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Vitec Software Group B — Annual Report 2020
Mar 24, 2021
2988_10-k_2021-03-24_cbef7675-5cc4-419e-874a-b8285c3c3d96.pdf
Annual Report
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2020 Annual Report
Contents
GROUP OPERATIONS
| This is Vitec | 3 |
|---|---|
| 2020 in brief | 4 |
| Comments from the CEO | 6 |
| Our position in the software market | 8 |
| Business model and growth strategy | 9 |
| Our business units | 12 |
| Sustainability Report | 18 |
| Auditor's statement regarding the statutory sustainability report |
34 |
| Our history | 35 |
| Shares and shareholders | 36 |
ANNUAL REPORT
| Administration report | 41 |
|---|---|
| Message from the Chairman of the Board | 51 |
| Corporate governance report | 52 |
| - Board members | 55 |
| - Members of Group Management | 61 |
| Multi-year overview | 62 |
| Proposed appropriation of profits | 63 |
| Financial statements | 64 |
| - Consolidated statement of profit/loss | 64 |
| - Consolidated statement of comprehensive income | 65 |
| - Consolidated statement of financial position | 66 |
| - Consolidated statement of changes in equity | 68 |
| - Consolidated cash flow statement | 69 |
| - Parent Company income statement | 70 |
| - Parent Company balance sheet | 72 |
| - Parent Company changes in shareholders' equity | 74 |
| - Parent Company cash flow statement | 75 |
| Notes | 76 |
| Signatures | 118 |
| Auditor's report | 119 |
| Definitions of key indicators | 124 |
| Shareholder information | 127 |
Text and production: Vitec.
Images: Edel Puntonet unless stated otherwise. Emil Atak p. 24, Emil Frej Hansen pp. 2, 5, 8 and 24, Marius Rødsand p. 15, Mattias Andersson pp. 16 and 52, Stig Håvard Dirdal p. 25, Tonny Krokengen p. 27, Fredrik Hjerling p. 51 and Adobe Stock pp. 2, 4, 15–16, 18, 29–30, 32, 43 and 44.
Cover image: Emil Frej Hansen. Contributor: Violeta Guran, Herlev.
Printing: Original Tryckeri i Norrland AB, Umeå. The printing company and this printed brochure meet Nordic Swan Ecolabel criteria. Paper: Munken, eco-labeled.
This English version of the Annual report is a translation of the original Swedish version; in the event of variances, the Swedish version shall take precedence over the English translation.
This is Vitec
Vitec is the leading software company in Vertical Market Software in the Nordic region. We develop and deliver standardized software aimed at various niche markets and our growth is largely driven by acquisitions of well-managed and profitable software companies. The Group's overall processes, combined with the in-depth knowledge of our employees regarding our customers' operations, create the conditions for improvement, continuous innovation and sustainable product development.
To offer customers business-critical and proprietarily developed software, and thus provide them with the best conditions to develop their operations.
To rely on – Today and Tomorrow
Corporate culture
Within the framework of our decentralized organization, the corporate culture plays a significant role in corporate governance and is important for our long-term success. Our values, brand promise and Code of Conduct are the three cornerstones of our corporate culture. Our culture-strengthening forums for managers and employees are central to bringing the values to life and creating a common language and understanding of Vitec's corporate culture.
Our values
2020 in brief
We acquired five vertical software companies:
- Visiolink Management ApS
- ALMA Consulting Oy
- LJ System AB
- Appva AB
- NexGolf Oy
Increasing recurring revenues
Our recurring revenues increased from 79% to 82%, in line with our long-term strategy.
We initiated a project to describe ourselves as an employer in order to strengthen our ability to attract skilled and committed employees.
Our corporate culture in practice We formulated in-depth materials describing our values and held seminars in several business units to anchor our common values and to bring our corporate culture to life.
Culture-enhancing online meetings
We conducted our Group-wide culture-enhancing internal conferences, meetings and gatherings virtually because of the coronavirus pandemic.
Increased acquisition line of credit
We increased our acquisition line of credit by SEK 500 million to a total of SEK 1,000 million.
Key indicators
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Net sales (SEK million) | 1,313 | 1,156 |
| Recurring revenues, ARR (SEK million) | 1,080 | 908 |
| EBITA 10 largest customers |
345 | 247 |
| EBITA margin (%) | 26 | 21 |
| Operating profit (SEK million) | 222 | 144 |
| Profit after financial items (SEK million) | 208 | 130 |
| Remaining customers Operating margin (%) |
17 | 12 |
| Return on equity (%) | 20 | 14 |
| Return on capital employed (%) | 17 | 12 |
| Equity/assets ratio (%) | 38 | 40 |
| Adjusted equity per share (SEK) | 25.73 | 23.31 |
| Earnings per share (SEK) | 4.93 | 3.16 |
| Dividend per share (SEK) | 1.35 | 1.20 |
| Average no. of employees | 824 | 693 |
Comments from the CEO
2020 – a year to remember
The pandemic has unquestionably been the dominant factor during the year. Everyone has been affected, both personally and professionally. Significant differences in how work is carried out have emerged – no travel, work from home has totally dominated and many, many hours have been spent wearing headphones during countless video meetings with customers and colleagues. More about the pandemic later...
In terms of earnings, the year has developed well, with our recurring revenues (ARR) reaching over SEK 1 billion for the first time and increasing by 19%, including more than 4% organically, to 82% (79) of total revenue. We invested SEK 162 million (139) in our product portfolio and increased the number of employees. At year-end we had 27 operational business units and added about SEK 150 million in annual sales through five acquisitions during the year. At the time of writing we have 29 business units, following two additional acquisitions carried out at the beginning of the year. Despite all the restrictions on face-to-face meetings, we successfully continued with our acquisition activities, in several cases with all procedures carried out virtually.
We refinanced our loan facility during the year, doubling the credit limit from SEK 500 million to SEK 1,000 million. A new loan was signed with Nordea and SEB.
Because of the pandemic, we have concentrated on liquidity, further increased our focus on restraint with costs and postponed planned recruitments into the future. Some internal events were also canceled – for obvious reasons.
Our ability to conduct business and to serve our customers, however, has been essentially unaffected. We have a clear strengthening of the operating margin to 17% (12). However, we believe that about one percentage point of the improved margin is a positive effect of factors such as reduced travel in the Group. This means that we cannot be certain that about SEK 13 million of the improvement in profit will be permanent. In addition, the SEK 6 million in positive net gain from temporary general government pandemic relief measures during the first half of the year must also be viewed in this context.
Year of the pandemic
As CEO of Vitec, I have lived through the Swedish 1990s crisis, the internet bubble around the turn of the millennium, the 2008 financial crisis, and now, the 2020/2021 coronavirus crisis. In the 1990s, Vitec was a small company with limited resources and extremely sensitive to discontinued individual projects. At its worst, around 1993, it was a matter of days to save the company when all liquidity was wiped out. At the turn of the millennium, we had a better business model and we were profitable, which other "IT companies" in general were not, and by the financial crisis we had learned the importance of risk diversification. Many of the components that we experienced in those crises have arisen in this crisis as well, but lockdowns of all or part of society are, of course, a new ingredient.
In terms of the work environment, it has been a very different year. The pandemic has entailed new laws, constantly changing rules and recommendations to observe, as well as closed borders within the Nordic region. For us, with a pronounced Nordic strategy and presence, the closed borders have felt both completely unexpected and, of course, undesirable. I hope that the wounds between the countries caused by the events of 2020 can heal quickly and that once some time has passed in 2021, we can regain the feeling of a more unified Nordic region than is currently the case.
The pandemic restrictions have, of course, affected our internal working methods. We can see that the surge in digital meetings improves meeting discipline, cuts costs and eliminates time wasters. The flip side of the coin is less social interaction, fewer spontaneous exchanges of ideas and slower progress in pure improvement projects. So far, the benefits of digital meetings outweigh the disadvantages. Time will tell just how far we can go to find the right balance between digital efficiency and the innovative power of faceto-face meetings.
Our financial position is solid and we are well prepared for the future and for continued acquisition-based growth. Supported by our acquisition of well–established companies and a high and increasing percentage of recurring revenues, Vitec will stay its course – to be a vertical software company with excellent risk diversification and sustainable, profitable growth – and thereby increase our dividends for the nineteenth consecutive year.
Finally, I would like to warmly thank all of our employees, who responsibly and creatively developed new working methods during the pandemic, while working from home with only digital interaction with both coworkers and customers. A difficult equation was solved with excellent results.
Oh yes, by the way – I'm stepping down as CEO
If you add up the interim reports and annual reports since Vitec was listed in 1998, I have written about 100 Comments from the CEO. Sometimes it has been a bit difficult to find fresh ideas. But – repetition is the mother of knowledge and most people who have been following us probably have more than just an idea of what we are doing by now...
And should the Annual General Meeting resolve according to the proposal from the Nomination Committee, I will continue my work at Vitec as Chairman of the Board, a completely different role where I can continue to contribute to Vitec's development, if only with stories about the history of the company and what we learned from them. The constant change at Vitec is probably what has kept me doing this for over 35 years. And with growth, new employees and new customers, the continuous changes will continue for a long time to come. I look forward to this!
So long and take care until the next time we meet.
Lars
Our position in the software market
Vitec's focus is on vertical markets
Vitec is the Nordic market leader in Vertical Market Software. We develop and deliver standardized software aimed at various niche markets. This entails adapting our offering to the unique needs and requirements of companies operating within specific niche markets, to enable the management and development of their business operations. Some of our software products comprise complete enterprise systems, while others provide support for specific aspects of our customers' operations.
Vitec offers standardized software
Our standardized software applications are cost-efficient for our customers, as they allow for the assimilation of developments and upgrades by all users. This enables us to provide our customers with the optimal conditions to develop and future-proof their operations.
Vitec focuses on product development and innovation
We are specialized in adapting to the conditions and requirements of various industries. The Group's overall processes, combined with the longstanding in-depth knowledge of our employees with regard to our customers' operations, create conditions favorable for improvement and continuous innovation. Genuine customer-centric product development provides supportive and sustainable software over time.
A position with significant obstacles to market penetration
Each niche market imposes stringent demands on specialization. The establishment of a new player requires major investments and frequently involves protracted lead times in product development. At the same time, the markets are relatively small and involve considerable yield costs for customers, which diminishes opportunities for new players to generate returns on their investments. Each niche market usually contains a few companies that specialize in industry-specific applications. Generic software generally provides less cost-efficient solutions to the unique requirements of vertical markets. We always strive to achieve a leading position within our niche markets.
Business model and growth strategy
High percentage of recurring revenues
Our business model is based on a high percentage of recurring revenues. The majority of our software is distributed to customers as software as a service (SaaS). They are deployed over the internet based on a subscription model. This provides us with stable and predictable cash flows that create the prerequisites for a long-term approach. It also makes the Group less sensitive to temporary declines within individual business units. For customers, this entails minimal investment costs, software that is easy to set up and get started, and the security of having quick access to upgrades and new functions.
Growth by acquisition
Vitec is an industry player with a long-term outlook. Our growth is mainly achieved through company acquisitions within the Nordic region. The acquired companies are well-managed vertical software companies, usually with market-leading products. Our acquisition work is governed by specific criteria that wholly determine whether a company is suitable for Vitec. One example of such criteria is that the company must offer software in the form of standardized proprietarily developed products aimed at a particular vertical market. Another criterion is that the acquisitions must directly contribute to an increase in the Group's earnings per share. Consequently, it is vital that the company demonstrates solid profitability and positive cash flows at the acquisition date. Our current list of prospects comprises some 100 software companies that match our criteria.
Acquire
We have longstanding experience and vast expertise in the development, sale and support of vertical software. This enables us to identify acquisition targets that are fully in line with our strategy, based on our criteria. The acquisitions strengthen our offering and provide increased risk diversification. Before deciding on an acquisition, we dedicate a considerable amount of time and involvement getting to know the people at the companies. It is crucial that we agree on fundamental values, business models and strategies, since our acquisitions are based on the premise that the companies will continue to develop and become a part of the Group.
Examples of acquisition criteria
- Software based on standardized proprietary products aimed at a vertical market
- Stable, efficient operation with good industry knowledge
- Similar values and corporate culture
- High percentage of recurring revenues
- Good profitability and positive cash flows
Improve
The companies we acquire are profitable and well-managed. They have well-functioning operations and valuable industry know-how within their niche market. In our decentralized organization, the important decisions are taken close to the customer by the local management. Post-acquisition improvements are implemented at an appropriate pace, in close dialog with local management, who are supported by the Group's processes and infrastructure. All of the companies are monitored using shared key metrics that steer their strategic focus toward a high percentage of recurring revenues and an emphasis on robust cash flow. We also apply Group-wide principles on how to plan and implement product development, so as to ensure that our offering will remain relevant in the future. Decentralized decision-making requires that all managers understand and act in accordance with the Group's strategies and corporate culture.
Strategy for acquisition-related brands and products
All of the Group's operations contribute to the strengthening of the Vitec brand. We add "Vitec" to the legal corporate names of acquired companies and gradually switch to exclusively using the Vitec logo. We retain the product names, which are then communicated to the market in tandem with the Vitec brand. Acquisitions may result in our offering products with partly overlapping functionalities, or even competing products, within a particular niche market. In these cases, we do not introduce any immediate changes, but assess, in conjunction with the development of new products, whether components can be created to support all of the product
lines. This allows us to commence work on future-proofing the products and creating a new shared product line for all of our customers within the particular niche market.
Our suppliers
A well-functioning procurement process is the key to high-quality, cost-efficient purchasing, as well as for ensuring that suppliers live up to our sustainability requirements. Our Code of Conduct guides us in our relationships with suppliers. It encompasses matters such as anticorruption, human rights and conflicts of interest. We choose between the suppliers that meet these requirements, based on commercial grounds. Read more about our supplier responsibilities in the sustainability report on pages 18–33. 1 förvärv
Net sales and annual recurring revenues Acquired sales and number of acquired companies
The different blocks of color illustrate sales for each acquired company.
Our business units
We conduct our operations through our 27 independent business units. Vitec develops and delivers software aimed at various functions in society. They can be found at the heart of a variety of businesses and activities, including pharmacies, banks, car repair shops, property management, health care and education. Our products enable us to help our customers achieve greater efficiency and to generate social benefit. The diagram of the city below illustrates where our business units can be found and how we contribute to developments in society.
| Business unit | Software for: | Domicile | Acquisi tion year |
Sales 2020, SEKm |
Recur ring |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitec Actor Smartbook |
Municipal culture and recreation administra tion offices, as well as other visitor facilities in Norway and Sweden. |
SE | 2018 | 25 | 79% |
| Vitec Acute | Healthcare companies in Finland | FI | 2013 | 66 | 89% |
| Vitec Agrando | Church activities in the Nordic region, with Norway and Sweden as primary markets. |
NO, SE | 2018 | 51 | 84% |
| Vitec Aloc | Banking and finance industry in the Nordic region and western Europe. |
DK, NO | 2014 | 109 | 89% |
| Vitec ALMA | Information management within the process industry and energy companies in Finland. |
FI | 2020 | 35 | 38% |
| Vitec Appva | The healthcare and social services sector in Sweden. |
SE | 2020 | 30 | 95% |
| Vitec Autosystemer |
Automotive, transportation and machinery industry in Norway. |
NO | 2015 | 52 | 93% |
| Vitec Avoine | Local associations and national organizations in Finland. |
FI | 2019 | 30 | 83% |
| Vitec Bygg & Fastighet |
Construction and property management indus try in Sweden. |
SE | 1985 | 196 | 69% |
| Acquisi tion |
Sales | Recur | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Business unit | Software for: | Domicile | year | 2020, SEKm | ring |
| Vitec Capitex finanssystem |
Banking and finance industry, primarily in Swe den and with some establishment in Norway and Finland. |
SE | 2010 | 24 | 91% |
| Vitec Cito | Pharmacy market in Denmark. | DK | 2018 | 42 | 67% |
| Vitec Datamann | Car dealers and auto repair shops in Denmark. | DK | 2015 | 48 | 76% |
| Vitec Energy | Electricity traders and owners of electricity and district heating grids in 25 different countries. |
SE | 1998 | 30 | 81% |
| Vitec Fixit | Hair and beauty salons in Norway. | NO | 2019 | 59 | 97% |
| Vitec Futursoft | Automotive industry and machinery sector in Finland and Sweden. |
FI | 2016 | 82 | 91% |
| Vitec HK data | Health and welfare sector in Norway. | NO | 2019 | 17 | 84% |
| Vitec Katrina | Church-related administration in Finland. | FI | 2019 | 20 | 77% |
| Vitec LJ System | Church-related administration and preschools in Sweden. |
SE | 2020 | 18 | 68% |
| Vitec Megler | Real estate agents in Norway. | NO | 2012 | 82 | 93% |
| Vitec MV | Education sector in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. |
DK, NO, SE |
2017 | 56 | 84% |
| Vitec Mäklarsystem |
Real estate agents in Sweden. | SE | 2010 | 79 | 96% |
| Vitec NexGolf | Golf courses in Finland. | FI | 2020 | 13 | 77% |
| Vitec Nice | Liability insurance companies in Norway and Sweden. |
NO | 2015 | 15 | 68% |
| Vitec Plania | Building and facility management in Norway. | NO | 2016 | 33 | 66% |
| Vitec Tietomitta | Private and municipal waste and resource processing in Finland. |
FI | 2016 | 54 | 85% |
| Vitec Visiolink | Media companies in Europe. | DK | 2020 | 65 | 72% |
| Vitec WIMS | Insurance companies in Norway. | NO | 2019 | 28 | 73% |
Sustainable business model and retained high productivity
Our strong product focus has been particularly important during the year. We have diligently supported our customers through the continued development and deployment of business-critical software. The coronavirus pandemic and related measures have affected us across the board, but in different ways and to varying degrees. Some customers were forced to temporarily close their businesses due to government lockdowns, while in other parts of the operation we saw increased demand for our products and related services.
The year has demonstrated that our business model is sustainable and that we can adapt while maintaining productivity and deliveries to our customers. We have been creative, tested new working methods and been responsive to changing circumstances.
We have also successfully supported our customers with new features and working methods that have enabled them to adapt their operations. Another important focus has been the integration of this year's corporate acquisitions and continued innovative long-term product development.
In summary, we have successfully maintained high productivity and focus on our products, deliveries and customers, but with new working methods. The sustainability of our business model has been thoroughly put to the test and we are well prepared for the future.
Read more in the following pages about some of our business units and how our software supports the various activities of our customers.
Gert Gustafsson, COO
"We have been creative, tested new working methods and been responsive to changing circumstances."
Gert Gustafsson, COO
On the same team as those who care
Vitec HK data offers software for the public and private welfare sector, as well as for non-profit organizations in Norway. All products are user-friendly record systems.
"Information security is very important to us. We engage in close dialog with customers and government agencies and continually develop new updated versions of our application with a focus on security," says Tom Theodorsen, CEO of Vitec HK data.
Klokkergårdstiftelsen works with young people with substance abuse problems and is one of the organizations that uses Vitec HK data's Velferd software in its daily work.
"Velferd securely documents the progress of the young people under treatment in our collective. The chart is clearly organized so that relevant information can be found quickly. The structure ensures that important information is not lost and that all areas concerning the young people, their families and the network are documented," says Kristin Holmemo, CEO of Klokkergårdstiftelsen.
Personal privacy is well protected and employees only have access to information that is relevant to their work with the young people.
Since 1989, Vitec HK data has offered products for various care services and institutions that work with people who need support, such as youth and adults with substance abuse problems and children who are victims of violence.
"It's a good feeling, knowing that our products can help to facilitate the work with society's most vulnerable groups, especially at a time when taking care of mental health is so important," says Tom Theodorsen.
"It's a good feeling, knowing that our products can help to facilitate the work with society's most vulnerable groups, especially at a time when taking care of mental health is so important."
Tom Theodorsen, CEO of Vitec HK data
More secure healthcare services with digital signatures
Vitec Appva's Medication and Care Support System (MCSS) mobile software helps staff deliver the right care in the right way and at the right time via digital signature on a tablet or smartphone. The app can be used to sign off on interventions such as medications, as well as showers, physical therapy and walking. Staff who use the app find it easier to be present and more attentive to the residents, since they no longer have to feel stressed about medication tracking.
Currently, MCSS is mainly used by care personnel in municipal healthcare and social services, but also in private elderly care, home care and psychiatric services.
"We've digitized and modernized a traditionally manual and paper-based process, where pen and paper were extensively used in the past. We make it easier for these services to comply with legislation and directives," says Ulrika Kjellberg, CEO of Vitec Appva.
A study shows that organizations that use the app have reduced medication errors by around 90 percent; another effect is a significant reduction in perceived stress among employees.
The concept of a digital and mobile signature system for healthcare interventions was born in 2011 and since then, Vitec Appva has worked with user-driven product develop"We make it easier for these services to comply with legislation and directives."
Ulrika Kjellberg, CEO of Vitec Appva
ment with a focus on customer requests and ideas. Since its launch in 2012, MCSS has been widely adopted in Sweden, reaching 200 million signatures in 2020. The City of Malmö is one of the municipalities that uses the app.
"Digitalization in healthcare and social services is necessary and is mainly driven by two factors: improving both efficiency and quality of care. Digital signature lists make it easy to do the job right," says Göran Källmark, Head of Digitalization & Welfare Technology, City of Malmö.
Through MCSS, Vitec Appva contributes to safer and more patient-centered healthcare and social services.
Increased interest in digitalization in the non-profit sector
Non-profit organizations and associations make a positive contribution to societal developments and have a long tradition of participating in solutions to various societal challenges. At the same time, most struggle with limited financial and human resources, as well as with difficulties retaining and recruiting volunteers. That's why efficient and user-friendly software that supports and facilitates member communication and management is particularly important.
Vitec Avoine focuses on non-profit organizations and local associations in Finland. More than 5,000 of them have chosen Vitec Avoine's software, which manages more than 4 million memberships.
"The non-profit sector is undergoing a shift, with growing interest in digitalization and many people who want to simplify their processes and apply best practices," says Tuomo Heikkilä, CEO of Vitec Avoine.
By using Vitec Avoine's software, associations can effectively communicate with members through channels such as websites and mobile apps. User-friendly tools are important
in non-profit work – if the software does not work optimally, the association risks losing engagement and members.
"It feels great to be able to help improve efficiency in these organizations and associations, many of which are doing great work while making an impact on important social issues," says Tuomo Heikkilä.
"User-friendly tools are important in non-profit work."
Tuomo Heikkilä, CEO of Vitec Avoine
Sustainability Report
Our sustainability efforts are based on our brand promise, "To rely on – Today and Tomorrow," as well as on social, economic and environmental sustainability. We meet current needs without jeopardizing opportunities for future generations. The UN's 17 Sustainable Development Goals guide our work and we want to help achieve these goals. Our path to a sustainable society runs through our community support products and our talented employees.
Decentralization and management by objectives
Sustainability efforts are a priority in the Group and we constantly strive to improve our results. During the year, we launched a project to develop and strengthen our sustainability efforts at every level of the Group. As with our other operating activities, our sustainability work is decentralized. In order to focus our sustainability efforts on those areas that are of the greatest significance to our operations, Group Management prepares a series of focus areas every year. They are based on the UN's 17 Sustainable Development
Goals and our own risk analyses. Read more about our risks and uncertainties in the Administration Report, on pages 41–50. Sustainability is included in the owner directives issued to the business units, which are responsible for prioritization and activities that fulfill the Group's overall objectives within our focus areas. Sustainability efforts are monitored by Group Management, with the CEO holding overall responsibility and reporting to the Board of Directors. Our Group-wide Sustainability Policy is available at our website, vitecsoftware.com.
" Our path to a sustainable society runs through our community support products and our talented employees.
Our focus areas within sustainability
1. Employee responsibility
Promote a workplace environment that encourages diversity, commitment and personal growth, where our common values permeate the operation.
2. Customer responsibility
Provide sustainable products that process the customer's information securely and that contribute to increased resource efficiency and reduced climate impact.
3. Supplier responsibility
Cooperate with suppliers that act professionally, sustainably and ethically.
4. Long-term sustainable profitability
Create the prerequisites for a long-term approach with a financially sustainable business model.
5. Reduced energy consumption
Optimize energy-saving in data centers and office premises.
6. Reduced waste and increased recycling
Implement our standard for reuse and recycling.
Social responsibility
Our work with social responsibility is based on our Group-wide values and our Code of Conduct, which can be found at vitecsoftware.com.
In 2020, we clarified what our values stand for, from both the employee and the management perspective, and worked to anchor the message of the material within the Group. A common language enables us to gain a greater understanding of and reach consensus on the meaning of our values, which can thereby guide our decisions and our conduct in our daily work.
We also began working on formulating Group-wide material to strengthen our brand as an employer. Clarifying our message about who we are and what we can offer will make it easier for us to attract employees.
Focus area 1: Employee responsibility
The Vitec Group is in a state of continuous growth. In 2020, we welcomed about 200 employees in connection with corporate acquisitions and recruitment efforts. By year-end, we had approximately 860 employees throughout the Nordic region.
Our business-critical software is the foundation of our business, together with our talented employees, who work collaboratively to develop and guarantee product quality and life span.
The long-term perspective is central to our aspiration to promote sustainable employeeship, providing them with an opportunity to use their energy wisely, to grow and to maintain balance in life. Each employee is entrusted with great responsibility to contribute their specific expertise in our development work.
Respect and job satisfaction
For us, the contribution of each employee is significant to the Group's success. Consequently, our foremost employee responsibility is to recruit and train employees who have the right skills and who share our values. To encourage employees to keep working for us, it is vital that we are an attractive employer with a focus on a sustainable work environment, both today and tomorrow. Our workplace climate is based on respect for each other's expertise and for each other as individuals. All of Vitec's workplaces are to offer a work environment that is conducive to good health and growth. Our employees' health and safety must be prioritized when we, for example, design workplaces, choose equipment, create job positions and plan competence development. As an employer, we encourage our employees to adhere to a healthy lifestyle. We achieve this primarily by creating opportunities for a healthy balance between work life and private life. During the year, we formulated Group-wide support materials such as checklists that focus on the work environment when working remotely. Managers and leaders have used the material as an aid for remote management during the coronavirus pandemic.
Value-driven organization
During the year, we clarified in writing what our values stand for, from both the employee and the management perspective. By developing a common language and discussing the meaning of these values in our daily lives, we will also be able to behave based on these values and thereby bring our common culture to life. The business unit CEOs worked on the material together through reflection and dialog, and several of the business units subsequently conducted workshops within their respective departments to anchor the message among employees.
Our managers
Our managers are key culture bearers, who create an understanding for and serve as a connection to our strategies and our corporate culture. Confident leaders encourage employees to develop in pace with our operations, while clear expectations facilitate a focus on tasks that generate value. Accordingly, we arrange annual orientation events for new managers at Vitec, Leader@Vitec, through which we convey the type of leadership we expect at Vitec and the specific role of managers in creating conditions conducive to employee motivation, satisfaction, and optimal performance. Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, we were unable to meet in person this year and switched the introduction to digital meetings. We also conduct a leadership conference every second year in Umeå, which was planned for 2020, but was postponed because of the pandemic. We had two planned networking events for the CEOs of the business
units (Business Unit Manager Meetings) during the year. One was canceled, while the other was held virtually in Q4. These events enable managers to establish vital exchange networks to the benefit of the entire Group.
Our employees
Since each Vitec employee is responsible for adhering to our shared corporate culture, once a year, we invite all employees who were recruited to the Group within the past year to Umeå for an official introduction to Vitec, hosted by Group Management. The agenda includes information about the Group, and its corporate culture and fundamental values. Participants express that the introduction makes them feel welcome in the Group and creates an affinity with the business units and corporate staff. We have also noticed that the event facilitates interpersonal contact and the sharing of experiences between participants when they return to their respective workplaces.
In order to bring our brand promise to life, it is important to set the stage for employees of the newly acquired companies to become part of our corporate culture. We therefore introduce the employees of our new acquisitions on site at the company. Because of the pandemic, we have had to switch from on-site to online during the year, but the content of the introduction remains the same. Managers from the Parent Company are available to encourage discussions and answer questions. New@Vitec On site/Online is arranged at an early stage to address the curiosity of employees in the newly acquired companies.
Corporate culture on the agenda
New@Vitec
Annual introduction event in Umeå. Lecturers primarily comprise members of Group Management and common functions. Conducted in January 2020.
Participants: Group employees who were recruited in the past year.
Purpose: to welcome new employees, and to create an overall understanding of Vitec, our history and our corporate culture, as well as to network with Nordic colleagues.
Business Unit Meeting
Two meetings per year in Stockholm and Umeå, Sweden. Conducted on only one occasion, virtually, in 2020. Participants: CEOs for business units, CEO, CFO, COO, Investor Relations and Vice President of Operations (VPO). Purpose: achieving a consensus on strategic priorities, maintenance of a value-generating network.
Leader@Vitec
Annual orientation event for the Group's new managers in Umeå. Lecturers primarily comprise members of Group Management. Conducted virtually in 2020. Participants: new managers within the Group. Purpose: to create and establish an understanding of our corporate culture and leadership philosophy.
Recruitment and career development
Recruitment, salaries and career opportunities are impacted by the individual's qualifications, such as education, experience, expertise, capacity and performance. During the year, we adopted a Group-wide salary policy, which also clarifies that wage formation should reflect our values. Countering all signs of discrimination and prejudice in our daily work is a given. We promote gender equality and diversity from several perspectives within the Group. Examples of such measures are the adaptation of job advertisements and increased awareness within the recruitment process. Another example is an opportunity offered at our Umeå headquarters, where we make it easier for people who have difficulties entering the labor market by offering time-limited employment as an office host. These people receive job experience, coaching, a boost to their self-esteem and potential references for future jobs.
To a great extent, we use internal HR support during recruitment to ensure that we maintain the right focus throughout the process. In all of the Nordic countries, we have access to a common recruitment system, which provides an overview of the recruitment process and simplifies the dialog with job applicants. The system also provides support to ensure a professional approach to our recruitment process, with
New@Vitec on Site
Introduction for employees on site at newly acquired companies in our Nordic countries. The lecturers are managers from the Parent Company. Has been held online since March 2020 because of the pandemic.
Participants: employees in the newly acquired companies. Purpose: to welcome new employees, and to create an overall understanding of Vitec, our history and our corporate culture.
CEO@Vitec
Introduction event in Umeå. Lecturers primarily comprise members of Group Management and common functions. Conducted virtually in 2020.
Participants: new CEOs of the Group's business units. Purpose: to create and establish an understanding of our strategies, business model, corporate culture, leadership philosophy and history.
Management conference
Conference in Umeå every second year. Should have been held in May 2020, but was postponed because of the pandemic.
Participants: senior management from all business units, parent company managers and group management. Purpose: to create and establish an understanding of our corporate culture, business model, strategies and other relevant topics.
increased respect for the individual and structured feedback to candidates.
As an employer, all Vitec companies have an important responsibility to provide employees with growth opportunities. Annual career-development meetings between managers and employees provide feedback and an opportunity to discuss future developments based on the needs of the company and the career preferences of the employee. Our target scenario is for every employee at Vitec to recommend us as an employer.
In an internal brand survey measurement, 85 percent of employees stated that they recommend Vitec as an employer. We continue our efforts to achieve our target, including by developing how we describe ourselves as an employer. During the fall, this included follow-up on the internal brand survey measurement by interviewing a number of employees from our different business units regarding what they think about working for us. The results show that the majority of employees consider Vitec to be a good employer that creates a favorable atmosphere at work and contributes to social benefit through our software. The interviews also show that our culture and values are well embedded and that the employees support and are proud of our brand promise, To rely on – Today and Tomorrow.
From our employee interviews:
"Unique culture with cooperation, not competition."
"Freedom with responsibility."
"Okay to ask questions and make mistakes." "Humor."
ple who provide benefit to society." "Now during the coronavirus crisis, we've seen other companies brought to their knees, but Vitec persisted, maintained and even increased its sales. I felt proud then. It was reassuring on several levels, from a family perspective and privately, but also in terms of business. It felt like confirmation that Vitec as a company is doing the right things."
"Entrepreneurial, it doesn't feel like a start-up, but it still has the personality of one and a feeling that you'd gladly put your effort into something new."
"Open."
"Our software makes life easier for peo-
"Accepting."
Convertible program
By continually offering convertible loans, our employees have the opportunity to invest in a long-term partnership with Vitec. After a given period, usually three years, the convertible loans can be converted into Vitec Software Group shares, provided that conditions are advantageous to do so. If it is not advantageous to convert the loan into shares, the loan is repaid in cash. This provides all employees, regardless of
their role, with the opportunity to partake of Vitec's growth in value, while allowing for minimizing the consequences of any negative share-price movements. Historically, we have introduced a program every three years with identical terms and conditions for all employees. Beginning this year, the intention is to implement an annual program. The 2020 Annual General Meeting resolved to implement the current program, which is the tenth consecutive round.
Meet some of us
Helen Näätsaari System consultant, Vitec Bygg & Fastighet, Sweden
Vitec is an employer that takes care of and values its personnel. We work as a closeknit team, while being viewed as valuable individuals. I've worked with programming at Vitec since 2016. The result is ready-made web applications for property owners, real estate companies and their customers. The applications are used for marketing rental properties, such as apartments, parking places, storage rooms, premises and "my pages" for home hunters.
The best part of my job is being able to
help deliver a product that combines the stability and power of a standard product with the ability to tailor it to individual customer needs. Through the scope of our customer base, with both large and small businesses, we accumulate experience and knowledge that guarantees the high quality of our deliveries.
For me personally, it's important that the company I work for has values that I can wholeheartedly embrace and represent, and Vitec definitely meets that criterion.
"For me personally, it's important that the company I work for has values that I can wholeheartedly embrace and represent, and Vitec definitely meets that criterion."
Lisbeth Lorentzen Support consultant, Vitec Datamann, Denmark
I've worked as a support consultant at Vitec Datamann for 14 months. I answer phone calls and emails mainly from accountants who work for car dealerships when they have questions about or need support while working with our AutoVision system. I teach how to use the system, find and correct errors and set up new features. For example, they may need help with integration with our partners in the automotive sector.
I like the unpredictability of the job and that I learn many new things every day. I also enjoy talking to people and appreciate their satisfaction when we solve someone's problem. I'm stubborn enough to keep trying and never give up!
We have a manager who is good at giving encouragement when we do a good job and helps us find the answers ourselves. Sometimes it can be difficult when you don't have answers to all the questions, but I have good colleagues and we help each other as a team.
Structure, friendliness, helpfulness, knowledge and willingness are all important to succeed in my role. If I were to describe Vitec in three words, it would be opportunities, team spirit and knowledge.
"If I were to describe Vitec in three words, it would be opportunities, team spirit and knowledge."
Brian Jensen IT engineer, Vitec IT-Drift, Denmark
I help Vitec's business units with operation of the IT environment – installing new servers, troubleshooting, monitoring and configuring software, as well as providing advice and suggesting solutions to various
challenges. I've worked at the company since November 2005 and was employed at Vitec's IT department in 2019. Finding good simple solutions for complicated systems and helping the business units with problem solving and various tasks really motivates me. In our role, we have to understand and meet the customer's current and future needs.
Vitec offers great opportunities both for growth and to influence the job. I feel that I am making a difference and that my contribution is valuable. Vitec's corporate culture is just what I like – the company is extremely open to suggestions and input from its employees. Our Code of Conduct deals with ethics, tolerance and transparency. I think it's great that Vitec focuses on these values.
"I feel that I am making a difference and that my contribution is valuable."
Anne Pousi Project manager, Vitec Avoine, Finland
I work as a project manager and I'm responsible for budgeting, scheduling and communication during a project. I'm also responsible for finding out about the customer's needs and implementing the requirements that are set. I've worked at Avoine for 15 years. The company became part of Vitec in 2019 and now we are Vitec Avoine. One of our main products is a member database for organizations in the non-profit sector.
As a project manager I need to be both meticulous and empathetic. Implementing a new product in an organization is a social process that affects many people. The users are always the core of the process.
My job is extremely free. I can decide
"My work is in line with my values."
how to do my job. On the other hand, I always have the support of my team. Many of my colleagues have worked here for many years and are real experts in their fields.
My work is in line with my values and it's great that sustainability is part of our Code of Conduct, especially environmental sustainability. Through our products, we have the opportunity to help reduce climate impact, since our customers' processes become more efficient and digitalized.
What I really appreciate about Vitec is that the employees are important and they put a lot of trust in us. Everyone I've met here at Vitec is upbeat and laughs a lot.
Jon Erik Selland Web developer, Vitec Plania, Norway
My main task is to further develop and maintain the Plania product through new development, coding and bug fixing.
My job is to create solutions for Vitec Plania's customers so they can work smarter and more easily in their day-to-day jobs. I have the opportunity to learn so many new things and to see customers use what I've developed. I'm motivated by solving problems and responding to customer requests, especially tasks that add obvious value to the product.
I started as a consultant and worked in that role for a year, but now I'm a full-time employee as a full-stack C# developer at Vitec Plania. One challenge I face in my daily work is technical problems that often require an innovative approach. Our value 'keep it simple' helps me as a developer. The customers need a product that's easy to work with while performing complex tasks. My task as a developer is to meet that requirement by using simple methods.
"Our value 'keep it simple' helps me as a developer."
Did you know this about us?
- We have 43 offices in 30 locations across the Nordic region.
- At Vitec we use five languages: Finnish, Danish, Norwegian, Swedish and English when the first four aren't enough!
