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Bulten Interim / Quarterly Report 2017

Feb 8, 2018

3019_10-k_2018-02-08_b20f0643-c9ab-485d-b0a2-4f135d7478f8.pdf

Interim / Quarterly Report

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FULL YEAR REPORT

New phase of growth begins with increased sales and continued strong order bookings

fourth quarter

  • Net sales reached SEK 740 million (674), an increase of 9.8% on the same period last year.
  • Operating earnings (EBIT) were SEK 55 million (52), which corresponds to an operating margin of 7.5% (7.7).
  • Earnings after tax were SEK 47 million (37).
  • Order bookings amounted to SEK 839 million (744), an increase of 12.8% on the same period last year.
  • Cash flow from operating activities was SEK 2 million (122).
  • Earnings per share were SEK 2.26 (1.82).
  • Bulten has taken a decision to make an investment in a new heat treatment plant in Hallstahammar worth around SEK 45 million.
  • Bulten is preparing for a change in CEO by 2019 at the latest due to the retirement of the current CEO.

january–december

  • Net sales reached SEK 2,856 million (2,676), an increase of 6.7% on the same period last year.
  • Operating earnings (EBIT) were SEK 210 million (200), which corresponds to an operating margin of 7.4% (7.5).
  • Earnings after tax were SEK 159 million (146).
  • Order bookings amounted to SEK 3,015 million (2,717), an increase of 11.0% on the same period last year.
  • Cash flow from operating activities was SEK 58 million (351).
  • Earnings per share were SEK 7.98 (7.27).
  • Net debt was SEK 49 million (net cash of 30) and the equity/assets ratio at the end of the period was 66.8% (68.9).
  • The Board of Bulten AB proposes to the AGM that the dividend be SEK 3.75 per share (SEK 4.50 in 2016, of which SEK 3.50 was an ordinary dividend and SEK 1.00 an extra dividend).

ceo's comments

"Bulten has entered a new phase of growth, with increases during the quarter in net sales of 9.8% and in continued strong order bookings of 12.8%, both compared with the same period last year. The growth stems from successive increases in volumes following model changes as well as from the start of deliveries that are part of the previously announced contract worth EUR 20 million annually. Generally good demand for cars in Europe also had a positive effect.

Bulten's operating margin was 7.5% during the quarter, helped partly by currency effects but also negatively influenced by higher global market prices for steel and other metals. Consequently, we exceeded our target for operating margin and strengthened our profitability on both the quarterly and annual basis, while also improving earnings per share.

Bulten's financial position remains strong. To meet increased demand for our products and the rise in volumes connected to signed contracts, we decided during 2017 to invest in new capacity. The planned supplementary plant for production and distribution of fasteners in Poland is expected to be completed in 2019 and will become one of Europe's leading fastener facilities.

With previously signed contracts that are worth around half a billion Swedish kronor at the full production rate expected in 2020, the planned investment in capacity and the strong financial position, Bulten is prepared for this new phase of growth. We also judge that we have continued good prospects for winning new business."

Tommy Andersson, President and CEO

BULTEN IN SUMMARY

development during the quarter

Bulten has entered a new phase of growth, with increases in net sales of 9.8% and continued strong order bookings of 12.8% for the final quarter of 2017 compared with the final quarter of 2016. The growth stems from successive increases in volumes following model changes as well as from the start of deliveries that are part of the previously announced contract worth EUR 20 million annually. Generally good demand for cars in Europe also had a positive effect.

Bulten exceeded its target for operating margin and strengthened profitability indicators on both the quarterly and annual basis, while also improving earnings per share. The operating margin for the quarter was 7.5% (7.7), helped partly by currency effects of around SEK 3 million but also negatively influenced by higher global market prices for steel and other metals worth around net SEK 3 million in the final quarter. Most of Bulten's contracts contain clauses concerning raw materials that regulate changes in raw material prices, although adjustments are subject to a time delay.

The start-up of the business activity in the US also had an impact on earnings as had the start of new contracts. Underlying profitability can be assessed as good and rising, with consideration to the aforementioned factors.

Profitability was strengthened by 0.5 percentage points during the quarter and the return on capital employed was 14.4% (16.7% excluding goodwill), which can be compared with the target of 15%.

During the second half of 2017, Bulten reached a decision to invest PLN 80 million (SEK 177 million) in a new, strategically important production and logistics plant in Poland that will meet future growth. Work on the plant began at the end of 2017 with production start-up planned for 2019.

The establishment in the US expands Bulten's market and creates further opportunities for growth among both existing customers and new ones. There are also positive signs for the future in both China and Russia.

market and outlook

Of Bulten's net sales, around 86% is attributable to light vehicles and around 14% to commercial vehicles. Of total net sales, around 90% are direct deliveries to vehicle producers (OEMs) and the remainder to their sub-suppliers and to other sectors.

For full-year 2017, car sales in Europe (EU and EFTA) increased by 3.4% compared with 2016 according to ACEA's statistics.

