SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 6-K
REPORT OF FOREIGN ISSUER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
October 23, 2015
Commission File Number
000-12033
LM ERICSSON TELEPHONE COMPANY
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)
Torshamnsgatan 21, Kista
SE-164 83, Stockholm, Sweden
(Address of principal executive offices)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F.Form 20-F x Form 40-F ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1): ¨
Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7): ¨
Announcement of LM Ericsson Telephone Company, October 23, 2015 regarding “Ericsson reports third quarter results 2015”.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant 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.
| TELEFONAKTIEBOLAGET LM ERICSSON (publ) | ||
| By: | /s/ NINA MACPHERSON | |
| Nina Macpherson | ||
| Senior Vice President and | ||
| General Counsel | ||
| By: | /s/ HELENA NORRMAN | |
| Helena Norrman | ||
| Senior Vice President | ||
| Corporate Marketing & Communications Officer | ||
Date: October 23, 2015
ERICSSON
THIRD QUARTER
REPORT 2015
Stockholm, October 23, 2015
Read more
THIRD QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS (page)
> Reported sales increased by 3% YoY. Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased by -9% due to lower sales in Networks. This was partly offset by sales growth in Professional Services. 3
> The mobile broadband business in North America remained stable QoQ, but at a lower level compared to the same period last year. 3
> Reported sales in Networks declined sequentially impacted by a slowdown of the 4G deployments in
Mainland China. 6
> Gross margin declined YoY to 33.9% (35.2%). Excluding restructuring charges, gross margin decreased to 34.5% (35.5%) due to a higher share of Global Services sales. 3
> The global cost and efficiency program is progressing according to plan, contributing to lower cost level YoY. 3
> Operating margin, excluding restructuring charges, improved YoY to 10% (7%). Network Rollout, within
Global Services, reached a break-even result. 4
> Cash flow from operating activities was SEK 1.6 (-1.4) b. 9
Q3 Q3 YoY Q2 QoQ 9 months 9 months
SEK b. 2015 2014 change 2015 change 2015 2014
Net sales 59.2 57.6 3% 60.7 -2% 173.4 160.0
Sales growth adj. for comparable units and currency - - -9% - -2% -7% -2%
Gross margin 33.9% 35.2% - 33.2% - 34.1% 36.0%
Gross margin excluding restructuring charges 34.5% 35.5% - 35.1% - 35.3% 36.2%
Operating income 5.1 3.9 31% 3.6 43% 10.8 10.5
Operating income excluding restructuring charges 6.1 4.2 46% 6.3 -4% 15.1 11.2
Operating margin 8.6% 6.7% - 5.9% - 6.2% 6.6%
Operating margin excluding restructuring charges 10.2% 7.2% - 10.4% - 8.7% 7.0%
Net income 3.1 2.6 19% 2.1 47% 6.7 7.0
EPS diluted, SEK 0.94 0.81 16% 0.64 47% 1.98 2.25
EPS (Non-IFRS), SEK 1) 1.34 1.11 21% 1.45 -8% 3.56 3.08
Cash flow from operating activities 1.6 -1.4 - 3.1 -49% -1.3 10.1
Net cash, end of period -0.2 29.4 - 3.5 - -0.2 29.4
1) EPS, diluted, excl. amortizations and write-downs of acquired intangible assets, and restructuring.
1 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CEO COMMENTS
Reported sales increased by 3% YoY. Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased by -9%, due to lower sales in Networks. This was partly offset by continued solid sales growth in Professional Services. Profitability improved YoY, with lower operating expenses as a significant contributor.
Business
Sales growth remained strong in India as well as in South East Asia and Oceania compared to the same period last year, while sales declined in North East Asia as well as in Northern Europe and Central Asia.
The mobile broadband business in North America remained stable QoQ, but at a lower level compared to the same period last year.
In the quarter, there was a slowdown of the 4G deployments in Mainland China. We also saw a somewhat slower pace of mobile broadband investments in markets such as Russia, Brazil and parts of the Middle East which had a weak macro development.
Professional Services sales increased by 15% YoY, with double-digit growth in eight out of ten regions, driven by strong performance across the portfolio.
Profitability
Operating income, excluding restructuring charges, increased by 46% YoY with improvements in all segments. The main contributors to the profit improvement were lower operating expenses and a break-even result in Network Rollout. The negative effect of revaluation and realization of currency hedge contracts was lower than a year ago.
