NOTE 1

GENERAL INFORMATION AND ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

General information

Ferd is a family-owned Norwegian investment-company committed to value-creating ownership of businesses and investments in financial assets. In addition to the Group’s commercial activities,Ferd has an extensive involvement in social entrepreneurship. Ferd AS is located in Strandveien 50, Lysaker.

Ferd is owned by Johan H. Andresen and his family. Andresen is the Chair of the Board.

The Company's financial statements for 2015 were approved by the Board of Directors on 21 April 2016.

Basis for the preparation of the financial statements

Ferd AS’ financial statements are prepared in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act section 3-9 and regulation on simplified application of international accounting standards.

Summary of the most significant accounting principles

The most significant accounting principles applied in the preparation of the financial statements are described below. The accounting principles are consistent for similar transactions in the reporting periods presented, if not otherwise stated.

Investments in subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are companies where the parent company Ferd AS has direct or indirect control. Ferd has control over an investment if Ferd has the decision power over the enterprise in which it has invested, is exposed to or entitled to a variable return from the enterprise, and at the same time has the opportunity to use this decision power over the enterprise to influence on the variable return

Subsidiaries are classified as tangible assets in the balance sheet and measured at fair value. Value changes on subsidiaries, current returns like dividend and gain or loss on the realisation of subsidiaries are recognised as net operating income in the income statement.

Investments in associated companies and joint ventures

Associates are entities over which Ferd has significant influence, but not control. Significant influence implies that Ferd is involved in strategic decisions concerning the company’s finances and operations without controlling these decisions. Significant influence normally exists for investments where Ferd holds between 20 % and 50 % of the voting capital.

A joint venture is a contractual arrangement requiring unanimous agreement between the owners about strategic, financial and operational decisions.

Investments in associates and joint ventures are classified as non-current assets in the balance sheet and accounted for by the equity method, implying that Ferd's share of the profit or loss of the year in the investment is presented on a separate line in the income statement. The carrying value of the investment is added to Ferd's share of total comprehensive income in the investment. The carrying value of investments in associates companies is recognised as "investments accounted for by the equity method".

The exemption from the equity method pursuant to IAS 28 for investments in associated companies and joint ventures owned by investment enterprises is the basis for the presentation of the investments in the business area Ferd Capital. These investments are recognised at fair value with value changes through profit or loss and classified as current assets in the balance sheet. Value changes on the investments, current returns like dividend and gain or loss on the realisation of investments are recognised as net operating income in the income statement.

Revenue recognition

The Company's revenue mainly includes rendering services to other group companies and other related parties. Income from the sale of services is recognised according to the service's level of completion, provided the progress of the service and its income and costs can be reliably measured.

Revenue is recognised at fair value of the compensation and presented net of discounts, VAT and other types of public duties. Sales income is presented as Other income in the income statement.

Foreign currency translation

The financial statements are presented in Norwegian kroner (NOK), which is the functional currency of Ferd AS. Transactions in foreign currency are recognised and measured in NOK at the date of the transaction. Monetary items in foreign currency are translated to NOK on the basis of the exchange rate at the date of the balance sheet. Gain and loss due to currency changes is recognised in the result.

Classification of financial instruments

Financial instruments constitute a substantial part of Ferd’s balance sheet and are of considerable significance for the Company's financial position and result. Financial assets and liabilities are recognised when the Company becomes a party to the contractual obligations and rights of the instrument. All financial instruments are classified in the following categories, pursuant to IAS 39, at their initial recognition:

1)   Financial instruments at fair value and with changes in value recognised over profit and loss

2)   Loans and receivables

3)   Financial liabilities

Financial instruments are classified as held for trading and included in category 1 Derivatives are classified as held for trading and as current assets. The carrying value of interest derivatives is presented as investments in interest-bearing debt in the balance sheet.

Financial instruments at fair value with value changes over profit and loss pursuant to IAS 39 can also be classified in accordance with the "fair value option" in IAS 28.18. The instrument must initially be recognised at fair value with value changes over profit and loss and also meet certain criteria. The key assumption for applying the “fair value option” is that a group of financial assets and liabilities are managed on a fair value basis, and that management evaluates the earnings following the same principle.

Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments not quoted in an active market. They are classified as current assets, unless they are expected to be realised more than 12 months after the balance sheet date. Loans and receivables are presented as trade receivables, other receivables and bank deposits in the balance sheet.

Financial liabilities that are not included in the category held for trading and not measured at “fair value through profit and loss”, are classified as other liabilities. Trade payables and other liabilities are classified as current if the debt is due within one year or is part of the ordinary operating cycle. Debt arisen by utilising Ferd's loan facility is presented as long-term if Ferd both has the opportunity and the intention to revolve the debt more than 12 months.

Recognition, measurement and presentation of financial instruments in the income statement and balance sheet

Purchases and sales of financial instruments are recognised on the date of the agreement, which is when the Company has made a commitment to buy or dispose of the financial instrument. Financial instruments are derecognised when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire or are transferred to another party. Correspondingly, the financial instruments are derecognised when the Company has transferred most of the risks and rewards connected with the ownership.

Financial instruments at “fair value over profit and loss” are initially measured at quoted prices at the balance sheet date or estimated on the basis of measurable market information available at the balance sheet date. Transaction costs are recognised in the income statement. In subsequent periods, the financial instruments are presented at fair value based on market values or generally accepted calculation methods. Value changes are recognised in the income statement.

