Interim Report January-September 2005

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 


 

FORM 6-K

 


 

Report of Foreign Issuer

 

Persuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of

the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Report on Form 6-K dated October 25, 2005

 


 

Swedish Match AB

(Translation of Registrant’s Name into English)

 


 

Rosenlundsgatan 36

S-118 85 Stockholm, Sweden

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

 


 

(Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.)

 

Form 20-F      X            Form 40-F              

 

(Indicate by check whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby

furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.)

 

Yes                      No      X    

 

(If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b);82-             )

 


 

Enclosure: Swedish Match Interim Report January – September 2005

 

SIGNATURES

 

Persuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

 

        Swedish Match AB
Date: October 25, 2005   By:  

/s/ Bertil Raihle


        Bertil Raihle
        Vice President Corporate Control


LOGO

 

Interim Report

January – September 2005

- prepared in accordance with IFRS

 

Third quarter net sales were 3,461 MSEK (3,419), and nine month sales were 9,811 MSEK (9,797)

 

Operating income amounted to 953 MSEK (454) for the third quarter and 2,118 MSEK (3,061) for the first nine months

 

Operating income, excluding major one time items, for the third quarter amounted to 747 MSEK compared with 694 MSEK previous year and 1,912 MSEK (1,779) for the first nine months

 

Net profit for the third quarter amounted to 562 MSEK (219), and nine month net profit was 1,301 MSEK (1,770)

 

Third quarter EPS was 1.79 SEK (0.63), and nine month EPS was 4.08 SEK (5.26)

 

Sales and results for the third quarter

 

Swedish Match sales for the third quarter increased by 1 percent to 3,461 MSEK (3,419). In local currency terms sales decreased by 1 percent. Excluding divested companies, sales increased by 3 percent. All product areas except matches demonstrated sales growth. Match sales declined primarily as a result of the divestiture of Wimco Indian operations on July 1, 2005.

 

For snuff, sales grew by 2 percent during the third quarter, to 809 MSEK (791) while operating income increased by 8 percent to 401 MSEK (371). Swedish Match volumes increased in both the US and Scandinavian markets. In Scandinavia, operating income improved as a result of volume growth for pouched snuff. For the product group snuff, operating margin was 49.5 percent (46.9).

 

Sales of cigars in the third quarter amounted to 874 MSEK (848) and operating income grew by 8 percent, to 188 MSEK (174). Sales and operating income for cigars grew in Europe, while machine made cigars in the US showed a weaker development. Operating income for premium cigars in the US grew somewhat. Operating margin for cigars amounted to 21.5 percent (20.6).

 

Group operating income for the third quarter reached 953 MSEK (454). During the third quarter 2005, the sale of the General Cigar building in New York resulted in pre-tax income of 206 MSEK. Last year’s third quarter Group operating income included match impairment charges and provisions amounting to 240 MSEK. Excluding these items, Group operating income exceeded year ago levels by 8 percent, reaching 747 MSEK (694).

 

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Operating margin for the third quarter amounted to 21.6 percent excluding the income for the building in New York. For the third quarter 2004, operating margin amounted to 20.3 percent excluding match impairment charges and provisions.

 

During the third quarter EPS, both basic and diluted, amounted to 1.79 SEK, compared to 0.63 SEK last year.

 

Sales and results for the first nine months

 

Sales for the first nine months amounted to 9,811 MSEK (9,797). Excluding divested companies, sales increased by 1 percent. Operating income amounted to 2,118 MSEK (3,061). Last year’s operating income for the first nine months included some larger one time items, the income of 1,521 MSEK from the settlement with UST and match impairment charges and provisions of 240 MSEK. Excluding the third quarter gain from the sale of the New York real estate and larger one time items the year before, operating income during the first nine months increased by 7 percent to 1,912 MSEK (1,779).

 

EPS (basic) for the first nine months was 4.08 SEK (5.26). Excluding larger one time items earnings per share was 3.79 SEK compared to 3.30 SEK during last year’s first nine months. Diluted EPS amounted to 4.06 SEK (5.24).

 

Group operating margin during the first nine months was 19.5 percent excluding the gain from the sale of the New York real estate. Excluding larger one time items, operating margin during last year’s first nine months was 18.2 percent.

 

Summary of Consolidated Income Statement

 

     January – September

  

Full
year

2004


MSEK

 

   2005

   2004

  

Sales

   9,811    9,797    13,007

Operating income excl. major one time items

   1,912    1,779    2,280

Operating income

   2,118    3,061    3,561

Profit before tax

   2,001    2,963    3,397

Net income incl. minority interest

   1,301    1,770    2,061

 

Sales by product area

 

     July - Sep

   Jan - Sep

  

Change

%


   

12 months

ended

Sep 30, -05


  

Full
year

2004


  

Change

%


 

MSEK

 

   2005

   2004

   2005

   2004

          

Snuff

   809    791    2,312    2,356    (2 )   3,038    3,081    (1 )

Chewing Tobacco

   290    285    800    821    (3 )   1,036    1,058    (2 )

Cigars

   874    848    2,449    2,381    3     3,239    3,171    2  

Pipe Tobacco & Accessories

   241    234    674    659    2     916    901    2  

Matches

   298    348    961    1,012    (5 )   1,327    1,378    (4 )

Lighters

   156    147    454    439    3     596    582    3  

Other operations

   792    766    2,162    2,128    2     2,870    2,836    1  
    
  
  
  
  

 
  
  

Total

   3,461    3,419    9,811    9,797    0     13,022    13,007    0  
    
  
  
  
  

 
  
  

 

In this interim report amounts are stated in Swedish crowns rounded to the nearest million. The figures in the report are based on data from the consolidation system which are in thousands of Swedish Crowns. By rounding the figures in the interim report, totals may not always equal the sum of the included rounded numbers.

