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AF Gruppen

Quarterly Report Feb 15, 2024

3522_rns_2024-02-15_8cfbb2ea-5a3a-42b3-97dd-0794927c64e1.pdf

Quarterly Report

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Fourth Quarter 2023 AF Gruppen ASA

15 February 2024

From the CEO

During the quarter, we delivered very good profitability in Civil Engineering and Energy and Environment. Nevertheless, we are not satisfied with the overall results in the Group for the fourth quarter or for 2023 as a whole. The weak results in the quarter are due to significant write-downs in the Betonmast Boligbygg project portfolio and in the units that were formerly Betonmast Sweden, as well as further downward adjustment of the project estimate of one offshore project. It is positive that we have a robust order backlog with projects that provide valuable social benefits.

During the quarter, we delivered solid margin improvements in the Construction business area. We observe positive signals in the market, but the global situation still creates uncertainty, which could affect activity and profitability in the coming year. We are well positioned and have built leading expertise over time to deliver high quality, cost-effective projects with consideration for the environment. Combined with good adaptability and the capacity to deliver, we are well equipped when the market recovers in earnest.

AF has always been proud of its strength and ability to perform complex tasks. The group's entrepreneurial spirit has been characterised by the ability and willingness to think differently and to find better, more futureoriented ways to generate value.

OVERVIEW

  • Revenues were NOK 8,378 million (8,568 million) for the 4th quarter and NOK 30,530 million (31,205 million) for the full year.
  • Earnings before tax were NOK 292 million (502 million) for the 4th quarter and NOK 700 million (1,400 million) for the full year.
  • The profit margin was 3.5% (5.9%) for the 4th quarter and 2.3% (4.5%) for the full year.
  • Net operating cash flow was NOK 855 million (-38 million) for the 4th quarter and NOK 1,552 million (1,460 million) for the full year.
  • The order backlog stood at NOK 41,991 million (39,765 million) as at 31 December 2023.
  • The order intake was NOK 8,504 million (8,617 million) in the 4th quarter and NOK 32,756 million (32,324 million) for the full year.
  • Net interest-bearing debt (receivables) was NOK 641 million (329 million) as at 31 December 2023.
  • Result per share in 2023 was NOK 3.73 (8.96). The Board of Directors has proposed a dividend of NOK 3.50 (6.50) per share for payment in the first half of 2024.

REVENUES PER QUARTER (NOK MILLION) EARNINGS BEFORE TAX PER QUARTER (NOK MILLION)

SUMMARY OF 4TH QUARTER

Key figures (NOK million) 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 8,378 8,568 30,530 31,205
EBITDA 471 631 1,325 1,937
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 302 502 749 1,409
Earnings before tax (EBT) 292 502 700 1,400
Result per share (NOK) 1.62 3.43 3.73 8.96
Diluted result per share (NOK) 1.62 3.43 3.73 8.96
EBITDA margin 5.6 % 7.4 % 4.3 % 6.2 %
Operating profit margin 3.6 % 5.9 % 2.5 % 4.5 %
Profit margin 3.5 % 5.9 % 2.3 % 4.5 %
Return on capital employed (ROaCE)1) - - 15.9 % 31.6 %
Cash flow from operating activities 855 -38 1,552 1,460
Net interest-bearing debt (receivables) 641 329 641 329
Shareholders' equity 3,203 3,494 3,203 3,494
Total equity and liabilities 14,647 14,457 14,647 14,457
Equity ratio 21.9 % 24.2 % 21.9 % 24.2 %
Order intake 8,504 8,617 32,756 32,324
Order backlog 41,991 39,765 41,991 39,765
LTI-1 rate 0.9 0.9 0.8 1.1
Absence due to illness 4.2 % 4.7 % 4.1 % 4.6 %

1) Rolling average last four quarters

Construction City. Photo: AF Gruppen

Business Areas

CIVIL ENGINEERING

REVENUE (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (%)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 2,141 1,678 6,776 5,919
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 240 170 550 445
Earnings before tax (EBT) 253 168 572 440
Operating profit margin 11.2 % 10.1 % 8.1 % 7.5 %
Profit margin 11.8 % 10.0 % 8.4 % 7.4 %

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

ORDER BACKLOG (NOK million) CIVIL ENGINEERING CONSISTS OF

  • AF Anlegg
  • Målselv Maskin & Transport
  • Eiqon
  • Consolvo
  • Stenseth & RS

AF is one of Norway's largest companies in the civil engineering market, and the customers include both public and private actors. Its project portfolio includes roads, railways, bridges, port facilities, airports, tunnels, foundation work, renovation and construction of concrete structures, power and energy plants, as well as onshore facilities for oil and gas.

Civil Engineering has a high level of activity and delivered very good results for the 4th quarter with strong performances by several units. The Civil Engineering business area reported revenues of NOK 2,141 million (1,678 million) for the 4th quarter. This represents a growth of 28 % compared to the same quarter last year. Earnings before tax were NOK 253 million (168 million) for the quarter. For the full year, revenues totalled NOK 6,776 million (5,919 million) and earnings before tax were NOK 572 million (440 million).

AF Anlegg has significant revenue growth in the 4th quarter, with solid profit contributions from several projects. AF Anlegg has several major projects in production, and in general there is a high level of activity and good operational performance in the projects.

Målselv Maskin & Transport and Stenseth & RS reported very good results for the 4th quarter. Consolvo reported good results for the quarter. Eiqon had a reduced level of activity compared to the same period last year, with a weak result for the 4th quarter.

Civil engineering had an order intake of NOK 840 million (5,159 million) in the 4th quarter. The order backlog for Civil Engineering was NOK 18,140 million (15,368 million) as at 31 December 2023.

CONSTRUCTION

REVENUE (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (NOK million) OPERATING MARGIN (%)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 2,633 3,061 10,182 11,090
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 141 122 396 322
Earnings before tax (EBT) 138 119 378 318
Operating profit margin 5.3 % 4.0 % 3.9 % 2.9 %
Profit margin 5.2 % 3.9 % 3.7 % 2.9 %

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

ORDER BACKLOG (NOK million) CONSTRUCTION CONSISTS OF

  • AF Bygg Oslo
  • AF Byggfornyelse
  • AF Bygg Østfold
  • Strøm Gundersen
  • Strøm Gundersen Vestfold
  • Haga & Berg
  • AF Håndverk
  • LAB Entreprenør
  • Åsane Byggmesterforretning (ÅBF)
  • Fundamentering (FAS)
  • Helgesen Tekniske Bygg (HTB)

AF provides contracting services for residential, public and commercial buildings. Our services range from planning to construction and renovation. AF cooperates closely with customers to find efficient and innovative solutions adapted to their needs. The business area encompasses the Norwegian entities except for Betonmast and is mainly located in Eastern Norway and the Bergen Region.

Construction had a reduced level of activity, but delivered a good result with increased profitability compared to the same quarter last year. Construction reported revenues of NOK 2,633 million (3,061 million) for the 4th quarter, this represents a 14% decline since the same quarter last year. Overall, the business area reported a result for the quarter with earnings before tax of NOK 138 million (119 million), with a profit margin of 5.2% (3.9%). For the full year revenues totalled NOK 10,182 million (11,090 million) and earnings before tax were NOK 378 million (318 million).

AF Bygg Oslo, Strøm Gundersen, ÅBF and HTB reported very good results in the 4th quarter. AF Bygg Østfold and Strøm Gundersen Vestfold delivered good results. LAB Entreprenør and FAS had results below expectations. AF Byggfornyelse, Haga & Berg and AF Håndverk delivered weak results in the 4th quarter.

Construction reported two contracts to the stock exchange during this quarter. Oslobygg KF has nominated AF Bygg Oslo as contractor for the Bjørvika school project. The turnkey contract for Bjørvika School has a contract value of approximately NOK 1,200 million, excluding VAT. LAB Entreprenør AS has entered into an agreement with the Student Welfare Organisation in Western Norway for the rehabilitation and conversion of Lotheveien 2-20 in Bergen. The turnkey contract has a value of NOK 150 million excluding VAT.

Construction had an order intake of NOK 2,762 million (1,261 million) in the 4th quarter. The order backlog of Construction was NOK 9,464 million (10,045 million) as at 31 December 2023.

BETONMAST

REVENUE (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (NOK million) OPERATING MARGIN (%)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 1,171 1,376 4,553 5,145
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -53 78 34 166
Earnings before tax (EBT) -44 83 58 174
Operating profit margin -4.5 % 5.6 % 0.7 % 3.2 %
Profit margin -3.7 % 6.0 % 1.3 % 3.4 %

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

ORDER BACKLOG (NOK million) BETONMAST CONSISTS OF

• Betonmast Boligbygg

  • Betonmast Oslo
  • Betonmast Trøndelag
  • Betonmast Romerike
  • Betonmast Røsand
  • Betonmast Østfold
  • Betonmast Innlandet
  • Betonmast Buskerud-Vestfold
  • Betonmast Asker og Bærum
  • Betonmast Eiendom

Betonmast is a construction contractor with operations in the largest markets in Norway. The project portfolio comprises everything from major residential projects to commercial and public buildings. Betonmast is a major player in construction for the public sector and has specialist expertise in project development and collaborative contracts. Betonmast also has a property portfolio in Norway.

