A. Treichl, the chairman of Erste Bank as well as AVS, said yesterday that there is no reason to change the CZK 375 per-share buyout price to be offered by AVS (which holds a 41% stake in Erste Bank). He also said that AVS has secured sufficient sources to finance the buyout. The tender offer, which is to be effective for some six weeks, could be completed in mid-May, according to Mr. Treichl. Separately, CS’s AGM, which should vote on a dividend out of 2001 profit, is preliminarily scheduled for May 22, 2002. Source: Bloomberg, CTK, CS. Patria’s investment opinion on Ceska sporitelna is restricted.
(Jan Hajek)