Annual Report • Apr 29, 2021
Annual Report
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Sustainability at Belships
Corporate governance
Corporate Social Responsibility
| Annual General Meeting | 25 May |
|---|---|
| Result for the 1st quarter | 26 May |
| Result for the 2nd quarter | 18 August |
| Result for the 3rd quarter | 12 November |
We are pleased to present you with Belships' new annual report. It was an extraordinary year with a pandemic wreaking havoc to health and economies across the globe and turning our daily routines and leisures upside down. Belships held its course steady and the direction we laid out for the company has stood the test of volatility and the chaotic nature of the past year. We have been able to keep our vessels running efficiently and safely and without any material incidents. In 2020 we continued to develop our group of companies and pursued accretive vessel transactions.
We expanded the Lighthouse Group with the establishment of Lighthouse Navigation AS in our Oslo office. With the commercial operations now spanning offices in Bangkok, Oslo, Singapore and Melbourne the commercial management and operating business is on a solid platform for creating financial results and quality of operations.
We took delivery of four new vessels during the year as we grow and increase the quality of our owned fleet. In sum these transactions influenced our cash holdings marginally as new shares issued and cash realised from divesting the two oldest vessels in the fleet contributed to finance the growth. Capital discipline remains fundamentally important when we consider next steps in terms of fleet development.
As apparent during this pandemic the world is smaller and more connected in times of global crises. In part, shipping has helped keep the wheels turning as one is reminded that about 90 per cent of all goods and resources are being shipped at sea. Behind this enormous and vital lifeline to the world economy there are thousands of shipowners and more than 1.5 million seafarers. We joined as signatory to the recent Neptune declaration, supporting a broad initiative to increase the focus amongst governments and regulative bodies to better the conditions under which seafarers have endured during the pandemic. We are also taking an active role to fight corruption by participating in collective action thru Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN).
The environmental impact of shipping is something we take seriously, and we support initiatives to reduce the carbon footprint from the maritime industry. Following the launch of an emissions study in 2019, we now also publish a dedicated ESG report for 2020. We
are curious and impatient in searching for improvements in order to contribute towards these goals. It is encouraging that we continue to progress and achieve results from the modernisation of our fleet, and we plan to take a proactive approach towards further improving the sustainability of shipping transportation business.
We are now operating a larger than usual part of our fleet in the spot market. We believe shipping and dry bulk in particular is now ahead of a very promising supply/demand situation and we expect a strong recovery in asset values.
The dry cargo market for our segments has improved markedly since the new year with freight rates not seen in a decade. So far in 2021 we have completed a new equity issue and quickly set most of the funds to work with the acquisition of four new UItramax bulk carriers.
Belships is well positioned as a fully integrated stocklisted shipowning company. Headquartered in Oslo with commercial and technical management represented in offices across Asia, we specialise within the segment of geared bulk carriers. Our owned fleet now counts 25 Supramax and Ultramax vessels with an average age of about 5 years.
We shall seek further growth opportunities and aim to continue delivering high quality operations with a competitive low-cost base. We firmly believe good corporate governance and transparency creates a more valuable business. Our goal is to create value out of shipowning, and to return capital competitively over time.
We look forward to serving you and navigate towards the next milestone.

Chairman of the Board

Lars Christian Skarsgård Chief Executive Officer
Merger Merger between Belships ASA and Lighthouse Group New loan facility All financing secured until Q2 2024 at L+275bps Commercial platform Expansion of Lighthouse Navigation to Oslo, Singapore and Melbourne Ship management Doubled number of ships under technical management Dividend distribution NOK 0.05 per share 5 x ship-for-share transactions Utilising cash and equity issues to finance acquisitions 8 x bareboat leases Agreements with purchase options leveraging Belships longstanding access to Japanese shipbuilders and financing Fleet renewal Divestment of the four oldest vessels in the fleet Equity issues
78 mill shares issued including ship-for-share transactions
Bulk carriers 7 25
Market capitalisation increase USD 30m USD 220m
| 1 January-31 December | Consolidated | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Footnote | 2020 | 2019 | |
| OPERATING STATEMENT | ||||
| Operating income | 165 362 | 131 316 | ||
| EBITDA | 1 | 23 986 | 34 708 | |
| EBIT | 2 | -4 623 | 18 134 | |
| Net result before tax | -17 160 | 6 755 | ||
| Net result for the year | -17 743 | 5 100 | ||
| BALANCE SHEET | ||||
| Non-current assets | 388 802 | 332 805 | ||
| Current assets | 75 677 | 64 836 | ||
| Total assets | 464 479 | 397 641 | ||
| Equity | 150 017 | 156 115 | ||
| Non-current liabilities | 250 084 | 203 955 | ||
| Current liabilities | 64 378 | 37 571 | ||
| Total equity and liabilities | 464 479 | 397 641 | ||
| KEY FINANCIAL FIGURES | ||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 34 190 | 44 428 | ||
| EBITDA | 1 | 23 986 | 34 708 | |
| Interest expenses | 13 668 | 10 522 | ||
| Interest coverage ratio | 3 | -0.34 | 1.72 | |
| Current ratio | 4 | 1.18 | 1.73 | |
| Net profit ratio | 5 | -0.11 | 0.04 | |
| EQUITY | ||||
| Share capital as at 31 December | 53 617 | 50 403 | ||
| Equity ratio | 6 | 0.32 | 0.39 | |
| Return on total assets | % | 7 | -0.75 | 4.34 |
| Return on equity | % | 8 | -11.83 | 3.27 |
| KEY FIGURES SHARES | ||||
| Market price as at 31 December | USD | 0.74 | 0.83 | |
| Market price as at 31 December | NOK | 6.30 | 7.25 | |
| Number of shares as at 31 December | 228 175 404 212 224 705 | |||
| Diluted average number of shares (excluding treasury shares) | 227 490 765 198 363 313 | |||
| Equity per share | USD | 9 | 0.66 | 0.74 |
| Earnings per share | USD | -0.08 | 0.03 | |
| EBITDA per share | USD | 0.11 | 0.17 | |
| Price/earnings ratio | 10 | -9.47 | 34.54 | |
| Price/book ratio | 11 | 2.29 | 1.13 | |
| Price/EBITDA ratio | 7.00 | 5.08 |
The Group's financial information is prepared in accordance with international financial reporting standards ("IFRS") as adopted by the European Union. In addition, it is the management's intention to provide alternative performance measures that are regularly reviewed by management to enhance the understanding of the Group's performance, but not instead of, the financial statements prepared in
accordance with IFRS. The alternative performance measures presented may be determined or calculated differently by other companies.
The alternative performance measures are intended to enhance comparability of the results and to give supplemental information to the users of the Group's external reporting.
1) EBITDA — is the earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortizations
2) EBIT — is the earnings before interest and taxes. It can be calculated by the result before tax added by the interest
3) Interest coverage ratio — is equal to earnings before interest and taxes (EBIT), divided by interest expenses
4) Current ratio — is defined as total current assets, divided by total current liabilities
5) Net profit ratio — is defined as result after taxes, divided by operating income
8) Return on equity — is defined as net result for the year, divided by equity
9) Equity per share — is defined as total equity, divided by number of issued shares at end of period
10) Price/earnings ratio — is defined as market price of share, divided by earnings per share
11) Price/book ratio — is defined as market price of share, divided by equity per share
Time charter equivalent (TCE) – is defined as freight revenues less voyage expenses divided by the number of available on-hire days.
Belships ASA is a fully integrated ship owner and operator with low costs and competitive financing. The company is listed on the Oslo exchange main list. We have a modern fleet of geared bulk carriers in the Supramax and Ultramax segment. All services and key functions are in-house and run by a management team with proven operational track record.
EBITDA 24.0 mUSD
Net result -17.7 mUSD*
Cash break-even 2021 about
10 300 USD per shipday
Average USD per ship day. Figures net of commission

Consolidated balance sheet as per December 31, 2020 (\$ million)

7 500 Number of shipdays

5years


Ship management
Belships Management has provided crewing and technical management from its head office in Singapore since its inception in 1983. Our ship management services create a competitive advantage for its clients through competency, cost control and quality of vessel maintenance standards. Belships Management has Belships ASA, Ultrabulk and Sumisho Marine, a subsidiary of the Sumitomo Group, as clients.
Belships Management sources qualified seafarers mainly from China, Myanmar and the Philippines. The high retention rate amongst our officers and crew allows us to train and develop our seafarers and knowledge pool to provide consistency and quality for vessels under management.
Building on more than 35 years of history since foundation Belships Management has experience in management of most ship types including bulk carriers, oil/ product tankers, container vessels and car carriers. We also offer our experience in other services that include newbuilding supervision, sale and purchase inspection and project work which recently has involved in retrofitting new equipment to existing vessels. The company also provides agency and husbandry services for ships calling the port of Singapore.
| Development | Technical ships | Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| 1983 Incorporated under the name Northsouth Shipmanagement |
25* | The Belships Management System is in compliance with the requirements of |
| 1993 First company in Singapore with SEP and ISO 9002 certification by DNV GL |
Crewing ships 25* |
ISM Code ISO9001:2015 ISO 14001:2018 |
| 2001 Opening office in Shanghai (PRC) |
Crew retention | OHSAS 18001:2007 MLC 2006 |
| 2006 Opening offices in the Philippines |
93% | DOC for Norwegian Flag vessels We are certified by Class NK |
| 2018 Attained Document of Compliance for NIS flag to manage the nine Lighthouse ships joining the Belships fleet. |
35 +yrs. technical and crew management experience |

Commercial operations
Lighthouse Navigation is the commercial arm of Belships ASA providing chartering and operations with a long track record of positive results. The commercial operations and operating activities have expanded and is now present in Bangkok, Oslo, Singapore and Melbourne. Lighthouse is also the commercial manager of seven handysize vessels owned by SFL Corporation Ltd.
Lighthouse Navigation has its roots and experience tracing back to the 1990s and the senior management founded the company together with Mr. Frode Teigen in 2009. Following the merger with Belships ASA in 2018 the company has since been the integrated commercial platform of the group.
Lighthouse Naviation work with a wide range of international charterers, exporters/importers, and traders who engage in the freight markets for dry cargo. We offer freight backing for cargo tenders and provide logistical advice to trading houses and industrial groups. The annual volume carried is about 10 million tonnes, and the annual turnover exceeds USD 140 million. The company is represented in Bangkok, Oslo, Singapore and Melbourne and serves customers on a world-wide basis. Lighthouse Navigation provides commercial management for the vessels owned by Belships ASA but also for clients
Strong financial development and a profitable track record

Profits before tax mUSD




Our ships are versatile with cranes ("geared") to load and discharge the cargo, often to or from barges, and we can enter most ports of the world. Our largest ships, the Ultramaxes, are of eco-design combining high cargo capacity with low fuel / energy consumption. Some of our Supramaxes have boxed shaped cargo holds making them suitable for steel pipes, windmill components and project cargo.
| Vessel | Built | DWT | Yard | Ownership | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BELKNIGHT (newbuild) | 2021 61 000 | Dacks | BB-in | 1 | |
| BELTRADER (newbuild) | 2021 61 000 | Dacks | BB-in | 2 | |
| BELGUARDIAN (newbuild) 2021 61 000 | Dacks | BB-in | 2 | ||
| BELMAR (newbuild) | 2021 | 64 000 | Imabari | BB-in | 2 |
| BELFAST | 2021 | 64 000 | Imabari | BB-in | 3 |
| BELAJA | 2020 | 61 000 | Shin Kurushima | BB-in | 4 |
| BELMOIRA | 2020 | 61 000 | Shin Kurushima | BB-in | 4 |
| BELFUJI | 2020 | 63 000 | Imabari | TC-in | 5 |
| BELRAY | 2019 | 61 000 Shin Kurushima | BB-in | 6 | |
| BELNIPPON | 2018 | 63 000 | Imabari | TC-in | 7 |
| BELHAVEN | 2017 | 63 000 | Imabari | Owned | |
| BELTIGER (to be delivered) 2017 63 000 | New Times | Owned | 8 | ||
| BELISLAND | 2016 | 61 000 | Imabari | BB-in | 9 |
| BELFOREST | 2015 | 61 000 | Imabari | BB-in | 10 |
| BELINDA | 2016 | 63 000 | Hantong | Owned | |
| BELMONT | 2016 | 63 000 | Hantong | Owned | |
| BELATLANTIC | 2016 | 63 000 | Hantong | Owned | |
| BELLIGHT | 2016 | 63 000 | New Times | Owned | |
| BELPAREIL | 2015 | 63 000 | Hantong | Owned | |
| BELSOUTH | 2015 | 63 000 | Hantong | Owned |
| Vessel | Built | DWT | Yard | Ownership |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BELOCEAN | 2011 | 58 000 | Dayang | Owned |
| BELNOR | 2010 | 58 000 | Dayang | Owned |
| BELSTAR | 2009 | 58 000 | Dayang | Owned |
| BELCARGO | 2008 | 58 000 | Tsuneishi | Owned |
| BELFRI | 2007 | 55 000 | Kawasaki | Owned |
| BELORIENT | 2008 | 50 000 | PT Pal | Owned 1 |
| BELFORT | 2008 | 50 000 | PT Pal | Owned 2 |
1) Sold with expected delivery to buyer in April/May 2021
2) Sold with expected delivery to buyer in March/April 2021
1) On delivery 2H 2021 7 years bareboat charter with purchase options after third year
2) On delivery 2H 2021 10 years bareboat charter with purchase options after fourth year
3) Delivered Q1 2021 10 years bareboat charter with purchase options after fourth year
6) 7 years bareboat with purchase options after fourth year
7) 8 years time charter with purchase options after fourth year
8) Expected delivery Q2/Q3 2021
9) 15 years bareboat charter with purchase options after fifth year
10) 12 years bareboat charter with purchase options after third year
The Group has no purchase obligations on any of the lease agreements.

At Belships, we are building a sustainable and resilient business. With over a hundred years of history, we are used to taking a long-term view - one that builds on our strong and sustainable core business model. We want to create long-term value for our customers, employees, shareholders and societal stakeholders.
Our approach to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is to ensure that our business practices and investments are sustainable. As a publicly listed company registered in Norway, we operate to some of the world's highest standards for corporate ethics and transparency. We will contribute to responsible economic development, while identifying and addressing our environmental and social impacts.
In 2020 our Board of Directors approved Belships' Sustainability Policy. The policy sets out our environmental, social and governance (ESG) priorities and ambitions. These include:
Belships produces an annual sustainability report1 that can be read in conjunction with this ESG summary report. The Belships' Sustainability Report meets the disclosure requirements of the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) Marine Transportation Standard (2018) and the Norwegian Shipowners Association's (Norges Rederiforbund) Guidelines for ESG Reporting in the Shipping and Offshore Industries.
Belships is closely monitoring the EU's work on Sustainable Finance and the EU Taxonomy regulation. The EU Taxonomy establishes a classification system with criteria for which economic activities can be considered environmentally sustainable. Publicly listed companies like Belships would be required to disclose to what extent their turnover, investments and operational costs align with the EU Taxonomy criteria. In 2021 we plan to further investigate and analyze how our operations might align with the final EU Taxonomy criteria. We will also assess how the taxonomy framework may be used for internal risk management, financial planning and strategy processes.

Belships is committed to continuously improving energy efficiency, meeting its GHG reduction obligations and satisfying all other emissions requirements, including for SOx, NOx and particulate matter (PM).
Investments in new vessels, low average fleet age and deployment of technology means we have best in class efficiency and environmental performance, including for ballast water management systems. We strive to operate to the highest environmental standards, complying with all relevant environmental regulations. Belships' environmental management system is independently certified to the international standard ISO 14001 and is implemented in conjunction with the international quality standard ISO 9001:2000.
In 2021 we will set our emission reduction targets. These will align with the International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) 2050 GHG reduction ambition — to reduce absolute emissions by 50% by 2050 and by 70% on an intensity basis. At the same time, we are investigating the use of the Science Based Targets Initiative's (SBTi) approach and methodology for setting targets, and will report our GHG emission target commitments in 2021.
In 2019, we established an accurate GHG emissions baseline using independent third-party measurement. In 2020, our scope 1 GHG emission were 280,000 metric tonnes Carbon Dioxide equivalents (CO2e), measured using an operational control approach (2019: 263,600). The 6% increase in emissions in 2020 was primarily a result of increased distance travelled. Emissions baselines for sulphur dioxides (SOx), particulate matter (PM) and nitrous oxides (NOx) have been established in 2020. Emission indices for 2020 are also reported for 2020.
| 2020 | |
|---|---|
| EMISSIONS | |
| GHG emissions (tonnes CO2e) | 280 000 |
| SOx (tonnes) | 738 |
| NOx (tonnes) | 6 319 |
| PM (tonnes) | 359 |
| 2020 | |
| EMISSION INDICES * | |
| 9.6 | |
| EEDI (g CO2e/tonne-nm) | 4.1 |
| AER (g CO2e/dwt-nm) | 5.1 |
| EEOI (g CO2e/tonne-nm) |
*) EEOI — Energy Efficiency Operating Index,
EEDI — Energy Efficiency Design Index (for newly acquired ships), AER — Annual Efficiency Ratio
See www.imo.org for further information.


Ballast water is essential for the safe and efficient operation of vessels. The handling of ballast water is regulated by the International Convention for the Control and Management of Ships' Ballast Water and Sediments. All of our vessels have ballast water management plans in place in accordance with the IMO's Ballast Water Management Convention. In 2020, ballast water treatment systems were in place on 79% (2019:69%) of our fleet and this number will increase to 100% in 2022 as our older vessels complete their scheduled docking.
In 2020 there were no reported harmful spills, discharges to air or ballast water discharge incidents.
Belships is committed to the sustainable and socially responsible recycling of ships in accordance with its Ship Recycling Policy. We believe that ship recycling should always be performed according to strict standards for protecting human health, safety and the environment. Our oldest vessel was built in 2007, and recycling is currently not considered. Any future vessel recycling will be done in accordance with the Hong Kong Convention and will only take place at approved yards.
Belships is committed to creating a safe, healthy and rewarding work environment. Our focus on building a strong safety culture is complemented by our investment in developing and retaining our people.
The unprecedented impacts of Covid-19 have demonstrated the importance and value of a resilient, diverse and unified workforce. Our number one priority throughout the ongoing pandemic is keeping our people safe and healthy, while adapting to the challenging conditions that it presents. The many cultures and backgrounds of the people working for Belships creates diversity, which we value and seek to enhance. Providing good working conditions, respecting relevant labour and human rights are embedded in our approach to creating social capital. Through our efforts to date we have continued to maintain our high retention rates and this builds a strong foundation for future growth and development.
Crewing and technical management for our fleet is managed from Belships' subsidiaries in Singapore and China. These companies also have external customers and offer ship management services to high quality customers worldwide. A dedicated and well-trained ship and onshore team monitors the health, safety, environment and quality performance of our fleet.
At Belships we maintain a safety culture grounded on the premise of eliminating workplace incidents, risks and hazards. We are dedicated to ensuring the safety of our operations for our employees, our customers and any personnel associated with our operations. Our approach to health and safety is documented in Belships' Health and Safety Policy. In 2020, our lost time injury rate (LTIR) was 0.35 (2019: 4.23) and there were no serious injuries or work-related fatalities.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| INJURY RATES | ||
| LTIR | 0.35 | 4.23 |
| Serious injuries | 0 | 0 |
| Fatalities | 0 | 0 |
Piracy, hi-jacking and kidnapping continues to represent a significant risk in certain regions of the world. To create a safe environment for our crew and vessels, the Company has adopted best management practices consistent with the industry standards and recommendations from governing bodies. Specifically, all of our ships are registered with the EU Naval Force (Maritime security centre) which co-ordinates ships' transit schedules with the appropriate naval ships in the Gulf of Aden and Somali basin. An internal risk assessment is also made prior entering into a voyage in any part of the world. Depending on the present conditions and individual risk factors for the particular ship, preventive measures are evaluated for each transit in accordance with Belships' policy. There were no incidents of attempted hijackings of ships in the Belships fleet in 2020 (2019:0).
The Covid-19 pandemic had a significant impact on our human capital management, in particular for our crews on vessels. We took immediate steps to establish new safety protocols and constantly monitor pandemic developments in order to protect our people.
We have signed the Neptune declaration as part of our ongoing commitment to mitigate impact of Covid-19 on our seafarers.

