Cash and cash equivalents

In 2009, cash and cash equivalents increased by EUR 766 million to EUR 4,386 million at year-end. Cash inflow from operations amounted to EUR 1,545 million, and there was EUR 802 million proceeds from divestments including EUR 718 million from the sale of stakes. This was partly offset by an outflow of EUR 647 million related to the annual dividend, EUR 300 million for acquisitions and small unfavorable currency translation effects of EUR 15 million.

In 2008, cash and cash equivalents declined by EUR 5,149 million to EUR 3,620 million at year-end. The share buyback program led to a cash outflow of EUR 3,298 million while a dividend of EUR 720 million was paid. Furthermore, cash outflows for acquisitions were EUR 5,316 million, partially compensated by EUR 2,600 million in cash proceeds from divestments. In addition, cash flow from operations amounted to EUR 1,648 million, partly offset by unfavorable currency translation effects within cash and cash equivalents of EUR 39 million.

1)	Includes the sale of stakes in mainly LG Display and Pace Micro Technology
2)	Includes the acquisitions of mainly Saeco and Dynalite