Betonmast had a negative result and a reduced level of activity compared to the same quarter last year. Revenues were NOK 1,171 million (1,376 million) and earnings before tax were NOK -44 million (83 million) in the 4th quarter. The negative result in the quarter is mainly due to significant write-downs in the Betonmast Boligbygg project portfolio. For the full year revenues totalled NOK 4,553 million (5,145 million) and earnings before tax were NOK 58 million (NOK 174 million).

The Betonmast Røsand and Østfold units delivered very good results for the quarter, and Betonmast Innlandet and Asker og Bærum reported good results. Betonmast Romerike and Buskerud-Vestfold had results in the 4th quarter that were somewhat below expectations. Betonmast Boligbygg, Oslo and Trøndelag reported weak results this quarter.

Betonmast has a separate property portfolio with one property project with a total of 15 units under production. Betonmast Eiendom reported a weak result for the quarter. For further information on the projects, see Note 7.

Three new contracts were reported to the stock exchange in the 4th quarter. Betonmast Trøndelag has signed an agreement for the construction of 724 student homes in Nardoveien 12-14. The contract is a turnkey contract valued at approximately NOK 930 million excluding VAT. After completion of the collaborative phase, Betonmast Oslo has entered into an agreement for the expansion of Edvard Munch upper secondary school. The agreement is a turnkey contract valued at approximately NOK 620 million, excluding VAT. In addition, Betonmast Romerike has entered into an agreement for the construction of Haukåsen school, a turnkey contract with a value of approximately NOK 500 million excluding VAT.

Betonmast had an order intake of NOK 2,487 million (421 million) in the 4th quarter. As at 31 December 2023, Betonmast's order backlog was NOK 6,203 million (4,415 million).

PROPERTY

ENTERED INTO SALES CONTRACTS (TOTAL NUMBER)

TURNOVER UNITS IN PRODUCTION (NOK million)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 7 12 27 30
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -11 21 -20 75
Earnings before tax (EBT) -7 23 -8 82
Capital employed 818 654 818 654

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

SALES RATIO PROJECTS IN PROGRESS (%) PROPERTY CONSISTS OF

  • AF Eiendom
  • LAB Eiendom

AF develops, designs and carries out residential and commercial projects in Norway, and activities take place in geographical areas where AF has its own production capacity. AF works closely with other players in the industry, and the development projects are mainly organised as associated companies and joint ventures. Property consists of two operating units, AF Eiendom and LAB Eiendom, with local presence in Greater Oslo and the Bergen region respectively.

Property reported a weak result for the quarter. Earnings before tax were NOK -7 million (23 million) in the 4th quarter. For the full year earnings before tax were NOK -8 million (NOK 82 million). During the quarter, NOK 20 million was written down in the development portfolio, which is mainly related to commercial property.

Together with its partner, AF Eiendom has made an agreement to purchase the plot Ullevålsveien 114 for NOK 240 million in the quarter (AF's ownership stake is 50%). The transaction was completed after the end of the quarter.

Uncertain market sentiment and high interest rates have contributed to low sales figures in the quarter. Sales contracts for 12 (9) homes were signed in the quarter, of which AF's share is 6 (3). In 2023, sales contracts have been signed for 53 (216) homes, of which AF's share is 24 (89).

In the 4th quarter, 110 homes were handed over at Fyrstikkbakken, and 2 homes were handed over at the completed project Brøter Terrasse. There were a total of 12 (7) completed unsold units at the end of the quarter, of which AF's share was 6 (3).

There were five residential property projects in the production stage at the end of the quarter. A total of 797 units are in production, of which AF's share is 360:

  • Fyrstikkbakken in Oslo (40 units in production, of which 32 sales contracts have been signed).
  • Skårersletta MIDT in Lørenskog (295 units in production, of which 197 sales contracts have been signed).
  • Bekkestua Have in Bærum (232 units in production, of which 227 sales contracts have been signed).
  • Rolvsrud Arena in Lørenskog (229 units in production, of which 144 sales contracts have been signed).
  • Baneveien 16 in Bergen (1 unit in production, 1 sales contract has been signed).

This gives a sales ratio of 75% for commenced projects. For more information on projects for own account, see Note 7.

AF also has a significant development portfolio in Norway which is estimated at 1,629 (1,580) residential units. AF's share of this is 813 (788) residential units.

AF has a commercial building in the production stage at Baneveien 16 in Bergen, which also includes one residential unit. AF has an ownership stake in commercial property under construction with a total RFA of 73,407 (62,256) square metres, of which AF's share is an RFA of 36,524 (30,949) square metres.

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT

REVENUE (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (NOK million) OPERATING MARGIN (%)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 423 310 1,417 1,062
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 39 33 90 84
Earnings before tax (EBT) 40 32 96 82
Operating profit margin 9.2 % 10.5 % 6.3 % 7.9 %
Profit margin 9.5 % 10.3 % 6.8 % 7.7 %

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

ORDER BACKLOG (NOK million)

ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENT CONSIST OF

  • AF Energi Enaktiva AF Energija Baltic
  • AF Decom
  • Rimol Miljøpark
  • Nes Miljøpark
  • Jølsen Miljøpark
  • Mepex

AF offers energy-efficient solutions for buildings and industry and is a leading player in environmental clean-up, demolition and recycling. Contaminated materials are sorted, decontaminated and recycled at AF's environmental centres Rimol, Jølsen and Nes.

Energy and Environment had revenue growth of 37% in the 4th quarter compared with the same quarter last year, and overall achieved very good results. Revenues for the 4th quarter were NOK 423 million (310 million). Earnings before tax were NOK 40 million (32 million). For the full year revenues totalled NOK 1,417 million (1,062 million) and earnings before tax were NOK 96 million (82 million).

AF Energi has significantly increased its level of activity compared to the same quarter last year. A high level of activity and good operational performance in the projects resulted in a very good result for the 4th quarter.

AF Decom had revenue growth in the 4th quarter compared with the same quarter last year, and overall achieved very good results. Our environmental activities clean up and sort different materials for recycling. AF Decom demolished and facilitated the recycling of 2,875 (1,941) tonnes of metal in the 4th quarter, and 11,200 (17,629) tonnes of metal for the year. The steel industry accounts for about 7% of the world's total CO2 emissions. Reusing steel results in 70 per cent lower CO2 emissions than ore-based production. This corresponds to a reduction in emissions of 1 kg CO2 for each kilo of steel recycled. This means that AF Decom's demolition operations have helped to reduce alternative CO2 emissions by 11,200 tonnes thus far in 2023.

The foundation of our environmental activities is that waste can to a large extent be reused, and thus be a valuable resource in a growing circular economy. AF's environmental centres receive contaminated material and are working to reuse as much as possible instead of it going to landfill. The environmental centres delivered very good results in the quarter. AF's environmental centres recycled 81,325 (69,664) tonnes of material in the 4th quarter, and a total of 288,511 (315,269) tonnes of material for the year. The recycling rate realised for contaminated material is 78 % for the year.

Mepex delivered good results for the year 2023.

Energy and environment had an order intake of NOK 269 million (262 million) in the 4th quarter. The order backlog for Energy and Environment stood at NOK 1,249 million (640 million) as at 31 December 2023.

SWEDEN

REVENUE (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (NOK million) OPERATING MARGIN (%)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 1,857 2,142 7,501 7,445
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -16 44 -152 130
Earnings before tax (EBT) -19 44 -160 127
Operating profit margin -0.9 % 2.1 % -2.0 % 1.7 %
Profit margin -1.0 % 2.1 % -2.1 % 1.7 %

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

ORDER BACKLOG (NOK million) SWEDEN CONSISTS OF

  • Kanonaden
  • AF Prefab i Mälardalen
  • AF Bygg Syd
  • AF Projektutveckling
  • AF Härnösand Byggreturer
  • HMB
  • AF Bygg Väst
  • AF Bygg Öst
  • AF Anläggning Väst

The Sweden business area comprises AF's Swedish operations in civil engineering, construction, property and demolition. The geographic area of operation encompasses Gothenburg and Southern Sweden, as well as Stockholm and Mälardalen.

Sweden had a negative result and lower level of activity in the quarter compared to the same quarter last year. Sweden reported revenues of NOK 1,857 million (2,142 million) for the 4th quarter. Earnings before tax were NOK - 19 million (44 million), this includes a write down of goodwill of NOK 20 million. For the full year revenues totalled NOK 7,501 million (7,445 million) and earnings before tax were NOK -160 million (127 million).