- During the year, we provided introductions for 160 employees through our culture-enhancing forum New@Vitec.
Age distribution, 2020
| Dec 31, 2020 | Total | Percentage of women |
Percentage of men |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group | 862 | 30 | 70 |
| Under 30 years old | 102 | 31 | 69 |
| 30–50 years old | 501 | 29 | 71 |
| Over 50 years old | 259 | 32 | 68 |
| Of which managers | 131 | 21 | 79 |
| Under 30 years old | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| 30–50 years old | 85 | 22 | 78 |
| Over 50 years old | 46 | 20 | 80 |
Employee turnover in 2020
| Dec 31, 2020 | Total | Percentage of women |
Percentage of men |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of new employees | |||
| Total | 97 | 33 | 67 |
| Under 30 years old | 20 | 35 | 65 |
| 30–50 years old | 59 | 32 | 68 |
| Over 50 years old | 18 | 33 | 67 |
| Number of people who have terminated their employ ment |
|||
| Total | 74 | 38 | 62 |
| Under 30 years old | 17 | 24 | 76 |
| 30-50 years old | 35 | 40 | 60 |
| Over 50 years old | 22 | 45 | 55 |
Average age
| Dec 31, 2020 | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Group | 43 | 44 |
Employee turnover in percent*
| Dec 31, 2020 | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Group | 9% | 13% |
*Measured as the lowest figure for number who started and number who left, divided by the average number of employees.
Focus area 2: Customer responsibility
Our products are our foundation and our most important contribution to our sustainability efforts, because they support requisite society functions and enable the streamlining of customer processes, which in many cases results in reduced resource consumption.
The products are critical to our customers' operations. Therefore, our foremost customer responsibility is to ensure that our products are accessible, and that they manage our customers' data securely and reliably. Our products are increasingly provided as software as a service (SaaS). They are deployed over the internet based on a subscription model. This means that in addition to functionality, we are responsible for accessibility, energy-efficiency and security. We
perform annual audits based on our security policy to be able to implement any required measures early on. We continuously monitor the energy-efficiency of data centers and how the electricity we purchase is produced. Our products have been developed in accordance with the EU's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) framework, which provides our customers with a high level of data security.
Through our activities, we want to contribute to positive social, economic and environmental development. Here you can read about some of our products and how they solve the challenges our customers face, while contributing to a more sustainable society. Read more on our website vitecsoftware. com.
More efficient work and energy consumption in churches
The medieval church in Norwegian Sem is a lovely twelfth-century building that previously had problems with excessive energy consumption and an indoor climate that was too dry. By using Vitec Agrando's Medarbeideren software, the parish can now control the energy system that lowers the temperature between activities in the church, which has increased humidity while reducing energy consumption. In addition, heating does not need to be planned manually; all activities are planned in the calendar in Medarbeideren, which is then integrated with the control system installed in the church. The system in Sem church is provided by Jeff Electronics.
The parish is not alone in moving to more resourceefficient management of the church building. About 80% of all parishes in Norway have chosen Vitec Agrando's products. The main system is Medarbeideren, which has almost 20,000 unique users in Norway, Sweden and Denmark. Heating costs are estimated to have been reduced by 20–50% in churches that use the system integrated with energy management. Vitec Agrando offers a wide range of software applications that support most church-related activities.
"Our products are critical to our customers' operations; daily work would stand still if they didn't work," says Dagfinn Skogøy, CEO of Vitec Agrando.
The software has helped to digitize and streamline work in the Church. For example, worship services are planned in LabOra Verksted, which contains text references for the sermon and suggestions for music and hymns, which saves time for the staff and allows them to share the plans with each other, thereby reducing the need for paper printouts. It is also easy to create a Powerpoint presentation of a planned service. More and more churches are using screen presentations of the service instead of printouts. LabOra Verksted has an app for churchgoers to follow the service on their smartphones, which has also helped to reduce the need for paper copies for the congregation. For many parishes, this is part of being a "green parish" and thereby helping to reducing climate emissions and negative environmental impacts.
Modern solutions for sustainable health care
The Finnish healthcare sector has been undergoing major changes for a long time. Public finances have been running at a deficit, while the population has been aging. Over the past five years, the trend has moved toward a concentrated market, especially in private healthcare, where large private healthcare companies have grown, while their small and medium-sized counterparts have decreased in number. From an IT perspective, this change has entailed specialization and interoperability between software companies.
Vitec Acute offers electronic health records (EHR) software aimed at public and private care providers.
"A long-term approach, quality and reliability are foremost in our minds when it comes to our products. We want to collaborate with other software companies to create value together, so that customers can
develop their business with the best possible tools. It is important that our product offers high quality from a medical perspective and can easily be integrated into the existing customer environment, which is financially sustainable for our customers," says Janne Vainio, CEO of Vitec Acute.
During the year, many healthcare companies have chosen digital solutions and new tools have been integrated into existing EHR systems in order to offer patients online doctor visits. We will see more and more of this trend, according to Janne Vainio. Online doctor visits will quickly become the new normal in primary care – in those cases where patients do not need to see the doctor in person.
"Virtual clinics will improve access to cost-effective treatment in the healthcare system, while also benefitting the climate," says Janne Vainio.
Sustainable software for real estate agents
Next is our versatile software for real estate agents in Norway, which we developed with a focus on userfriendliness and sustainability. It supports all mobile platforms and makes it possible for real estate agents to work remotely and access the systems from wherever they may be. All documents that are needed for the job can be handled digitally and no unnecessary printing is required, which saves resources for the brokerage firms.
The software makes it possible to sign legal documents electronically, which means that real estate agents can enter into contracts with sellers without paper printouts and face-to-face meetings. The latter has been particularly important during the year due to the coronavirus pandemic and we have seen an increased interest in electronic signing among customers. In early December 2020, Vitec Megler had reached 360,000 signings compared with 112,000 signings in 2019.
"We had expected an increase, but nowhere near this many," says Marion Laugsand, CEO of Vitec Megler.
Training materials, digital workshops and webinars have been offered to a greater extent during the year to support the work of real estate agents.
"As soon as the social distancing guidelines were announced, we developed a new feature that allows prospective buyers to book open house appointments so that viewings can be done safely and securely," says Marion Laugsand.
Next also offers real estate agents the option to conduct property closings remotely using a digital checklist that the buyer and seller go through and sign.
During the year, particular focus was placed on developing a universal design approach for functions in the portal for bidding on properties (Budportalen) and the portal for viewing properties (Visningsportalen), with the aim of increasing accessibility for both home sellers and real estate agents.
Digital distribution in the service of democracy
Vitec Visiolink offers software for digital distribution of newspapers and magazines and currently has the largest media houses in Europe as customers, as well as individual publishers of small niche magazines. The products enable readers to access e-newspapers on any digital device.
Ten years ago, the tablet was introduced to the market and in the same year Vitec Visiolink delivered the first e-newspaper app for tablets. Today, around 850 apps are in use daily and Vitec Visiolink serves around 2,000 newspapers and magazines in 11 countries with e-editions.
"By converting journalism into e-newspapers, media houses have the best of both worlds. Consolidated, edited content with the credibility of high-quality journalism combined with the speed and flexibility of the new digital media, with options for interaction between text, photo, audio and video," says Jens Funder Berg, CEO of Vitec Visiolink.
Making it possible for quality journalism to reach a large number of people is one way to contribute to a
more sustainable society from the standpoint of democracy. One of the global goals is to ensure public access to information and to protect fundamental freedoms, in accordance with national laws and international agreements.
"In Denmark, we usually talk about the free press as the fourth estate, where journalism plays a crucial role in a democratically enlightened society. Our contribution is to ensure that our products deliver on our brand promise: To rely on – Today and Tomorrow," says Jens Funder Berg.
Although reducing the number of paper newspapers contributes to a lower carbon footprint, the software requires energy and computing power. Vitec Visiolink consumes 140,000 kWh annually in offices and data centers. The electricity for Vitec Visiolink's data centers comes from climate-certified and CO2-neutral hydropower.
Jysk Fynske Medier is one of the customers that has chosen to use Vitec Visiolink's software. They point to the environmental aspect as an important factor.
Focus area 3: Supplier responsibility
We have a long-term perspective when working with our supplier agreements. Our purchasing uses a checklist that clarifies our expectations with regard to suppliers based on a professional, sustainable and ethically correct approach. The checklist was first implemented in the Group in 2019 and is based on our Code of Conduct and sustainability policy. Although purchasing constitutes a very limited portion of the Group's operations, it is vital that we choose suppliers based on our values, those who, for example, consider human rights and anticorruption to be a matter of course. In 2020, a procurement process resulted in a system for automatic
control of supplier status regarding payments, which gives us direct feedback regarding information such as whether a supplier lacks the appropriate F tax certificate, has serious tax liabilities or is a scam company. Our main purchases pertain to areas such as office premises, data centers, electricity supply, information services, travel, electronics, computers, telephony, office materials and software components. We do not lock ourselves to specific suppliers, which allows us to switch to other alternatives without major disruptions to our operations.
Financial sustainability
One of our core values is to keep it simple. Focusing on simplicity when solving problems and challenges helps everyone to become more aware of costs. Our Code of Conduct also provides business-ethical guidelines for sustainable enterprise.
Focus area 4: Long-term sustainable profitability
Our business model is based on deploying software as a service (SaaS), via the internet using a subscription model. This business model is financially sustainable and provides the prerequisites for a long-term approach.
This entails a safe offering for customers, while providing us with stable and predictable cash flows through recurring revenues. It also makes the Group less sensitive to temporary declines within individual companies. We have opted not to have a bonus system for senior executives, to ensure that the company is managed from a long-term perspective and to avoid a short-term approach. Instead, we enable all our employees to become co-owners of the company, for example through recurring share-based incentive programs.
The Group's growth is essentially driven by acquisitions
SEK million Hållbarhetsrapport 900 1,200 1,500 of well-managed and profitable software companies. One crucial parameter is that earnings per share must increase as a result of the acquisition. All Group companies are monitored using shared key metrics that steer their strategic focus toward a high percentage of recurring revenues and an emphasis on robust cash flow. An overall target is to achieve a minimum operating margin of 15% for the Group. Another objective for long-term financial sustainability is that our dividend to shareholders must comprise at least one-third of the profits every year. These levels are based on our collective assessments of the specific resources needed to satisfy our stakeholders' requirements. We shall continue to invest in product development and company acquisitions. We are to be an attractive employer to employees who share our values, and we are to be a good choice for shareholders with long-term interests.
36%*
Environmental sustainability
Our products digitize and enhance the efficiency of our customers' processes. We have the opportunity to create the conditions for enhancing resource efficiency and reducing climate impact through our products. You can find examples of this under focus area 2, Customer responsibility, on page 27. We also strive to continuously improve our proprietary operations through sustainable and efficient resource utilization. This includes our power consumption in offices and data centers, our business travel and electronic waste. Our environmental efforts are systematic and integrated into our operations, which manifest as a continuous improvement of key metrics, such as power consumption per employee and the share of renewable energy in our electricity agreements.
Focus area 5: Reduced energy consumption
To progressively reduce our energy consumption, we are working to optimize the efficiency of our data centers and office premises. We use "free cooling" in our Group-wide data centers. This means that the natural low temperature in outdoor air or water is used to lower the temperature in the data centers, which reduces electricity consumption by about 20%.
We collaborate with property owners to use the waste heat from one of our data centers to heat other sections of the premises, which reduces the property's overall consumption.
In 2020, we decommissioned an energy-intensive data center in Umeå, Sweden, and moved operations to a modern, free-cooling data center and also upgraded much of our hardware to new, more energy-efficient hardware, which will improve our energy performance in 2021.
In Odense, Denmark, we decommissioned another energy-intensive data center, which will reduce our consumption by up to 66 MWh/year going forward by moving these services to our existing centers. Total energy consumption in our data centers dropped by 13% in 2020.
As part of our ongoing continuous improvement efforts, data centers that become part of the Group as a result of company acquisitions are evaluated and, in many cases, moved to one of the Group's shared data centers. In addition to optimizing energy efficiency, we can also safeguard product accessibility and security. Our Group-wide data centers use 100% renewable energy sources.
In 2020, we continued our efforts to transition to 100% renewable energy sources in our electricity contracts for offices, see the outcome in the graph on the right. We also increased the proportion of renewable energy sources from 91% to 94% during the year.
For our offices, we review energy-saving measures in conjunction with renovations and relocations to new premises. During the year we reduced energy consumption per employee at our offices. In our assessment, the reduction is largely due to the current coronavirus pandemic, since most employees have been working from home for much of the year. Consequently, offices were not used to the same extent as the previous year.
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 0 Focus area 6: Reduced waste and increased recycling
% 20 4 SEK 4 5 We continued to work on implementing our Groupwide standard for reusing and recycling electronic waste. Recycling in 2020 corresponded to climate savings of 5,599 kg of CO2-eq, which is comparable to circumnavigating the globe by car 1.56 times.
10 15 1 44% 41% 37% 43% 36%* 1 2 3 44% 41% 37% 43% During the year, we focused on decommissioning and purging older hardware from our data centers and replacing them with new energy-efficient hardware. The work was mainly concentrated to Umeå, where we upgraded to new systems with significantly higher capacity and retained energy consumption.
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 0 5 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 0 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Profit per share Dividend per share 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Profit per share Dividend per share * Proposed dividend 1.64 SEK As a result of the coronavirus pandemic, most employees have worked from home and continued to use existing electronic equipment rather than being replaced or collected for recycling in our dedicated bins in the offices. The collected electronic scrap during the year consisted mainly of hard disks, which cannot be recycled in the same way as other electronic scrap. Consequently, our total climate savings from recycling and reuse decreased by about 35% compared with previous years.
In our ongoing effort to cut back on business trips in order to reduce our carbon dioxide emissions, in 2020 we introduced Office 365 and especially Teams as a collaboration platform. This strategy considerably elevated the quality
of our virtual meetings and is expected to reduce the need for business travel between our approximately 40 offices scattered throughout the Nordic region. During the year, we also launched a new intranet, SharePoint Online, as part of the implementation of Office 365 and the Group now has an easily available intranet that can be reached by computer and smartphone.
2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 Profit per share Dividend per share 44% 41% 37% 43% 36%* Our work processes in the Group are largely digitalized and the transition to working from home did not entail any major changes from an IT perspective, since we already had a well-developed IT infrastructure. For example, software development is carried out through development environments that can be securely accessed regardless of physical workplace.
* Proposed dividend 1.64 SEK Kg CO2-eq 10,000 The number of business trips during the year drastically declined because of the pandemic. From the middle of March until December, face-to-face meetings were replaced with equivalent virtual meetings.
4,000 6,000 8,000 7,348 7,034 5,599 All improvements in daily life are important; one example is our work during the year to formulate a new company car policy. With the new policy, we want to minimize our environmental impact and the risks for the driver that can arise from transportation by car. Our ambition is to have an environmental profile on our fleet.
Target: Continuously optimize energy consumption in our data centers and office premises
Electricity consumption per employee in offices
Target: 100% renewable energy in our electricity contracts 2020201920182017
Target: Increased recycling
Auditor's report on the statutory sustainability report
To the general meeting of the shareholders in Vitec Software Group AB (publ), corporate identity number 556258–4804
Engagement and responsibility
It is the board of directors who is responsible for the statutory sustainability report for the year 2020 on pages 18–33 and that it has been prepared in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act.
The scope of the audit
Our examination has been conducted in accordance with FAR's auditing standard RevR 12 The auditor's opinion regarding the statutory sustainability report. This means that our examination of the statutory sustainability report is substantially different and less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing and generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. We believe that the examination has provided us with sufficient basis for our opinion.
Opinion
A statutory sustainability report has been prepared.
Stockholm March 24, 2021 PricewaterhouseCoopers AB
Niklas Renström
Authorized Public Accountant
Our history
Vitec has been experiencing consistent growth and has shown profitability every year. Here are some of the significant events through the years that have been critical to our success.
| 1985 | 1990 | 1998 | 1999 | 2003 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitec is founded by research colleagues Lars Stenlund and Olov Sandberg. |
Operations are scaled up and the Board of Directors is reinforced with external Board members. |
Vitec is listed on Innovationsmarknaden (currently known as the Nordic Growth Market). |
Vitec is listed on Aktietorget (currently known as the Spotlight Stock Market). Several corporate acquisitions were completed in Sweden. |
Vitec formulated its acquisition-driven growth strategy. |
| 2011 | 2012 | 2016 | 2017 | 2020 |
| Vitec listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm. Acquisition of IT-Mak eriet AS in Norway, the first acquisition of a foreign company. |
Vitec records its values, which become a cornerstone of the corporate culture. |
The governance model is clarified and strengthened with the implementation of the role of Vice President of Operations (VPO). |
Vitec is moved from the Small Cap to Mid Cap list on the Nasdaq Stockholm. Olov Sandberg, one of the founders of Vitec, retired. Olov remains as the company's prin cipal owner. |
The year was char acterized by the coronavirus pandemic, but Vitec continued to grow in line with our growth strategy and through our sustain able business model. |
Shares and shareholders
Vitec Software Group AB (publ) was listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm on July 4, 2011. The company is under the Mid Cap list with the ticker symbol, VIT B and a trading lot that comprises one share. At December 31, 2020, there were 8,344 shareholders and the percentage of foreign-owned shares corresponded to 32% of the capital.
Turnover and share price performance
In 2020, the total value of share trading was SEK 2,724 million. The average turnover per day of trading was 46,477 shares, valued at SEK 10.8 million. The closing price for 2020 was SEK 341.0 (185.0) and the overall market capitalization amounted to SEK 11,176 million (6,026) at year-end.
Number of class A and class B shares
The total number of shares in Vitec at the close of the financial year was 32,773,422, including 3,050,000 class A shares and 29,723,422 class B shares. Class A shares are subject to a pre-emption clause. Current share capital is approximately SEK 3.3 million, with a quotient value of SEK 0.10 per share.
Location of listing
The Vitec Software Group's class B share is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm. The share's ticker is "Vit B" and its ISIN-coding is SE0007871363. One trading lot amounts to one share.
Dividend policy
Vitec has paid dividends every year since 2003. Our objective is for dividends to correspond to a minimum of one-third of profit after tax. However, an assessment is always performed with regard to the company's financial position.
Dividend
The Board proposes, to the Annual General Meeting, a dividend of SEK 1.64 per share, which corresponds to 36% of profit after tax for 2020. During the year, Vitec switched to quarterly payment of the dividend.
Information to shareholders
Vitec's shareholders and the stock market receive rapid detailed information about its performance and financial position, according to Nasdaq's rule book for issuers. Our website, vitecsoftware.com, is our primary channel for information, where we publish financial information and other potentially price-sensitive information, immediately following disclosure. The website also features presentations and video clips of Annual General Meetings, information about the company and the Vitec share, our financial calendar and information about corporate governance. You can also sign up for an e-mail subscription to receive our press releases at vitecsoftware.com.
Analyses of Vitec
Vitec was monitored by ABG Sundal Collier and Nordea Markets during the year.
BRIEF FACTS
| 0.5 | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Aktien och ägare 160 0.0 Number of class B shares 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 |
29,723,422 | 29,223,216 |
| Highest closing price, SEK | 350.00 | 189.50 |
| 80 Lowest closing price, SEK |
130.00 | 76.60 |
| Closing price, SEK SEK Share price 0 |
341.00 | SEK 185.00 5 |
| Average daily turnover, SEK thousands | 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 10,808 Vitec SEK |
3,724 4 |
| Average daily turnover, no. of shares | 46,477 | OMXSPI SEK 29,687 3 |
| % Market capitalization, SEK million |
11,176 | 6,026 |
| 30 Marketplace |
Nasdaq Stockholm | 2 Nasdaq Stockholm |
| 25 Segment |
Mid Cap | 1 Mid Cap |
| 20 Ticker |
Vit B | 0 Vit B |
| 15 ISIN code |
SE0007891363 | SE0007891363 |
SHARE DATA 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
| 0 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vitec SEK 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 |
OMXSPI SEK SEK |
2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 |
| SEK Adjusted equity per share |
3.5 (SEK) 3.0 |
25.73 | 23.31 | 20.71 | 13.34 | Vinst per aktie 11.37 |
| Earnings per share | (SEK) 2.5 |
4.93 | 3.16 | 3.23 | 2.70 | 2.27 |
| Earnings per share after dilution | (SEK) 2.0 |
4.91 | 3.18 | 3.22 | 2.70 | 2.25 |
| Resolved dividend per share | 1.5 (SEK) |
1.35 | 1.20 | 1.10 | 1.00 | 0.90 |
| Cash flow per share | 1.0 (SEK) |
13.18 | 9.90 | 8.01 | 6.78 | 5.20 |
| 0.5 |
SHAREHOLDERS DEC 31, 2020
| No. of A shares |
No. of B shares |
Share capital % |
Votes, % | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lars Stenlund* | Vinst per aktie 1,570,000 SEK Share price |
37,280 | 4.90 | 26.13 | |
| Olov Sandberg* | 400 1,120,000 |
73,995 | 3.64 | 18.72 | |
| Jerker Vallbo* | % 360,000 320 30 |
83,323 | 1.35 | 6.12 | |
| SEB Fonder | 25 | 2,458,071 | 7.50 | 4.08 | |
| Capital Group | 240 20 |
1,969,860 | 5.97 | 3.27 | |
| Thomas Eklund | 160 15 |
1,746,440 | Sweden 5.33 |
USA 2.90 |
Norway |
| 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Didner & Gerge Fonder |
10 | 1,632,202 | 4.98 | Luxembourg France 2.71 |
|
| Swedbank Robur Fonder | 80 5 |
1,579,556 | 4.82 | 2.62 | |
| ODIN Fonder | 0 0 |
SEK 1,480,000 5 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 |
4.52 | 2.46 | |
| Martin Gren (Grenspecialisten) | 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 1,075,534 Vitec SEK 4 |
3.28 | 1.79 OMXSPI SEK |
SEK | |
| Other | SEK | 17,587,161 3 |
53.71 | 29.20 | |
| Total | 3,050,000 | 29,723,422 2 |
100.00 | 100.00 |
*including family and/or ownership through companies
SHAREHOLDERS, BY NUMBER HOLDINGS
| Holdings | Number of shareholders |
No. of A shares |
No. of B shares |
Hold ings, % SEK 2.0 |
Votes, % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1–500 | 6,988 | 574,877 | 1.8 | 1.0 | |
| 501–1,000 | 472 | SEK | 388,832 | 1.2 1.5 |
0.7 |
| 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 1,001–5,000 |
616 | 3.5 | 1,394,959 | 4.3 | 2.3 Vinst per aktie |
| 5,001–10,000 | 98 | 3.0 | 713,314 | 1.0 2.2 |
1.2 |
| 10,001–15,000 | 68 | 2.5 2.0 |
956,433 | 2.9 | 1.6 |
| 15,001–20,000 | 37 | 1.5 | 1,174,575 | 0.5 3.6 |
2.0 |
| 20,001– | 65 | 1.0 | 3,050,000 22,392,715 | 77.6 0.0 |
87.8 |
| Anonymous ownership | 0.5 0.0 |
2,127,717 | 6.5 | 3.6 * Proposed dividend: 1.64 |
|
| Total | 8,344 | 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 3,050,000 29,723,422 |
100.0 | 100.0 |
SHARE PERFORMANCE
DIVIDEND PER SHARE 20202019201820172016
Luxembourg France Other EARNINGS PER SHARE 0.5
0.0
2.0 SEK FOREIGN-OWNED SHARES 10
SHAREHOLDERS BY GEOGRAPHIC AREA
SHARE CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT
| Year | Transaction | Total share capital |
Total number of class A shares |
Total number of class B shares |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1985 | Founding of company | 50,000 | 500 | - |
| 1990 | Bonus issue | 100,000 | 1,000 | - |
| 1990 | New share issue, incentive program | 140,000 | 1,000 | 400 |
| 1990 | New share issue | 156,000 | 1,160 | 400 |
| 1995 | New share issue, incentive program | 164,000 | 1,160 | 480 |
| 1997 | Bonus issue/split | 328,000 | 23,200 | 9,600 |
| 1997 | New share issue, incentive program | 340,000 | 23,200 | 10,800 |
| 1997 | Split | 340,000 | 4,640,000 | 2,160,000 |
| 1997 | Conversion of class A shares | 340,000 | 4,000,000 | 2,800,000 |
| 1997 | Bonus issue | 850,000 10,000,000 | 7,000,000 | |
| 1997 | Directed new share issue, Innovationsmäklarna AB and Innovationsmarknaden AB (Nordic Growth Market) |
900,000 10,000,000 | 8,000,000 | |
| 1998 | New share issue upon listing on Innovationsmarknaden | 1,500,000 10,000,000 20,000,000 | ||
| 1998 | Non-cash issue for acquisition of Bra Administration AB | 1,641,000 10,000,000 22,820,000 | ||
| 1999 | Reverse share split upon listing on Aktietorget | 1,641,000 | 1,000,000 | 2,282,000 |
| 2000 | Non-cash issue for acquisition of Minator AB | 1,732,000 | 1,000,000 | 2,464,000 |
| 2004 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 1,786,100 | 1,000,000 | 2,572,200 |
| 2007 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 1,808,000 | 1,000,000 | 2,616,000 |
| 2008 | Non-cash issue in conjunction with acquisition of Vitec Mäklarsystem AB | 1,883,000 | 1,000,000 | 2,766,000 |
| 2008 | Conversion of class A shares | 1,883,000 | 800,000 | 2,966,000 |
| 2009 | Conversion of promissory note from the acquisition of Vitec Veriba AB | 1,916,350 | 800,000 | 3,032,700 |
| 2010 | Conversion of promissory note from the acquisition of Vitec Mäklarsystem AB | 2,025,725 | 800,000 | 3,251,450 |
| 2010 | Directed new share issue to Avanza | 2,125,725 | 800,000 | 3,451,450 |
| 2011 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 2,183,538 | 800,000 | 3,567,075 |
| 2012 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 2,213,252 | 800,000 | 3,626,504 |
| 2012 | Non-cash issue in conjunction with acquisition of outstanding shares of 3L System AB |
2,574,164 | 800,000 | 4,348,327 |
| 2013 | Conversion of promissory note from the acquisition of Capitex AB | 2,654,164 | 800,000 | 4,508,327 |
| 2014 | Conversion of promissory note from the acquisition of IT-Makeriet AS | 2,674,164 | 800,000 | 4,548,327 |
| 2014 | Directed new share issue (Book building) | 2,899,164 | 800,000 | 4,998,327 |
| 2014 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 2,939,669 | 800,000 | 5,079,338 |
| 2015 | Split | 2,939,669 | 4,000,000 25,396,690 | |
| 2016 | Conversion of class A shares | 2,939,669 | 3,500,000 25,896,690 | |
| 2017 | Conversion of class A shares | 2,939,669 | 3,350,000 26,046,690 | |
| 2017 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 2,983,890 | 3,350,000 26,488,900 | |
| 2018 | Directed new share issue (Book building) | 3,233,890 | 3,350,000 28,988,900 | |
| 2019 | Conversion of promissory note from the acquisition of MV Nordic A/S | 3,236,878 | 3,350,000 29,018,775 | |
| 2019 | Conversion of promissory note from the acquisition of MV Nordic A/S | 3,257,322 | 3,350,000 29,223,216 | |
| 2020 | Conversion of class A shares | 3,257,322 | 3,050,000 29,523,216 | |
| 2020 | Conversion of employee convertibles | 3,277,343 | 3,050,000 29,723,422 |
MARKET CAPITALIZATION AT YEAR-END*
| SEK million | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Market capitalization at year-end*, SEK million | 11,176 | 6,026 | 2,509 | 2,596 | 2,219 |
*Market capitalization is calculated as the total number of issued class A shares and class B shares at the balance-sheet date, multiplied by the share price on the Nasdaq Stockholm at year-end.
Annual report
| Administration report | 41 |
|---|---|
| Message from the Chairman of the Board | 51 |
| Corporate governance report | 52 |
| - Board members | 55 |
| - Members of Group Management | 61 |
| Multi-year overview | 62 |
| Proposed appropriation of profits | 63 |
| Financial statements | 64 |
| - Consolidated statement of profit/loss | 64 |
| - Consolidated statement of comprehensive income | 65 |
| - Consolidated statement of financial position | 66 |
| - Consolidated statement of changes in equity | 68 |
| - Consolidated cash flow statement | 69 |
| - Parent Company income statement | 70 |
| - Parent Company balance sheet | 72 |
| - Parent Company changes in shareholders' equity | 74 |
| - Parent Company cash flow statement | 75 |
| Notes | 76 |
| Signatures | 118 |
| Auditor's report | 119 |
| Definitions of key indicators | 124 |
| Shareholder information | 127 |
Administration report
The Board of Directors and CEO of Vitec Software Group AB (publ), corp. reg. no. 556258-4804, with its registered office in Umeå, herewith present their annual report, sustainability report and consolidated financial statements for the 2020 financial year. In accordance with Chapter 6, Section 11 of the Swedish Annual Accounts Act, Vitec has chosen to prepare the statutory sustainability report as a separate report from the annual report, the contents of which are presented on pages 18–33.
Operations
Vitec is the Nordic market leader in Vertical Market Software. We develop and deliver standardized software aimed at various niche markets. Our business model is based on generating a high percentage of recurring revenues. The majority of the software is distributed to customers as software as a service (SaaS). They are deployed over the internet based on a subscription model. This provides us with stable and predictable cash flows that create the prerequisites for a long-term approach. It also makes the Group less sensitive to temporary declines within individual business units. We have a strong product focus where we work to support our customers through development and deployment of business-critical software.
We are active in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, and our operations grow through the acquisition of well-managed and established software companies.
Vitec is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm and had sales of SEK 1,313 million in 2020.
Development
We have a growth-oriented strategy and are continuously in search of new acquisition objects. For the past 10 years, our growth rate has been over 15% per year. The Board of Directors has set a financial target to achieve an operating margin of 15% while maintaining efforts focused on continuous growth and good cash flow.
OUTCOME:
| % | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sales growth | 14 | 14 | 19 | 27 | 9 |
| Operating margin | 17 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 |
Net sales and earnings
Consolidated net sales in 2020 totaled SEK 1,312.8 million (1,156.2). Net sales rose a total of 14% and recurring revenues rose 19%, including 4% organically. Aggregate recurring revenues amounted to SEK 1,080 million for the full year. Other revenues dropped 58%, mainly as an effect of the discontinued hardware business in the Vitec MV business unit. Licensing declined by 18%, which is completely in line with our shift to increased recurring revenues. Service revenues gained 16%, compared with 2019. Taken together, recurring revenues accounted for 82% of net sales, compared with 79% in 2019. Acquired companies contributed SEK 126 million in net sales during the year.
EBITA was SEK 344.8 million (247.3), with an EBITA margin of 26% (21). Operating profit amounted to SEK 222.4 million (143.9), corresponding to an operating margin of 17% (12). Operating profit included acquisition-related amortization of SEK 109.4 million (91.7), as well as acquisition-related costs of SEK 12.9 million (11.8). In 2020 the net of capitalized development costs and amortization and impairment losses on intangible fixed assets had an adverse effect on operating profit of negative SEK 15.6 million (neg: 19.6).
Net financial items totaled a negative SEK 14.8 million (neg: 13.9). Financial income amounted to SEK 0.3 million (1.9) and comprised interest from bank accounts. Financial expenses totaled negative SEK 15.1 million (neg: 15.7) and consisted of interest on financial leases of negative SEK 2.0 million (neg: 3.0) and interest on acquisition credits and convertible debentures of negative SEK 12.6 million (neg: 12.7) and other financial items of negative SEK 0.4 million (0.0).
Profit after tax for the year was SEK 160.7 million (102.2), of which SEK 160.7 million (102.2) was attributable to Parent Company shareholders.
Effects of the coronavirus pandemic
In March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the spread of the coronavirus and COVID-19 to be a pandemic. Shortly thereafter, Group Management appointed a work group that was responsible for organization, coordination and communication at the Group level. Most decisions involving operations, however, were taken by each business unit according to our decentralized governance model. The Group's decisions and communication have been based on:
- Trust and respect for government and local authorities, as well as their appointed experts.
- Care for all employees and their health.
- Our responsibility in society is to maintain functionality our products support important societal functions.
During the year, we focused on helping to reduce the risk of spreading the coronavirus and protecting the health of our employees and customers, at the same time that we worked to minimize the impact on our business.
Early in the spring we changed how we work and most employees still work from home. During this situation, we greatly benefited from our well-developed IT infrastructure, which enabled us to transition to a distributed workplace essentially overnight. Software development is carried out through our usual development environments, which can be accessed remotely and securely by our developers. In addition, our leaders have switched to lead their business units through collaboration and meeting platforms such as Teams. We have largely replaced physical trainings, gatherings and strategic meetings with equivalent digital solutions.
Depending on how long we continue to be in a situation where it is difficult to travel and meet our customers in person, we may see an impact on our service revenues and sales, which will also inhibit the organic growth of our recurring revenues in the short term. We have good risk diversification by being active in a variety of niche markets.
Direct costs attributable to the coronavirus pandemic had a negative impact on EBITA for the period of SEK 3 million, which was offset by cost cuts of SEK 9 million. Moreover, we estimate that temporary positive effects from factors such as reduced travel, canceled trade fairs and other customer-related activities account for about one percentage point of the improved margin.
Operating segments
Operating segments are defined as business units, of which there are 27, each generating revenue and incurring costs. Their operating profit/loss is regularly followed up by the highest executive decision-maker, the CEO and group chief executive. Separate financial information is available for each unit. The operating segments form the operational structure for internal governance, follow-ups, and reporting. Based on the character of the services offered with their high proportion of recurring revenues, similar range of products, and similar financial characteristics, all of the group's operating segments/business units were aggregated into one operating segment in the financial reports as of January 1, 2020 in accordance with the rules of IFRS 8. We believe that our previous division into seven segments is no longer relevant to our business.
Our current geographic market comprises Sweden 31%, Denmark 19%, Finland 21%, Norway 26% and other countries 3%.
Acquisitions and changes to the legal structure during 2020
In 2020, the following corporate acquisitions entailed changes to the legal structure:
- January 30: Visiolink Management Aps
- March 17: ALMA Consulting Oy
- April 22: LJ System AB
- June17: Appva AB
- October19: NexGolf Oy
All of the acquisitions were consolidated as of the acquisition date.
On February 11, a merger was carried out between Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB and the dormant companies Vitec Fastighetssystem AB, Vitec Software AB and Vitec Capifast AB. Pursuant to the merger, Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB has taken over the accounting and tax position of the transferring companies, along with their assets, rights and obligations.
On February 17, a merger was carried out between Vitec Mäklarsystem AB and the dormant companies Capitex AB and ADservice Scandinavia AB. Pursuant to the merger, Vitec Mäklarsystem AB has taken over the accounting and tax position of the transferring companies, along with their assets, rights and obligations.
Two new companies were started during the year. Carlogistic ApS was founded on June 29. The company is a subsidiary of Vitec Datamann A/S. Vitec Shared services ApS was founded on November 16.
January 30: Vitec acquired the Danish software company Visiolink
On January 30, Vitec acquired all shares and voting rights in the Danish software company Visiolink Management ApS with subsidiaries, which together have around 200 customers all over Europe. Visiolink offers a publishing system for digital versions of print media, such as daily newspapers, and targets media companies. Visiolink currently has customers in nine European countries, where the Nordic countries account for a large portion of sales. The Visiolink Group reported sales of SEK 62.4 million in 2019, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 14.9 million.
Payment was in cash and with a convertible, with deviation from shareholders' preferential rights in accordance with the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on April 10, 2019. The convertible matures in 36 months and at full conversion will have a dilutive effect on share capital of 0.2%. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share.
March 17: Vitec acquired the Finnish software company ALMA Consulting Oy
On March 17, Vitec acquired all shares and voting rights of the Finnish software company, ALMA Consulting Oy. The company reported sales of SEK 31.6 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 7.9 million for the 2019 financial year. ALMA Consulting Oy develops and delivers information management software for the processing industry and energy companies in Finland. The products enable companies to streamline and plan their production supporting processes. The company currently has about 100 customers.
Payment was in cash and with a contingent consideration. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share.
April 22: Vitec acquired the Swedish software company LJ System
On April 22, Vitec acquired all of the shares and voting rights of the Swedish software company, LJ System AB. The software company LJ System has its headquarters in Lund and offers products for church-related administration and preschools. The product Fas Församlingsadministration is a module-based enterprise management system used by about 300 parishes. The product facilitates functions such as cemetery administration with digital maps, business and payroll management and reservations by computer, smartphone and tablet. Abbum is another product used to manage administration and education, primarily in preschools. The company reported sales of SEK 18.6 million, with an EBITDA of SEK 2.7 million for the financial year of May 1, 2019–April 30, 2020.
Payment was in cash and the acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share.
June 17: Vitec acquired the Swedish software company Appva AB
On June 17, Vitec acquired all of the shares and voting rights of the Swedish software company, Appva AB, including the wholly owned subsidiary Utvecklingsbolaget RAUK AB. Appva AB reported sales of SEK 22.9 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 2.1 million for the 2019 financial year. The
company provides the product Medication and Care Support System, MCSS, a mobile and digital signature app for medication tracking within the municipal care system. The product was launched in 2012 and is used by about 100 customers in Sweden, most of which are municipalities. MCSS offers customers an array of functions that facilitate modern working methods. For example, care personnel can use a tablet, smartphone or computer to enter and sign off on medications given to patients, along with a secure and reliable method for recording each care procedure.