According to LMC Automotive's latest forecast from Q4 2017, European production of light vehicles is expected to have increased by 3.2% and production of heavy commercial vehicles by 4.9% in 2017. Weighted for Bulten's exposure, this means a rise of 3.5% for the same period, compared with their previous forecast of 3.0%. For full-year 2018, production of light vehicles is expected to increase by 1.1% and production of heavy commercial vehicles by 4.6%. Weighted for Bulten's exposure, this means a rise of 1.6%, compared with the previous forecast of 1.8%.

Distribution of Bulten's products is primarily to Europe, although demand is affected by production of vehicles for the global market. Bulten's management team considers that the underlying demand for light vehicles in Europe remains good, as does demand for vehicles earmarked for export from Europe to global markets.

Capacity utilisation by most suppliers of fasteners is judged to be high at the present time.

Bulten's estimated market share at the end of 2017 was around 17% of the European market for fasteners for the auto sector, which is unchanged on the figure for 2016. On the corresponding market for FSP business, Bulten's market share is estimated at around 60% at the end of 2017, which is also unchanged compared with the figure for 2016. This estimate is based on data about the European auto industry's purchasing of fasteners in 2017 according to the European Industrial Fasteners Institute (EIFI).

With signed contracts under ramp-up and not yet started worth around SEK 500 million annually at full production rate expected in 2020, the planned capacity investments and the strong financial position, Bulten is well-equipped for the new phase of growth. The prospects for winning new business are also considered to be good.

order bookings and net sales Q4

Order bookings were SEK 839 million (744), an increase of 12.8% compared with the corresponding period in the previous year.

Net sales for the Group totalled SEK 740 million (674), an increase of 9.8% compared with the corresponding period in the previous year. Adjusted for currency effects, organic growth was 10.1% in the same period.

January – December

Order bookings were SEK 3,015 million (2,717), an increase of 11.0% compared with the corresponding period in the previous year.

Net sales for the Group totalled SEK 2,856 million (2,676), an increase of 6.7% compared with the corresponding period in the previous year. Adjusted for currency effects, organic growth was 5.2% for the same period.

earnings and profitability

Q4

The Group's gross earnings were SEK 142 million (140), corresponding to a gross margin of 19.3% (20.8). Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) were SEK 76 million (71), corresponding to an EBITDA margin of 10.2% (10.6). Earnings (EBIT) were SEK 55 million (52), corresponding to an operating margin of 7.5% (7.7).

2 Q4 2017

Higher global prices for steel and other metals continued to affect profitability, with a negative effect of around net SEK 3 million after adjustments for raw materials compensation.

Operating earnings were affected negatively by currency changes amounting net to SEK 3 million (-3) when converting operating capital on the closing date.

Net financial items in the Group were SEK 6 million (-2). Financial income was SEK 7 million (-), of which exchange rate gains were SEK 7 million (-). Financial costs were SEK -1 million (-2), of which interest costs were SEK -1 million (-1), currency losses were SEK – million (-1) and other financial costs were SEK -0 million (-0).

The Group's earnings before tax were SEK 61 million (50) and earnings after tax were SEK 47 million (37).

January – December

The Group's gross earnings were SEK 558 million (531), corresponding to a gross margin of 19.6% (19.8). Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) were SEK 290 million (271), corresponding to an EBITDA margin of 10.1% (10.1). Earnings (EBIT) were SEK 210 million (200), corresponding to an operating margin of 7.4% (7.5).

Higher global prices for steel and other metals had a negative effect on profitability of around net SEK 13 million after adjustments for raw materials compensation.

Operating earnings were affected negatively by currency changes amounting net to SEK -2 million (4) when converting operating capital on the closing date. Operating earnings were positively affected by SEK 4 million attributable to a recovered receivable.

Net financial items in the Group were SEK -0 million (-4). Financial income was SEK 6 million (3), of which currency gains were SEK 6 million (3). Financial costs were SEK -6 million (-7), of which interest costs were SEK -4 million (-6) and other financial costs were SEK -2 million (-2).

The Group's earnings before tax were SEK 210 million (196) and earnings after tax were SEK 159 million (146).

cash flow, working capital, investments and financial position Q4

Cash flow from operating activities totalled SEK 2 million (122). Cash flow effects of changes in working capital amounted to SEK -71 million (60). Operating capital is driven by the positive development in volumes. Inventories increased in the period by SEK 71 million (16), while operating receivables changed by SEK 109 million (-13). Current liabilities increased by SEK 96 million (15).

Cash flow from investing activities was SEK -43 million (-30). Investments of SEK 44 million (30) relate to tangible assets. Sales of tangible assets amounted to SEK -1 million (-0).

January – December

Cash flow from operating activities totalled SEK 58 million (351). Cash flow effects of changes in working capital amounted to SEK -201 million (104). Inventories changed in the period by SEK 83 million (-23) and operating receivables changed by SEK 212 million (-16). Current liabilities increased by SEK 93 million (3).