 

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Operating income by product area

 

     July - Sep

    Jan - Sep

   

Change

%


   

12 months

ended

Sep 30, -05


   

Full
year

2004


   

Change

%


 

MSEK

 

   2005

    2004

    2005

    2004

         

Snuff

   401     371     1,112     1,089     2     1,399     1,376     2  

Chewing Tobacco

   94     82     247     237     4     314     304     3  

Cigars

   188     174     436     460     (5 )   544     567     (4 )

Pipe Tobacco & Accessories

   62     69     177     182     (3 )   249     254     (2 )

Matches

   31     28     45     (28 )         60     (12 )      

Lighters

   16     6     44     23     86     33     13     155  

Other operations

   (47 )   (38 )   (149 )   (184 )         (187 )   (222 )      
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subtotal

   747     694     1,912     1,779     7     2,412     2,280     6  

Major one time items

                                                

Income from real estate sale

   206     —       206     —             206     —          

Income from settlement with UST

   —       —       —       1,521           —       1,521        

Match impairment charges

   —       (150 )   —       (150 )         —       (150 )      

Provision for acquisition of shares in Wimco Ltd.

   —       (90 )   —       (90 )         —       (90 )      
    

 

 

 

       

 

     

Subtotal

   206     (240 )   206     1,281           206     1,281        
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

   953     454     2,118     3,061     (31 )   2,618     3,561     (26 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating margin by product area

 

     July - Sep

   Jan - Sep

   

12 months

ended

Sep 30, -05


  

Full
year

2004


 

Percent

 

   2005

   2004

   2005

   2004

      

Snuff

   49.5    46.9    48.1    46.2     46.1    44.7  

Chewing Tobacco

   32.5    28.8    30.9    28.8     30.3    28.7  

Cigars

   21.5    20.6    17.8    19.3     16.8    17.9  

Pipe Tobacco & Accessories

   25.7    29.7    26.3    27.6     27.2    28.2  

Matches

   10.5    8.1    4.7    (2.7 )   4.5    (0.9 )

Lighters

   10.4    4.4    9.6    5.3     5.6    2.2  
    
  
  
  

 
  

Group*

   21.6    20.3    19.5    18.2     18.5    17.5  
    
  
  
  

 
  


* Excluding major one time items

 

Smokeless Tobacco

 

Swedish Match has an international presence in smokeless tobacco, and sells products on most major smokeless markets. Swedish Match is a market leader in snuff in Sweden and Norway. On the largest snuff market in the world, the US, as well as in South Africa, Swedish Match has a significant position. In the US, Swedish Match is the largest manufacturer on the market for chewing tobacco. Smokeless tobacco products are increasingly recognized as having significantly lower health consequences than cigarettes. This knowledge, together with increased restrictions for cigarette smoking creates good conditions for organic growth, especially for snuff.

 

Snuff

 

Sweden is the world’s largest snuff market when it comes to per capita consumption. In Sweden, a substantially larger proportion of the male population uses snuff

 

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compared to cigarettes. The number of women using snuff is steadily increasing. The Norwegian market, which is substantially smaller than the Swedish market, is at present showing strong growth. The US is the world’s largest snuff market measured in number of cans and is approximately five times larger than the Swedish market. In Sweden and Norway, Swedish Match has the leading position. In the US, the Company is well positioned in the faster growing value price segment. Some of the best known brands include General, Ettan, and Grov in Sweden, Timberwolf in the US and Taxi in South Africa.

 

During the third quarter, sales increased by 2 percent versus the previous year, to 809 MSEK (791), and operating income grew by 8 percent, to 401 MSEK (371). Volumes increased in Scandinavia (2.5 percent) as well as in the US (3.0 percent), measured in number of cans. Operating margin reached 49.5 percent (46.9).

 

Sales for the first nine months amounted to 2,312 MSEK (2,356), a decrease of 2 percent. In Scandinavia sales volumes increased by 1.4 percent. In Sweden the decrease was 1 percent, while volumes in Norway as well as tax free sales increased. Loose snuff declined on the Swedish market, while sales of pouched snuff increased. The proportion of pouched snuff is currently 58 percent of the market, compared to 55 percent in September 2004. Competition on the Swedish market has increased. Swedish Match’s market share amounted to 94 percent according to the latest Nielsen estimates.

 

In the US, year to date sales volumes were up by 1.3 percent versus previous year measured in number of cans. Sales of Longhorn were considerably higher than the year before, while sales for Timberwolf were lower. At the end of 2004 the Timberwolf brand was repositioned with a lower price. Swedish Match’s total market share in the US market amounted to 9.4 percent (8.9) for the September year-to-date period, according to Nielsen estimates.

 

Operating income year to date amounted to 1,112 MSEK (1,089), up 2 percent. On the Nordic market operating income increased mainly due to higher volumes, improved average prices and lower costs as a result of the accomplished reorganization. In the US, operating income declined due the repositioning of the Timberwolf brand with a lower list price. Operating margin for snuff for the year to date was 48.1 percent (46.2).

