Q4 net loss at 2 billion euros
Proposes unchanged dividend of 0.15 euros per share
Shares indicated to open 1.8 lower

FRANKFURTDUESSELDORF, Nov 22 Reuters Germany39;s Thyssenkrupp on Wednesday unveiled a 2.1billioneuro 2.3 billion impairment on its steel unit due to a gloomy outlook, highlighting the challenge in efforts to win Czech energy group EPH as a coowner for the business.

As a result of the impairment, Thyssenkrupp, which has been trying to divest its steel division for several years, posted a 2billioneuro net loss for the fourth quarter. Adjusted operating profit in the JulySeptember quarter fell 45 to 88 million euros.

The figures show that we have made progress with the transformation of Thyssenkrupp, despite the difficult environment, but also that we must continue to work hard at raising the performance of our businesses, Thyssenkrupp CEO Miguel Lopez said.

Shares of the company, which proposed a stable dividend of 0.15 euros apiece, were indicated to open 1.8 lower in premarket trade.

Thyssenkrupp which apart from steel builds submarines, car parts and operates a large materials trading business said it was in constructive and openended talks with EPH about a potential steel joint venture.

EPH, controlled by Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky, would support Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe with its energy expertise in any joint venture, the company said.

Thyssenkrupp last month flagged a marked deterioration in the steel market, adding optimistic…