Payment was in cash and with a contingent consideration. In addition, a convertible was issued with deviation from shareholders' preferential rights in accordance with the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on April 10, 2019. The convertible matures in 36 months and at full conversion will have a dilutive effect on capital of 0.1%. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share for Vitec.
October 19: Vitec acquired the Finnish software company NexGolf Oy
On October 19, Vitec acquired all shares and voting rights of the Finnish software company, NexGolf Oy. The software company NexGolf has its registered office in Oulu, Finland, and offers enterprise management systems for golf courses. The products facilitate handling of invoicing, membership
databases, tournaments, booking and payment of tee times, as well as communication with members. The company currently has about 110 customers in Finland. The company reported sales of SEK 10.0 million, with an EBITDA of SEK 3.1 million for the 2019 financial year.
Payment was in cash and with a contingent consideration. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share.
Other important events in brief
- January 20: Gert Gustafsson was appointed to serve as the new COO.
- September 16: Allocation of new employee convertibles and warrants from warrant incentive program.
- September 28: Vitec refinanced and expanded its loan facility from SEK 500 million to SEK 1,000 million.
- December 21: Employee convertible from 2018 was converted in its entirety; number of shares and votes increased.
- December 22: Investment in the software company Nordkap AB.
Events after the balance-sheet date January 4, 2021: Vitec acquired the Swedish software company Unikum datasystem AB
On January 4, Vitec acquired all shares in the Swedish software company Unikum Datasystem AB.
Unikum offers the Pyramid Business Studio software, a complete business and enterprise management system for small and medium enterprises. The product offers functions such as project management, accounting, customer care and e-commerce. The company reported sales of SEK 102 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 42 million for the 2019 financial year. Vitec welcomes 90 new employees as part of the acquisition.
Payment was in cash and with a convertible, with deviation from shareholders' preferential rights in accordance with the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on June 23, 2020. The convertible matures in 36 months and at full conversion will have a dilutive effect on capital of 0.1%. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share for Vitec. Consolidation will commence as of the acquisition date.
At the time of this report's publication, there were no financial statements available that could serve as the basis of a more detailed description of the acquisition. For this reason, no information is presented about the fair value of acquired receivables, and acquired assets and liabilities. We expect the future items of a detailed acquisition analysis to comprise
product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill. Goodwill is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability, and complementary expertise requirements, as well as expected synergies, in the form of the joint development of our products.
January 18, 2021: Convertible 1906 was converted in its entirety
The convertible, which was issued in June 2019 in conjunction with the acquisition of Odin Systemer AS (currently Vitec Fixit Systemer AS), has been converted in its entirety.
As a result of the conversion, the number of Class B shares in Vitec increased by 260,480 and share capital increased by SEK 26,048. The number of shares in Vitec after the conversion is 33,033,902 shares, including 3,050,000 class A shares.
February 3, 2021: Vitec acquired the Swedish software company Travelize International AB
On February 3, Vitec acquired all shares in the Swedish software company Travelize International AB, with subsidiary. Travelize reported sales of SEK 17.1 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 4.1 million for the 2020 financial year.
Travelize develops and provides a complete enterprise management system for small and medium-sized travel agencies, primarily in Scandinavia. The web-based software enables travel reservations, web publishing and administration. The system offers an array of functions for customer and payment management, as well as marketing. The company's approximately 300 customers are mainly located in Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Vitec welcomes eight new employees as part of the acquisition.
Payment was in cash and with a convertible, with deviation from shareholders' preferential rights in accordance with the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on June 23, 2020. The convertible matures in 36 months and at full conversion will have a dilutive effect on capital of 0.1%. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share for Vitec. Consolidation will commence as of the acquisition date.
At the time of this report's publication, there were no financial statements available that could serve as the basis of a more detailed description of the acquisition. For this reason, no information is presented about the fair value of acquired receivables, and acquired assets and liabilities. We expect the future items of a detailed acquisition analysis to comprise product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill. Goodwill is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability, and complementary expertise requirements, as well as expected synergies, in the form of the joint development of our products.
March 15, 2021: Olle Backman new CEO, Lars Stenlund proposed as new Chairman
The Board of Directors of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) has appointed Olle Backman to serve as new CEO and Group chief executive. Olle Backman has been the CFO of Vitec since June 2019; before that, he was CEO of the electrical engineering company Eitech AB with over 1,000 employees in Sweden. He will take up the post of CEO on April 29. The Nomination Committee proposes the re-election of all members, as well as the election of Lars Stenlund, who is also proposed as the new Chairman of the Board.
Liquidity, cash flow and financial position
The Group's cash and cash equivalents, including current investments at the end of the period, totaled SEK 134.7 million (16.7). In addition to cash and cash equivalents, Vitec had overdraft facilities of SEK 250 million and SEK 515.0 million in unutilized portions of the credit facility.
During the year we signed agreements for a new revolving credit facility with Nordea and SEB for SEK 1,000 million; this agreement replaces the previous facility of SEK 500 million.
At December 31, 2020, interest-bearing liabilities totaled SEK 558.1 million (470.4) and comprised SEK 555.3 million (467.4) in non-current interest-bearing liabilities and SEK 2.8 million (3.0) in current interest-bearing liabilities.
Non-current interest-bearing liabilities comprised bank loans of SEK 490.5 million, as well as convertible debentures totaling SEK 64.8 million. Current interest-bearing liabilities comprised bank loans of SEK 2.8 million. The terms and conditions of the company's credit agreement with the bank comprises restrictions, known as covenants. The Group has fulfilled the terms and conditions in their entirety during the period.
Liabilities relating to finance leases are included in other non-current liabilities of SEK 29.0 million and in other current liabilities of SEK 29.6 million.
The Group's net interest-bearing assets and interest-bearing liabilities, excluding IFRS 16 liabilities, totaled an expense of SEK 423.4 million (neg: 453.7).
During the period, financing was arranged by using SEK 144.3 million from the credit facility and by taking out a convertible loan of SEK 13.5 million. Repayment of the facility totaled SEK 39.8 million, amortization of bank loans amounted to SEK 8.3 million, and amortization related to leases was SEK 44.2 million.
- Cash flow from operating activities was SEK 436.3 million (283.2).
- Cash flow from investing activities was a negative SEK 340.1 million (neg: 375.5), comprising a negative SEK 167.2 million (neg: 218.9) for the acquisition of subsidiaries, negative SEK 163.2 million (neg: 141.0) for the acquisition of intangible fixed assets, including capitalized work and negative SEK 9.6 million (neg: 15.6) for investments in property, plant and equipment.
- Cash flow from financing activities totaled SEK 38.5 (neg: 127.3), and comprised SEK 157.8 million (237.0) from new bank loans, SEK negative 33.3 million (neg: 38.8) from dividend payments, SEK 6.2 million (0.0) from option premiums paid and negative SEK 92.3 million (neg: 325.5) from amortization.
Equity attributable to Vitec's shareholders totaled SEK 843.4 million (759.4). The equity/assets ratio is 38% (40). The Annual General Meeting in June 2020 resolved to approve a dividend of SEK 1.35 per share for a total of SEK 44.0 million. The dividend will be divided up and paid on four payment dates: June 30, September 30, December 30 and March 30, 2021. The dividend paid to date totaled SEK 33.3 million. The remaining dividend of SEK 10.7 million is expensed.
Investments
Investments totaled SEK 161.9 million in capitalized work, SEK 1.3 million in other intangible assets and SEK 9.6 million in property, plant and equipment. Investments in right-of-use assets not affecting cash flow totaled SEK 15.1 million. The acquisitions of the Visiolink Group, ALMA Consulting Oy, LJ System AB, Appva AB and NexGolf Oy added SEK 296.0 million in product rights, brands, customer agreements and goodwill.
Research and development
Vitec develops and delivers standardized software aimed at different niche markets. Sustainable development is essential to our strategy and a prerequisite for long-term survival. Strategically focused development strengthens existing operations and enables the introduction of new products and services.
Intangible fixed assets
The Group's intangible fixed assets comprise goodwill, product rights, brands and customer agreements that arise from acquisitions, as well as capitalized development work and software. As of December 31, 2020,
the carrying amount was SEK 770.0 million (617.9) for goodwill, SEK 278.6 million (263.1) for product rights, SEK 421.5 million (345.1) for capitalized development expenditure, SEK 129.4 million (150.8) for customer agreements and SEK 86.5 million (86.6) for brands.
Shareholders' equity
Total shareholders' equity amounted to SEK 843.4 million (759.4) at December 31, 2020. Equity attributable to Vitec's shareholders totaled SEK 843.3 million (759.4).
As of December 31, there was a warrant incentive program and a convertible program for employees, as well as three convertible loans signed in conjunction with acquisitions. These amounted to SEK 64.8 million and are convertible to a maximum of 646,688 class B shares, and increase share capital by SEK 0.06 million.
Incentive program
The Annual General Meeting on June 23 resolved on a convertible program for personnel as well as a warrant incentive program through warrants. The warrant incentive program is aimed at 40 people in Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark.
At the end of the subscription period, 251,000 warrants were transferred to senior executives in the Group on market-based terms. According to the AGM resolution, participants in the incentive program were subsidized equivalent to net 50% of the option premiums, which had a negative impact on profit for the year of SEK 7.4 million. All participants in Norway, Finland, Sweden and Denmark then paid premiums for the warrants for a value of SEK 6.2 million, which was recognized in equity.
The warrants entitle the holder to subscribe for one share and can be exercised during the period September 1–15, 2023, at a price of SEK 333 per share, upon which the share capital may increase by no more than SEK 0.03 million. When fully exercised, this corresponds to a dilutive effect of 0.77% on share capital and 0.42% of voting rights.
Further information about the convertible program for personnel can be found in Note 9D.
Employees
In 2020 Vitec had an average of 824 (693) employees, of which 243 (210) were women. At year-end, the number of employees was 862 (742).
Sustainability Report
A sustainability report has been prepared and reviewed by the company's auditors. See pages 18–34 of this report.
Guidelines for the remuneration of senior executives
The 2020 AGM passed a resolution adopting the following guidelines for remuneration to the Group's CEO and other members of senior executives at Vitec. The AGM's resolution concurs with previously applied remuneration policies. The guidelines apply to agreements signed after the 2020 AGM, or to any subsequent cases of amendments to remuneration.
The Board of Directors shall prepare proposals for new guidelines whenever the need for material changes arises, but at least every four years. The Board of Directors has not appointed a Remuneration Committee, but instead manages, in its entirety, issues pertaining to remuneration and other employment terms and conditions.
The AGM resolved that remuneration of senior executives is to consist of a fixed salary and pension privileges. Pension benefits must be defined-contribution based. The total remuneration should be competitive in the market and be proportionate to each executive's responsibility and authority. When determining salaries, consideration must be given to the individual's field of responsibilities, expertise and experience, which are generally subject to annual reviews. The Board of Directors may deviate from these guidelines if there are specific reasons to do so in an individual case. The Annual General Meeting may also – regardless of these guidelines – resolve on share and share-price related remuneration. Vitec does not offer variable cash remuneration to senior executives. Guidelines for the remuneration of senior executives can be seen in Note 4A.
A remuneration report will be prepared and presented to the Annual General Meeting. It describes how the guidelines were applied in 2020. No deviations were made from the guidelines and no derogations were made from the decision-making process required under the guidelines to determine remuneration.
Parent Company
The Parent Company's net sales totaled SEK 109.9 million (65.7) and essentially comprised invoicing to subsidiaries for intra-Group services rendered, pertaining to premises, data communications and telephony, financial reporting, HR and management/operations development. Profit after tax amounted to SEK 211.2 million (133.8), including anticipated dividends from subsidiaries.
The Parent Company's cash and cash equivalents totaled SEK 123.7 million (neg. 6.0). Cash and cash equivalents comprise a Group currency account, where the Parent Company holds a top (group) account with the bank. Consequently, subsidiary cash and cash equivalents comprise the receivables/ liabilities of the Parent Company. The Parent Company has an agreement for an overdraft facility of SEK 250 million (120) and an acquisition loan facility of SEK 1,000 million, of which SEK 515.0 million was unutilized at the balance-sheet date. Investments totaled SEK 0.3 million (0.2) for intangible fixed assets, SEK 0.1 million (1.4) for tangible fixed assets, and SEK 309.7 million (349.8) for participations in Group companies.
Non-current interest-bearing liabilities totaled SEK 555.3 million (467.4) in the form of SEK 490.5 million (415.7) in bank loans and SEK 64.8 million (51.7) for convertible debentures. Current interest-bearing liabilities totaled SEK 2.8 million (3.0) and pertained entirely to bank loans. During the year, new loans of SEK 157.8 million were raised.
The Annual General Meeting in June 2020 resolved to approve a dividend of SEK 1.35 per share for a total of SEK 44.0 million. The dividend will be divided up and paid on four payment dates: June 30, September 30, December 30 and March 30, 2021. The dividend paid to date totaled SEK 33.3 million. The remaining dividend of SEK 10.7 million is expensed.
Our work with risks and uncertainties
The Group is exposed to various risks, in part through its activities, and in part in the form of financial risks. Below is an account of the most critical factors and how our risk management initiatives address them.
Our business model, with a high proportion of recurring revenues, provides us with stable and predictable cash flows that foster conditions for a long-term approach. We develop and provide software applications for various niches, where each niche represents a separate market. We conduct our operations through our 27 independent business units. This
diversification in the market and among business units, along with a large number of customers, limits business-related risks for the Group as a whole. The ongoing pandemic is being managed within the framework of the Group's existing risk management procedures and affects areas such as market risks, employees and recruitment, management risks and cyclical changes.
The corporate governance report on pages 52–61 describes our internal controls and risk management in greater detail.
| RISK | |
|---|---|
| 1. Acquisition process | |
| 2. Market risks | |
| 3. Management risks | |
| 4. IT Risks | |
| 5. Financial risks | |
| 6. Product development | |
| 7. Changes in external factors | |
| 8. Skills supply | |
| 9. Brand risk | |
| 10. Disputes | |
| 11. Sustainability |
Acquisition process
To varying degrees, acquisition scenarios always entail risks with potentially adverse effects on the acquiring party. Acquisition-related risks comprise risks such as financial, legal and operational risks. If we overestimated the degree of productification/product corporate culture, overestimated recurring revenues, overestimated operating cash flows, underestimated dependence on individuals, or missed definitive market changes. If we underestimated the complexity or the need for resources or the speed of the integration process.
Market risks
Global verticals or generalists may out-compete us in some niche market.
RISK MANAGEMENT
Our understanding and prequalification have been structured and gained more control steps and formal decision-making forums. Our due diligence process and subsequent integration process have been developed and systematized. Appointed VPO is responsible for integration, supported by resources from the Parent Company. More people are involved in the process today, thereby reducing dependence on individuals.
The market risks are relatively diverse as we operate in different markets and to some extent in different countries. Consequently, the likelihood that some portion of the Group could be affected is relatively low, and the damage would therefore be further limited from the perspective of the Group. Risk is further diluted through our acquisitions.
| RISK | MANAGEMENT |
|---|---|
| Management risks | |
| With a decentralized governance model, effective leadership is a key factor. Since a large portion of the decision-making mandate rests with the business units, at the same time that we strive to achieve a common corporate culture, the roles of both the business unit CEOs and the VPO become crucial. If there are leadership deficiencies in a business unit, there is a risk that business will be conducted in a way that is not in line with our values and Code of Conduct. If the VPO becomes too independent, there is a risk that groups of business units will develop in different directions. |
Continue to build consensus within Group Management ƒ and the VPO team and promote a consistent approach to work and attitudes. ƒ Continuously implement and further develop introduction programs for CEOs and other managers. ƒ Continued implementation of Group-wide conference, Management Conference, to exchange experiences, with the aim of strengthening consensus and cooperation. |
| IT Risks | |
| ƒ Customer operations We are increasingly deploying our systems as SaaS services, which means that the responsi bility for ensuring that the systems are running rests with Vitec. This places high demands on the stability of the un derlying infrastructure. ƒ Internal operations: The organization is completely de pendent on a number of IT systems to run its day-to-day operations. Information security: Vitec handles personal data and ƒ other important information, mainly on behalf of our cus tomers. This needs to be done securely and in compliance with current legislation. The area contains challenges in our globally connected world. |
ƒ We continuously work with relevant technical protective measures. We have an "Information Security Management Group" ƒ that monitors developments and regularly discusses their application within Vitec. ƒ We continuously scan for known vulnerabilities in our sys tems. ƒ Operations are located in different data centers, all with redundancy, so that no single failure can knock out the op eration. In the event that a center is completely destroyed, operations can be moved to another location. ƒ We have the majority of all data in our own data centers or with Nordic providers. |
| Financial risks | |
| ƒ Currency risks (transactions and translation, where trans lation risk is greater). Interest rate risk (loans in bank with variable interest). ƒ Refinancing. ƒ ƒ Credit risk (receivables, mainly accounts receivable). ƒ Liquidity risk (investment of cash and cash equivalents). |
Financial review and analysis with our two banks is carried out annually. Review in relation to the Finance Policy is carried out annually. Great flexibility through the new "mul tipurpose" RCF credit denominated in four currencies. Vitec currently has a good reputation and is known on the financial market, which is maintained through ongoing contact. Our exposure to financial risks and management of these risks are described in Note 11. |
| Product development | |
| ƒ Under-/overinvestment. Inadequate control over investments. ƒ Intellectual property rights – for example, "open source" ƒ which involves sharing of code. ƒ Obsolete fixed assets. |
ƒ Product investment plan decided annually. Annual monitoring of capitalized hours. ƒ Monthly reporting and monitoring of product investment ƒ plans. ƒ A management group is appointed from Group Manage ment and staff to deal with major investments/changes. |
| Changes in external factors | |
| ƒ Risk that competition for our acquisition targets will in |
Internal improvements, gradually becoming better at what |
- Risk that competition for our acquisition targets will increase to levels where we no longer can/want to participate. Affects our ability to achieve acquired growth.
- Some kind of crisis limits access to capital.
- The economy affects customer behavior.
- Internal improvements, gradually becoming better at what we do.
- Competition in acquisitions; having control over our acquisition decisions through a clear process.
- Access to capital; strengthened focus on cash flow.
- Business cycle; our software is business-critical for our customers and our revenue is largely recurring.
We rely heavily on self-employed, qualified staff, and need to be attractive to both current and prospective employees. There is a risk that this cannot occur under acceptable terms and conditions due to the prevailing tough competition for experienced employees from other software and product-development companies.
Brand risk
Brand risk refers to events that could damage trust in our business. For example, someone within Vitec or a partner may do something that is in conflict with Vitec's values and brand promise, legislation or prevailing norms in our society – then the brand can be damaged.
- Disputes
- As with all commercial enterprises, disputes may arise, due, for example, to the differing opinions of parties on liability, interpretations of responsibilities and so forth.
- Development-intensive software companies always run the risk that someone will copy the source code.
- Does not recognize the consequences of using licenses. Any errors that arise in the products could lead to de-
- mands for accountability and claims for damages.
Sustainability
There are sustainability risks on two levels: a primary risk that the circumstances that enable us to be a long-term player in relation to our stakeholders will worsen. For example, we may be unable to develop our business or deliveries due to lack of sustainability in some respect. There is also a secondary risk of damage to our reputation and thus to our brand.
Sensitivity analysis
The following is a report of how earnings and earnings per share are impacted by various factors.
- Vitec purchases services, subscriptions and statistical data from external suppliers for SEK 147.0 million annually. A change of 1% would have an impact of approximately SEK 1.2 million on profit after tax.
- The Group's greatest cost item is personnel expenses, which totaled SEK 694.7 million. A change of 1% would have an impact of approximately SEK 5.4 million on profit after tax.
- Corporate acquisitions are largely financed by bank loans or convertibles. The interest rate is mostly variable. An interest-rate change of 1% on existing interest-bearing liabilities at December 31, 2020 would impact profit after tax by SEK 7.9 million.
-
Vitec's commitment to foreign subsidiaries is increasing, which entails heightened currency and translation risks. We have currency exposure in Norwegian crowns (NOK), Danish crowns (DKK) and Euros (EUR). A 5% change in
-
ternally. The Group's geographic spread allows for various positions to be localized based on the labor market in different parts of the Nordic region.
- Offer incentive program for all employees.
We work proactively through an adopted framework and by pursuing continuous improvement to prevent a brand crisis. This framework include our values, Code of Conduct, policies, internal processes and our constant ongoing brand and corporate culture efforts.
- To the extent possible, we use standard industry agreements with clauses on monetary limits. Major contracts that deviate from standard agreements are subject to approval by Group Management and/or by the Parent Company's Board of Directors.
- We are careful about always owning all rights to our software applications.
- All companies in the Group carry standard insurance coverage, such as for product liability.
Our sustainability efforts are based on our brand promise, "To rely on – Today and Tomorrow," as well as on social, economic and environmental sustainability. We satisfy the needs of today without jeopardizing the opportunities of future generations. Our path to a sustainable society runs through our community support products and our talented employees. Read more in our sustainability report.
the rates of these currencies this year would have impacted the Group's profit after tax by approximately SEK 5.4 million.
| Impact on earnings, SEK Impact on earn thousand ings SEK/share |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Impact factors | Change, % |
2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 |
| Subcontractors and subscriptions |
+/- 1 | 1,154 | 1,088 | 0.04 | 0.04 |
| Personnel expenses | +/- 1 | 5,430 | 5,014 | 0.17 | 0.17 |
| Borrowing interest rate (change in per centage on borrow ing interest rate) |
+/- 1 | 7,947 | 4,081 | 0.24 | 0.14 |
| Change in NOK, DKK and EUR ex change rate |
+/- 5 | 5,382 | 4,421 | 0.17 | 0.15 |
Message from the Chairman of the Board
Sustainable business model and well-developed growth strategy create continued value
As Chairman of the Board and, above all, as a fellow human being, I am humbled by the impact of COVID-19 on people's lives and health around the world. The coronavirus pandemic has affected many people on a personal level and entailed a major economic impact on countless industries. While the outlook is brightening given the ongoing vaccination process, the impact on society will likely need to be managed for a long time to come.
We initiated discussions within the Board this year by focusing on risk management within the context of the virus outbreak. Since day one, the CEO and Group Management have worked to enable the business to run as normally as possible and the Board has followed their extensive reporting over the course of the year. To date, the pandemic has not entailed any financial consequences for Vitec. Our financial position is strong and based on a sustainable business model and well-developed growth strategy, we continue to create value for our stakeholders.
Our long-term perspective
For many years, Vitec has held a leading position in Vertical Market Software in the Nordic region and the long-term perspective, which is the common denominator throughout the company, has been particularly significant during the year. Our business concept, combined with clear values and a strong brand promise, are crucial components of our corporate culture. Customers can rely on Vitec today – and tomorrow. In the same spirit, decisions by the Board of Directors regarding strategy, targets and corporate governance have been made to ensure continued progress.
Important decisions during the year
At the beginning of the year, we decided to clarify our financial reporting by business unit, starting with our first quarterly report, in order to increase transparency and to deepen the understanding of our business. This approach has been well received by our stakeholders and we are applying the same principle in the Annual Report.
Due to the situation at the time, in the spring we decided to postpone the Annual General Meeting until June, when we held a somewhat shorter and modified version of the AGM. Resolutions at the AGM included approval of a new employee convertible program and a warrant incentive program. We also decided on quarterly dividend payments. Last autumn, we decided to increase our financing to SEK 1,000 million for future investments in acquisitions.
Good climate for discussion of Board work moving forward
Our Board of Directors comprises five directors – two women and three men. Our combined skills and varied professional backgrounds provide a good climate for dialog that will move us forward and contribute to carefully considered decision-making. Ongoing Board work requires a high level of commitment from all members.
In conclusion, I would like to thank Group Management for their excellent cooperation, as well as all of our employees, who have contributed to Vitec's continued growth during a challenging year.
Crister Stjernfelt, Chairman of the Board
"Our financial position is strong and based on a sustainable business model and well-developed growth strategy, we continue to create value for our stakeholders."
Crister Stjernfelt, Chairman of the Board
Corporate governance report
Vitec Software Group AB (publ) is a Nordic public limited company that was listed on Nasdaq Stockholm on July 4, 2011. The company is headquartered in Umeå, Sweden. Governance in the Vitec Group is provided through external regulations, internal governance documents and policies.
Vitec has a decentralized organization model with 27 independent business units, Group Management and common support functions. Corporate governance defines and allocates responsibilities and roles with respect to shareholders, the Board of Directors, management and other stakeholders.
Structure for corporate governance at Vitec
The Swedish Companies Act, Swedish Annual Accounts Act, Rule Book for Issuers, Swedish Corporate Governance Code and other relevant laws and regulations.
Business concept, goals and strategies, Articles of Association, the Board of Directors' Rules of Procedure, CEO's instructions, Code of Conduct and policies.
Comments from Olle Backman, CFO
During the year, Vitec introduced a new internal control framework based on our decentralized governance model of freedom with responsibility, which provides the subsidiaries with considerable leeway to make decisions close to their customers and employees. Local management is responsible for internal control within its operations, and owns
the risk action plans in its individual areas of responsibility. The common finance function, along with the VPOs, mainly provide support, while also serving as a control function for continuous improvement in internal control. I look forward to working together on streamlining the processes required to meet both the formal requirements we face and our own internal aspirations.
"I look forward to working together on streamlining the processes required to meet both the formal requirements we face and our own internal aspirations."
Olle Backman, CFO
Regulatory framework
Vitec's corporate governance is based on Swedish legislation. The external framework mainly comprises:
- The Swedish Companies Act
- The Swedish Annual Accounts Act
- The Rulebook for Issuers on Nasdaq Stockholm
- Swedish Corporate Governance Code
Vitec also applies internal control instruments, the most important of which is the Articles of Association adopted by the AGM, followed by the Board of Directors' Rules of Procedure and the Board of Directors' instructions to the CEO. The Board of Directors has also adopted a number of binding policies, guidelines and instructions that are applicable to the Group's operations.
The Swedish Corporate Governance Code is based on the principle of "comply or explain," which means that deviations from the framework are permissible on the condition that we disclose the reason(s) for the deviation and also disclose the chosen alternative. Vitec complies with the regulations, with the exception that the composition of the Nomination Committee does not follow the Code (items 2.3 and 2.4). Principal owners Lars Stenlund, who is also CEO, and Olov Sandberg are members of the Nomination Committee. The Nomination Committee has appointed Olov Sandberg as its Chairman, which can be considered a natural choice, when taking into account Vitec's ownership structure. The controlling influence of the principal owners is of such importance that the chosen option was to include themselves in the Nomination Committee. Members of the Nomination Committee deem that there are no conflicts of interest in accepting the assignment.
The share and shareholders
The Vitec Software Group's class B share is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm. At the end of 2020 Vitec had 8,344 shareholders. Lars Stenlund and Olov Sandberg were the largest shareholders in terms of votes, with 4.9% of capital and 26.1% of votes, and 3.6% of capital and 18.7% of votes, respectively. The company's 3 largest shareholders in terms of votes owned 100% of class A shares and 0.7% of class B
shares, and the company's 10 largest shareholders owned 40.4% of class B shares. At the same date, the total market value was SEK 11,176 million. The number of shares was 32,773,422, of which 29,723,422 were class B shares and 3,050,000 were class A shares.
General Meeting of Shareholders
The General Meeting of Shareholders is the highest decision-making body in the company. Shareholders are given the opportunity to exercise their influence as represented by their shareholdings at this meeting. Each class A share represents ten votes and each class B share represents one vote. All shareholders who are registered in the share register maintained by Euroclear on the record date and who have notified their intent to participate in due time are entitled to attend the Meeting and to vote. Shareholders who cannot participate in person may elect a representative. A regular meeting of shareholders (AGM) is to be held within six months from the end of the financial year. The AGM's mandatory tasks include adopting the income statement and balance sheet, and processing the profit/loss for the year. The AGM also resolves on remuneration policies for senior executives and on whether to discharge the Board members and CEO from liability. The AGM chooses Board members, based on proposals from the Nomination Committee (see next page), to serve until the end of the next Annual General Meeting. The Articles of Association are amended through resolutions passed by the AGM pursuant to the regulations of the Swedish Companies Act. The AGM is held in Swedish.
2020 Annual General Meeting
The AGM was held on June 23 at P5 Väven, in Umeå, Sweden. Due to the ongoing pandemic, shareholders were invited to participate by proxy. The company's Board of Directors, management, Nomination Committee and auditors were in attendance at the AGM either in person or virtually. In all, 18 shareholders and proxies representing 68.5% of the votes were present and many of them participated in the meeting virtually. Minutes of the AGM are available at our website, vitecsoftware.com.
2021 Annual General Meeting
The 2021 Annual General Meeting will be held on April 28. Due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the Board has decided that the Annual General Meeting shall be conducted without the physical presence of shareholders, proxies or third parties and that shareholders shall have the opportunity to exercise their voting rights only by post before the meeting.
For more information, see vitecsoftware.com.
Nomination Committee
The Nomination Committee's primary task is to present nominees to the AGM for election as the Board's members and Chairman, and nominees for auditors, in consultation with the Audit Committee. The Nomination Committee's work is to be characterized by transparency and discussion to achieve a well-balanced Board of Directors. The Nomination Committee adopted regulation 4.1 of the Swedish Corporate Governance Code as its diversity policy when preparing the list of candidates for the Board, with the aim of creating a well-functioning Board composition with respect to diversity and broad representation in terms of gender, nationality, age and industry experience. The purpose of the Nomination Committee is to nominate a Board comprising members who complement each other with their experiences and expertise, so as to enable the Board to contribute to the positive development of the company. The Nomination Committee consistently focuses on diversity, in order to ensure that the Board of Directors has varying perspectives on Board work and the considerations given. The Nomination Committee also considers the need for renewal and carefully investigates whether the nominated Board members are able to devote sufficient time and due attention to Board work. All shareholders have the opportunity to submit motions concerning prospective Board members to the Nomination Committee.
The Nomination Committee has participated in the evaluation of the Board. The Nomination Committee is also tasked with preparing nominees to Chair the AGM, proposals on the remuneration of the Board and any fees to committees and subcommittees, and auditor's fees. The 2020 AGM resolved that each of the three largest shareholders be allowed to appoint their own member in the Nomination Committee. It was also resolved that the Nomination Committee should comprise the Chairman of the Board and three committee members. The members of the Nomination Committee serving until the AGM on April 28, 2021 are:
- Crister Stjernfelt, Chairman of the Board, Vitec. Holder of 8,000 class B shares.
- Jerker Vallbo, CIO/CTO Vitec. Holder of 360,000 class A shares and 83,323 class B shares (incl. family members).
- Lars Stenlund, CEO Vitec Holder of 1,570,000 class A shares and 37,280 class B shares (incl. family members). Warrants for 10,000 class B shares.
- Olov Sandberg Holder of 1,120,000 class A shares and 73,995 class B shares (incl. family members).
The Nomination Committee has held one meeting for the 2020 AGM. No fees were paid for the Nomination Committee's work.
Articles of Association
The company's activities comprise the purchase, management and sale of real estate and chattels, and other activities consistent therewith. The share capital shall be not less than SEK 1,600,000 and not more than SEK 6,400,000. The company's shares are to be issuable in two series, referred to as class A and class B. When voting at the AGM, each class A share carries ten votes and a class B share carries one vote. If both classes of share are issued, the total number of shares of each share class may not exceed 99 hundredths of the total number of shares in the company. The Articles of Association can be found in their entirety at our website, vitecsoftware.com.
Board of Directors
The Board's duty is to manage the company's affairs on behalf of the shareholders. Board work is governed by applicable laws and recommendations, and by the Board of Directors' Rules of Procedure, which comprises rules for the division of duties between the Board and CEO, financial reporting, investments and financing. The Rules of Procedure are adopted annually at the statutory Board meeting in direct connection to the AGM.
The Board's responsibility
The Board of Directors has overarching responsibility for the Group's organization and management, and ensuring that the guidelines for the management of the company's funds are appropriately formulated. The Board of Directors is responsible for ensuring that Vitec is managed pursuant to applicable laws and regulations, and adheres to the Rule Book for Issuers and the Swedish Corporate Governance Code, and the Group's adopted internal regulations. The Board is also responsible for developing and ensuring compliance with the Group's strategies through plans and goals, decisions regarding acquisitions and divestments of business operations, major investments, appointments and remuneration of Group management, and the continuous monitoring of operations throughout the year. The Board of Directors adopts the annual accounts, current business plan, business-related policies and the CEO's Rules of Procedure.
The Board of Directors is also to adopt the requisite guidelines for company's behavior in society, with the aim of ensuring long-term value creation and that guidelines are adhered to with respect to the company's behavior.
Board composition
According to the articles of association, Vitec's Board is to comprise three to seven members, and a maximum of three deputy members. The Board of Directors consists of five regular members and no deputies, and no member is employed by the company. Board members are elected by shareholders at the AGM, with a one-year term of office. The CEO is not a member of the Board, but presents reports at all Board meetings, except for when the CEO's work is under evaluation. The CEO reports to the Board about the Group's operational activities and ensures that the Board receives objective and relevant decision data. Board meetings comply with the requirements of Nasdaq Stockholm and the Swedish Corporate Governance Code with respect to independent Board members. Further information about each Board member is available at our website, vitecsoftware.com, under Investors, Corporate governance.
Kaj Sandart, Anna Valtonen, Crister Stjernfelt, Birgitta Johansson-Hedberg and Jan Friedman.
Board members
Crister Stjernfelt
Chairman of the Board since 2013, Board Member since 2009. Born in 1943.
BSc in Business and Economics from Stockholm University. Other assignments/positions: Chairman of the Board at AcelQ AB and Ariser AB. Former CEO and President of WM-Data AB, as well as CEO of Logica AB. Holdings in Vitec: 8,000 class B shares, no convertibles.
Anna Valtonen
Board member since 2012. Born in 1974. PhD. Department of Industrial and Strategic Design, Helsinki, Finland, 2007. Other assignments/positions: Professor of Strategic Design, Aalto University. Former Vice President of Aalto University, and dean of the School of Arts, Design and Architecture at Aalto University (2014–2020), and professor and President of Umeå Institute of Design (2009–2014). Prior to this, industrial design at companies such as Nokia (1997–2009), where the most recent position was Head of Design Research & Foresight. Chairperson of the Board of the Design Museum in Helsinki and Board member of Kalevala Jewelry. Also has several other international assignments and seats on various boards. Holdings in Vitec: No shares, no convertibles.
Birgitta Johansson-Hedberg
Board member since 2011. Born in 1947. BA, MSc in Psychology from Lund University, 1972.
Other assignments/positions: Board Chairman of Sörmlands Sparbank. Board member of Hedberg Ekologkonsult AB and Sparbankernas Ägareförening. Former CEO of Lantmännen, Föreningssparbanken and Liber.
Holdings in Vitec: 7,500 class B shares, no convertibles.
Jan Friedman
Board member since 2010. Born in 1952. MBA from the Stockholm School of Economics in 1978.
Other assignments/positions: Chairman of the Board of Grönklittsgruppen AB and IFIT AB Holding AB. Many years of experience from various CEO, board and consultancy assignments.
Holdings in Vitec: 13,376 class B shares through company, no convertibles.
Kaj Sandart
Board member since 1998. Born in 1953. MSc in Engineering from the Royal Swedish Institute of Technology in 1977.
Other assignments/positions: Director at Hallvarsson & Halvarsson Group. Director of Vallabacken Invest AB and the association Baltic Deepwater Life with its subsidiaries BDWL Torch AB and BDWL Signals AB. Former CIO of ÅF (now AFRY) and CEO of Svensk Energiförsörjning AB. Holdings in Vitec: 116,000 class B shares (including family members).
Chairman of the Board
The Chairman of the Board, Crister Stjernfelt, manages Board work to ensure compliance with laws and regulations. The Chairman monitors operations through a dialog with the CEO, and is responsible for ensuring that other Board members receive the requisite information for high-quality discussions and well-informed decisions. The Chairman also participates in the assessment and career development issues of the Group's senior executives.
The Board's work
In the course of a financial year, Vitec holds a minimum of five regular Board meetings and a statutory Board meeting directly connected to the AGM. Extraordinary Board meetings are held as needed. In 2020 a total of 15 Board meetings were held, including statutory and per capsulam meetings; due to the ongoing pandemic, all meetings were held virtually, with the exception of the first meeting. All Board members elected by the AGM were present at all of the Board meetings, with the exception of Chairman Crister Stjernfelt, who notified the Board that he would be absent from three meetings, as well as Directors Kaj Sandart and Birgitta Hedberg Johansson, who notified the Board that they would be absent from one meeting each. At minuted meetings, the Group's earnings and financial position were processed, and interim reports and annual accounts were approved for publication. Issues pertaining to the future were addressed, such as market assessments, potential acquisitions, financing, the focus of business activities and organizational issues. All of the meetings adhered to an approved agenda that was, together with documentation for each item on the agenda, communicated to all Board members about one week prior to the meeting.
Minutes of the meetings were sent to all Board members, in accordance with the Swedish Corporate Governance Code. At year-end, the Board's work was evaluated.
Evaluation
Styrelsearbetets årscykel The Board's work is evaluated once a year, by having Board members answer a number of predefined questions about both formal and collaborative relationships. The Chairman compiles the answers, including comments, and presents them to the Nomination Committee. The evaluation for the 2020 financial year indicates well-functioning collaborations and solid efficiency within Board work. All of the Board members were positive about continued commitment.
