Skip to main content

AI assistant

Sign in to chat with this filing

The assistant answers questions, extracts KPIs, and summarises risk factors directly from the filing text.

Masoval AS Annual Report 2023

Apr 18, 2024

3661_10-k_2024-04-18_06f07c98-cd4e-4e11-bd53-dd8344e63b53.pdf

Annual Report

Open in viewer

Opens in your device viewer

Made by nature

ANNUAL REPORT 2023

Index

1 ABOUT MÅSØVAL 03
Made by nature – pioneered by Måsøval 04
Our values 05
Highlights during 2023 06
Key figures 2023 07
CEO's report 08
History 11
Important strategic events in the group 13
2 MÅSØVAL GROUP 15
Company structure 16
Geographical areas of operation 17
Operational management 18
Smolt 22
Fish Farming 24
Service 27
Sales & Market 28
People and Culture 31
3 STRATEGY 37
Our goals 38
Development and strategic projects 39
An attractive employer with local roots 41
Salmon with a low environmental impact 44
Healthy and fresh fish for consumers 46
4 SUSTAINABILITY 49
CSRD and double materiality analysis 51
Transparency act 53
5 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 54
Corporate governance at Måsøval 56
Executive management 59
Board of directors 62
Investor relations 64
Board of directors' report 68
6 FINANCIAL RESULTS 77
Consolidated financial statement of Måsøval Group 78
Financial statement of Måsøval AS 135
7 APPENDIX 165
Glossary 166

In compliance with copyright laws and proper attribution, photo credits for images used in this report can be found here. For any inquiries or questions regarding specific photos or photographers, please contact Berit Flåmo ([email protected]) or Evelyn Fossen ([email protected]), who are responsible for curating and crediting the images used in this report.

Photographers: BERRE, Daniel Skog, Krzystof Zboralski, Marcin Szpryngiel, Sondre Marøy, Synne Øye Myrvold, and Øyvind Nordahl Næss.

About Måsøval

Made by nature – pioneered by Måsøval

Måsøval is a Norwegian fish farming pioneer. Ever since the company was founded in 1973, our dedicated employees have worked in close harmony with nature.

Off the coast of central Norway, the Atlantic Ocean provides strong currents and high tidal range, ensuring an abundance of fresh, clean seawater. It is here, in one of the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the world, that we farm one of the best products in the world – Salmon: Made by nature, pioneered by Måsøval.

With a third generation Måsøval family member at the helm as Chair of the Board, we are setting our sights on producing 35 000 tonnes of salmon a year.

And even though we have already achieved a lot, we are still hungry for further sustainable growth.

A FISH FARMING PIONEER

CAPACITY

Our Values

At Måsøval, we unite around shared values that foster respect for one another, the fish, nature, and the world around us. This dedication forms the foundation of our responsibility as a conscientious food producer, employer, and participant in society.

The following four values serves as our compass in both daily activities and long-term strategic planning.

OUR VALUES – ABOUT MÅSØVAL ANNUAL REPORT 2023 5

RESPONSIBLE

Måsøval is a reliable and sustainable partner that fully focuses on fish welfare.

GENEROUS

Måsøval is a collaborative member of society that is open and honest.

STEADFAST

Måsøval is a diligent and conscientious aquaculturist that works hard and never gives up.

BOLD

Måsøval is a courageous pioneer that is both level-headed and cutting-edge

harvest volume

employees

million smolt released

Key figures 2023

The Group achieved MNOK 2 400 in turnover, operational EBIT of MNOK 471 and a net loss of MNOK 133

34 % EQUITY

24 500 HARVEST VOLUME

TONNES

2023 2022 2021 2020
Harvest volume (tonnes GW) 24 500 21 900 16 900 16 300
MAB volume (own) 12 694 12 694 12 694 8 964
MAB (co-location) 4 773 4 773 2 340 2 340
Smolt release 8 100 000 7 700 000 5 000 000 4 100 000
Mortality %* 12.8 % 16.3 % 9.5 % 6.0 %
Sales (MNOK) 2 400 1 992 1 215 901
EBITDA (MNOK) 666 860 398 309
Operational EBIT (MNOK)** 471 693 292 227
Profit after tax (MNOK) -133 626 281 110
Adjusted EPS*** 1.45 3.50 2.66 0.76
Dividend per share 0.50 0.50 1.00
Cash flow from operating activities (MNOK) 447 728 283 196
NIBD (MNOK) 1 805 1 798 1 922 775
Adjusted ROE % -7 % 36 % 26 % 17 %
Equity/Asset ratio % 34.4 % 39.9 % 32.8 % 37.4 %
NIBD/EBITDA 2.7 2.1 4.8 2.5
Number of full-time employees 315 300 220 116
Number of shares outstanding '000 122 508 122 508 104 176 2 000

* 12-month rolling average, calculated by the Norwegian Veterinary Institute method

** Excluding production tax, impairments, profit sharing and net fair value adjustment on biological assets

*** Earnings per share excludes "Net fair value adjustments - biological assets" and "One-off implementation effects of resource rent tax"

As we turn the page on 2023, it's with a sense of forward momentum and ongoing consolidation that I reflect on the transformative journey undertaken by Måsøval in recent years – a journey that will continue in the years to come. This past year, our focus has been on enhancing operations, improving our biological processes, and strategically restructuring the organisation. Combined with a steadfast and ever-increasing commitment to sustainability and quality, we're persistently positioning ourselves for continued growth and success. The achievements of the past year are a testament to our collective resolve to excel as a responsible producer of high-quality salmon.

A Year of Transformation

Operational Excellence and Sustainability

In 2023, our continued commitment to operational excellence and sustainability guided our efforts. Through concerted efforts, and with focus on responsible practices, we achieved improvements in fish health and welfare, surpassing the national average survival rate. This is a clear indication of our dedication to not only maintaining but elevating standards of care and operational efficiency. Our smolt facilities adeptly navigated challenges, implemented technical upgrades and strategic vaccine regimes that improved the health status of our smolt production considerably. The service division saw significant investments, enhancing our fleet's technical conditions, operational flexibility, and biosecurity management. These initiatives have strengthened our operational resilience and positioned us for further development and growth. Despite the progress made in 2023, we are still not satisfied, and our efforts will continue with full force into 2024 and beyond.

Aligning with Norway's adoption of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), we have initiated the implementation of CSRD and conducted thorough double materiality analyses. Our aim is to establish a robust framework that will underpin our sustainability reporting efforts in the future. These steps demonstrate our commitment to transparency and responsible corporate behavior, laying the groundwork for comprehensive sustainability reporting..

Strategic partnerships

Throughout its history, Måsøval has focused on building and maintaining partnerships and collaborations. This approach has led to partnerships, such as those with Trøndelag county and AquaGen, as well as co-location agreements with Frøya Laks. In 2023, we continued this focus across our entire value chain, resulting in growth, improved operational capacity, increased flexibility, and expanded opportunities for both our partners and us. These agreements and partnerships have reinforced our position as a preferred partner in the aquaculture industry.

Sales and Market

Måsøval's global presence expanded in 2023. All our salmon was marketed and sold through Pure Norwegian Seafood, totalling 24 531 tonnes to 160 customers across 30 nations. This represents a 12% increase in sales volume compared to 2022, highlighting our capacity to scale our business and cater to the diverse needs of our global customer base.

Record Operational Performance

2023 was yet another landmark year for Måsøval, with record-high turnover. The operational performance alongside a robust market resulted in a turnover of NOK 2 400 million, up from NOK 1 992 million the preceding year. This yielded an operational EBIT* amounting to NOK 471 million, which is a reduction from the previous year's figure.

Throughout the year, the salmon industry faced several headwinds, such as rising feed prices and biological challenges affecting mortality rates. Despite this, we were able to decrease our mortality rates compared to the prior year. All the while increasing our salmon harvest by 12% compared to 2022, reaching an unprecedented 24 531 tonnes. The price of salmon rose from NOK 79.4 to NOK 84.4, driven by increased demand and stagnant supply growth. However, escalating costs put pressure on margins, with EBIT margins per kilo declining from NOK 33.8 in 2022 to NOK 22.6 in 2023. It's important to consider the timing effect of our depreciating currency, as the NOK's significant depreciation in 2022 led to immediate salmon price increases, while costs gradually inflated, negatively impacting margins throughout 2023.

Our efforts have fortified the operational resilience and positioned us firmly for further growth "

Commitment to Our People

Måsøval's success is fundamentally driven by our dedicated team. In a year of substantial organisational changes, we've focused on creating a supportive and dynamic environment, welcoming new leaders in our executive management, alongside the introduction of the Head of People and Culture role. This move underscores our commitment to fostering employee growth and organisational effectiveness.

We restructured our middle management in the marine-phase division, adding new roles and promoting many from within, which speaks to our commitment to internal talent development. The strong interest in these positions from both within and outside Måsøval highlights our appeal as an employer.

Our first in-house talent programme saw fifteen employees graduate, with thirteen more currently enrolled, demonstrating the impact of our focus on skill enhancement and professional development.

We were joined by fifteen new colleagues over the course of the year, and while this growth may seem minor compared to the previous years' increases in personnel, it reflects our ongoing commitment to expansion and development. While our efforts to promote diversity continued, there was a slight decrease in the percentage of women in our executive management, attributed to organisational changes that expanded management roles. However, our overall gender composition saw notable improvement, increasing from 19% women in 2022, to 29% in 2023. Workplace safety saw positive trends, with injuries resulting in longer absences decreasing to zero, though reported HSE deviations and adverse events increased, prompting us to reinforce safety measures and implement corrective actions. The overall sickness absence rate declined to 4.6%, reflecting our commitment to employee well-being.

As Måsøval continues to evolve, our dedication to nurturing a culture where every employee can flourish and contribute to our collective achievements remains a top priority.

Looking forward

As we chart our course for the future, our commitment to improving fish health and welfare remains paramount. We are poised to explore new sites and technologies, intensify our strategic development initiatives, and further optimise our operations to ensure sustainable growth. Market analyses offer an optimistic outlook, predicting strong demand and favourable prices for 2024 and 2025, supported by moderate global supply growth. Nevertheless, we're mindful of the challenges ahead, particularly with the evolving political landscape affecting taxation. The introduction and subsequent adjustment of a resource rent tax on the marine phase of our operations underscore the uncertainties we face. Despite this, our ever-expanding ambitions, and the anticipation of a strong market fuels our enthusiasm for the future.

In closing, I extend heartfelt gratitude to our dedicated team, whose commitment and hard work have been fundamental to our achievements. Together, we look forward to a future filled with opportunities for growth, innovation, and continued success.

Helge Kvalvik, Chief Executive Officer

Our dedication to nurturing a culture where every employee can flourish and contribute to our collective achievements remains a top priority "

Once a pioneer, always a pioneer

Karsten Måsøval became one of the first Norwegian aquaculture pioneers when in 1973 he, his brother and father built a small freezer room and nailed together their first net pens. They had no other employees, so worked long days with just a rowboat and raw muscle power. Karsten is not afraid to admit that they sometimes doubted whether this – in the eyes of many – foolhardy venture was worthwhile.

It was almost like working on a fishing vessel – we had to sleep when we had a few hours off, he reminisces. "

Things haven't always gone smoothly, but we got through it, and today we have a completely different company than when we first started, he says. "

Initially, all the net pens were arranged along the shoreline, just a stone's throw away from their garden fence. Since then, operations have undergone significant expansion and evolution. Production has transitioned to more exposed areas, now spanning across eighteen sites along the coast of Trøndelag and Møre. At first, they travelled around Norway and sold the fish personally, but today, Måsøval salmon is enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.

Is he proud, as one of the original founders, of how far the company has come? "I'm proud that my boys want to keep running the business. I'm also proud that a new generation is interested in my life's work – what my father and brother helped start. I think that's the best thing about this!"

2 3 3 7 7
1973 1977 1978 1982 1990 1997 1998 2003 2004 2005 2009 2011
Establishment of
the company by
Edvin Måsøval
and sons
Initial
investment
in salmon
Sons, Bjørn and
Karsten, assume
leadership of the
company
Acquisition of
a 33% stake in
Nordskagfisk
Co-founding
of SalMar
with Gustav
Witzøe after
Nordskagfisk's
bankruptcy
Acquisition of
a 66% stake in
Gunnar Espnes
Fiskeoppdrett
on Frøya
Sale of stake
in SalMar
Acquisition
of the first
smolt facility
Acquisition
of Vikan
Fishfarm
on Hitra
Acquisition
of the smolt
facility in
Laksåvika,
Hitra
Completion of
the takeover of
Brattøyfisk at Frei
Establishment of
Måsøval Fishfarm
Securing of
a new salmon
licence
Acquisition of
Lernes and its
four licences
= Harvest volume 1000 GWT with a 63.9% stake

Important strategic events in the group

Launch of AquaGen collaboration on reserve stock/broodstock production on two licences

Acquisition of Laxar (now owned 59% by Måsøval Eiendom, the parent company)

2017

Application for development licences on the Aqua Semi project

2018

Partnership with Pure Norwegian Seafood at Averøya

2019

Strengthening of smolt production by acquiring Åsen Settefisk

Awarding of development licences for the Aqua Semi project Securing of 2.5 new licences, increasing production by 2 000 tonnes

Entering a 10-year deal to develop tomorrow's workforce on a further licence

2021

Successful listing on the Oslo Euronext Growth exchange on 6 June.

Acquisition of 65% of the shares in Pure Norwegian Seafood.

Strengthening of presence in PA5 through the acquisition of the Vartdal Group and its four licences, two post-smolt facilities, and harvesting plant

2022

Co-location agreement with Frøya Laks for the operation of 2 433 tonnes MAB.

2023

Significant organisational restructuring to optimise operations and facilitate future growth initiatives.

= Harvest volume 1000 GWT

Måsøval group

Company Structure

Måsøval AS Equity Description
Måsøval Laksåvika AS 100 % Acquired in 2004, this facility located on Hitra has an annual production capacity of 2.7 million smolts.
Måsøval Vartdal AS 100 % Acquired in 2021, formerly known as Vartdal Fiskeoppdrett AS. Operates a smolt and post-smolt facility with a licence for 1 200 tonnes production.
Måsøval Urke AS 100 % Acquired in 2021, formerly known as Urke Fiskeoppdrett AS. Operates a smolt and post-smolt facility with a licence for 1 200 tonnes of production.
Måsøval Åsen AS 100 % Acquired in 2019, this facility located in Levanger municipality has an annual production capacity of 2.5 million smolts.
Måsøval Service AS 100 % Acquired in 2021, formerly known as Stokkøy Skjell AS. As part of a 2022 restructuring, all service operations were consolidated in Måsøval Service AS.
Måsøval Akva AS 100 % Acquired in 2021 to secure delousing capacity, formerly known as Eidsvaag Akva AS. Following a 2022 restructuring, all significant sea-going vessels,
feed barges, and pens were transferred to Måsøval Akva AS.
Måsøval Drift AS 100 % Acquired in 2021, formerly known as Aqua Farms Vartdal AS. Operates four licences and four sites in Sunnmøre.
Måsøval Lisens AS 100 % Acquired in 2021, formerly known as Pure Farming AS. The company owns one production licence of 780 tonnes MAB.
Pure Norwegian Seafood AS 65 % Acquired a majority share in 2021. The sales and processing company operates a harvesting plant located at Averøya. In 2023,
all of Måsøval's harvested salmon was sold through Pure Norwegian Seafood.
Western Seaproducts AS 100 % Acquired in 2021. Operates a harvesting facility in Sunnmøre, harvesting salmon from our sites and cod from cod farmers.
Sold to the cod farming company ODE AS in February 2024.
Vartdal Fryseri AS 100 % Acquired in 2021. Until its shutdown in 2023, it operated a frozen storage facility in Sunnmøre, focused white fish, mainly cod.

Geographical Areas of Operation

Operational management

Operational management at Måsøval is focused on ensuring sustainable and responsible practices throughout the value chain by integrating biological expertise and solid planning with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) measures. This involves collecting data and conducting analyses to understand the biological impacts of our aquaculture operations and developing optimal operational plans for the entire value chain. We strive to identify and implement best practices for sustainable aquaculture, prioritising the health and welfare of our fish. Adhering to ESG standards and documentation requirements is crucial as we progress towards further sustainable growth.

Upholding Måsøval's core values of responsibility, generosity, steadfastness, and a touch of boldness guides our operational decisions. "

Fish health and welfare

In 2023, we intensified our efforts on fish health and welfare, an endeavour that has already yielded positive results. Reflecting our commitment to transparency, we will report mortality rates using both the GSI method and the Norwegian Veterinary Institute (VI) method going forward. This decision not only aims to provide a more open and comprehensive view of our performance but also shines a light on the variability in mortality rate calculations across the industry. According to the VI method, our mortality rate decreased to 12.8% from 16.3% in 2022, below the national average of 16.7% for 2023. Meanwhile, according to the GSI method, our mortality rate decreased to 6.5% from 8.2% in 2022. These results underscore the positive impact of our intensified focus on fish health and welfare. True to our values of responsibility and steadfastness, this commitment will continue to drive our efforts, with the goal of positioning Måsøval as an industry leader in this essential aspect of aquaculture.

Despite the intense focus on fish health and welfare, production in 2023 encountered biological challenges, and we continuously investigate causes and incorporate lessons learned into improvement efforts. One of our focal areas for 2024 will be to reduce both the need for fish handling and the consequences of handling through strategic development at company and site levels, as well as enhancing expertise across all levels of our operations. Another crucial priority will be to ensure stable conditions for robust smolt production.

Salmon farming also involves utilising other species for biological control of sea lice, so-called cleaner fish. Lumpfish and wrasse are utilised at some of Måsøval's sea sites, but their use has been reduced through strategic assessment of site suitability regarding environmental conditions and available workforce resources. This is important as cleaner fish have the same welfare requirements as farmed salmon. Despite positive developments in reducing the number of cleaner fish used for biological control of sea lice, maintaining cleaner fish remains challenging, and we continue to seek other effective preventive measures against sea lice.

Måsøval (GSI*

Mortality rates 2020 2021 2022 2023
Måsøval (GSI*
)
4.1 % 5.5 % 8.2 % 6.5 %
Måsøval (VI**) 6.0 % 9.5 % 16.3 % 12.8 %
National average (VI**) 14.8 % 15.5 % 16.1 % 16.7 %

*12 month rolling mortality rate calculated according to the GSI method

**12 month rolling mortality rate calculated according to the Norwegian Veterinary institute (VI) method

Impact on ecosystem

Måsøval's commitment to environmental stewardship remained steadfast in 2023, as we continued to monitor and assess the impact of our aquaculture operations on the ecosystem. Our focal areas included monitoring feed residues and excrement to prevent potential eutrophication, a concern arising from increased nutrient salts in the water. Weekly monitoring of plankton quantity and species composition, overseen by the Norwegian Food Safety Authority, ensured ongoing vigilance in maintaining environmental health.

At our sites in Møre and Romsdal, we conduct regular assessments of the littoral zone to detect signs of eutrophication and monitor algae species composition throughout each production cycle. Encouragingly, the risk report from the Institute of Marine Research assessed environmental effects from dissolved nutrient salts discharge as 'good' in our production areas. However, we remain vigilant, particularly in areas with limited knowledge base, where emissions of particulate organic matter were assessed as 'moderate'.

Our environmental impact assessments extend beyond production areas, encompassing evaluations of potential effects on fauna and flora. We have proactively implemented measures to protect coral habitats, conducting thorough mappings and risk assessments to avoid any detrimental impacts. Juvenile counts conducted at sites near spawning and nursery areas for cod, wild salmon, and trout have indicated minimal impact from our operations.

The mandatory benthic B-survey, conducted by a third party to assess trends in seabed conditions at our sites, has consistently produced scores ranging from 1.0 to 1.3 across the reporting years, where 1.0 represents the best score attainable and 4.0 the worst. These scores indicate 'very good' to 'good' conditions at our sites.Persistent good scores affirm the effectiveness of our monitoring and management practices in ensuring the sustainability of our aquaculture operations. Additionally, the results suggest that our farming activities are conducted within the carrying capacity of the sites and do not adversely affect the surrounding marine ecosystem.

2020 2021 2022 2023
Average B-survey score 1.2 1.3 1.0 1.3

Escaped fish

Two incidents of suspected escape were reported in 2023, neither of which was confirmed. Despite our efforts, accurately determining the extent of fish escape remains challenging due to limitations in current stock counting methods. This highlights the need for innovative highprecision technologies to keep track of fish stock, resulting in more accurate reporting of escape incidents.

At Måsøval, we place emphasis on preventive measures and conduct frequent controls to try to detect potential escape incidents early. However, the imprecise nature of current stock counting methods hampers our ability to accurately assess the scale of fish escape incidents. Nevertheless, we remain steadfast in our commitment to exploring solutions and continually improving our practices to minimise the risk of fish escape while also increasing reporting accuracy.

2020 2021 2022 2023
Number of reported incidents
of suspected escape
0 1 4 2
Number of escape incidents
with confirmed escape
0 1 2 0
Number of fish escaped 0 1 101 0

Salmon lice

Despite being natural parasites, the prevalence of salmon lice poses significant challenges, especially in densely populated salmon farms. Recognising the importance of effective lice control, Måsøval is dedicated to ensuring the welfare of not only our salmon but also the wider ecosystem, including wild salmon and sea trout populations.

Måsøval's approach to managing salmon lice infestation yielded positive outcomes in 2023. Our proactive measures resulted in a decline in the average number of adult female lice per fish, dropping to 0.16 compared to previous years. Moreover, 99% of our reports remained below the limit. To increase our delousing capacity and deploy more efficient tools, we made a major investment in 2023 to install delousing units on our chartered well boat.

2020 2021 2022 2023
Average number of adult
female lice per fish
0.21 0.21 0.24 0.16
Proportion of reports below
the lice limit
94 % 95 % 95 % 99 %

Climate impact

Over the course of several years, Måsøval have been actively pursuing the electrification of our marine sites. Our goal is to connect all feed barges to shore power wherever infrastructure allows. In 2023, we expanded our active site count from 14 to 16. Presently, three of our sites remain unconnected to shore power, although one operates on a hybrid system. Looking ahead to 2024, our objective is to electrify an additional two sites.

2020 2021 2022 2023
Proportion of feed barges
connected to shore power
82 % 73 % 71 % 81 %

Note: The reduction in the proportion of feed barges connected to shore power in 2021/2022 is due to acquisitions of new sites, which may initially lack the necessary infrastructure for shore power connection.

Recognising the importance of effective lice control, Måsøval is dedicated to ensuring the welfare of not only our salmon but also the wider ecosystem.

Måsøval's smolt production has a clear objective – to run efficient and sustainable land-based operations while producing top-quality smolt. This is an ongoing effort which is carried out daily throughout our smolt facilities. We have been successful in this work, which have been carried out with a strong focus on safety, resulting in few and minor Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) incidents.

Operational highlights

In 2023, Måsøval's smolt facilities continued to deliver high-quality smolt for our marine-phase operations. However, challenges arose, particularly in the post-smolt production in region West. These challenges were effectively addressed by our competent staff, who collaborated with our marine-phase operations to adjust stocking times for the benefit of the fish, among other solutions. This has resulted in successful smolt deliveries according to the company's needs, all while remaining steadfast in our focus on fish welfare.

In response to the challenges in our smolt operations, several technical upgrades were completed, and additional improvement projects were identified and initiated. These initiatives are expected to yield benefits in terms of improved quality and fish welfare, both on land and at sea. In addition to technical upgrades, we swiftly revised our vaccination strategy to incorporate new available vaccines to address other challenges encountered. These measures had already significantly improved the health status of our smolt production as we entered 2024.

Regarding our legal dispute with authorities concerning the requirement to open the watercourse for anadromous fish at our smolt facility on Hitra, a resolution has finally been reached. We have opted to undertake the requisite measures to facilitate the passage of such fish for the benefit of the environment, thus securing continued operation at the facility.

External suppliers and agreements

As a buffer to Måsøval's in-house smolt production, we strategically collaborate with external smolt suppliers to increase the flexibility and resilience of our supply chain. Additionally, collaborating with facilities that employ modern recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) offers our staff the chance to engage with innovative technologies and make wellinformed decisions regarding the future of smolt production at Måsøval. Together, this ensures our secure access to smolt and positions us to capitalise swiftly on growth opportunities.

Fish farming

Måsøval's marine-phase operations are committed to conducting efficient and sustainable salmon farming. Our primary goal is to ensure the optimal health and growth of our farmed fish while upholding strict standards of environmental responsibility and animal welfare.

Our production strategy revolves around maximising the utilisation of permitted production capacity. This entails maintaining the highest possible biomass in the sea while achieving optimal growth rates.

Operational highlights

Our capacity utilisation remained consistently high, averaging 96% in the first half of 2023. However, challenges arose in sustaining this utilisation rate, resulting in an average of 88% in the latter half. These fluctuations can be attributed to industry-wide biological challenges. While we strive to optimise our capacity utilisation, we remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguarding the welfare of our fish.

Despite seasonal and geographical variations, the growth rate of our standing biomass in 2023 was generally positive.

Organisational Strengthening

Over the past year, Måsøval's marine-phase division underwent significant organisational strengthening through the creation of four new positions: assistant production manager and three area managers (North, Mid, and South).

We are pleased to report that our recruitment process attracted strong interest from both internal and external candidates, reaffirming our reputation as an attractive employer. Furthermore, several of these positions were filled by internal applicants, highlighting the depth of talent and dedication within our organisation.

In response to these structural changes, there was a need to replace site managers who were internally promoted and to introduce additional site managers to departments with expanded responsibilities. We are proud to announce that two of these site managers are women who have been promoted from within the company. Notably, one of them began as an apprentice and progressed through college education to become a site manager.

These organisational changes position us strongly for the future. We remain committed to maintaining our position as a responsible producer of high-quality salmon in a competitive market. As we continue to navigate industry challenges and opportunities, our focus remains on sustainability, innovation, and excellence in salmon farming.

Our sites

At Måsøval, the quality of our aquaculture sites is paramount, impacting growth potential and providing control over biological and operational aspects. With a portfolio consisting of sites in globally desirable locations, we continually seek to identify new, high-performing sites with substantial carrying capacity, as well as enhancing existing sites. Dedicated resources have been allocated for these purposes to capitalise on emerging opportunities.

Inclusive of sites slated to commence operation in the first half of 2024, Måsøval has 55 380 tonnes of Maximum Allowable Biomass (MAB) at disposal across our own sites. Additionally, in 2023, we entered into colocation agreements with Bjørøya AS on two separate sites, adding 9 360 tonnes of MAB to our operations.

The organisational changes position us strongly for the future

Sites
Generation1 Production
Area
Zone Site Maximum allowable
biomass (MAB)
H1 6 Frøya Sør Espnestaren 4 680
H1 6 Frøya Sør Ilsøya 3 120
H1 6 Frøya Sør Måøydraga2 2 340
H1 6 Fosen Nord Nausttaren3 3 120
H1 6 Fosen Nord Drevflesa3 6 240
H0 6 Nordmøre Sør Kattholmen 3 120
H0 6 Nordmøre Sør Or 2 340
H0 6 Nordmøre Sør Gaustad 3 120
H0 6 Nordmøre Sør Heggeset 2 340
V1 6 Frøya Nord Fjølværet 3 900
V1 6 Frøya Nord Langøya 2 340
V1 6 Frøya Nord Flatøyan 3 120
V0 6 Frøya Øst Bukkholmen 3 900
V0 6 Frøya Øst Lamøya 3 120
V0 6 Nordmøre Nord Hårkallbåen2 3 120
V0 5 Aukra Orholmen 3 120
H0 5 Sunnmøre Kvangardsnes 3 120
H1 5 Sunnmøre Slettvika 3 120
V0 5 Sunnmøre Gjerde 2 340
V1 5 Sunnmøre Bjørndal 3 120
Total 2 8 18 (20)* 55 380 (64 740)*

* Numbers in brackets include co-location sites

1

Generation explained: H0 – Autumn of even years, H1 – Autumn of odd years, V0 – Spring of even years, V1 – Spring of odd years.

2 Will be operational in 2024.

3

Co-location on site owned and operated by Bjørøya AS.

Måsøval's strategy involves maintaining internal readiness for service and technical support, ensuring our ability to swiftly address operational and biological challenges while safeguarding long-term biosecurity though fleet management. The competitiveness of the service department, both in terms of pricing and quality, is paramount and serves as a crucial component of our overall preparedness.

