Noble Finishes 2006 on Strong Note

NEW YORK - Feb 22/07 - SNS -- Noble Group Limited a net profit of U.S. $134.5 million on revenues of $13.8 billion for the 2006 fiscal year.

Based on these results, the company's directors recommended a cash dividend equal to 25% of net profits, or US$33.4 million. As of end 2006, shareholders' equity totaled $957 million.

Agricultural segment reported 2006 revenues up 30% to more than US$4 billion, a 30% increase over 2005 led by double-digit growth across all business divisions.

"Agriculture segment gross profits rose more than 70% to US$121 million led by our grain division," the company said in a press statement, "which reported a tripling in gross profits as investments in port and elevation facilities as well as our expanded crushing operations created incremental growth in tonnage and new margin opportunities.

"Record contributions from the Energy and Agricultural segments were led by the continuing build-out of Noble's agricultural supply chain as well as further expansion in our clean fuel and ethanol merchanting activities and owned and managed coal operations. Our carbon credit origination division utilized its first mover advantage to acquire market share and a leadership position.

"Our Energy segment revenues rose 34% to $6.2 billion and continue to represent Noble's largest business segment accounting for 45% of Group revenues. Gross profits were up 83% to a record US$258 million with broad contributions from our clean fuel, coal and coke and carbon credit businesses.

"Our Logistic segment also ended the year with an improved second half 2006 performance thus beginning to regain its rightful position within the Group's portfolio. Likewise, our Metals, Minerals and Ore segment performed with stronger second half results lifting the year-end gross profits comparable with 2005."