be due and payable on a non-cumulative basis, if and when a dividend is approved, provided that the KBC's capital adequacy position is and remains satisfactory both before and after the payment in the opinion of the Belgian Banking Finance and Insurance Commission (“CBFA”).

| (21) | With respect to the tranche 1 securities, interest will commence to accrue on the issue date. For tranche 2 securities, interest will commence to accrue as from the day on which the issue price for such tranche 2 securities is paid. Since both tranches are supposed to be issued as soon as the European Commission approves the capital injection measure, the interest for both tranches will start to accrue on the same day. The securities rank pari passu with ordinary shares in KBC and with the securities held by the Belgian State. No voting rights are attached to securities. |
| --- | --- |

(21)

With respect to the tranche 1 securities, interest will commence to accrue on the issue date. For tranche 2 securities, interest will commence to accrue as from the day on which the issue price for such tranche 2 securities is paid. Since both tranches are supposed to be issued as soon as the European Commission approves the capital injection measure, the interest for both tranches will start to accrue on the same day. The securities rank pari passu with ordinary shares in KBC and with the securities held by the Belgian State. No voting rights are attached to securities.

| (22) | The proceeds of the EUR 3,5 billion capital injection will be split between KBC Bank and KBC Insurance in such a way that EUR [0-1] billion will add to KBC Insurance capital; the remaining proceeds ([EUR 2,5-3,5] billion) will flow to KBC Bank Core Tier-1 capital. |
| --- | --- |

(22)

The proceeds of the EUR 3,5 billion capital injection will be split between KBC Bank and KBC Insurance in such a way that EUR [0-1] billion will add to KBC Insurance capital; the remaining proceeds ([EUR 2,5-3,5] billion) will flow to KBC Bank Core Tier-1 capital.

| (23) | There is one redemption scenario for these securities, which is at the initiative of KBC. KBC has a call option, giving it the right to redeem all or some of the issued securities at a price of EUR 44,25 per security (being 150 % of the issue price), plus payment of any accrued interest, any time after the issue date. This option is conditional on the agreement of the CBFA. |
| --- | --- |

(23)

There is one redemption scenario for these securities, which is at the initiative of KBC. KBC has a call option, giving it the right to redeem all or some of the issued securities at a price of EUR 44,25 per security (being 150 % of the issue price), plus payment of any accrued interest, any time after the issue date. This option is conditional on the agreement of the CBFA.

| (24) | Subject to applicable law and to corporate governance practices, generally accepted under applicable stock listing regimes, the Belgian authorities will have the right to recommend two Board members at the next general shareholders’ meeting (this in addition to the two nominees from the previous measure). The Supervisory Board approval items listed below require approval by one of the investor's nominees:






  1. | the issue or acquisition of its own shares by the Issuer (other than related to the Securities and other than as part of regular hedging operations and the issuing of shares according to employment schemes); |
| --- | --- | --- |

(24)

Subject to applicable law and to corporate governance practices, generally accepted under applicable stock listing regimes, the Belgian authorities will have the right to recommend two Board members at the next general shareholders’ meeting (this in addition to the two nominees from the previous measure). The Supervisory Board approval items listed below require approval by one of the investor's nominees:

1.

the issue or acquisition of its own shares by the Issuer (other than related to the Securities and other than as part of regular hedging operations and the issuing of shares according to employment schemes);

| 2. | [...]; |
| --- | --- |

2.

[...];

| 3. | acquisition by the Issuer or any of its subsidiaries of a participating interest in the capital of another company amounting to one-quarter or more of the Issuer’s consolidated capital and reserves as disclosed in its consolidated balance sheet of the previous quarter or a material increase or decrease of such participating interest; |
| --- | --- |

3.

acquisition by the Issuer or any of its subsidiaries of a participating interest in the capital of another company amounting to one-quarter or more of the Issuer’s consolidated capital and reserves as disclosed in its consolidated balance sheet of the previous quarter or a material increase or decrease of such participating interest;

| 4. | investments involving an amount equal to one-quarter or more of the Issuer’s consolidated capital and reserves as disclosed in its consolidated balance sheet of the previous quarter; |
| --- | --- |

4.

investments involving an amount equal to one-quarter or more of the Issuer’s consolidated capital and reserves as disclosed in its consolidated balance sheet of the previous quarter;

| 5. | a proposal to wind up the Issuer; |
| --- | --- |

5.

a proposal to wind up the Issuer;

| 6. | filing of a petition for bankruptcy or moratorium for the Issuer; |
| --- | --- |

6.

filing of a petition for bankruptcy or moratorium for the Issuer;

| 7. | proposal for split-off, dissolution of the Issuer; |
| --- | --- |

7.

proposal for split-off, dissolution of the Issuer;

| 8. | [...]; |
| --- | --- |

8.

[...];

| 9. | a change of the remuneration policy [...]; and |
| --- | --- |

9.

a change of the remuneration policy [...]; and

| 10. | [...]. |
| --- | --- |

10.

[...].

| (25) | One of the nominees will also have a seat on the KBC Group's (including KBC Bank NV and KBC Verzekeringen NV) Audit Committee, Remuneration Committee and Nomination Committee. |
| --- | --- |

(25)

One of the nominees will also have a seat on the KBC Group's (including KBC Bank NV and KBC Verzekeringen NV) Audit Committee, Remuneration Committee and Nomination Committee.

| (26) | As part of the transaction, KBC commits to develop a sustainable remuneration policy for the Executive Committee and Senior Management. KBC's Executive Committee and senior management incentive schemes will be linked to long-term value creation taking account of risk and restricting the potential for “rewards for failure”. KBC's Executive Committee limits exit schemes or statutory compensation for dismissal to twelve months’ fixed salary. |
| --- | --- |

(26)

As part of the transaction, KBC commits to develop a sustainable remuneration policy for the Executive Committee and Senior Management. KBC's Executive Committee and senior management incentive schemes will be linked to long-term value creation taking account of risk and restricting the potential for “rewards for failure”. KBC's Executive Committee limits exit schemes or statutory compensation for dismissal to twelve months’ fixed salary.

| (27) | KBC has also provided undertakings with regard to maintaining lending to the real economy. A control mechanism (“opvolgingscomite”) will be put in place to follow up on these undertakings. |
| --- | --- |

(27)

KBC has also provided undertakings with regard to maintaining lending to the real economy. A control mechanism (“opvolgingscomite”) will be put in place to follow up on these undertakings.

Measure 3 —   The asset relief measures by the Federal government

| (28) | In order to shield KBC from further write-downs on its CDO portfolio, as well as to boost its capital ratios, the Belgian Federal authorities decided to grant protection on KBC's synthetic CDO portfolio, usually held through its subsidiary KBC Financial Products but sometimes through other structures. |
| --- | --- |

(28)

In order to shield KBC from further write-downs on its CDO portfolio, as well as to boost its capital ratios, the Belgian Federal authorities decided to grant protection on KBC's synthetic CDO portfolio, usually held through its subsidiary KBC Financial Products but sometimes through other structures.

| (29) | The Belgian State has granted protection on KBC's CDO portfolio amounting to EUR 20 billion (10). The EUR 20 billion notional exposure to 15 CDOs is made up of EUR 14,4 billion of super senior and class A notes hedged with MBIA, and EUR 5,5 billion of super senior, super mezzanine and class A notes retained by KBC (EUR 4 billion through Assurisk and EUR 1,5 billion through KBC FP). |
| --- | --- |

(29)

The Belgian State has granted protection on KBC's CDO portfolio amounting to EUR 20 billion (10). The EUR 20 billion notional exposure to 15 CDOs is made up of EUR 14,4 billion of super senior and class A notes hedged with MBIA, and EUR 5,5 billion of super senior, super mezzanine and class A notes retained by KBC (EUR 4 billion through Assurisk and EUR 1,5 billion through KBC FP).

| (30) | The EUR 20 billion transaction is structured in three tranches. The first tranche is constituted by a first loss amounting to EUR 3,2 billion which is borne by KBC. This loss was entirely provisioned for as at 31 March 2009. |
| --- | --- |

(30)

The EUR 20 billion transaction is structured in three tranches. The first tranche is constituted by a first loss amounting to EUR 3,2 billion which is borne by KBC. This loss was entirely provisioned for as at 31 March 2009.

| (31) | The second part of the transaction deals with the next EUR 2 billion of losses, which are also provisioned for as of 31 March 2009. For any losses within this range (Equity Range), the Belgian State undertakes to subscribe for 90 % of the losses to new KBC shares or hybrid securities at market value (11). Effectively, the Belgian State has committed to providing a standby equity facility to KBC that can be triggered by specific loss making events on KBC's CDO portfolio. |
| --- | --- |

(31)

The second part of the transaction deals with the next EUR 2 billion of losses, which are also provisioned for as of 31 March 2009. For any losses within this range (Equity Range), the Belgian State undertakes to subscribe for 90 % of the losses to new KBC shares or hybrid securities at market value (11). Effectively, the Belgian State has committed to providing a standby equity facility to KBC that can be triggered by specific loss making events on KBC's CDO portfolio.

| (32) | The Equity Range is subject to several conditions. Firstly, KBC maintains the option to not call the guarantee and, therefore, to opt out from the equity issuance to the State. Secondly, if at the moment when the State bought KBC shares, it would acquire more than 30 % voting rights, which could require it to launch a mandatory takeover bid, it will have the option to subscribe to hybrid capital instead. Thirdly, in the event that the State decides to sell its shares to a third party, KBC has the right to first refusal in relation to this sale. |
| --- | --- |

(32)

The Equity Range is subject to several conditions. Firstly, KBC maintains the option to not call the guarantee and, therefore, to opt out from the equity issuance to the State. Secondly, if at the moment when the State bought KBC shares, it would acquire more than 30 % voting rights, which could require it to launch a mandatory takeover bid, it will have the option to subscribe to hybrid capital instead. Thirdly, in the event that the State decides to sell its shares to a third party, KBC has the right to first refusal in relation to this sale.

| (33) | The attachment point (i.e. starting point) for the Equity Range was fixed, taking as a reference parameters which would enable KBC Bank to maintain a core tier 1 ratio above [6-9] % and KBC Insurance solvency ratio above [120-160 %]. Therefore the parameters were not based on a valuation of the portfolio. |
| --- | --- |

(33)

The attachment point (i.e. starting point) for the Equity Range was fixed, taking as a reference parameters which would enable KBC Bank to maintain a core tier 1 ratio above [6-9] % and KBC Insurance solvency ratio above [120-160 %]. Therefore the parameters were not based on a valuation of the portfolio.

