Since a hidden subsidy is being removed, it is only natural that banks' borrowing costs should rise.

ECONOMIST: Bank regulations

They used to enjoy a hidden subsidy on big trades from the high commissions charged to small traders.

ECONOMIST: Good-bye to all that

This is a hidden subsidy to the banks.

FORBES: Moody's Downgrades the UK Banks

But Mr Monti felt the scheme was an illegal state aid because it might give a windfall increase in value to a landowner, a subsidy to a developer, or a hidden subsidy to a renter of the new premises.

ECONOMIST: Europe and the regions