Amsterdam, 01 April 2008
EADS, as well as the concerned EADS and Airbus executives, take notice of the decision of the AMF College to initiate proceedings, respectively for breach of market information duties and for breach of insider trading rules.
In the first step of what is likely to be a long process, the AMF College has considered that the elements gathered during the investigative phase of the enquiry, as interpreted by AMF’s investigators, do not justify a dismissal of the case. AMF will notify the company and the executives concerned of the nature of the charges against them.
Louis Gallois, CEO of EADS, said: “At last, EADS and its managers concerned will be in a position to defend themselves. EADS will support its managers in their defense; it intends to demonstrate that it has applied standards of excellence when communicating to the market, and has acted with full transparency”.
For the first time, EADS and the persons involved will be able to confront AMF's interpretation with their explanation of the facts of the case. They intend to vigorously exercise their defense rights with the support of EADS, in front of the Sanction Commission of the AMF which will decide whether to impose fines after due hearing of the parties.
Considering the fact that there is no decision on the substance so far, EADS insists that the principle of presumption of innocence be upheld. EADS considers that the financial risk associated with this procedure and its possible consequences is not material. However, it recognizes that these proceedings may have significant consequences on its image and reputation.
EADS Corporate Communications:
| Pierre Bayle |
Tel.: + 33 142 24 20 63 |