| (34) | Finally, the third tranche amounts to EUR 14,8 billion (Cash Range). Any losses exceeding EUR 5,2 billion (EUR 3,2 billion first loss and EUR 2 billion Equity Range) will be split between the State (90 %, i.e. EUR 13,3 billion) and KBC (10 %, i.e. EUR 1,5 billion). The State will compensate KBC in cash for any losses suffered in the cash range. For the third tranche, the attachment point is based on the midpoint between expected losses in Scenario 2 and 3, based on the CDO valuation report of the Belgian State's independent expert [...] (April 2009) (12). |
| --- | --- |

(34)

Finally, the third tranche amounts to EUR 14,8 billion (Cash Range). Any losses exceeding EUR 5,2 billion (EUR 3,2 billion first loss and EUR 2 billion Equity Range) will be split between the State (90 %, i.e. EUR 13,3 billion) and KBC (10 %, i.e. EUR 1,5 billion). The State will compensate KBC in cash for any losses suffered in the cash range. For the third tranche, the attachment point is based on the midpoint between expected losses in Scenario 2 and 3, based on the CDO valuation report of the Belgian State's independent expert [...] (April 2009) (12).

| (35) | The Guarantee will apply on a transaction basis. As there are covered instruments relating to 15 CDOs (each a transaction), there are thus effectively 15 guarantees (13). As a result, each of the 15 synthetic CDOs has a different attachment point and, therefore, a different expected loss. Consequently, the CDOs would need to be assessed individually and the guarantee provided will be individual for each CDOs (i.e. there will not be a single guarantee on the aggregated portfolio). |
| --- | --- |

(35)

The Guarantee will apply on a transaction basis. As there are covered instruments relating to 15 CDOs (each a transaction), there are thus effectively 15 guarantees (13). As a result, each of the 15 synthetic CDOs has a different attachment point and, therefore, a different expected loss. Consequently, the CDOs would need to be assessed individually and the guarantee provided will be individual for each CDOs (i.e. there will not be a single guarantee on the aggregated portfolio).

| (36) | MBIA has provided insurance on 11 out of the 15 CDOs. In relation to these instruments, the Belgian Federal authorities shall compensate KBC for losses in case there has been a credit event triggering this insurance and MBIA subsequently fails to perform its obligation. In line with the design of the measure overall, MBIAs obligations are defined on a CDO by CDO basis. Should MBIA later fulfil its obligation, KBC will be required to reimburse any amount already paid out by the State, subject to reasonable expenses. |
| --- | --- |

(36)

MBIA has provided insurance on 11 out of the 15 CDOs. In relation to these instruments, the Belgian Federal authorities shall compensate KBC for losses in case there has been a credit event triggering this insurance and MBIA subsequently fails to perform its obligation. In line with the design of the measure overall, MBIAs obligations are defined on a CDO by CDO basis. Should MBIA later fulfil its obligation, KBC will be required to reimburse any amount already paid out by the State, subject to reasonable expenses.

| (37) | The State shall be remunerated in two ways. Firstly, KBC must pay for having the right to an equity injection on standby, which is common in investment banking. The equity commitment fee is set at 650 bp per annum. Therefore, as the equity guarantee amounts to EUR 1,8 billion, the fee will cost KBC approximately EUR 120 million for each year that it is not exercised. |
| --- | --- |

(37)

The State shall be remunerated in two ways. Firstly, KBC must pay for having the right to an equity injection on standby, which is common in investment banking. The equity commitment fee is set at 650 bp per annum. Therefore, as the equity guarantee amounts to EUR 1,8 billion, the fee will cost KBC approximately EUR 120 million for each year that it is not exercised.

| (38) | The aggregate cost of the cash guarantee will amount to approximately EUR 1,13 billion, to be paid in 12 semi-annual instalments. This fee will be equal the expected loss on the third tranche (14), in the event that the outcome of portfolio corresponds to the average between Scenario 2 and Scenario 3 and a MBIA Credit Valuation Adjustment of 67,5 %. |
| --- | --- |

(38)

The aggregate cost of the cash guarantee will amount to approximately EUR 1,13 billion, to be paid in 12 semi-annual instalments. This fee will be equal the expected loss on the third tranche (14), in the event that the outcome of portfolio corresponds to the average between Scenario 2 and Scenario 3 and a MBIA Credit Valuation Adjustment of 67,5 %.

| (39) | The overall impact of both measures as from 31 March 2009 will be the following: increase of KBC Bank Core Tier-1 capital (Pro forma capital ratio) from [...] % to [...] %; or from EUR [...] billion to EUR [...] billion. This is comprised of EUR [2,5-3,5] billion from the 2nd measure by the Flemish government, the recognition by the CBFA of the EUR 1,8 billion equity guarantee as capital, less the insurance premium of EUR 1,2 billion. The Tier-1 ratio rises to 11 %. The guarantee will further reduce Risk Weighed Assets by EUR 6,3 billion. Therefore, the combined effect of both measures will raise KBC Banks capital ratio by 2,47 %. Furthermore, EUR [0-1] billion of the 2nd measure will be used to increase the solvency ratio of KBC Insurance (Pro forma capital ratio) from [...] % to [...] %. |
| --- | --- |

(39)

The overall impact of both measures as from 31 March 2009 will be the following: increase of KBC Bank Core Tier-1 capital (Pro forma capital ratio) from [...] % to [...] %; or from EUR [...] billion to EUR [...] billion. This is comprised of EUR [2,5-3,5] billion from the 2nd measure by the Flemish government, the recognition by the CBFA of the EUR 1,8 billion equity guarantee as capital, less the insurance premium of EUR 1,2 billion. The Tier-1 ratio rises to 11 %. The guarantee will further reduce Risk Weighed Assets by EUR 6,3 billion. Therefore, the combined effect of both measures will raise KBC Banks capital ratio by 2,47 %. Furthermore, EUR [0-1] billion of the 2nd measure will be used to increase the solvency ratio of KBC Insurance (Pro forma capital ratio) from [...] % to [...] %.

2.4.   The initial restructuring plan

| (40) | On 18 June 2009 a restructuring plan for KBC has been submitted by the Belgian authorities as a follow-up to measure 1 which was approved by the Commission on 18 December 2008 for a period of six months. The plan contains a preliminary analysis of KBC's Group's business, proposed future strategy, measures proposed to restore viability and repayment of the State resources. |
| --- | --- |

(40)

On 18 June 2009 a restructuring plan for KBC has been submitted by the Belgian authorities as a follow-up to measure 1 which was approved by the Commission on 18 December 2008 for a period of six months. The plan contains a preliminary analysis of KBC's Group's business, proposed future strategy, measures proposed to restore viability and repayment of the State resources.

| (41) | The Belgian authorities inform the Commission that KBC has put in place a taskforce to further develop, optimize and finalise this plan in the coming months and commit to finalise this plan within the timeframe set by the Commission, taking into account measure 2 and 3. |
| --- | --- |

(41)

The Belgian authorities inform the Commission that KBC has put in place a taskforce to further develop, optimize and finalise this plan in the coming months and commit to finalise this plan within the timeframe set by the Commission, taking into account measure 2 and 3.

3.   POSITION OF THE BELGIAN AUTHORITIES

| (42) | The Belgian authorities do not contest that the notified measures constitute State aid within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC. However, they request the Commission to declare the notified measures compatible with the Common Market on the basis of Article 87(3)(b) of the EC Treaty, as the interventions are required to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State. |
| --- | --- |

(42)

The Belgian authorities do not contest that the notified measures constitute State aid within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC. However, they request the Commission to declare the notified measures compatible with the Common Market on the basis of Article 87(3)(b) of the EC Treaty, as the interventions are required to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State.

| (43) | KBC, according to the Belgian authorities, is a systemically relevant bank as it is the third largest in Belgium and plays a pivotal role within the Belgian financial system and the Belgian economy as a whole. The Belgian authorities recall that KBC's crucial role was recognised by the Commission in its earlier decision. |
| --- | --- |

(43)

KBC, according to the Belgian authorities, is a systemically relevant bank as it is the third largest in Belgium and plays a pivotal role within the Belgian financial system and the Belgian economy as a whole. The Belgian authorities recall that KBC's crucial role was recognised by the Commission in its earlier decision.

| (44) | According to the Belgian authorities, the measures are necessary to improve KBC's capital position (measure 2) after substantial mark-downs as result of the negative revaluation by the market of CDOs and to eliminate the potential negative impact of KBC's exposure to the impaired assets in its CDO portfolio on future earnings and solvency. |
| --- | --- |

(44)

According to the Belgian authorities, the measures are necessary to improve KBC's capital position (measure 2) after substantial mark-downs as result of the negative revaluation by the market of CDOs and to eliminate the potential negative impact of KBC's exposure to the impaired assets in its CDO portfolio on future earnings and solvency.

| (45) | The Belgian authorities regard the measures as fulfilling the requirements of the Recapitalisation Communication (measure 2) and the IAC (measure 3). The Belgian authorities contend that a first estimation of the real economic value of the aggregate CDO portfolio amounts to [...]. |
| --- | --- |

(45)

The Belgian authorities regard the measures as fulfilling the requirements of the Recapitalisation Communication (measure 2) and the IAC (measure 3). The Belgian authorities contend that a first estimation of the real economic value of the aggregate CDO portfolio amounts to [...].

| (46) | The Belgian authorities commit to submit to the Commission an in-depth restructuring plan regarding KBC as referred to in paragraph 55 and Annex 5 of the Commission's Communication of 25 February 2009 on the Treatment of Impaired Assets in the Community Banking Sector. That restructuring plan will take account of the measures granted or envisaged to be granted in favour of KBC by the Belgian authorities in the context of both Case N 602/08 (Commission decision dated 18 December 2008) and the present case. The Belgian authorities reiterated that they submitted a restructuring plan on 18 June 2009 that aims at achieving an in-depth restructuring. |
| --- | --- |

(46)

The Belgian authorities commit to submit to the Commission an in-depth restructuring plan regarding KBC as referred to in paragraph 55 and Annex 5 of the Commission's Communication of 25 February 2009 on the Treatment of Impaired Assets in the Community Banking Sector. That restructuring plan will take account of the measures granted or envisaged to be granted in favour of KBC by the Belgian authorities in the context of both Case N 602/08 (Commission decision dated 18 December 2008) and the present case. The Belgian authorities reiterated that they submitted a restructuring plan on 18 June 2009 that aims at achieving an in-depth restructuring.

| (47) | The Belgian authorities have also undertaken to renotify the measure under Article 88(3) EC if either of the following situations arise which make it less likely that the overall return in excess of 10 % p.a. is achieved:






  (i) | if KBC does not pay a dividend for a period of two consecutive years, or for three years in the next five years. |
| --- | --- | --- |

(47)

The Belgian authorities have also undertaken to renotify the measure under Article 88(3) EC if either of the following situations arise which make it less likely that the overall return in excess of 10 % p.a. is achieved:

(i)

if KBC does not pay a dividend for a period of two consecutive years, or for three years in the next five years.

| (48) | Unless it can be shown that either of the above scenarios is caused by normal market events or that the overall return will nevertheless be in excess of 10 % per annum, the Belgian authorities will renotify the measure to the European Commission. The European Commission, without calling into question the capital injection, which has been declared compatible with the common market, can in particular require additional behavioural constraints. |
| --- | --- |

(48)

Unless it can be shown that either of the above scenarios is caused by normal market events or that the overall return will nevertheless be in excess of 10 % per annum, the Belgian authorities will renotify the measure to the European Commission. The European Commission, without calling into question the capital injection, which has been declared compatible with the common market, can in particular require additional behavioural constraints.

| (49) | [...] |
| --- | --- |

(49)

[...]

| (50) | [...] |
| --- | --- |

(50)

[...]

