First IPO In Prime Standard In 2007

Wednesday saw the first IPO in Prime Standard (Official Market) in 2007 as KROMI Logistik AG went public on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The initial price stands at €22.00. The issue price (fixed price) stood at €20.00, while the placement volume in shares totaled 1,305,000.

The issue was supported by the lead manager and designated sponsor Joh. Berenberg, Gossler & Co. KG, while the lead broker is equinet AG. KROMI Logistik was allocated to the Industrial sector and to the Industrial Products and Services industry group.

According to KROMI Logistik, its business activities focus on the development of IT system solutions covering all aspects of tool management, as well as the establishment of a high-performance, Europe-wide logistics network for equipment supply to and from clients.

"With 21 first-time listings in the Open Market, 8 new companies in Entry Standard, one company in General Standard and the first IPO in Prime Standard in 2007, the positive IPO trend seen last year is continuing. Low capital costs and high liquidity make Frankfurt an attractive listing venue in an international comparison", said Rainer Riess, who is responsible for Deutsche Börse's cash market.

This is also confirmed by the results of a study performed by TU München in November 2006: Companies pay less for an IPO or capital increase at Deutsche Börse than they do on any other European stock exchange. The comparative study shows that investors benefit from the low transaction costs resulting from the high level of liquidity offered by Deutsche Börse.

There are currently 385 companies listed in Prime Standard, 373 in General Standard and 84 in Entry Standard. -- www.deutsche-boerse.com