 

Chewing Tobacco

 

Chewing tobacco is sold primarily in the North American market, with concentration in the southern US. Well known brands include Red Man and Southern Pride. Swedish Match is the leading producer of chewing tobacco in the US, and the market share is 44 percent, according to Nielsen estimates. The chewing tobacco segment declines each year due to relatively few new consumers. Some consumers choose to use snuff instead.

 

During the third quarter, sales increased by 2 percent, to 290 MSEK (285), and operating income grew by 15 percent, to 94 MSEK (82). Operating margin reached 32.5 percent (28.8).

 

Sales for the first nine months declined by 3 percent to 800 MSEK (821), while operating income increased by 4 percent to 247 MSEK (237). The sales decrease is mainly attributable to a weaker average rate during the first nine months for the US dollar. Higher average prices partially compensated for volume loss and lower costs contributed to the improved operating income. Operating margin amounted to 30.9 percent (28.8).

 

4


Cigars and Pipe Tobacco

 

Swedish Match is one of the world’s largest operators within cigars and pipe tobacco. Organic growth opportunities are mainly within cigars, while the consumption of pipe tobacco decreases.

 

Cigars

 

Swedish Match is the second largest producer of cigars and cigarillos in sales value. Swedish Match offers a full range of different cigars and brands. Well known brands include Macanudo, La Gloria Cubana, White Owl, Garcia y Vega, La Paz, Justus van Maurik, and Wings. The US is the largest cigar market in the world and Swedish Match has a leading position in the premium segment, and is well established in the segment for machine made cigars. After the US, the most important cigar markets are in Europe, where Swedish Match is well represented in most countries, with an especially good market position in The Netherlands and Scandinavia. In Europe, machine made cigars dominate.

 

During the third quarter, sales increased by 3 percent, to 874 MSEK (848), and operating income increased by 8 percent, to 188 MSEK (174). Operating margins reached 21.5 percent (20.6). Unit volumes improved in Europe and for US premium cigars, while volumes were lower in the US mass market.

 

Sales for the first nine months amounted to 2,449 MSEK (2,381), an increase of 3 percent. Sales were up in Europe and for premium cigars in the US, while sales were down for machine made cigars in the US as a result of increased market activities from competitors.

 

Operating income for the first nine months declined by 5 percent to 436 MSEK (460). Operating margin amounted to 17.8 percent (19.3). Excluding charges of 75 MSEK related to the integration of General Cigar in 2005, and 11 MSEK regarding restructuring programs in Europe in 2004, operating income grew by 9 percent. The increase in operating income is primarily due to lower costs as a result of previous restructuring measures.

 

Pipe Tobacco and Accessories

 

Swedish Match is one of the largest pipe tobacco companies in the world and its products are marketed worldwide. The Borkum Riff brand is sold in over 60 countries. The Company has its most significant presence in South Africa, where local production takes place. Best Blend and Boxer are major brands in South Africa. Pipe tobacco consumption declines on most established markets, as the segment attracts relatively few new consumers. However, the demand is increasing in certain smaller export markets.

 

During the third quarter, sales grew by 3 percent, to 241 MSEK (234), and operating income declined by 11 percent, to 62 MSEK (69). Operating margin was 25.7 percent (29.7).

 

Sales for the first nine months amounted to 674 MSEK (659). Improved price levels and a strong South African Rand helped to compensate for lower volumes. Operating income was 177 MSEK (182). Operating margin amounted to 26.3 percent (27.6).

 

5


Lights

 

Swedish Match markets matches and lighters globally.

 

Matches

 

Swedish Match is a market leader in many markets for matches. The brands are mostly local, and have leading positions in their home countries. Major brands include Swan, Solstickan, Three Stars, and Redheads.

 

During the third quarter, sales declined by 15 percent, to 298 MSEK (348), and operating income was 31 MSEK (28). On July 1 the Indian match company Wimco Ltd. was divested. Excluding Wimco sales for the third quarter last year, sales were unchanged, but volumes declined. During the third quarter a writedown in the match operations was made and the factory and property in Valencia, Spain was divested with a gain. The match factory in Valencia was closed down during the first quarter this year.

 

Sales for the first nine months amounted to 961 MSEK (1,012). In local currency terms, and excluding the effect of the Wimco divestiture, sales declined by 4 percent.

 

Operating income during the first nine months was 45 MSEK (negative 28). These figures include costs of 31 MSEK for the closure of the Valencia, Spain factory during the first quarter 2005 and charges of 105 MSEK relating to the restructuring of match operations in Europe during the first half of 2004. Excluding these items, the operating income was in line with last year. Operating margin amounted to 4.7 percent (negative 2.7).

 

Lighters

 

Swedish Match produces and distributes disposable lighters and the main brand is Cricket. Swedish Match’s largest market is Russia. Several markets are faced with an intensely competitive situation from, among others, Chinese producers.

 

During the third quarter, sales grew by 6 percent, to 156 MSEK (147), and operating income grew to 16 MSEK (6). Increased volumes, lower costs and productivity improvements are behind the better results. Operating margin was 10.4 percent (4.4).

 

Sales for the first nine months were 454 MSEK (439), an increase of 3 percent. Volumes increased but the average price for lighters decreased. Operating income increased to 44 MSEK (23). Operating margin improved to 9.6 percent (5.3).

 

Other Operations

 

Other operations include the distribution of tobacco products on the Swedish market, an Irish distribution business, sales of advertising products, as well as corporate overheads.

 

During the third quarter, operating income amounted to a negative 47 MSEK (negative 38). Corporate overheads have increased due to work in fulfilling requirements under the Sarbanes Oxley Act.