4.   ASSESSMENT

4.1.   Existence of aid

| (51) | The Commission first needs to asses whether the measures 2 and 3 constitute State aid within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC. According to this provision State aid is any aid granted by a Member State or through State resources in any form whatsoever which distorts or threatens to distort competition, by favouring certain undertakings, in so far as it affects trade between Member States. |
| --- | --- |

(51)

The Commission first needs to asses whether the measures 2 and 3 constitute State aid within the meaning of Article 87(1) EC. According to this provision State aid is any aid granted by a Member State or through State resources in any form whatsoever which distorts or threatens to distort competition, by favouring certain undertakings, in so far as it affects trade between Member States.

| (52) | It is evident that for both measures, State resources are involved, since the Belgium authorities are providing KBC with a EUR 3,5 billion capital injection through the acquisition of the securities and a substantial amount of asset relief through the guarantee arrangement. |
| --- | --- |

(52)

It is evident that for both measures, State resources are involved, since the Belgium authorities are providing KBC with a EUR 3,5 billion capital injection through the acquisition of the securities and a substantial amount of asset relief through the guarantee arrangement.

| (53) | Since both measures have been taken for the sole benefit of KBC, the measure is selective. Given that KBC is active in the financial sector, which is open to intense international competition, any advantage from State resources to KBC would have the potential to affect intra-Community trade and to distort competition. |
| --- | --- |

(53)

Since both measures have been taken for the sole benefit of KBC, the measure is selective. Given that KBC is active in the financial sector, which is open to intense international competition, any advantage from State resources to KBC would have the potential to affect intra-Community trade and to distort competition.

| (54) | Finally, it has to be examined whether the measures lead to an advantage to KBC for it to constitute State aid. |
| --- | --- |

(54)

Finally, it has to be examined whether the measures lead to an advantage to KBC for it to constitute State aid.

| (55) | With regard to measure 2, the Commission notes that the securities acquired by the Belgian authorities have the same characteristics as the recapitalisation of KBC it approved on 18 December 2008 (15). In that decision, the Commission concluded that KBC had received a selective advantage since its core Tier 1 capital has been strengthened under conditions that it would not have obtained on the market. Its shareholders’ stakes or operational control were not diluted, although certain decisions will require approval by the State's nominees. KBC would not be considered in default if it does not pay the annual coupon since it only has to pay interest in the event that it decides to pay dividends and it can repurchase the securities at a time of its choosing. Without the State intervention, KBC could not have raised such financing in such a short time frame at comparable conditions, especially taking into account the very volatile market circumstances. |
| --- | --- |

(55)

With regard to measure 2, the Commission notes that the securities acquired by the Belgian authorities have the same characteristics as the recapitalisation of KBC it approved on 18 December 2008 (15). In that decision, the Commission concluded that KBC had received a selective advantage since its core Tier 1 capital has been strengthened under conditions that it would not have obtained on the market. Its shareholders’ stakes or operational control were not diluted, although certain decisions will require approval by the State's nominees. KBC would not be considered in default if it does not pay the annual coupon since it only has to pay interest in the event that it decides to pay dividends and it can repurchase the securities at a time of its choosing. Without the State intervention, KBC could not have raised such financing in such a short time frame at comparable conditions, especially taking into account the very volatile market circumstances.

| (56) | As regards measure 3, the Commission notes that this measure releases capital as it reduces the RWA of KBC Bank by EUR 6,3 billion. This measure improves the position of KBC by increasing its capital ratios and by removing a source of volatility on its balance sheet. Given that the market value of the portfolio is less than the point where the guarantee arrangement starts to operate, it is evident that no market operator would provide such an arrangement under similar conditions. This was confirmed by the Belgian authorities in their submissions. |
| --- | --- |

(56)

As regards measure 3, the Commission notes that this measure releases capital as it reduces the RWA of KBC Bank by EUR 6,3 billion. This measure improves the position of KBC by increasing its capital ratios and by removing a source of volatility on its balance sheet. Given that the market value of the portfolio is less than the point where the guarantee arrangement starts to operate, it is evident that no market operator would provide such an arrangement under similar conditions. This was confirmed by the Belgian authorities in their submissions.

| (57) | In sum the Commission agrees with the Belgian authorities that the measures in favour of KBC constitute aid in the sense of Article 87(1) of the EC Treaty. |
| --- | --- |

(57)

In sum the Commission agrees with the Belgian authorities that the measures in favour of KBC constitute aid in the sense of Article 87(1) of the EC Treaty.

4.2.   Compatibility of the aid

| (58) | Article 87(3)(b) EC empowers the Commission to declare aid compatible with the common market if it is intended “to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State”. The Commission would point out that the Court of First Instance has expressly stated that Article 87(3)(b) EC is to be applied restrictively so that the aid may not benefit only one firm or one sector of the economy, but must serve to remedy a disturbance in the whole economy of a Member State (16). |
| --- | --- |

(58)

Article 87(3)(b) EC empowers the Commission to declare aid compatible with the common market if it is intended “to remedy a serious disturbance in the economy of a Member State”. The Commission would point out that the Court of First Instance has expressly stated that Article 87(3)(b) EC is to be applied restrictively so that the aid may not benefit only one firm or one sector of the economy, but must serve to remedy a disturbance in the whole economy of a Member State (16).

| (59) | Given the present circumstances in the financial markets, the Commission considers that the measures may be examined directly under the Treaty rules and in particular under Article 87(3)(b) EC. |
| --- | --- |

(59)

Given the present circumstances in the financial markets, the Commission considers that the measures may be examined directly under the Treaty rules and in particular under Article 87(3)(b) EC.

| (60) | The Commission considers that market conditions deteriorated all over the world since the last quarter of 2008 and certain assets classes are no longer frequently traded. This is problematic for financial institutions because accounting provisions (IFRS accounting standards) might require them to write down these illiquid assets (on the basis of their fair value) to a greater extent than is warranted by their economic value. The uncertainty in the market about the exposure of KBC to further losses emanating from its CDO portfolio, the quality of its hedges, the scale of the write-downs, the fluctuating market value of these assets resulting in P&L volatility and the high leverage ratios have also had an impact on the financial institutions’ overall risk perceptions. The present measures are designed to address these problems. Therefore it finds that the scheme aims at remedying a serious disturbance in the Belgian economy. |
| --- | --- |

(60)

The Commission considers that market conditions deteriorated all over the world since the last quarter of 2008 and certain assets classes are no longer frequently traded. This is problematic for financial institutions because accounting provisions (IFRS accounting standards) might require them to write down these illiquid assets (on the basis of their fair value) to a greater extent than is warranted by their economic value. The uncertainty in the market about the exposure of KBC to further losses emanating from its CDO portfolio, the quality of its hedges, the scale of the write-downs, the fluctuating market value of these assets resulting in P&L volatility and the high leverage ratios have also had an impact on the financial institutions’ overall risk perceptions. The present measures are designed to address these problems. Therefore it finds that the scheme aims at remedying a serious disturbance in the Belgian economy.

| (61) | In line with the Commission Communication on “The application of State aid rules to measures taken in relation to financial institutions in the context of the current global financial crisis” (“the Banking Communication” ) (17), in order for an aid or aid scheme to be compatible under Article 87(3)(b) of the EC Treaty, it must comply with general criteria for compatibility under that Article. These criteria require that the aid has to be well-targeted in order to be able to effectively achieve the objective of remedying a serious disturbance in the economy; necessary, meaning that it must be of the minimum amount necessary to reach the objective, limiting negative spill-over effects for competitors that have not received aid. The fourth chapter of the Banking Communication, the Recapitalisation Communication (18) and the Impaired Assets Communication (19), then translate these general principles into conditions specific for recapitalisations and impaired asset relief. |
| --- | --- |

(61)

In line with the Commission Communication on “The application of State aid rules to measures taken in relation to financial institutions in the context of the current global financial crisis” (“the Banking Communication” ) (17), in order for an aid or aid scheme to be compatible under Article 87(3)(b) of the EC Treaty, it must comply with general criteria for compatibility under that Article. These criteria require that the aid has to be well-targeted in order to be able to effectively achieve the objective of remedying a serious disturbance in the economy; necessary, meaning that it must be of the minimum amount necessary to reach the objective, limiting negative spill-over effects for competitors that have not received aid. The fourth chapter of the Banking Communication, the Recapitalisation Communication (18) and the Impaired Assets Communication (19), then translate these general principles into conditions specific for recapitalisations and impaired asset relief.

| (62) | The Commission considers that the appropriate framework for assessing the compatibility of measure 2 are the Banking Communication and the Recapitalisation Communication. |
| --- | --- |

(62)

The Commission considers that the appropriate framework for assessing the compatibility of measure 2 are the Banking Communication and the Recapitalisation Communication.

| (63) | With regard to measure 3, the Commission notes that it has 2 aspects, the first being a commitment from the Belgian authorities to provide an equity recapitalisation if certain losses occur, and the second being a commitment to compensate further losses on these portfolios through cash. The IAC defines impaired asset relief as all measures whereby a bank is dispensed from the need for severe downward value adjustments of certain asset classes. This is also the case for the present measure. Therefore the present measure must fulfil the conditions for the compatibility of asset relief as spelled out in the IAC (20). Because of the inextricable links between both parts of the arrangement, the Commission will assess the whole transaction under the IAC. |
| --- | --- |

(63)

With regard to measure 3, the Commission notes that it has 2 aspects, the first being a commitment from the Belgian authorities to provide an equity recapitalisation if certain losses occur, and the second being a commitment to compensate further losses on these portfolios through cash. The IAC defines impaired asset relief as all measures whereby a bank is dispensed from the need for severe downward value adjustments of certain asset classes. This is also the case for the present measure. Therefore the present measure must fulfil the conditions for the compatibility of asset relief as spelled out in the IAC (20). Because of the inextricable links between both parts of the arrangement, the Commission will assess the whole transaction under the IAC.

