NATIXIS : NATIXIS STRENGTHENS ITS CAPITAL STRUCTURE

Natixis strengthens its capital structure

Natixis' two key shareholders - Banque Fédérale des Banques Populaires (BFBP) and Caisse Nationale des Caisses d'Epargne (CNCE) - have each granted their joint subsidiary a EUR 500 million advance, treatable as equity. As a result, shareholder advances will total EUR 2.5 billion at June 30, 2008.

This advance granted before June 30, 2008 is expected to be replaced in part or in full by hybrid equity from issues planned to be undertaken in the upcoming months, depending on market conditions. The advance will enable Natixis to maintain its solid capital structure with a Tier One ratio of at least 8.5% (under Basel II standards), in line with the objectives communicated to the market when Natixis was created.

This solid capital structure provides Natixis with a sound platform for funding its expansion while weathering the continuing financial crisis, specifically the recent developments concerning monoline insurers.

This information is provided by HUGIN

Contact: Victoria Eideliman +33 1 58 19 47 05