Key decisions
In September Vitec signed an agreement for a revolving loan facility with Nordea and SEB for SEK 1,000 million. It replaces a previous facility of SEK 500 million at Nordea. The new facility increases the scope by SEK 500 million.
In 2020, the acquisitions of Visiolink and Appva were financed in part through convertible issuances totaling SEK 22.1 million, which could result in future dilution of 0.3%.
The Board of Directors proposed that the AGM should take decisions on two staff incentive programs in the form of a convertible program aimed at all employees and a warrant program aimed at senior executives.
During the year, the Board also adopted a new framework for internal control.
In 2020, the following five corporate acquisitions were completed:
- Visiolink offers a publishing system for digital versions of print media, such as daily newspapers, and targets media companies. The company reported sales of SEK 62.4 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 14.9 million for the 2019 financial year.
- ALMA Consulting Oy develops and delivers information management software for the processing industry and energy companies in Finland. The products enable companies to streamline and plan their production supporting processes. The company reported sales of SEK 31.6 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 7.9 million for the 2019 financial year.
- LJ System has its headquarters in Lund and offers products for church-related administration and preschools in Sweden. The product Fas Församlingsadministration is a module-based enterprise management system used by about 300 parishes. The company reported sales of SEK 18.6 million, with an EBITDA of SEK 2.7 million for the financial year of May 1, 2019–April 30, 2020.
- Appva AB provides the product Medication and Care Support System, MCSS, a mobile and digital signature app for medication tracking within the municipal care system in Sweden. The company reported sales of SEK 22.9 million in 2019, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 2.1 million.
- NexGolf has its registered office in Oulu, Finland, and offers enterprise management systems for golf courses. The products facilitate handling of invoicing, membership databases, tournaments, booking and payment of tee times, as well as communication with members. The company reported sales of SEK 10.0 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 3.1 million for the 2019 financial year.
Annual cycle of Board work
The meeting forum for the year for the senior management teams Executive Management (EM), Group Management (GM), and Operations Management (OM), has consisted of a large number of meetings i Teams.
The Board's Rules of Procedure
The Board's Rules of Procedure were adopted on June 23, 2020, and are to be revised annually at the statutory Board meeting, or revised as needed. The Rules of Procedure specify, among other items, the Board of Directors' responsibilities and assignments, the Chairman's assignments and auditing issues, and also indicates specific reports and financial information that the Board of Directors should receive in advance of each regular Board meeting. In addition, the Rules of Procedure comprise instructions to the CEO. The Rules of Procedure also define the Board's work in its capacity as Remuneration Committee.
Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee
The Board of Directors, as a whole, acts as both the Audit Committee and Remuneration Committee. The description of the Audit Committee's assignments is attached as an appendix to the current Rules of Procedure. The Remuneration Committee's work is regulated in the relevant rules of procedure. The Rules of Procedure and attachments were adopted at the statutory Board meeting held on June 23, 2020. In 2020, the Audit Committee held two meetings and the Remuneration Committee held meetings in conjunction with regular Board meetings.
Executive functions
The CEO is appointed by the Board of Directors. Lars Stenlund is CEO of the company and is responsible for the daily management of the company and the Group's activities in accordance with the Board's instructions and regulations. This entails responsibility for financial reporting, preparing information and decision data, and ensuring that agreements and other measures do not conflict with applicable laws and regulations. The Chairman of the Board holds annual assessment dialogs with the CEO, pursuant to the CEO's instructions and the applicable specification of requirements.
Senior Management Teams in the Group
Alongside the CEO are Executive Management (EM), which in addition to the CEO consists of Gert Gustafsson, COO, Patrik Fransson, Investor Relations and Olle Backman, CFO. EM normally convenes monthly to review the preceding month's results, the Group's funding and acquisitions, and to make appropriate decisions and discuss related strategic issues. A longer in-depth meeting is held jointly with the Board of Directors once a year and as needed. EM also presents issues that are to be resolved by the Board. The members of Executive Management and their positions are presented on page 61.
Group Management (GM) is the decision-making forum for Group-wide matters. Group Management handles strategic issues such as policies, brand, communication and HR. In addition to EM, all individuals responsible for the Group's functions (Head of Brand, Head of HR, CTO/CIO, M&A) are included, along with all VPOs. GM ensures a Nordic perspective and coordination on all issues where major decision-making authority otherwise lies with the individual business units.
In addition, Operations Management (OM), which includes the COO, all VPOs and the head of Vitec IT, addresses operational issues and Nordic coordination.
Decisions are made in the respective management forum, pursuant to guidelines resolved by the Board of Directors and instructions on the division of responsibilities between the Board and CEO.
Business unit management
The CEOs of the business unit play a key role in our decentralized governance model. They have both the responsibility and the authority to independently run their business units, in accordance with the owner's directives, authorization procedures and other governing documents.
Two of our 27 business units are managed by a female CEO, a proportion we are actively working to increase as we recruit new CEOs to our business, usually due to the generational shift in the workplace.
The business unit CEOs are assisted by their Vice President of Operations (VPO), a role similar to that of a working chairman. The job as VPO includes following up, setting requirements for and providing support to the CEOs of the business unit, as well as responsibility for promoting and ensuring the commercial and organizational development of the respective companies. The VPO is also responsible for ensuring that newly acquired companies are properly integrated into the Group and that our corporate culture is reinforced in all our entities.
Management and Group-wide functions
Auditors
The AGM elects one or two auditors annually, or one or two registered auditing firms, with a maximum of two deputy auditors. The auditors review the company's annual report, accounts and the administration reports of the Board of Directors and CEO. At the 2020 AGM, Pricewaterhouse-Coopers AB was elected, with Niklas Renström as auditor in charge. The Group's auditors participate in all audit committee meetings, and in particular, provide a debriefing of their findings concerning internal controls, review of the third quarter interim report and the annual accounts.
Internal controls
The Board is responsible for the internal controls pursuant to the Swedish Companies Act and the Swedish Corporate Governance Code. Reports on internal controls and risk management concerning the financial reporting for the 2020 financial year have been prepared and submitted by the Board pursuant to the Swedish Annual Accounts Act Chapter 6, Section 6, and Item 7.4 of the Swedish Corporate Governance Code.
The Board is responsible for corporate governance work within Vitec and thus, for working with internal controls. The overarching aim is to protect the Group's assets and thereby, the investments of shareholders. The Board is also responsible for ensuring that financial statements are prepared pursuant to applicable laws. The Group's financial statements are subject to quality assurance, by means of the Board processing all critical accounting matters and financial statements submitted by Vitec. This requires that the Board process matters pertaining to internal controls, regulatory
compliance, material uncertainties in recognized values, any uncorrected misstatements, events after the balance-sheet date, changes in estimations and assessments, any realized irregularities and other circumstances that impact the quality of financial reporting.
Control environment
Proactive and committed Board work is the basis of effective internal controls. The Board has established well-defined processes and rules of procedure for its work. A vital component of the Board's work is to prepare and approve a number of fundamental policies, guidelines and frameworks pertaining to financial reporting. The company's governing documents comprise the "Board of Directors' Rules of Procedure" and the "CEO's instructions." The aim of these rules of procedure and policies is to create the foundation for efficient internal controls. Follow-ups and revision are continuously undertaken and are communicated to all employees involved with financial reporting. The Board continuously evaluates the company's performance and results by means of an appropriate reporting package that comprises the income statement and prepared key metrics, as well as other material operational and financial information. The Board of Directors functions in its entirety as the Audit Committee. Thus, the Board of Directors in its entirety has monitored risk-management and internal-control systems in 2020. These systems are intended to ensure that operations are conducted pursuant to laws and regulations, as well as the efficiency of operations and reliability of financial reporting. The Board has reviewed and evaluated the procedures for financial accounting and reporting and followed this up with evaluations of the work performed by the external auditors, their qualifications
and independence. Other adopted policies that provide the basis for Vitec's internal controls include the Finance Policy, Information Policy, Information Security Policy, IT policy and Transfer Pricing Policy. All business units work within, or are preparing to work within, the same structure, accounting system, accounting plan and policies, which facilitates the creation of appropriate procedures and control systems. Every business unit has rules of procedure adopted by Group Management and some business units also have an internal board appointed by Group Management.
Risk assessment
At Vitec, we apply a method of risk management and risk assessment to ensure that the risks to which the Group is exposed and which may impact internal controls and financial reporting are managed by means of the adopted processes. A systematic and documented updating of all identified risks is undertaken annually.
For risks that impact financial statements, we work continuously and proactively on their analyses, assessment and management to ensure that the risks to which the company is exposed are managed appropriately within the adopted framework. Risk assessment takes into account, among other matters, the administrative procedures pertaining to invoicing and contract management. Material risks with a potential impact on financial reporting include items based on estimations and assessments, such as ongoing development projects and goodwill.
Risk management
Risks are monitored in different ways and at different levels. At every meeting, Vitec's Board of Directors receives a presentation of the Group's earnings and financial position, liquidity and key metrics. Group management jointly reviews the results of all reporting units monthly. The Group's investments are managed according to established authorization rules, where Group management annually approves product investments, which constitute the single largest category. Product investments are subject to their own separate processes within budget work and monitoring. Monthly debriefing is undertaken and documented. A board is appointed for selected business units as needed. A business unit board comprises a minimum of one member from Group Management and convenes two to four times annually, and minutes are taken. Operational management engages in close dialog with the CEO of each business unit and conducts detailed monthly reviews of major projects, product development, outstanding accounts receivable, etc. Financial risks such as liquidity, currency, credit and refinancing risks are managed by Group Management, subject to the governance of the Finance Policy adopted by the Board of Directors.
Control activities
Control activities are designed to manage activities that the Board and Group management deem to be significant for operations, internal controls and financial reporting. Control structures are designed to manage risks that the Board
deems to be material to the internal controls of financial reporting. These control structures consist of an organization with a clear division of responsibilities, our framework for internal control, well-defined procedures and distinct roles.
Examples of control activities include the reporting of decision-making processes for substantial decisions (such as on new major customers, investments, and agreements), as well as the review of all submitted financial reports. The regular analyses of financial reporting, combined with a Group-level analysis, are highly important in ensuring that the financial reports do not include any material errors.
Pursuant to the Swedish Companies Act, the Board of Directors is to appoint an Audit Committee. The Board has found it appropriate for the Audit Committee to comprise the Board in its entirety. The relatively small size of the Board is deemed to facilitate such work. Many of the Board members have expertise in accounting.
Information and communication
Vitec's governing documents, such as its policies, guidelines and manuals pertaining to internal and external communication, are subject to continuous updates and are communicated internally through relevant channels, such as internal meetings, internal newsletter emails and the Group's intranet. Communication with external parties is governed by a clearly established communication policy comprising all the guidelines on the dissemination of information. The aim of the policy is to ensure that all disclosure requirements pursuant to the applicable regulations on issuers of shares are correctly and fully complied with. Subordinate to this policy is a special document that clarifies the practical handling of transparency information. Information regarding financial reporting in the form of instructions, manuals, schedules and checklists is also posted on our intranet. The Group's finance manual and closing instructions are also key to our financial reporting and are available on our intranet; these instructions are continuously updated with new applicable regulatory frameworks, such as from IFRS and the Nasdaq Stockholm. We also have a special information security policy.
Follow-up and monitoring
The business units are followed up monthly by the VPO together with the management of the respective business unit. Group Management has appointed an internal board for some operational units. For issues of strategic importance, projects are created, where Group Management participates in the management group. Group Management analyzes the Group's outcome compared with the preceding year, budget and forecasts. Group Management's analyses and conclusions are communicated to the Board at every regular meeting.
The Board continuously assesses internal controls regarding financial reporting and ensures that reporting to the Board is effective. This is mainly undertaken by asking questions about and learning about the CFO's work. The company's auditors participate on three occasions annually and provide information about their observations of the company's internal procedures and control systems, which allows for Board members to ask questions. On an annual basis, the Board takes decisions on significant risk areas and evaluates the internal controls.
Internal audit
Having taken into consideration the size and complexity of operations, combined with existing reports to the Board and Audit Committee, the Board of Directors has concluded that it is not financially justifiable to set up a separate internal audit function. The abovementioned internal controls are deemed to be sufficient for assuring the quality of financial reporting.
Share and ownership structure
At the close of the financial year, the total number of shares issued was 32,773,422, of which 3,050,000 were class A shares (30,500,000 votes) and the remaining 29,723,422 were class B shares (29,723,422 votes). Current share capital is approximately SEK 3.3 million, with a quotient value of SEK 0.10 per share. The ownership structure and Board of Directors' shares pertain to holdings at December 31, 2020, to the best of Vitec's knowledge.
The number of shareholders was 8,344.
Apart from a pre-emption clause for class A shares, there were no provisions limiting the right to share transfers. There are no limitations on the number of votes each shareholder is entitled to cast at the AGM or other general meetings. Board members and any deputy Board members are appointed at the AGM for the period until the next AGM. There are no rules in the Articles of Association regarding the appointment and dismissal of Board members. Vitec Software Group AB (publ) has not signed any agreements that could be impacted by any takeover bids. Vitec Software Group AB (publ) does not hold any treasury shares.
Employees of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) do not hold shares that restrict them from the direct exercise of their voting rights. An ongoing convertibles program for employees allows for conversion to a maximum of 40,571 class B shares. There are also convertible debentures originating from acquisitions for a total value of SEK 54.7 million, which, upon full conversion will increase the number of shares by 355,118 class B shares. In addition, there are 251,000 warrants issued for an incentive program targeting senior executives.
There is an authorization by the 2020 AGM that entitles the Board of Directors to pass one or more resolutions up to and including the date of the next AGM regarding the issue of up to 2,500,000 new class B shares deviating from the preferential rights of shareholders. The reason that the Board should be able to deviate from shareholders' preferential rights is to enable cost-effective financing of acquisitions of companies or product rights. Vitec is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm Mid Cap list. As of Wednesday, December 30, 2020, the share price was SEK 341 (185). At year-end, the total market value of the issued shares was SEK 11,176 million (6,026).
The Vitec share has been traded under the Mid Cap segment since January 2, 2017. The Mid Cap segment includes companies with a market capitalization of between EUR 150 million and EUR 1 billion.
Lars Stenlund, Patrik Fransson, Gert Gustafsson and Olle Backman
Members of Group Management
Lars Stenlund
CEO and founder of the company, together with Olov Sandberg. Lars was a Board member of Vitec from 1985 to 2009. Employed since 1985. Born in 1958.
PhD in applied physics (1987) from Umeå University. Board member of Umeå University Holding AB, Treac AB. Previous experience: Assistant professor at Umeå University. Holdings in Vitec: 1,570,000 class A shares, 37,280 class B shares (including family members). No convertibles. Warrants for 10,000 class B shares.
Patrik Fransson
Investor Relations. Employed since 2011. Born in 1966. Computer science, Umeå University, 1990, MBA Executive Program, Stockholm School of Economics.
Previous experience: WM-data, Director Logica, CIO of H&M and CEO of CodeFactory AB. Board member of Avtre AB and Tempus Information Systems AB.
Holdings in Vitec: 79,975 class B shares. 300 class B shares through KV2009. Warrants for 10,000 class B shares.
Gert Gustafsson
COO beginning March 1, 2020. Employed since 2017. Born in 1973. Bachelor's Degree Electronics Engineering, University West 1994, Masters Degree Business Administration, Växjö University 1998. Previous experience: Vice President of Operations (VPO), Vitec. Various senior positions within Ericsson in Sweden, the Nordic countries and the US, most recently as Managing Director of Ericsson Broadcast & Media Services Nordics. Holdings in Vitec: 30,000 class B shares. 300 class B shares through KV2009. Warrants for 10,000 class B shares.
Olle Backman
CFO. Employed since 2019. Born in 1969. MSc in Business Administration and Economics, Uppsala University 1993. Previous experience: CEO Eitech AB, CEO Enycon AB, CFO Konftel AB.
Holdings in Vitec: 10,000 class B shares. 300 class B shares through KV2009. Warrants for 10,000 class B shares.
Multi-year overview
| 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Net sales | (SEK million) | 1,313 | 1,156 | 1,017 | 855 | 675 | 618 | 492 |
| Recurring revenues, ARR | (SEK million) | 1,080 | 908 | 744 | 610 | 519 | 481 | 373 |
| Recurring share of net sales | (%) | 82 | 78 | 73 | 71 | 77 | 78 | 76 |
| Growth net sales | (%) | 14 | 14 | 19 | 27 | 9 | 26 | 32 |
| EBITA | (SEK million) | 345 | 247 | 212 | 171 | 133 | 131 | 92 |
| EBITA margin | (%) | 26 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 20 | 21 | 19 |
| Growth EBITA | (%) | 39 | 17 | 24 | 29 | 1 | 42 | 75 |
| Operating profit (EBIT) | (SEK million) | 222 | 144 | 128 | 107 | 88 | 101 | 69 |
| Operating margin | (%) | 17 | 12 | 13 | 12 | 13 | 16 | 14 |
| Profit after financial items | (SEK million) | 208 | 130 | 117 | 98 | 82 | 95 | 65 |
| Profit after tax | (SEK million) | 161 | 102 | 97 | 79 | 67 | 78 | 49 |
| Profit margin | (%) | 12 | 9 | 10 | 9 | 10 | 13 | 10 |
| Profit after tax attributable to the Parent Company shareholders |
(SEK million) | 161 | 102 | 97 | 79 | 67 | 78 | 49 |
| Balance-sheet total | (SEK million) | 2,207 | 1,890 | 1,676 | 1,262 | 1,097 | 872 | 773 |
| Equity/assets ratio | (%) | 38 | 40 | 40 | 32 | 30 | 31 | 34 |
| Equity/assets ratio after full conversion | (%) | 41 | 43 | 42 | 35 | 32 | 33 | 37 |
| Debt/equity ratio | (multiple) | 1.56 | 1.50 | 1.75 | 2.22 | 2.25 | 2.09 | 1.70 |
| Return on capital employed | (%) | 17 | 12 | 13 | 14 | 14 | 21 | 18 |
| Return on equity | (%) | 20 | 14 | 18 | 22 | 22 | 29 | 23 |
| Sales per employee | SEK 000s | 1,593 | 1,669 | 1,658 | 1,584 | 1,445 | 1,465 | 1,430 |
| Added value per employee | SEK 000s | 1,413 | 1,339 | 1,316 | 1,258 | 1,198 | 1,212 | 1,164 |
| Personnel expenses per employee | SEK 000s | 843 | 879 | 858 | 828 | 813 | 797 | 801 |
| Average no. of employees | (persons) | 824 | 693 | 613 | 540 | 467 | 422 | 344 |
| Adjusted equity per share | (SEK) | 25.73 | 23.31 | 20.71 | 13.34 | 11.37 | 9.24 | 8.85 |
| Earnings per share | (SEK) | 4.93 | 3.16 | 3.23 | 2.70 | 2.27 | 2.66 | 1.75 |
| Earnings per share after dilution | (SEK) | 4.91 | 3.18 | 3.22 | 2.70 | 2.25 | 2.64 | 1.68 |
| Resolved dividend per share | (SEK) | 1.35 | 1.20 | 1.10 | 1.00 | 0.90 | 0.67 | 0.55 |
| Cash flow per share | (SEK) | 13.18 | 9.90 | 8.01 | 6.78 | 5.20 | 5.09 | 4.40 |
| Basis of computation | ||||||||
| Earnings from calculation of earnings per share |
(SEK million) | 161 | 102 | 97 | 79 | 67 | 78 | 49 |
| Cash flow from calculation of cash flow per share |
(SEK million) | 429 | 321 | 240 | 200 | 153 | 150 | 123 |
| Average number of shares (weighted average) |
(thousands) | 32,574 | 32,372 | 30,017 | 29,425 | 29,397 | 29,397 | 28,003 |
| Number of shares after dilution | (thousands) | 32,994 | 32,717 | 30,437 | 29,539 | 29,839 | 29,788 | 29,432 |
| Number of shares issued at balance-sheet date |
(thousands) | 32,773 | 32,573 | 32,339 | 29,839 | 29,397 | 29,397 | 29,397 |
| Share price at close of the respective period | (SEK) | 341.00 | 185.00 | 77.60 | 87.00 | 75.50 | 75.00 | 26.50 |
For definitions, refer to page 124, Definitions of key indicators.
Proposed appropriation of profits
THE FOLLOWING FUNDS AT THE DISPOSAL OF AGM:
| 881,992,204 | |
|---|---|
| Profit for the year | 211,242,727 |
| Share premium reserve | 374,893,808 |
| Earnings brought forward | 295,855,669 |
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS PROPOSES THAT THESE FUNDS BE DISTRIBUTED AS FOLLOWS:
| 58,430,805 Dividends of SEK 1.64 per share to shareholders 374,893,808 To be carried forward to the share premium reserve 448,667,591 To be carried forward |
|---|
Reasoned opinion of the Board of Directors pursuant to Chapter 18, Section 4 of the Companies Act (2005:551)
The Board of Directors of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) hereby submits the following statement pursuant to Chapter 18, Section 4 of the Swedish Companies Act in connection with the proposal for a dividend resolution proposed by the Board of Directors to the Annual General Meeting on April 28, 2021.
It is the opinion of the Board of Directors – on the grounds set out below – that the proposed dividend is justifiable with regard to the parameters set out in Chapter 17, Section 3, paragraphs 2 and 3 of the Companies Act.
The Board of Directors has proposed that the Annual General Meeting resolves on an ordinary dividend of SEK 1.64 per share for the 2020 financial year, to be paid in quarterly installments of SEK 0.41. The proposed ordinary dividend may not exceed a total amount of SEK 58,430,805.1
The proposed dividend represents approximately 7% of reported unrestricted equity, which amounts to SEK 881,992,204. The Board of Directors finds that there will be full coverage for the restricted equity of the Company, after distribution of the proposed dividend.
The Board of Directors also finds that the proposed
1 The dividend is based on a calculation of the maximum number of shares that may be outstanding in the company on each of the record dates proposed by the Board of Directors for the quarterly dividend installments. The calculation is based on the following hypothetical assumptions:
dividend is justifiable with regard to the parameters set out in Chapter 17, Section 3, paragraphs 2 and 3 of the Companies Act (the nature, scope and risks of the business, as well as consolidation needs, liquidity and position in general).
The nature and scope of the business are set out in the Articles of Association and the annual reports. The activities conducted by the company and the Group do not entail any risks other than those that arise or can be anticipated to arise within companies with similar activities, or those risks that are generally associated with operating a business.
The Board of Directors is of the opinion that the equity of the company and the Group after the proposed dividend will be sufficient, given the nature, scope and risks of the business. In so doing, the Board has taken into account the capital structure and future growth opportunities of the Group.
The Board of Directors has conducted a comprehensive assessment of the financial position of the company and the Group and its ability to meet its obligations in the long term. The proposed dividend will not affect the ability of the company and the Group to meet its payment obligations in a timely manner.
(i) that the Board of Directors exercises the authorization to issue 2,500,000 shares pursuant to item 17 of the Notice to the Annual General Meeting, and
(ii) the outstanding convertible bonds of the Company are exercised for conversion into shares at such time as the shares carry dividend rights.
Consolidated statement of profit/loss
| Note | 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| OPERATING REVENUES | (3) | ||
| Recurring revenues | 1,080,421 | 907,535 | |
| License revenues | 14,682 | 17,836 | |
| Service revenues | 189,238 | 162,672 | |
| Other | 28,449 | 68,206 | |
| Net sales | 1,312,789 | 1,156,249 | |
| Capitalized development costs | 161,909 | 138,738 | |
| TOTAL | 1,474,697 | 1,294,987 | |
| OPERATING EXPENSES | |||
| Goods for resale | -24,761 | -51,728 | |
| Subcontractors and subscriptions | -146,993 | -130,142 | |
| Other external expenses | (5B) | -151,258 | -149,691 |
| Personnel expenses | (4A-B) | -694,690 | -609,114 |
| Depreciation/amortization and impairment | (8A) | -234,607 | -210,040 |
| Other operating expenses | (5A) | 46 | -351 |
| TOTAL EXPENSES | -1,252,263 | -1,151,065 | |
| OPERATING PROFIT | 222,434 | 143,922 | |
| Financial income | 313 | 1,851 | |
| Financial expenses | -15,115 | -15,748 | |
| NET FINANCIAL ITEMS | (5C) | -14,802l | -13,897 |
| PROFIT BEFORE TAX | 207,632 | 130,025 | |
| Tax | (6) | -46,922 | -27,858 |
| PROFIT FOR THE YEAR | 160,710 | 102,166 | |
| Profit for the year attributable to: | |||
| Parent Company shareholders | 160,710 | 102,166 | |
| Earnings per share | (15A) | ||
| Before dilution | 4.93 | 3.16 | |
| After dilution | 4.91 | 3.18 | |
| Average number of shares | 32,573,765 | 32,372,267 | |
| Number of shares after dilution | 32,993,975 | 32,717,425 |
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income
| Note | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| PROFIT FOR THE YEAR | 160,710 | 102,166 |
| OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME | ||
| Items that may be restated in profit or loss | ||
| Restatement of net investments in foreign operations | -100,583 | 10,582 |
| Net investment hedges for foreign operations | 46,675 | -6,004 |
| Deferred tax on net investment hedges for foreign operations | -9,989 | 1,285 |
| -63,897 | 5,863 | |
| Items restricted from restatement in profit or loss | ||
| Remeasurement of net pension obligations | -92 | 720 |
| Deferred tax on net pension obligations | 20 | -158 |
| -72 | 562 | |
| TOTAL OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME/LOSS | -63,970 | 6,425 |
| TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR | 96,741 | 108,592 |
| Total comprehensive income attributable to: | ||
| Parent Company shareholders | 96,741 | 108,592 |
Consolidated statement of financial position
| NOTE | Dec 31, 2020 |
Dec 31, 2019 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| ASSETS | |||
| Fixed assets | (8A) | ||
| Intangible fixed assets | |||
| Goodwill | 769,988 | 617,900 | |
| Capitalized development expenditure | 421,462 | 345,130 | |
| Software | 1,419 | 2,252 | |
| Brands | 86,491 | 86,566 | |
| Product rights | 278,601 | 263,065 | |
| Customer agreements | 129,399 | 150,784 | |
| 1,687,360 | 1,465,698 | ||
| Tangible property, plant and equipment | |||
| Buildings | 8,480 | 8,236 | |
| Investments in leased premises | 3,149 | 3,973 | |
| Equipment, fixtures and fittings | 29,629 | 32,453 | |
| Right to use assets | 62,930 | 85,994 | |
| 104,188 | 130,656 | ||
| Financial fixed assets | |||
| Other non-current receivables | 1,325 | 2,008 | |
| Deferred tax assets | (6) | 4,517 | 7,015 |
| 5,842 | 9,023 | ||
| Total non-current assets | 1,797,391 | 1,605,377 | |
| Current assets | |||
| Inventories | (8C) | ||
| Goods for resale | 2,958 | 3,781 | |
| 2,958 | 3,781 | ||
| Current receivables | |||
| Accounts receivable | (9A) | 220,773 | 197,378 |
| Current tax assets | 2,285 | 20,368 | |
| Other receivables | 5,403 | 8,211 | |
| Prepaid expenses and accrued income | (8D) | 43,270 | 38,564 |
| 271,731 | 264,521 | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents | (9B) | 134,695 | 16,658 |
| Total current assets | 409,384 | 284,960 | |
| TOTAL ASSETS | 2,206,775 | 1,890,336 |
| Note | Dec 31, 2020 |
Dec 31, 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | ||
| Shareholders' equity | ||
| (12) Share capital |
3,277 | 3,257 |
| Other capital contributions | 316,637 | 316,637 |
| Reserves | -50,952 | 13,017 |
| Retained earnings including profit of the year | 574,386 | 426,520 |
| Equity attributable to Parent Company shareholders | 843,350 | 759,432 |
| Non-current liabilities | ||
| (9, 9D, 9E,11) Convertible debentures |
64,778 | 51,686 |
| (9, 9E, 11) Liabilities to credit institutions |
490,549 | 415,721 |
| (4B) Post-employment remuneration of employees |
3,760 | 5,036 |
| (9, 10) Finance lease, non-current portion |
29,034 | 55,822 |
| (9,9E,11) Other non-current liabilities |
59,074 | 44,682 |
| (6) Deferred tax |
185,799 | 174,031 |
| Total non-current liabilities | 832,994 | 746,979 |
| Current liabilities | ||
| (9, 9E,11) Liabilities to credit institutions |
2,763 | 3,026 |
| Accounts payable | 35,094 | 34,758 |
| Tax liabilities | 29,509 | 10,666 |
| (9, 10) Finance lease, current portion |
29,584 | 30,847 |
| Other liabilities | 172,349 | 73,635 |
| (8E) Accrued expenses and prepaid income |
261,132 | 230,994 |
| Total current liabilities | 530,431 | 383,925 |
| TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | 2,206,775 | 1,890,336 |
| (15B) Pledged assets Contingent liabilities |
39,000 - |
798,451 - |
Consolidated statement of changes in equity
| Share capital | Other capital contributions |
Reserves* Retained earnings | Total equity attributable to parent company shareholders |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPENING EQUITY, JAN 1, 2019 | 3,234 | 316,637 | 6,591 | 343,166 | 669,628 |
| Correction of error** | - | - | - | -2,456 | -2,456 |
| Profit for the year | - | - | - | 102,166 | 102,166 |
| Other comprehensive income | - | - | 6,425 | - | 6,426 |
| Total comprehensive income/loss | - | - | 6,425 | 102,166 | 108,592 |
| Convertible debenture with stock options | - | - | - | 2,448 | 2,448 |
| Redemption of debentures | 23 | - | - | 20,003 | 20,026 |
| Dividends paid | - | - | - | -38,807 | -38,807 |
| Transactions with shareholders | 23 | - | - | -16,356 | -16,333 |
| CLOSING EQUITY, DEC 31, 2019 | 3,257 | 316,637 | 13,017 | 426,520 | 759,432 |
| OPENING EQUITY, JAN 1, 2020 | 3,257 | 316,637 | 13,017 | 426,520 | 759,432 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Profit for the year | - | - | - | 160,710 | 160,710 |
| Other comprehensive income | - | - | -63,970 | - | -63,969 |
| Total comprehensive income/loss | - | - | -63,970 | 160,710 | 96,741 |
| Convertible debenture with stock options | - | - | - | 2,658 | 2,658 |
| Redemption of debentures | 20 | - | - | 21,193 | 21,213 |
| Paid option premiums | - | - | - | 6,235 | 6,235 |
| Option premiums measured at fair value | - | - | - | 1,044 | 1,044 |
| Dividends paid | - | - | - | -43,974 | -43,974 |
| Transactions with shareholders | 20 | - | - | -12,844 | -12,824 |
| CLOSING EQUITY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 | 3,277 | 316,637 | -50,952 | 574,386 | 843,350 |
* Reserves comprise actuarial changes to pension liabilities and to translation differences when translating foreign operations, as well as hedge accounting of the same.
** Correction of error relates to restatement of vacation liability resulting from the new Vacation Law that has come into force in Denmark.
Consolidated statement of cash flows
| Note | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| OPERATING ACTIVITIES | ||
| Operating profit | 222,434 | 143,922 |
| Adjustments for non-cash items | ||
| Loss on decommissioning of equipment, fixtures and fittings | 189 | - |
| Depreciation/amortization and impairment | 234,607 | 210,040 |
| Unrealized foreign exchange gains | -46 | 351 |
| Option premiums | 1,044 | - |
| 458,228 | 354,313 | |
| Interest received | 313 | 1,851 |
| Interest paid | -11,709 | -11,022 |
| Income tax paid | -17,539 | -24,515 |
| CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES BEFORE CHANGES IN WORKING CAPITAL | 429,293 | 320,627 |
| Changes in working capital | ||
| Decrease/increase in inventories | 823 | 2,200 |
| Decrease/increase in accounts receivable | 6,396 | 13,165 |
| Decrease/increase in operating receivables | 22,416 | -9,943 |
| Decrease/increase in accounts payable | -3,280 | -9,288 |
| Decrease/increase in operating liabilities | -19,314 | -33,517 |
| CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | 436,334 | 283,245 |
| INVESTING ACTIVITIES | ||
| Acquisition of subsidiaries (net impact on liquidity)* | -167,238 | -218,865 |
| Purchase of intangible fixed assets and capitalized development costs | -163,242 | -141,022 |
| Purchase of property, plant and equipment | -9,648 | -15,625 |
| CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES FINANCING ACTIVITIES |
-340,128 | -375,512 |
| Dividends to Parent Company shareholders | -33,293 | -38,807 |
| (13) Borrowings |
157,820 | 236,962 |
| (13) Repayment of loans** |
-92,269 | -325,488 |
| Paid option premiums | 6,235 | - |
| CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | 38,493 | -127,334 |
| CASH FLOW FOR THE YEAR | 134,699 | -219,600 |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS ON JANUARY 1 | 16,659 | 0 |
| Exchange-rate differences in cash and cash equivalents | -16,662 | 956 |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT YEAR-END*** | 134,695 | -218,644 |
*Payment for the acquisition of subsidiaries during the period was in cash for Visiolink ApS, ALMA Consulting Oy, LJ System AB, Appva AB and NexGolf Oy. Net cash flow was SEK 161.7 million. The acquisition pertained to all shares outstanding in their entirety and entailed the gain of controlling influence. In addition, the final settlement of contingent consideration for Vitec Avoine Oy was SEK 5.5 million. The payment did not entail any changes to controlling influence or the total number of shares. Payment pertaining to the acquisition of subsidiaries during 2019, comprising payment for Avoine Oy, WIMS AS, Odin Systemer AS, M&V Software Oy and HK data AS. Net cash flow was SEK 207.8 million. The acquisition pertained to all shares outstanding in their entirety and entailed the gain of controlling influence. Furthermore, a final settlement of SEK 1.0 million was paid for supplementary purchase considerations pertaining to PP7 Affärssystem AB and SEK 10.1 million for Cito IT A/S. The payment did not entail any changes to controlling influence or the total number of shares.
**Amortization consisted of SEK 8.3 million (3.4) for amortization on bank loans and SEK 39.8 million (284.7) in repayments to credit facilities. ***Cash and cash equivalents are defined as funds exposed to an immaterial risk of fluctuations in value, and which are easily convertible to liquid funds of a known amount. Current investments comprise funds that are convertible to cash at a known amount within one bank day.
Parent Company income statement
| NOTE | 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|---|
| OPERATING REVENUES | |||
| Net sales | (14A) | 109,939 | 64,099 |
| Other operating revenues | (5A) | 251,462 | 77,094 |
| OPERATING EXPENSES | (14A) | ||
| Other external expenses | (5B) | -49,408 | -41,691 |
| Personnel expenses | (4) | -49,021 | -42,308 |
| Other operating expenses | (5A) | -204,073 | -81,261 |
| Depreciation/amortization and impairment losses | (8B) | -1,789 | -2,076 |
| OPERATING PROFIT/LOSS | 57,109 | -26,143 | |
| PROFIT FROM FINANCIAL ITEMS: | (5C) | ||
| Income from participation in Group companies | (14B) | 177,692 | 131,301 |
| Interest income and similar profit items | 381 | 772 | |
| Interest expenses and similar loss items | -12,485 | -12,357 | |
| NET FINANCIAL ITEMS | 165,588 | 119,716 | |
| PROFIT AFTER FINANCIAL ITEMS | 222,697 | 93,573 | |
| Appropriations | (14C) | 364 | 40,506 |
| PROFIT BEFORE TAX | 223,061 | 134,080 | |
| Tax | (6) | -11,818 | -264 |
| PROFIT FOR THE YEAR | 211,243 | 133,816 |
Profit for the year is in line with the total comprehensive income.