Operational highlights

As part of Måsøval's strategic initiatives, we recruited two technical inspectors in 2023 to uphold optimal technical conditions of our site boats and service vessels. These hires are instrumental in ensuring compliance with regulations and adherence to the stringent standards set forth by the Norwegian Maritime Directorate. Their expertise plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the integrity and reliability of our operations.

Significant investments were made in 2023, including the installation of two FLS delousing units on the BB Havtrans well boat. This strategic move significantly bolstered capacity and flexibility, particularly during periods of limited external availability. Despite these advancements, a time charter on an additional well boat is under consideration due to intermittent

undercapacity in external resources and treatment methods. Owning our own capacities remains essential for both flexibility and biosecurity concerns. Furthermore, internal diving capabilities were phased out in 2023 and outsourced to Frøya Seaside Service AS, a trusted partner with a proven track record. In line with this transition, a new diving vessel meeting professional standards is currently under construction for delivery in August of 2024.

Significant investments were made in 2023, including the installation of two FLS delousing units on the BB Havtrans well boat.

Sales & Market

Måsøval's sales department's mission is to maximise economic results by delivering fresh, sustainable, and high-quality salmon to the market. In collaboration with the operational management team, the sales team is responsible for orchestrating seamless transitions from production to harvest and sale. With a focus on optimising agreements and securing competitive terms, we strive to ensure the best outcomes for our products and customers. Through strategic planning and an unwavering adherence to Måsøval's values, we continuously seek growth opportunities and market development.

Måsøval's price strategy focuses on selling a high proportion of salmon on the spot market. This strategy has yielded positive results, particularly amidst the tight conditions experienced in the salmon market since 2021. With supply stagnation and increasing global demand, prices have seen an upward trajectory. Furthermore, the depreciation of the Norwegian Krone has further elevated spot prices in comparison to contract prices.

160 customers

30 nations

Highlights

In 2022, we launched our new brand, "Princess", which stands out due to its high quality. Princess salmon is meticulously produced to meet the discerning demands of customers in high-end markets, with a steadfast commitment to ensuring optimal fish health, acknowledging its pivotal role in delivering superior quality. Alongside Princess, we also introduced the Diamond brand, adhering to the same exacting standards as Princess but offered in frozen form. Of the total 24 513 tonnes sold in 2023, 754 tonnes comprised Princess salmon, while 179 tonnes were Diamond.

Måsøval's salmon found their way to 160 customers across thirty nations. A substantial portion was sold to Norwegian companies, predominantly exporters, while 64% was distributed to various other European nations, with a modest 2% reaching Asian markets. The remainder was exported to other parts of the world, showcasing our ability to operate globally and provide premium products to a diverse customer base.

Market distribution

Europe 64 %
Norway (mainly exporters) 32 %
Asia 2 %
North America <1 %
Middle East <1 %
Others <1 %
Total 100 %

Global Salmon Farming Overview

Salmon farming is a significant industry with a few key players and major markets worldwide. Norway stands out as the dominant force, supplying over half of the global farmed salmon market (51% in 2023* ), followed by Chile as the second-largest producer, accounting for a quarter of the market (27% in 2023* ). Other important salmon farming nations include the UK, Canada, the Faroe Islands, Australia, and Iceland.

Major markets*

The European Union (EU) and the UK together constitute the most substantial market for salmon, purchasing 43% of the global supply in 2023. The United States follows as the second-largest market, representing 24% of global sales. Brazil, China, and Japan also play significant roles, collectively contributing to 10% of global salmon sales. Notably, the European market primarily sources salmon from European producers, while Brazil relies heavily on imports from Chile. In contrast, the US and Asian markets source salmon from various producers worldwide.

Market dynamics

Salmon is predominantly sold fresh, making it perishable with a short shelf life. This, coupled with the industry's dependency on biological and environmental factors, results in significant short-term supply fluctuations, leading to pronounced price volatility on a week-to-week basis. Seasonal demand variations further impact pricing, with notable fluctuations observed throughout the year. Noteworthy is the annual price increase observed from 2022 to 2023, driven by fundamental market pressures such as stagnant supply growth amidst rising demand and currency effects due to the depreciation of the Norwegian Krone against major currencies.

Other

People & Culture

Måsøval's staff encompasses various departments dedicated to supporting the core operations of the organisation. This includes functions such as human resources (HR), communication, health, safety and, environment (HSE) and quality assurance. The objective of our staff is to ensure employee well-being, facilitate effective communication internally and externally, maintain high standards of health and safety, uphold quality standards in production processes, and provide essential administrative support to ensure smooth operations.

In 2023, Måsøval have undergone organisational changes across various departments. While some units saw substantial transformations, others emerged anew, while some remained largely intact. Manoeuvring through these changes can be demanding for both directly and indirectly involved parties. Nonetheless, our employees have exhibited flexibility and resilience, playing a crucial role in fortifying internal processes, and fostering collaboration amidst the transition. In instances where these changes resulted in new positions, internal promotions were common, complemented by fresh recruits.

In 2023, Måsøval have undergone organisational changes across various departments. "

Health, safety, and environment

Måsøval saw positive trends in various aspects of workplace safety in 2023. While there was a slight increase in accidents compared to the previous year, notably, injuries resulting in longer absences decreased to zero.

Although the number of reported HSE deviations increased from 2022, this serves as a valuable opportunity for us to reinforce our safety measures and procedures. Similarly, with the number of recorded adverse events remaining unchanged from the previous year, we acknowledge these areas for improvement and are actively implementing corrective actions.

On a positive note, the overall sickness absence rate declined to 4.6%, with short-term sick leave remaining stable at 2.2%. These figures reflect our continuous efforts to promote employee health and well-being. Moving forward, we are committed to further enhancing safety measures and fostering a positive work culture for all our employees.

2020 2021 2022 2023
Full-time equivalents (FTEs) 116 132 225 264
Injuries resulting in short-term absence 4 5 5 1
Injuries resulting in an absence of more than 16 days 2 3 2 0
Injuries resulting in death 0 0 0 0
Total sickness absence 5.7 % 4.8 % 5.0 % 4.6 %
Short-term sick leave 2.3 % 2.5 % 2.0 % 2.2 %

Recruitment

In 2023, Måsøval saw a modest yet steady increase in workforce, with the number of employees rising to 315 from 300 in the previous year. While this growth may seem minor compared to the previous years' increases in personnel, it reflects our ongoing commitment to expansion and development. As we continue to grow, we remain dedicated to fostering a supportive and dynamic work environment where every employee can thrive and contribute to our shared success.

Diversity and inclusion

While we continued our efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, there was a slight decrease in the percentage of women in Måsøval's executive management team, from 25% in 2022 to 22% in 2023. This is due to an increase in the size of the management after the aforementioned organisational changes. The board composition remained consistent, with 40% women. Our overall gender composition, on the other hand, saw notable improvements, with the percentage of women increasing from 19% in 2022 to 29% in 2023.

Development in number of employees Development in number of employees

Percentage gender composition/year 2022 2023
Men Women Men Women
All employees 81 % 19 % 71 % 29 %
Executive management 75 % 25 % 78 % 22 %
The board of directors 60 % 40 % 60 % 40 %

The proportion of employees under 30 years old increased from 40% in 2022 to 50% in 2023, highlighting Måsøval's efforts to attract and retain young talent. This demographic shift reflects our dedication to embracing a multigenerational workforce and incorporating fresh perspectives into our operations.

Employee age composition

Diversity is integral to Måsøval's growth and success, enhancing decisionmaking and enriching our collective identity. We remain committed to our ongoing efforts to further increase diversity across all levels of our organisation. By embracing a diverse range of perspectives and experiences, we will continue to thrive as a dynamic and inclusive workplace.

Employee development

We continued our steadfast commitment to employee development in 2023. This dedication is reflected in the significant increase in the number of employees obtaining craft certificates in aquaculture. From a mere five certified employees in 2014, the total number has surged to an impressive sixty-nine by the end of 2023. Craft certificates not only validate employees' expertise but also empower them to excel in their roles and contribute effectively to our collective success.

Craft certificates Craft certificates

The inaugural class of our talent programme, consisting of fifteen talented employees, successfully completed the programme in fall of 2023, with thirteen new talents currently enrolled in the second round. Commenced in November 2023, this round is slated for completion by September 2024.

Thomas, a participant from the inaugural class, shared his reflections on his experience in the talent programme:

"In October 2022, I received the news that I was one of the chosen participants for Måsøval's inaugural talent programme. Excitement mingled with uncertainty as I embarked on this new venture, unsure of what lay ahead. Little did I know, it would shape me and my career in profound ways. Over the course of a year, the talent programme evolved beyond a series of sessions; it became a journey of personal growth. Through workshops and mentorship, I discovered facets of myself previously unexplored, learning to harness my potential not just for the company's benefit but for my own advancement too.

One particular challenge stands out: the organisational analysis assignment. Tasked with mapping out the intricacies of Måsøval, we delved deep, uncovering both its challenges and strengths, and presenting our findings to the executive management – which was a challenge in itself. Furthermore, we had the opportunity to create individual projects aimed at improving our respective departments and subsequently benefiting Måsøval. Crafting improvement initiatives for my department honed my leadership skills, teaching me the art of collaboration, guidance, and motivation.

The talent programme pushed me beyond my comfort zone, compelling me to step forward and voice my thoughts. Olaf's mentorship became a catalyst for change, nudging me to embrace opportunities instead of shying away.

Today, I stand taller and more confident than before, grateful for the doors the talent programme has opened. It's not just a milestone in my career; it's a testament to the power of encouragement and transformative potential within each of us."

As we look ahead, our ongoing efforts to promote employee development and skill acquisition will remain a top priority, ensuring that our workforce remains well-equipped to meet the challenges of the dynamic aquaculture industry.

Today, I stand taller and more confident than before, grateful for the doors the talent programme has opened.

Community engagement

Måsøval has a rich history of supporting local communities across our eleven host municipalities. Each year, we allocate funds to groups and associations in these areas, particularly those focused on engaging and inspiring children and youth through voluntary initiatives. We also lend our support to activities benefiting students in primary, secondary, and high schools, as well as regional events that foster community cohesion, such as theatre performances and revues.

Through partnerships with schools, nurseries, and various organisations, our objectives are twofold: to cultivate supportive and nurturing environments for children and young people and to introduce them to the captivating landscapes of coastal Norway and the intricacies of the aquaculture industry. Our aim is to foster communities that are positive, inclusive, and generous, offering enriching experiences and sharing knowledge about salmon farming, especially with young people, so they can grasp the entire value chain of our industry.

In 2023, we remained committed to supporting initiatives aimed at children and youth, primarily focusing on the areas where we operate.

Total paid out (NOK)

587 890

In 2023, we remained committed to supporting initiatives aimed at children and youth, primarily focusing on the areas where we operate. "

Strategy

Our goals

Måsøval is a rapidly growing company. From 2016 to 2023, we achieved an average annual increase in harvested volume of 17%. This growth has been fueled through expanding our licence portfolio, acquisition of companies, strategic co-location agreements, and optimising production.

Healthy salmon grow faster

At Måsøval, our ability to utilise every single tonne of our capacity - through improved fish health, reduced mortality, and increased growth rates positions us strongly to realise our future ambitions.

Currently, we are over halfway through our 10-year growth strategy and remain dedicated to actively pursuing and developing suitable opportunities as they emerge.

Harvest volume (thousand tonnes - gutted weight)

Existing conventional licenses

Development and strategic projects

Over the past years, Måsøval has achieved remarkable growth in production volume, workforce, infrastructure, and geographical spread. At the same time, we have strengthened our capacity for strategic development across the value chain.

Sites – sea-based farming

Our marine-phase operations are located in two production areas (PAs): PA5 and PA6, spanning between the municipalities of Volda and Frøya. As of 31 December 2023, we have a total of sixteen operational sites. In 2023, we intensified our efforts to develop the site portfolio. We have participated in developing a data model for analysing the quality of existing sites and potential new ones. The main targets are:

    1. To identify opportunities for optimising existing sites by adjusting orientation and coordinates, as well as applying for increased production capacity.
    1. To identify optimal coordinates for new sites.

The analysis evaluates optimal environmental conditions for salmon growth, such as topography, water temperature, wave exposure, and current speed. These are examples of key aspects to ensure superior biological performance, operational efficiency, and profitability. We also consider the availability of infrastructure, logistics, and local communities to ensure that we can remain a responsible and steadfast farmer for our fish, people, and communities. In 2023, we applied for one site close to Frøya and began work on applications for up to six new sites in PA5 and PA6, as well as a range of applications regarding existing sites.

Production technology – sea-based farming

To optimise the utilisation of our sites and licences, and to position ourselves for new opportunities in terms of expansion and diversification, we continuously evaluate the potential of new production technology. Måsøval will seek to implement and develop alternative farming methods to reduce biological risks related to sea lice and infectious diseases. The industry must enable new tools over time to reduce environmental impact and increase production capacity. In 2023 we did a systematic review of various concepts in the market, including semi-closed and submersible pens. We aim to increase our efforts in this area through 2024.

Capacity – smolt production

Currently, Måsøval owns four efficiently operated land-based smolt facilities that utilises flow-through technology. We also collaborate closely with external suppliers of high-quality smolt to meet our demand. Through 2023, we conducted a major strategic project to increase our smolt production according to our future needs. We have identified several opportunities for establishing a larger scale, state-of-the-art RAS facility in PA6, while optimising our existing facilities in the meantime. In 2024, we will refine our strategy and conduct a feasibility study for a new facility.

Capacity – vessels

Our rapid expansion has brought increased demands for vessel capacity, especially when it comes to well boats and alternative tools for sea lice treatments. In 2023, we intensified our efforts to meet the short- and long-term demands of the company. We expect to unveil new capacities during 2024, enabling a stronger and more versatile service division.

Capacity – harvest, sales, and processing

Throughout the last year, we have worked heavily on developing a holistic strategy for sales and processing. We have conducted thorough studies on existing and potential new facilities, resulting in the accepted bid for Ulvan, MOWI's harvesting facility in Hitra municipality. The geographical positioning and capacities of Ulvan are well-suited for Måsøval's current demands and future growth ambitions. It enables us to optimise our market strategy, ensure even better emergency preparedness, and increase profitability over time.

Digital Transformation and IT Operations

In 2022, Måsøval embarked on a digitalisation project. The following year, we developed our own data platform to enhance decision-making, automate processes, and enhance collaboration and communication in our operations.

This initiative has resulted in the automation of key operational planning processes, leading to improved data accuracy, and allowing staff more time to address operational risks. Furthermore, critical environmental data, such as weather conditions, tides, and wave patterns, have been standardised and consolidated for better insights.

Concurrently, we launched an initiative with our IT operations provider to ensure the safety and efficiency of our IT systems. This included standardising network setups with fail-over solutions to enhance the security of our operations, in addition to ensuring stable operations without interruptions.

An attractive employer with local roots

For over five decades, Måsøval has thrived as a family-owned business, with strong ties between owners and employees. This close-knit dynamic enables us to quickly adapt to new developments. Moreover, as the Norwegian aquaculture industry operates under rigorous governmental regulations, our responsive structure ensures compliance and efficiency.

We are committed to creating an inclusive, safe, and supportive workplace environment. From competency strategies and robust HSE procedures to employee development initiatives, we prioritise the growth and wellbeing of our workforce. Through diverse recruitment practices and ongoing education, we aim to empower our employees to excel both professionally and personally.

Competency Strategy

Significant work has been done on Måsøval's overarching competency strategy, which places a strong emphasis on competency and employee development for staff at all levels of the organisation. This will continue to be a key focus area forward, including the continuation of our talent and leadership development programmes.

Our ongoing efforts to support and motivate our employees in obtaining craft certificates remain a key priority.

Recruitment

Diversity is both necessary and valued in many processes to promote development. Greater diversity among our employees will create better decision-making processes and risk management because we all think and act differently. From being a male-dominated industry, we now see that we are getting ever more female applicants and employees. We see this as a highly positive development. Diversity does not just have to be gender-based, it also embraces different cultures, ethnicities, religions, age, education, and life experiences to make us all different and individual.

Measuring diversity can be difficult and requires insight. In late 2023, we introduced a human resource management system that will give us better statistics on equality, inclusion, and diversity across the organisation.

Finally, it's worth mentioning that Måsøval sets strict requirements to expertise and personal suitability when hiring new staff. We receive a high number of applications for job vacancies and can therefore focus on selecting the best candidates.

Employee development

Salmon farming is ultimately about the interaction between salmon, nature, and people. To be successful, it is essential to continually develop the skills of our staff, empowering them to master their roles and expand their expertise over time. The industry's rapid pace of innovation imposes strict demands on Måsøval's collective expertise, necessitating a focus on both current and future challenges. Consequently, ongoing education serves as a vital tool for us, not only fostering individual growth but also opening new career avenues, thereby strengthening motivation. Our emphasis on internal recruitment further reinforces this motivation.

In 2022, we introduced a talent programme designed to cultivate employees who can make meaningful contributions to the workplace. The programme aims to empower participants to carry out their tasks with greater insight, precision, and ownership, while also preparing them to

take on new responsibilities and foster better collaboration. Throughout the talent programme, participants work on both personal development through improvement projects in collaboration with their immediate supervisor, and collectively analyse organisational aspects, presenting their findings to the executive management team.

Craft Certificates

Craft certificates are regarded as one the most effective ways in our industry to enhance expertise comprehensively, grounded in established standards. As an accredited training establishment, Måsøval welcomes 8 – 10 apprentices annually. By shouldering half of each apprentice's training programme, we ensure that every individual receives the support they deserve. Måsøval commits to this responsibility by allocating dedicated resources.

Over the years, we have actively encouraged and facilitated our employees to pursue craft certificates in aquaculture. Our sustained focus in this area has yielded tangible results, with a notable increase in the proportion of certified staff within our ranks. Our ongoing efforts to support and motivate our employees in obtaining craft certificates remain a key priority.

Working in Måsøval

While Måsøval has always aimed to work in harmony with nature, we also recognise the importance of considering the human aspects. That is why we have established clear ethical guidelines outlining the expected working practices for both managers, employees, and partners.

Måsøval's ethical guidelines serve as a compass in our daily operations, guiding us to maintain safety, protect the environment, and navigate complex situations. These guidelines outline clear principles to promote awareness of our values and personal conduct, fostering a culture of mutual respect among employees regardless of differences. It is essential to understand that the true value of these guidelines lies in the actions we take every day, reflecting our commitment to ethical behaviour in the workplace.

By shouldering half of each apprentice's training programme, we ensure that every individual receives the support they deserve.

Health, safety, and environment

Working in nature often presents challenging and potentially hazardous conditions, underscoring the importance of robust procedures to foster a safe and positive work environment. This commitment extends throughout our organisation, addressing both mental and physical well-being.

We have clear instructions for our operations to reduce the possibility of work accidents and material damage. When incidents arise, they are always investigated by the working environment committee. These procedures undergo regular review, with focused improvement measures implemented as needed.

Our employees are exposed to risk on a daily basis. We work closely with the forces of nature and often handle equipment with great forces. To prevent injuries and accidents, we continuously work to risk assess our work tasks and implement risk-reducing measures wherever possible. At Måsøval, we prioritise safety and strive to prevent serious injuries and fatalities through rigorous safety protocols and continuous improvement efforts.

We emphasise the prevention of injuries and dangerous incidents with good planning and organisation. We collaborate with local occupational health services, who assist us in mapping and assessing risk conditions that may affect HSE. Increased knowledge of risk conditions equips us to prevent injury when carrying out dangerous work tasks. We continuously work to have a live deviation system to capture conditions and incidents so we can improve our employees' working environment.

policy towards serious injury and fatalities.

Salmon with a low environmental impact

Fish farming operations can have significant environmental implications, including water pollution, habitat destruction, and biodiversity loss. Adopting sustainable practices helps minimise these negative impacts, preserving aquatic ecosystems and ensuring the long-term health of fish populations and surrounding environments. Sustainable fish farming involves efficient use of resources such as water, feed, and energy. By implementing practices that minimise resource consumption and waste generation, Måsøval can improve operational efficiency and reduce costs over the long term. Climate change poses significant challenges to aquaculture, including changing water temperatures, ocean acidification, and extreme weather events. Sustainable fish farming practices, such as site selection, species diversification, and adaptation measures, can help us build resilience to climate-related risks.

Food production will in all cases have an impact on nature and the environment, both locally and globally. Our responsibility as a food producer is to minimise our footprint as much as possible. Salmon has the biological prerequisites to be a climate-friendly protein source. Nevertheless, we must work purposefully to identify areas where we can reduce emissions in our operations. At the local level, we have a responsibility to minimise the impact on species diversity and ecosystems in the areas in which we operate and source raw materials.

Salmon lice

Salmon lice are a natural parasite on wild-raised salmon. Our goal is to prevent salmon lice from negatively affecting wild salmon and sea trout. There is a major national campaign to combat salmon lice in Norway and low limit values have been set to prevent a negative impact on wild salmon populations. In 2017, the Norwegian authorities introduced a traffic light system to monitor the level of lice on wild fish and indicate whether farmers in a production area are allowed to increase, maintain, or reduce their production.

Every year, Måsøval invests significant resources to control the level of lice in our facilities. We draw up our own action plan for lice control and contingencies annually, which contains measures to manage our operations at both site and company levels. Our goal is to control the lice level at our sites to below the lice limit, which we monitor on a weekly basis.

Climate-friendly food production

Salmon is a cold-blooded fish species, with neutral buoyancy. These properties make salmon different from livestock on land in that they use less energy to produce heat and to counteract the force of gravity. That saved energy is instead used to efficiently convert feed into muscle and protein. In addition, the edible yield is very high. The carbon footprint for farmed salmon delivered to different markets is between 4.8 and 28 kg of CO2 per kg of edible product delivered to the retailer. The key factors contributing to differences in carbon footprint across products and markets are:

    1. Whether the products are transported by air; and
    1. The proportion of by-products utilised in the market, with air freight being the most principal factor.

After air freight, feed production is the most important contributor and approx. 75% of total emissions prior to processing are due to feed production. (SINTEF, 2022) From a climate perspective, this means that farmed salmon has a lower environmental footprint in comparison to most other farmed animals.

Fish feed

Fish feed is the single largest input across our production chain and has an environmental impact on both climate and biodiversity. The raw materials for the feed we use are sourced from all over the world by our feed suppliers and we set strict requirements for them to source sustainable raw materials from both fisheries and agriculture. When feeding the fish at our sites and facilities, it is our responsibility to minimise feed waste to prevent resource loss and environmental degradation.

Preventing fish escapes

Over the past four decades, farmed salmon has undergone domestication, resulting in genetic distinctions from its wild counterparts. Preserving the genetic integrity of wild salmon is imperative, necessitating measures to prevent the escape of farmed salmon from our sites.

We have a constant focus on escape prevention and are pleased that we have had few cases of escapes in recent years. Research shows that working operations where the interaction between human choices and actions, technology, natural forces, and organisations is highest, these pose the greatest risk of escape.

That is why we emphasise training and good planning before carrying out activities that involve handling salmon. We have a highly experienced internal service division and skilled operations managers on-site who prepare and manage the work operations.

At our smolt facilities, double protection of drains has reduced escape risk considerably. Our facilities have had escape technical reports drawn up and are checked by an independent body.

We continue our constant focus on risk management and will particularly focus on the organisation of work operations in connection with the handling of fish to minimise the risk of escape.

We have a responsibility to preserve the genetic integrity of wild salmon.

Healthy and fresh fish for consumers

A basic element as a food producer is to offer our customers safe and healthy food of good quality. At the same time, we want the salmon themselves to have safe and healthy lives. How the fish fared throughout their life affects the quality of the product we deliver. A healthy fish that has grown up in a positive aquatic environment produces an excellent product. All our employees know this, as they work together to achieve the best possible fish health and welfare every single day.

We have a holistic approach, from eggs to harvest, to ensure that the salmon we produce maintains a stable high quality at each link in the value chain as this helps to influence the end-result. We are determined to make sure that the way we produce the salmon does not come at the expense of quality, fish health, or food safety. We therefore work purposefully to ensure that the salmon maintains a stable high quality and is both healthy and safe to eat.

Fish health and welfare

Farmed salmon will thrive given optimal health and favourable environmental factors. Rapid growth reduces the risks of disease and sea lice infestations. This, in turn, indirectly affects mortality rates by minimising the time fish spend in open pens. Therefore, Måsøval consider growth as an indirect indicator of fish welfare. In addition, we assess various factors such as sea lice levels, disease outbreaks, causes of mortality, and environmental parameters to evaluate biological performance and ensure fish health.

At Måsøval, expertise in fish health and welfare is highly prioritised. We find that increased knowledge significantly boosts employee motivation, which results in a positive reinforcing effect. Expertise is vital to always ensure the best possible conditions for the fish and contributes to ongoing operational development. Consequently, we maintain close collaboration with leading industry professionals and support research initiatives through knowledge sharing and financial backing. At Måsøval, fostering good fish health is a collective responsibility, with every employee contributing on a daily basis. Weekly interdisciplinary biology meetings between operational units and management provide a forum for reviewing key metrics in biology, health, and environmental conditions, forming the basis for decision-making to ensure effective biological control and consistent production. We systematically address the most significant biological challenges, whether related to mortality causes or environmental and production conditions. This ensures the proper allocation of resources to tackle the foremost challenges in production at any given time.

Fish health and welfare will always be one of the most challenging aspects of fish farming. Over the last few years, both the industry and we ourselves have encountered new obstacles that have led to a negative trend in this area. How we learn about and address these challenges will lay the foundation for the years to come. We know that achieving excellent biological control and providing our fish with positive living conditions results in healthy salmon that grow well. This work is essential not only for generating profits to further develop the company but also for upholding our commitment as a sustainable food producer.

Expertise is vital to always ensure the best possible conditions for the fish and contributes to ongoing operational development.

Food safety

We know that the quality of our salmon to consumers is routinely high, but it is also important that the fish we produce is healthy and safe to eat. Due to the short production time and careful control of fish feed raw materials, there are few findings of unwanted substances in farmed salmon and no fish diseases can be transmitted from fish to humans. We continuously review and act, where appropriate, to meet and exceed our responsibilities to minimise the levels of foreign substances in our products, so they do not exceed values set as safe for humans.

In Norway, we have a large professional research body that monitors the content of unwanted substances in food products, including farmed salmon. The Norwegian Food Safety Authority takes samples annually as part of its monitoring programme and has never discovered numbers that exceed agreed industry levels.

Our value chain is GlobalGAP-certified from egg through to consumer. We ensure that all employees receive thorough training in routines and procedures that are important for maintaining high quality and food safety.

All of the fish processing facilities that we use are HACCP-certified to ensure that health hazards that could pose a risk to food safety are eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level. The facilities undertake frequent tests to ensure that limit values are not exceeded. Annually, our routines for recalling products are also tested against the processing plant and sales office. While our objective is to avoid recalls altogether, we stand ready to implement them if required.

Unwanted substances may be present in feed and feedstock raw materials. The Norwegian Food Safety Authority regularly takes samples from our feeds for its monitoring programme. We work closely with our feed suppliers to confirm that we have all necessary measures in place to maintain optimum control and tracking routines. We carry out regular internal audits

and GlobalGAP audits by independent certification service providers and accept inspections from authorities and customers on-demand.

Product quality

At Måsøval, we embrace a vision where excellence is not just a goal but a natural outcome - made by nature and pioneered by our dedication. Our commitment to this vision is evident in our relentless pursuit of producing the finest quality salmon, tailored to satisfy even the most discerning consumers worldwide.

We have established rigorous quality standards aimed at further elevating the quality of our salmon. These standards form the basis of our prestigious Princess brand, known for its exceptional quality.

Focused on meeting the exacting standards of discerning customers in premium markets, Princess prioritises superior fish health as a fundamental aspect of quality production. Our dedication to sustainability is ingrained in the Princess standard, which encompasses selection based on genetics, GMO-free feed, and a steadfast focus on fish health and welfare. By selecting only the best-performing salmon and implementing responsible farming practices, such as maintaining optimal density and providing nutrient-rich feed, we ensure that Princess salmon possesses exceptional attributes, including vibrant colour, low fat content, and exquisite texture. These concerted efforts culminate in a product that not only meets but exceeds customer expectations. Our sales department plays a pivotal role in efficiently distributing Princess salmon to discerning consumers worldwide.

