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HEIDELBERG anticipates a very strong second half to financial year 2024/2025

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  • Incoming orders after six months above previous year’s level thanks to strong drupa orders
  • High order backlog provides sound basis for projected sales volume in second half of the year, capacities being fully utilized
  • Strong seasonality in financial year, with sales and EBITDA in the first half of the year within expectations
  • Packaging solutions segment remains growth driver
  • Annual forecast confirmed

Thanks to a high order backlog of € 953 million, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) anticipates that the second half of financial year 2024/2025 will be strong, while current developments over the quarters reflect the pronounced seasonality that is to be expected. This positive outlook is based on strong incoming orders in the first half of the year, which are 7.4 percent up on the previous year, at € 1.273 billion. Sales of € 915 million were within expectations, due to purchasing restraint ahead of the drupa trade show (previous year: € 1,092 million).

“HEIDELBERG is starting a very strong second half of the year. We are now ramping up the utilization of our production capacities so we can work through our order backlog in the third and fourth quarters quickly and profitably,” says HEIDELBERG CEO Jürgen Otto. “The forecast sales volume for new machines has already been almost entirely met with orders and our production operations are running at full capacity. We can be confident that we will achieve our targets for the year.”

HEIDELBERG is still particularly strong in and around China. Incoming orders in the Asia Pacific region recorded the clearest growth in the first six months of the current financial year, increasing by approximately 10 percent.

Based on strong order levels, the company anticipates a clear increase in sales in the second half of the current financial year in particular. When adjusted for special items, the

EBITDA margin in the first six months of financial year 2024/2025 was 3.4 percent (same period of previous year: 9.2 percent) and was impacted in particular by lower sales in Q1 and by expenses related to drupa. Strict cost discipline had a positive impact in the reporting period. This is another reason why EBITDA improved significantly compared to the first quarter from € -9 million to € 40 million. During the period under review, there were no special items that require adjustment. Compared to the same period of the previous year (€ 33 million), the result after taxes after six months dropped in line with the lower adjusted EBITDA to € -35 million. In the second quarter, the result after taxes was positive, at € 7 million (same quarter of previous year: € 23 million).

After the first half-year, free cash flow
was, as anticipated, € -102 million (same period of previous year: € -28 million). It improved significantly in the second quarter, creeping into positive figures, at € 2 million. “Our active cost management is increasingly bearing fruit by considerably improving free cashflow over the course of the year,” reports
HEIDELBERG CFO Tania von der Goltz. “Consistent cost control over the coming months will play a big part in the success of the current financial year. Furthermore, the anticipated improvements in results in the second half of the year will have a positive impact on the free cash flow.”

Packaging solutions segment remains growth driver –

annual forecast confirmed

Compared to the same period of the previous year, the packaging solutions segment was able to increase incoming orders in the first half of the year by around 9.7 percent to € 675 million, thereby contributing approximately 53 percent to the total volume. Megatrends in the packaging market are first and foremost the growing demand for packaging that is both sustainable and high-quality. This is where the positioning of HEIDELBERG as a systems integrator and total solution provider has a positive impact, helping to further expand its very strong position in the packaging market. The company also anticipates further growth opportunities in China due to its location benefits. In the print solutions segment, incoming orders rose in the same period by around 5.5 percent to € 594 million.

Beyond the packaging business, HEIDELBERG wants to capitalize on other strengths. The company is characterized by a high export ratio, as over 80 percent of its business is generated outside of Germany. In particular, the company sees further growth opportunities in China and the Asia-Pacific region thanks to local production and a very strong market position. Beyond Asia, HEIDELBERG benefits globally in the service business from a large installed base of machines that are connected to HEIDELBERG via a cloud. Networking allows the efficiency of the systems to be improved, preventive maintenance to be planned and software updates to be installed.

Taking into account the expectations and assumptions published and presented in the 2023/2024 management report, the Company continues to expect sales for financial year 2024/2025 to be in line with the previous year’s figure (previous year: € 2,395 million). The adjusted EBITDA margin is also expected to be similar to the previous year’s figure (previous year: 7.2 percent). The high order backlog resulting from the successful drupa trade fair and the continuous focus on margins and costs will provide a sound basis for the achievement of the targets. In future, the focus will primarily be on strategic growth measures in the Packaging, Industry and Service segments, as well as further cost reductions.

Image material and further information about the company are available in the Investor Relations portal and Press Lounge of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG at www.heidelberg.com.