Systemic importance of KBC

| (64) | KBC is the third largest Belgian bank-insurance company. As confirmed by the letter of the National Bank of Belgium (“NBB”), it plays a pivotal role within the Belgian financial system and the Belgian economy as a whole. |
| --- | --- |

(64)

KBC is the third largest Belgian bank-insurance company. As confirmed by the letter of the National Bank of Belgium (“NBB”), it plays a pivotal role within the Belgian financial system and the Belgian economy as a whole.

| (65) | Furthermore, KBC holds a particular importance for the lending to the real economy. Indeed, KBC plays an important role in providing mortgage backed loans to households, consumer loans, and loans to small and medium-sized companies. This crucial role is also evidenced by a condition imposed by the Flemish Region in the term sheet, according to which KBC will continue to provide lending to business and consumers applying its historical credit scoring criteria on a reasonable basis. |
| --- | --- |

(65)

Furthermore, KBC holds a particular importance for the lending to the real economy. Indeed, KBC plays an important role in providing mortgage backed loans to households, consumer loans, and loans to small and medium-sized companies. This crucial role is also evidenced by a condition imposed by the Flemish Region in the term sheet, according to which KBC will continue to provide lending to business and consumers applying its historical credit scoring criteria on a reasonable basis.

| (66) | Consequently, KBC is a bank with systemic importance to the Belgian economy and the economies of several Central and Eastern European countries. This has been confirmed by the Commission in its decision of 18 December 2008. |
| --- | --- |

(66)

Consequently, KBC is a bank with systemic importance to the Belgian economy and the economies of several Central and Eastern European countries. This has been confirmed by the Commission in its decision of 18 December 2008.

Measure 2 —   The capital injection by the Flemish authorities

| (67) | As regards limitation of the aid to the minimum necessary, the Commission notes that the market has being demanding significantly higher capital ratios since the beginning of the crisis. Because of the downward revaluation of KBC's synthetic CDOs, the relevant capital ratios of KBC decreased leading to concerns about its ability to absorb further losses. The injection of EUR [2,5-3,5] billion into KBC Bank, which represents 2 % of the pro forma RWA as of 31 March 2009, would increase its Core Tier 1 ratio to [...] % (combined with the asset relief scheme, this ratio would improve to [...] %). The EUR [0-1] billion that is directed to KBC Insurance will increase its solvency ratio from [...] % to [...] %. The Commission notes that these ratios, excluding the effect of the asset relief measures, are similar to those that pertained after the first recapitalisation, which was approved by the Commission. The Commission therefore considers that this capital injection of EUR 3,5 billion is the minimum necessary to remedy concerns about the stability of KBC and thus the Belgian financial system. |
| --- | --- |

(67)

As regards limitation of the aid to the minimum necessary, the Commission notes that the market has being demanding significantly higher capital ratios since the beginning of the crisis. Because of the downward revaluation of KBC's synthetic CDOs, the relevant capital ratios of KBC decreased leading to concerns about its ability to absorb further losses. The injection of EUR [2,5-3,5] billion into KBC Bank, which represents 2 % of the pro forma RWA as of 31 March 2009, would increase its Core Tier 1 ratio to [...] % (combined with the asset relief scheme, this ratio would improve to [...] %). The EUR [0-1] billion that is directed to KBC Insurance will increase its solvency ratio from [...] % to [...] %. The Commission notes that these ratios, excluding the effect of the asset relief measures, are similar to those that pertained after the first recapitalisation, which was approved by the Commission. The Commission therefore considers that this capital injection of EUR 3,5 billion is the minimum necessary to remedy concerns about the stability of KBC and thus the Belgian financial system.

| (68) | As regards the remuneration of the measure, the Commission is of the opinion that the return on this security can best be compared to a hybrid form of capital, given that the securities also have features similar to hybrid capital, like remuneration through a coupon and the fact that they are non-dilutive, which has a positive effect on the shareholders stake in the company. However, given the additional equity-alike elements of the security and its therefore more uncertain return, its expected return should normally be higher than that expected from other forms of capital under the applicable solvency regulations. |
| --- | --- |

(68)

As regards the remuneration of the measure, the Commission is of the opinion that the return on this security can best be compared to a hybrid form of capital, given that the securities also have features similar to hybrid capital, like remuneration through a coupon and the fact that they are non-dilutive, which has a positive effect on the shareholders stake in the company. However, given the additional equity-alike elements of the security and its therefore more uncertain return, its expected return should normally be higher than that expected from other forms of capital under the applicable solvency regulations.

| (69) | Following the methodology laid out in the Recapitalisation Communication, the Commission in several cases, including KBC's first recapitalisation, has accepted an expected overall return of 10 %, via mechanisms that are very similar to those used in the case of KBC (21), as a sufficient safe harbour return. Conform to this methodology, and in view of the prevailing market conditions, a return on tier 1 capital instruments for a Belgian bank in excess of 10 % would currently be acceptable (22). |
| --- | --- |

(69)

Following the methodology laid out in the Recapitalisation Communication, the Commission in several cases, including KBC's first recapitalisation, has accepted an expected overall return of 10 %, via mechanisms that are very similar to those used in the case of KBC (21), as a sufficient safe harbour return. Conform to this methodology, and in view of the prevailing market conditions, a return on tier 1 capital instruments for a Belgian bank in excess of 10 % would currently be acceptable (22).

| (70) | Belgium considers that there is a high likelihood that an overall return in excess of 10 % will materialise through a combination of the interest payments at 8,5 % (possibly more depending on the level of dividends paid out), and the repurchase option by KBC at a level at EUR 44,25 per security, being 150 % of the issue price. Indeed, Belgium has submitted various scenarios showing that the possible return will be considerable above 10 %. |
| --- | --- |

(70)

Belgium considers that there is a high likelihood that an overall return in excess of 10 % will materialise through a combination of the interest payments at 8,5 % (possibly more depending on the level of dividends paid out), and the repurchase option by KBC at a level at EUR 44,25 per security, being 150 % of the issue price. Indeed, Belgium has submitted various scenarios showing that the possible return will be considerable above 10 %.

| (71) | It follows from the scenarios submitted by the Belgian authorities that the IRR on the Securities can be estimated at between 14,1 % and 18,7 %. According to the Flemish government, this estimation was made on the basis of a number of conservative assumptions, such as that the required Core Tier 1 ratio will remain at approximately 8 %, that no dividend or moderate dividend will be paid in the next years, and that the underlying profit growth in the next years will be 10 percentage points below profit growth for 2001-2007. |
| --- | --- |

(71)

It follows from the scenarios submitted by the Belgian authorities that the IRR on the Securities can be estimated at between 14,1 % and 18,7 %. According to the Flemish government, this estimation was made on the basis of a number of conservative assumptions, such as that the required Core Tier 1 ratio will remain at approximately 8 %, that no dividend or moderate dividend will be paid in the next years, and that the underlying profit growth in the next years will be 10 percentage points below profit growth for 2001-2007.

| (72) | Taking the above scenario analyses into account, the Commission considers that the expected return on the State's investment is likely to be in excess of 10 %. It recalls that it is the nature of deeply subordinated capital that some uncertainty to the return remains and it is exactly for this reason as well as in view of the type of instrument that the expected return should be above 10 %. |
| --- | --- |

(72)

Taking the above scenario analyses into account, the Commission considers that the expected return on the State's investment is likely to be in excess of 10 %. It recalls that it is the nature of deeply subordinated capital that some uncertainty to the return remains and it is exactly for this reason as well as in view of the type of instrument that the expected return should be above 10 %.

| (73) | In addition, as provided for by the Banking Communication, the aid must be well-targeted in order to be able to effectively achieve the objective of remedying a serious disturbance in the economy; it must, in its amount and form, be necessary to achieve the objective, meaning that the aid measure must be of the minimum amount necessary to remedy the disturbance; also, any positive effects of the measures must be properly balanced against the distortions of competition, in order for the distortions to be limited to the minimum necessary to reach the measures’ objectives. Consequently, the Commission positively views the fact that the capital injection is limited to what is necessary to reinforce KBC's capital position and the overall remuneration of the measure. In addition, the Commission notes positively the commitments of KBC concerning the continuation of lending to the real economy. |
| --- | --- |

(73)

In addition, as provided for by the Banking Communication, the aid must be well-targeted in order to be able to effectively achieve the objective of remedying a serious disturbance in the economy; it must, in its amount and form, be necessary to achieve the objective, meaning that the aid measure must be of the minimum amount necessary to remedy the disturbance; also, any positive effects of the measures must be properly balanced against the distortions of competition, in order for the distortions to be limited to the minimum necessary to reach the measures’ objectives. Consequently, the Commission positively views the fact that the capital injection is limited to what is necessary to reinforce KBC's capital position and the overall remuneration of the measure. In addition, the Commission notes positively the commitments of KBC concerning the continuation of lending to the real economy.

| (74) | Finally the Commission notes that this recapitalisation is the second such measure that KBC has benefitted from since the beginning of the crisis. Given the scale and repeated nature of the State interventions in favour of KBC, the Commission concludes that an in-depth restructuring plan is required. |
| --- | --- |

(74)

Finally the Commission notes that this recapitalisation is the second such measure that KBC has benefitted from since the beginning of the crisis. Given the scale and repeated nature of the State interventions in favour of KBC, the Commission concludes that an in-depth restructuring plan is required.

Measure 3 —   The asset relief measures by the Belgian Federal authorities

I.   
  Eligibility of assets

| (75) | As regards the eligibility of the assets, the IAC indicates in section 5.4 that asset relief requires a clear identification of impaired assets and that certain limits apply in relation to eligibility to ensure compatibility. In Annex 3 to the IAC, the definition of eligible assets is further elaborated on. In this Annex, CDOs are mentioned as examples of impaired assets which can be included in relief operations without doubts as to their eligibility. The Commission notes in this respect that all assets in the portfolio are CDOs. The impaired assets are therefore sufficiently identified and do not raise issues of eligibility. |
| --- | --- |

(75)

As regards the eligibility of the assets, the IAC indicates in section 5.4 that asset relief requires a clear identification of impaired assets and that certain limits apply in relation to eligibility to ensure compatibility. In Annex 3 to the IAC, the definition of eligible assets is further elaborated on. In this Annex, CDOs are mentioned as examples of impaired assets which can be included in relief operations without doubts as to their eligibility. The Commission notes in this respect that all assets in the portfolio are CDOs. The impaired assets are therefore sufficiently identified and do not raise issues of eligibility.

