1.With effect from 1 January 1993 credit institutions shall be required permanently to maintain the ratio defined in Article 3 at a level of at least 8 %.
2.Notwithstanding paragraph 1, the competent authorities may prescribe higher minimum ratios as they consider appropriate.
3.If the ratio falls below 8 % the competent authorities shall ensure that the credit institution in question takes appropriate measures to restore the ratio to the agreed minimum as quickly as possible.