Belships will continue to support the declaration by:
Our focus is on creating favourable employment conditions which in turn lead to the attraction and retention of productive employees. A key component to our approach is the investment we make in the training and development of our personnel. We comply with all applicable employment, labor and immigration requirements, and require all of our personnel to cooperate in all compliance efforts.
Our approach to employment has delivered tangible value for both employees and the company's growth of human capital. In 2020 we retained all but one shore-based personnel and achieved industry-leading retention rates for officers and ratings of 94% and 92% respectively (2019: 94% and 84%).
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| RETENTION RATES | ||
| Shore based personnel | ||
| (Belships Administration) | 88% | 100% |
| Officers | 94% | 94% |
| Ratings | 92% | 84% |
We embrace the diversity of our team members, stakeholders and customers, including their unique backgrounds, experiences, ideas and abilities. Everyone is valued and appreciated for their distinct contributions to the growth and sustainability of our business. We strive to cultivate a culture and vision that supports and enhances our ability to recruit, develop and retain diverse talent at every level.
| 2020 | 2019 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| DIVERSITY | |||
| Shore based personnel | |||
| Board (% female) | 43% | 43% | |
| Employees (% female) | 38% | 38% | |
| Shipboard personnel | |||
| Age range | <30 | 27% | |
| 30-50 | 67% | ||
| >50) | 6% | ||
| Nationalities | 9 |
The Belships Board of Directors and Board committees have responsibility for strategic oversight of all company activity, including sustainability. The Board are guided by Belships' Corporate Governance Policy, which is publicly available on our website2 . Belships is regarded as a leader in corporate governance within Nordic shipping, achieving the number one Governance ranking in Danske Bank's recent equity research publication3 covering ESG performance in shipping.
Belships has a zero-tolerance policy for corruption in any form. Regular anti-corruption training is provided to relevant employees throughout the year. In 2020 there were eight port calls in countries that have the 20 lowest rankings in Transparency International's Corruption Perception Index. Belships is an active member of the Maritime Anti-Corruption Network (MACN), working towards the vision of a maritime industry free of corruption. There were no reported ethics or corruption incidents in 2020.
Employees who observe or become aware of a situation that they believe to be a violation of the Code of Business Conduct and Ethics are obligated to notify their immediate superior, a member of Executive Management or a member of the Board as directed by the Code. An independently-operated helpline is also provided for employees and others to use, if required. If an employee reporting a violation wishes to remain anonymous, all reasonable steps are taken to keep their identity confidential. All communications are taken seriously and, if warranted, any reports of violations are investigated. The company does not retaliate, or allow retaliation in any form, in regard to any reports made by an employee in good faith. There were no whistleblowing reports made in 2020.
Protecting employee, customer and company data held at Belships is critically important to us. We want our employees and business partners to be confident that their data is safe and secure and we are transparent in how we use it. We are committed to doing the right thing when it comes to how we collect, use and protect data. We comply with all applicable data privacy and protection requirements in the countries in which we operate, including the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). There were no reports of data privacy or security breaches in 2020.
We expect our suppliers to operate to the same ESG standards as we do. This includes compliance with all relevant legal requirements, environmental standards, fair employment practices and prohibiting any form of child, forced or compulsory labor. We set out very clearly our expectation on these matters in our contract dealing with suppliers. We are guided by principles such as those in the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights, and the International Labour Organization's Core Conventions regarding child labor, forced labor, freedom of association, the right to organize and bargain collectively, equal pay, and nondiscrimination in the workforce. There were no reported supplier violations of these principles or conventions in 2020.
2) www.belships.com/corporate-governance 3) www.danskebank.com/equityresearch Sector report, 18/10/2020 (login required)

In the early days of 2020, there were reports about shutdowns of steel production in the Wuhan region due to an unnamed virus. Little was known at that point about the global catastrophe which followed, as lockdown measures were enforced to prevent the spread of the disease. Financial markets panicked, economic data plunged to depths obscuring all other short-term movements going back over 100 years, and unemployment rates soared to heights dwarfing the levels seen during the worst of the financial crisis. The Capesize market fell to rock bottom levels in late January and stayed there until early April, whereas the Panamax and Supramax segments fared better primarily helped by grain shipments.
However, China started ramping up activity already by April. There were significant economic stimulus measures in the pipeline even before heading into 2020 and these have been expanded further because of the shutdowns. Historically, the steepest economic downturns have been followed by the steepest economic upturns. The COVID recession was and still is centered on the service sector.
The middle of May marked the bottom, after which the Supramax market swiftly returned above breakeven levels as the second half of the year saw Supramaxes average USD 10 300 per day.
During the uncertain and tumultuous months between February and May, asset values were under pressure and displayed some negative trends. Many anticipated values falling to the levels of previous down cycle in late 2015/early 2016. However, the swiftness of the market rebound, almost singlehandedly driven by Chinese demand, was too apparent for this to happen.
Second-hand values did not rise much during the second half of the year despite the freight markets recovering, as sentiment remained subdued and outlook unclear. The market for newbuildings remained very quiet throughout the year, with prices continuously under pressure leaving ordering activity historically low. According to Fearnleys, only 5 million deadweight tonnes in total was placed for order, which is the lowest levels observed since 2016 (and before that the early 1990s). Another comparison is that during 2013 and 2014 there were 1,961 vessels placed for order, whereas between 2015-2020 we registered 1,744 vessel orders (1,062 of these were Tier IIs "placed" in 2015). Ordering activity has remained low for several years now, with the orderbook to existing fleet ratio dropping to only 5% (in terms of number of ships).
The average rates ended up at USD 7 800 net per day for Supramaxes. Total dry bulk supply growth ended at 4.9%, with registered demand growth being
negative with about -2.5%. Coal fared the worst as discharge volumes ended -10.5% lower than 2019 levels. Minor bulk commodities were also hit hard by the COVID lockdowns, as GDP growth is a main driver, falling by -6.3% compared to 2019. Grains were the best performing commodity group, rising by just under 7%, driven by strong soy bean demand from China. Iron ore trades also fared better than in 2019, growing by 1.8%, driven solely by China as the rest of the world's demand contracted.
Towards the end of the year rates and sale and purchase markets developed positively evidencing a more normalised market since the outbreak of COVID-19. According to Fearnleys new vessel deliveries also dropped confirming that the orderbook has passed the peak in terms of deliveries. The orderbook delivery schedule for 2021 predict deliveries will be 20 per cent lower than 2020, with 115 vessels scheduled for 2021 against 143 vessels delivered in 2020. In 2022, just 45 vessels are currently scheduled for delivery, which would be the lowest number of deliveries since 2000. In relative terms, however, we are heading towards the lowest rate of supply growth in almost 30 years.
The Group's solvency and financial position is strong. At the end of 2020, the book equity per share was NOK 5.63 (NOK 6.46), corresponding to an equity ratio of 32 per cent. Total book value of ships owned or leased was USD 377.6m, while the consolidated cash balance was USD 34.0m. Net cash flow from operating activities amount to USD 13.7m (USD 20.6m) compared to an EBITDA of USD 24.0m (USD 34.7m). The difference between net cash flow from operating activities and EBITDA primarily relates to interest expenses included in net cash flow from operating activities and changes in net working capital. Total mortgage debt amounted to USD 141.7m, while total lease obligations were USD 139.7m.
In 2020, the Group raised USD 11.5m of equity in a ship-for-share transaction to acquire the vessel Belhaven.
In 2020, the loan agreement related to the vessel BELLIGHT (ex SOFIE VICTORY) was amended in order to prolong the maturity and reduce the interest margin. The group's mortgage debt now comprises two loan facilities, both with a margin of 275 basis points above LIBOR and maturity in Q2 2024.
At the end of each reporting period, the Group assesses whether there are any impairment indicators present. The company has concluded that the Covid-19 outbreak represents an impairment indicator pursuant to IAS 36. Consequently, the Group carried out an impairment test of ships owned or recognised as right of-use assets per year-end. During 2020 a total impairment of USD 5.0 million was recognized.
At the end of 2020, Belships held 388 000 treasury shares at an average cost of NOK 9.91 per share. The CEO held 5 000 000 options while remaining employees held 400 000 options at year-end.
The Group's market risk exposure mainly relates to changes in freight rates, interest rates and fuel prices. Belships aims to minimize counterpart risk and time charter contracts are entered into with reputable charterers. The Group had no research and development costs in 2020.
All ships are owned by Norwegian companies and eight of the companies in the group are within the Norwegian tonnage tax regime. The Group had tax losses carried forward of USD 107.4 million as at 31 December 2020. No deferred tax benefits were recognized in the balance sheet.
BELNOR and BELISLAND continued in 2020 on their long-term charter parties to Canpotex Shipping Services Ltd., Canada, who is one of the world's largest exporters of fertilizer products.
BELMONT, BELFOREST and BELNIPPON were on time charter to Cargill, a leader within agricultural services.
BELLIGHT was chartered to Drylog — a leading operator within drybulk markets — until March 2021 at an index-based rate with a minimum floor above current market levels. The remaining fleet are operated in the spot market by Belships' subsidiaries in the Lighthouse Navigation group. Net earnings in 2020 per ship for the entire fleet amounted to USD 8 783 net per day versus BSI index of USD 7 772, representing a 13 per cent premium. In addition, Lighthouse Navigation on average operated 28 ships on short-term charter during 2020.
Belships took delivery of 4 Ultramax vessels during 2020. The Group entered into an agreement with Marti Shipping & Ship Management of Turkey for a bareboat charter and subsequent sale of PACIFIC LIGHT in February. BELFORT was sold during Q4 2020 and BELORIENT was sold during Q1 2021. Vessels will be delivered to buyer during first half of 2021. The company's fleet is modern with an average age of 5 years and all ships operated satisfactorily without significant off-hire. The operating expenses continued at a competitive level.
Belships Management (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. expanded its number of ships under technical management during 2020 to 21 ships.
The Group had an operating income of USD 165.4m in 2020 (USD 131.3m), giving an EBITDA of USD 24.0m (USD 34.7m) and a consolidated operating result
of USD -4.6m (USD 18.1m). The 2020 result includes impairment on vessels of USD 5.0m. Result before tax was USD -17.2m (USD 6.8m), while net result for the Group was USD -17.7m (USD 5.1m).
The parent company's net result for the year was USD 0.0m (USD 12.4m).
| The Board proposes the result for the year | |
|---|---|
| allocated as follows: | |
| Transfer to other retained earnings | 0.0m |
| Total allocations | 0.0m |
The annual accounts are presented on a going concern basis in accordance with § 3 – 3 of the Norwegian Accounting Act. The Group's liquidity reserves are considered robust.
Current activity is expected to generate sufficient liquidity to cover current debt and operating expenses throughout 2021. Based on this, the Board considers that the conditions for a going concern are in place.
In the opinion of the Board, the consolidated accounts have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU.
The information in the accounts gives a true and accurate representation of the company's and the Group's assets, liabilities, financial position and results. The annual accounts give a fair view of the development, profit and overall financial position of Belships ASA and describe the most significant risks and uncertainties facing the Group and the parent company.
Belships aims to minimize environmental impact from its activities, and strives to improve safety. Measures are taken to prevent and minimise the impact on the environment. Belships works consciously to improve standards, both on board and ashore. Pollution from ship operations is governed by several national and international environmental standards and certifications. Belships meets official requirements in terms of safety and the environment.
All of our ships are equipped to meet regulatory standards and requirements and the modern fleet of Belships represents lower emissions and energy consumption compared to industry averages.
Belships is headquartered in Oslo, from where it conducts financial, strategic development and investor relations together with the overall management of the Group's activities. Chartering is handled from our commercial operations in Bangkok, Oslo, Singapore and Melbourne. Insurance is handled from Bangkok and technical management including crewing is organised from Singapore.



Commercial operations increased significantly in 2020 despite the Covid-19 pandemic with the opening of new offices in Oslo, Singapore and Melbourne. The Group employed 143 office staff at the end of 2020. Ships under technical management employed 313 officers and crewmembers.
Sick leave was less than 2 per cent in 2020.
The Group was not subject to any serious accidents in 2020. Belships treats women and men equally.
No discrimination on the grounds of gender is tolerated. Of the Group's office staff, 44 per cent are women. The working environment in the companies within the Group is considered to be good.
Belships' goals and strategy are based on sound principles of corporate governance. The Company has been listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange since 1937, and is subject to the Norwegian Accounting Act, the Securities Trading Act and the Public Limited Company Act.
Belships follows the Norwegian code of good corporate governance of 17 October 2018. Please see the separate statement of corporate governance that appears as a section of the annual report in its own right.
Belships is a shipping company with global reach and a hundred years of history. The Board is well aware of the direct and indirect impact Belships' activities have on the outside world as well as the company's shareholders. Belships is determined to create longterm shareholder values and at the same time act as a responsible participant in the society.
The most important issues for our business and our shareholders in respect of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) are:
It is our policy to follow the standards, laws and regulations set by the national and international maritime regulatory authorities, but also the moral and ethical behaviour as set by our culture. Belships reports on safety and environment in the annual report.
Belships does not tolerate any corrupt practices with our suppliers, customers or government entities
affecting our business. Belships do pay attention to the working conditions and safety within our own operations. Please see the separate statement of corporate social responsibility that appears as a section of the annual report in its own right.
The Baltic exchange Supramax index YTD 2021 has averaged at about USD 16 300 net per day and in general the dry cargo market has had its strongest start to the year in a decade. There has been a remarkable develop ment over the past couple of months. A cold winter season sparked energy demand, coupled with a wider rally in commodity markets resulting in increased cargo volumes in all regions. Usual seasonal weakness vanished in a very short amount of time and Chinese New Year marked the start of the year of the Ox.
At the time of writing the Baltic Supramax Index is about USD 19 500 per day. As we mentioned in previous reports, the supply side has passed the peak of deliveries and the publicly quoted orderbook for our segment now stands below 5 per cent – which is historically low. Even with increased bunker prices the average sailing speed has increased confirming an improved rate of vessel utilisation. Freight Forward Agreements (FFA) currently indicate a market for Supramax and Ultramax of about USD 14 500 and 16 000 net per day for the remaining part of the year.
We remain optimistic in terms of market prospects, and with the worst of the pandemic likely behind us we are seeing signs of solid demand fundamentals which points towards a very strong dry cargo market. At the time of writing Belships has most of the fleet open for the remaining part of 2021 and onwards. We are actively pursuing opportunities for further growth.
We do not intend to propose a dividend for the financial year ended 31st Dec 2020. We expect that the company's growth initiatives will lead to increased profitability. A competitive return is to be obtained through growth in the value of the company's shares and the payment of competitive dividends, as measured by the total return.
Belships has a uniform and modern fleet of 25 Supramax/Ultramax bulk carriers well positioned to capitalise on a potential recovery towards historical averages for vessel values. We are focused on maintaining a solid balance sheet and liquidity position. Our strategy is to continue developing Belships as an owner and operator of geared bulk carriers, through quality of operations and accretive growth opportunities.
Oslo, 28 April 2021 Peter Frølich Sissel Grefsrud Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe Jorunn Seglem Chairman of the Board Board member Board member Board member
Carl Erik Steen Frode Teigen Sverre J. Tidemand Lars Christian Skarsgård Board member Board member Board member Chief Executive Officer

