The consolidated turnover of VIOHALCO increased by 36%, in the first three months of the year 2007, amounting to Euro 958 mil. The consolidated profits, for the period 01/01 - 31/03/2007, before taxes, interest and depreciation amounted to Euro 128 mil., increasing by 45%, while the profits before taxes and minority rights amounted to Euro 84 mil. increasing by 80%, compared with those of the corresponding period of 2006. The profits after taxes and minority rights amounted to Euro 37,3 mil., or Euro 0,188 per share, increasing by 67%, in comparison with those of 2006. The consolidated own capital amounted to Euro 1.932 mil., marking an increase of 27%.
The increased turnover reflects the increase of the sales volume, as well as the increase in metals prices. On the other hand, the increase of the profits is due to the increase in the profit margins, as a result of the continuing favorable conditions, prevailing the metals branch and more specifically the steel works, as well as to the reduced cost of production.