Balance sheet, Parent Company
| Note | Dec 31, 2020 |
Dec 31, 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| ASSETS | ||
| Fixed assets | ||
| (8B) Intangible fixed assets |
||
| Software | 1,036 | 1,559 |
| 1,036 | 1,559 | |
| (8B) Tangible property, plant and equipment |
||
| Buildings | 8,050 | 8,236 |
| Investments in leased premises | 1,258 | 1,672 |
| Equipment, fixtures and fittings | 1,433 | 1,776 |
| 10,741 | 11,684 | |
| Financial fixed assets | ||
| (8B, 7B) Participations in subsidiaries |
1,851,577 | 1,533,228 |
| (6) Deferred tax assets |
777 | 2,148 |
| 1,852,354 | 1,535,376 | |
| Total non-current assets | 1,864,131 | 1,548,619 |
| Current assets | ||
| Current receivables | ||
| Receivables from Group companies | 207,830 | 192,019 |
| Current tax assets | - | 4,692 |
| Other receivables | 1,440 | 3,943 |
| (8D) Prepaid expenses and accrued income |
4,040 | 4,008 |
| 213,310 | 204,662 | |
| Cash and bank balances | 123,743 | - |
| Total current assets | 337,053 | 204,662 |
| TOTAL ASSETS | 2,201,185 | 1,753,281 |
| Note | Dec 31, 2020 |
Dec 31, 2019 |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | |||
| Restricted equity | |||
| Share capital | (12) | 3,277 | 3,257 |
| Statutory reserve | 14,917 | 14,917 | |
| Total restricted equity | 18,194 | 18,174 | |
| Unrestricted equity | |||
| Share premium reserve | 374,894 | 343,763 | |
| Earnings brought forward | 295,856 | 206,014 | |
| Profit for the year | 211,243 | 133,816 | |
| Total unrestricted equity | 881,992 | 683,592 | |
| Total shareholders' equity | 900,187 | 701,767 | |
| Untaxed reserves | (14D) | 1,677 | 2,042 |
| Non-current liabilities | |||
| Convertible debentures | (9D,9E,11) | 64,778 | 51,686 |
| Liabilities to credit institutions | (9E,11) | 490,549 | 415,738 |
| Other non-current liabilities | (9E,11) | 45,000 | 41,110 |
| Total non-current liabilities Current liabilities |
600,327 | 508,534 | |
| Overdraft facility | (9E) | - | 6,006 |
| Liabilities to credit institutions | (9E,11) | 2,752 | 3,032 |
| Accounts payable | 3,634 | 5,666 | |
| Liabilities to Group companies | 594,089 | 513,484 | |
| Current tax liabilities | 7,909 | - | |
| Other current liabilities | 81,465 | 6,845 | |
| Accrued expenses and prepaid income | (8E) | 9,144 | 5,904 |
| Total current liabilities | 698,994 | 540,937 | |
| TOTAL SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | 2,201,185 | 1,753,281 |
Parent Company changes in shareholders' equity
| Share capital | Statutory reserve |
Share premi um reserve |
Retained earnings and net income for the year |
Total share holders' equity |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OPENING EQUITY, JAN 1, 2019 | 3,234 | 14,917 | 321,312 | 244,768 | 584,231 |
| Convertible debenture with stock options | - | - | 2,448 | - | 2,448 |
| Debenture conversion | 23 | 20,003 | - | 20,026 | |
| Merger results | - | - | - | 53 | 53 |
| Dividends paid | - | - | - | -38,807 | -38,807 |
| Profit for the year | - | - | - | 133,816 | 133,816 |
| CLOSING EQUITY, DECEMBER 31, 2019 | 3,257 | 14,917 | 343,763 | 339,830 | 701,767 |
| OPENING EQUITY, JAN 1, 2020 | 3,257 | 14,917 | 343,763 | 339,830 | 701,767 |
| Convertible debenture with stock options | - | - | 2,659 | - | 2,659 |
| Debenture conversion | 20 | - | 21,193 | - | 21,213 |
| Option premiums | - | - | 7,279 | - | 7,279 |
| Dividends paid | - | - | - | -43,974 | -43,974 |
| Profit for the year | - | - | - | 211,243 | 211,243 |
| CLOSING EQUITY, DECEMBER 31, 2020 | 3,277 | 14,917 | 374,894 | 507,099 | 900,187 |
Cash Flow Statement, Parent Company (indirect method)
| Note | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| OPERATING ACTIVITIES | ||
| Operating profit | 57,109 | -26,143 |
| Adjustments for non-cash items | ||
| Depreciation/amortization and impairment losses | 1,789 | 2,076 |
| Option premiums | 1,044 | - |
| 59,942 | -24,067 | |
| Dividends and Group contributions received | 130,301 | 77,599 |
| Interest received | 381 | 772 |
| Interest paid | -11,123 | -10,584 |
| Income tax paid/refunded | 2,256 | -5 |
| CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES BEFORE CHANGES IN WORKING CAPITAL | 181,757 | 43,715 |
| Changes in working capital | ||
| Increase/decrease in operating receivables | -19,096 | 8,128 |
| Increase/decrease in operating liabilities | 97,172 | 111,635 |
| CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES | 259,833 | 163,478 |
| INVESTING ACTIVITIES | ||
| Acquisition of subsidiaries* | -219,411 | -300,552 |
| Purchase of intangible assets | -255 | -190 |
| Purchase of property, plant and equipment | -68 | -1,420 |
| Change in non-current receivables | - | 5,704 |
| CASH FLOW FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES | -219,735 | -296,457 |
| FINANCING ACTIVITIES | ||
| Dividends paid | -33,293 | -38,807 |
| (13) Borrowings |
157,820 | 236,962 |
| (13) Repayment of debt** |
-47,118 | -288,083 |
| Paid option premiums | 6,235 | - |
| CASH FLOW FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES | 83,644 | -89,928 |
| CASH FLOW FOR THE YEAR | 123,743 | -222,908 |
| Cash and cash equivalents on January 1 | 0 | 222,908 |
| CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT YEAR-END*** | 123,743 | 0 |
*Payment for the acquisition of subsidiaries during the period was in cash for Visiolink Management ApS, ALMA Consulting Oy, LJ System AB, Appva AB and NexGolf Oy. The purchase consideration was SEK 213.8 million. The acquisition pertained to all shares outstanding in their entirety and entailed the gain of controlling influence. In addition, the final settlement of contingent consideration for Avoine Oy was SEK 5.5 million. The payment did not entail any changes to controlling influence or the total number of shares.
Payment pertaining to the acquisition of subsidiaries during 2019, comprising payment for Avoine Oy, WIMS AS, Odin Systemer AS, M&V Software Oy and HK data AS. The purchase consideration was SEK 289.5 million. The acquisition pertained to all shares outstanding in their entirety and entailed the gain of controlling influence. Furthermore, a final settlement of SEK 1.0 million was paid for supplementary purchase considerations pertaining to PP7 Affärssystem AB and SEK 10.1 million for Cito IT A/S. The payment did not entail any changes to controlling influence or the total number of shares.
**Amortization consisted of SEK 7.9 million (3.4) for amortization on bank loans and SEK 39.2 million (284.7) in repayments to credit facilities.
***Cash and cash equivalents are defined as funds exposed to an immaterial risk of fluctuations in value, and which are easily convertible to liquid funds of a known amount. Current investments comprise funds that are convertible to cash at a known amount within one bank day.
NOTE 1 ACCOUNTING AND MEASUREMENT POLICIES
General
The consolidated accounts were prepared pursuant to the Swedish Annual Accounts Act, International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), as well as the interpretations of the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC), as adopted by the EU for application within the EU. Recommendation RFR 1, Supplementary accounting rules for corporate groups, issued by the Swedish Financial Reporting Board, has also been applied.
The Parent Company applies the same accounting policies as the Group, with the exception of entries specified in Note 14 of the Parent Company's accounting policies.
The Annual Report and the consolidated financial statements were approved for publication by the Board of Directors on March 23, 2021. The consolidated statement of comprehensive income and the statement of financial position, and the Parent Company income statement and balance sheet, are subject to approval by the AGM on April 28, 2021.
Presentation of accounting policies and notes:
The notes of the annual accounts are grouped into several principal areas, where accounting policies are collected for a group of notes. General accounting and measurement policies are presented in Note 1.
Note groupings:
-
- General accounting and measurement policies
-
- Segments
-
- Revenues from customer agreements
-
- Remuneration of employees
-
- Other significant profit/loss items
-
- Tax
-
- The Group's composition
-
- Non-financial assets and liabilities
-
- Financial assets and liabilities
-
- Leasing
-
- Financial risks and capital risk management
-
- Shareholders' equity
-
- Cash flow
-
- Parent Company
-
- Miscellaneous information
-
- Events after the balance-sheet date
Prerequisites for preparing the financial reports Functional currency and reporting currency
The Parent Company's functional currency is SEK, which is also the presentation currency for the Parent Company and the Group. This means that the financial statements are presented in SEK. All amounts are rounded off and recognized to the nearest thousand SEK (SEK thousand) unless otherwise indicated.
Valuation bases
Assets and liabilities are measured at their historical cost. No financial assets or liabilities are recognized at a value that substantially deviates from their fair value at December 31, 2020.
Classification of current and long-term items
In all significant respects, long-term receivables and liabilities are recognized in the amounts that are expected to fall due for payment after one year, counted from the close of the reporting period. Current receivables and liabilities fall due for payment within one year of the close of the reporting period.
Receivables and liabilities in foreign currency
Operating receivables and liabilities in foreign currency are translated to the exchange rate at the end of the reporting period and exchange-rate differences are recognized in operating profit/loss.
Estimates and assumptions
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires the use of critical accounting estimates and assumptions. The Board of Directors and management exercise their judgment in the process of applying the company's accounting policies. These estimates and assumptions are based on historic experience and other factors that are deemed to be plausible under existing circumstances. If other assumptions are made or other circumstances influence the matter the actual outcome can differ from these assessments. The principles for estimates and assumptions are subject to regular testing. Up to and including the submission date of annual accounts, nothing has occurred to prompt any amendments.
The areas in which estimates and assumptions are of material significance to Vitec's consolidated financial statements are:
- Acquisitions. A detailed acquisition analysis is prepared in conjunction with each acquisition. In the acquisition analysis, the difference between the net assets of the acquired company and the purchase price is allocated to product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill. The distribution follows a model, but is based on estimates and judgements.
-
Supplementary purchase consideration for acquisitions. This pertains to acquisitions where the purchase consideration is divided into two or more parts, one part that is paid in conjunction with the acquisition and other parts that are paid in the event that specified terms and conditions are fulfilled within a specified period of time following the acquisition. Such terms and conditions may be earnings growth, an improved percentage of recurring revenues and/or guarantee commitments. Purchase considerations are measured at fair value at the acquisition date. Estimates and judgments of value are made at subsequent reporting dates.
-
Capitalized development expenditure. Each year, investments are made in internally generated development costs. The asset is capitalized based on an hourly cost and with an assumed lifetime of 10 years.
- Impairment testing. Impairment tests are performed once a year on capitalized development costs, product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill. Estimates and judgements of the recoverable amount are made based on future projections and budgets. The estimates and assumptions that are associated with a significant risk for material adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year are discussed in Note 8, Non-financial assets and liabilities.
Provisions are recognized in the balance sheet when there is a formal or informal obligation as a result of a past event and it is likely that an outflow of resources will be necessary to settle the obligation and a reliable estimation of the amount can be made. In cases where part of or the entire amount required for settling a provision is expected to be compensated for by a third party or parties, the compensation is recognized when, and only when, it is essentially ascertained that it will be paid for if the obligation is to be settled. The compensation is recognized as a separate asset in the balance sheet. The amount recognized for the compensation may not exceed the provision. The cost of a provision is recognized in profit or loss as net after deduction for any compensation from third parties.
Government aid
In 2020, the Group received government aid as part of the relief measures taken by the authorities to mitigate the effects of COVID-19. The government aid mainly relates to the reduction of social security expenses and compensation for sick pay. In accordance with IAS 20, the government relief measures have been recognized as reductions in personnel expenses in the same period as the expenses that the subsidies are intended to cover.
New or amended accounting policies as of 2020
No new accounting policies have entered into force for 2020 that affect the Group's reporting, nor have any new accounting policies been adopted for the future that are expected to affect the Group's reporting.
NOTE 2 SEGMENTS
Provisions
Operating segments are defined at Vitec as business units, of which there are 27, each generating revenue and incurring costs. Separate financial information is available for each business unit, which is regularly followed up by the highest executive decision-maker, the CEO and Group chief executive.
The operating segments form the operational structure for internal governance, follow-ups, and reporting. Based on the character of the services offered with their high proportion of recurring revenues, similar range of products, and similar financial characteristics, all of the group's operating segments/business units were aggregated into one operating segment in the financial reports as of 1 January 2020 in accordance with the rules of IFRS 8.
For more information on the cash-generating units, please refer to pages 12–17 in this annual report.
NOTE 3 REVENUES FROM CUSTOMER AGREEMENTS
Revenue recognition
We recognize revenue in accordance with IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
In accordance with IFRS 15, revenues are recognized when the customer obtains control of the service and performance obligations are fulfilled.
Sales consist of the revenue groups presented in profit or loss: recurring revenues, license revenues, service revenues and other revenues. These revenues in turn consist of performance obligations.
Our performance obligations comprise support, maintenance and upgrades, temporary usufruct and operations, perpetual usufruct, services, information services, third-party usufruct, third-party maintenance and other. Of the recurring revenues, SEK 518.4 million (478.5) pertain to support, maintenance and upgrades; SEK 376.0 million (268.4) to fixed-period usufruct and operation; SEK 162.5 million (145.3) to information services; and SEK 23.5 million (15.3) to third-party maintenance. License revenues comprised SEK 14.3 million (17.2) in perpetual usufruct and SEK 0.4 million (0.6) in third-party usufruct.
Our most frequent contract types pertain to SaaS, sales of licenses with traditional support and maintenance agreements, services for sale and information services. Contractual periods span from one month to one year and in some cases even longer. SaaS comprises agreements on all types of subscriptions and cloud services. Temporary usufruct, support and maintenance are always included. Operations, upgrades, information services and other may also be included, depending on the contractual setup.
Recurring revenues
Recurring revenues mainly comprise annual agreements on SaaS, maintenance, support, operations and information services. Our information services are recognized at the date of delivery, while other agreements are recognized using a flat distribution across the contractual period, once the customer obtains control of the service and the performance obligation is fulfilled.
License revenues
License revenues comprise nonrecurring fees from the sale of software licenses. Sales of software licenses are to be recognized upon fulfilment of the performance obligation. Recognition then pertains to the entire license fee at the given date. Agreements on support and maintenance that are signed together with sales of licenses are invoiced separately and recognized as recurring revenues.
Service revenues
Service revenues comprise consultancy services on a costplus basis and consultancy services at a fixed price. Service revenues can be recognized either over time or at a given date. The recognition of revenues over time requires that the customer obtain and utilize benefits while Vitec delivers its obligations. In these cases, we recognize our obligations in stages, in pace with the degree of completion. The degree of completion is calculated based on the extent that the contractually agreed delivery is fulfilled, taking into account the contractually agreed and completed functionalities, as well as actual time spent in relation to estimated time. For example, for an implementation project where the customer can gradually utilize software functionality, the project is to be gradually recognized in relation to the degree of completion.
If this criterion is not fulfilled, the revenue is recognized at the given date in conjunction with the completion of the service. For example, conferences and training courses, where delivery occurs at a single occasion.
Revenues that are yet to be invoiced to customers are recognized as accrued revenues in the balance sheet. None of our fixed-price agreements are classified under non-current revenues.
Other
Other revenues mainly comprise sales of goods such as hardware and third-party software, excluding third-party licenses, which are recognized as license revenues. Recognition occurs upon delivery.
The Group receives revenue from the transfer of services over time or at a given date as follows:
REVENUES FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| (SEK million) | ||
| Recurring revenues | 1,080.4 | 907.5 |
| Licenses | 14.7 | 17.9 |
| Service revenues | 189.2 | 162.7 |
| Other | 28.4 | 68.2 |
| Net sales | 1,312.8 1,156.2 | |
| Date of revenue recognition | ||
| Services transferred to customers over time, flat distribution | 939.4 | 780.7 |
| Services transferred to customers over time, in pace with use | 330.3 | 289.5 |
| Services transferred to customers at a given time | 43.1 | 86.0 |
| Net sales | 1,312.8 1,156.2 |
There are no revenues from performance obligations fulfilled during previous periods.
Sales broken down by geography, business unit and customer
We operate in a number of niche markets in the Nordic region and have good diversification of revenue in terms of both geography and area of operation. The business is essentially the same in all niche markets: we develop and deliver standardized software to meet the various needs of our customers. Some of our software products comprise complete Other 1% Recurring 84%
enterprise systems, while others provide support for specific aspects of our customers' operations. We serve a large number of customers with our products. No individual customer accounts for more than 1.6% of the Group's total revenues. As we continue to acquire profitable vertical software companies in the Nordic region, we expect the distribution of risk to continue in a positive direction. SEK kurs Antal Denmark 19%
Consolidated net sales based on the customers' domiciles Services 13%
| Net sales | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Services 13% SEK million |
2020 | 2019 | ||
| Sweden Licenses 2% |
407.5 | 357.9 | ||
| Denmark | 244.6 | 274.3 | ||
| Finland | 287.8 | 224.3 | ||
| Norway | 339.7 | 289.9 | ||
| Rest of the world | 33.2 | 9.7 | ||
| 1,312.8 | 1,156.3 |
Other countries 3% Norway 26% Finland 21% Sweden 31% Denmark 19% 82%
Consolidated net sales by business unit
The diagram below shows our sales broken down based on our 27 business units. No individual business unit accounts for more than 14% of consolidated sales
Customers
We have about 17,500 customers. The Group's ten largest customers account for approximately 8% of sales. The single largest customer accounts for approximately 1.6% of sales.
Contractual assets and contractual liabilities
The Group recognizes the following revenue-related contractual assets and liabilities:
| ASSETS | ||
|---|---|---|
| SEK million | 2020 | 2019 |
| Accounts receivable | 220.8 | 197.4 |
| Accrued revenues from contracts with customers | 9.6 | 16.7 |
| Total contractual assets | 230.4 | 214.1 |
CONTRACTUAL LIABILITIES
| SEK million | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Prepaid revenues from contracts with customers | 158.1 | 10 largest customers 130.5 |
| Total contractual liabilities | 158.1 | 130.5 |
Most of our recurring revenues are invoiced in advance. At the date of invoicing, a receivable and a prepaid revenue are entered into the balance sheet. The receivable is removed upon payment, while the prepaid revenue is distributed over the period that the invoice pertains to.
Accounts receivable include an impairment provision for anticipated bad-debt losses of SEK 1.3 million (1.9).
The change in contractual assets and contractual liabilities is attributable to acquisitions, which contributed SEK 19.8 million in increased contractual assets and SEK 2.7 million in increased contractual liabilities. Remaining customers
NOTE 4 REMUNERATION OF EMPLOYEES
Remuneration of employees
Short-term remuneration is estimated without discounting and is recognized when the services have been rendered. Costs for bonuses and other variable payroll components are recognized when there is a legal or informal obligation for the company to pay or such remuneration and the amount can be reliably calculated.
Pensions and other post-employment remuneration can be classified as defined contribution plans or defined-benefit plans. Most of the Group's pension provisions comprise defined-contribution plans that are fulfilled through regular payments to independent government agencies or entities. Liabilities with respect to fees for defined-contribution plans are recognized as a cost in profit or loss as they arise. There are a small number of employees in Sweden with defined-benefit ITP plans, with regular payments to Alecta. These are recognized as defined-contribution plans due to Alecta's nondelivery of requisite information. There is insufficient data for recognizing the plan as a defined-benefit plan. However, there are no indications of any substantial provisions exceeding amounts that are paid to Alecta. There are also a small number of employees in Norway who are affiliated with a defined-benefit plan.
Remuneration in the event of employment termination is recognized as a provision in conjunction with the employee's termination only in cases when the company is demonstrably obligated either to terminate an employee prior to the normal date, or when benefits are paid as an offer to encourage voluntary termination. When remuneration is paid as an offer to encourage voluntary termination, a cost is recognized, as well as a provision, if it is probable that the offer will be accepted and the number of employees who will accept the offer can be reliably estimated.
Share-based remuneration
The Annual General Meeting on June 23 resolved on a convertible program for personnel as well as a warrant incentive program through warrants. The warrant incentive program is aimed at 40 people in Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark.
The warrant incentive program is recognized as sharebased remuneration pursuant to IFRS 2. The shares were issued on market terms.
NOTE 4A EMPLOYEES, PERSONNEL EXPENSES AND REMUNERATION OF SENIOR EXECUTIVES
| Women | Men | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |||
| Parent Company | ||||||||
| Sweden | 23 | 22 | 8 | 8 | 31 | 30 | ||
| Subsidiaries | ||||||||
| Sweden | 67 | 68 | 200 | 174 | 267 | 242 | ||
| Denmark | 58 | 45 | 138 | 120 | 196 | 165 | ||
| Finland | 47 | 35 | 104 | 80 | 151 | 115 | ||
| Norway | 48 | 40 | 131 | 101 | 179 | 141 | ||
| Group total | 243 | 210 | 581 | 483 | 824 | 693 |
AVERAGE NO. OF EMPLOYEES
At year-end, the number of employees was 862 (742).
GENDER DISTRIBUTION AMONG SENIOR EXECUTIVES
The Parent Company's Board of Directors comprises five directors, two of whom are women. The Group's executive management comprises four individuals, all of whom are men. The CEOs of the subsidiaries comprise two women and 25 men.
SALARIES AND OTHER REMUNERATION
| Salaries and other remuneration |
Social Security expenses | (of which, pension contributions) |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| Parent Company | 33,032 | 25,073 | 14,079 | 14,595 | 4,328 * | 5,520 * | |
| Subsidiaries | 481,117 | 412,835 | 122,525 | 111,738 | 50,434 | 43,920 | |
| Group total | 514,149 | 437,908 | 136,604 | 126,333 | 54,862 ** | 49,440 ** |
* Of the Parent Company's pension contributions, SEK 2,081,000 (2,737,000) pertains to the senior management group.
** Of the Group's pension contributions, SEK 4,471,000 (6,688,000) pertains to the senior management group.
The Parent Company's salary and remuneration costs include SEK 5,711,000 in costs for incentive programs for senior executives in subsidiaries and other employees of the Parent Company in management roles, but not belonging to senior management.
SALARIES AND OTHER REMUNERATION DISTRIBUTED BETWEEN BOARD MEMBERS, SENIOR EXECUTIVES AND OTHER EMPLOYEES
| Senior executives (of which bonus payments and similar) |
Other employees | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Parent Company | 10,573 (0) | 8,432 (0) | 22,459 | 16,641 |
| Subsidiaries | 36,680 (0) | 30,995 (0) | 444,437 | 381,840 |
| Group total | 47,253 (0) | 39,428 (0) | 466,896 | 398,481 |
Senior executives
Senior executives of the Parent Company comprise its Board of Directors and the Group's senior management, executive management (EM).
Senior executives in subsidiaries comprise the CEOs of the subsidiaries, who constitute separate reporting units.
Remuneration of Board members and senior executives of the Parent Company
All remuneration is considered competitive. External Board members are paid board fees.
No variable remuneration is paid. There are no consultancy agreements for any Board members or senior executives.
Board fees are paid in accordance with resolutions passed by the AGM. The Chairman of the Board is paid a fee of SEK 350,000 annually. The other four Board members who are not employees of the Group are paid fees totaling SEK 175,000 annually. In both cases, the remuneration level applies as of the date of the AGM.
Remuneration to the CEO totaled SEK 2,448,000. No board fees were paid.
The CEO's pension solution from the company entitles the CEO to an annual premium payment amounting to 35% of the salary. In the event of termination from the company's side, the salary is to be paid during the six-month notice period, as well as severance pay comprising 18 monthly salaries. Severance pay is reconciled against any remuneration from other employers.
The pension plans are defined-contribution and based on the retirement age of 65. Between Vitec and other senior executives, the period of notice is normally set pursuant to current legislation or applicable collective agreements. In the event of termination from Vitec's side, Gert Gustafsson, Olle Backman and Patrik Fransson will be entitled to six months of severance pay.
The shareholdings and convertible debentures of Board members and senior executives are presented in the Corporate Governance Report.
| Basic salary/ Board fees |
Warrants Other benefits |
Pension premiums |
Total | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Chairman of the Board, Crister Stjernfelt | 310 | 270 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 310 | 270 |
| Board member Kaj Sandart | 155 | 135 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 155 | 135 |
| Board member Jan Friedman | 155 | 135 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 155 | 135 |
| Board member Birgitta Johansson-Hedberg | 155 | 135 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 155 | 135 |
| Board member Anna Valtonen | 155 | 135 | - | - | - | - | - | - | 155 | 135 |
| CEO Lars Stenlund | 2,448 | 2,448 | 337 | - | 6 | 5 | 840 | 840 | 3,631 | 3,293 |
| *Other senior executives of the Parent | ||||||||||
| Company | 5,846 | 5,174 | 1,012 | - | 9 | 27 | 1,241 | 1,897 | 8,108 | 7,098 |
| Total | 9,224 | 8,432 | 1,349 | 15 | 32 | 2,081 | 2,737 12,669 11,201 |
* "Other senior executives" of the Parent Company refers to Patrik Fransson, Olle Backman and Gert Gustafsson.
Incentive program
There is an ongoing convertibles program aimed at all personnel in the form of convertible debentures. The shares were issued on market terms. Consequently, there are no benefits that can be recognized as share-based remuneration.
There is also an ongoing incentive program aimed at various senior executives in the Group. The Annual General Meeting on June 23 resolved on a warrant incentive program. The program is aimed at 40 people in Sweden, Finland, Norway and Denmark. The shares were issued on market terms.
| Average exer cise price per stock option |
Number of options |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | |||||
| As of January 1 | 0 | 0 | |||
| Granted during the year | 333 | 251,000 | |||
| As of December 31 | 333 | 251,000 |
Outstanding stock options at year-end have the following maturity dates and exercise prices:
| Date of award | Maturity date | Exercise price |
Stock options Dec 31, 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept. 16 | Sept. 1, 2023– | 333 | 251,000 |
| Total | Sept. 15, 2023 | 215,000 |
The options are freely transferable from the grant date and have no vesting conditions.
Guidelines for remuneration of senior executives
The Annual General Meeting in June 2020 resolved on the following guidelines for remuneration of senior executives:
Who the guidelines cover and their applicability
These guidelines for remuneration to senior executives cover remuneration to the Board of Directors, the CEO, the deputy CEO and other senior executives. The guidelines are applicable to remuneration agreed, and amendments to remuneration already agreed, after the adoption of the guidelines by the Annual General Meeting 2020. Regarding employment conditions that are governed by rules other than Swedish, appropriate adjustments may be made in order to comply with such mandatory rules or local practice, whereby the overall purpose of these guidelines shall be met. These guidelines do not apply to any remuneration decided or approved by the general meeting.
The Board of Directors has the right to temporarily derogate from the guidelines, in whole or in part, if in a specific case there is special cause for the derogation and a derogation is necessary to serve the long-term interests of the company, including its sustainability, or to ensure the financial viability of the company. If such
Fair value of options granted
The fair value of options granted has been calculated to SEK 29 per option. The fair value at grant date is calculated using a modified version of the Black-Scholes valuation model.
According to the AGM resolution, participants in the incentive program were subsidized equivalent to net 50% of the option premiums.
In Norway and Finland, the options were transferred by the participants paying 50% of the option premium. The excess has been recognized as share-based payment. In Sweden and Denmark, the options have been acquired by the holders paying 100% of the option premiums. At the same time, participants were subsidized equivalent to net 50% of the option premiums with a one-off payment.
The total fair value recognized in equity for this year's warrants is SEK 7.3 million.
Costs charged to profit or loss for the year for sharebased payments in the form of warrants amount to SEK 7.4 million.
deviations occur, they must be reported in the remuneration report before the next Annual General Meeting. These guidelines are applicable after the Annual General Meeting 2020. An issue regarding deviation from the guidelines shall be prepared by the remuneration committee and decided by the Board of Directors.
The guidelines' promotion of the company's business strategy, long-term interest and sustainability
Vitec is the leading software company in Vertical Market Software in the Nordic region. We develop and deliver standardized software aimed at various niche markets. Our business model is based on recurring revenues and our growth is mainly the result of acquisitions of mature software companies. For further information about the business model, growth strategy and sustainability, see www.vitecsoftware.com.
In order to successfully implement the company's business strategy and to safeguard its long-term interests, including its sustainability, the Board believes that recruiting and retaining highly competent senior executives with the capacity to achieve specified goals is crucial. To this end, it is necessary that the company can offer competitive remuneration to motivate senior executives to do their utmost to achieve the company's goals.
Forms of remuneration, etc.
Remuneration and other terms of employment for senior executives shall be based on market terms. Remuneration consists of base salary, pension benefits and other benefits. Gross remuneration represents the total remuneration. The Annual General Meeting may also – regardless of these guidelines – resolve on share and share-price related remuneration. The gross remuneration is disposed of by each individual in accordance with the company's policies, and should cover the company's cost for:
- salary, social security expenses and vacation/holiday allowance
- pension and associated special payroll tax
- any health or medical insurance
- other benefits
Cash salary constitutes a maximum of 90–95% of total remuneration, excluding share or share price-related remuneration, while pensions and other benefits constitute a maximum of 30–40% of total remuneration excluding share or share price-related remuneration.
Variable cash remuneration
Vitec does not offer variable cash remuneration to senior executives.
Share or share price-related remuneration
Senior executives may be offered incentive programs which shall primarily be share and share-price related. Incentive programs are intended to improve the participants' commitment to the company's development and shall be implemented on market-based terms. Resolutions on share and share price-related incentive programs must be passed at the Annual General Meeting and are therefore not covered by these guidelines.
Pension
The agreed retirement age for the CEO is 65 years and there is no agreed retirement age for other senior executives. All pension benefits for senior executives are based on defined payments. This means that the company pays an individually agreed defined premium for senior executives. Other than the aforementioned pension benefits, the company does not have any other pension obligations for senior executives.
Notice of termination and severance pay
For notice of termination served by the company, the maximum notice period is 6 months. The fixed base salary during the notice period and the severance pay may not, in total, exceed an amount corresponding to the fixed base salary for 18 months for the CEO and 6 months for other individuals in company management. For notice of termination served by the executive, the maximum notice period is 3 months, without any right to severance pay.
Salaries and terms of employment for employees
In preparing the Board of Directors' proposal for these remuneration guidelines, the salaries and terms of employment for the company's employees have been taken into account. Information about employees' total remuneration, components of their remuneration, as well as increases in remuneration and increases over time have been obtained and have constituted a part of the remuneration committee's and the Board of Directors' decision basis in their evaluation of the fairness of the guidelines and the limitations arising from them.
Resolution process
The Board of Directors shall prepare a proposal for new guidelines whenever the need for material changes arises, but at least every four years. The Board of Directors' proposal is prepared by the remuneration committee. The chairman of the Board of Directors may chair the remuneration committee. Other members of the remuneration committee who are elected by the Annual General Meeting must be independent in relation to the company and company management. If the Board of Directors finds it more expedient, the entire Board can fulfill the tasks of the remuneration committee, provided that members of the Board who are part of the company management do not participate in the work.
The remuneration committee shall monitor and evaluate the application of the guidelines for remuneration to senior executives decided by the Annual General Meeting. When the remuneration committee has prepared the proposal, it is submitted to the Board of Directors for decision. The Chief Executive Officer or other senior executives shall not be present while the Board of Directors addresses issues related to remuneration and passes resolutions about them, insofar as they are affected by the issues.
If the Annual General Meeting resolves not to adopt guidelines when there is a proposal for such, the Board of Directors shall submit a new proposal no later than at the next Annual General Meeting. In such cases, remuneration shall be paid in accordance with the current guidelines or, if no guidelines exist, in accordance with the company's practice.
External advisors are used in the preparation of these matters when deemed necessary.
Review of the guidelines
A review of the guidelines for remuneration to senior executives has been made as a result of the amendments to the Swedish Companies Act that came into force on June 10, 2019. The proposed changes are not expected to entail any significant change in the remuneration paid in accordance with the current guidelines. The company has not received any comments from the shareholders.
Proposal for changes
For the Annual General Meeting on 28 April 2021, the Board of Directors proposes the following material changes:
Remuneration to members of the Board of Directors In addition to the fees to the members of the Board of Directors resolved upon by the Annual General Meeting, remuneration for assignments for the company
performed by a member of the Board of Directors outside the scope of board work may be paid by the company. For the purpose of such assignments, the Board of Directors may, on behalf of the company, enter into an agreement with the relevant member of the Board of Directors regarding the performance of an individual assignment or enter into a framework agreement, whereby the Board of Directors may, on behalf of the company, call off the performance of services under the framework agreement. The member of the Board of Directors that is affected by the matters shall not be present while the Board of Directors addresses matters related to assignments and remuneration and passes resolutions about them. Remuneration for assignments for the company that a member of the Board of Directors performs outside the scope of board work shall be market-based.
NOTE 4B PENSIONS
Vitec has both defined-contribution and defined-benefit pension plans. The defined-benefit plans are in Sweden and Norway. The Swedish defined-benefit pension plans are secured through coverage by Alecta. For the 2020 fiscal year, the company did not have access to the information necessary to support recognition of this plan as a defined-benefit plan. Accordingly, the Alecta ITP2 pension plan covered by insurance in Alecta is recognized as a defined-contribution plan. The premiums for the defined-benefit retirement pensions and family pension plans are individually calculated and are subject to factors such as salary, previously earned pensions and the expected remaining term of service. The expected fees in the next reporting period for ITP2 insurance covered by Alecta are SEK 1,996,000 (2,490,000). The collective consolidation level for Alecta was 148% (148) in 2020.
Defined-contribution plans
Defined-contribution pension plans entail that the company makes periodic payments to separate government agencies or funds, and the level of remuneration is subject to the yield achieved for these investments. Fees for the year for defined-contribution pension insurance, including Alecta ITP2, totaled SEK 52,709,000 (46,636,000).
Defined-benefit plans
These pension plans refer to some of the Norwegian subsidiaries and comprise retirement pensions in companies that were acquired during 2014. An employee must be enrolled in the plan for a certain amount of years to achieve full entitlement to a retirement pension. The funded pension obligations are secured by plan assets. Fees for the year for defined-benefit pension plans totaled SEK 1,585,000. The forecast for fees in 2021 is SEK 1,585,000.
COMMITMENTS TO EMPLOYEE BENEFITS, DEFINED-BENEFIT PLANS
| Group | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| Other pension obligations, Norway | 3,760 | 5,036 |
| Total defined-benefit plans | 3,760 | 5,036 |
DEFINED-BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS AND VALUE OF PLAN ASSETS
| Group | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | |||
| Present value of funded defined-benefit obligations, Norway | 18,208 | 20,026 | |
| Fair value of plan assets, Norway | -14,912 | -15,613 | |
| Net | 3,296 | 4,414 | |
| Estimated employer contributions | 465 | 622 | |
| Net debt for funded obligations, Norway | 3,760 | 5,036 |
RECONCILIATION OF NET AMOUNT FOR PENSIONS IN THE BALANCE SHEET
| Group | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| Opening balance | 5,036 | 4,792 |
| Net pension costs for the year | 932 | 1,122 |
| Investments in pension funds, incl. employer contributions | -1,808 | -1,753 |
| Actuarial changes recognized in other comprehensive income | 92 | 720 |
| Translation differences | -492 | 155 |
| Total defined-benefit plans | 3,760 | 5,036 |
CHANGES IN OBLIGATIONS FOR DEFINED-BENEFIT PLANS RECOGNIZED IN THE BALANCE SHEET
| Group | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| Opening balance | 20,727 | 18,944 |
| Actuarial changes | -594 | 82 |
| Interest and fees | 1,021 | 1,313 |
| Pension payments for the year | -279 | -318 |
| Translation differences | -2,202 | 706 |
| 18,673 | 20,726 |
CHANGE IN PLAN ASSETS
| Group | ||
|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
| Opening balance | 15,613 | 14,240 |
| Actuarial changes | -686 | -638 |
| Interest and fees | -61 | -68 |
| Investments in pension funds | 1,585 | 1,536 |
| Pension payments for the year | -279 | -318 |
| Change in value | 265 | 397 |
| Translation differences | -1,525 | 464 |
| 14,912 | 15,613 |
ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTIONS
| Group | ||
|---|---|---|
| % | Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | |
| Discount rate | 1.50 | 1.80 |
| Expected return on pension fund assets | 1.50 | 1.80 |
| Future pay increases | 2.00 | 2.25 |
| Future increase of pensions | 1.75 | 2.00 |
| Future increases in base amounts | 1.75 | 2.00 |
| Employee turnover, % | 0.00 | 0.00 |
| Payroll tax | 14.10 | 14.10 |
NOTE 5 OTHER SIGNIFICANT PROFIT/LOSS ITEMS
NOTE 5A OTHER OPERATING INCOME AND OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES
There were no other operating revenues in the Group on the balance-sheet date.
Other operating revenues for the Parent Company pertained in their entirety to receivables and liabilities from operations.
Other operating expenses pertained in their entirety to exchange-rate gains/losses attributable to receivables and liabilities from operations.
NOTE 5B FEES AND REIMBURSEMENT OF COSTS TO AUDITORS
| Group | Parent Company | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| PwC, audit assignment | 2,920 | 2,326 | 1,191 | 954 | |
| PWC, auditing activities beyond auditing assignment | 270 | 268 | 80 | 98 | |
| PWC, tax advisory services | 473 | 567 | 235 | 66 | |
| PWC, other assignments | 84 | - | 84 | - | |
| Other auditors, audit assignment | 59 | 26 | - | - | |
| Other auditors, auditing activities beyond auditing assignment | 10 | - | - | - | |
| Other auditors, tax consultancy services and other assignments | 17 | 100 | - | - | |
| Other auditors, other assignments | 30 | - | - | - | |
| Total auditing fees | 3,863 | 3,287 | 1,590 | 1,118 |
Of the audit assignments, SEK 1,191,000 pertained to PwC Sweden; of other statutory assignments, SEK 80,000 pertained to PwC Sweden; of the fees for tax advisory services, SEK 235,000 pertained to PwC Sweden; and of other assignments, SEK 84,000 pertained to PwC Sweden.
NOTE 5C NET FINANCIAL ITEMS
Financial income and expenses
Financial income exclusively comprises interest income from financial investments in the form of fixed-interest investments, as well as dividend income for the Parent Company. Dividend income is recognized when the right to receive the dividend has been established. Anticipated dividends are recognized in the Parent Company only when the contributing company is a wholly owned subsidiary. Financial expenses comprise interest expenses on borrowings and accounts payable. Borrowing expenses are recognized in profit/loss applying the effective interest rate method, apart from cases that are directly attributable to purchasing, construction or production of a qualifying asset, since this is included in the cost of the asset. Any profit or loss from the divestment of subsidiaries is recognized as a financial expense or income, since the amounts are unsubstantial.