Cash flow from investing activities was SEK -55 million (-82). Investments of SEK 122 million (82) relate to tangible assets. The corresponding figure for intangible assets was SEK 1 million (0). Sales of tangible assets amounted to SEK -2 million (-0).

During the year, around SEK 67 million of the loan to the joint venture, BBB Services Ltd., was replaced with operating capital financing. The change has meant that the Group's cash flow from current business was negatively affected by SEK 67 million and the Group's cash flow from investment activities was positively affected by the same amount.

At the end of the period net debt was SEK 49 million, of which cash and cash equivalents were SEK 48 million. Last year, net cash was SEK 30 million, of which cash and cash equivalents were SEK 109 million. Adjusted for financial leasing, net debt was SEK 12 million. Last year, adjusted net cash was SEK 68 million.

NET SALES OPERATING EARNINGS

OPERATING MARGIN

7.5%

FINANCIAL SUMMARY Q4 JAN - SEPT
SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Net sales 740 674 9.8% 2,856 2,676 6.7%
Gross profit 142 140 2 558 531 27
Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) 76 71 5 290 271 19
Operating earnings (EBIT) 55 52 3 210 200 10
Operating margin, % 7.5 7.7 -0.2 7,4 7.5 -0.1
Earnings after tax 47 37 10 159 146 13
Order bookings 839 744 12,8% 3,015 2,717 11.0%
Return on capital employed, % 14.4 13.9 0.5
Return on capital employed excluding goodwill, % 16.7 16.2 0.5

Q4

OTHER INFORMATION

accounting principles

This full year report has been prepared for the Group in accordance with IAS 34 (Interim Financial Reporting) and the Swedish annual accounts act. The financial statement for the parent company has been drawn up in accordance with the Swedish annual accounts act and RFR 2 (Reporting for legal entities) of the Swedish Financial Accounting Standards Council. The accounting principles are unchanged compared with the principles explained in the 2016 annual report.

All amounts are in SEK million unless otherwise stated. Amounts in parentheses show figures for last year. Some figures are rounded up, which is why amounts might not always add up.

As of January 1, 2018, IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers apply. IFRS 9 deals with the classification, valuation and accounting of financial assets and liabilities. It replaces those parts of IAS 39 that deal with the classification and valuation of financial instruments. IFRS 15 contains a combined model for revenue recognition for customer contracts not covered by other standards. It replaces IAS 11 Construction Contracts, IAS 18 Revenue and related interpretations IFRIC 13, 15, 18 and SIC-31.

The Group's analysis has shown that the implementation of IFRS 9 and IFRS 15 will not have a material effect on the Group's financial reports. Thus, no transition effects will arise as a result of the introduction of these accounting standards.

risks and risk management

Exposure to operational and financial risks are a natural part of business activity and this is reflected in Bulten's approach to risk management. The purpose is to identify and prevent risks and limit any damage that may result. The main risks that the Group is exposed to relate to the impact of the business cycle on demand, supplies of raw materials and their price variations, as well as general economic and geopolitical factors.

For a more detailed description of these risks, see Note 3, Risks and risk management, of the company's 2016 annual report.

seasonal variations

Bulten is not exposed to traditional seasonal variations. The year reflects customers' production days, which vary between quarters. The lowest net sales and operating earnings normally occur in Q3, where there are fewest production days. The other quarters are relatively even although variations may occur.

transaction with related parties

No significant transactions were made with related parties during the reporting period.

For further information, see note 34 of the 2016 annual report.

employees

The total number of employees in the Group amounted on the closing day to 1,305 (1,264).

contingent liabilities

During the report period there was no significant change in contingent liabilities.

parent company

Bulten AB (publ) owns, directly or indirectly, all the companies in the Group. The equity/assets ratio was 75.1% (73.1). Equity was SEK 1,124 million (1,155). The parent company had no cash and cash equivalents on the closing day. The company had 9 employees on the closing day.

significant events after the end of the reporting period

There are no significant events to report.

proposed dividend

Bulten's target is to pay dividends to shareholders representing over time one third of net earnings after tax. Consideration shall however be given to Bulten's financial position, cash flow and outlook.

The Board of Bulten AB proposes to the Annual General Meeting that a dividend of SEK 3.75 per share be paid, which represents around 47% of net earnings after tax adjusted for non-recurring items.

The reconciliation date for the dividend is proposed to be 30 April 2018.

2018 annual general meeting

The Annual General Meeting for Bulten AB (publ) will be held on 26 April 2018 in Göteborg. Shareholders wishing to have matters dealt with at the meeting must send their proposals to the Board of directors via email to [email protected] or via post to Bulten AB (publ)

Årsstämma Box 9148 400 93 Göteborg SWEDEN

Proposals must reach the company no later than 16 February 2018.