The Board and Chief Executive Officer have today considered and approved the annual report and financial statements for the Belships group and its parent company Belships ASA for 2020.
The Board has based this declaration on reports and statements from the Group's chairman and CEO, on the results of the group's activities and on other information that is essential to assess the Group's position, provided to the Board of the parent company under obligation by the Group's administration and subsidiaries.
To the best of our knowledge:
Chairman of the Board Board member Board member Board member
Oslo, 28 April 2021 Peter Frølich Sissel Grefsrud Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe Jorunn Seglem
Carl Erik Steen Frode Teigen Sverre J. Tidemand Lars Christian Skarsgård Board member Board member Board member Chief Executive Officer
25
| USD 1 000 Note 2020 2019 OPERATING INCOME Gross freight income 220 332 153 909 Voyage expenses -61 065 -30 243 Net freight income 159 267 123 666 Management fees 6 095 7 650 Total operating income 165 362 131 316 4,5 OPERATING EXPENSES Share of result from joint venture and associated companies 3 052 2 715 11 T/C hire expenses -90 401 -49 825 7 Ship operating expenses -38 675 -33 558 20 Operating expenses ship management -3 490 -4 125 20 Payroll expenses -7 944 -6 894 14 Other general administrative expenses -3 918 -4 921 15 Total operating expenses -141 376 -96 608 EBITDA 23 986 34 708 -27 286 Depreciations and amortisation -23 074 6 Impairment -4 957 0 6 Gain on sale of ships 2 469 4 381 1 165 Other gains 2 119 Operating result (EBIT) -4 623 18 134 FINANCIAL INCOME AND EXPENSES Interest income 985 283 Interest expenses -13 668 -10 522 7,10 Currency exchange gain/(loss) 875 -13 Other financial items -729 -1 127 Net financial items -12 537 -11 379 Net result before tax -17 160 6 755 Tax -583 -1 655 19 Net result for the year -17 743 5 100 Hereof majority interests -19 898 3 487 Hereof non-controlling interests 2 155 1 613 11 Earnings per share (USD) -0.08 0.03 13 Diluted earnings per share (USD) -0.08 0.03 13 |
1 January-31 December | Consolidated | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 January-31 December | Consolidated | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Note | 2020 | 2019 |
| Net result for the year | -17 743 | 5 100 | |
| Other comprehensive income not to be reclassified to profit or loss in subsequent periods: Actuarial gain/(loss) on defined benefit plan |
17 | -10 | -10 |
| Items that may be subsequently reclassified to profit or (loss): Exchange differences |
63 | 167 | |
| Total comprehensive income | -17 690 | 5 257 | |
| Hereof majority interests Hereof non-controlling interests |
-19 761 2 071 |
3 557 1 700 |
| 1 January-31 December | Consolidated | |
|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 Note |
2020 | 2019 |
| NON-CURRENT ASSETS | ||
| Intangible assets Contracts |
1 770 | 4 629 |
| Tangible fixed assets | ||
| Ships, owned 6 |
214 494 | 213 052 |
| Ships, right-of-use assets 6 |
157 143 | 92 720 |
| Prepayment of ships Property, Plant and Equipment 6 |
3 000 4 878 |
6 000 4 790 |
| Total fixed assets | 379 515 | 316 562 |
| Financial fixed assets | ||
| Financial investments 11 |
2 123 | 3 303 |
| Cash and cash equivalents (restricted) 8 |
205 | 215 |
| Other non-current receivables | 5 189 | 8 096 |
| Total financial assets | 7 517 | 11 614 |
| Total non-current assets | 388 802 | 332 805 |
| CURRENT ASSETS | ||
| Ship, held for sale 6 |
5 917 | 0 |
| Bunker inventory | 5 344 | 5 832 |
| Trade debtors | 11 574 | 1 419 |
| Other receivables Cash and cash equivalents (restricted) 8 |
18 857 188 |
13 157 169 |
| Cash and cash equivalents 8 |
33 797 | 44 259 |
| Total current assets | 75 677 | 64 836 |
| Total assets | 464 479 | 397 641 |
| EQUITY | ||
| Paid-in capital | 137 962 | 125 927 |
| Retained earnings Non-controlling interests |
5 956 6 099 |
25 717 4 471 |
| Total equity 12 |
150 017 | 156 115 |
| LIABILITIES | ||
| Provision for liabilities | ||
| Pension obligations 17 |
760 | 745 |
| Other non-current liabilities | ||
| Mortgage debt 10 |
119 561 | 127 249 |
| Lease liabilities 7 Other non-current liabilities |
127 754 2 009 |
73 646 2 315 |
| Total other non-current liabilities | 249 324 | 203 210 |
| Current liabilities | ||
| Current portion of mortgage debt 10 |
22 176 | 9 388 |
| Current portion of lease liability 7 |
11 986 | 7 315 |
| Tax payable 19 |
745 | 1 450 |
| Public taxes and duties payable | 600 | 260 |
| Trade creditors Other current liabilities |
12 511 16 359 |
1 851 17 308 |
| Total current liabilities | 64 378 | 37 571 |
| Total liabilities | 314 462 | 241 526 |
Total equity and liabilities 464 479 397 641
Oslo, 28 April 2021 Peter Frølich Sissel Grefsrud Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe Jorunn Seglem Chairman of the Board Board member Board member Board member
Carl Erik Steen Frode Teigen Sverre J. Tidemand Lars Christian Skarsgård Board member Board member Board member Chief Executive Officer
| 1 January-31 December | Consolidated | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Note | 2020 | 2019 |
| CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS | |||
| Net result before tax | -17 160 | 6 755 | |
| Adjustments to reconcile result before tax to net cash flows: | |||
| Depreciations/impairment on fixed assets | 6 | 32 243 | 23 074 |
| Gain on sale of ships | 6 | -2 469 | -4 381 |
| Share-based compensation expense | 16 | 545 | 23 |
| Difference between pension expenses and paid pension premium | 17 | -66 | -51 |
| Share of result from joint venture and associated companies | 11 | -3 052 | -2 715 |
| Net finance costs | 12 537 | 11 379 | |
| Working capital adjustments: | |||
| Change in trade debtors and trade creditors | 506 | 629 | |
| Change in other current items | 4 422 | -3 413 | |
| Interest received | 985 | 283 | |
| Interest paid | 7,10 | -13 668 | -10 359 |
| Income tax paid | 19 | -1 119 | -632 |
| Net cash flow from operating activities | 13 704 | 20 592 | |
| CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | |||
| Payment of ships | 6 | -15 250 | -21 500 |
| Received instalments from sale of ships | 2 615 | 804 | |
| Payment of other investments | -5 672 | -2 549 | |
| Net cash flow from investing activities | -18 307 | -23 245 | |
| CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | |||
| Proceeds from non-current debt | 10 | 14 700 | 123 755 |
| Paid-in capital | 0 | 8 021 | |
| Repayment of non-current debt | 10 | -20 101 | -114 876 |
| Dividend paid | 0 | -1 205 | |
| Dividend to non-controlling interests | -439 | -648 | |
| Net cash flow from financing activities | -5 840 | 15 047 | |
| Net change in cash and cash equivalents during the period | -10 443 | 12 394 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January | 44 428 | 32 034 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December * | 33 985 | 44 428 |
*) Includes restricted cash. See note 8.
| Paid-in Retained |
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Share capital |
Treasury shares |
Share premium reserves |
Other equity |
Other equity |
Non controlling interest |
Total equity |
| At 31 December 2020 | |||||||
| Equity as at 31 December 2019 | 50 430 | -166 | 39 499 | 36 191 | 25 717 | 4 471 | 156 115 |
| Share issue | 3 214 | 0 | 8 276 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 11 490 |
| Share-based payment expense | 0 | 0 | 0 | 545 | 0 | 0 | 545 |
| NCI transactions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -443 | -443 |
| Net result for the year | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -19 898 | 2 155 | -17 743 |
| Other comprehensive income | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 137 | -84 | 53 |
| Total comprehensive income | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -19 761 | 2 071 | -17 690 |
| Equity as at 31 December 2020 | 53 617 | -166 | 47 775 | 36 736 | 5 956 | 6 099 | 150 017 |
| As at 31 December 2019 | |||||||
| Equity as at 31 December 2018 | 41 870 | -166 | 18 166 | 37 000 | 23 738 | 3 174 | 123 782 |
| Share issue (incl. share issue exps.) | 8 533 | 0 | 21 333 | -832 | 0 | 0 | 29 034 |
| Dividend paid | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 205 | 0 | -1 205 |
| Share-based payment expense | 0 | 0 | 0 | 23 | 0 | 0 | 23 |
| Adoption of IFRS 16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -373 | 0 | -373 |
| NCI transactions | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -403 | -403 |
| Net result for the year | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 487 | 1 613 | 5 100 |
| Other comprehensive income | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 70 | 87 | 157 |
| Total comprehensive income | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 3 557 | 1 700 | 5 257 |
| Equity as at 31 December 2019 | 50 403 | -166 | 39 499 | 36 191 | 25 717 | 4 471 | 156 115 |
All amounts in the notes are in USD 1 000 unless otherwise stated
The Group is a fully integrated owner and operator of dry bulk ships. The company also provides commercial and technical ship management services.
Belships ASA is a public limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in Norway and listed on Oslo Stock Exchange. The head office is located in Lilleakerveien 6D in Oslo, Norway.
Copies of the consolidated financial statements may be downloaded from www.belships.com, or by inquiry to the company's head office.
The consolidated financial statements have been approved by the Board on 21 April 2021. Belships has obtained approval from Oslo Stock Exchange and Norwegian tax authorities to publish its financial statements only in English.
The consolidated financial statements of Belships ASA (the "Parent Company"), and all its subsidiaries (the "Group"), have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union (IFRS). The Group accounts have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for derivatives and shares held for trading, which are measured at fair value.
The Group accounts are presented with uniform accounting principles for identical transactions and events under otherwise identical conditions.
The annual accounts are presented on a going concern basis.
The Board considers that the conditions for a going concern are in place.
Control is achieved when the Group is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee.
Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Group obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when the Group loses control of the subsidiary.
Unrealised gains from transactions with affiliated companies are eliminated with the Group's share of the company/enterprise.
Unrealised losses are likewise eliminated, but only to the degree that there is no indication of loss of value on the asset being sold internally.
Accounting transactions undertaken by respective Group companies use the currency ordinarily used by the financial environment in which they operate (functional currency). The Group accounts are presented in USD.
The accounts for the units in the Group which have a functional currency different from the Group's reporting currency, convert their accounts into the reporting currency according to the following guidelines:
Transactions in foreign currency are converted to the functional currency at the rate at time of the transaction. Monetary items in foreign currency are converted into functional currency using the rate at the balance sheet date. Non-monetary items which are measured at historical cost expressed in foreign currency, are converted into functional currency using the currency rate at the time of the transaction.
Non-monetary items, which are measured at fair value expressed in foreign currency, are converted at the currency rate on the date of measurement. Currency rate changes are recognised continuously against profit and loss during the accounting period. Currency rates at year end was USD 8.5326 (2019: USD 8.7803) and SGD 6.4560 (2019: SGD 6.5276).
Trade and other receivables are measured at transaction price upon initial recognition and subsequently measured at amortized costs.
Tangible fixed assets are measured at acquisition cost, net of accumulated depreciation and impairments losses. When assets are sold or divested, the carrying amount is deducted and any gains or losses are recognised in the profit and loss account. Acquisition cost for tangible fixed assets is the purchase price, including taxes and charges and expenses directly related to preparing the asset for use. Expenses incurred after the asset has been put to use, are recognised in the profit and loss account, whereas other expenses which are expected to create future financial gains are capitalised. An estimated docking element is recognised as a separate component of the ship for depreciation purposes on the first occasion a ship is booked in the accounts. The amount corresponds to the estimated docking costs for the period. The docking component is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the period to the next planned drydocking. Residual value has been taken into account, and this is estimated based on steel value of the ship at the balance sheet date less estimated cost to demolish the ship. Book value is compared to market value and value in use to assess the need for any further impairment compared to the ordinary depreciation plan. At the end of each reporting period, every fixed asset is assessed for impairment indicators as described under section O) Impairment of assets. The
depreciation period and method are assessed annually and are based on the management's estimates of the ships' future useful life. The same applies to residual value.
In accordance with IFRS, the ships have been separated into components for depreciation purposes. The ships are depreciated as one unit, as the value of any part of the ship with a useful lifetime other than 25 years is considered to be insignificant.
Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful life of the ships taking its residual value into consideration. The useful life, which is also considered as the economic life of the ships, has been estimated to 25 years. Residual value is estimated based on steel prices of the ships less cost to demolish and is reassessed every year-end. Dry docking expenses are depreciated until next planned dry docking, typically 30-60 months.
Other assets have a useful life of 3-5 years, except for the office premises in Singapore in which the useful life is estimated at 57 years.
The liability arising from leasing agreements is recognised at net present value of remaining lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. Interests are charged to the statement of income over the lease period. The associated right-of-use asset equals the initial lease liability adjusted for payments made before the lease commencement date and initial direct costs. After the commencement date, the right-of-use asset is depreciated in accordance with the requirements in IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment. At the end of each reporting period, every right of use asset is assessed for impairment indicators as described under section O) Impairment of assets.
The Group has chosen the option to allocate the service component embedded in all long-term time charter contracts to ship operation expenses.
The Group has also elected to use the recognition exemptions for lease contracts that, at the commencement date, have a lease term of 12 months or less and do not contain a purchase option (short-term leases), and lease contracts for which the underlying asset is of low value (low-value assets).
Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognized when the Company becomes party to the contractual obligations of the relevant instrument.
The Company classifies its financial instruments in the following categories: at fair value through profit and loss ("FVTPL") or at amortized cost. The Group determines the classification of financial instruments at initial recognition. Currently, the Group does not apply hedge accounting
Financial instruments at fair value through profit and loss This category comprises financial assets and liabilities held for trading, including all derivative instruments. Financial instruments in this category are initially recorded at fair value, and transaction costs are expensed in the consolidated statement of profit and loss. Realized and unrealized gains and losses arising from changes in the fair value are included in the consolidated statements of profit and loss in the period in which they arise.
Financial assets and liabilities in this category are initially recognized at fair value, and subsequently carried at amortized cost, using the effective interest method less any allowance for impairment. This category includes accounts receivable, accounts payable, loans, lease liabilities and other borrowings.
The Group currently has some minor equity investments not considered significant (see note 11) in unlisted shares. Financial assets at FVTPL are carried in the statements of financial position at fair value with net changes in fair value recognized in profit or loss.
At each reporting date, the Company measures the loss allowance for the trade receivables and contract asset at an amount equal to the lifetime expected credit losses. For accounts receivables and contract assets, the Group uses a simplified approach in calculating expected credit losses. The Company recognizes a loss allowance using factors including aging of accounts, historical experience, customer concentration, customer creditworthiness and current industry and economic trends. An impairment loss, amounting to any difference between the carrying amount of the loss allowance and the expected credit losses at the reporting date, is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit and loss. Expected credit loss is immaterial.
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to reduce its exposure related to fluctuations interest rates.
Derivative instruments are recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position at their fair values. Realized and unrealized gains and losses attributable to derivative instruments are recognized as other financial items, net, as they arise.
Financial liabilities are classified at initial recognition as financial liabilities at FVTPL, loans and borrowings or payables.
All financial liabilities are recognized initially at fair value and, in the case of loans/borrowings and payables net of directly attributable transaction costs. The group's financial liabilities include trade and other payables and loans.
The subsequent measurement depends on classification. No financial liabilities have currently been designated at FVTPL. Interest-bearing loans are after initial recognition measured at amortized cost using the effective interest rate method. Gains and losses are recognized in profit or loss when the liability through the amortization process or when derecognized.
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date, using assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability.
All assets and liabilities for which fair values are measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorized within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:
A provision is recognised when the company has a liability (legal or constructive) as a result of a previous event and where it is probable (more probable than not) that there will be a financial settlement as a result of this liability and that the size of the sum can be reliably determined. If the effect is material, the provision is estimated by discounting the expected future cash flow with a discount rate before tax which reflects the market's evaluation of the time value of money and, if relevant, risks specifically connected to the liability.
A provision is recognised for any unavoidable net loss arising from the contract, the unavoidable cost under a contract reflect the least net cost of exiting from the contract, i.e. the lower of the cost of fulfilling the contract; and any compensation of penalties arising from failure to fulfil the contract.
Financial instruments are classified as debt or equity according to the underlying substance of the contractual agreement. Interest, dividend, gains and losses related to a financial instrument classified as debt, is presented as income or expense.
Own equity instruments that are reacquired (treasury shares) are recognised at cost and deducted from equity. No gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the Group's own equity instruments. Any difference between the carrying amount and the consideration, if reissued, is recognised in share premium. Share options exercised during the reporting period are fulfilled with treasury shares.
Transaction costs directly related to equity transactions are charged directly against the equity after tax deductions.
Revenue recognition in the Group relates to three different types of revenue;
The Group considers time charter contracts to contain both lease and service components. For time charter contracts where the Group acts as lessor and which does not transfer substantially all risks and rewards incidental to ownership of the ship are accounted as operational leases. Revenues are recognised in accordance with IFRS 15 and the Group only recognises time charter revenue when the ships are on-hire. The contract period starts when the ships is made available to the customer and ends on agreed return date. When the ships are off-hire the Group does not recognise any time charter revenues except if the contracts can be negotiated with rates and for periodical maintenance days in accordance with contract, on which revenue is recognised. Time charter agreements where the Group acts as lessee are accounted in accordance with IFRS 16 (See item F.
In a Voyage Charter contract, the charterer hires the ship to transport a specific agreed-upon cargo for a single voyage. The consideration for such a contract is determined on the basis of a freight rate per metric ton of cargo carried or occasionally on a lump sum basis. The charterer is responsible for any short loading of cargo or dead freight. The voyage charter party generally has standard payment terms of 90/95% freight paid within three to five days after completion of loading.
We have determined that our voyage charter contracts consist of a single performance obligation of transporting the cargo within a specified period. Therefore, the performance obligation is met evenly as the voyage progresses through recognition of revenues and costs on a straight line basis over the estimated voyage days from the commencement of loading to completion of discharge.
Costs to obtain a voyage contract is immediately expensed as the Group has elected to apply the optional practical expedients for contracts expected to be recognized within a year.
The Group also provides technical services, crewing, port agency and logistical services on ships not operated by the Group. Revenue on such services are recognised over time, as the performance obligation is satisfied over time.
For such revenue, the Group has a right to consideration from the customer in an amount that corresponds directly with the value to the customer of the Group's performance completed to date. This revenue is classified as Management fees.
All current employees in Norwegian companies are member of the company's defined contribution scheme. The premium is charged as incurred by operations. Social security tax expense is recognized based on the pension plan payments.
Actuarial gains and losses arising from changes in actuarial assumptions are recognised as other comprehensive income in the period in which they arise. The cost of providing benefits under the defined benefit plan is determined using the projected unit credit method.
The company has unfunded pension liabilities. These relate to early retirement and pension to persons, that have not been included in the service pension scheme. Pension obligations are estimated by an independent actuary.
A joint venture is a type of joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control have the right to the net assets of the joint venture. Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control of the arrangement, which exists only when decisions about relevant activities require unanimous consent of the parties sharing control.
An associate is an entity in which the Group has significant influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee but is not control or joint control over those policies.
The Group's investments in joint ventures and associates are accounted for by using the equity method. Under this method, the investment is initially recognized at cost. Goodwill relating the associate or joint venture is included in the carrying amount of the investment and not tested for impairment individually.
The income statement reflects the Group's share of the net result after tax of the associate or joint venture. Any depreciation or amortization of the Group's excess values are included the net result from the joint ventures.
Any change in other comprehensive income of the associate or joint venture is presented separately in the Group's other comprehensive income.
Contingent liabilities are not recognised in the annual accounts. Significant contingent liabilities are disclosed, with the exception of contingent liabilities in which the possibility of loss is considered remote.
Contingent assets are not recognised in the annual accounts but are disclosed if there is a certain probability that a significant benefit will be added to the Group.
Tax expenses consist of tax payable and changes in deferred tax. Deferred tax/tax assets are calculated on all differences between accounting values and tax values of assets and liabilities, with the exception of temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries, affiliated companies or jointly controlled enterprises when the Group controls when the temporary differences will be reversed, and that is not expected to occur in the foreseeable future.
Deferred tax assets are recognised when it is likely that the company will have sufficient profit for tax purposes in subsequent periods that will enable the company to utilize the tax asset. Similarly, the company will reduce the deferred tax asset to the extent the company no longer regards it as being likely that it can utilize the deferred tax asset.
Deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets are measured on the basis of prevailing tax rates for the companies in the Group where temporary differences have occurred, based on tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period.
Tax payable is calculated with the tax rate in the actual tax regime. Deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets are entered at nominal value calculated with the tax rate in the actual tax regime and are classified as long-term liability or intangible fixed asset in the balance sheet. Tax payable and deferred tax are entered directly against equity to the extent the tax items relate to equity transactions.
In addition to companies subject to ordinary taxation in Norway, Singapore and China, the Group consists of companies within the shipping taxation scheme in Norway and Singapore. The deferred tax positions associated with the different tax regimes cannot be offset. A corresponding situation also applies to tax positions between jointly controlled operations and the rest of the Group. These cannot be offset.
At the end of each reporting period, every ship is assessed for impairment indicators. The same applies when events or changes occur that may entail that the asset's carrying amount may not be recovered. In assessing the need for impairments, assets are grouped at the lowest level at which there is identifiable and predominantly independent cash inflows, which means per ship. Impairment is calculated as the difference between the asset's carrying amount and the value considered as recoverable. The recoverable amount is the higher of the asset's fair value less cost to sell and its value-in-use to the Group. Value-in-use is calculated by discounting anticipated future cash flows from the asset. When it is assumed that the asset's value is lower than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognised.
Impairment loss recognised in earlier periods is reversed only in case of changes to the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. However, the reversal amount may only be so high that book value after reversal at most corresponds to the value at which the asset would have been registered if it had not been impaired earlier. Such reversals are recorded in the profit and loss.
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use are capitalised as part of the cost of the asset. All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.
New information after the balance sheet date regarding the company's financial position as of the balance sheet date is taken into consideration in the annual accounts. Events after the balance sheet date that do not affect the company's financial position as of the balance sheet date, but which will have an impact on the company's financial position in the future are disclosed if significant.
Employees and management in Belships ASA have received options to purchase company shares. Market value of the awarded options is measured at time of the award and charged to expense over the vesting period as a payroll cost with corresponding increase in other paid-in equity. The market value of the options granted is estimated using the Black and Scholes option pricing model.
Cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, bank deposits and other short-term and in particular liquid investments to be redeemed within 3 months. Cash and cash equivalents are recognised at nominal values in the balance sheet.
Restricted cash include all deposits in separate accounts, which will be used to cover accrued taxes withheld for employees and deposits provided as security for certain guarantees.
Operating segments are components of a business that are evaluated regularly by the chief operating decision maker for the purpose of assessing performance and allocating resources. The Groups chief operating decision maker is the CEO. The Group is divided into the operating segments dry bulk and technical management. The dry bulk segment is further divided into 2 reportable segments: own ships (owned or leased) and ships operated in the spot market and operation/commercial management (Lighthouse Navigation) , which is how the information is presented to the Management and the Board. Transactions between the business units are based on market conditions. Segment turnover, segment costs and segment results include transactions between segments.
Transactions with related parties are carried out at market terms. See note 9 for further information.
The cash flow statement has been prepared using the indirect method. Liquid assets include cash, bank deposits (restricted and unrestricted) and other short-term investments which can be converted to cash within 3 months. For restricted deposits, see note 8.
The Group presents assets and liabilities in statement of financial position based on current/non-current classification.
An asset is considered current when it is:
or
• cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period
All other assets are classified as non-current.
A liability is considered current when it is:
or
• there is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period
The Group classifies all other liabilities as non-current. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as noncurrent assets and liabilities.
Assets are classified as held-for-sale when the following criteria are met:
Assets classified as held-for-sale are measured at the lower of their carrying value or fair value less the costs of disposal. Held-for-sale assets are no longer depreciated and are shown separately in the financial statements.
Preparing the annual accounts in accordance with IFRS as adopted by EU requires the management to use estimates and assumptions affecting the amounts reported in the accounts with notes. The management assumptions and valuations are based on past experience and on miscellaneous other factors assumed to be reasonable and appropriate. This applies in particular to impairment assessment of ships. Future events can entail a change in these estimates. Estimates and the underlying assumptions are evaluated on an ongoing basis.
Changes in accounting estimates are entered in the period when the changes occur. If the changes also apply to future periods, the effect is distributed over the current and future periods and appears in the current note.
The Group assess whether there are any impairment indicators present at the end of each reporting period. If an impairment indicator is identified, the Group carries out impairment tests pursuant to IAS 36. The Group also assess whether previous recorded impairment charges should be reversed.
Impairment test calculations demand a significant degree of estimation. The Group considers each ship as a separate cash generating unit and has compared recoverable amounts against carrying amounts at the end of the year. Recoverable amounts are based on observable market values or value in use calculations. Value-in-use values have been derived from calculation of present value of estimated cash flows over the useful life of the ship.
The value-in-use calculations of the Group's owned and leased ships are mainly sensitive to changes in revenue and cost of capital assumptions. Revenues have been based on the ships current contracts and long-term historical rates for equivalent ships. The useful life of assets and the method of depreciation are evaluated yearly. Remaining useful life is estimated on the date of the presentation of accounts.
Refer to note 6 for key assumptions used in the Group's impairment testing.
BELISLAND and BELNOR have been chartered to Canpotex Shipping Services Ltd in 2020. Canpotex is one of the world's largest exporters of potash, a fertilizer product imported in large volumes by countries such as China, India and Brazil.
BELMONT, BELNIPPON and BELFOREST have been chartered to Cargill, a leader within agricultural services. BELLIGHT* was chartered to Drylog until December 2020 at an index-based rate.
BELHAVEN,BELINDA,BELPAREIL,BELRAY and BELMORA have been chartered to various parties during 2020.
The remaining fleet have been operated in the spot market by Belships' subsidiary Lighthouse Navigation. Net earnings in 2020 per ship in for the entire fleet amounted to USD 8 783 versus BSI index of USD 7 772 net per day, representing a 13% premium to the market indices.
| USD per day | Maturity | Charterer | Domicile | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BELFOREST | 11 100 | May-21 | Cargill | United States |
| BELHAVEN | 13 750 | Sep-21 | Americas Bulk Transport | United States |
| BELINDA | 10 500 | Aug-21 | York Overseas Ltd | Bermuda |
| BELNOR | 16 415 | May-20 | Canpotex | Canada |
| BELISLAND | 17 750 | Jan-21 | Canpotex | Canada |
| BELMONT | 10 500 | Jan-22 | Cargill | United States |
| BELNIPPON | 10 000 | Jul-21 | Cargill | United States |
| BELPAREIL | 10 750 | Aug-21 | Bunge | United States |
| BELRAY | 11 500 | Jun-21 | Norden A/S | Denmark |
| BELMOIRA | 10 000 | May-21 | Pacific Basin | Hong Kong |
| BELLIGHT * | 11 400 | Dec-20 | Drylog United Kingdom |
* Index-based floor
The segment reporting is in accordance with the reporting to the Chief Operating Decision Maker (CEO).
Segment performance is evaluated based on profit or loss and is measured consistently with profit or loss in the consolidated financial statements. The Group's financing and income taxes are managed on a Group basis but are allocated to applicable operating segments.
Transfer prices between operating segments are on an arm's length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third parties.
Two customers accounted for more than 10% of the total turnover in 2020 and 2019, refer to note 4. Beyond that, the Group has no single customers in any segment neither in 2020 and 2019 which accounted for more than 10% of the total turnover.
The operating segments have worldwide activities. Shipping in general offers a global service covering major global trade routes. There are no particular focus on geographic region for ships as the charterers decide trade routes on individual basis. Consequently, no geographical segments have been presented other than the domicile of the largest charterers listed under note 4.
| 1 January - 31 December 2020 | Own ships |
Lighthouse | Ship Navigation management |
Admini- stration |
Group transactions |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gross freight revenue | 77 955 | 142 377 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 220 332 |
| Voyage expenses | -16 953 | -45 870 | 0 | 0 | 1 758 | -61 065 |
| Net freight revenue | 61 002 | 96 507 | 0 | 0 | 1 758 | 159 267 |
| Management fees | 0 | 6 167 | 5 480 | 0 | -5 552 | 6 095 |
| Operating income | 61 002 | 102 674 | 5 480 | 0 | -3 794 | 165 362 |
| Share of result from j/v and associated companies | 0 | 3 058 | -6 | 0 | 0 | 3 052 |
| T/C hire expenses | 0 | -90 401 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -90 401 |
| Ship operating expenses | -41 213 | -1 256 | 0 | 0 | 3 794 | -38 675 |
| Operating expenses ship management | 0 | 0 | -3 490 | 0 | 0 | -3 490 |
| General and administrative expenses | -358 | -8 371 | 0 | -3 133 | 0 | -11 862 |
| Operating expenses | -41 571 | -96 970 | -3 496 | -3 133 | 3 794 | -141 376 |
| EBITDA | 19 431 | 5 704 | 1 984 | -3 133 | 0 | 23 986 |
| Depreciation and amortisation | -24 717 | -2 165 | -221 | -183 | 0 | -27 286 |
| Impairment | -4 957 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -4 957 |
| Gain on sale of ship | 2 469 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 469 |
| Other gains | 1 165 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 1 165 |
| Operating result | -6 609 | 3 539 | 1 763 | -3 316 | 0 | -4 623 |
| Interest income | 937 | 21 | 17 | 10 | 0 | 985 |
| Interest expenses | -13 537 | -97 | -16 | -18 | 0 | -13 668 |
| Other financial items | -724 | -21 | 16 | 0 | 0 | -729 |
| Currency gains/(-losses) | 926 | -13 | -38 | 0 | 0 | 875 |
| Net financial items | -12 398 | -110 | -21 | -8 | 0 | -12 537 |
| Result before tax | -19 007 | 3 429 | 1 742 | -3 324 | 0 | -17 160 |
| Tax | -250 | 6 | -339 | 0 | 0 | -583 |
| Net result | -19 257 | 3 435 | 1 403 | -3 324 | 0 | -17 743 |
| Hereof majority interests | -19 257 | 1 496 | 1 187 | -3 324 | 0 | -19 898 |
| Hereof non-controlling interests | 0 | 1 939 | 216 | 0 | 0 | 2 155 |
| Assets | 409 261 | 42 348 | 5 036 | 7 834 | 0 | 464 479 |
| Liabilities | 286 584 | 23 946 | 2 352 | 1 580 | 0 | 314 462 |
| Cash flow from operating activities | 5 205 | 6 985 | 1 473 | -2 058 | 0 | 11 606 |
| Cash flow from investing activities | -18 307 | 0 | 0 | 764 | 0 | -17 543 |
| Cash flow from financing activities | -4 067 | -355 | -84 | 0 | 0 | -4 506 |
| 1 January - 31 December 2019 | Own ships |
Lighthouse | Ship Navigation management |
Admini- stration |
Group transactions |
Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gross freight revenue | 79 331 | 74 578 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 153 909 |
| Voyage expenses | -11 352 | -20 267 | 0 | 0 | 1 376 | -30 243 |
| Net freight revenue | 67 979 | 54 311 | 0 | 0 | 1 376 | 123 666 |
| Management fees | 0 | 6 005 | 5 303 | 0 | -3 658 | 7 650 |
| Operating income | 67 979 | 60 316 | 5 303 | 0 | -2 282 | 131 316 |
| Share of result from j/v and associated companies | 0 | 2 715 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 715 |
| T/C hire expenses | -497 | -49 328 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -49 825 |
| Ship operating expenses | -35 715 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 157 | -33 558 |
| Operating expenses ship management | 0 | 0 | -4 125 | 0 | 0 | -4 125 |
| General and administrative expenses | -555 | -7 184 | 0 | -4 201 | 125 | -11 815 |
| Operating expenses | -36 767 | -53 797 | -4 125 | -4 201 | 2 282 | -96 608 |
| EBITDA | 31 212 | 6 519 | 1 178 | -4 201 | 0 | 34 708 |
| Depreciation and amortisation | -19 445 | -2 608 | -868 | -153 | 0 | -23 074 |
| Gain on sale of ship | 4 381 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4 381 |
| Other gains | 180 | 0 | 1 939 | 0 | 0 | 2 119 |
| Operating result | 16 328 | 3 911 | 2 249 | -4 354 | 0 | 18 134 |
| Interest income | 230 | 51 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 283 |
| Interest expenses | -10 522 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -10 522 |
| Other financial items | -863 | -215 | -49 | 0 | 0 | -1 127 |
| Currency gains/(-losses) | -2 | -27 | 16 | 0 | 0 | -13 |
| Net financial items | -11 157 | -191 | -31 | 0 | 0 | -11 379 |
| Result before tax | 5 171 | 3 720 | 2 218 | -4 354 | 0 | 6 755 |
| Tax | -697 | -958 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 655 |
