(2)It is essential to see the exchange of information between competent authorities of home and host Member States in the wider context of the supervision of cross-border investment firm groups. Where relevant, it is therefore appropriate that information is provided at the consolidated level. In particular, if an investment firm operating through a branch has an ultimate parent undertaking in the Member State where it has its head office, and the competent authority concerned is also the group supervisor, it is deemed appropriate to provide information at the consolidated level rather than at the level of the investment firm. However, in that case, the competent authority should notify competent authorities of host Member States that the information is provided at the consolidated level of the investment firm group.