2017 annual report and sustainability report

Bulten's annual report and sustainability report for 2017 is expected to be available at the latest on 5 April 2018 when it will be published on the company's website, www.bulten.se, where it may also be ordered in printed form.

auditor's verification

This report has not been verified by the company's auditors.

nominations committee

In accordance with the resolution of the AGM, the Nominations Committee shall comprise four members, one representative each for the three largest shareholders as of the final banking day in September who wish to appoint a representative to the nominations committee, and the chairman of the Board. The three largest

shareholders are those registered and owner-grouped by Euroclear Sweden AB as of the final banking day in September.

The Nominations Committee for the 2018 AGM is as follows: • Claes Murander, appointed by Lannebo Fonder

  • Öystein Engebretsen, appointed by Investment AB Öresund
  • Pär Andersson, appointed by Spiltan Fonder AB
  • Ulf Liljedahl, Chairman of Bulten AB

Göteborg, Sweden 8 February 2018 Bulten AB (publ)

Tommy Andersson President and CEO

ABOUT BULTEN

Bulten is one of the leading suppliers of fasteners to the international automotive industry. The company's product range includes everything from customer-specific standard products to specialist, customized fasteners. The company also provides technical development, line-feeding, logistics, material and production expertise. Bulten offers a Full Service Provider concept or parts thereof. The company was founded in 1873, has around 1,300 employees in eight countries and has its head office in Göteborg, Sweden. The share (BULTEN) is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm.

vision

Supporting the global automotive industry with state-of-the-art fastener technology and services.

business concept

Bulten shall:

  • be the leading business partner and the most cost-effective supplier of fasteners and services to the automotive industry.
  • with empowered and dedicated people continuously develop its full service concept and actively launch innovations.
  • develop long-term relations based on professionalism and good business ethics.

financial targets and dividend policy

  • The Group's target is to achieve profitable organic growth and to grow more strongly than the industry average.
  • The Group's target is to achieve an operating margin of at least seven (7) percent.
  • The Group's target is to achieve a return on average capital employed of at least fifteen (15) percent.
  • Bulten's dividend policy over time is to pay out a dividend of at least one third of net earnings after tax. Consideration is given, however, to the company's financial position, cash flow and outlook.

strategy

Bulten has a clear focus on organic growth in Europe, USA, Russia and China. The prospects for Bulten to continue to grow organic on the global automotive market are good.

Bulten shall be a preferred full service provider and provide everything from development, production and logistics to final delivery at the customer's assembly line. This has been a successful concept and the strategy is to continue developing the business in this direction. Already today Bulten's contract portfolio consists of approximately three quarters full service contracts and the share is expected to increase.

Bulten's strategy is based on offering competitive products and services. This will be achieved by having production processes at low costs with geographical proximity to the customer. Bulten is continuously working to develop its expertise in order to offer its customers the best possible quality at the best possible price.

Part of Bulten's strategy is also to constantly develop the innovative and technological know-how needed to create new products together with customers, thus offering improved and more cost-effective solutions to OEMs.

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Q4
PRICE-RELATED SHARE DATA 2017 2016 2017 2016
Share price at period-end (final pay price), SEK 122.50 89.00 33.50 122.50 89.00 33.50
Highest share price during period (final pay price), SEK 129.50 99.75 29.75 135.50 99.75 35.75
Lowest share price during period (final pay price),SEK 109.00 79.25 29.75 89.00 67.75 21.25
Market value at period end, MSEK 2,577 1,873 704 2,577 1.873 704
P/E 15.36 12.23 3.13
Dividend yield, % 3.06 5.06 -2.00
Data per share
Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) *) 3.72 3.50 0.22 14.22 13.32 0.90
Operating earnings (EBIT) *) 2.72 2.55 0.17 10.32 9.83 0.49
Earnings after net financial items (EAFI) *) 2.98 2.45 0.53 10.32 9.63 0.69
Earnings for the period *) 2.26 1.82 0.44 7.98 7.27 0.71
Shareholders equity *) 70.76 65.96 4.80
Cash flow from the operating activities *) 0.14 6.01 -5.87 2.88 17.23 -14.35
Cash flow for the period *) -2.06 1.12 -3.18 -3.13 3.27 -6.40
Dividend 3.75 4.50 -0.75
Total outstanding ordinary shares, 000s
Weighted total during the period *) 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20.359.7
At period end *) 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20.359.7

*) Before dilution.

Source: Cision register, 31 December 2017

bulten's TEN largest shareholders

SHAREHOLDER NO OF SHARES HOLDING, %
Volito AB 4,450,000 21.2
Lannebo fonder 2,676,454 12.7
Investment AB Öresund 2,263,535 10.8
Spiltan Fonder AB 967,312 4.6
JP Morgan 697,705 3.3
Bulten AB 680,500 3.2
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken S.A 472,834 2.2
Sjöbergstiftelsen 400,000 1.9
CBNY-DFA-INT SML CAP V 344,076 1.6
Clients Accounts-DCS 309,849 1.5

Total number of shareholders: 6,631

Source: Euroclear Sweden AB´s register, 31 December 2017

information about this interim report

Bulten aims to operate a sustainable business and strives to identify areas where we can reduce our environmental impact. As from Q2 2016 Bulten no longer print the interim reports.