NET FINANCIAL ITEMS
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Interest income | 313 | 1,851 | 381 | 772 |
| Dividends from subsidiaries | - | - | 177,692 | 131,301 |
| Other financial expenses | -289 | -5 | - | - |
| Interest expenses | -14,826 | -15,743 | -12,485 | -12,357 |
| Net financial items | -14,802 | -13,897 | 165,588 | 119,716 |
NOTE 6 TAX
Taxes
The Group's total tax expenses take the form of current tax and deferred tax. Tax is recognized in profit/loss for the year except for when the underlying transaction is recognized in other comprehensive income or in equity, in which case the associated tax effect is recognized in other comprehensive income or in equity. Current tax is tax that is to be paid or received in the current year. This also includes adjustments of current tax attributable to prior periods. Deferred tax is calculated using the balance-sheet method, based on temporary differences between carrying amounts and tax bases of assets and liabilities. Calculation of the amounts is based on how the temporary differences are expected to reverse using enacted tax rates or tax regulations announced at the close of the period. Temporary differences are not taken into account
in consolidated goodwill, nor are differences pertaining to participations in subsidiaries or associated companies that are not expected to become subject to tax in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax assets relating to deductible temporary differences and loss carryforwards are only recognized to the extent that it is probable they will be utilized and result in lower future tax payments.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset against each other when there is a legal right of offset for the particular tax receivables and tax liabilities and when the deferred tax assets and tax liabilities pertain to taxes levied by one and the same tax authority and pertain to either the same tax subject or different tax subjects, in cases where there is an intention to settle the balances by means of net payment.
TAX EXPENSE
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Current tax | ||||
| Current tax on profit/loss for the year | -53,035 | -26,939 | 7,696 | - |
| Adjustment of current tax from previous years | -3,702 | - | 2,751 | 519 |
| -56,737 | -26,939 | 10,447 | 519 | |
| Deferred tax | ||||
| Deferred tax pertaining to temporary differences | 9,815 | -919 | 1,371 | -783 |
| Total recognized tax expense | -46,922 | -27,858 | 11,818 | -264 |
RECONCILIATION BETWEEN APPLICABLE AND EFFECTIVE TAX RATES
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Recognized profit before tax | 207,632 | 130,028 | 223,061 | 134,080 |
| Of which Sweden | 107,456 | 43,793 | - | - |
| Of which Finland | 54,661 | 37,891 | - | - |
| Of which Norway | 43,124 | 35,351 | - | - |
| Of which Denmark | 2,390 | 12,993 | - | - |
| Tax according to applicable tax rates | -45,831 | -27,435 | -47,735 | -28,693 |
| Tax effect of: | ||||
| - non-deductible expenses | -1,680 | -1,313 | -136 | -188 |
| - non-taxable revenues | 1,238 | 1,410 | 38,026 | 28,099 |
| - change in tax loss carryforward/temporary differences | 2,334 | 1,136 | 2,148 | - |
| - tax attributable to previous years | -2,983 | -1,656 | -4,121 | 519 |
| Recognized effective tax | -46,922 | -27,858 | -11,818 | -264 |
RECOGNIZED DEFERRED TAX ASSETS
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Deferred tax on tax-loss carryforwards | 3,916 | 6,128 | 777 | 2,148 |
| Differences between book value and taxable value of fixed assets | 601 | 887 | - | - |
| Closing balance | 4,517 | 7,015 | 777 | 2,148 |
RECOGNIZED DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Product rights, customer agreements and brands | 95,567 | 102,768 | - | - |
| Capitalized development expenditure | 93,981 | 73,772 | - | - |
| Pension liabilities | -1,000 | -1,000 | - | - |
| Untaxed reserves | -2,749 | -1,509 | - | - |
| Deferred tax liabilities | 185,799 | 174,031 | - | - |
CHANGE IN DEFERRED TAX ON TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES
| Jan 1, 2020 | Recognized in comprehen sive income for the year |
Recognized in other com prehensive income |
Recognized in shareholders' equity |
Dec 31, 2020 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acquired net assets | 101,768 | -21,641 | -6,007 | 20,447 | 94,567 |
| Hedge accounting | - | 9,989 | - | -9,989 | - |
| Accumulated depreciation/amortization | -1,509 | -1,240 | - | - | -2,749 |
| Capitalized development expenditure | 73,772 | 20,209 | - | - | 93,981 |
| 174,031 | 7,317 | -6,007 | 10,458 | 185,799 |
CHANGE IN DEFERRED TAX ON TEMPORARY DIFFERENCES
| Jan 1, 2020 | Recognized in comprehen sive income for the year |
Recognized in other com prehensive income |
Recognized in shareholders' equity |
Dec 31, 2020 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accumulated depreciation/amortization | 7,015 | -2,498 | - | - | 4,517 |
| 7,015 | -2,498 | - | - | 4,517 |
NOTE 7 THE GROUP'S COMPOSITION
Consolidated financial statements
The Group comprises all companies over which the Group holds a controlling influence. The Group controls a company when it is exposed to or has the right to a variable return from its holding in the company and has the possibility to influence this return through its influence in the company. Subsidiaries are included in the consolidated accounts as from the date when control passes to the Group. They are excluded from the consolidated accounts as from the date when this control no longer exists.
The acquisition of a subsidiary is viewed as a transaction through which the Group indirectly acquires the assets of the subsidiary and assumes its liabilities. An acquisition analysis determines the fair value of acquired assets and assumed liabilities on the acquisition date. The value of any non-controlling interests is also determined. Transaction fees that arise are recognized directly in profit/loss for the year.
In the case of business acquisitions where the consideration transferred, any non-controlling interests and the fair value of previously held participations (step acquisitions) exceed the fair value of the acquired assets and assumed liabilities that are to be recognized separately, the difference is recognized as goodwill. Should the difference be negative, which is known as a bargain purchase, it is recognized directly in net profit. Consideration transferred in conjunction with the acquisition does not include payments pertaining to settlement of previous business relationships. This type of settlement is recognized through profit or loss.
Conditional purchase considerations/supplementary purchase considerations are recognized at fair value at the acquisition date. If the contingent consideration is classified as an equity instrument, no remeasurement takes place and settlement is directly recognized in equity. Other contingent considerations are remeasured for each financial statement and the difference is recognized in net profit. Acquisitions from non-controlling interests are recognized as a transaction in equity, meaning a transaction between the shareholders of the Parent Company (in profit brought forward) and the non-controlling interest. Changes in non-controlling interests are based on their proportionate share of net assets. This is the reason why goodwill does not arise from these transactions. Goodwill is not amortized, but is instead subject to impairment testing on an annual basis. The financial statements of subsidiaries are consolidated from the date of acquisition until the date when the controlling influence ceases.
Intra-Group assets and liabilities, income and expenses are eliminated, as are unrealized gains and losses between Group companies. Unrealized losses are eliminated in the same manner as unrealized gains, but only insofar as no impairment requirement exists. The Group's equity includes only parts of the subsidiary's equity that were added following acquisition.
Transfer pricing
When invoicing between Group companies, prices are set corresponding to market terms. We follow OECD guidelines for crossborder transactions between related companies, which means that pricing is done according to the so-called arm's length principle.
NOTE 7A ACQUISITIONS
Acquisition Visiolink Management ApS
On January 30, Vitec acquired all shares and voting rights in the Danish software company Visiolink Management ApS with subsidiaries. Visiolink offers a publishing system for digital versions of print media and targets media companies.
The company was consolidated as of the acquisition date. The goodwill item is not tax deductible and is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability and complementary expertise requirements, as well as anticipated synergy effects, in the form of the joint development of our products. At December 31, acquisition-related expenses totaled SEK 0.6 million and were recognized as acquisition-related costs in profit or loss. From the acquisition date up to and including December 31, revenues in the acquired company totaled SEK 60.1 million and profit before tax totaled SEK 7.9 million. If consolidation had occurred at the beginning of the year, the company would have provided the Group with an additional approximately SEK 4.7 million in sales and SEK 0.2 million in profit before tax.
Some items in the acquisition plan may be remeasured, due to our brief ownership of the company. These comprise brands, product rights, customer agreements and goodwill. For this reason, the acquisition plan remains preliminary, until 12 months after the acquisition date.
The expensed convertible totals SEK 14.1 million.
| Vitec Visiolink ApS |
Fair value adjustment |
Fair value recognized in the Group |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Brands | - | 1,911 | 1,911 |
| Product rights | - | 37,976 | 37,976 |
| Customer agreements | - | 4,651 | 4,651 |
| Intangible fixed assets | 25,520 | - | 25,520 |
| Tangible property, plant and equipment | 284 | - | 284 |
| Non-current receivables | 929 | - | 929 |
| Current receivables | 19,550 | - | 19,550 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 15,941 | - | 15,941 |
| Deferred tax liabilities | - | -9,798 | -9,798 |
| Accounts payable | -447 | - | -447 |
| Other current liabilities | -49,237 | - | -49,237 |
| Net identifiable assets and liabilities | 12,540 | 34,739 | 47,280 |
| Consolidated goodwill | 40,652 | ||
| Total | 87,932 | ||
| Group's purchase costs | 87,932 |
| Calculation of net cash outflow | Fair value |
|---|---|
| Group's purchase costs | -87,932 |
| Convertible debenture | 14,100 |
| Acquired cash and cash equivalents | 15,941 |
| Net cash outflow | -57,891 |
Notes
Acquisition ALMA Consulting Oy
On March 17, Vitec acquired all shares and voting rights of the Finnish software company, ALMA Consulting Oy. The company develops and delivers information management software for the processing industry and energy companies in Finland.
The company was consolidated as of the acquisition date. The goodwill item is not tax deductible and is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability and complementary expertise requirements, as well as anticipated synergy effects, in the form of the joint development of our products. At December 31, acquisition-related expenses totaled SEK 1.4 million and were recognized as acquisition-related costs in profit or loss. From the acquisition date up to and including December 31, revenues in the acquired company totaled SEK 30.3 million and profit before tax totaled SEK 6.2 million. If consolidation had occurred at the beginning of the year, the company would have provided the Group with an additional approximately SEK 4.7 million in sales and SEK 1.3 million in profit before tax.
Some items in the acquisition plan may be remeasured, due to our brief ownership of the company. These comprise brands, product rights, customer agreements and goodwill. For this reason, the acquisition plan remains preliminary, until 12 months after the acquisition date.
The expensed portion of the contingent consideration amounts to SEK 10.9 million and is subject to EBITDA improvements at December 31, 2020 and is measured at maximum outcome.
| ALMA Consulting Oy |
Fair value adjustment |
Fair value recognized in the Group |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Brands | - | 887 | 887 |
| Product rights | - | 11,998 | 11,998 |
| Customer agreements | - | 2,543 | 2,543 |
| Intangible fixed assets | 9,347 | - | 9,347 |
| Tangible property, plant and equipment | 361 | - | 361 |
| Current receivables | 9,095 | - | 9,095 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 4,611 | - | 4,611 |
| Deferred tax liabilities | - | -3,394 | -3,394 |
| Accounts payable | -772 | - | -772 |
| Other current liabilities | -10,316 | - | -10,316 |
| Net identifiable assets and liabilities | 12,326 | 12,033 | 24,359 |
| Consolidated goodwill | 42,448 | ||
| Total | 66,807 | ||
| Group's purchase costs | 68,807 |
| Calculation of net cash outflow | Fair value |
|---|---|
| Group's purchase costs | -66,807 |
| Expensed portion of contingent consideration | 10,916 |
| Acquired cash and cash equivalents | 4,611 |
| Net cash outflow | -51,280 |
Acquisition LJ System AS
On April 22, Vitec acquired all of the shares and voting rights of the Swedish software company, LJ System AB. The company offers products for church-related administration and preschools.
The company was consolidated as of the acquisition date. The goodwill item is not tax deductible and is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability and complementary expertise requirements, as well as anticipated synergy effects, in the form of the joint development of our products. At December 31, acquisition-related expenses totaled SEK 0.3 million and were recognized as acquisition-related costs
in profit or loss. From the acquisition date up to and including December 31, revenues in the acquired company totaled SEK 13.2 million and profit before tax totaled SEK 1.4 million. Due to the application of the split financial year, disclosures about revenue and earnings from the beginning of the year are not deemed to be true and fair.
Some items in the acquisition plan may be remeasured, due to our brief ownership of the company. These comprise brands, product rights, customer agreements and goodwill. For this reason, the acquisition plan remains preliminary, until 12 months after the acquisition date.
| LJ System AB | Fair value adjustment |
Fair value recognized in the Group |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Brands | - | 472 | 472 |
| Product rights | - | 6,695 | 6,695 |
| Customer agreements | - | 4,393 | 4,393 |
| Tangible property, plant and equipment | 286 | - | 286 |
| Non-current receivables | 235 | - | 235 |
| Current receivables | 1,915 | - | 1,915 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 16,100 | - | 16,100 |
| Deferred tax liabilities | - | -2,543 | -2,543 |
| Accounts payable | -1,347 | - | -1,347 |
| Other current liabilities | -12,898 | - | -12,898 |
| Net identifiable assets and liabilities | 4,291 | 9,017 | 13,309 |
| Consolidated goodwill | 8,091 | ||
| Total | 21,400 | ||
| Group's purchase costs | 21,400 |
| Calculation of net cash outflow | Fair value |
|---|---|
| Group's purchase costs | -21,400 |
| Acquired cash and cash equivalents | 16,100 |
| Net cash outflow | -5,300 |
Acquisition Appva AB
On June 17, Vitec acquired all of the shares and voting rights of the Swedish software company, Appva AB, including the wholly owned subsidiary Utvecklingsbolaget RAUK AB. The company provides a system for mobile and digital signing of medications within the municipal care system.
The company was consolidated as of the acquisition date. The goodwill item is not tax deductible and is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability and complementary expertise requirements, as well as anticipated synergy effects, in the form of the joint development of our products. At December 31, acquisition-related expenses totaled SEK 0.3 million and were recognized as acquisition-related costs in profit or loss. From the acquisition date up to and including December 31, revenues in the acquired company totaled SEK 18.5 million and profit before tax totaled SEK 5.4 million. If
consolidation had occurred at the beginning of the year, the company would have provided the Group with an additional approximately SEK 11.6 million in sales and SEK 2.8 million in profit before tax.
Some items in the acquisition plan may be remeasured, due to our brief ownership of the company. These comprise brands, product rights, customer agreements and goodwill. For this reason, the acquisition plan remains preliminary, until 12 months after the acquisition date.
The expensed convertible totals SEK 8.0 million. The expensed portion of the contingent consideration amounts to SEK 55.0 million and is subject to EBITDA improvements at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2021. The supplementary purchase consideration is valued at maximum outcome.
| Fair value | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Appva AB | Fair value adjustment |
recognized in the Group |
|
| Brands | - | 1,356 | 1,356 |
| Product rights | - | 8,976 | 8,976 |
| Customer agreements | - | 4,488 | 4,488 |
| Intangible fixed assets | 718 | - | 718 |
| Tangible property, plant and equipment | 63 | - | 63 |
| Non-current receivables | 58 | - | 58 |
| Current receivables | 3,199 | - | 3,199 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 9,192 | - | 9,192 |
| Deferred tax liabilities | - | -3,260 | -3,260 |
| Accounts payable | -809 | - | -809 |
| Other current liabilities | -9,282 | - | -9,282 |
| Net identifiable assets and liabilities | 3,139 | 11,559 | 14,699 |
| Consolidated goodwill | 85,902 | ||
| Total | 100,600 | ||
| Group's purchase costs | 100,600 | ||
| Calculation of net cash outflow | Fair value | ||
| Group's purchase costs | -100,600 | ||
| Convertible debenture | 8,000 | ||
| Expensed portion of contingent consideration | 55,000 | ||
| Acquired cash and cash equivalents | 9,192 |
Net cash outflow -28,408
Acquisition NexGolf Oy
On October 19, Vitec acquired all shares and voting rights of the Finnish software company, NexGolf Oy. The company offers enterprise management systems for golf courses.
The company was consolidated as of the acquisition date. The goodwill item is not tax deductible and is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability and complementary expertise requirements, as well as anticipated synergy effects, in the form of the joint development of our products. At December 31, acquisition-related expenses totaled SEK 0.8 million and were recognized as acquisition-related costs in profit or loss. From the acquisition date up to and including December 31, revenues in the acquired company totaled SEK 3.6 million and profit before tax totaled SEK 2.1 million. If consolidation had occurred at the beginning of the year, the company would have provided the Group with an additional approximately SEK 9.4 million in sales and SEK 2.9 million in profit before tax.
Some items in the acquisition plan may be remeasured, due to our brief ownership of the company. These comprise brands, product rights, customer agreements and goodwill. For this reason, the acquisition plan remains preliminary, until 12 months after the acquisition date.
The expensed portion of the contingent consideration amounts to SEK 7.8 million and is subject to EBITDA improvements at December 31, 2020 and December 31, 2021.
| NexGolf Oy | Fair value adjustment |
Fair value recognized in the Group |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Brands | - | 301 | 301 |
| Product rights | - | 9,217 | 9,217 |
| Customer agreements | - | 8,400 | 8,400 |
| Intangible fixed assets | 485 | - | 485 |
| Current receivables | 355 | - | 355 |
| Cash and cash equivalents | 2,906 | - | 2,906 |
| Deferred tax liabilities | - | -3,584 | -3,584 |
| Accounts payable | -242 | - | -242 |
| Other current liabilities | -3,012 | - | -3,012 |
| Net identifiable assets and liabilities | 492 | 14,334 | 14,826 |
| Consolidated goodwill | 14,658 | ||
| Total | 29,485 | ||
| Group's purchase costs | 29,485 | ||
| Calculation of net cash outflow | Fair value | ||
| Group's purchase costs | -29,485 | ||
| Expensed portion of contingent consideration | 7,759 | ||
| Acquired cash and cash equivalents | 2,906 | ||
| Net cash outflow | -18,819 |
NOTE 7B PARTICIPATIONS IN SUBSIDIARIES
| Adjusted | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acqui sition |
Share of equity, |
Share of votes, |
Number of participa |
Carrying amount Dec 31, |
Carrying amount Dec 31, |
share holders' equity, Dec 31, |
||
| Subsidiaries | year | % | % | tions | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | |
| Vitec Shared Services ApS | Joint administration in Denmark | 2020 | 100 | 100 | 40,000 | 56 | - | 45 |
| Vitec NexGolf Oy | Software company | 2020 | 100 | 100 | 10,000 | 30,275 | - | 2007 |
| Vitec Appva AB | Software company | 2020 | 100 | 100 | 672 | 100,893 | - | 8,777 |
| Vitec LJ System AB | Software company | 2020 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 21,696 | - | 4,791 |
| Vitec Alma Oy | Software company | 2020 | 100 | 100 | 15,086 | 68,190 | - | 16,226 |
| Vitec Visiolink Management ApS |
Software company | 2020 | 100 | 100 | 50,000 | 88,542 | - | 16,868 |
| 3L Media AB | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 2,542 | 2,542 | 536 |
| Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 106,512 | 99,503 | 52,997 |
| Malmkroppen AB | Company for minority invest ments |
2019 | 100 | 100 | 50 | 1,000 | 1,000 | 1,000 |
| HK data AS | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 50 | 21,169 | 21,138 | 2,122 |
| Vitec Katrina Oy | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 13,200 | 44,139 | 44,133 | 7,991 |
| Vitec WIMS AS | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 1,217 | 73,721 | 73,711 | 13,978 |
| Vitec Fixit Systemer AS | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 268 | 173,375 | 173,365 | 13,183 |
| Avoine Oy | Software company | 2019 | 100 | 100 | 3,818 | 56,132 | 56,129 | 19,867 |
| Vitec Financial Services AS | Joint administration in Norway. | 2018 | 100 | 100 | 30,000 | 44 | 44 | 127 |
| Vitec Smart Visitor System AB |
Software company | 2018 | 100 | 100 | 4,000 | 32,434 | 32,434 | 7,252 |
| Vitec Cito A/S | Software company | 2018 | 100 | 100 | 500,000 | 87,797 | 87,797 | 21,994 |
| Vitec Agrando AS | Software company, Parent Com pany of Vitec Agrando AB, which in turn is the Parent Company of |
|||||||
| Agrando Asia (Pvt) Ltd. Software company |
2018 | 100 | 100 1,129,500 | 78,852 | 78,852 | 25,202 | ||
| Vitec PP7 AB Vitec MV A/S |
Software company, Parent Company of Vitec MV AS and |
2018 | 100 | 100 | 799,000 | 10,900 | 10,900 | 3,893 |
| Vitec MV AB | 2017 | 100 | 100 | 600 | 120,505 | 111,870 | 3,052 | |
| Vitec Plania AS | Software company | 2016 | 100 | 100 | 330 | 54,202 | 54,202 | 7,535 |
| Vitec Futursoft Oy | Software company | 2016 | 100 | 100 | 100 | 107,073 | 107,073 | 29,272 |
| Vitec Tietomitta Oy | Software company | 2016 | 100 | 100 | 7,922 | 46,179 | 46,179 | 17,367 |
| Vitec Nice AS | Software company | 2015 | 100 | 100 | 40,000 | 26,045 | 26,045 | 5,750 |
| Vitec Infoeasy AS | Software company | 2015 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 16,930 | 16,930 | 3,984 |
| Vitec Datamann A/S | Software company | 2015 | 100 | 100 | 3,000 | 56,714 | 56,714 | 9,511 |
| Vitec Aloc A/S | Software company, Parent Com pany of Vitec Aloc AS |
2014 | 100 | 100 | 20,000 | 88,658 | 88,658 | 71,709 |
| Vitec Autodata AS | Software company | 2014 | 100 | 100 | 30,000 | 37,010 | 37,010 | 15,198 |
| IMHO Holding Oy | Holding company, owns 47% of the shares in Vitec Acute Oy |
2014 | 100 | 100 | 19,800 | 34,439 | 34,439 | 12,015 |
| Vitec Acute Oy | Software company | 2014 | 100 | 100 | 85,714 | 38,836 | 38,836 | 25,615 |
| Vitec Megler AS | Software company, Parent Company of Vitec IT-Drift AS and Vitec Megler AB |
2012 | 100 | 100 3,256,596 | 120,548 | 120,548 | 9,858 | |
| Vitec Capitex AB | Software company | 2011 | 100 | 100 | 1000 | 8,289 | 8,289 | 6,238 |
| Vitec Mäklarsystem AB | Software company | 2007 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 86,010 | 68,083 | 10,302 |
| Vitec AB | Dormant company | 2003 | 100 | 100 | 18,000 | 2,654 | 2,654 | 3,046 |
| Vitec IT-Drift AB | Responsible for internal IT | 1999 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 1,008 | 1,008 | 6,847 |
| Vitec Energy AB | Software company | 1998 | 100 | 100 | 1,000 | 8,205 | 1,551 | 8,873 |
| Companies merged during the year |
Dormant companies | - | - | - | - | - | 31,591 | - |
| Total | 1,851,577 | 1,533,231 465,028 |
companies being merged into a single business unit. In these cases, the above book values may be restated by transferring assets identified in the course of the acquisition process, such as goodwill, product rights, customer agreements and brands. Any such occurrences are described in the annual accounts.
On February 11, 2020, the three companies Vitec Software AB, Vitec Fastighetssystem AB and Vitec Capifast AB merged with the company Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB. Pursuant to the merger, Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB has taken over the accounting and tax position of the transferring companies, along with their assets, rights and obligations. On February 17, 2020, a merger was carried out in which the companies Capitex AB and ADservice Scandinavia AB were merged with the company Vitec Mäklarsystem AB. Pursuant to the merger, Vitec Mäklarsystem AB has taken over the accounting and tax position of the transferring companies, along with their assets, rights and obligations.
Vitec Software Group AB owns the following companies through subsidiaries:
- Via Vitec Agrando AS Vitec Agrando AB (software company) and Agrando Asia (Pvt) Ltd. (product development on assignment by the Parent Company Agrando AS).
- Via Vitec Megler AS Vitec IT Drift AS (responsible for server operations in Norway) and Vitec Megler AB (product development on assignment by Parent Company Vitec Megler AS).
- Via IMHO Oy Acute Oy (holding company).
- Via Vitec Aloc A/S Vitec Aloc AS (sales company).
- Via Vitec MV A/S Vitec MV AB (sales company) and Vitec MV AS (sales company).
- Via Vitec Appva AB Vitec RAUK AB (dormant companies).
- Via Vitec Datamann A/S Carlogistic ApS (product development on behalf of the Parent Company Vitec Datamann).
- Via Vitec Visiolink Management ApS Vitec Visiolink ApS (software company) and Vitec LIVEdition ApS (sales company).
SUBSIDIARIES' CORPORATE REGISTRATION NUMBERS AND REGISTERED OFFICES
| Corporate registration number |
Registered office | |
|---|---|---|
| Carlogistic ApS | 41471387 | Herlev, Denmark |
| Vitec Shared Services ApS | 41860847 | Odense, Denmark |
| Vitec NexGolf Oy | 2796412-5 | Oulu, Finland |
| Vitec RAUK AB | 559211-9225 | Gothenburg, Sweden |
| Vitec Appva AB | 556871-4967 | Gothenburg, Sweden |
| Vitec LJ System AB | 556254–2877 | Lund, Sweden |
| Vitec Alma Oy | 0872974–4 | Kokkola, Finland |
| Vitec Livedition ApS | 34895236 | Aarhus, Denmark |
| Vitec Visiolink ApS | 27665314 | Aarhus, Denmark |
| Vitec Visiolink Management ApS | 39161478 | Aarhus, Denmark |
| Malmkroppen AB | 559234-2934 | Umeå, Sweden |
| Vitec HK data AS | 965309926 | Moelv, Norway |
| Vitec Katrina Oy | 15995354 | Rauma, Finland |
| Vitec WIMS AS | 984952953 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec Fixit Systemer AS | 982821843 | Bergen, Norway |
| Vitec Avoine Oy | 19353375 | Tampere, Finland |
| Vitec Smart Visitor System AB | 556267-6972 | Umeå, Sweden |
| Vitec Cito A/S | 16724041 | Allerød, Denmark |
| Vitec Agrando AS | 970991786 | Sandnes, Norway |
| Vitec Agrando AB | 556672-5056 | Älvsjö, Sweden |
| Agrando Asia (Pvt) Ltd | - | Sri Lanka |
| Vitec PP7 AB | 556392-2060 | Umeå, Sweden |
| Vitec Financial Services AS | 920592287 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec MV A/S | 15314400 | Odense, Denmark |
| Vitec MV AS | 981205308 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec MV AB | 556438-3080 | Malmö, Sweden |
| Vitec Plania AS | 841239172 | Stavanger, Norway |
| Vitec Futursoft Oy | 14942533 | Espoo, Finland |
| Vitec Tietomitta Oy | 9060034 | Espoo, Finland |
| Vitec Nice AS | 844699832 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec Infoeasy AS | 981875923 | Bergen, Norway |
| Vitec Datamann A/S | 59943510 | Søborg, Denmark |
| Vitec Megler AB | 559035-4816 | Kalmar, Sweden |
| Vitec Aloc AS | 976876768 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec Aloc A/S | 14788484 | Odense, Denmark |
| Vitec Autodata AS | 817159362 | Oslo, Norway |
| IMHO Holding Oy | 25351376 | Tampere, Finland |
| Vitec Acute Oy | 18369420 | Tampere, Finland |
| Vitec IT Drift AS | 986363238 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec Megler AS | 944507302 | Oslo, Norway |
| Vitec Capitex AB | 556875-8105 | Umeå, Sweden |
| 3L Media AB | 556584-9931 | Stockholm, Sweden |
| Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB | 556591-2101 | Stockholm, Sweden |
| Vitec Mäklarsystem AB | 556367-6500 | Umeå, Sweden |
| Vitec AB | 556571-5090 | Umeå, Sweden |
| Vitec IT-Drift AB | 556459-9347 | Umeå, Sweden |
| Vitec Energy AB | 556347-7073 | Umeå, Sweden |
NOTE 8 NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
This note contains information about the Group's non-financial assets and liabilities. Our non-financial assets and liabilities are presented in the table below.
| Non-financial assets | Non-financial liabilities | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-financial assets, Group | Note | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 |
| Intangible fixed assets | (8A) | 1,687,360 | 1,465,698 | - | - |
| Tangible property, plant and equipment | (8A) | 104,188 | 130,656 | - | - |
| Other non-current receivables | 1,325 | 2,008 | - | - | |
| Deferred tax assets | (6) | 4,517 | 7,015 | - | - |
| Inventories | (8C) | 2,958 | 3,781 | - | - |
| Current tax assets | 2,285 | 20,368 | - | - | |
| Prepaid expenses and accrued income | (8D) | 43,270 | 38,564 | - | - |
| Non-financial liabilities, Group | |||||
| Post-employment remuneration of employees | (4B) | - | - | 3,760 | 5,036 |
| Deferred tax | (6) | - | - | 185,799 | 174,031 |
| Tax liabilities | - | - | 29,509 | 10,666 | |
| Other liabilities | - | - | 107,145 | 68,418 | |
| Accrued expenses and prepaid income | (8E) | - | - | 190,516 | 166,222 |
| Total | 1,845,904 | 1,668,090 | 516,729 | 424,373 |
Tangible and intangible fixed assets
Intangible fixed assets
Goodwill
In the event of a business acquisition, goodwill is recognized whenever the consideration transferred exceeds the fair value of the identifiable acquired assets and assumed liabilities. Vitec has chosen not to apply IFRS retroactively for goodwill stemming from acquisitions completed before January 1, 2004.
Goodwill is measured at cost, less any accumulated impairment losses. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units and subject to impairment testing a minimum of once annually; refer to the heading, "Impairment of non-financial assets" below. Testing is based on estimates and assumptions that are subject to uncertainties.
Capitalized development expenditure
Expenses for software development are capitalized when it is probable that the project will be successful with respect to its commercial and technical potential, and the costs can be reliably estimated. Development work comprises research and development. Only expenditure pertaining to development work is activated as an asset in the balance sheet. The cost of the asset consists of salaries and other expenses directly related to development work. Capitalized development costs acquired before and including December 31, 2016, are amortized according to an estimated useful life of 5 years. Capitalized development costs acquired as of January 1, 2017, are amortized according to an estimated useful life of 10 years. An asset's value is subject to regular testing and testing for each development project, after which it is impaired as necessary. Assets are recognized at their cost, less accumulated amortization and any write-downs. Testing is based on estimates and assumptions that are subject to uncertainties.
Software
These assets comprise usufruct for standard software, in the form of enterprise systems, consolidated accounting systems, development environments and other administrative systems. These assets are amortized over 5 years and recognized at cost, less accumulated amortization and any write-downs.
Brands
Brands are normally considered to have an indefinite useful life. Brands are measured at cost, less any accumulated impairment losses. Brands are allocated to cash-generating units and subject to impairment testing a minimum of once annually. Testing is based on estimates and assumptions that are subject to uncertainties. The Group exclusively holds brands that are identified through acquisition analyses.
Product rights
Product rights primarily comprise acquired source code. These are amortized over 5 to 10 years. Amortization follows a declining balance amortization model for acquisitions completed as of the fourth quarter of 2016. For acquisitions completed before this date, amortization is on a straight-line basis. Assets are recognized at their cost, less accumulated amortization and any write-downs. An asset's value is tested using an estimation of future discounted cash flows. This form of testing is based on estimates and assumptions that are subject to uncertainties.
Customer agreements
Acquired customer agreements are amortized over 8 to 10 years and recognized at cost, less accumulated amortization and any write-downs. Amortization follows a declining balance amortization model for acquisitions completed as of the fourth quarter of 2016. For acquisitions completed before this date, amortization is on a straight-line basis.
Tangible property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recognized in the statement of financial position when it is probable that future financial benefits will accrue to the company and the cost of the asset can be reliably calculated. Property, plant and equipment are recognized at cost, less accumulated depreciation and any impairment. The cost includes the purchase price and costs directly attributable to the asset to bring it to location and make it usable in operations. Gains or losses arising on the divestment or scrapping of a tangible asset comprise the difference between the sales price and the carrying amount of the asset, less direct selling expenses. Gains and losses are recognized as other operating revenue/expenses.
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment is based on the assets depreciable amount, which corresponds to the original cost and comprises 20–33% annually for computers, and 10–20% annually for other equipment. Investments in leased premises are depreciated over the remaining lease period. The Parent Company owns an owner-occupied apartment that is depreciated at 2% annually.
Right-to-use assets
When reporting a finance lease with substantive substitution
NOTE 8A FIXED ASSETS, GROUP
INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS (SEK MILLION)
rights, assets are recognized as fixed assets in the Group's statement of financial position, measured to the present value of minimum lease payments upon signing of the agreement. Assets are depreciated over their useful life. Commitments to future lease payments are recognized as current and non-current liabilities.
Inventories
Inventories are measured at average cost and exist only to an insignificant extent.
Impairment of non-financial assets
The value of capitalized development expenditure, product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill are tested to determine impairment requirements, if any. Goodwill and brands with indefinite useful lives are tested annually. Testing is undertaken by comparing the recognized amount with the recoverable amount, where the recoverable amount is the higher of the asset's fair value (less selling expenses) and the value-in-use. Useful value is calculated by discounting future cash flows that the asset is expected to generate, indefinitely, with an interest rate based on the market's assessment of risk-free interest and risk. Cash flow is based on budgets/ forecasts adopted by Group Management.
| Goodwill | Capitalized development expenditure |
Software | Brands | Product rights | Customer agreements |
Total | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Opening cost | 654.2 | 422.8 | 596.5 | 452.7 | 22.8 | 22.5 | 86.7 | 80.5 | 579.3 | 521.3 | 249.1 | 188.8 2,188.6 | 1,688.6 | |
| Reclassifications | - | 2.4 | - | - | - | - | - | - | - | -3.0 | - | - | 0.0 | -0.6 |
| Purchasing* | 191.8 | 230.2 | 161.9 | 138.7 | 0.3 | 0.3 | 4.9 | 4.7 | 75.9 | 52.4 | 24.5 | 58.3 | 459.3 | 484.6 |
| Divestments/ asset retirement |
- | -1.0 | -0.6 | - | -0.1 | - | - | - | -6.7 | -0.6 | - | - | -7.4 | -1.6 |
| Acquisitions | - | - | - | - | 0.1 | - | - | - | 55.0 | 1.3 | - | - | 55.0 | 1.3 |
| Translation differences |
-39.7 | -0.2 | -28.8 | 5.1 | -0.1 | 0.0 | -5.0 | 1.5 | -33.7 | 7.9 | -15.0 | 2.0 | -122.2 | 16.3 |
| Closing amortized cost |
806.3 | 654.1 | 729.1 | 596.5 | 23.0 | 22.8 | 86.6 | 86.7 | 669.8 | 579.3 | 258.6 | 249.1 | 2573.3 | 2188.6 |
| Opening amortization |
-36.2 | -37.2 -251.4 -183.6 | -20.6 | -19.4 | -0.1 | -0.1 | -316.2 | -251.4 | -98.3 | -65.9 | -722.8 | -557.6 | ||
| Acquisitions | - | - | 0.0 | - | - | - | - | - | -19.9 | - | - | - | -19.9 | - |
| Divestments/ asset retirement |
- | 1.0 | 0.6 | - | - | - | - | - | 6.7 | 0.6 | - | - | 7.2 | 1.6 |
| Translation differences |
0.0 | 0.0 | 11.2 | -1.7 | 0.0 | 0.0 | - | - | 17.1 | -2.8 | 6.1 | -0.7 | 34.4 | -5.2 |
| Amortization and impairment for the year |
- | - | -68.1 | -66.0 | -1.1 | -1.2 | - | - | -78.8 | -62.6 | -37.0 | -31.7 | -184.8 | -161.6 |
| Closing amor- tization and impairment losses |
-36.2 | -36.2 -307.7 -251.4 | -21.6 | -20.6 | -0.1 | -0.1 | -391.2 | -316.2 | -129.2 | -98.3 | -885.9 | -722.8 | ||
| Carrying amount |
769.9 | 617.9 | 421.5 | 345.1 | 1.4 | 2.2 | 86.5 | 86.6 | 278.6 | 263.1 | 129.4 | 150.8 | 1687.4 | 1465.7 |
*Goodwill, brands, customer agreements and product rights are attributable to acquisitions, while capitalized development expenditure stems from in-house man-hours spent and to a lesser extent, purchased consultancy services. Software is attributable to purchasing.
Impairment testing of goodwill and brands Goodwill is not continuously impaired, but its value is tested a
minimum of once annually in accordance with IAS 36. Testing was most recently conducted in December 2020. Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units, which are equivalent to business units in the case of Vitec. The recoverable amount was calculated on the basis of value in use and proceeds from the current assessment of cash flows for the next five-year period. Assumptions were made concerning revenue growth, the gross margin, overhead increases, working capital requirements and investment requirements. The parameters were set to correspond to budgeted earnings for the 2021 financial year. For the remaining part of the five-year period, an annual growth rate of 2–3% (2) was assumed for all business units. For cash flows beyond the five-year period, growth has been assumed to amount to 2% (2) annually. Cost increases for costs beyond 2021 have been assumed to be 1.0–1.5%. Cash flows were discounted to a weighted average capital cost (WACC) corresponding to 9.50% (8.80) before tax and 7.84% (7.20) after tax. The weighted average capital cost was adapted to prevailing interest rate levels and market-risk premiums in the Swedish stock market. The calculations indicate that useful value exceeds the carrying amount. A sensitivity analysis indicates that goodwill values would be justifiable even if the discount rate were to be raised by one percentage point or if the persistent growth rate (beyond the five-year period) were to fall to zero percent. Impairment testing has indicated no existing impairment requirements.
