6-K 1 d432655d6k.htm 6-K 6-K
Table of Contents

 

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 6-K

 

 

Report of Foreign Private Issuer

Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16

under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the month of August 2017

Commission File Number 1-34694

 

 

VEON Ltd.

(formerly VimpelCom Ltd.)

(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

 

 

The Rock Building, Claude Debussylaan 88, 1082 MD, Amsterdam, the Netherlands

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

 

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.

Form 20-F ☒                Form 40-F ☐

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): ☐.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): ☐.

 

 

 


Table of Contents
  LOGO

Explanatory Note

The registrant’s Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and Unaudited Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as at and for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017 of the registrant’s Second Quarter Earnings Release Report furnished with this Form 6-K, are incorporated by reference in the registration statements filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission by the registrant on Form F-3 (Registration Nos. 333-213905 and 333-196223). Except for the foregoing, no other document or portion of a document furnished with this Form 6-K is incorporated by reference in the above registration statements.


Table of Contents

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

VEON LTD.

(Registrant)

Date: August 3, 2017

 

By:  

/s/ Scott Dresser

Name:   Scott Dresser
Title:   Group General Counsel


Table of Contents

VEON Ltd. - Second Quarter Earnings Release Report

For the Quarterly Period Ended June 30, 2017

Table of Contents

 

Q2 2017 Earnings Release

Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations

Unaudited Interim Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements as at and for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017

Q2 2017 Results Presentation

Q2 2017 Fact Book


Table of Contents

 

 

 

 

 

LOGO

V E O N   C O N T I N U E S   T O    R E P O R T   D O U B L E   D I G I T   R E V E N U E   A N D    E B I T D A

G R O W T H   I N   T H E   S E C O N D    Q U A R T E  R   O F   2 0 1 7

A N D   A C C E L E R A T E S   T H E    G E N E R A T I O N   O F   U N D E R L Y I N G   E Q U I T Y

F R E E   C A S H   F L O W   E X C L U  D I N G   L I C E N S E S   T O   U S D   2 9 3   M I L L I O N;

I N T E R I M   D I V I D E N D   O F    U S   1 1   C E N T S   A N N O U N C E D   A N D

F Y   2 0 1 7   G U I D A N C E   C O N  F I R M E D


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Q2 2017 KEY RESULTS

 

Total revenue increased 12.3% year on year, and 3.7% organically1 – a result of strong revenue performance in Russia, Pakistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan despite continued, but reduced, pressure in Algeria

 

Mobile service revenue growth was particularly positive, increasing 4.3% in organic terms (with mobile data growing organically by 30.5% year on year); fixed-line service revenue declined in organic terms by 11.5%

 

Reported EBITDA increased 17.1% year on year and 10.6% organically1 with a margin of 38.5%

 

Net loss for the period attributable to VEON shareholders of USD 278 million was mainly caused by exceptional items such as Euroset impairment of USD 110 million, the USD 85 million share of net loss recorded by the Group in respect of Italy JV, resulting from integration costs and accelerated depreciation and amortization, and early redemption premiums for bond repurchases of USD 124 million)

 

Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses3 of USD 293 million up from USD 243 million in Q2 2016

 

FY 2017 targets4 confirmed with single digit revenue growth, EBITDA margin accretion and underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses3 of USD 900 million to USD 1 billion

MAIN EVENTS

 

Supervisory Board of VEON approved an interim dividend 2017 of US 11 cents per share to be paid on 6 September 2017

 

VEON, the personal internet platform, launched in 5 countries

 

VEON and MegaFon to end their Euroset joint venture in Russia

 

Substantive refinancing activities completed in Q2 2017, simplifying the capital structure

 

AGM elected two new independent directors with Ursula Burns appointed Chairman of the Supervisory Board

 

Jazz acquired additional 4G/LTE spectrum in Pakistan

Amsterdam (3 August 2017) – VEON Ltd. (NASDAQ: VEON, Euronext Amsterdam: VEON) a leading global provider of connectivity and internet services headquartered in Amsterdam and serving over 235 million customers, today announces financial and operating results for the quarter ended 30 June 2017.

KEY RESULTS: CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS

 

USD million

   2Q17     2Q16
pro-forma Warid5
    2Q16
reported
    Reported
YoY
    Organic
YoY 1
 

 

Total revenue, of which

     2,417       2,228       2,153       12.3%       3.7%  

 

mobile and fixed service revenue

     2,331       2,158       2,086       11.8%       3.4%  

 

of which mobile data revenue

     465       340       333       39.6%       30.5%  

 

EBITDA

     931       811       795       17.1%       10.6%  

 

EBITDA underlying 2

     977       928       913       7.0%       1.5%  

 

EBITDA margin underlying 2 (EBITDA underlying/total revenue)

     40.4%       41.7%       42.4%       (2.0p.p.     (0.9p.p.

 

Profit/(loss) from continued operations

     (258     (55     (40     n.m    

 

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

     -       187       186       n.m    

 

Profit/(loss) for the period attributable to VEON shareholders

     (278     122       137       n.m    

 

Underlying equity free cash flow 3

     293       243       243       20.6%    

 

Capital expenditures excl. licenses

     332       307       284       17.2%    

 

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

     18.4%       17.2%       17.4%       1.0p.p.    

 

Net debt

     8,403       n.a       6,575       27.8%    

 

Net debt/LTM EBITDA underlying

     2.2       n.a       1.8      

 

Total mobile customer (millions, excluding Italy)

     208       204       194       6.9%    

 

Total fixed-line broadband customers (millions)

     3.5       3.4       3.4       4.6%          

 

1)

Organic change reflects changes in revenue and EBITDA excluding foreign currency movements and other factors, such as businesses under liquidation, disposals, mergers and acquisitions (see Attachment C for reconciliations)

2)

Underlying EBITDA excludes transformation costs and material exceptional items, see Attachment C for reconciliations

3)

Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is defined as free cash flow from operating activities less free cash flow used in investing activities (excluding capex for licenses and withholding tax related to Pakistan spectrum of USD 29.5 million), excluding M&A transactions, transformation costs and other one-off items

4)

FY 2017 targets based on pro-forma results for 2016, including 12 months of Warid contribution; organic targets for revenue and underlying EBITDA margin are at constant currency, excluding exceptional items, e.g. transformation costs and M&A. Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is calculated at the target rates for 2017 (see Attachment C)

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 2


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

5)

Pro-forma assuming that the results of Warid have been consolidated (including intercompany eliminations) within VEON’s results with effect from 1 January 2016

 

USD million

   1H17     1H16
pro-forma Warid5
    1H16
reported
    Reported
YoY
    Organic
YoY 1
 

 

Total revenue, of which

 

     4,698       4,324       4,170       12.7%       1.5%  

mobile and fixed service revenue

 

     4,533       4,180       4,033       12.4%       1.5%  

of which mobile data revenue

     901       647       635       42.0%       29.2%  

EBITDA

 

     1,792       1,589       1,553       15.3%       6.4%  

EBITDA underlying 2

 

     1,868       1,747       1,711       9.1%       1.2%  

EBITDA margin underlying 2 (EBITDA underlying/total revenue)

 

     39.8%       40.4%       41.0%       (1.3 p.p.     (0.2 p.p.

Profit/(loss) from continued operations

 

     (269     (36     (2     n.m    

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

 

           383       383       n.m    

Profit/(loss) for the period attributable to VEON shareholders

 

     (283     291       326       n.m    

Underlying equity free cash flow 3

 

     491       328       328       49.7%    

Capital expenditures excl. licenses

 

     595       467       437       36.0%    

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

     18.4%       17.2%       17.4%       1.0p.p.          

JEAN-YVES CHARLIER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, COMMENTS:

“I am pleased to report a robust second quarter with continued double-digit growth in revenues and EBITDA. We observed further revenue growth in our core markets of Russia, Pakistan and Ukraine, which saw strong demand for our mobile data services. This momentum translated into further increases in underlying equity free cash flow, allowing us to confirm 2017 guidance. In addition, we are pleased to announce an interim dividend of 11 US cents on the back of our strong financial performance.

VEON’s transformation journey to becoming a digital services provider also saw significant progress with the launch of the VEON personal internet platform across five of our major markets. We have withdrawn from the Euroset joint venture in Russia to focus on expanding our monobrand strategy. Furthermore, the simplification of our capital structure continues to make good progress and will bring significant savings.

The Board was also delighted to welcome our new independent Chairman, Ursula Burns, who with Guy Laurence, was appointed as an independent director, further strengthens VEON’s corporate governance. Their experience in technology and leading global business transformations adds significant value to our development.”

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 3


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

CONTENTS   

MAIN EVENTS

     5  

GROUP PERFORMANCE

     7  

COUNTRY PERFORMANCE

     11  

CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

     18  

ATTACHMENTS

     20  

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL RESULTS

VEON’s results presented in this earnings release are based on IFRS and have not been audited. “EBITDA” or “reported EBITDA” presented in this document is called “Adjusted EBITDA” in the Management’s Discussion and Analysis of financial condition and results of operations (MD&A) section.

Certain amounts and percentages that appear in this earnings release have been subject to rounding adjustments. As a result, certain numerical figures shown as totals, including those in tables, may not be an exact arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede or follow them.

All non-IFRS measures disclosed in the document, i.e. EBITDA, EBITDA margin, underlying EBITDA, underlying EBITDA margin, EBIT, net debt, equity free cash flow, organic growth, capital expenditures excluding licenses, last twelve months (LTM) Capex excluding licenses/Revenue, are reconciled to the comparable IFRS measures in Attachment C.

The financial results for Q2 2016 are also presented on a pro-forma basis assuming that the results of Warid have been consolidated (including intercompany eliminations) within VEON’s results with effect from 1 January 2016, in order to assist with the year on year comparisons.

As at 7 November 2016, VEON Ltd. owns a 50% share of the Italy Joint Venture (with CK Hutchison owning the other 50%) and we account for this JV using the equity method as we do not have control. All information related to the Italy Joint Venture is the sole responsibility of the Italy Joint Venture’s management, and no information contained herein, including, but not limited to, the Italy Joint Venture’s financial and industry data, has been prepared by or on behalf of, or approved by, our management. VEON Ltd. is not making, and has not made, any written or oral representation or warranty, express or implied, of any nature whatsoever, with respect to any Italy Joint Venture information included in this report. For further information on the Italy Joint Venture and its accounting treatment, see “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key Developments and Trends—Italy Joint Venture” “Explanatory Note—Accounting Treatment of our Historical WIND Business and the new Italy Joint Venture” and Note 6 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2016.

All comparisons are on a year on year basis unless otherwise stated.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 4


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

MAIN EVENTS

VEON’s SUPERVISORY BOARD HAS APPROVED AN INTERIM DIVIDEND 2017 OF US 11 CENTS PER SHARE

Consistent with the Company’s recently communicated commitment to pay a sustainable and progressive dividend based on the evolution of its equity free cash flow, the Supervisory Board approved the distribution of an interim gross dividend of 11 US cents per share for 2017. This payment is planned to take place on 6 September 2017, with a record date of 14 August 2017. For ordinary shareholders at Euronext Amsterdam, the interim dividend of US 11 cents will be paid in euro.

VEON, THE PERSONAL INTERNET PLATFORM LAUNCHED IN 5 COUNTRIES

In July, VEON launched its new global personal internet platform in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Pakistan and, with updated functionality, in Italy, covering 134 million potential customers. The VEON platform provides personalized internet services, with a range of messaging and communication capabilities (including chat, calls and sharing) which users can use for free, without worrying about running out of data. The platform gives access to some of the most popular consumer brands, thanks to more than 100 partnerships with both global and local players. The Company intends to roll out the VEON platform in all its markets by the end of 2017.

VEON AND MEGAFON AGREED TO END THEIR EUROSET JOINT VENTURE IN RUSSIA

In July 2017, PJSC VimpelCom, a subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Framework Agreement with Megafon to unwind their retail joint venture, Euroset Holding B.V. (“Euroset”). Under the agreement, Megafon will acquire PJSC VimpelCom’s 50% interest in Euroset and PJSC VimpelCom will pay RUB 1.25 billion (~USD 20 million, subject to possible completion adjustments) and will acquire rights to 50% of Euroset’s approximately 4,000 retail stores in Russia. The transaction is subject to relevant regulatory approvals and other conditions precedent, and is expected to be completed in Q4 2017. Following completion of this transaction, VEON intends to double the number of Beeline monobrand stores, which VEON believes will result in churn and ARPU improvements, more upselling opportunities and a higher level of customer service.

SUBSTANTIVE REFINANCING ACTIVITIES COMPLETED IN Q2 2017, SIMPLIFYING THE CAPITAL STRUCTURE

VEON intends to continuously improve its capital structure and rebalance the debt currency mix, with the aim of lowering its net cost of debt. The Company’s subsidiary VimpelCom Holdings B.V. has successfully entered into a new RUB 110 billion, five-year term loan agreement with Sberbank. The term loan were utilized to refinance the existing loans between Sberbank and PJSC VimpelCom, as well as provide additional funds for general corporate purposes.

VimpelCom Holdings B.V. also completed an any-and-all cash tender offer for the following notes: (i) USD 1 billion 9.125% Loan Participation Notes due 2018 (USD 499 million o/s), (ii) USD 1 billion 7.748% Loan Participation Notes due 2021 (USD 651 million o/s) and (iii) USD 1.5 billion 7.5043% Guaranteed Notes due 2022 (USD 1,280 million o/s). The aggregate principal amount accepted for purchase pursuant to the offer was equal to approximately USD 1.3 billion, leaving the aggregrate principal amount outstanding, following settlement of the offer, at around USD 1.2 billion.

In connection with the cash tender offer, VimpelCom Holdings B.V. also issued new senior unsecured notes; on 16 June 2017, VimpelCom Holdings B.V. issued USD 600 million 3.95% Senior Notes due 2021 and USD 900 million 4.95% Senior Notes due 2024. The net proceeds of the issue have been utilized to finance the cash tender offer.

Since the beginning of 2017, the Group has been able to restructure or refinance approximately 60% of its debt, leading to enhanced flexibility, an improved currency mix, a lower average cost of debt and a lengthened maturity profile. This will lead to an average interest cost reduction of approximately USD 100 million per annum assuming stable gross debt.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 5


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

AGM ELECTED TWO NEW INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS, WITH URSULA BURNS APPOINTED CHAIRMAN

Following the election of the directors of the Supervisory Board at the AGM of 24 July 2017, the Supervisory Board appointed Ursula Burns, the former Chairman and CEO of Xerox, to become its Chairman effective immediately. With the election of Ursula Burns and Guy Laurence, the former CEO of Rogers, the Supervisory Board increased from nine to eleven members.

JAZZ ACQUIRED ADDITIONAL 4G/LTE SPECTRUM IN PAKISTAN

VEON and its subsidiary Global Telecom Holding announced the acquisition of additional 4G/LTE spectrum in Pakistan, through their local 85% owned subsidiary, Jazz. This marks another major milestone in VEON’s ambition to become a global digital leader and is expected to improve the customer experience in terms of voice quality, data speeds and connectivity. Jazz won the auction, being awarded 10 MHz of paired spectrum in the 1800 MHz band for a total consideration of USD 295 million and withholding tax of 10%.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 6


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

GROUP PERFORMANCE – Q2 2017

 

 

Total revenue increased 12.3% year on year, organic growth of 3.7% year on year

 

EBITDA increased 17.1% and includes exceptional costs of USD 46 million related to performance transformation (which in Q2 2016 amounted to USD 118 million)

 

Underlying EBITDA increased organically by 1.5% year on year; underlying EBITDA margin decreased organically by 0.9 percentage points to 40.4%

 

Underlying equity free cash flow (excluding licenses) of USD 293 million in Q2 2017, which represents an increase of USD 50 million compared to Q2 2016

FINANCIALS BY COUNTRY

 

USD million       2Q17       2Q16
  pro-forma
  Warid
      2Q16
  reported
      Reported
  YoY
      Organic
  YoY
          1H17       1H16
  pro-forma
  Warid
      1H16
  reported
      Reported
  YoY
      Organic
  YoY
 

Total revenue

      2,417        2,228        2,152        12.3%        3.7%          4,698        4,324        4,169        12.7%        1.5%   

Russia

      1,197        1,008        1,008        18.7%        3.0%          2,294        1,893        1,893        21.2%        0.4%   

Pakistan

      385        361        285        35.4%        6.9%          755        712        558        35.5%        6.1%   

Algeria

      231        251        251        (7.6%)       (8.0%)         463        529        529        (12.5%)       (11.7%)  

Bangladesh

      148        157        157        (6.0%)       (3.0%)         299        312        312        (4.3%)       (2.1%)  

Ukraine

      154        146        146        5.0%        10.0%          297        281        281        5.4%        10.8%   

Uzbekistan

      153        164        164        (7.3%)       20.3%          306        329        329        (7.2%)       15.0%   

HQ

                                           

Other and eliminations

      149        141        141        12.4%                  284        268        267        12.0%           

Service revenue

      2,331        2,158        2,085        11.8%        3.4%          4,533        4,180        4,033        12.4%        1.5%   

Russia

      1,147        980        980        17.0%        1.5%          2,201        1,827        1,827        20.5%        (0.1%)  

Pakistan

      359        341        269        33.7%        5.4%          705        673        526        34.0%        4.8%   

Algeria

      228        248        248        (8.0%)       (8.3%)         456        524        524        (13.0%)       (12.2%)  

Bangladesh

      144        152        152        (5.6%)       (2.6%)         291        305        305        (4.7%)       (2.5%)  

Ukraine

      153        145        145        5.5%        10.5%          295        280        280        5.5%        11.0%   

Uzbekistan

      152        164        164        (7.3%)       20.3%          305        329        329        (7.2%)       15.0%   

HQ

                                               

Other and eliminations

      147        135        128        16.0%                  280        242        242        15.5%           

EBITDA

      931        811        795        17.1%        10.6%          1,792        1,589        1,553        15.3%        6.4%   

Russia

      471        414        414        13.8%        (1.3%)         880        742        742        18.7%        (1.3%)  

Pakistan

      167        130        115        45.6%        28.3%          321        266        231        39.3%        20.8%   

Algeria

      105        128        128        (18.4%)       (18.7%)         219        286        286        (24.0%)       (23.0%)  

Bangladesh

      61        69        69        (11.7%)       (8.9%)         130        139        139        (6.3%)       (4.2%)  

Ukraine

      87        80        80        8.5%        13.7%          164        151        151        8.2%        13.8%   

Uzbekistan

      83        94        94        (11.9%)       14.4%          162        194        194        (16.8%)       3.4%   

HQ

      (94)       (112)       (112)       (16.3%)           (170)       (237)       (237)       (28.7%)    

Other and eliminations

      51                    561.3%            86        48        48        80.0%     

EBITDA margin

      38.5%        36.4%        36.9%                          38.1%        36.7%        37.3%                   

EBITDA underlying

      977        928        913        7.0%        1.5%          1,868        1,747        1,711        9.1%        1.2%   

Russia

      472        417        417        13.3%        (1.7%)         884        745        745        18.6%        (1.4%)  

Pakistan

      172        146        129        33.3%        19.1%          333        285        249        33.8%        17.2%   

Algeria

      105        128        128        (18.4%)       (18.8%)         219        287        287        (23.6%)       (23.0%)  

Bangladesh

      61        75        75        (18.7%)       (16.1%)         130        149        149        (12.8%)       (10.9%)  

Ukraine

      88        80        80        10.0%        15.1%          165        151        151        9.5%        15.1%   

Uzbekistan

      83        94        94        (11.9%)       14.4%          162        191        191        (15.4%)       5.1%   

HQ

      (66)       (58)        (58)       13.5%            (169)       (148)       (148)       14.3%     

Other and eliminations

      62        46        46        31.2%            143        89        90        61.0%     

EBITDA margin underlying

      40.4%        41.7%        42.4%                            39.8%        40.4%        40.4%                   

Group revenue for Q2 2017 increased 12.3% year on year to USD 2.4 billion driven by year on year organic growth of 3.7%, currency appreciation and the impact of the Warid transaction with effect from 1 July 2016. The Group showed strong revenue growth in Russia, Pakistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan, with continued, although alleviating, weakness in Algeria.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 7


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Mobile data revenue continued to show strong organic growth of 30.5% and total mobile customers increased 6.9% to 208 million at the end of Q2 2017, primarily driven by the inclusion of Warid’s customer base in Pakistan and by further organic customer growth in Pakistan, Ukraine and Uzbekistan.

Group reported EBITDA in Q2 2017 increased 17.1% to USD 931 million while underlying EBITDA was USD 977 million, reflecting an organic increase of 1.5%. The exceptional items of USD 46 million in this period largely relate to the cost of the Group-wide performance transformation program. The reconciliation table for EBITDA and underlying EBITDA is set forth in Attachment C.

For the discussion of each country’s individual performances below, all trends are expressed in local currency.

In Russia, total revenue in Q2 2017 increased 3.0%, driven by an increase in mobile service revenue, partially offset by a decrease in voice revenue. Mobile data revenue continued its strong growth, increasing 17.8%. Reported EBITDA decreased by 1.3%, while underlying EBITDA decreased by 1.7%, adjusted for exceptional costs in Q2 2016 and Q2 2017 related to the performance transformation program.

In Pakistan, the Group acquired Warid, strengthening its leading position and, as a result, Warid’s financial results have been consolidated into VEON´s financial statements with effect from 1 July 2016. Total revenue grew organically (i.e. including Warid pro-forma for 2016) by 6.9%, mainly due to growth in data and financial services revenues. Data revenue grew organically by 46.2%, driven by an increase in data customers through higher bundle engagement and continued 3G network expansion. Underlying EBITDA, excluding both restructuring costs related to the performance transformation program and integration costs related to the Warid transaction increased organically by 19.1%, while the underlying EBITDA margin was 44.7%, improving by 4.6 percentage points year on year.

In Algeria, total revenue decreased 8.0% as Djezzy continues to operate in a challenging environment with high inflation, an increase of VAT and of taxes on recharges following the new Finance law implemented on 1 January 2017, and also characterized by intense competition on data pricing in particular. The company expects the competitive pressure to continue and is taking corrective measures to turn the business around. Djezzy’s service revenue also decreased by 8.3%, while data revenue growth accelerated to 88.9%, due to higher usage and a substantial increase in data customers as a result of the 3G and 4G/LTE network roll-out. Underlying EBITDA, adjusted for exceptional costs related to the performance transformation program in Q2 2017, decreased by 18.8%, mainly due to the revenue decline.

In Bangladesh, total revenue decreased by 3.0%, driven by the 2.6% decline in service revenue. This decline in service revenue was partially caused by the spectrum disadvantage and the resulting gap in 3G network coverage versus the market leader although 3G network population coverage has been increased to 68% during Q2 2017 which reduces this gap. In addition, the market is still characterized by intense price competition which more than offset the continued increase in data revenue of 32.2%. The company’s underlying EBITDA decreased by 16.1%, mainly due to the declining revenue trend and customer acquisition activity during the quarter.

In Ukraine, total revenue increased by 10.0% and mobile service revenue grew by 10.9%, driven by successful commercial activities and continued strong growth of mobile data revenue, which grew by 71.6%, driven by growing data customers, successful marketing activities stimulated by the continued 3G roll-out and increased penetration of data-centric tariffs. Underlying EBITDA, adjusted for performance transformation costs in Q2 2016 and Q2 2017, grew by 15.1%.

In Uzbekistan, total revenue increased by 20.3% and mobile service revenue increased by 20.4%, primarily as a result of the impact of Beeline´s price plans being pegged to U.S. dollars. Mobile data revenue increased 28.2%, driven by the continued high-speed data network roll-out, increased smartphone penetration and the launch of new bundled offerings. Underlying EBITDA increased 14.4% driven by the increased revenue, partially offset by higher interconnect costs as a result of both higher off-net usage and a negative currency effect together with increases in content costs, customer costs and structural opex. As a result, the underlying EBITDA margin was a strong 54.3% in Q2 2017.

The “HQ” segment includes the costs of VEON’s and GTH’s headquarters in Amsterdam, the London digital office and the Eurasia Hub. In Q2 2017, HQ costs decreased year on year due to lower performance transformation costs.

“Other” includes the results of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Georgia, Tajikistan and intercompany eliminations.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 8


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

INCOME STATEMENT & CAPITAL EXPENDITURES

USD million    2Q17     2Q16
pro-forma Warid
    2Q16
reported
    Reported
YoY
           1H17     1H16
pro-forma Warid
    1H16
reported
    Reported
YoY
 

Total revenue

     2,417       2,228       2,153       12.3%          4,698       4,324       4,170       12.7%  

Service revenue

     2,331       2,158       2,086       11.8%          4,533       4,180       4,033       12.4%  

EBITDA

     931       811       795       17.1%          1,792       1,589       1,553       15.3%  

EBITDA margin

     38.5%       36.4%       37.0%       1.6p.p.          38.1%       36.7%       37.3%       0.9p.p.  

Depreciation, amortization, impairments and other

     (542     (542     (512     5.7%          (1,057     (1,023     (966     9.4%  

EBIT

     389       269       283       37.6%          734       566       587       25.1%  

Financial income and expenses

     (208     (194     (186     11.3%          (401     (370     (354     13.2%  

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others

     (169     19       9       n.m          (90     40       33       n.m  

Share of profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates

     (95     (12     (11     n.m          (196     (16     (16  

Impairment of JV and associates

     (110     -       -       n.m          (110     -       -    

Profit/(loss) before tax

     (193     82       95       (302.4%        (63     220       250       (125.4%

Income tax expense

     (65     (137     (135     (52.5%        (206     (256     (252     (18.4%

Profit/(loss) from continued operations

     (258     (55     (40     n.m          (269     (36     (2     n.m  

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

     -       187       187       n.m          -       383       383       n.m  

Profit for the period attributable to VEON shareholders

     (278     122       137       n.m                (283     291       326       n.m  
                   
     2Q17    

2Q16

pro-forma Warid

   

2Q16

reported

   

Reported

YoY

           1H17    

1H16

pro-forma Warid

   

1H16

reported

   

Reported

YoY

 

Capex

     644       371       350       84.5%          912       574       545       68.0%  

Capex excl. licenses

     332       307       284       17.2%          595       467       437       36.0%  

Capex excl.licenses/revenue

     13.7%       13.8%       13.2%       0.5p.p.             

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

     18.4%       17.2%       17.4%       1.0p.p.                                           

Q2  2017 ANALYSIS

EBIT increased year on year to USD 389 million, due to the EBITDA growth, partially offset by higher amortization driven by the revision of useful life of the Mobilink and Warid brands, following the introduction of the Jazz brand in Pakistan.

The loss before tax of USD 193 million was mainly driven by an increase in financial income and expenses due to the Warid debt consolidation and currency appreciation against the US dollar; net FX losses of USD 53 million (non-cash) as well as early redemption premiums on bond repurchases of USD 124 million; our 50% share of loss of the Wind Tre joint venture which amounted to USD 85 million (non-cash) and the Euroset impairment of USD 110 million (non-cash). The net loss of the Wind Tre joint venture loss was mainly driven by integration costs as well as accelerated depreciation and amortization recorded in Q2 2017.

Income tax expense decreased in Q2 2017 to USD 65 million as higher taxes in Pakistan and Ukraine resulting from higher profits were more than offset by positive year on year impact from lower taxes in Russia, mainly due to the tax deductibility of fees paid in connection with the bond repurchase.

Prior to the Wind Tre joint venture closing in November 2016, WIND has been accounted for as a discontinued operation and classified as held for sale under IFRS rules since Q3 2015. As a result, the Q2 2016 results were positively affected by the elimination of depreciation and amortization charges from the results of WIND. Following the closing of the Italy JV transaction, this “discontinued operations” accounting treatment is no longer applicable.

In Q2 2017, the company recorded a loss for the period attributable to VEON shareholders of USD 278 million, mainly attributable to the USD 372 million of non-cash charges explained above.

Capex including licenses increased 84.5% to USD 644 million in Q2 2017 primarily due to the purchase of spectrum in Pakistan, following the positive outcome of the auction in May this year. Without licenses, capex increased by 17.2% year on year.

The LTM (Last Twelve Months) ratio of capex (excluding licenses) to revenue was 18.4% in Q2 2017, with the Q2 2017 stand-alone ratio at 13.7%.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 9


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

FINANCIAL POSITION & CASH FLOW

     
USD million            2Q17               1Q17               QoQ                             
                    

Total assets

                 21,034         20,567         2.3%               

Shareholders’ equity

     5,355         5,720         (6.4%)              

Gross debt

     11,624         10,240         13.5%               

Net debt

     8,403         7,661         9.7%               

Net debt/underlying LTM EBITDA

     2.2         2.1                        
                    
USD million   

 

2Q17 

     2Q16       YoY            1H17       1H16       YoY   
                                                

Net cash from/(used in) operating activities

     578         680         (102)           1,162         442         720   

from continued operations

     578         428         150            1,162         67         1,095   

from discontinued operations

     -             252         (252)           -             375         (375)  

Net cash from/(used in) investing activities

     (725)        (626)        (99)           (1,314)        (1,177)        (137)  

from continued operations

     (725)        (405)        (320)           (1,314)        (765)        (549)  

from discontinued operations

     -             (221)        221            -             (412)        412   

Net cash from/(used in) financing activities

     909         693         216            163         719         (556)  

from continued operations

     909         693         216            163         729         (566)  

from discontinued operations

     -             -             -                  -             (10)        10   

Assets increased compared to Q2 2017 mainly driven by the 4G/LTE spectrum investment in Pakistan of USD 295 million.

Gross debt increased 13.5% quarter on quarter mainly due to the new term-loan at HQ of USD 0.6 billion, new bonds issued by VimpelCom Holdings of USD 1.5 billion and the new Sberbank facility at HQ of USD 1.7 billion, partially offset by bond repayments of USD 1.3 billion and the repayment of Sberbank facilities in Russia of USD 1.1 billion.

Net cash from operating activities decreased year on year in Q2 2017 by USD 102 million, driven by the USD 150 million higher cash flow from continued operations being more than offset by the year on year decrease in the net cash from discontinued operations as a result of the closing of the Italy JV transaction in November 2016.

Net cash flow used in investing activities increased year on year by USD 99 million, due to the net effect of 4G/LTE spectrum investment in Pakistan, offset by the above-mentioned impact related to discontinued operations in Italy.

Net cash from financing activities increased in Q2 2017, mainly due to USD 562 million of additional net borrowings and USD 345 million of dividend payments.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 10


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

COUNTRY PERFORMANCE – Q2 2017

 

 

Russia

 

 

Pakistan

 

 

Algeria

 

 

Bangladesh

 

 

Ukraine

 

 

Uzbekistan

 

 

Italy

RUSSIA

 

RUB million    2Q17       2Q16       YoY           1H17       1H16       YoY   

Total revenue

     68,407         66,423         3.0%           132,913         132,344         0.4%   

Mobile service revenue

     55,674         53,730         3.6%           108,022         105,564         2.3%   

Fixed-line service revenue

     9,889         10,848         (8.8%)          19,549         22,119         (11.6%)  

EBITDA

     26,925         27,269         (1.3%)          50,995         51,679         (1.3%)  

EBITDA underlying

     26,975         27,446         (1.7%)          51,199         51,909         (1.4%)  

EBITDA margin

     39.4%         41.1%         (1.7p.p.)          38.4%         39.0%         (0.6p.p.)  

EBITDA underlying margin

     39.4%         41.3%         (1.9p.p.)          38.5%         39.2%         (0.7p.p.)  

Capex excl. licenses

     7,882         7,191         9.6%           14,577         10,372         40.5%   

LTM Capex excl. licenses /revenue

     16.7%         16.7%         (0.0p.p.)                     
 
Mobile                                              

Total revenue

     58,491         55,537         5.3%           113,313         110,123         2.9%   

- of which mobile data

     14,510         12,316         17.8%           28,413         24,259         17.1%   

Customers (mln)

     58.3         57.5         1.4%                          

- of which data users (mln)

     38.1         33.7         12.9%                          

ARPU (RUB)

     320         309         3.6%                          

MOU (min)

     338         337         0.3%                          

Data usage (MB/user)

     2,716         1,906         42.5%                          

Fixed-line 1

                   

Total revenue

     9,916         10,886         (8.9%)          19,600         22,221         (11.8%)  

Broadband revenue

     2,579         2,941         (12.3%)          5,229         6,002         (12.9%)  

Broadband customers (mln)

     2.2         2.2         2.0%                          

Broadband ARPU (RUB)

     391         452         (13.5%)                           

Note: Fixed-line revenue and it’s component have been restated to align it with Group accounting policies

Performance in Russia improved during Q2 2017, but the conditions and competition in the market remain challenging.

Total revenue in Q2 2017 increased 3.0% to RUB 68.4 billion, driven by an increase in mobile service revenue. Mobile service revenue increased by 3.6% to RUB 55.7 billion, driven by growth in mobile data, value added services and mobile financial services revenue, partially offset by a decrease in voice revenue. Mobile data revenue continued its strong growth, increasing 17.8% to RUB 14.5 billion, resulting from increased penetration of integrated bundles and smartphones together with data traffic growth. Mobile ARPU grew 3.6% year on year to RUB 320, driven by the continued efforts to simplify tariff plans and successful upselling activities, while also being supported by increased penetration of bundled propositions in the customer base. Beeline’s mobile customer base increased by 1.4% year on year to 58.3 million in Q2 2017, driven by both increased sales and improved annual churn and the Net Promoter Score position remains at par with Beeline’s main competitors. Take up for the fixed mobile convergence (“FMC”) offer continues to be strong with more than 730,000 customers. Fixed-line service revenue decreased by 8.8% to RUB 9.9 billion mainly driven by the effect of the strengthening ruble on foreign currency contracts and growing penetration of FMC in the customer base.

Reported EBITDA decreased by 1.3% to RUB 26.9 billion while underlying EBITDA decreased by 1.7%, adjusted for exceptional costs related to the performance transformation program of RUB 49 million in Q2 2017 and RUB 177 million in Q2 2016. The underlying EBITDA margin was 39.4%, representing a sequential quarter on quarter improvement of 1.8 percentage points.

Capex excluding licenses increased 9.6% year on year during the quarter as a result of the accelerated roll-out of the high-speed data network, which led to 60% 4G/LTE population coverage. The LTM capex to revenue ratio for Q2 2017 was 16.7%.

 

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 11


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

PAKISTAN

Q2 2016 pro-forma results assume that the results of Warid have been consolidated (including intercompany eliminations) with effect from 1 January 2016

 

PKR billion          2Q17       


2Q16

pro-forma
Warid

 

 
 

     YoY           1H17       


1H16

pro-forma
Warid

 

 
 

     YoY   

Total revenue

         40.4        37.8        6.9%           79.2        74.6        6.1%   
 

Mobile service revenue

         37.7        35.7        5.4%           73.9        70.5        4.8%   
 

of which mobile data

         5.8        3.9        46.2%           11.0        8.0        37.4%   
 

EBITDA

         17.5        13.6        28.3%           33.7        27.9        20.8%   
 

EBITDA underlying

         18.1        15.2        19.1%           34.9        29.7        17.2%   
 

EBITDA margin

                 43.3%                36.0%                7.2p.p.                   42.5%                37.4%                5.2p.p.   
 

EBITDA underlying margin

                 44.7%        40.1%        4.6p.p.                   44.0%        39.9%        4.2p.p.   
 

Capex excl. licenses

         6.8        5.9        14.0%           10.4        8.0        29.5%   
 

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

         18.0%        17.7%        0.3p.p.           -        -         
 

Mobile

                       
 

Customers (mln)

         52.5        49.3        6.4%           -        -         
 

- of which data users (mln)

         26.7        22.7        17.4%           -        -         
 

ARPU (PKR)

         238        245        (2.7%)           -        -         
 

MOU (min) 1

         520        566        (8.0%)           -        -         
 

Data usage (MB/user)

 

         509        292        74.3%                 -        -         

1 MoU has been adjusted in 2016 and revised for 2015 due to a change of components in the definition of traffic

In July 2016, VEON acquired Warid, strengthening its leading position in Pakistan, and as a result, Warid’s financial results have been consolidated into VEON´s financial statements with effect from 1 July 2016. The companies received merger approval on 15 December 2016, with retrospective effect from 1 July 2016. The company started re-branding to the “Jazz” brand in January 2017, unifying distribution channels and processes, with the aim of simplifying the customer experience.

