Brock comments on Atlas Copco’s Q4 results

Stockholm, Sweden, February 1, 2007: Today Atlas Copco presents its report for the fourth quarter 2006, with results on record levels. The near-term demand outlook from most customer segments such as mining, construction and the manufacturing and process industries, is expected to remain at the current high level for Atlas Copco’s products and services.

“Atlas Copco performed extremely well in 2006. Our continuous efforts to strengthen the market presence and penetration are clearly paying off. We achieved double-digit growth in all regions also in the fourth quarter, with an overall organic growth as high as 21%,” says Gunnar Brock, President and CEO of the Atlas Copco Group.

Orders received for Atlas Copco’s continuing operations was up 16% to MSEK 14 131 (12 145) in the fourth quarter, an organic growth of 21%. Atlas Copco has now achieved volume growth for 19 consecutive quarters.

Revenues rose to MSEK 13 582 (11 982), an organic growth of 18%. Operating profit was up 15% to MSEK 2 464 (2 146), a margin of 18.1% (17.9). Profit before tax was MSEK 2 382 (2 097) and earnings per share SEK 14.74 (3.46) whereof SEK 11.90 (1.03) from discontinued operations.

The Board of Directors of Atlas Copco AB is proposing to the Annual General Meeting a capital distribution to the shareholders of SEK 44.75 per share or BSEK 27 in total.

“The strong profitability development, the cash proceeds from the equipment rental divestment and a lower operational risk than before the divestment support a significant capital distribution. At the same time, we will keep sufficient financial strength to carry on with our ambitious growth strategy.”