II.   
  Transparency and disclosure

| (76) | The Commission notes that the IAC demands in section 5.1 full ex-ante transparency and disclosure of impairments by eligible banks on the assets which will be covered by the relief measures, based on adequate valuation, certified by recognised independent experts and validated by the relevant supervisory authority. |
| --- | --- |

(76)

The Commission notes that the IAC demands in section 5.1 full ex-ante transparency and disclosure of impairments by eligible banks on the assets which will be covered by the relief measures, based on adequate valuation, certified by recognised independent experts and validated by the relevant supervisory authority.

| (77) | The Commission notes that the Belgian authorities have engaged an independent expert which has valuated the portfolio before government intervention. The Commission also observes that the Belgian supervisory authorities have stated, pursuant to point 20 IAC, that they agree with the methodology underpinning the valuation. |
| --- | --- |

(77)

The Commission notes that the Belgian authorities have engaged an independent expert which has valuated the portfolio before government intervention. The Commission also observes that the Belgian supervisory authorities have stated, pursuant to point 20 IAC, that they agree with the methodology underpinning the valuation.

| (78) | Finally, the Commission notes that the requirements concerning transparency and disclosure concerning the asset portfolio covered by the relief measure are met in principle, with the exception of the issue of proper valuation dealt with separately below. |
| --- | --- |

(78)

Finally, the Commission notes that the requirements concerning transparency and disclosure concerning the asset portfolio covered by the relief measure are met in principle, with the exception of the issue of proper valuation dealt with separately below.

III.   
  Management of assets

| (79) | The Belgian authorities have indicated that they are in discussions with KBC concerning the management rights of the portfolio. The Commission notes that KBC is in the process of ensuring that the Belgian authorities will obtain the customary and necessary rights to safeguard its interests and to ensure full compliance with the requirements laid down in the IAC. |
| --- | --- |

(79)

The Belgian authorities have indicated that they are in discussions with KBC concerning the management rights of the portfolio. The Commission notes that KBC is in the process of ensuring that the Belgian authorities will obtain the customary and necessary rights to safeguard its interests and to ensure full compliance with the requirements laid down in the IAC.

| (80) | The Commission recalls that the IAC stipulates that, irrespective of the model chosen, it is necessary to ensure clear functional and organisational separation between the beneficiary bank and its impaired assets, notably as to their management, staff and clientele. The Commission expects any future arrangement between the Belgian State and KBC to fulfil these requirements. |
| --- | --- |

(80)

The Commission recalls that the IAC stipulates that, irrespective of the model chosen, it is necessary to ensure clear functional and organisational separation between the beneficiary bank and its impaired assets, notably as to their management, staff and clientele. The Commission expects any future arrangement between the Belgian State and KBC to fulfil these requirements.

| (81) | The Commission also observes that KBC will, after taking the first loss, take a loss of 10 % on the whole portfolio. This seems to be in line with point 45 of the IAC, which stipulates that the overall financing mechanism of the asset management should ensure that the bank will have to assume a proportion of the losses. This will incentivise KBC to ensure that the portfolio is managed as efficiently as possible. |
| --- | --- |

(81)

The Commission also observes that KBC will, after taking the first loss, take a loss of 10 % on the whole portfolio. This seems to be in line with point 45 of the IAC, which stipulates that the overall financing mechanism of the asset management should ensure that the bank will have to assume a proportion of the losses. This will incentivise KBC to ensure that the portfolio is managed as efficiently as possible.

| (82) | On the whole, the Commission cannot yet conclude whether this condition has been fulfilled. |
| --- | --- |

(82)

On the whole, the Commission cannot yet conclude whether this condition has been fulfilled.

IV.   
  Valuation

| (83) | The IAC notes in section 5.5 that a correct and consistent approach to valuation is of key importance to prevent undue distortions of competition. The Commission has to carefully scrutinize the valuation and in particular the underlying general methodology in order to ensure a consistent approach at Community level. For that purpose the Commission has called on the technical assistance provided by its own experts. The Commission notes that the technical experts consider more information is needed. |
| --- | --- |

(83)

The IAC notes in section 5.5 that a correct and consistent approach to valuation is of key importance to prevent undue distortions of competition. The Commission has to carefully scrutinize the valuation and in particular the underlying general methodology in order to ensure a consistent approach at Community level. For that purpose the Commission has called on the technical assistance provided by its own experts. The Commission notes that the technical experts consider more information is needed.

| (84) | The Commission observes that the independent experts hired by the Belgian authorities [...] have determined the market implied loss and the estimated loss per CDO across four different fundamental scenarios. The Belgian authorities have also submitted that according to their preliminary calculations, the real economic value of the aggregate CDO portfolio amounts to EUR [...]. |
| --- | --- |

(84)

The Commission observes that the independent experts hired by the Belgian authorities [...] have determined the market implied loss and the estimated loss per CDO across four different fundamental scenarios. The Belgian authorities have also submitted that according to their preliminary calculations, the real economic value of the aggregate CDO portfolio amounts to EUR [...].

| (85) | Although the Commission does not question the qualification of the independent expert and its general approach, it so far has been unable to verify the methodology used to determine the real economic value and to assess whether the conclusions reached in the valuation by [...] is fair. At this stage, the Commission does not have all the information needed, including fundamental assumptions, to conduct a proper assessment (see confirmation by the Commission's technical experts above in point (81)). In particular, the Commission has significant doubts regarding the underlying valuation, including but not exclusively as regards the following issues:






  (a) | the accuracy and/or reasonableness of the underlying assumptions and methodology used by the experts of the Belgian authorities to value the CDO portfolio; |
| --- | --- | --- |

(85)

Although the Commission does not question the qualification of the independent expert and its general approach, it so far has been unable to verify the methodology used to determine the real economic value and to assess whether the conclusions reached in the valuation by [...] is fair. At this stage, the Commission does not have all the information needed, including fundamental assumptions, to conduct a proper assessment (see confirmation by the Commission's technical experts above in point (81)). In particular, the Commission has significant doubts regarding the underlying valuation, including but not exclusively as regards the following issues:

(a)

the accuracy and/or reasonableness of the underlying assumptions and methodology used by the experts of the Belgian authorities to value the CDO portfolio;

| (b) | the degree of correlation between the underlying corporate and ABS securities, more specifically how this correlation has been established and subsequently applied to the portfolio. [...] takes a flat correlation of [...] %, without detailed justification. However, given that many of the reference securities appear in more that one CDO, it is important that this figure is substantiated because a higher degree of correlation increases the risk of losses in the senior tranches of CDOs, such as are protected in this measure. Without clearer reasoning as to why the correlation figure chosen by [...] is valid, their valuation is open to question; |
| --- | --- |

(b)

the degree of correlation between the underlying corporate and ABS securities, more specifically how this correlation has been established and subsequently applied to the portfolio. [...] takes a flat correlation of [...] %, without detailed justification. However, given that many of the reference securities appear in more that one CDO, it is important that this figure is substantiated because a higher degree of correlation increases the risk of losses in the senior tranches of CDOs, such as are protected in this measure. Without clearer reasoning as to why the correlation figure chosen by [...] is valid, their valuation is open to question;

| (c) | the house price assumptions for the US housing market used in the various stress scenarios. It appears that some of the price data for individual states do not correspond with wider market consensus as to the likely extent of the price declines. Also, the average price increase after 2013, seems at first glance to be too optimistic when taking into account the effect of the steep declines in some states will have on the average house price; |
| --- | --- |

(c)

the house price assumptions for the US housing market used in the various stress scenarios. It appears that some of the price data for individual states do not correspond with wider market consensus as to the likely extent of the price declines. Also, the average price increase after 2013, seems at first glance to be too optimistic when taking into account the effect of the steep declines in some states will have on the average house price;

| (d) | the corporate default levels, [...], used for some corporates used in the model. The data available to the Commission seems to indicate that the market implied default levels are higher than those used in the valuation model. |
| --- | --- |

(d)

the corporate default levels, [...], used for some corporates used in the model. The data available to the Commission seems to indicate that the market implied default levels are higher than those used in the valuation model.

| (86) | Further doubts as to the appropriateness of valuation cannot be excluded at this stage in view of the fact that the Commission has not yet received full information both on the valuation methodology and on its application to the individual assets covered. A full assessment of the Commission can only be carried out once the Commission is in possession of this information. |
| --- | --- |

(86)

Further doubts as to the appropriateness of valuation cannot be excluded at this stage in view of the fact that the Commission has not yet received full information both on the valuation methodology and on its application to the individual assets covered. A full assessment of the Commission can only be carried out once the Commission is in possession of this information.

| (87) | In sum, the Commission at this point cannot determine whether the real economic value and the valuation methodology are fair and cannot exclude that the estimated losses are higher than calculated by the independent expert and intends to assess this in-depth. |
| --- | --- |

(87)

In sum, the Commission at this point cannot determine whether the real economic value and the valuation methodology are fair and cannot exclude that the estimated losses are higher than calculated by the independent expert and intends to assess this in-depth.

V.   
  Burden sharing

| (88) | As regards burden sharing, the IAC states in section 5.2 the general principle that banks ought to bear the losses associated with impaired assets to the maximum extent. That implies first that the bank should bear the difference between the nominal value and the real economic value of the impaired assets. |
| --- | --- |

(88)

As regards burden sharing, the IAC states in section 5.2 the general principle that banks ought to bear the losses associated with impaired assets to the maximum extent. That implies first that the bank should bear the difference between the nominal value and the real economic value of the impaired assets.

| (89) | The Commission notes that KBC will take a first loss of EUR 3,2 billion and also retains 10 % of the risk associated with the portfolio. Furthermore, in case KBC decides to use its call option as regards the underwriting commitment in the Equity Range, the Belgian authorities will obtain ordinary shares, meaning that the holdings of the other shareholders will be diluted. The Commission notes favourably that the existence of this equity range ensures that the State will at least gain some ownership of KBC in return for compensating its losses on the CDO portfolio. |
| --- | --- |

(89)

The Commission notes that KBC will take a first loss of EUR 3,2 billion and also retains 10 % of the risk associated with the portfolio. Furthermore, in case KBC decides to use its call option as regards the underwriting commitment in the Equity Range, the Belgian authorities will obtain ordinary shares, meaning that the holdings of the other shareholders will be diluted. The Commission notes favourably that the existence of this equity range ensures that the State will at least gain some ownership of KBC in return for compensating its losses on the CDO portfolio.

| (90) | On the other hand, the Commission observes that according to the Belgian authorities the real economic value of the CDO portfolio is below the attachment point for the Equity Range, the first being EUR [...] billion and the latter EUR 16,8 billion. Whether this will have consequences on the amount of aid resulting from the impaired asset relief, the Commission will only be able to determine after receiving the necessary information in the course of the in-depth investigation. |
| --- | --- |

(90)

On the other hand, the Commission observes that according to the Belgian authorities the real economic value of the CDO portfolio is below the attachment point for the Equity Range, the first being EUR [...] billion and the latter EUR 16,8 billion. Whether this will have consequences on the amount of aid resulting from the impaired asset relief, the Commission will only be able to determine after receiving the necessary information in the course of the in-depth investigation.

| (91) | Furthermore, as discussed above, the valuation of the portfolio has yet to be verified by the Commission and the real economic value still needs to be assessed. Given that the Commission has doubts as regards the correct valuation of the assets prior to government intervention, there are also doubts as regards the necessary degree of burden sharing included in this measure. |
| --- | --- |

(91)

Furthermore, as discussed above, the valuation of the portfolio has yet to be verified by the Commission and the real economic value still needs to be assessed. Given that the Commission has doubts as regards the correct valuation of the assets prior to government intervention, there are also doubts as regards the necessary degree of burden sharing included in this measure.