Despite the continuing aggressive price competition in the market, Jazz continued to show mid-to-high single-digit growth of both revenue and customer base. Revenue growth of 6.9% year on year was supported by growth in data and financial services revenues; in particular, data revenue accelerated to a 46.2% year on year growth, driven by an increase in data customers through higher bundle engagement and the continued 3G network expansion. The customer base increased by 6.4% year on year, driven by continued customer satisfaction through focus on price simplicity and efficient distribution channel management. Jazz sees data and voice monetization among its key priorities, underpinned by the ambition to offer the best network in terms of both quality of service and coverage.

Underlying EBITDA margin, excluding PKR 0.6 billion in performance transformation costs (including the Warid integration costs), was 44.7% in Q2 2017, improving by over 4.6 percentage points year on year.

Capex increased to PKR 6.8 billion in Q2 2017 while the LTM capex to revenue ratio was 18.0% in Q2 2017 (13.1% excluding integration capex). At the end of the Q2 2017, 3G was offered in 358 cities while 4G/LTE was offered in over 60 cities.

The Warid integration is ahead of schedule and the merged entity has been providing unified on-net offers to its customers since October 2016. In November 2015, with the announcement of the transaction to merge Mobilink with Warid, the Company provided target run-rate net cost synergies in the region of USD 115 million, 90% of which was expected by third year post-closing. This synergy target has already been fully achieved by the end of Q2 2017 although Jazz remains fully focused on network integration activities.

During Q2 2017, Jazz won the auction for 4G/LTE spectrum and was awarded 10 MHz of paired spectrum in the 1800 MHz band for a total consideration of USD 295 million (PKR 31 billion) and withholding tax of 10%, all of which was paid in Q2 2017. This additional spectrum will allow Jazz’s customers to experience higher data speeds, with better quality and coverage, making VEON the ideal platform to fulfil Pakistan’s digital ambitions.

VEON is in advanced discussions for the sale of its indirect subsidiary, Deodar Limited (“Deodar”), which holds a portfolio of approximately 13,000 towers and provides network tower services in Pakistan. As a result, on June 30, 2017, VEON classified Deodar as a disposal group held for sale and there can be no assurance that a definitive agreement for the sale of Deodar will be reached. Following the classification as a disposal group held-for sale, VEON will no longer account for depreciation and amortization charges of Deodar’s assets.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 12


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

ALGERIA

 

DZD billion    2Q17      2Q16      YoY           1H17      1H16      YoY   

Total revenue

     25.3        27.4        (8.0%)          50.7        57.5        (11.7%)  
   

Mobile service revenue

     24.9        27.2        (8.3%)          49.9        56.9        (12.2%)  
   

of which mobile data

     3.2        1.7        88.9%           6.0        3.5        73.3%   
   

EBITDA

     11.4        14.0        (18.7%)          23.9        31.1        (23.0%)  
   

EBITDA underlying

     11.4        14.0        (18.8%)          24.0        31.1        (22.9%)  
   

EBITDA margin

     45.1%        51.1%        (6.0p.p.)          47.2%        54.1%        (6.9p.p.)  
   

EBITDA underlying margin

     45.1%        51.2%        6.0p.p.           47.2%        54.1%        (6.9p.p.)  
   

Capex excl. licenses

     3.1        4.7        (33.7%)          6.0        7.6        (20.8%)  
   

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

         15.5%            14.9%            0.6p.p.                          
   

Mobile

                   
   

Customers (mln)

     15.5        16.3        (4.9%)                         
   

- of which mobile data customers (mln)

     7.0        5.4        29.9%                          
   

ARPU (DZD)

     522        546        (4.4%)                         
   

MOU (min) 1

     379        339        11.8%                          
   

Data usage (MB/user)

 

    

 

478

 

 

 

    

 

304

 

 

 

    

 

57.5% 

 

 

 

        

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

1 MoU has been adjusted in 2016 and revised for 2015 due to a change of components in the definition of traffic

Djezzy’s turnaround continued in Q2 2017, despite a challenging regulatory and macro-economic environment which remains characterized by strong competitive and inflationary pressures. As disclosed in Q4 2016, the regulatory environment has recently improved in Algeria, although the mobile termination rate (“MTR”) asymmetry for Djezzy is a topic still under discussion with the regulator. From a taxation perspective, with effect from January 2017, the new Finance law increased VAT from 7% to 19% on data services and from 17% to 19% on voice services and also increased taxes on recharges from 5% to 7%. These higher indirect taxes influenced Djezzy’s performance in relation to both revenue and EBITDA as these taxes could not be passed on to customers.

Revenue decreased by 8.0% year on year, a slightly improved year on year trend compared to Q1 2017. Price competition, on both voice and data, caused a reduction of ARPU and a year on year increase in churn. Djezzy’s Q2 2017 service revenue was DZD 24.9 billion, an 8.3% reduction, while data revenue growth accelerating to 88.9%, due to higher usage and a substantial increase in data customers as a result of the 3G and 4G/LTE network roll-out. Djezzy’s path to transform into a digital leader is being executed, as the company leads on 4G/LTE population coverage.

The customer base in Algeria decreased 4.9% to 15.5 million as a result of competitive pressure in the market and ARPU declined by 4.4%, a relative improvement compared to the year on year erosion experienced in Q1 2017, and this ARPU pressure was primarily caused by sub-optimal changes in billing and commission structures for indirect distribution that were introduced in early 2016.

Structural measures, taken by the new management team to improve performance and stabilize the customer base, including distribution transformation and monobrand roll-out, acceleration of 4G/LTE network deployment, promotion of micro campaigns with tailored services to increase satisfaction, data monetization activities and smartphone promotions coupled with bundle offers, are showing the first positive signs. The simplified data centric pricing architecture, in place since Q3 2016, is also contributing to the positive data revenue trend.

In Q2 2017, EBITDA decreased by 18.7% year on year. Underlying EBITDA (which in Q2 2016 was adjusted for exceptional costs of DZD 21 million related to the performance transformation program) decreased 18.8% to DZD 11.4 billion primarily due to revenue decline, with an underlying EBITDA margin of 45.1% and excluding the impact of the changes to indirect taxes with effect from 1 January 2017 underlying EBITDA margin would have been 48%.

At the end of Q2 2017, the company’s 4G/LTE services covered 20 wilayas and more than 20.5% of the country’s population, while the 3G network covers all 48 willayas Q2 2017 capex was DZD 3.1 billion, a 33.7% year on year reduction, with LTM capex to revenue at 15.5%.

Finally, in June Djezzy’s Board approved the distribution of DZD 16.4 billion (approximately USD 150 million) of gross dividends representing approximately 60% of 2016’s net income.

 

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 13


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

BANGLADESH

 

           
BDT billion      2Q17      2Q16        YoY               1H17        1H16        YoY   
 

Total revenue

       12.0        12.3          (3.0%)            24.0          24.5          (2.1%)  
 

Mobile service revenue

       11.6        11.9          (2.6%)            23.3          23.9          (2.5%)  
 

of which mobile data

       1.5        1.2          32.2%             3.1          2.2          37.4%   
 

EBITDA

       4.9        5.4          (8.9%)            10.4          10.9          (4.2%)  
 

EBITDA underlying

       4.9        5.8          (16.1%)            10.4          11.7          (10.9%)  
 

EBITDA margin

       41.1      43.7%          (2.7p.p.)            43.5%          44.5%          (1.0p.p.)  
 

EBITDA underlying margin

       41.1      47.5%          (6.4p.p.)            43.5%          47.8%          (4.3p.p.)  
 

Capex excl. licenses

       1.4        2.6          (44.6%)            2.2          3.9          (44.1%)  
 

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

       18.7      22.6%          (3.9p.p.)                   
 

Mobile

                             
 

Customers (mln)

       30.7        31.1          (1.5%)                   
 

- of which mobile data customers (mln)

       15.9        14.5          9.3%                   
 

ARPU (BDT)

       127        126          0.1%                   
 

MOU (min)

       285        316          (9.6%)                   
 

Data usage (MB/user)

 

      

 

364

 

 

 

    

 

167

 

 

 

      

 

117.2%

 

 

 

                                        

In Bangladesh, the operational focus during Q2 2017 continued to be on increasing network coverage in order to address the 3G coverage gap vis-à-vis the competition and on customer acquisition following the completion of the Government-mandated SIM re-verification program.

The year on year decline of the customer base slightly softened in Q2 2017 compared to Q1.

Excluding the results of the re-verification process, which resulted in 3.8 million SIM cards being blocked by Banglalink, the customer base increased year on year and the customer base grew on a quarter on quarter basis.

Total revenue in Q2 2017 decreased by 3.0% year on year while Banglalink’s service revenue decreased year on year 2.6% to BDT 11.6 billion and was stable quarter on quarter. The low single-digit decline in service revenue is mostly attributable to the gap in 3G network coverage versus the market leader. In addition, the market is still characterized by intense price competition, which accelerated following the SIM re-verification process and which more than offset the continued increase in data revenue of 32.2%, which was driven by increased smart-phone penetration. Data revenue growth was driven by data usage growth of 117.2% along with 9.3% growth in active data users and ARPU was broadly flat year on year.

Banglalink’s underlying EBITDA in Q2 2017 decreased by 16.1% to BDT 4.9 billion, as a result of the revenue trend and higher customer acquisition activity, more than offsetting savings from the performance transformation program. As a result, in Q2 2017, the underlying EBITDA margin was 41.1%, which represents a year on year reduction of 6.4 percentage points.

In Q2 2017, capex excluding licenses decreased 44.6% year on year to BDT 1.4 billion, with a LTM capex to revenue ratio of 18.7%. Banglalink continues to invest in efficient, high-speed data networks aiming to substantially improve its

3G network coverage, which covered 68% of the population at the end of Q2 2017.

The Government has published draft guidelines with regards to a spectrum auction and 4G/LTE service licenses for public consultation.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 14


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

UKRAINE

 

UAH million    2Q17     2Q16      YoY             1H17      1H16      YoY  
 

Total revenue

     4,058       3,689        10.0%           7,929        7,157        10.8%  
 

Mobile service revenue

     3,768       3,399        10.9%           7,328        6,598        11.1%  
 

Fixed-line service revenue

     277       262        5.9%           572        520        9.9%  
 

EBITDA

     2,305       2,027        13.7%           4,378        3,848        13.8%  
 

EBITDA underlying

     2,333       2,027        15.1%           4,407        3,828        15.1%  
 

EBITDA margin

     56.8     54.9%        1.9p.p.           55.2%        53.8%        1.4p.p.  
 

EBITDA underlying margin

     57.5     55.0%        2.5p.p.           55.6%        53.5%        2.1p.p.  
 

Capex excl. licenses

     705       727        (3.0%)           1,442        975        47.8%  
 

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

     19.9     18.4%        1.5p.p.           -        -        -  
 

Mobile

                   
 

Total operating revenue

     3,781       3,427        10.3%           7,357        6,636        10.9%  
 

- of which mobile data

     933       544        71.6%           1,778        1,040        71.0%  
 

Customers (mln)

     26.1       25.4        2.8%           -        -        -  
 

- of which data customers (mln)

     11.2       10.3        8.7%                 -  
 

ARPU (UAH)

     48       44        8.5%           -        -        -  
 

MOU (min)

     573       559        2.5%           -        -        -  
 

Data usage (MB/user)

     758       283        167.8%           -        -        -  
 

Fixed-line

                   
 

Total operating revenue

     277       262        5.9%           572        520        9.9%  
 

Broadband revenue

     169       151        12.5%           340        298        14.1%  
 

Broadband customers (mln)

     0.8       0.8        0.0%              
 

Broadband ARPU (UAH)

    

 

69

 

 

 

   

 

62

 

 

 

    

 

11.5%

 

 

 

                                   

Kyivstar continued to deliver strong results in Q2 2017, as the company remains the clear leader in both customer market share and NPS.

Total revenue increased 10.0% year on year to UAH 4.1 billion in Q2 2017 while mobile service revenue grew 10.9% to UAH 3.8 billion. This was driven by continued strong growth of mobile data revenue, which grew 71.6% as a result of growing data customers, successful marketing activities stimulated by the continued 3G network roll-out and data-centric tariffs. As a result, data consumption per user more than doubled in Q2 2017 compared with the same quarter in the previous year.

Kyivstar´s mobile customer base increased 2.8% to 26.1 million in Q2 2017, due to higher gross adds and improved churn and ARPU increased by 8.5% to UAH 48.

Fixed-line service revenue increased 5.9% to UAH 277 million, supported by fixed residential broadband (‘’FTTB’’) revenue, which continued to outgrow the market, increasing 13.1%, driven primarily by FTTB re-pricing and the improved quality of the customer base. The fixed broadband customer base is stable year on year at 0.8 million and fixed broadband ARPU increased 11.5% year on year to UAH 69.

EBITDA increased 13.7% to UAH 2.3 billion in Q2 2017 with an EBITDA margin of 56.8% while underlying EBITDA, adjusted for performance transformation and other costs totalling UAH 28 million in Q2 2017, grew 15.1% year on year, driven by higher revenue and lower interconnect costs, partially offset by the increase in commercial costs and structural opex, such as license and frequency fees. Underlying EBITDA margin increased 2.5 percentage points to 57.5%.

Q2 2017 capex was UAH 705 million with an LTM capex to revenue ratio of 19.9%. Kyivstar continued to roll out its 3G network in Q2 2017 reaching a population coverage of 69% from 48% in the same quarter last year.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 15


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

UZBEKISTAN

 

     2Q17      2Q16      YoY            1H17      1H16      YoY   
 

Total revenue

     576        479        20.3%          1,089        947        15.0%   
 

Mobile service revenue

     572        475        20.4%          1,082        940        15.1%   
 

- of which mobile data

     139        109        28.2%          274        212        29.0%   
 

Fixed-line service revenue

     4        3        13.3%          7        7        4.9%   
 

EBITDA

     313        273        14.4%          577        558        3.4%   
 

EBITDA underlying

     313        273        14.4%          577        549        5.1%   
 

EBITDA margin

     54.3%        57.1%        (2.8p.p.        53.0%        58.9%        (5.9p.p.)  
 

EBITDA underlying margin

     54.3%        57.1%        (2.8p.p.        53.0%        58.0%        (5.0p.p.)  
 

Capex excl. licenses

     60        47        26.0%          135        132        2.0%   
 

Capex excl. licenses LTM/revenue

     25.4%        14.2%        11.3p.p.             
 

Mobile

                   
 

Customers (mln)

     9.6        9.3        2.9%             
 

- of which mobile data customers (mln)

     4.5        4.3        5.5%             
 

ARPU (UZS)

     19,847        16,720        18.7%             
 

MOU (min)

     578        535        8.1%             
 

Data usage (MB/user)

 

    

 

392

 

 

 

    

 

226

 

 

 

    

 

73.4%

 

 

 

                                  

Note: Mobile data revenue have been restated for the prior periods to align it with Group accounting policies

Beeline reported strong results and continues to hold the leading position in both revenue market share and NPS in a highly competitive market.

Total revenue increased 20.3% as mobile service revenue increased 20.4% to UZS 572 billion, primarily as a result of the impact of Beeline´s price plans being pegged to U.S. dollars and successful marketing activities, together with increased revenues from interconnect services, value added services and mobile data. Mobile data revenue increased 28.2%, driven by the continued high-speed data network roll-out, increased smartphone penetration and the launch of new bundled offerings. The overall customer base increased 2.9% to 9.6 million, the second consecutive quarter of year on year growth, driven by strong gross additions.

Underlying EBITDA increased 14.4% compared to the prior year driven by increased revenue, partly offset by higher interconnect costs as a result of both higher off-net usage and a negative currency effect together with increases in content costs, customer costs and structural opex. As a result, the underlying EBITDA margin was a robust 54.3% in Q2 2017.

Capex was UZS 59.8 billion and the LTM capex to revenue ratio was 25.4%, mainly due to prepayments of equipment in Q4 2016 for deployment in 2017. The company continued to invest in its high-speed data networks as it improved the 4G/LTE coverage in Tashkent and increased the number of 3G sites by 41% and further improvements to the high-speed data networks will continue to be a priority for Beeline in 2017.

The cash and deposits balances of USD 696 million in Uzbek som are considered to be largely restricted from repatriation due to local government and central bank regulations.

The Republican Radiofrequencies Council in Uzbekistan published a Decision on ordering the redistribution of radio frequencies in Uzbekistan which, if it comes into force as planned in September 2017, could result in a reallocation of the Company’s subsidiary Unitel LLC’s radio frequencies to other cellular communications providers in the market.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 16


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

ITALY JOINT VENTURE 1

 

EUR million        2Q17          2Q16      YoY             1H17      1H16      YoY  
 

Total revenue

     1,535        1,563        (1.7%)           3,083        3,078        0.2%   
 

Mobile service revenue

     1,042        1,065        (2.2%)           2,085        2,114        (1.4%)  
 

Fixed-line service revenue

     268        267        0.5%            539        533        1.1%   
 

EBITDA

     442        493        (10.3%)           900        964        (6.6%)  
 

EBITDA underlying 2

     523        493        6.1%            1,040        964        7.9%   
 

EBITDA margin

     28.8%        31.5%        (2.7p.p.)           29.2%        31.3%        (213.4%)  
 

EBITDA underlying 2 margin

     34.0%        31.5%        2.5p.p.            33.7%        31%        240.3%   
 

Capex excl. licenses

     266        264        0.9%            506        540        (6.2%)  
 

LTM capex excl. licenses/revenue

     17.6%        17.7%        (0.6p.p.)           17.6%        17.7%        (60.0%)  
 

Mobile

                    
 

Total revenue

     1,239        1,292        (4.1%)           2,492        2,535        (1.7%)  
 

- of which mobile data

     367        319        15.0%            719        633        13.5%   
 

Customers (mln)

     30.3        31.3        (3.4%)           30.3        31.3        (3.4%)  
 

- of which data customers (mln)

     19.3        18.9        1.9%            19.3        18.9        1.9%   
 

ARPU (EUR)

     11.2        11.2        (0.2%)           11.1        11.1        (0.2%)  
 

MOU (min)

     274        286        (4.3%)           269        281        (4.2%)  
 

Fixed-line

                    
 

Total revenue

     296        271        9.6%            591.1        542.2        9.0%   
 

Total voice customers (mln)

     2.73        2.78        (1.8%)           2.73        2.78        (1.8%)  
 

ARPU (EUR)

     27.6        26.9        2.7%            28        27        2.8%   
 

Broadband customers (mln)

     2.4        2.3        2.4%            2.4        2.3        2.4%   
 

Broadband ARPU (EUR)

     21.8        20.9        4.2%                  21.8        20.7        5.1%   

 

1

The “combined data” for Q2 2016 consists of the sum of the WIND Telecomunicazioni s.p.a. and H3G s.p.a. businesses results, respectively, for the three months ended 30 June 2016, prior to the merger of the two businesses. The Q2 2016 data related to H3G s.p.a. was obtained through due diligence performed as part of the merger process. The Company has included this “combined data” because it believes that financial information on the Wind Tre joint venture is relevant to its business and results for the financial quarter. Going forward, the Company expects to include financial information related to the Wind Tre joint venture in the publication of its financial results. It should be noted that the Company owns 50% of the Wind Tre joint venture, while the results above reflect the entire business

2

Q2 2017 underlying EBITDA before integration costs of ~EUR 81 million

3 

Q2 2017 LTM EBITDA before approx. EUR 200 million of integration costs

Note:

starting from Q2 2017 results, minor changes in accounting policies were adopted and for a proper comparison previous period results were adjusted accordingly

Wind Tre’s total revenue in Q2 2017 decreased 1.7% to EUR 1.5 billion, driven by a 2.2% decline in mobile service revenue and lower sales of mobile handsets. The revenue decline was partially offset by growth of 0.5% in fixed-line service revenue.

The mobile service revenue decline was primarily due to increased competition in the market impacting the customer base, a more difficult comparison with Q2 of 2016 when certain re-pricing activities were implemented and by new EU roaming regulations.

Mobile data revenue continued to show strong growth with a 15.0% year on year increase to EUR 367 million, driven by an increase in both data customers, which grew by 1.9% to 19.3 million, and in data ARPU, which grew by 8.3%. At the end of Q2 2017, Wind Tre’s mobile customer base was 30.3 million subscribers, declining compared to the previous year due to increased competition ahead of the Iliad launch. In Q2 2017, mobile ARPU remained stable at EUR 11.2 with the increase in data ARPU fully offsetting the decline in voice ARPU.

Fixed-line service revenue performance was driven by a 7.0% growth in broadband revenue to EUR 155 million, with direct and broadband customers growing 1.8% and 2.4% respectively. In Q2 2017, the fixed-line direct customer base reached 2.5 million and the broadband customer base reached 2.4 million as a result of increased demand for ultra-broadband connections. Fixed and broadband ARPU grew by 2.7% and 4.2% respectively.

In Q2 2017, underlying EBITDA2 grew by 6.1% to EUR 523 million, driven by increased other revenues coupled with the benefits of post-merger synergies. As a result, the underlying EBITDA margin for Q2 2017 increased by 2.5 percentage points to 34.0%.

Capex in the quarter totaled EUR 266 million and was primarily focused on expanding capacity and coverage of the 4G/LTE network, as well as modernizing and merging the former Wind and Tre networks. The net leverage ratio (net

debt/LTM underlying3 EBITDA) was at 4.1x at the end Q2 2017.

In June 2017, Jeffrey Hedberg was appointed as new CEO of Wind Tre.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 17


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

On 3 August 2017, VEON will also host a conference call at 14:00 CEST (13:00 BST) through video webcast on its website and through following dial-in numbers. The call and slide presentation may be accessed at http://www.veon.com

14:00 CEST investor and analyst conference call

US call-in number: +1 (646) 254 3366

Confirmation Code: 4916180

International call-in number: +44 (0) 20 3427 1913

Confirmation Code: 4916180

 

 

The conference call replay and the slide presentation webcast will be available until 16 August 2017.

The slide presentation will also be available for download on VEON’s website.

Investor and analyst call replay

US Replay Number: +1 866 932 5017

Confirmation Code: 4916180

UK Replay Number: 0800 358 7735

Confirmation Code: 4916180

 

 

CONTACT INFORMATION

 

INVESTOR RELATIONS

Bart Morselt

ir@veon.com

  

MEDIA AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Roland Sladek

pr@veon.com

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017 18


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

DISCLAIMER

This press release contains “forward-looking statements”, as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible” and other similar words. Forward-looking statements include statements relating to, among other things, VEON’s plans to implement its strategic priorities, including with respect to its performance transformation, among others; anticipated performance and guidance for 2017, including VEON’s ability to generate sufficient cash flow; future market developments and trends; expected synergies of the Italy Joint Venture, including expectations regarding capex and opex benefits; realization of the synergies of the Warid transaction; operational and network development and network investment, including expectations regarding the roll out and benefits of 3G/4G/LTE networks, as applicable, the effect of the acquisition of additional spectrum on customer experience and the Company’s ability to realize its targets and strategic initiatives in its various countries of operation. The forward-looking statements included in this release are based on management’s best assessment of the Company’s strategic and financial position and of future market conditions, trends and other potential developments. These discussions involve risks and uncertainties. The actual outcome may differ materially from these statements as a result of demand for and market acceptance of VEON’s products and services; continued volatility in the economies in VEON’s markets; unforeseen developments from competition; governmental regulation of the telecommunications industries; general political uncertainties in VEON’s markets; government investigations or other regulatory actions and/or litigation with third parties; failure to realize the expected benefits of the Italy Joint Venture or the Warid transaction as expected or at all due to, among other things, the parties’ inability to successfully implement integration strategies or otherwise realize the anticipated synergies; risks associated with data protection or cyber security, other risks beyond the parties’ control or a failure to meet expectations regarding various strategic initiatives, including, but not limited to, the performance transformation program, the effect of foreign currency fluctuations, increased competition in the markets in which VEON operates and the effect of consumer taxes on the purchasing activities of consumers of VEON´s services. Certain other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in any forward-looking statements include the risk factors described in the Company’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and other public filings made by VEON with the SEC. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could harm our future results. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Under no circumstances should the inclusion of such forward-looking statements in this press release be regarded as a representation or warranty by us or any other person with respect to the achievement of results set out in such statements or that the underlying assumptions used will in fact be the case. Therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. We cannot assure you that any projected results or events will be achieved. Except to the extent required by law, we disclaim any obligation to update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Furthermore, elements of this release contain, or may contain, “inside information” as defined under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014.

All non-IFRS measures disclosed in the document, i.e. EBITDA, EBITDA margin, underlying EBITDA, underlying EBITDA margin, EBIT, net debt, equity free cash flow, organic growth, capital expenditures excluding licenses, last twelve months (LTM) Capex excluding licenses/Revenue, are reconciled to comparable IFRS measures in Attachment C.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     19


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

ABOUT VEON

VEON is a NASDAQ and Euronext Amsterdam-listed global provider of connectivity and internet services, with the ambition to lead the personal internet revolution for the 235 million+ customers it currently serves, and many others in the years to come.

Follow us:

LOGO on Twitter @veondigital

LOGO visit our blog @ blog.veon.com

LOGO go to our website @ http:// www.veon.com

CONTENT OF THE ATTACHMENTS

 

Attachment A

   Customers    21

Attachment B

   Definitions    21

Attachment C

   Reconciliation tables    24
   Average rates and budget rates of functional currencies to USD   

For more information on interim financial schedules please refer to the MD&A section and financial statements section.

For more information on financial and operating data for specific countries, please refer to the supplementary file Factbook2Q2017.xls on VEON’s website at http://veon.com/Investor-relations/Reports--results/Results/.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     20


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

ATTACHMENT A: CUSTOMERS

 

         Mobile           Fixed-line broadband  
million                      2Q17                    2Q16                    YoY                         2Q17                    2Q16                    YoY  

Russia

       58.3        57.5        1.4%            2.2        2.2        2.0%  

Pakistan

       52.5        49.3        6.4%               

Algeria

       15.5        16.3        (4.9%)              

Bangladesh

       30.7        31.1        (1.5%)              

Ukraine

       26.1        25.4        2.8%            0.8        0.8        1.7%  

Uzbekistan

       9.6        9.3        2.9%               

Other

       15.4        15.1        1.7%            0.5        0.4        23.5%  

Total consolidated

       208.1        204.2        1.9%            3.5        3.4        4.6%  

Italy

       30.3        31.1        (3.4%)           2.4        2.3        4.3%  

Total

         238.4        235.3        1.3%            5.9        5.7        3.6%  

ATTACHMENT B: DEFINITIONS

ARPU (Average Revenue per User) measures the monthly average revenue per mobile user. We generally calculate mobile ARPU by dividing our mobile serfvice revenue during the relevant period, including data revenue, roaming revenue and interconnect revenue, but excluding revenue from connection fees, sales of handsets and accessories and other non-service revenue, by the average number of our mobile customers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. Wind Tre defines mobile ARPU as the measure of the sum of the mobile revenue in the period divided by the average number of mobile customers in the period (the average of each month’s average number of mobile customers (calculated as the average of the total number of mobile customers at the beginning of the month and the total number of mobile customers at the end of the month) divided by the number of months in that period.

Data customers are mobile customers who have engaged in revenue generating activity during the three months prior to the measurement date as a result of activities including USB modem Internet access using 2.5G/3G/4G/HSPA+ technologies. Wind Tre measures mobile data customers based on the number of active contracts signed and includes customers who have performed at least one mobile Internet event during the previous month. For Algeria, mobile data customers are 3G customers who have performed at least one mobile data event on the 3G network during the previous four months.

Capital expenditures (capex) are purchases of new equipment, new construction, upgrades, software, other long lived assets and related reasonable costs incurred prior to intended use of the non-current asset, accounted at the earliest event of advance payment or delivery. Long-lived assets acquired in business combinations are not included in capital expenditures.

EBIT is a non-IFRS measure and is calculated as EBITDA plus depreciation, amortization and impairment loss. Our management uses EBIT as a supplemental performance measure and believes that it provides useful information of earnings of the Company before making accruals for financial income and expenses and net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others. Reconciliation of EBIT to net income attributable to VEON Ltd., the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented in the reconciliation tables section in Attachment C below.

Adjusted EBITDA (called “EBITDA” in this document) is a non-IFRS financial measure. EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. VEON calculates EBITDA as operating income before depreciation, amortization, loss from disposal of non-current assets and impairment loss and includes certain non-operating losses and gains mainly represented by litigation provisions for all of its Business Units except for its Russia Business Unit. For 2016 Russia Business Unit’s EBITDA is calculated as operating income before depreciation, amortization, loss from disposal of non-current assets and impairment loss.

In addition, the components of EBITDA include the key revenue and expense items for which the Company’s operating managers are responsible and upon which their performance is evaluated. EBITDA also assists management and investors by increasing the comparability of the Company’s performance against the performance of other telecommunications companies that provide EBITDA information. This increased comparability is achieved by excluding the potentially inconsistent effects between periods or companies of depreciation, amortization and impairment losses,

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     21


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

which items may significantly affect operating income between periods. However, our EBITDA results may not be directly comparable to other companies’ reported EBITDA results due to variances and adjustments in the components of EBITDA (including our calculation of EBITDA) or calculation measures.

Additionally, a limitation of EBITDA’s use as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain capitalized tangible and intangible assets used in generating revenue or the need to replace capital equipment over time. Reconciliation of EBITDA to net income attributable to VEON Ltd., the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented in the reconciliation tables section in Attachment C below.

EBITDA margin is calculated as EBITDA divided by total revenue, expressed as a percentage.

Gross Debt is calculated as the sum of long term debt and short term debt.

Equity Free Cash Flow is derived from consolidated statements of cash flows and is cash flow before financing activities; net cash from operating activities less net cash used in investing activities. Reconciliation to the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented in the reconciliation tables section in Attachment C below.

Households passed are households located within buildings, in which indoor installation of all the FTTB equipment necessary to install terminal residential equipment has been completed.

MBOU (Megabyte of use) is calculated by dividing the total data traffic by the average mobile data customers during the period.

MFS (Mobile financial services) is a variety of innovative services, such as mobile commerce or m-commerce, that use a mobile phone as the primary payment user interface and allow mobile customers to conduct money transfers to pay for items such as goods at an online store, utility payments, fines and state fees, loan repayments, domestic and international remittances, mobile insurance and tickets for air and rail travel, all via their mobile phone.

MNP (Mobile number portability) is a facility provided by telecommunications operators, which enables customers to keep their telephone numbers when they change operators.

Mobile customers are generally customers in the registered customer base as of a given measurement date who engaged in a revenue generating activity at any time during the three months prior to such measurement date. Such activity includes any outgoing calls, customer fee accruals, debits related to service, outgoing SMS and MMS, data transmission and receipt sessions, but does not include incoming calls, SMS and MMS or abandoned calls. Our total number of mobile customers also includes customers using mobile internet service via USB modems. For our business in Italy, prepaid mobile customers are counted in our customer base if they have activated our SIM card in the last 13 months (with respect to new customers) or if they have recharged their mobile telephone credit in the last 13 months and have not requested that their SIM card be deactivated and have not switched to another telecommunications operator via mobile number portability during this period (with respect to our existing customers), unless a fraud event has occurred. Postpaid customers in Italy are counted in our customer base if they have an active contract unless a fraud event has occurred or the subscription is deactivated due to payment default or because they have requested and obtained through mobile number portability a switch to another telecommunications operator.

MOU (Monthly Average Minutes of Use per User) measures the monthly average minutes of voice service use per mobile customer. We generally calculate mobile MOU by dividing the total number of minutes of usage for incoming and outgoing calls during the relevant period (excluding guest roamers) by the average number of mobile customers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. For our business in Italy, we calculate mobile MOU as the sum of the total traffic (in minutes) in a certain period divided by the average number of customers for the period (the average of each month’s average number of customers (calculated as the average of the total number of customers at the beginning of the month and the total number of customers at the end of the month)) divided by the number of months in that period.

Net debt is a non-IFRS financial measure and is calculated as the sum of interest bearing long-term debt and short-term debt minus cash and cash equivalents, long-term and short-term deposits and fair value hedges. The Company believes that net debt provides useful information to investors because it shows the amount of debt outstanding to be paid after using available cash and cash equivalents and long-term and short-term deposits. Net debt should not be considered in isolation as an alternative to long-term debt and short-term debt, or any other measure of the Company financial position.

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others represents the sum of Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain, Equity in net (loss)/gain of associates and Other (expense)/income (primarily (losses)/gains from derivative instruments), and is

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     22


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

adjusted for certain non-operating losses and gains mainly represented by litigation provisions. Our management uses Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others as a supplemental performance measure and believes that it provides useful information about the impact of our debt denominated in foreign currencies on our results of operations due to fluctuations in exchange rates, the performance of our equity investees and other losses and gains the Company needs to manage the business.

NPS (Net Promoter Score) is the methodology VEON uses to measure customer satisfaction.

Operational expenses (opex) represents service costs and selling, general and administrative expenses.

Organic growth in revenue and EBITDA are non-IFRS financial measures that reflect changes in Revenue and EBITDA, excluding foreign currency movements and other factors, such as businesses under liquidation, disposals, mergers and acquisitions.

Reportable segments: the Company identified Russia, Algeria, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Ukraine and Uzbekistan based on the business activities in different geographical areas. Intersegment revenue is eliminated in consolidation.