 

6


For the first nine months, operating income for other operations was a negative 149 MSEK (negative: 184). Last year’s expense included charges of 44 MSEK related to both the closure of a distribution center in Sweden and severance payments and other expenses with regard to the former CEO.

 

Financing and net financial expense

 

At the close of the period the Group’s net debt amounted to 1,213 MSEK, as compared to 527 MSEK on December 31, 2004, an increase of 686 MSEK. The increase is primarily due to the acquisition of the minority shares in General Cigar for 1,099 MSEK, share repurchase of 895 MSEK and paid dividend of 612 MSEK. Cash flow from operations was 1,672 MSEK compared with 2,901 MSEK a year ago, which included the settlement with UST. During the period 10,367,514 shares were repurchased, amounting to 895 MSEK, and sales of treasury shares related to options programs amounted to 23 MSEK.

 

During the period new bond loans of 911 MSEK have been issued. The bonds have been issued within the Group’s outstanding bond programs. Amortization for the period amounted to 499 MSEK.

 

Liquid funds, including short term investments, amounted to 2,747 MSEK at the end of the period, compared with 3,002 MSEK at the beginning of the year.

 

Net interest expense for the first nine months amounted to a negative 109 MSEK (negative 113). Other financial items, net, amounted to an expense of 9 MSEK (16).

 

Taxes

 

Total tax for the first nine months amounted to 700 MSEK (1,194), corresponding to an average tax rate of 35 percent. The tax rate for the gain from the sales of the real estate in New York is estimated to be 55 percent.

 

Earnings per share

 

Earnings per share for the first nine months amounted to 4.08 SEK (5.26). The gain from the sale of the real estate has affected EPS positively by 29 öre. Last year’s earnings per share, for the first nine months, was positively affected by larger one time items by 1.96 SEK.

 

Capital expenditure, depreciation and amortization

 

The Group’s direct investments in tangible fixed assets amounted to 271 MSEK (349). The investments include increased capacity for pouched snuff and rationalizations in the cigar operations. Total depreciation and amortization amounted to 346 MSEK (369), of which depreciation on tangible assets amounted to 257 MSEK (258) and amortization of intangible assets amounted to 89 MSEK (111).

 

Tobacco tax

 

During the past 12 months, total tobacco tax and value-added tax on tobacco tax paid by Swedish Match in Sweden amounted to 9,668 MSEK (9,974).

 

Average number of Group employees

 

The average number of employees in the Group during the first nine months was 14,625 compared with 15,039 for the full year 2004. The number of employees decreased as a result of the divestment of Wimco Ltd. and rationalizations within several product areas.

 

7


Share structure

 

During the first nine months of 2005 10.4 million shares were repurchased at an average price of 86.36 SEK. As at September 30, 2005 Swedish Match held 24.8 million shares in its treasury, corresponding to 7.4 percent of the total amount of shares. Total shares bought back by Swedish Match since the buyback programs started have been repurchased at an average price of 53.29 SEK. The number of shares outstanding, net after repurchase and after the sale of treasury shares, as per September 30, 2005 amounted to 311.8 million. In addition, the Company has call options issued and outstanding on its treasury shares corresponding to 4.9 million shares exercisable in gradual stages from 2005-2010.

 

The Annual General Meeting on April 27, 2005 renewed the mandate to repurchase shares up to 10 percent of the shares of the Company. In addition, a decision was made to cancel 12.0 million shares held in treasury. Furthermore, the Annual General Meeting decided to reduce the share capital by reducing the shares’ nominal value from 2.40 SEK to 1.20 SEK and reduce the statutory reserve of the parent company by 114 MSEK. These reductions became effective on October 5 and consequently 532 MSEK was transferred from restricted equity to unrestricted equity. After the transfer to unrestricted equity, the total amount of registered shares in the Company is 324,596,181 of which the Company holds 12,832,900 shares in its treasury corresponding to 4.0 percent of the total amount of shares.

 

Other events and events after the period

 

During the second quarter, Swedish Match has acquired all outstanding shares of General Cigar and now owns 100 percent of the company. The second quarter was impacted by integration costs of 75 MSEK. Cost saving effects due to the integration is expected to impact results from 2006. During September the sale of General Cigar’s real estate in New York was concluded.

 

In February 2005, The Second Circuit Court of Appeals in New York ruled in favour of General Cigar in a lawsuit filed by Cubatabaco over trademark ownership of the Cohiba brand in the US. Cubatabaco has filed a petition to the US Supreme Court seeking review. This case has been ongoing since 1997.

 

As previously announced, Swedish Match on July 1 sold its 74 percent holding of the Indian match company, Wimco to a subsidiary of Indian Tobacco Company (ITC). Wimco is therefore not included in Swedish Match’s consolidated numbers as per July 1. On September 29, 2005 Swedish Match acquired 16.8 percent of the total amount of outstanding shares in Wimco in an open offer as per an earlier ruling from the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). It is the intention of Swedish Match to sell these shares in connection with ITC’s offer to buy all outstanding shares of Wimco, which the company estimates to be completed before the end of the current year.

 

Distribution of surplus funds

 

Dividend

 

Swedish Match’s dividend policy is that the dividend should largely follow the trend of the Group’s net income. When establishing a dividend, the size of planned repurchases of shares is also taken into account. It is estimated that the dividend amount will be between 30-50 percent of net income for the year.

