This paper proposes to develop a parallel reading of the banking supervision system and the framework for the enforcement of competition law, with the purpose of setting out points of convergence and divergence between the two, analyzing their institutional architecture and various issues pertaining to the relevant, applicable law. This approach might prove fruitful for a better understanding of each of the two systems, and for filling the gaps left open and unresolved by legislative texts. It might also offer some contribution in view of a more general analysis of the key-issues that those who design the systems meant to govern the European economy should consider.