Made by nature, pioneered by our dedication. "

Sustainability

Sustainability

The United Nations (UN) recognises the importance of sustainable aquaculture to address global food security, promote economic development, and protect marine and freshwater ecosystems. Sustainable aquaculture contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 2 (Zero Hunger), Goal 14 (Life Below Water), and Goal 15 (Life on Land). By providing a source of nutritious food, creating employment opportunities, and reducing pressure on wild fish stocks, sustainable aquaculture can help advance the SDGs related to poverty alleviation, food security, and ecosystem conservation.

Overall, corporate sustainability is essential for fish farming companies like Måsøval to ensure environmental stewardship, regulatory compliance, market competitiveness, and social responsibility. By integrating sustainability into our business strategies and operations, we can achieve long-term viability while minimising our environmental footprint and maximising our positive contributions to society.

CSRD and double materiality analysis

In 2022, Måsøval's sustainability themes were identified through materiality analysis in line with the global reporting initiative (GRI) standard. During 2023, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) was officially adopted by the EU institutions. It introduces new reporting requirements for companies, including mandatory reporting on a wider range of sustainability topics, such as social and governance issues, and requires companies to use digital reporting formats to enhance accessibility and comparability. Norway, while not an EU member, will align with this regulation due to its close economic ties and participation in the European Economic Area (EEA).

We welcome this initiative as it will improve transparency on non-financial reporting and make it more comparable with a common reporting standard for all companies and businesses. Although we conducted a thorough survey of our ESG impact in 2022, CSRD also establishes methods for conducting a double materiality analysis. When the directive was proposed in Norway, we wanted to implement this method before we proceeded further with the GRI-reporting standard.

Our double materiality analysis assesses the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors on both financial performance (financial materiality) and broader societal and environmental contexts (non-financial materiality). This approach recognises that Måsøval can have significant impacts on society and the environment, which can, in turn, affect our financial performance, and vice versa. By considering both financial and non-financial materiality, a double materiality analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of the sustainability-related risks and opportunities.

The analysis and assessments will be an important basis for our strategic decision-making processes and further monitoring of impact, risks, and opportunities. We have therefore chosen to invest time and resources to establish a well-grounded basis for Måsøval's reporting going forward.

While CSRD sets the legal framework and reporting obligations, the European Sustainability Reporting Standard (ESRS) are standards that define the roadmap for compliance. ESRS specify the information that an undertaking shall disclose about its material impacts, risks and opportunities in relation to environmental, social, and governance sustainability matters. The standard includes 10 sub-topics and 37 subsubtopics that address environmental, social, and governance topics. In our double materiality analysis, we have identified and assessed 212 impacts, risks, and opportunities (IROs) within the topics. After the assessment, we have defined 25 of the sub-subtopics as material for Måsøval.

Result of the double materiality analysis – sub-subtopics of medium and high materiality for Måsøval. The colour gradient indicates the materiality score given, with darker colours representing higher scores.

Environment (E) Social (S) Governance (G)
E1
Climate
change
E2
Pollution
E3
Water and
marine
resources
E4
Biodiversity
and
ecosystems
E5
Circular
economy
S1
Own
workforce
S2
Workers in the
value chain
S3
Affected
communities
S4
Consumers
and end-users
G1
Business
conduct
Climate
change
adaptation
Pollution
of air
Water Direct impact
drivers of
biodiversity
loss
Resources
inflows,
including
resource use
Working
conditions
Working
conditions
Communities'
economic,
social and
cultural rights
Personal
safety of
consumers
and/or
end-users
Corporate
culture
Climate
change
mitigation
Pollution
of water
Marine
resources
Impact on
the state of
species
Resource
outflows
related to
products
and services
Equal
treatment and
opportunities
for all
Other work
related rights
Protection
of whistle
blowers
Energy Pollution
of living
organisms
and food
resources
Impact and
dependencies
on ecosystem
services
Waste Animal
welfare
Pollution of
microplastics
Corruption
and bribery

We have chosen to invest time and resources to establish a well-grounded basis for Måsøval's reporting going forward.

"

After completing the new double materiality analysis, we will begin the intensive work of gathering data and measuring our impact according to ESRS. Our first goal is to complete a greenhouse gas accounting according to the GHG Protocol. We will also conduct a gap analysis on our policies and implement actions where needed.

Transparency act

At Måsøval, responsibility extends far beyond our immediate operations. We recognise the importance of fostering sustainability throughout our entire value chain, collaborating closely with our suppliers to uphold ethical and environmentally conscious practices. Embracing the principles of circular economy, we acknowledge that materials and energy are integral components of a continuous cycle. Hence, we persist in our pursuit of innovative strategies to advance our goal of being as climate neutral as possible.

Central to our sustainability strategy is the careful consideration of raw materials sourced by our feed suppliers. While prioritising quality and competitiveness, we remain vigilant in ensuring that the origins of feed materials align with our commitment to ethical sourcing. We firmly believe that responsibility across the value chain is essential for driving meaningful progress towards sustainability. By encouraging our suppliers to share our dedication to ethical and sustainable practices, we aim to create a supply chain characterised by fair labour conditions and environmental stewardship.

In 2023, we took significant strides in transparency by publishing our statement on the Transparency Act, which can be found at our website www.masoval.no. This declaration underscores our commitment to openness and accountability, as we strive to fulfil our duty of disclosure and provide stakeholders with insight into our due diligence processes. Moving forward, we remain dedicated to transparently documenting our efforts to uphold ethical standards and drive positive change throughout our entire value chain.

Corporate governance

Corporate governance

Måsøval's goal is to have a high standard of corporate governance that strengthens public confidence in the company. Owners and shareholders must have confidence that the company is managed through the application of sound business ethics that will also create long-term value. The Group aims to be open in its communications and provide relevant and accurate information about its activities and results, both to shareholders, stakeholders, and society in general.

An effective governance structure is essential for conducting business responsibly and safeguarding the values of the Group and its stakeholders across dimensions. "

Corporate governance at Måsøval

Måsøval AS is a publicly listed company with the following objectives, as outlined in article 3 of its articles of association: "The company's business is to farm salmon and trout, as well as value-added processing and sale of these products, and any activities naturally belonging to such companies, including participation in other companies."

Måsøval maintains a significant presence in various local communities. Måsøval as a group is aware of its social responsibility as an employer, a producer of safe and healthy food, a protector of financial value, and a steward of the environment. Through comprehensive corporate governance, internal processes such as risk management, internal controls, and financial results are integrated with the other management processes in the business. This integration gives the Group the ability to react, manage, and, if necessary, adjust to new opportunities and threats. In turn, this aids in ensuring that the Group acts responsibly towards its stakeholders, both internal and external.

Måsøval's goal is to have a high standard of corporate governance that strengthens public confidence in the company.

facilitate seamless operations, accurate financial reporting, and adherence to relevant laws and regulations.

Aligned with industry standards, proactive measures to address potential health, safety, and environmental incidents are prioritised in the Group's risk management strategy, leveraging technology for operational efficiency and security. Continuous monitoring by managers at all levels ensures swift response and adaptation to evolving risks. Compliance with statutory and regulatory frameworks is overseen by the CEO, supported by internal controls for financial reporting and ongoing audits to address non-conformities and identify improvement opportunities.

The Group's foremost risk pertains to the biological development of smolt and marine-phase fish stocks. Internal controls are meticulously structured to align with regulations and the company's objectives of continuous improvement and growth. Shared objectives for internal controls encompass various facets, including the working environment, fish health and welfare, escape prevention, pollution control, food safety, and water resource management.

Regulatory risk

Salmon farming is subject to diverse regulatory oversight frameworks at municipal, county, and state levels. These regulations embody societal and governmental expectations for responsible, sustainable salmon production. The Group is committed to transparency, aiming to exceed regulatory standards by openly disseminating information regarding operations and their environmental implications.

Regulatory risk presents multifaceted challenges, encompassing both noncompliance and the potential impact of regulatory changes on operations. Shifts in laws and regulations can escalate operational and transportation costs, posing financial risk to the Group. Given the reliance on operational efficiency for sustained growth, continuous vigilance is required to address regulatory shifts.

An effective governance structure is essential for conducting business responsibly and safeguarding the values of the Group and its stakeholders across dimensions such as people, the environment, and prosperity. Responsibility for the management and control of the company is divided among shareholders at the Annual General Meeting, the Board of Directors, and the CEO, in compliance with the Norwegian Companies Act, other relevant laws and ordinances, rules governing stock market companies, the articles of association, and the Board's internal documents.

As Måsøval has evolved from a small family-owned company to a larger group listed on Euronext Growth, the need for comprehensive and clearly defined governance has increased. Continuous efforts are made to develop policies and systemise management across all operations to ensure that confidence in the Group's responsible management and strategic direction is instilled among owners, employees, and other stakeholders.

The Group will provide reports and public access to information about its business operations, including compliance with human rights and decent labour conditions, both within the organisation and across the Group's value chains.

Risk management and internal controls

To mitigate potential risks and safeguard against adverse outcomes, robust control systems and risk management processes have been implemented and continue to be refined by the Group. Through diligent risk assessment, readiness to address challenging situations and mitigate negative incidents is enhanced. While personnel safety and fish welfare are prioritised, a comprehensive approach to risk management is adopted, encompassing environmental, climatic, financial, and reputational concerns.

The Board of Directors assumes responsibility for ensuring the effectiveness of the Group's risk management systems and internal controls, as well as compliance with regulatory requirements. These systems are designed to

To mitigate potential risks and safeguard against adverse outcomes, robust control systems and risk management processes have been implemented and continue to be refined by the Group.

sea. Key risk factors include the period post-transfer from land to sea, preharvesting phases, and intensified operational activities like delousing and splitting of pens. While comprehensive mitigation measures are enacted, variations in key performance indicators will persist across sites and geographic regions.

Compliance with regulatory thresholds for sea lice infestations stands as a critical imperative, with deviations posing multifaceted risks, including compromised fish welfare, higher operating costs, and potential regulatory sanctions. Disease outbreaks further amplify operational complexities, precipitating direct losses, compromised product quality, and diminished production capacity.

The Group's operational continuity is contingent upon the reliability and consistency of its supply chain partners, particularly feed suppliers. Mitigating exposure to abrupt contract terminations, the Group maintains supplier agreements with multiple feed suppliers to ensure operational resilience in the face of unforeseen disruptions.

The Group's operations hinge on maintaining necessary aquaculture licences and site permits, necessitating ongoing compliance efforts across the Group. Heightened scrutiny of environmental, social, and governance issues underscores the importance of stringent compliance measures.

Taxation policies pose significant regulatory risk for the Group. Recent developments have witnessed the Norwegian government implementing a resource rent tax specifically targeting salmon farming at sea, with a tax rate of 25% This tax, applicable solely to farming activities at sea under commercial licences, introduces additional financial considerations for the Group. The Group has proactively adjusted its financial strategies to accommodate the impact of the resource rent tax. While uncertainties persist due to unresolved details in tax regulations, financial planning continues to adapt in response to evolving regulatory landscapes.

Commercial risk

The Group has identified and is exposed to a spectrum of commercial risks, which are mitigated through a variety of policies, practices, and instruments. These encompass comprehensive insurance coverage for biological and physical assets, including credit and personnel insurance. Stringent risk assessment protocols govern both land and sea operations to pre-emptively address potential vulnerabilities.

Among the primary risks are fluctuations in market prices. Price volatility due to changes in supply and demand for farmed Atlantic salmon exerts profound influence on the Group's revenue streams and overall financial trajectory. Predominantly engaging in spot market sales, with a minor fraction (5-10%) secured via fixed price contracts, the Group maintains adaptability to market dynamics while striving to uphold sustainable growth.

Integral to the Group's resilience strategy is the proactive management of biological, operational, and environmental risks inherent in fish farming at

The Group has proactively adjusted its financial strategies to accommodate the impact of the resource rent tax

Executive management

Helge Kvalvik CEO

Helge holds a master's degree in marine technology from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), combined with a master's degree in corporate finance from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH). Prior to joining Måsøval in 2023, he gained experience from several different industries in various senior management positions. During the last decade he was a CEO within the shipping industry. Helge enjoys spending time with his family, travelling, and honing his culinary skills.

Anders Hagestande CFO

Anders holds a master's degree in finances from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH). Before joining Måsøval in 2023, he gained extensive experience in the aquaculture sector, serving as financial controller, and as CFO in companies across the seafood value chain. In his spare time, Anders likes to attend pub quizzes, play board games, or venture into the great outdoors with his faithful furry friend.

Harry Osvald Hansen Head of Farming/Sea

Harry has a craft certificate in fish farming and a two-year education in fisheries technology. Most importantly, he has over 30 years' experience in the aquaculture industry, with over 13 years dedicated to Måsøval. In his spare time, Harry finds fulfilment in raising and caring for multiple dogs.

Lars Jørgen Ulvan Head of Smolt

Lars Jørgen holds a Cand. scient. degree in marine resources and aquaculture from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). With a background as a biologist specialising in Atlantic Cod juveniles, he later served as CEO of Nordland Rensefisk before assuming his current role at Måsøval in 2019. Outside of work, Lars Jørgen finds joy in exploring the wonders of nature with his son.

Henny Førde Head of Biology, Planning and ESG

Henny has a master's degree in marine biology and aquaculture from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Starting at Måsøval in 2014, she progressed through roles in biological control and sales management before assuming her current role as Head of Biology, Planning, and ESG. Henny is most content when boating around the beautiful islands of Hitra and Frøya.

Ingar Kyrkjebø Head of Service

Ingar holds a bachelor's degree in aquaculture from Sogndal University College and a post-graduate certificate in teaching from Nord-Trøndelag University College (HiNT). He has been operations manager for Hydro Seafood and Marine Harvest, among others. Ingar is happiest when sitting on a tree stump waiting for a deer to appear.

Andreas Skagøy Head of Development and Strategic Projects

Andreas has a master's degree in aquatic medicine from the Arctic University of Norway (UiT) and an executive MBA in Strategic Management from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH). Prior to joining Måsøval in 2019 he worked as a manager in Åkerblå, leading a team of fish health professionals. Andreas and his family love the outdoors and taking long walks in the countryside is one of his greatest pleasures. He has even authored a book about it.

Remy holds a bachelor's degree in marine engineering from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Before joining Måsøval in 2023, he served as the Factory director at Nutrimar AS. He also gained valuable sales experience during his tenure at SalMar ASA. Outside of work, Remy enjoys spending time at his second home on the island of Sula, near Frøya, where he can appreciate beautiful sunsets, indulge in fishing, and cherish moments with his family.

Sandra Holm Head of People and Culture

Sandra is a registered nurse with expertise in healthcare management and holds an MBA in economics and management, specialising in sustainable aquaculture strategy. Before joining Måsøval in 2023, she accumulated experience in personnel management within the public sector. Transitioning into the aquaculture sector, she honed her skills in HR and management at ScaleAQ. Sandra is known for her dedication and sociability, finding fulfilment at home, her cabin, and during travels. She particularly enjoys engaging in strategic board games, where both her best and worst traits may emerge.

Board of directors

Lars Måsøval Chair of the board

Lars Måsøval has a craft certificate in aquaculture and has been with Måsøval his entire working life. He worked as an aquaculture technician until 2004, after which he built up the smolt facility at Laksåvika. From 2011 until 2015 he was managing director of Måsøval. Since then, he has been the working chair of the company. Lars owns the majority of Måsøval with his brother, Anders Måsøval and close family.

Kari Skeidsvoll Moe Director

Kari Skeidsvoll Moe holds law degrees from the University of Oslo and Humboldt Universität zu Berlin, along with a postgraduate diploma in EU competition law from King's College, London. In addition to experience from practicing private law, she has served as EVP General Counsel and Head of Administrative Staff at TrønderEnergi and legal counsel and Vice President in Norsk Hydro ASA. She is currently EVP Growth Renewables at Aneo.

Ola Loe Director

Ola Loe has about 30 years' experience in the aquaculture, finance, and management industries. He has been Chief Finance Officer at Norway Royal Salmon for 13 years and is currently the director of strategy and development at Måsøval Eiendom. Prior to 2009, he worked at auditors, KPMG, and Arthur Andersen & Co, and has been responsible auditor for Fjord Seafood, Mowi, Cermaq and Norway Pelagic, among others, as well as a group auditor for several listed companies.

Nina Santi Director

Nina Santi is a veterinarian by education and holds a Ph.D. from NMBU in Ås. She has worked with the industry for more than 20 years, and held several key positions, including Chief Executive Officer at AquaGen, a global salmon breeding company. She is currently CEO in INAQ. Nina has a strong professional background in aquaculture, including fish health, breeding, genetics, research, and innovation. She has also gained extensive international experience through her management roles at international companies and board positions in several countries.

Roger Granheim Director

Roger Granheim has a diploma in economics from BI and has completed a management program from AFF/Solstrand. He is now CEO of Frøy Kapital and holds several board positions in various industries. Previously, Granheim has, among other things, been CEO of Torghatten ASA, Fosen ASA and ErgoRunit AS. Lives in Trondheim.

Martin Staveli Deputy director

Martin Staveli has a master's degree in business administration and auditing from Copenhagen Business School (CBS) and more than 15 years' experience in mergers & acquisitions, and transaction-related industries. Martin is currently the CFO of Måsøval Eiendom. He has also held leading positions in the aquaculture, food, and energy industries.

Investor relations

Måsøval places great Importance on communication with shareholders, investors, and analysts to ensure the financial markets and shareholders receive accurate and timely information. This transparency serves as the foundation for evaluating the company's worth. All stakeholders have equal access to information. All notifications issued to the stock exchange are accessible through the company's website, www.masoval.no, on the Oslo Stock Exchange's news site, www.newsweb.no, and via new agencies. Responsibility for shareholder communications between general meetings rests with the CFO.

IR contact in Måsøval Anders Hagestande, CFO [email protected] +47 41 58 21 38

This transparency serves as the foundation for evaluating the company's worth.

Financial information

Måsøval conducts investor presentations concurrently with the release of its quarterly reports. These presentations are accessible to all and offer insight into the Group's operational and financial performance for the preceding quarter. Presentations, along with their corresponding reports, can be found on the Group's website, www.masoval.no, and on the news site of the Oslo Stock Exchange.

The Group intends to adhere to the Oslo Stock Exchange's guidelines by publishing quarterly reports within 60 days from the end of each quarter.

Financial calendar 2024

Every year, Måsøval releases a financial calendar detailing the dates of publication for the Group's quarterly and annual reports. The calendar can be accessed on the Group's website, www.masoval.no, and is also available on the Oslo Stock Exchange's website. The calendar is published prior to 31 December each year.

Please bear in mind that dates may be subject to change. Any changes will be announced through the aforementioned channels.

23.05.2024 Quarterly report Q1 24

04.06.2024 Annual general meeting

27.08.2024 Quarterly report Q2 24

19.11.2024 Quarterly report Q3 24

Share price development

Since the Norwegian government's introduction of a resource tax on salmon farming in autumn of 2022, Måsøval AS has navigated through a challenging market environment significantly influenced by the uncertainty surrounding the tax scheme's structure. The subsequent discussions around this tax led to volatility in stock prices within the whole aquaculture sector throughout the year.

SHARE PRICE DEVELOPMENT – CORPORATE GOVERNANCE ANNUAL REPORT 2023 67

In 2023, our stock price fluctuated, with a 52-week range between NOK 24.8 and NOK 34.9. The stock closed at NOK 26.00 on the last trading day reported, marking a decrease from the year's high but also an increase from the low.

Technical information

  • As at 31 December 2023, Måsøval AS comprised 122 508 455 shares, with each share having a face value of NOK 0.25, and 1 176 shareholders.
  • The company's ticker on the Oslo Stock Exchange is MAS.

The Board of Directors´ report

The Group's activities

Måsøval operates as a responsible farmer of high-quality salmon, headquartered on the island of Frøya in the Trøndelag region of Norway. Value creation occurs through the synergy of natural resources, skilled farmers, knowledge, and technology, as exemplified by the vision, "Made by nature – pioneered by Måsøval". The commitment to environmental sustainability, social responsibility, and ongoing improvement has been integral to Måsøval's success in the past five decades. As Måsøval celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2023, the dedication to these principles was reaffirmed and will continue to guide the company's future growth.

Made by nature – pioneered by Måsøval. "

The Group's farming segment is divided into two regions: Mid and West, with Mid comprising Production Area 6 and West comprising Production Area 5. Alongside production on the company's own licences with a maximum allowable biomass (MAB) of 12 694 tonnes, Måsøval collaborates with three external partners through co-location agreements, resulting in an additional production of 4 773 tonnes.

Significant events in 2023

In 2023, Måsøval solidified its position as an ambitious, forward-thinking, and growth-driven salmon farming company. The year was characterised by a focus on operational improvements, with an intensified effort on structured fish health management. Due to the long production cycle of salmon, the outcome of these initiatives will become more apparent in the future.

  • Achieved record-high production, harvesting a volume 12% greater than that of 2022.
  • Invested in new FLS delousing units, installed on the chartered well boat, enhancing delousing capacity, efficiency, and ultimately, fish health.
  • Implemented a new vaccine regime for smolt, providing protection against the Moritella bacteria, the primary causative agent of winter ulcers.
  • Strengthened biosecurity measures through increased service operations conducted by the company's own vessels.

Organisational changes

Several organisational changes were implemented in 2023 to fortify the Group's management. Executive management saw transformation with the appointments of new leaders: CEO, CFO, and Head of Harvesting and Sales, alongside the establishment of the position as Head of People and Culture. Additionally, the middle management structure of the marinephase division was enhanced with the introduction of three area manager positions (North, Mid, and South) and new site managers. Notably, the Group's commitment to internal talent development is evidenced by the fact that all area managers and the majority of site managers were appointed from within the organisation.

Fish health

Fish health and welfare are paramount concerns for the Group, reflecting the commitment to ethical and socially responsible farming practices. Maintaining optimal biological control, minimising mortality, promoting robust biomass growth, and preventing diseases are essential for both operational efficiency and fulfilling the ethical obligations the company has as animal caretakers.

Over the years, the Group has methodically worked towards improving fish welfare across the entire production cycle, from egg to harvest. These efforts have been guided by specific objectives:

  • Optimising biomass growth to shorten
  • the residence time in open net pens
  • Ensuring consistent good water quality in our

- Reducing mortality rates

  • Implementing effective measures against sea lice
  • Enhancing biosecurity measures
  • smolt and post-smolt facilities
  • Improving smolt and post-smolt quality
  • Strengthening risk management systems

These objectives are defined through strategic projects, anchored in the company's daily operations and through collaborative efforts with external partners. The Group remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing fish health and welfare. In recent years, notable progress has been made in combating sea lice through the introduction of cleaner fish, mechanical treatment systems, enhanced biomass growth, improved monitoring systems, and competence development. As a result of these efforts, a reduction in mortality rates was observed in 2023, and additional measures have been implemented to decrease it further.

Statement of the Annual Accounts

The parent company Måsøval AS' accounts are made according to Norwegian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (NGAAP), while the Group's accounts are made according to International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU.

Consolidated statement of profit or loss

The Group achieved a record-high turnover of NOK 2 400 million in 2023, compared to NOK 1 992 million in 2022. The Group's operational EBIT amounted to NOK 471 million (NOK 693 million in 2022). The Group's annual net loss was NOK 134 million (profit of NOK 626 million in 2002). In 2023, the Group had financial expenses of NOK 154 million (NOK 92 million in 2022).

The net of financial items resulted in a cost of NOK 129 million in 2023 (NOK 82 million in 2022). The increase in financial expenses is primarily attributable to higher interest rates.

The majority of the Group's core activities are conducted in the parent company Måsøval AS, Måsøval Drift AS (previously Aqua Farms Vartdal AS), Pure Norwegian Seafood AS and the Group's four smolt production companies.

The fish farming segment

At the end of 2023, the Group operates licences with a total MAB of 17 467 tonnes. This includes licences for 2 433 tonnes through co-location with Frøya Laks AS, 1 560 tonnes through co-location with AquaGen AS, and 780 tonnes through co-location with Trøndelag county.

The fish farming segment constitutes the main source of the Group's results. The segment harvested 24 531 tonnes in 2023 (compared to 21 879 tonnes in 2022), marking a 12% increase. The segment achieved an operational EBIT per kilogram of NOK 22.6 for the harvested volume (compared to NOK 33.8 in 2022). The price obtained by the segment for sold salmon per kilogram reached NOK 84.4 (compared to NOK 79.4 in 2022), while production costs per kilogram rose to NOK 61.8 (compared to NOK 45.6 in 2022). The primary reason for the rise in production costs is the depreciation of the Norwegian Krone coupled with limited availability of marine raw materials due to the El Niño weather pattern in South America, leading to inflated feed prices. Additionally, the implementation of a new vaccine regime resulted in increased smolt costs.

The sales and processing segment

The Group operated two harvesting facilities in 2023: Pure Norwegian Seafood in the Mid region and Western Seaproducts in the West region. In addition to salmon, this division also harvests cod and halibut for external customers. All of the Group's salmon sales in 2023 were handled through our own sales organisation at Pure Norwegian Seafood. The sales and processing division achieved an operational EBIT of NOK 0.47 per kilogram of sold fish.

In 2024, the Group reorganised its harvesting capacities by selling Western Seaproducts to the cod farmer ODE AS and acquiring the TL45 harvesting plant from Mowi ASA.

Consolidated statement of financial position

At the end of 2023, the Group's total assets stood at NOK 5 160 million, representing an increase from NOK 4 987 million at the end of 2022. The primary reason for this increase in capital is attributed to a higher level of accounts receivable at year end. The Group's total biomass decreased by NOK 67 million. Bank deposits amounted to NOK 10 million at the end of 2023, a reduction of NOK 28 million. As of 31 December 2023, the Group's net interest-bearing debt was NOK 1 805 million, showing a slight increase from NOK 1 798 million at the end of the prior year. The increase in interestbearing debt is linked to seasonal fluctuations in net working capital.

The Group experienced a net decrease in equity of NOK 195 million, stemming from a net loss in the period amounting to NOK 133 million and dividend payments totalling NOK 61 million. The net loss is attributed to the one-time implementation effect of the resource rent taxation, effective from 1 January 2023, amounting to 243 million. As of the end of 2023, the Group's equity ratio stood at 34.4%, compared to 39.9% at the end of 2022.

Consolidated statement of cash flows

Throughout 2023, the Group generated a positive cash flow from operating activities amounting to NOK 447 million, showing a decrease from NOK 728 million in 2022. The net change in working capital was NOK -11 million compared to NOK -285 last year. Taxes paid in 2023 was NOK 51.2 million.

The Group's net cash flow used on investing activities in 2023 amounted to NOK 100 million (compared to NOK 202 million in 2022). The primary investments were directed towards acquiring FLS delousing units and property and plant assets in Vartdal.

Cash flows used on financing activities amounted to NOK 376 million in 2023 (compared to NOK 610 million in 2022). This cash flow is attributable to repayment of long-term debt of NOK 327 million, a change in the overdraft facility of NOK 159 million, repayment of principal portion of lease liabilities of NOK 139, and dividend payments of NOK 61 million. New long-term debt of NOK 420 million contributed positively to the cash flow. Bank deposits at the end of the period decreased by NOK 29 million, resulting in a balance of NOK 10 million.

Financial position

Pure Norwegian Seafood, a subsidiary owned 65% by the Group is financed on a stand-alone basis. The company's bank loan agreement has a covenant requiring a minimum equity level. A combination of high sales volume and accounts receivables overdue resulted in the company ending the year with equity level lower than the covenant requirements.

The Group bank financing has a cross default clause; if a subsidiary is in breach with covenant and the defaulted loan amount exceeds NOK 25 million, the Group bank financing will also be in default. Both the subsidiary bank and Group financing bank issued waivers in January 2024. As a consequence of the cross default, the Groups long term bank loan of NOK 1 242 million has been reclassified to current liabilities.

Going concern

The Board of Måsøval AS confirms that the annual accounts have been prepared based on the going concern assumption in accordance with the Accounting Act §3-3a. This is justified by the Group's results, financial position, and budgets.

Måsøval's goal is to have a high standard of corporate governance that strengthens public confidence in the company.