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     23


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

ATTACHMENT C: RECONCILIATION TABLES

RECONCILIATION OF CONSOLIDATED EBITDA

 

USD mln                    2Q17     2Q16
    reported
                     1H17     1H16
    reported
 

Unaudited

             

EBITDA

       931       795          1,792       1,553  

Depreciation

       (386     (391        (776     (723

Amortization

       (146     (113        (268     (225

Impairment loss

       (8     (4        (5     (12

Loss on disposals of non-current assets

       (2     (4        (9     (6

EBIT

       389       283          734       587  

Financial Income and Expenses

       (208     (186        (401     (354

-  including finance income

       24       19          46       31  

-  including finance costs

       (232     (205        (447     (385

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others

       (374     (2        (396     17  

-  including Other non-operating (losses)/gains

       (116     (24        (152     (62

-  including Shares of loss of associates and joint ventures
accounted for using the equity method

       (95     (11        (196     (16

-  impairment of JV and associates

       (110     -              (110     -      

-  including Net foreign exchange gain

       (53     33          62       95  

EBT

       (193     95          (63     250  

Income tax expense

       (65     (135        (206     (252

Profit/ (loss) from discontinued operations

       -           186          -         383  

Profit/(loss) for the period

       (258     146          (269     381  

Profit/(loss) for the period attributable to non-controlling interest

       20       9          14       55  

Profit/(loss) for the year attributable to the owners of the parent

         (278     137            (283     326  

RECONCILIATION OF CONSOLIDATED REPORTED AND UNDERLYING EBITDA

 

USD mln, unaudited                        2Q17      2Q16                          1H17      1H16  
               

    Pro-forma Warid

 

               

    Pro-forma Warid

 

 

EBITDA

       931        811          1,792        1,589  
                                         

Performance transformation costs, of which

       44        75          74        117  

HQ and Other

       37        56          58        89  

Russia

       1        3          4        4  

Emerging Markets

       6        16          12        24  

Other exceptionals

       2        43          2        42  

EBITDA underlying

       977        928          1,868        1,747  

Note: Q2 2016 one-offs have changed to USD 118 million from USD 116 million after reclassification of Opex expenses in 2016

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     24


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

RECONCILIATION OF CAPEX

 

USD mln unaudited

                   2Q17                   2Q16                      1H17                   1H16  

Cash paid for purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

       709       275          1,196       714  

Net difference between timing of recognition and payments for purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

       (65     75          (284     (169

Capital expenditures

       644       350          912       545  

Less capital expenditures in licenses

       (312     (66        (317     (108

Capital expenditures excl. licenses

       332       284          595       437  

RECONCILIATION OF ORGANIC AND REPORTED GROWTH RATES

 

         2Q17 vs 2Q16  
         Total Revenue             EBITDA  
         Organic      Forex & other      Reported             Organic      Forex & other      Reported  

Russia

       3.0%         15.7%         18.7%            (1.3%)        15.0%         13.8%   

Pakistan

       6.9%         28.5%         35.4%            28.3%         17.3%         45.6%   

Algeria

       (8.0%)        0.3%         (7.6%)           (18.7%)        0.2%         (18.4%)  

Bangladesh

       (3.0%)        (3.0%)        (6.0%)           (8.9%)        (2.8%)        (11.7%)  

Ukraine

       10.0%         (5.0%)        5.0%            13.7%         (5.2%)        8.5%   

Uzbekistan

       20.3%         (27.6%)        (7.3%)           14.4%         (26.3%)        (11.9%)  

Total

       3.7%         8.6%         12.3%            10.6%         6.5%         17.1%   

 

         1H17 vs 1H16  
         Total Revenue             EBITDA  
         Organic      Forex & other      Reported             Organic      Forex & other      Reported  

Russia

       0.4%         20.7%         21.2%            (1.3%)        20.0%         18.7%   

Pakistan

       6.1%         29.3%         35.5%            20.8%         18.4%         39.3%   

Algeria

       (11.7%)        (0.7%)        (12.5%)           (23.0%)        (0.7%)        (24.0%)  

Bangladesh

       (2.1%)        (2.2%)        (4.3%)           (4.2%)        (2.1%)        (6.3%)  

Ukraine

       10.8%         (5.4%)        5.4%            13.8%         (5.6%)        8.2%   

Uzbekistan

       15.0%         (22.2%)        (7.2%)           3.4%         (20.2%)        (16.8%)  

Total

       1.5%         11.1%         12.7%            6.4%         8.9%         15.3%   

RECONCILIATION OF VEON CONSOLIDATED NET DEBT

 

USD mln            30 June 2017            31 March 2017                 31 December 2016  

Net debt

       8,403          7,661           7,162  

Cash and cash equivalents

       2,873          2,172           2,942  

Long - term and short-term deposits

       348          407           385  

Gross debt

       11,624          10,240           10,489  

Interest accrued related to financial liabilities

       146          160           173  

Other unamortised adjustments to financial liabilities (fees, discounts etc.)

       (36        20           40  

Derivatives not designated as hedges

       309          302           319  

Derivatives designated as hedges

       33          53           7  

Other financial liabilities

       76          87           89  

Total other financial liabilities

         12,153                10,862                 11,116  

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     25


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

RECONCILIATION OF REPORTED CASH FLOW FROM CONTINUED OPERATIONS AND UNDERLYING EQUITY FREE CASH FLOW EXCLUDING LICENSES

 

USD million                    2Q17                 2Q16                        1H17                 1H16  

Net cash from operating activities

       578       428          1,162       67  

Exceptional items:

       87       97          148       941  

PT costs

       46       74          67       119  

Uzbekistan legal costs

       -           -              -           795  

IRAQNA provision

       -           -              69       -      

WHT on licence in Pakistan

       30       -              30       -      

Other

       12       23          12       27  

Underlying net cash flow from operating activities

       664       525          1,341       1,006  

Net cash used in investing activities

       (725     (405        (1,314     (765

Adjustments:

             

Deposits & Financial assets

       (27     (56        (131     23  

Purchase of license and other

       (326     (67        (333     (111

Underlying net cash flow used in investing activities

       (371     (282        (850     (678

Underlying Equity Free Cash Flow excluding licenses

         293       243                491       328  

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     26


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

RECONCILIATION OF REPORTED AND PRO-FORMA WARID INCOME STATEMENT FOR Q2 AND 1H 2016

 

USD million         2Q16
                reported
    Warid incl.
intercompany
eliminations
    2Q16
        pro-forma
 

Total revenue

        2,153       75       2,228  

Service revenue

        2,086       72       2,158  

EBITDA

        795       16       811  

EBITDA margin

        37.0%         36.4%  

Depreciation, amortization, impairments and other

        (512     (30     (542

EBIT

        283       (14     269  

Financial income and expenses

        (186     (8     (194

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others

        9       10       19  

Share of profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates

        (11     (1     (12

Impairment of JV and associates

        -           -           -      

Profit/(loss) before tax

        95       (13     82  

Income tax expense

        (135     (2     (137

Profit/(loss) from continued operations

        (40     (15     (55

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

          186       1       187  

 

USD million         1HQ16
                reported
    Warid incl.
intercompany
eliminations
    1H16
        pro-forma
 

Total revenue

        4,169       155       4,324  

Service revenue

        4,033       147       4,180  

EBITDA

        1,553       36       1,589  

EBITDA margin

        37.3%         37.0%  

Depreciation, amortization, impairments and other

        (966     (57     (1,023

EBIT

        587       (21     566  

Financial income and expenses

        (355     (15     (370

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others

        34       6       40  

Share of profit/(loss) of joint ventures and associates

        (16     0       (16

Impairment of JV and associates

        -           -           -      

Profit/(loss) before tax

        250       (30     220  

Income tax expense

        (252     (4     (256

Profit/(loss) from continued operations

        (2     (34     (36

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

        383       0       383  

Profit for the period attributable to VEON shareholders

          326       (35     291  

RECONCILIATION OF ITALY JV REPORTED NET RESULT TO VEON’S SHARE OF PROFIT/(LOSS) FROM JV AND ASSOCIATES

 

USD mln                       2Q17  

Italy JV reported net result

        (626

50% of Italy JV reported net result

        (313

D&A - PPA adjustment

        213  

Other PPA adjustmnet

        15  

Total PPA adjustment

        228  

VEON share of profit/(loss) from JV and associates

        (85 ) 

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     27


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

RATES OF FUNCTIONAL CURRENCIES TO USD1

 

         Average rates          Closing rates  
         2Q17      2Q16      YoY          2Q17      2Q16      QoQ  

Russian Ruble

       57.15        65.89        (13.3 %)         59.09        64.26        (8.0 %) 

Euro

       0.91        0.89        2.6        0.88        0.90        (2.8 %) 

Algerian Dinar

       109.04        109.54        (0.5 %)         107.80        110.31        (2.3 %) 

Pakistan Rupee

       104.81        104.67        0.1        104.83        104.75        0.1

Bangladeshi Taka

       80.86        78.35        3.2        80.64        78.33        3.0

Ukrainian Hryvnia

       26.46        25.26        4.8        26.10        24.85        5.0

Kazakh Tenge

       315.01        335.58        (6.1 %)         321.46        338.87        (5.1 %) 

Uzbekistan Som

       3,778.07        2,911.0        29.8        3,958.56        2,943.5        34.5

Armenian Dram

       483.37        479.06        0.9        480.47        476.68        0.8

Kyrgyz Som

       68.12        68.38        (0.4 %)         69.14        67.49        2.4

Georgian Lari

         2.42        2.21        9.3          2.41        2.34        2.8

1 Functional currency in Tajikistan is USD

 

LOGO

   Q2 2017     28


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

MANAGEMENT’S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following discussion and analysis is based on, and should be read in conjunction with, our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, and the related notes, attached hereto.

References to “VEON” and the “VEON Group,” as well as references to “our company,” “the company,” “our group,” “the group,” “we,” “us,” “our” and similar pronouns, are references to VEON Ltd. as at March 30, 2017 and to VimpelCom Ltd. prior to March 30, 2017, an exempted company limited by shares registered in Bermuda, and its consolidated subsidiaries. References to VEON Ltd. are to VEON Ltd. alone as at March 30, 2017 and to VimpelCom Ltd. alone prior to March 30, 2017. The unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at June 30, 2017 and for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 attached hereto have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”) and presented in U.S. dollars. VEON Ltd. adopted IFRS as at January 1, 2009.

The discussion of our business and the telecommunications industry included herein contains references to certain terms specific to our business, including numerous technical and industry terms. Such terms are defined in Exhibit 99.1 to our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 (our “2016 Annual Report”). For a comprehensive discussion of our critical accounting estimates and assumptions, please refer to Note 4 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2016 Annual Report.

Certain amounts and percentages that appear in this document have been subject to rounding adjustments. As a result, certain numerical figures shown as totals, including in tables, may not be exact arithmetic aggregations of the figures that precede or follow them.

CAUTIONARY NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This document contains estimates and forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”) and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”). Our estimates and forward-looking statements are mainly based on our current expectations and estimates of future events and trends, which affect or may affect our businesses and operations. Although we believe that these estimates and forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, they are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties and are made in light of information currently available to us. Many important factors, in addition to the factors described in this document, may adversely affect our results as indicated in forward-looking statements. You should read this document completely and with the understanding that our actual future results may be materially different and worse from what we expect.

All statements other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements. The words “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible” and similar words are intended to identify estimates and forward-looking statements.

Our estimates and forward-looking statements may be influenced by various factors, including without limitation:

 

   

our plans to implement our strategic priorities, including with respect to our performance transformation program; targets and strategic initiatives in the various countries in which we operate; business to business growth and other new revenue streams; digitalizing our business model; portfolio and asset optimization; improving customer experience and optimizing our capital structure;

 

   

our anticipated performance and guidance for 2017 and 2018;

 

   

our ability to generate sufficient cash flow to meet our debt service obligations and our expectations regarding working capital and the repayment of our debt;

 

   

our expectations regarding our capital expenditures and operational expenditures in and after 2017 and our ability to meet our projected capital requirements;

 

   

our plans to upgrade and build out our networks and to optimize our network operations;

 

   

our goals regarding value, experience and service for our customers, as well as our ability to retain and attract customers and to maintain and expand our market share positions;

 

   

our plans to develop, provide and expand our products and services, including operational and network development and network investment, such as expectations regarding the roll-out and benefits of 3G/4G/LTE networks or other networks; broadband services and integrated products and services, such as fixed-mobile convergence;

 

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    1


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

   

our ability to execute our business strategy successfully and to complete, and achieve the expected synergies from, our existing and future transactions, such as the joint venture with Hutchison, through which we jointly own and operate our telecommunications businesses comprised of the historical Hutchison business, 3 Italia S.p.A. (“3 Italia”) and the historical VEON business, Wind Telecomunicazioni S.p.A. (“WIND”), in Italy (a transaction and resulting business that we refer to as the “Italy Joint Venture” in this document) and our merger with Warid Telecom Pakistan LLC (“WTPL”) and Bank Alfalah Limited (“Bank Alfalah”), which resulted in the merger of our telecommunications businesses in Pakistan (a transaction we refer to as the “Pakistan Merger” in this document);

 

   

our ability to integrate acquired companies, joint ventures or other forms of strategic partnerships into our existing businesses in a timely and cost-effective manner and to realize anticipated synergies therefrom;

 

   

our expectations as to pricing for our products and services in the future, improving our monthly average revenue per customer and our future costs and operating results;

 

   

our plans regarding our dividend payments and policies, as well as our ability to receive dividends, distributions, loans, transfers or other payments or guarantees from our subsidiaries;

 

   

our ability to meet license requirements and to obtain, maintain, renew or extend licenses, frequency allocations and frequency channels and obtain related regulatory approvals;

 

   

our plans regarding the marketing and distribution of our products and services, as well as our customer loyalty programs;

 

   

our expectations regarding our competitive strengths, customer demands, market trends and future developments in the industry and markets in which we operate;

 

   

possible adverse consequences resulting from our agreements announced on February 18, 2016 with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), the U.S. Department of Justice (“DOJ”), and the Dutch Public Prosecution Service (Openbaar Ministerie) (“OM”), including the Deferred Prosecution Agreement (the “DPA”) with the DOJ filed with the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York, the judgment entered by the United States District Court for the Southern District of New York related to the agreement with the SEC, including the consent incorporated therein (the “SEC Judgment”) and the settlement agreement with the OM (the “Dutch Settlement Agreement”), as well as any litigation or additional investigations related to or resulting from the agreements, including the DPA and the SEC Judgment, the retention of an independent compliance monitor as required by the DPA and the SEC Judgment, any changes in company policy or procedure resulting from the review by the independent compliance monitor or otherwise undertaken by VEON Ltd., the duration of the independent compliance monitor’s review, and VEON Ltd.’s compliance with the terms of the resolutions with the DOJ, SEC, and OM; and

 

   

other statements regarding matters that are not historical facts.

These statements are management’s best assessment of the company’s strategic and financial position and of future market conditions, trends and other potential developments. While they are based on sources believed to be reliable and on the management’s current knowledge and best belief, they are merely estimates or predictions and cannot be relied upon. We cannot assure you that future results will be achieved. The risks and uncertainties that may cause our actual results to differ materially from the results indicated, expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements used in this document include:

 

   

risks relating to changes in political, economic and social conditions in each of the countries in which we operate (including as a result of armed conflict) such as any harm, reputational or otherwise, that may arise due to changing social norms, our business involvement in a particular jurisdiction or an otherwise unforeseen development in science or technology;

 

   

in each of the countries in which we operate, risks relating to legislation, regulation, taxation and currency, including laws, regulations, decrees and decisions governing the telecommunications industry, costs of compliance, currency and exchange controls, currency fluctuations, taxation legislation, abrupt changes in the regulatory environment, laws on foreign investment, anti-corruption and anti-terror laws, economic sanctions and their official interpretation by governmental and other regulatory bodies and courts;

 

   

risks relating to a failure to meet expectations regarding various strategic initiatives, including, but not limited to, the performance transformation program;

 

   

risks related to solvency and other cash flow issues, including our ability to raise the necessary additional capital and incur additional indebtedness, the ability of our subsidiaries to make dividend payments, our ability to develop additional sources of revenue and unforeseen disruptions in our revenue streams;

 

   

risks that various courts or regulatory agencies with whom we are involved in legal challenges, tax disputes or appeals may not find in our favor;

 

   

risks relating to our company and its operations in each of the countries in which we operate, including demand for and market acceptance of our products and services, regulatory uncertainty regarding our licenses, frequency allocations and numbering capacity, constraints on our spectrum capacity, availability of line capacity, intellectual property rights protection, labor issues, interconnection agreements, equipment failures and competitive product and pricing pressures;

 

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    2


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

   

risks related to developments from competition, unforeseen or otherwise, in each of the countries in which we operate including our ability to keep pace with technological change and evolving industry standards;

 

   

risks associated with developments in the investigations by, and the agreements with, the DOJ, SEC and OM and any additional investigations or litigation that may be initiated relating to or arising out of any of the foregoing, and the costs associated therewith, including relating to remediation efforts and enhancements to our compliance programs, and the review by the independent compliance monitor;

 

   

risks related to the activities of our strategic shareholders, lenders, employees, joint venture partners, representatives, agents, suppliers, customers and other third parties;

 

   

risks associated with our existing and future transactions, including with respect to realizing the expected synergies of closed transactions, such as the Italy Joint Venture and/or the Pakistan Merger, satisfying closing conditions for new transactions, obtaining regulatory approvals and implementing remedies;

 

   

risks associated with data protection, cyber-attacks or systems and network disruptions, or the perception of such attacks or failures in each of the countries in which we operate, including the costs that would be associated with such events and the reputation harm that could arise therefrom;

 

   

risks related to the ownership of our American Depositary Receipts or common shares, including those associated with VEON Ltd.’s status as a Bermuda company and a foreign private issuer; and

 

   

other risks and uncertainties.

These factors and the other risk factors described in “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors” in our 2016 Annual Report are not necessarily all of the factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any of our forward-looking statements. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could harm our future results. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible for the management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Under no circumstances should the inclusion of such forward-looking statements in this document be regarded as a representation or warranty by us or any other person with respect to the achievement of results set out in such statements or that the underlying assumptions used will in fact be the case. Therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements.

The forward-looking statements included in this document are made only as at the date of the filing of this document. We cannot assure you that any projected results or events will be achieved. Except to the extent required by law, we disclaim any obligation to update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should refer to our periodic and current reports filed or furnished, as applicable, with the SEC for specific risks which could cause actual results to be significantly different from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements.

OVERVIEW

VEON is an international communications and technology company, headquartered in Amsterdam. As a global provider of connectivity, our ambition is to lead the personal internet revolution for our customers now, and in the future. Present in some of the world’s most dynamic markets, VEON provides more than 200 million customers with voice, fixed broadband, data and digital services. VEON offers services to customers in 12 countries including Russia, Pakistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Georgia and Laos. We provide services under the “Beeline,” “Kyivstar,” “banglalink,” “Jazz” and “Djezzy” brands.

The Italy Joint Venture offers services to customers in Italy. It provides services to more than 30 million customers under the “WIND” and “3” brands.

BASIS OF PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL RESULTS

Our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto include the financial positions of VEON Ltd. and its consolidated subsidiaries. All intercompany positions and results from transactions have been eliminated upon consolidation. We have used the equity method of accounting for companies in which we have significant influence and joint control, such as the Italy Joint Venture. Generally, this represents voting rights of at least 20.0% and not more than 50.0%.

We and our subsidiaries paid taxes computed on income reported for local statutory tax purposes. We based this computation on local statutory tax rules, which differ substantially from IFRS. Certain items that are capitalized under IFRS are recognized under local statutory accounting principles as an expense in the year paid. In contrast, numerous expenses reported in the financial statements prepared under IFRS are not tax deductible under local legislation. As a consequence, as a general matter, our effective tax rate is different under IFRS from the statutory rate.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    3


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

REPORTABLE SEGMENTS

We currently operate and manage VEON Ltd. on a geographical basis. In accordance with IFRS rules, this results in seven reportable segments. These segments are based on the different economic environments and varied stages of development across the geographical markets we serve, each of which requires different investment and marketing strategies.

Our reportable segments currently consist of the seven following segments:

 

 

Russia;

 

 

Pakistan;

 

 

Algeria;

 

 

Bangladesh;

 

 

Ukraine;

 

 

Uzbekistan; and

 

 

HQ (transactions related to management activities within the group).

In the six months ended June 30, 2016, we reported an “HQ and Others” segment. As of December 31, 2016, “Others” is no longer a reportable segment but only a reconciling column in our financial statements and therefore for the six months ended June 30, 2017, we reported revenue and Adjusted EBITDA for “Others” only as a reconciling line item between our seven reportable segments and our total revenue and Adjusted EBITDA. For comparability purposes, the financial data for the six months ended June 30, 2016 has been presented to show our revenue and Adjusted EBITDA in each of HQ and Others on a stand-alone basis, with Others including Kazakhstan.

Since January 1, 2017, management has included the Italy Joint Venture as a separate reportable segment, see Note 6 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements for more information.

FACTORS AFFECTING COMPARABILITY OF PRIOR PERIODS

Our results were affected by the differing classification of the business in Italy between periods. The WIND Italy business was classified as an asset held for sale and a discontinued operation during the first and second quarters of 2016. The Italy Joint Venture transaction was completed in November 2016 and therefore, in the first and second quarters of 2017, the Italy Joint Venture was classified as a joint venture and its results were classified as a share of loss of joint ventures and associates. For more information, please see Note 6 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2016 Annual Report and “—Key Developments and Trends—Italy Joint Venture” and “Explanatory Note—Accounting Treatment of our Historical WIND Business and the new Italy Joint Venture” in our 2016 Annual Report.

In general, our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements and related notes incorporated hereto and the following discussion and analysis reflect the contribution of the operators we acquired from their respective dates of acquisition or consolidation. Therefore, such acquisitions affect the comparability of data between periods.

The comparability between the periods presented below was also affected by the addition of one day in the six months ended June 30, 2016, due to 2016 being a leap year.

In addition, the resolutions with the SEC, the DOJ and the OM announced in February 2016 relating to previously disclosed investigations under the FCPA and relevant Dutch laws and paid fines and disgorgements to the SEC, the DOJ and the OM will affect comparability. All fines were paid in 2016, though we anticipate some ongoing compliance costs going forward. For further details related to these agreements, please see the following sections of our 2016 Annual Report: “Item 8—Financial Information—A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—A.7. Legal Proceedings,” Notes 25 and 27 to our audited consolidated financial statements, “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We have incurred and are continuing to incur costs and related management oversight obligations in connection with our obligations under the DPA, the SEC Judgment and the Dutch Settlement Agreement, which may be significant” and “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We could be subject to criminal prosecution or civil sanction if we breach the DPA with the DOJ, the SEC Judgment or the Dutch Settlement Agreement, and we may face other potentially negative consequences relating to the investigations by, and agreements with, the DOJ, SEC and OM, including additional investigations and litigation.”

 

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    4


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

KEY DEVELOPMENTS DURING THE SECOND QUARTER OF 2017

AGM Elected Two New Independent Directors, with Ursula Burns Appointed Chairman of VEON

Following the election of the directors of the Supervisory Board at the AGM of July 24, 2017, the Supervisory Board appointed Ursula Burns, the former Chairman and CEO of Xerox, to become its Chairman effective immediately. With the election of Ursula Burns and Guy Laurence, the former CEO of Rogers, the Supervisory Board will increase from nine to eleven members.

CK Hutchison and VEON announced new Wind Tre CEO

On June 23, 2017, CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. and VEON Ltd., joint owners of Wind Tre, announced the appointment of Jeffrey Hedberg as Chief Executive Officer of Wind Tre.

Mr. Hedberg is a highly experienced telecom executive having held senior management roles at leading global telecom companies for over 25 years. Most recently, Jeffrey has been Group Chief People Officer at VEON and President & CEO of Mobilink in Pakistan (2014-2016) where he was responsible for transforming the business, leading the acquisition of and planning the integration with Warid.

VEON, the personal internet platform launched in 5 countries

In July, VEON launched its new global personal internet platform in Russia, Ukraine, Georgia, Pakistan and, with updated functionality, in Italy, covering 134 million potential customers. The VEON platform provides personalized internet services, with a range of messaging and communication capabilities (including chat, calls and sharing) which users can use for free, without worrying about running out of data. The platform gives access to some of the most popular consumer brands, thanks to more than 100 partnerships with both global and local players. The Company intends to roll out the VEON platform in all its markets by the end of 2017.

Jazz Acquired Additional 4G/LTE Spectrum in Pakistan

VEON and its subsidiary Global Telecom Holding announced the acquisition of additional 4G/LTE spectrum in Pakistan, through their local 85% owned subsidiary, Jazz. VEON believes that this acquisition of spectrum is expected to improve the customer experience in terms of voice quality, data speeds and connectivity. Jazz won the auction, being awarded 10 MHz of paired spectrum in the 1800 MHz band for a total consideration of US$ 295 million and withholding tax of 10%.

Substantive Refinancing Activities Completed, Simplifying the Capital Structure

VEON intends to continuously improve its capital structure and rebalance the debt currency mix, with the aim to lower its net cost of debt. VEON’s subsidiary VimpelCom Holdings B.V. entered into a new RUB 110 billion, five-year term loan agreement with Sberbank. The term loan has been utilized to refinance the existing loans between Sberbank and PJSC VimpelCom, as well as provide additional funds for general corporate purposes.

VimpelCom Holdings B.V. also completed a cash tender offer for the total outstanding principal of the following notes: (i) US$ 1 billion 9.125% Loan Participation Notes due 2018, (ii) US$ 1 billion 7.748% Loan Participation Notes due 2021 and (iii) US$ 1.5 billion 7.5043% Guaranteed Notes due 2022. The aggregate principal amount accepted for purchase pursuant to the offer was equal to approximately US$ 1.3 billion, leaving the aggregate principal amount outstanding, following settlement of the offer, at around US$ 1.2 billion.

In connection with the cash tender offer, VimpelCom Holdings B.V. also issued new senior unsecured notes; on June 16, 2017, VimpelCom Holdings B.V. issued US$ 600 million 3.95% Senior Notes due 2021 and US$ 900 million 4.95% Senior Notes due 2024. The net proceeds of the issue were utilized to finance the cash tender offer and for general corporate purposes.

VEON and Megafon Agreed to End their Euroset Joint Venture in Russia

On July 7, 2017, PJSC Vimpel-Communications (“PJSC VimpelCom”), a subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Framework Agreement with PJSC Megafon (“Megafon”) to unwind their retail joint venture, Euroset Holding B.V. (“Euroset”). Under the agreement, Megafon will acquire PJSC VimpelCom’s 50% interest in Euroset and PJSC VimpelCom will pay RUB 1.25 billion (approximately US$20 and subject to possible completion adjustments) and will acquire rights to 50% of Euroset’s approximately 4,000 retail stores in Russia. The transaction is subject to relevant regulatory approvals and other conditions precedent, and is expected to be completed in Q4 2017.

As a result of this anticipated transaction, the investment in the Euroset joint venture was classified as an asset held-for-sale at June 30, 2017. However, as a result of the impairment described in Note 6 of our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    5


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

statements incorporated hereto, the investment in Euroset had a carrying value of nil prior to reclassification as an asset held-for-sale.

Towers in Pakistan Classified as Held-For-Sale

The Company is in advanced discussions for the sale of its indirect subsidiary, Deodar Limited (“Deodar”). Deodar holds a portfolio of approximately 13,000 towers and provides network tower services in Pakistan. As a result, on June 30, 2017, the Company classified Deodar as a disposal group held-for-sale. There can be no assurance that definitive agreement for the sale of Deodar will be reached.

Following the classification as a disposal group held-for sale, the Company will no longer account for depreciation and amortization expenses of Deodar assets.

Supervisory Board of VEON proposes an Interim Dividend 2017 of US$ 11 cents per share

Consistent with VEON’s recently communicated commitment to pay a sustainable and progressive dividend based on the company’s evolution of equity free cash flow, the Supervisory Board approved the distribution of an interim gross dividend of US$11 cents per share for 2017. This payment is planned to take place on September 6, 2017, with a record date of August 14, 2017. For ordinary shareholders at Euronext Amsterdam, the interim dividend of US$11 cents will be paid in euro.

Termination of Guarantees

On June 30, 2017, the guarantees under the RUB 12 billion 9.00% notes due 2018 (the “RUB Notes”), the US$600 million 5.20% notes due 2019 (the “2019 Notes”) and the US$1 billion 5.95% notes due 2023 (the “2023 Notes”, and together with the RUB Notes and the 2019 Notes, the “Notes”), in each case issued by VIP Holdings, were automatically terminated in accordance with the trust deeds entered into in respect of the Notes between VIP Holdings, PJSC VimpelCom (formerly Open Joint Stock Company “Vimpel Communications”) and BNY Mellon Corporate Trustee Services Limited, each dated February 13 2013 (together the “Trust Deeds” and each a “Trust Deed”), except that the guarantees in respect of each of the Notes will continue to apply to VIP Holdings’ obligation to redeem the Notes on exercise of the put option under each of the Trust Deeds until that put option has expired or been satisfied. VIP Holdings exercised its option to terminate the guarantees in respect of each of the Notes pursuant to clause 6(N) and clause 6(P) of each of the relevant Trust Deeds.

Pakistan Mobile Communications Ltd. (“PMCL”) financing

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 11,000 million (approximately US$105 million) under the syndicated facility with several banks, which was entered into on December 3, 2015 for an amount of PKR 16,000 million (approximately US$152 million as at December 3, 2015). The facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between June 23, 2018 and December 23, 2020. The total principal amount outstanding as at June 30, 2017 is PKR 16,000 million (approximately US$153 million).

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 9,000 million (approximately US$86 million) under the syndicated facility with several banks, which was entered into on June 12, 2017 for an amount of PKR 26,750 million (approximately US$255 million as at June 12, 2017). This facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between December 29, 2019 and June 29, 2022. The total principal amount outstanding as at June 30, 2017 is PKR 9,000 million (approximately US$86 million).

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 5,000 million (approximately US$48 million) under the Term Loan facility with Habib Bank Ltd, which was entered into on June 12, 2017 for an amount of PKR 10,000 million (approximately US$95 million as at June 12, 2017). This facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between December 27, 2019 and June 29, 2022. The total principal amount outstanding as at June 30, 2017 is PKR 5,000 million (approximately US$48 million).

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 1,000 million (approximately US$10 million) under the Term Loan facility with National Bank of Pakistan, which was entered into on June 12, 2017 for an amount of PKR 2,000 million (approximately US$19 million as at June 12, 2017). This facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between December 27, 2019 and June 29, 2022. The total principal amount outstanding as at June 30, 2017 is PKR 1,000 million (approximately US$10 million).

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    6


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Cross currency swaps

During the month of June 2017, the Group entered into several cross currency swaps with several different banks, by exchanging a notional amount of US$600 million for EUR 537 million for 4 years. The swaps mature June 16, 2021.

Amended Agreement with Ericsson

In June 2016, VEON Ltd. (“VEON”) and Ericsson AB (“Ericsson”) entered into a $1 billion long-term global software agreement to develop, implement and service over a seven year period new software and cloud technologies across our customer-facing IT infrastructure. On July 26, 2017, the parties executed an amended agreement providing for, among other things, a reduction in the scope of services, certain payments to VEON and an extension of the term of performance to June 2026.

LITIGATION DEVELOPMENTS

Spectrum Reallocation in Uzbekistan

On March 31, 2017, the Republican Radiofrequencies Council in Uzbekistan (the “Council”) published a decision (the “Decision”) ordering the redistribution of radio frequencies in Uzbekistan which, if it comes into force as planned in September 2017, could result in a reallocation of our subsidiary Unitel LLC’s (“Unitel”) radio frequencies to other cellular communications providers in the market. On April 21, 2017, Unitel filed a claim with the Commercial Court of Tashkent City disputing the Decision. A preliminary hearing on Unitel’s claim was held on May 10, 2017. Unitel’s claim was subsequently transferred to the Administrative Court of the Uchtepa District, which dismissed the claim on June 22, 2017. A cassation appeal of the dismissal, if any, must be commenced on or before January 12, 2018.

GTH – Iraqna Litigation

On November 19, 2012, Atheer Telecom Iraq Limited (“Atheer”, an affiliate of the Zain Group) initiated English High Court (the “Court”) proceedings in London against Orascom Telecom Iraq Ltd. (“OTIL”) (a Maltese subsidiary of GTH) and GTH in relation to a dispute arising out of the sale by OTIL of its Iraqi mobile subsidiary, Iraqna, in 2007 to Atheer. Atheer’s claim is founded on the tax covenants in the underlying share purchase agreement between the parties.

On February 17, 2017, the Court found GTH liable. Following a hearing on March 1, 2017, GTH and OTIL were ordered to pay Atheer the amounts of US$60 million, plus approximately US$8 million in accrued interest, and an interim payment of GBP 1.25 million (US$2) for legal costs pending submission of a detailed schedule of costs by Atheer.

On June 6, 2017, the English Court of Appeal denied GTH’s application for leave to appeal. With no further venue for appeal, the matter is now concluded.

Canadian Action Brought by the Catalyst Capital Group

VEON is a defendant in an action brought in 2016 by The Catalyst Capital Group Inc. (“Catalyst”) for CAD750 million (US$579 million as at June 30, 2017) alleging breach of contract in the Superior Court of Justice in Ontario, Canada (the “Court”). In 2014, Catalyst and the company entered into an exclusivity agreement in connection with negotiations for the sale of the company’s WIND Mobile business. Catalyst alleges that the company and its financial advisor, UBS Securities Canada Inc., breached their exclusivity agreement obligations, which in turn enabled the sale of WIND Mobile to a consortium of other investors, who are also named co-defendants. The company and all co-defendants have filed motions to dismiss the claim, and those motions are scheduled to be heard in August 2017 and therefore remain pending with the Court. In addition, the company has filed a Statement of Defence denying all allegations and intends to vigorously contest the matter.

On March 29, 2017, the claim against VEON Ltd. and its co-defendants was amended to CAD 1.3 billion (US$1,003 million as at June 30, 2017).

VAT on Replacement Sims

On April 1, 2012, the National Board of Revenue (“NBR”) issued a demand to Banglalink Digital Communications Ltd. (“Banglalink”) for BDT 7.74 billion (US$98 million as at December 31, 2016) for unpaid SIM tax (VAT and supplementary duty).

On May 18, 2015, Banglalink received an updated demand from the Commissioner of Taxes (“LTU”) requiring Banglalink to pay BDT 5.32 billion (US$67 million as at December 31, 2016) in SIM tax. The demand also stated that interest may be payable. Similar demands were sent to the other operators.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    7


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

On June 25, 2015, Banglalink filed an application to the High Court to stay the updated demand, and a stay was granted. On August 13, 2015, Banglalink filed its appeal against the demand before the Appellate Tribunal and deposited 10% of the amount demanded in order to proceed. The other operators also appealed their demands. On April 26, 2016, Banglalink presented its legal arguments and on September 28, 2016, the appeals of all the operators were heard together.

The Bangladesh Appellate Tribunal rejected the appeal of Banglalink and all other operators on June 22, 2017. On July 13, 2017, Banglalink filed an appeal of the Appellate Tribunal’s judgment with the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh.

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

REPORTING AND FUNCTIONAL CURRENCIES

We use the U.S. dollar as our reporting currency. The functional currencies of our group are the Russian ruble in Russia, the Pakistani rupee in Pakistan, the Algerian dinar in Algeria, the Bangladeshi taka in Bangladesh, the Ukrainian hryvnia in Ukraine and the Uzbek som in Uzbekistan. The functional currency of the Italy Joint Venture is the euro.

Due to the significant fluctuation of the non-U.S. dollar functional currencies against the U.S. dollar in the periods covered by this discussion and analysis, changes in our consolidated operating results in functional currencies differ from changes in our operating results in reporting currencies during some of these periods. In the following discussion and analysis, we have indicated our operating results in both reporting and functional currencies and the devaluation or appreciation of functional currencies where it is material to explaining our operating results. For more information about exchange rates relating to our functional currencies, see “—Certain Ongoing Factors Affecting Our Financial Position and Results of Operations—Foreign Currency Translation” below.

 

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    8


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

 

     Six months
    ended June 30,    
 
     2017     2016  
     In millions of U.S. dollars  

Consolidated income statements data:

  

Service revenue

     4,533        4,033   

Sale of equipment and accessories

     108        79   

Other revenue

     57        58   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating revenue

     4,698        4,170   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Service costs

     (920)        (819)   

Cost of equipment and accessories

     (114)        (91)   

Selling, general and administrative expenses

     (1,872)        (1,707)   

Depreciation

     (776)        (723)   

Amortization

     (268)        (225)   

Impairment loss

     (5)        (12)   

Loss on disposals of non-current assets

     (9)        (6)   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

     (3,964)        (3,583)   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating profit

     734        587   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Finance costs

     (447)        (385)   

Finance income

     46        31   

Other non-operating losses

     (152)        (62)   

Shares of loss of joint ventures and associates

     (196)        (16)   

Impairment of joint ventures and associates

     (110)        —   

Net foreign exchange gain

     62        95   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) / profit before tax

     (63)        250   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense

     (206)        (252)   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss for the period from continuing operations

     (269)        (2)   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Profit after tax for the period from discontinued operations

     —        383   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) / profit for the period

     (269)        381   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Attributable to:

    

The owners of the parent (continuing operations)

     (283)        (57)   

 

The owners of the parent (discontinued operations)

     —         383   

Non-controlling interest

     14         55   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     (269)         381   

The tables below show for the periods indicated selected information about the results of operations in each of our reportable segments. For more information regarding our segments, see Note 4 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

SEGMENTATION OF TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE

 

     Six months
  ended June 30,  
 
In millions of U.S. dollars      2017          2016    

Russia(1)

     2,294         1,894   

Pakistan

     755         558   

Algeria

     463         529   

Bangladesh

     299         312   

Ukraine

     297         281   

Uzbekistan

     306         329   

HQ(2)

     —         —   

Others(3)

     284         267   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     4,698         4,170   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Certain comparative amounts in the Russia segment have been reclassified to conform to the current period’s presentation. For more information, please refer to Note 8 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our 2016 Annual Report.