| Net result | 4 474 | 2 762 | 2 218 | -4 354 | 0 | 5 100 |
| Hereof majority interests | 4 474 | 1 209 | 2 158 | -4 354 | 0 | 3 487 |
| Hereof non-controlling interests | 0 | 1 553 | 60 | 0 | 0 | 1 613 |
| Assets | 367 191 | 22 446 | 6 829 | 1 175 | 0 | 397 641 |
| Liabilities | 221 269 | 15 687 | 2 360 | 2 210 | 0 | 241 526 |
| Cash flow from operating activities | 20 094 | 2 607 | 3 307 | -4 612 | 0 | 21 396 |
| Cash flow from investing activities | -23 987 | 0 | 0 | -62 | 0 | -24 049 |
| Cash flow from financing activities | 8 879 | -600 | -48 | 6 816 | 0 | 15 047 |
| Ships, owned | Ships, right-to-use assets | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ships | Capitalised drydocking expenses |
Total | Ships | Capitalised drydocking expenses |
Total | Property, plant and equipment |
|
| 2020 | |||||||
| Cost per 1 January | 232 092 | 9 435 | 241 527 | 99 072 | 1 449 | 100 521 | 4 552 |
| Additions | 23 615 | 5 564 | 29 179 | 73 588 | 2 776 | 76 364 | 1 245 |
| Disposals | -4 802 | -932 | -5 734 | -6 915 | 0 | -6 915 | -1 602 |
| Cost per 31 December | 250 905 | 14 067 | 264 972 | 165 745 | 4 225 | 169 970 | 4 195 |
| Depreciations per 1 January | 23 485 | 4 990 | 28 475 | 7 418 | 383 | 7 801 | 453 |
| Depreciation for the year | 9 989 | 2 378 | 12 367 | 10 959 | 897 | 11 856 | 792 |
| Impairment | 4 957 | 0 | 4 957 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Disposals | -214 | -1 024 | -1 238 | -6 830 | 0 | -6 830 | -1 222 |
| Depreciations per 31 December | 38 217 | 6 344 | 44 561 | 11 547 | 1 280 | 12 827 | 23 |
| Book value per 31 December | 212 688 | 7 723 | 220 411 | 154 198 | 2 945 | 157 143 | 4 172 |
| Other non-depreciable assets | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 706 |
| Total book value per 31 December | 212 688 | 7 723 | 220 411 * |
154 198 | 2 945 | 157 143 | 4 878 |
| 2019 | |||||||
| Cost per 1 January | 189 910 | 7 836 | 197 746 | 50 751 | 749 | 51 500 | 3 084 |
| Adoption of IFRS16 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 20 970 | 0 | 20 970 | 1 406 |
| Additions | 46 520 | 2 600 | 49 120 | 27 351 | 700 | 28 051 | 62 |
| Disposals | -4 338 | -1 001 | -5 339 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Cost per 31 December | 232 092 | 9 435 | 241 527 | 99 072 | 1 449 | 100 521 | 4 552 |
| Depreciations per 1 January | 15 220 | 3 408 | 18 628 | 193 | 0 | 193 | 207 |
| Depreciation for the year | 8 798 | 1 996 | 10 794 | 7 262 | 383 | 7 645 | 246 |
| Disposals | -533 | -414 | -947 | -37 | 0 | -37 | 0 |
| Depreciations per 31 December | 23 485 | 4 990 | 28 475 | 7 418 | 383 | 7 801 | 453 |
| Book value per 31 December | 208 607 | 4 445 | 213 052 | 91 654 | 1 066 | 92 720 | 4 099 |
| Other non-depreciable assets | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 691 |
| Total book value per 31 December | 208 607 | 4 445 | 213 052 | 91 654 | 1 066 | 92 720 | 4 790 |
| Depreciation | 25 yrs | 30-60 mos | 25 yrs | 30-60 mos | 3-5 yrs |
*) The amount includes "Ships held for sale" amounting to 5 917.
Total depreciations in Consolidated statement of profit and loss includes depreciations on charter-party agreements which amounted to 2 271 in 2020 (2019: 4 389). For more information about depreciations on charter-party agreements, see note 4 in our Annual report 2019.
See note 7 for further details related to period time charters.
| Built year | Ownership | Cost price | Accumulated ordinary depreciation |
Capitalised expenses |
Accumulated depreciation drydocking on capitalised dd. expenses |
Book value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BELPAREIL | 2015 | 100 % | 24 492 | -4 982 | 767 | -115 | 20 162 |
| BELSOUTH | 2015 | 100 % | 24 535 | -4 713 | 1 143 | -114 | 20 851 |
| BELINDA | 2016 | 100 % | 24 569 | -4 413 | 918 | -73 | 21 001 |
| BELMONT | 2016 | 100 % | 24 596 | -4 357 | 1 674 | -688 | 21 225 |
| BELATLANTIC | 2016 | 100 % | 24 360 | -4 037 | 700 | -645 | 20 378 |
| BELFORT | 2008 | 100 % | 9 330 | -3 674 | 797 | -536 | 5 917 |
| BELORIENT | 2008 | 100 % | 10 100 | -4 066 | 1 364 | -697 | 6 701 |
| BELSTAR | 2009 | 100 % | 11 899 | -1 237 | 1 120 | -332 | 11 450 |
| BELNOR | 2010 | 100 % | 13 000 | -1 311 | 1 587 | -185 | 13 091 |
| BELOCEAN | 2011 | 100 % | 13 912 | -1 353 | 108 | -108 | 12 559 |
| BELCARGO | 2008 | 100 % | 12 402 | -1 133 | 780 | -285 | 11 764 |
| BELFRI | 2007 | 100 % | 11 475 | -1 035 | 525 | -255 | 10 710 |
| BELLIGHT | 2016 | 100 % | 22 825 | -1 367 | 175 | -125 | 21 508 |
| BELHAVEN | 2017 | 100 % | 23 410 | -540 | 330 | -105 | 23 095 |
| Ships, owned | 250 905 | -38 218 | 11 988 | -4 264 | 220 411 | ||
| BELFOREST | 2015 | BBC | 24 920 | -2 157 | 776 | -39 | 23 500 |
| BELISLAND | 2016 | BBC | 25 838 | -2 201 | 397 | -360 | 23 674 |
| BELRAY | 2019 | BBC | 27 351 | -1 140 | 700 | -163 | 26 748 |
| BELAJA | 2020 | BBC | 26 962 | -880 | 1 000 | -183 | 26 899 |
| BELMOIRA | 2020 | BBC | 26 961 | -880 | 1 000 | -183 | 26 898 |
| BELFUJI | 2020 | TC | 15 876 | -1 902 | 0 | 0 | 13 974 |
| BELNIPPON | 2018 | TC | 17 468 | -4 995 | 0 | 0 | 12 473 |
| ALAM MUTIARA | 2012 | TC | 3 518 | -541 | 0 | 0 | 2 977 |
| Ships, right-of-use assets | 168 894 | -14 696 | 3 873 | -928 | 157 143 | ||
| Total fleet | 419 799 | -52 914 | 15 861 | -5 192 | 377 554 |
The Group controlled a fleet of 22 ships at the end of the year. Ship transactions during the year include delivery of newbuildings BELAJA, BELMOIRA, BELFUJI and sale of the three oldest vessels in the fleet PACIFIC LIGHT, BELFORT and BELORIENT. In addition, the Company took delivery of the vessel BELHAVEN.
BELHAVEN was taken over in May. The purchase price was USD 24.5m, of which half was paid in cash.
The remaining consideration was settled through issue of 15 950 699 new Belships shares to the seller of the vessel at NOK 7.15 per share.
The Group entered into an agreement with Marti Shipping & Ship Management of Turkey for a bareboat charter and subsequent sale of PACIFIC LIGHT in February. The 50 000 dwt bulk carrier was built in 2007 and was the oldest ship in Belships fleet. PACIFIC LIGHT was delivered in March and Belships realised a gain of USD 2.5m. BELFORT was sold during Q4 2020 and BELORIENT was sold during Q1 2021. Vessels will be delivered to buyer during first half of 2021. Belships realized a loss of USD 2.2m in 2020 relating to the sale of BELFORT and BELORIENT.
During Q1 2021, the company took delivery of newbuilding BELFAST (Imabari).
During Q3 2021, the company expects to take delivery of newbuildings BELMAR (Imabari), BELTRADER (Dacks), BELGUARDIAN (Dacks). The newbuildings are resales of 61 000-64 000 dwt eco-design Ultramax bulk carriers.
At the end of each reporting period, the Group assess whether there are any impairment indicators present. The company has concluded that the declining market rates observed during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 represents an impairment indicator pursuant to IAS 36. Consequently, the Group carried out an impairment test of ships owned or recognised as right-of-use assets per year-end.
The company considers each ship as a separate cash-generating unit and has compared recoverable amounts against carrying amounts at the end of the quarter. Recoverable amounts are based on value-in-use and have been derived from calculation of present value of estimated cash flows over the useful life of the ship. The value-in-use calculations are mainly sensitive to changes in revenue and cost of capital assumptions. Revenues have been based on the ships current contracts and long-term historical rates for equivalent ships. Cash flows have been discounted using a cost of capital of 5.8 per cent.
At the end of the year, recoverable amounts were higher than carrying amounts for all vessels other than the oldest two vessels which incurred an impairment charge of USD 5.0m. The Group has performed sensitivity tests on the assumptions used in the impairment tests. Reducing the long-term rate by USD 1 100 per day would have led to an impairment recognition of USD 40.6m at year-end. One per cent increase in cost of capital would not have resulted in impairment of ships at year-end.
The Group had BELAJA, BELMOIRA, BELFOREST, BELISLAND and BELRAY on bareboat agreements at yearend. In addition,the company had BELNIPPON and BELFUJI on long-term time charter agreements. The Company considers the bareboat agreements to meet the lease definition under IFRS 16, while the long-term time charter contract contains both lease and service components.
In September 2015, the Group entered into a sale and lease back agreement for BELFOREST. The bareboat charter period is 12 years with purchase options from year 3 and onwards.
BELISLAND was delivered in March 2016. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period of 15 years with purchase options from year 5 and onwards.
BELNIPPON was delivered in January 2018. The ship is leased on time charter for a period of 8 years with purchase options from year 4 and onwards.
BELRAY was delivered in October 2019. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period of 7 years with purchase options from year 4 and onwards.
BELFUJI was delivered in January 2020. The ship is leased on time charter for a period of 8 years with purchase options from year 4 and onwards.
BELMOIRA was delivered in January 2020. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period of 7 years with purchase options from year 1 and onwards.
BELAJA was delivered in February 2020. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period 7 years with purchase options from year 1 and onwards.
ALAM MUTIARA was delivered in September 2020. The ship is leased on time charter for a period of 2 years.
In the first quarter 2021, the Group took delivery of BELFAST (Bareboat). In addition, the three newbuilds BELMAR (Bareboat), BELTRADER (Bareboat) and BELGUARDIAN (Bareboat) will be delivered in the second half of 2021. All newbuilds includes purchase options callable after the fourth year.
The Company has no obligation to purchase any of the vessels on bareboat or time charter.
T/C hire expenses of USD 90.4m relates to chartering activity in our subsidiary Lighthouse Navigation. Expenses comprise short-term hire of tonnage and services from other shipowners.
| Net present value |
Net present value |
||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lease | Purchase | Discount | of lease | of purchase | |||||
| Lease liabilities | Built year | Ownership | maturity | option | rate | payments | option | Current | Non-current |
| Ships | |||||||||
| BELRAY | 2019 | Bareboat | 2026 | 2023-2026 | 5.57% | 12 438 | 11 405 | 1 086 | 22 757 |
| BELNIPPON | 2018 | T/C | 2025 | 2022-2025 | 6.63% | 12 421 | - | 2 195 | 10 226 |
| BELISLAND | 2016 | Bareboat | 2026 | 2021-2031 | 6.62% | 13 090 | 4 971 | 1 414 | 16 647 |
| BELFOREST | 2015 | Bareboat | 2025 | 2018-2027 | 5.88% | 11 496 | 6 744 | 1 122 | 17 118 |
| BELFUJI | 2020 | T/C | 2024-2027 | 6.33% | 14 376 | - | 1 663 | 12 713 | |
| BELMOIRA | 2020 | Bareboat | 2027 | 2020-2027 | 5.70% | 12 698 | 11 271 | 1 048 | 22 921 |
| BELAJA | 2020 | Bareboat | 2027 | 2020-2027 | 5.71% | 12 794 | 11 262 | 1 043 | 23 013 |
| ALAM MUTIARA | 2012 | T/C | 2022 | N/A | 5.00% | 3 000 | - | 1 603 | 1 397 |
| Total ships | 92 313 | 45 653 | 11 174 | 126 792 | |||||
| Other | |||||||||
| Office | N/A | Lease | 2021-2026 | N/A | 6.00% | N/A | N/A | 812 | 962 |
| Total other | 812 | 962 | |||||||
| PAYMENT SCHEDULE | |||||||||
| 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | Subsequent | Total | |||
| Lease payments | 18 839 | 18 070 | 16 323 | 16 092 | 27 201 | 70 387 | 166 911 |
The Group's bank balance amounted to USD 34 190 (2019: 44 643) at year end. Restricted cash amounted to USD 160 (169) related to employees withholding tax.
The Group entered into a new USD 140m loan facility in April 2019. The first tranche of USD 110m replaced existing loan arrangements. The second tranche of USD 30m was made available for fleet expansion. The loan has a margin of 275 basis points over LIBOR and matures in Q2 2024. Following a voluntarily prepayment in January 2020, the next instalment is due in Q2 2021.
The USD 14m loan acquired as part of the acquisition of shares in Bellight AS (owner of BELLIGHT) was amended in Q3 2020.
No loans are issued or security provided with respect to the company's shareholders or associated parties.
The margin was reduced to 275 basis points over LIBOR and the maturity was extended until Q2 2024, with semi-annual repayments of USD 0.5. Total mortgage debt was USD 141.7m at the end of the year. Arrangement fee and other transaction costs related to the mortgage debt were initially recorded as a reduction of the debt in the balance sheet, and are subsequently amortized over the loan period in accordance with the amortized cost principle.
The group has several covenant requirements including requirements related to equity ratio, net working capital and available liquidity. The group was in compliance with all covenants at the end of the year.
| 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | Subsequent | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mortgage debt | 22 176 | 16 089 | 16 089 | 87 383 | 0 | 0 | 141 737 |
| Interests | 4 268 | 4 140 | 4 016 | 3 896 | 0 | - | 16 320 |
Current receivables consist mainly of accrued revenues, and receivables related to operation of the ships. Other current liabilities mainly include current liability related to the ordinary operation of the ships. All current receivables and liabilities are due within 12 months.
| Note | Business location |
Main activity | Ownerchip/ voting percentage |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bel Ship I AS | 1 | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % |
| Bel Ship II AS | 2 | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % |
| Belships Lighthouse AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Lighthouse Navigation AS | Oslo | Commercial mngmt | 50.01 % | |
| Lighthouse Navigation Pte Ltd * | 3 | Singapore | Commercial mngmt | 50.01 % |
| Belships Management (Singapore) Pte Ltd | 4 | Singapore | Technical mngmt | 100.00 % |
| Bellight AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| *) Presented as separate segment | ||||
| BEL SHIP I AS 1) |
||||
| Belpareil AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belsouth AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belinda AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belmot AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belatlantic AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belhaven AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| BEL SHIP II AS 2) |
||||
| Beleast AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belpacific AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belfort AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belorient AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belstar AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belnor Ship AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belocean AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belcargo AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| Belfri AS | Oslo | Shipping | 100.00 % | |
| LIGHTHOUSE NAVIGATION PTE LTD 3) |
||||
| Afri-Bulk Navigation Private Limited | Singapore | Commercial mngmt | 100.00 % | |
| Lighthouse Maritime Limited | Hong Kong | Commercial mngmt | 100.00 % | |
| Lighthouse Navigation Co Ltd | Thailand | Commercial mngmt | 100.00 % | |
| Siam Thara Agency Co Ltd | Thailand | Agency | 57.50 % | |
| Lighthouse Navigation AS | Oslo | Commercial mngmt | 33.00 % | |
| BELSHIPS MANAGEMENT (SINGAPORE) PTE LTD 4) |
||||
| Belships (Tianjin) Ship Management & Consultancy Co Ltd | China | Crewing | 75.00 % | |
| Belships (Shanghai) Shipmanagement Co Ltd | China | Crewing | 100.00 % | |
| Business location |
Ownership/ voting percentage |
|---|---|
| Hong Kong | 50.00 % |
| The Netherlands | 50.00 % |
| The Netherlands | 50.00 % |
| Myanmar | 40.00 % |
| The Netherlands | 40.00 % |
| Philippine | 24.00 % |
| JV / AC JV JV JV AC AC AC |
*) Former OAL Holdings
| Orient Asia Lines BV |
LineCo Holding BV |
Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | |||
| Gross revenue | 1 786 | 0 | 1 786 |
| EBITDA | 1 539 | 0 | 1 539 |
| EBIT | 1 539 | 0 | 1 539 |
| Net result | 1 539 | 0 | 1 539 |
| Total comprehensive income | 1 539 | 4 564 | 6 103 |
| Group's share of profit for the year | 770 | 2 282 | 3 052 |
| Non-current assets | 0 | 5 595 | 5 595 |
| Current assets | 431 | 176 | 607 |
| Total assets | 431 | 5 771 | 6 202 |
| Non-current liabilities | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Current liabilities | 361 | 1 923 | 2 284 |
| Total liabilities | 361 | 1 923 | 2 284 |
| Total equity opening balance | 1 523 | 1 373 | 2 896 |
| Profit for the year | 1 539 | 4 564 | 6 103 |
| Capital distribution/reduction | -2 992 | -1 949 | -4 941 |
| Total equity closing balance | 70 | 3 988 | 4 058 |
| Owner's interest | 35 | 1 994 | 2 029 |
| Minor share in other associated companies | 94 | ||
| Book value of owner interests | 2 123 |
Orient Asia Orient Asia OAL Three Seas Lines BV Lines Ltd Holdings Shipping BV* Total 2019 Gross revenue 28 426 1 251 1 774 31 451 EBITDA 3 665 672 94 4 429 EBIT 3 665 672 94 4 429 Net result 3 577 672 94 5 466 Total comprehensive income 3 577 672 1 123 94 5 466 Group's share of profit for the year 1 789 336 553 38 2 715 Non-current assets 257 0 1 210 0 1 467 Current assets 8 418 2 259 316 0 10 993 Total assets 8 675 2 259 1 526 0 12 460 Non-current liabilities 0 0 0 0 0 Current liabilities 5 824 736 29 0 6 589 Total liabilities 5 824 736 29 0 6 589 Total equity opening balance 1 774 1 351 299 509 3 424 Profit for the year 3 577 672 1 123 94 5 447 Capital distribution/reduction -2 500 -500 0 0 -3 000 Total equity closing balance 2 851 1 523 1 422 603 5 871 Owner's interest 1 426 762 711 241 3 139 Minor share in other associated companies 164 Book value of owner interests 3 303
Belships ASA's 228 175 404 shares, each with a face value of NOK 2.00, was as of 31 December 2020 distributed among 451 shareholders. Each share has one vote.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary shares, issued | ||
| and paid-in per 1 January | 212 224 705 | 175 117 993 |
| Share issue | 15 950 699 | 37 106 712 |
| Ordinary shares, issued |
and paid-in per 31 December 228 175 404 212 224 705
The company holds 548 000 treasury shares in total with an average cost price of NOK 9.91 as of 31 December 2020.
At the Annual general meeting in 2020 the Board received authorisation to issue up to 100 million new shares. In May 2020 a total of 15 950 699 shares were issued at NOK 7.15 per share as part of consideration for the vessel BELHAVEN.
| Number of shares | Percentage |
|---|---|
| 1 Kontrari AS 95 822 108 |
41.99 % |
| 2 Kontrazi AS 32 463 265 |
14.23 % |
| 3 DnB NOR Bank ASA 18 050 670 |
7.91 % |
| 4 Sonata AS 17 461 778 |
7.65 % |
| 5 Citibank, N.A. 15 849 131 |
6.95 % |
| 6 LGT Bank AG 12 630 754 |
5.54 % |
| 7 Jakob Hatteland Holding AS 11 000 000 |
4.82 % |
| 8 UBS Switzerland AG 7 804 395 |
3.42 % |
| 9 Pershing LLC 3 584 648 |
1.57 % |
| 10 KBC Bank NV 1 629 398 |
0.71 % |
| 11 Clearstream Banking S.A. 1 625 132 |
0.71 % |
| 12 Stavanger Forvaltning AS 1 300 000 |
0.57 % |
| 13 Six SIS AG 1 069 191 |
0.47 % |
| 14 Ola Rustad AS 850 000 |
0.37 % |
| 15 Ole Ketil Teigen 700 000 |
0.31 % |
| 16 Belships ASA 548 000 |
0.24 % |
| 17 Arages Holding AS 500 000 |
0.22 % |
| 18 AS Torinitamar 417 100 |
0.18 % |
| 19 ASL Holding AS 363 836 |
0.16 % |
| 20 August Ringvold Agenturer AS 341 168 |
0.15 % |
| Total 20 largest shareholders 224 010 574 |
98.17 % |
| Other shareholders 4 164 830 |
1.83 % |
| Total number of shares 228 175 404 |
100.00 % |
| Note | Number of shares | Outstanding options | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peter Frølich (chairman) | 75 000 | 0 | |
| Frode Teigen | 1 | 128 285 373 | 0 |
| Sverre J. Tidemand | 2 | 17 461 778 | 0 |
| Carl Erik Steen | 79 154 | 0 | |
| Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe | 7 500 | 0 | |
| Jorunn Seglem | 35 000 | 0 | |
| Sissel Grefsrud | 0 | 0 | |
| Lars Christian Skarsgård, CEO * | 3 | 437 000 | 5 000 000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osvald Fossholm, CFO | 4 | 35 000 | 100 700 |
*) See note 16 for more information about separate share option plan.
1) Includes shares held by Kontrari AS and Kontrazi AS, companies controlled by Frode Teigen.
2) Includes shares held by Sonata AS, a company in which Sverre J. Tidemand controls.
3) Includes shares held by AS Torinitamar, a company owned by Lars Christian Skarsgård. 4) Includes shares held by Krino Invest AS, a company owned by Osvald Fossholm.
For changes in equity, see separate statement.
Basic earnings per share is the ratio between net result of the year attributable to ordinary equity holders (i.e. net profit with dividend deducted) and the issued average number of shares outstanding during the period.
When calculating diluted earnings per share, net result attributable to ordinary equity holders and the number of issued average outstanding shares are adjusted for share options. In "the denominator" all share options (see note 16) which are "in-the-money" and exercisable are taken into consideration. In the calculations, share options are considered as having been converted at the time they were awarded.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Salaries | 6 880 | 6 310 |
| Social security tax | 278 | 324 |
| Pension expenses | 204 | 204 |
| Other allowances | 582 | 56 |
| Total payroll expenses | 7 944 | 6 894 |
Number of full-time office staff in 2020 was 143 for the Group of which 14 in the Norwegian companies.
Payroll expenses in Singapore is reclassified as operating expenses ship management. See note 20 for more details.
Loan to employees amounted to USD 17 at year-end. Average interest rate was 2.17% in 2020.
The repayment period is five years. Loans to members of the management amounted to USD 12 at year-end.
| 2020 | Chief executive officer* |
Financial director |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Salary | 281 | 187 | |
| Pension expenses | 19 | 21 | |
| Share-based payment expense | 500 | 17 | |
| Other remuneration | 2 | 17 |
Remuneration in accordance with the Accounting Act § 7-31b is presented in note 11 in the parent company accounts. Other remuneration includes telephone, insurance agreements etc.
| Average number of issued shares | 222 638 765 |
|---|---|
| Treasury shares | 548 000 |
| Average number of options outstanding | 5 400 000 |
| Diluted average issued number of shares | 227 290 765 |
| 2020 | |
|---|---|
| Net result for the year | -17 743 |
| Earnings per share | -0.08 |
| Diluted earnings per share | -0.08 |
No bonus scheme was adopted for 2020.
Share options to the employees are described in note 16. The Chief Executive Officer has a separate option scheme which is also described in note 16.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| The Board | 170 | 182 |
| Audit committee | 9 | 10 |
| Nomination committee | 5 | 6 |
Board members are not awarded share options
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Remuneration for audit services | 242 | 228 |
| Other assurance services | 21 | 17 |
| Assistance related to tax | 76 | 27 |
| Other audit related assistance | 54 | 83 |
| Total | 393 | 355 |
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Office expenses | 683 | 577 |
| Furniture, office supplies | 405 | 379 |
| Travelling, entertainment costs | 129 | 252 |
| Other services | 2 207 | 2 653 |
| Other general administrative expenses | 494 | 1 061 |
| Total administrative expenses | 3 918 | 4 921 |
At the Annual general meeting (AGM) in 2019, the Board was authorised to issue up to 200 000 share options to employees in Belships ASA. The option price is 105% of closing share price on the day of the AGM. The authorization is valid for two years. In accordance with this authorisation, options to buy 200 000 shares at NOK 8.79 were awarded in November 2019. No options have been exercised.
At the AGM in 2020, the Board was authorised to issue up to 200 000 share options to employees. The option price is 105% of closing share price on the day of the AGM. The authorization is valid for two years. In accordance with this authorisation, options to buy 200 000 shares at NOK 6.20 were awarded in November 2020. No options have been exercised.
The above mentioned option programs require a service period of 12 months before they can be exercised. The option can be exercised after one year from the date of the AGM which approved the option program and runs unto the date of the next AGM. The option programs include all employees in the parent company. The employees must be employed in the company at the time when the options can be exercised in order to have a right to exercise them.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Outstanding options 1 January | 5 400 000 | 400 000 |
| Awarded | 200 000 | 5 200 000 |
| Exercised | 0 | 0 |
| Not exercised | -200 000 | -200 000 |
| Outstanding options 31 December | 5 400 000 | 5 400 000 |
Fair value of options has been calculated using the Black and Scholes options pricing model. The fair value of options awarded in 2019 and 2020 was NOK 2.60 and NOK 1.17, respectively. The fair value of outstanding share options are calculated at time of award and charged against profit and loss over the period until they can be exercised. The cost related to the share options above amounted to 45 in 2020.
The CEO in Belships, Lars Christian Skarsgård wasin March 2019 granted options to subscribe for up to five million shares in the Company with an exercise price of NOK 6 per share. The options can be exercised in the period between 36 months and 60 months from 15 March 2019. The company may honour exercised options by delivery of new shares in a share issue, by sale of existing shares, or by way cash settlement (i.e. payment of the difference between the market price of the shares less the exercise price). Options that have not been exercised will lapse if Skarsgård terminates his position as CEO or if he is terminated from his position with cause. If Skarsgård is terminated from his position without cause during the first 12 months, 2/3 of the options will lapse and if he is terminated from his position without cause during the first 24 months, 1/3 of the options will lapse. If Skarsgård is
terminated without cause during the exercise period, the options will lapse unless they are exercised within three months.
The fair value of the options at time of award was NOK 2.57 per share. The calculated cost of USD 500 has been recognised as an expense in 2020.
Share price at the time the option was awarded: The share price is set as equal to the stock exchange share price when the option was awarded.
Exercise price per option: The exercise price was 105 % of the stock exchange market price when the option was awarded.
Volatility: Historic volatility set as indication of future volatility. Expected volatility equals a historic volatility of 39%.
Duration of options: It is assumed that all employees will exercise their options when the service period has been completed.
Dividend: Estimated dividend per share is NOK 0 per year.
Risk free interest rate: Interest rate used as a basis for calculating options is equal to the interest rate on government bonds over the duration of the options, i.e. 2% for 2020.
Decrease in the number of employees: Expected reduction is 0.
The Norwegian employees are member of the company's defined contribution scheme, which is in line with the occupational pension scheme for employees in Norway in accordance with the Act on Mandatory occupational pensions. Annual payable cost is reflected in the income statements and the company does not have any future liabilities related to this scheme. Total costs amounted to 171 (135) in 2020. Pension costs in Singapore is reclassified as operating expenses ship management and amounted to 203 (320) in 2020.
In addition to defined contribution scheme, the legacy Belships has unfunded pension liabilities which are covered through the daily operations. These relate to early retirement and pension to persons, that have not been included in the defined contribution scheme. There are 5 retired persons included in this scheme.
Pension commitments are calculated by an independent actuary. The basis for the calculation is shown below. The mortality table (K2013) for Norway is used in the calculations.
Social security costs are recorded based on net pension obligation in the balance sheet included estimate discrepancy. Change in the pension obligation for the subsidiary Lighthouse Navigation Pte Ltd amounted to 43 (254) in 2020, and includes 20 persons.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| ASSUMPTIONS | ||
| Discount rate | 1.70 % | 2.30 % |
| Future wage adjustment | 2.25 % | 2.25 % |
| Pension adjustment | 0 % | 0 % |
| G-adjustment | 2.00 % | 2.00 % |
| Return on pension plan assets | 1.70 % | 2.30 % |
| CHANGES IN THE PRESENT VALUE OF THE DEFINED BENEFIT OBLIGATION | ||
| 1 January | 745 | 735 |
| Interest cost | 27 | 57 |
| Benefits paid | -28 | -51 |
| Actuarial losses on obligation | 10 | 10 |
| Currency exchange gain/(loss) | 6 | -6 |
| 31 December | 760 | 745 |
| PENSION EXPENSES IN CONSOLIDATED ACCOUNTS | ||
| Pension expenses defined benefit scheme | 33 | 57 |
| Pension expenses defined contribution scheme | 171 | 147 |
| Net pension expenses in consolidated accounts | 204 | 204 |
Financial market risk is considered to be the risk of changes in foreign exchange rates and interest rates that may affect the value of the Group's assets, obligations and future cash flows.
Belships has a continuing focus on its risk exposure. Derivatives may be used to reduce financial market risk, but are only used to hedge specific exposures. When use of derivatives are considered appropriate, only well-known conventional derivative instruments are considered, i.e. OTC agreements such as swaps, options and forward freight agreements. Derivative transactions are only made with reputable financial institutions. Credit risk relating to these derivatives is therefore limited.
Belships is only using derivatives to reduce or limit risk related to fluctuations in interest and foreign exchange rates.
Financial derivatives are not used to obtain financial revenues through fluctuating interest rates, nor are financial derivatives used when there is no underlying exposure.
The long-term interest rate is still at a low level. Belships strategy is to manage interest risk. Hedging the Group's interest exposure is considered on an ongoing basis. Entering into interest rate hedging agreements are based on developments in the interest rate market and internal analysis.
In 2019, the Group hedged the price differential between compliant 0.5% sulphur fuel oil (VLSFO) and 3.5% Sulphur fuel oil (HSFO). The company secured the fuel consumption for the equivalent of six vessels in 2020, or 36,000 tons. The average fixed price differential was
USD 214 per ton, with monthly settlements in 2020.
In January 2020, Belships realized its fuel oil hedging contracts at an accumulative gain of USD 0.2m. The position was closed at average spread of USD 219 per mt. Gains on hedging contracts of USD 0.2m was included as part of other gains/losses in 2020.
The table below shows the sensitivity related to changes in interest rate levels. The calculation includes total interestbearing debt.
| Change in the interest rate level in basis points | -100/+100 |
|---|---|
| Effect on result before tax | 1392/-1392 |
| 2020 | |
|---|---|
| Mortgage debt | 3.59 |
The primary objective of the Group's capital management is to achieve best possible credit rating, and to maximize the shareholders values. The company's goal is to maintain an equity capital ratio of at least 35%. The equity ratio is calculated by dividing the book equity to total assets as shown below:
| 2020 | |
|---|---|
| Total equity as at 31 December | 150 017 |
| Total assets | 464 479 |
| Equity ratio as at 31 December | 32% |
Net debt is defined as interest-bearing debt (short and long-term) and accounts payable less cash. Equity comprises paid-in equity and retained earnings.
| 2020 | |
|---|---|
| Interest-bearing debt | 281 477 |
| Cash reserves | -34 190 |
| Net debt | 247 287 |
| Equity | 150 017 |
| Total equity and net debt | 397 304 |
| Net debt ratio | 38 % |
Liquidity risk is the risk that suitable sources of funding for the Group's business activities may not be available. Prudent liquidity risk management implies maintaining sufficient cash balances, credit facilities and other financial resources to maintain financial flexibility under dynamic market conditions. The Group's principal source of liquidity are operating cash flows from its operational assets. In addition to its operating cash flows, the Group relies on the debt capital markets for long-term funding. At yearend 2020 the Group has outstanding long-term debt in the form of mortgage debt of USD 119.6 million and USD 127.8 million in lease liability. Available cash and cash equivalents amount to USD 34.2 million.
There will always be a credit risk related to the Group's business. Belships monitors this risk and the strategy is to carefully select counterparts. The ships acquired through the merger are secured on medium to long-term charter contracts, toward two customers, Canpotex Shipping Services Ltd and Cargill. Those customers are considered to be solid and reputable counterparts. Other ships operate under short-term spot engagements with a broader customer base. The customers are often recurring, however, the risk related to any specific customer's insolvency or inability to compensate for the services provided is low.
The functional currency of Belships is USD as the majority of the Group's transactions are denominated in USD. Currency risks arise in connection with transactions that are completed in other currencies than USD, mainly in NOK or THB. This applies mainly to administrative expenses, salaries and declaration of ship purchase options.
Level 1: Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities.
Level 2: Valuation based on other observable factors, either directly (prices) or indirectly (derived from prices) than quoted prices included within level 1 of the asset or obligation.
Level 3: Valuation based on factors not taken from observable markets (not observable assumptions).
There was no change in levels in 2020 Interest swap agreements are valued in accordance with the principles described as level 2. Fair value is defined as present value of future cash flows. For the above derivatives, fair value is confirmed by the financial institution, which is counterpart. The fair values of current financial assets and liabilities carried at amortised cost approximate their carrying amounts. The long-term liabilities have floating interest rate with a fixed margin. The margin is considered not to have significantly changed since drawing date, thus carrying amount is considered a reasonable estimate of fair value.
| Non-cash charges | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 01.01.2020 | Cash Flows | Interest charges |
Changes in fair values |
Other | 31.12.2020 | |
| Forward freight agreement | 3 303 | -1 930 | 1 166 | -764 | ||
| Investments | 3 303 | -2 339 | 1 159 | 2 123 | ||
| Bank deposits | 44 463 | -10 443 | 170 | 34 190 | ||
| Trade debtors | 1 419 | 10 155 | 11 574 | |||
| Lease liabilities | -80 961 | 19 280 | -8 464 | -69 595 | -139 740 | |
| Mortgage debt | -136 637 | 536 | -5 358 | -278 | -141 737 | |
| Trade creditors | -1 851 | -10 660 | -12 511 | |||
| Other assets (net) | 6 746 | -3 518 | 903 | 8 553 | 12 683 | |
| Total | -163 518 | -3 011 | -12 919 | 1 329 | -61 320 | 233 418 |
| Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Financial investments Interest agreement |
-764 | 3 468 | 165 -29 |
-764 | 3 633 165 |
|||
| Total | -764 | 3 468 | 0 | 136 | -764 | 3 798 |
| 2020 | |
|---|---|
| Mortgage debt | 141 737 |
| Financial lease | 139 740 |
| Total | 281 477 |
The fair value of credit facilities and obligations under financial leases is estimated by discounting future cash flows using rates currently available for debt on similar items. The obligations under financial leases as of 31 December 2020 reflects best timing estimate of declaring purchase options. Further, the lease agreements are newly entered into, and there has not been any significant changes in the credit risk of the Group. Fair value of the obligations under financial leases are therefore not considered to be materially different from book value as of the reporting date. The group has not made observations indicating that there has been any significant difference between the fair value and carrying amount except for un-amortised loan transaction costs.
The Companies subject to Tonnage tax are exempt from ordinary tax on their shipping income. Companies within the tonnage tax system in Norway and in Singapore pay a tonnage fee based on the size of the ship. Tonnage tax amounting to USD 82 has been provided for as at 31 December 2020 and recognized as other operating expenses. At year-end, the Group had 8 companies within the Norwegian tonnage tax regime.
Further, in Norway, Thailand and Singapore the Group has several management companies subject to ordinary income tax, with a tax rate from 16 % to 22 %. In Norway, the Group has a significant tax loss carried forward,
currently without any convincing evidence of utilizing the tax losses. Accordingly, no deferred tax asset related to temporary differences is recorded related to the Norwegian companies within ordinary tax regime.
In Singapore and in Thailand there are minimal temporary differences related to the commercial and ship management operation. In Thailand the Company has a tax payable related to ordinary company taxation of USD -6 (2019: USD 958) and payable tax in Singapore amounting to USD 339 (USD 430).
In the Group have Management companies (including commercial and ship management) under ordinary company taxation in Thailand, Singapore and Norway. In Norway the Group companies have a significant tax loss carried forward.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Result for the year before tax | -17 160 | 6 755 |
| Result from companies within the tonnage tax regime | -549 | 1 469 |
| Net result for companies subject to ordinary company taxation | -17 709 | 8 224 |
| Statutory tax rate (Norway) | 22 % | 22 % |
| Estimated tax expense at statutory rate | -3 896 | 1 809 |
| Net non tax related expenses/(income) | 698 | 10 |
| Results from joint venture and associated companies | -671 | -597 |
| Difference between Norwegian, Singapore and Thailand regional national tax | -542 | 400 |
| Tax effect of deferred tax asset not recorded in the balance sheet incl. exchange rate effect | 4 994 | 32 |
| Total income tax expense/(income) | 583 | 1 655 |
The Group had a tax loss carried forward of USD 107.4m as at 31 December 2020 in Norway. No deferred tax benefits are recognised in the balance sheet. The Group's revenue is generated mainly by companies in Singapore that are
either within the national tonnage tax regime or are subject to regular national taxation. Dividends from these companies are non-taxable to the recipients. Taxable income subject to ordinary Norwegian taxation does not indicate any reporting of deferred tax benefits.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Temporary differences | ||
| Deferred sale gain/(loss) fixed asset | -1 344 | -1 050 |
| Property, plant and equipment | 31 239 | 21 092 |
| Pensions | -276 | -303 |
| Other temporary differences | -764 | 1 232 |
| Total temporary differences | 28 855 | 20 971 |
| Non-deductible interest cost carry forward ordinary tax regime | -6 969 | 0 |
| Tax loss carried forward ordinary tax regime | -107 371 | -84 006 |
| Net temporary differences | -85 485 | -63 036 |
| Nominal tax rate on deferred tax | 22 % | 22 % |
| Deferred tax assets | -18 807 | -13 868 |
| Deferred tax assets recognised in the Balance sheet | 0 | 0 |
| Deferred tax assets not recognised in the Balance sheet | -18 807 | -13 868 |
Calculation of deferred taxes is based on temporary differences between statutory books and tax values which exist at the end of the year.
In accordance with IAS 12 for treatment of taxes, tax reducing temporary differences and tax increasing temporary differences that are reversed, or can be reversed in the same period and jurisdiction are assessed and the amount recorded net.
Future tax payable in the Group is expected to be related to ship management and commercial operation in Singapore and in Thailand. In Norway the group has significant tax losses.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ship operating expenses | ||
| Crew expenses | 19 255 | 16 141 |
| Maintenance and spare parts | 8 292 | 9 481 |
| Insurance | 2 178 | 1 789 |
| Other ship operating expenses | 8 950 | 6 147 |
| Total ship operating expenses | 38 675 | 33 558 |
| Operating expenses ship management | ||
