The first step of the comprehensive assessment has already been launched. Supervisors have begun selecting the particularly critical balance sheet items of the 128 banks affected. The assets contained in the items will then be subjected to closer scrutiny. For instance, the recoverable value of the posted collateral and the valuation of illiquid assets will be assessed.
The ECB will conduct a quality assurance check together with the national competent authorities at all stages of the assessment in order to ensure the comparability and robustness of the results.