Notes
Goodwill
Goodwill amounted to SEK 769,988,000 (617,901,000).
Capitalized development expenditure
Capitalized development expenditure comprises in-house man-hours spent on product development and to a lesser extent, external consultancy services. Impairment commences in accordance with the prudence principle when capitalization is entered into the books. Impairment period 5–10 years
Capitalized development expenditure is recognized at a project level and testing of the asset's value is performed periodically and per development project, after which it is impaired as required. No impairment requirements arose during the year.
Software
Computer software comprises acquired usufruct/software licenses, such as the Group's enterprise system and consolidated accounting systems, as well as other administrative systems. Assets are impaired over 5 years.
Brands
Brands amounted to SEK 86,491,000 (86,569,000). All brands are identified in the acquisition analyses prepared. Brands are considered to have an indefinite useful life, since they are highly recognizable and have been established for quite some time. There are presently no known legal, contractual or competition factors limiting their useful life. Impairment testing is performed annually on brands at the business unit level in accordance with same principles and on the same date as the impairment testing of goodwill.
Product rights
Product rights comprise acquired product rights. Their impairment period is 5–10 years. The previously adopted useful life of 5 years for product rights has been deemed to be unfair. Although our history demonstrates that useful lives exceed 10 years, we have found a logical conformity between our proprietarily developed software/capitalized development expenditure and the software/product rights that we acquire, and have therefore adopted an impairment period of 10 years for both classes of assets. Impairment is implemented in accordance with a declining-balance amortization model, which is deemed to reflect actual usage in a more relevant manner, since product rights consist of several components, with each component presumably having a service life of 3 to 20 years. The declining-balance amortization model entails a higher impairment rate at the beginning of useful life. The declining balance amortization method has been applied as of the fourth quarter of 2016. For acquisitions completed before this date, amortization is on a straight-line basis.
The cost, residual value and remaining impairment period for product rights of material value amounted to:
PRODUCT RIGHTS
| Amortized | Residual value |
Remaining | |
|---|---|---|---|
| cost (SEK thousand) |
(SEK thou sand) |
impairment period (years) |
|
| Autodata | 17,873 | 5,170 | 3.3 |
| Infoeasy | 10,739 | 4,350 | 4.5 |
| Datamann | 30,589 | 15,019 | 4.5 |
| Futursoft | 21,377 | 5,911 | 5.7 |
| PP7 | 2,794 | 627 | 7.3 |
| Plania | 15,822 | 3,904 | 5.9 |
| Förvaltningssystem | 26,818 | - | 0 |
| Capitex Finanssystem | 4,185 | - | 0 |
| WIMS | 8,173 | 4,962 | 8.3 |
| Aloc | 47,914 | 18,337 | 3.5 |
| Nice | 15,019 | 6,992 | 4.9 |
| Tietomitta | 18,061 | 10,604 | 7.5 |
| Mäklarsystem | 35,230 | - | 0 |
| Megler | 59,728 | 8,737 | 4.2 |
| HK data | 10,024 | 7,334 | 8.9 |
| Katrina | 8,777 | 6,709 | 8.9 |
| Fixit | 20,234 | 12,540 | 8.5 |
| Avoine | 3,167 | 2,008 | 8.2 |
| Acute | 72,763 | 34,016 | 3.2 |
| MV | 67,509 | 27,288 | 2.0 |
| Agrando | 13,709 | 6,379 | 7.3 |
| Cito | 4,355 | 2,351 | 7.4 |
| Actor Smartbook | 6,318 | 1,920 | 7.8 |
| Alma | 11,998 | 9,285 | 9.2 |
| Appva | 8,976 | 7,981 | 9.5 |
| LJ System | 6,695 | 5,741 | 9.3 |
| NexGolf | 9,217 | 8,797 | 9.8 |
| Visiolink | 37,976 | 29,179 | 9.1 |
Customer agreements
Customer agreements are identified through acquisition analyses. Their impairment period is 8–10 years. The useful life of customer agreements is based on how long net payments can be expected to be received from these agreements, taking into account legal and economic factors. The amortized cost of customer agreements, residual values and remaining impairment period amounted to:
CUSTOMER AGREEMENTS
| Amortized cost (SEK thousand) |
Residual value (SEK thou sand) |
Remaining impairment period (years) |
|
|---|---|---|---|
| Autodata | 10,950 | 1,584 | 1.3 |
| Infoeasy | 1,378 | 558 | 4.5 |
| Datamann | 11,472 | 5,633 | 4.5 |
| Futursoft | 14,277 | 8,780 | 5.7 |
| PP7 | 3,818 | 858 | 7.3 |
| Plania | 6,761 | 3,461 | 5.9 |
| WIMS | 10,931 | 6,637 | 8.3 |
| Aloc | 8,550 | 1,753 | 1.5 |
| Nice | 4,435 | 2,065 | 4.9 |
| Tietomitta | 4,936 | 2,898 | 5.5 |
| Megler | 11,284 | 2,286 | 4.2 |
| HK data | 5,955 | 4,357 | 8.9 |
| Katrina | 1,099 | 840 | 8.9 |
| Fixit | 29,443 | 18,247 | 8.5 |
| Avoine | 10,834 | 6,867 | 8.2 |
| Acute | 21,392 | 5,462 | 1.2 |
| MV | 29,676 | 11,995 | 2.0 |
| Agrando | 21,160 | 9,846 | 7.3 |
| Cito | 14,538 | 7,487 | 7.4 |
| Actor Smartbook | 9,794 | 6,023 | 7.8 |
| Mäklarsystem | 204 | 83 | 4.2 |
| Alma | 2,543 | 1,968 | 9.2 |
| Appva | 4,488 | 3,991 | 9.5 |
| LJ System | 4,393 | 3,767 | 9.3 |
| NexGolf | 8,400 | 8,018 | 9.8 |
| Visiolink | 4,651 | 3,573 | 9.1 |
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS (SEK MILLION)
| Buildings | Investments in leased premises |
Right-to-use assets | Equipment, fix tures and fittings |
Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Opening cost | 9.4 | 9.4 | 13.8 | 10.8 | 124.8 | 8.5 | 79.0 | 62.9 | 227.0 | 91.6 |
| Reclassifications | 0.4 | - | 0.6 | - | 0.2 | 62.8 | 5.6 | - | 6.9 | 62.8 |
| Purchasing | - | 0.0 | 0.5 | 2.5 | 15.1 | 56.0 | 9.2 | 13.2 | 24.7 | 71.7 |
| Sales/disposals | - | 0.0 | -0.2 | 0.0 | -21.2 | -2.8 | -0.7 | -1.0 | -22.1 | -3.8 |
| Acquisitions | - | 0.0 | 1.0 | 0.4 | - | 0.0 | 3.1 | 3.2 | 4.1 | 3.6 |
| Translation differences | -0.0 | 0.0 | -0.4 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 0.3 | -3.6 | 0.8 | -4.0 | 1.1 |
| Closing accumulated cost | 9.9 | 9.4 | 15.3 | 13.8 | 118.8 | 124.8 | 92.6 | 79.0 | 236.6 | 227.0 |
| Opening depreciation | -1.1 | -0.9 | -9.8 | -7.8 | -38.7 | -5.9 | -46.4 | -37.0 | -96.2 | -51.7 |
| Reclassifications | - | - | -0.9 | - | 7.8 | - | -5.6 | - | 1.3 | 0.0 |
| Sales/disposals | - | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.0 | 12.0 | 2.7 | 0.7 | 0.7 | 12.9 | 3.3 |
| Acquisitions | - | 0.0 | -0.5 | 0.0 | - | 0.0 | -2.4 | 0.4 | -0.5 | 0.4 |
| Translation differences | - | 0.0 | 0.3 | 0.0 | 0.0 | -0.1 | 2.2 | -0.4 | 2.5 | -0.6 |
| Depreciation and impairment for the | ||||||||||
| year | -0.2 | -0.2 | -1.4 | -2.0 | -36.9 | -35.4 | -11.2 | -10.1 | -49.8 | -47.8 |
| Closing depreciation and impairment losses |
-1.3 | -1.1 | -12.1 | -9.8 | -55.8 | -38.7 | -62.8 | -46.4 | -132.3 | -96.3 |
| Carrying amount | 8.5 | 8.3 | 3.2 | 4.0 | 62.9 | 86.0 | 29.6 | 32.6 | 104.2 | 130.7 |
NOTE 8B PARENT COMPANY FIXED ASSETS
INTANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS (SEK MILLION)
| Software | Product rights | Total | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| Opening cost | 10.5 | 10.3 | 0.6 | 0.6 | 11.1 | 10.9 | |
| Purchasing | 0.3 | 0.2 | - | - | 0.3 | 0.2 | |
| Divestments/asset retirement | - | - | - | - | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
| Closing cost | 10.8 | 10.5 | 0.6 | 0.6 | 11.4 | 11.1 | |
| Opening impairment losses | -9.0 | -7.9 | -0.6 | -0.6 | -9.6 | -8.5 | |
| Divestments/asset retirement | - | - | - | 0.0 | 0.0 | 0.0 | |
| Impairment for the year | -0.8 | -1.1 | - | - | -0.8 | -1.1 | |
| Closing impairment losses | -9.8 | -9.0 | -0.6 | -0.6 | -10.4 | -9.6 | |
| Carrying amount | 1.0 | 1.6 | 0.0 | 0.0 | 1.0 | 1.6 |
TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS (SEK MILLION)
| Buildings | Investments in leased premises |
fittings* | Equipment, fixtures and | Total | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Opening cost | 9.3 | 9.3 | 6.5 | 3.3 | 7.0 | 4.0 | 22.8 | 16.6 |
| Purchasing | - | - | 0.0 | 1.4 | 0.0 | 0.1 | 0.1 | 1.4 |
| Merger 3L System | - | - | - | 1.8 | - | 3.0 | 0.0 | 4.8 |
| Closing accumulated cost | 9.3 | 9.3 | 6.5 | 6.5 | 7.1 | 7.0 | 22.9 | 22.8 |
| Opening depreciation | -1.1 | -0.9 | -4.8 | -2.5 | -5.2 | -1.9 | -11.1 | -5.3 |
| Merger 3L System | - | - | -1.8 | - | -3.0 | 0.0 | -4.8 | |
| Depreciation for the year | -0.2 | -0.2 | -0.5 | -0.5 | -0.4 | -0.4 | -1.0 | -1.0 |
| Closing depreciation | -1.3 | -1.1 | -5.2 | -4.8 | -5.6 | -5.2 | -12.1 | -11.1 |
| Carrying amount | 8.1 | 8.2 | 1.3 | 1.7 | 1.5 | 1.8 | 10.8 | 11.7 |
* Equipment, fixtures and fittings includes computers.
FINANCIAL FIXED ASSETS (SEK MILLION)
| Participations in subsidiaries | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Opening cost | 1,533.2 | 1,180.4 |
| Acquisitions for the year | 309.8 | 349.8 |
| Capital contribution paid | 8.6 | 3.1 |
| 1,851.6 | 1,533.2 | |
| Other financial fixed assets | ||
| Deferred tax assets | 0.8 | 2.1 |
| Carrying amount | 1,852.4 | 1,535.4 |
NOTE 8C INVENTORIES
Inventories comprise goods for resale and exist to an immaterial extent.
The value as of December 31, 2020 was SEK 2,958,000 (3,781,000).
NOTE 8D PREPAID EXPENSES AND ACCRUED INCOME
| Group | Parent Company | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | |||||
| Deferred income | 11,787 | 16,905 | - | - | |
| Prepaid rent | 7,950 | 4,549 | 2,268 | 2,418 | |
| Other prepaid expenses | 23,533 | 17,110 | 1,772 | 1,590 | |
| Total | 43,270 | 38,564 | 4,040 | 4,008 |
NOTE 8E ACCRUED EXPENSES AND PREPAID INCOME
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||||
| Accrued salaries | 52,748 | 51,505 | 3,822 | 3,039 |
| Accrued special payroll tax | 6,480 | 5,002 | 2,210 | 1,249 |
| Prepaid income | 168,028 | 144,552 | - | - |
| Social Security expenses | 16,008 | 16,668 | 1,201 | 955 |
| Other accrued expenses | 17,868 | 13,267 | 1,911 | 661 |
| Total | 261,132 | 230,994 | 9,144 | 5,904 |
Accrued salaries and other accrued expenses are classified as financial liabilities.
NOTE 9 FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
| Note | Financial assets measured at amortized cost |
Financial liabilities mea sured at fair value in the income statement |
Financial liabilities mea sured at amortized cost |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| Financial assets, Group | |||||||
| Accounts receivable | (9A) | 220,773 | 197,378 | - | - | - | - |
| Other receivables | 5,402 | 8,211 | - | - | - | - | |
| Cash and cash equivalents | (9B) | 134,695 | 16,658 | - | - | - | - |
| Financial liabilities, Group | |||||||
| Convertible debentures (non-current) | (9D) | - | - | - | - | 64,778 | 51,686 |
| Liabilities to credit institutions, non-cur rent |
(9E) | - | - | - | - | 490,549 | 415,721 |
| Liabilities to credit institutions, current | (9E) | - | - | - | - | 2,763 | 3,026 |
| Liabilities for finance lease (non-current) | (10) | - | - | - | - | 29,034 | 55,822 |
| Liabilities for finance lease (current) | (10) | - | - | - | - | 29,584 | 30,847 |
| Other liabilities (non-current) | (9E) | - | - | 45,000 | 41,127 | 13,994 | 3,555 |
| Other liabilities (current) | (9C,9E) | - | - | 65,284 | 5,217 | - | - |
| Accounts payable | - | - | - | - | 35,094 | 34,758 | |
| Accrued expenses | (8E) | - | - | - | - | 70,616 | 64,772 |
| 360,870 | 222,247 | 110,284 | 46,344 | 736,412 | 660,187 |
Financial assets
The Group's financial assets comprise accounts receivable, other receivables, and cash and cash equivalents. Other receivables comprise tax accounts, current receivables for employees and other current assets.
Financial liabilities
Financial liabilities comprise convertible debentures, liabilities to credit institutions, finance lease liabilities, other liabilities, accounts payable and components of accrued expenses.
Other liabilities comprise supplementary purchase considerations from acquisitions and non-current vacation pay liability. Accounts payable are unsecured and are normally paid within 30 days. The fair value of accounts payable and other liabilities is deemed to correspond to their carrying amount, since by nature, they are current. Financial accrued expenses comprise accrued salaries and other accrued expenses.
Recognition of financial assets and liabilities
A financial asset or financial liability is recognized in the statement of financial position when the company becomes a contracting party in accordance with the instrument's contractual conditions. A receivable is recognized when the company has performed and a contractual obligation exists for the counterparty to pay, even if an invoice has not yet been sent. Accounts receivable are recognized in the statement of financial position when an invoice has been sent. A liability is recognized when the counterparty has performed and a contractual obligation exists for the company to pay, even if an invoice has not yet been received. Accounts payable are recognized when an invoice has been received. A
financial asset is derecognized from the statement of financial position when the contractual rights are realized, expire or the company loses control of them. The same applies to a portion of a financial asset. A financial liability is derecognized from the statement of financial position when the contractual obligation is met or terminated in another manner. The same applies to portions of a financial liability.
Classification and measurement
In accordance with IFRS 9, a company must either classify financial assets at their amortized cost, at fair value through comprehensive income, or at fair value through profit or loss, on the basis of both:
- a) The company's business model of administering financial assets.
- b) The nature of contractual cash flows from the financial asset.
Our financial assets comprise accounts receivable, other receivables, and cash and cash equivalents. These are measured at amortized cost. We have no financial assets measured at fair value.
In accordance with IFRS 9, a company must classify financial liabilities at their amortized cost, with the exception of contingent considerations, which are to be classified at fair value.
Of our financial liabilities, accounts payable, finance lease liabilities, accrued expenses and loan liabilities are classified as amortized costs. Supplementary purchase consideration from acquisitions is classified at fair value.
NOTE 9A ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE
Accounts receivable are amounts attributable to customers and pertain to sold goods or services rendered under operating activities. Accounts receivable are generally due for payment within 30 days and therefore, all accounts receivable are classified as current assets. Accounts receivable are initially recognized at the transaction price. The Group has accounts receivable with the aim of collecting contractual cash flows and therefore measures them at subsequent reporting points as amortized costs, applying the effective-interest method.
Accounts receivable are recognized at the amount expected to be received, after deductions for doubtful accounts receivable. We apply the simplified method for calculating anticipated credit losses. The method entails using anticipated losses for the entire term of the receivable as a basis for accounts receivable and accrued income from contracts with customers. To calculate anticipated credit losses, accounts receivable are grouped together based on their credit-risk characteristics and their number of days overdue. Accrued income from contracts with customers is attributable to
yet-to-be invoiced services that have, in all material respects, the same risk characteristics as already-invoiced services rendered for similar contracts. Consequently, we consider the loss levels of accounts receivable to be a reasonable estimate of the loss levels of assets. Accounts receivable are written off when there are no reasonable expectations of repayment. Indicators that there are no reasonable expectations of repayment include the debtor's failure to adhere to the repayment schedule or when contractual payments are more than 90 days past due.
Credit losses on accounts receivable are recognized as credit losses – net, under operating profit/loss. Recovery of previously written off amounts are recognized in the same line, in profit or loss.
The Group's accounts receivable as of December 31, 2020 totaled SEK 220,773,000. Provision for doubtful accounts receivable totaled SEK 1,268,000 (1,862,000). The Group's realized bad-debt losses in 2020 totaled SEK 1,194,000 (524,000).
MATURITY ANALYSIS PERTAINING TO PROVISIONS ON DOUBTFUL RECEIVABLES
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Overdue less than 3 months | 141 | 36 |
| Overdue 3 to 6 months | 459 | 342 |
| Overdue more than 6 months | 668 | 1,484 |
| 1,268 | 1,862 |
MATURITY ANALYSIS PERTAINING TO PAST-DUE ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE WITH NO PROVISIONS
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Overdue less than 3 months | 11,834 | 11,868 |
| Overdue 3 to 6 months | 289 | 1,114 |
| Overdue more than 6 months | -1,152 | 268 |
| 10,971 | 13,250 |
THE CHANGE IN EXPECTED CUSTOMER LOSSES DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR IS DETAILED BELOW:
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Opening balance anticipated bad-debt losses | 1,862 | 1,014 |
| Increase in anticipated bad-debt losses | 826 | 949 |
| Bad-debt losses written off during the year | -1,420 | -101 |
| Closing balance anticipated bad-debt losses | 1,268 | 1,862 |
NOTE 9B CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
The Parent Company's and the Group's cash and cash equivalents include the Group's holdings of Group accounts and other bank accounts, including currency accounts and funds en route. Cash and bank equivalents are measured at amortized cost. Although the Group's cash and cash equivalents
are exposed to risks of currency fluctuations, they can always easily be converted to a known amount of cash on hand.
The Group's cash and cash equivalents totaled SEK 134,695,000, comprising bank balances. The Group has a Group currency account.
NOTE 9C FINANCIAL LIABILITIES MEASURED AT FAIR VALUE
In accordance with IFRS 7, the fair value of each financial asset and financial liability must be disclosed, regardless of whether they are recognized in the balance sheet. Vitec deems the fair value of the financial liabilities to be in proximity to the recognized carrying amount in the annual accounts.
Under the standard, financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value are divided into three levels:
Level 1: The fair value of financial instruments is traded in an active market.
Level 2: The fair value of financial assets is not traded in an active market, but is determined using valuation techniques based on market data.
Level 3: Cases where one or more significant inputs are not based on observable market data.
All of the company's financial instruments that are subject to measurement at fair value are classified as level 3. Changes for the year with respect to financial instruments at level 3 mainly pertained to received supplementary purchase considerations for acquisitions.
Supplementary contingent considerations are measured at fair value based on available data, such as contractual terms and conditions, and actual assessments of the anticipated fulfillment of these terms and conditions. For the calculation of fair value, an allocated interest of 1.66% was applied. Since the difference between fair value and book value is marginal, no restatement has been made.
The table below shows the differences between fair value and book value.
RECURRING MEASUREMENTS AT FAIR VALUE, AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2020
| SEK 000s | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Book value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplementary purchase consideration, WIMS AS | 27,681 | 27,681 | ||
| Supplementary purchase consideration, M&V Software Oy | 10,038 | 10,038 | ||
| Supplementary purchase consideration, ALMA Consulting Oy | 10,038 | 10,038 | ||
| Supplementary purchase consideration, Appva AB | 54,083 | 55,000 | ||
| Supplementary purchase consideration, NexGolf Oy | 7,528 | 7,528 | ||
| Total | - | - | 109,368 | 110,285 |
RECURRING MEASUREMENTS AT FAIR VALUE, AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2019
| SEK 000s | Level 1 | Level 2 | Level 3 | Book value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplementary purchase consideration, M&V Software Oy | 10,105 | 10,451 | ||
| Supplementary purchase consideration, WIMS AS | 29,661 | 30,676 | ||
| Supplementary purchase consideration, Avoine Oy | 5,217 | 5,217 | ||
| Total | - | - | 44,983 | 46,344 |
All supplementary purchase considerations are valued at maximum outcome. Future payment is dependent on EBITDA improvements in the concerned companies. The supplementary purchase considerations for M&V Software Oy, WIMS AS and ALMA Consulting Oy can generate payments during the first quarter of 2021. The supplementary purchase consideration for NexGolf Oy can generate payments during the first quarter of 2022. The supplementary purchase consideration for Appva AB can generate payment during the first quarter of 2021 and the first quarter of 2022.
NOTE 9D CONVERTIBLE DEBENTURES
Convertible debentures are recognized partly as financial liabilities and partly as shareholders' equity. Their specific allocation is based on a measurement made in conjunction with their issue. Interest expenses are distributed over the term of the loan.
The initial fair value of the convertible debenture's liability portion is calculated using market interest rates at the date of issue applicable to an equivalent non-convertible debenture. Following the first recognition occasion, its liability portion is recognized as amortized cost until it is converted or matures. The remaining portion of the funds is allocated the option of conversion and recognized net after tax under shareholders' equity, and is not remeasured.
Loan 1906 (convertible, acquisition of Odin Systemer AS) non-current liability
In conjunction with the acquisition of Odin Systemer AS in June 2019, the Parent Company issued 3,256 convertible debentures valued at SEK 10,000 each, at a nominal value of SEK 32,560,000. The estimated value of the stock option portion of the convertible bond is SEK 2,448,000. The stock option portion is recognized as shareholders' equity in accordance with IAS 32. The remainder of the bond, including interest (SEK 1,357,000) is recognized as a non-current liability. The duration of the loan is from June 12, 2019 – June 30, 2022, with an interest rate of Stibor 180. The conversion price is SEK 125.00. Conversion may be exercised from January 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, upon which the share capital may increase by no more than SEK 26,048. Full conversion of loan 1906 convertible Odin Systemer AS would entail a dilution of approximately 0.8% of capital and 0.4% of votes. The shares were issued on market terms.
Loan 2001 (convertible, acquisition of Visiolink Management ApS) non-current liability
In conjunction with the acquisition of Visiolink Management ApS in January 2020, the Parent Company issued 1,410 convertible debentures valued at SEK 10,000 each, for a nominal value of SEK 14,100,000. The estimated value of the stock option portion of the convertible bond is SEK 1,098,000. The stock option portion is recognized as shareholders' equity in accordance with IAS 32. The remainder of the bond, including interest (SEK 220,000) is recognized as a non-current liability. The duration of the loan is from January 30, 2020 – December 30, 2022, at an interest rate of Stibor 180. The
conversion price is SEK 230. Conversion may be exercised from January 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, upon which the share capital may increase by no more than SEK 6,130. Full conversion of loan 2001 convertible Visiolink Management ApS would entail a dilution of approximately 0.2% of capital and 0.1% of votes. The shares were issued on market terms.
Bond 2006 (Convertible Acquisition of Appva AB), non-current liability
In conjunction with the acquisition of Appva AB in June 2020, the Parent Company issued 800 convertible debentures valued at SEK 10,000 each, at a nominal value of SEK 8,000,000. The estimated value of the stock option portion of the convertible bond is SEK 623,000. The stock option portion is recognized as shareholders' equity in accordance with IAS 32. The remainder of the bond, including interest (SEK 124,000) is recognized as a non-current liability. The duration of the loan is from June 17, 2020 – December 30, 2022, with an interest rate of Stibor 180. The conversion price is SEK 240. Conversion may be exercised from January 1, 2022 to December 30, 2022, upon which the share capital may increase by no more than SEK 3,333. Full conversion of loan 2006 convertible Appva AB would entail a dilution of approximately 0.1% of capital and 0.1% of votes. The shares were issued on market terms.
Bond 2009 (Convertible Employee Program), non-current liability
In September 2020, the Parent Company issued 1,351 convertible debentures valued at SEK 10,000 each, at a nominal value of SEK 13,510,000. The estimated value of the stock option portion of the convertible bond is SEK 997,000. The stock option portion is recognized as shareholders' equity in accordance with IAS 32. The remainder of the bond, including interest (SEK 14,000) is recognized as a non-current liability. The duration of the loan is from September 1, 2020 – September 30, 2023. The interest rate is 0.3%. The conversion price is SEK 333. Conversion may be exercised between September 1 and September 30, 2023, upon which the share capital may increase by no more than SEK 4,057. Full conversion of Bond 2009 Convertible Employee Program would entail a dilution of approximately 0.12% of the capital and 0.07% of the votes. The shares were issued on market terms.
Convertible debentures are recognized in the balance sheet as follows:
| Nominal value of convertible debenture Equity portion Total Interest expenses* |
64,778 |
|---|---|
| 1,774 | |
| 63,004 | |
| -5,166 | |
| 68,170 |
*Interest expense is calculated by multiplying the estimated market interest rate (1.66%) with the liability portion.
NOTE 9E CURRENT AND NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Non-current interest-bearing liabilities | ||||
| Liabilities to credit institutions | 490,549 | 415,738 | 490,549 | 415,738 |
| Convertible debentures | 64,778 | 51,686 | 64,778 | 51,686 |
| Total non-current interest-bearing liabilities | 555,327 | 467,424 | 555,327 | 467,424 |
| Non-current non-interest-bearing liabilities | ||||
| Other liabilities | 88,028 | 131,334 | 45,000 | 41,110 |
| Total non-interest-bearing liabilities | 88,028 | 131,334 | 45,000 | 41,110 |
| Total non-current liabilities | 643,355 | 598,758 | 600,327 | 508,534 |
| Current interest-bearing liabilities | ||||
| Overdraft facility, limit SEK 250,000,000 | - | - | - | 6,006 |
| Liabilities to credit institutions | 2,763 | 3,026 | 2,752 | 3,032 |
| Total current interest-bearing liabilities | 2,763 | 3,026 | 2,752 | 9,038 |
| Total interest-bearing liabilities | 558,090 | 470,450 | 558,079 | 476,462 |
| Current non-interest-bearing liabilities | ||||
| Accounts payable | 35,094 | 34,758 | 3,634 | 5,666 |
| Other liabilities | 94,868 | 5,217 | 65,284 | 5,217 |
| Accrued expenses | 70,616 | 63,152 | 5,733 | 3,700 |
| Total current interest-bearing liabilities | 200,578 | 103,127 | 74,651 | 14,583 |
| Total financial liabilities | 846,696 | 704,911 | 677,730 | 532,155 |
Fair value of external borrowings
The recognized value of all of the Group's borrowings correspond to their fair value, since the interest on the borrowings is on par with actual market interest rates.
Hedging of net investments in foreign operations
The Group has no bank loans denominated in foreign currency. However, supplementary purchase considerations for foreign acquisitions are recognized in foreign currency. The supplementary purchase considerations are measured using the rate on the balance-sheet date. The Parent Company also has bank accounts denominated in foreign currency. These are set up to manage acquisitions in foreign currency, and to
manage transactions with the foreign subsidiaries. The accounts have an overall negative balance per currency. These bank accounts are classified as hedging instruments together with the liabilities for supplementary purchase considerations. The purpose of the hedge is to hedge exchange rate fluctuations on the company's investments in foreign subsidiaries. The investment takes place in the local currency.
Items in foreign currencies identified as hedges on net investments totaled SEK 349,882,000. The exchange rate difference on translation into Swedish crowns (SEK) totaled SEK -46,675,000 at the close of the reporting period and was recognized under "Other comprehensive income" after deduction for deferred tax.
NOTE 10 LEASING
IFRS 16 Leases is effective from January 1, 2019.
Lease activities and how these are accounted for
Leases related to offices, server rooms, equipment and vehicles. Assets and liabilities arising from lease agreements are initially recognized at their present value. Lease liabilities include the present value of fixed payments. Lease payments to be made under reasonably certain extension options are also included in the measurement of the liability.
Lease payments are discounted with the lessee's incremental borrowing rate. The incremental borrowing rate is calculated based on the average interest rate for outstanding bank loans.
Lease payments are allocated between principal and finance cost. The finance cost is charged to profit or loss to produce a constant rate of interest for the period. The lease is measured at cost and includes the amount of the initial measurement of the lease liability. All agreements are extendable. Premises agreements comprise index clauses. Payments associated with short-term leases of equipment and vehicles and all leases of low-value assets are recognized on a straight-line basis as an expense in profit or loss. Short-term leases are leases with a lease term of 12 months or less.
LEASE AGREEMENTS
The following amounts related to lease agreements are recognized in the balance sheet:
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Right-to-use assets | ||
| Properties | 62,819 | 85,515 |
| Equipment | - | - |
| Vehicles | 111 | 478 |
| 62,930 | 85,993 | |
| Lease liabilities | ||
| Current liabilities | 29,584 | 31,329 |
| Non-current liabilities | 29,034 | 55,822 |
| 58,618 | 87,151 |
Additions to the right-of-use assets relating to leases in 2020 amounted to SEK 15,079,000. The increase of SEK 4,929,000 is attributable to the acquisitions during the year; in addition, existing contracts were extended, which entailed additional right-of-use assets totaling SEK 10,150,000.
Retiring right-of-use assets related to premises contracts amount to SEK -20,590,000.
The following amounts related to lease agreements are recognized in profit or loss:
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Depreciation of right-of-use assets | ||
| Properties | -36,839 | -33,266 |
| Equipment | - | -1,702 |
| Vehicles | -92 | -417 |
| -36,931 | -35,385 | |
| Interest expenses (included in financial expenses) | -2,049 | -2,954 |
Total cash flow for lease agreements in 2020 was SEK 46,279,000.
NOTE 11 FINANCIAL RISKS AND CAPITAL RISK MANAGEMENT
Our finance policy for managing financial risks is based on earnings generated by operating companies and not by investments in financial instruments. Only low-risk investments are permitted. Financing operations are tasked with supporting operating companies, as well as identifying and limiting financial risks in the best manner possible. Financing operations are pursued by the Parent Company. Centralization and coordination enable economies of scale with respect to the terms and conditions obtained for financial transactions and financing. The financial risks are managed in accordance with the finance policy adopted by the Board of Directors.
Liquidity and financial risks
Cash and cash equivalents at December 31, 2020 amounted to SEK 134.7 million. In addition to cash and cash equivalents, Vitec had overdraft facilities of SEK 250 million and SEK 515 million in an acquisition loan credit. Vitec's finance policy has guidelines on how the Group's liquidity should be managed. We strive to achieve a low-risk profile which entails investing in Swedish banks licensed by the Financial Supervisory Authority to pursue banking operations, or foreign banks with corresponding licenses. Investments in securities are to take the form of treasury bills, money-market funds or K1-rated interest-bearing securities. Liquidity shall not fall below two months of salary payments, and the investments are to have the possibility of liquidation within one month.
Vitec has historically financed and intends to continue financing acquisitions partially by raising loans from credit institutions. Loan agreements may contain terms and conditions with restrictions (known as covenants). There is currently one such agreement with our bank. As of December 31, all covenants were fulfilled in their entirety. Lending entails certain risks for our shareholders. For example, in the event of a radical change of circumstances in our markets, Vitec could have problems signing for new credit facilities and thereby be required to use a greater portion of its cash flow for interest payments and amortization. This could have an adverse impact on Vitec.
Capital management Risk management
Our objectives when managing the capital structure are to safeguard the Group's ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for the shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure as a means of reducing the cost of capital. Like other companies in the industry, the Group monitors capital on the basis of the debt/equity ratio. This key metric is calculated as net debt divided by total equity. Net debt is calculated as total borrowings (including "Current and non-current borrowings" as shown in the consolidated balance sheet) less cash and cash equivalents. Total equity is calculated as "equity" as shown in the consolidated balance sheet plus net debt.
Although Vitec does not utilize any absolute measurements for the debt/equity ratio, the Group's guidelines stipulate that indebtedness, except for shorter periods, must not exceed what additional financing can bring to enable a rapid response to any investment opportunities that arise.
The debt/equity ratio as of December 31, 2020 and 2019 was as follows:
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Total borrowings | 558 | 470 |
| Less cash and cash equivalents | -135 | -17 |
| Net debt | 423 | 454 |
| Total equity | 843 | 759 |
| Total capital | 1,267 | 1,213 |
| Debt/equity ratio, %* | 33 | 37 |
DEBT/EQUITY RATIO, SEK MILLION
*Debt/equity ratio in the multi-year summary of the administration report is calculated differently; refer to Definitions of key indicators, 124.
DIVIDENDS
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| The dividend for the 2019 financial year was SEK 1.35 per share (1.20) | 43,974 | 38,807 |
| Total dividends expensed or paid | 43,974 | 38,807 |
| For the 2020 financial year, the Board of Directors has proposed a dividend of SEK 1.64 per share (1.35). | ||
| The total amount of the proposed dividend was not recognized as a liability as of December 31, 2020, | ||
| but is expected to be settled with retained earnings in April 2021. | 58,431 | 43,974 |
| 58,431 | 43,974 |
Credit risk
Accounts receivable are associated with a certain amount of credit risk. Our business model frequently entails advance payments and credit checks. We have no significant concentrations of credit risks among our accounts receivable. In cases where our customers are unable to pay their invoices on time, or at all, we face the risk of impact by credit losses. It cannot be guaranteed that future credit losses will not increase, which would adversely impact our operations, financial position and earnings. The maximum exposure to credit risk corresponds to the Group's carrying amount for accounts receivable, which totaled SEK 220.8 million as of December 31, 2020, after provisions for estimated losses. For further information about accounts receivable, refer to Note 9. The Parent Company did not have any external credit risks at the close of the year.
Currency risks
Currency risks can be divided into transaction exposure and translation risk. Transaction exposure arises mainly from sales in currencies other than the company's own currency, which occurs in some of our companies. Primarily Norwegian crowns (NOK), Danish crowns (DKK) and Euros (EUR). The Group did not utilize any currency hedging in 2020.
Translation risk arises upon restatement of our subsidiaries' income statements and balance sheets into SEK from other currencies. Since our subsidiaries report in local currency, the Group is exposed to exchange-rate fluctuations upon consolidation of these companies. Acquisition of foreign
ANALYSIS OF MATURITIES
subsidiaries is funded in part through liabilities in local currency to reduce translation exposure.
The following exchange rates were used when translating the currencies of balance-sheet items on the balance-sheet date, December 31, 2020:
| NOK | 0.9545 |
|---|---|
| DKK | 1.3492 |
| EUR | 10.0375 |
A change of 5% in foreign-currency rates in 2020 would impact profit/loss for the year and shareholders' equity by approximately SEK 5.4 million, distributed as: NOK 1.5 million, DKK 1.1 million and EUR 2.7 million.
Interest rate risk
Our interest rate risk of interest-bearing assets is regulated by investing cash and cash equivalents to allow for the dates of maturity of fixed-interest terms and other investments to match known outflows and/or the amortization of debts. Long-term financing is secured through loans from banks and financing institutions, as well as convertibles. Interest rates for loans from banks and financing institutions are floating, while interest rates for convertibles are normally fixed for intervals of 180 days or, in exceptional cases, fixed for the entire term. A change of 1% in the existing loan portfolio would impact profit/loss for the year and shareholders' equity by approximately SEK 7.9 million.
| Group | Parent Company | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | ||
| Current and non-current interest-bearing liabilities, excluding convertible | |||||
| debentures (Capital amounts) | |||||
| Less than 1 year after balance-sheet date | 2,763 | 3,026 | 2,752 | 9,038 | |
| More than 1 but less than 3 years after balance-sheet date | 487,754 | 411,130 | 487,754 | 411,129 | |
| More than 3 but less than 5 years after balance-sheet date | 2,795 | 560 | 2,795 | 560 | |
| More than 5 years after balance-sheet date | - | 4,049 | - | 4,049 | |
| Convertible debentures (Capital amounts)* | |||||
| Convertibles more than 1 year but less than 3 years after balance-sheet date | 64,778 | 51,686 | 64,778 | 51,686 | |
| Interest ** | |||||
| Less than 1 year after balance-sheet date | 11,948 | 12,541 | 11,948 | 12,539 | |
| More than 1 but less than 3 years after balance-sheet date | 23,730 | 10,513 | 23,730 | 10,513 | |
| More than 3 but less than 5 years after balance-sheet date | 1,557 | 154 | 1,557 | 154 | |
| More than 5 years after balance-sheet date | - | 539 | - | 539 | |
| Non-interest-bearing liabilities | |||||
| Less than 1 year after balance-sheet date | 94,869 | 36,064 | 65,285 | 5,217 | |
| More than 1 but less than 3 years after balance-sheet date | 65,558 | 84,414 | 44,083 | 41,110 | |
| More than 3 but less than 5 years after balance-sheet date | 7,559 | 12,518 | - | - | |
| More than 5 years after balance-sheet date | 13,994 | 3,555 | - | - |
| Total capital and interest | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Less than 1 year after balance-sheet date | 109,580 | 51,631 | 79,985 | 26,794 |
| More than 1 but less than 3 years after balance-sheet date | 641,820 | 557,743 | 620,345 | 514,438 |
| More than 3 but less than 5 years after balance-sheet date | 11,910 | 13,232 | 4,351 | 714 |
| More than 5 years after balance-sheet date | 13,994 | 8,143 | - | 4,588 |
*The above assumptions on capital amounts are based on no conversions occurring.
