New C 2 -symmetrical diaminoferrocenyl derivatives 3 and 2-amino(sulfonamido)cyclohexanes 4 were found to be highly active ligands for the ruthenium catalyzed asymmetric transfer hydrogenation of ketones. Contrary to many existing catalytic systems, the ligands 3 show a high activity at 25 °C and operate even at -30 °C (up to 90 % ee). On the other hand, the slightly less active ligands 4 are very easily prepared and are highly enantioselective at 30 °C in HCOOH/Et 3 N (up to 96 % ee).