Clarkson Regulatory News (CKN)

14 Jan 2009 07:00



14 January 2009

Clarkson PLC

Trading statement

Prior to entering its close period for the year ended 31 December, the Board of Clarkson PLC is pleased to confirm that since its update on 12 November, trading has continued in line with the Board's expectations. As a result of the strengthening of the US dollar, our main trading currency, over the last 6 weeks of 2008 revenues will exceed the Board's expectations.

However the significant decrease in underlying freight rates, particularly dry cargo, in the latter part of the fourth quarter, will lead to an impairment of goodwill for the full year.

These two factors are expected to offset each other and consequently the Board remains confident that the Group will meet current expectations for the full year, after impairment charges, and deliver another year of record growth in 2008.

Preliminary results for the year ending 31 December 2008 will be announced on 16 March 2009.