Dividend

Based on the Group’s excellent financial results, we intend to increase the dividend for 2009 and thus continue our earnings-linked dividend policy. For the 17^th consecutive year, we are proposing to our shareholders a dividend increase to € 0.75 (2008: € 0.70) per ordinary share and € 0.76 (2008: € 0.71) per preference share – an increase of 7 % per share. The total proposed dividend distribution will be € 121.8 million, equivalent to 24 % of Group net income before special items. Based on the proposed dividend and the closing prices of our shares at the end of 2009, the dividend yield would be about 1.7 % for ordinary shares and 1.5 % for preference shares. This is slightly below the previous year’s level of 1.9 % and 1.7 %, respectively.

We have added a total return calculator as a service on our website at www.fresenius.com in the Investor Relations / Shares / Share Price section. You can use the calculator to determine the total return on your Fresenius shares, including dividend payments.