Borrowings and receivables are initially measured at fair value with the addition of direct transaction costs. In subsequent periods, the assets and liabilities are measured at amortised cost by using the effective interest method less any decline in value. A provision for a decline in value is made for actual and possible losses on receivables. Ferd regularly reviews receivables and prepares estimates for losses as the basis for the provisions in the financial statements. Losses on loans and receivables are recognised in the income statement.

Financial liabilities classified as other liabilities are measured at amortised cost by using the effective interest method.

Gain and loss from the realisation of financial instruments, changes in fair values and interest income are recognised in the income statement in the period they arise. Dividend received is recognised as income when the Company has a legal right to receive payment. Net income related to financial instruments is presented as operating income in the income statement.

Financial derivatives and hedge accounting

Ferd can apply financial derivatives to reduce any potential loss from exposures to unfavourable changes in exchange rates or interest rates. The derivatives are recognised as financial instruments at fair value, and the the value changes are recognised in the income statement. Ferd AS does not apply hedge accounting in the parent company financial statements.

Income taxes

The income tax expense includes tax payable and changes in deferred tax. Income tax on other income and expense items in other comprehensive income is also recognised in total comprehensive income, and tax on balances related to equity transactions are set off against equity.

The tax payable for the period is calculated according to the tax rates and regulations ruling at the end of the reporting period. Tax payable for the period is calculated on the tax basis, which deviates from the "Profit before tax" as a consequence of amounts that shall be recognised as income or expense in another period (temporary differences) or income statement amounts never to be subject to tax (permanent differences).

Deferred tax is calculated on temporary differences between book and tax values of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and any tax effects of losses carried forward at the reporting date.

Deferred tax assets are only recognised in the balance sheet to the extent that it is probable that there will be sufficient taxable profits to utilise the benefits of the tax reducing temporary differences. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are calculated according to the tax rates and regulations ruling at the end of the reporting period and at nominal amounts. Deferred tax liabilities and assets are recognised net when the Company has a legal right to net assets and liabilities, and is able to and intend to settle the tax obligation net.

Tangible assets

Tangible assets are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment. The cost includes expenses directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. Expenses incurred after the acquisition are recognised as assets when future economic benefits are expected to arise from the asset and can be reliably measured, whereas current maintenance is expensed.

Tangible assets are depreciated systematically over their expected useful lives, normally on a straight-line basis. If indications of impairment exist, the asset is tested for impairment.

Impairment

Tangible assets are considered for impairment when there are indications to the effect that future earnings cannot support the carrying amount.

In the assessment of a decline in value, the first step is to calculate or estimate the assets' recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset's fair value less costs to sell and its value in use. Fair value less costs to sell is the amount that can be achieved at a sale of an asset in a transaction performed at arm’s length between well informed and voluntary parties, less costs to sell. The value in use is the present value of future cash flows expected to be generated by an asset or a cash-generating unit.

In the event that the carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount, the difference is recognised as a write-down. Impairment losses are subsequently reversed when the impairment indicator no longer exists.

Leasing

Leases are classified either as operating or finance leases based on the actual content of the agreements. Leases under which the lessee assumes a substantial part of risk and return are classified as finance leases. All Ferd AS' present leases are classified as operating leases.

Leasing costs in operating leases are charged to the income statement when incurred and classified as other operating expenses.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash, bank deposits and other short-term and easily realisable investments that will fall due within 3 months, also including restricted funds. Bank overdraft is presented as short-term debt to finance institutions in the balance sheet. In the statement of cash flows, the overdraft facility is included in cash and cash equivalents.

Pension costs and pension funds/obligations

Defined benefit plans

A defined benefit plan is a pension scheme defining the pension payment an employee will receive at the time of retirement. The pension is normally determined as a part of the employee's salary. The Company's net obligation from defined benefit pension plans is calculated separately for each scheme. The obligation is calculated by an actuary and represents an estimate of future retirement benefits that the employees have earned at the balance sheet date as a consequence of their service in the present and former period. The benefits are discounted to present value reduced by the fair value of the pension funds.

The portion of the period's net cost that comprises the current year's pension earnings, curtailment and settlement of pension schemes, plan changes and accrued social security tax is included in payroll costs in the period during which the employees have worked and thereby earned the pension rights. The net interest expense on the pension obligation less expected return on the pension funds is charged to the income statement as finance costs in the same period. Positive and negative estimate deviations are recognised as other income and costs in total comprehensive income in the period when they were identified.

.

Changes in defined benefit obligations due to changes in pension schemes are recognised over the estimated average remaining service period when the changes are not immediately recognised. Gain or loss on a curtailment or settlement of a plan is recognised in the result when the curtailment or settlement occurs. A curtailment occurs when the Company decides to reduce significantly the number of employees covered by a plan or amends the terms of a defined benefit plan to the effect that a significant part of the current employees’ future earnings no longer qualify for benefits or will qualify for reduced benefits only.

Defined contribution plans

Obligations to make contributions to contribution based pension plans are recognised as costs in the income statement when the employees have rendered services entitling them to the contribution.