VI.   
  Remuneration

| (92) | The remuneration paid by KBC to the Belgian authorities is also an important element of burden sharing. The Commission recalls that, as noted in Annex 4 to the IAC, it is necessary for Member States to ensure that “any pricing of asset relief must include remuneration for the State that adequately takes account of the risks of future losses exceeding those that are projected in the determination of the ‘real economic value’ ”. |
| --- | --- |

(92)

The remuneration paid by KBC to the Belgian authorities is also an important element of burden sharing. The Commission recalls that, as noted in Annex 4 to the IAC, it is necessary for Member States to ensure that “any pricing of asset relief must include remuneration for the State that adequately takes account of the risks of future losses exceeding those that are projected in the determination of the ‘real economic value’ ”.

| (93) | The remuneration associated with the asset relief measure is structured as a combination of an underwriting commitment fee and a guarantee fee. The underwriting commitment fee covers the Equity Range of all the losses on the CDOs. The guarantee fee covers the Cash Range of the losses on the CDOs (calculated per CDO). |
| --- | --- |

(93)

The remuneration associated with the asset relief measure is structured as a combination of an underwriting commitment fee and a guarantee fee. The underwriting commitment fee covers the Equity Range of all the losses on the CDOs. The guarantee fee covers the Cash Range of the losses on the CDOs (calculated per CDO).

| (94) | The underwriting fee is calculated by reference to the fee levels investment banks charge for stand-by equity underwritings. The customary fee for this type of underwriting commitment, according to the Belgian authorities, varies between 10 and 15 bps per week. The midpoint of this range (12.5 bps) has been applied to KBC. This amounts to 650 bps per year on the principal amount of EUR 1,8 billion maximum. Furthermore, in the event that KBC does call upon the State to provide an equity investment, the State will subscribe to the newly issued equity at market terms, as per point (31). In case the Belgian authorities, when buying KBC shares, will acquire more than 30 % voting rights, which could require it to launch a mandatory takeover bid, it will have the option to subscribe to hybrid capital instead. The conditions attached to these hybrids have not been communicated to the Commission. Consequently, it has not been able to verify whether adequate remuneration would be paid for them and whether this remuneration amounts to sufficient burden sharing (23). |
| --- | --- |

(94)

The underwriting fee is calculated by reference to the fee levels investment banks charge for stand-by equity underwritings. The customary fee for this type of underwriting commitment, according to the Belgian authorities, varies between 10 and 15 bps per week. The midpoint of this range (12.5 bps) has been applied to KBC. This amounts to 650 bps per year on the principal amount of EUR 1,8 billion maximum. Furthermore, in the event that KBC does call upon the State to provide an equity investment, the State will subscribe to the newly issued equity at market terms, as per point (31). In case the Belgian authorities, when buying KBC shares, will acquire more than 30 % voting rights, which could require it to launch a mandatory takeover bid, it will have the option to subscribe to hybrid capital instead. The conditions attached to these hybrids have not been communicated to the Commission. Consequently, it has not been able to verify whether adequate remuneration would be paid for them and whether this remuneration amounts to sufficient burden sharing (23).

| (95) | The guarantee fee was calculated on the basis of several elements including the notional amount of the CDO portfolio and its parts, either hedged with MBIA or retained by KBC, a credit value adjustment of 67,5 %, a first loss of EUR 3,2 billion and a valuation of the assets on the basis of a midpoint between Scenarios 2 and 3 as developed by [...]. However, the fee paid for the protection adequately compensates the State for providing capital relief. The measure reduces KBC's RWA by EUR 6,3 billion. This relieves capital of EUR 504 million for KBC, which would usually cost it EUR 35 million (24), considerably less than the annual guarantee fee of EUR 221 million. |
| --- | --- |

(95)

The guarantee fee was calculated on the basis of several elements including the notional amount of the CDO portfolio and its parts, either hedged with MBIA or retained by KBC, a credit value adjustment of 67,5 %, a first loss of EUR 3,2 billion and a valuation of the assets on the basis of a midpoint between Scenarios 2 and 3 as developed by [...]. However, the fee paid for the protection adequately compensates the State for providing capital relief. The measure reduces KBC's RWA by EUR 6,3 billion. This relieves capital of EUR 504 million for KBC, which would usually cost it EUR 35 million (24), considerably less than the annual guarantee fee of EUR 221 million.

| (96) | The Commission notes however that the amount of the guarantee fee is also dependent on the valuation of the CDO portfolio. As the Commission has expressed doubts on the valuation, it also doubts whether the guarantee fee amounts to sufficient burden sharing. The Commission especially doubts whether the chosen mid-point between Scenarios 2 and 3 is appropriate (see footnote 8). |
| --- | --- |

(96)

The Commission notes however that the amount of the guarantee fee is also dependent on the valuation of the CDO portfolio. As the Commission has expressed doubts on the valuation, it also doubts whether the guarantee fee amounts to sufficient burden sharing. The Commission especially doubts whether the chosen mid-point between Scenarios 2 and 3 is appropriate (see footnote 8).

| (97) | In sum, the Commission has doubts whether the condition of the IAC as regards adequate remuneration are met and invites the Belgian authorities to provide more information on this matter. |
| --- | --- |

(97)

In sum, the Commission has doubts whether the condition of the IAC as regards adequate remuneration are met and invites the Belgian authorities to provide more information on this matter.

VII.   
  Temporary compatibility of the measure for six months

| (98) | The Commission has been informed by the Belgian authorities that the transaction has to be booked [...], as otherwise the object of the measures, the increase of KBC’s solvency ratios in line with market expectations and the reduction of P&L volatility will not be reached. Given that the CDO portfolio has been the source of KBC's difficulties, it is important for the asset relief measures to be implemented in order to address the root cause of the problem and thus avoid further write-downs through P&L. Delaying this measure could result in a further deterioration of the capital base and further uncertainty about KBC. Timely approval will allow sending a clear signal of confidence and stability to the markets. Given the systemic importance of KBC for the financial markets and economy in Belgium and a number of Central European countries, such a signal will also support confidence in the banking sector and financial stability in these countries in times of uncertainty and recession. The need for a timely Commission decision concerning these measures has been confirmed by the Belgian financial supervisor, the CBFA. |
| --- | --- |

(98)

The Commission has been informed by the Belgian authorities that the transaction has to be booked [...], as otherwise the object of the measures, the increase of KBC’s solvency ratios in line with market expectations and the reduction of P&L volatility will not be reached. Given that the CDO portfolio has been the source of KBC's difficulties, it is important for the asset relief measures to be implemented in order to address the root cause of the problem and thus avoid further write-downs through P&L. Delaying this measure could result in a further deterioration of the capital base and further uncertainty about KBC. Timely approval will allow sending a clear signal of confidence and stability to the markets. Given the systemic importance of KBC for the financial markets and economy in Belgium and a number of Central European countries, such a signal will also support confidence in the banking sector and financial stability in these countries in times of uncertainty and recession. The need for a timely Commission decision concerning these measures has been confirmed by the Belgian financial supervisor, the CBFA.

| (99) | However, the Commission finds that, at this stage, the conditions of the IAC on valuation, burden sharing, remuneration and management of assets are not fulfilled and an in-depth investigation of the portfolio valuation is needed, which the Commission is not in a position to complete in the necessary time frame and on the basis of available information. Nevertheless, in view of the fact that the measure complies with the criteria for eligibility of assets and transparency and disclosure, the Commission can consider approving the asset relief measure as a temporary measure for six months. The Commission considers that any approval should in any event be limited to six months on the basis of Annex 5 to the IAC. |
| --- | --- |

(99)

However, the Commission finds that, at this stage, the conditions of the IAC on valuation, burden sharing, remuneration and management of assets are not fulfilled and an in-depth investigation of the portfolio valuation is needed, which the Commission is not in a position to complete in the necessary time frame and on the basis of available information. Nevertheless, in view of the fact that the measure complies with the criteria for eligibility of assets and transparency and disclosure, the Commission can consider approving the asset relief measure as a temporary measure for six months. The Commission considers that any approval should in any event be limited to six months on the basis of Annex 5 to the IAC.

| (100) | The Commission finally notes that in conformity with its decision regarding measure 1, an initial restructuring plan has been submitted by the Belgian authorities on 18 June 2009. The Commission, in line with the principles of the Rescue and Restructuring Guidelines (25), therefore considers it justified that the approval of this measure is extended until the Commission reaches its decision on the restructuring plan. |
| --- | --- |

(100)

The Commission finally notes that in conformity with its decision regarding measure 1, an initial restructuring plan has been submitted by the Belgian authorities on 18 June 2009. The Commission, in line with the principles of the Rescue and Restructuring Guidelines (25), therefore considers it justified that the approval of this measure is extended until the Commission reaches its decision on the restructuring plan.

