Analyze the sentiment of this statement extracted from a financial news article. Provide your answer as either negative, positive, or neutral.
Text: Operating profit for the 12-month period decreased from EUR157 .5 m , while net sales increased from EUR634 .3 m , as compared to 2007 .
Answer:
Operating profit for the 12-month period decreased from EUR157 .5 m , while net sales increased from EUR634 .3 m , as compared to 2007 .