All of Bulten's reports can be read at, and downloaded from, www.bulten.se. Shareholders who are unable to read reports online may order a printed copy by contacting Bulten.

Our subscription service at www.bulten.se gives you the opportunity to subscribe for Bulten's reports and press releases via email.

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTQ4 FULL YEAR

SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Net sales 740 674 66 2,856 2 676 180
Cost of goods sold -598 -534 -64 -2,298 -2 145 -153
Gross profit 142 140 2 558 531 27
Other operating income 10 6 4 25 26 -1
Selling expenses -52 -49 -3 -196 -188 -8
Administrative expenses -47 -43 -4 -177 -165 -12
Other operating expenses 0 -3 3 -4 -1 -3
Share of result of Joint Venture 2 1 1 4 -3 7
Operating earnings 55 52 3 210 200 10
Financial income 7 7 6 3 3
Financial expenses -1 -2 1 -6 -7 1
Earnings before tax 61 50 11 210 196 14
Tax on period's earnings -14 -13 -1 -51 -50 -1
Earnings after tax 47 37 10 159 146 13
Attributable to
Parent company shareholders 46 37 9 162 148 14
Minority interests 1 0 1 -3 -2 -1
Earnings after tax 47 37 10 159 146 13
Earnings per share attributable to
parent company shareholders
Earnings per share before dilution, SEK 2.26 1.82 0.44 7.98 7.27 0.71
Earnings per share after dilution, SEK 2.25 1.82 0.43 7.93 7.23 0.70
Weighted outstanding ordinary shares
before dilution, 000
20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7
Weighted outstanding ordinary shares
after dilution, 000
20,464.4 20,482.7 -18.3 20,464.4 20,482.7 -18.3

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Q4 FULL YEAR
SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Earnings after tax 47 37 10 159 146 13
Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Revaluation of defined benifit pension plan, net after tax -1 1 -2 -1 1 -2
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss
Exchange rate differences 27 -1 28 25 29 -4
Total comprehensive income 73 37 36 183 176 7
Attributable to
Parent company shareholders 73 35 38 187 174 13
Minority interests 2 -2 -4 2 -6
Total comprehensive income 73 37 36 183 176 7

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

SEK MILLION 31-12-2017 31-12-2016
ASSETS
Fixed assets
Intangible fixed assets 1) 206 206
Tangible fixed assets 628 570
Financial assets 5 61
Deferred tax receivables 8 35
Total fixed assets 847 872
Current assets
Inventories 533 450
Current receivables 750 538
Cash and cash equivalents 48 109
Total current assets 1,331 1,097
Total assets 2,178 1,969
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
Equity attributable to parent company shareholders 1,440 1,343
Minority interests 14 14
Total equity 1,454 1,357
Non-current liabilities
Non-current interest-bearing liabilities and provisions 97 78
Total non-current liabilities 97 78
Current liabilities
Current liabilities, interest-bearing 4 5
Current liabilities, non-interest-bearing 623 529
Total current liabilities 627 534
Total equity and liabilities 2,178 1,969

1) Whereof goodwill SEK 203 million (204).

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

SEK MILLION 31-12-2017 31-12-2016
Opening equity 1,357 1,245
Comprehensive income
Earnings after tax 159 146
Other comprehensive income 24 30
Total comprehensive income 183 176
Transactions with shareholders
Transactions with minority 4
Share-based payment to employees 2 2
Dividend paid to parent company shareholders -92 -66
Total transactions with shareholders -86 -64
Closing equity 1,454 1,357

CONSOLIDATED CASH FLOW STATEMENT

Q4 FULL YEAR
SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Operating activities
Earnings after financial items 61 50 210 196
Adjustments for items not included in cash flow 18 17 74 72
Tax paid -6 -5 -25 -21
Cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital 73 62 259 247
Cash flow from changes in working capital
Change in working capital -71 60 -201 104
Cash flow from operating activities 2 122 58 351
Investing activities
Acquisition of intangible fixed assets -0 -0 -1 -1
Acquisition of tangible fixed assets -44 -30 -122 -82
Disposal of tangible fixed assets 1 0 2 0
Change of financial assets 66
Cash flow from investing activities -43 -30 -55 -82
Financing activities
Change in overdraft facilities and other financial liabilities -1 -69 21 -136
Dividend paid to parent company shareholders -92 -66
Transactions with minority 4
Cash flow from financing activities -1 -69 -67 -202
Cash flow for the period -42 23 -64 67
Cash flow for the period -42 23 -64 67
Cash and cash equivalents at start of financial year 86 86 109 40
Exchange rate difference in cash and cash equivalents 4 -0 3 2
Cash and cash equivalents at end of period 48 109 48 109

