On account of the bankruptcy petition submitted by Plastal Holding AB, Handelsbanken makes the following comment:

 

Handelsbanken's exposure to the Plastal Group is SEK 2.1bn, most of which is secured in pledges in the company's assets in Sweden and abroad. The entire commitment consists of current operating credits, as the previously granted acquisition credit has been repaid in full.

 

The size of the exposure is currently on a par with the exposure that Handelsbanken had to the Plastal Group as at 31 December 2008.

 

Handelsbanken has been Plastal's main bank since 2002. Handelsbanken has a positive view of participating in the process of finding a long-term solution for the company's operations.

 

 

 

Michael Green, executive vice president, head of Regional Bank Western Sweden: +46 8-22 92 20

 

Johan Lagerström, press officer: +46 8 701 1395; mobile: +46 70-265 80 14

 

Mikael Hallåker, head of Investor Relations: +46 8 701 29 95;

mobile: +46 70-266 29 95