Provisions

A provision is recognised when the Company has an obligation as a result of a previous event, it is probable that a financial settlement will take place and the amount can be reliably measured. The amount recognised as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at the end of the reporting period, discounted at present value if the discount effect is significant.

Dividend

Dividend and group contribution proposed by the Board is recognised as current liabilities pursuant to the exemption in the regulation to the Norwegian Accounting Act section 3-9.

Segment reporting

Ferd reports business areas in line with IFRS 8. Ferd is an investment company, and management makes decisions, is following up and evaluates the decisions based on the development in value and fair value of the Company's investment. Ferd distinguishes between business areas based on investment type/mandate, capital allocation, resource allocation and risk assessment.

Statements of cash flows

The cash flow statement has been prepared using the indirect method, implying that the basis used is the Company’s profit before tax to present cash flows generated by operating activities, investing activities and financing activities, respectively.

Related parties

Parties are considered to be related when one of the parties has the control, joint control or significant influence over another party. Parties are also related if they are subject to a third party’s control, or one party can be subject to significant influence and the other to joint control. A person or member of a person’s family is related when he or she has control, joint control or significant influence over the business. Companies controlled by or being under joint control by key executives are also considered to be related parties. All related party transactions are carried in accordance with written agreements and established principles.

New accounting standards according to IFRS

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with standards approved by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) and International Financial Reporting Standards - Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) effective for accounting years starting on 1 January 2015 or earlier.

New and amended standards applied by Ferd effective from the accounting year 2015

Ferd has not implemented any new standards in 2015.

New and amended standards not implemented by Ferd

IFRS 9 Financial instruments

IFRS 9 will replace the current IAS 39. The project is divided in several phases. The first phase concerns classification and measurement. The classification and measurement requirements for financial liabilities in IAS 39 are on the whole continued. The use of amortised cost and fair value is continued as a basis for measurement. Concretely defined instruments must be measured at amortised cost or at fair value with value changes in other comprehensive income. All other instruments shall be measured at fair value with changes in fair value recognised in profit and loss.

Phase 2 concerns impairment of financial instruments, and the changes include a twist from making provisions for incurred losses to expected losses. Consequently, the new standard does not require a concrete loss event for making a provision for a credit loss. Losses shall be made for estimated losses, and changes in these estimates shall also be recognised in the income statement on a current basis. The changes will have particular consequences for banks and lending businesses, but also for the Ferd Group, as the Group has significant receivables from the sale of goods and services that are partly expected to be affected.

Phase 3 concerns hedge accounting, and the rules in IFRS 9 are considerably more flexible than in IAS 39. Several types of instruments qualify as hedging instruments, more types of risk can be hedged, and even more importantly, the strong effectiveness requirements in IAS 39 have been modified. Instead of testing the effectiveness, IFRS 9 introduces a principle of at qualitative financial connection between a hedging instrument, the hedged object and risk. On the other hand, several new note requirements related to the enterprise's hedging strategy have been added.

The implementation date for IFRS 9 is determined to accounting years starting on 1 January 2018, but the EU has not yet approved the standard. Ferd will implement the standard when it becomes mandatory.

IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers

IFRS 15 is a joint standard for the recognition of income from customers and replaces IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, IFRS 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes, IFRIC 15 Agreements for the Construction of Real Estate, IFRIC 18 Transfers of Assets from Customers and SIC 31 Revenue – Barter Transactions Involving Advertising Services. IFRS 15 only concerns income from contracts with customers. Revenue relating to liability and equity instruments previously regulated by IAS 18, is moved to IAS 39 (and IFRS 9 when implemented).

The main principle of IFRS 15 is that the recognition of income shall be made in such a manner that it correctly demonstrates how the compensation for deliveries of goods and services is recognised by the enterprise. IFRS 15 introduces a 5 step model for revenue recognition,whereby customer contracts shall be identified and decomposed in separate delivery terms to be priced and recognised separately.

The standard is effective for accounting years starting on 1 January 2018, but it has not yet been approved by the EU. As an investing enterprise, Ferd AS has very little income from customer contracts and will probably not be impacted by the standard.

IFRS 16 Leases

IFRS 16 replaces the existing IFRS for leases, IAS 17Leases. IFRS 16 states the principles for the recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure for both parties in a lease agreement, i.e., the customer (lessee) and supplier (lessor). The new standard requires that the lessee recognises assets and liabilities for most lease agreements, which is a significant change from today's principles. For the lessor, IFRS 16 in all essentials carries the existing principles in IAS 17 forward, i.e., a lessor shall continue to classify leases as operating or finance lease agreements and account for them differently.

The new standard is effective for the accounting year starting on 1 January 2019, but has so far not been approved by the EU. The standard is not expected to have any significant consequences for Ferd AS.

NOTE 2

ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS

Management has used estimates and assumptions in the preparation of the financial statements. This applies for assets, liabilities, expenses and disclosures. The underlying estimates and assumptions for valuations are based on historical experience and other factors considered to be relevant for the estimate on the balance sheet date. Estimates can differ from actual results. Changes in accounting estimates are recognised in the period they arise. The main balances where estimates have a significant impact on disclosed values are mentioned below. The methods for estimating fair value on financial assets are also described below.

In Ferd's opinion, the estimates of fair value reflect reasonable estimates and assumptions for all significant factors expected to be emphasised by the parties in an independent transactions, including those factors that have an impact on the expected cash flows, and by the degree of risk associated with them.

