Overall risk

During the year, the risk position of the Linde Group improved, due to the sale of the Refrigeration business segment. In all risk areas, there has been a reduction in potential risk, resulting in a lower level of overall risk for the Linde Group.

There were no risks which threatened the existence of the Linde Group in the fiscal year 2004. Seen from today’s position, no risks have been identified which could endanger the continued existence of the Group as a going concern in the future or which could have a significant adverse effect on the net assets, financial position and results of operations of the Group.