However, according to the latest euro area bank lending survey, lenders tightened their credit standards to a significantly lesser extent. Given the challenges that lie ahead, banks should take appropriate measures to strengthen further their capital bases and, where necessary, take full advantage of government measures to support the financial sector, particularly as regards recapitalisation.
Chart 5  Labor Market Conditions Active Job Openings-toApplicants Ratio 1.6  s.a., ratio  Unemployment Rate  6  s.a., %  1.5 1.4 1.3  5  1.2 1.1  4  1.0 0.9 0.8  3  0.7 0.6  2  0.5 0.4 0.3 CY 90 92 94 96 98 00 02 04 06 08 10 12 14 16  Sources: Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare; Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.