Determination of the fair value of financial assets

A large part of Ferd's balance sheet comprises financial assets at fair value. The fair value assessment of financial assets will at varying degrees be influenced by estimates and assumptions related to factors like future cash flows, the required rate of return and interest rate level. The most significant uncertainty concerns the determination of fair value of the unlisted financial assets.

Listed shares and bonds

The fair value of financial assets traded in active and liquid markets is determined at noted market prices on the balance sheet date (the official closing price of the market). Accordingly, the determination of the value implies limited estimation uncertainty.

Unlisted shares and bonds

The class “Unlisted shares and bonds” comprises private shares and investments in private equity funds. The fair value is determined by applying well-known valuation models. The use of these models requires input of data that partly constitutes listed market prices (like interest) and partly estimates on the future development, as well as assessments of a number of factors existing on the balance sheet date.

 

Hedge funds

The hedge funds are managed by external parties providing Ferd with monthly, quarterly or half-yearly estimates of the fair value. The estimates are verified by independent administrators. In addition, the total return from the funds is assessed for reasonableness against benchmark indices.

Investments in interest-bearing debt

The fair value of investments in interest-bearing debt is determined on the basis of quoted prices. If such prices are not available, the investment is valued in accordance with price models based on the current yield curve and external credit ratings.

Derivatives

The fair value of derivatives is based on quoted market prices. If such prices are not available, the investment is valued in accordance with price models based on the current yield curve and other relevant factors.

Determination of the fair value of subsidiaries with properties

Ferd has subsidiaries with properties recognised at fair value. The fair value is based on the discounted value of future cash flows, and the estimate will be impacted by estimated future cash flows and the required rate of return. The main principles for deciding the cash flows and required rates of return are described below.

Future cash flows are based on the following factors:

Existing contracts

Expected future rentals

Expected vacancies

The required rate of return is based on a risk-free interest with the addition of a risk premium for the property.

The risk premium is based on:

Location

Standard

Expected market development

Rent level compared to the rest of the market

The tenant’s financial strength

Property specific knowledge

In the event that transactions concerning comparable properties close to the balance sheet date have taken place, these values are applied as a cross-reference for the valuation.

Commercial properties not let out and properties included in building projects are normally assessed at independent valuations.

Determination of the fair value of financial subsidiaries and subsidiaries owned by the business area Ferd Capital

Ferd AS owns investments indirectly through subsidiaries acting as holding companies for these investments. The fair value of these subsidiaries is set to the carrying value of equity, adjusted for non-recognised changes in value of the underlying investments. The underlying investments are valued according to the same principles and methods as Ferd AS' direct investments.

 

NOTE 3

SEGMENT REPORTING

Ferd's segment reporting complies with IFRS 8. Ferd is an investment company, and the Company's management makes decisions, monitors and evaluates these decisions based on the development in value and fair value of the Company's investments. The operating segments are identified on the basis of investment type/mandate, capital and resource allocation and risk assessment. Ferd is operating the following four business areas:

 

 

Ferd Capital's largest investments as of 31 Descember 2015 are:

- Elopak (100 percent stake) is one of the world's leading manufacturers of packaging systems for fluid food articles. With an organisation and cooperating partners in more than 40 countries, the company's products are sold and marketed in more than 100 countries.

- Aibel (49 percent stake) is a leading supplier to the international upstream oil and gas industry concentrating on the Norwegian shelf. The company is engaged in operating, maintaining and modifying offshore and land based plants, and is also supplying complete production and processing installations.

- TeleComputing (96 percent stake) is a leading supplier of IT services to small and medium-sized enterprises in Norway and Sweden. The company supplies netbased applications and customised operating and outsourcing services.

- Interwell (58 percent stake) is a preeminent Norwegian supplier of high-tech well tools to the international oil and gas industry. The company's most important market is the Norwegian shelf, but it has in recent years also gained access to several significant markets internationally.

- Swix Sport (100 percent stake) is developing, manufacturing and marketing ski wax, ski sticks, accessories and textiles for sporting and active leasure time use. The company has extensive operations in Norway and abroad.

- Mestergruppen (95 percent stake) is a prominent actor in the Norwegian building materials market concentrating on the professional part of the market. The company's operations include the sale of building materials and developing land and projects, housing and cottage chains.

- Servi (100 percent stake). Servi develops and manufactures customer specific hydraulics systems, cylinders and vents to the offshore, maritime and land based industries.

- Petroleum Geo-Services (10,1 percent stake). Petroleum Geo-Services (PGS) supplies seismology, electro-magnetic services and reservoir analyses to oil companies engaged in offshore operations all over the world.

- Fjord Line (38,5 percent stake). Fjord Line is a modern shipping company offering safe and comfortable sea transport between Norway, Denmark and Sweden. In addition to passenger traffic, Fjord Line has adequate capacity for freight of all types of utility vehicles and goods handled by the shipping company's cargo departments in Norway and Denmark.

Ferd Hedge Fund comprises two mandates: Hedge funds investing in various types of hedge funds managed by hedge fund environments abroad. The aim is to achieve an attractive risk-adjusted return, both in absolute terms and relatively to the hedge fund index (HFRI FoF: Conservative Index). In the Global Fund Opportunities mandate (GFO), Ferd Hedge Fund can invest in externally managed opportunities not suitable for the hedge funds portfolio, but are attractive in view of Ferd's total portfolio and contribute to spread risk in the Group.