| Administration costs | 2 358 | 2 771 |
| General & selling expenses | 627 | 722 |
| Fixed costs | 505 | 632 |
| Total operating expenses ship management | 3 490 | 4 125 |
The company has not been charged any penalties due to breach of environmental rules and regulations, and is not committed to implement any specific actions in that respect.
The Board is not aware of any material disputes the company may be in involved in as at 31 December 2020.
Belships ASA has entered into letters of intent for the acquisition of three Ultramax newbuildings of 61 000 dwt to be named BELTRADER, BELGUARDIAN and BELKNIGHT upon delivery. Two of the vessels are expected to be delivered during Q3 2021, while the third is expected for delivery during Q4 2021. The vessels will be financed thru 7-10 year bareboat charters.
Belships ASA successfully completed a private placement 9 March 2021 raising a total of NOK 140 million through the allocation of 20 million shares at a subscription price of NOK 7.00 per share.
Belships ASA has entered into an agreement for the acquisition of a secondhand Ultramax, built in 2017 by a Chinese shipyard, to be named BELTIGER upon delivery. The agreed purchase price is USD 21.75 million, of which 80 % was paid in cash and 20 % was settled through an issue of 4 988 000 new Belships shares at a share price of NOK 7.50 per share. The vessel will be financed with bank financing for approximately 60 % of the purchase price.
| 1 January-31 December | Belships ASA | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Note | 2020 | 2019 | |
| OPERATING INCOME | ||||
| Freight income | 2 | 24 955 | 17 189 | |
| Other operating income | 679 | 809 | ||
| Total operating income | 25 634 | 17 998 | ||
| OPERATING EXPENSES | ||||
| T/C hire | 3 | -8 459 | -8 033 | |
| Ship operating expenses | 10 | -9 376 | -4 362 | |
| Payroll expenses | 8,11 | -2 074 | -1 708 | |
| Other general administrative expenses | 12 | -1 206 | -2 314 | |
| Depreciation of fixed assets | 3 | -5 498 | -2 329 | |
| Reversal of impairment of fixed assets | 0 | 164 | ||
| Total operating expenses | -26 613 | -18 582 | ||
| Operating result | -979 | -584 | ||
| FINANCIAL INCOME AND EXPENSES | ||||
| Share dividend | 9 | 1 038 | 2 009 | |
| Interest income | 10 | 110 | ||
| Interest income on loan to subsidiary | 5 | 3 160 | 2 653 | |
| Interest expenses | 13 | -6 643 | -2 984 | |
| Other financial items | 10 | 2 792 | 11 509 | |
| Currency exchange gain/-loss | 649 | -275 | ||
| Net financial items | 1 007 | 13 022 | ||
| Net result before tax | 28 | 12 438 | ||
| Income tax expense | 17 | 0 | 0 | |
| Net result for the year | 28 | 12 438 | ||
| Appropriations of net result: | ||||
| Transfer from/(to) other retained earnings | -28 | -12 438 | ||
| Total | -28 | -12 438 |
| 1 January-31 December | Belships ASA | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Note | 2020 | 2019 |
| FIXED ASSETS | |||
| Tangible fixed assets | |||
| Ships | 3 | 121 941 | 70 491 |
| Prepayment of ships | 3 000 | 6 000 | |
| Other fixed assets | 3 | 595 | 736 |
| Total tangible fixed assets | 125 536 | 77 227 | |
| Financial fixed assets | |||
| Shares in subsidiaries | 9 | 13 101 | 13 172 |
| Loan to subsidiaries | 5 | 95 922 | 78 076 |
| Other non-current receivables | 13 | 17 | 37 |
| Total financial assets | 109 040 | 91 285 | |
| Total fixed assets | 234 576 | 168 512 | |
| CURRENT ASSETS | |||
| Bunker inventory | 425 | 601 | |
| Trade debtors | 947 | 384 | |
| Intercompany balances | 5 | 3 235 | 0 |
| Other receivables | 2 316 | 955 | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 6 | 2 236 | 4 251 |
| Total current assets | 9 158 | 6 190 | |
| Total assets | 243 734 | 174 702 | |
| EQUITY | |||
| Paid-in capital | |||
| Share capital | 53 617 | 50 403 | |
| Treasury shares | -166 | -166 | |
| Share premium reserve | 47 775 | 39 499 | |
| Other paid-in capital | 36 736 | 36 191 | |
| Total paid-in capital | 137 962 | 125 927 | |
| Retained earnings | |||
| Other equity | -22 750 | -22 768 | |
| Total equity | 7 | 115 212 | 103 159 |
| LIABILITIES | |||
| Non-current liabilities | |||
| Lease commitments | 13 | 102 426 | 58 026 |
| Pension obligations | 8 | 276 | 303 |
| Other non-current liabilities | 51 | 0 | |
| Intercompany balances | 5 | 15 574 | 6 323 |
| Total non-current liabilities | 118 326 | 64 653 | |
| Current liabilities | |||
| Lease commitments, current portion | 13 | 5 708 | 5 487 |
| Public taxes and duties payable | 239 | 245 | |
| Trade creditors | 110 | 16 | |
| Intercompany balances Other current liabilities |
5 | 1 585 2 554 |
153 989 |
| Total current liabilities | 10 196 | 6 890 | |
| Total liabilities | 128 522 | 71 543 | |
| Total equity and liabilities | 243 734 | 174 702 |
Oslo, 28 April 2021 Peter Frølich Sissel Grefsrud Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe Jorunn Seglem Chairman of the Board Board member Board member Board member
Carl Erik Steen Frode Teigen Sverre J. Tidemand Lars Christian Skarsgård
Board member Board member Board member Chief Executive Officer
| 1 January-31 December | Belships ASA | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 1 000 | Note | 2020 | 2019 | |
| CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS | ||||
| Net result before tax | 28 | 12 438 | ||
| Adjustments to reconcile result before tax to net cash flows: | ||||
| Depreciation of fixed assets | 2 | 5 498 | 2 329 | |
| Impairment of tangible fixed assets | 2 | 0 | -164 | |
| Share-based payment transaction expense | 3 | 545 | 23 | |
| Difference between pension exps and paid pension premium | 7 | -21 | -37 | |
| Net finance items | -1 007 | -13 022 | ||
| Working capital adjustments: | ||||
| Change in trade debitors and trade creditors | -469 | -502 | ||
| Change in intercompany balances | -1 802 | -1 208 | ||
| Change in other short-term items | 2 034 | -616 | ||
| Interest received | 3 170 | 2 763 | ||
| Interest paid | -6 643 | -2 984 | ||
| Net other financial items | 2 792 | 11 509 | ||
| Net cash flow from operations | 4 126 | 10 530 | ||
| CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | ||||
| Investments in fixed assets | 2 | -4 816 | -9 062 | |
| Sale proceeds from fixed asset disposals | 2 | 0 | 116 | |
| Dividends received | 8 | 1 038 | 2 009 | |
| Shares in subsidiary | 0 | -2 046 | ||
| Change in other investments | 21 | 25 | ||
| Net cash flow from investing activities | -3 757 | -8 959 | ||
| CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | ||||
| Change in intercompany balances | 2 894 | -2 731 | ||
| Increase in share capital | 0 | 7 944 | ||
| Dividend paid | 0 | -1 205 | ||
| Instalments lease commitments | -5 279 | -2 353 | ||
| Net cash flow from financing activities | -2 385 | 1 654 | ||
| Net change in cash and cash equivalents | -2 016 | 3 225 | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January | 4 251 | 1 027 | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December | 2 235 | 4 251 | ||
| Restricted bank deposits | 5 | 160 | 161 |
Belships ASA is an owner and operator of subsidiaries owning dry bulk ships. At the end of the year, the Group controlled a fleet of 23 ships.
The company is also providing commercial management and ship management services through subsidiaries. The company is a public limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in Norway and listed on Oslo Stock Exchange. The head office is located in Lilleakerveien 6D in Oslo, Norway.
The financial statements have been approved by the Board on 21 April 2021.The accounts are prepared in accordance with Norwegian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (NGAAP).
The accounts form part of the consolidated accounts of Belships ASA. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted by EU.
Belships has obtained approval from Oslo Stock Exchange and Norwegian tax authorities to only publish its financial statements in English.
All amounts in the notes are in USD 1 000 unless otherwise stated.
The company has elected to change the presentation currency from Norwegian Kroner (NOK) to United States Dollars (USD) in 2020. The change in presentation currency is made as substantially all the company and its subsidiaries transactions are in USD. The functional currency is USD.
The change of presentation currency is considered a change in accounting policy and has been accounted for retrospectively by translating comparative figures.
Assets intended for long-term ownership or use are classified as fixed assets. Other assets inclusive accounts receivable within 12 months are classified as current assets. Liabilities due within 12 months, are classified as shortterm liabilities. Current assets are reported at the lower of cost and net realisable value, while current liabilities are carried at the nominal value at drawdown date.
Tax expenses consist of tax payable and changes in deferred tax. Deferred tax/tax assets are calculated on all differences between accounting values and tax values of assets and liabilities.
Deferred tax assets are included in the balance sheets when it is likely that the company will have sufficient profit for tax purposes in subsequent periods that will enable the company to utilize the tax asset. The company records previously unrecorded deferred tax assets to the extent it has become likely that the company can utilize the deferred tax asset. Similarly, the company will reduce the deferred tax asset to the extent the company no longer regards it as being likely that it can utilize the deferred tax asset.
Deferred tax and deferred tax asset are measured on the basis of expected future tax rates.
Deferred tax and deferred tax assets are entered at nominal value and are classified as financial fixed assets (long-term liability) on the balance sheet.
Tax payable and deferred tax are booked directly against equity to the extent the tax items relate to equity transactions.
Tangible fixed assets are measured at acquisition cost, net of accumulated depreciation and impairments losses. When assets are sold or divested, the carrying amount is deducted and any gains or losses are recognised in the income statement. Acquisition cost for tangible fixed assets is the purchase price, including taxes and charges and expenses directly related to preparing the asset for use. Expenses incurred after the asset has been put to use, are recognised in the income statement, whereas other expenses which are expected to create future financial gains are capitalised.
An estimated docking element is recognised as a separate component of the ship for depreciation purposes on the first occasion a ship is booked in the accounts. The amount corresponds to the estimated docking costs for the period. The docking component is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the period to the next planned drydocking.
Residual value has been taken into account, and this is estimated based on steel value of the ship at the balance sheet date less estimated cost to demolish the ship.
Book value is compared to market value and value in use to assess the need for any further impairment compared to the ordinary depreciation plan. The depreciation period and method are assessed annually and are based on the management's estimates of the ships' future useful life. The same applies to residual value.
The ships are depreciated as one unit, as the value of any part of the ship with a useful lifetime other than 25 years is considered to be insignificant.
At the end of each quarter, every ship is assessed for impairment indicators. The same applies when events or changes occur that may entail that the asset's carrying amount may not be recovered. In assessing the need for impairments, assets are grouped at the lowest level at which there is identifiable and predominantly independent cash inflows, which means per ship. Impairment is calculated as the difference between the asset's carrying amount and the value considered as recoverable. The recoverable amount is the higher of the asset's fair value less cost to sell and its value in use to the Company. Value in use is calculated by discounting anticipated future cash flows from the asset. When it is assumed that the asset's value is lower than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognised.
Impairment loss recognised in earlier periods is reversed only in case of changes to the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. However, the reversal amount may only be so high that book value after reversal at most corresponds to the value at which the asset would have been registered if it had not been impaired earlier. Such reversals are recorded in the income statement.
The determination of whether an arrangement is, or contains a lease is based on the substance of the arrangement at inception date. Leases are classified as financial leases if the terms of the lease agreement transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of an asset. All other leases are classified as operating lease.
Assets financed under financial leases are capitalized at inception of the lease at the fair value of the leased vessel or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. The corresponding lease obligation is recognized as a liability in the balance sheet. Lease payments are split between interest cost and reduction of the lease liability. Interest cost is recognized in the income statement.
Financial leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset and the lease term. For operating leases, the payments (time charter hire or bareboat hire) are recognized as an expense on a straight line basis over the term for the lease.
Investments in subsidiaries and jointly controlled companies are accounted for in the parent company using the cost method.
Accounts receivable are booked at nominal amount less expected loss.
The cash flow statement has been prepared using the indirect method. Liquid assets includes cash, bank deposits (restricted and unrestricted) and other short-term investments, which can be converted to cash within 3 months. For restricted deposits, see note 6.
Own equity instruments that are reacquired (treasury shares) are recognised at cost and deducted from equity. No gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss on the purchase, sale, issue or cancellation of the Group's own equity instruments. Any difference between the carrying amount and the consideration, if reissued, is recognised in share premium. Share options exercised during the reporting period are fulfilled with treasury shares.
Transaction costs directly related to equity transactions are charged directly against the equity after tax deductions.
All employees are member of the company's defined contribution scheme. The premium is charged as incurred by operations. Social security tax expense is recognized based on the pension plan payments.
The company has unfunded pension liabilities. These relate to early retirement and pension to persons, that have not been included in the service pension scheme. Pension obligations are estimated by an independent actuary.
A provision is recorded when the company has a liability (legal or constructive) as a result of a previous event, where it is likely (more likely than not) that there will be a financial settlement as a result of this liability and that the size of the sum can be reliably determined. If the effect is considerable, the provision is calculated by discounting the expected future cash flow with a discount rate before tax, which reflects the market's evaluation of the time value of money and, if relevant, risks specifically connected to the liability.
Provisions for loss-creating contracts are included when the company's expected income from a contract is lower than the inevitable costs which were incurred in discharging the obligations of the contract.
Gains will be taken to income when it is likely that transactions will generate future financial gains which will be attributable to the company and the sum can be reliably estimated. Interest rate income is taken to income based on effective interest method according to when it is earned.
Dividend received from subsidiaries is accounted for in the same year as dividend has been accrued for in the subsidiary. If such dividend exceeds the prorata share of retained earnings after the acquisition of the shares, such excess portion represents repayment of capital and reduces the acquisition cost accordingly.
Transactions in foreign currency are converted at the rate at the time of the transaction. Monetary items in foreign currency are converted into USD using the rate on the balance sheet date. Non-monetary items which are measured at historical rates expressed in foreign currencies, are converted into USD using the currency rate at the time of the transaction.
Non-monetary items which are measured at market value expressed in foreign currency are converted at the currency rate on the balance sheet date. Currency rate changes are charged against income during the accounting period.
Provisions are made for contingent losses deemed probable and quantifiable. Contingent gains are not recognised.
Transactions with related parties are carried out at market terms. See note 16 for further information.
New information after the balance sheet date regarding the company's financial position as of the balance sheet date is taken into consideration in the annual accounts. Events after the balance sheet date that do not affect the company's financial position as of the balance sheet date, but which will have an impact on the company's financial position in the future are revealed if significant.
The management has used estimates and assumptions that have affected assets, debt, income, costs and information on potential liabilities. This applies particularly to pension liabilities and share-based remuneration. Future events can entail a change in these estimates. Estimates and the underlying assumptions are evaluated on an ongoing basis. Changes in accounting estimates are entered in the period when the changes occur. If the changes also apply to future periods, the effect is distributed over the current and future periods.
Earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net result by a weighted, average number of shares in the reporting period. Diluted earnings per share are calculated on the basis the dilution effect of issued options and convertible loans, if any.
The employees in Belships ASA have received options to purchase shares in the company. The market value of the awarded options is measured at the time of the award and charged to expense over the vesting period as a wage cost with corresponding increase in other paid-in equity. The market value of the options granted is estimated using the Black and Scholes option pricing model.
Financial instruments are valued at lowest of cost and estimated fair value.
BELISLAND has been chartered to Canpotex Shipping Services Ltd in 2020. Canpotex is one of the world's largest exporters of potash, a fertilizer Product imported in large volumes by countries such as China, India and Brazil.
BELNIPPON and BELFOREST have been chartered to Cargill, a leader within agricultural services.
BELRAY and BELMOIRA have been chartered to various parties during 2020.
BELAJA and BELFUJI have been operated in the spot market by Belships' subsidiary Lighthouse Navigation Ltd.
| Ships | Other fixed assets | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ships | Capitalised drydocking expenses |
Total | Depreciable assets |
Non Depreciable assets |
Total | |
| 2020 | ||||||
| Cost price | ||||||
| As at 1 January | 76 824 | 2 500 | 79 324 | 1 358 | 468 | 1 826 |
| Additions | 54 130 | 2 777 | 56 906 | 86 | 0 | 86 |
| Disposals | 0 | 0 | 0 | -1 162 | 0 | -1 162 |
| As at 31 December | 130 954 | 5 277 | 136 230 | 282 | 468 | 751 |
| Depreciations | ||||||
| As at 1 January | 7 398 | 1 435 | 8 833 | 1 013 | 57 | 1 070 |
| Depreciation for the year | 4 598 | 858 | 5 456 | 42 | 0 | 42 |
| Impairment | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Disposals | 0 | 0 | 0 | -956 | 0 | -956 |
| As at 31 December | 11 996 | 2 293 | 14 289 | 99 | 57 | 156 |
| Book value at 31 December | 118 957 | 2 984 | 121 941 | 183 | 411 | 595 |
| Depreciation | 25 yrs | 30-60 mos | 3 - 5 yrs |
Depreciation method: Straight Line
Belships ASA is controlling the ships BELFOREST, BELISLAND, BELNIPPON and BELRAY. During 2020, the company took delivery of newbuildings BELFUJI (Imabari), BELMOIRA and BELAJA (Shin Kurushima).
The timecharter agreements for BELNIPPON and BELFUJI are treated as operational leases. Hire payments amounted to 8 459 in 2020. Maturity of the lease agreements are 2025 and 2028 respectively.
Depreciable assets include vehicles, office furniture and office equipment. Depreciation period is 3-5 years. Nondepreciable assets include apartment and art, which is being tested for impairment annually.
At the end of each reporting period, the company assess whether there are any impairment indicators present. The company has concluded that the declining market rates observed during the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020 represents an impairment indicator pursuant to NRS(F) Consequently, the company carried out an impairment test of ships owned or recognised as right-of-use assets per year-end.
The company considers each ship as a separate cash-generating unit and has compared recoverable amounts against carrying amounts at the end of the quarter. Recoverable amounts are based on value-in-use and have been derived from calculation of present value of estimated cash flows over the useful life of the ship. The value-in-use calculations are mainly sensitive to changes in revenue and cost of capital assumptions. Revenues have been based on the ships current contracts and long-term historical rates for equivalent ships. Cash flows have been discounted using a cost of capital of 5.8 per cent. At the end of the year, recoverable amounts were higher than carrying amounts for all ships and no impairment was recorded. The company has performed sensitivity tests on the assumptions used in the impairment tests. Reducing the long-term rate by USD 1 100 per day would have led to an impairment recognition of USD 15.4m at year-end. One per cent increase in cost of capital would not have resulted in impairment of ships at year-end.
At the Annual general meeting (AGM) in 2019, the Board was authorised to issue up to 200 000 share options to employees in Belships ASA. The option price is 105% of closing share price on the day of the AGM. The authorization is valid for two years. In accordance with this authorisation, options to buy 200 000 shares at NOK 8.79 were awarded in November 2019. No options have been exercised.
At the AGM in 2020, the Board was authorised to issue up to 200 000 share options to employees. The option price is 105% of closing share price on the day of the AGM. The authorization is valid for two years. In accordance with this authorisation, options to buy 200 000 shares at NOK 6.20 were awarded in November 2020. No options have been exercised.
The above mentioned option programs require a service period of 12 months before they can be exercised. The option can be exercised after one year from the date of the AGM which approved the option program and runs unto the date of the next AGM. The option programs include all employees in the parent company. The employees must be employed in the company at the time when the options can be exercised in order to have a right to exercise them.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Outstanding options 1 January | 400 000 | 400 000 |
| Awarded | 5 200 000 | 5 200 000 |
| Exercised | 0 | 0 |
| Not exercised | -200 000 | -200 000 |
| Outstanding options 31 December | 5 400 000 | 5 400 000 |
Fair value of options has been calculated using the Black and Scholes options pricing model. The fair value of options awarded in 2019 and 2020 was NOK 2.60 and NOK 1.17, respectively. The fair value of outstanding share options are calculated at time of award and charged against profit and loss over the period until they can be exercised. The cost related to the share options above amounted to 45 in 2020.
The CEO in Belships, Lars Christian Skarsgård was in March 2019 granted options to subscribe for up to five million shares in the Company with an exercise price of NOK 6 per share. The options can be exercised in the period between 36 months and 60 months from 15 March 2019. The company may honour exercised options by delivery of new shares in a share issue, by sale of existing shares, or by way cash settlement (i.e. payment of the difference between the market price of the shares less the exercise price). Options that have not been exercised will lapse if Skarsgård terminates his position as CEO or if he is terminated from his position with cause. If Skarsgård is terminated from his position without cause during the first 12 months, 2/3 of the options will lapse and if he is terminated from his position without cause during the first 24 months, 1/3 of the options will lapse. If Skarsgård is
terminated without cause during the exercise period, the options will lapse unless they are exercised within three months.
The fair value of the options at time of award was NOK 2.57 per share. The calculated cost of USD 500 has been recognised as an expense in 2020.
Share price at the time the option was awarded: The share price is set as equal to the stock exchange share price when the option was awarded.
Exercise price per option: The exercise price was 105 % of the stock exchange market price when the option was awarded.
Volatility: Historic volatility set as indication of future volatility. Expected volatility equals a historic volatility of 39%.
Duration of options: It is assumed that all employees will exercise their options when the service period has been completed.
Dividend: Estimated dividend per share is NOK 0 per year.
Risk free interest rate: Interest rate used as a basis for calculating options is equal to the interest rate on government bonds over the duration of the options, i.e. 2% for 2020.
Decrease in the number of employees: Expected reduction is 0.
No interest is calculated on current intercompany balances, as these items are only considered as ordinary operating balances.
Interest at market terms is calculated on non-current intercompany balances, and the balance fall due when the cash position allows it. Calculated interest income on noncurrent intercompany balances amounted to 3 160 (2019: 2 653).
Total bank deposit amounted to 2 236 (4 251) at yearend. Restricted funds for withholding tax for employees amounted to 160 (161) at 31 December 2020.
| Paid-in | Retained | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Share capital |
Treasury shares |
Shares premium res. |
Other equity |
Other equity |
Total | |
| Equity per 31 December 2019 | 50 403 | -166 | 39 499 | 36 191 | -22 768 | 103 159 |
| Share issue | 3 214 | 0 | 8 276 | 0 | 0 | 11 490 |
| Remeasurements loss | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | -10 | -10 |
| Share-based payments | 0 | 0 | 0 | 545 | 0 | 545 |
| Result for the year | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 28 | 28 |
| Equity per 31 December 2020 | 53 617 | -166 | 47 775 | 36 736 | -22 750 | 115 212 |
Belships ASA's 228 175 404 shares, each with a face value of NOK 2.00, was as of 31 December 2020 distributed among 451 shareholders (2019: 404). Each share has one vote.
| 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|
| Number of shares Ordinary shares, issued and paid-in per 1 January Share issue 15 950 699 |
212 224 705 175 117 993 37 106 712 |
| Ordinary shares, issued and paid-in per 31 December | 228 175 404 212 224 705 |
The company holds 548 000 treasury shares in total with an average cost price of NOK 9.91 as of 31 December 2020. Belships ASA entered in June 2019 into a market making agreement with Norne Securities.
At the Annual general meeting in 2020 the Board received authorisation to issue up to 100 million new shares. The authorisation has not been used and is valid to the next ordinary Annual general meeting. In May 2020 a total of 15 950 699 shares were issued at NOK 7.15 per share as part of consideration for the vessel BELHAVEN.
| Number of shares | Percentage | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Kontrari AS | 95 822 108 | 41.99 % | |
| 2 Kontrazi AS | 32 463 265 | 14.23 % | |
| 3 DnB NOR Bank ASA | 18 050 670 | 7.91 % | |
| 4 Sonata AS | 17 461 778 | 7.65 % | |
| 5 Citibank, N.A. | 15 849 131 | 6.95 % | |
| 6 LGT Bank AG | 12 630 754 | 5.54 % | |
| 7 Jakob Hatteland Holding AS | 11 000 000 | 4.82 % | |
| 8 UBS Switzerland AG | 7 804 395 | 3.42 % | |
| 9 Pershing LLC | 3 584 648 | 1.57 % | |
| 10 KBC Bank NV | 1 629 398 | 0.71 % | |
| 11 Clearstream Banking S.A. | 1 625 132 | 0.71 % | |
| 12 Stavanger Forvaltning AS | 1 300 000 | 0.57 % | |
| 13 Six SIS AG | 1 069 191 | 0.47 % | |
| 14 Ola Rustad AS | 850 000 | 0.37 % | |
| 15 Ole Ketil Teigen | 700 000 | 0.31 % | |
| 16 Belships ASA | 548 000 | 0.24 % | |
| 17 Arages Holding AS | 500 000 | 0.22 % | |
| 18 AS Torinitamar | 417 100 | 0.18 % | |
| 19 ASL Holding AS | 363 836 | 0.16 % | |
| 20 August Ringvold Agenturer AS | 341 168 | 0.15 % | |
| Total 20 largest shareholders | 224 010 574 | 98.17 % | |
| Other shareholders | 4 164 830 | 1.83 % | |
| Total number of shares | 228 175 404 | 100.00 % |
| Note | Number of shares | Outstanding options | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peter Frølich (chairman) | 75 000 | 0 | ||
| Frode Teigen | 1 | 128 285 373 | 0 | |
| Sverre J. Tidemand | 2 | 17 461 778 | 0 | |
| Carl Erik Steen | 79 154 | 0 | ||
| Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe | 7 500 | 0 | ||
| Jorunn Seglem | 35 000 | 0 | ||
| Sissel Grefsrud | 0 | 0 |
| Lars Christian Skarsgård, CEO * | 3 | 437 000 | 5 000 000 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Osvald Fossholm, CFO | 4 | 35 000 | 100 700 |
*) See note 4 for more information about separate share option plan.
1) Includes shares held by Kontrari AS and Kontrazi AS, companies controlled by Frode Teigen.
2) Includes shares held by Sonata AS, a company in which Sverre J. Tidemand controls.
3) Includes shares held by AS Torinitamar, a company owned by Lars Christian Skarsgård.
4) Includes shares held by Krino Invest AS, a company owned by Osvald Fossholm.
All the employees in the parent company are member of a defined contribution scheme, which is in line with the occupational pension scheme for employees in Norway in accordance with the Act on Mandatory occupational pensions. Annual payable cost is reflected in the income statements and the company does not have any future liabilities related to this scheme. Total costs amounted to 144 in 2020.
In addition to defined contribution scheme, the legacy Belships has unfunded pension liabilities which are covered through the daily operations. These relate to early retirement and pension to persons, that have not been included in the defined contribution scheme. There are 5 retired persons included in this scheme.
Pension commitments are calculated by an independent actuary. The basis for the calculation is shown below. The mortality table (K2013) for Norway is used in the calculations.
Social security costs are recorded based on net pension obligation in the balance sheet included estimate discrepancy.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Discount rate | 1.70 % | 2.30 % |
| Future wage adjustment | 2.25 % | 2.25 % |
| Pension adjustment | 0% | 0% |
| G-adjustment | 2.00 % | 2.00 % |
| Return on pension plan assets | 1.70 % | 2.30 % |
| Composition of the net pension obligations | ||
| Net pension obligations as at 1 January | 303 | 545 |
| Interest on accrued pension obligations | -10 | -201 |
| Employer benefits paid | -27 | -51 |
| Actuarial (gains)/losses on obligation | 10 | 10 |
| Net pension obligations as at 31 December | 276 | 303 |
| Net pension expenses | ||
| Pension expenses defined benefit plan | -10 | -201 |
| Pension expenses defined contribution scheme | 144 | 135 |
| Total pension expenses | 134 | -66 |
| Business | Time of | Ownership/ Voting |
Result | Book | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| office | purchase | Cost price | share | Equity | of the year | value | |
| Shares in subsidiaries | |||||||
| Belships Mgmt (Singapore) Pte Ltd 1) | Singapore | 31.12.83 | 1 375 | 100 % | 2 700 | 1 419 | 1 375 |
| Belships Lighthouse AS | Oslo | 27.01.93 | 25 191 | 100 % | 57 810 | -769 | 615 |
| Belships Shipholding AS | Oslo | 05.02.19 | 7 | 100 % | 688 | 1 354 | 7 |
| Bellight AS | Oslo | 03.06.19 | 11 100 | 100 % | 11 604 | 135 | 11 100 |
| Lighthouse Navigation AS | Oslo | 09.12.85 | 4 | 34% | 667 | 656 | 4 |
| Total | 13 101 |
1) The company has provided dividend of SGD 1.2 million in 2020 (2019: SGD 2.5 million)
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Ship operating expenses | ||
| Crew expenses | 4 938 | 2 077 |
| Maintenance and spare parts | 1 343 | 689 |
| Insurance | 567 | 269 |
| Other ship operating expenses | 2 528 | 1 327 |
| Total | 9 376 | 4 362 |
| Other financial items | ||
| Guarantee commission 1) | 2 794 | 2 156 |
| Gain on shares in subsidiary | 0 | 2 105 |
| Reversal of impairment of shares in subsidiary | 0 | 7 362 |
| Other financial costs/(income) | -2 | -114 |
| Total | 2 792 | 11 509 |
1) The company acting as guarantor of mortgage debts in subsidiaries. At end of 2020, outstanding debt related to this guarantee amounted to USD 141.7 million. Book value on ships related to the debt amounted to USD 220.4 million.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Salaries | 1 134 | 1 430 |
| Social security tax | 223 | 280 |
| Pension expenses | 134 | -66 |
| Share-based payment | 545 | 23 |
| Other allowances | 36 | 41 |
| Total payroll expenses | 2 074 | 1 708 |
The average number of employees in 2020 was 8 (2019: 9).
| 2020 | CEO | Financial director |
|---|---|---|
| Salaries | 281 | 187 |
| Share-based payment transaction exp. | 500 | 17 |
| Pension expenses | 19 | 21 |
| Other allowances | 2 | 17 |
| Total | 802 | 241 |
Other allowances include telephone, insurance
For information about share options, see note 4. The CEO has a separate option scheme which also is described in note 4.
agreements etc. There exist no severance pay agreement.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| The Board | 170 | 182 |
| Audit committee | 9 | 10 |
| Nomination committee | 5 | 6 |
Board members are not awarded share options
In conformity with the provisions of section 6-16a of the Norwegian Public Limited Liability Companies Act, the Board has prepared the following statement on the company's guidelines for the remuneration of the executive management:
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Remuneration for audit services | 59 | 65 |
| Other assurance services | 11 | 13 |
| Assistance related to tax matters | 21 | 11 |
| Other audit related assistance | 22 | 59 |
| Total | 112 | 149 |
Loans to employees amounted to 17 (37) at 31 December 2020. Of this, 12 (22) to the management. See note 13 for further details related to the loans.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Office expenses | 223 | 154 |
| Other services | 390 | 1 012 |
| Data, office equipment a.o. | 222 | 315 |
| Communication, advertising | 82 | 53 |
| Travel expenses | 35 | 151 |
| Other general administrative expenses | 255 | 630 |
| Total | 1 206 | 2 314 |
The company had BELAJA, BELMOIRA, BELFOREST, BELISLAND and BELRAY on bareboat agreements at year end.
In addition,the company had BELNIPPON and BELFUJI on long-term time charter agreements.
In September 2015, the company entered into a sale and lease back agreement for BELFOREST. The bareboat charter period is 12 years with purchase options from year 3 and onwards.
BELISLAND was delivered in March 2016. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period of 15 years with purchase options from year 5 and onwards.
BELNIPPON was delivered in January 2018. The ship is leased on time charter for a period of 8 years with purchase options from year 4 and onwards.
BELRAY was delivered in October 2019. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period of 7 years with purchase options from year 4 and onwards.
BELFUJI was delivered in January 2020. The ship is leased on time charter for a period of 8 years with purchase options from year 4 and onwards.
BELMOIRA was delivered in January 2020. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period of 7 years with purchase options from year 1 and onwards.
BELAJA was delivered in February 2020. The ship is leased on bareboat charter for a period 7 years with purchase options from year 1 and onwards.
In the first quarter 2021, the company took delivery of BELFAST (Bareboat). In addition, the three newbuilds BELMAR (Bareboat), BELTRADER (Bareboat) and BELGUARDIAN (Bareboat) will be delivered in the second half of 2021. All newbuilds includes purchase options callable after the fourth year.
The company has no obligation to purchase any of the vessels on bareboat or time charter.
Loans to employees amounted to 17 (37) as at 31 December 2020. The average interest rate used for the loans was 2.17% (2.20%) in 2020. The repayment period is five years.
All short-term receivables and liabilities are due
| < 1 year | 1 - 5 year | Subsequent | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Financial leases | 12 027 | 59 516 | 66 833 | 138 375 |
| Operational leases | 4 806 | 16 634 | 3 554 | 24 994 |
Belships ASA has entered into letters of intent for the acquisition of three Ultramax newbuildings of 61 000 dwt to be named BELTRADER, BELGUARDIAN and BELKNIGHT upon delivery. Two of the vessels are expected to be delivered during Q3 2021, while the third is expected for delivery during Q4 2021. The vessels will be financed thru 7-10 year bareboat charters.
Belships ASA successfully completed a private placement 9 March 2021 raising a total of NOK 140 million through the allocation of 20 million shares at a subscription price of NOK 7.00 per share.
Belships ASA has entered into an agreement for the acquisition of a secondhand Ultramax, built in 2017 by a Chinese shipyard, to be named BELTIGER upon delivery. The agreed purchase price is USD 21.75 million, of which 80 % was paid in cash and 20 % was settled through an issue of 4 988 000 new Belships shares at a share price of NOK 7.50 per share. The vessel will be financed with bank financing for approximately 60 % of the purchase price.
Currency risks arise in connection with transactions that are completed in other currencies than USD, and consist mainly of administrative expenses in NOK. No currency hedging agreements have been entered into.
The company does not use hedge accounting.
There will always exist a credit risk related to the company's business. Belships monitors this risk and the strategy is to carefully select counterparts. Historical losses have been limited.
The company receives a commission for acting as guarantor for mortgage debt in the subsidiary Belships Shipholding AS. The fee amounted to 2 794 (2 161) in 2020. The company received a management fee of USD 0.7 million in 2020 from its subsidiaries for auditing, accounting, project management and board fees.
All intercompany transactions have been conducted to market terms.
Except for the above mentioned, it has not been issued loans or provided security to or from shareholders or related parties.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Result for the year before tax | 23 | 12 438 |
| -4 997 Change in temporary differences |
-6 457 | |
| Permanent differences / other -4 144 |
-6 839 | |
| Tax basis for the year -9 118 |
-858 | |
| Taxes payable (22%) | 0 | 0 |
| Total income tax expense | 0 | 0 |
In accordance with NGAAP, tax reducing temporary differences and tax increasing temporary differences that are reversed, or can be reversed in the same period are assessed and the amount recorded net.
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Result for the year before tax | 23 | 12 438 |
| Statutory tax rate 22 % |
22 % | |
| Estimated tax expense at statutory rate | 5 | 2 736 |
| Permanent differences / other -912 |
-1 505 | |
| Expected tax expense -907 |
1 232 | |
| Translation differences -177 |
213 | |
| Change in not recognized deferred tax assets 1 084 |
-1 445 | |
| Actual tax expense | 0 | 0 |
| 0 % Effective tax percentage |
0 % |
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Deferred sale fixed asset gain/(loss) | -343 | -416 |
| Pension obligations | -276 | -303 |
| Temporary differences fixed assets | 26 043 | 20 077 |
| Sum temporary differences included in change in temporary differences | 25 425 | 19 357 |
| Impairment loss shares in subsidiaries abroad | 0 | 0 |
| Tax loss carried forward | -75 591 | -64 597 |
| Net temporary differences | -50 167 | -45 240 |
| Nominal tax rate on deferred tax | 22 % | 22 % |
| Deferred tax assets | -11 037 | -9 953 |
| Deferred tax assets in the Balance sheet | 0 | 0 |
| Deferred tax assets not recorded in the Balance sheet | -11 037 | -9 953 |