Global Services operating margin increased to 9% as an effect of the improved Network Rollout profitability and a solid result in Professional Services. Segment Networks profitability remained stable in the quarter, with an operating margin of 10%, despite lower sales.
Cost and efficiency program
The global cost and efficiency program, with the target to achieve annual net savings of SEK 9 b. during 2017, is progressing according to plan. Since the announcement in November last year, a number of activities have been implemented globally, contributing to lower cost levels.
Cash flow
After a weak first quarter our cash flow from operating activities has now been positive for the last two quarters despite major payouts related to the ongoing cost and efficiency program. Cash flow year to date has been negatively impacted by increased working capital. This was driven by a business mix with a high share of coverage projects in Mainland China and emerging markets.
Targeted growth areas
Our strategic growth initiatives build on a combination of excelling in our core business and establishing leadership in targeted growth areas. We see continued good progress in these areas which had a sales growth of more than 10% YoY.
In targeted growth area TV & Media we made two important customer announcements in North America, confirming our strong position in the fast-growing TV & Media market. In addition, Ericsson signed an agreement to acquire the Nasdaq-listed company Envivio, a global leader in software-based video encoding.
There is an increased customer interest in future network architecture for 5G, virtualization, efficient video delivery and internet of things (IoT). With our ongoing strategic initiatives, we are well positioned to create value for our customers and shareholders in a transforming market.
Hans Vestberg
President and CEO
2 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Q3 Q3 YoY Q2 QoQ 9 months 9 months
SEK b. 2015 2014 change 2015 change 2015 2014
Net sales 59.2 57.6 3% 60.7 -2% 173.4 160.0
Of which Networks 28.8 30.0 -4% 31.2 -8% 86.4 83.4
Of which Global Services 27.1 24.5 11% 26.4 3% 77.3 67.9
Of which Support Solutions 3.3 3.1 8% 3.1 6% 9.5 8.6
Of which Modems - 0.1 - 0.0 - 0.1 0.1
Gross income 20.1 20.3 -1% 20.1 0% 59.2 57.5
Gross margin (%) 33.9% 35.2% - 33.2% - 34.1% 36.0%
Research and development expenses -8.5 -9.3 -8% -9.9 -14% -26.9 -26.6
Selling and administrative expenses -6.4 -6.0 7% -7.8 -18% -21.3 -19.0
Other operating income and expenses 0.1 -1.1 - 1.1 -92% -0.1 -1.3
Operating income 5.1 3.9 31% 3.6 43% 10.8 10.5
Operating margin 8.6% 6.7% - 5.9% - 6.2% 6.6%
for Networks 10% 11% - 8% - 7% 11%
for Global Services 9% 7% - 6% - 7% 6%
for Support Solutions 0% -4% - -8% - -2% -5%
for Modems - - - - - - -
Financial net -0.6 -0.1 385% -0.5 18% -1.2 -0.5
Taxes -1.3 -1.1 19% -0.9 47% -2.9 -3.0
Net income 3.1 2.6 19% 2.1 47% 6.7 7.0
Restructuring charges -1.0 -0.3 251% -2.7 -64% -4.3 -0.7
Net sales
Reported sales increased by 3% YoY.
Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased by -9% mainly due to lower business activity in Japan, Russia and Brazil. This was partly offset by a strong sales growth in India as well as in South East Asia and Oceania.
The mobile broadband business in North America remained stable QoQ, but at a lower level compared to the same period last year.
Professional Services sales increased YoY, driven by strong performance across the portfolio with double-digit growth in eight out of ten regions. Networks sales decreased mainly due to lower business activity in Russia, Japan and the Middle East.
Sequentially, reported sales decreased by -2%. In the quarter there was a slowdown of the 4G deployments in Mainland China. There was also a somewhat slower pace of mobile broadband investments in certain markets such as Russia, Brazil and parts of the Middle East which had a weak macro development.
Reported IPR revenues were stable both YoY and QoQ. The majority of the licenses contracts are in USD and the stronger USD supported the YoY comparison.
Gross margin
Gross margin decreased YoY due to a higher share of Global Services sales and increased restructuring charges. Excluding restructuring charges, gross margin was 34.5% (35.5%).
Sequentially, gross margin increased due to lower restructuring charges. This was partly offset by a higher share of Global Services sales.
Restructuring charges and cost and efficiency program
The global cost and efficiency program is progressing according to plan. The target remains, to achieve annual net savings of SEK 9 b. during 2017 relative to 2014.
Total restructuring charges for full-year 2015 are expected to be approximately SEK 5 b.