There is a wide range in the units' performance this quarter and for 2023 as a whole. Overall, the negative result for the business area is due to further downward adjustments in the project estimates for AF Bygg Väst, AF Bygg Öst and AF Anläggning Väst.

Kanonaden, AF Prefab in Mälardalen, AF Bygg Syd and AF Härnösand Byggreturer reported very good results in the 4th quarter. HMB delivered good results this quarter.

AF Projektutveckling, AF's property business in Sweden, has one residential project with a total of 83 units under production. For further information on the residential projects, see Note 7. The unit has a building site inventory (residential units under development) that is estimated at 1,159 (990) residential units. AF's share of this is 605 (495) residential units.

Five new contracts were reported to the stock exchange in the 4th quarter. Kanonaden has entered into three contracts valued at over SEK 100 million for Svenska kraftnät this quarter, totalling SEK 504 million excluding VAT. Kanonaden has also been commissioned to build a wind farm in Tidaholm municipality for Vattenfall for SEK 122 million excluding VAT. HMB has entered into an agreement to build 63 new apartments in Västerås for Riksbyggen. The contract value for the turnkey contract is SEK 127 million excluding VAT and commencement is conditional on the sales ratio.

Sweden had an order intake of NOK 1,829 million (1,708 million) in the 4th quarter.The order backlog for Sweden stood at NOK 5,128 million (7,638 million) as at 31 December 2023.

OFFSHORE

REVENUE (NOK million) OPERATING PROFIT (NOK million) OPERATING MARGIN (%)

KEY FIGURES

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 288 368 1082 1,238
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -40 59 -124 164
Earnings before tax (EBT) -42 58 -139 160
Operating profit margin -14.0 % 16.0 % -11.5 % 13.2 %
Profit margin -14.4 % 15.9 % -12.9 % 12.9 %

ORDER BACKLOG (NOK million) OFFSHORE CONSISTS OF

• AF Offshore Decom

• Aeron

AF has varied activities aimed at the maritime business and the oil and gas sector. Our services range from new construction and modification of climate control systems (HVAC) for the offshore and marine markets, to the removal and recycling of offshore installations. AF has a state-of-the art facility for environmental clean-up at Vats.

Offshore had a negative result and a reduced level of activity compared to the same quarter last year. Revenues in the 4th quarter were NOK 288 million (368 million). Earnings before tax were NOK -42 million (58 million). Revenues totalled NOK 1,082 million (1,238 million) and earnings before tax were NOK -139 million (160 million) for the full year.

AF Offshore Decom delivered a negative result for the quarter, which in its entirety is related to further downward adjustment of the project estimates for one project.

AF Offshore Decom demolishes and facilitates the recycling of offshore installations. AF Offshore Decom has sorted 91% of the structures for recycling as of the 4th quarter, where metal is the main component. AF Offshore Decom demolished and facilitated the recycling of 2,348 (2,466) tonnes of steel in the 4th quarter, and 26,243 (36,911) tonnes of steel for the year, corresponding to a reduction of alternative CO2 emissions of 26,243 tonnes compared to ore-based production.

Aeron had a high level of activity during the quarter and very good profitability. Aeron delivered good results for 2023.

Offshore had an order intake of NOK 335 million (135 million) in the 4th quarter. The order backlog for Offshore was NOK 1,410 million (1,694 million) as at 31 December 2023.

SHARE PRICE PERFORMANCE DURING THE LAST 12 MONTHS

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

AF Gruppen shall have robust financing with respect to operational and market-related fluctuations. The Group's goal for return on invested capital is 20%, and its financial position shall underpin the growth strategy and provide an adequate dividend capacity.

In the 4th quarter, net operating cash flow was NOK 855 million (-38 million) and net cash flow from investments was NOK -109 million (-77 million). Cash flow before capital transactions and financing was NOK 747 million (-115 million) for the 4th quarter. For the full year cash flow from operating activities was NOK 1,552 million (1,460 million), and cash flow from net investments NOK -613 million (67 million). Cash flow before financing activities was NOK 939 million (1,527 million) for the full year.

At the end of the 4th quarter, AF Gruppen had cash and cash equivalents of NOK 347 million (765 million). Net interest-bearing debt (receivables) as at 31 December 2023 was NOK 641 million (329 million).

AF Gruppen's total financing facilities amount to NOK 3,500 million. The financing facilities consist of a multi-currency overdraft facility (rolling 1-year term) of NOK 2,000 million in DNB and a sustainability-linked revolving long-term credit facility (3+1+1 year maturity) of NOK 1,500, effective from September 2023.

Available liquidity at 31 December 2023, including overdraft facilities with Handelsbanken and DNB, is NOK 3,406 million.

Total assets were NOK 14,647 million (14,457 million) as at 31 December 2023. The Group's equity totalled NOK 3,203 million (3,494 million) as at 31 December 2023. This corresponds to an equity ratio of 21.9% (24.2%).

THE SHARE

AF Gruppen's shares are listed on the Oslo Børs OB Match List and trade under the ticker AFG. The share is included in the Oslo Børs All Share Index (OSEAX), Benchmark Index (OSEBX), Mutual Fund Index (OSEFX) and the Industrials Index (OINP).

Name No. Shares % share
ØMF Holding AS 17,972,233 16.6
OBOS BBL 17,459,483 16.1
Constructio AS 15,338,012 14.1
Folketrygdfondet 9,070,140 8.4
LJM AS 2,515,217 2.3
Artel Kapital AS 2,508,267 2.3
VITO Kongsvinger AS 1,911,676 1.8
Arne Skogheim AS 1,753,870 1.6
Janiko AS 1,370,186 1.3
Moger Invest AS 1,242,609 1.1
Ten largest shareholders 71,141,693 65.5
Total other shareholders 37,390,307 34.5
Own shares 0 0
Total number of shares 108,532,000 100

LIST OF SHAREHOLDERS AS AT 31 DECEMBER 2023

LTI-1 RATE DEVELOPMENT LTI-1 RATE

As of 31 December 2023, the AF share had a closing price of NOK 124.20. This corresponds to a return of -9.1% year to date. The Oslo Børs Benchmark Index showed a return of 9.9% for the same period.

The Board of Directors has proposed a dividend of NOK 3.50 (6.50) per share for payment in the first half-year of 2024.

In connection with AF Gruppen's share programme for employees, in October the Board of Directors decided, based on authorisation from the general meeting, to sell 170,000 of the company's treasury shares and to carry out an issue of 830,000 shares. This was carried out on 12 October 2023. A total of 920 employees subscribed for a total of 1,000,000 shares through the programme, where the shares were subscribed for at a price of NOK 97.40 per share. This corresponds to a 20% discount in relation to the average stock exchange rate during the subscription period. The company owns no treasury shares following the sale.

After completion of the issue, the number of shares in AF Gruppen is 108,532,000, which corresponds to share capital of NOK 5,426,600.

SAFETY AND HEALTH

Health, safety and environment (HSE) has high priority in AF Gruppen and is an integral part of the management at all levels. AF has a structured and uniform HSE system that encompasses all projects. The working environment should be safe for everyone, including those who are employed by our subcontractors. AF´s subcontractors are therefore included in the injury statistics.

The LTI (lost-time injury) rate is an important measurement parameter for safety work at AF. The LTI-1 rate is defined as the number of serious personal injuries and absence injuries per million man-hours. A total of 5 (5) injuries

resulting in absence were registered in the 4th quarter. This gives an LTI-1 rate of 0.9 (0.9) for the 4th quarter. For the full year the LTI-1 rate is 0.8 (1.1).

Systematic and long-term work is being carried out to reduce the LTI-1 rate. Significant resources are being invested to further improve our HSE efforts in order to be able to achieve our goal of an LTI-1 rate of zero. Key to this work is AF's fundamental understanding and acceptance that all injuries have a cause and can therefore be avoided. Identifying risk and risk analysis are key parts of our preventive activities. Based on a given risk scenario, physical and organisational barriers are established to reduce the risk of personal injury.

Learning from own mistakes is of critical importance. AF has systematised this through reporting and follow up of undesired incidents, as well as investigating the most serious incidents. The number of reports has increased steadily in recent years. We see a clear correlation between the increased reporting of undesired incidents and decrease in injuries.

The registration of sick leave forms the basis for the measurement of health work at AF. In the 4th quarter, sick leave rate was 4.2% (4.7%), and 4.1% (4.6%) for the full year. Our target is a healthy sick leave level, without absence due to occupational illnesses or injuries. Systematic efforts are being made, which consist of ongoing risk analysis of exposure that is harmful to health, the establishment of physical and organisational barriers, and close follow-up of employees on sick leave.

AF strives to avoid environmental damage and minimise undesirable effects on the environment. Environmental work is an integral part of HSE work, and the main tools used are therefore the same that are used otherwise in connection with HSE work.