 

(2)

HQ includes transactions related to management activities within the group, reported as a stand-alone segment for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and presented as a separate segment for the six months ended June 30, 2016. For a discussion of the treatment of our “HQ” segment for each of the periods discussed in this document, please see “— Reportable Segments.”

 

(3)

Beginning with the year ended December 31, 2016, “Others” is no longer a reportable segment and therefore is included herein for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and June 30, 2016 only as a reconciling category between our total revenue and the revenue of our seven reportable segments. For a discussion of the treatment of our “Others” segment and our operations in Kazakhstan for each of the periods discussed in this document, please see “— Reportable Segments.”

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    9


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SEGMENTATION OF ADJUSTED EBITDA(1)

 

     Six months
  ended June 30,  
 
In millions of U.S. dollars      2017          2016    

Russia

     880         742   

Pakistan

     321         231   

Algeria

     219         286   

Bangladesh

     130         139   

Ukraine

     164         151   

Uzbekistan

     162         194   

HQ(2)

     (170)         (234)   

Others(3)

     86         44   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total

     1,792         1,553   
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

(1)

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure. Please see “Explanatory Note—Non-IFRS Financial Measures” in our 2016 Annual Report for more information on how we calculate Adjusted EBITDA. For the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to profit for the year, the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, see Note 4 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

 

(2)

HQ includes transactions related to management activities within the group reported as a stand-alone segment for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and presented as a separate segment for the six months ended June 30, 2016. For a discussion of the treatment of our “HQ” segment for each of the periods discussed in this document, please see “— Reportable Segments.”

 

(3)

Beginning with the year ended December 31, 2016, “Others” is no longer a reportable segment and therefore is included herein for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and June 30, 2016 only as a reconciling category between our total revenue and the revenue of our seven reportable segments. For a discussion of the treatment of our “Others” segment and our operations in Kazakhstan for each of the periods discussed in this document, please see “— Reportable Segments.”

TOTAL OPERATING REVENUE

During the six month periods ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, we generated revenue from providing voice, data and other telecommunication services through a range of traditional and broadband mobile and fixed technologies, as well as selling equipment and accessories.

Our consolidated total operating revenue increased by 13% to US$ 4,698 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$4,170 million during the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily due to an increase of total operating revenue of 21% in Russia due to the strengthening ruble, 35% in Pakistan as a result of the Pakistan Merger, increased mobile financial services and data revenues, supported by customer growth, and 5% in Ukraine driven by successful commercial activities, and continued strong growth of mobile data customers. The increase was partially offset by a decrease of total revenue of 12% in Algeria due to difficult macroeconomic environment, new finance law and customer churn, caused by competitive pressure in the market , 7% in Uzbekistan partially impacted by the appreciation of the U.S. dollar against the Uzbek som , and 4% in Bangladesh, mainly due to a slowdown of acquisition activity across the market.

The discussion of revenue by reportable segments includes intersegment revenue. The management assesses the performance of each reportable segment on this basis because it believes the inclusion of intersegment revenue better reflects the true performance of each segment on a standalone basis.

TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES

Our consolidated total operating expenses increased by 11% to US$3,964 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$3,583 million during the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase was primarily due to a 10% increase in selling, general and administrative expenses, a 12% increase in service costs and a 10% increase in depreciation and amortization expenses, mainly as a result of the appreciation of the ruble and consolidation of Warid from July 1, 2016.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Our consolidated Adjusted EBITDA increased by 15% to US$1,792 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$ 1,553 million during the six months ended June 30, 2016, mainly due to the appreciation of the ruble and the consolidation of Warid from July 1, 2016.

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure. Please see “Explanatory Note—Non-IFRS Financial Measures” for more information on how we calculate Adjusted EBITDA. For the reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to profit for the year, the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, please refer to Note 4 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    10


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Depreciation and amortization expenses

Our consolidated depreciation and amortization expenses increased by 10% to US$1,044 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$948 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase was primarily the result of accelerated depreciation expenses as a result of the Warid integration.

Impairment loss

Our consolidated impairment loss was US$5 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to an impairment loss of US$12 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease in impairment loss was primarily due to the re-evaluation of impairment losses related to equipment impaired in 2016.

Loss on disposals of non-current assets    

Our consolidated loss on disposals of non-current assets increased to US$9 million during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$6 million during the six months ended June 30, 2016, mainly due to increased equipment disposals as a result of ongoing network modernization projects.

OPERATING PROFIT

Our consolidated operating profit increased to US$734 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$587 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 due to increased total operating revenues, which were partially offset by overall increased service costs, selling, general and administrative expenses, depreciation and amortization expenses.

NON-OPERATING PROFITS AND LOSSES

Finance costs

Our consolidated finance costs increased by 16% to US$447 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$385 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily due to the bonds issued by GTH in April 2016.

Finance income

Our consolidated finance income increased to US$46 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$31 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily due to increased interest from bank deposits.

Other non-operating losses

We recorded US$152 million in other non-operating losses during the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$62 million in other non-operating losses during the six months ended June 30, 2016, an increase of 145%. The increase in non-operating losses in the six months period ended June 30, 2017 was primarily due to a loss of US$124 million resulting from premiums paid on the early redemption of bonds.

Shares of loss of joint ventures and associates

We recorded a loss of US$196 million from our investments in joint ventures and associates in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to a loss of US$16 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. This was mainly driven by a loss from the Italy Joint Venture in an amount of US$174 million and a loss of US$22 million from the Euroset operation. The Italy Joint Venture loss was mainly driven by integration costs, as well as accelerated depreciation and amortization recorded in during the six months ended June 30, 2017, primarily as a result of the reduction in the useful life of network assets due to the network modernization program.

Impairment of joint ventures and associates

During the six months ended June 30, 2017 we recorded a further impairment of US$110 million against the carrying value of the investment in Euroset, resulting in a post-impairment carrying value of zero.

For more information, please refer to Note 6 of our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    11


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Net foreign exchange gain

We recorded a gain of US$62 million from foreign currency exchange in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to a gain of US$95 million from foreign currency exchange in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease in net foreign exchange gain was primarily the result of appreciation of the ruble against the U.S. dollar in the first six months of 2017.

INCOME TAX EXPENSE

The statutory income tax rates during the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 for each reportable segment were as follows:

 

     Six months
ended June 30,
 
In millions of U.S. dollars            2017                     2016          

Russia

     20.0%        20.0%   

Pakistan

     30.0%        31.0%   

Algeria

     26.0%        26.0%   

Bangladesh

     45.0%        45.0%   

Ukraine

     18.0%        18.0%   

Uzbekistan

     50.0%        50.0%   

Uzbekistan subnational tax

     3.3%        3.3%   
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Our consolidated income tax expense decreased by 18% to US$206 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$252 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016.

The decrease in income taxes was primarily due to lower profitability and functional currency losses in countries with a higher nominal rate. Our effective tax rate in absolute terms was 327.0% for the six months ended June 30, 2017, as compared to 100.8% for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The difference was primarily driven by non-deductible expenses in respect of share of loss of joint ventures and associates and impairment of joint ventures and associates, reducing profit before tax by US$196 million and US$110 million, respectively, as well as the income tax loss arising from early debt redemption for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized, reducing profit before tax by US$124 million.

For more information regarding income tax expenses, please refer to Note 5 of our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

Loss for the period from continuing operations

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our consolidated loss for the period from continuing operations was US$269 million, compared to a consolidated loss of US$2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase in consolidated loss from continuing operations is primarily a result of the reasons described above in “—Non Operating Profits and Losses.”

Profit for the period from discontinued operations

In the six months ended June 30, 2016, our consolidated profit after tax for the period from discontinued operations, which was comprised primarily of our historical WIND operations in Italy, was US$383 million. As of November 5, 2016, our WIND operations in Italy were contributed into the Italy Joint Venture, which is accounted for as a joint venture and the results of which are classified as a share of loss of joint ventures and associates.

(LOSS) / PROFIT FOR THE PERIOD ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE OWNERS OF THE PARENT

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, the consolidated loss for the period attributable to the owners of the parent was US$283 million compared to a profit of US$326 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The change was mainly due to the profit for the period from discontinued operations recorded in the first half of 2016 and the reasons described above in “—Non Operating Profits and Losses”.

(LOSS) / PROFIT FOR THE PERIOD ATTRIBUTABLE TO NON CONTROLLING INTEREST

Our profit for the period attributable to non-controlling interest was US$14 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to a profit of US$55 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The decrease was mainly due to the profit for the period from discontinued operations recorded in the six months ended June 30, 2016.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    12


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

 

RUSSIA

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN US$

 

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of U.S. dollars (except as indicated)             2017                             2016                  

‘16-17

      % change      

Total operating revenue

  2,294     1,894     21%

Mobile service revenue

  1,864     1,512     23%

- of which FMC(1)

  38     4     962%

- of which mobile data

  490     347     41%

Fixed-line service revenue

  337     316     7%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  93     66     41%

Operating expenses

  1,414     1,152     23%

Adjusted EBITDA

  880     742     19%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  38.4%     39.2%     -0.8(p.p.)

 

(1)

Fixed-mobile convergence services (“FMC”)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN RUB

 

 

    Six months ended June 30,  
In millions of RUB (except as indicated)               2017                           2016               ‘16-17
      % change      
 

Total operating revenue

    132,913       132,344       0%  

Mobile service revenue

    108,022       105,564       2%  

- of which FMC

    2,203       237       830%  

- of which mobile data

    28,413       24,259       17%  

Fixed-line service revenue

    19,549       22,119       -12%  

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

    5,342       4,661       15%  

Operating expenses

    81,918       80,665       2%  

Adjusted EBITDA

    50,995       51,679       -1%  

Adjusted EBITDA margin

    38.4%       39.0%       -0.6(p.p.)  

 

 

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

 

 

 
    Six months ended June 30,  
                2017                           2016               ‘16-17
      % change      
 

Mobile

     

Customers in millions

    58.3       57.5       1%  

ARPU in US$

    5.3       4.3       24%  

ARPU in RUB

    307       298       3%  

Mobile data customers in millions

    38.1       33.7       13%  

Fixed line

     

Broadband customers in millions

    2.2       2.2       2%  

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    13


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

Our total operating revenue in Russia increased by 21% to US$ 2,294 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$ 1,894 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 due to the strengthening ruble.

In functional currency terms, total operating revenue increased to RUB 132,913 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to RUB 132,344 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The 17% increase in mobile data revenue was offset mainly by a decrease in fixed-line revenue. The fixed-line revenue decrease was driven by the effect of the strengthening ruble on foreign currency contracts and growing penetration of FMC in the customer base.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Our Russia Adjusted EBITDA increased by 19% to US$880 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$742 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 due to the strengthening ruble.

In functional currency terms, our Russia Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 1% in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the same period in the previous year, primarily as a result of increased customer acquisition costs.

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 58.3 million mobile customers in Russia, including 0.7 million FMC customers, representing an increase of 1% from approximately 57.5 million mobile customers as at June 30, 2016, due to increased sales and improved churn and the Net Promoter Score position remains in par with Beeline’s main competitors.

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our mobile ARPU in Russia increased by 24% to US$5.3 compared to US$4.3 in the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily as a result of foreign exchange effects. In functional currency terms, mobile ARPU in Russia increased by 3%, due to continued efforts to simplify tariff plans, success in upselling customers, and the increase in penetration of bundled offerings in the customer base.

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 38.1 million mobile data customers, representing an increase of 13% from approximately 33.7 million mobile data customers as at June 30, 2016. The increase was mainly due to the increased smartphone penetration.

The fixed line broadband customers are mainly represented by FTTB customers. As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 2.2 million fixed line customers in Russia, including 0.7 million FMC customers, representing an increase of 2% from approximately 2.2 million fixed-line customers as at June 30, 2016. The increase was mainly due to increased sales and improved churn.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    14


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

PAKISTAN

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN US$

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of U.S. dollars (except as indicated)               2017                       2016             ‘16-17
      % change      

Total operating revenue

  755   558   35%

Mobile service revenue

  705   526   34%

- of which mobile data

  105   64   65%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  50   32   61%

Operating expenses

  434   327   33%

Adjusted EBITDA

  321   231   39%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  42.5%   41.4%   1.1 (p.p.)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN PKR

 

    Six months ended June 30,  
In millions of PKR (except as indicated)             2017                         2016               ‘16-17
      % change      
 

Total operating revenue

    79,163       58,389       36%  

Mobile service revenue

    73,859       55,089       34%  

- of which mobile data

    10,988       6,668       65%  

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

    5,304       3,300       61%  

Operating expenses

    45,480       34,222       33%  

Adjusted EBITDA

    33,683       24,167       39%  

Adjusted EBITDA margin

    42.5%       41.4%       1.1 (p.p.).  

 

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

 

    Six months ended June 30,  
              2017                         2016               ‘16-17
      % change      
 

Mobile

     

Customers in millions

    52.5       39.1       34%  

ARPU in US$

    2.3       2.0       12%  

ARPU in PKR

    236       235       0%  

Mobile data customers in millions

    26.7       19.4       38%  

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

On July 1, 2016, VEON Ltd., together with its subsidiary GTH, acquired 100% of the voting shares in Warid, a mobile telecommunications provider. VEON Ltd. consolidated Warid financials in the Pakistan segment starting from July 1, 2016, which affects comparability with previous periods. For more information regarding our acquisitions and dispositions, see “—Key Developments and Trends” in our 2016 Annual Report and Note 6 to our audited consolidated financial statements incorporated therein.

MOBILE REVENUE

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our Pakistan total operating revenue increased by 35% to US$755 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$558 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016, as a result of the Pakistan Merger and increased data revenues, supported by customer growth.

In functional currency terms, our Pakistan total operating revenue increased by 36%.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Our Pakistan Adjusted EBITDA increased by 39% to US$321 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$231 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 primarily due to the Pakistan Merger, higher revenue, lower SIM tax subsidies and lower HR costs.

In functional currency terms, our Pakistan Adjusted EBITDA increased by 39%.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    15


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

As at June 30, 2017, we had 52.5 million customers in Pakistan, representing an increase of 34% from 39.1 million customers as at June 30, 2016, primarily driven by the Pakistan Merger, continued customer satisfaction through focus on price simplicity and efficient distribution channel management.

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our mobile ARPU in Pakistan increased by 12% to US$2.3 compared to US$2.0 in the six months ended June 30, 2016. In functional currency terms, mobile ARPU in Pakistan increased in the six months ended June 30, 2017 to PKR 236 compared to PKR 235 in the six months ended June 30, 2016 mainly driven by an increase in data usage, partially offset by lower voice consumption.

As at June 30, 2017, we had 26.7 million mobile data customers in Pakistan, representing an increase of approximately 38% from 19.4 million mobile data customers as at June 30, 2016. The increase was mainly due to the Pakistan Merger on July 1, 2016 and the 3G expansion and increased smartphone penetration in the customer base.

 

ALGERIA

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN US$

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of U.S. dollars (except as indicated)             2017                       2016            

 

‘16-17

        % change        

Total operating revenue

  463   529   -12%

Mobile service revenue

  456   524   -13%

- of which mobile data

  55   32   72%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  7   5   39%

Operating expenses

  244   243   1%

Adjusted EBITDA

  219   286   -24%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  47.2%   54.1%   -6.9(p.p.)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN DZD

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of DZD (except as indicated)             2017                       2016            

 

‘16-17

        % change        

Total operating revenue

  50,744   57,484   -12%

Mobile service revenue

  49,941   56,912   -12%

- of which mobile data

  6,005   3,465   73%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  803   572   40%

Operating expenses

  26,799   26,405   1%

Adjusted EBITDA

  23,945   31,079   -23%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  47.2%   54.1%   -6.9(p.p.)

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    16


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

          Six months ended June 30,       
   

 

          2017          

 

 

          2016          

 

 

‘16-17

        % change        

Mobile

     

Customers in millions

  15.5   16.3   -5%

ARPU in US$

  4.8   5.2   -9%

ARPU in DZD

  520   567   -8%

Mobile data customers in millions

  7.0   5.4   30%

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

Our Algeria total operating revenue decreased by 12% to US$463 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$529 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 partially due to a difficult macroeconomic environment characterized by an accelerating inflation rate and strong competitive environment. Total operating revenue for the six months ended June 30, 2017 was also affected by a new finance law, effective as at January 2017, which increased VAT from 7% to 19% on data services and from 17% to 19% on voice services, and increased taxes on recharges from 5% to 7%. These taxes and recharges could not be passed on to customers. In addition, revenue was negatively affected by customer churn, caused by competitive pressure in the market. As a result, service revenue decreased year-on-year. Data revenue growth, however, remained strong due to higher usage and an increase in data customers as a result of the rollout of 3G and 4G/LTE networks.

In functional currency terms, total operating revenue in Algeria decreased by 12%.

For a description of the risks associated with the current operating conditions in Algeria, see “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Legal and Regulatory Risks—We operate in a highly regulated industry and are subject to a large variety of laws and extensive regulatory requirements” and “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Legal and Regulatory Risks—Unpredictable tax systems give rise to significant uncertainties and risks that could complicate our tax planning and business decisions” in our 2016 Annual Report.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Our Algeria Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 24% to US$219 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$286 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 primarily due to a decrease in total revenues, as discussed above, particularly with respect to the new VAT and taxes on recharges.

In functional currency terms, our Algeria Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 23%.

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Customers in our Algeria segment decreased to approximately 15.5 million as at June 30, 2017 compared to 16.3 million customers as at June 30, 2016. The 5% decrease was mainly due to competitive pressure in the market.

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our mobile ARPU in Algeria decreased by 9% to US$4.8 compared to US$5.2 in the six months ended June 30, 2016. In functional currency terms, our mobile ARPU in Algeria decreased by 8%, mainly due to aggressive price competition and high-value customer churn.

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 7.0 million mobile data customers in Algeria, representing an increase of 30% from the 5.4 million mobile data customers as at June 30, 2016. The increase was mainly due to the rapid expansion of data networks and increased smartphone penetration.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    17


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

BANGLADESH

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN US$

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of U.S. dollars (except as indicated)             2017                       2016             ‘16-17
      % change      

Total operating revenue

  299   312   -4%

Mobile service revenue

  291   305   -5%

- of which mobile data

  38   28   34%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  8   7   15%

Operating expenses

  169   173   -3%

Adjusted EBITDA

  130   139   -6%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  43.5%   44.5%   -1.0(p.p.)

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN BDT

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of BDT (except as indicated)             2017                       2016             ‘16-17
        % change        

Total operating revenue

  23,958   24,470   -2%

Mobile service revenue

  23,328   23,934   -3%

- of which mobile data

  3,066   2,232   37%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  630   536   17%

Operating expenses

  13,533   13,585   0%

Adjusted EBITDA

  10,425   10,885   -4%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  43.5%   44.5%   -1.0(p.p.)

 

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

     
          Six months ended June 30,       
   

 

2017

 

 

2016

  ‘16-17
% change

Mobile

     

Customers in millions

  30.7   31.1   -1%

ARPU in US$

  1.6   1.6   -1%

ARPU in BDT

  127   125   1%

Mobile data customers in millions

  15.9   14.5   9%

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    18


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

Our Bangladesh total operating revenue decreased by 4% to US$299 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$312 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The main operational focus during the six months ended June 30, 2017 was on network coverage, in order to address the 3G gap vis-à-vis the competition, and on customer acquisition following the completion of the government-mandated SIM re-verification program, which had contributed to a slowdown of acquisition activity across the market since the earlier part of 2016.

In functional currency terms, total operating revenue in Bangladesh decreased by 2%, due to a decrease of service revenue. Service revenue decreased as a result of the imposition of an incremental 2% supplementary duty on recharges, effective from June 2016, in addition to the 1% surcharge introduced in March 2016 and the gap in 3G network coverage of Banglalink as compared to the market leader, resulting in loss of high value customers.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Our Bangladesh Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 6% to US$130 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$139 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016 due to lower revenue, as discussed above, higher customer acquisition activity and the increase of technology-related costs as a result of network expansion, partially offset by lower HR costs.

In functional currency terms, our Bangladesh Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 4%.

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

Customers in our Bangladesh segment decreased to approximately 30.7 million as at June 30, 2017 compared to 31.1 million customers as at June 30, 2016. The 1% decrease was mainly due to the government mandated identity verification procedures, resulting in blocking of unverified SIMs in 2016.

For further information on the risks associated with SIM re-verification, see “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Legal and Regulatory Risks—New or proposed changes to laws or new interpretations of existing laws in the markets in which we operate may harm our business” in our 2016 Annual Report.

In the six months ended June 30, 2017 and June 30, 2016, our mobile ARPU in Bangladesh decreased by 1% to US$1.6. In functional currency terms, mobile ARPU in Bangladesh increased in the six months ended June 30, 2017 by 1% to BDT127 compared to BDT125 in the six months ended June 30, 2016 mainly due to increased data usage.

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 15.9 million mobile data customers in Bangladesh, representing an increase of approximately 9% from the approximately 14.5 million mobile data customers as at June 30, 2016, mainly due to continued investments in efficient data networks.

UKRAINE

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN US$

 

    Six months ended June 30,
In millions of U.S. dollars (except as indicated)               2017                         2016             ‘16-17
      % change      

Total operating revenue

  297   281   5%

Mobile service revenue

  275   259   6%

- of which mobile data

  66   41   63%

Fixed-line service revenue

  21   20   5%

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

  1   2   -29%

Operating expenses

  133   130   3%

Adjusted EBITDA

  164   151   8%

Adjusted EBITDA margin

  55.1%   53.8%   1.3(p.p.)

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    19


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN UAH

 

    Six months ended June 30,  
In millions of UAH (except as indicated)             2017                         2016               ‘16-17 
      % change      
 

Total operating revenue

    7,929       7,157       11%  

Mobile service revenue

    7,328       6,598       11%  

- of which mobile data

    1,778       1,040       71%  

Fixed-line service revenue

    572       520       10%  

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

    29       39       -25%  

Operating expenses

    3,551       3,309       7%  

Adjusted EBITDA

    4,378       3,848       14%  

Adjusted EBITDA margin

    55.2%       53.8%       1.4(p.p.)  

 

 

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

 

 
    Six months ended June 30,  
              2017                         2016               ‘16-17 
      % change      
 

Mobile

     

Customers in millions

    26.1       25.4       3%  

ARPU in US$

    1.7       1.7       3%  

ARPU in UAH

    46       43       8%  

Mobile data customers in millions

    11.2       10.3       9%  

Fixed line

     

Broadband customers in millions

    0.8       0.8       2%  

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

Our Ukraine total operating revenue increased by 5% to US$297 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$281 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase was primarily due to strong growth in mobile service revenue, driven by successful commercial activities stimulated by the continued 3G roll-out and increased penetration of data-centric tariffs, continued strong growth of mobile data customers and data consumption.

In functional currency terms, our Ukraine total operating revenue in the six months ended June 30, 2017 increased by 11%.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

Our Ukraine Adjusted EBITDA increased by 8% to US$164 million in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to US$151 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016.

In functional currency terms, our Ukraine Adjusted EBITDA increased by 14% in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to the same period in the previous year, primarily due to higher revenues, as discussed above, and lower interconnection costs partially offset by the increase in roaming costs, commercial costs driven by higher subscribers acquisition and structural opex, such as license and frequency fees.

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 26.1 million mobile customers in Ukraine compared to 25.4 million mobile customers as at June 30, 2016, representing an increase of 3%, as a result of increased gross additions and improved churn.

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our mobile ARPU in Ukraine increased by 3% to US$1.7 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2016. In functional currency terms, mobile ARPU in Ukraine increased in the six months ended June 30, 2017 by 8% to UAH 46 compared to the six months ended June 30, 2016 of UAH 43. These increases were mainly due to the revenue increase described above.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    20


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 0.8 million fixed line broadband customers in Ukraine, which was broadly stable compared to June 30, 2016.

UZBEKISTAN

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN US$

 

    Six months ended June 30,  
In millions of U.S. dollars (except as indicated)               2017                           2016               ‘16-17
        % change         
 

Total operating revenue

    306       329       -7%  

Mobile service revenue

    303       327       -7%  

- of which mobile data

    77       74       4%  

Fixed-line service revenue

    2       2       -15%  

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

    1       —         20%  

Operating expenses

    144       135       7%  

Adjusted EBITDA

    162       194       -17%  

Adjusted EBITDA margin

    52.9%       58.9%       -6.0(p.p.)  

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS IN UZS

 

 

 
    Six months ended June 30,  
In billions of UZS (except as indicated)               2017                           2016               ‘16-17
        % change         
 

Total operating revenue

    1,089       947       15%  

Mobile service revenue

    1,082       940       15%  

- of which mobile data

    274       212       29%  

Fixed-line service revenue

    7       7       5%  

Sales of equipment, accessories and other

    1       —         54%  

Operating expenses

    512       389       32%  

Adjusted EBITDA

    577       558       3%  

Adjusted EBITDA margin

    53.0%       58.9%       -5.9(p.p.)  

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

 

 

 
    Six months ended June 30,  
                2017                           2016               ‘16-17
        % change         
 

Mobile

     

Customers in millions

    9.6       9.3       3%  

ARPU in US$

    5.3       5.6       -6%  

ARPU in UZS

    18,813       16,193       16%  

Mobile data customers in millions

    4.5       4.3       5%  

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    21


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2017 COMPARED TO SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2016

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our Uzbekistan total operating revenue decreased by 7% to US$306 million compared to US$329 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016. In Uzbekistan, all of our tariff plans are pegged to the U.S. dollar.

In functional currency terms, our Uzbekistan total operating revenue increased by 15%, mainly as a result of the increased tariffs in Uzbek som resulting from the appreciation of U.S. dollar against the local currency and successful marketing activities, together with increased mobile data revenue, interconnect services and value added services. Mobile data revenue increased by 29% during the period under review, driven by the rollout of additional mobile data networks, increased smartphone penetration, promotions and increased penetration of bundled offerings.

ADJUSTED EBITDA

In the six months ended June 30, 2017, our Uzbekistan Adjusted EBITDA decreased by 17% to US$162 million compared to US$194 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily due to decreased revenue and higher customer-related costs.

In functional currency terms, in the six months ended June 30, 2017, our Uzbekistan Adjusted EBITDA increased by 3% compared to the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily due to the revenue increase discussed above, partially offset by higher interconnect costs as a result of both higher off-net usage and a negative currency effect together with increases in content costs, customer costs and structural opex.

SELECTED PERFORMANCE INDICATORS

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 9.6 million mobile customers in our Uzbekistan segment, which on an unrounded basis, represented an increase of 3% to 9.3 million, driven by strong gross additions and improved churn.

In the six months ended June 30, 2017 and in the six months ended June 30, 2016, our mobile ARPU in Uzbekistan was US$5.3 compared to US$5.6 in the six months ended June 30, 2016, a decrease of 6%. In functional currency terms, mobile ARPU in Uzbekistan increased by 16% to UZS18,813 in the six months ended June 30, 2017 compared to UZS 16,193 in the six months ended June 30, 2016 mainly due to the reasons described above with respect to total operating revenue.

As at June 30, 2017, we had approximately 4.5 million mobile data customers in Uzbekistan compared to approximately 4.3 million mobile data customers as at June 30, 2016, representing an increase of 5% primarily due to the commercial launch of 4G/LTE network, promotions and increased penetration of bundled offerings .

HQ

For historical periods prior to the year ended December 31, 2016, we reported an “HQ and Others” segment, comprised of our current “HQ” segment and the results of our current “Others” category. As of December 31, 2016, “Others” is no longer a reportable segment in our financial statements. Therefore, we have presented our results and analysis for the six months ended June 30, 2016 to reflect our new HQ segment.

Our HQ Adjusted EBITDA increased by 27% to negative US$170 million for the six months ended June 30, 2017, compared to negative US$234 million for the six months ended June 30, 2016, primarily due to lower performance transformation costs.

ITALY JOINT VENTURE

For the six months ended June 30, 2016, we classified our Italian business unit as an asset held for sale and discontinued operation in our consolidated financial statements. In connection with this classification, VEON Ltd. no longer accounted for depreciation and amortization expenses of the Italian operation. The intercompany positions were disclosed as related party transactions and balances. On November 5, 2016, the balance sheet of the Italian business was deconsolidated and an investment in a joint venture, in which VEON Ltd. has joint control, was recorded. Our financial data for the six months ended June 30, 2017 accounts for the Italy Joint Venture in shares of loss of joint ventures and associates. Please refer to Note 6 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

Under the joint venture transaction, VEON Ltd. contributed its entire shareholding in its historical operations in Italy, in exchange for a 50% interest in the newly formed Italy Joint Venture. As a result, the company does not control the Italy Joint Venture’s operations in Italy. The Italy Joint Venture publishes an independent set of financials results, which describe the performance of that entity.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    22


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

WORKING CAPITAL

As at June 30, 2017, we had negative working capital of US$1,288 million, compared to negative working capital of US$2,007 million as at December 31, 2016. Working capital is defined as current assets less current liabilities. The change in our working capital as at June 30, 2017 compared to December 31, 2016 was primarily due to decreased current financial liabilities by US$ 470 million mainly due to redemption of Russian ruble denominated bonds and decreased other payables by US$ 205 million mainly due to payment for the acquired long-term assets.

Our working capital is monitored on a regular basis by the management. The management expects to repay our debt as it becomes due from our operating cash flows or through additional borrowings. Although we have a negative working capital, the management believes that our cash balances and available credit facilities are sufficient to meet our short term and foreseeable long term cash requirements.

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW SUMMARY

The following table shows our consolidated cash flows for the six month periods ended June 30, 2017 and 2016:

 

     Six months
    ended June 30,    
In millions of U.S. dollars        2017            2016    

Net cash flows from operating activities

   1,162    442

- from continuing operations

   1,162    67

- from discontinued operations

   —      375

Net cash used in investing activities

   (1,314)    (1,177)

- from continuing operations

   (1,314)    (765)

- from discontinued operations

   —      (412)

Net cash from financing activities

   163    719

- from continuing operations

   163    729

- from discontinued operations

   —      (10)
  

 

  

 

OPERATING ACTIVITIES

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, net cash flows from operating activities increased to US$1,162 million from US$442 million during the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase of cash flows from operating activities was mainly due to payment of US$795 million of fines and disgorgements in relation to agreements with the SEC, DOJ and OM during the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase was partially offset by cash flows from discontinued operations during the six months ended June 30, 2016, which was not recorded during the six months period ended June 30, 2017 due to the deconsolidation of the Italian operation.

INVESTING ACTIVITIES

Our investing activities included payments related to the purchase of equipment, frequency permissions and licenses, capitalized customer acquisition costs, software and other assets as a part of the ongoing development of our mobile networks and fixed line business.

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, our total payments for purchases of property, equipment and intangible assets were US$1,196 million compared to US$714 million during the six months ended June 30, 2016. The increase was primarily due to increased investments in property and equipment in Russia, investments in property and equipment and license acquisition in Pakistan during the six months ended June 30, 2017, increased investments in financial assets during the period, and the lack of an outflow by discontinued operations after deconsolidation of the Italian operation.

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSITIONS

For information regarding our acquisitions and dispositions, see Notes 8 and 9 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

FINANCING ACTIVITIES

The Company assesses its capital raising and refinancing needs on an ongoing basis and may consider from time to time a number of options, including additional credit facilities, the issuance of debt securities in local and international capital markets, as well as repurchases of its securities in the open market.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    23


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, we repaid US$3,606 million of indebtedness and raised US$4,442 million net of fees paid for borrowings. As at June 30, 2017, the principal amounts of our external indebtedness for bank loans, bonds, equipment financing and loans from others amounted to US$11.62 billion, compared to US$10.56 billion as at June 30, 2016.

For additional information on our financial activities, please refer to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto and “—Key Developments during the Second Quarter of 2017”.

INDEBTEDNESS

Many of the agreements relating to indebtedness contain various covenants, including financial covenants relating to our financial performance or financial condition, as well as negative pledges, compliance with laws requirements, and restrictions on mergers, acquisitions and certain asset disposals, subject to agreed exceptions. In addition, certain of these agreements subject certain of our subsidiaries to restrictions on their ability to pay dividends, make loans or repay debts to us. Our financing agreements have various customary events of default which can be triggered by events including non-payment, breach of applicable covenants, loss of certain mobile licenses, non-payment cross- default, cross-acceleration, certain judgment defaults, certain material adverse events and certain insolvency events. Some of our financing agreements also contain “change of control” provisions that may allow the lenders to cancel the facility and/or to require us to make a prepayment if a person or group of persons (with limited exclusions) acquire beneficial or legal ownership of, or control over more than 50.0% of, the voting share capital, or in certain cases of VEON Ltd., ceases to control more than 50.0% of the borrower’s voting share capital.

For additional information on our outstanding indebtedness, please refer to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

For a description of some of the risks associated with certain of our indebtedness, please refer to the sections of our 2016 Annual Report entitled “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—Substantial amounts of indebtedness and debt service obligations could materially decrease our cash flow, adversely affect our business and financial condition and prevent us from raising additional capital,” “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We may not be able to raise additional capital” and “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—A disposition by one or both of our largest shareholders of their respective stakes in VEON Ltd. or a change in control of VEON Ltd. could harm our business.”’

For a discussion of the recent financing developments, see “—Key Developments during the Second Quarter of 2017”

The following table provides a summary of our outstanding indebtedness with an outstanding principal balance exceeding US$30 million as at June 30, 2017, excluding indebtedness of the Italy Joint Venture.

 

   

Type of debt/original

lender

 

Interest rate

 

Outstanding debt

(in millions)

 

Maturity date

 

Guarantor

 

Security

VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V.

 

Loan from ING Bank

N.V.

 

6 month LIBOR

plus 1.08%

  US$73  

October 16,

2023

 

EKN,

VimpelCom

Holdings

  None

VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V.

  Loan from China Development Bank Corp.   6 month LIBOR plus 3.30%   US$291   December 21, 2020   PJSC VimpelCom   None

VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V.

  Loan from HSBC Bank plc   1.72%   US$175   July 31, 2022   EKN, PJSC VimpelCom   None

VimpelCom Holdings B.V.

  Loan from China Development Bank Facility   5.71%  

US$63 (RMB

424)

 

September 13,

2021

  None   None

VimpelCom Holdings B.V

  Loan from Alfa-Bank   1 month Libor plus 3.25%   US$500   October 17, 2017   None   None

VimpelCom Holdings B.V

  Loan from Alfa-Bank   1 month Libor plus 3.25%   US$500   October 17, 2017   None   None

VimpelCom Holdings B.V.

  Notes from Citibank   3.95%   US$600  

June 16,

2021

  None   None

VimpelCom Holdings B.V.

  Notes from Citibank   4.95%   US$900  

June 16,

2024

  None   None

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    24


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

   

Type of debt/original

lender

 

Interest rate

 

Outstanding debt

(in millions)

 

Maturity date

 

Guarantor

 

Security

VimpelCom
Holdings B.V

  Loan from SberBank   10.00%  

US$1,608 (RUB

95,000)

  May 19, 2022   None   None

VimpelCom
Holdings B.V

 

Syndicated Loan

Facility(1)

  3 month Libor plus 2.75%  

US$602 (EUR

527)

  Feb 16, 2022   None   None

VimpelCom
Holdings B.V.

  Notes   9.00%   US$203 (RUB 12,000)   February 13, 2018   None   None

VimpelCom
Holdings B.V.

  Notes   5.20%   US$571   February 13, 2019   None   None

VimpelCom
Holdings B.V.

  Notes   5.95%   US$983   February 13, 2023   None   None

VimpelCom
Holdings B.V.