Further information:

Corporate Communications

Florian Pitzinger

Phone: +49 151 67968774

E-mail: [email protected]

Thomas Fichtl

Phone: +49 6222 82-67123

E-mail: [email protected]

Investor Relations

Maximilian Beyer

Phone: +49 6222 82-67120

E-mail: [email protected]

Important note:

This press release contains forward-looking statements based on assumptions and estimates made by the management of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Aktiengesellschaft. Even if the company management is of the opinion that these assumptions and estimates are accurate, actual future developments and future actual results may deviate considerably from these assumptions and estimates due to a variety of factors. These factors may include, for example, changes in the overall economic situation, exchange rates and interest rates as well as changes within the graphic arts industry. Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Aktiengesellschaft provides no guarantee and assumes no liability that future developments and the actual results achieved in the future will correspond to the assumptions and estimates made in this press release.

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Poundland’s Last-Minute Rescue Deal

Poundland is pursuing a rescue deal to avoid collapse amid financial woes, affecting UK retailers.

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Poundland's Last-Minute Rescue Deal

Poundland is in a critical situation as it seeks a last-minute rescue deal to prevent its collapse. The British retailer, unable to purchase new stock due to severe financial constraints, faces an uncertain future. This development, reported on November 11, 2026, underscores a challenging period for the company and highlights broader issues impacting UK high street retailers. The potential failure of such a well-known brand has raised significant concerns about the health of the retail sector.

Gordon Brothers, a potential suitor for Poundland, is actively involved in efforts to secure a rescue deal. The firm is urging the release of necessary funding to finalise the sale, which is seen as vital to ensure the retailer’s survival. This move is not just about saving Poundland but also about stabilising confidence in the sector that has been increasingly under pressure. The stakes are high, and the outcome remains crucial not only for the company but for its employees and the wider retail landscape.

The urgency of the situation cannot be overstated. Poundland’s inability to secure new stock due to its financial woes is a direct consequence of deeper issues plaguing the retail industry. This predicament has sparked fears of a complete collapse, which would have significant repercussions for employees and consumers reliant on the affordability and convenience of Poundland stores. The retailer’s plight is a stark reminder of the precarious position of many high street brands in the current economic climate.

The broader trend of financial struggles among UK retailers is evident, as noted by Sky News. Poundland’s situation is emblematic of the pressures facing many high street businesses today. Rising costs, changing consumer habits, and intense competition from online retailers have created a perfect storm, threatening the survival of traditional brick-and-mortar establishments. The outcome of Poundland’s rescue deal could set a precedent for how other struggling retailers navigate similar challenges.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on whether the necessary funding and agreements can be secured in time to save Poundland. The company’s future hangs in the balance, and the need for a decisive resolution is paramount. The involvement of Gordon Brothers adds a layer of potential optimism, but the complex nature of retail financing means the path to a successful deal is fraught with uncertainty.

The implications for UK high street retailers are significant. A collapse of Poundland could signal further instability, shaking consumer confidence and potentially leading to a domino effect among other retailers. Conversely, a successful rescue could provide a much-needed boost to the sector, offering a template for similar deals in the future. The retail industry will be closely watching the developments, as the outcome will likely influence strategic decisions across the market.

In conclusion, Poundland’s pursuit of a rescue deal is a critical moment for the retailer and the broader industry. The company’s ability to navigate this challenging period will depend heavily on the outcome of negotiations with Gordon Brothers and the timely release of funds. As of now, all eyes are on this high-stakes situation, and the coming days will be decisive. The retail sector’s trajectory may well hinge on the resolution of this pressing financial dilemma.

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Paraguay President Santiago Peña Resigns Amid Bank Collapse

Paraguay’s President Santiago Peña resigns amid a bank collapse impacting millions, sparking a major financial crisis.

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Paraguay President Santiago Peña Resigns Amid Bank Collapse

On November 5, 2026, Paraguay’s political landscape was dramatically reshaped as President Santiago Peña resigned amid a severe financial crisis. This crisis, characterized by the collapse of a major bank, has left millions of Paraguayans with frozen savings, triggering widespread financial instability across the nation [The Guardian, November 2026]. The resignation came after intense public pressure, reflecting the profound impact of the banking sector’s failure on the country’s socio-economic fabric [The Guardian, November 2026].

The immediate catalyst for Peña’s resignation was the unprecedented bank failure that exposed significant vulnerabilities in Paraguay’s financial system. This collapse not only froze millions of savings but also drew international scrutiny to the country’s fiscal management [BBC, November 2026]. The banking debacle underscored the systemic issues within Paraguay’s financial institutions, raising questions about regulatory oversight and governance that have yet to be fully addressed.

Peña’s decision to step down was formally communicated through an official announcement, marking a pivotal moment in Paraguay’s political history [BBC, November 2026]. This move was largely seen as a response to growing unrest and a loss of confidence in his administration’s ability to manage the crisis effectively. The president’s resignation has opened a leadership vacuum at a critical juncture, as the nation grapples with stabilizing its economy and restoring public trust.