NOK 1 000

Ferd AS

Ferd Capital

Ferd Invest

Ferd Hedge Fund

Ferd Real Estate

Other areas

Result 2015

Sales income

Operating expenses

Operating result

Balance sheet 31 December 2015

Investments in subsidiaries

Investmens classified as current assets

Bank deposits/drawings on group account

 

 

Other assets

Total assets

NOK 1 000

Ferd AS

Ferd Capital

Ferd Invest

Ferd Hedge Fund

Ferd Real Estate

Other areas

Result 2014

Sales income

Operating expenses

Operating result

Balance sheet 31 December 2014

Investments in subsidiaries

Investmens classified as current assets

Bank deposits/drawings on group account

 

 

Other assets

Total assets

NOTE 4

INCOME FROM FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS

NOK 1 000

Dividend and group contributions from financial investments

Unrealised value changes on financial investments

Net gain on sales of financial investments

Total

Investments in subsidiaries

Listed shares and stakes

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

Total 2015

NOK 1 000

Dividend and group contributions from financial investments

Unrealised value changes on financial investments

Net gain on sales of financial investments

Total

Investments in subsidiaries

Listed shares and stakes

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

Total 2014

NOTE 5

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND THE USE OF FAIR VALUE

Ferd's principles in the measurement of fair value, in general

Ferd applies the valuation method that is considered to be the most representative estimate of an assumed sales value. Such a sale shall be carried out in an orderly transaction at the balance sheet date. As a consequence, all assets for which there is observable market information, or where a transaction recently has been carried out, these prices are applied (the market method). When a price for an identical asset is not observable, the fair value is calculated by another valuation method. In the valuatons, Ferd applies relevant and observable data at the largest possible extent.

For all investments where the value is determined by another method than the market method, analyses of changes in value from period to period are carried out. Thorough analyses on several levels are made, both overall within the business area, by Ferd's group management and finally by Ferd's Board. Sensitivity analyses for the most central and critical input data in the valuation model are prepared, and in some instances recalculations of the valuation are made by using alternative valuation methods in order to confirm the calculated value.

Ferd is consistent in the application of valuation method and normally does not change the valuation principles. A change of principles will deteriorate the reliability of the reporting and weaken the comparability between periods. The principle for the valuation and use of method is determined for the investment before it is carried out, and is changed only exceptionally and if the change results in a measurement that under the circumstances is more representative for the fair value.

Valuation methods

The value of subsidiaries is determined on the basis of the companies' recorded equity and adjust for changes in value not recognised. Underlying investments are valued according to the same principles as investments directly owned by Ferd AS, as described below.

Investments in listed shares are valued by applying the market method. The quoted price for the most recent carried-out transaction on the market place is the basis.

 

Investments in unlisted shares managed in-house are normally valued on the basis of an earnings multiple. In calculating the value (Enterprise Value - EV), ratios like EV/EBITDA, EV/EBITA , EV/EBIT and EV / EBITDA-CAPEX) are applied. Ferd obtains relevant mutiples for comparable companies. The multiples for the portfolio companies are adjusted if the assumptions are not the same as the peer group. Such assumptions can include a control premium, a liquidity discount, growth assumptions, margins or similar. The company's result applied in the valuation is normalised for one-off effects. Finally, the equity value is calculated by deducting net interest-bearing debt. In the event that an independent transaction has taken place in the security, this is normally used as a basis for our valuation.

The valuation of investments in externally managed private equity and hedge funds is based on value reports received from the funds (NAV). Ferd makes a critical assessment of whether the reported NAV can be used as a basis.

The part of the hedge funds portfolio reported under Other areas is acquired in the second-hand market, often at a considerable discount compared to the reported value from the funds (NAV). In the measurement of these hedge funds, estimates from several external brokers are obtained to evaluate at which discount these hedge funds are traded, compared to the most recently reported NAV. Ferd makes an assessment of the broker estimates, makes a best estimate for discount and uses this estimate in the valuation of the hedge funds.

Rental properties are valued by discounting future expected cash flows. The value of properties being part of building projects is valued at an assumed sales value on a continuous basis. There is often a shift in value at achieved milestones. Our calculated values are regularly compared to independent valuations.

The table below is an overview of carrying and fair value of the Company's financial instruments and how they are recognised in the financial statements. It is the starting point for additional information on the Company's financial risk and refers to notes to follow.

Financial instruments at fair value over profit and loss

Financial instruments measured at amortised cost

NOK 1 000

Loans and receivables

Financial liability

Total

Fair value

Non-current assets

Investments in subsidiaries

Other non-current receivables

Total 2015

Total 2014

Current assets

Short-term receivables on group companies

Other short-term receivables

Listed shares and bonds

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

investments in interest-bearing debt

Bank deposits

Total 2015

Total 2014

Short-term debt

Trade accounts payable

Public duties etc.