CONSOLIDATED NET CASH/NET DEBT

SEK MILLION 31-12-2017 31-12-2016
Non-current interest-bearing liabilities -84 -60
Provisions for pensions -13 -18
Current interest-bearing liabilities -4 -5
Financial interest-bearing liabilities 4 5
Cash and cash equivalents 48 109
Net cash(+)/net debt(-) -49 30
Adjusted for interest bearing liabilities related to financial lease agreements 37 38
Adjusted net cash(+)/net debt(-) -12 68

CONSOLIDATED KEY INDICATORS

Q4 FULL YEAR
THE GROUP 2017 2016 2017 2016
Margins
EBITDA margin, % 10.2 10.6 10.1 10.1
EBIT margin (operating margin), % 7.5 7.7 7.4 7.5
Net margin, % 6.3 5.5 5.6 5.5
Capital structure
Interest coverage ratio, times 48.6 40.9 38.8 30.6
Data per share attributable to parent company shareholders
Earnings per share before dilution, SEK 2.26 1.82 7.98 7.27
Earnings per share after dilution, SEK 2.25 1.82 7.93 7.27
Number of outstanding ordinary shares
Weighted outstanding ordinary shares before dilution, 000 20,359,7 20,359,7 20,359,7 20,359,7
Weighted outstanding ordinary shares after dilution, 000 20,464,4 20,482.7 20,464,4 20,482.7
THE GROUP 31-12-2017 31-12-2016
Capital structure
Net debt/equity ratio, times -0.0 0.0
Equity/assets ratio, % 66.8 68.9
Other
Net cash(+)/net debt(-), SEK m -49 30
Adjusted net cash(+)/net debt(-), SEK m -12 68
Equity per share attributable to parent company shareholders
Equity per share before dilution, SEK 70.76 65.96
Equity per share after dilution, SEK 70.39 65.56
Number of outstanding ordinary shares
Number of outstanding ordinary shares before dilution at period end, 000 20,359,7 20,359.7
Number of outstanding ordinary shares after dilution at period end, 000 20,464,4 20,464,7
THE GROUP, 12 MONTHS ROLLING 2017 2016
Return indicators
Return on capital employed, % 14.4 13.9
Adjusted return on capital employed, % 1) 14.4 13.9
Return on capital employed excluding goodwill, % 16.7 16.2
Adjusted return on capital employed excluding godwill, % 1) 16.7 16.2
Return on equity, % 11.7 11.5
Adjusted return on equity, % 2) 11.7 11.5
Capital structure
Capital turnover, times 1.9 1.8
Employees
Sales per employee, SEK '000 2,189 2,117
Operating earnings per employee, SEK '000 161 158
Number of employees on closing date 1,305 1,264

DEFINITIONS

Definitions of key indicators are unchanged compared with those used in the 2016 annual report.

Other key indicators not used in the annual report or on page 13 in this interimreport are explained below.

1) Adjusted return on capital employed: Earnings before financial cost adjusted for non-recurring items in percentage of average capital employed.

2)Adjusted return on equity: Net earnings adjusted for non-recurring items divided with average equity.

CONSOLIDATED QUARTERLY DATA

2017 2016
SEK MILLION Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Order bookings 839 691 765 720 744 602 672 699
Income statement
Net sales 740 630 708 778 674 601 686 715
Gross earnings 142 122 141 153 140 117 138 136
Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) 76 55 76 83 71 57 71 72
EBITDA margin, % 10.2 8.7 10.8 10.6 10.6 9.6 10.3 10.1
Adjusted earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) 76 55 76 83 71 57 71 72
Adjusted EBITDA margin, % 10.2 8.7 10.8 10.6 10.6 9.6 10.3 10.1
Operating earnings (EBIT) 55 35 57 63 52 39 54 55
EBIT margin (operating margin), % 7.5 5.5 8.1 8.1 7.7 6.5 7.8 7.7
Adjusted operating earnings (EBIT) 55 35 57 63 52 39 54 55
Adjusted EBIT margin (operating margin), % 7.5 5.5 8.1 8.1 7.7 6.5 7.8 7.7
Earnings after tax 47 22 39 51 37 30 39 40
Net margin, % 6.3 3.5 5.5 6.6 5.5 5.0 5.7 5.6
Adjusted earnings after tax 47 22 39 51 37 30 39 40
Adjusted net margin, % 6.3 3.5 5.5 6.6 5.5 5.0 5.7 5.6
Cash flow from
operating activities 2 21 37 -2 122 55 95 78
investment activities -43 -40 2 26 -31 -29 -6 -16
financing activities -1 26 -82 -10 -69 10 -135 -8
Cash flow for the period -42 7 -43 14 23 36 -46 54
Earnings per share attributable to
parent company shareholders
Earnings per share before dilution, SEK 2.26 1.11 2.01 2.59 1.82 1.50 1.92 2.03
Number of outstanding ordinary shares
Weighted outstanding ordinary shares
before dilution, 000
20,359,7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7
SEK MILLION 31-12-2017 30-09-2017 30-06-2017 31-03-2017 31-12-2016 30-09-2016 30-06-2016 31-03-2016
Balance sheet
Fixed assets 847 823 808 832 872 867 852 867
Current assets 1,331 1,189 1,161 1,205 1,097 1,071 1,037 1,103
Equity 1,454 1,381 1,367 1,420 1,357 1,319 1,267 1,283
Non-current liabilities 97 100 80 69 78 100 90 160
Current liabilities 627 531 522 548 534 519 532 527
Other
Net cash(+)/net debt(-) -49 -13 3 54 30 -63 -89 -114
Adjusted net cash(+)/net debt(-) -12 23 40 91 68 -25 -53 -76
Equity per share attributable to
parent company shareholders
Equity per share before dilution, SEK 70.76 67.18 66.64 69.08 65.96 64.20 61.63 62.48
Number of outstanding ordinary shares
Number of outstanding ordinary shares
before dilution at period end, 000
20,359,7 20,359,7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7 20,359.7
Shareprice
Sharesprice at period end, (SEK) 122.50 126.00 120.00 112.25 89.00 97.50 81.75 74.50

