ANNEX IV
List of the coefficients linked to aggravating and mitigating factors for the application of Article 36a(3)
The following coefficients shall be applicable in a cumulative way to the basic amounts referred to in Article 36a(2) on the basis of each of the following aggravating and mitigating factors:
I. Adjustment coefficients linked to aggravating factors
If the infringement has been committed repeatedly, for every time it has been repeated, an additional coefficient of 1,1 shall apply.
If the infringement has been committed for more than six months, a coefficient of 1,5 shall apply.
If the infringement has revealed systemic weaknesses in the organisation of the credit rating agency, in particular in its procedures, management systems or internal controls, a coefficient of 2,2 shall apply.
If the infringement has had a negative impact on the quality of the ratings rated by the credit rating agency concerned, a coefficient of 1,5 shall apply.
If the infringement has been committed intentionally, a coefficient of 2 shall apply.
If no remedial action has been taken since the breach has been identified, a coefficient of 1,7 shall apply.
If the credit rating agency’s senior management has not cooperated with ESMA in carrying out its investigations, a coefficient of 1,5 shall apply.
II. Adjustment coefficients linked to mitigating factors
If the infringement relates to a breach listed in Section II or III of Annex III and has been committed for fewer than 10 working days, a coefficient of 0,9 shall apply.
If the credit rating agency’s senior management can demonstrate that they have taken all the necessary measures to prevent the infringement, a coefficient of 0,7 shall apply.
If the credit rating agency has brought quickly, effectively and completely the infringement to ESMA’s attention, a coefficient of 0,4 shall apply.
If the credit rating agency has voluntarily taken measures to ensure that similar infringement cannot be committed in the future, a coefficient of 0,6 shall apply.