Core Insights - The German paint and ink industry is facing significant macroeconomic challenges, with a notable decline in sales volume and revenue, prompting calls for political reforms to reduce bureaucracy and stabilize the sector [1][4]. Group 1: Industry Performance - In 2025, domestic sales in the German paint and ink industry decreased by 2.8%, with revenues falling by 1.2% to €5.8 billion [1]. - The construction paint and plaster segment experienced a significant loss, with a volume decline of 3.5% due to weak construction activity and reduced investment [3]. - The DIY segment saw a decline of 2%, while the engineering sector faced a 4% drop, reflecting challenging market conditions [3]. Group 2: Specific Segments - In the printing ink sector, sales volume decreased by 5%, primarily due to a reduction in publication printing volumes, although packaging printing showed slight growth [3]. - The industrial coatings sector was impacted by weak manufacturing demand, with a decline of 1.2%. Specific areas like furniture and wood (-3.5%) and automotive repair paints (-5%) also faced downturns, while the anti-corrosion coatings sector grew by 3% due to government infrastructure projects [3]. Group 3: Trade and Future Outlook - Exports in the industry grew by 1% in 2025, reaching €3.7 billion, while imports increased significantly by 3.5% to €1.3 billion [3]. - The association predicts a further moderate growth in 2026, supported by slight improvements in the external economic environment [3]. - The association's president emphasized the need for structural reforms and a reduction in bureaucracy to stabilize the industry, noting that the German economy has stagnated for six years [4].

Core Viewpoint - The company is undergoing a transformation to become an investment, holding, and management platform, necessitating amendments to its Articles of Association and business scope [1][2]. Group 1: Amendments to Articles of Association - The company’s board and supervisory board approved the proposal to amend the Articles of Association and change the business registration information [1]. - The amendments reflect the company's strategic shift and operational needs, focusing on new material technology and emerging energy technology [2]. Group 2: Changes in Business Scope - The previous business scope included packaging printing, manufacturing of inks, and various trade activities, while the revised scope emphasizes new material technology research and development, as well as management consulting services [2]. - The new business scope also includes technical services, non-residential real estate leasing, and other related activities, indicating a shift towards more service-oriented operations [2]. Group 3: Corporate Structure Changes - The company’s corporate type will change from a joint-stock company (with Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and domestic joint ventures) to a joint-stock company (with Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan investments) [2]. - This change may reflect a broader strategy to attract different types of investments and partnerships [2]. Group 4: Next Steps - The proposal for amendments will be submitted for approval at the upcoming shareholders' meeting [3].