Stockholm, Sweden, February 1, 2007: The financial position of Atlas Copco is strong due to a number of years with improved profitability and the recent disposal of the majority of the construction equipment rental business in North America.
The Board of Directors’ proposal for a share split and redemption procedure
February 1, 2007
In order to adjust the Group’s balance sheet to a more efficient structure while preserving adequate financial flexibility for further growth, the Board of Directors proposes to the Annual General Meeting a share redemption procedure, whereby every share is split into 2 ordinary shares and 1 redemption share. The redemption share is then automatically redeemed at SEK 40 per share. This corresponds to a total of MSEK 24 415. Combined with the proposed dividend of SEK 4.75 per share, shareholders will receive MSEK 27 315.
The redemption is subject to approval at the Annual General Meeting 2007 on the following:
· Amendment of the Articles of Association, so that the permitted range of number of shares is increased from a minimum of 240 million and a maximum of 960 million to a minimum of 500 million and a maximum of 2 billion. At the same time, the maximum number of series A shares, as well as of series B, is increased from 960 million of each to 2 billion of each.
· Share split, through which each existing share, of series A as well as of series B, will be divided into three shares, of which one will be named redemption share.
· Reduction of the share capital for repayment to the shareholders by way of redemption of 628 806 552 redemption shares, whereby shares of series A and series B will be redeemed in proportion to the number of shares of the respective series issued.
· Increase of the share capital by SEK 262 002 730 by way of a bonus issue, whereby the Company's non-restricted equity is to be made use of.
The suggested record day for the share split is May 22, 2007. Trading in the redemption shares is estimated to take place on Stockholmsbörsen on May 23 – June 12, 2007, after which the redemption shares will automatically be redeemed. The payment of the redemption price is estimated to be made around June 20, 2007.For further information please contact:
Hans Ola Meyer, Chief Financial Officer
+46 (0)8 743 8292 or +46 (0)70 588 8292
Mattias Olsson, Investor Relations Manager
+46 (0)8 743 8291 or +46 (0)70 518 8291