Operating expenses
Operating expenses, excluding restructuring charges, decreased to SEK 14.3 (15.2) b. partly driven by the ongoing cost and efficiency program and partly from cost adjustments following lower business volumes.
Restructuring charges impacted operating expenses negatively by SEK 0.6 (0.1) b.
3 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
Quarterly sales and reported sales growth year over year Operating expenses and operating expenses, % of sales Operating income and operating margin
SEK b. % SEK b. % SEK b. %
80 30
60 59.2 20 20 40 15 14.9 30 10 10 9%
40 10 25% 8 8
20 3% 0 10 20 6 5.1 6
0 -10 5 10 4 4
0 02200
Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 2014 2015 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 2014 2015 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 2014 2015
Quarterly sales Operating expenses Operating income
Reported sales growth Operating expenses of sales Operating margin
Other operating income and expenses
Other operating income and expenses improved YoY. The revaluation and realization effects of currency hedge contracts were SEK -0.3 b. This was more than offset by several minor positive items. The effect of currency hedge contracts is to be compared to SEK 0.6 b. in Q2 2015 and SEK -1.3 b. in Q3 2014.
The main part of the currency hedge contract balance is in USD. The SEK has weakened towards the USD between June 30, 2015 (SEK/USD rate 8.24) and Sept 30, 2015 (SEK/USD rate
8.38).
Operating income
Operating income increased YoY due to a lower negative effect of currency hedge contracts, lower operating expenses and a break-even result in Network Rollout. This was partly offset by a decline in Network sales. Operating income increased QoQ driven by lower restructuring charges and lower operating expenses.
Financial net
The negative financial net increased YoY and QoQ, mainly related to effects of foreign currency revaluation. In addition, the lower cash position and lower interest rates have resulted in reduced financial income.
Net income and EPS
Net income and EPS diluted increased YoY following higher operating income. Net income and EPS diluted increased QoQ. EPS (Non-IFRS) were SEK 1.34 (1.11).
Employees
The number of employees on Sept 30, 2015 was 116,240 compared with 117,183 on June 30, 2015. In the quarter, close to 5,000 employees left the company. The decrease was partly offset by recruitments to Global Service Delivery Centers, employees joining through acquisitions and in-sourcing from new managed services contracts. Some of the headcount reduction was related to the global cost and efficiency program. The majority of the earlier announced reductions in Sweden, of approximately 1,700 employees, is expected to be completed by the end of this year. The number of Ericsson’s services professionals on Sept 30, 2015 was 65,000 (65,000 June 30, 2015).
MODEMS
The discontinuation of the modems business is now completed.
4 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
REGIONAL SALES
Third quarter 2015 Change
Global Support
SEK b. Networks Services Solutions Total YoY QoQ
North America 6.4 6.9 1.0 14.4 2% -2%
Latin America 2.5 2.9 0.2 5.6 -5% 11%
Northern Europe and Central Asia 1.4 1.0 0.1 2.5 -20% -1%
Western and Central Europe 1.4 3.0 0.2 4.5 -2% -12%
Mediterranean 2.2 3.2 0.2 5.5 5% -7%
Middle East 2.7 2.6 0.4 5.7 -5% -12%
Sub-Saharan Africa 1.2 1.3 0.1 2.7 10% 1%
India 2.4 1.1 0.1 3.6 81% 19%
North East Asia 4.1 2.0 0.2 6.3 -10% -9%
South East Asia and Oceania 2.4 2.2 0.1 4.8 25% -3%
Other 1) 2.0 0.8 0.8 3.5 4% 4%
Total 28.8 27.1 3.3 59.2 3% -2%
1) Region “Other” includes licensing revenues, broadcast services, power modules, mobile broadband modules, Ericsson-LG Enterprise and other businesses.
North America
The mobile broadband business in North America remained stable QoQ. Operators continued to focus on cash flow optimization and consolidation, leading to lower investment levels compared to the same period last year. ICT transformation and professional services developed favorably. In the quarter, two important TV & Media agreements were announced.
Latin America
In the quarter the mobile broadband investment levels in Brazil were reduced somewhat driven mainly by local currency depreciation towards the USD. This was partly offset by continued mobile broadband investments in Mexico. ICT transformation and professional services business developed favorably, mainly in the OSS and BSS domain.
Northern Europe and Central Asia
The mobile broadband business declined in the quarter, due to continued low investment levels in Russia. This was partly offset by coverage investments in Ukraine. In the Nordics, efficiency and ICT transformation were the main drivers of the good development in Professional Services and Support Solutions.