  Notes   7.5043%   US$628   March 1, 2022   PJSC VimpelCom   None

PJSC VimpelCom

  Loan from VIP Finance Ireland Limited (funded by the issuance of loan participation notes by VIP Finance Ireland)   9.125%   US$166   April 30, 2018   None   None

PJSC VimpelCom

 

Loan from VIP Finance Ireland

(funded by the issuance of loan participation notes by VIP Finance Ireland)

  7.748%   US$377   February 2, 2021   None   None

PJSC VimpelCom

  RUB denominated notes   11.90%   US$423 (RUB 25,000)   October 3, 2025(2)   None   None

GTH Finance B.V.

  Notes   6.25%   US$500   April 26, 2020  

VimpelCom

Holdings

  None

GTH Finance B.V.

  Notes   7.25%   US$700   April 26, 2023  

VimpelCom

Holdings

  None

GTH SAE

  Term Loan   1 month US$ LIBOR plus 4.00%   US$200   August 3, 2017(3)   International Wireless Communications Pakistan Ltd, Telecom Ventures Ltd   None

PMCL

 

Loan from Habib Bank

Limited

  6 month KIBOR plus 1.15%   US$29 (PKR3,000)   May 16, 2019   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

 

Loan from MCB Bank

Limited

  6 month KIBOR plus 0.80%   US$153 (PKR16,000)   December 23, 2020   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

 

Syndicated loan via

MCB Bank Limited

  6 month KIBOR plus 1.25%   US$38 (PKR4,000)   May 16, 2019   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

  Sukuk Certificates   3 month KIBOR plus 0.88%   US$55 (PKR5,750)   December 22, 2019   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

 

Loan from ING Bank

N.V.

  6 month LIBOR plus 1.90%   US$212   December 1, 2020   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

  Syndicated mark-up agreement via Habib Bank Limited   6.00%   US$58 (PKR6,043)   December 31, 2023   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

  Syndicated mark-up agreement via Habib Bank Limited   6.00%   US$38 (PKR4,005)   December 31, 2023   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

PMCL

 

Loan from United

Bank Limited

  6 month KIBOR plus 1.10%   US$31 (PKR3,200)   May 16, 2021   None   Certain assets of PMCL(4)

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    25


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

   

Type of debt/original

lender

 

Interest rate

 

Outstanding debt

(in millions)

 

Maturity date

 

Guarantor

 

Security

BDCL

  Senior Notes   8.625%   US$300   May 6, 2019   None   None

OTA

 

Syndicated Loan

Facility

 

Bank of Algeria

Re-Discount Rate plus 2.00%

  US$348 (DZD37,500)  

September 30,

2019

  none   Dividend assignment

Other loans, equipment financing and capital lease obligations

      US$301      

 

 

 

 (1) This is part of the combined Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan signed with multiple banks with Citibank as the agent. The Outstanding amount reflects the Term Loan portion fully drawn out in EUR. The RCF remains undrawn.
 (2) These bonds are subject to an investor put option at October 13, 2017.
 (3) This facility was extended to December 15, 2017 on July 21, 2017.
 (4) Charges over moveable fixed assets, receivables, cash balances, investments, cash collections and book debts.

FUTURE LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS

During the six months ended June 30, 2017, our capital expenditures were US$912 million compared to US$545 million in the six months ended June 30, 2016, in each case, excluding capital expenditures in Italy. The increase in capital expenditures was primarily due to higher capital expenditures in Russia in the six months ended June 30, 2017, as a result of procurement-related delays in the prior year, and increased capital expenditure in Pakistan in the six months ended June 30, 2017 due to integration capital expenditures and the expansion of 3G and 4G/LTE networks.

We expect that our capital expenditures in 2017 will mainly consist of investing in high-speed data networks to capture mobile data growth, including the continued roll-out of 4G/LTE networks in Russia and Algeria and 3G networks in Algeria, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Ukraine. We expect that these expenditures will continue to be significant through the second half of 2017, including in relation to potential spectrum auctions in both Bangladesh and Ukraine.

For a discussion of our spending on research and development and our development of new technologies including our VEON personal internet platform, see “Item 4—Information on the Company—Research and Development” and “Item 4—Information on the Company—Overview” of our 2016 Annual Report.

The management anticipates that the funds necessary to meet our current capital requirements and those to be incurred in the foreseeable future (including with respect to any possible acquisitions) will come from:

 

   

cash we currently hold;

 

   

operating cash flows;

 

   

export credit agency guaranteed financing;

 

   

borrowings under bank financings, including credit lines currently available to us;

 

   

syndicated loan facilities; and

 

   

debt financings from international and local capital markets.

As at June 30, 2017, we had an undrawn amount of US$2,501 million under existing credit facilities (excluding the Italy Joint Venture’s credit facilities).

The management expects positive cash flows from operations will continue to provide us with internal sources of funds. The availability of external financing depends on many factors, including the success of our operations, contractual restrictions, availability of guarantees from export credit agencies, the financial position of international and local banks, the willingness of international banks to lend to our companies and the liquidity of international and local capital markets. The actual amount of debt

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    26


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

financing that we will need to raise will be influenced by our financing needs, the actual pace of traffic growth over the period, network construction, our acquisition plans and our ability to continue revenue growth and stabilize ARPU.

For related risks, see “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business— Substantial amounts of indebtedness and debt service obligations could materially decrease our cash flow, adversely affect our business and financial condition and prevent us from raising additional capital,” and “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We may not be able to raise additional capital” of our 2016 Annual Report.

Our future cash needs are subject to significant uncertainties. For instance, we are exposed to the impact of future exchange rates on our U.S. dollar denominated debt obligations and future requirements for U.S. dollar denominated capital expenditures, which are generally funded by functional currency cash flows of our subsidiaries. Remittances from our subsidiaries may also be restricted by local regulations or subject to material taxes when remitted. In addition, we have had material cash outflows with respect to the agreements with the SEC, DOJ and OM, and we expect to have material cash outflows in the short-term for our performance transformation program. Despite these uncertainties, we believe that our cash flows from operations and other sources of funds described above will be sufficient to meet our short-term and foreseeable long-term cash requirements.

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

We have entered into transactions with related parties and affiliates. Please see Note 13 to our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto.

For the explanation of the nature of significant related party transactions please refer to our 2016 Annual Report.

CERTAIN FACTORS AFFECTING OUR FINANCIAL POSITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

Our financial position and results of operations as at and for the six months ended June 30, 2017 and 2016 as reflected in our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements attached hereto have been influenced by the following additional factors.

For a discussion of the key developments trends, commitments or events that are likely to have a material effect on our results of operation for the current financial year, see “—Key Developments during the Second Quarter of 2017.”

ECONOMIC TRENDS AND INFLATION

Our financial position and results of operations are affected by the economic conditions in the countries in which we operate. In particular, in Algeria, there continued to be a challenging economic environment in the six months ended June 30, 2017 and an accelerating inflation rate. In addition, the depreciation of the Uzbek som negatively affected our results of operations in Uzbekistan during the six months ended June 30, 2017.

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION

Our unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements are presented in U.S. dollars. Amounts included in these financial statements were presented in accordance with IAS 21, The Effects of Changes in Foreign Exchange Rates, using the current rate method of currency translation with the U.S. dollar as the reporting currency. The current rate method assumes that assets and liabilities measured in the functional currency are translated into U.S. dollars at exchange rates prevailing on the balance sheet date; whereas revenue, expenses, gains and losses are translated into U.S. dollars at historical exchange rates prevailing on the transaction dates. We translate income statement amounts using the average exchange rates for the period. Translation adjustments resulting from the process of translating financial statements into U.S. dollars are reported in accumulated other comprehensive income, a separate component of equity.

Our results of operations are affected by increases or decreases in the value of the U.S. dollar or our functional currencies. A higher average exchange rate correlates to a weaker functional currency. We have listed below the relevant exchange rates for each of our countries of operation for the six months ended June 30, 2017. These should not be construed as a representation that such currency will in the future be convertible into U.S. dollars or other foreign currency at the exchange rate shown, or at any other exchange rates.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    27


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

     Average rates  
     1H17      1H16     

YoY

% change

 

Russian Ruble (RUB)

     57.99        70.26        -17.5

Pakistan Rupee (PRK)

     104.81        104.71        0.1

Algerian Dinar (DZD)

     109.48        108.68        0.7

Bangladeshi Taka (BDT)

     80.22        78.41        2.3

Ukrainian Hryvnia (UAH)

     26.76        25.46        5.1

Uzbekistan Som (UZS)

     3,566.66        2,877.26        24.0

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

We are exposed to market risk from adverse movements in foreign currency exchange rates and changes in interest rates on our obligations.

As at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the largest currency exposure risks for the group were in relation to the Russian ruble, the euro, the Pakistani rupee, the Algerian dinar, the Bangladeshi taka, the Ukrainian hryvnia and the Uzbek som, because the majority of our cash flows from operating activities in Russia, Pakistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Ukraine and Uzbekistan and the Italy Joint Venture’s cash flows from operating activities are denominated in these functional currencies, respectively, while our debt, if not incurred in or hedged to the aforementioned currencies, is primarily denominated in U.S. dollars.

We hold approximately 30% of our readily available cash (in U.S. dollars) at the group level in order to hedge against the risk of functional currency devaluation. We also hold part of our debt in Russian rubles and other currencies to manage part of this risk. Nonetheless, if the U.S. dollar value of the Russian ruble, euro, Algerian dinar, Pakistani rupee, Bangladeshi taka, Ukrainian hryvnia, Kazakh tenge or Uzbek som were to dramatically decline, it could negatively impact our ability to repay or refinance our U.S. dollar denominated indebtedness. Fluctuations in the value of the Russian ruble, euro, Algerian dinar, Pakistani rupee, Bangladeshi taka, Ukrainian hryvnia or Uzbek som against the U.S. dollar could adversely affect VEON Ltd.’s financial condition and results of operations due to potential revaluation of U.S. dollar denominated indebtedness affecting net income through foreign exchange gain/loss. Our treasury function has developed risk management policies that establish guidelines for limiting foreign currency exchange rate risk. For more information on risks associated with currency exchange rates, see the section of our 2016 Annual Report entitled “Item 3—Key Information—D. Risk Factors—Risks Related to Our Business—We are exposed to foreign currency exchange loss and currency fluctuation and convertibility risks.”

The following table summarizes information, as at June 30, 2017, about the maturity of our financial instruments that are sensitive to foreign currency exchange rates, primarily represented by foreign currency denominated debt obligations:

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    28


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

    Aggregate nominal amount of total foreign
currency denominated debt outstanding as
at June 30,
          Fair Value (1)
of foreign
currency
denominated
debt as at

June 30,
 
    2018     2019     2020     2021     2022     After June
30, 2022
    2017  

Total debt:

             

Fixed Rate (US$)

    679       378       377       0       0       —         929  

Average interest rate

    8.2%       7.8%       7.7%       0       0       —      

Fixed Rate (RUB)

    1,608       1,608       1,608       853       —         —         1,788  

Average interest rate

    10.0%       10.0%       10.0%       10.0%       0%       —      

Fixed Rate (other currencies)

    63       54       36       18       0       —         60  

Average interest rate

    5.7%       5.7%       5.7%       5.7%       0%       —      

Variable Rate (US$)

    162       106       37       —         —         —         210  

Average interest rate

    3.3%       3.3%       3.3%       0%       0%       —      

Variable Rate (EUR)

    602       602       516       172       —         —         599  

Average interest rate

    2.8%       2.8%       2.8%       2.8%       0%       —      

Variable Rate (other currencies)

    —         —         —         —         —         —         —    

Average interest rate

    0%       0%       0%       0%       0%       —      

 

(1)

The fair values were estimated based on quoted market prices for our bonds, derived from market prices or by using discounted cash flows under the agreement at the rate applicable for the instruments with similar maturity and risk profile.

In accordance with our policies, we do not enter into any treasury management transactions of a speculative nature.

As at June 30, 2017, the variable interest rate risk on the financing of our group was limited as 73% of the group’s total debt was fixed rate debt.

 

 

 

LOGO

  VEON Ltd | Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations    29


Table of Contents

 

 

Unaudited interim condensed

consolidated financial statements

VEON Ltd.

As at and for the six and three month periods

ended June 30, 2017


Table of Contents

TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

  

Interim condensed consolidated income statement

     3  

Interim condensed consolidated statement of comprehensive income

     4  

Interim condensed consolidated statement of financial position

     5  

Interim condensed consolidated statement of changes in equity

     6  

Interim condensed consolidated statement of cash flows

     7  

1

   General information      8  

2

   Basis of preparation of the interim condensed consolidated financial statements      9  

3

   Significant transactions      10  

4

   Segment information      11  

5

   Income taxes      13  

6

   Share of loss of joint ventures and associates      14  

7

   Other non-operating losses      16  

8

   Property and equipment      16  

9

   Intangible assets      17  

10

   Financial assets and liabilities      18  

11

   Cash and cash equivalents      24  

12

   Dividends declared      24  

13

   Related parties      25  

14

   Commitments, contingencies and uncertainties      25  

15

   Events after the reporting period      26  

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

2


Table of Contents

INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

for the six and three month periods ended June 30

 

            Six month period     Three month period  
     Note      2017     2016     2017     2016  
(In millions of U.S. dollars, except per share amounts)                                

Service revenues*

        4,533       4,033       2,331       2,086  

Sale of equipment and accessories

        108       79       57       35  

Other revenues / other income

        57       58       29       32  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating revenues

     4        4,698       4,170       2,417       2,153  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Service costs*

        (920     (819     (477     (432

Cost of equipment and accessories

        (114     (91     (58     (39

Selling, general and administrative expenses

        (1,872     (1,707     (951     (887

Depreciation

        (776     (723     (386     (391

Amortization

        (268     (225     (146     (113

Impairment loss

        (5     (12     (8     (4

Loss on disposals of non-current assets

        (9     (6     (2     (4
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total operating expenses

        (3,964     (3,583     (2,028     (1,870
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
           
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Operating profit

        734       587       389       283  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Finance costs

        (447     (385     (232     (205

Finance income

        46       31       24       19  

Other non-operating losses

     7        (152     (62     (116     (24

Share of loss of joint ventures and associates

     6        (196     (16     (95     (11

Impairment of joint ventures and associates

     6        (110     —         (110     —    

Net foreign exchange gain / (loss)

        62       95       (53     33  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) / profit before tax

        (63     250       (193     95  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense

     5        (206     (252     (65     (135
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss for the period from continuing operations

        (269     (2     (258     (40
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Profit after tax for the period from discontinued operations

        —         383       —         186  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) / profit for the period

        (269     381       (258     146  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Attributable to:

           

The owners of the parent (continuing operations)

        (283     (57     (278     (49

The owners of the parent (discontinued operations)

        —         383       —         186  

Non-controlling interest

        14       55       20       9  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
        (269     381       (258     146  
     

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Earnings / (loss) per share

           

Basic and diluted from continuing operations

      ($ 0.16   ($ 0.03   ($ 0.16   ($ 0.03

Basic and diluted from discontinued operations

        —       $ 0.22       —       $ 0.11  

Basic and diluted for profit attributable to ordinary equity holders of the parent

      ($ 0.16   $ 0.19     ($ 0.16   $ 0.08  

 

* In 2016, the Group has aligned its practices for content revenue across the Group. The impact of this refinement in policy was not material and reduced the revenue and the operating costs by US$9 and US$3, respectively, for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2016. The net results, financial position and operating cash flows for these periods remained unaffected. The Company concluded that net presentation of the content revenue better reflected the actual nature and substance of the arrangements with content providers.

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

3


Table of Contents

INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

for the six and three month periods ended June 30

 

     Six month period      Three month period  
     2017     2016      2017     2016  

(In millions of U.S. dollars)

                         

(Loss) / profit for the period

     (269     381        (258     146  

Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss

         

Net movement on cash flow hedges (net of tax of nil and nil, respectively, for the six and three month periods (2016: US$7 and US$7))

     2       20        4       24  

Foreign currency translation

     62       216        (68     143  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other comprehensive income / (loss) for the period, net of tax

     64       236        (64     167  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive (loss) / income for the period, net of tax

     (205     617        (322     313  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Attributable to:

         

The owners of the parent

     (250     582        (365     319  

Non-controlling interests

     45       35        43       (6
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
     (205     617        (322     313  
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

4


Table of Contents

INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

as at

 

     Note      June 30,
2017
    December 31,
2016
 
(In millions of U.S. dollars)                    

Assets

       

Non-current assets

       

Property and equipment

     8        6,315       6,719  

Intangible assets

     9        2,410       2,257  

Goodwill

     9        4,538       4,696  

Investments in joint ventures and associates

     6        2,049       2,179  

Deferred tax assets

        266       343  

Non-current income tax advance

        28       25  

Other financial assets

     10        281       306  

Other assets

        126       118  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-current assets

        16,013       16,643  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Current assets

       

Inventories

        116       125  

Trade and other receivables

        689       685  

Other assets

        389       439  

Current income tax assets

        204       169  

Other financial assets

     10        241       190  

Cash and cash equivalents

     11        2,873       2,942  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current assets

        4,512       4,550  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Assets classified as held for sale

     3        509       —    
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total assets

        21,034       21,193  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Equity and liabilities

       

Equity

       

Equity attributable to equity owners of the parent

        5,355       5,960  

Non-controlling interests

        (277     83  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity

        5,078       6,043  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

       

Financial liabilities

     10        9,577       8,070  

Provisions

        139       148  

Other liabilities

        44       44  

Deferred tax liabilities

        329       331  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total non-current liabilities

        10,089       8,593  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Current liabilities

       

Trade and other payables

        1,539       1,744  

Other liabilities

        1,270       1,236  

Other financial liabilities

     10        2,576       3,046  

Current income tax payables

        13       57  

Provisions

        402       474  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total current liabilities

        5,800       6,557  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Liabilities associated with assets held for sale

     3        67       —    
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total equity and liabilities

        21,034       21,193  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

5


Table of Contents

INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

for the six month period ended June 30, 2017

 

     Attributable to equity owners of the parent              

(In millions of U.S. dollars)

   Number of
shares
outstanding
     Issued
capital
     Capital
Surplus
     Other
capital
reserves
    Retained
earnings
    Foreign
currency
translation
    Total     Non-
controlling
interests
    Total
equity
 

As at January 1, 2017

     1,749,004,648        2        12,753        753       (439     (7,109     5,960       83       6,043  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) / profit for the period

        —          —          —         (283     —         (283     14       (269

Other comprehensive income

        —          —          2       —         31       33       31       64  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive (loss) / income

        —          —          2       (283     31       (250     45       (205
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends declared
(Note 12)

        —          —          —         (343     —         (343     (158     (501

Share-based payment transactions

     122,756        —          —          —         —         —         —         —         —    

Changes in ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control (Note 3)

        —          —          (12     —         —         (12     (247     (259

Reallocation to legal reserve in Algeria

        —          —          4       (4     —         —         —         —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

As at June 30, 2017

     1,749,127,404        2        12,753        747       (1,069     (7,078     5,355       (277     5,078  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

for the six month period ended June 30, 2016

 

     Attributable to equity owners of the parent               

(In millions of U.S. dollars)

   Number of
shares
outstanding
     Issued
capital
     Capital
Surplus
     Other
capital
reserves
     Retained
earnings
    Foreign
currency
translation
    Total      Non-
controlling
interests
    Total
equity
 

As at January 1, 2016

     1,749,004,648        2        12,753        667        (2,706     (6,951     3,765        129       3,894  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Profit for the period

        —          —          —          326       —         326        55       381  

Other comprehensive income / (loss)

        —          —          21        —         235       256        (20     236  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive income

        —          —          21        326       235       582        35       617  
     

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

Dividends declared to non-controlling interests

        —          —          —          —         —         —          (69     (69

Changes in ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control

        —          —          18        —         —         18        (18     —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

As at June 30, 2016

     1,749,004,648        2        12,753        706        (2,380     (6,716     4,365        77       4,442  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

6


Table of Contents

INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

for the six month period ended June 30

 

     Note      2017     2016  
(In millions of U.S. dollars)                    

Operating activities

       

(Loss) / profit before tax

        (63     250  

Non-cash adjustments to reconcile profit before tax to net cash flows:

       

Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses

        1,049       960  

Loss on disposals of non-current assets

        9       6  

Finance costs

        447       385  

Finance income

        (46     (31

Other non-operating losses

        152       62  

Share of loss of joint ventures and associates

        196       16  

Impairment of joint ventures and associates

        110       —    

Net foreign exchange gain

        (62     (95

Changes in trade and other receivables and prepayments

        (66     (162

Changes in inventories

        11       25  

Changes in trade and other payables

        119       —    

Changes in provisions and pensions

        (69     (798

Interest paid

        (418     (359

Interest received

        36       31  

Income tax paid

        (243     (223

Net cash flow from operating activities of discontinued operations

        —         375  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flow from operating activities

        1,162       442  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Investing activities

       

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

        15       8  

Purchase of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets

        (1,196     (714

Loans granted

        (2     (82

(Payment on) / receipts from deposits

        (24     70  

Investment in financial assets

        (107     (47

Net cash flow used in investing activities of discontinued operations

        —         (412
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flow used in investing activities

        (1,314     (1,177
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Financing activities

       

Acquisition of non-controlling interest

     3        (259     —    

Proceeds from borrowings, net of fees paid*

     10        4,442       1,848  

Repayment of borrowings

        (3,606     (1,120

Dividends paid to the owners of the parent

     12        (332     —    

Dividends paid to non-controlling interests

     12        (82     —    

Proceeds from sale of non-controlling interests, net of fees paid

        —         1  

Net cash flow used in financing activities of discontinued operations

        —         (10
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net cash flow from financing activities

        163       719  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

        11       (16

Net foreign exchange difference related to continued operations

        (74     (10

Net foreign exchange difference related to discontinued operations

        —         5  

Cash and cash equivalents classified as held for sale at the beginning of period

        —         314  

Cash and cash equivalents classified as held for sale at the end of the period

        (6     (272

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

        2,942       3,614  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

     11        2,873       3,635  
     

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

* Fees paid for borrowings were US$49 (2016: US$26).

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

7


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

1 GENERAL INFORMATION

VEON Ltd. (VEON, the Company, and together with its consolidated subsidiaries, the Group or we) was incorporated in Bermuda on June 5, 2009. The registered office of VEON is Victoria Place, 31 Victoria Street, Hamilton HM 10, Bermuda. VEON’s headquarters and the principal place of business are located at Claude Debussylaan 88, 1082 MD Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

The Company changed its name from VimpelCom Ltd. to VEON Ltd., effective as of March 30, 2017.

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements are presented in United States dollars (“U.S. dollar” or “US$”). In these notes, U.S. dollar amounts are presented in millions, except for share and per share (or American Depository Shares (“ADS”)) amounts and as otherwise indicated.

VEON’s ADSs are listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market (“NASDAQ”). From April 4, 2017, VEON’s common shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam, the regulated market of Euronext Amsterdam B.V. (“Euronext Amsterdam”).

Share information

As at June 30, 2017, the Company’s largest shareholders and remaining free float are as follows:

 

Shareholder    Common shares      % of common
and voting shares
 

L1T VIP Holdings S.à r.l. (“LetterOne”)

     840,625,001        47.9

Telenor East Holding II AS (“Telenor”)

     346,703,840        19.7

Stichting Administratiekantoor Mobile Telecommunications Investor(i)

     145,947,562        8.3

Free Float

     423,454,732        24.1
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total outstanding common shares

     1,756,731,135        100

Shares held by the Company or its subsidiaries (“Treasury shares”)

     7,603,731        0.4

 

(i) LetterOne is entitled to the economic benefits (dividend payments, other distributions and sale proceeds) of such common shares.

In April 2017, Telenor sold 70,000,000 common shares of VEON Ltd. in the form of ADSs listed on NASDAQ and common shares listed on Euronext Amsterdam pursuant to an underwritten offering. The Company did not receive any proceeds from the offering, and Telenor’s sale of the ADSs and common shares did not result in dilution of the Company’s issued and outstanding shares. The offering was made pursuant to the Company’s shelf registration statement on Form F-3 initially filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on May 23, 2014, as amended and most recently declared effective on April 20, 2016 (the “Registration Statement”). The ADSs and common shares were offered by means of a prospectus and accompanying prospectus supplement forming a part of the effective Registration Statement.

Nature of operations and principal activities

VEON earns revenues by providing voice and data telecommunication services through a range of traditional and broadband mobile and fixed-line technologies. As at June 30, 2017, the Company operated telecommunications services in Russia, Pakistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Tajikistan, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Laos, and in Italy via a 50/50 joint venture.     

During the six month period ended June 30, 2017, several local currencies demonstrated significant volatility against the U.S. dollar, which impacted the Company’s financial position and results of operations following the translation of non-U.S. currency amounts into U.S. dollars for consolidation purposes. In particular, in U.S. dollar terms, the fluctuations of local currencies caused a 7% increase in total revenue for the Group for the six month period ended June 30, 2017 as compared with the same period of 2016.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

8


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

In addition, the foreign exchange rate in Uzbekistan applied for consolidation purposes is the official rate published by the Central Bank of the Republic of Uzbekistan. However, this exchange rate is not achievable in expatriating funds out of the country due to long-term restrictions imposed by the local government. The total net assets of the Uzbekistan operations contributing to the consolidated financial position of the Group as at June 30, 2017 amounted to US$778. However, if the Company applied the exchange rate implied by market transactions, the net assets would decrease significantly in U.S. dollar terms.

 

2 BASIS OF PREPARATION OF THE INTERIM CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

BASIS OF PREPARATION

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting.

The interim condensed consolidated financial statements do not include all the information and disclosures required in the annual consolidated financial statements, and should be read in conjunction with the Group’s audited annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2016.

The preparation of these interim condensed consolidated financial statements has required management to apply accounting policies and methodologies based on complex and subjective judgments, estimates based on past experience and assumptions determined to be reasonable and realistic based on the related circumstances. The use of these judgements, estimates and assumptions affects the amounts reported in the statement of financial position, income statement, statement of cash flows, statement of changes in equity, as well as the notes. The final amounts for items for which estimates and assumptions were made in the consolidated financial statements may differ from those reported in these statements due to the uncertainties that characterize the assumptions and conditions on which the estimates are based.

NEW STANDARDS, INTERPRETATIONS AND AMENDMENTS ADOPTED BY THE GROUP

The accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the interim condensed consolidated financial statements are consistent with those followed in the preparation of the Group’s annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2016.

A number of new or amended standards became effective as at January 1, 2017. However, the Company did not have to change its accounting policies or make retrospective adjustments as a result of adopting these standards.

The following are significant and relevant new standards that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of the issuance of the Group’s financial statements, and which have not been early adopted by the Company:

 

    IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from contracts with customers’ The Group is continuing to assess the impact of IFRS 15, however, based on the analysis performed so far, the Company does not expect any material impact on revenue recognition due to currently existing product offering (i.e. prevailing pre-paid service offering). However, the Company does expect a potential impact stemming from capitalization of costs incurred in acquiring contracts with customers upon adoption in 2018.

 

    IFRS 9 ‘Financial instruments’ The Group is in the process of assessing the impact of IFRS 9, which may be material to the consolidated income statement and consolidated financial position, of the Company, upon adoption in 2018.

 

    IFRS 16, ‘Leases’ The Group has yet to assess the impact of IFRS 16, which may be material to the consolidated income statement and consolidated financial position upon adoption in 2019.

 

    IFRIC 23 ‘Uncertainty over income tax treatments’ — The Interpretation, clarifies application of recognition and measurement requirements in IAS 12 ‘Income Taxes’ when there is uncertainty over income tax treatments. The Group has yet to assess the impact of IFRIC 23, which may be material to the consolidated income statement and consolidated financial position upon adoption in 2019.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

9


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

3 SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTIONS

GLOBAL TELECOM HOLDING S.A.E SHARE BUYBACK

Global Telecom Holdings S.A.E (“GTH”), a subsidiary of the Company, bought back 524,569,062 ordinary shares from its shareholders for EGP 4.1 billion (US$259), which transaction settled on February 21, 2017. The Company did not take part in the share buyback. As a result of the share buyback, the Company’s interest in GTH increased by 5.77% from 51.92% to 57.69%, resulting in a US$12 loss recognized directly in equity. The cancellation of the 524,569,062 ordinary shares was approved at an extraordinary general meeting of GTH’s shareholders on March 19, 2017 and took effect on April 16, 2017 after ratification by the Egyptian Financial Supervisory Authority of the minutes of the March 19, 2017 extraordinary general meeting.

EXIT FROM EUROSET HOLDING B.V. JOINT VENTURE

On July 7, 2017, PJSC Vimpel-Communications (“PJSC VimpelCom”), a subsidiary of the Company, entered into a Framework Agreement with PJSC Megafon (“Megafon”) to unwind their retail joint venture, Euroset Holding B.V. (“Euroset”). Under the agreement, Megafon will acquire PJSC VimpelCom’s 50% interest in Euroset and PJSC VimpelCom will pay RUB 1.25 billion (approximately US$20 and subject to possible completion adjustments) and will acquire rights to 50% of Euroset’s approximately 4,000 retail stores in Russia. The transaction is subject to relevant regulatory approvals and other conditions precedent, and is expected to be completed in Q4 2017.

As a result of this anticipated transaction, the investment in the Euroset joint venture was classified as an asset held-for-sale at June 30, 2017. However, as a result of the impairment described in Note 6, the investment in Euroset had a carrying value of nil prior to reclassification as an asset held-for-sale.

TOWERS IN PAKISTAN CLASSIFIED AS HELD-FOR-SALE

The Company is in advanced discussions for the sale of its indirect subsidiary, Deodar Limited (“Deodar”). Deodar holds a portfolio of approximately 13,000 towers and provides network tower services in Pakistan. As a result, on June 30, 2017, the Company classified Deodar as a disposal group held-for-sale. There can be no assurance that definitive agreement will be reached.

Following the classification as a disposal group held-for sale, the Company will no longer account for depreciation and amortization expenses of Deodar assets.

The assets and liabilities of Deodar classified as held for sale are presented below:

 

     June 30,
2017
 

Property and equipment

     141  

Goodwill

     237  

Deferred tax assets

     62  

Other non-current assets

     2  

Cash and cash equivalents

     4  

Other current assets

     39  
  

 

 

 

Total assets held for sale

     485  
  

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

     (13

Current liabilities

     (39
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities held for sale

     (52
  

 

 

 

Included in the equity of the Group is cumulative other comprehensive income of US$(7) related to Deodar, which is classified as held for sale.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

10


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

LAOS OPERATIONS CLASSIFIED AS HELD FOR SALE

During Q2 2017, the Company has committed to a plan to sell its 78% interest in VimpelCom Lao Co. Limited (“VIP Lao”). As a result, we classified our Laos business as a disposal group held for sale in these interim condensed consolidated financial statements.

Following the classification as a disposal group held-for sale, the Company will no longer account for depreciation and amortization expenses of VIP Lao assets.

The assets and liabilities of VIP Lao classified as held for sale are presented below:

 

     June 30,
2017
 

Property and equipment

     15  

Intangible assets

     2  

Current assets

     7  
  

 

 

 

Total assets held for sale

     24  
  

 

 

 

Non-current liabilities

     (4

Current liabilities

     (11
  

 

 

 

Total liabilities held for sale

     (15
  

 

 

 

Included in the equity of the Group is cumulative other comprehensive income of US$1 and non-controlling interests of US$(5) related to Laos, which is classified as held for sale.

 

4 SEGMENT INFORMATION

Management analyzes the Company’s operating segments separately because of different economic environments and stages of development in different geographical areas, requiring different investment and marketing strategies. Management does not analyze assets or liabilities by reportable segments.

Management evaluates the performance of the Company’s segments on a regular basis, primarily based on earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortization, impairment loss, loss on disposals of non-current assets, other non-operating losses and shares of profit / (loss) of associates and joint ventures (“Adjusted EBITDA”).

From the first quarter of 2017, management has included the Italy Joint Venture (see Note 6) as a separate reportable segment, due to its increasing contribution to the Company’s overall financial result and position.

Financial information by reportable segment for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017 and 2016, is presented in the following tables, with the exception of the Italy Joint Venture, for which financial information is presented in Note 6. Inter-segment revenues between operating segments are on an arm’s length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties. The segment data for acquired operations are reflected herein from the date of their respective acquisition.

Six month period ended June 30, 2017

 

     Russia      Algeria      Pakistan      Bangladesh      Ukraine      Uzbekistan      HQ     Other     Total
Segments
 

Revenue

                        

External customers

     2,278        463        755        299        286        305        —         312       4,698  

Inter-segment

     16        —          —          —          11        1        —         (28     —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenue

     2,294        463        755        299        297        306        —         284       4,698  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

     880        219        321        130        164        162        (170     86       1,792  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other disclosures

                        

Capital expenditure

     259        55        395        27        67        38        15       56       912  

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

11


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

Six month period ended June 30, 2016

     Russia      Algeria      Pakistan      Bangladesh      Ukraine      Uzbekistan      HQ     Other     Total
Segments
 

Revenue

                        

External customers

     1,875        529        557        312        271        328        —         298       4,170  

Inter-segment

     19        —          1        —          10        1        —         (31     —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenue

     1,894        529        558        312        281        329        —         267       4,170  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

     742        286        231        139        151        194        (234     44       1,553  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other disclosures

                        

Capital expenditure

     163        70        46        50        40        46        15       115       545  

 

Three month period ended June 30, 2017

 

 

     Russia      Algeria      Pakistan      Bangladesh      Ukraine      Uzbekistan      HQ     Other     Total
Segments
 

Revenue

                        

External customers

     1,188        231        385        148        148        152        —         165       2,417  

Inter-segment

     9        —          —          —          6        1        —         (16     —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenue

     1,197        231        385        148        154        153        —         149       2,417  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

     471        105        167        61        87        83        (94     51       931  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other disclosures

                        

Capital expenditure

     142        29        361        17        38        16        8       33       644  

 

Three month period ended June 30, 2016

 

 

     Russia      Algeria      Pakistan      Bangladesh      Ukraine      Uzbekistan      HQ     Other     Total
Segments
 

Revenue

                        

External customers

     999        250        284        157        141        163        —         159       2,153  

Inter-segment

     11        —          1        —          4        1        —         (17     —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total revenue

     1,010        250        285        157        145        164        —         142       2,153  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

     414        128        115        69        80        94        (113     8       795  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other disclosures

                        

Capital expenditure

     115        43        34        33        30        17        15       63       350  

The following table provides the reconciliation of consolidated Adjusted EBITDA to consolidated (loss) / profit before tax, as presented in the consolidated income statement, for the six and three month periods ended June 30:

 

     Six month period     Three month period  
     2017     2016     2017     2016  

Total Segments Adjusted EBITDA

     1,792       1,553       931       795  

Depreciation

     (776     (723     (386     (391

Amortization

     (268     (225     (146     (113

Impairment loss

     (5     (12     (8     (4

Loss on disposals of non-current assets

     (9     (6     (2     (4

Finance costs

     (447     (385     (232     (205

Finance income

     46       31       24       19  

Other non-operating losses

     (152     (62     (116     (24

Share of loss of joint ventures and associates

     (196     (16     (95     (11

Impairment of joint ventures and associates

     (110     —         (110     —    

Net foreign exchange gain / (loss)

     62       95       (53     33  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

(Loss) / profit before tax

     (63     250       (193     95  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

12


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

5 INCOME TAXES

Current income tax is the expected tax expense, payable or receivable on the taxable income or loss for the period, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

Income tax expense consisted of the following for the six and three month periods ended June 30:

 

     Six month period     Three month period  
     2017      2016     2017     2016  

Current income taxes

     196        297       89       158  

Deferred income taxes

     10        (45     (24     (23
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense

     206        252       65       135  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

The table below outlines the reconciliation between the statutory tax rate in the Netherlands (25%) and effective corporate income tax rates for the Group, together with the corresponding amounts:

 

     Six month period     Three month period  
     2017     2016     2017     2016  

(Loss) / profit before tax from continued operations

     (63     250       (193     95  

Income tax benefit / (expense) at statutory tax rate (25.0%)

     16       (63     49       (24

Difference due to the effects of:

        

Different tax rates in different jurisdictions

     (25     (51     (24     (22

Non-deductible expenses

     (103     (30     (62     (19

Non-taxable income

     17       10       7       8  

Prior year adjustments

     (35     7       (10     5  

Change in recognition of deferred tax assets

     (68     (69     (26     (33

Withholding taxes

     8       2       2       3  

Minimum taxes and change in income tax rate

     (15     (15     (8     (12

Other

     (1     (43     7       (41
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Income tax expense

     (206     (252     (65     (135
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

In the first half of 2017, the difference between the statutory tax rate in the Netherlands (25.0%) and the effective corporate income tax rate for the Group (-327.0%) was primarily driven by non-deductible expenses in respect of share of loss of joint ventures and associates and impairment of joint ventures and associates, reducing profit before tax by US$196 and US$110, respectively, as well as the income tax losses arising from early debt redemption for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized, reducing profit before tax by US$124. But for these expenses, the effective tax rate for the six month period would have been 56.1%, which was impacted by profitability in countries with a higher nominal tax rate (Uzbekistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan), other non-deductible expenses and other income tax losses for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized.