**The above assumptions on interest payments are based on an average interest rate of 1.65% (2.09).
*** This includes interest on unutilized portions of the acquisition loan facility. Capital amount SEK 515.0 million, interest 0.58%.
NOTE 12 SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY
Registered share capital on December 31, 2020, totaled SEK 3,277,343 and comprised 3,050,000 class A shares (30,500,000 votes) and 29,723,422 class B shares (29,723,422 votes). The Annual General Meeting in June resolved to approve a dividend of SEK 1.35 per share. The dividend was divided up and paid on four payment dates: June 30, 2020, September 30, 2020, December 30, 2020
and March 30, 2021. The amount paid during the financial year was SEK 33,292,750. The expensed amount totals SEK 10,681,092.
The proposed but as-yet-unresolved dividend amounts to SEK 1.64 per share, totaling SEK 58,430,805. Dividends are recognized as a liability once the AGM approves the dividend.
SHARE TYPES
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Shares at Jan 1 | ||
| Vitec-A | 3,350,000 | 3,350,000 |
| Vitec-B | 29,223,216 | 28,988,900 |
| Total shares at Jan 1 | 32,573,216 | 32,338,900 |
| Reclassification of class A shares to class B shares | -300,000 | - |
| Reclassification of class A shares to class B shares | 300,000 | - |
| Conversion of Vitec-B share debentures | 200,206 | 234,316 |
| Shares at year-end | 32,773,422 | 32,573,216 |
| Shares at year-end | Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Vitec-A | 3,050,000 | 3,350,000 |
| Vitec-B | 29,723,422 | 29,223,216 |
| Total shares at year-end | 32,773,422 | 32,573,216 |
The administration of shareholders' equity is aimed at ensuring our financial stability, managing financial risks and securing the Group's short- and long-term requirements on share capital. We will not, except for short periods, have higher borrowings than what can be raised through additional financing. The Group's capital structure is managed and adjusted according to changes in financial conditions. The Group monitors its capital deployment using various key metrics, such as net debt, return on capital employed and
equity/assets ratios. Our policy on dividends stipulates that the company shall strive to distribute a minimum of one-third of net profit after tax as dividends annually. However, when assessing the scope, the company's financing requirements, capital structure and general financial position must always be taken into consideration. We encourage employees to become shareholders by issuing convertible debentures. Refer to the administration report for further details.
NOTE 13 CASH FLOW
CHANGE IN LIABILITIES FOR FINANCING ACTIVITIES, GROUP
| Long-term liabilities to credit institutions |
Short-term liabilities to credit institutions |
Convertible debentures | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| OPENING BALANCE | 415,738 | 463,805 | 3,026 | 5,620 | 51,686 | 39,828 |
| Cash flow | 52,320 | -88,526 | -280 | - | 13,510 | - |
| Change in non-cash items | ||||||
| Exchange-rate fluctuations | -21,449 | 564 | - | - | - | - |
| Finance leases | 44,237 | 37,309 | - | - | - | - |
| Acquisition financing | - | - | - | - | 19,442 | 30,112 |
| Conversion | - | - | - | - | -21,222 | -20,026 |
| Other | -297 | -1 | 17 | -6 | 1,362 | 1,772 |
| Reclassifications long-/short-term | - | 2,588 | - | -2,588 | - | - |
| CLOSING BALANCE | 490,549 | 415,738 | 2,763 | 3,026 | 64,778 | 51,686 |
CHANGE IN LIABILITIES FOR FINANCING ACTIVITIES, PARENT COMPANY
| Long-term liabilities to credit institutions |
Short-term liabilities to credit institutions |
Convertible debentures | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| OPENING BALANCE | 415,738 | 463,709 | 3,032 | 5,620 | 51,686 | 39,828 |
| Cash flow | 96,557 | -51,121 | -280 | - | 13,510 | - |
| Change in non-cash items | ||||||
| Exchange-rate fluctuations | -21,449 | 564 | - | - | - | - |
| Acquisition financing | - | - | - | - | 19,442 | 30,112 |
| Conversion | - | - | - | - | -21,222 | -20,026 |
| Other | -297 | - | - | - | 1,362 | 1,772 |
| Reclassifications long-/short-term | - | 2,588 | - | -2,588 | - | - |
| CLOSING BALANCE | 490,549 | 415,738 | 2,752 | 3,032 | 64,778 | 51,686 |
NOTE 14 PARENT COMPANY
Parent Company accounting policies
The Parent Company adheres to the Annual Accounts Act and the Swedish Financial Reporting Board's recommendation, RFR 2, Accounting for Legal Entities. The application of RFR 2 entails that the Parent Company applies the same accounting policies as the Group to the extent that this is possible, within the framework of the Annual Accounts Act, the Swedish Pension Obligations Vesting Act and taking into account the correlation between accounting and taxation.
No amendments were made to the Parent Company's accounting policies. The differences between the Parent Company's and the Group's accounting policies are presented below.
The Parent Company submits an income statement. The Group submits a statement of comprehensive income. For the Parent Company, the designations "balance sheet" and "cash-flow statement" are used for the statements that in the Group are designated "statement of financial position" and "cash-flow statement," respectively. The income statement and balance sheet for the Parent Company are prepared according to the stipulations of the Annual Accounts Act, while the statement of comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity and cash flow statement are based on IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows, respectively. The differences in relation to the consolidated statements that become apparent in the Parent Company's income statement and balance sheets pertain primarily to recognition of equity, as well as the presence of provisions as a separate heading in the balance sheet.
- Participations in subsidiaries are recognized in the Parent Company's financial statements in accordance with the cost method, while the value of contingent considerations is based on the probability that the consideration will be paid.
- Conditional purchase considerations are recognized in the consolidated financial statements at fair value, with chang-
es in value recognized in profit or loss. The Parent Company's financial statements include transaction fees in its carrying amounts, which is not the case for the Group.
Untaxed reserves including deferred tax are recognized in the Parent Company. Untaxed reserves are separated into
NOTE 14A INTRA-GROUP REVENUES AND EXPENSES
The Parent Company's net sales included invoices to Group companies at a rate of 100% (100), and essentially comprised invoicing for services pertaining to premises, data communications and telephony, financial reporting, HR and manage-
NOTE 14B ANTICIPATED DIVIDENDS
The Parent Company has recognized a receivable pertaining to anticipated dividends from subsidiaries. This totaled SEK 177.7 million and was distributed as follows: Vitec Capitex AB SEK 5.0 million, Vitec Energy AB SEK 7.0 million, Vitec Mäklarsystem AB SEK 8.0 million, Vitec Förvaltningssystem AB SEK 33.0 million, Vitec Smart Visitor System SEK 1.0 million, Vitec Autodata AS SEK 3.8 million, Vitec Infoeasy
AS SEK 1.0 million, Vitec Agrando AS SEK 11.5 million, Vitec Megler AS SEK 15.1 million, Vitec Fixit Systemer AS SEK 17.2
The Parent Company's expenses include invoicing from
deferred tax and shareholders' equity in the Group. Anticipated dividends from subsidiaries are recognized in cases where the Parent Company alone is entitled to de-
cide on the size of the dividend.
ment/operations development.
Group companies at a rate of 9% (2).
million, Vitec Plania AS SEK 6.7 million, Vitec HK data AS SEK 3.8 million, Vitec Datamann A/S SEK 2.7 million, Vitec Cito A/S SEK 9.5 million, Vitec Acute Oy SEK 6.3 million, Vitec Futursoft Oy SEK 23.1 million, Vitec Tietomitta Oy SEK 10.0 million and Vitec Avoine Oy SEK 13.0 million.
NOTE 14C APPROPRIATIONS
| 2020 | 2019 | |
|---|---|---|
| Differences between book depreciation and depreciation according to plan | 365 | 406 |
| Group contributions received | - | 40,100 |
| Group contributions paid | -1 | - |
| Total | 364 | 40,506 |
NOTE 14D UNTAXED RESERVES
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Differences between book depreciation and depreciation according to plan | 1,677 | 2,042 |
| Total | 1,677 | 2,042 |
NOTE 14E DEFERRED TAX
Deferred tax 21.4% (21.4) within the Parent Company's untaxed reserves totaled SEK 359,000 (437,000).
NOTE 15 MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
NOTE 15A EARNINGS PER SHARE
Profit after tax was SEK 4.93 million (3.16). Earnings per share after dilution amounted to SEK 4.91 (3.18). Financial instruments that could yield future dilutive effects comprised in their entirety convertible debentures and warrants. Calculation of dilution is shown in the table on page 126.
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Earnings per share before dilution | 4.93 | 3.16 |
| Earnings from calculation of earnings per share | 160,710 | 102,166 |
| Average number of shares (weighted average) | 32,573,765 | 32,372,267 |
| Earnings per share after dilution | 4.91 | 3.18 |
| Earnings from calculation of earnings per share after dilution | 162,072 | 103,938 |
| Average number of shares after dilution | 32,993,975 | 32,717,425 |
NOTE 15B PLEDGED ASSETS, GROUP AND PARENT COMPANY
Contingent liabilities
A contingent liability is recognized when there is a possible obligation originating from past events whose occurrence is only confirmed by one or more uncertain future events not entirely within the company's control, that may or may not occur, or when there is an obligation originating from past events that is not recognized as a liability or a provision because it is not likely that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, or the scope of the obligation cannot be calculated with sufficient accuracy.
In connection with the signing of a new credit facility in September 2020, the collateral provided to Nordea has been adjusted. Our shares in subsidiaries are no longer pledged. Instead, there is general collateral in the form of our credit facility agreement with covenant commitments. Vitec has no contingent liabilities.
PLEDGED ASSETS FOR OWN LIABILITIES AND PROVISIONS
| Group | Parent Company | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 Dec 31, 2020 Dec 31, 2019 | ||||
| Chattel mortgages | 39,000 | 39,000 | 39,000 | 39,000 |
| Shares in subsidiaries | - | 759,451 | - | 609,565 |
| Total | 39,000 | 798,451 | 39,000 | 648,565 |
NOTE 15C RELATED-PARTY TRANSACTIONS
There are no outstanding loans, guarantees or surety bonds from Vitec on behalf of Board members, senior executives or auditors at Vitec. No Board member, senior executive or auditor at Vitec has had any direct or indirect involvement in any business transaction with Vitec that is, or was, unusual in nature, or unusual with regard to terms and conditions. The following related-party transactions were reported:
- Senior executives are included under programs comprising convertible debentures that are subscribed for on market-based terms and conditions. The following senior executives participated in the ongoing convertibles program 2009: Patrik Fransson SEK 100,000, Olle Backman SEK 100,000 and Gert Gustafsson, SEK 100,000.
- Senior executives participate in an incentive program through warrants. Lars Stenlund, Patrik Fransson, Olle Backman and Gert Gustafsson have received 10,000 warrants each. The warrants were acquired on market terms.
- All of our Swedish Group companies rent premises from the Parent Company through customary rental agreements. All of the companies that rent premises from the Parent Company are wholly owned by Vitec. In addition to costs for premises, the Parent Company invoices for intra-Group services rendered.
NOTE 16 EVENTS AFTER THE BALANCE-SHEET DATE
January 4, 2021: Vitec acquired the Swedish software company Unikum Datasystem AB
On January 4, Vitec acquired all shares in the Swedish software company Unikum Datasystem AB.
Unikum offers the Pyramid Business Studio software, a complete business and enterprise management system for small and medium enterprises. The product offers functions such as project management, accounting, customer care and e-commerce.
The company reported sales of SEK 102 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 42 million for the 2019 financial year. Vitec welcomes 90 new employees as part of the acquisition.
Payment was in cash and with a convertible, with deviation from shareholders' preferential rights in accordance with the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on June 23, 2020. The convertible matures in 36 months and at full conversion will have a dilutive effect on capital of 0.1%. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share for Vitec. Consolidation will commence as of the acquisition date.
At the time of this report's publication, there were no financial statements available that could serve as the basis of a more detailed description of the acquisition. For this reason, no information is presented about the fair value of acquired receivables, and acquired assets and liabilities. We expect the future items of a detailed acquisition analysis to comprise product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill. Goodwill is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability, and complementary expertise requirements, as well as expected synergies, in the form of the joint development of our products.
January 18, 2021: Convertible 1906 was converted in its entirety
The convertible, which was issued in June 2019 in conjunction with the acquisition of Odin Systemer AS (currently Vitec Fixit Systemer AS), has been converted in its entirety. As a result of the conversion, the number of class B shares in Vitec increased by 260,480 and share capital in Vitec increased by SEK 26,048. The number of shares in Vitec after the conversion is 33,033,902 shares, including 3,050,000 class A shares.
February 3, 2021: Vitec acquired the Swedish software company Travelize International AB
On February 3, Vitec acquired all shares in the Swedish software company Travelize International AB, with subsidiaries. Travelize reported sales of SEK 17.1 million, with an adjusted EBITDA of SEK 4.1 million for the 2020 financial year.
Travelize develops and provides a complete enterprise management system for small and medium-sized travel agencies, primarily in Scandinavia. The web-based software enables travel reservations, web publishing and administration. The system offers an array of functions for customer and payment management, as well as marketing. The company's approximately 300 customers are mainly located in Sweden, Denmark and Norway. Vitec welcomes eight new employees as part of the acquisition.
Payment was in cash and with a convertible, with deviation from shareholders' preferential rights in accordance with the authorization from the Annual General Meeting on June 23, 2020. The convertible matures in 36 months and at full conversion will have a dilutive effect on capital of 0.1%. The acquisition is expected to yield an immediate increase in earnings per share for Vitec. Consolidation will commence as of the acquisition date.
At the time of this report's publication, there were no financial statements available that could serve as the basis of a more detailed description of the acquisition. For this reason, no information is presented about the fair value of acquired receivables, and acquired assets and liabilities. We expect the future items of a detailed acquisition analysis to comprise product rights, customer agreements, brands and goodwill. Goodwill is deemed to be attributable to anticipated profitability, and complementary expertise requirements, as well as expected synergies, in the form of the joint development of our products.
March 15, 2021: Olle Backman new CEO, Lars Stenlund proposed as new Chairman
The Board of Directors of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) has appointed Olle Backman to serve as new CEO and Group chief executive. Olle Backman has been the CFO of Vitec since June 2019; before that, he was CEO of the electrical engineering company Eitech AB with over 1,000 employees in Sweden. He will take up the post of CEO on April 29. The Nomination Committee proposes the re-election of all members, as well as the election of Lars Stenlund, who is also proposed as the new Chairman of the Board.
Coronavirus pandemic
The pandemic will continue to affect society for some time to come. We continue to focus on helping to reduce the risk of spreading the virus, while protecting the health of our employees and customers, at the same time that we are working to minimize the impact on our business. We believe that the impact on the company will be limited.
Proposed appropriation of profits
THE FOLLOWING FUNDS ARE AT THE DISPOSAL OF AGM:
| Earnings brought forward | 295,855,669 |
|---|---|
| Share premium reserve | 374,893,808 |
| Profit for the year | 211,242,727 |
| 881,992,204 |
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS PROPOSES THAT THESE FUNDS BE DISTRIBUTED AS FOLLOWS:
| 881,992,204 | |
|---|---|
| To be carried forward | 448,667,591 |
| To be carried forward to the share premium reserve |
374,893,808 |
| Dividends of SEK 1.64 per share to shareholders |
58,430,805 |
In light of the above and what has generally come to the attention of the Board of Directors, the Board of Directors deems that a comprehensive assessment of the company's and Group's financial position indicates that the dividend is justifiable with respect to the requirements placed by the nature, scope and risks of the business on the size of equity in the company and the Group, as well as the consolidation requirements, liquidity and general financial position of the company and the Group.
The consolidated financial statements and annual accounts were prepared in accordance with the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) referred to in the European Parliament's and Council's directive EC 1606/2002 of July 19, 2002 on the application of International Financial Reporting Standards and generally accepted accounting policies, and provide a true and fair view of the Group's and Parent Company's financial position and earnings. The administration report for the Group and the Parent Company provides a true and fair view of the business activities, financial position and results of the Group and the Parent Company, and describes material risks and uncertainties to which the Parent Company and Group companies are exposed. As stated above in Note 1, the Annual Report and the consolidated financial statements were approved for publication by the Board of Directors on March 23, 2021. The consolidated statement of comprehensive income and the statement of financial position, and the Parent Company income statement and balance sheet, are subject to approval by the AGM on April 28, 2021.
Umeå, March 23, 2021
Crister Stjernfelt Chairman of the Board
Anna Valtonen Board member Birgitta Johansson-Hedberg Board member
Jan Friedman Board member
Kaj Sandart Board member
Lars Stenlund Chief Executive Officer
Our audit report was submitted on March 24, 2021
PricewaterhouseCoopers AB Niklas Renström Authorized Public Accountant Auditor-in-charge
Auditor's report
Report on the annual accounts and consolidated accounts
Opinions
We have audited the annual accounts and consolidated accounts of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) for the year 2020 except for the corporate governance statement on pages 52–61. The annual accounts and consolidated accounts of the company are included on pages 40–118 in this document.
In our opinion, the annual accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of parent company and the group as of 31 December 2020 and its financial performance and cash flow for the year then ended in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act. The consolidated accounts have been prepared in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act and present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the group as of 31 December 2020 and their financial performance and cash flow for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as adopted by the EU, and the Annual Accounts Act. Our opinions do not cover the corporate governance statement on pages 52–61. The statutory administration report is consistent with the other parts of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts.
We therefore recommend that the general meeting of shareholders adopts the income statement and balance sheet and the consolidated statement of profit and loss and consolidated statement of financial position for the parent company and the group respectively.
Our opinions in this report on the annual accounts and consolidated accounts are consistent with the content of the additional report that has been submitted to the parent company's Board of Directors in accordance with the Audit Regulation (537/2014) Article 11.
Basis for Opinions
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISA) and generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities section. We are independent of the parent company and the group in accordance with professional ethics for accountants in Sweden and have otherwise fulfilled our ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements. This includes that, based on the best of our knowledge and belief, no prohibited services referred to in the Audit Regulation (537/2014) Article 5.1 have been provided to the audited company or, where applicable, its parent company or its controlled companies within the EU.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinions.
Our audit approach
Vitec has an expressed growth strategy whereby growth is primarily achieved through the acquisition of mature software companies in the Nordic region. Through these acquisitions, Vitec secures, amongst other things, client relationships and established brands and software specific to certain industries. Company management works on an ongoing basis with the identification and evaluation of appropriate acquisition targets on the basis of a clearly defined specification of requirements. As at year-end, 31 December 2020, the group was comprised of 35 subsidiaries within 27 independent business units. Of the subsidiaries, there are nine companies reporting net sales in excess of MSEK 55 and which, in total, represent almost 60% of the group's net sales. Vitec's business model is based, primarily, on the sale of subscription agreements which are recognized in income on a straight-line basis over the tenor of the agreement, so-called recurring revenues. In 2020, recurring revenues accounted for 82 percent of the group's reported net sales.
In addition to the nine larger subsidiaries, the audit of the consolidated accounts has included, this year, the parent company, Vitec Software Group AB and the larger subsidiaries in Sweden, comprising a significant share of the group's total external sales. In addition, all companies in the Group with external sales are subject to statutory audit that is carried out in connection with the Group audit.
Focus and scope of the audit
We designed our audit by determining materiality and assessing the risks of material misstatement in the consolidated financial statements. In particular, we considered where management made subjective judgements; for example, in respect of significant accounting estimates that involved making assumptions and considering future events that are inherently uncertain. As in all of our audits, we also addressed the risk of management override of internal controls, including among other matters consideration of whether there was evidence of bias that represented a risk of material misstatement due to fraud.
We tailored the scope of our audit in order to perform sufficient work to enable us to provide an opinion on the consolidated financial statements as a whole, taking into account the structure of the Group, the accounting processes and controls, and the industry in which the group operates.
Materiality
The scope of our audit was influenced by our application of materiality. An audit is designed to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement. Misstatements may arise due to fraud or mistake. They are considered material if individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the consolidated financial statements.
Based on our professional judgement, we determined certain quantitative thresholds for materiality, including the overall group materiality for the consolidated financial statements as a whole (as set out in the table below). These, together with qualitative considerations, helped us to determine the scope of our audit and the nature, timing and extent of our audit procedures and to evaluate the effect of misstatements, both individually and in aggregate on the financial statements as a whole.
Key audit matters
Key audit matters of the audit are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts of the
Acquisitions
During the year, Vitec completed five acquisitions in Denmark, Finland and Sweden.
For each business combination, company management prepares an acquisition analysis in which the difference between the net assets in the acquired company and the purchase price is allocated to identify intangible assets in the acquired company. The intangible fixed assets in acquired companies are comprised of product rights, client relationships and brands. Any excess value which does not refer to intangible assets is reported as goodwill.
In order to determine the value of the identified intangible assets, company management is required to undertake estimations and forecasts regarding the future development of the acquired companies. Customer relationships and product rights are written off, in contrast to goodwill and brands, over their expected lifetimes. An incorrect allocation of the excess value in an acquisition analysis can, consequently, have a major impact on the financial reporting.
The business combinations are complex in nature and the reporting of these is dependent on the manner in which the acquisition agreement is formulated, and the reporting involves significant estimations on behalf of management. This is the reason we have deemed that the preparation of the acquisition analyses is a key audit area.
As regards the above-stated accounting principles, refer to pages 90–94 and Note 1 in the 2020 annual report.
current period. These matters were addressed in the context of our audit of, and in forming our opinion thereon, the annual accounts and consolidated accounts as a whole, but we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.
Key audit matter How our audit addressed the key audit matter
We have examined and evaluated the purchase price analyses with a special focus on the manner in which company management identify goodwill and other intangible assets, such as brands and product rights.
We have undertaken this by, amongst other things, performing the following audit activities:
- Obtaining copies of the acquisition agreements and evaluating the terms of those agreements from an accounting perspective.
- Confirmed the paid purchase price against bank account excerpts.
- Assessed the company's methods and assumptions to identify intangible assets, such as product rights, brands and goodwill, and examined the allocation of the excess values of these items.
- Checked acquisition-related costs against underlying invoices.
- Based on materiality, we have confirmed that appropriate disclosures regarding the acquisition have been provided in the annual report.
Impairment testing
The group's balance sheet reports acquisition-related excess values and goodwill in a total amount of MSEK 1,266, including SEK 770 million in goodwill.
Goodwill and acquisition-related excess values are equivalent to the difference between the value of net assets and the purchase price paid for the acquisition. In contrast with other fixed assets, there is no write-down of goodwill and brands, rather these items are tested annually for impairment or when there is an indication of an impairment requirement. Other acquisition-related fixed assets are written off over their calculated useful lifetimes.
Testing, and thereby the reported values, are dependent on the Board of Directors' and management's assessments and assumptions regarding, amongst other things, growth and future profitability, and as regards the discount rate. Further events and new information can change these assessments and estimations and it is, therefore, particularly important that company management evaluates, on an ongoing basis, the reported value of acquisition-related intangible assets to ensure that such values can be motivated in consideration of any new information or circumstances. Company management's calculation of the useful lifetimes of the assets is based on the forthcoming year's budget and forecasts for the subsequent four years. A closer description of these assumptions is found in Note 8.
Impairment testing involves, naturally, a large component of estimations and judgments on behalf of company management, which is the reason we have deemed this to comprise a key audit matter in our audit.
As regards the above-stated accounting principles, refer to pages 100–102 and Note 1 in the 2020 annual report.
In our audit, we have placed a special focus on the manner in which the company management's testing of impairment requirements has been performed.
Amongst other things, we have executed the following audit activities:
- We have evaluated Vitec's process for testing any impairment requirement of goodwill.
- We have examined the manner in which group management identified cash generating units and compared them with how Vitec follows up goodwill internally.
- We evaluated the reasonability of the applied assumptions and executed sensitivity analyses as regards changed assumptions.
- We evaluated the reasonability of the discount rate used.
- We compared the calculated value in use with the market cap as at 31 December 2020.
- We evaluated management's forecast capacity through comparing previously undertaken forecasts against actual outcome.
- Based on materiality, we confirmed that sufficient disclosures have been provided in the Notes in the Annual Report.
Other Information than the annual accounts and consolidated accounts
This document also contains other information than the annual accounts and consolidated accounts and is found on pages 2–39 and 123–127. The information in the remuneration report that was published on the Vitec website is also 'other information'. The Board of Directors and the Managing Director are responsible for this other information.
Our opinion on the annual accounts and consolidated accounts does not cover this other information and we do not express any form of assurance conclusion regarding this other information.
In connection with our audit of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts, our responsibility is to read the
information identified above and consider whether the information is materially inconsistent with the annual accounts and consolidated accounts. In this procedure we also take into account our knowledge otherwise obtained in the audit and assess whether the information otherwise appears to be materially misstated.
If we, based on the work performed concerning this information, conclude that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.
Responsibilities of the Board of Director's and the Managing Director
The Board of Directors and the Managing Director are responsible for the preparation of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts and that they give a fair presentation in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act and, concerning the consolidated accounts, in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the EU. The Board of Directors and the Managing Director are also responsible for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of annual accounts and consolidated accounts that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or mistake.
In preparing the annual accounts and consolidated accounts, The Board of Directors and the Managing Director are responsible for the assessment of the company's and the group's ability to continue as a going concern. They disclose, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting. The going concern basis of accounting is however not applied if the Board of Directors and the Managing Director intend to liquidate the company, to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor's responsibility
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the annual accounts and consolidated accounts as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or mistake, and to issue an auditor's report that includes our opinions. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with ISA's and generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or mistake and are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of these annual accounts and consolidated accounts.
A further description of our responsibility for the audit of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts is available on the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors' website: www.revisorsinspektionen.se/revisornsansvar. This description is part of the auditor's report.
Report on other legal and regulatory requirements Opinions
In addition to our audit of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts, we have also audited the administration of the Board of Director's and the Managing Director of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) for the year 2020 and the proposed appropriations of the company's profit or loss.
We recommend to the general meeting of shareholders that the profit be appropriated in accordance with the proposal in the statutory administration report and that the members of the Board of Director's and the Managing Director be discharged from liability for the financial year.
Basis for Opinions
We conducted the audit in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor's Responsibilities section. We are independent of the parent company and the group in accordance with professional ethics for accountants in Sweden and have otherwise fulfilled our ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinions.
Responsibilities of the Board of Director's and the Managing Director
The Board of Directors is responsible for the proposal for appropriations of the company's profit or loss. At the proposal of a dividend, this includes an assessment of whether the dividend is justifiable considering the requirements which the company's and the group's type of operations, size and risks place on the size of the parent company's and the group' equity, consolidation requirements, liquidity and position in general.
The Board of Directors is responsible for the company's organization and the administration of the company's affairs. This includes among other things continuous assessment of the company's and the group's financial situation and ensuring that the company´s organization is designed so that the accounting, management of assets and the company's financial affairs otherwise are controlled in a reassuring manner. The Managing Director shall manage the ongoing administration according to the Board of Directors' guidelines and instructions among other matters take measures that are necessary to fulfill the company's accounting in accordance with law and handle the management of assets in a reassuring manner.
Auditor's responsibility
Our objective concerning the audit of the administration, and thereby our opinion about discharge from liability, is to obtain audit evidence to assess with a reasonable degree of assurance whether any member of the Board of Directors or the Managing Director in any material respect:
- has undertaken any action or been guilty of any omission which can give rise to liability to the company, or
- in any other way has acted in contravention of the Companies Act, the Annual Accounts Act or the Articles of Association.
Our objective concerning the audit of the proposed appropriations of the company's profit or loss, and thereby our opinion about this, is to assess with reasonable degree of assurance whether the proposal is in accordance with the Companies Act.
Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden will always detect actions or omissions that can give rise to liability to the company, or that the proposed appropriations of the company's profit or loss are not in accordance with the Companies Act.
A further description of our responsibility for the audit of the administration is available on the Swedish Inspectorate of Auditors' website: www.revisorsinspektionen.se/revisornsansvar. This description is part of the auditor's report.
The auditor's examination of the corporate governance statement
The Board of Directors is responsible for that the corporate governance statement on pages 52–61 has been prepared in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act.
Our examination of the corporate governance statement is conducted in accordance with FAR's auditing standard
RevR 16 The auditor's examination of the corporate governance statement. This means that our examination of the corporate governance statement is different and substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing and generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. We believe that the examination has provided us with sufficient basis for our opinions.
A corporate governance statement has been prepared. Disclosures in accordance with chapter 6 section 6 the second paragraph points 2–6 of the Annual Accounts Act and chapter 7 section 31 the second paragraph the same law are consistent with the other parts of the annual accounts and consolidated accounts and are in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act.
PricewaterhouseCoopers AB, Torsgatan 21, 113 97 STOCKHOLM, was appointed auditor of Vitec Software Group AB (publ) by the general meeting of the shareholders on the 23 June 2020 and has been the company's auditor since the 6 May 2015.
Stockholm March 24, 2021 PricewaterhouseCoopers AB
Niklas Renström
Authorized Public Accountant
Definitions of key indicators
This annual report refers to several financial measurements that are not defined under IFRS, known as "alternative performance measures," in accordance with ESMA's guidelines. These measurements provide senior management and investors with significant information for analyzing trends in the company's business operations. Alternative performance measures are not always comparable with measurements used by other companies. They are intended to complement, not replace, financial measurements presented in accordance with IFRS. The key indicators presented in the multi-year overview on page 62 are defined as follows:
| Non-IFRS key indi cators |
Definition | Description of usage |
|---|---|---|
| Recurring revenues, ARR |
Recurring contractual revenues with no direct relationship between our work efforts and the contracted price. The contractual amount is usually billed in advance and the revenues are recognized during the contract's term. |
A key indicator for the manage ment of operational activities. |
| Percentage of recur ring revenues |
Recurring revenues in relation to net sales. | A key indicator for the manage ment of operational activities. |
| Growth | The trend of the company's net sales in relation to the previous corresponding year. |
Used to monitor the company's sales trend. |
| Growth in recurring revenues |
Trend in recurring revenues in relation to the previous corresponding year. |
A key indicator for the manage ment of operational activities. |
| Organic growth in recurring revenues |
Development of the company's recurring revenues, including annual data for companies acquired during the period, in relation to the corresponding year-earlier period. |
Used to monitor the compa ny's sales trend and transition toward recurring revenues. |
| EBITA | Net profit/loss for the period before acquisition-related costs, acqui sition-related amortization, net financial items and tax. |
Indicates the company's net profit/loss for the period before acquisition-related costs and acquisition-related amortiza tion. |
| EBITDA | Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization for the period. |
Indicates the company's operat ing profit before depreciation/ amortization and interest. |
| Acquisition-related costs |
Costs such as broker fees, legal fees and stamp tax (tax on single property purchases). |
Used to disclose items affecting comparability. |
| Acquisition-related amortization |
Amortization regarding product rights and customer agreements. | Used to disclose items affecting comparability. |
| Earnings growth attributable to the Parent Company shareholders |
The trend of the company's profit after tax in relation to the corre sponding year-earlier period. |
Used to monitor the company's earnings trend. |
| EBITA margin | Operating profit before acquisition-related costs in relation to net sales. |
Used to monitor the company's earnings trend. |
| Operating margin | Operating profit in relation to net sales. | Used to monitor the company's earnings trend. |
| Profit margin | Profit after tax for the period, in relation to net sales. | Used to monitor the company's earnings trend. |
| Equity/assets ratio | Shareholders' equity, including equity attributable to non-controlling interests as a percentage of total assets. |
This measurement is an indica tor of the company's financial stability. |
| Equity/assets ratio after full conversion |
Shareholders' equity and convertible debentures as a percentage of total assets. |
This measurement is an indica tor of the company's financial stability. |
| Debt/equity ratio | Average debt in relation to average shareholders' equity and non-con trolling interests. |
This measurement is an indica tor of the company's financial stability. |
| Average sharehold ers' equity |
The average between shareholders' equity for the period attributable to Parent Company shareholders and shareholders' equity for the preceding period attributable to Parent Company shareholders. |
An underlying measurement on which the calculation of other key indicators is based. |
| Return on capital employed |
Profit after net financial items plus interest expenses, as a percentage of average capital employed. Capital employed is defined as total assets less interest-free liabilities and deferred tax. |
This measurement is an indica tor of the company's profit ability in relation to externally financed capital and sharehold ers' equity. |
|---|---|---|
| Return on equity | Reported profit/loss after tax in relation to average equity attribut able to Parent Company shareholders. |
This measurement is an indica tor of the company's profitabil ity and gauges the return on shareholders' equity. |
| Sales per employee | Net sales in relation to the average number of employees. | This metric is used to assess the company's efficiency. |
| Added value per employee |
Operating profit/loss plus depreciation/amortization and personnel expenses in relation to average number of employees. |
This metric is used to assess the company's efficiency. |
| Personnel expenses per employee |
Personnel expenses in relation to average number of employees. | A key indicator used to measure operational efficiency. |
| Average no. of em ployees |
Average number of employees in the Group during the financial year. | An underlying measurement on which the calculation of other key indicators is based. |
| AES (Adjusted equi ty per share) |
Shareholders' equity attributable to Parent Company shareholders, in relation to the number of shares issued at the balance-sheet date. |
This measurement indicates the equity per share at the bal ance-sheet date. |
| Cash flow per share | Cash flow from operating activities before changes in working capital, in relation to the average number of shares. |
Used to monitor the company's trend in cash flow per share. |
| Number of shares after dilution |
The average number of shares during the period plus the number of shares added following the full conversion of convertibles. |
An underlying measurement on which the calculation of other key indicators is based. |
| IFRS key indicators | Definition | Description of usage |
| Earnings per share | Profit after tax attributable to Parent Company shareholders, in rela | IFRS key indicators |
| tion to the average number of shares during the period. | ||
|---|---|---|
| Earnings per share | Profit after tax attributable to Parent Company shareholders, plus | IFRS key indicators |
| after dilution | interest expenses pertaining to convertible debentures, in relation to | |
| the average number of shares after dilution. | ||
Estimates
ORGANIC GROWTH IN RECURRING REVENUES
| SEK million | 2020 | 2019 | Growth, % |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reported net sales | 1,313 | 1,156 | 14 |
| of which recurring revenues | 1,080 | 908 | 19 |
| Annual effect of acquired units | 35 | 218 | |
| of which recurring revenues | 27 | 156 | |
| Organic growth in net sales | 1,348 | 1,374 | -2 |
| Organic growth in recurring revenues | 1,108 | 1,063 | 4 |
EFFECT OF ACQUIRED UNITS
| SEK million | Sales, time before acquisition | Recurring revenues, time before acquisition |
||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2019 | 2020 | 2019 | |
| Companies acquired 2020 | 35 | 144 | 27 | 98 |
| Companies acquired 2019 | - | 74 | - | 57 |
| Total annual effects | 35 | 218 | 27 | 156 |
| Calculation of EBITA | 2020 | 2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Operating profit | 222,434 | 143,922 |
| Acquisition-related costs | 12,933 | 11,752 |
| Amortization of acquisition-related assets | 109,419 | 91,654 |
| EBITA | 344,786 | 247,328 |
| Average number of shares (weighted average) | No. of days | No. of shares | Weighted value |
|---|---|---|---|
| No. of shares on Jan 1 | 364 | 32,573,216 | 32,483,974 |
| December 30, 2020, conversion of promissory notes | 1 | 32,773,422 | 89,790 |
| Average number of shares | 365 | 32,573,765 |
| Average number of shares after dilution | No. of days | No. of shares | Weighted value |
|---|---|---|---|
| No. of shares on Jan 1 | 364 | 32,573,216 | 32,483,974 |
| December 30, 2020, conversion of promissory notes | 1 | 32,773,422 | 89,790 |
| Dilution, convertible Visiolink January 30, 2020 | 335 | 61,304 | 56,265 |
| Dilution, convertible Appva June 17, 2020 | 197 | 33,333 | 17,991 |
| Dilution, employee convertibles September 16, 2020 | 107 | 40,571 | 11,893 |
| Dilution warrants September 16, 2020 | 107 | 251,000 | 73,581 |
| Dilution, convertible Odin | 365 | 260,480 | 260,480 |
| Average number of shares after dilution | 32,993,975 | ||
Earnings from calculation of earnings per share after dilution
| Profit for the year | 160,710 |
|---|---|
| Interest expenses on convertible debentures | 1,362 |
| 162,072 |
Shareholder information
Our website, vitecsoftware.com, is our primary channel for information to shareholders and the stock market. It is where we publish financial information and other potentially price-sensitive information immediately following disclosure.
Financial calendar
| Annual General Meeting | April 28, 2021 |
|---|---|
| Interim report January–March | April 16, 2021 |
| Interim report January–June | July 15, 2021 |
| Interim report January–September | October 14, 2021 |
| Year-end report January–December | February 11, 2022 |
Investor information is available at vitecsoftware.com
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If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact:
Patrik Fransson, Investor Relations [email protected] +46 76 942 85 97