To the General Meeting of Belships ASA Other information
We have audited the financial statements of Belships ASA, which comprise: To the General Meeting of Belships ASA information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially
• The financial statements of the parent company Belships ASA (the Company), which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 2020, the income statement and cash flow statement for the year then ended, and notes to the accounts, including a summary of significant accounting policies, and Independent Auditor's Report Report on the Audit of the Financial Statements misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
• The consolidated financial statements of Belships ASA and its subsidiaries (the Group), which comprise the statement of financial position as at 31 December 2020, the statement of profit and loss, statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and statement of cash flows for the year then ended, and notes to the accounts, including a summary of significant accounting policies. Opinion We have audited the financial statements of Belships ASA, which comprise: • The financial statements of the parent company Belships ASA (the Company), which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 2020, the income statement and cash flow statement for Responsibilities of the Board of Directors and the Managing Director for the Financial Statements The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (Management) are responsible for the preparation in accordance with law and regulations, including a true and fair view of the financial statements of the Company in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices
In our opinion: the year then ended, and notes to the accounts, including a summary of significant accounting policies, and generally accepted in Norway, and for the preparation and true and fair view of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as
authorised accounting firm
We conducted our audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Company and the Group as required by laws and regulations, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. • The accompanying consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Group as at 31 December 2020, and its financial performance and its cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU. Basis for Opinion We conducted our audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Our are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
PricewaterhouseCoopers AS, Kanalsletta 8, Postboks 8017, NO-4068 Stavanger T: 02316, org. no.: 987 009 713 VAT, www.pwc.no State authorised public accountants, members of The Norwegian Institute of Public Accountants, and authorised accounting firm
State authorised public accountants, members of The Norwegian Institute of Public Accountants, and
responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Company and the Group as required by laws and regulations, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient
As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain
PricewaterhouseCoopers AS, Kanalsletta 8, Postboks 8017, NO-4068 Stavanger
T: 02316, org. no.: 987 009 713 VAT, www.pwc.no
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements of the current period. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters. The Groups business activity increased compared to last year due to more vessels operated, however the freight rates have been somewhat volatile as a result of covid 19, making our focus on impairment of vessels all the more important. Last years focus on implementation of IFRS 16 constitutes less of risk this year. Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises information in the annual report, except the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with
the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Belships ASA has owned ships, right of use assets and ship held for sale ("vessels") with a carrying amount of MUSD 378 as at 31st December 2020. The vessels comprise 81 % of total assets. Responsibilities of the Board of Directors and the Managing Director for the Financial Statements
Management's assessment of recoverable amounts of vessels requires estimates and assumptions relating to operational and market factors and involves a high degree of judgement. Further, the calculation of recoverable amount requires financial modelling of the cash flows related to the cash generating units, which can be complex and may require use of additional judgement. error.
We focus on this area due to the magnitude of amounts involved and high degree of judgement. As always when dealing with management judgement and complex calculations, there is an inherent risk of errors that may materially impact net profit. Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
Management identified impairment for two vessels and recognized in total 5 MUSD in impairment for 2020. that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices
We refer to note 6 where management explains the impairment assessment.
basis of these financial statements.
We assessed management's identification of impairment indicators as part of management's quarterly assessment and agreed that indicators were present. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
We obtained management impairment calculation. For each cash generating unit, we assessed the key inputs in the calculation of recoverable amounts and assessed the mathematical and methodological integrity of management's impairment models. We challenged management on the key assumptions used in the model. Our procedures included tracing input data to contracts and budget approved by the board of directors and considering whether charter hire rates and utilization are consistent with our knowledge of the industry. We also compared management's assessment of charter hire to the external source; the Baltic Index (BSI 58). We also compared utilization levels against historical utilization for such vessels. To consider the reliability of estimated operating expense, we compared the estimates to historical performance, and considered whether deviations between estimates and historical performance had a reasonable explanation through discussions with management. When we considered management's analysis of sensitivity, we noted that the forecasted cash flow was sensitive to changes to assumptions, and most of all revenue. We found management's assumptions in relation to the value in use calculations to be reasonable. The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (Management) are responsible for the preparation in accordance with law and regulations, including a true and fair view of the financial statements of the Company in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, and for the preparation and true and fair view of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company's and the Group's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern. The financial statements of the Company use the going concern basis of accounting insofar as it is not likely that the enterprise will cease operations. The consolidated financial statements of the Group use the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee
We assessed the discount rate by comparing the assumptions uses to build the discount rate with observed external market rate data and internal data. We considered that the used discount rate was within an appropriate range. generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the
We evaluated the disclosures made in note 6 and found reasonable explanations of the valuation process and uncertainties inherent in the assumptions. As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
(2)

Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises information in the annual report, except the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises information in the annual report, except the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon.
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (Management) are responsible for the preparation in accordance with law and regulations, including a true and fair view of the financial statements of the Company in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, and for the preparation and true and fair view of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (Management) are responsible for the preparation in accordance with law and regulations, including a true and fair view of the financial statements of the Company in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, and for the preparation and true and fair view of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company's and the Group's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern. The financial statements of the Company use the going concern basis of accounting insofar as it is not likely that the enterprise will cease operations. The consolidated financial statements of the Group use the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company's and the Group's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern. The financial statements of the Company use the going concern basis of accounting insofar as it is not likely that the enterprise will cease operations. The consolidated financial statements of the Group use the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements.
As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
(3)

• identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. We design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control. Other information Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises information in the annual report, except the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
We communicate with the Board of Directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit. it is not likely that the enterprise will cease operations. The consolidated financial statements of the Group use the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
We also provide the Board of Directors with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards. Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee
From the matters communicated with the Board of Directors, we determine those matters that were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements of the current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor's report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication. that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these financial statements. As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices
generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
(4)

Opinion on the Board of Directors' report Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises information in the annual report, except the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon.
Based on our audit of the financial statements as described above, it is our opinion that the information presented in the Board of Directors' report and in the statements on Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility concerning the financial statements, the going concern assumption and the proposed allocation of the result is consistent with the financial statements and complies with the law and regulations. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon. In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Independent Auditor's Report - Belships ASA
Based on our audit of the financial statements as described above, and control procedures we have considered necessary in accordance with the International Standard on Assurance Engagements (ISAE) 3000, Assurance Engagements Other than Audits or Reviews of Historical Financial Information, it is our opinion that management has fulfilled its duty to produce a proper and clearly set out registration and documentation of the Company's accounting information in accordance with the law and bookkeeping standards and practices generally accepted in Norway. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. Responsibilities of the Board of Directors and the Managing Director for the Financial Statements
The Board of Directors and the Managing Director (Management) are responsible for the preparation in accordance with law and regulations, including a true and fair view of the financial statements of the
Group's ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern. The financial statements of the Company use the going concern basis of accounting insofar as it is not likely that the enterprise will cease operations. The consolidated financial statements of the Group use the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the
As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain
Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements
the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially
Stavanger, 28 April 2021 PricewaterhouseCoopers AS Company in accordance with the Norwegian Accounting Act and accounting standards and practices generally accepted in Norway, and for the preparation and true and fair view of the consolidated financial statements of the Group in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as
Tom Notland adopted by the EU, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
State Authorised Public Accountant In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company's and the
basis of these financial statements.
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
(5)

