Observer appeals against decision on raised tax assessment

The Swedish tax authorities have decided to raise Observer AB’s taxable income for year 2000 with approximately SEK 440 million, which would result in tax costs of SEK 173 million. The decision concerns the sale of Sifo Research & Consulting. The company considers the decision to be unfounded and intends to appeal against the decision. Observer is of the opinion that the tax authorities’ decision will not result in any increased tax cost and will, until further notice, not make any provision due to the decision. For further information, please contact: Jan-Erik Jansson, Senior VP Legal & Tax, telephone: +46 70 511 91 53, +46 8 507 410 14, e-mail: jan-erik.jansson@observergroup.com Anders Lundmark, Chief Financial Officer, telephone: +46 70 333 29 77, +46 8 507 417 23, e-mail: anders.lundmark@observergroup.com Per Blixt, Senior VP Corporate Communications, telephone: +46 70 549 28 08, +46 8 507 410 12, e- mail: per.blixt@observergroup.com