In order to optimise capital employed of YIT Oyj (HLSE:YIT) (Group), YIT's Board of Directors has decided to review the company's strategic options regarding its operations in Russia. To secure the best possible value creation, YIT is reviewing alternative paths, including a potential sale of the businesses. Markku Moilanen, President and Chief Executive Officer of YIT: "Our Housing Russia has done excellent work in increasing profitability over the past couple of years. The operations are now solidly profitable, further supported by a strong local housing market. However, YIT has evaluated its strategy over the past months and as a part of this review, we have concluded that we want to be clearly more focused in our business portfolio. Capital release from Russia would primarily be used to pursue growth in Housing in the growing cities of Finland, Poland, Czech Republic and Slovakia." During the review process, YIT's personnel, customers or partners in Russia will not be affected, and YIT will continue sales, construction, and commissioning, as well as permitting new projects normally. All obligations related to investment contracts will be met.