Press Release: State aid: Commission opens in-depth investigation into support measures for German savings bank Sparkasse KölnBonn

The European Commission opened under EC Treaty state aid rules an in-depth investigation into support measures for the German savings bank Sparkasse KölnBonn, and invited Sparkasse KölnBonn to submit a restructuring plan. This was the first step towards finding a viable long-term solution for the bank, in close contact with the German authorities. The opening of an investigation is common for state interventions in the banking sector, especially where it is disputed whether a measure constitutes state aid. Such an investigation ensures legal certainty for stakeholders and gives interested third parties the possibility to submit comments on the measures. It does not prejudge the outcome of the procedure.