MAS Notice 649 pertains to the regulatory requirements set by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for banks regarding capital adequacy. The notice outlines the minimum capital requirements and risk management standards that banks must adhere to in order to maintain financial stability and resilience. In the context of the 16% vs 18% threshold, it seems there might be a specific requirement or guideline within the notice that has been misinterpreted or misstated. If the correct figure is indeed 18%, it is important for banks and financial institutions to adhere to this threshold to ensure compliance with MAS regulations. For accurate and up-to-date information, it is advisable to refer directly to the latest version of MAS Notice 649 or consult with a regulatory expert or legal advisor who can provide guidance based on the most current regulatory framework.