Operational risk and risk management

Various risks are inherent in the Group's business activities, with the risk of adverse biological events affecting salmon in the marine-phase being the most impactful. The biological challenges affecting the industry as a whole include issues related to smolt quality, mortality rates, disease outbreaks, salmon lice and other parasites, algae blooms, oxygens levels, sea temperature variations, and the quality of harvested fish. In 2023, Måsøval effectively managed a pancreas disease (PD) outbreak at two sites.

The Group maintains a strong focus on identifying the causes of biological challenges and implementing necessary mitigation measures. Recent investments have been made to secure in-house capabilities for tasks such as lice handling, silage capacity, well boat services, and service vessels. In 2023, the delousing capacity was further strengthened with the installation of an FLS delousing unit on the chartered well boat. Additionally, all employees prioritise fish welfare for each species involved in production.

Continuous monitoring ensures that all sites are optimal for salmon production. Investments in new equipment maintain high operational standards, meeting both internal and external requirements. To enhance monitoring and analytical capabilities, the Group is investing in a new data platform for automating data capture, handling, reporting, and analysis.

Risk management is a key responsibility of the executive management team. Routines and systems are in place to monitor key risk factors across all business segments. External audits, such as those conducted by GlobalGAP, and internal audits of sites and facilities ensure compliance with quality protocols and defined standards.

The Group transfers multiple generations of smolt and post-smolt to sea sites annually, aiming for at least two biologically independent sites per generation to mitigate major negative biological events and foster growth. Efforts are ongoing to increase predictability in production terms and permits, with a focus on reducing regulatory risks through continuous dialogue with relevant administrative bodies.

The Group's financial position and future are significantly influenced by the price of farmed salmon, which historically has shown considerable fluctuations. The Group's strategy avoids hedging the salmon price, as this could increase risk in the event of unfavourable price trends coupled with major biological events.

Political risk

Following a regime characterised by relatively stable taxation and regulatory frameworks, the Group now faces an elevated level of political risk, particularly concerning taxation. The significant change in 2023 was the introduction of a resource rent tax specifically targeting the marine phase of fish farming operations on commercial licences. Initially proposed at 35%, the tax rate was retroactively reduced to 25% in May of 2023. Numerous details regarding the practical implementation of the tax remain unresolved, raising uncertainties about potential future changes in taxation policies.

The aquaculture industry is subject to extensive regulation concerning licences, access to sea- and land-based sites, as well as fish and operational management. The Group adopts a proactive approach to identifying and maintaining favourable sites, with daily monitoring of fish health. Operations are overseen through a quality system to ensure compliance with relevant laws.

Financial risk and risk management

The Group encounters various financial risks, including currency, interest rate, credit, and liquidity risks. To manage these, the Group diligently monitors its exposure and has implemented procedures to mitigate risks to acceptable levels.

The Group has board liability insurance which covers Board of Directors, CEO, and executive management.

Currency risk

The Group faces currency risk primarily through its subsidiary, Pure Norwegian Seafood AS, as a major portion of its sales is denominated in foreign currencies. Fluctuations in exchange rates pose both direct and indirect economic risks. To mitigate these risks, the company maintains currency accounts for all significant foreign exchange transactions, allowing for active management of timing adjustments. Furthermore, foreign exchange revenues associated with fixed-price contracts are hedged through the subscription of forward contracts.

The Group ensures compliance with hedging conditions when posting futures contracts and reconciles income recognition with the hedging instrument.

Interest rate risk

The Group's debt carries floating interest rates, exposing it to changes in interest rates. This approach is chosen for its potential long-term cost benefits and flexibility in addressing changes in financing needs due to the Group's growth ambitions.

The subsidiary, Pure Norwegian Seafood AS', loan portfolio currently includes a combination of floating and fixed interest loans. The company's interest rate sensitivity is adapted to an appropriate hedging level when using interest rate swaps.

Credit risk

The Group's subsidiary, Pure Norwegian Seafood AS, constitutes the majority of the Group's exposure to credit risk, which is primarily managed through continuous monitoring by the company's Financial Manager and the use of credit insurance to secure most accounts.

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk arises from the Group's earnings, financial position, and available financing, posing the risk of inability to meet current financial obligations. Short term liquidity risk is influenced by fluctuations in harvested volumes and salmon prices, while longer-term liquidity (i.e. over six months) may be impacted by major negative biological events at sea. Overall, the Group maintains liquidity risk at an acceptable level.

Internal controls

The Group has implemented a system for internal control under which all balance sheet items in the accounts are reconciled on regular basis. Reports have been developed to detect key figures that deviate from expectations. These are reviewed monthly.

Organisation, Sustainability, and Social Responsibility

The Group will ensure long-term profitability through sustainable food production. The Group places sustainable development of food production at the forefront of its social responsibility initiatives.

As a participant in the industry, the Group recognises its responsibility in contributing to global sustainability efforts. The Group will maintain its focus on aligning its activities with national and supranational initiatives, such as the UN's Sustainable Development Goals and the EU's taxonomy.

With Norway's alignment with the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), adopted by the EU in 2023, the Group has initiated the implementation of the methods directed by CSRD before further developing sustainability reporting according to the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standard. The aim in the coming year is to establish a wellgrounded framework for reporting going forward.

Nevertheless, the Group's sustainability efforts are reflected throughout the annual report, covering a range of topics including social, environmental, and governance issues.

Contribution to local communities, which provide land and sea for the Group's operations, is a key focus area. This is primarily achieved through sponsorship of local activities targeting children and young people, emphasising local sourcing, and providing employment opportunities.

The Group has a zero-tolerance policy for corruption. Measures include requiring approval from at least two individuals for all payments and negotiating major agreements with a team of at least two individuals. Multiple-person routines are also established for processes involving licences, permits, and other regulatory requirements to ensure compliance. Environmental impact is minimised, with the use of onshore electricity.

Fundamental human rights

The Group is committed to upholding fundamental human rights throughout the value chain and across all areas of business. Governed by the Norwegian Transparency Act, which sets out the framework to safeguard these rights, the Group is dedicated to maintaining high standards of transparency. In 2023, we took significant strides by publishing our initial statement under the Transparency Act. This statement is subject to annual revisions to reflect ongoing improvements and developments. The updated statement will be published on our website, www.masoval.no, by the end of the second quarter each year.

Work environment

As of 31 December 2023, the Group had 315 full-time employees, with 126 employed in the parent company Måsøval AS, headquartered on Frøya. The reduction in the number of employees in Måsøval AS is attributed to changes in company structure within the service division.

Traditionally, the aquaculture industry has been male-dominated. As of 31 December 2023, the proportion of women in the Group was 23% and in the parent company Måsøval AS, it was 29%, both showing an increase from 2022. The Group's executive management comprises seven men and two women, while the Board consists of two women and three men.

The Group is committed to providing a safe and inclusive workplace, promoting gender equality, acknowledging and respecting the unique value of each individual. The Group does not accept any form of harassment or discrimination based on gender, religion, race, national or ethnic origin, cultural background, social group, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, age, or political opinion. The Group seeks to provide equal employment opportunities, as reflected in its recruitment efforts, where the proportion of women has increased.

The Group is committed to upholding fundamental human rights throughout the value chain and across all areas of business.

Considering the industry's historical male dominance, the Group actively works to achieve a more balanced gender representation, ensuring equal pay for equal work and implementing salary scales based on experience, tenure, and education level. In 2023, male employees earned an average of NOK 643 063, compared to NOK 571 873 for female employees, with median pay at NOK 585 750 for males and NOK 518 344 for females. The difference primarily stems from fewer females in managerial positions. Efforts have been and continue to be made to develop female talent for such roles, resulting in a reduction in pay disparity during 2023. Additionally, the Group offers free vocational training opportunities to employees within their respective fields, along with tailored development programmes for both management and non-managerial personnel. During 2023, two female employees were promoted to site managers from within the Group. Notably, one of these were a participant in the inaugural class of the Group's talent programme, while the other started as an apprentice before progressing through higher education to become a site manager.

The incidence of part-time positions within the Group remains low, as it is standard practice to hire primarily for full-time roles. Consequently, the percentage of employees working part-time decreased from 12.5% at the close of 2022 to 11.1% by the end of 2023. Among these figures, 8.9% of female employees and 11.7% of male employees hold part-time positions. Notably, all employees in the parent company Måsøval AS were employed in full-time roles in 2023. Temporary positions are utilised for weekend shifts, with a deliberate effort to recruit a higher proportion of young women as part of a strategy to attract more female talent into to the industry. To further increase gender diversity, the Group actively recruits female apprentices. In 2023, five out of nine apprentices were women. Efforts to address discrimination and promote gender equality will continue through the Working Environment Committee (AMU) in 2024 to ensure employee participation.

The sickness absence rate in the Group amounted to 4.6% in 2023, compared to 6.4% in 2022. 18 injuries were registered, compared to 10 the prior year. The Group has a strong focus on correct reporting of accidents and near-misses and works systematically to reduce risks. Additionally, the Group aims to reduce the rate of sickness absence by increasing its focus on HSE.

Market conditions and the prospects ahead

In 2023, the global supply volume of salmon decreased by 2% compared to 2022. As demand grew, this led to a tightening of the market balance for salmon, resulting in higher prices. Kontali, a research company, estimates that the global salmon supply volume is set to grow by a modest 1% in 2024. We observe resilient demand in the market. The combination of limited supply growth and sustained demand growth makes us optimistic about market fundamentals and future price prospects.

Costs increased substantially in 2022 and the first half of 2023 due to a weaker NOK and higher prices for feed ingredients. Specifically, the market for marine ingredients was tight due to low catches and yields of Peruvian Anchoveta, while prices for plant-based ingredients fell in 2023 after initially soaring due to the Ukranian war. Feed prices are expected to be stable or decline in 2024, due to higher quotas for Anchoveta in Peru. Costs decreased in the second half of 2023, and we anticipate further reductions in 2024, contingent on biological performance.

Måsøval is expected to harvest between 25 700 and 26 700 tonnes GW in 2024.

Måsøval estimates a CapEx level of MNOK 320, primarily driven by the expansion of sites and the acquisition of the harvesting plant TL45. Måsøval currently has all necessary financing facilities and liquidity for the CapEx plan and dividend payments.

The future outlook remains positive from the Board of Directors' perspective..

Pure Norwegian Seafood AS (PNS)

Måsøval, as a supplier to PNS, became suspicious of irregularities at PNS on 20 October 2023. Prior regulatory inspections, control, and audits had not uncovered the issues. Through Måsøval's board representatives in PNS, immediate action was taken through board instructions to completely halt the irregular activity, freeze storage was sealed, and affected products were recalled. Organisational measures were taken promptly, and new and reinforced procedures were implemented at PNS.

EY was engaged to conduct an independent and thorough investigation. The Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) was notified in early November, and communication with the authority has been maintained throughout the investigation. The investigation was concluded in January, and the results have been handed over to the relevant authorities for any further investigations they may undertake. In brief, the investigation reveals that PNS has allowed certain customers to buy frozen salmon that, according to Norwegian regulations, is not suitable for human consumption. Sold fish includes fish that either should have been discarded/ensiled, or production graded fish that should be elaborated in secondary processing before export. The investigation estimates that this turnover of fish not suitable for human consumption constituted just under 1% of the total volume of fish and approximately 0.5% of PNS' revenue over the last three years. Måsøval, as a supplier to PNS, has not gained any profit or participated in any other earnings related to these activities at PNS. The mentioned activities were halted in October 2023. After the investigation and other inquiries until now, there have been no indications that the irregularly traded products have affected people's health. The revealed issues at PNS have no direct impact on Måsøval AS: they have marginal financial effect on the Group. As Måsøval assesses the consequences beyond this, they will primarily be related to potential public sanctions that may affect PNS.

The financial statement of Måsøval AS

Total operating revenues increased to NOK 1 804 million in 2023 from NOK 1 700 million in 2022. Operating expenses was NOK 1 513 million and thereby giving an operational EBIT of NOK 291 million.

Måsøval AS received group contributions of NOK 98 million and had interest expenses of NOK 120 million. The total tax expense for 2023 included resource rent tax was NOK 198 million.

The net profit for 2023 for the parent company Måsøval AS was NOK 48 million. Måsøval AS recognised total assets of NOK 4 133 million year end. Total non-current assets was NOK 2 646 million and total current assets was NOK 1 487 million. Included in non-current assets is Investments in subsidiaries of NOK 1 820 million. Equity totalled to NOK 1 477 million at the end of the year and the equity ratio was 35,7% Non-current liabilities was NOK 1 339 million, current liabilities NOK 1 082 million and total provisions was NOK 235 million.

The profit is proposed to be allocated as follows:

Total allocations
NOK 48 426 427
Transferred to other equity
NOK -12 827 802
Dividend payment
NOK 61 254 229

Trondheim, 18 April 2024

Lars Måsøval Chair of the board

Roger Granheim Director

Kari Skeidsvoll Moe Director

Nina Santi Director

Ola Loe Director

Helge Kvalvik

CEO

Financial Statement and Results

Consolidated Financial Statement of Måsøval Group 78
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statement85
Financial Statement of Måsøval AS 135
Notes to the Financial statement of Måsøval AS140
Independent Auditors Report
160
Alternative Performance Measurements of Måsøval Group 162

Consolidated Financial Statement of Måsøval Group

Operating expenses

Note 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Operating revenues – sale of salmon 6 2 279 560 1 898 525
Other revenue 6 120 788 93 606
Total operating income 6 2 400 348 1 992 132
Operating expenses
Cost of goods sold 1 165 918 681 866
Employee benefits 7 242 882 196 794
Depreciation and amortisation expense 13, 14 194 773 166 166
Other operating expenses 8, 14 325 346 253 862
Total operating expenses 1 928 918 1 298 687
Operational EBIT *) 471 429 693 444
Impairments 13 -43 955
Production tax 3 -18 824 -8 861
Profit sharing with co-location partners 3 -24 627 -46 219
Biological assets – Net fair value adjustment 9, 15 -91 281 246 150
EBIT 292 743 884 514
Finance income and expense
Finance income 4, 10, 18 25 543 9 963
Finance expense 4, 10, 18 154 046 91 826
Net finance income and expense -128 503 -81 863
Profit before tax 164 240 802 651
Tax expense 11 297 636 176 389
Net profit for the year -133 396 626 262
*) Excluding production tax, impairments, profit sharing and net fair value adjustment on biological assets
Net profit or loss for the year attributable to:
Owners of the parent 23 -135 901 620 959
Non-controlling interests 2 505 5 303
Net profit for the year -133 396 626 262
Basic and diluted earnings per share**) 23 1.45 3.50

**) Earnings per share excludes "Net fair value adjustments - biological assets" and "One-off implementation effects of resource rent tax"

Consolidated statement of profit or loss

For the year ended 31 December

Note 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Net profit for the year -133 396 626 262
Items which will not be reclassified to profit and loss
Net gain/(loss) on equity instruments designated at fair value through other comprehensive income
4, 9
Other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income for the year -133 396 626 262
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Owners of the parent -135 901 620 959
Non-controlling interests 2 505 5 303
Total comprehensive income for the year -133 396 626 262
Basic and diluted earnings per share *)
23
1.45 3.50

Total comprehensive income attributable to:

*) Earnings per share excludes "Net fair value adjustments - biological assets" and "One-off implementation effects of resource rent tax"

Consolidated statement of other comprehensive income

For the year ended 31 December

Consolidated statement of financial position

As at 31 December

Assets Note 31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Intangible assets
Licences 12 2 068 766 2 068 766
Goodwill 12 428 390 428 390
Total intangible assets 2 497 156 2 497 156
Property, Plant and Equipments
Property, plant and equipment 13 463 896 467 918
Right-of-use assets 14 521 803 529 366
Total property, plant and equipments 985 699 997 284
Non-current financial assets
Investments in other equity instruments 4 5 5
Other non-current receivables 262 416
Total non-current financial assets 267 421
Total non-current assets 3 483 122 3 494 861
Current assets
Feed inventory 15 23 159 23 987
Finished goods 15 25 470 13 661
Biological assets 9, 15 1 093 324 1 159 932
Total inventories 1 141 952 1 197 580
Accounts receivables 16 427 760 173 771
Other current receivables 97 808 82 230
Total receivables 525 569 256 001
Cash and cash equivalents 17 9 568 38 473
Total cash and cash equivalents 9 568 38 473
Total current assets 1 677 089 1 492 054
Total assets 5 160 211 4 986 915

Consolidated statement of financial position

Equity and liabilities Note 31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Equity
Share capital 22 30 627 30 627
Share premium 22 872 432 872 432
Total paid-in equity 22 903 059 903 059
Retained earnings 22 852 715 1 049 915
Total equity attributable to owners of the parent company 1 755 774 1 952 974
Non-controlling interests 22 38 502 35 997
Total equity 1 794 276 1 988 971
Liabilities
Deferred tax 11 795 629 564 448
Liabilities to financial institutions 19, 21 1 150 827
Long-term lease liabilities 14, 19, 21 294 937 328 138
Total non-current liabilities 1 090 566 2 043 413
Liabilities to financial institutions 19, 21 1 502 618 417 486
Short-term lease liabilities 14, 19, 21 150 196 130 808
Account payables 355 244 221 557
Income tax payable 11 113 071 98 633
Other current liabilities 20 154 241 86 047
Total current liabilities 2 275 369 954 530
Total liabilities 3 365 935 2 997 943
Total equity and liabilities 5 160 211 4 986 915
Note 31.12.2023 31.12.2022
22 30 627 30 627
22 872 432 872 432
22 903 059 903 059
22 852 715 1 049 915
1 755 774 1 952 974
22 38 502 35 997
1 794 276 1 988 971
11 795 629 564 448
1 150 827
19, 21 328 138
14, 19, 21 294 937
1 090 566 2 043 413
19, 21 1 502 618 417 486
14, 19, 21 150 196 130 808
355 244 221 557
11 113 071 98 633
20 154 241 86 047
2 275 369 954 530
3 365 935 2 997 943
5 160 211 4 986 915

Lars Måsøval Chair of the board

Roger Granheim Director

Kari Skeidsvoll Moe Director

Nina Santi Director

Ola Loe Director

Helge Kvalvik

CEO

Consolidated statement of cash flows

For the year ended 31 December

Cash flows from operating activities

Investing activities

Note 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Cash flows from operating activities
Profit before income tax 164 240 802 651
Tax paid -51 234 -33 544
Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment -2 780
Gain on sale of shares -1 039
Ordinary depreciation 13, 14 194 773 166 166
Impairments 13 43 955
Interest expenses 89 496 69 662
Calculated interest costs, leasing 19 607 9 143
Fair value adjustments - biological assets 15 91 281 -246 150
(Increase)/decrease in inventories 15 -35 653 -225 734
(Increase)/decrease in trade receivables 16 -253 675 19 795
Increase/(decrease) in trade payables 133 687 45 762
(Increase)/decrease in other current receivables/liabilities 53 247 121 775
Cash generated from operations 446 944 728 487
Investing activities
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment 2 976
Payments for property, plant and equipment 13 -103 314 -202 097
Payments for intangible assets 12 -1 230
Proceeds from disposal of other assets 1 578
Net cash used in investing activities -100 338 -201 749
Financing activities
Proceeds from current and non-current borrowings 21 419 925 26 844
Repayment of current and non-current borrowings 21 -327 009 -436 183
Payment of interest expenses on borrowings -109 803 -69 662
Repayment of principal portion of lease liabilities 14,21 -138 759 -110 268
Net change in overdraft facility 21 -158 611 102 559
Capital increase - Equity 22 -298
Payments of dividends 22 -61 254 -122 508
Net cash (used in)/from financing activities -375 511 -609 517
Net increase in cash and cash equivalents -28 905 -82 779
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 38 473 121 252
Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 9 568 38 473
Available credit on overdraft facility 188 295 27 959

Financing activities

Consolidated statement of changes in equity

Note Share
capital
Share
premium
Retained
earnings
Equity –
Owners
of parent
company
Non
controlling
interests
Total Equity
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
31 December 2021 30 627 872 432 551 923 1 454 982 30 694 1 485 676
Net profit for the year 620 959 620 959 5 303 626 262
Other comprehensive Income
Total comprehensive Income for the year 620 959 620 959 5 303 626 262
Dividends -122 508 -122 508 -122 508
Cost of equity increase* 22 -459 -459 -459
Contributions by and distributions to owners -122 967 -122 967 -122 967
31 December 2022 30 627 872 432 1 049 915 1 952 974 35 997 1 988 971
Net profit for the year -135 901 -135 901 2 505 -133 396
Other comprehensive Income
Total comprehensive Income for the year -135 901 -135 901 2 505 -133 396
Dividends -61 254 -61 254 -61 254
Other -45 -45 -45
Contributions by and distributions to owners -61 299 -61 299 -61 299
31 December 2023 30 627 872 432 852 715 1 755 774 38 502 1 794 276

*) Related to the capital increase in December 2021

Note 1 General information and basis for preparation 86
Note 2 Critical accounting estimates and judgements 86
Note 3 Accounting policies
88
Note 4 Financial instruments – risk management99
Note 5 Business segments 106
Note 6 Revenues 108
Note 7 Employee benefit expenses 109
Note 8 Other operating expenses110
Note 9 Fair value adjustments111
Note 10 Finance income and expense112
Note 11 Tax expenses and deferred tax
113
Note 12 Intangible assets115
Note 13 Property, plant and equipment
118
Note 14 Right-to-use assets and lease liabilities119
Note 15 Biological assets and other inventories121
Note 16 Trade and other receivables
124
Note 17 Cash and cash eqvivalents 125
Note 18 Investments in associated companies 125
Note 19 Interest-bearing debt 126
Note 20 Other current liabilities 127
Note 21 Notes supporting the cash flows 128
Note 22 Share capital and shareholders
129
Note 23 Earnings per share 131
Note 24 Consolidated companies 131
Note 25 Business combinations
131
Note 26 Related party transactions 132
Note 27 Events after the reporting date 133

NOTE 1 – GENERAL INFORMATION AND BASIS FOR PREPARATION

Måsøval is a Norwegian private limited company headquartered at Sistranda, Frøya. The company's shares are listed on the Euronext Growth of the Oslo Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol MAS.

Måsøval AS' consolidated financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted by the EU, along with the relevant interpretations mandatory for annual financial statements as of 31 December 2023.

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis. They are based on historical costs, except for the following items:

  • Biological assets, which are valued at fair value.
  • Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss (including derivatives) and fair value through other comprehensive income (OCI) for equity instruments.

The principles used to determine fair value are detailed in:

  • Note 2, Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgements
  • Note 3, Accounting Policies Note 4, Financial Instruments - Risk Management

The consolidated financial statements have been prepared using uniform accounting principles for similar transactions and other events under similar circumstances. The accounting principles applied in preparing these consolidated financial statements are described in Note 3, Accounting Policies.

NOTE 2 – CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND JUDGEMENTS

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires the application of various accounting estimates. Additionally, applying the Group's accounting principles requires management to exercise judgement. Accounting items that depend on or are sensitive to subjective assessments are described in the notes to better explain the complexity and the basis of these assumptions.

Estimates are determined based on the most probable outcomes, utilising management's best knowledge and the most current information available at the time of reporting. Changes in key assumptions may lead to significant adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities, equity, and the profit for the year. Estimates are regularly reviewed, and modifications in accounting estimates are incorporated in the period in which the changes occur.

The Group's most significant accounting estimates are associated with the following items:

• Fair value of biological assets • Fair value of assets and liabilities in business acquisitions • Impairment of goodwill and other intangible assets

-

  • Resource rent tax

Fair value of the biological assets

Biological assets at the Group's marine sites are measured in accordance with IAS 41 and IFRS 13. The principles for calculating fair value are described in Note 3, Accounting Principles.

The determination of the fair value of biological assets depends on forwardlooking information, where several key assumptions require subjective judgement. Key assumptions that significantly affect valuation include estimated harvest volume, remaining costs of production, market prices, and the discount rate.

Harvest volume is projected based on the number of fish held at sea and production models developed to predict the salmon's growth and mortality until harvest. Uncertainty regarding biological performance may affect harvest volume, harvesting dates, costs, and price achievement.

Fish Pool forward prices are utilised as the best estimate of future market prices for salmon. Historically, there have been relatively large fluctuations in forward prices from period to period and between seasons. The price achieved will also depend on the size and quality of the fish at harvest.

The remaining production costs are estimated based on budgets and monthly updated forecasts.

Future cash flows are discounted at a monthly discount rate. In addition to risk-free interest rates and a risk premium, a hypothetical licence fee has been added to the discount rate to reflect the costs of using licences to produce salmon. These costs involve considerable discretionary judgements. See Note 15, Biological Assets and Other Inventories, for further details.

Fair value in business acquisitions

The purchase price of acquired entities must be allocated to reflect the fair value of acquired assets and liabilities. These allocations require management to exercise significant judgement in selecting valuation

methods, assumptions, and estimates. To determine the fair value of assets for which there is no active market, alternative valuation methods may be used. Excess value is recognised in the consolidated balance sheet as Goodwill. Allocation of the purchase price may be updated if the Group receives new information regarding fair value at the date of the transaction within 12 months after the acquisition date. There were no new acquisitions in 2023.

Impairment of intangible assets

At least annually, or upon indications of impairment, the Group conducts an impairment test on goodwill and licences. Licences and goodwill, which are deemed to have an indefinite economic life, constitute a substantial portion of the Group's assets. Both are subject to an annual impairment test. Estimated future cash flows are based on budgets and forecasts and are influenced by the following key assumptions: discount rate, EBIT per kg (salmon price and production costs), and estimated future harvest volume. See Notes 3, Accounting Principles, and 12, Intangigble Assets, for further details regarding accounting principles and calculations.

Resource rent tax

The resource rent tax was approved by the Norwegian Parliament in May 2023 with effect from 1 January 2023. Måsøval has incorporated both the implementation effect as of 1.1.23 and the resource rent tax expenses for the period in the annual report. Both the effects of implementation and the annual tax expenses payable are estimates based on our best knowledge and the information available at the time this report is published. The estimates are highly uncertain as the tax forms have still not been published at the time of submitting this annual report, and the interpretation of established rules are still unclear. See note 11 for further details.

NOTE 3 – ACCOUNTING POLICIES

Presentation currency

The Group's presentation currency is the Norwegian krone (NOK), which is also the functional currency of the parent company. All amounts are presented in thousands of kroner unless indicated otherwise.

Transactions in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rate on the date of the transaction. Monetary items in foreign currencies are translated to NOK at the exchange rate on the balance sheet date.

Consolidation principles

The Group's consolidated financial statements comprise the parent company and its subsidiaries as of 31 December 2023.

Subsidiaries and non-controlling interests

An entity is deemed to be under the control of the Group when the Group is exposed to or holds rights to variable returns from its engagement with the entity, and possesses the authority to influence the entity's decisions in a manner that impacts the Group's returns.

Therefore, the Group controls an entity if, and only if, the Group meets all the following criteria:

  • It has a controlling influence over the entity
  • It has exposure, or rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the entity
  • It can leverage its influence over the entity to impact the Group's returns

Control over an entity is presumed if the Group holds the majority of the voting rights, thereby generally considering the entity a subsidiary.

If the Group holds less than a majority of the voting or similar rights of an investment entity, it considers all relevant facts and circumstances to assess whether it has a controlling influence over the entity. This assessment includes considerations of ownership interests, voting rights, ownership structure, relative power, options controlled by the Group, and any shareholder agreements or other contractual arrangements.

The Group reassesses whether it controls an entity if facts and circumstances indicate changes in any of the three criteria listed above.

Business combinations and Consolidation

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. For more information, see Note 25, Business Combinations. Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the Group obtains control of it and ends when control is lost.

Profit or loss and each component of OCI are attributed to the equity holders of the parent and to non-controlling interests, even if this results in the non-controlling interests having a deficit balance. Adjustments are made to the financial statements of subsidiaries to align their accounting policies with those of the Group.

Non-controlling interests are presented separately under equity in the Group's balance sheet.

Eliminations

All intra-Group assets and liabilities, equity, income, expenses, and cash flows relating to transactions between members of the Group are eliminated in full during consolidation.

Investment in associated companies

The Group have previously had investments in associated companies. Associated companies are entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control or joint control, over financial and operational management.

The considerations made in determining whether the Group has significant influence over an entity are similar to those required to determine control over subsidiaries.

As of 31 December 2023, the Group has no investments in associated companies.

Classification of accounting items

Current versus non-current classification

The Group presents assets and liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position as either current or non-current.

