Audi 2014 Annual Report Download - page 203

REPORT ON EXPECTED DEVELOPMENTS, RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES
REPORT ON RISKS AND OPPORTUNITIES // REPORT ON POST-BALANCE SHEET DATE EVENTS
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/ OVERALL ASSESSMENT OF THE RISKS AND
OPPORTUNITIES SITUATION OF THE AUDI GROUP
The Audi Group is managed on the basis of targets and oppor-
tunities, with the focus on a sustainable increase in value. The
Risk Management System and Internal Control System consti-
tute a systematic approach that ensures transparency and
effective management of risks.
The Audi Group is characterized by a strong brand image, an
attractive product range, a worldwide supplier and production
network, and an international customer structure. This con-
stellation enables us to hold our own even in a difficult eco-
nomic climate, and to outperform the market overall. The
proof is in our profit ratios and the high financial strength of
our Company, which give us the necessary leeway to invest –
both today and in the future – in new products, pioneering
technologies and services.
The overall risk and opportunity position for the Audi Group
arises from the individual risks and opportunities presented
above. The most significant risks for the Audi Group stem from
product development and creation, efforts to meet sustaina-
bility requirements, and the increasingly tough regulatory
standards and environment.
Additional potential in the individual sales markets and our
innovative strength offer a broad spectrum of opportunities.
Continuing, steady market expansion, above all in the Asia-
Pacific region and the Americas, paves the way for us to further
diversify our sales markets worldwide and capitalize on poten-
tial for market growth. The Audi brand plays an important role
within the Volkswagen Group and itself exploits the synergies
available to it in order to strengthen its own competitiveness.
These synergies are not limited to its production network; they
are also felt in other elements of the value chain, such as
Technical Development and Procurement. The Group-wide
focus on sustainability targets ensures that we meet not only
the statutory requirements, but also the expectations of our
customers.
On the basis of the information currently known to us, there
are no risks that could pose a threat to major Group companies
or the Audi Group itself as going concerns.
REPORT ON POST-BALANCE
SHEET DATE EVENTS
There were no reportable events of material significance after
December 31, 2014.