4.3.   Viability review and restructuring plan

| (101) | As regards the need for an assessment of the banks balance sheet and activities, the IAC states that an application for aid by an individual bank should be followed by a full review of that bank's activities and balance sheet, with a view of assessing the bank's capital adequacy and its prospects for future viability. The Commission recalls that paragraph 55 of the IAC states that where the bank has already received State aid in whatever form that either contributes to the coverage or avoidance of losses, or altogether exceeds 2 % of the banks RWA, in-depth restructuring would be required. The Commission considers this to be the case for KBC. |
| --- | --- |

(101)

As regards the need for an assessment of the banks balance sheet and activities, the IAC states that an application for aid by an individual bank should be followed by a full review of that bank's activities and balance sheet, with a view of assessing the bank's capital adequacy and its prospects for future viability. The Commission recalls that paragraph 55 of the IAC states that where the bank has already received State aid in whatever form that either contributes to the coverage or avoidance of losses, or altogether exceeds 2 % of the banks RWA, in-depth restructuring would be required. The Commission considers this to be the case for KBC.

| (102) | The Commission notes that in line with the 18 December 2008 decision regarding measure 1, the Belgian authorities have submitted a plan for KBC on 18 June 2009. After a preliminary assessment of the plan the Commission agrees with the Belgian authorities that the plan has to be further developed in order to comply with the conditions set out in the IAC. The Commission notes that this plan should cover all three measures and include in-depth restructuring of KBC. The plan should include commitments regarding the reduction of market risk, in particular the reduction of risk weighted assets. Such a reduction could be achieved by divestments, both in core and non-core activities. |
| --- | --- |

(102)

The Commission notes that in line with the 18 December 2008 decision regarding measure 1, the Belgian authorities have submitted a plan for KBC on 18 June 2009. After a preliminary assessment of the plan the Commission agrees with the Belgian authorities that the plan has to be further developed in order to comply with the conditions set out in the IAC. The Commission notes that this plan should cover all three measures and include in-depth restructuring of KBC. The plan should include commitments regarding the reduction of market risk, in particular the reduction of risk weighted assets. Such a reduction could be achieved by divestments, both in core and non-core activities.

| (103) | The Belgian authorities have provided the necessary commitment to submit a complete in-depth restructuring plan within 3 months following the present decision. Therefore, the Commission will assess the restructuring plan, which will take into account all aid measures granted to KBC including the present ones, at that stage. |
| --- | --- |

(103)

The Belgian authorities have provided the necessary commitment to submit a complete in-depth restructuring plan within 3 months following the present decision. Therefore, the Commission will assess the restructuring plan, which will take into account all aid measures granted to KBC including the present ones, at that stage.

5.   CONCLUSION

| (104) | The Commission finds that measure 2 complies with the conditions of the Banking and Recapitalisation Communications as an emergency measure and therefore can approve it for a period of six months. However, the Commission notes that this recapitalisation is the second such measure that KBC has benefitted from since the beginning of the crisis. Given the scale and repeated nature of the State interventions in favour of KBC an in-depth restructuring plan has to be submitted for KBC. |
| --- | --- |

(104)

The Commission finds that measure 2 complies with the conditions of the Banking and Recapitalisation Communications as an emergency measure and therefore can approve it for a period of six months. However, the Commission notes that this recapitalisation is the second such measure that KBC has benefitted from since the beginning of the crisis. Given the scale and repeated nature of the State interventions in favour of KBC an in-depth restructuring plan has to be submitted for KBC.

| (105) | With regard to measure 3, the Commission finds that the measure complies with the conditions on eligibility of assets and transparency and disclosure as stipulated in the IAC and in view of the serious threat to financial stability approves the measure for six months. At the same time, the Commission has doubts at this stage whether that the measure complies with the conditions relating to, valuation, remuneration and burden sharing and asset management arrangements and opens a detailed investigation. |
| --- | --- |

(105)

With regard to measure 3, the Commission finds that the measure complies with the conditions on eligibility of assets and transparency and disclosure as stipulated in the IAC and in view of the serious threat to financial stability approves the measure for six months. At the same time, the Commission has doubts at this stage whether that the measure complies with the conditions relating to, valuation, remuneration and burden sharing and asset management arrangements and opens a detailed investigation.

| (106) | Concerning measure 1, the Commission is of the view that it is justified to extend the approval of this measure until a decision is reached on the restructuring plan. |
| --- | --- |

(106)

Concerning measure 1, the Commission is of the view that it is justified to extend the approval of this measure until a decision is reached on the restructuring plan.

DECISION

| — | The Commission has accordingly decided not to raise objections to measure 2, being the capital injection by the Flemish authorities, on grounds that it is compatible with the EC Treaty, and approves it temporarily as rescue aid for 6 months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission has accordingly decided not to raise objections to measure 2, being the capital injection by the Flemish authorities, on grounds that it is compatible with the EC Treaty, and approves it temporarily as rescue aid for 6 months.

| — | The Commission finds that measure 3, being the asset relief measure, in favour of KBC is temporarily compatible with the common market as it complies with a number of conditions of the IAC, and with due considerations for the need to preserve financial stability, measure 3 in favour of KBC is accordingly approved for six months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission finds that measure 3, being the asset relief measure, in favour of KBC is temporarily compatible with the common market as it complies with a number of conditions of the IAC, and with due considerations for the need to preserve financial stability, measure 3 in favour of KBC is accordingly approved for six months.

| — | However, in the light of the foregoing considerations, the Commission has also decided to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty to verify the conditions of the IAC regarding, valuation (including the valuation methodology) burden sharing, remuneration and asset management arrangements of the measure. |
| --- | --- |

—

However, in the light of the foregoing considerations, the Commission has also decided to initiate the procedure laid down in Article 88(2) of the EC Treaty to verify the conditions of the IAC regarding, valuation (including the valuation methodology) burden sharing, remuneration and asset management arrangements of the measure.

| — | The Commission requires the Belgian authorities to provide, in addition to all documents already received, information and data needed for the assessment of the compatibility of the aid, including but not exclusively additional information with regard to the methodology report, the correlation between the underlying corporate securities and ABS, the stress scenarios used, the calculation of the guarantee fee and conditions of the hybrids in the Equity Range and the asset management arrangements. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission requires the Belgian authorities to provide, in addition to all documents already received, information and data needed for the assessment of the compatibility of the aid, including but not exclusively additional information with regard to the methodology report, the correlation between the underlying corporate securities and ABS, the stress scenarios used, the calculation of the guarantee fee and conditions of the hybrids in the Equity Range and the asset management arrangements.

| — | The Commission requires the Belgian authorities to submit an in-depth restructuring plan, in addition to the initial restructuring plan submitted to the Commission on 18 June 2009, within three months that takes into account the aid granted to KBC through all 3 measures, which the Commission will assess in order to decide about a prolongation of the aid after six months. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission requires the Belgian authorities to submit an in-depth restructuring plan, in addition to the initial restructuring plan submitted to the Commission on 18 June 2009, within three months that takes into account the aid granted to KBC through all 3 measures, which the Commission will assess in order to decide about a prolongation of the aid after six months.

| — | The Belgian authorities are requested to forward a copy of this letter to the potential recipient of the aid immediately. |
| --- | --- |

—

The Belgian authorities are requested to forward a copy of this letter to the potential recipient of the aid immediately.

| — | The Commission informs the Belgian authorities that it will inform interested parties by publishing this letter and a meaningful summary of it in the Official Journal of the European Communities. It will also inform interested parties in the EFTA countries which are signatories to the EEA Agreement, by publishing a notice in the EEA Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Communities, and will inform the EFTA Surveillance Authority by sending a copy of this letter. All such interested parties will be invited to submit their comments within one month of the date of such publication.” |
| --- | --- |

—

The Commission informs the Belgian authorities that it will inform interested parties by publishing this letter and a meaningful summary of it in the Official Journal of the European Communities. It will also inform interested parties in the EFTA countries which are signatories to the EEA Agreement, by publishing a notice in the EEA Supplement to the Official Journal of the European Communities, and will inform the EFTA Surveillance Authority by sending a copy of this letter. All such interested parties will be invited to submit their comments within one month of the date of such publication.”

---

(1)  N 602/08, Recapitalizarea KBC, JO C 109, 13.5.2009, p. 4.

1

(2)  Secret comercial. Atunci când a fost posibil, cifrele au fost înlocuite cu intervale în [paranteze pătrate].

2

(3)  Comunicarea Comisiei privind „tratarea activelor depreciate în sistemul bancar comunitar” adoptată la 25 februarie 2009.

3

(4)  See footnote 1.

4

(5)  See footnote 2.

5

(6)  See footnote 1.

6

(7)  CDOs are a type of asset-backed security and a structured finance product in which a distinct legal entity, a special purpose vehicle (SPV), issues bonds or notes against an investment in an underlying asset pool. Pools may differ with regard to the nature of their underlying assets and can be collateralised either by a portfolio of bonds, loans and other debt obligations, or be backed by synthetic credit exposures through use of credit derivatives and credit-linked notes.

7

(8)  The CVA percentage reflects the probability that MBIA would not be able to perform and is calculated as a % of the mark to market value of the insured Super Senior positions.

8

(9)  Exceptionally for the year 2009: if the issuer decides to pay an interim dividend in 2009, then KBC will pay to the securities holder an interest equal to EUR 1,25 per security, payable on the payment date of the interim dividend but no later than 31 December 2009, the remainder being due and payable on the tenth banking day following the Annual General Meeting in 2010.

9

(10)  KBC originally retained a greater exposure to its CDO portfolio. However, all exposure above EUR 20 billion has been written off, while the portion with Lloyds TSB (EUR 1,6 billion) is not covered by the measure.

10

(11)  Average share price in 30 days preceding transaction.

11

(12)  [...] have provided 4 scenarios which they use to estimate losses under certain conditions. The underlying variables are future house prices (Case-Shiller House Price Appreciation — HPA), corporate default rates and the rate of recovery from MBIA in the case of default. They also provide an estimate of market implied losses, using observable market data to plug into a mark-to-model approach. However [...] have not clarified which scenario they regard as the base case, which would correspond with the Real Economic Value in the Commission's Impaired Asset Communication (IAC). To set the total potential exposure of KBC, [...] considers what the losses would be on the total covered portfolio in the event that MBIA were to partially default on its obligations, with only 32,5 % recovery. In this case, the market implied losses would be EUR 8,5 bilion. The midpoint between [...] Scenarios 2 and 3 are used to set the attachment point for the Cash Range and the guarantee fee. Under Scenario 2, house prices follow the base HPA projection while corporate default rates are assumed to double. Under Scenario 3, the HPA projection is stressed by one standard deviation, while historical corporate default rates are assumed to triple.

12

(13)  KBC submits that according to IFRS accounting rules, both the guaranteed CDO portfolio and the guarantee must be measured at fair value. This means that the guarantee must cover one-for-one any changes in the fair value of the guaranteed instruments. If this was not the case, there would be a significant risk that changes in the fair value of the CDOs would continue to affect KBC's P&L, defeating the purpose of the measure. This means that the guarantee must be constructed instrument per instrument and not on the portfolio as a whole.