CLIMATE AND ENVIRONMENT

As part of the strategy for 2021-2024, AF has set a goal of halving relative greenhouse gas emissions and waste volumes that cannot be reused or recycled by 2030. The most important factor in reducing our own climate footprint is logistics planning to, among other things, reduce the transport of masses. In addition, the use of electric machinery, a modern machinery and car fleet and sorting of waste will help to further reduce our own greenhouse gas emissions.

The source separation rate indicates how much of the waste from AF's operations is separated for the purpose of facilitating recycling. The government requirement for source separation is 70%. In the 4th quarter, the source separation rate for construction was 85% (82%), for renovation it was 84% (87%) and for demolition it was 95% (94%). For the full year the recycling result for building was 84% (86 %), the result for renovation was 87% (89%) and the result for demolition was 96% (95%). These results are considered to be very good. A total of 69,297 tonnes (64,210 tonnes) of waste were separated at source in the 4th quarter, and a total of 287,588 tonnes (278,173 tonnes) of waste were separated at source for the full year.

AF wants to use the expertise we have to create further indirect savings on greenhouse gas emissions. AF's environmental centres offers services where materials that previously would have ended up in landfill sites now can be recovered and have their useful life extended. The environmental centres have recycled a total of 288,511 tonnes (315,269 tonnes) of materials for the full year.

The Offshore and Energy and Environment business areas are based on services that solve environmental challenges in the area of demolition and recycling. All our demolition activities, both onshore and offshore, are based on a circular economy, where over 95% of all material from demolition is sorted for recycling. Metals, especially steel, are one of the main components of that which is recycled. The steel industry accounts for about 7% of the world's total CO2 emissions. Reusing steel results in 70% lower CO2

emissions than ore-based production. This corresponds to a reduction in emissions of 1 kg CO2 for each kilo of steel recycled. AF Offshore Decom and AF Decom demolished and facilitated the recycling of 5,223 tonnes (4,407 tonnes) of metal in the 4th quarter, and 37,443 tonnes (54,540 tonnes) of metal for the full year. In total, this represents a reduction of alternative CO2 emissions by around 37,443 tonnes (54,540 tonnes) for the full year.

AF reports climate accounts based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG), where our own direct and indirect emissions (scope 1 and 2), as well as other selected indirect emissions (scope 3) are measured in tonnes of CO2 equivalents. The other selected indirect emissions included in the climate accounts are emissions from waste generated, business travel and commuting. Waste from demolition operations is not included in the emission figures in scope 3. The carbon footprint is defined as emissions of greenhouse gases in tons of CO2equivalents per NOK million revenues, and at 31 December 2023, the carbon footprint for scope 1 and 2 was 1.2 (1.1). AF has set a target of halving greenhouse gas emissions for each service type relative to revenue by 2030. The basis year of the reduction target of scope 1 and 2 emissions is 2020, and the carbon footprint for that year was 1,6.

Climate accounts (tonnes CO2e
1
)
2023 2022
Scope 1: Direct emissions 33,660 32,559
Scope 2: Indirect emissions, energy 1,506 1,217
Greenhouse gas emissions 35,166 33,777
Carbon footprint2 scope 1 and 2 1.2 1.1
Scope 3: Other indirect emissions3 14,196 7,874
Greenhouse gas emissions 49,362 41,651

1) Greenhouse gas emissions with global warming potential equivalent to CO2

2) Tonnes CO2e emissions per NOK million in revenue

3) Other selected indirect emissions

There are large differences in greenhouse gas emissions relative to revenue in the various types of services. The use of diesel in construction machinery is the largest direct source of emission. Both civil engineering and demolition activities require heavy construction machinery in order to carry out work and move large amounts of materials in projects. The use of heavy construction machinery is limited to groundwork and project logistics in our construction projects. It is, therefore, important for AF to analyse and reduce greenhouse gas emissions within each type of service and not reduce activity in civil engineering and demolition in relation to construction. The service types we measure in this context are civil engineering, construction and demolition services. Services that are not included in these categories are energy efficiency services, environmental centres, property activities and general services.

Civil engineering services

Emissions by service type 2023 2022
Scope 1: Direct emissions 25,441 23,092
Scope 2: Indirect emissions, energy 484 272
CO2e emissions scope 1 og 2 (tonn
CO2e)1
25,925 23,364
Carbon footprint2 scope 1 and 2 2.7 2.7
Construction services
Emissions by service type 2023 2022
Scope 1: Direct emissions 2,736 2,769
Scope 2: Indirect emissions, energy 862 781
CO2e emissions scope 1 og 2 (tonn
CO2e)1
3,598 3,550
Carbon footprint2 scope 1 and 2 0.2 0.2
Demolition services
Emissions by service type 2023 2022
Scope 1: Direct emissions 4,724 5,900
Scope 2: Indirect emissions, energy 102 97
CO2e emissions scope 1 og 2 (tonn
CO2e)1
4,826 5,998
Carbon footprint2 scope 1 and 2 3.5 3.9

1) Greenhouse gas emissions with global warming potential equivalent to CO2

2) Tonnes CO2e emissions per NOK million in revenue

ORGANISATION

AF Gruppen is working continuously to build a uniform corporate culture. Motivated employees and a solid organisation are an important foundation for creating value. It is prioritized in AF to develop organisations with a good composition of technical expertise and management at all levels. The resources are organised close to production, with project teams where the managers have a high degree of influence.

AF aims to be a company to which talented individuals apply, whether they are women or men. A long-term goal is to increase the total proportion of women to 20% and the proportion amongst officials to 40%. This is an ambitious goal. In the 4th quarter the share of women is 9.8 % (9.0 %) in total and 19.5 % (18.7 %) amongst officials.

In AF, everyone is of equal value, and the company shall have an inclusive and safe working environment with zero tolerance for discrimination and a culture where violations have consequences. AF has been working on the diversity project "The best people" since 2018, and as part of the project, the campaign "Of equal value" has been launched. The campaign has been very well received in all projects in both our Swedish and Norwegian business units. AF's work on diversity, including through the Diversitas network and #HunSpanderer, has contributed to an increased focus on and change of attitudes related to unconscious discrimination.

AF maintains a high focus on innovation and digitalisation within all our business areas. We are working in a structured manner on how new technology can contribute to increased productivity and minimise risk in our projects, a safer working environment for our employees, and not to mention create greater value for our customers. In addition, we are continuously seeking new business models on the border of or outside of our current core areas. AF Gruppen has its own corporate function for innovation and digitalisation, in addition to a joint venture fund with OBOS for venture capital investments in the building and construction industry (Construct Venture).

AF invests a lot of time and resources in development of employees through the AF Academy. More than 80% of the current managers have been recruited internally. Our employees are good ambassadors in the recruitment of new colleagues.

At the end of the 4th quarter AF Gruppen had a total of 5,913 (5,975) employees. Of these employees 4,842 (4,820) were employed in Norway, 1,020 (1,115) in Sweden, 21 (19) in Lithuania, 25 (18) in Germany and 5 (3) in Great Britain.

RISK AND RISK MANAGEMENT

AF Gruppen is exposed to risk of both non-financial and financial nature. Risk reflects uncertainty or variations in the result. Non-financial risk encompasses business risk, reputational risk, and operational risk. Business risk arises as a result of external circumstances. These circumstances may, for example, be related to how competitors act, climate changes, regulatory changes or other political risk. The importance of business risk has been highlighted by the effect of Covid-19 pandemic and Russia´s invasion of Ukranie. Reputational risk is the risk of loss of reputation. AF's credibility is based on trust and we have an uncompromising attitude towards ethics and a strong corporate culture with zero tolerance for, among other things, corruption and bribery. Our employees represent AF Gruppen in all business context, and it is essential that they identify with and follow AF's Code of Conduct. Suppliers and subcontractors are also obliged to follow the Code of Conduct through AF's supplier declaration. Operational risk is the risk of losses due to deficiencies or errors in processes and systems, human errors or external events. AF Gruppen wants to undertake operational risk that the business units can influence and control. AF has developed risk management processes that are well adapted to our operations. Standardised, actionoriented risk management processes ensure comprehensive and coherent risk management in all parts of the organisation. AF seeks to limit exposure to risk that cannot be influenced. A risk review is conducted for all projects before a tender is even submitted. Analysis of risk during the tendering phase enables the correct pricing and management of risk in the project. The same project organisations conduct detailed risk reviews every quarter. The Corporate Management Team participates in risk reviews of all projects with a contract value in excess of NOK 100 million. In addition, 38 quarterly reviews in the business units were completed during the 4th quarter, where the Corporate Management Team also participated.