Debt to group companies

Other short-term debt

Total 2015

Total 2014

Fair value herarchy - financial assets and liabilities

Ferd classifies assets and liabilities measured at fair value in the balance sheet by a hierarchy based on the underlying object for the valuation. The hierarchy has the following levels:

 

The table shows at what level in the valuation hierarchy the different measurement methods for the Group's financial assets at fair value are considered to be:

 

 

NOK 1 000

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total 2015

Investments in subsidiaries

Other short-term receivables

Listed shares and bonds

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

Investments in interest-bearing debt

Other short-term debt

Total 2015

NOK 1 000

Nivå 1

Nivå 2

Nivå 3

Sum 2014

Investments in subsidiaries

Other short-term receivables

Listed shares and bonds

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

Other short-term debt

Total 2014

Reconciliation of movements in assets on level 3

NOK 1 000

Op.bal.1 Jan. 2015

Purchases/share issues

Sales and proceeds from investments

Unrealised gain and loss, recognised in the result

Gain and loss recognised in the result

Closing bal. on 31 Dec. 2015

Investments in subsidiaries

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

Total

NOK 1 000

Op.bal.1 Jan. 2014

Purchases/share issues

Sales and proceeds from investments

Unrealised gain and loss, recognised in the result

Gain and loss recognised in the result

Closing bal. on 31 Dec. 2014

Investments in subsidiaries

Unlisted shares and bonds

Hedge funds

Total

Specification of applied indata and sensitivity analysis

The table below gives an overview over the most central assumptions used when measuring the fair value of Ferd's investments, allocated to level 3 in the hierarchy. We also show how sensitive the value of the investments is for changes in the assumptions.

 

NOK 1 000

Balance sheet value at 31 Dec. 2015

Applied and implicit EBITDA multiples

Value, if the multiple is reduced by 10 %

Valjue, if the multiple is increased by 10%

Applied discount rate

Value, if the interest is increased by 1 percentage point

Value, if the interest is reduced by 1 percentage point

Investment in Ferd Eiendom AS 1)

7,0% - 11,7%

Other investments in subsidiaries

9,2 - 15,7

Unlisted shares and bonds 2)

NOK 1 000

Estimated discounts acc. to broker (inverval)

Value if discount increased by 10%

Value if discount reduced by 10%

Hedge funds 3)

1 % - 83 %

1) Appr. 68% of Ferd Eiendom AS' portfolio constitutes rental property sensitive for changes in the discount interest rate.

2) Appr. 19 % of the value of unlisted shares and bonds are sensitive for a change in multiple. The other investments are valued on the basis på reported NAV whereby Ferd cannot calculate the sensitivity, even though multiples probably have been applied in determining NAV.

3) Appr. 80 % of the hedge funds on level 3 are sensitive for changes in discount.

NOTE 6

RISIK MANAGEMENT - INVESTING ACTIVITIES

There have been no signifcant changes related to the Company's risk management in the period.

IMPAIRMENT RISK AND CAPITAL ALLOCATION

Ferd's allocation of capital shall be in line with the owner's risk tolerance. One measure of this risk tolerance is the size of the decline in value in kroner or percent that the owner accepts if any of the markets Ferd is exposed to should experience very heavy and quick downfalls. Ferd's total portfolio shall normally have a maximum of 35 per cent impairment risk. The impairment risk regulates how large part of equity that can be invested in assets with high risk for impairment. This is measured and followed up by stress tests. The loss risk is assessed as a possible total impairment expressed in kroner og as a percentage of equity. Due to Ferd's long-term approach, the owner can accept significant fluctuations in value-adjusted equity.

CATEGORIES OF FINANCIAL RISK

Liquidity risk

Ferd focus on liquidity and assumes that the return from financial investments shall contribute to cover current interest costs. Hence, it is important that Ferd's balance sheet is liquid, and that the possibility to realise assets corresponds well with the term of the debt. Ferd has determined that under normal market conditions, at least 4 billion kroner of the financial investments shall comprise assets that can be realised within a quarter of a year. This is primarily managed by investments in listed shares and hedge funds. Note 16 has more information about Ferd's loan facilities, including an overview of due dates of the debt.

Foreign currency risk

Ferd is well aware of foreign currency risks. We assume that Ferd always will have a certain part of equity invested in euro, USD and Swedish kroner, and is therefore normally not hedging the currency exposure to Norwegian kroner. If the exposure in a currency is considered to be too high or low, the currency exposure is regulated by loans at the parent company level in the currency in question, or by using derivatives.

Ferd has the following outstanding currency derivatives on the parent company level as at 31 December 2015:

Purchases of currency

Disposals of currency

NOK 1 000

Currency

Amount

Currency

Amount

NOK

USD

NOK

EUR

SENSITIVITY ANALYSIS, IMPAIRMENT RISK IN INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES

The stress test is based on a classification of Ferd's equity in different asset classes, exposed for impairment as follows:

- The Norwegian stock market declines by 30 percent

- International stock markets decline by 20 percent

- Property declines by 10 percent

- The Norwegian krone appreciates by 10 percent

In order to refine the calculations, it is considered whether Ferd's investments will decline more or less than the market. As an example, it is assumed that the unlisted investments in a stress test scenario have an impairment loss of 1.0-3 times the Norwegian market.

