The FINANCIAL -- The Volvo Group’s strong trend continued during the fourth quarter of 2011. According to Volvo, sales rose in all regions, profitability improved and cash flow was strong.

In the fourth quarter net sales increased by 18% to SEK 86.5 billion (73.4). Adjusted for currency movements and acquired and divested units, sales increased by 20%. For the full year net sales increased by 17% to SEK 310.4 billion (264.7).

The fourth quarter operating income amounted to SEK 6,955 M (5,518). Compared to the fourth quarter of 2010 changes in exchange rates had a negative impact of SEK 425 M. The full-year operating income was the highest to date and amounted to SEK 26.9 billion (18.0).

Operating margin in the fourth quarter was 8.0% (7.5). The full-year operating margin was a record 8.7% (6.8).

In the fourth quarter basic and diluted earnings per share amounted to SEK 2.33 (1.59). Full-year diluted earnings per share amounted to SEK 8.75 (5.36).

In the fourth quarter operating cash flow in the Industrial Operations was positive in an amount of SEK 10.7 billion (15.1).

Return on shareholders’ equity of 23.1% in 2011 (16.0).

The Board of Directors proposes a dividend of SEK 3.00 per share (2.50).

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