Evaluation of Overall Risk

The global economic crisis caused downward trends that were very hard to assess. Nevertheless, when planning for 2009, we had already based our estimates on much lower growth trends. We took selective measures to lessen the impact of the global crisis on our company.

No Risks to Endanger the Company’s Continued Existence

Our centralized risk management function assesses every risk indicated by our divisions, corporate departments and regional entities. Based on the Group’s risk report, the Executive Board does not see any individual or aggregate risk that could endanger WACKER’s future in any material way. We remain confident that WACKER is strategically and financially well-positioned to take advantage of any opportunities that arise.