An asset is classified as current if the Group:

  • Expects to realise the asset, or intends to sell or consume it, in its normal operating cycle
  • Holds the asset primarily for the purpose of trading
  • Expects to realise the asset within twelve months after the reporting period

or

• The asset is cash or a cash equivalent, unless the asset is 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, including deferred tax assets.

A liability is classified as current if the Group: • Expects to settle the liability within its normal operating cycle • Holds the liability primarily for the purpose of trading

-

- or

• It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period • It does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period

All other liabilities are classified as non-current, including deferred tax

liabilities.

Proposed dividends

Proposed dividends are recognised as liabilities on the balance sheet when the company is irrevocably obliged to pay the dividends, normally after approval at the Annual General Meeting.

Operational EBIT

Operational EBIT, which includes adjustments for production tax, fair value adjustments, and profit sharing with co-location partners, is among the Group's key performance indicators (KPIs). These components are itemised separately within the income statement to provide clear insight into the earnings derived from sales during the period. This presentation method ensures transparency and aids in the analysis of operational performance. For further details, refer to Note 29, Alternative Performance Measures.

Revenues

Revenue from the sale of goods

The Group's revenues primarily derive from the sale of salmon. Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised at the point in time when control of the goods is transferred to the customer, typically upon delivery. The specific timing of the transfer of risks to the customer is determined by the delivery terms specified in the sales contracts. The normal credit term is 30 days, although on rare occasions, terms may extend to 60 days.

Revenue from sale of services

The Group recognises revenue from the rendering of services over time as the customer simultaneously receives and consumes the benefits provided. Revenue is recognised progressively, by measuring the progress towards the complete satisfaction of the service, using either an input or an output method. The chosen method most faithfully depicts the Group's progress towards fulfilling the performance obligation.

Co-location agreements

The Group has several co-location agreements under which it performs farming services on a total of six licences owned by partners. This includes three commercial licences where partners have stocked fish at our sea sites, and we provide farming services. Additionally, there are two broodstock licences and one educational licence operated by the Group on behalf of two external licence holders. The accounting treatment for these co-location agreements is determined based on the specifics of each agreement.

For commercial permits, the Group performs farming services and invoices accrued costs to the counterparties on an ongoing basis, recorded as a

claim on the counterparty in the balance sheet. Our share of the profit from commercial licences is recognised as "Other income" in the profit and loss statement. For broodstock and educational licences, the concession holders' share of profits generated is expensed as "Profit sharing with colocation partners.

Loans and receivables

Loans and receivables are financial assets with fixed payments, including account receivables. They are initially recognised at fair value plus directly attributable transaction costs and subsequently measured at amortised cost, less any impairment losses. Account receivables are due from customers following ordinary sales of goods and have typical credit terms of 30 to 60 days. They are classified as current assets and initially recognised at the transaction price as defined in IFRS 15.

Segments

For management reporting purposes, the Group is organised into business units based on its activities and has two operating segments: "Farming" and "Sales & Processing." Financial information related to these segments is presented in Note 5, Business Segments.

Income tax

The tax expense includes tax payable and changes to deferred tax. Deferred tax assets are calculated on all differences between the book values and tax values of assets and liabilities, except for:

-

• Temporary differences linked to goodwill that are not tax deductible. • Temporary differences related to investments in subsidiaries, associated companies, or joint ventures where the Group controls the timing of reversal, which is not expected in the foreseeable future

Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent it is probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to utilise the tax asset. The companies recognise or reduce previously unrecognised deferred tax assets as it becomes probable or less likely, respectively, that they will be utilised. Deferred tax and deferred tax assets are measured based on expected future tax rates where temporary differences have arisen and are recognised at their nominal value and classified as non-current assets (or long-term liabilities) in the balance sheet.

Taxes payable and deferred taxes are recognised directly in equity to the extent that they relate to equity transactions.

Resource rent tax

The resource rent tax was approved by the Norwegian Parliament in May 2023, effective from 1 January 2023. Måsøval has incorporated both the implementation effects as of 1 January 2023 and the resource rent tax expenses for the period into the annual report. Both the implementation effects and the annual expenses are estimates based on our best knowledge and are highly uncertain, as the tax forms have not yet been published at the time of submitting this annual report, and the interpretation of established rules remains unclear. For further details, see Note 11, Tax Expenses and Deferred Tax. The production fee during the period is directly deductible from the payable resource rent tax.

Production fee

A production fee amounting to NOK 0.40 per kilogram gutted weight was introduced in Norway with effect from 1 January 2021. From 1 January until 30 June 2023 the production tax was NOK 0.56 per kilogram, and from 1 July until 31 December 2023 the production tax was NOK 0.90 per kilogram. To highlight the performance of underlying operations before deduction of the production fee, Måsøval has chosen to report it on a separate line in the income statement below Operational EBIT.

Research and development

Expenses relating to research activities are recognised in the statement of comprehensive income as they are incurred. Expenses relating to development activities are capitalised to the extent that the product or process is technically and commercially viable, and the Group has sufficient resources to complete the development. Capitalised costs include materials, direct wage costs, and a proportion of directly attributable overheads. Capitalised development costs are recognised at cost minus accumulated amortisation and impairment losses and are amortised on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives

Biological assets

Biological assets comprise live fish stocks. Under IAS 41, biological assets are recognised and measured at fair value. Fair value is determined in accordance with IFRS 13. There are no efficient markets for the sale of live fish, and valuing live fish involves estimating their fair value in a theoretical live fish market (valuation at level 3). Måsøval recognises the production cost incurred at the balance sheet date.

Eggs, fry, and smolt are valued at historical cost, deemed the best estimate of fair value due to minimal biological conversion.

The technical model for calculating fair value is a present value model, which estimates the future sales value minus the remaining production costs, discounted to present value at the balance sheet date. The fair value of each generation of fish in the sea at each individual site is calculated using this model. This calculation is based on the expected biomass at the time of harvest multiplied by the expected sales price. For fish that are not yet harvestable, the estimated remaining costs to raise the fish to harvestable weight are deducted. Cash flows are discounted monthly using a discount factor that accounts for risk, hypothetical licence and site rent, and the time value of money.

Expected biomass (volume) is based on the estimated number of individuals at sea, adjusted for expected mortality until harvesting and multiplied by the expected harvest weight per individual. Although the unit of measurement is the individual fish, for practical reasons, calculations are performed at the site level. Live weight is converted to gutted weight to ensure comparable pricing.

Prices are calculated based on forward prices from Fish Pool. The average forward price for the month in which the fish is expected to be harvested, as well as the months before and after, is used in calculating expected cash flows. The price quoted by Fish Pool, adjusted for export costs, serves as the reference price. This rate is further adjusted for expected harvest costs (well boat, harvest, and packing) and transport to Oslo. Adjustments for expected size and quality differences are also made at the site level. Estimated remaining production costs represent the cost estimate a rational operator would assume if they were to purchase the immature fish for the purpose of raising them to harvestable size.

The present value model used for valuing the biological assets stipulates that compensation for licence rent is deducted from the inventory value in the form of a premium in the monthly discount rate, rather than a separate cost item. This approach ensures that rent costs correlate with the price and value of the licence.

The principle of highest and best use, as stipulated by IFRS 13, forms the basis for valuation and classification. In the fair value calculation,

optimal harvest weight is defined according to harvest plans. Changes in fair value adjustments are recognised in the income statement on a separate line for fair value adjustments and included in the consolidated net operating results.

Costs related to non-recurring events that cause mortality are expensed in the income statement in the period in which they occur. Such costs are included in the operating results. Non-recurring events that cause mortality, such as disease outbreaks, algae attacks, treatment losses, extreme weather, and statutory orders for the destruction of salmon, are defined as incidents that are not of a normal nature and that have a significant economic impact. A specific assessment is made of every incident that has caused increased mortality. This assessment is undertaken by the regional management in close dialogue with the Group's management to ensure consistent classification within the Group.

Costs related to what is considered normal mortality are included in the carrying amount of biomass in the balance sheet. Normal mortality is considered part of the production process of fish and added to the production cost.

The Group enters into contracts for the future delivery of salmon. Biological assets are recognised at fair value. The fair value adjustment in the income statement includes the change in fair value of the biological assets and the expected cost for fulfilling the sales contracts.

Tangible assets

Tangible assets are valued at their cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses. When assets are sold or disposed of, the carrying amount is derecognised and any gain or loss is recognised in the statement of comprehensive income.

The cost of tangible non-current assets includes the purchase price, taxes/duties, and costs directly linked to preparing the asset for its intended use. Costs incurred after the asset is operational, such as regular maintenance costs, are recognised in the statement of comprehensive income, while costs expected to provide future financial benefits are capitalised.

Depreciation is calculated using the straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the assets:

Properties 5 – 7 years
Farming facilities and floating installations 7 – 15 years
Vessels 3 – 15 years
Operating equipment 3 – 10 years

The depreciation period and method are reassessed annually. A residual value is estimated at each year-end, with any changes recognised as a change in estimate.

Assets under construction are classified as non-current assets and recognised at cost until the production or development process is completed. These assets are not depreciated until they are taken into use.

Leases

At the commencement date of a lease, the Group recognises a lease liability and a corresponding right-of-use asset for all lease agreements in which it is the leaseholder, except for:

• Short-term leases (defined as 12 months or less) • Low value assets

For these leases, the Group recognises the lease payments as other operating expenses in the statement of profit or loss as they are incurred.

The Group rents premises, feed barges, net pens, vessels, and other related assets. Lease durations vary, and at expiration, the Group often purchases the underlying fixed assets. Purchase options likely to be exercised are included in the details of the lease payments used to recognise assets and liabilities.

Lease liabilities

The lease liability is recognised at the commencement date of the lease. The Group measures the lease liability at the present value of the lease payments for the right to use the underlying asset during the lease term that are not paid at the commencement date. The lease term includes the non-cancellable period, along with periods covered by an option either to extend or to terminate the lease, when it is reasonably certain that the Group will exercise this option.

The lease payments included in the measurement comprise of:

• Fixed lease payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable

• Variable lease payments that depend on an index or a rate, initially measured using the index or rate as of the commencement date • The amount expected to be payable by the Group under residual

-

- value guarantees

• The exercise price of a purchase option, if the Group is reasonably certain to exercise that option

The lease liability is subsequently measured by increasing the carrying amount to reflect interest on the lease liability, reducing the carrying amount to reflect the lease payments made, and remeasuring the carrying amount to reflect any reassessment or lease modifications, or to reflect adjustments in lease payments due to an adjustment in an index or rate.

Variable lease payments are not included in the lease liability. Instead, the Group recognises these variable lease expenses in profit or loss.

The Group presents its lease liabilities as separate line items in the statement of financial position.

Right-of-use assets

The Group measures the right-of use asset at cost, less any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses, adjusted for any remeasurement of lease liabilities. The cost of the right-of-use asset comprise:

  • The amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability recognised
  • Any lease payments made at or before the commencement date, less any incentives received
  • Any initial direct costs incurred by the Group.

The Group applies the depreciation requirements in IAS 16, Property, Plant and Equipment, in depreciating the right-of-use asset. Additionally, IAS 36, Impairment of Assets, is applied to determine whether the right-ofuse asset is impaired and to account for any impairment loss identified.

Intangible assets

Intangible assets acquired separately are carried at cost. The costs of intangible assets acquired through an acquisition are recognised at their fair value in the Group's opening balance sheet. Capitalised intangible assets are recognised at cost, less any amortisation and impairment losses.

The Group's intangible assets consist primarily of fish farming licences and goodwill. Further details are provided below.

Internally-generated intangible assets, excluding capitalised development costs, are not capitalised but are expensed as they occur.

Intangible assets are considered to have either a definite or indefinite economic life. Those with a definite economic life are amortised over their economic life and tested for impairment if any indications arise. The amortisation method and period are assessed at least annually. Changes to the amortisation method and/or period are accounted for as a change in estimate.

Intangible assets with an indefinite economic life are not amortised but are tested for impairment at least annually, either individually or as part of a cash-generating unit. The assumption of an indefinite economic life is assessed annually to determine if it remains justifiable. If not, a transition to a definite economic life is made prospectively.

Fish-farming licences

The Group operates licences with a Maximum Allowable Biomass (MAB) of 17 467 tonnes at the end of 2023. Acquired licences are capitalised at cost. Based on past and current legislation, along with general interpretation and practice in the industry, fish farming licences are deemed to have an indefinite useful life and are not amortised. They are tested annually for impairment, or more frequently if there is any indication of impairment.

Business combinations and goodwill

Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. Acquisition-related costs are expensed in the periods in which the costs are incurred and the services are received.

The consideration paid in a business combination is measured at fair value at the acquisition date and consists of cash and stocks issued in Måsøval AS.

When acquiring a business, all financial assets and liabilities are assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with contractual terms, economic circumstances, and pertinent conditions at the acquisition date. The acquired assets and liabilities are accounted for by using fair value in the opening Group balance, unless other measurement principles should be applied in accordance with IFRS 3.

The initial accounting for a business combination can be changed if new information about the fair value at the acquisition date is present. The allocation can be amended within 12 months of the acquisition date. The measurement principle is undertaken separately for each business combination.

Goodwill is recognised as the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount of any non-controlling interest. It is deducted by the net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities assumed. Goodwill is not depreciated but is tested at least annually for impairment. In connection with this, goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from synergies from the business combination.

If the fair value of the equity exceeds the acquisition cost in a business combination, the difference is recognised as income immediately on the acquisition date.

Impairment testing

Impairment testing of intangible assets involves calculating the estimated present value of future cash flows (recoverable amount) from each cash flowgenerating unit (CGU) and comparing these to the net book value of the CGU. If the recoverable amount is lower than the book value, the asset is written down. See also note 12, Intangible assets, for further details.

Previous write-downs are reversed if the recoverable amount subsequently exceeds the book value.

Government grants

Government grants are recognised when there is reasonable assurance that the company will comply with the conditions attached to them and that the grants will be received. Operating grants are recognised systematically over the grant period. Grants are offset against the expenses they are intended to compensate. Investment grants are capitalised and recognised systematically over the useful life of the related asset. Investment grants are recognised either as deferred income or as a deduction from the asset's carrying amount.

Financial instruments

A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity.

Financial assets

The Group´s financial assets are derivatives, listed and non-listed equity instruments, trade receivables, and cash and cash equivalents.

The classification of financial assets at initial recognition depends on the financial asset's contractual cash flow characteristics and the Group's business model for managing them. With the exception of trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component, the Group initially measures a financial asset at its fair value plus, in the case of a financial asset not at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs.

The Group classified its financial assets into three categories:

-

• Financial assets at amortised cost

• Equity instruments designated at fair value through OCI, with no recycling of cumulative gains and losses upon derecognition • Derivatives at fair value through the statement of profit and loss

Financial assets at amortised cost

The Group measures financial assets at amortised cost if both of the following conditions are met:

  • The financial asset is held within a business model with the objective to hold financial assets in order to collect contractual cash flows; and
  • The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

Financial assets at amortised cost are subsequently measured using the effective interest (EIR) method and are subject to impairment. Gains and losses are recognised as profit or loss when the asset is derecognised, modified or impaired.

The Group's financial assets at amortised cost include trade receivables and other short-term deposits. Trade receivables that do not contain a significant financing component are measured at the transaction price determined under IFRS 15, Revenue from contracts with customers.

Equity instruments designated at fair value through OCI

Upon initial recognition, the Group can elect to classify irrevocably its equity investments as equity instruments designated at fair value through OCI when they meet the definition of equity under IAS 32, Financial Instruments: Presentation, and are not held for trading. The classification is determined on an instrument-by-instrument basis.

Gains and losses on these financial assets are never recycled to profit or loss. Dividends are recognised as other income in the statement of profit or loss when the right of payment has been established, except when the Group benefits from such proceeds as a recovery of part of the cost of the financial asset, in which case, such gains are recorded in OCI. Equity instruments designated at fair value through OCI are not subject to impairment assessment.

The Group chose to classify irrevocably its listed and non-listed equity investments under this category.

Derecognition of financial assets

A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or a part of a group of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognised (i.e., removed from the Group's consolidated statement of financial position) when:

  • -
    -
    -

• The rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or • The Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third-party under a 'pass-through' arrangement; and either

a) The Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset; or

b) The Group has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset

Financial liabilities

Financial liabilities are classified, at initial recognition, as loans and borrowings, payables, or as derivatives designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge, as appropriate. Derivatives are recognised initially at fair value. Loans, borrowings and payables are recognised at fair value net of directly attributable transaction costs. Transaction costs are amortised over the term of the loan.

Derivatives are financial liabilities when the fair value is negative, accounted for similarly as derivatives as assets.

Loans, borrowings and payables

After initial recognition, interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss when the liabilities are derecognised, as well as through the EIR amortisation process.

Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included as finance costs in the statement of profit or loss.

Payables are measured at their nominal amount when the effect of discounting is not material.

Derecognition of financial liabilities

A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged, cancelled or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as the derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised in the statement of profit or loss.

Provision for losses on financial assets

The Group has made a provision for expected losses on all debt instruments that are not classified at fair value. The Group recognises expected credit losses based on specific assessment of each individual customer. The credit loss provision is recognised based on credit losses expected over the remaining life of the exposure.

Inventories

Inventories (other than biological assets) are recognised at the lowest of either cost or net selling price. The net selling price is the estimated

selling price in the case of ordinary operations minus the estimated completion, marketing and distribution costs. The cost is arrived at using the FIFO method and includes the costs incurred in acquiring the goods and the costs of bringing the goods to their current state and location.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash includes cash-in-hand and in the bank. Cash equivalents are shortterm liquid investments that can be immediately converted into a known amount of cash and have a maximum term to maturity of three months.

Equity and liabilities

Financial instruments are classified as liabilities or equities in accordance with the underlying economic realities.

Interest, dividend, gains and losses relating to a financial instrument classified as a liability will be presented as an expense or income. Amounts distributed to holders of financial instruments classified as equity will be recorded directly as equity.

Treasury shares

When treasury shares are repurchased, the purchase price, including directly attributable costs, is recognised in equity. Treasury shares are presented as a reduction in equity. Losses or gains on transactions involving treasury shares are not recognised in the statement of comprehensive income.

Costs of equity transactions

Transaction costs directly related to an equity transaction are recognised directly in equity after deducting tax expenses.

Employee benefits

The Group has various pension schemes. The pension schemes are financed through payments to insurance companies, with the exception of the AFP scheme. The parent company only has contribution plans.

In the case of contribution plans, the company pays contributions to an insurance company. The company has no further payment obligation after the contributions have been paid. The contributions are accounted for as payroll costs. Any prepaid contributions are capitalised as an asset (pension funds) to the extent that the contributions can be refunded or can reduce future payments.

The AFP scheme is an unsecured performance-based multi-company scheme. Such a scheme is in fact a defined benefit plan, but is treated in the accounts as a defined contribution plan as a result of the scheme's administrator not providing sufficient information to calculate the obligation in a reliable manner. Måsøval Åsen AS participates in the AFP scheme.

Provisions

A provision is recognised when the Group has an obligation (legal or self-imposed) as a result of a previous event. It is probable (more likely than not) that a financial settlement will take place as a result of this obligation and the size of the amount can be measured reliably. If the effect is considerable, the provision is calculated by discounting estimated future cash flows using a discount rate before tax that reflects the market's pricing of the time value of money and, if relevant, risks specifically linked to the obligation.

Contingent liabilities and assets

Contingent liabilities are not recognised in the annual accounts. Significant contingent liabilities are disclosed, with the exception of contingent liabilities that are unlikely to be incurred.

Contingent assets are not recognised in the annual accounts, but are disclosed if there is a certain probability that a benefit will be added to the Group.

Events after the reporting period

New information on the company's financial position which becomes known after the reporting period, is recorded in the annual accounts. Events after the reporting period that do not affect the company's financial position at the end of the reporting period, but which will affect the company's financial position in the future, are disclosed if significant.

Changes in accounting policies and disclosures

No changes or amendments in IFRS effective for the 2023 financial statements or later have impact on the consolidated financial statement of the Group.

NOTE 4 – FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS – RISK MANAGEMENT

Financial risk

The Group faces various financial risks, including currency risk, interest rate risk, credit and liquidity risk. The Group monitors the degree of risk and has implemented procedures in order to reduce the risk to an acceptable level. This mainly relates to Pure Norwegian Seafood AS (PNS).

Functional currency is in Norwegian krone (NOK) for all companies in the Group.

Interest rate risk

The Group's debt consists mainly of floating-rate debt, which implies that the Group is exposed to changes in interest rates. Floating interest rates have been chosen for two reasons: i) Floating interest rates are considered to provide the lowest interest rate in the long run, and ii) Floating interest rates provide greater flexibility in dealing with the Group's changes in financing needs as caused by the Group's growth ambitions.

Given the Groups net interest-bearing debt on 31 December 2023 of NOK 1 805 million, an increase of 100 basis point in the interes rates level would decrease the Group's profit by NOK 18 million, assuming all other variables are constant.

The subsidiary PNS's loan portfolio currently has a combination of floating rate and fixed interest bonds. As of 31 December 2023, PNS has a longterm debt of NOK 57.4 million (including financial leasing), of which a total of NOK 38.6 million is secured by interest rate swaps. Interest rate swaps have quarterly maturities up to their expiry date.

Interest rate swaps Contract amount
Book value
Currency 2023 2022 2023 2022 Receives Pays Expire date
MNOK 18.6 20.0 0.7 0.7 Floating Fixed 2027
MNOK 20.0 20.0 2.1 2.2 Floating Fixed 2031

Foreign exchange risk

The Group is exposed to currency risk through its subsidiary PNS which has a large part of its sales in foreign currencies. Developments in exchange rates thus entail both direct and indirect economic risk. All sales in Euros are secured by entering into forward currency contracts. Sales in other currencies normally amount to smaller amounts and are only secured when there are large exposures.

As of 31 December 2023, the Group's currency risk is related to outstanding trade receivables and deposits in foreign exchange accounts. For details on outstanding trade receivables, see note 16.

Currency forwards are entered into with different maturities. Typically, when selling in the spot market, the agreements have a duration of 1-2 months, while for sales at a fixed price, they can have duration up to one year.

Forward rate agreements Currency amount Book value (MNOK)
Currency 2023 2022 2023 2022
Forward currency contracts – cash flow hedging EUR (Million) 31.0 6.9 10.1 -1.7
Forward currency contracts – cash flow hedging USD (Million) 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.1
Forward currency contracts – cash flow hedging GBP (Million) 0.7 0 0.3 0

Credit Risk

The Group is exposed to credit risk mainly through its accounts receivables in the subsidiary PNS AS. The credit risk is continuously monitored by PNS's management and most accounts are secured through a credit insurance. The Group is not materially exposed by any single counterparty and historically bad debts have been small. See note 16 for further details.

Price/liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is a product of the Group's earnings, financial position and available financing in capital markets and represents the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its current financial obligations. The Group monitors its liquidity continuously and estimates expected future developments through budgets and updated forecasts.

Fluctuations in salmon prices and harvesting volumes are the most important factors affecting liquidity. In the short-term, the largest single factor associated with liquidity risk will be fluctuations in salmon prices. In the long-term (> six months) a major negative biological event at sea will have the largest effect on the liquidity, together with salmon prices.

The Group has a total of MNOK 1 365 in long term debt as of 31 december 2023, divided at two different loans facilities, Måsøval facility and Pure Norwegian Seafood facility (PNS facility).

The Måsøval loan facility as of december 2023 has the following requirements. The borrower and the Group must, at all times, maintain an equity ratio of at least 30% and an interest coverage ratio of at least 4.0. Furthermore, the pricing of the credit products in the agreement is linked to the Group's net interest-bearing debt (NIBD) in relation to operating profit before depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA). Debt on operational leases according to IFRS 16 are not included in NIBD for the purpose of calculating the NIBD/EBITDA ratio, see Alternative Perfomance Measurements for further detalis.

Måsøvals bank financing has also a cross defalt clause; if a subsidiary is in breach with covenant and the defulted loan exceeds MNOK 25, Måsøvals bank financing will also be in default.

Pure Norwegian Seafood, a subsidiary owned 65% by Måsøval is financed on a stand-alone basis, the PNS facility. The company's bank loan agreement has a covenant requiring a minimum equity level. At the end of 2023 PNS AS had a bank loan of MNOK 28.2 and was in breach with its loan covenants. The equity ratio in PNS was below the covenant because of high sales volumes in December and thereby high volume of accounts receivables as at December 31. Both the subsidiary bank and the Group financing bank issued waivers in January 2024. As a consequence of the cross default breach the Groups long term bank loan of MNOK 1 242 has been reclassified to current liabilities at 31 December 2023. See note 19 for further details. Overall, the Group's liquidity risk is considered to be at an acceptable level.

Maturity structure for financial liabilities

Year ended 31 Dec 2023 Total 2024 2025 2026 2027 After 2027
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Long-term debt *) 1 365 026 123 059 123 059 1 099 773 3 031 16 104
Interest on long-term debt 170 637 78 210 70 826 17 645 1 057 2 899
Lease liabilities 445 133 150 196 72 955 69 430 49 858 102 695
Interest on lease liabilities 74 840 23 342 16 597 12 101 8 286 14 514
Short term credit facility 137 592 137 592
Derivatives
Accounts payables 355 244 355 244
Total 2 548 472 867 643 283 437 1 198 948 62 232 136 212

*) Presupposes here the original repayment plans, based on received waivers from the banks

Year ended 31 Dec 2022 Total 2023 2024 2025 2026 After 2026
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Long-term debt 1 272 111 126 166 127 815 1 010 315 7 815
Interest on long-term debt 137 633 59 286 53 020 25 136 191
Lease liabilities 458 946 117 659 84 556 78 605 38 276 139 849
Interest on lease liabilities 58 689 15 332 11 919 9 041 6 794 15 603
Short term credit facility 296 202 296 202
Derivatives 1 228 1 228
Accounts payables 221 557 221 557
Total 2 446 366 837 430 277 310 1 123 097 53 076 155 452

Interest on long-term loans and leasing is calculated based on actual interest rates per balance sheet date.

Financial assets by category

Financial assets at fair value with change in fair value through profit and loss

The Group uses forward currency contracts to hedge against fluctuations in exchange rates that arise during its operational activities, as well as some interest rate swaps, to reduce interest rate risk. These contracts are initially recognised at fair value. Changes in fair value related to instruments are recognised in profit and loss.

Financial assets measured at fair value in the other comprehensive income

The Group investments in equity instruments are classified as instruments measured at fair value in the other comprehensive income. As of 31 December 2023 the Groups investments in equity instruments are immaterial.

Financial assets at amortised cost

Financial assets at amortised cost includes mainly trade and other receivables, as well as cash and cash equivalents.

Trade and other receivables are part of the Group's business model with the sole objective to collect contractual cash flows. Additionally, the contractual terms of the financial assets give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding, thereby passing the "SPPI test", constituting debt instruments measured at amortised cost. PNS has entered into a factoring agreement for its trade receivables. This is purely a financial and operational agreement, with all credit risks remaining with PNS. See also note 16 for details regarding the factoring agreement.

Financial liabilities at amortised cost

Financial liabilities at amortised cost include the Group's interest-bearing debts, trade and other payables.

Year ended 31 Dec 2023 Financial assets at amortised cost Financial assets at fair value
through profit and loss
Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Investments in other equity instruments 5 5
Derivatives 13 246 13 246
Accounts receivables 427 760 427 760
Cash and cash equivalents 9 568 9 568
Total assets 437 328 13 251 450 579
Loans 1 502 618 1 502 618
Financial lease 445 133 445 133
Account payables 355 244 355 244
Total liabilities 2 302 995 2 302 995

Year ended 31 Dec 2022 Financial assets at amortised cost Financial assets at fair value
through profit and loss
Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Investments in other equity instruments 5 5
Derivatives 1 228 1 228
Accounts receivables 173 771 173 771
Cash and cash equivalents 38 473 38 473
Total assets 212 244 1 233 213 476
Loans 1 568 313 1 568 313
Financial lease 458 946 458 946
Account payables 221 557 221 557
Total liabilities 2 248 815 2 248 815

Financial assets and liabiliets by category

Fair value of financial instruments

Fair value of financial instruments recognised at amortised cost

Financial instruments recognised at amortised cost consist of liabilities with floating rates. Recognised value is assumed to be a good indication of fair value for these liabilities taking into consideration the current margin and market conditions.

