Year-end Report 2008

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Solid performance despite rapid economic slowdown

Strong income momentum also in fourth quarter

“I am proud that Nordea can report strong results for 2008 based on solid performance in all customer areas, despite the financial market turmoil and global economic recession. Even in the very difficult fourth quarter, our profit before loan losses reached the highest quarterly result so far. Loan losses increased as expected following the economic slowdown and they will remain at a high level in 2009. Our ambition on a Great Nordea remains and we continue the organic growth strategy. However, we are preparing for another challenging year by bringing down the speed of the execution of the strategy and by giving cost, risk and capital management top priority. With the proposal announced today to strengthen our capital position, we will maintain our position as one of the strongest banks in Europe”, says Christian Clausen, President and Group CEO of Nordea.