Financial risk encompasses market risk, credit risk and liquidity risk. Market risk includes commodity price risk, foreign exchange risk and interest rate risk. AF is exposed to foreign exchange risk, including indirectly via suppliers who purchase from abroad, as well as the purchase and leasing of machinery manufactured abroad. As a major demolition and recycling operator, AF Gruppen is also exposed to fluctuations in steel prices. AF aims to have low exposure to risks that cannot be influenced, and use hedging instruments to mitigate the risk associated with foreign exchange rates and steel prices. AF has credit risk in relation to customers, suppliers and partners. In addition to the parent company and bank guarantees, the use of credit rating tools contributes to reducing risk. The liquidity risk is considered low. AF Gruppen's available liquidity, including credit facilities of NOK 3,500 million, stood at NOK 3,406 million as at 31 December 2023.

MARKET OUTLOOK

Prospects in the construction industry are characterised by complex geopolitical conditions, increasing trade tensions and a high interest rate level. Changes in interest rate policy both nationally and internationally will affect AF Gruppen's activities. In January 2024 Norges Bank decided to keep the key rate unchanged at 4.5%. In February, the Swedish Riksbank decided to keep the key rate unchanged at 4.0%. Interest rates affect investment activity and will be a major driver of uncertainty going forward.

Changed framework conditions require adaptability and innovation, which will be crucial in the construction industry in the future. This includes improving existing activities, creating new business, attracting new expertise and investing in new technology. The green shift and transition to a circular economy set further requirements for adaptability and innovation. The construction industry has a significant climate and environmental impact, and innovation to reduce the industry's climate and environmental footprint will be an important competitive parameter going forward.

Civil Engineering

The civil engineering market has traditionally been less sensitive to cyclical fluctuations, as public sector demand is the strongest driver behind investments in civil engineering.

The government is now working on the National Transport Plan (NTP) for the period 2025-2036, which will be presented in the spring of 2024, one year earlier than originally planned. The government has signalled that there is a need for a transport plan with realistic financial frameworks, hence the NTP is expected to be somewhat less expansive than before based on the transport industry's portfolio priorities. At the same time, transport companies have indicated a greater need for maintenance investments in their reports. The final allocations for purposes under the NTP are managed from year to year through the national budget.

Prognosesenteret expects the total civil engineering market in Norway to grow by 3.5% in 2024 and 2.2% in 2025, based on the latest updated forecast from September 2023. Investments are expected to drive growth in 2024 and 2025. For the road development segment, growth is expected in both new investments and maintenance for the

duration of the forecast period. For civil engineering investments in Sweden, Byggföretagen reports an estimate of SEK 156.7 billion for 2023 (7.1%), and a slight increase of 0.5% to SEK 157.5 billion in 2024. The forecasts for the civil engineering market indicate a good basis for further growth for AF's civil engineering activities.

Construction and Property

Higher interest rates affect willingness to invest in new projects, and it becomes less profitable to start new projects. For the construction market in Norway in total, Prognosesenteret estimates a decline in production value of 1.8% for 2024, and an increase of 9.0% in 2025. The adjustment is due to the fact that many approved start permits are expected to materialise first in 2025. There is expected to be a nationwide reduction in new residential and non-residential buildings in 2024, while weak growth is expected in rehabilitation, renovation and extensions (ROT). All building segments are expected to grow in 2025.

Final figures from Prognosesenteret show that the number of commenced residential units in Norway ended at 16,957 (including holiday homes) in 2023, a decrease of about 40% since 2022. The number of commenced residential units is expected to pick up in 2024 and 2025, and is estimated at 26,000 and 31,000, respectively. Prognosesenteret's estimates for commenced residential units are based on the number of start permits measured. The market sentiment leads to increased uncertainty in the estimate for commenced residential units.

Figures from Property Norway for the 4th quarter show a decline in housing prices in Norway. On a national basis, residential property prices rose slightly by 0.5% in 2023. For 2024, Property Norway estimates nominal housing price inflation of 4% after two years of weak development, where Oslo and Stavanger stand out with 6% and 7%, respectively.

Byggföretagen reports that building investments in Sweden are estimated at SEK 471.7 billion for 2023, and expects this to decrease to SEK 437.1 billion (-7.3%) in 2024, primarily in connection with the "homes" segment. The Swedish residential property market had a moderate price development in 2023. Svensk Mäklarstatistik reported 1% growth for apartments and a 1% decrease for detached houses at year end.

Energy and Environment

The Norwegian authorities have set ambitious targets for reducing energy use up to 2030, and high electricity prices make investments in energy-efficient measures very attractive. According to the Norwegian Building Industry Association, the potential for energy efficiency is 10 TWh in Norway, which will provide good market opportunities for AF's energy business.

AF's Energy and Environment business area encompasses AF's energy services related to land-based operations, as well as services related to demolition and recycling onshore in Norway. The activities of the business area have been closely related to the construction market, where the level of new building starts will affect the market for demolition and recycling services. Entry into new markets has resulted in a more diversified project portfolio and our environmental activities have maintained their level of activity in a construction market characterised by lower level of activity. Demand for energy and other environmentally-related services is growing. Cleaned material from AF's environmental centres is finding an increasing number of areas of application, such as an additive to spray concrete and as gritting sand during the winter season.

Offshore

AF Gruppen's services within removal and recycling of decommissioned oil platforms solve a significant societal challenge. The aim is to recycle as much of the materials from the decommissioned offshore platforms as possible. The recycling of steel from decommissioned oil platforms is a significant contribution to reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared with ordinary steel production. The growth of offshore wind expansion creates pressure on available vessels and port facilities. This may lead to higher prices for offshore decommissioning. Increased investment in offshore wind can also provide new market opportunities for AF's business.

AF Gruppen's services within climate control (HVAC) as well as maintenance and modifications, also have a better market outlook. Electrification of the marine sector and installations on the Norwegian shelf provides market opportunities. The carbon tax is NOK 952 per tonne in 2023, and the "Climate Plan for 2021-2030" white paper has signalled that it will be increased to NOK 2,000/tonne in 2030. This can help accelerate the rate of electrification.

Oslo, 14 February 2024

Board of Directors of AF Gruppen ASA

For more detailed information, please contact: Amund Tøftum, CEO [email protected] | +47 920 26 712 Anny Øen, CFO [email protected] | +47 982 23 116 Internet: www.afgruppen.no

Financial information

274TH QUARTER 2023 Storøykilen at Fornebu. Photo: AF Gruppen

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Operating and other revenue 8,378 8,568 30,530 31,205
Subcontractors -4,448 -4,741 -15,774 -16,554
Cost of materials -1,000 -1,062 -5,131 -5,346
Payroll costs -1,594 -1,548 -5,851 -5,487
Operating expenses ex. depreciation and impairment -847 -627 -2,483 -2,072
Net gains (losses) and profit (loss) from associates -17 41 34 190
EBITDA 471 631 1,325 1,937
Depreciation and impairment of tangible fixed assets -56 -52 -220 -209
Depreciation and impairment of right of use assets -92 -76 -335 -317
Depreciation and impairment of intangible assets -20 - -22 -2
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 302 502 749 1,409
Net financial items -10 - -49 -10
Earnings before tax (EBT) 292 502 700 1,400
Income tax expense -92 -73 -185 -248
Net income for the period 200 428 515 1,151
Attributable to:
Shareholders in the Parent Company 174 368 402 958
Non-controlling interests 25 61 112 193
Net income for the period 200 428 515 1,151
Earnings per share (NOK) 1.62 3.43 3.73 8.96
Diluted earnings per share (NOK) 1.62 3.43 3.73 8.96
Key figures 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
EBITDA margin 5.6 % 7.4 % 4.3 % 6.2 %
Operating profit margin 3.6 % 5.9 % 2.5 % 4.5 %
Profit margin 3.5 % 5.9 % 2.3 % 4.5 %
Return on capital employed (ROaCE)1) - - 15.9 % 31.6 %
Return on equity - - 16.4 % 34.0 %
Equity ratio 21.9 % 24.2 % 21.9 % 24.2 %
Net interest-bearing debt (receivables) 2) 641 329 641 329
Capital employed 3) 4,540 4,900 4,540 4,900
Order intake 8,504 8,617 32,756 32,324
Order backlog 41,991 39,765 41,991 39,765

1) Return on capital employed (ROaCE) = (Earnings before tax + interest expense) / average capital employed

2) Net interest-bearing debt (receivables) = Cash and cash equivalents + interest-bearing receivables - interest-bearing debt

3) Capital employed = Equity + interest-bearing debt

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Net income for the period 200 428 515 1,151
Net actuarial gains and losses -1 2 -1 2
Currency translation differences non-controlling int. 4 -5 7 -6
Items that will not be reclassified to income
statement in subsequent periods
3 -3 6 -5
Net cash flow hedges 4 17 -5 4
Currency translation differences shareholders of the
parent
40 -33 83 -35
Items that may be reclassified to income statement
in subsequent periods
44 -16 77 -31
Other comprehensive income for the period 47 -20 83 -36
Total comprehensive income for the period 246 409 598 1,116
Attributable to:
- Shareholders of the parent 218 353 479 929
- Non-controlling interests 29 56 119 187
Total comprehensive income for the period 246 409 598 1,116

