Atlas Copco: Interim report at September 30, 2008

Record results and 9% organic order growth

• Order growth in all business areas.
- Growth rates moderated in most regions.
• Revenues reached MSEK 18 440 (16 431), organic growth 13%.
• Operating profit up 16% to MSEK 3 640 (3 127), a margin of 19.7% (19.0).
- Currency effect neutral compared to previous year.
• Profit before tax increased to MSEK 3 224 (2 708).
• Profit for the period was MSEK 2 432 (1 890).
• Basic and diluted earnings per share were SEK 1.99 (1.54).
• Operating cash flow was MSEK 1 054 (1 586).

Near-term demand outlook
The overall demand for Atlas Copco’s products and services is expected to decrease somewhat compared to the most recent quarters. Demand from the mining industry is foreseen to decrease from the current high level and construction in North America and Western Europe will remain weak. The recent strong growth in emerging markets is expected to moderate.

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