During the first half of 2016, the difference between the statutory tax rate in the Netherlands (25%) and the effective corporate income tax rate for the Group (100.8%) was mainly driven by non-deductible expenses, income tax losses for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized, increase in uncertain income tax positions and higher statutory tax rates in Uzbekistan, where the statutory tax rate increased from 15% to 53.3%.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

13


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

In the second quarter of 2017, the difference between the statutory tax rate in the Netherlands (25%) and the effective corporate income tax rate for the Group (-33.7%) was primarily driven by non-deductible expenses in respect of share of loss of joint ventures and associates and impairment of joint ventures and associates, reducing profit before tax by US$95 and US$110, respectively, as well as the income tax loss arising from early debt redemption for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized, reducing profit before tax by US$124. But for these expenses, the effective tax rate for the three month period would have been 47.8%, which was impacted by profitability in countries with a higher nominal tax rate (Uzbekistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan), other non-deductible expenses and other income tax losses for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized.

In the second quarter of 2016, the difference between the statutory tax rate in the Netherlands (25%) and the effective corporate income tax rate for the Group (142.1%) was mainly driven by non-deductible expenses, income tax losses for which no deferred tax asset has been recognized, increase in uncertain income tax positions and higher statutory tax rates in Uzbekistan, where the statutory tax rate increased from 15% to 53.3%.

 

6 SHARE OF LOSS OF JOINT VENTURES AND ASSOCIATES

Share of loss of joint ventures and associates was contributed by the following investments for the six and three month periods ended June 30:

 

     Six month period     Three month period  
     2017     2016     2017     2016  

Italy Joint Venture

     (174     —         (85     —    

Other joint ventures and associates

     (22     (16     (10     (11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Share of loss of joint ventures and associates

     (196     (16     (95     (11
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

ITALY JOINT VENTURE

On November 5, 2016, the Company completed the transaction with CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd to form a joint venture in Italy, combining their respective businesses. Refer to Note 6 in the annual consolidated financial statements for further details.

The information of the Italy Joint Venture disclosed below reflects the amounts presented in the financial statements of the relevant joint venture and not the Group’s share of those amounts. The information presented below has been amended to reflect adjustments made by the Company when using the equity method, including fair value adjustments and modifications for differences in accounting policy.

The loss for the Italy Joint Venture for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017 is disclosed below.

 

     Six month
period
    Three month
period
 

Revenue

     3,308       1,671  

Operating expenses

     (3,308     (1,702

Other expenses

     (301     (114

Income tax expenses

     (47     (25

Loss for the period

     (348     (170

Other comprehensive income

     —         —    
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total comprehensive loss

     (348     (170
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Included within Operating expenses for the six and three month periods are, respectively, US$941 and US$496 of depreciation and amortization expense. Included within Other (expenses) / income for the six and three month periods are, respectively, US$206 and US$102 of interest expense.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

14


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

As disclosed in Note 4, the Italy Joint Venture is a separate reportable segment. Financial information for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017 is presented below.

 

     Six month
period
     Three month
period
 

Revenue

     

External customers

     3,307        1,670  

Inter-segment

     1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total revenue

     3,308        1,671  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Adjusted EBITDA

     947        471  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Other disclosures

     

Capital expenditure

     549        293  

The following table provides a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA to Loss for the period for the Italy Joint Venture, for the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017.

 

     Six month
period
    Three month
period
 

Adjusted EBITDA

     947       471  

Depreciation and amortization

     (941     (496

Loss on disposals of non-current assets

     (6     (6

Finance costs

     (201     (102

Other non-operating losses

     (100     (12

Income tax expenses

     (47     (25
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss for the period

     (348     (170
  

 

 

   

 

 

 

IMPAIRMENT OF EUROSET

During Q2 2017, due to the continued operational underperformance of Euroset, the Company has revised its previous estimates and assumptions regarding Euroset’s future cash flows. As a result, the Company has recorded an impairment of US$110 against the carrying value of the investment in Euroset, resulting in a post-impairment carrying value of nil.

The recoverable amount of Euroset has been determined using fair value less costs of disposal, based on a Level 3 fair value derived from a discounted cash flow model.

 

Key assumptions    June 30,
2017
 

Discount rate (functional currency)

     13.4

Average annual revenue growth rate during forecast period (functional currency)

     1.7

Terminal growth rate

     0.0

Average operating (EBITDA) margin during forecast period

     0.0

Average capital expenditure as a percentage of revenue

     0.9
  

 

 

 

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

15


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

7 OTHER NON-OPERATING LOSSES

Other non-operating losses consisted of the following for the six and three month periods ended June 30:

 

     Six month period     Three month period  
     2017     2016     2017     2016  

Loss from early debt redemption

     (124     —         (124     —    

Change of fair value of embedded derivative

     (1     5       2       5  

Change of fair value of other derivatives

     (22     (76     12       (32

Other (losses) / gains

     (5     9       (6     3  
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Other non-operating losses

     (152     (62     (116     (24
  

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Loss from early debt redemption relates to the settlement of the cash tender offer for certain outstanding debt securities, see Note 10 for further details.

 

8 PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS

The movement in property and equipment for the six and three month periods ended June 30 included the following:

 

     Six month period     Three month period  
     2017     2016     2017     2016  

Cost of acquired assets

     514       386       296       253  

Net book value of assets disposed

     23       12       12       11  

Net loss on disposal of assets

     (9     (6     (2     (4

During the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017, assets with net book value of US$156 were reclassified as assets held for sale (“AHFS”) (refer to Note 3).

There were no other material changes to property and equipment, other than foreign currency translation differences and depreciation charges. Included in depreciation for the six and three month periods is, respectively, US$64 and US$35 of accelerated depreciation, pertaining to network modernization activities in Bangladesh and Ukraine and network integration in Pakistan.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

16


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

9 INTANGIBLE ASSETS

ACQUISITIONS AND DISPOSALS

The intangible assets acquired in the six and three month periods ended June 30 included the following:

 

     Six month period      Three month period  
     2017      2016      2017      2016  

Telecommunications licenses, frequencies and permissions

     317        108        312        66  

Software

     80        48        37        31  

Other intangible assets

     2        3        —          —    
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total intangible assets acquired

     399        159        349        97  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

On May 16, 2017, Pakistan Mobile Communications Ltd. (“PMCL”), a subsidiary of the Company, participated in an auction for the acquisition of additional 4G/LTE spectrum in Pakistan. PMCL was awarded 10 MHz paired spectrum in the 1800 MHz band for a total consideration of US$295 million, plus withholding tax of 10% representing payment of income tax in advance.

During the six and three month periods ended June 30, 2017, there were no impairment losses recognized in respect of intangible assets, and there were no other material changes to intangible assets, other than foreign currency translation differences and amortization charges. Included in amortization for both the six and three month periods is US$23 of accelerated amortization pertaining to brands and trademarks in Pakistan.

GOODWILL

The movement in goodwill for the Group, per cash generating unit (“CGU”), consisted of the following for the six months ended June 30, 2017:

 

CGU    June 30, 2017      Reclassification to
AHFS (Note 3)
    Currency
translation
    December 31, 2016  

Russia

     2,374        —         62       2,312  

Algeria

     1,426        —         33       1,393  

Pakistan

     258        (237     (2     497  

Kazakhstan

     183        —         7       176  

Kyrgyzstan

     145        —         —         145  

Uzbekistan

     93        —         (21     114  

Armenia

     59        —         —         59  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total

     4,538        (237     79       4,696  
  

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Goodwill is tested for impairment annually (at October 1), or when circumstances indicate the carrying value may be impaired. The Company’s impairment test for goodwill is primarily based on fair value less cost of disposal calculations that use a discounted cash flow model. The key assumptions used to determine the recoverable amount for the different cash generating units were disclosed in the annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2016.

The Company considers the relationship between its market capitalization and its book value, as well as weighted average cost of capital and the quarterly financial performances of each CGU when reviewing for indicators of impairment in interim periods.

There was no goodwill impairment recorded in the first half of 2017. There was also no goodwill impairment recorded in the first half of 2016.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

17


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

10 FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

There were no significant changes in financial assets and liabilities in the six month period ended June 30, 2017, except for the scheduled repayments of debt or as described below. Furthermore, there were no changes in risks and risk management policies as disclosed in the Group’s annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2016.

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES IN FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

PMCL financing

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 11,000 million (approximately US$105) under a syndicated facility with several banks, which was entered into on December 3, 2015 for an amount of PKR 16,000 million (approximately US$152 as of December 3, 2015). The facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between June 23, 2018 and December 23, 2020. The total principal amount outstanding as of June 30, 2017 is PKR 16,000 million (approximately US$153).

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 9,000 million (approximately US$86) under a syndicated facility with several banks, which was entered into on June 12, 2017 for an amount of PKR 26,750 million (approximately US$255 as of June 12, 2017). The facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between December 29, 2019 and June 29, 2022. The total principal amount outstanding as of June 30, 2017 is PKR 9,000 million (approximately US$86).

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 5,000 million (approximately US$48) under a Term Loan facility with Habib Bank Ltd, which was entered into on June 12, 2017 for an amount of PKR 10,000 million (approximately US$95 as of June 12, 2017). The facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between December 27, 2019 and June 29, 2022. The total principal amount outstanding as of June 30, 2017 is PKR 5,000 million (approximately US$48).

On June 29, 2017, PMCL drew down PKR 1,000 million (approximately US$10) under a Term Loan facility with National Bank of Pakistan, which was entered into on June 12, 2017 for an amount of PKR 2,000 million (approximately US$19 as of June 12, 2017). The facility bears interest at six-month KIBOR plus 0.35% per annum. Repayment will take place through periodic instalments between December 27, 2019 and June 29, 2022. The total principal amount outstanding as of June 30, 2017 is PKR 1,000 million (approximately US$10).

GTH Loan facility

GTH entered into an unsecured short-term loan agreement with Citi and ING Bank for a principal amount of US$200, on February 3, 2017. The loan agreement has an initial term of six months (the “Initial Term”), which is capable of being extended until December 15, 2017, and carries interest at a rate of LIBOR plus 4.00% per annum during the Initial Term (rising to LIBOR plus 5.00% per annum for the period from the expiry of the Initial Term to December 15, 2017 in the event the term of the loan agreement is extended), with two of the GTH’s fully owned subsidiaries (International Wireless Communications Pakistan Limited and Telecom Ventures Limited) acting as guarantors. Subject to the terms of the loan agreement, the loan amount was fully utilized on February 14, 2017 and was used for funding the share buyback of GTH (refer to Note 3). On July 21, 2017, the Company issued an extension request, so that the loan agreement now expires on December 15, 2017.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

18


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

Multi-currency term and revolving facilities up to US$2,250

VimpelCom Holdings B.V. (“VIP Holdings”) entered into a new multi-currency term and revolving facilities agreement (the “TL/RCF”) of up to US$2,250 on February 16, 2017. The TL/RCF replaced the US$1,800 revolving credit facility signed in 2014. The term facility has a five-year tenor and the revolving credit facility has an initial tenor of three years, with VIP Holdings having the right to request two one-year extensions to the tenor of the revolving credit facility, subject to lender consent. Several international banks have committed to the TL/RCF in an aggregate amount of US$2,108. The TL/RCF includes an option to increase the amount of the facility up to the full amount of US$2,250, which would consist of a term facility of US$562.5 and a revolving credit facility of US$1,687.5. VIP Holdings will have the option to make each drawdown under the facilities in either U.S. dollars or euro. Under the TL/RCF, the Net Debt to Adjusted EBITDA covenant ratio will be calculated on the basis of the consolidated financial statements of VEON Ltd. and “pro-forma” adjusted for acquisitions and divestments of any business bought or sold during the relevant period.

During Q2 2017, VIP Holdings drew down EUR 530 million (approximately US$565) under the Term loan. On April 21, 2017 and May 31, 2017, VIP Holdings exercised its option to increase the amount of the facility, so that the total amount committed under the TL/RCF is now US$2,250.

Redemption of Ruble bonds

On March 2, 2017, PJSC VimpelCom announced the reset of the coupon rate on its 10% Ruble bonds with a principal amount of RUB 15,052 million (US$258) maturing on March 8, 2022. The new coupon rate of 7% per annum will be applicable for the next six coupon periods (i.e. next three years) and will reset on March 3, 2020. Following the reset of the coupon rate, a number of bondholders exercised their put options with respect to the Ruble bonds in aggregate principal amounts of RUB 14,459 million (US$248) which was repaid on March 17, 2017.

Subsequent to the settlement, the total outstanding amount of 7% Ruble bonds was RUB 597 million (US$10).

Sberbank revolving credit facility drawdown

On March 16, 2017 and on April 10, 2017 PJSC VimpelCom drew down RUB 4,000 million and RUB 11,000 million (US$68 and US$193), respectively, under its revolving credit facility with Sberbank of Russia (“Sberbank”). The facility matured on May 29, 2017 and was fully repaid.

Alfa-Bank credit facility amendment and extension

On March 29, 2017, VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V. (“VIP Amsterdam”), as original borrower, and VIP Holdings, as the new borrower, entered into an amendment agreement with respect to a US$500 facility agreement with AO “Alfa-Bank,” as the original lender and agent, dated April 2, 2014. Pursuant to the amendment agreement, the maturity date of the facility has been extended to October 17, 2017. Further, VIP Holdings has replaced VIP Amsterdam as the borrower, and the guarantee from VIP Holdings has been terminated. In addition, VIP Holdings has agreed that AO “Alfa-Bank” may assign certain of the principal amount of the facility (or transfer its obligations) to other specified lenders. On March 29, 2017, VIP Holdings received confirmation that US$350 of the extended facility had been assigned by AO “Alfa-Bank” to Sberbank.

In addition to the above, on April 5, 2017, VIP Amsterdam, as the original borrower, and VIP Holdings, as the new borrower, entered into a subsequent amendment agreement in respect of a second US$500 facility agreement, with AO “Alfa-Bank,” as the original lender and agent, dated April 18, 2014. Pursuant to the amendment agreement, the maturity date of the facility has been extended to October 17, 2017. Further, VIP Holdings has replaced VIP Amsterdam as the borrower, and the guarantee from VIP Holdings has been terminated. In addition, VIP Holdings has agreed that AO “Alfa-Bank” may assign certain of the principal amount of the facility (or transfer its obligations) to other specified lenders. On April 5, 2017, VIP Holdings received confirmation that US$300 of the extended facility had been assigned by AO “Alfa-Bank” to Sberbank (following an earlier assignment of US$47 million), resulting in a total of US$347 million assigned to Sberbank of Russia as of that date.

RUB 110,000 million Sberbank term facilities agreement

VIP Holdings has entered into a new Russian Ruble-denominated term facility agreement with Sberbank for an amount up to RUB 110,000 million (US$1,914) on May 19, 2017 (the “Facility Agreement”). Amounts borrowed

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

19


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

under the Facility Agreement will be used for general corporate purposes and to refinance existing borrowings of PJSC VimpelCom, including borrowings with Sberbank. The loan has a five-year tenor with an interest rate of 10% per annum. The Facility Agreement provides for financial covenants measured against (i) net debt to EBITDA of VEON Ltd. and, for a designated period, PJSC VimpelCom (each on a consolidated basis) and (ii) EBITDA to finance costs of VEON Ltd. (on a consolidated basis). EBITDA will be “pro-forma” adjusted for acquisitions and disposals of any business bought or sold during the relevant period.

On May 23, 2017, and June 14, 2017, VIP Holdings drew down RUB 79,000 million (US$1,375) and RUB 16,000 million (US$281), respectively, under the Facility Agreement.

Cross currency swaps

During the month of June 2017, the Group entered into several cross currency swaps with several different banks, by exchanging a notional amount of US$600 for EUR 537 million for 4 years. The swaps mature June 16, 2021.

Issuance of New Notes and Cash Tender Offer for Certain Outstanding Debt Securities

On May 30, 2017, VIP Holdings announced a cash tender offer (the “Offer”) in respect of the outstanding (i) U.S.$1,000 9.125% Loan Participation Notes due 2018 issued by, but with limited recourse to, VIP Finance Ireland Limited (the “2018 Notes”), (ii) U.S.$1,000 7.748% Loan Participation Notes due 2021 issued by, but with limited recourse to, VIP Finance Ireland Limited (the “2021 Notes”) and (iii) U.S.$1,500 7.5043% Guaranteed Notes due 2022 issued by VIP Holdings (the “2022 Notes” and together with the 2018 Notes and the 2021 Notes, the “Existing Notes”).

The aggregate principal amount accepted for repurchase was US$1,259, which was settled on or before June 29, 2017. The unamortized debt issuance costs and unamortized fair value hedge basis adjustment were released to the income statement at the date of the closing resulting in a loss from early debt redemption of US$124, recorded within “Other non-operating gains/losses” (refer to Note 7).

On June 16, 2017, VIP Holdings issued US$600 3.95% Senior Notes due 2021 and US$900 4.95% Senior Notes due 2024 (together, the “New Notes”). The net proceeds of the New Notes were used to finance the purchase of the Existing Notes and for general corporate purposes.

Termination of Guarantees

On June 30, 2017, the guarantees issued by VIP Holdings under each of the RUB 12,000 million 9.00% notes due 2018 (the “RUB Notes”), the US$600 5.20% notes due 2019 (the “2019 Notes”) and the US$1,000 5.95% notes due 2023 (the “2023 Notes”, and together with the RUB Notes and the 2019 Notes, the “Notes”), issued by PJSC VimpelCom, were terminated. VIP Holdings exercised its option to terminate the guarantees pursuant to the terms of the trust deeds entered into in respect of the Notes, between VIP Holdings, PJSC VimpelCom and BNY Mellon Corporate Trustee Services Limited, each dated February 13, 2013 (together the “Trust Deeds”). The guarantees in respect of each of the Notes will continue to apply to VIP Holdings’ obligation to redeem the Notes on exercise of the put option under each of the Trust Deeds until that put option has expired or been satisfied.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

20


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

FAIR VALUES

Set out below is a comparison by class of the carrying amounts and fair value of the Company’s financial instruments that are carried in the interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at June 30, 2017, other than those with carrying amounts that are reasonable approximations of fair values:

 

     Carrying value      Fair value  
     June 30,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     June 30,
2017
     December 31,
2016
 

Financial assets

           

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

           

Derivatives not designated as hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     10        2        10        2  

Embedded derivatives in notes

     10        12        10        12  

Financial assets at fair value

           

Available for sale financial assets

     127        71        127        71  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial assets at fair value

     147        85        147        85  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Loans granted, deposits and other financial assets

           

Bank deposits and interest accrued

     347        385        347        385  

Other investments

     24        24        24        24  

Other loans granted

     4        2        4        2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total loans granted, deposits and other financial assets

     375        411        375        411  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial assets

     522        496        522        496  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-current

     281        306        

Current

     241        190        
     Carrying value      Fair value  
     June 30,
2017
     December 31,
2016
     June 30,
2017
     December 31,
2016
 

Financial Liabilities

           

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

           

Derivatives not designated as hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     10        29        10        29  

Financial liabilities at fair value

           

Derivatives designated as net investment hedges

           

Cross currency interest rate exchange contracts

     18        —          18        —    

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     2        4        2        4  

Interest rate exchange contracts

     2        3        2        3  

Contingent consideration

     48        47        48        47  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities at fair value

     80        83        80        83  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities at amortized cost

     12,073        11,033        12,464        11,487  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities

     12,153        11,116        12,544        11,570  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Non-current

     9,577        8,070        

Current

     2,576        3,046        

The fair value of the financial assets and liabilities are included at the amount at which the instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced or liquidation sale. The fair values were estimated based on quoted market prices for our bonds, derived from market prices or by using discounted cash flows under the agreement at the rate applicable for the instruments with similar maturity and risk profile.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

21


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

The carrying amount of cash and cash equivalents, trade and other receivables, and trade and other payables approximate their respective fair value.

The fair value of derivative financial instruments is determined using present value techniques such as discounted cash flow techniques, Monte Carlo simulation and/or the Black-Scholes model. These valuation techniques are commonly used for valuations of derivatives. Observable inputs (Level 2) used in the valuation techniques include LIBOR, EURIBOR, swap curves, basis swap spreads, foreign exchange rates and credit default spreads of both counterparties and our own entities.

The fair value of Available for sale financial assets are determined through comparison of various multiples and reference to market valuation of similar entities quoted in an active market. If information is not available, a discounted cash flow method is used.

Fair value measurements for financial liabilities at amortized cost are based on quoted market prices, where available. If the quoted market price is not available, the fair value measurement is based on discounted expected future cash flows using a market interest rate curve, credit spreads and maturities.

FAIR VALUE HIERARCHY

As at June 30, 2017 and December 31, 2016, the Group recognized financial instruments at fair value in the statement of financial position.

The fair value hierarchy ranks fair value measurements based on the type of inputs used in the valuation; it does not depend on the type of valuation techniques used:

 

    Level 1: quoted (unadjusted) prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities

 

    Level 2: inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly

 

    Level 3: inputs are unobservable inputs for the asset or liability

The following table provides the disclosure of fair value measurements separately for each major class of assets and liabilities.

 

As at June 30, 2017    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

           

Derivatives not designated as hedges

           

Embedded derivatives in notes

     —          10        —          10  

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          10        —          10  

Financial assets at fair value

           

Available for sale financial assets

     —          98        29        127  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial assets at fair value

     —          118        29        147  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

           

Derivatives not designated as hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          10        —          10  

Financial liabilities at fair value

           

Derivatives designated as net investment hedges

           

Cross currency interest rate exchange contracts

     —          18        —          18  

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          2        —          2  

Interest rate exchange contracts

     —          2        —          2  

Contingent consideration

     —          —          48        48  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities at fair value

     —          32        48        80  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

22


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

As at December 31, 2016    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

           

Derivatives not designated as hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          2        —          2  

Embedded derivatives in notes

     —          12        —          12  

Financial assets at fair value

           

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          —          —          —    

Available for sale financial assets

     —          42        29        71  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial assets at fair value

     —          56        29        85  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

           

Derivatives not designated as hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          29        —          29  

Financial liabilities at fair value

           

Derivatives designated as cash flow hedges

           

Foreign exchange contracts

     —          4        —          4  

Interest rate exchange contracts

     —          3        —          3  

Contingent consideration

     —          —          47        47  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total financial liabilities at fair value

     —          36        47        83  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The reconciliation of movements relating to financial instruments classified in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy:

 

     Financial assets at fair value      Financial liabilities at fair value  
     Available
for sale
     Total      Contingent
consideration
     Total  

As at December 31, 2016

     29        29        47        47  

Change in fair value recognized in the income statement

     —          —          1        1  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

As at June 30, 2017

     29        29        48        48  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Transfers into and out of fair value hierarchy levels are recognized at the end of the reporting period (or the date of the event or change in circumstances that caused the transfer). On a quarterly basis, the Company reviews if there are any indicators for a possible transfer between Level 2 and Level 3. This depends on how the Company is able to obtain the underlying input parameters when assessing the fair valuations.

During the six month period ended June 30, 2017, there were no transfers between Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 fair value measurements.

All changes in fair values of financial instruments are unrealized, and are recorded in “Other non-operating losses” in the Interim condensed consolidated income statement.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

23


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

11 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

Cash and cash equivalents consisted of the following items:

 

     June 30,
2017
     December 31,
2016
 

Cash at banks and on hand

     1,704        1,707  

Short-term deposits with original maturity of less than three months

     1,169        1,235  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Total cash and cash equivalents

     2,873        2,942  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

As at June 30, 2017, cash balances in Uzbekistan and Ukraine of US$408 and US$3, respectively (December 31, 2016: US$347 and US$3, respectively), are restricted due to local government or central bank regulations and therefore cannot currently be repatriated.

In addition, short and long term deposits at financial institutions in Uzbekistan of US$285 as at June 30, 2017 (December 31, 2016: US$372) are also subject to the same restrictions.

Cash balances as at June 30, 2017 include investments in money market funds of US$312 (December 31, 2016: US$578).

 

12 DIVIDENDS DECLARED

On February 27, 2017, VEON declared a cash dividend relating to its 2016 results from its freely distributable reserves in the amount of US 19.5 cents per common share. The dividend was paid on April 12, 2017.

DIVIDENDS DECLARED TO NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS

On January 24, 2017, TNS Plus LLP, a subsidiary of the Company, declared dividends to its shareholders, which were paid on January 25, 2017. The portion of dividends paid to the minority shareholder amounted to US$7.

On February 13, 2017, VimpelCom Kyrgyzstan Holding AG, a subsidiary of the Company, declared dividends to its shareholders, which were paid on February 16, 2017. The portion of dividends paid to the minority shareholder amounted to US$55.

On May 12, 2017, TNS Plus LLP declared dividends to its shareholders, which were paid on May 15, 2017. The portion of dividends paid to the minority shareholder amounted to US$12.

On June 21, 2017, Omnium Telecom Algeria S.p.A, a subsidiary of the Company, declared dividends to its shareholders, which will be paid in September 2017. The portion of dividends to be paid to minority shareholders will amount to US$82.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

24


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

13 RELATED PARTIES

As at June 30, 2017, the Company is primarily owned by two major shareholders, being LetterOne and Telenor. The Company has no ultimate controlling shareholder.

The following table provides the total amount of transactions that have been entered into with related parties for the six months ended June 30:

 

     Six month period      Three month period  
     2017      2016      2017      2016  

Revenue from Telenor and affiliates

     39        28        28        15  

Revenue from joint ventures and associates

     16        2        7        1  

Revenue from discontinued operations

     —          34        —          19  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     55        64        35        35  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

Services from LetterOne and affiliates

     —          2        —          —    

Services from Telenor and affiliates

     36        21        26        9  

Services from joint ventures and associates

     17        7        11        4  

Services from discontinued operations

     —          3        —          2  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 
     53        33        37        15  
  

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

    

 

 

 

The following table provides the total balance of accounts with related parties at the end of the relevant period:

 

     June 30,
2017
     December 31,
2016
 

Accounts receivable from Telenor

     9        13  

Accounts receivable from joint ventures and associates

     25        24  

Accounts receivable from other related parties

     2        3  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     36        40  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

Accounts payable to LetterOne

     —          1  

Accounts payable to Telenor

     12        9  

Accounts payable to joint ventures and associates

     6        5  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 
     18        15  
  

 

 

    

 

 

 

SERVICE AGREEMENTS

All service agreements with related parties are disclosed in Note 25 in the Company’s annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2016. There were no new agreements entered into between the Company and related parties during the six month period ended June 30, 2017.

 

14 COMMITMENTS, CONTINGENCIES AND UNCERTAINTIES

There were no material commitments, contingencies and uncertainties that occurred during the six month period ended June 30, 2017, and there were no material changes during the same period to the commitments, contingencies and uncertainties as disclosed in the Group’s annual consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended December 31, 2016, other than those described below.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

25


Table of Contents

Notes to the unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements

(in millions of U.S. dollars unless otherwise stated)

 

SPECTRUM REALLOCATION IN UZBEKISTAN

On March 31, 2017, the Republican Radiofrequencies Council in Uzbekistan (the “Council”) published a decision (the “Decision”) ordering the redistribution of radio frequencies in Uzbekistan which, if it comes into force as planned in September 2017, could result in a reallocation of our subsidiary Unitel LLC’s (“Unitel”) radio frequencies to other cellular communications providers in the market. On April 21, 2017, Unitel filed a claim with the Commercial Court of Tashkent City disputing the Decision. A preliminary hearing on Unitel’s claim was held on May 10, 2017. Unitel’s claim was subsequently transferred to the Administrative Court of the Uchtepa District, which dismissed the claim on June 22, 2017. A cassation appeal of the dismissal, if any, must be commenced on or before January 12, 2018.

GTH – IRAQNA LITIGATION

On June 6, 2017, the English Court of Appeal denied GTH’s application for leave to appeal. With no further venue for appeal, the matter is now concluded and final.

VAT ON REPLACEMENT SIMS

The Bangladesh Appellate Tribunal rejected the appeal of Banglalink Digital Communications Ltd. (“Banglalink”) and all other operators on June 22, 2017. On July 13, 2017, Banglalink filed an appeal of the Appellate Tribunal’s judgment with the High Court Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh.

CANADIAN ACTION BROUGHT BY THE CATALYST CAPITAL GROUP INC.

VEON is a defendant in an action brought in 2016 by The Catalyst Capital Group Inc. for CAD 750 million (US$579 as at June 30, 2017), alleging breach of contract in the Superior Court of Justice in Ontario, Canada.

On March 29, 2017, the claim against VEON and its co-defendants was amended to CAD 1.3 billion (US$1,003 as at June 30, 2017).

 

15 EVENTS AFTER THE REPORTING PERIOD

INTERIM DIVIDEND 2017 OF US$11 CENTS PER SHARE

The Supervisory Board approved the distribution of an interim gross dividend of US$11 cents per share for 2017. This payment is planned to take place on September 6, 2017, with a record date of August 14, 2017. For ordinary shareholders at Euronext Amsterdam, the interim dividend of US$11 cents will be paid in EUR.

Amsterdam, August 3, 2017

VEON Ltd.

 

 

VEON Ltd  |  Unaudited interim condensed consolidated financial statements as at and for the period ended June 30, 2017

 

26


Table of Contents

    

LOGO

Q2 2017 Results And Business Update

Amsterdam, 3 August 2017

Jean-Yves Charlier - Chief Executive Officer

Andrew Davies - Chief Financial Officer


Table of Contents

Slide 2

This presentation contains “forward-looking statements”, as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. These forward-looking statements may be identified by words such as “may,” “might,” “will,” “could,” “would,” “should,” “expect,” “plan,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “seek,” “believe,” “estimate,” “predict,” “potential,” “continue,” “contemplate,” “possible” and other similar words. Forward-looking statements include statements relating to, among other things, VEON’s plans to implement its strategic priorities, including with respect to its performance transformation, among others; anticipated performance and guidance for 2017, including VEON’s ability to generate sufficient cash flow; future market developments and trends; expected synergies of the Italy Joint Venture, including expectations regarding capex and opex benefits; realization of the synergies of the Warid transaction; operational and network development and network investment, including expectations regarding the roll-out and benefits of 3G/4G/LTE networks, as applicable, the effect of the acquisition of additional spectrum on customer experience and VEON’s ability to realize its targets and strategic initiatives in its various countries of operation. The forward-looking statements included in this presentation are based on management’s best assessment of VEON’s strategic and financial position and of future market conditions, trends and other potential developments. These discussions involve risks and uncertainties. The actual outcome may differ materially from these statements as a result of demand for and market acceptance of VEON’s products and services; continued volatility in the economies in VEON’s markets; unforeseen developments from competition; governmental regulation of the telecommunications industries; general political uncertainties in VEON’s markets; government investigations or other regulatory actions and/or litigation with third parties; failure to realize the expected benefits of the Italy Joint Venture or the Warid transaction as expected or at all due to, among other things, the parties’ inability to successfully implement integration strategies or otherwise realize the anticipated synergies; risks associated with data protection or cyber security, other risks beyond the parties’ control or a failure to meet expectations regarding various strategic initiatives, including, but not limited to, the performance transformation program, the effect of foreign currency fluctuations, increased competition in the markets in which VEON operates and the effect of consumer taxes on the purchasing activities of consumers of VEON´s services. Certain other factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in any forward-looking statements include the risk factors described in VEON’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2016 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) and other public filings made by VEON with the SEC. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could harm our future results. New risk factors and uncertainties emerge from time to time and it is not possible for our management to predict all risk factors and uncertainties, nor can we assess the impact of all factors on our business or the extent to which any factor, or combination of factors, may cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statements. Under no circumstances should the inclusion of such forward-looking statements in this presentation be regarded as a representation or warranty by us or any other person with respect to the achievement of results set out in such statements or that the underlying assumptions used will in fact be the case. Therefore, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof. We cannot assure you that any projected results or events will be achieved. Except to the extent required by law, we disclaim any obligation to update or revise any of these forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. Non-IFRS measures are reconciled to comparable IFRS measures in VEON Ltd.’s earnings release published on its website on the date hereof. As of 7 November 2016, VEON Ltd. owns a 50% share of the Italy Joint Venture (with CK Hutchison owning the other 50%) and we account for this JV using the equity method as we do not have control. All information related to the Italy Joint Venture is the sole responsibility of the Italy Joint Venture’s management, and no information contained herein, including, but not limited to, the Italy Joint Venture’s financial and industry data, has been prepared by or on behalf of, or approved by, our management. VEON Ltd. is not making, and has not made, any written or oral representation or warranty, express or implied, of any nature whatsoever, with respect to any Italy Joint Venture information included in this presentation. For further information on the Italy Joint Venture and its accounting treatment, see “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects—Key Developments and Trends—Italy Joint Venture” “Explanatory Note—Accounting Treatment of our Historical WIND Business and the new Italy Joint Venture” and Note 6 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended 31 December 2016. All non-IFRS measures disclosed further in this presentation (including, without limitation, EBITDA, EBITDA margin, underlying EBITDA, underlying EBITDA margin, EBIT, EBT, net debt, equity free cash flow, organic growth, capital expenditures excluding licenses and LTM (last twelve months) capex excluding licenses/revenue) are reconciled to comparable IFRS measures in  VEON Ltd.’s earnings release published on its website on the date hereof. Disclaimer Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 3

Agenda FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Group results highlights Interim dividend Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO Andrew Davies, CFO BUSINESS UPDATE – HIGHLIGHTS VEON platform launch in 5 countries Expand monobrand distribution in Russia Corporate Governance update FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Capital structure improvements and strategy Group results review Outlook Q&A Q2 2017 RESULTS Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO


Table of Contents

Slide 4

EBITDA margin, underlying2 (%) 40.4% Total revenue (USD billion) 2.4 +3.7% organic1 YoY +12.3% reported YoY -0.9 p.p. organic1 YoY -2.0 p.p. reported YoY Capex excl. licenses (USD million) 332 +17.2% reported YoY LTM capex/revenue: 18.4% Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenCes3 (USD Million) 293 +USD 50 million YoY 1 Revenue and EBITDA organic growth are non-IF RS financial measures that exclude the effect of foreign currency movements and other factors, such as businesses under liquidation, disposals, mergers and acquisitions; in the organic calculation, Warid is pro-forma consolidated within VEON’s results with effect from 1 January 2016 2 Underlying EBITDA excludes exceptional items in Q2 2016 consisting of transformation costs of USD 118 million and in Q2 2017 transformation costs of USD 46 million 3 Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is defined as free cash flow from operating activities less free cash flow used in investing activities, excluding capex for licences and withholding tax related to Pakistan spectrum of USD 29.5 million (in Q2 2017), M&A transactions, transformation costs and other one-off items Total revenue increased 12.3% YoY; 3.7% YoY organic growth Mobile data organic growth of 30.5% YoY EBITDA increased 17.1% YoY to USD 931 million, benefiting from organic revenue growth, Warid transaction and currency tailwinds Capex increased 17.2% YoY due to Warid consolidation, investments more evenly spread over the year H1 2017 underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses increased by USD 163 million YoY to USD 491 million Results on track with FY 2017 guidance Q2 2017 Financial Highlights Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 5