EQUITY

NOK million Paid-in
capital
Translation
differences
Actuarial
pension
gain/
(loss)
Cash
flow
hedge
Retained
earnings
Attributable
to share
holders
Non
controlling
interests
Total
equity
As at 31 December 2021 506 16 -20 -22 2,174 2,654 918 3,572
Comprehensive income - -35 2 4 958 929 187 1,116
Capital increase 125 - - - - 125 - 125
Purchase of treasury shares - - - - -66 -66 - -66
Sale of treasury shares - - - - 57 57 - 57
Dividend paid - - - - -1,125 -1,125 -240 -1,365
Share-based remuneration 51 - - - - 51 4 55
Put options for non-controlling interests - - - - 41 41 - 41
Addition from acquisition of subsidiaries - - - - - - 13 13
Transactions with non-controlling interests - - - - -89 -89 35 -54
As at 31 December 2022 682 -19 -19 -18 1,950 2,575 918 3,494
As at 31 December 2022 682 -19 -19 -18 1,950 2,575 918 3,494
Comprehensive income - 83 -1 -5 402 479 119 598
Capital increase 81 - - - - 81 2 83
Purchase of treasury shares - - - - -34 -34 - -34
Sale of treasury shares - - - - 32 32 - 32
Dividend paid - - - - -700 -700 -142 -842
Share-based remuneration 52 - - - - 52 4 56
Put options for non-controlling interests - - - - -6 -6 -3 -9
Addition from acquisition of subsidiaries - - - - - - 10 10
Transactions with non-controlling interests - - - - -157 -157 -27 -184
As at 31 December 2023 815 64 -20 -23 1,487 2,323 880 3,203

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

NOK million 31/12/23 31/12/22
Tangible fixed assets 1,797 1,462
Right of use assets 979 859
Goodwill 4,531 4,455
Intangible assets 8 6
Investment in associates and joint ventures 565 490
Deferred tax asset 167 76
Interest-bearing receivables 317 268
Pension plan and other financial assets 43 13
Total non-current assets 8,407 7,630
Inventories 439 301
Projects for own account 194 158
Trade receivables and other current receivables 3,518 3,536
Contract assets 1,710 2,021
Interest-bearing receivables 32 44
Derivatives 2 -
Cash and cash equivalents 347 765
Total current assets 6,241 6,827
Total assets 14,647 14,457
Equity attributable to shareholders of the parent 2,323 2,575
Non-controlling interests 880 918
Total equity 3,203 3,494
Interest-bearing debt 93 75
Interest-bearing debt - lease liability 666 607
Retirement benefit obligations 8 3
Provisions 120 117
Deferred tax 441 445
Derivatives 11 2
Total non-current liabilities 1,338 1,250
Interest-bearing debt 233 433
Interest-bearing debt - lease liability 345 290
Trade payables and other short-term debt 7,067 6,423
Contract liability 1,389 1,546
Derivatives 15 20
Provisions 810 585
Tax payable 247 416
Total current liabilities 10,106 9,713
Total liabilities 11,444 10,963
Total equity and liabilities 14,647 14,457

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 302 502 749 1,409
Depreciation, amortisation and impairment 169 128 576 528
Change in net working capital 612 -575 675 -43
Income taxes paid -277 -82 -470 -299
Net gains (losses) and profit (loss) from associates 17 -41 -34 -190
Other adjustments 32 30 56 55
Cash flow from operating activities 855 -38 1,552 1,460
-109 -77 -613 67
Cash flow before financing activities 747 -115 939 1,527
81 85 81 85
- -431 -700 -1,125
-2 2 -142 -240
4 -75 -23 -135
16 46 -2 -9
Borrowings (repayment) of debt -1,002 244 -516 29
Interest and other financial expenses paid -21 -15 -99 -41
Cash flow from financing activities -924 -143 -1,401 -1,437
Net investments
Share issue
Dividends paid to shareholders in the Parent Company
Dividends paid to non-controlling interests
Transactions with non-controlling interests
Sale (purchase) of treasury shares
Change in cash and cash equivalents with cash effect
Net cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of
period
Change in cash and cash equivalents without cash
effect
Net cash and cash equivalents at the end of period
-177 -258 -462 90
526 1,036 765 680
-1 -12 44 -4
347 765 347 765

BUSINESS AREAS

AF Gruppen's division into operating segments is consistent with the division of the business areas: Civil Engineering, Construction, Betonmast, Property, Energy and Environment, Sweden and Offshore.

Segment information is presented in accordance with the AF Gruppen's accounting policies in accordance with IFRS with the exception of the principles for revenue recognition for residential property development in accordance with IFRS 15. This policy exception applies to the segments Construction, Property and Sweden. Revenue from projects for own account in these segments is not recognised upon handover as regulated in IFRS 15, but in accordance with the degree of completion method. This means that the recognition of revenue in these projects is the product of the degree of completion, sales ratio and expected contribution margin.

Segment information is presented in accordance with reporting to the Corporate Management Team and is consistent with the financial information utilised by the Company's senior decision-makers when evaluating developments and allocating resources. The effect of the deviant application of principles on the consolidated accounts is illustrated in a separate table in the segment information. Additional information on projects for own account is provided in Note 7.

Civil Engineering

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 2,064 1,529 6,458 5,370
Internal operating and other revenue 77 149 318 549
Total operating and other revenue 2,141 1,678 6,776 5,919
EBITDA 298 213 754 636
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 240 170 550 445
Earnings before tax (EBT) 253 168 572 440
EBITDA-margin 13.9 % 12.7 % 11.1 % 10.7 %
Operating margin 11.2 % 10.1 % 8.1 % 7.5 %
Profit margin 11.8 % 10.0 % 8.4 % 7.4 %
Assets 4,007 3,546 4,007 3,546
Order intake 840 5,159 9,548 14,409
Order backlog 18,140 15,368 18,140 15,368

Construction

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 2,632 3,030 10,124 10,992
Internal operating and other revenue 1 31 58 98
Total operating and other revenue 2,633 3,061 10,182 11,090
EBITDA 163 145 483 410
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 141 122 396 322
Earnings before tax (EBT) 138 119 378 318
EBITDA-margin 6.2 % 4.7 % 4.7 % 3.7 %
Operating margin 5.3 % 4.0 % 3.9 % 2.9 %
Profit margin 5.2 % 3.9 % 3.7 % 2.9 %
Assets 5,109 4,887 5,109 4,887
Order intake 2,762 1,261 9,601 7,586
Order backlog 9,464 10,045 9,464 10,045

Betonmast

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 1,168 1,376 4,551 5,142
Internal operating and other revenue 3 - 3 2
Total operating and other revenue 1,171 1,376 4,553 5,145
EBITDA -47 83 55 190
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -53 78 34 166
Earnings before tax (EBT) -44 83 58 174
EBITDA-margin -4.1 % 6.0 % 1.2 % 3.7 %
Operating margin -4.5 % 5.6 % 0.7 % 3.2 %
Profit margin -3.7 % 6.0 % 1.3 % 3.4 %
Assets 3,191 3,257 3,191 3,257
Order intake 2,487 421 6,341 2,506
Order backlog 6,203 4,415 6,203 4,415

Property

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 7 12 27 30
Internal operating and other revenue - - - -
Total operating and other revenue 7 12 27 30
EBITDA -11 21 -20 75
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -11 21 -20 75
Earnings before tax (EBT) -7 23 -8 82
EBITDA-margin - - - -
Operating margin - - - -
Profit margin - - - -
Assets 842 660 842 660
Order backlog - - - -

Energy and Environment

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 406 288 1,341 988
Internal operating and other revenue 17 22 76 74
Total operating and other revenue 423 310 1,417 1,062
EBITDA 56 50 156 150
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 39 33 90 84
Earnings before tax (EBT) 40 32 96 82
EBITDA-margin 13.3 % 16.0 % 11.0 % 14.2 %
Operating margin 9.2 % 10.5 % 6.3 % 7.9 %
Profit margin 9.5 % 10.3 % 6.8 % 7.7 %
Assets 923 733 923 733
Order intake 269 262 2,027 987
Order backlog 1,249 640 1,249 640

Sweden

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 1,821 2,141 7,423 7,438
Internal operating and other revenue 35 1 78 7
Total operating and other revenue 1,857 2,142 7,501 7,445
EBITDA 23 61 -60 193
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -16 44 -152 130
Earnings before tax (EBT) -19 44 -160 127
EBITDA-margin 1.2 % 2.9 % -0.8 % 2.6 %
Operating margin -0.9 % 2.1 % -2.0 % 1.7 %
Profit margin -1.0 % 2.1 % -2.1 % 1.7 %
Assets 2,816 2,712 2,816 2,712
Order intake 1,829 1,708 4,991 5,970
Order backlog 5,128 7,638 5,128 7,638