 

8


Repurchase

 

A repurchase of shares is, in principle, a reverse new share issue and makes it possible to work continuously to optimize the capital structure of the balance sheet. In view of Swedish Match’s stable and positive cash flow, the position of the Board of Directors with regard to repurchase of shares is positive.

 

The size and scope of share buybacks depend, in exactly the same way as the size of the dividend, on Swedish Match’s financial position, net income, anticipated future profitability, cash flow, investments and expansion plans. Other factors that affect repurchases are the price of the shares, the Group’s interest and tax expenses, and the earnings available for distribution.

 

Financial restrictions

 

When considering the size of the surplus funds to be transferred to shareholders, it has been decided that the following restrictions should apply:

 

  The Company shall over time strive for a capital structure with an interest cover based on EBITA (profit before financial items, interest and amortization on intangible assets/net interest) that exceeds nine times.

 

  The Company shall over time strive for a net debt divided by EBITA below two.

 

Accounting principles

 

This interim report is prepared in accordance with the Accounting Standard IAS 34 Interim Financial Reporting from the International Accounting Standards Board.

 

New accounting principles 2005

 

As of January 1, 2005 Swedish Match changed its accounting principles for the preparation of financial statements to comply with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS). Previously the financial statements were prepared in accordance with Swedish Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“Swedish GAAP”).

 

The financial statements for periods beginning on or after January 1, 2005 are therefore prepared in accordance with IFRS. IFRS has also been retrospectively applied to year 2004 comparable data but with the exception of the reporting of financial instruments (IAS 32 and IAS 39) and share-based payments (IFRS 2). The financial instruments and share-based payments have not been restated as Swedish Match does not fall under the retrospective reporting requirements for these standards.

 

The financial statements are from January 1, 2005, set up as specified in IAS 1. The main implication of applying IAS 1, is that net income, on the face of the income statement, and equity, on the face of balance sheet, are presented including the minority’s interest.

 

For Swedish Match, the transition to IFRS has changed the reporting of biological assets (IAS 41), goodwill (IFRS 3 and IAS 38), financial instruments (IAS 32 and IAS 39) and share-based payments (IFRS 2). The accounting principles for employee benefits (IAS 19) were already adopted on January 1, 2004 under Swedish GAAP and therefore Swedish Match’s financial statements already complied with IAS 19 in 2004.

 

9


Goodwill and biological assets

 

Information on changes in accounting principles for biological assets (IAS 41) and goodwill (IFRS 3 and IAS 38), due to the transition to IFRS, is included in the report of operations for 2004 and the annual report for 2004.

 

Financial instruments

 

The rules for reporting of financial instruments, IAS 39, imply that financial assets and liabilities, including all derivatives, shall be measured at fair value or amortized cost depending on classification of the asset and liability. The gain or loss from a change in the value of a financial asset or liability shall be recognized, depending on classification, in profit or loss or directly in equity until realized.

 

According to IAS 39, companies can apply hedge accounting. Under hedge accounting, a company shall link a balance sheet item to a designated hedging instrument. To qualify for hedge accounting under IAS 39, the hedging relationship has to satisfy strict requirements.

 

The major portion of the Group’s borrowing was originally assumed at a fixed interest rate but subsequently converted to a floating rate by means of interest rate swaps. Swedish Match has decided to apply hedge accounting on interest rate swaps that can be linked to the original borrowing.

 

All other financial instruments within Swedish Match will be subject to fair value accounting and the gain or loss from change in value will be recognized in the profit and loss.

 

At transition to IFRS, the difference between the fair values or amortized costs of the financial assets and liabilities and the values reported according to Swedish GAAP was recognized directly in equity. Any initial recognition of derivatives not previously recognized was also reported directly in equity. At January 1, 2005, an increase in equity of 31 MSEK was thereby reported. The reporting in accordance with IAS 39 has resulted in a negative effect in net income by 3 MSEK during the first nine months of 2005.

 

Share-based payments

 

The rules for reporting of share-based payments (such as Swedish Match’s option program), IFRS2, imply that an assessed fair value of the options shall be expensed during a vesting period or at a vesting date. During the first nine months 2005, net income has been negatively affected by 3 MSEK due to reporting in accordance with IFRS 2.

 

Additional information

 

This report has not been reviewed by the Company’s auditors. The full year 2005 report will be released February 15, 2006. The Annual General Meeting will be held in Stockholm on April 20, 2006.

 

Stockholm, October 25, 2005

 

Sven Hindrikes

President and Chief Executive Officer

 

10


Key data

 

     January - September

  

12 months
ended

Sep 30, 2005


  

Full year

2004


     2005

   2004

     

Operating margin, %1)

   19.5    18.2    18.5    17.5

Operating capital, MSEK

   8,148    7,840    8,148    7,243

Return on operating capital, %1)

             30.2    29.1

Return on shareholders’ equity, %

             33.5    48.1

Net debt, MSEK2)

   1,213    1,229    1,213    527

Net debt/equity ratio, %

   24.6    24.4    24.6    10.5

Equity/assets ratio, %

   31.1    31.4    31.1    33.7

Investments in tangible assets, MSEK

   271    349    409    486

EBITDA, MSEK3)

   2,319    2,243    2,959    2,884

EBITA, MSEK4)

   2,030    1,913    2,581    2,464

EBITA interest cover

   18.7    17.0    16.3    15.2

Net debt/EBITA

             0.5    0.2

Share data5)

                   

Earnings per share, SEK

                   