 

NOK 1 000

2014

Price risk: Norwegian shares decline by 30 percent

 

Price risk: International shares decline by 20 percent

 

Price risk: Property declines by 10 percent

 

Currency risk: The Norwegian krone appreciates 10 percent

Total impairment in value-adjusted equity

Impairment as a percentage of value-adjusted equity

NOTE 7

SHARES AND STAKES IN OTHER COMPANIES WITH OWNERSHIPS IN EXCESS OF 10 %

Business office

Stake

Subsidiary

Elopak AS

Røyken

FC Well Invest AS

Bærum

FC-Invest AS

Bærum

Ferd Aibel Holding AS

Bærum

1912 Top Holding AS

Bærum

Ferd Eiendom AS

Bærum

Ferd Malta Holdings Ltd

Malta

Ferd MG Holding AS

Bærum

Ferd Sosiale Entreprenører AS

Bærum

Norse Crown Company Ltd. AS

Bærum

Swix Sport AS

Oslo

Non-current shares with ownership > 10%

Herkules Capital I AS

Current shares with ownership > 10 %

Fjord Line AS

Credo Invest Nr 9 AS

Energy Ventures II AS

Energy Ventures II KS

Energy Ventures III AS

Energy Ventures III GP LP

Energy Ventures III LP

Herkules Private Equity Fund II (LP-I) Limited

Herkules Private Equity Fund III (LP-I) Limited

Intera Fund I

Marical Inc

NMI AS

NMI Fund III

NMI Global

NMI Frontier

Petroleum Geo-Services ASA

SPV Herkules II LP

NOTE 8

INCOME TAXES

NOK 1 000

The tax expense comprises:

Income tax payable

Change in deferred tax

Tax concerning prior periods

Withholding tax paid

Tax expense

Tax payable in balance sheet

NOK 1 000

Tax payable of the year

Group contribuiton rendered

Tax payable from prior years

Tax payable in balance sheet

Reconciliation of nominal to effective tax rate

NOK 1 000

Profit before tax

Expected tax expense according to nominal tax rate (27%)

Non-taxable gain/loss and return on securities

Unrealised changes in value of securities

Adjustment of tax from prior periods

Withholding tax paid

Tax recognised in other comprehensive income

Efffect of change in tax rate

Adjustment of deferred tax from previous periods *)

Tax effect of other permanent differences

Tax expense

Effective tax rate

Deferred tax

NOK 1 000

Receivables

Gain and loss account

Financial instruments

Tangible assets

Provisions

Net pensions

Shares and bonds

Tax loss to carry forward*

Balance sheet value at 31 Dec., deferred tax liability

Change in net deferred tax recognised in balance sheet

NOK 1 000

Balance sheet value at 1 January

Charged in period

Tax set-off against total comprehensive income (estimate deviation, pensions)

Balance sheet value at 31 December

*As a consequence of changed legislation for carried interest in Private Equity funds, Ferd's tax basis from such investments is changed. Ferd made a settlement with the authorities on 8 April 2016 and won the case in the question of deductability for carried interest for the income year 2013. We therefore maintain the balance sheet recording of deferred tax assets related to the deduction for carried interest for 2013 and 2014. As previous years were not part of the settlement, the deductions for previous years are not finally clarified, and we cannot recognise deferred tax assets related to these years in the balance sheet.

NOTE 9

SALARIES AND REMUNERATION

NOK 1 000

Salaries

Social security tax

Pension costs (note 15)

Other benefits

Total

Average number of man-labour years

Salary and remuneration to Group CEO

NOK 1 000

Salary

Bonus

Benefits in kind

Pension

John Giverholt

The Group CEO's bonus scheme is limited to MNOK 6,0. Bonus is based on the results achieved in the Group.

 

The Group CEO participates in Ferd's collective pension schemes for salaries below 12 G and is thereby entitled to a contribution scheme. The Group CEO also has a benefit scheme for a pension basis higher than 12 G, but with an upper limit of appr. MNOK 2,2, together with an early retirement pension scheme giving him the opportunity to retire at 65 years.

The Group CEO is entitled to 9 months severance pay if he has to resign from his position.

 

 

Fees to the Board

No specific fees have been paid for board positions in Ferd AS.

NOTE 10

OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

NOK 1 000

Lease of buildings etc.

Fees to lawyers, consultants and auditors

Travel expenses

Loss and change in write-downs of receivables

Other expenses

Total

NOTE 11

AUDIT FEES CHARGED TO THE INCOME STATEMENT

Specification of fees to the Company's auditors, Ernst & Young AS:

NOK 1 000

Audit fees

Other attestation services

Other non-audit services

Total

Other non-audit services mainly comprise due diligence servicies and assistance in translating the financial statements. All amounts are exclusive of VAT.

 

NOTE 12

TANGIBLE ASSETS

NOK 1 000

Buildings and land

Fixtures and equipment

Total

Cost at 1 January

Additions

Disposals

Cost at 31 December

Accumulated depreciation and impairment at 1 January

Depreciation of the year

Disposal of depreciation

Accumulated depreciation and impairment at 31 December

Carrying amount at 31 December

Estimated economic life of depreciable assets

-

4-10 years

Depreciation method

Straight-line

Annual lease of tangible assets not carried in the balance sheet

NOK 1 000

Buildings and land

Fixtures and equipment

Total

Cost at 1 January

Additions

Disposals

Cost at 31 December

Accumulated depreciation and impairment at 1 January

Depreciation of the year

Disposal of depreciation

Accumulated depreciation and impairment at 31 December

Carrying amount at 31 December

Estimated economic life of depreciable assets

-

4-10 years

Depreciation method

Straight-line

Annual lease of tangible assets not carried in the balance sheet

NOTE 13

BANK DEPOSITS

The following amounts included in bank deposits concern restricted funds:

NOK 1 000

Employees' tax withheld

NOTE 14

SHARE CAPITAL AND SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

The share capital of the Company consists of 183.267.630 shares at a nominal value of NOK 1.- at 31 December 2015.