Offshore

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 287 368 1,081 1,236
Internal operating and other revenue - - 1 1
Total operating and other revenue 288 368 1,082 1,238
EBITDA -33 67 -95 194
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -40 59 -124 164
Earnings before tax (EBT) -42 58 -139 160
EBITDA-margin -11.4 % 18.1 % -8.7 % 15.7 %
Operating margin -14.0 % 16.0 % -11.5 % 13.2 %
Profit margin -14.4 % 15.9 % -12.9 % 12.9 %
Assets 1,098 1,003 1,098 1,003
Order intake 335 135 798 1,417
Order backlog 1,410 1,694 1,410 1,694

Other Segments (Group)

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 31 18 110 59
Internal operating and other revenue 19 12 61 48
Total operating and other revenue 50 30 171 107
EBITDA 41 7 104 40
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 22 -9 27 -24
Earnings before tax (EBT) -25 -11 -45 -31
Assets 1,995 2,175 1,995 2,175
Order backlog - - - -

Eliminations

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue -86 -77 -350 152
Internal operating and other revenue -153 -216 -595 -779
Total operating and other revenue -239 -293 -945 -627
EBITDA -15 -5 -32 33
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -15 -5 -32 33
Earnings before tax (EBT) 2 -4 -32 33
Assets -5,239 -4,448 -5,239 -4,448
Order backlog -213 -410 -213 -410

GAAP adjustments (IFRS 15)

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 47 -117 -235 -203
Internal operating and other revenue - - - -
Total operating and other revenue 47 -117 -235 -203
EBITDA -4 -9 -20 15
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) -4 -9 -20 15
Earnings before tax (EBT) -4 -9 -20 15
Assets -94 -67 -94 -67
Order backlog 610 375 610 375

Segment total

NOK million 4Q 23 4Q 22 2023 2022
External operating and other revenue 8,378 8,568 30,530 31,205
Internal operating and other revenue - - - -
Total operating and other revenue 8,378 8,568 30,530 31,205
EBITDA 471 631 1,325 1,937
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 302 502 749 1,409
Earnings before tax (EBT) 292 502 700 1,400
EBITDA-margin 5.6 % 7.4 % 4.3 % 6.2 %
Operating margin 3.6 % 5.9 % 2.5 % 4.5 %
Profit margin 3.5 % 5.9 % 2.3 % 4.5 %
Assets 14,647 14,457 14,647 14,457
Order intake 8,504 8,617 32,756 32,324
Order backlog 41,991 39,765 41,991 39,765

Metallization. Photo: Consolvo

NOTES

1. GENERAL INFORMATION

AF Gruppen is one of Norway's leading contracting and industrial groups. AF Gruppen is divided into seven business areas: Civil Engineering, Construction, Betonmast, Property, Energy and Environment, Sweden and Offshore.

AF Gruppen ASA is a public limited company registered and domiciled in Norway. The head office is located at Innspurten 15, 0663 Oslo. AF is listed on Oslo Børs under the ticker symbol AFG.

This summary of financial information for the 4th quarter 2023 has not been audited.

2. BASIS OF PREPARATION

The consolidated accounts for AF Gruppen encompass AF Gruppen ASA and its subsidiaries, joint ventures and associated companies. The consolidated financial statements for the 4th quarter 2023 have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34 Interim Accounts. The summary of the financial information presented in the quarterly accounts is intended to be read in conjunction with the annual report for 2022, which has been prepared in accordance with IFRS ® Accounting Standards as adopted by the EU.

As a result of rounding off, the numbers and percentages will not always add up to the total.

3. CHANGES IN THE GROUP'S STRUCTURE

There were no material changes to the Group's structure during the year.

4. ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Effect of IFRS 16 lease liability

AF Gruppen presents figures for the Group as lessee to comply with the accounting principles for IFRS 16. The present value of future rental payments for lease liabilities is recognised in the balance sheet as an interest-bearing loan, and right of use is recognised as a non-current asset, with the exception of for short-term or terminable leases. The right of use recognised on the balance sheet will be amortised over the agreed term of the lease including any reasonably certain option periods, and interest on the lease liability will be recognised as an interest expense. Both instalments and interest on lease liabilities recognised on the balance sheet are classified as cash flow from financing activities in the cash flow statement.

Recognised lease liabilities in the Group affect key figures, including equity ratio and net interest-bearing liabilities, as shown in tables below.

Consolidated statement of income – Effect of IFRS 16

NOK million 4Q 23 less
IFRS 16
Effect of
IFRS 16
4Q 23 2023 less
IFRS 16
Effect of
IFRS 16
2023
Operating expenses excl. depr. and -932 85 -847 -2,789 306 -2,483
impairment
EBITDA
386 85 471 1,019 306 1,325
Depr. and impairment of right of use assets -14 -78 -92 -54 -280 -335
Earnings before financial items and tax (EBIT) 295 7 302 724 25 749
Net financial items -2 -8 -10 -23 -25 -49
Earnings before tax (EBT) 293 - 292 700 - 700
Income tax expense -93 1 -92 -185 - -185
Net income for the period 199 - 200 515 - 515
NOK million 4Q 22 less
IFRS 16
Effect of
IFRS 16
4Q 22 2022 less
IFRS 16
Effect of
IFRS 16
2022
Operating expenses excl. depr. and
impairment
-698 71 -627 -2,368 296 -2,072
EBITDA 560 71 631 1,640 296 1,937
Depr. and impairment of right of use assets -10 -66 -76 -40 -276 -317
Earnings before financial items and tax
(EBIT)
497 5 502 1,389 20 1,409
Net financial items 5 -5 - 8 -18 -10
Earnings before tax (EBT) 502 - 502 1,397 2 1,400
Income tax expense -74 - -73 -248 -1 -248
Net income for the period 428 - 428 1,150 2 1,151

Consolidated statement of financial position – Effect of IFRS 16

NOK million 2023 less
IFRS 16
Effect of
IFRS 16
2023 2022 less
IFRS 16
Effect of
IFRS 16
2022
Right of use assets 238 741 979 233 627 859
Total assets 13,907 741 14,647 13,830 627 14,457
Total equity 3,224 -21 3,203 3,514 -20 3,494
Interest-bearing debt - lease liability (non
current)
149 517 666 140 467 607
Deferred tax 446 -5 441 450 -5 445
Interest-bearing debt - lease liability (current) 64 281 345 64 226 290
Total equity and liabilities 13,907 741 14,647 13,830 627 14,457
Equity ratio 23.2 % - 21.9 % 25.4 % - 24.2 %
Gross interest-bearing debt 539 798 1,337 713 693 1,406
Net interest-bearing debt (receivables) -156 798 641 -364 693 329

5. ESTIMATES

The preparation of the interim accounts requires the use of assessments, estimates and assumptions that have an effect on the application of accounting principles and recognised figures related to assets and liabilities, revenues and costs. The estimates are based on the management's best judgement and experience, and there is some uncertainty related to the concurrence of these estimates with the actual result. Estimates and their underlying assumptions are assessed on a continuous basis. Changes in accounting estimates are recognised for the period in which the estimate is changed and for future periods if these are affected by the change in estimate.

6. TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES

The Group's related parties consist of associates, joint ventures, the Company's shareholders, members of the Board of Directors and Corporate Management Team. All business transactions with related parties are carried out in accordance with the arm's length principle.

7. DEVIANT APPLICATION OF PRINCIPLES IN THE SEGMENT ACCOUNTS

The segment information is presented in accordance with the Group's accounting policies in accordance with IFRS except for the principles for revenue recognition for residential property development in accordance with IFRS 15. This policy exception applies to the Construction, Property and Sweden segments. Revenue from projects for own account in these segments is not recognised upon handover as regulated in IFRS 15, but in accordance with the percentage of completion method. This means that revenue and cost for these projects is recognized in proportion with the stage of completion and the sales ratio for the project. The effect of this on the consolidated accounts is illustrated in a separate table in the segment information. The Betonmast segment is reported in accordance with IFRS. To ensure completeness Betonmast's property projects are included in the table below.

The effect of the deviant application of principles in the segment accounts with respect to earnings before tax is NOK -4 million (-9 million) for the 4th quarter 2023, and -20 million (15 million) for the full year. The effect on equity was NOK -95 million (-73 million), and the accumulated reversed revenues were NOK 610 million (375 million) as at 31 December 2023.

The table on the next page shows residential housing projects for our own account that are in the production phase. Contractor values have been included in those cases where group companies are the contractor.