Basic

   4.08    5.26    4.90    6.10

Diluted

   4.06    5.24    4.89    6.08

Excluding major one time items, diluted

   3.77    3.29    4.61    4.12

Excluding amortization and major one time items, diluted

   4.00    3.56    4.94    4.50

Shareholders’ equity per share, SEK

   15.81    13.68    15.81    14.05

Number of shares outstanding at end of period

   311,763,281    321,100,681    311,763,281    321,516,893

Average number of shares outstanding

   316,983,930    327,155,038    318,080,314    325,708,645

Average number of shares outstanding, diluted

   318,028,805    328,487,004    319,163,877    327,013,542

1) Excluding major one time items
2) Pension liabilities are not included in net debt
3) Operating income excluding major one time items adjusted for depreciation, amortization and writedowns
4) Operating income excluding major one time items adjusted for amortization and writedowns of intangible assets
5) Net income attributable to Swedish Match equity holders

 

Consolidated Income Statement in summary

MSEK

 

     July - Sep

    Jan – Sep

   

Change

%


   

12 months

ended

Sep 30, -05


   

Full year

2004


   

Change

%


 
     2005

    2004

    2005

    2004

         

Sales, including tobacco tax

   5,754     5,761     16,244     16,362           21,587     21,705        

Less tobacco tax

   (2,294 )   (2,342 )   (6,432 )   (6,566 )         (8,565 )   (8,698 )      
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

   3,461     3,419     9,811     9,797     0     13,022     13,007     0  

Cost of goods sold

   (1,848 )   (1,954 )a)   (5,319 )   (5,403 )a)         (7,163 )   (7,246 )a)      
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

   1,612     1,465     4,492     4,394     2     5,860     5,761     2  

Sales and administrative expenses

   (664 )c)   (1,011 )b)   (2,386 )c)   (2,853 )b)         (3,256 )c)   (3,722 )b)      

Shares in earnings of associated co.

   4     (1 )   12     (1 )         15     1        
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     953     454     2,118     1,539     38     2,618     2,040     28  

Settlement income

   0     0     0     1,521           0     1,521        
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

   953     454     2,118     3,061     (31 )   2,618     3,561     (26 )

Net interest expense

   (47 )   (32 )   (109 )   (113 )         (158 )   (163 )      

Other financial items, net

   (7 )   8     (9 )   16           (26 )   (2 )      
    

 

 

 

       

 

     

Net financial items

   (54 )   (24 )   (117 )   (97 )         (185 )   (164 )      
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Profit before taxes

   899     430     2,001     2,963     (32 )   2,434     3,397     (28 )

Taxes

   (337 )   (211 )   (700 )   (1,194 )         (843 )   (1,336 )      

Net income for the period

   562     219     1,301     1,770     (27 )   1,591     2,061     (23 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attributable to:

                                                

Swedish Match equity holders

   562     200     1,292     1,721           1,560     1,988        

Minority interests

   0     19     8     49           32     72        
    

 

 

 

       

 

     

Net income for the period

   562     219     1,301     1,770     (27 )   1,591     2,061     (23 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per share, basic, SEK

   1.79     0.63     4.08     5.26           4.90     6.10        

Earnings per share, diluted, SEK

   1.79     0.63     4.06     5.24           4.89     6.08        

a) Including impairment charge in match operations of 150 MSEK
b) Including provisions for acquisition of shares in Wimco Ltd. of 90 MSEK
c) Including income from sale of real estate of 206 MSEK

 

11


Consolidated Balance Sheet in summary

MSEK

 

     Sep 30, 2005

   Dec 31, 2004

Intangible fixed assets

   4,230    3,452

Tangible fixed assets

   2,549    2,712

Financial fixed assets

   949    760

Current operating assets

   5,364    4,884

Short-term investments

   804    1,815

Cash and bank

   1,943    1,187
    
  

Total assets

   15,839    14,809
    
  

Swedish Match equity holders

   4,930    4,516

Minority interests

   3    481
    
  

Total equity

   4,933    4,997

Long-term provisions

   2,883    2,487

Long-term loans

   3,525    2,559

Other long-term liabilities

   43    21

Short-term provisions

   817    647

Short-term loans

   435    970

Other current liabilities

   3,203    3,129
    
  

Total shareholders’ equity, provisions and liabilities

   15,839    14,809
    
  

 

Consolidated Cash Flow Statement in summary

MSEK

 

     Jan - Sep 2005

    Jan - Sep 2004

 

Income after financial items

   2,001     2,963  

Non-cash items and taxes paid

   (332 )   (97 )

Cash flow from operations before changes in Working Capital

   1,669     2,866  

Cash flow from changes of Working Capital

   3     35  
    

 

Cash flow from operations

   1,672     2,901  

Investments

            

Investments in property, plant and equipment

   (271 )   (349 )

Sales of property, plant and equipment

   611     33  

Investments in intangibles

   —       (19 )

Investments in consolidated companies

   —       (53 )

Payment of minority shares in General Cigar

   (1,099 )   —    

Investments in other companies

   —       (10 )

Divestment of business operations

   7     117  

Changes in financial receivables etc.