Owner structure

The shareholder as at 31 December 2015 was:

Number of shares

Stake

Ferd Holding AS

Ferd AS is a subsidiary of Ferd Holding AS, being a subsidiary of Ferd JHA AS. Ferd shares offices with Ferd Holding AS and Ferd JHA AS in Lysaker, Bærum. Please contact Ferd for the consolidated financial statements of Ferd JHA AS.

Shares owned indirectly by the CEO and board members of Ferd AS:

Voting rights

Stake

Johan H. Andresen

Johan H. Andresen's children own 84,8 % of Ferd AS indirectly through the ownership of shares in Ferd Holding AS.

NOTE 15

PENSION COSTS AND LIABILITIES

FERD'S PENSION PLANS

Ferd has established pension schemes in accordance with Norwegian legislation. The employees participate in a defined contriution plan for salaries below 12G.

For salaries exceeding 12 G, Ferd has established a pension scheme implying that the employees earn a pension right each year. The scheme was closed for new hires when established. The right comprises a share of the salary in excess of 12 G together with a return component depending on the employee's chosen risk profile. The pension plan has many similarities with a contribution scheme, but as Ferd is not making current payments to a fund, but has elected to take the risk of return itself, the scheme shall be classified as a benefit scheme for accounting purposes. Ferd has recognised the obligation as a pension liabiity and is expensing the current deposits and the current return as incurred.

In addition, Group management has an early retirement pension scheme giving them the opportunity to retire at 65 years. This is also a benefit scheme.

Financial assumptions at 31 December

Discount interest rate

Expected wage growth

Future expected pension regulation

Expected regulation of base amount (G)

DEFINED BENEFIT PLANS

Specification of the recognised liability

NOK 1 000

Present value of unfunded pension liabilities

 

Fair value of pension funds

Total defined benefit obligation recognised in the balance sheet at 31 Dec.

Movement in liabilities for defined benefit pensions plans

NOK 1 000

Liabilities for defined benefit pension plans at 1 Jan.

Present value of current year's pension earnings

Interest expense on pension liabilities

Estimate deviation on pension liabilities

Benefits paid

Liabilities for defined benefit pension plans at 31 Dec.

Movement in fair value of the pension assets for defined benefit pension plans

NOK 1 000

Fair value of pension assets at 1 January

Benefits paid

Fair value of pension assets at 31 December

Estimate deviation recognised in total comprehensive income

NOK 1 000

Estimate deviation on the pension obligation (benefit schemes) of the year

Net estimate deviation for benefit schemes recognised in comprehensive income

Pension costs recognised in the income statement

NOK 1 000

Present value of this year's pension earnings

Pension costs on contribution schemes

Total pension costs recognised in the income statement as salary expenses

Interest expense on the pension liability

Total pension costs recognised in the income statement as interest expenses

NOTE 16

SHORT-TERM INTEREST-BEARING DEBT

Short-term interest-bearing debt by currency

NOK 1 000

Loan amount in NOK 2015

Loan amount in NOK 2014

NOK

Short-term interest-bearing debt at 31 Dec. at nominal value

Capitalised drawing costs

Carrying amount at 31 December

Ferd has a total loan facility of 6 billion NOK. The drawing costs related to the facility are accrued over the term. As the loan facility had not been utilised as at 31 December 2015, the capitalised drawing costs are classified as other receivables.

NOTE 17

TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES WITH GROUP COMPANIES

Ferd AS has the following loans and balances with group companies:

NOK 1 000

Receivables

Short-term receivables on group companies

Total receivables

Debt

Short-term debt to group companies

Total debt

All group balances bear an interest of 6 months NIBOR + 1,5 percentage points.

 

 

Long-term loans have interest rates at assumed market terms.

NOK 1 000

Services billed to group companeis

Staff services

Property management

Total income

Interest income on intercompany loans and balances

Interest income

Interest expense

Net interest income

NOTE 18

CONTINGENT LIABILITIES AND OBLIGATIONS NOT RECOGNISED IN BALANCE SHEET

Guarantees and obligations not recognised in the balance sheet

NOK 1 000

Commitments to supply subsidiaries and other enterprises with equity

Other commitments to subsidiaries

Not paid, but committed capital to funds investments

Total

Contingent obligations and litigation

Ferd made a settlement with the authorities on 8 April 2016 and won the case in the question of deductability for carried interest for the income year 2013. We therefore maintain the balance sheet recording of deferred tax assets related to the deduction for carried interest for 2013 and 2014. As previous year were not part of the settlement and the issue not yet clarified on that point, we cannot recognise deferred tax assets related to these years before Ferd has received a final decision from the tax authorities.

Ferd AS is presently not involved in any other litigation.

Events subsequent to the balance sheet date

In January 2016, Ferd sold the business TeleComputing to the investment fund IK Investment Partners. The sale was finalised in March 2016.