13

(14)  The expected losses in this context have a particular meaning in the analyses done by [...].The expected losses in the third tranche amount to EUR [...] billion, but this does not mean the expected losses in the first loss and equity tranche are equal to the sum of these two tranches. Indeed the expected losses are the output of stochastic models where a large number of scenarios are run and averaged. To illustrate the methodology used by the experts, if one assumes a portfolio of 10, split in two tranches of 5, and if you run 10 scenarios, 5 of which yield a loss of 2,5 and 5 of which yield a loss of 7,5, the expected loss on the total portfolio is 5. However the expected loss on the first tranche will be 3,75 (5 x 2,5 and 5 x 5, the 7,5 being capped to the maximum loss within the first loss of 5) and on the second tranche will be 1,25 (5 x 0 and 5 x 2,5). The total loss reconciling with the average loss of 5 (3,75 + 1,25).

14

(15)  See footnote 1.

15

(16)  See in principle Joined Cases T-132/96 and T-143/96 Freistaat Sachsen and Volkswagen AG v Commission [1999] ECR II-3663, paragraph 167. Confirmed in the Commission’s decisions in Case C 47/96 Crédit Lyonnais (OJ L 221, 8.8.1998, p. 28, point 10.1), Case C 28/02 Bankgesellschaft Berlin (OJ L 116, 4.5.2005, p. 1, paragraphs 153 et seq.) and Case C 50/06 BAWAG, not yet published, paragraph 166. See Commission Decision of 5 December 2007 in Case NN 70/07 Northern Rock (OJ C 43, 16.2.2008, p. 1), Commission Decision of 30 April 2008 in Case NN 25/08 Rescue aid for WestLB (OJ C 189, 26.7.2008, p. 3), and Commission Decision of 4 June 2008 in Case C 9/08 Sachsen LB, not yet published.

16

Freistaat Sachsen and Volkswagen AG v Commission

(17)  Commission Communication on “The application of State aid rules to measures taken in relation to financial institutions in the context of the current global financial crisis”, adopted on 13 October 2008 (OJ C 270, 25.10.2008, p. 8).

17

(18)  Commission Communication on “The recapitalisation of financial institutions in the current financial crisis: limitation of aid to the minimum necessary and safeguards against undue distortions of competition”, adopted on 5 December 2008 (OJ C 20, 15.1.2009).

18

(19)  Commission Communication on “Treatment of Impaired Assets in the Community Banking sector”, adopted on 25 February 2009.

19

(20)  For a first application: Cf Commission Decision of 13 March 2009 in case C 9/09 Dexia, not yet published.

20

(21)  N 602/08, recapitalisation of KBC (OJ C 109, 13.5.2009, p. 4), N 528/08, participatie in het kernkapitaal van ING (OJ C 328, 23.12.2008, p. 7), N 569/08, investment in the capital of Aegon NV (OJ C 9, 14.1.2009, p. 3).

21

(22)  As per footnote 22 of the Communication “The recapitalization of financial institutions in the current financial crisis: limitation of aid to the minimum necessary and safeguards against undue distortion of competition”.

22

(23)  Taking into account current market volatility, it is not unlikely that a switch to hybrids could occur. For example, in case KBC would have called on the underwriting commitment on 17 June 2009 (at a share price of EUR 13,62), the Belgian authorities would have obtained 28 % of the outstanding ordinary shares. In case KBC’s share price would decrease, as happened in the days following 17 June, a potential share of more than 30 % becomes increasingly likely.

23

(24)  EUR 6,3 billion × Tier 1 ratio of 8 % = EUR 504 million × 7 % (safe harbour capital remuneration less funding costs) = EUR 35 million

24

(25)  Commission Guidelines on State aid for rescuing and restructuring firms in difficulty (OJ C 244, 1.10.2004, p. 2), point 26.

25

---

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/22 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/22

---

Notificare prealabilă a unei concentrări

(Cazul COMP/M.5365 – IPO/EnBW/Praha/PT)

Caz care poate face obiectul procedurii simplificate

(Text cu relevanță pentru SEE)

2009/C 216/09

| 1. | La data de 1 septembrie 2009, Comisia a primit o notificare privind o concentrare propusă în temeiul articolului 4 din Regulamentul (CE) nr. 139/2004 al Consiliului (1), prin care International Power Opatovice, a.s. („IPO”, Republica Cehă), controlată de International Power plc („IPR”, Regatul Unit), EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG („EnBW”, Germania), controlate în comun de Electricité de France („EdF”, Franța) și Zweckverband Oberschwäbische Elektrizitätswerke („OEW”, Germania), și hlavní město Praha („hlavní město Praha ”, Republica Cehă), dobândește, în sensul articolului 3 alineatul (1) litera (b) din regulamentul Consiliului, controlul în comun asupra întreprinderii Pražská teplárenská, a.s. („PT”, Republica Cehă), prin achiziționare de acțiuni. |
| --- | --- |

1.

La data de 1 septembrie 2009, Comisia a primit o notificare privind o concentrare propusă în temeiul articolului 4 din Regulamentul (CE) nr. 139/2004 al Consiliului (1), prin care International Power Opatovice, a.s. („IPO”, Republica Cehă), controlată de International Power plc („IPR”, Regatul Unit), EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG („EnBW”, Germania), controlate în comun de Electricité de France („EdF”, Franța) și Zweckverband Oberschwäbische Elektrizitätswerke („OEW”, Germania), și hlavní město Praha („hlavní město Praha ”, Republica Cehă), dobândește, în sensul articolului 3 alineatul (1) litera (b) din regulamentul Consiliului, controlul în comun asupra întreprinderii Pražská teplárenská, a.s. („PT”, Republica Cehă), prin achiziționare de acțiuni.

| 2. | Activitățile economice ale întreprinderilor respective sunt:






  — | în cazul IPO: generarea de energie electrică și aprovizionarea en gros, precum și furnizarea energiei termice pentru încălzirea centrală, printre alte activități, |
| --- | --- | --- |

2.

Activitățile economice ale întreprinderilor respective sunt:

—

în cazul IPO: generarea de energie electrică și aprovizionarea en gros, precum și furnizarea energiei termice pentru încălzirea centrală, printre alte activități,

| — | în cazul EnBW: generarea de energie electrică și aprovizionarea en gros, printre alte activități, |
| --- | --- |

—

în cazul EnBW: generarea de energie electrică și aprovizionarea en gros, printre alte activități,

| — | în cazul hlavní město Praha: prestarea de servicii pentru gospodării și întreprinderi din Praga, |
| --- | --- |

—

în cazul hlavní město Praha: prestarea de servicii pentru gospodării și întreprinderi din Praga,

| — | în cazul PT: furnizarea energiei termice pentru încălzirea centrală, generarea de energie electrică și aprovizionarea en gros. |
| --- | --- |

—

în cazul PT: furnizarea energiei termice pentru încălzirea centrală, generarea de energie electrică și aprovizionarea en gros.

| 3. | În urma unei examinări prealabile, Comisia constată că tranzacția notificată ar putea intra sub incidența Regulamentului (CE) nr. 139/2004. Cu toate acestea, nu se ia o decizie finală în această privință. În conformitate cu Comunicarea Comisiei privind o procedură simplificată de tratare a anumitor concentrări în temeiul Regulamentului (CE) nr. 139/2004 al Consiliului (2), trebuie precizat că acest caz poate fi tratat conform procedurii prevăzute în Comunicare. |
| --- | --- |

3.

În urma unei examinări prealabile, Comisia constată că tranzacția notificată ar putea intra sub incidența Regulamentului (CE) nr. 139/2004. Cu toate acestea, nu se ia o decizie finală în această privință. În conformitate cu Comunicarea Comisiei privind o procedură simplificată de tratare a anumitor concentrări în temeiul Regulamentului (CE) nr. 139/2004 al Consiliului (2), trebuie precizat că acest caz poate fi tratat conform procedurii prevăzute în Comunicare.

| 4. | Comisia invită părțile terțe interesate să îi prezinte eventualele observații cu privire la operațiunea propusă.
  Observațiile trebuie primite de către Comisie în termen de cel mult 10 zile de la data publicării prezentei. Observațiile pot fi trimise Comisiei prin fax (+32 22964301 sau 22967244) sau prin poștă, cu numărul de referință COMP/M.5365 – IPO/EnBW/Praha/PT, la următoarea adresă:





  Commission européenne |
| --- | --- |
| Direction générale de la concurrence |
| Greffe des concentrations |
| 1049 Bruxelles/Brussel |
| BELGIQUE/BELGIË |

4.

Comisia invită părțile terțe interesate să îi prezinte eventualele observații cu privire la operațiunea propusă.

Observațiile trebuie primite de către Comisie în termen de cel mult 10 zile de la data publicării prezentei. Observațiile pot fi trimise Comisiei prin fax (+32 22964301 sau 22967244) sau prin poștă, cu numărul de referință COMP/M.5365 – IPO/EnBW/Praha/PT, la următoarea adresă:

Commission européenne

Direction générale de la concurrence

Greffe des concentrations

1049 Bruxelles/Brussel

BELGIQUE/BELGIË

---

(1)  JO L 24, 29.1.2004, p. 1.

(2)  JO C 56, 5.3.2005, p. 32.

---

Rectificări

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/23 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/23

---

Rectificare la invitația adresată persoanelor fizice pentru exprimarea interesului în vederea constituirii unei baze de date de experți independenți capabili să asiste serviciile Comisiei în activități referitoare la Programul de sprijinire a politicii în materie de tehnologie a informației și comunicațiilor (TIC) din PIC (Programul-cadru pentru inovație și competitivitate)

(
  Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene C 123 din 5 iunie 2007
  )

2009/C 216/10

La pagina 4, secțiunea 3, „Baza de date de experți”:

în loc de:

„Baza de date de experți constituită și gestionată pe baza prezentei invitații va fi valabilă pentru perioada 2007-2009. Cererile pot fi depuse în orice moment, până la 30 septembrie 2009, data limită a înregistrării.

O altă bază de date de experți va fi constituită începând din 2010.”,

se va citi:

„Baza de date de experți constituită și gestionată pe baza prezentei invitații va fi valabilă pentru perioada 2007-2013. Cererile pot fi depuse în orice moment, până la 30 septembrie 2013, data limită a înregistrării.”

---

| 10.9.2009 | RO | Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene | C 216/23 |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |

10.9.2009

RO

Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene

C 216/23

---

Rectificare la autorizația pentru ajutoarele de stat acordate în conformitate cu dispozițiile articolelor 87 și 88 din Tratatul CE – Cazuri în care Comisia nu ridică obiecții

(
  Jurnalul Oficial al Uniunii Europene C 212 din 5 septembrie 2009
  )

2009/C 216/11

La pagina 15, la „Numărul de referință al ajutorului”:

în loc de:

„N 604/09”,

se va citi:

„N 604/08.”

---