   (50 )   6  

Changes in short-term investments1)

   1,011     (1,052 )
    

 

Cash flow from investments

   209     (1,327 )

Financing

            

Changes in loans

   412     (733 )

Dividends

   (612 )   (558 )

Repurchase of own shares

   (895 )   (658 )

Sale of treasury shares

   23     63  

Other

   (156 )   31  
    

 

Cash flow from financing

   (1,228 )   (1,855 )

Cash flow for the period

   653     (281 )

Cash and bank at the beginning of the period

   1,187     1,497  

Translation difference attributable to cash and bank

   103     (6 )
    

 

Cash and bank at the end of the period

   1,943     1,210  
    

 


1) Refers to investments in short term securities as part of the cash management activities. The sum of cash and bank and short-term investments amounted to 2,747 MSEK at the end of the period compared to 3,002 MSEK at the end of 2004.

 

12


Change in Shareholders’ equity

 

     Jan – Sep 2005

    Jan – Sep 2004

 
MSEK    Swedish
Match
equity
holders


    Minority
interest


    Total
equity


    Swedish
Match
equity
holders


    Minority
interest


    Total
equity


 

Opening balance as per Dec 31

   4,516     481     4,997     3,758     604     4,362  

New accounting principle, IAS 39

   31     17     48                    

Repurchase of own shares

   (895 )         (895 )   (658 )         (658 )

Sale of treasury shares

   23           23     63           63  

Dividend paid

   (612 )         (612 )   (558 )         (558 )

Acquisition of minority shares in Best Blend

                           (16 )   (16 )

Acquisition of minority shares in General Cigar

         (532 )   (532 )                  

Divestment of shares in Wimco

         (6 )   (6 )                  

Fair value reserve IAS 39 etc.

   5           5                    

Translation difference for the period

   570     35     604     65     8     73  

Net income for the period

   1,292     8     1,301     1,721     49     1,770  
    

 

 

 

 

 

Closing balance at end of period

   4,930     3     4,933     4,391     645     5,036  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Quarterly data

MSEK

 

     Q1/04

    Q2/04

    Q3/04

    Q4/04

    Q1/05

    Q2/05

    Q3/05

 

Sales, including tobacco tax

   4,973     5,628     5,761     5,343     4,886     5,604     5,754  

Less tobacco tax

   (1,971 )   (2,252 )   (2,342 )   (2,132 )   (1,918 )   (2,220 )   (2,294 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sales

   3,002     3,376     3,419     3,211     2,967     3,384     3,461  

Cost of goods sold

   (1,585 )   (1,864 )   (1,804 )   (1,843 )   (1,629 )   (1,842 )   (1,848 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gross profit

   1,417     1,512     1,615     1,367     1,338     1,542     1,612  

Sales and administrative expenses

   (909 )   (933 )   (921 )   (869 )   (811 )   (911 )   (870 )

Shares in earnings of associated co.

   (1 )   0     (1 )   2     2     6     4  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

     507     579     694     500     528     637     747  

Income from real estate sale

   —       —       —       —       —       —       206  

Income from settlement with UST

   1,417     104     —       —       —       —       —    

Match impairment charges

   —       —       (150 )   —       —       —       —    

Provision for acquisition of shares in Wimco Ltd

   —       —       (90 )   —       —       —       —    
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

   1,924     683     454     500     528     637     953  

Net interest expense

   (42 )   (39 )   (32 )   (50 )   (20 )   (42 )   (47 )

Other financial items, net

   (4 )   12     8     (17 )   (2 )   0     (7 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net financial items

   (47 )   (27 )   (24 )   (67 )   (21 )   (42 )   (54 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Profit before tax

   1,878     656     430     433     507     595     899  

Income taxes

   (738 )   (245 )   (211 )   (142 )   (167 )   (196 )   (337 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income for the period

   1,140     411     219     291     340     399     562  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attributable to:

                                          

Swedish Match equity holders

   1,130     391     200     268     333     397     562  

Minority interests

   10     20     19     23     7     2     0  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income for the period

   1,140     411     219     291     340     399     562  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13


Sales by product area

MSEK

 

     Q1/04

    Q2/04

    Q3/04

    Q4/04

    Q1/05

    Q2/05

    Q3/05

 

Snuff

   751     814     791     726     703     800     809  

Chewing Tobacco

   254     282     285     237     242     267     290  

Cigars

   687     846     848     790     734     841     874  

Pipe Tobacco & Accessories

   211     214     234     242     216     218     241  

Matches

   324     340     348     366     294     369     298  

Lighters

   146     146     147     142     143     155     156  

Other operations

   628     734     766     708     635     734     792  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

   3,002     3,376     3,419     3,211     2,967     3,384     3,461  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income by product area

MSEK

 

 
     Q1/04

    Q2/04

    Q3/04

    Q4/04

    Q1/05

    Q2/05

    Q3/05

 

Snuff

   354     365     371     287     324     388     401  

Chewing Tobacco

   73     82     82     67     69     83     94  

Cigars

   129     156     174     108     136     112     188  

Pipe Tobacco & Accessories

   60     53     69     72     60     56     62  

Matches

   (19 )   (37 )   28     15     (17 )   30     31  

Lighters

   8     9     6     (10 )   12     15     16  

Other operations

   (98 )   (48 )   (38 )   (38 )   (56 )   (46 )   (47 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subtotal

   507     579     694     500     528     637     747  

Major one time items

                                          

Income from real estate sale

   —       —       —       —       —       —       206  

Income from settlement with UST

   1,417     104     —       —       —       —       —    

Match impairment charges

   —       —       (150 )   —       —       —       —    

Provision for acquisition of shares in Wimco Ltd.