Good corporate governance is a prerequisite for trust between the company's owners, board and management, and external stakeholders. Sound principles of governance is integral in order to achieve the objective of long-term growth and the greatest possible value for its shareholders over time.
All relevant parties must be confident that the company is soundly operated and that the corporate governance is well defined, fit for purpose and carried out with integrity and independence.
Belships' competitiveness hinges on stakeholders' and prospective customers' trust in the company's integrity and ethical behavior. Board members, management and employees will therefore always strive to uphold and develop trust in the company. Belships' values and ethical guidelines are intended to safeguard good corporate ethics.
Pursuant to section 3-3 (B) of the Norwegian Accounting Act and the Code (as defined below), the board reviews and updates the company's principles for corporate governance on an annual basis. This report is included in the company's annual report.
Belships' corporate governance policy is based on "The Norwegian Code of Practice for Corporate Governance" (the "Code"), most recently revised on 17 October 2018 and issued by the Norwegian Corporate Governance Policy Board. The policy is designed to establish a basis for good corporate governance to support achievement of the company's core objectives on behalf of its shareholders, including the achievement of sustainable profitability.
By pursuing the principles of corporate governance, the board and management contributes to achieving open communication, equal rights for all shareholders and good control and corporate governance mechanisms. The board assesses and discusses the corporate governance policy on a yearly basis.
Belships aspire to comply with the recommendations of the Code. If the Code is deviated from, the deviation is described and explained in the relevant section of this statement.
The company's business is clearly described in the company's articles of association and is as follows:
"The objective of the company is shipping, charter brokerage and purchase and sale of vessels, offshore operations, participation in the exploration for and the production of petroleum, trade and industry as well as participation in companies of any sort with similar objectives."
As at 31 December 2020, the company had a total equity of USD 150 million, corresponding to an equity ratio of 32%. The board deems the liquidity position of the company to be satisfactory, with cash and cash equivalents of USD 34 million. The company had mortgage debt of USD 142 million as of 31 December 2020 and a net lease obligation of USD 140 million.
The board is of the view that the capital structure of the company is appropriate to the company's objectives, strategies and risk profile.
Belships aims to maximize the value for the company's share through an efficient and profitable management of the company's resources. A competitive return is to be obtained through growth in the value of the company's shares and the payment of competitive dividends.
The board will ask for an authorization to distribute dividend at the general meeting in 2021.
At the general meeting in 2020, the board was granted an authorization to increase the share capital with up to NOK 400 000 (corresponding to 200 000 new shares, each with a par value of NOK 2). The authorization can be used in connection with the company's share option program for employees. The authorization is valid until the general meeting in 2021, but not longer than 30 June 2021. At the general meeting in 2020, the board was also granted an authorization to increase the share capital with up to NOK 200 000 000 (corresponding to 100 000 000 new shares, each with a par value of NOK 2). This authorization covers more than one purpose, but the board is of the view that such authorization gives the board a flexibility to increase the share capital either in connection with acquisitions, to raise equity or a combination of the two, depending on the specific needs of the company. The authorization is valid until the general meeting in 2021, but not longer than 30 June 2021. The board was also granted an authorization to, on behalf of the company, acquire up to 15 000 000 treasury shares (corresponding to a total par value of NOK 30 000 000) at the board's discretion. The authorization was not limited to a specific purpose in order to give the board sufficient flexibility.
When increasing share capital through the issue of new shares for cash payment, the company's shareholders have normally a pre-emptive right to subscribe for the new shares. If the board resolves to carry out an increase in share capital and waive the pre-emptive rights of existing shareholders on the basis of an authorization granted to the board, this will only be done where justified in light of the company's and the shareholders' interests. Such justification will be published in connection with the announcement of the increase in capital. The board has not made any resolutions to increase the share capital based on the authorizations granted at the general meeting in 2020.
The board was given an authorization at the general meeting in 2020 to acquire treasury shares. No such transactions have taken place in 2020.
In the event of any not immaterial transactions between the company and shareholders, a shareholder's parent company, members of the board, executive personnel or close associates of any such parties, the board will arrange for a valuation to be obtained from an independent third party. This will not apply if the transaction requires the approval of the general meeting pursuant to the requirements of the Public Companies Act.
Independent valuations will also be arranged in respect of transactions between companies in the same group where any of the companies involved have minority shareholders. No such transactions have taken place in 2020.
The shares in Belships are freely negotiable and there are no restrictions on any party's ability to own, trade or vote for the share in the company.
The board seeks to ensure that as many of the company's shareholders as possible can participate in the general meeting and that the resolutions and any supporting documentation are sufficiently detailed, comprehensive and specific allowing shareholders to understand and form a view on all matters to be considered at the general meeting.
In the notice of the general meeting, it may be decided that shareholders who wish to take part in the general meeting, either in person or by proxy, must notify the company to this effect by a deadline of up to two (2) days before the general meeting.
The members of the board have been present at the general meetings in 2020.
The board has previously considered the need for an independent chairman for the general meeting on a case to case basis. The company's annual general meeting and the extraordinary general meeting in 2019 were chaired by the chairman of the board.
The company's articles of association state that the company shall have a nomination committee of two or three members. The members of the committee, including the chairman, shall be elected by the general meeting. Unless otherwise resolved by the general meeting, the elections shall be held every two years. The nomination committee shall make recommendations to the general meeting for the election of shareholder elected board members and members of the nomination committee and the remuneration to the members of the board and the nomination committee. The remuneration to the members of the nomination committee shall be resolved by the general meeting. The general meeting has established guidelines for the nomination committee. The members of the nomination committee are currently Vegard Gjerde and Kristian Falnes, both elected by the annual general meeting in 2019. The nomination committee has held 1 meeting since the 2020 general meeting.
The board consists of seven members and one observer, and the board is made up of directors with broad experience and knowledge of the sector in order to attend to the common interests of all shareholders and meet the company's need for expertise, capacity and diversity. Four directors are independent of day-to-day management, the majority shareholder and major business connections. The board does not include members of the executive management. The chairman of the board is elected by the general meeting. The term of office for the board members is one year, and members may be re-elected. Further information regarding the expertise of the members of the board and information on their record of attendance at board meetings is included in the annual report. Board members are encouraged to own shares in the company, and 6 of 7 directors own shares in the company. Further information regarding the board is included the annual report.
The board has the final responsibility for the management and organization of the company and supervising routine management and business activities. This involves that the board is responsible for establishing control arrangements to secure that the company operates in accordance with the adopted values and Code of Conduct as well as with shareholders' expectations of good corporate governance. The board primarily looks after the interests of all the shareholders, but is also responsible for the company's other stakeholders. The board's main task is to ensure that the company develops and creates value. Furthermore the board shall contribute to the shaping of and implementation of the Group's strategy, ensure appropriate supervision and control of management and in other ways ensure that the Group is well operated and organised. The board sets the objectives for the financial performance and adopts the company's plans and budgets. Items of major strategic or financial importance for the Group are the responsibility of the board. The board hires the CEO, defines his or her work description and authority and sets his or her salary and other compensation. The board each year produces an annual plan for its work as recommended. The board have adopted instructions for its own work and for the executive management. The rules of procedure that apply to the Chief Executive Officer specify his or her responsibilities and the decisions that have to be approved by the board. The board can decide to deviate from instructions in certain cases. The board and executive personnel shall make the company aware of any material interests that they may have in items to be considered by the board. The board will also be chaired by some other member of the board if the board is to consider matters of a material character in which the chairman of the board is, or has been, personally involved. The board receives regular financial reports on the Group's economic and financial status. The board establishes an annual plan for its work and evaluates its performance and expertise annually. The board meets at least 6 times a year and receives a monthly report on the company's operations. In addition, the board is consulted on or informed about matters of special importance.
The audit committee consists of Birthe Cecilie Lepsøe (chairman) and Peter Frølich. The committee's objective is to act as a preparatory working committee and support in connection with the board's supervisory roles with respect to financial reporting and the effectiveness of the company's internal control system. The members of the audit committee are independent of the company and at least one member of the audit committee is competent in respect of finance and audit. The board has prepared rules of procedure for the audit committee. The committee has held 5 meetings since the annual general meeting in 2020.
A remuneration committee has not been established. Remuneration tasks are handled by the board.
The board is responsible for ensuring that the company has sound internal control and believes that the systems for risk management implemented by the company are appropriate in relation to the extent and nature of the company's activities. The company's systems for internal control are closely linked to the company's guidelines for corporate social responsibility. The board annually reviews the company's most important areas of exposure to risk and its internal control arrangements.
The company endeavors to grant directors a remuneration based on market terms, which reflect the responsibility, expertise, time commitment and the complexity of the company's activities. The remuneration to directors is approved by the company's annual general meeting. The remuneration of the board should not be linked to the company's performance. The company should not grant share options to members of its board. Members of the board and/or companies with which they are associated should not take on specific assignments for the company in addition to their appointment as a member of the board. If they do nonetheless take on such assignments, this should be disclosed to the full board. The remuneration for such additional duties should be approved by the board. Any remuneration in addition to normal directors' fees should be specifically identified in the annual report.
The board has prepared guidelines for the remuneration of the executive management, pursuant to the law, which are submitted to the general meeting. Details concerning the remuneration of the company's officers are provided in a separate note to the accounts. The company has a share option scheme that applies to all employees in the head office of Belships ASA, including the executive management. In addition, the Chief Executive Officer has a separate option arrangement. General meeting has voted separately on the approval of the authorization to the board to issue shares to honor the option program.
Belships regards timely and accurate information as essential for obtaining a price for the share that will reflect the company's underlying value and prospects. The company keeps Oslo Stock Exchange, the stock market and shareholders fully updated through interim reports, annual reports and press releases on important events. The company also has a website, which is regularly updated. The company's financial calendar is published on the company's website and through the Oslo Stock Exchange publication system. All shareholders have equal access to financial and other material company information.
The board has established guidelines for how to act in the event of a take-over bid. If such a bid should be made, the board considers it important that shareholders are treated equally and that the company's operations are not unnecessarily disturbed. The board shall ensure that shareholders are given sufficient information and time to form a view of the offer. The board shall not seek to prevent or obstruct take-over bids for the company's business or shares unless there are particular reasons to do so. Any agreement with a bidder for the shares of the company that acts to limit the company's ability to arrange other bids for the company's shares should only be entered into where such an agreement clearly is in the common interest of the company and the shareholders. This provision shall also apply to any agreement on the payment of financial compensation to a bidder if the bid does not proceed. In the event of a take-over bid for the company's shares, the board shall not exercise authorizations or pass any resolutions with the intention of obstructing the take-over bid unless this is approved by the general meeting subsequent to the announcement of the bid. If an offer is made for the shares in the company, the board shall issue a statement making a recommendation as to whether shareholders should or should not accept the offer. The board's statement
on a bid shall make it clear whether the views expressed are unanimous, and if this is not the case, it shall explain the basis on which specific members of the board have excluded themselves from the board's statement. Before issuing its final statement the board shall arrange for an evaluation of the financial aspects of the bid from an independent expert. The evaluation shall include an explanation and shall be made public no later than at the time the board's statement is made public.
The auditor submits the main features of the company's annual audit plan to the audit committee. The auditor is always invited to be present during the board's discussion of the annual accounts. At this meeting the board is briefed on the annual accounts and any other issues of particular concern to the auditor. Part of the meeting is also executed without the presence of the CEO and other executive management. The board has implemented guidelines in respect of use of the auditor by the executive management for services other than the audit. The board reviews the company's internal control procedures together with the auditor at least annually. The company's auditor is PricewaterhouseCoopers AS. The auditing and counseling fees appear from the notes to the accounts. The board makes a running assessment of whether the audit is performed in a satisfactory manner.
Belships performs all commercial and technical management in-house and has no related party transactions.
Belships board of directors consists of seven members, whereof four are independent. Since 2007, more than 40 per cent of the board has been represented by female board members.
Belships utilizes only external advisors or brokers in any transactions and no related third parties.
The board has separate Audit and Board Nomination committees. Belships does not have any shareholder disenfranchisement policies such as poison pills or similar.
The company and board maintain sound principles of transparency and fairness in regard to availability of information, presentations and practices.


Belships' main contribution to society is to develop a sustainable and value-creating business for our customers, employees and shareholders. Our aim is to ensure that our business practices as well as our investments are sustainable and contribute to economic development, with care for the environmental and social impact we have on society.
Belships has identified certain material sustainability challenges relating to the Company, as well as their potential impact on the Company's business. This Corporate Social Responsibility Policy presents how Belships integrates the most material sustainability issues into its business strategies and processes.
Belships has a clearly defined mission statement and a set of core values which we believe will ensure that the Company continues to grow and develop its value creating and sustainable business.
• To be a leading provider of shipping transportation services
Our core values are reflected in everything we do. They are an integrated part of how we conduct our business.
This Corporate Social Responsibility Policy applies to all employees and all members of the board of directors of the Company and of the Company's subsidiaries and to any other person or entity acting for or on behalf of the Company.
The policies set out in the Corporate Social Responsibility Policy should be read and understood in conjunction with Belships' Code of Conduct and the guidelines and obligations contained therein.
International shipping contributes to global emissions of greenhouse gases (GHG) through consumption of bunkers. Although international shipping is a contributor to global emissions, it produces substantially less emissions per unit distance than other methods of transportation when carrying a shipment.
Belships recognizes its environmental responsibility and strives to comply with and maintain high standards in order to reduce the environmental impact from its operations. The Company is focusing on reducing bunkers consumption, which is the main source of the shipping sector's emissions of CO2, NOX and SOX.
Belships' ambition is to optimize energy consumption to reduce its environmental impact, by investing in new ships and designs, but also taking measures aimed at reducing the footprint of existing vessels where possible.
Belships is certified with Environmental Management Systems Certificate ISO 14001 as well as ISO 9001:2000. The certificates are issued by the classification society and establish environmental standards and implementation routines. Continuous efforts are made in order to reduce the general waste produced by the ships and to dispose of waste onshore in a controlled manner at approved port waste reception facilities. The fleet complies with the IMO recommendations on waste management.
Pollution by invasive species carried with ballast water has become an important issue. Most of our ships have ballast water treatment systems in place. Belships is actively preparing for the expected implementation of regulations on ballast water treatment entering into force. In fact, some of our third party managed ships have already started to use ballast water treatment system.
Belships is closely monitoring the development of all environmental regulation. The Company will continue to comply with all legislation and follow best practices to minimize the Company's impact on the environment.
It is Belships' policy to integrate attention to human rights and labor rights into its existing business processes. In practice, a large part of the human and labor rights agenda is covered by the Company's health and safety efforts. The health and safety of our employees is a key priority for Belships. As an international and multi-cultural employer, the Company respects international and local legislation, including the provision of the International Labour Organization's Maritime Labour Convention of 2006 (the "MLC"). The MLC is commonly known as the "seafarers' bill of rights", and sets out seafarers' right to decent working conditions, including elements such as minimum age of seafarers, payment of wages, hours of work or rest, onboard medical care, paid annual leave and freedom of association.
Belships' employees are a key resource to the Company. The Company will continue to focus on attracting and keeping the best qualified and motivated employees. As a global organization, Belships has a diversified working environment in which employment, promotions, responsibility and job enrichment are based on qualifications and abilities and not on gender, age, race, sexual orientation and political or religious views. The Company does not tolerate discrimination in any form.
Belships aims to continuously provide and enhance healthy, high-quality working conditions, both onshore and onboard vessels. Crewing and technical management is conducted from Belships' subsidiaries in Singapore and China. These companies also have external customers and offer ship management services to ship owners worldwide. A dedicated and well-trained ship- and onshore team monitors the health, safety, environment and quality performance.
Belships' goal is to run the operations of the Company with zero fatal accidents. This goal was achieved in 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.
Attracting and retaining qualified seafarers remain an area of strategic importance for Belships. The objective is to strengthen Belships' brand and image. To ensure a continued recruitment of dedicated and qualified officers, Belships is engaged in training of seafarers and education of cadets and has 140 cadet positions onboard the Company's vessels. The Company will continue to develop and implement crew welfare initiatives in order to meet the Company's ambition of maintaining the retention rate and thereby create safe and well performing vessels.
Piracy, hi-jacking and kidnapping continues to represent a significant risk in certain regions of the world. To create a safe environment for our crew and vessels, the Company has adopted best managementpractices consistent with the industry standards and recommendations from governing bodies. Specifically, all of our ships are registered with the EU Naval Force (Maritime security centre) which co-ordinates ship's' transit schedules with the appropriate naval ships in the Gulf of Aden and Somali basin. An internal risk assessment is also made prior entering into a voyage in any part of the world. Depending on the present conditions and individual risk factors for the particular ship, preventive measures are evaluated for each transit in accordance with Belships' policy. There were no incidents of attempted hijackings of ships in the Belships fleet in 2017, 2018 2019 and 2020.
Belships believes that corruption prevents wellfunctioning business processes and curbs economic development. Belships focuses on transparency in its business practices, supports free enterprise and competes in a fair and ethical manner. Corruption or corrupt behaviour is not accepted by Belships, and we will actively strive to fight it.

Lilleakerveien 6D P O Box 23 Lilleaker N-0216 Oslo, Norway Organization no. 930 776 793 MVA
www.belships.com
18 Boon Lay Way No.09-104 Trade Hub 21 Singapore 609966 Phone +65 65073939 Fax +65 65073938
[email protected] www.belships.com.sg
87/2 All Seasons Place Unit 4403 CRC Tower 44/f Wireless Road, Lumpinee, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330 Thailand Phone +66 2 654 3100 Fax +66 2 6543 101
[email protected] [email protected] www.lighthousenavigation.com
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