2015 total dividend of US 3.5 cents 2016 interim dividend of US 3.5 cents 2016 final dividend of US 19.5 cents 2017 interim dividend of US 11 cents US 23 cents for FY 2016 Aug./Sept.1 2017 expected final dividend Interim Dividend of US 11 cents for 2017 Approved 1 Record date 14 August 2017, payment date 6 September 2017. For ordinary shareholders at Euronext Amsterdam, the interim dividend of US 11 cents will be paid in EUR Consistent with the commitment to pay a sustainable and progressive dividend, VEON announces the distribution of US 11 cents1 as an interim dividend Q2 2017 RESULTS 2015 2016 2017 2018


Table of Contents

Slide 6

Agenda FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Group results highlights Interim dividend Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO Andrew Davies, CFO BUSINESS UPDATE – HIGHLIGHTS VEON platform launch in 5 countries Expand monobrand distribution in Russia Corporate Governance update FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Capital structure improvements and strategy Group results review Outlook Q&A Q2 2017 RESULTS Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO


Table of Contents

Slide 7

VEON: The Personal Internet Platform … A single account – and you stay in control Totally free messaging – with chat and voice calling. Even when you are out of credit News, music, video and offers – Personalized for you. Focus for next 18 months: major consumer engagement and improving the efficiency of our core business using VEON Free communication and messaging Integrated Identity and account management Personalized Content and Offers Contextual internet services based on advanced analytics Revenue & value sharing with 3rd parties Phase 1 - Engagement Phase 2 – Monetization & Marketplace Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 8

… Is Now Out There! 19 July 2017: VEON launched in Russia, Italy, Ukraine, Pakistan, Georgia with deep self-care integration Also available in 10 more countries, and expanding (including Netherlands, UK & USA) Already available to 134 million potential customers From 3 to almost 100 partners in content, offers and payment services (e.g. Deezer, Studio +, Red Bull, Burger King, Getty Images, WireCard) Major marketing & advertising push (back-to-school campaigns) in September 2017 VEON to be available in all our markets by end 2017 Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 9

Expand Monobrand Distribution in Russia Store integration to be completed by Q2 2018 Positive immediate effect on revenue and from 2019 onwards on EBITDA Expected number of Beeline monobrand and franchise stores of ~5,500 in medium term Reduce churn and increase customer lifetime through higher level of customer service Improve upsell, leading to ARPU increases VEON and MegaFon announced an agree-ment1 to end their Euroset joint venture Integrate and rebrand acquired stores to Beeline monobrand stores Increasing the share of controlled distribution channels Euroset owns ~4,000 stores VEON pays RUB 1.25 billion (~USD 20 million) and acquires rights to 50% of Euroset stores in exchange for VEON’s equity stake in Euroset Q2 2017 RESULTS 1 The agreement is subject to relevant regulatory approvals and other conditions precedent


Table of Contents

Slide 10

URSULA BURNS Former Xerox Chairman & CEO GUY LAURENCE Former Rogers CEO Corporate Governance Update Ursula Burns and Guy Laurence elected to the Supervisory Board Supervisory Board increased from 9 to 11 members Majority of board now unaffiliated with major shareholders Ursula Burns appointed as new Chairman Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 11

Agenda FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Group results highlights Interim dividend Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO Andrew Davies, CFO BUSINESS UPDATE – HIGHLIGHTS VEON platform launch in 5 countries Expand monobrand distribution in Russia Corporate Governance update FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Capital structure improvements and strategy Group results review Outlook Q&A Q2 2017 RESULTS Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO


Table of Contents

Slide 12

Significant Corporate Finance Transactions Successfully Executed Refinanced bank debt at improved terms and moved bank debt from PJSC VimpelCom to VimpelCom Holdings B.V. VimpelCom Holdings B.V.: USD 2.25 billion multicurrency TL/RCF to replace USD denominated facility available to VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V. RUB 110 billion term loan with Sberbank, refinancing the Sberbank loans on the Russian Balance Sheet via the in-house bank Amended existing Alfa Bank loans, achieving consistent documentation with TL/RCF & Sberbank loan Repurchased and repaid subsidiary (guaranteed) bonds and issued unguaranteed bonds from HQ Repaid USD 0.6 billion bonds issued or guaranteed by PJSC VimpelCom at maturity & interest rate reset Repurchased via a tender offer USD 1.3 billion bonds issued or guaranteed by PJSC VimpelCom Issued USD 1.5 billion of unguaranteed VimpelCom Holdings B.V. bonds Terminated PJSC VimpelCom guarantees on USD 1.8 billion of outstanding bonds Restructured or refinanced ~60% of debt structure in H1 2017 Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 13

Significant Capital Structure Improvements Create more flexibility in the debt structure Improve currency mix Lower average cost of debt and improve maturity Q2 2017 RESULTS Annualized interest cost reduction of ~USD 100 million, with greater flexibility1 As at 31 December 2016 As at 30 June 2017 7.3% (3.2y) 6.4% (3.7y) 1 Annualized interest cost reduction of ~USD 100 million assumes stable gross debt


Table of Contents

Slide 14

Currency Trend Continues to Improve VEON coin against USD, Index (1Q14=100) VEON currency weightings calculated from the sum of the individual countries’ relative contribution to total countries revenue *Based on historical reported revenues, no restatement applied Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 15

Revenue Evolution Organic growth, currency tailwinds and Warid acquisition driving revenue growth +3.7% 1 Other also includes intercompany eliminations 2 Other consists of operations in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, Armenia, Tajikistan and intercompany eliminations USD MILLION +12.3% 1 +8.5% PAK 25 BAN (5) ALG (20) 2 Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 16

Q2 2017 RESULTS EBITDA Evolution Organic growth, currency tailwinds and Warid acquisition driving EBITDA growth 1 Exceptional items in Q2 2016 consists of costs primarily related to the performance transformation program 2 Exceptional items in Q2 2017 consists of costs primarily related to the performance transformation program 3 Other consists of operations in Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Georgia, Armenia, Tajikistan, HQ and Intercompany eliminations 2 1 +5.3% +17.1% +1.5% PAK 27 BAN (8) ALG (24) 2 1 3 USD MILLION


Table of Contents

Slide 17

Russia: Improving Results TOTAL REVENUE (RUB BILLION) MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) Total revenue increased, mainly as a result of mobile service revenue growth Mobile service revenue increased by 4% YoY, mainly driven by 18% mobile data revenue growth Mobile ARPU grew by 3.6% YoY Fixed-line service revenue decreased by 9% YoY, due to negative FOREX effect and impact of increased FMC penetration Underlying EBITDA margin improved QoQ by 1.8 p.p. to 39.4% Accelerated high-speed data network rollout, 4G/LTE population coverage reached 60% Signed agreement to end Euroset JV, with 50% of stores moving to Beeline, doubling the number of monobrand stores +3.0% YoY +1.4% YoY -1.3% YoY -1.7% YoY (underlying)1 +9.6% YoY 1 Q2 2016 EBITDA negatively impacted by performance transformation costs of RUB 177 million. Q2 2017 EBITDA negatively impacted by performance transformation costs of RUB 49 million Q2 2017 RESULTS EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (RUB BILLION AND %) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (RUB BILLION AND %)


Table of Contents

Slide 18

Pakistan: Synergies Target Delivered, Spectrum Investment for Future Growth 1 NOTE: Q2 2016 pro-forma results assume that the results of Warid have been consolidated (including intercompany eliminations) with effect from 1 January 2016 2 Q2 2016 EBITDA negatively impacted by performance transformation costs of PKR 1.7 billion. Q2 2017 EBITDA negatively impacted by performance transformation/integration costs of PKR 0.6 billion TOTAL REVENUE (PKR BILLION) MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) Merger integration progress: Annual run rate target of synergies > USD 115 million achieved well ahead of schedule Network integration activities in progress Acceleration of data revenue (+46% YoY) Underlying EBITDA increase supported by strong revenue growth and synergies Underlying EBITDA margin expansion to 44.7%, +4.6 p.p. YoY and +1.5 p.p. QoQ Jazz won the auction for 10 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum; payment of USD 295 million (+10% withholding tax) made in Q2 2017 +6.9% YoY +6.4% YoY +28.3% YoY +19.1% YoY underlying +14.0% YoY 37.8 38.7 40.4 Q2 2017 RESULTS EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (PKR BILLION AND %) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (PKR BILLION AND %)


Table of Contents

Slide 19

Q2 2017 RESULTS Algeria: Turnaround in Progress 1 Q2 2016 EBITDA negatively impacted performance transformation costs of DZD 21 million TOTAL REVENUE (DZD BILLION) MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) Revenue trend gradually improving: Accelerating data revenue in Q2 (+89% YoY) Strong focus on customer base retention with launch of new tariff portfolio Leadership in 4G/LTE population coverage Challenging environment and intense competition: Continued high inflation New finance law in force since 1 January 2017: increase in VAT and tax on recharges Intense competition on data pricing Underlying EBITDA margin of 45.2%: Excluding finance law impact, underlying EBITDA margin would have been at 48% Gross dividends of ~USD 150 million (60% of 2016’s net income) to be distributed in Q3 2017 -8.0% YoY -4.9% YoY -18.7% YoY -18.8% YoY underlying1 -33.7% YoY 0.5 0.2 EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (DZD BILLION AND %) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (DZD BILLION AND %)


Table of Contents

Slide 20

Bangladesh: Sustained Data Growth, Spectrum Disadvantage 1 Q2 2016 EBITDA negatively impacted by performance transformation and SIM re-verification costs of BDT 0.5 billion TOTAL REVENUE (BDT BILLION) MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) Continued aggressive competition on customer acquisition 0.2 million QoQ customer growth Strong growth in data revenue of 32% YoY, benefitting from smartphone penetration increase, resulting in 9% YoY data customer growth Underlying EBITDA declined as a result of revenue trend and higher costs for acquiring new customers Margin still above 40%, notwithstanding the revenue trend 3G population coverage ~68%, gradually closing the gap vs competition Focusing on the regulatory agenda: 4G/LTE, spectrum, towers -3.0% YoY -1.5% YoY -8.9% YoY -16.1% YoY Underlying1 -44.6% YoY 12.0 12.3 12.0 Q2 2017 RESULTS EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (BDT BILLION AND %) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (BDT BILLION AND %)


Table of Contents

Slide 21

Ukraine: Market Leader, Continued Strong Performance 1 Q2 2017 EBITDA negatively impacted by UAH 28 million related to performance transformation costs and other TOTAL REVENUE (UAH BILLION) EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (UAH BILLION AND %) MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (UAH BILLION AND %) Strengthening #1 NPS position and clear market leader with customer market share above 45% Mobile service revenue growth of 11% YoY, supported by a strong data revenue growth of 72% Underlying EBITDA increased 15% YoY driven by revenue growth with robust margin of 57.5%, +2.5 p.p YoY 3G population coverage reached 69% from 43% a year ago +10.0% YoY +2.8% YoY +13.7% YoY +15.1% YoY (underlying)1 -3.0% YoY Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 22

Uzbekistan: Solid Results TOTAL REVENUE (UZS BILLION) MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) Revenue grew by 20% YoY driven by USD-denominated tariffs Customer base grew 3% YoY, second consecutive quarter of YoY growth Mobile data revenue increased 28% YoY, as a result of promotions and introduction of new data bundles Underlying EBITDA increased by 14% YoY, driven by revenue growth with robust EBITDA margin >50% LTM capex/revenue increased due to high investments in Q4 2016 Spectrum reallocation to other MNOs may come into force in September +20.3% YoY +2.9% YoY +14.4% YoY +26.0% YoY 513.3 478.6 576.0 Q2 2017 RESULTS EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (UZS BILLION AND %) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (UZS BILLION AND %) 1 Q2 2017 EBITDA negatively impacted by UAH 28 million related to performance transformation costs and other


Table of Contents

Slide 23

Italy: Wind Tre Synergy Realization Drives Underlying EBITDA Margin Expansion Tougher competitive environment, ahead of Iliad entry Service revenue declined by 1.6% YoY with: Mobile service revenue declining at 2.2% YoY mainly due to increased competition impacting the customer base. Mobile ARPU stable at EUR 11.2 Fixed service revenue grew by 0.5% YoY, driven by growing broadband customers coupled with higher broadband ARPU up 4.2% YoY at EUR 21.8 Underlying1 EBITDA grew 6.1% YoY with margin expansion, driven by both increases in other (non-CPE) revenue and synergies Contribution to VEON P&L of a loss of USD 85 million, primarily driven by integration costs and accelerated depreciation & amortization Jeffrey Hedberg appointed as new CEO of Wind Tre in June 2017 TOTAL REVENUE (EUR MILLION) -1.7% YoY MOBILE CUSTOMERS (MILLION) 1 2Q 2017 EBITDA negatively impacted by integration costs of ~EUR 81 million 2 Including CPE Note: starting from Q2 2017 results, minor changes in accounting policies were adopted and for a proper comparison previous period results were adjusted accordingly +0.9% YoY -3.4% YoY 1,563 1,535 -10.3% YoY +6.1% YoY Underlying1 1,548 Q2 2017 RESULTS EBITDA AND EBITDA MARGIN (EUR BILLION AND %) CAPEX EXCL. LICENSES AND LTM CAPEX/REVENUE (EUR BILLION AND %) 2


Table of Contents

Slide 24

Q2 2017 Income Statement 2Q17 reported 2Q16 pro forma Warid1 2Q16 reported Reported YoY Organic2 YoY Revenue 2,417 2,228 2,153 12.3% 3.7% Service revenue 2,331 2,158 2,086 11.8% 3.4% EBITDA 931 811 795 17.1% 10.6% Depreciation & amortization and other (542) (542) (512) 5.7% EBIT 389 269 283 37.6% Net financial expenses (208) (194) (186) 11.3% Net FOREX gain/(loss) and other (169) 19 9 n.m. Share of profit/(loss) from join ventures and associates (95) (12) (11) n.m. Impairment of JV and associates (110) - - n.m. Profit/(loss) before tax (193) 82 95 (302%) Tax (65) (137) (135) (52.5%) Profit from discontinued operations - 187 187 n.m. Non-controlling interest (20) (9) (9) n.m. Net profit (loss) attrib. to VEON shareholders (278) 122 137 n.m. 1 The income statement for Q2 2016 is also presented on a pro-forma basis assuming that the results of Warid were consolidated within VEON’s results with effect from 1 January 2016, in order to assist with the year-on-year comparisons 2 Organic variation excludes the effect of foreign currency movements and other factors, such as businesses under liquidation, disposals, mergers and acquisitions; in the organic calculation, Warid is pro-forma consolidated within VEON’s results with effect from 1 January 2016 USD MILLION Increased as a result of higher amortization related to the revision of useful life of Mobilink and Warid brands, following the introduction of Jazz in Pakistan Q2 2017 RESULTS Early redemption premiums paid on repurchased bonds of USD 124 million Primarily driven by USD 85 million share of loss from Wind Tre JV caused by integration costs and accelerated D&A USD 110 million impairment of Euroset Higher taxes from higher profits in Pakistan and Ukraine more than offset especially by lower taxes in Russia from deductibility of bonds’ tender fees


Table of Contents

Slide 25

Q2 2017 Net Debt Evolution 1 Exceptional items in Q2 2017 cash flow consists of performance transformation cash out of USD 46 million 2 EBITDA LTM (last twelve months); in Q2 2017 LTM underlying EBITDA excludes exceptional items of USD 267 million NET DEBT EBITDA2 2.1x 2.2x 2.2x 1 Q2 2017 RESULTS USD MILLION


Table of Contents

Slide 26

Robust Underlying Equity Free Cash Flow Excluding Licenses1 1 Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is defined as free cash flow from operating activities less free cash flow used in investing activities, excluding capex for licences and withholding tax for spectrum in Pakistan of USD 29.5 million in Q2 2017, M&A transactions, transformation costs and other one-off items 2 See appendix for reconciliation table USD MILLION H1 2016 328 (172) 491 H1 2017 Increase in net cash used in investing activities2 336 Increase in net cash from operating activities2 Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 27

Q2 2017 RESULTS 2017 Guidance Confirmed 1 FY 2017 targets based on pro-forma results for 2016, including 12 months of Warid contribution; organic targets for revenue and underlying EBITDA margin are at constant currency, excluding exceptional items, e.g. transformation costs and M&A. Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is calculated at the target rates for 2017 (see Appendix) 2 Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is defined as net cash flow from operating activities less net cash flow used in investing activities excluding capex for licenses and withholding tax for spectrum in Pakistan of USD 29.5 million in Q2 2017, M&A transactions, transformation costs and other one-off items. Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses is calculated on the basis of the target rates disclosed in the appendix +1.5% -0.2 p.p. 491 Low single digit growth Low single digit accretion 900 - 1,000 H1 2017 actuals FY 2017 targets1 Total revenue Underlying EBITDA margin Underlying equity free cash flow excluding licenses2 The previous guidance assumed USD 200 million of annual investments in spectrum whereas the guidance now excludes any spectrum investments


Table of Contents

Slide 28

Agenda FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Group results highlights Interim dividend Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO Andrew Davies, CFO BUSINESS UPDATE – HIGHLIGHTS VEON platform launch in 5 countries Expand monobrand distribution in Russia Corporate Governance update FINANCIAL AND OPERATIONAL PROGRESS – Q2 2017 Capital structure improvements and strategy Group results review Outlook Q&A Q2 2017 RESULTS Jean-Yves Charlier, CEO


Table of Contents

Slide 29

APPENDIX


Table of Contents

Slide 30

Debt Maturity Schedule Group debt maturity schedule by currency1 AS AT 30 JUNE 2017, USD BILLION Group debt maturity schedule 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 >2022 USD 1.3 0.3 1.1 0.7 0.4 0.7 2.6 61% EUR 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.3 0.9 0.0 0.0 10% RUB 0.4 0.2 0.0 0.4 0.8 0.5 0.0 20% PKR 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 5% OTHER 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 4% Q2 2017 RESULTS 1 After effect of cross currency swaps


Table of Contents

Slide 31

Liquidity Analysis Group cash breakdown by currency 30 JUNE, 2017 Unused RCF headroom at the end of Q2 2017: Unused VF/CF headroom at the end of Q2 2017: Group cash: USD 3.22 billion Q2 2017 RESULTS VimpelCom – syndicate USD 1.68 billion VimpelCom - CDB RMB 0.27 billion (USD 0.04 billion) Algeria - syndicate DZD 32 billion (USD 0.3 billion) VimpelCom - Sberbank RUB 15 billion (USD 0.25 billion) Pakistan - facility PKR 0.24 billion (USD 0.23 billion)


Table of Contents

Slide 32

Debt by Entity Entity Bonds Loans RCF Vendor Financing Other Total VimpelCom Holdings B.V. 3,885 3,210 - 63 - 7,158 VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V. - - - 538 - 538 PJSC VimpelCom 976 - - - 61 1,037 GTH Finance B.V. 1,200 - - - - 1,200 Pakistan Mobile Communications Limited 55 776 - - - 831 Banglalink Digital Communications Ltd. 300 - - - - 300 Omnium Telecom Algeria S.p.A. - 348 - - - 348 EG-GTH - 200 - - - 200 Others - - - 9 3 12 Total 6,416 4,534 - 610 64 11,624 Outstanding debt (millions) Type of debt/lender Q2 2017 RESULTS AS AT 30 JUNE 2017, USD MILLION


Table of Contents

Slide 33

Underlying Equity Free Cash Flow (Excluding Licenses) Reconciliation Table 2Q17 2Q16 1H17 1H16 Net cash from operating activities 578 428 1,162 67 Exceptional items: PT costs 46 74 67 119 WHT on license in Pakistan 30 - 30 IRAQNA Provision - - 69 - Settlement with DOJ/SEC/OM investigation - - - 795 Other 12 23 12 27 Underlying Net Cash Flow from operating activities 664 525 1,341 1,006 Net cash used in investing activities (725) (405) (1,314) (766) Adjustments:     Purchase of license (326) (67) (333) (111) Deposits & Financial assets (27) (56) (131) 23 Underlying net cash flow used in investing activities (371) (282) (850) (678) Underlying Equity Free Cash Flow (excluding licenses) 293 243 491 328 Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

Slide 34

Q2 2017 RESULTS 2Q17 2Q16 Pro-forma Warid 1H17 1H16 Pro-forma Warid EBITDA 931 811 1,792 1,589 Performance Transformation costs of which: HQ and Other 37 56 58 89 Russia 1 3 4 4 Emerging Markets 6 16 12 24 Other exceptional 2 43 2 42 EBITDA Underlying 977 928 1,868 1,747 EBITDA Underlying Reconciliation Table


Table of Contents

Slide 35

Russian Ruble Algerian Dinar Pakistan Rupee Bangladeshi Taka Ukrainian Hryvnia Kazakh Tenge Uzbekistan Som Armenian Dram Kyrgyz Som Georgian Lari Forex assumptions FY 2017 67.00 118.00 107.00 79.00 28.00 350.00 3,231.34 480 70.00 2.25 Average rates 2Q17 2Q16 YoY 57.15 65.89 (13.3%) 109.04 109.54 (0.5%) 104.81 104.67 0.1% 80.86 78.35 3.2% 26.46 25.26 4.8% 315.01 355.58 (6.1%) 3,778.07 2,911.0 29.8% 483.37 479.06 0.9% 68.12 68.38 (0.4%) 2.42 2.21 9.3% Closing rates 2Q17 2Q16 YoY 59.09 64.26 (8.0%) 107.8 110.31 (2.3%) 104.83 104.71 0.1% 80.64 78.33 3.0% 26.10 24.85 5.0% 321.46 338.87 (5.1%) 3,958.56 2,943.5 34.5% 480.47 476.68 0.8% 69.14 67.49 2.4% 2.14 2.34 2.8% Forex Q2 2017 RESULTS


Table of Contents

VEON Ltd.    

Index sheet    

Consolidated VEON Ltd.

Consolidated

Customers

EBITDA reconciliation

Russia

Pakistan

Algeria

Bangladesh

Ukraine

Italy JV

Laos

Average and closing rates of functional currencies to USD

 

          Average rates     Average rates     Closing rates  
          2Q17     2Q16     YoY     1H17     1H16     YoY     2Q17     1Q17     Delta  

Russian Ruble

    RUB       57.15       65.89       -13.3     57.99       70.26       -17.5     59.09       56.38       4.8

Euro

    EUR       0.91       0.89       2.6     0.92       0.90       3.1     0.88       0.94       -6.7

Algerian Dinar

    DZD       109.04       109.54       -0.5     109.48       108.68       0.7     107.80       110.07       -2.1

Pakistan Rupee

    PKR       104.81       104.67       0.1     104.81       104.71       0.1     104.83       104.83       0.0

Bangladeshi Taka

    BDT       80.86       78.35       3.2     80.22       78.41       2.3     80.64       80.25       0.5

Ukrainian Hryvnia

    UAH       26.46       25.26       4.8     26.76       25.46       5.1     26.10       26.98       -3.3

Kazakh Tenge

    KZT       315.01       335.58       -6.1     318.75       345.35       -7.7     321.46       314.79       2.1

Uzbekistan Som

    UZS       3,778       2,911       29.8     3,567       2,877       24.0     3,958.56       3,595.02       10.1

Armenian Dram

    AMD       483.37       479.06       0.9     484.49       483.83       0.1     480.47       483.45       -0.6

Kyrgyz Som

    KGS       68.12       68.38       -0.4     68.68       71.29       -3.7     69.14       68.61       0.8

Georgian Lari

    GEL       2.42       2.21       9.3     2.51       2.32       8.0     2.41       2.45       -1.6


Table of Contents

VEON

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

Consolidated*

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16
(pro-forma
Warid)
    2Q16
(pro-forma
Warid)
    3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    3,465       3,507       3,544       3,000       2,312       2,570       2,442       2,296       2,096       2,228       2,362       2,354       2,281       2,417       13,517       9,606       8,885  

Service revenue

    3,399       3,447       3,462       2,922       2,260       2,515       2,364       2,188       2,022       2,158       2,276       2,244       2,202       2,331       13,231       9,313       8,553  

EBITDA

    1,496       1,470       1,520       1,074       938       1,069       58       811       778       811       896       783       861       931       5,560       2,875       3,232  

EBITDA margin (%)

    43.2     41.9     42.9     35.8     40.6     41.6     41.7     35.3     37.1     36.4     37.9     33.3     37.8     38.5     41.1     29.9     36.4

EBIT

    770       766       873       (536     308       530       (480     166       297       269       406       91       345       389       1,873       524       1,084  

Profit/(Loss) before tax

    378       503       427       (933     (8     329       (834     (82     137       82       186       (89     131       (193     375       (595     347  

Net income/(loss) attributable to VEON shareholders

    38       102       105       (890     184       108       (1,005     58       169       122       445       1,557       (4     (278     (647     (655     2,328  

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    650       1,141       801       840       263       590       459       709       203       371       425       770       269       644       3,434       2,033       1,195  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    531       764       739       799       210       462       448       671       158       307       382       754       265       332       2,833       1,801       1,136  

CAPEX excluding licenses / revenue

    15.3     21.8     20.8     26.6     9.1     18.0     18.3     29.2     7.5     13.8     16.2     32.0     11.6     13.7     21.0     18.7     12.8

*Notes:

The financial results for Q1 2016 and Q2 2016 are also presented on a pro-forma basis assuming that the results of Warid have been consolidated (including intercompany eliminations) within VEON’s results with effect from 1 January 2016, in order to assist with the year on year comparisons.

VEON

 

Consolidated*

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16
Reported
    2Q16
Reported
    3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    3,465       3,507       3,544       3,000       2,312       2,570       2,442       2,296       2,017       2,153       2,362       2,354       2,281       2,417       13,517       9,606       8,885  

Service revenue

    3,399       3,447       3,462       2,922       2,260       2,515       2,364       2,188       1,948       2,086       2,276       2,244       2,202       2,331       13,231       9,313       8,553  

EBITDA

    1,496       1,470       1,520       1,074       938       1,069       58       811       758       795       896       783       861       931       5,560       2,875       3,232  

EBITDA margin (%)

    43.2     41.9     42.9     35.8     40.6     41.6     41.7     35.3     37.6     37.0     37.9     33.3     37.8     38.5     41.1     29.9     36.4

EBIT

    770       766       873       (536     308       530       (480     166       304       283       406       91       345       389       1,873       524       1,084  

Profit/(Loss) before tax

    378       503       427       (933     (8     329       (834     (82     154       95       186       (89     131       (193     375       (595     347  

Net income/(loss) attributable to VEON shareholders

    38       102       105       (890     184       108       (1,005     58       187       137       445       1,557       (4     (278     (647     (655     2,328  

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    650       1,141       801       840       263       590       459       709       195       350       425       770       269       644       3,434       2,033       1,738  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    531       764       739       799       210       462       448       671       150       284       382       754       265       332       2,833       1,801       1,571  

CAPEX excluding licenses / revenue

    15     22     21     27     9     18     18     29     7.5     13.2     16     32     12     13.7     21     19     18


Table of Contents

VEON Ltd.

index page

(in millions)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mobile Customers*

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Russia

    55.0       56.3       57.3       57.2       55.7       57.2       59.0       59.8       57.7       57.5       58.4       58.3       57.0       58.3       57.2       59.8       58.3  

Algeria

    17.4       17.1       17.6       17.7       17.1       17.1       17.0       17.0       16.7       16.3       15.9       16.3       16.1       15.5       17.7       17.0       16.3  

Pakistan

    38.2       38.8       38.7       38.5       38.2       33.4       35.2       36.2       48.3       49.3       51.0       51.6       52.5       52.5       38.5       36.2       51.6  

Bangladesh

    29.4       29.8       30.2       30.8       31.8       32.0       32.3       32.3       31.6       31.1       29.0       30.4       30.5       30.7       30.8       32.3       30.4  

Ukraine

    25.6       25.4       26.3       26.2       26.1       26.1       25.7       25.4       25.3       25.4       26.3       26.1       26.0       26.1       26.2       25.4       26.1  

Uzbekistan

    10.4       10.4       10.5       10.6       10.4       10.3       10.2       9.9       9.5       9.3       9.6       9.5       9.5       9.6       10.6       9.9       9.5  

Other

    14.9       15.3       15.8       15.9       15.6       15.8       15.9       15.5       15.0       15.1       15.5       15.1       14.9       15.4       15.9       6.0       15.1  

Laos

    0.3       0.3       0.3       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.3       0.3       0.3       0.2       0.2       0.3  

Total without Italy**

    191.1       193.3       196.8       197.1       195.1       192.0       195.5       196.3       204.3       204.5       205.9       207.5       206.8       208.4       197.1       186.8       207.5  

Italy

    22.0       21.9       21.8       21.6       21.4       21.4       21.3       21.1       20.9       20.9       20.7       31.3       30.9       30.3       21.6       21.1       31.3  

Total on combined basis

    213.1       215.2       218.5       218.7       216.5       213.4       216.8       217.4       225.2       225.3       226.6       238.9       237.7       238.7       218.7       207.9       238.9  

Fixed line Customers*

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Russia

            2.3       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.1       2.2       2.2       2.2         —         2.2  

Algeria

            —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —           —         —    

Pakistan

            —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —           —         —    

Bangladesh

            —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —         —           0.8       —    

Ukraine

            0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8         0.2       0.8  

Uzbekistan

            0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       —         —         —         —         —         —           0.2       —    

Other

            0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4         2.2       0.1  

Laos

            —         —         —         —         0.0       —         0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0         —         0.0  

Total without Italy**

            3.5       3.4       3.4       3.4       3.4       3.4       3.3       3.4       3.4       3.4         3.4       3.1  

Italy

            2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.4       2.4         2.3       2.3  

Total on combined basis

            5.7       5.6       5.6       5.7       5.7       5.7       5.7       5.7       5.8       5.8         5.7       5.4  


Table of Contents

VEON Ltd.

Index page

EBITDA Underlying Reconciliation

 

    (USD mln)     ( LCCY mln)  
    1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY15     FY16     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY15     FY16  

Russia

                                               

EBITDA Reported

    421       524       455       424       328       414       413       419       409       471       1,823       1,574       26,130       27,536       28,466       28,012       24,410       27,269       26,710       26,401       24,070       26,925       110,145       104,790  

Site capitalization

          (30                 (30     —               (2,152                 (2,152     —    

A/R inventory and provision

          2                   2       —               132                   132       —    

PT Costs

            1       3       6       1       3       1       —         11               53       177       379       86       154       49       —         695  

EBITDA Underlying

    421       524       455       396       328       417       419       420       412       472       1,795       1,585       26,130       27,536       28,466       25,992       24,463       27,446       27,090       26,487       24,224       26,975       108,125       105,486  

Algeria

                          —                            

EBITDA reported

    169       175       178       162       158       128       135       125       114       104       684       547       15,723       17,199       18,330       17,302       17,060       14,019       14,868       13,851       12,545       11,400       68,554       59,798  

PT Costs

          6         0       13       2       —         —         6       15             677         10       1,432       195       6       6       677       1,637  

A/R and inventory provision

          6                   6       —               593                   593       —    

EBITDA Underlying

    169       175       178       174       158       128       148       127       114       104       696       562       15,723       17,199       18,330       18,572       17,060       14,029       16,300       14,045       12,551       11,406       69,824       61,435  

Pakistan

                          —                            

EBITDA reported

    96       106       103       104       136       130       147       129       154       167       409       542       9,725       10,828       10,620       10,872       14,240       13,635       15,387       13,509       16,188       17,495       42,044       56,772  

SIM re-verification costs

    8       6                       14       —         766       611                       1,377       —    

PT Costs

          2       3       15       7       20       6       5       2       45             188       339       1,532       770       2,069       608       569       188       4,709  

Other

      (9     (7                   (16     —           (916     (666                   (1,582     —    

EBITDA Underlying

    103       103       97       106       139       145       154             409       438       10,491       10,522       9,954       11,060       14,579       15,167       16,156       15,578       16,796       18,064       42,027       61,481  

Bangladesh

                          —                            

EBITDA Reported

    60       63       69       51       70       69       73       55       69       61       242       267       4,635       4,930       5,339       3,967       5,500       5,386       5,721       4,357       5,517       4,908       18,871       20,964  

PT Costs

          4       4       2         10       —         —         4       16             333       351       131         771           333       1,252  

Sim verification

              4               —         4                 333               —         333  

SIM tax provision

        2       12                   14       —             156       923                   1,079       —    

A/R and inventory provision

          7                   7       —               526                   526       —    

EBITDA Underlying

    60       63       71       74       75       75       73       65       69       61       267       288       4,635       4,930       5,495       5,749       5,850       5,849       5,721       5,128       5,517       4,908       20,809       22,549  

Ukraine

                          —                            

EBITDA Reported

    63       70       84       75       71       80       86       69       77       87       292       306       1,278       1,512       1,835       1,706       1,822       2,027       2,170       1,793       2,073       2,305       6,332       7,811  

PT Costs

            0       0               —         0               1       1               —         2  

Reversal of tax provisions

            (1               —         (1             (22               —         (22

Other

                      1         —                       240           —      

EBITDA Underlying

    63       70       84       75       70       80       86       69       77       87       292       306       1,278       1,512       1,835       1,706       1,801       2,027       2,170       1,793       2,073       2,305       6,332       7,791  

Uzbekistan

                          —                            

EBITDA reported

    105       113       99       121       100       94       96       105       79       83       437       395       256,637       284,201       255,021       327,858       284,934       273,119       286,793       328,420       264,633       312,518       1,123,718       1,173,267  

Legal provision

        16                     16       —             43,066                     43,066       —    

Return of litigation losses

            (2         (12     —         —         —         (14             (5,159         (39,881     —         —         —         (45,040

Return of bad debt losses

            (1               —         (1             (3,948               —         (3,948

EBITDA Underlying

    105       113       115       121       97       94       96       92       79       83       453       379       256,637       284,201       298,087       327,858       275,827       273,119       286,793       288,539       264,633       312,518       1,166,784       1,124,279  

HQ and other

                          —                            

Uzbekistan Provision

        900       11                   911       —                            

PT Costs

        44       65       35       54       45       23       21       38       109       157                          

Other

            1       40       (5     11         1         47                          

Other HQ

                  73           —         7                          

VEON Group Reported

    938       1,069       58       811       778       811       896       783       861       931       2,875       3,268                          

One-offs

    8       (3     960       86       40       118       66       127       30       46       1,051       285                          

VEON Group Underlying

    945       1,066       1,018       897       818       929       962       910       891       977       3,926       3,553                          


Table of Contents

Russia

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    1,893       1,964       2,021       1,580       1,061       1,288       1,150       1,084       885       1,008       1,091       1,112       1,097       1,197       7,459       4,583       4,097  

EBITDA

    760       813       827       580       421       524       455       424       328       414       413       419       409       471       2,980       1,823       1,574  

EBITDA margin (%)

    40.1     41.4     40.9     36.6     39.6     40.7     39.6     39.1     37.0     41.1     37.9     37.7     37.3     39.4     40.0     39.8     38.4

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    325       392       419       423       84       216       202       403       48       115       149       350       117       141       1,559       906       662  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    315       378       405       416       80       212       198       343       43       109       146       345       114       138       1,514       833       643  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenues

    1,540       1,604       1,651       1,275       859       1,066       961       902       733       843       914       940       932       1,023       6,070       3,789       3,430  

Service Revenue (Mobile)

    1,500       1,569       1,600       1,208       829       1,031       918       846       696       816       879       886       890       974       5,877       3,624       3,276  

Data Revenue (Mobile)

