The European Commission has ruled that German lender Nord/LB's huge €3.6bn ($4bn) recapitalisation plan does not constitute state aid.
The bank, which has a shipping portfolio of €6.1bn, will now be able to strengthen its balance sheet and move away from state ownership.
"The EU Commission's decision is an important milestone in strengthening the bank's capital and in the realigning of Nord/LB," said chairman Thomas Burkle.
