Business climate in leasing remains at a comfortable level despite some worsening - growth in equipment investment continues to be robust

After a peak in confidence in the German leasing industry at mid 2007, a significant correction occurred in August. The Ifo Business Climate Indicator in Leasing fell to the level of year-end 2006. Nevertheless, both components of the indicator are above the long-term average. The robust business development in leasing should thus continue beyond the 2007/2008 turn of the year. On average for the year, nominal growth in investment should be more than 7.5%.