    251       256       272       224       164       198       177       180       160       187       208       223       236       254       1,003       719       778  

Customers (mln)

    55.0       56.3       57.3       57.2       55.7       57.2       59.0       59.8       57.7       57.5       58.4       58.3       57.0       58.3       57.2       59.8       58.3  

Mobile data customers (mln)

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       29.7       30.8       33.3       34.3       32.6       33.7       36.2       36.6       36.4       38.1       n.a.       34.3       36.6  

ARPU (USD)**

    8.9       9.3       9.3       7.0       4.8       6.0       5.2       4.7       3.9       4.7       5.0       5.0       5.1       5.6       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU, min

    287       310       311       316       303       320       319       319       315       337       336       335       324       338       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly), %

    17.1     13.4     14.5     15.7     15.8     12.8     13.4     12.6     16     14     14     15     16     13     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       1,483       1,490       1,607       1,790       1,931       1,906       2,037       2,308       2,565       2,716       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    353       360       370       305       202       222       189       182       152       165       178       172       165       173       1,388       794       667  

Service revenue

    348       355       366       303       201       221       188       179       151       165       177       172       164       173       1,372       789       665  

Broadband revenue

    91       93       86       69       53       56       43       41       43       45       43       45       46       45       0       193       177  

Broadband customers (mln)

    2.3       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.3       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.1       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.2       2.2  

Broadband ARPU (USD)

    13.1       13.5       12.5       10.2       7.6       8.3       6.4       6.2       6.6       6.9       6.8       7.0       7.0       6.8       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FTTB revenue

    88       90       83       69       51       55       42       41       43       44       43       45       45       44       330       189       175  

FTTB customers (mln)

    2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.1       2.1       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.2       2.2  

FTTB ARPU (USD)

    13.1       13.5       12.5       10.3       7.6       8.3       6.4       6.2       6.5       6.9       6.7       6.9       6.9       6.7       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

(in RUB millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    66,148       68,722       73,082       73,947       65,916       67,805       72,091       71,429       65,921       66,423       70,529       70,130       64,507       68,407       281,898       277,241       273,003  

EBITDA

    26,548       28,468       29,878       27,042       26,130       27,536       28,466       28,012       24,410       27,269       26,710       26,401       24,070       26,925       111,935       110,145       104,790  

EBITDA
margin (%)

    40.1     41.4     40.9     36.6     39.6     40.6     39.5     39.2     37.0     41.1     37.9     37.6     37.3     39.4     39.7     39.7     38.4

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    11,486       13,706       15,147       20,970       5,425       11,396       12,645       27,308       3,551       7,556       9,652       21,938       6,834       8,087       61,309       56,775       42,697  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    11,145       13,218       14,664       20,648       5,179       11,164       12,358       23,368       3,181       7,191       9,444       21,615       6,695       7,882       59,675       52,069       41,432  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenues

    53,805       56,133       59,691       59,637       53,364       56,135       60,246       59,450       54,586       55,537       59,044       59,276       54,822       58,491       229,266       229,195       228,443  

Service revenue

    52,385       54,883       57,810       56,360       51,488       54,304       57,549       55,690       51,835       53,730       56,784       55,844       52,348       55,674       221,438       219,031       218,192  

Data Revenue

    8,755       8,957       9,829       10,523       10,204       10,420       11,113       11,844       11,942       12,316       13,426       14,088       13,903       14,510       38,065       43,581       51,773  

Customers (mln)

    55.0       56.3       57.3       57.2       55.7       57.2       59.0       59.8       57.7       57.5       58.4       58.3       57.0       58.3       57.2       59.8       58  

Mobile data customers (mln)

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       29.7       30.8       33.3       34.3       32.6       33.7       36.2       36.6       36.4       38.1       n.a.       34       37  

ARPU (RUB)**

    310       326       336       325       300       316       325       309       293       309       324       317       302       320       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)

    287       310       311       316       303       320       319       319       315       337       336       335       324       338       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    17     13     15     16     16     13     13     13     16     14     14     15     16     13     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       1,483       1,490       1,607       1,790       1,931       1,906       2,037       2,308       2,565       2,716       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    12,343       12,589       13,391       14,309       12,553       11,670       11,845       11,978       11,335       10,886       11,485       10,854       9,685       9,916       52,632       48,046       44,560  

Service revenue

    12,175       12,444       13,228       14,217       12,501       11,627       11,806       11,814       11,271       10,848       11,459       10,840       9,660       9,889       52,064       47,748       44,418  

Broadband revenue

    3,187       3,251       3,103       3,230       3,168       3,060       2,869       2,886       3,061       2,941       2,806       2,807       2,650       2,579       12,771       11,983       11,615  

Broadband customers (mln)

    2.3       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.3       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.1       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.2       2.2  

Broadband ARPU (RUB)

    457       474       454       477       459       451       428       432       463       452       436       435       405       391       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FTTB revenue

    3,078       3,156       3,004       3,196       3,095       3,005       2,820       2,841       3,013       2,897       2,775       2,776       2,623       2,548       12,434       11,761       11,460  

FTTB customers (mln)

    2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.1       2.1       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.2       2.2  

FTTB ARPU (RUB)

    457       473       454       477       459       451       428       432       461       450       436       433       403       390       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

** ARPU calculations include MFS revenues starting from Q1 2017


Table of Contents

Pakistan

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16
pro-forma
    2Q16
pro-forma
    3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    251       268       241       251       249       257       252       256       351       361       368       369       370       386       1,010       1,014       1,450  

Service revenue

    241       256       230       239       236       244       238       241       332       341       345       346       345       359       966       960       1,364  

EBITDA

    99       104       84       99       96       106       103       104       136       130       147       129       154       167       386       409       542  

EBITDA margin (%)

    39.5     38.9     34.9     39.5     38.5     41.3     41.0     40.5     38.7     36.0     40.0     34.9     41.8     43.3     38.2     40.4     37.4

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    55       410       97       89       26       79       65       68       20       57       73       96       35       360       651       238       246  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    55       110       97       89       26       79       65       68       20       57       73       96       35       65       351       238       246  

Data Revenue

    9.8       12.2       12.5       14.2       18.7       20.6       21.6       24.8       38.8       37.6       43.8       47.7       49.9       54.9       48.7       85.6       168  

Customers (mln)

    38.2       38.8       38.7       38.5       38.2       33.4       35.2       36.2       48.3       49.3       51.0       51.6       52.5       52.5       38.5       36.2       51.6  

ARPU (USD)

    2.0       2.2       1.9       2.0       2.0       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.4       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.2       2.3       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    213       230       236       273       559       658       684       689       580       566       522       540       515       520       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    5.7     6.4     6.8     7.0     3.8     21.6     3.7     5.5     5.5     3.7     6.0     6.0     4.1     6.1     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       297       298       350       341       304       292       421       464       465       509       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

(in PKR billions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16
pro-forma
    2Q16
pro-forma
    3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    26.0       26.3       24.2       25.5       25.3       26.2       25.9       26.8       36.8       37.8       38.5       38.7       38.7       40.4       102.1       104.2       152  

Service revenue

    24.9       25.2       23.1       24.3       24.0       24.9       24.5       25.3       34.7       35.7       36.1       36.7       36.2       37.7       97.6       98.6       143  

EBITDA

    10.0       10.2       8.5       10.1       9.7       10.8       10.6       10.9       14.2       13.6       15.4       13.5       16.2       17.5       39.0       42.0       57  

EBITDA margin (%)

    39.5     38.9     34.9     39.5     38.5     41.3     41.0     40.5     38.7     36.0     40.0     34.9     41.8     43.3     38.2     40.4     37.4

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       2.6       8.1       6.7       7.2       2.1       5.9       7.6       10.1       3.6       37.7       n.a.       24.5       26  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       2.6       8.1       6.7       7.2       2.1       5.9       7.6       10.1       3.6       6.8       n.a.       24.5       26  

Data Revenue

    1.0       1.2       1.3       1.4       1.9       2.1       2.2       2.6       4.1       3.9       4.6       5.0       5.2       5.8       4.9       8.8       18  

Customers (mln)

    38.2       38.8       38.7       38.5       38.2       33.4       35.2       36.2       48.3       49.3       51.0       51.6       52.5       52.5       38.5       36.2       51.6  

ARPU (PKR)

    216       214       195       204       203       225       230       228       247       245       237       236       231       238       125       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    213       230       236       273       559       658       684       689       580       566       522       540       515       520       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    5.7     6.4     6.8     7.0     3.8     21.6     3.7     5.5     5.5     3.7     6.0     6.0     4.1     6.1     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       297       298       350       341       304       292       421       464       465       509       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

* MOU calculation is aligned with group accounting policy

Mobilink standalone

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16
Reported
    2Q16
Reported
    FY14     FY15  

Total operating revenue

    251       268       241       251       249       257       252       256       273       285       1,010       1,014  

Service revenue

    241       256       230       239       236       244       238       241       257       269       966       960  

EBITDA

    99       104       84       99       96       106       103       104       116       115       386       409  

EBITDA margin (%)

    39.5     38.9     34.9     39.5     38.5     41.3     41.0     40.5     42.6     40.2     38.2     40.4

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    55       410       97       89       26       79       65       68       12       34       651       238  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    55       110       97       89       26       79       65       68       12       34       351       238  

Data Revenue

    9.8       12.2       12.5       14.2       18.7       20.6       21.6       24.8       32.7       31.0       48.7       85.6  

Customers (mln)

    38.2       38.8       38.7       38.5       38.2       33.4       35.2       36.2       38.1       39.1       38.5       36.2  

ARPU (USD)

    2.0       2.2       1.9       2.0       2.0       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    213       230       236       273       559       658       684       689       692       677       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    5.7     6.4     6.8     7.0     3.8     21.6     3.7     5.5     4.0     5.0     n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       297       298       350       341       297       292       n.a.       n.a.  

(in PKR billions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16
Reported
    2Q16
Reported
    FY14     FY15  

Total operating revenue

    26.0       26.3       24.2       25.5       25.3       26.2       25.9       26.8       28.6       29.8       102.1       104.2  

Service revenue

    24.9       25.2       23.1       24.3       24.0       24.9       24.5       25.3       27.0       28.1       97.6       98.6  

EBITDA

    10.0       10.2       8.5       10.1       9.7       10.8       10.6       10.9       12.2       12.0       39.0       42.0  

EBITDA margin (%)

    39.5     38.9     34.9     39.5     38.5     41.3     41.0     40.5     42.6     40.2     38.2     40.4

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       2.6       8.1       6.7       7.2       1.3       3.6       n.a.       24.5  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       2.6       8.1       6.7       7.2       1.3       3.6       n.a.       24.5  

Data Revenue

    1.0       1.2       1.3       1.4       1.9       2.1       2.2       2.6       3.4       3.2       4.9       8.8  

Customers (mln)

    38.2       38.8       38.7       38.5       38.2       33.4       35.2       36.2       38.1       39.1       38.5       36.2  

ARPU (PKR)

    216       214       195       204       203       225       230       228       234       233       125       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    213       230       236       273       559       658       684       689       692       677       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    5.7     6.4     6.8     7.0     3.8     21.6     3.7     5.5     4.0     5.0     n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       297       298       350       341       297       292       n.a.       n.a.  

 

* MOU calculation is aligned with group accounting policy


Table of Contents

Algeria

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    429       437       429       396       323       328       325       299       279       251       264       246       232       232       1,690       1,273       1,040  

Service revenue

    428       434       422       393       320       326       321       292       276       248       263       244       228       228       1,678       1,259       1,031  

EBITDA

    247       238       225       198       169       175       178       162       158       128       135       125       114       104       907       684       547  

EBITDA margin (%)

    57.6     54.5     52.5     49.8     52.3     53.4     54.8     54.3     56.8     51.1     51.3     50.9     49.2     45.1     53.5     53.7     52.6

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    60       162       84       109       45       46       33       69       27       43       76       56       26       29       415       192       202  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    60       162       84       109       45       46       33       69       27       43       39       56       26       29       415       192       165  

Data Revenue

    2.6       2.4       9.1       7.8       8.0       11.5       13.1       13.3       16.2       15.7       19.3       21.9       25.1       29.8       21.8       45.9       73  

Customers (mln)

    17.4       17.1       17.6       17.7       17.1       17.1       17.0       17.0       16.7       16.3       15.9       16.3       16.1       15.5       17.7       17.0       16.3  

ARPU (USD)*

    8.1       8.3       7.9       7.4       6.1       6.3       6.1       5.7       5.4       5.0       5.4       5.0       4.7       4.8       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)

    215       218       213       204       344       387       390       375       351       339       335       323       365       379       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    6.8     7.6     7.5     6.4     11.6     8.7     9.6     9.1     9.0     9.8     9.4     9.9     9.9     10.6     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       208       273       255       288       295       304       345       447       573       478       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

(in DZD billions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    33.5       34.5       34.4       33.7       30.0       32.2       33.4       31.9       30.0       27.4       29.0       27.2       25.5       25.3       136.2       127.6       114  

Service revenue

    33.4       34.3       33.9       33.5       29.8       32.0       33.1       31.2       29.7       27.2       28.9       26.9       25.0       24.9       135.0       126.1       113  

EBITDA

    19.2       18.8       18.1       16.8       15.7       17.2       18.3       17.3       17.1       14.0       14.9       13.9       12.5       11.4       72.6       68.6       60  

EBITDA margin (%)

    57.4     54.3     52.5     49.8     52.3     53.4     54.8     54.3     56.8     51.1     51.3     50.9     49.2     45.1     53.5     53.7     52.6

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       4.2       4.5       3.4       7.3       2.9       4.7       8.3       6.2       2.9       3.1       n.a.       20       22  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       4.2       4.5       3.4       7.3       2.9       4.7       4.3       6.2       2.9       3.1       n.a.       20       18  

Data Revenue

    0.2       0.2       0.5       0.7       0.7       1.1       1.4       1.4       1.7       1.7       2.1       2.4       2.8       3.2       1.6       4.6       8  

Customers (mln)

    17.4       17.1       17.6       17.7       17.1       17.1       17.0       17.0       16.7       16.3       15.9       16.3       16.1       15.5       17.7       17.0       16.3  

ARPU (DZD)*

    631       657       648       622       569       617       620       612       586       546       593       555       513       522       247       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)

    215       205       213       204       344       387       390       375       351       339       335       323       365       379       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    6.8     7.6     7.5     6.4     11.6     8.7     9.6     9.1     9     10     9     10     10     11     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       208       273       255       288       295       304       345       447       573       478       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

** ARPU calculations include MFS revenues starting from Q1 2017


Table of Contents

Bangladesh

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    134       141       142       146       147       151       154       153       155       157       157       152       151       148       563       604       621  

Service revenue

    132       139       140       144       145       149       151       151       153       152       153       147       147       144       556       596       606  

EBITDA

    49       54       56       60       60       63       69       51       70       69       73       55       69       61       219       242       267  

EBITDA
margin (%)

    37.4     38.2     39.7     40.8     40.6     41.9     44.7     33.2     45.3     43.7     46.7     36.4     45.9     41.1     38.9     40.1     43.1

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    27       43       50       59       12       32       49       42       17       33       22       65       10       18       178       134       137  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    27       43       50       59       12       32       49       42       17       33       22       65       10       18       178       134       137  

Data Revenue

    4.4       5.0       6.3       7.5       8.6       9.3       11.5       12.2       13.6       14.9       16.6       17.5       19.2       19.0       23.2       42       63  

Customers (mln)

    29.4       29.8       30.2       30.8       31.8       32.0       32.3       32.3       31.6       31.1       29.0       30.4       30.5       30.7       30.8       32.3       30.4  

ARPU (USD)

    1.5       1.6       1.5       1.6       1.5       1.5       1.6       1.5       1.6       1.6       1.7       1.6       1.6       1.6       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    188       201       200       186       295.2       300.5       308.7       305.2       311.4       315.7       321.9       321.7       305.4       285.4       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    6.3     5.2     5.3     5.1     4.5     5.7     5.7     6.4     4.5     4.7     13.9     4.6     5.5     5.4     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       66       60       104       134       157       167       254       391       304       364       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

(in BDT billions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

MOBILE

 

1Q14

   

2Q14

   

3Q14

    4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    10.2       10.9       11.0       11.3       11.4       11.8       11.9       12.0       12.2       12.3       12.3       12.0       12.0       12.0       43.7       47.1       48.7  

Service revenue

    10.2       10.8       10.9       11.2       11.3       11.6       11.8       11.8       12.0       11.9       12.0       11.6       11.7       11.6       43.1       46.4       47.5  

EBITDA

    4.0       4.2       4.4       4.6       4.6       4.9       5.3       4.0       5.5       5.4       5.7       4.4       5.5       4.9       17.0       18.9       21.0  

EBITDA
margin (%)

    37.4     38.2     39.7     40.8     40.6     41.9     44.7     33.1     45.3     43.7     46.7     36.4     46.0     41.1     38.9     40.1     43.1

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       0.9       2.5       3.8       3.3       1.3       2.6       1.7       5.1       0.8       1.4       n.a.       10.5       10.7  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       0.9       2.5       3.8       3.3       1.3       2.6       1.7       5.1       0.8       1.4       n.a.       10.5       10.7  

Data Revenue

    0.30       0.39       0.49       0.58       0.67       0.7       0.9       1.0       1.1       1.2       1.3       1.4       1.5       1.5       1.76       3.3       4.9  

Customers (mln)

    29.4       29.8       30.2       30.8       31.8       32.0       32.3       32.3       31.6       31.1       29.0       30.4       30.5       30.7       30.8       32.3       30.4  

ARPU (BDT)

    117       121       120       122       119       120       121       121       125       126       133       130       128       127       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    188       201       200       186       295       300       309       305       311       316       322       322       305       285       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    6.3     5.2     5.3     5.1     4.5     5.7     5.7     6.4     4.5     4.7     13.9     4.6     5.5     5.4     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       66       60       104       134       157       167       254       391       304       364       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

 

* Starting from 1Q15 MOU is reported (not MOU billed) due to alingment with the Group policies.


Table of Contents

Ukraine

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    335       259       252       216       151       154       166       152       135       146       155       150       143       153       1,062       622       586  

EBITDA

    162       115       114       92       63       70       84       75       71       80       86       69       77       87       483       292       306  

EBITDA margin (%)

    48.6     44.5     45.4     42.7     41.3     45.6     51.0     49.2     52.5     55.0     55.4     46.3     53.6     56.8     45.2     47.0     52.3

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    35       30       35       37       45       178       38       38       10       30       34       33       29       38       137       298       106  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    35       30       35       37       32       54       36       38       9       29       33       32       27       27       137       160       104  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     1Q16     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    305       236       232       200       140       143       155       141       125       136       144       139       132       143       973       578       545  

Service revenue

    305       235       231       199       139       142       154       140       125       135       144       139       132       142       970       576       542  

Data Revenue

    27.6       20.5       19.5       17.8       14.0       14.0       19.0       19.7       19.3       21.5       25.9       28.2       31.2       35.3       85       66       95  

Customers (mln)

    25.6       25.4       26.3       26.2       26.1       26.1       25.7       25.4       25.3       25.4       26.3       26.1       26.0       26.1       26.2       25.4       26.1  

ARPU (USD)

    3.9       3.1       3.0       2.5       1.8       1.8       1.9       1.8       1.6       1.7       1.8       1.7       1.7       1.8       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)

    498       506       517       524       536       530       537       562       572       559       544       565       574       573       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    7.3     6.4     4.8     6.7     5.4     5.0     6.6     6.4     5.0     4.5     2.6     6.2     5.2     4.3     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     1Q16     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    30       24       20       16       11       11       11       11       10       10       10       10       11       10       90       45       41  

Service revenue

    29       24       20       16       11       11       11       11       10       10       10       10       11       10       89       45       41  

Broadband revenue

    13       10       9       8       6       6       6       6       6       6       6       6       6       6       40       24       24  

Broadband customers (mln)

    0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8  

Broadband ARPU (USD)

    5.6       4.0       3.6       3.2       2.3       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.3       2.5       2.4       2.5       2.6       2.6       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  
(in UAH millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)                        

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    2,942       3,034       3,160       3,095       3,092       3,315       3,595       3,472       3,468       3,689       3,922       3,881       3,871       4,058       12,231       13,475       14,960  

EBITDA

    1,430       1,349       1,436       1,311       1,278       1,512       1,835       1,706       1,822       2,027       2,170       1,793       2,073       2,305       5,526       6,332       7,811  

EBITDA margin (%)

    48.6     44.5     45.5     42.3     41.3     45.6     51.0     49.1     52.5     54.9     55.3     46.2     53.6     56.8     45.2     47.0     52.2

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    305       354       445       554       1,033       3,999       833       875       264       745       868       847       782       1,009       1,658       6,740       2,723  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    305       350       444       554       742       1,176       778       869       249       727       860       836       737       705       1,652       3,566       2,672  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    2,682       2,754       2,906       2,870       2,859       3,077       3,357       3,215       3,209       3,427       3,661       3,611       3,576       3,781       11,212       12,508       13,908  

Service revenue

    2,677       2,750       2,899       2,863       2,851       3,069       3,348       3,206       3,199       3,399       3,652       3,601       3,560       3,768       11,190       12,475       13,851  

Data Revenue

    242.3       240.4       244.6       256.4       281.4       303.7       408.2       449       496       544       659       731       845       933       984       1,442       2,429  

Customers (mln)*

    25.6       25.4       26.3       26.2       26.1       26.1       25.7       25.4       25.3       25.4       26.3       26.1       26.0       26.1       26.2       25.4       26.1  

ARPU (UAH)

    34.6       35.7       37.0       36.1       36.0       38.7       42.2       40.7       41.6       43.8       46.2       45.2       44.9       47.5       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)

    498       506       517       524       536       530       537       562       572       559       544       565       574       573       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    7.3     6.4     4.8     6.7     5.4     5.0     6.6     6.4     5.0     4.5     2.6     6.2     5.2     4.3     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    260       280       255       225       233       238       238       257       259       262       261       270       295       277       1,020       967       1,052  

Service revenue

    259       279       254       225       233       238       238       257       259       262       261       270       295       277       1,017       967       1,052  

Broadband revenue

    114       111       107       111       117       132       132       143       148       151       150       156       170       169       443       524       604  

Broadband customers (mln)

    0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8       0.8  

Broadband ARPU (UAH)

    49       47       45       46       48       53       54       59       61       62       62       64       69       70       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

 

* ARPU calculations include MFS revenues starting from Q1 2017


Table of Contents

Uzbekistan

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16     FY17  

Total operating revenue

    163       179       190       186       167       175       186       183       165       164       169       165       153       152       718       711       663       153  

EBITDA

    105       115       127       115       105       113       99       121       100       94       96       105       79       83       461       437       395       79  

EBITDA margin (%)

    64.4     64.2     66.5     61.6     62.7     64.3     53.2     66.0     60.8     57.1     57.1     63.3     51.5     54.2     64.2     61.5     59.6     51.5

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    21       10       20       28       0       1       34       20       30       16       38       91       22       16       79       54       174       22  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    21       10       20       28       0       1       34       20       30       16       38       91       22       16       79       54       174       22  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    161       177       189       184       166       174       184       182       164       163       168       164       152       151       711       706       659       152  

Service revenue

    161       176       189       184       165       174       183       182       164       163       168       164       152       151       710       704       659       152  

Data Revenue

    30.4       31.3       34.9       35.7       34.3       33.8       34.2       33.6       36.4       37.3       38.3       40.2       40.0       36.9       132.3       136       152       40  

Customers (mln)

    10.4       10.4       10.5       10.6       10.4       10.3       10.2       9.9       9.5       9.3       9.6       9.5       9.5       9.6       10.6       9.9       9.5       9.5  

Mobile data customers (mln)*

    5.4       5.3       5.4       5.5       5.2       5.0       4.8       4.7       4.4       4.3       4.5       4.6       4.6       4.5       5.5       4.7       4.6       4.6  

ARPU (USD)

    5.1       5.6       6.0       5.8       5.2       5.6       6.0       6.0       5.6       5.7       5.9       5.7       5.3       5.3       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    465       531       568       528       498       553       550       501       482       535       580       568       545       578       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)

    12     12     12     12     12     11     12     12     12     12     10     12     12     13     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    2.0       2.0       2.0       2.0       1.4       1.4       1.3       1.3       1.2       1.1       1.1       1.0       1.0       1.0       8.0       5.4       4.5       1  

Service revenue

    1.8       2.0       2.0       2.0       1.4       1.3       1.3       1.2       1.2       1.1       1.1       1.0       1.0       1.0       7.8       5.3       4.5       1  

Broadband revenue

    0.7       0.7       0.7       0.6       0.6       0.5       0.5       0.5       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       2.7       2.1       0.0       0  

Broadband customers (mln)

    0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0  

Broadband ARPU (USD)

    21.0       19.0       14.0       16.9       16.7       16.8       15.4       14.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       0.0       n.a.       n.a       n.a       n.a  

(in UZS billions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16     FY17  

Total operating revenue

    363       409       446       445       409       442       480       497       469       479       502       518       513       576       1,662       1,829       1,967       513  

EBITDA

    234       262       296       274       257       284       255       328       285       273       287       328       265       313       1,066       1,124       1,173       265  

EBITDA
margin (%)

    64.4     64.2     66.5     61.6     62.7     64.3     53.1     65.9     60.8     57.1     57.1     63.5     51.6     54.3     64.2     61.5     59.6     51.6

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    46       23       47       67       0       3       87       53       85       47       112       289       75       60       184       143       533       75  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    46       23       47       67       0       3       87       53       85       47       112       289       75       60       184       143       533       75  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    359       405       442       441       406       439       476       494       465       475       499       514       510       572       1,646       1,815       1,954       510  

Service revenue

    358       404       441       441       405       439       475       493       465       475       499       514       510       572       1,643       1,811       1,953       510  

Data Revenue

    67.7       71.7       81.7       85.4       84.1       85.3       88.5       91.0       103.4       108.7       114.0       126.1       134.2       139       306.4       349       452       134  

Customers (mln)

    10.4       10.4       10.5       10.6       10.4       10.3       10.2       9.9       9.5       9.3       9.6       9.5       9.5       9.6       10.6       9.9       9.5       9.5  

Mobile data customers (mln)*

    5.4       5.3       5.4       5.5       5.2       5.0       4.8       4.7       4.4       4.3       4.5       4.6       4.6       4.5       5.5       4.7       4.6       4.6  

ARPU (UZS)

    11,293       12,805       13,955       13,804       12,819       14,092       15,393       16,237       15,877       16,720       17,527       17,925       17,767       19,847       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

MOU (min)*

    465       531       568       528       498       553       550       501       482       535       580       568       545       578       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

Churn 3 months active base (quarterly) (%)*

    12     12     12     12     12     11     12     12     12     12     10     12     12     13     n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16     FY16  

Total operating revenue

    4.0       3.9       4.0       3.9       3.5       3.5       3.4       3.4       3.5       3.3       3.3       3.2       3.4       3.7       15.8       13.8       13.3       3  

Service revenue

    4.0       3.9       3.9       3.8       3.4       3.4       3.4       3.4       3.5       3.3       3.3       3.2       3.4       3.7       15.6       13.4       13.2       3  

 

* Previous periods satring from 1Q16 were restated due to alignment with the Group definition.


Table of Contents

Italy

index page

(in EUR millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16*     1Q17*     2Q17*     FY14     FY15     FY16*  

Total operating revenue2

    1,144       1,147       1,220       1,123       1,078       1,082       1,090       1,178       1,064       1,092       1,160       1,749       1,548       1,535       4,633       4,428       6,475  

EBITDA

    430       435       521       418       406       397       427       441       381       399       473       551       458       442       1,804       1,671       2,124  

EBITDA margin (%)

    37.6     38.0     42.7     37.2     37.7     36.7     39.1     37.4     35.8     36.6     40.8     31.5     29.6     28.8     38.9     37.7     32.8

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    137       173       187       261       172       186       170       251       172       192       151       404       240       266       757       779       1,172  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    137       173       187       261       172       186       170       251       172       192       151       404       240       266       757       779       1,172  

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17*     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue2

    827       832       848       820       781       800       818       880       796       824       875       1,440       1,253       1,239       3,328       3,279       5,338  

Service revenue2

    729       737       763       746       705       720       752       736       703       714       765       1,103       1,043       1,042       2,975       2,913       4,367  

Data Revenue

    132       137       152       152       154       159       172       168       174       179       204       341       352       367       573       652       1,329  

Customers (mln)

    22.0       21.9       21.8       21.6       21.4       21.4       21.3       21.1       20.9       20.9       20.7       31.3       30.9       30.3       21.6       21.4       31.3  

Data customers (mln)2

    9.3       9.7       10.2       10.2       10.9       11.0       11.3       11.6       11.6       12       12       19       20       19       10.2       11.6       19  

ARPU (€)2

    10.9       11.1       11.6       11.4       10.9       11.2       11.6       11.4       11.0       11.3       12.1       11.4       11.0       11.2       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

of which :

                                 

ARPU voice (€)2

    6.7       6.8       7.0       6.9       6.3       6.6       6.7       6.6       6.2       6.4       6.6       5.7       5.4       5.3       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

ARPU data (€)

    4.2       4.3       4.6       4.5       4.5       4.6       4.9       4.8       4.8       4.9       5.5       5.7       5.6       5.9       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

MOU (min.)

    254       261       262       274       267       275       263       274       270       280       267       288       264       274       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

Total traffic (mln. min.)

    16,895       17,486       17,150       17,819       17,188       17,538       16,853       17,448       17,026       17,538       16,673       27,058       24,693       25,134       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

Churn, annualised rate (%)

    32.2     29.9     32.0     31.6     35.1     25.2     27.9     28.8     30.3     29.7     31.5     34.9     33.2     40.0     n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

MBOU

    n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       1,392       1,436       1,635       1,628       1,742       1,905       2,252       2,768       2,896       3,179       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

FIXED-LINE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17*     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue2

    316       314       372       302       297       283       272       298       269       268       285       309       295       296       1,305       1,150       1,137  

Service revenue2

    306       303       291       292       278       277       272       268       263       264       269       279       270       268       1,192       1,095       1,082  

Total voice customers (mln)

    3.0       2.9       2.9       2.8       2.8       2.8       2.8       2.8       2.8       2.8       2.8       2.7       2.7       2.7       2.8       2.8       2.7  

of which :

                                 

Total DIRECT voice customers (mln)

    2.4       2.4       2.4       2.4       2.4       2.4       2.4       2.4       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.4       n.a.       n.a  

Total INDIRECT voice customers (mln)

    0.5       0.5       0.5       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.4       0.3       0.3       0.3       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.4       n.a.       n.a  

Total fixed-line ARPU (€)

    29.8       29.9       29.0       28.7       27.9       27.9       27.8       28.0       27.3       26.9       27.3       28.8       28.1       27.6       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

Total Traffic (mln. min.)

    3,627       3,410       2,616       3,292       3,137       2,819       2,357       2,763       2,633       2,503       2,040       2,422       2,286       2,092       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Internet customers (mln)

    2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.4       2.4       2.2       2.3       2.3  

of which :

                                 

Broadband (mln)

    2.2       2.2       2.1       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.2       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.4       2.4       2.2       2.3       2.3  

Broadband ARPU (€)

    20.8       21.3       21.4       21.6       21.1       21.2       21.1       20.9       20.5       20.9       21.2       22.3       21.8       21.8       n.a.       n.a.       n.a  

Dual-play customers (mln)

    1.9       1.9       1.9       1.9       2.0       2.0       2.0       2.0       2.1       2.1       2.1       n.a.       n.a.       n.a.       1.9       2.0       n.a.  

 

    Combined entity     Actual JV  

CONSOLIDATED

  4Q15*     1Q16*     2Q16*     4Q16*     1Q17     2Q17  

Total operating revenue

    1,741       1,515       1,562       1,749       1,548       1,535  

Underlying EBITDA1

    568       471       493       611       517       523  

Underlying EBITDA margin (%)

    32.6     31.1     31.5     34.9     33.4     34.0

Capital expenditures (CAPEX)

    360       276       264       404       240       266  

CAPEX excluding licenses

    360       276       264       404       240       266  

MOBILE

  4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17  

Total operating revenue

    1,443       1,244       1,292       1,440       1,253       1,239  

Service revenue

    1,091       1,049       1,065       1,103       1,043       1,042  

Data Revenue

    313       315       319       341       352       367  

Customers (mln)

    31.2       31.1       31.3       31.3       30.9       30.3  

Data customers (mln)

    18.5       18.6       18.9       19.5       19.5       19.3  

ARPU (€)

    11.4       11.0       11.2       11.4       11.0       11.2  

of which :

           

ARPU voice (€)

    5.9       5.7       5.8       5.7       5.4       5.3  

ARPU data (€)

    5.4       5.3       5.4       5.7       5.6       5.9  

MOU (min.)

    277       276       286       288       264       274  

Total traffic (mln. min.)

    25,951       25,782       26,800       27,058       24,693       25,134  

Churn, annualised rate (%)

    34.7     32.9     32.8     34.9     33.2     40.0

MBOU

    n.a.       2,058       2,278       2,768       2,896       3,179  

FIXED-LINE

  4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17  

Total operating revenue

    298       272       271       309       295       296  

Service revenue

    268       266       267       279       270       268  

Total voice customers (mln)

    2.8       2.8       2.8       2.7       2.7       2.7  

of which :

           

Total DIRECT voice customers (mln)

    2.4       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.5       2.5  

Total INDIRECT voice customers (mln)

    0.4       0.3       0.3       0.2       0.2       0.2  

Total fixed-line ARPU (€)

    28.0       27.3       26.9       28.8       28.1       27.6  

Total Traffic (mln. min.)

    2,763       2,633       2,503       2,422       2,286       2,092  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

Total Internet customers (mln)

    2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.4       2.4  

of which :

           

Broadband (mln)

    2.3       2.3       2.3       2.3       2.4       2.4  

Broadband ARPU (€)

    20.9       20.5       20.9       22.3       21.8       21.8  

 

1 In Q4 2015 underlying EBITDA excludes restructuring costs of app. EUR 19 million and and in 4Q 2016 integration costs of app. EUR 60 million Q1 2017 underlying EBITDA excludes approximately 59 EUR million restructuring costs In Q2 2017 underlying EBITDA excludes approxiamtely EUR 81 million
2 Starting from Q2 2017 results, minor changes in accounting policies were adopted and for a proper comparison previous period results were adjusted accordingly.
* The “combined data” for Q4 2015 and Q1 2016, consists of the sum of the WIND and 3 Italia businesses results, respectively. The Q4 2015 and Q1 2016 data related to 3 Italia was obtained through due diligence performed as part of the merger process. The company has included this “combined data” because it believes that financial information on the Italy joint venture is relevant to its business and results for the financial quarter. Going forward, the company expects to include financial information related to the Italy joint venture in the publication of its financial results. It should be noted that the company owns 50% of the Italy joint venture, while the results above reflect the entire business.


Table of Contents

Laos

index page

(in USD millions, unless stated otherwise, unaudited)

 

CONSOLIDATED

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Total operating revenue*

    8.3       8.0       7.0       5.5       5.1       4.7       4.3       4.1       3.8       3.5       3.1       3.7       3.5       3.5       28.5       18.2       14.1  

EBITDA

    2.4       3.0       2.0       2.3       2.0       1.5       0.9       1.0       0.6       0.3       -0.1       0.8       0.5       0.5       9.6       5.4       1.6  

EBITDA margin (%)

    28.4     37.7     28.0     42.7     38.5     31.2     21.2     25.1     15.6     9.1     -4.6     22.0     15.3     15     33.6     29.6     11

MOBILE

  1Q14     2Q14     3Q14     4Q14     1Q15     2Q15     3Q15     4Q15     1Q16     2Q16     3Q16     4Q16     1Q17     2Q17     FY14     FY15     FY16  

Customers (mln)

    0.3       0.3       0.3       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.2       0.3       0.3       0.3       0.244665       0.17       0.28034