CONSOLIDATED, 12 MONTH ROLLING

JANUARY 2016– OCTOBER 2016– JULY
2016–
APRIL
2016–
JANUARY 2016– OCTOBER 2015– JULY
2015–
APRIL
2015–
JANUARY 2015–
SEK MILLION DECEMBER 2017 SEPTEMBER 2017 JUNE
2017
MARCH 2017 DECEMBER 2016 SEPTEMBER 2016 JUNE
2016
MARCH 2016 DECEMBER 2015
Order bookings 3,015 2,920 2,831 2,738 2,717 2,646 2,696 2,712 2,673
Income statement
Net sales 2,856 2,790 2,760 2,739 2,676 2,669 2,686 2,695 2,693
Gross result 558 556 551 548 531 522 518 515 510
Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) 290 285 287 282 271 264 257 246 225
EBITDA-margin, % 10.1 10.2 10.4 10.3 10.1 9.9 9.6 9.1 8.4
Adjusted earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) 290 285 287 282 271 260 253 239 217
Adjusted EBITDA-margin, % 10.1 10.2 10.4 10.3 10.1 9.7 9.4 8.9 8.1
Operating earnings (EBIT) 210 207 211 208 200 196 192 184 165
EBIT-margin (operating margin), % 7.4 7.4 7.6 7.6 7.5 7.3 7.2 6.8 6.1
Adjusted operating earnings (EBIT) 210 207 211 208 200 192 188 176 157
Adjusted EBIT-margin (operating margin), % 7.4 7.4 7.6 7.6 7.5 7.2 7.0 6.5 5.8
Earnings after tax 159 149 157 157 146 134 125 122 111
Net margin, % 5.6 5.4 5.7 5.7 5.5 5.0 4.7 4.5 4.1
Adjusted earnings after tax 159 149 157 157 146 130 121 114 103
Adjusted net margin, % 5.6 5.4 5.7 5.7 5.5 4.9 4.5 4.2 3.8
Employees
Net sale per employee, SEK 000 2,189 2,161 2,145 2,140 2,117 2,115 2,154 2,193 2,246
Operating earnings per employee, SEK 000 161 160 164 163 158 155 154 150 138
Number of employee on closing day 1,305 1,291 1,287 1,280 1,264 1,262 1,247 1,229 1,199
Return indicators
Return on capital employed, % 14.4 13.9 15.0 14.4 13.9 13.7 13.4 12.3 11.5
Adjusted return on capital employed, % 1) 14.4 13.9 15.0 14.4 13.9 13.5 13.1 11.8 11.0
Return on capital employed
excluding goodwill, % 16.7 16.1 17.4 16.7 16.2 16.0 15.7 14.3 13.4
Adjusted return on capital employed
excluding goodwill, % 1)
16.7 16.1 17.4 16.7 16.2 15.6 15.3 13.6 12.8
Return on equity, % 11.7 11.5 12.4 11.9 11.5 10.8 10.5 10.0 9.4
Adjusted return on equity, % 2) 11.7 11.5 12.4 11.9 11.5 10.6 10.3 9.5 8.9
Others
Net cash(+)/net debt(-)/EBITDA -0.2 -0.0 0.0 0.2 0.1 -0.2 -0.3 -0.5 -0.8
Adjusted net cash(+)/net debt(-)/EBITDA -0.0 0.1 0.1 0.3 0.3 -0.1 -0.2 -0.3 -0.6

RECONCILIATION BETWEEN IFRS AND USED KEY INDICATORS

Some of the information in this report used by company managers and analysts to assess the Group's development is not produced in accordance with IFRS. Company managers consider that this information makes it easier for investors to analyse the Group's results and financial structure. Investors should see this information as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, financial reporting in accordance with IFRS.