Fair value measurement of financial instruments

Financial instruments which are valued at fair value at the balance sheet date under IFRS 7 are grouped according to a valuation hierarchy based on the level of observability of the market value:

  • Level 1: Listed price in an active market for an identical asset or liability
  • Level 2: Valuation based on other observable factors either directly (price) or indirectly (price-derived) than the listed price (used in level 1) for assets or liabilities
  • Level 3: Valuation based on factors not taken from observable markets (non-observable assumptions)

The Group has two smaller equity investments as of 31 December 2023. These are valued at fair value through P&L. In terms of amount, these investments are not considered material for the consolidated financial statements.

Financial derivatives recognised at fair value are interest rate swaps and forward rate agreements. As of 31 December 2023, the net value of these instruments amounted to an asset of TNOK 13 246 (TNOK 1 228 in 2022). The fair value of the interest rate swaps is calculated by banks and is determined based on the net present value of future cash flows using quoted interest rate curves at the balance sheet date. The calculations obtained from the banks have been tested for reasonableness by the Group management. The fair value of these derivatives is classified as Level 2 in the fair value hierarchy. Fair value of investments in equity instruments listed on a regulated market are classified as Level 1 in the fair value hierarchy, while other equity instruments are at Level 3.

NOTE 5 – BUSINESS SEGMENTS

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with internal reporting to the chief operating decision-maker. The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Group management.

Group management monitors and allocates resources to the Group's business activities as two operating segments, "Farming" and "Sales & Processing". For this reason, Måsøval reports the Group's financial performance as two operating segments: "Farming" and "Sales & Processing". The Farming segment includes the purchase of salmon roe, farming on land and sea, related service activities and the sale of salmon to exporters. The Sales and Processing segment includes harvesting activities and the sale of salmon and other species of fish in Norway and for export. Farming sites are located on Frøya, Aukra, Kristiansund and Vartdal.

No operating segments have been aggregated to form the above reportable operating segments. Internally in the Group, figures are also followed up as per geographical unit, both by site and production area. This is mainly to follow up cost developments, feed consumption, fish growth and other key figures, as well as to be able to perform internal comparisons. Figures per production area are shown in the tables below.

The remaining of the Groups activities are shown in the "other/eliminations" column. The Group's administration costs and other shared cost are not allocated to segments. Information about unallocated items included in this column is given in footnotes to the table below. Transfer prices between operating segments are allocated on an arm's length basis in a manner similar to transactions with third-parties.

Group management monitors the operating results of its business units separately for the purpose of making decisions about resource allocation and performance assessment. The segments are measured on various criteria, of which financial results are one. For the farming segment, fish health is also an important measurement criterion.

Information regarding the Group's reportable segments is presented below.

Year ended 31 Dec 2023 Farming Mid Farming
West
Farming Sales &
processing
Other /
eliminations*)
Måsøval
Group
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Internal operating revenue – sale of salmon 1 435 827 628 424 2 064 251 -2 064 252 -0
External operating revenue – sale of salmon 5 795 5 795 2 273 765 2 279 560
Other operating revenues 112 447 6 522 118 970 103 584 -101 766 120 788
Total operating revenues 1 548 274 640 742 2 189 016 2 377 349 -2 166 017 2 400 348
Operating expenses 974 696 508 522 1 483 218 2 351 858 -2 100 930 1 734 146
Depreciation and amortisation 141 124 10 143 151 267 13 652 29 854 194 773
Operational EBIT 432 454 122 077 554 531 11 839 -94 941 471 429
Operational EBIT-% 27.9 % 19.1 % 25.3 % 0.5 % 19.6 %
Volum harvested 16 886 7 645 24 531 25 150
Sales price per kg salmon 85,0 83,0 84,4 90,4
Operational EBIT per kg salmon 25,6 16,0 22,6 0,5

*) Depreciation and amortisation in "Other/eliminations" is almost exclusively related to surplus values from acqusitions.

Year ended 31 Dec 2022 Farming Mid Farming
West
Farming Sales &
processing
Other /
eliminations*)
Måsøval
Group
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Internal operating revenue – sale of salmon 1 476 270 248 300 1 724 570 -1 724 570
External operating revenue – sale of salmon 11 734 11 734 1 886 791 1 898 525
Other operating revenues 70 946 2 065 73 011 61 613 -41 018 93 606
Total operating revenues 1 547 216 262 099 1 809 315 1 948 404 -1 765 588 1 992 132
Operating expenses 748 595 194 749 943 344 1 918 188 -1 729 010 1 132 522
Depreciation and amortisation 111 875 15 150 127 025 10 154 28 987 166 166
Operational EBIT 686 746 52 200 738 946 20 062 -65 565 693 444
Operational EBIT-% 44.4 % 19.9 % 40.8 % 1.0 % 34.8 %
Volum harvested 17 612 4 268 21 879 22 141
Sales price per kg salmon 83.8 60.9 79.4 85.2
Operational EBIT per kg salmon 39.0 12.2 33.8 0.9

*) Depreciation and amortisation in "Other/eliminations" is almost exclusively related to surplus values from acqusitions.

NOTE 6 – REVENUES

Disaggregation of Revenue

The Group has disaggregated revenue into various categories in the following table which is intended to:

  • Depict how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows; and
  • Enable users to understand the relationship with revenue segment information provided in note 5

Operating revenues

Operating revenues consist of revenue from sale of salmon either on spot rates or from fixed price contracts. Sales are recognised in the income statement when the fish has been harvested and packed in boxes and picked up by the carrier (ex works)

Other revenue

Other revenue consist of income from harvesting activities, sales of smolt and sales of services related to fish farming activities.

Revenues based on geographic location
of customers
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Norway 761 738 837 339
Europe, without Norway 1 528 092 1 069 949
Asia 88 074 66 136
Other countries 22 444 18 708
Total 2 400 348 1 992 132
Revenues by product or service 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Sale revenue salmon 2 279 560 1 898 525
Other revenue 120 788 93 606
Total 2 400 348 1 992 132

NOTE 7 – EMPLOYEE BENEFIT EXPENSES

2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Salaries 200 692 165 934
Payroll tax 21 628 16 109
Pension expenses 9 598 8 074
Social cost 5 075 5 643
Other expenses 5 888 1 034
Total 242 882 196 794
Number of full-time employees at year end 315 300
Key management and board – compensation 2023 Salary Bonus*) Pension Fees Other Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
CEO 2 781 99 249 3 129
Group management (excluding CEO) 7 603 1 858 502 786 10 749
Total compensation to management 10 384 1 858 601 1 035 13 878
Board of Directors 1 439 1 439

Key management and board – compensation 2022 Salary Bonus*) Pension Fees Other Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
CEO 1 990 3 611 91 305 5 996
Group management (excluding CEO) 7 413 1 896 469 896 10 673
Total compensation to management 9 402 5 507 560 1 200 16 669
Board of Directors 1 996 1 996

*) Bonus consists of two different bonus agreements, one of which is a loyalty bonus that is paid annually, 18 months after its earning. The second is paid annually in March of the year following accrual.

Pension

An agreement on mandatory occupational pension has been entered into where this is mandatory.

NOTE 8 – OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Lease payments*) 2 970 2 278
Maintenance 66 792 76 095
Energy 30 556 25 668
Freight 109 562 89 655
Public fees 2 734 1 107
Renovation 8 307 6 162
Professional fees 35 128 15 790
Other 69 296 37 107
Other operating expenses 325 346 253 862

Production tax is reported on a separate line in the income statement. Total production tax amounted to NOK 18 824 thousand in 2023 (NOK 8 861 thousand in 2022)

Audit fees 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Statutory audit 1 991 1 297
Other assurance services 241 394
Other non-assurance services 903 840
Total 3 135 2 531

Audit fees

Audit fees to the auditors in the group entities is as follows (excluding VAT)

*) Short-term and variable lease, see note 14

NOTE 9 – FAIR VALUE ADJUSTMENTS

The Group's biomass is valued at fair value less costs-to-sell, in accordance with IAS 41 Agriculture. Fair value adjustments are part of the Groups operating profit/loss, but are presented on a separate line to provide a better understanding of the Group's profit /loss on sold goods. See note 15 Biomass for further information about the fair value adjustments of the biomass.

Specification of fair value adjustments
in the income statement
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Change in fair value of the biomass -91 281 246 150
Change in fair value – foreign currency
forward contracts
5 557 1 088
Change in fair value recognised in
Net profit or loss for the year
-85 724 247 238
Net gain/(loss) on equity instruments
designated at fair value through other
comprehensive income
Change in fair value recognised in
Other comprehensive income
Change in fair value recognised in Total
comprehensive income for the year
-85 724 247 238
Specification of fair value adjustments
in the balance sheet
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Fair value adjustments of the biomass
Fair value adjustments Equity
instruments
364 800
456 081
Fair value adjustments other financial
instrument
6 785 1 228
Net change in fair value in the
balance sheet
371 585 457 309

NOTE 10 – FINANCE INCOME AND EXPENSE

Finance income 2023 2022 Finance expenses 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000) (All figures in NOK 1 000)
Interest income 17 552 8 000 Interest on debts and borrowings 124 097 78 386
Net income from associated companies 5 557 Interest from leases 27 560 12 700
Foreign exchange gains 991 359 Foreign exchange losses 1 296 520
Other finance income 1 443 1 604 Other finance expense 1 092 220
Total finance income 25 543 9 963 Total finance expense 154 046 91 826

NOTE 11 – TAX EXPENSES AND DEFERRED TAX

Taxes includes both ordinary corporate tax and resource rent tax. Resource rent tax for the period is our best estimate based on current available information. The estimate is highly uncertain as legal requirements are still to be finalised by government authorities. See note 3 for more details regarding accounting principles.

Taxable income 2023 2022
Profit before tax 164 240 802 651
Non taxable items1) 11 432 -884
Changes in temporary differences 126 036 -353 326
Taxable income 301 708 448 441
Temporary differences and tax positions 2023 2022 Changes
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Licences 1 463 635 1 463 635
Fixed assets 97 117 164 088 -66 971
Current assets -3 686 -7 243 3 557
Biological assets 1 137 198 956 885 180 313
Leasing 25 286 9 575 15 711
P/L-account -539 -523 -16
Group contribution -73 660 -29 127 -44 533
Cut-off interest deduction -882 -882
Total temporary differences and tax positions 2 644 469 2 557 290 87 179
Temporary differences and tax positions not included in the basis for
deferred tax
7 058 8 384 -1 326
Basis for deferred tax 2 651 527 2 565 674 85 853
Net deferred tax 583 336 564 448 18 888
Change in defered tax from Group contribution 9 797
Deferred tax recognised in the income statement 28 685
Temporary differences and tax positions 2023 2022 Changes
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Licences 1 463 635 1 463 635
Fixed assets 97 117 164 088 -66 971
Current assets -3 686 -7 243 3 557
Biological assets 1 137 198 956 885 180 313
Leasing 25 286 9 575 15 711
P/L-account -539 -523 -16
Group contribution -73 660 -29 127 -44 533
Cut-off interest deduction -882 -882
Total temporary differences and tax positions 2 644 469 2 557 290 87 179
Temporary differences and tax positions not included in the basis for
deferred tax
7 058 8 384 -1 326
Basis for deferred tax 2 651 527 2 565 674 85 853
Net deferred tax 583 336 564 448 18 888
Change in defered tax from Group contribution 9 797
Deferred tax recognised in the income statement 28 685

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Temporary differences and tax positions – resource rent tax 2023 2022 Changes
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Biological assets 849 171 970 210 -151 787
Total temporary differences and tax positions 849 171 970 210 -121 039
Net deferred resource rent tax 212 293 242 553 -30 260

Income tax expense 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Current ordinary income tax 66 376 105 065
Resource rent tax, payable 46 695
Changes in deferred ordinary tax -27 728 71 324
Change in deferred resource rent tax -30 260
Total tax expense 55 083 176 389
Resource rent tax, implementation 242 553
Total tax expense2) 297 636 176 389

2) Including implementation effects resource rent tax

1) Includes non-taxable income such as capital gains and dividendes from associated companies and non-deductible costs such as representation and gifts

1) Includes non-taxable income such as capital gains and dividendes from associated companies and non-deductible costs such as representation and gifts.

Reconciliation of effective tax rate –
Ordinary corporation tax
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Profit before tax 164 240 802 651
Income tax based on applicable tax rate (22 %) 36 133 176 583
Non taxable items1) 2 515 -194
Income tax expense 38 648 176 389
Effective tax rate 23.5 % 22.0 %
Reconciliation of effective tax rate –
Resource rent
2023
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Group EBIT 292 743
Resource rent tax based on applicable tax rate (25 %) 73 186
Resource rent tax effects:
Net income from smolt production -13 069
Net income from sales and processing -2 960
Net income from licences outside the resource rent tax regime -12 730
Production fee 4 706
Income from service operations -13 690
Other effects -185
Resource rent tax expense, including production fee 35 258
Paid production tax -18 824
Resource rent tax expense, excluding production fee 16 435
Effective resource rent tax rate, excluding production fee 5.6 %

NOTE 12 – INTANGIBLE ASSETS

Goodwill Fish-farming
licences
Total intangible
assets
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Cost as of 31.12.2021 438 963 2 068 766 2 507 729
Pro&contra settlement
Vartdal Group
-10 574 -10 574
Cost as of 31.12.2022 428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155
Cost as of 31.12.2023 428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155
Carrying amount as of
31.12.2021
438 963 2 068 766 2 507 729
Carrying amount as of
31.12.2022
428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155
Carrying amount as of
31.12.2023
428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155
Carrying amount of
assets with indefinite life
428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155

Goodwill and Licences are defined as having an indefinite useful economic life and are not depreciated, but rather are tested for impairment at least annually and whenever there is an indication that an asset may be impaired.

The value of goodwill is primarily related to synergies, the assembled workforce and their competency as well as high growth expectations. All fish-farming licences and fixed assets are collateralised for the Group's external bank loans.

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Acquisition
year
Acquisition
cost
Recognised
Goodwill
2019 83 662 34 568
2021 23 619 6 260
2021 59 411 4 616
2021 216 192 50 440
2021 1 366 375 332 505
1 749 259 428 389
Specification of farming licences No. of
licences
MAB*)
Tonnes
Cost Net book
value
(All figures in NOK 1 000, except No. Of licences and MAB Tonnes)
Farming PO6 Smolt 2 18 881 18 881
Farming PO6 **) Farming 14 11 416 1 019 735 1 019 735
Farming PO5 Smolt 2 163 000 163 000
Farming PO5 **) Farming 6 4 398 867 150 867 150
Total Group 24 15 814 2 068 766 2 068 766

*) Maximum allowed biomass **) Including four development licences related to the Aqua Semi project (3,120 tonnes MAB)

Total MAB can be utilised collectively between production area 5 (Farming West) and 6 (Farming Mid) All fish-farming licences and fixed assets are collateralised for the Group's external bank loans.

Recognised goodwill in the Group is derived from several business combinations.

Annual testing for impairment of goodwill

The Group's operations are strongly related to each other and identified added values and goodwill in the event of acquisitions are largely valued based on synergies and being an integrated business. All production management, evaluation of harvesting plans, etc. are treated as one production unit in the Group.

Based on strong synergies and tightly integrated activities in the Group, an assessment is always made of the allocation of goodwill and other added value in connection with acquisitions.

Acquisition of processing facilities and a sales organisation simplifies logistics and planning in operation at sea in the Group. All goodwill regarding the acqusition of processing facilities and the sales organisation is, therefore, allocated to the Farming segment.

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Intangible assets by CGU as of 31.12.2023 Goodwill Licences Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Farming 428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155
Sales & processing*)
Total as of 31.12.23 428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155

Total as of 31.12.23 428 389 2 068 766 2 497 155

*) Identified goodwill regarding the acquisition of the Sales & Processing segment is considered to belong to the Farming segment based on the fact that ownership of the entire value chain simplifies production planning throughout the value chain. Therefore, the goodwill related to the "Sales & processing" is allocated to the Farming CGU.

Annual impairment test of goodwill and licences

The impairment test is carried out by calculating the net present value of future cash flows of the CGU in its current condition and comparing it with the carrying amount of capital employed. An impairment loss is recorded if the carrying amount exceeds the estimated value in use. Impairment testing is performed annually as of 31 December and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.

Estimated future cash flows are based on budgets and forecast for the next four years and a terminal value. Terminal value is calculated using a growth rate of one per-cent, reflecting the future estimated growth in cash flow.

Estimated value will be affected by the following key assumptions:

• Discount rate

  • Operational EBITDA per kilogram salmon
  • Estimated future harvest volum

The discount rate used reflects managements estimate of the risk associated with the business. The discount rate is an estimated average capital cost of the Group (WACC) and is calculated at 6.4 percent. Capital costs are calculated by considering the risk-free interest rate, the market risk premium in the equity market and the company's average interest rate on borrowing. Capital costs are adjusted to reflect conditions at individual cash flow generating units, such as particular risks and interest rate differentials.

Operational EBITDA per kilogram salmon is highly volatile due to the fluctuation in the price of salmon. Estimated salmon prices are based on actual long-term price levels in the market in which the fish is sold. Production costs are more stable and are estimated based on historical costs adjusted for inflation and known changes. In the terminal value, an estimated Operational EBITDA margin per kilogram of NOK 20.50 has been used.

Harvest volume is estimated based on current production and harvesting plans adjusted for expected increases in future output given current licenses.

The impairment test does not give indications for write-downs of the book value of the licenses at 31 December 2023. There are significant positive differences between estimated recoverable amounts and book values.

Sensitivity

The following changes in key assumptions results in the value-in-use being equal to the carrying amount.

Segment
Assumption: Change: Farming
EBITDA margin per kg (NOK) Change in EBITDA
per kg (NOK)
-11.00
Discount rate (percent) Change in percentage
points
5.4
Future harvest volum (tonnes) Percentage change
in volume
-7 456

NOTE 13 – PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Properties Farming facilities and
floating installations
Vessels Operating
equipment
Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Cost as of 31.12.2021 211 176 226 013 198 307 82 899 718 395
Additions 10 911 109 073 56 236 25 877 202 097
Reclassifications*) -92 541 58 550 -62 489 -3 339 -99 819
Disposals -12 701 -711 -4 090 -17 502
Cost as of 31.12.2022 129 546 380 935 191 343 101 347 803 171
Additions 26 599 25 756 30 070 17 932 100 357
Reclassifications*) 8 879 55 045 500 -46 178 18 246
Disposals -4 320 -4 320
Cost as of 31.12.2023 165 024 461 736 217 593 73 101 917 454
Accumulated depreciation and impairments as of 31.12.2021 5 537 85 403 133 179 40 437 264 556
Depreciation 10 379 46 515 11 484 7 220 75 598
Disposals -4 543 -358 -4 901
Accumulated depreciation and impairments as of 31.12.2022 15 916 127 375 144 663 47 299 335 253
Depreciation 13 402 84 651 9 638 14 060 121 751
Impairments**) 43 955 43 955
Disposals -3 446 -3 446
Accumulated depreciation and impairments as of 31.12.2023 29 318 212 026 150 855 61 359 453 558
Carrying amount as of 31.12.2021 205 639 140 610 65 128 42 462 453 839
Carrying amount as of 31.12.2022 113 630 253 560 46 680 54 048 467 918
Carrying amount as of 31.12.2023 135 706 249 710 66 738 11 742 463 896
Economic life 5 – 7 year 7 – 15 year 3 – 15 year 3 – 10 year
Depreciation method Linear Linear Linear Linear

*) Reclassification also includes reclassification from owned assets to leased assets

**) Impairment of investments in the developement project Aqua Semi

All fish-farming licences and fixed assets are collateralised for the Group's external bank loans.

NOTE 14 – RIGHT-TO-USE ASSETS AND LEASE LIABILITIES

Right of use asset

The Group's leased assets include properties, farming facilities, vessels and other equipments. The Group's right-of-use assets are categorised and presented in the table below:

Right of use assets Properties Farming
facilities*)
Vessel Other Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
At 1 January 2022 185 211 243 570 45 060 473 841
Reclassification**) 72 849 26 970 99 819
Additions 1 443 16 323 36 397 4 095 58 258
Amortisation -7 659 -26 656 -61 911 -4 721 -100 947
Disposals -154 -1 451 -1 605
At 31 December 2022 66 633 201 848 217 902 42 983 529 366
At 1 January 2023 66 633 201 848 217 902 42 983 529 366
Reclassification**) 16 713 -32 980 -15 507 12 684 -19 090
Additions 1 598 27 749 119 701 10 621 159 669
Amortisation -7 164 -25 700 -80 939 -3 174 -116 977
Disposals -29 881 -989 -295 -31 165
At 31 December 2023 47 899 169 928 241 157 62 819 521 803
Economic life/lease term 5 – 15 year 3 – 7 year 3 – 7 year
Amortisation method Straight line Straight line Straight line

*) In 2021 Farming facilities also includes some properties, reclassified in 2022

**) Reclassification also includes reclassification from owned assets to leased assets

Undiscounted lease payments and
year of payment
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Less than 1 year 150 196 130 808
1-3 years 141 931 163 162
3-5 years 80 307 92 576
more than 5 years 72 699 72 400
Total undiscounted lease payments 445 133 458 946
Changes in lease liabilities
(All figures in NOK 1 000) (All figures in NOK 1 000)
At 1 January 2022 405 333
Additions 163 881
Interest expenses 12 700
Lease payments -122 968
At 31 December 2022 458 946
At 1 January 2023 458 946
Additions 124 946
Interest expenses 27 560
Lease payments -166 319
At 31 December 2023 445 133
Spesification of lease liabilities 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Current lease liabilities 150 196 130 808
Non-current lease liabilities 294 937 328 138
Total 445 133 458 946

The lease contracts do not include any restrictions with regards to the Group's dividend policy or financing opportunities.

Lease payment expensed 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Expensed lease payment for short-term
leases and low value leases
155 146
Variable lease payments 2 816 2 132
Total lease payments expensed 2 971 2 278
Lease payments financial lease 166 319 122 968
Total lease payments 169 290 125 246

Lease liabilities

NOTE 15 – BIOLOGICAL ASSETS AND OTHER INVENTORIES

Book value of biological assets and
inventory
31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Feed inventory 23 159 23 987
Finished goods 25 470 13 661
Total other inventory 48 629 37 648
Biological assets 1 093 324 1 159 932
Total biological assets and other inventory 1 141 952 1 197 580
Book value of biological assets
recognised at fair value
31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Biological assets held at sea farms at cost 636 274 619 854
Fair value adjustment of biological assets 364 800 456 081
Total biological assets held at sea by fair value 1 001 074 1 075 934
Smolt and postsmolt at cost 92 250 83 998
Total biological assets 1 093 324 1 159 932

Fair value

Fair value adjustments are part of the Group's operating profit/loss, but changes in fair value are presented on a separate line to provide a greater understanding of the Group's profit/loss on sold goods. The item comprises:

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Change in the book value of biological
assets held at sea farm carried at fair value
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Biological assets held at sea farm 1 Jan 1 075 934 623 565
Increase resulting from production/purchase 1 505 524 1 091 908
Reduction resulting from sale/harvesting -1 489 104 -885 689
Net fair value adjustment -91 281 246 151
Biological assets held at sea farm Dec 1 001 074 1 075 935

Incident-based mortality

In the event of incidents exceeding three per cent mortality in a period based on a single incident, or if the mortality exceeds five per cent over several periods based on one and the same incident, an assessment is made as to whether there is a basis for write-downs. The assessment relates to the number of fish and is carried out at site level. Incident-based mortality is recognised under cost of goods sold in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.

The assessment relates to the number of fish and is carried out at site

level.

We refer to note 3 "Accounting policies" for a description of the accounting principles regarding biological assets.

Biological assets held at sea farms 31. Dec 2023 Biomass
(tonnes)
Cost Fair value
adjustment
Carrying
amount
< 1 kg 2 905 282 239 -593 281 646
1 – 4 kg 7 095 306 976 282 928 589 904
> 4 kg 1 865 47 059 82 465 129 524
Biological assets held at sea farms 11 865 636 274 364 800 1 001 074
Smolt and post-smolt at cost 92 250 92 250
Biological assets total 11 864 728 524 364 800 1 093 324

All figures below in NOK 1 000, except Biomass (Tonnes)

Biological assets held at sea farms 31. Dec 2022 Biomass
(tonnes)
Cost Fair value
adjustment
Carrying
amount
< 1 kg 106 20 949 14 336 35 285
1 – 4 kg 12 529 598 904 441 745 1 040 649
> 4 kg
Biological assets held at sea farms 12 634 619 853 456 081 1 075 934
Smolts and post-smolts at cost 83 998 83 998
Biological assets total 12 634 703 851 456 081 1 159 932

The fair value calculation is based on the following forward prices:

All figures below in NOK 1 000, except Biomass (Tonnes)

Discount rate

The discount rate at 31.12.2023 and 31.12.2022 was five percent per month, which reflects the biomass capital cost, risk and synthetic licence fees and site rental charges.

Expected
harvesting period:
Forward price
31.12.2023
Expected
harvesting period:
Forward price
31.12.2022
2023 Increase Effect on estimated
fair value 31.12.2023
Decrease Effect on estimated
fair value 31.12.2023
Q1-2024 106.27 Q1-2023 91.75 Change in forward price 5 NOK per kg 84 717 5 NOK per kg -84 717
Q2-2024 111.77 Q2-2023 95.55 Change in discount factor 1 % -52 506 1 % 56 968
Q3-2024 82.02 Q3-2023 76.48 Change in harvesting time 1 month earlier 15 827 1 month later -30 210
Q4-2024 84.43 Q4-2023 78.22 Change in biomass 1 % 10 411 1 % -10 308
Q1-2025 95.87 Q1-2024 84.33
Q2-2025 97.87 Q2-2024 87.50
Q3-2025 77.87 Q3-2024 73.50 Effect on estimated Effect on estimated
Q4-2025 77.87 Q4-2024 76.50 2022 Increase fair value 31.12.2022 Decrease fair value 31.12.2022

Sensitivity assessment

The estimated fair value of biological assets has been calculated using different parameters. The effect on the estimated fair value of biological assets is summarised to the right:

2022 Increase Effect on estimated
fair value 31.12.2022
Decrease Effect on estimated
fair value 31.12.2022
Change in forward price 5 NOK per kg 85 316 5 NOK per kg -85 316
Change in discount factor 1 % -54 369 1 % 58 398
Change in harvesting time 1 month earlier 53 830 1 month later -126 572
Change in biomass 1 % 14 055 1 % -14 055

Accounts receivables 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Accounts receivables at face value as of 31.12 429 470 177 054
Less: Provision for impairment of accounts
receivables
1 710 3 283
Net accounts receivables 427 760 173 771

NOTE 16 – ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLES

Accounts receivables 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Receivables written off during the year 3 144 1 574
Changes in provision during the year -1 573 2 845
Impairment loss during the year 1 571 4 419
Maturity profile trade receivables Not due <30d 30-60d 60-90d >90 d Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Accounts receivables 2023 331 582 75 721 2 453 4 298 13 706 427 760
Accounts receivables 2022 127 930 28 529 480 3 853 12 979 173 771

At 31 December 2023, accounts receivables of NOK 96 million were past their due date, but not impaired. There were no earlier defaults on these customer's obligations to the Group. Around NOK 14 million of claims overdue more than 90 days relate to related parties. Separate agreements have been entered into regarding the payment of these outstanding amounts.

All provisions both in 2022 and 2023 are related to the subsidiaries Pure Norwegian Seafood AS (PNS) and Western Seaproducts AS (WSP). Provisions are based on an individual assessment of all significant receivables and an individual provision where this is deemed necessary. Credit losses are measured on the basis of the expected loss over the remaining life of the exposure, and not based on a 12-month expected loss. Historical losses in PNS and WSP have been low.

PNS mitigates credit risk through credit insurance agreements, cash sales, and a 'know your customer' approach to minimise losses. The terms are approximately the same, but the framework varies. Formally, the claims have been transferred to a factoring company under a factoring agreement. The factoring company is, therefore, formally the policyholder in this context. There is no transfer of credit risk to the factoring company.

Standard insurance covers up to 90 percent of receivables for each customer within the limit of credit of up to 90 days. If the insurance company's total limit towards individual customers is fully utilised, individual assessments are made by the company's management before a credit is granted.

