The Bonn-based company lost €757 million ($1.1 billion) in the October-December period compared with a loss of €898 million a year earlier.

But the company said that its adjusted net profit for the fourth quarter was €808 million ($1.2 billion), about 2% lower than the €824 million it earned a year earlier.

Sales were about 0.5% lower at €15.8 billion ($23.7 billion), compared to €15.9 billion a year earlier. (Xinhua)