adjusted net sales, organic growth

Q4 FULL YEAR
SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Net sales 740 674 66 2,856 2,676 180
Currency effect current period 1 1 -41 -41
Adjusted net sales 741 674 67 2,815 2,676 139

When calculating adjusted net sales, organic growth, net sales are adjusted using currency effects of the current period and if necessary with net sales from completed acquisitions. This measurement gives a figure for comparing net sales with the previous year.

earnings before depreciation, ebitda

Q4 FULL YEAR
SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Operating earnings (EBIT) 55 52 3 210 200 10
Depreciation and amortisation 21 19 2 80 71 9
Earnings before depreciation (EBITDA) 76 71 5 290 271 19

When calculating operating earnings excluding depreciation (EBITDA), depreciation and impairments are returned to operating earnings (EBIT). This measurement provides a figure for operating earnings excluding depreciation which are in turn based on investments.

adjusted net cash/net debt

SEK MILLION 31-12-2017 31-12-2016
Net cash(+)/net debt(-) -49 30
Adjusted for interest bearing liabilities related to financial lease agreements 37 38
Adjusted net cash(+)/net debt(-) -12 68

When calculating adjusted net cash/net debt, interest-bearing debt attributable to financial leases is deducted from net cash/net debt. This measurement provides a figure for a refined financial structure excluding lease liabilities.

INCOME STATEMENT, PARENT COMPANY

Q4 FULL YEAR
SEK MILLION 2017 2016 2017 2016
Net sales 6 6 31 28 3
Gross profit 6 6 31 28 3
Administrative expenses -14 -9 -5 -51 -39 -12
Operating earnings -8 -3 -5 -20 -11 -9
Interest expenses and similar items -0 -2 2 -3 -9 6
Earnings after financial items -8 -5 -3 -23 -20 -3
Appropriations 99 174 -75 99 174 -75
Earnings before tax 91 169 -78 76 154 -78
Tax on period's earnings -20 -37 17 -17 -34 17
Earnings after tax 71 132 -61 59 120 -61

BALANCE SHEET, PARENT COMPANY

SEK MILLION 31-12-2017 31-12-2016
ASSETS
Fixed assets
Intangible fixed assets 1 1
Tangible fixed assets 1 1
Total intangible and tangible fixed assets 2 2
Financial fixed assets
Participations in Group companies 1,382 1,382
Deferred tax assets 3 19
Other non-current receivables 2
Total financial fixed assets 1,385 1,403
Total fixed assets 1,387 1,405
Current assets
Current receivables from Group companies 106 174
Other current receivables 4 2
Total current assets 110 176
Total assets 1,497 1,581
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
Restricted equity 110 110
Non-restricted equity 1,014 1,045
Total equity 1,124 1,155
Non-current liabilities
Non-current liabilities to Group companies 290 346
Total non-current liabilities 290 346
Current liabilities
Current liabilities to Group companies 67 67
Other current liabilities 16 13
Total current liabilities 83 80
Total equity and liabilities 1,497 1,581

COMMENTS

JANUARY–DECEMBER 2017

The surface treatment in Bulten's German unit in Bergkamen is now installed and in the start up phase. It both adds value to the company and increase competitiveness as well as provide greater flexibility and control over the process.

future financial report dates

26 April 2018 Interim report, January – March 2018 11 July 2018 Half year report, January – June 2018 25 October 2018 Interim report, January – September 2018 7 February 2019 Full year report, January – December 2018

The reports are available on Bulten's website, www.bulten.com as of the above dates.

contact

For further information, please contact Kamilla Oresvärd, Senior Vice President Corporate Communications Tel: +46 31 734 59 00, e-mail: [email protected]

invitation to presentation

Investors, analysts and media are invited to participate in the teleconference on February 8 at 15:30 CET. The report will be presented by Tommy Andersson, President and CEO and Helena Wennerström, Executive Vice President and CFO via audiocast.

The presentation will be held in English and can be followed live via the link: https://tv.streamfabriken.com/bulten-q4-2017. It will also be possible to take part of the audiocast afterwards at the same address or at www.bulten.com/ir.

To participate in the teleconference, please call 5 minutes before the opening: SE: +46856642664 UK: +442030089809 US: +18558315945

This information is information that Bulten AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation. The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the Senior Vice President Corporate Communications set out above, at 13:30 CET on February 8, 2017.

Bulten is one of the leading suppliers of fasteners to the international automotive industry. The company's product range includes everything from customer-specific standard products to customized special fasteners. The company also provides technical development, line-feeding, logistics, material and production expertise. Bulten offers a Full Service Provider concept or parts thereof. The company was founded in 1873, has some 1,300 employees in nine countries and head office in Gothenburg. The share (BULTEN) is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm. Read more at www.bulten.com

Bulten AB (publ)

Box 9148, SE-400 93 Göteborg, Sweden Visiting address: August Barks Gata 6 A Tel +46 31 734 59 00, Fax +46 31 734 59 09 www.bulten.com