Number of housing units Construction period
Property projects for own account AF's
construction
value1)
Total
number
Hereof
transferred
in 2022
Hereof
completed
not transf.
Start up Completion Ownership
share
AF
Lilleby Triangel B4, Trondheim 51 54 1 - Q3 2019 Q2 2021 33%
Brøter Terrasse, Lillestrøm - 78 3 2 Q3 2020 Q4 2022 35%
Total completed earlier years - Property2) 51 132 4 2
Kosterbaden Fritid, Koster - 20 - 13 - - 100%
Snipetorp, Skien - 16 1 3 Q3 2018 Q2 2020 50%
Lietorvet II, Skien - 26 1 - Q3 2019 Q4 2021 25%
2317 Sentrumskvartalet A-B, Hamar 172 73 1 1 Q2 2020 Q1 2022 50%
2317 Sentrumskvartalet C, Hamar 54 23 2 3 Q2 2021 Q3 2022 50%
Klosterøya Vest 4, Skien - 44 14 - Q1 2021 Q3 2022 24%
Total completed earlier years - Betonmast2) 226 202 19 20
Stadsgården 2, Halmstad 69 42 1 - Q4 2021 Q3 2022 50%
Total completed earlier years - Sweden2) 69 42 1 -
Kråkehaugen, Bergen (LAB Eiendom) 185 55 55 - Q2 2021 Q2 2023 50%
Skiparviklia 3D, Bergen (LAB Eiendom) 25 4 3 1 Q2 2022 Q4 2023 50%
Fyrstikkbakken Hus A-C, Oslo 348 119 110 9 Q2 2021 Q4 2023 50%
Total completed 2023 - Property segment 558 178 168 10
2317 Sentrumskvartalet D, Hamar 70 25 23 2 Q3 2021 Q1 2023 50%
Klosterøya Vest 4, Skien - 25 12 13 Q2 2021 Q1 2023 24%
SPG Bostader Linden, Strömstad3) 154 162 - 162 Q4 2021 Q3 2023 45%
SPG Bostader Häggen, Strömstad3) 89 94 - 94 Q2 2022 Q3 2023 45%
Total completed in 2023 - Betonmast segment 314 306 35 271
Fyrstikkbakken Hus D, Oslo 124 40 - - Q2 2021 Q1 2024 50%
Skårersletta Midt 1 og 2, Lørenskog 482 169 - - Q3 2021 Q2 2024 50%
Bekkestua Have, Bærum - 232 - - Q4 2021 Q2 2024 50%
Rolvsrud Arena trinn 1, Lørenskog 357 95 - - Q2 2022 Q3 2024 33%
Baneveien, Bergen (LAB Eiendom) 18 1 - - Q2 2022 Q1 2024 50%
Skårersletta Midt 3 og 4, Lørenskog 360 126 - - Q4 2022 Q4 2024 50%
Rolvsrud Arena trinn 2 og 3, Lørenskog 372 99 - - Q4 2022 Q1 2025 33%
Rolvsrud Arena trinn 4, Lørenskog 131 35 Q3 2023 Q3 2025 33%
Total in production - Property segment 1,844 797 - -
Veum Hageby Tunet, Fredrikstad - 15 - - Q2 2023 Q2 2025 30%
Total in production - Betonmast segment 0 15 - -
BRF Prefekten, Mölndal 130 83 - - Q4 2021 Q1 2024 50%
Total in production - Sweden segment 130 83 - -

1) NOK million excl. VAT

2) Only projects with not sold or not transferred units as at year end 2022 are included.

3) Apartments for rental ("hyresrett"). Will be sold collectively when shares are transferred from property development company.

8. EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE SHEET DATE

There have been no events since the end of the quarter that would have had a material effect on the quarterly financial statements.

ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE MEASURES

AF Gruppen presents alternative performance measures as a supplement to performance measures that are regulated by IFRS. The alternative performance measures are presented to provide better insight into and understanding of the operations, financial standing and foundation for development going forward. AF Gruppen uses alternative performance measures that are commonly used in the industry and among analysts and investors.

Return on capital employed (ROaCE):

This performance measure provides useful information to both AF's management and Board of Directors, as well as to investors concerning the results that have been achieved during the period under analysis. AF uses the performance target to measure the return on capital employed, regardless of whether the financing is through equity capital or debt. Use of the performance measure should not be considered an alternative to performance measures calculated in accordance with IFRS, but as a supplement.

The alternative performance measures are defined as follows:

EBITDA: Earnings before i) taxes, ii) net financial items, iii) depreciation and amortisation.

Operating profit (EBIT): Earnings before i) taxes, ii) net financial items.

EBITDA margin: EBITDA divided by operating revenue and other revenues.

Operating margin: Operating profit (EBIT) divided by operating revenue and other revenues.

Profit margin: Earnings before tax divided by operating revenue and other revenues.

Gross interest-bearing liabilities: Sum total of long-term interest-bearing loans and credits and short-term interest-bearing loans and credits.

Net interest-bearing liabilities (receivables): Gross interest-bearing liabilities less i) long-term interest-bearing receivables, ii) short-term interest-bearing receivables and iii) cash and cash equivalents.

Capital employed: Sum total of shareholders' equity and gross interest-bearing liabilities.

Average capital employed: Average capital employed in the last four quarters.

Return on capital employed (ROaCE): Earnings before taxes and interest divided by the average capital employed.

Equity ratio: Shareholders' equity divided by total equity and liabilities.

Average shareholders' equity: Average shareholders' equity in the last four quarters.

Return on equity: Earnings divided by average shareholders' equity.

Ordre intake: Estimated value of contracts, contract changes and orders that have been agreed upon during the reporting period.

Order backlog: Remaining estimated value of contracts, contract changes and orders that have been agreed upon, but have not been earned by the reporting date.

The table below shows the reconciliation of alternative performance measures with line items in the reported financial figures in accordance with IFRS.

NOK million 31.12.23 31.12.22
GROSS INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES / NET INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES
Non-current interest-bearing debt 93 75
Non-current interest-bearing debt - lease liability 666 607
Current interest-bearing debt 233 433
Current interest-bearing debt - lease liability 345 290
Gross interest-bearing liabilities 1,337 1,406
Less:
Non-current interest-bearing receivables -317 -268
Current interest-bearing receivables -32 -44
Cash and cash equivalents -347 -765
Net interest-bearing liabilities (receivables) 641 329
NOK million 31.12.23 31.12.22
CAPITAL EMPLOYED
Shareholders' equity 3,203 3,494
Gross interest-bearing liabilities 1,337 1,406
Capital employed 4,540 4,900
AVERAGE CAPITAL EMPLOYED
Capital employed as at 1st quarter 5,071 4,593
Capital employed as at 2nd quarter 5,293 4,366
Capital employed as at 3rd quarter 5,224 4,385
Capital employed as at 4th quarter 4,540 4,900
Average capital employed 5,032 4,561
RETURN ON CAPITAL EMPLOYED
Earnings before tax 700 1,400
Interest expense 99 43
Earnings before tax and interest expense 799 1,442
Divided by:
Average capital employed 5,032 4,561
Return on capital employed 15.9 % 31.6 %
NOK million 31.12.23 31.12.22
EQUITY RATIO
Shareholders' equity 3,203 3,494
Divided by:
Total equity and liabilities 14,647 14,457
Equity ratio 21.9 % 24.2 %
AVERGE SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Shareholder's equity as at 1st quarter 3,458 3,639
Shareholder's equity as at 2nd quarter 2,897 3,126
Shareholder's equity as at 3rd quarter 2,973 3,286
Shareholder's equity as at 4th quarter 3,203 3,494
Average shareholders' equity 3,133 3,386
RETURN ON EQUITY
Period result 515 1,151
Divided by:
Average equity 3,133 3,386
Return on equity 16.4 % 34.0 %

Working at Oslo Havn. Photo: AF Gruppen

COMPANY INFORMATION

AF Gruppen ASA Financial calendar

Head office: Innspurten 15 0603 Oslo Tel +47 22 89 11 00

Postal address:

Postboks 6272 Etterstad 0603 Oslo Norway

Company's Board of Directors

Morten Grongstad, Board Chairman Hege Bømark Kristian Holth Saloume Djoudat Erik Tømmeraas Veiby Hilde Kristin Herud Marianne Gjertsen Ebbesen Hilde Wikesland Flaen Arne Sveen Espen Jahr

Presentation of interim accounts:

15/02/2024 Interim report 4th quarter 2023 15/05/2024 Interim report 1st quarter 2024 30/08/2024 Interim report 2nd quarter 2024 15/11/2024 Interim report 3rd quarter 2024

The presentation of interim accounts takes place at Hotel Continental, Stortingsgata 24-26, at 8:30 a.m.

For more information on the company, visit our web site at afgruppen.com

Cover: Instruction of use of protective equipment in Consolvo Photo: Consolvo

Corporate Management

Amund Tøftum, CEO Anny Øen, CFO Geir Flåta, EVP Civil Engineering and Property Bård Frydenlund, EVP Sweden and Betonmast Eirik Wraal, EVP Construction, Energy and environment, Corporate social responsibilty Tormod Solberg, EVP Construction Lars Myhre Hjelmeseth, EVP Offshore

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