Credit losses are classified as other operating expenses in profit and loss.

Foreign currency exposure receivables: 2023 2022 (All figures in NOK 1 000) EUR 207 844 90 736 GBP 12 383 0 JPY 2 980 1 693 USD 12 069 6 589 CHF 206 61 Total foreign currency receivables 235 482 99 079 NOK 192 279 74 691 Total book value accounts receivables 427 761 173 771

NOTE 17 – CASH AND CASH EQVIVALENTS

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Bank deposits, unrestricted -1 387 29 619
Bank deposits, restricted*) 10 955 8 854
Cash and cash equivalents in the
statement of financial position
9 568 38 473

*) Restricted bank deposits consist of tax withholdings.

The Group's cash and cash equivalents consists of bank balances and tax withholding account.

In addition the Group has an overdraft facility with a limit of MNOK 300, of which MNOK 112 is drawn as at 31 December

As of 31.12.2023, the Group has no shares in associated companies.

NOTE 18 – INVESTMENTS IN ASSOCIATED COMPANIES

Receivables by location of customers 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Norway 168 473 46 600
Europe, without Norway 245 124 118 547
Asia 7 214 8 417
Other countries 6 949 207
Total book value accounts receivables 427 760 173 771

NOTE 19 – INTEREST-BEARING DEBT

The Group's financing is split between Måsøval AS including its 100% owned subsidiaries (Måsøval facility) and Pure Norwegian Seafood (Pure's facility). They are two separate, standalone agreements.

The Måsøval facility at 31 December 2023 totaled NOK 2 140 million, comprising a revolving credit facility of NOK 500 million, a term loan of NOK 1 340 million and an overdraft facility of NOK 300 million (of which NOK 112 million is drawn). The Pure facility consists of a factoring agreement of NOK 100 million (of which NOK 26 million is drawn) and a term loan of NOK 28 million.

The Måsøval facility revolving credit facility and term loan expire 28 February 2026, with two one-year extension options. These options are uncommitted and are subject to approval by the lenders.

Interest on the Måsøval facility is floating and linked to the three-month NIBOR, plus a margin.

Pure Norwegian Seafood's (PNS) loan portfolio currently has a combination of floating and fixed interest loans. The company's interest rate sensitivity is adapted to an appropriate hedging level when using interest rate swaps. Total lending in PNS at 31 December 2023 was NOK 28 million. See note 4 for further details.

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Non-current borrowing 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Long-term debt*) 1 241 967 1 150 828
Non-current liabilities for right-of-use assets 294 937 328 138
Total non-current borrowing 1 536 903 1 478 966

*) Presupposes here the original repayment plans, based on received waivers from the banks

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Next years installment on non-current debt 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Long-term debt*) 123 059 121 283
Overdraft facility 137 592 296 202
Current liabilities for right-of-use assets 150 196 130 808
Total current borrowing 410 847 548 293

*) Presupposes here the original repayment plans, based on received waivers from the banks

Total borrowing 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Long-term debt*) 1 365 026 1 272 111
Overdraft facility 137 592 296 202
Total liabilities for right-of-use assets 445 133 458 946
Total 1 947 751 2 027 259

*) Presupposes here the original repayment plans, based on received waivers from the banks

Mortgage-backed liabilities 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Long-term debt*) 1 365 026 1 272 111
Overdraft facility 137 592 296 202
Total mortgage-backed liabilities 1 502 618 1 568 313

*) Presupposes here the original repayment plans, based on received waivers from the banks

Carrying amount of pledged assets 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Accounts receivables 427 760 173 771
Inventories 1 141 952 1 197 580
Equipment and aquaculture licences 2 532 662 2 536 684
Total carrying amount of pledged assets 4 102 375 3 908 035
Maturity structure of long term debt 2023
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
less than 1 year 273 255 243 825
between 1 and 3 years 1 365 216 1 301 291
between 3 and 5 years 80 849 106 026
over 5 years 90 839 79 914
Total 1 810 159 1 731 057

Financial covenants

As of 31 December 2023

The "Måsøval facility" as of December 2023 has the following requirements: The borrower and the Group must, at all times, maintain an equity ratio of at least 30 percent and an interest coverage ratio of at least 4.0. Furthermore, the pricing of the credit products in the agreement is linked to the Group's net interest-bearing debt (NIBD) in relation to operating profit before depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA). Debt on operational leases according to IFRS 16 is not included in NIBD for the purpose of calculating the NIBD/EBITDA ratio.

Furthermore there is a cross default clause; if a subsidiary is in breach with covenant and the defaulted loan amount exceeds MNOK 25, the

Group bank financing will also be in default. The "Pure facility" has a requirement of equity ratio of at least 25 percent.

A combination of high sales volume and accounts receivables overdue resulted in Pure Norwegian Seafood AS ending the year with equity level lower than the covenant requirements. Both the subsidiary bank and Group financing bank issued waivers in January 2024. As a consequence of the cross default the Groups long term bank loan of MNOK 1 242 has been reclassified to current liabilities as at December 31. See "Alternativ Performance Measurments" for further details.

As of 31 December 2022

The new Måsøval facility as of December 2022 has the following requirements: The borrower and the Group must, at all times, maintain an equity ratio of at least 30 percent and an interest coverage ratio of at least 4.0. Furthermore, the pricing of the credit products in the agreement is linked to the Group's net interest-bearing debt (NIBD) in relation to operating profit before depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA). Debt on operational leases according to IFRS 16 is not included in NIBD for the purpose of calculating the NIBD/EBITDA ratio. See "Alternativ Performance Measurments" for further details.

NOTE 20 – OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

Other current liabilities 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Public duties payable 17 084 12 022
Accrued payroll related items 29 798 34 107
Other short term liabilities 107 359 39 918
Total other current liabilities 154 241 86 047

NOTE 21 – NOTES SUPPORTING THE CASH FLOWS

Transactions without cash flow effects from financing activities are presented in the reconciliation of the movement in financial liabilities in the following tables.

Non-current loans
and borrowings
Non-current
Lease liabilities
Current loans and
borrowings
Current Lease
liabilities
Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
At 1 January 2023 1 150 827 328 138 417 486 130 808 2 027 259
Cash flows
Downpayment of loans -326 360 -649 -327 009
New loans 417 500 2 425 419 925
Net change in overdraft facility -158 611 -158 611
Net lease payments -138 759 -138 759
Non-cash flows
- New lease agreement 124 946 124 946
- Reclassification short/long term -1 241 967 -158 147 1 241 967 158 147
At 31 December 2023 294 937 1 502 618 150 196 1 947 751

Non-current loans
and borrowings
Non-current
Lease liabilities
Current loans and
borrowings
Current Lease
liabilities
Total
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
At 1 January 2022 1 560 312 301 632 314 781 103 701 2 280 426
Cash flows
Downpayment of loans -406 183 -30 000 -436 183
New loans 26 844 26 844
Net change in overdraft facility 102 559 102 559
Net lease payments -110 268 -110 268
Non-cash flows
- New lease agreement 163 881 163 881
- Reclassification short/long term -30 146 -137 375 30 146 137 375
At 31 December 2022 1 150 827 328 138 417 486 130 808 2 027 259

NOTE 22 – SHARE CAPITAL AND SHAREHOLDERS

2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Share capital 30 627 30 627
Share premium 872 432 872 432
Total paid in capital 903 059 903 059
No. Of shares Face value Book value
Ordinary shares 122 508 455 0,25 30 627
The company's 20 largest shareholders as of
31 December 2023 were:
No. of shares % of total
Måsøval Eiendom AS 85 727 553 69.98 %
Verdipapirfond Odin Norge 10 142 218 8.28 %
Vartdal Invest AS 4 761 904 3.89 %
J.P. Morgan SE 2 761 669 2.25 %
Henden Nygård Holding AS 1 800 057 1.47 %
ABBA Holding AS 1 677 176 1.37 %
Morgan Stanley & Co. Int. Plc. 1 652 643 1.35 %
J.P. Morgan SE 1 275 405 1.04 %
Frøy Kapital AS 1 255 132 1.02 %
Vicama AS 1 000 000 0.82 %
Hausta Investor AS 875 933 0.71 %
GH Holding AS 816 620 0.67 %
Verdipapirfondet Holberg Triton 690 000 0.56 %
Patric Invest AS 611 252 0.50 %
Yttervåg AS 380 036 0.31 %
Jaras Invest AS 290 000 0.24 %
Amarillo AS 249 093 0.20 %
Småge Eiendom AS 241 387 0.20 %
Storø Invest AS 227 964 0.19 %
Nordnet Livsforsikring AS 224 426 0.18 %
Total 20 larges shareholders 116 660 468 95.23 %
Total other shareholders 5 847 987 4.77 %
Total number of shares 31.12.2023 122 508 455 100.00 %

Shareholders

The company has only one class of shares and all shares have the same rights in the company. All share capital is fully paid up. There are no preferential rights or restrictions related to the shares.

There are no shares held by the entity or by subsidiaries or affiliated entities.

There have been no changes to the share capital during 2023.

See also the equity statement, note 23 and note 25 for further details.

Shares owned by directors of the board and senior executives *) No. of shares % of total
Lars Måsøval 1) Chair of the board 42 863 777 34.99 %
Roger Granheim 2) Director 0.00 %
Ola Loe Director 6 150 0.01 %
Kari Skeidsvoll Moe Director 3 039 0.00 %
Martin Staveli Deputy director 18 237 0.01 %
Helge Kvalvik 3) CEO 12 000 0.01 %
Harry Osvald Hansen Head of Farming/Sea 7 598 0.01 %
Ingar Kyrkjebø Head of Service 2 127 0.00 %
Henny Førde Head of Biology, Planning and ESG 4 559 0.00 %
Andreas Skagøy Head of Developement and Strategic Projects 5 179 0.00 %
Lars Jørgen Ulvan Head of Smolt 1 215 0.00 %

1) Lars Måsøval owns indirectly through Måsøval Eiendom AS, where he controls 50 per cent of the shares directly and indirectly through personal related parties. 2) Roger Granheim is the CEO of Frøy Kapital AS, which has 1 255 132 shares in Måsøval AS.

3) Helge Kvalvik owns indirectly through Storeskjeret AS which he owns 100 per cent.

*) In connection with the IPO, some family members of the board and senior executives bought shares in the company. None of these shareholdings are considered significant.

NOTE 23 – EARNINGS PER SHARE

Basic earnings per share are based on the earnings attributable to shareholders of the company and the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding for the year, less ordinary shares purchased by the company and held as treasury shares.

Earnings per share 2023 2022
Net profit or loss for the year attributable to
owners of the parent company
-135 901 620 959
Net fair value adjustments, after tax 71 199 -191 997
One-off implementation effects of resource tax 242 553
Adjusted net profit of loss for the year
attributable to owners of the parent company
177 851 428 963
Weighted average number of shares outstanding
through the year (basic and diluted)*)
122 508 122 508
Earnings per share
Basic and diluted 1.45 3.50

All numbers are presented in NOK 1.000 with the exception of earnings per share

NOTE 25 – BUSINESS COMBINATIONS

In connection with the ongoing reorganisation of the group, two auxiliary companies were founded which will be used to achieve the final group structure. Otherwise, no changes have been made during 2023.

NOTE 24 – CONSOLIDATED COMPANIES

The following companies are included in the consolidated financial statement for 2022 and 2023.

Parent company: Måsøval AS

Subsidiaries 2022 and 2023 Head office Ownership
Måsøval Laksåvika AS Frøya 100 %
Måsøval Åsen AS Åsen 100 %
Måsøval Akva AS Frøya 100 %
Måsøval Service AS Frøya 100 %
Pure Norwegian Seafood AS Averøy 65 %
Måsøval Lisens AS (prev. Pure Farming AS) Averøy 100 %
Måsøval Drift AS (prev. Aqua Farms Vartdal AS) Vartdal 100 %
Måsøval Urke AS (prev. Urke Fiskeoppdrett AS) Vartdal 100 %
Måsøval Vartdal AS (prev. Vartdal Fiskeoppdrett AS) Vartdal 100 %
Western Seaproducts AS 1) Vartdal 100 %
Vartdal Fryseri AS Vartdal 100 %

1) Sold in February 2024

NOTE 26 – RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

The Group is owned 70 percent by Måsøval Eiendom AS and is part of the Måsøval Eiendom Group which also consists of several other companies. The ultimate parent, Måsøval Eiendom AS, is owned by Anders Måsøval (50 percent), Synne Konstanse Måsøval (38.6 percent) and Lars Måsøval (11.4 percent).

Transactions with related parties also include transactions with other

companies in the Måsøval Eiendom Group and consist mainly of the sale of accounting services, rental of land bases and rental of wellboats.

All transactions with related parties are undertaken at market terms and conditions. See note 7 for information regarding payments of benefits to members of the board and senior executives.

During the year the Group companies entered into the following transactions with related parties who are not members of the Group.

Sales Purchase Receivables Liabilities
839 1 078 6 657 112
966 1 674 171 183
127 ଚିଚ
30 252 18 463
443 2 419 360 259

Transactions with related parties in 2023 Sales Purchase Receivables Liabilities
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Eiendom AS Parent company 1 102 1 577 6 767 102
Sørskaget Holding AS Owned by Måsøval Eiendom AS (100 %) 918 2 028 183 385
Sørskaget Bolig Owned by Måsøval Eiendom AS (100 %) 133 180
Ice Fishfarm EHF Indirectly controlled by Måsøval Eiendom AS*) 28 410 224 21 094 273
Flamek Eiendom AS Indirectly owned by Måsøval Eiendom AS (90 %) 468 3 099 49 274
Transactions with related parties in 2022 Sales Purchase Receivables Liabilities
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Eiendom AS Parent company 839 1 078 6 657 112
Sørskaget Holding AS Owned by Måsøval Eiendom AS (100 %) 966 1 674 171 183
Sørskaget Bolig Owned by Måsøval Eiendom AS (100 %) 127 66
Ice Fishfarm EHF Indirectly controlled by Måsøval Eiendom AS*) 30 252 18 463
Flamek Eiendom AS Indirectly owned by Måsøval Eiendom AS (90 %) 443 2 419 360 259

*) Controlled through the owndership of the majority of the shares in Ice Fish Farm AS

NOTE 27 – EVENTS AFTER THE REPORTING DATE

Demerger and triangular merger process

A condition for completion of the Internal Reorganisation is that the Company receives a binding advance tax ruling ("BFU") from the tax authorities confirming that the Internal Reorganisation can be completed with tax continuity. The Company has received a BFU where the tax authorities conclude that the outlined deduction of assets acquired in 2023 means that the Internal Reorganisation cannot be carried out with tax continuity. The deduction has limited value for the Company, and therefore the Company has requested a new binding advance ruling from the tax authorities. Subject to such confirmation from the tax authorities, the Internal Reorganisation will then be implemented.

New harvest facility - Ulvan

Mowi ASA accepted the bid from Måsøval AS to acquire the harvesting facility at Ulvan in Hitra Municipality. The intention of Måsøval is to continue the harvesting operations and increase the harvesting capacity within the Group. Final agreement and completion are subject to customary terms and conditions, but the parties aim to complete the transfer by early April 2024.

Pure Norwegian Seafood AS (PNS)

Måsøval, as a supplier to PNS, became suspicious of irregularities at PNS on 20 October 2023. Prior regulatory inspections, controls, and audits had not uncovered the issues. Through Måsøval's board representatives in PNS, immediate action was taken through board instructions to completely halt the irregular activity, freeze storage was sealed, and affected products were recalled. Organisational measures were taken promptly, and new and reinforced procedures were implemented at PNS.

EY was engaged to conduct an independent and thorough investigation. The Food Safety Authority (Mattilsynet) was notified in early November, and communication with the authority has been maintained throughout the investigation. The investigation was concluded in January, and the results have been handed over to the relevant authorities for any further investigations they may undertake.

In brief, the investigation reveals that PNS has allowed certain customers to buy frozen salmon that, according to Norwegian regulations, is not suitable for human consumption. Sold fish includes fish that either should have been discarded/ensiled, or production graded fish that should be elaborated in secondary processing before export. The investigation estimates that this turnover of fish not suitable for human consumption constituted just under 1% of the total volume of fish and approximately 0.5% of PNS's revenue over the last three years. Måsøval, as a supplier to PNS, has not gained any profit or participated in any other earnings related to these activities at PNS. The mentioned activities were halted in October 2023. After the investigation and other inquiries until now, there have been no indications that the irregularly traded products have affected people's health. The revealed issues at PNS have no direct impact on Måsøval; they have a marginal financial effect on the group. As Måsøval assesses the consequences beyond this, they will primarily be related to potential public sanctions that may affect PNS.

Western Seaproducts AS

Western Seaproducts a fully owned subsidiary of the group was sold to Ode ASA in February. A seller credit was issued to the buyer with a maturity of 5 years. The buyer has committed not to harvest any salmon at the processing plant.

Complaint regarding exhibition licence accepted

Måsøval Lisens AS, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Måsøval AS, filed a complaint on 2 March 2020 to the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, against the Fisheries Directorate's rejection on 11 February 2020, of their application for an exhibition licence. On 23 February 2024, the Ministry has informed Måsøval Lisens AS that the complaint has been accepted and that a permission can be given for an exhibition licence of 780 tons MTB for a period of 10 years from the issuance of the permit document. The Fisheries Directorate will supplement the Ministry's decision by formulating appropriate conditions in light of the Ministry's assessments and conclusions. It will take time before an exhibition licence can potentially be applied, and there will be uncertainty regarding whether it can be used depending on the final conditions from the Fisheries Directorate and other sector authorities, and whether Måsøval Lisens AS can fulfill those.

Måsøval appeals in a case regarding compensation for misdiagnosis

Måsøval AS filed a lawsuit against the State, claiming compensation of MNOK 29.8 for the losses the company incurred after the facility Kattholmen was misdiagnosed with PD SAV3 in August 2019. The case went to trial in November 2023.

On 23 December 2023, a judgement was rendered in the case, which was served to the parties on 29 December 2023. The court's conclusion is that the State, represented by the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Fisheries, is ordered to pay Måsøval MNOK 12.8 in compensation for loss of earnings and incurred expenses as a result of the misdiagnosis, plus accrued interest and delay interest. Costs incurred from the trial have been booked, while no compensation have been accrued as income because of the verdict.

The State appealed the verdict on 2 February 2024 and Måsøval submitted an independent appeal in the case 5 February 2024.

Other matters

The board of directors has proposed a dividend of NOK 0.50 per share for the financial year 2023.

These annual account's in accordance with IFRS, have been approved at the board meeting on 18 April 2024.

No other significant events has occurd after 31 December 2023.

Financial Statement of Måsøval AS

Statement of profit and loss

Note 2023 2022
(All consolidated figures in NOK 1000)
Operating income and expenses
Revenue 1, 2 1 690 877 1 496 777
Other operating income 1, 2 113 468 203 140
Total operating revenues 1 804 345 1 699 917
Cost of goods and services 1, 8 1 140 490 920 760
Change in biomass and feed inventory 29 687 -161 757
Personell costs 3 110 018 94 774
Depreciation and impairments 4 66 370 54 350
Other operating expenses 1, 2, 5 166 829 182 376
Total operating expenses 1 513 394 1 090 504
Operational EBIT 290 951 609 413
Production tax 14 976 7 255
Profit sharing with co-location partners 24 624 44 238
EBIT 251 351 557 920
Financial income and costs
Group contribution from subsidiaries 97 567
Group interest income 6 2 183 5 130
Interest income 14 314 6 884
Other financial income 776 689
Total financial income 114 840 12 703
Interest expenses 119 543 78 952
Other financial expenses 33 747
Total financial expenses 119 576 79 699
Net financial items -4 736 -66 996
Profit before income tax 246 615 490 925
Income tax expense 9 198 188 108 188
Net profit or loss for the period 48 426 382 737
Profit attributable to:
Dividends 61 254 183 763
Allocated to (+)/from(-) retained earnings -12 828 198 974
Total allocations 48 426 382 737

Financial income and costs

Profit attributable to:

Statement of financial position

Property, plant and equipment

Non-current financial assets

Note 2023 2022
(All consolidated figures in NOK 1000)
Assets
Intangible assets
Licences 4, 8 758 295 758 295
Goodwill 4 7 123 10 816
Total intangible assets 765 418 769 111
Property, plant and equipment
Properties 4 7 655 7 982
Farming facilities, quay facilities, etc. 4 20 983 61 002
Vessels 4 1 430 14 311
Operating equipment, fixture and fittings 4 30 547 19 867
Total property, plant and equipment 60 615 103 162
Non-current financial assets
Investments in subsidiaries 6 1 820 464 1 820 304
Total non-current financial assets 1 820 464 1 820 304
Total non-current assets 2 646 497 2 692 577
Inventories
Feed inventory 10 15 124 18 953
Biological assets 10 504 851 506 679
Total inventories 519 975 525 631
Receivables
Accounts receivables 11 681 102 361 074
Other receivables 11 8 613 17 914
Receivables on group companies 11 271 753 171 378
Total receivables 961 467 550 366
Cash and cash equivalents 12 5 298 3 394
Total current assets 1 486 741 1 079 391
Total assets 4 133 237 3 771 968

Inventories

Receivables

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 FINANCIAL STATEMEMT OF MÅSØVAL AS – FINANCIAL RESULTS 137

Statement of financial position

Note 2023 2022
(All consolidated figures in NOK 1000)
Equity
Share capital 13 30 627 30 627
Share premium 13 872 432 872 432
Total paid-in equity 903 059 903 059
Other equity 574 057 586 885
Total other equity 574 057 586 885
Total equity 13 1 477 116 1 489 944
Liabilities
Provisions
Deferred tax 9 234 798 116 119
Total provisions 234 798 116 119
Non-current liabilities
Liabilities to financial institutions 14 1 339 025 1 248 517
Total non-current liabilities 1 339 025 1 248 517
Non-current liabilities
Liabilities to financial institutions 14 119 216 315 927
Trade creditors 7 569 595 360 146
Tax payable 9 106 272 69 169
Tax withholding and other deductions 7 256 12 323
Dividends 61 254 61 254
Liabilities to group companies 7 117 386 62 925
Other current liabilities 101 318 35 645
Total current liabilities 1 082 298 917 389
Total liabilities 2 656 122 2 282 025
Total equity and liabilities 4 133 237 3 771 968

Frøya, 18.04.2024

Lars Måsøval Chair of the board

Roger Granheim Director

Kari Skeidsvoll Moe Director

Nina Santi Director

Ola Loe Director

Helge Kvalvik

CEO

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 FINANCIAL STATEMEMT OF MÅSØVAL AS – FINANCIAL RESULTS 138

Statement of cash flow

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

2023 2022
(All consolidated figures in NOK 1000)
Profit before income tax 246 615 490 925
Tax payable -42 406 -20 969
Gain on disposal of property, plant and equipment -9 486
Ordinary depreciation 22 415 54 350
Impairments 43 955
(Increase)/decrease in inventories 5 656 -169 172
(Increase)/decrease in trade receivables -320 028 -163 932
Increase/(decrease) in trade payables 209 449 189 399
(Increase)/decrease in other current receivables/liabilities -5 220 60 090
Net cash from operating activities 160 436 431 204
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment 14 552 4 169
Payments for property, plant and equipment -34 682 -37 720
Payments to Group loan receivables -50 664
Net cash (used in)/generated by investing activities -70 794 -33 552
Proceeds from current and non-current borrowings 417 500
Repayment of current and non-current borrowings -320 397 -515 130
Repayments from Group borrowings -12 349 92 984
Net change in overdraft facility -111 238 135 574
Proceeds of equity
Payments of dividends and group contributions -61 255 -122 508
Net cash (used in)/generated by financing activities -87 738 -409 080
Net increase/decrease in bank deposits 1 904 -11 428
Bank deposits at the beginning of the period 3 394 14 822
Bank deposits at the end of the period 5 298 3 394

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 FINANCIAL STATEMEMT OF MÅSØVAL AS – FINANCIAL RESULTS 139

Note 1 Intra-group transactions 144
Note 2 Operating revenues 144
Note 3 Personnel costs 145
Note 4 Specification of fixed assets 146
Note 5 Other operating expenses 150
Note 6 Investment in subsidiaries 151
Note 7 Debt to group companies and related parties 153
Note 8 Co-location agreements and profit sharing 153
Note 9 Taxes 154
Note 10 Biomass 156
Note 11 Short-term receivables 156
Note 12 Restricted funds 157
Note 13 Share capital, shareholder information and equity 157
Note 14 Long-term debt, mortgages, etc. 158
Note 15 Public grants 159
Note 16 Events after balance sheet date
159

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 140

The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Accounting Act of 17.07.1998 and generally accepted accounting principles in Norway.

Use of estimates

Preparation of accounts in accordance with the Accounting Act requires the use of accounting estimates. Furthermore, the application of the company's accounting principles requires management to exercise judgement. Areas that to a large extent contain such judgemental assessments, a high degree of complexity or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant for the annual accounts are described in the notes.

Co-location agreements

Agreements have been entered into on co-location between the company and external concession holders. See note 8 for further information.

Sales revenue

Revenue from the sale of goods and services is valued at the fair value of the consideration, net after deduction of VAT, returns, discounts and other discounts. Sales of fish are recognised in the income statement when the fish has been harvested and packed in boxes. Services are recognised as income over time during the period in which the services are rendered. Most of the company's sales of services take place on the basis of accrued time and an agreed hourly rate.

Classification of balance sheet items

Assets intended for long term ownership or use have been classified as non-current assets. Other receivables are classified as current assets if they are to be repaid within one year after the transaction date. Similar criteria apply to liabilities. First year's installments on long term liabilities and long term receivables are, however, not classified as short term liabilities and current assets.

Purchase cost

The purchase cost of assets includes the cost price of the asset, adjusted for bonuses, discounts and other rebates received, and purchase costs (freight, customs fees, public fees which are non-refundable and any other direct purchase costs). Purchases in foreign currencies are reflected in the balance sheet at the exchange rate at the transaction date.

Purchase cost of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets also includes direct expenses to prepare the asset for use, such as expenses for testing the asset.

Intangible assets and goodwill

Goodwill has arisen in connection with the acquisition of a subsidiary. Goodwill is amortised over its expected useful life.

Expenses for own development activities are expensed on an ongoing basis. Expenses for other intangible assets are capitalised to the extent that a future economic benefit related to the development of an identifiable intangible asset can be identified and the expenses can be measured reliably. Otherwise, such expenses are expensed on an ongoing basis. Capitalised development is depreciated on a straight-line basis over its economic life.

ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES

Fixed assets

Land is not depreciated. Other property, plant and equipment are capitalised and depreciated on a straight-line basis at residual value over the expected useful lives of the fixed assets. In the event of a change in the depreciation plan, the effect is distributed over the remaining depreciation period (the "breakpoint method"). Maintenance of fixed assets is expensed under operating costs. Expenses and improvements are added to the fixed asset's cost price and depreciated in line with the fixed asset. The difference between maintenance and cost/improvement is calculated in relation to the condition of the fixed asset at the time of acquisition.

Leased fixed assets are capitalised as fixed assets if the lease is considered to be a financial lease.

Impairment of fixed assets

If there is an indication that the book value of a fixed asset is higher than the fair value, a test for impairment is performed. The test is performed for the lowest level of fixed assets that have independent cash flows. If the book value is higher than both sales value and value in use (present value for continued use/ownership), a write-down is made to the higher of sales value and value in use. Previous write-downs, with the exception of writedowns of goodwill, are reversed if the conditions for the write-down are no longer present.

Other long-term equity investments

The cost method is used as a principle for investments in other shares etc. Dividends are initially accounted for as financial income, when the dividend has been approved. If the distributions significantly exceed the share of retained earnings after the purchase, the excess is recorded as a reduction in the cost price.

Inventory

Inventory is valued at the lower of acquisition cost (according to the FIFO principle) and fair value. Fish in sea (biological assets) are valued at the lowest value of the expected net sales value on the balance sheet date and full production cost. Acquisition cost for biological assets consists of expenses for feed, direct wages, other direct and indirect production costs. A generation of fish has a 24-month cycle, of which the last two to six months go to fallow before new release of hatchery fish. Indirect costs are attributed to biological assets in the first 18 months of the generation's 24-month cycle. Feed stocks are accounted for at the lower of acquisition cost and fair value. Fair value is the estimated selling price less necessary expenses for completion and sale.