The international community has been closely monitoring the developments in Paraguay, with the bank collapse serving as a cautionary tale of financial mismanagement [BBC, November 2026]. While specific international responses were not detailed, the situation has likely prompted discussions on the need for stronger financial governance frameworks in similar emerging markets. The crisis has highlighted the interconnectedness of global financial systems and the potential repercussions of inadequate oversight.

As Paraguay faces this economic turmoil, the focus now shifts to the interim leadership and their strategies to mitigate the crisis’s impact. Restoring the public’s access to their frozen assets will be a priority, alongside implementing reforms to prevent future financial collapses. The path forward will require decisive action from both domestic policymakers and international financial bodies to ensure stability and confidence in Paraguay’s banking sector.

The ripple effects of this financial crisis extend beyond Paraguay, as regional economies assess their vulnerabilities to similar shocks. The need for robust risk management practices and transparency in financial dealings is underscored by this situation. Paraguay’s experience may serve as a catalyst for broader financial reforms within the region, promoting resilience against potential economic disruptions.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the effectiveness of Paraguay’s response to the crisis. The interim leadership’s ability to navigate these challenges will set the tone for the country’s economic recovery and political stability. Observers will be keenly watching for signs of progress as Paraguay seeks to rebuild its financial credibility and restore normalcy for its citizens.

Peña’s resignation, though a significant political event, is just the beginning of a complex recovery process for Paraguay. The nation’s future hinges on its capacity to implement necessary reforms and regain the confidence of both its people and the international community. The lessons learned from this crisis will likely inform future policy decisions, shaping Paraguay’s path toward economic resilience.

In the aftermath of this crisis, Paraguay’s financial system will inevitably undergo scrutiny and transformation. The global financial community will be attentive to how Paraguay addresses its systemic issues, with the potential for this situation to become a case study in crisis management and reform. The developments in Paraguay may influence how emerging economies structure their financial governance in the years to come.

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FBI Identifies North Korea as Culprit in $6.3 Billion Binance Crypto Hack

FBI attributes $6.3B Binance crypto hack to North Korea, raising security concerns. Binance covers 90% of losses.

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FBI Identifies North Korea as Culprit in $6.3 Billion Binance Crypto Hack

In a striking attribution of cyber malfeasance, the Federal Bureau of Investigation has named North Korea as the perpetrator behind a colossal $6.3 billion hack on Binance, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges. This revelation underscores persistent cybersecurity vulnerabilities and intensifies geopolitical tensions already fraught with complexity [The Guardian, November 2026].

The breach, now recognized as the largest of its kind, has sent shockwaves through the digital asset community, raising urgent questions about the robustness of current security protocols within the crypto industry [Al Jazeera, November 2026]. Despite the significant financial blow, Binance has demonstrated resilience by covering a substantial 90% of the losses, reflecting its commitment to maintaining user trust and stability [The Guardian, November 2026].

Binance’s response to the hack has been proactive, involving collaboration with international law enforcement agencies to pursue recovery of the stolen assets. A spokesperson from the exchange affirmed, “We are working closely with law enforcement to recover the funds,” indicating a strategic approach to mitigate the consequences of this unprecedented breach [The Guardian, November 2026].

The scale of the hack, valued at $6.3 billion, places it squarely in the spotlight of global financial and security discussions. It serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities inherent in digital finance systems, particularly as they become more entwined with global economic infrastructures [Al Jazeera, November 2026].

North Korea’s involvement in such a high-profile cybercrime reflects broader geopolitical dynamics, where state-sponsored hacking has become a tool for economic gain and political leverage. This attribution by the FBI further complicates diplomatic relations and underscores the need for coordinated international responses to cyber threats [The Guardian, November 2026].

The incident has not only affected Binance but has also sent ripples across the broader cryptocurrency market, prompting investors and exchanges to reassess their security measures. The hack’s magnitude highlights the urgent need for enhanced protective measures and industry-wide collaboration to fortify digital asset exchanges against future threats [Al Jazeera, November 2026].

In the wake of this cyber assault, Binance’s robust response and coverage of losses may set a precedent for how exchanges handle such adversities in the future. It also emphasizes the critical role of transparency and accountability in maintaining user confidence and market integrity [The Guardian, November 2026].

As the situation unfolds, the interplay between cybersecurity and international politics will likely intensify, with potential repercussions for regulatory frameworks governing digital assets. The hacking incident serves as a catalyst for ongoing debates about the balance between innovation and security in the realm of cryptocurrency [Al Jazeera, November 2026].

Looking forward, the focus will remain on how Binance and other cryptocurrency platforms adapt to these evolving threats. Their ability to enhance security protocols and foster international cooperation will be crucial in defining the future landscape of digital finance. The world will closely monitor these developments, particularly as they relate to North Korea’s cyber capabilities and intentions [The Guardian, November 2026].

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