Atlas Copco Third quarter report 2005

Strengthened market positions and record performances by all business areas.Orders received up 25%, +15% in volume.Revenues reached MSEK 13 479 (11 325), up 10% in volume.Operating profit increased 31% and the margin reached 19.0% (17.3).Profit after financial items increased 33% to MSEK 2 470 (1 851).Net profit was MSEK 1 670 (1 345) and earnings per share SEK 2.65 (2.13). Operating cash flow totaled MSEK 1 671 (1 661).Near-term demand outlook  The demand for Atlas Copco's products and services is expected to remain at a high level.  Demand from manufacturing and process industries is expected to stay favorable. Activity in the construction industry is expected to continue to increase somewhat. Demand from the mining industry is expected to remain strong.