   —       —       (90 )   —       —       —       —    
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Subtotal

   1,417     104     (240 )   —       —       —       206  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

   1,924     683     454     500     528     637     953  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating margin by product area

PERCENT

 

 
     Q1/04

    Q2/04

    Q3/04

    Q4/04

    Q1/05

    Q2/05

    Q3/05

 

Snuff

   47.1     44.8     46.9     39.5     46.0     48.5     49.5  

Chewing Tobacco

   28.7     29.0     28.8     28.4     28.6     31.2     32.5  

Cigars

   18.8     18.5     20.6     13.6     18.6     13.3     21.5  

Pipe Tobacco & Accessories

   28.4     24.6     29.7     29.8     27.6     25.6     25.7  

Matches

   (5.7 )   (11.0 )   8.1     4.2     (5.6 )   8.2     10.5  

Lighters

   5.7     5.9     4.4     (7.3 )   8.6     9.8     10.4  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

Group*

   16.9     17.1     20.3     15.6     17.8     18.8     21.6  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 


* Excluding major one time items

 

14


Comparison of financial statements according to Swedish GAAP and IFRS

 

In the tables below, the financial statements for the third quarter 2004 according to Swedish GAAP is accompanied with the restated financial statements according to IFRS as well as the reconciliation between the two.

 

A reconciliation of the full year 2004 financial statements according to Swedish GAAP and IFRS are presented in the fourth quarter interim report and annual report for year 2004.

 

Consolidated adjusted closing balance per Sep 30, 2004 in summary

MSEK

 

     Reported
Sep 30,
2004


   Goodwill
IAS 38


   Biological
assets
IAS 41


   IFRS
Sep 30,
2004


Intangible fixed assets

   3,494    131         3,625

Tangible fixed assets

   2,763         26    2,789

Financial fixed assets

   517              517

Current operating assets

   5,653              5,653

Short-term investment

   1,210              1,210

Cash and bank

   2,221              2,221
    
  
  
  

Total assets

   15,858    131    26    16,015
    
  
  
  

Swedish Match equity holders

   4,262    112    17    4,391

Minority interests

   638    6    1    645
    
  
  
  

Total equity

   4,900    118    18    5,036

Provisions

   3,084    14    8    3,105

Long-term loans

   4,047              4,047

Other long-term liabilities

   20              20

Short-term loans

   613              613

Other current liabilities

   3,195              3,195
    
  
  
  

Total shareholders’ equity, provisions and liabilities

   15,858    131    26    16,015
    
  
  
  

 

15


Consolidated Income Statement January – September, 2004 in summary

MSEK

     Reported
Jul-Sep
2004


    Goodwill
IAS 38


    Biological
assets
IAS 41


    IFRS
Jul–Sep
2004


    Reported
Jan-Sep
2004


    Goodwill
IAS 38


    Biological
assets
IAS 41


    IFRS
Jan–Sep
2004


 

Sales, including tobacco tax

   5,761                 5,761     16,362                 16,362  

Less tobacco tax

   (2,342 )               (2,342 )   (6,566 )               (6,566 )
    

             

 

             

Sales

   3,419                 3,419     9,797                 9,797  

Cost of goods sold

   (1,963 )         9     (1,954 )   (5,421 )         18     (5,403 )
    

       

 

 

       

 

Gross profit

   1,456           9     1,465     4,375           18     4,394  

Sales and administrative expenses

   (969 )               (969 )   (2,742 )               (2,742 )

Amortization, intangible assets

   (87 )   45           (42 )   (243 )   133           (111 )

Shares in earnings of associated companies

   (1 )               (1 )   (1 )               (1 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

     400     45     9     454     1,388     133     18     1,539  

Settlement income

   0                 0     1,521                 1,521  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Operating income

   400     45     9     454     2,910     133     18     3,061  

Net interest expense

   (32 )               (32 )   (113 )               (113 )

Other financial items, net

   8                 8     16                 16  
    

             

 

             

Net financial items

   (24 )               (24 )   (97 )               (97 )
    

             

 

             

Profit before taxes

   376     45     9     430     2,812     133     18     2,963  

Taxes

   (203 )   (5 )   (3 )   (211 )   (1,174 )   (14 )   (5 )   (1,194 )
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income for the period

   173     40     6     219     1,638     119     13     1,770  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attributable to:

                                                

Swedish Match equity holders

   156     38     6     200     1,596     113     12     1,721  

Minority interests

   17     2     0     19     42     6     1     49  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income for the period

   173     40     6     219     1,638     119     13     1,770  
    

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Earnings per share, basic, SEK

   0.49                 0.63     4.88                 5.26  

Earnings per share, diluted, SEK

   0.49                 0.63     4.86                 5.24  

 

Swedish Match AB (publ), SE-118 85 Stockholm

Visiting address: Rosenlundsgatan 36, Telephone: 08 658 02 00

Corporate Identity Number: 556015-0756

www.swedishmatch.com

 

For further information, please contact:

 

Sven Hindrikes, President and Chief Executive Officer

Office +46 8 658 02 82, Mobile +46 70 567 41 76

 

Lars Dahlgren, Chief Financial Officer

Office +46 8 658 04 41, Mobile +46 70 958 04 41

 

Bo Aulin, Senior Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel

Office +46 8 658 03 64, Mobile +46 70 558 03 64

 

Emmett Harrison, Vice President, Investor Relations (IR)

Office +46 8 658 01 73, Mobile +46 70 938 01 73

 

Richard Flaherty, Vice President, Business Control & CFO, IR (US)

Office +1 804 302 1774, Mobile +1 804 400 1774

 

16