Receivables

Accounts receivables are recognised in the balance sheet after deductions for provisions for expected losses. Provisions for losses are made on the basis of an individual assessment of the receivables and an additional provision to cover other foreseeable losses. Significant financial problems with the customer, the probability that the customer will go bankrupt or undergo financial restructuring, and deferrals and deficiencies in payments are considered indicators that trade receivables have been impaired. Other receivables, both current receivables and capital receivables, are recognised at the lower of nominal and fair value. Fair value is the present value of expected future payments. However, no discounting is made when the effect of discounting is insignificant for the accounts. Provisions for losses are assessed in the same way as for trade receivables.

Debt

Debt, with the exception of certain provisions for liabilities, is recognised in the balance sheet at the nominal debt amount.

Pensions

The company has a defined contribution pension schemes for all employees. The company pays contributions to an insurance company and has no further payment obligation after the contributions have been paid. The contributions are accounted for as payroll costs. Any prepaid contributions are capitalised as an asset (pension funds) to the extent that the contributions can be refunded or reduce future payments.

Tax

Calculated tax includes both ordinary corporate tax and resource rent tax.

Corporate tax

The corporate tax expense in the income statement includes both tax payable for the period and change in deferred tax. Deferred tax is calculated on the basis of the temporary differences that exist between accounting and tax values, as well as any tax losses carried forward at the end of the financial year. Tax-increasing and tax-reducing temporary differences that reverse or can reverse in the same period have been offset. The entry of deferred tax assets on net tax-reducing differences that have not been settled and losses carried forward are justified by assumed future earnings.

Deferred tax and tax assets that can be recognised in the balance sheet are entered net in the balance sheet.

Tax deductions on group contributions made and taxes on received group contributions, which are entered as a reduction of the capitalised amount on investment in subsidiaries, are entered directly against tax in the balance sheet (against tax payable if the group contribution has effect on tax payable, and against deferred tax if the group contribution has effect on deferred tax). Deferred tax in both the company accounts and the consolidated accounts is accounted for at the nominal amount.

Resource rent tax The resource rent tax was approved by the Norwegian Parliament in May 2023 with effect from 1 January 2023. Måsøval has incorporated both the implementation effects as of 1.1.23 and the resource rent tax expenses for the periode in the annual report. Both the implementation effects and the annual expenses are estiamtes based on our best knowledge. The estimates are highly uncertain as the tax forms have still not been published at the time of submitting this annual report, and the interpretation of established rules are still unclear. See note 9 for further details.

The production fee in the period is directly deductible in the payable resource rent tax.

Cash flow statement

The cash flow statement is prepared according to the indirect method. Cash and cash equivalents include cash, bank deposits and other shortterm liquid investments, which can be immediately converted into known cash amounts with an insignificant exchange rate risk and a remaining term of less than three months from the date of acquisition.

NOTE 1 – INTRA-GROUP TRANSACTIONS

Måsøval AS 2023 2022 By business area 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000) (All figures in NOK 1 000)
Income Sales revenues salmon 1 690 877 1 496 777
Sales income from subsidiaries 1 690 715 1 496 777 Other revenues 113 468 203 140
Other revenue from subsidiaries 113 630 101 702 Total 1 804 345 1 699 917
Total 1 804 345 1 598 478
Costs
Costs of goods charged by subsidiaries 85 291 92 961 Geographical distribution 2023 2022
Rental costs equipment 38 794 (All figures in NOK 1 000)
Other costs charged by subsidiaries 163 274 169 381 Norway 1 804 345 1 670 552
Rental costs to Måsøval Eiendom AS 4 763 3 809 Other countries
29 366

NOTE 2 – OPERATING REVENUES

NOTE 3 – PERSONNEL COSTS

Personnel costs 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Salary costs 90 429 75 676
Pension costs 5 237 8 647
Social costs 2 317 3 605
Payroll tax 7 097 6 066
Other 4 937 781
Total 110 018 94 775
Number of FTE's 126 124

Pension agreements

The company is obliged to have an occupational pension scheme pursuant to the Act relating to compulsory occupational pensions. The company's pension plans satisfy the requirements of this Act. The company has defined contribution pension schemes for all employees in the Group.

2023 2022
Remuneration to the board and management of the Group CEO Board CEO Board
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Management in Måsøval AS 3 129 1 439 5 905 2 153
Total 3 129 1 439 5 905 2 153

The chairman of the board of the parent company does not have a bonus agreement or agreement on remuneration upon termination of the board position. The CEO of the parent company has a bonus agreement. Payment on the bonus agreement is linked to the Group's results.

NOTE 4 – SPECIFICATION OF FIXED ASSETS

15 829
758 295
15 829
758 295
774 124
774 124
5 012
5 012
3 693
8 705
758 295 765 418
3 693
8 705
7 123

Depreciation plan 5 years

Måsøval AS Land and
property
Farming facilities
and floating
installations*)
Vessels Operating
equipment*)
Total Property,
plant and
equipment
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Cost at 01.01.23 8 322 96 484 24 476 33 091 162 373
Additions 13 18 694 16 093 34 800
Disposals**) -2 235 -15 308 -1 855 -19 398
Cost at 31.12.23 8 335 112 943 9 168 47 329 177 775
Accumulated depreciations and amortisations 01.01.23 339 35 483 10 165 13 224 59 211
Disposals**) 318 -3 144 -1 902 -4 728
Impairment 43 445 43 445
Depreciations and amortisations in the year 340 12 716 716 5 460 19 232
Accumulated depreciations and amortisations 31.12.23 679 91 962 7 737 16 782 117 160
Net book value at 31.12.23 7 655 20 983 1 431 30 547 60 615
Depreciation plan 3-5 years***) 7-15 years 3-5 years 10 years

*) Figures include capitalised leased assets.

**) Including minor reclassifications between groups of assets

***) No depreciation of land

The majority of disposals 2023 are sales to the subsidiary Måsøval Akva AS in connection with the restructuring of the Group in order to organise equipment and service activities in its own legal entities.

Måsøval AS – Specification of farming licences as per 31.12.23 No. of licences MAB*) tons Cost Net book value
(All figures in NOK 1 000, except No. of licences)
Production area 5 2 1 466 160 000 160 000
Production area 6 **) (incl. 4 development licences, 3 120 tonnes MAB) 13 10 636 598 295 598 295
Total Måsøval AS 15 12 102 758 295 758 295

*) Maxium allowed biomass

**) incl. 4 development licences, 3 120 tons MAB

There have been no changes in licences in 2023. All licences are located in production areas 5 and 6.

MAB® tons Cost Net book value
1 466 160 000 160 000
10 636 598 295 598 295
12 102 758 295 758 295

Leasing

Måsøval AS applies NRS 14 Leases, and the leases vessels and movable property with different lease terms. When entering into a contract, it is assessed whether an agreement contains a lease agreement that gives the company the right to control the use of an identified asset. If the lease is identified as such, assets and related liabilities are recognised at the start of the lease. The company determines the lease as the noncancellable lease, together with periods covered by an option to extend the lease if it is reasonably certain to be exercised, or a period covered by an option to terminate the lease if it is reasonably safely exercised.

Right to use assets

The company recognises property rights on the start date of the lease. The right of use of the asset is initially measured at acquisition cost, and subsequently at acquisition cost less accumulated depreciation and write-downs. The right to use assets is depreciated on a straight-line basis over the asset's estimated useful life, and is subject to impairment testing.

Lease obligations

The lease obligation is initially measured at the present value of the lease payment that is not paid at the beginning, discounted with the company's marginal borrowing rate as discounting. The rental fees include fixed payments and variable rental payments that depend on an index or interest rate. The lease obligation is subsequently increased by the interest cost of the lease obligation and reduced by the lease payment made. It is re-measured when there is a change in future leases as a result of a change in an index or interest rate, or when it is appropriate, changes in the assessment of whether it is reasonably safe to use an extension option or whether a termination option is reasonably certain not to be exercised.

Short-term lease and lease of assets with low value

Måsøval does not capitalise leases that have a lease period of 12 months or less from the start date and do not contain a call option. Leases that are considered low-value assets, primarily IT and office equipment, are not capitalised. Leases related to short-term leases and low-value assets are recognised on a straight-line basis as an expense in the income statement.

Måsøval AS Farming facilities
and floating
installations
Equipment Total
leased
assets
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Cost at 01.01.23 13 794 1 800 15 594
Reclassification
Additions 1 128 1 128
Disposals -10 199 -10 199
Cost at 31.12.23 3 595 2 928 6 523
Accumulated depreciations 10 498 570 11 068
and amortisations 01.01.23
Disposals*)
-10 271 224 -10 047
Depreciations
and amortisations 2 453 605 3 058
in the year
Accumulated depreciations and
amortisations 31.12.23
2 680 1 399 4 079 (All figures in NOK 1 000)
Net book value at 31.12.23 915 1 529 2 444
*) Including minor reclassifications between groups of assets
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Leasing obligations 2 323 6 017

Leased assets that are capitalised constitute the following values in the parent company:

NOTE 5 – OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

Other operating expenses 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Rent 70 247 85 483
Maintenance 42 852 40 959
Energy 12 263 11 435
Freight 724 707
Public fees 2 139 672
Renovation 1 310 1 130
Professional fees 27 784 8 212
Other 9 509 33 777
Total 166 829 182 376
Fees to the auditor 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Audit fees 988 1 989
Technical assistance and other attestations 241 17
Other non-audit services 903 419
Total 2 132 2 425

NOTE 6 – INVESTMENT IN SUBSIDIARIES

As of 31.12, Måsøval AS had following shares in subsidiaries:

Måsøval AS Head Office Book value Ownership Net profit 2023*) Total equity*)
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Laksåvika AS Frøya 24 635 100 % 6 478 34 942
Måsøval Åsen AS Åsen 83 662 100 % 18 197 48 722
Måsøval Akva AS Frøya 4 532 100 % 23 482 38 852
Måsøval Service AS Frøya 24 075 100 % 9 930 9 976
Pure Norwegian Seafood AS Averøy 59 911 65 % 10 092 94 555
Måsøval Lisens AS (prev. Pure Farming AS) Frøya 216 192 100 % 15 091 49 665
Måsøval Drift AS (prev. Aqua Farms Vartdal AS) Vartdal 1 121 904 100 % 13 263 105 641
Måsøval Urke AS (prev. Urke Fiskeoppdrett AS) Vartdal 159 426 100 % 13 569 29 445
Måsøval Vartdal AS (prev. Vartdal Fiskeoppdrett AS) Vartdal 101 841 100 % -770 15 199
Western Seaproducts AS**) Vartdal 18 607 100 % 158 2 612
Vartdal Fryseri AS Vartdal 5 518 100 % 96 4 874
Two empty relief companies related to reorganisation Frøya 160 100 % 160
Total 1 820 464

*) Based on an estimated tax expense

**) Sold in february 2024

2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Urke AS 7 444
Måsøval Akva AS 10 446
Måsøval Vartdal AS 9 480
Vartdal Fryseri AS 569
Western Seaproducts AS 1 187
Total 29 126

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Received group contribution 2023 2022*)
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Laksåvika AS 5 266 12 838
Måsøval Åsen AS 11 335 6 756
Måsøval Lisens AS 20 021 1 844
Måsøval Service AS 9 915 2 490
Måsøval Urke AS 3 439
Måsøval Vartdal AS 12 945
Måsøval Akva AS 10 718
Total 73 639 23 928

*) Recognised as income in 2023

Group contributions to subsidiaries recognised as increase in investment in subsidiary in the parent company:

In connection with the submission of tax return for 2022, several changes were made to group contributions after the annual accounts for 2022 were presented. Group contributions received for 2022 totalling TNOK 23,928 will thus be recognised as income in 2023. Group contributions received for 2023 will also be recognised as income in 2023.

Group contributions received from subsidiaries related to accrued earnings during the ownership period are recognised as financial income.

NOTE 7 – DEBT TO GROUP COMPANIES AND RELATED PARTIES

Accounts payable on group companies 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Accounts payable consolidated subsidiaries 75 059 46 089
Accounts payable on other group companies 849 18 782
Current liabilities to group companies 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Akva AS 53 596 13 918
Måsøval Service AS 1 087
Måsøval Lisens AS (prev. Pure Farming AS) 2 520
Vartdal Fryseri AS 2 817 569
Måsøval Urke AS 7 444 18 491
Måsøval Vartdal AS 9 480 12 732
Måsøval Laksåvika AS 7 210
Måsøval Åsen AS 32 045 13 193
Western Seaproducts AS 1 187 4 022
Total 117 386 62 925

The Group has several co-location agreements and performs farming services on a total of 6 licences owned by partners. This applies to 3 commercial licences where the partner has put out fish at our (sea) sites and we perform farming services. Furthermore, there are 2 broodstock licences and 1 education licence where the group operates on behalf of two external licence holders through co-location agreements. Accounting treatment of the co-location agreements is considered separately based on the content of the agreements.

The biomass related to the broodstock licences and the educational licence is recognised in the consolidated accounts. For the commercial permits, we perform farming services and invoice accrued costs to the counterparty on an ongoing basis. This is recorded on the balance sheet as a claim on the counterparty.

Our share of the profit regarding the commercial licences is recognised as "Other income" in the profit and loss. For the broodstock and educational licences the licence holders' share of profits generated on the relevant licences is expensed as "Profit sharing with co-location partners".

Group contributions from 2022 were settled in January 2024 and Group contribution from 2021 were settled in 2023.

NOTE 8 – CO-LOCATION AGREEMENTS AND PROFIT SHARING

NOTE 9 – TAXES

Taxes includes both ordinary corporate tax and resource rent tax. Resource rent tax for the period is our best estimate based on current available information. The estimate is highly uncertain as legal requirements are still to be finalised by government authorities. Specification of differences between accounting and tax profit before tax expense and taxable income:

Ordinary corporate tax 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Profit before tax expense and group contribution 246 615 490 925
Group contributions to subsidiaries -29 126
Permanent differences 16 348 837
Change in temporary differences 48 864 -148 230
Interest rate limitation 762
This year's taxable income – Corporate tax 312 589 314 406
Specification of tax expense 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Payable tax (22 %) 68 770 69 169
Change in deferred tax -10 918 32 611
Tax effect of group contributions 6 408
Total corporate tax expense 57 852 108 188
Resource rent tax, payable 42 767
Change in deferred resource rent tax -10 401
Total tax expense 90 218 108 188
Resource rent tax, implementation 107 971
Total tax expense, including implementation effects resource rent tax 198 188 108 188

Resource rent tax 2023
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Operational EBIT 290 951
Depreciation licences bought in 2020 -30 514
Net income licences outside resource rent tax regime -75 547
Investments 2023 -8 678
Impairments outside resource rent tax regime 44 895
Net other income/expenses outside resource rent tax regime 31 583
Change in temporary differences 41 604
Deduction corporate tax -63 490
This year's taxable income – Resource rent tax 230 803
Basic tax deduction -38 634
This year's taxable income – Resource rent tax 192 170
Payable resource rent tax
Paid production fee
61 590
-18 824
Net payable resource rent tax excluding production fee 42 767

Specification of temporary differences:

Ordinary corporate tax 31.12.2022 31.12.2023 Change
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Current assets 506 679 504 851 -1 828
Fixed assets -9 910 -55 687 -45 777
Licences 169 764 169 764
Temporary differences through joint production partnerships 7 058 7 058
Leasing -199 121 320
Interest rate limitation -762 -762
Deferred profit and loss account -1 580 -1 580
Total 673 391 623 765 -49 626
Tax loss carry-forward
Net temporary differences 673 391 623 765 -49 626
Deferred tax in the balance sheet 148 146 137 228 -10 918
Resource rent tax 31.12.2022 31.12.2023 Change
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Biological assets 431 883 390 279 -41 604
Total 431 883 390 279 -41 604
Deferred resource rent tax in the balance sheet 107 971 97 570 -10 401

NOTE 10 – BIOMASS

Inventory, including biomass, is recognised at cost.

Book value of inventory 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Feed inventory 15 124 18 953
Biological assets 504 851 506 679
Total 519 975 525 631

NOTE 11 – SHORT-TERM RECEIVABLES

Accounts receivable on group companies 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Accounts receivable consolidated subsidiaries 370 734 207 468
Accounts receivable on other group companies 849 18 782
Other receivables on group companies 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Laksåvika AS 18 104 7 498
Måsøval Åsen AS 18 091
Western Seaproducts AS 16 261 14 717
Måsøval Vartdal AS 92 234 73 728
Måsøval Urke AS 14 219 24 284
Måsøval Drift AS 51 959 51 148
Måsøval Akva AS 10 718 1
Måsøval Service AS 21 419 1
Måsøval Lisens AS 21 865 1
Flamek Eiendom AS 314
Måsøval Eiendom AS 6 569
Total other receivables on group companies 271 753 171 378

No maturity has been agreed on receivables on group companies.

Other current receivables 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Prepaid expenses 4 325 7 704
Other receivables 4 288 10 210
Total other current receivables 8 613 17 914

NOTE 13 – SHARE CAPITAL, SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION AND EQUITY

The share capital in Måsøval AS
as of 31.12 consists of:
No. of
shares
Face
value
Book
value
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Ordinary shares 122 508 455 0.25 30 627
Total 122 508 455 30 627
Måsøval AS Share
capital
Share
premium
Other
equity
Total
equity
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Equity per 1.1. 30 627 872 432 586 885 1 489 944
Net profit for the year 48 426 48 426
Allocated dividends -61 254 -61 254
Equity as of 31.12. 30 627 872 432 574 057 1 477 116

The shares have equal rights in the company.

(All figures in NOK 1 000)

Shareholder Holding Stake
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Måsøval Eiendom AS 85 727 553 69.98 %
Verdipapirfond Odin Norge 10 142 218 8.28 %
Vartdal Invest AS 4 761 904 3.89 %
J.P. Morgan SE 2 761 669 2.25 %
Henden Nygård Holding AS 1 800 057 1.47 %
ABBA Holding AS 1 677 176 1.37 %
Morgan Stanley & Co. Int. Plc. 1 652 643 1.35 %
J.P. Morgan SE 1 275 405 1.04 %
Frøy Kapital AS 1 255 132 1.02 %
Vicama AS 1 000 000 0.82 %
Hausta Investor AS 875 933 0.71 %
GH Holding AS 816 620 0.67 %
Verdipapirfondet Holberg Triton 690 000 0.56 %
Patric Invest AS 611 252 0.50 %
Yttervåg AS 380 036 0.31 %
Jaras Invest AS 290 000 0.24 %
Amarillo AS 249 093 0.20 %
Småge Eiendom AS 241 387 0.20 %
Storø Invest AS 227 964 0.19 %
Nordnet Livsforsikring AS 224 426 0.18 %
Others 5 847 987 4.77 %
Total 122 508 455 100.00 %

Restricted funds 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Restricted tax withholding funds (Norway) 5 295 4 818
Sum 5 295 4 818

NOTE 12 – RESTRICTED FUNDS

Ownership structure – the 20 largest shareholders as of 31.12.2023

NOTE 14 – LONG-TERM DEBT, MORTGAGES, ETC.

Borrowings 2023 2022 (All figures in NOK 1 000) Long-term debt 1 336 702 1 242 500 Leasing debt 2 323 6 017 Overdraft facility 119 216 315 927 Total 1 458 241 1 564 444

Assets pledged as collateral 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Accounts receivable 681 102 361 074
Inventory 504 851 506 679
Equipment and aquaculture licence 818 910 862 162
Total 2 004 863 1 729 915
Maturity structure long-term debt 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
– less than 5 year 1 339 025 1 248 517
– over 5 years
Total 1 339 025 1 248 517

Financial covenants

As of 31 December 2023

The Måsøval facility as of december 2023 has the following requirements. The borrower and the Group must, at all times, maintain an equity ratio of at least 30% and an interest coverage ratio of at least 4.0. Furthermore, the pricing of the credit products in the agreement is linked to the Group's net interest-bearing debt (NIBD) in relation to operating profit before depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA).

Debt on operational leases according to IFRS 16 are not included in NIBD for the purpose of calculating the NIBD/EBITDA ratio, see Alternative Perfomance Measurements for further detalis.

Måsøvals bank financing has also a cross defalt clause; if a subsidiary is in breach with covenant and the defaulted loan exceeds MNOK 25, Måsøvals bank financing will also be in default.

Pure Norwegian Seafood, a subsidiary owned 65% by Måsøval is financed on a stand-alone basis. The company's bank loan agreement has a covenant requiring a minimum equity level. A combination of high sales volume and accounts receivables overdue resulted in the company ending the year with equity level lower than the covenant requirements. Both the subsidiary bank and Måsøvals financing bank issued waivers in January 2024.

As of 31 December 2022

The Måsøval facility as of december 2022 has the following requirements. The borrower and the Group must, at all times, maintain an equity ratio of at least 30% and an interest coverage ratio of at least 4.0. Furthermore, the pricing of the credit products in the agreement is linked to the Group's net interest-bearing debt (NIBD) in relation to operating profit before depreciation and amortisation (EBITDA). Debt on operational leases according to IFRS 16 are not included in NIBD for the purpose of calculating the NIBD/EBITDA ratio, see Alternative Perfomance Measurements for further details.

Måsøvals bank financing has also a cross defalt clause; if a subsidiary is in breach with covenant and the defulted loan exceeds MNOK 25, Måsøvlas bank financing will also be in default.

Both the Group and the subsidiary, Pure Norwegian Seafood, complied with all loan covenants both at the end and through 2022.

NOTE 15 – PUBLIC GRANTS

There have been no projects with public grants either in 2022 or 2023

NOTE 16 – EVENTS AFTER BALANCE SHEET DATE

There have been several events after the reporting date. All events are described in note 27 to the consolidated financial statement for Måsøval

Group.

Independent Auditors Report

-

-

Offices in:
3 KPMG AS, a Norvegian linted liability company and a member firm of the KPMS global organization of independent member - Oslo
firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved.
Alta Elverum
Finnsnes
Mo i Rana
Molde
Statsautonserte revisorer - medlemmer av Den norske Revisorforening Arenda
Bergen
Craile
Hamar
Haugesund
Sammolo.
Sandeford
Stavanger
Charl

-

-

-

Alternative Performance Measurements of Måsøval Group

ALTERNATIVE PERFORMANCE MEASURES

The Group presents its financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). In addition, management has established alternative performance measures (APMs) to provide useful and relevant information to users of the financial statements. These APMs have been established to provide greater understanding of the Group's underlying performance, and do not replace the consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS. The performance parameters have been reviewed and approved by the Group's management and Board of directors. Alternative performance measures may be defined and used in other ways by other companies. The Group applies the following APMs:

Net interest-bearing debt

Net interest-bearing debt is defined as the net of long-term debt, shortterm debt, bank deposits and interest-bearing receivables. The measure is useful and necessary information to investors and other users of the financial statements to assess the net of the interest-bearing external capital used to finance the group. The measure is used to calculate return on capital employed and highlights the Group's ability to take on more debt.

31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Non-current liabilities to financial institutions 294 937 1 478 965
Current liabilities to financial institutions 1 652 814 548 293
Liabilities related to operational lease -132 991 -190 718
Cash and cash equivalents -9 568 -38 473
Net interest-bearing debt - Group 1 805 192 1 798 068

Equity ratio

Equity ratio is calculated by dividing total equity, including minorities, by the total assets. The measure is useful to the users of financial statements in terms of understanding how much of the company's assets are funded by equity and borrowings.

Operating EBIT (Earnings before interest, tax and other financial costs and income)

Operational EBIT an important performance measure for the Group and is useful to users of the financial statement to evaluate the profitability of sold goods and the production. Operational EBIT is calculated before fair value adjustments, production tax, profit sharing with co-location partners and financial expenses and taxes.

31.12.2023 31.12.2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Equity 1 794 276 1 988 971
Total assets 5 160 211 4 986 915
Equity ratio 34.8 % 39.9 %
2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
EBIT 292 743 884 514
Impairments 43 955
Production tax 18 824 8 861
Profit sharing with co-location partners 24 627 46 219
Biological assets - Net fair value adjustment 91 281 -246 150
Operational EBIT 471 429 693 444

Operating EBIT per kilogram of salmon

Operational EBIT per kilogram is defined as a central performance measure for the Group. The measure is used to evaluate the profitability of sold goods and the operations of the Group. The performance measure is useful to users of the financial statements to evaluate the profitability of sold goods and the production. The measure is calculated for each segment before unallocated costs and non-recurring events, fair value adjustments, income from associated companies, financial expenses and taxes. The measure is expressed per kilogram harvested volume. Harvested volume includes volume from operations with co-location partners.

Farming Sales & processing
2023 2022 2023 2022
(All figures in NOK 1 000)
Operating revenue 2 189 016 1 809 315 2 377 349 1 948 404
Operating expenses 1 634 485 1 070 369 2 365 510 1 928 342
Operational EBIT 554 531 738 946 11 839 20 062
Volume harvested 24 531 21 879 25 150 22 141
Operating EBIT per kilogram of salmon 22.6 33.8 0.5 0.9

See note 5 "Operating segments" for details.

Appendix

ANNUAL REPORT 2023 APPENDIX 165

Term Abbreviation Description
Biomass The amount of fish biomass at any time (measured in kilos or tonnes)
Closed holding pen/closed harvesting pen Closed pens or cages located close to the processing plants that provide a biologically safe
and secure environment for fish awaiting processing.
Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive CSRD An EU initiative aimed at enhancing the transparency and consistency of sustainability
reporting among large companies. It expands upon the existing Non-Financial Reporting
Directive (NFRD) and requires certain companies to disclose information on environmental,
social, and governance (ESG) matters in their annual reports. CSRD aims to encourage
sustainable business practices, improve stakeholder trust, and facilitate informed
decision-making.
Flow-Through System FTS Systems that operate with a continuous supply of fresh water from a natural water source.
Wastewater is treated before being discharged back into the environment.
FLS Delousing technology that utilises ejector pumps on a vessel to flush sea lice off the salmon
using seawater. FLS is a chemical- and medicine-free alternative for the removal of sea lice.
Full Time Equivalent FTE A unit of measurement used to work out the total number of full-time hours work by all
employees. Also referred to as person-years.
Generation Traditionally, the release of salmon is divided into two generations per year, often referred
to as spring fish (one-year-olds) and autumn fish (zero-year-olds).
Global Good Agricultural Practices GlobalGAP An international standard for farm production. The GlobalGAP certification covers: Food safety
and traceability, Environment (including biodiversity), Workers' health, safety, and welfare,
Animal welfare. Includes Integrated Crop Management (ICM), Integrated Pest Control (IPC),
Quality Management System (QMS), and Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP).

Term Abbreviation Description
Global Reporting Initiative GRI A widely used framework for sustainability reporting. It provides guidelines and principles
for organisations to measure and report their environmental, social, and governance (ESG)
performance. GRI aims to promote transparency, accountability, and comparability in
sustainability reporting across various sectors and industries worldwide.
Greenhouse Gases GHG Atmospheric gases that trap heat from the sun, warming the Earth. They include CO
,
2
methane, nitrous oxide, and fluorinated gases, primarily from human activities, driving climate
change.
Gutted Weight GW The weight of harvested fish after the entrails have been removed.
Maximum Allowable Biomass MAB The maximum biomass a company is permitted to have present in the sea.
MAB is regulated at two levels: at individual sites, and the total amount for the company.
Pancreas Disease PD A viral illness that reduces growth and increases mortality.
Production Area PA A traffic-light system for regulating capacity in Norwegian salmon and trout production.
The coast is divided into 13 areas, in which environmental factors regulate capacity.
Area 5 is from Stadt to Hustadvika and Area 6 is between Nordmøre and Sør-Trøndelag.
Recirculating Aquaculture System RAS Closed-loop systems that recycle and treat water for fish or aquatic organism cultivation.
They optimise water usage, minimise environmental impact, and enable intensive fish farming
in controlled conditions.
Sustainable Development Goal SDG A set of 17 interconnected global objectives designed to address pressing social, economic,
and environmental challenges facing humanity. Adopted by all UN member states in 2015 as
part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Thermal Growth Coefficient TGC A common growth model in fish farming that takes the size of the fish and the variations in
water temperature into account.
Time Charter TC A contractual agreement in the shipping industry where a vessel is leased to a charterer for
a specific period, during which the charterer has control over the vessel's operations and pays
a predetermined rate for its use.

Glossary continues