The economy within the Euro area will grow faster in 2004 than in the previous year. Research institutions estimate that the GDP will grow in the Netherlands by roughly 1%, in Belgium by almost 2% and in Finland by over 3%. Media advertising traditionally grows more than GDP.
SanomaWSOY’s net sales are expected to increase slightly compared to the previous year despite the changes in accounting principles. Comparable profitability continues to improve. In 2003, operating profit included some EUR 43 million of non-recurring gains on the sales of assets. In 2004, the non-recurring gains on the sales of assets may remain below that.