Western and Central Europe
Sales in mobile broadband declined partly due to the completion of some key projects in the quarter. Operators remained focused on network quality and operational efficiency which were the main drivers of the continued strong development in Professional Services.
Mediterranean
Mobile broadband investments in quality and capacity contributed positively to sales. Operator focus on efficiency was the main growth driver in Professional Services.
Middle East
Networks sales declined as a few key mobile broadband coverage projects related to 3G were finalized. Some countries in the region are experiencing slower GDP growth and local currency depreciation towards USD creating a temporary slowdown of mobile broadband investments. Transformation projects in the OSS, BSS and TV domains were the main drivers of the strong development of Professional Services and Support Solutions sales.
Sub-Saharan Africa
Sales growth was driven by a continued positive development of professional services business as operators are focusing on network quality and efficiency. The mobile broadband business was stable.
India
The high level of mobile broadband investments, which started in the beginning of 2015, continued in the quarter with the main driver being mobile data traffic growth. The managed services business developed favorably as operators focus on network optimization and efficiency.
North East Asia
Lower operator investments in Japan continued. In Mainland China there was a slowdown of the 4G deployments. Given the high 4G subscriber penetration in Mainland China, operators see new business opportunities and through the acquisition of Sunrise Technologies Ericsson has strengthened its position to support customers in their transformation.
South East Asia and Oceania
Sales growth was primarily driven by continued mobile broadband coverage projects. Important mobile broadband agreements were announced in Indonesia in the quarter. The managed services business developed favorably as operators focus on network optimization and efficiency.
Other
Reported IPR revenues were stable YoY. The majority of the license agreements are in USD and the stronger USD supported the YoY comparison.
Broadcast services sales continued to grow.
5 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
SEGMENT RESULTS
NETWORKS
Segment sales Quarterly sales and sales growth year over year Operating income and operating margin
SEK b. % SEK b. %
42 20 9 15
35 15 4 10% 10
28 28.2 10 2 2.8 5
21 5 0 0
14 0
7 -4% -5
0 -10
Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3
2014 2015 2014 2015
Networks Quarterly sales Operating income
Global Services Sales growth Operating margin
Support Solutions
Q3 Q3 YoY Q2 QoQ 9 months 9 months
SEK b. 2015 2014 change 2015 change 2015 2014
Net sales 28.8 30.0 -4% 31.2 -8% 86.4 83.4
Sales growth adj. for comparable units and currency - - -15% - -6% -11% 0%
Operating income 2.8 3.2 -13% 2.4 14% 5.8 9.2
Operating income excluding restructuring charges 3.3 3.3 2% 4.3 -22% 8.4 9.5
Operating margin 10% 11% - 8% - 7% 11%
Operating margin excluding restructuring charges 12% 11% - 14% - 10% 11%
EBITA margin 11% 13% - 10% - 9% 13%
Restructuring charges -0.6 -0.1 - -1.8 -69% -2.6 -0.3
Net sales
Reported sales decreased by -4% YoY. Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased by -15% YoY. The decline was mainly due to lower sales in the Middle East, North East Asia as well as in Northern Europe and Central Asia. Sales declined in Radio, partly offset by sales growth in Microwave and IP routing.
Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased QoQ. In the quarter, there was a slowdown of the 4G deployments in Mainland China. There was also a somewhat slower pace of mobile broadband investments in markets such as Russia, Brazil and parts of the Middle East which had a weak macro development.
Sales in India contributed positively while mobile broadband business in North America remained stable QoQ, but at a lower level compared to the same period last year.
Operating income and margin
Operating income decreased YoY due to higher restructuring charges and lower sales. Lower operating expenses contributed positively. Operating margin was stable YoY.
Sequentially, operating income and margin improved, mainly due to lower operating expenses and restructuring charges. This was partly offset by lower sales.
In the quarter, the effect of currency hedge contracts was negative at SEK -0.2 (-1.0) b. In Q2 2015 the effect of currency hedge contracts was positive at SEK 0.5 b.
6 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
GLOBAL SERVICES
Segment sales Quarterly sales and sales growth year over year Operating income and operating margin
SEK b. % SEK b. %
40 20 3 9% 9
30 15 2 2.4 6
20 27.1 11% 10 1 3
10 5 0 0
0 0
Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3
2014 2015 2014 2015
Networks Quarterly sales Operating income
Global Services Sales growth Operating margin
Support Solutions
Q3 Q3 YoY Q2 QoQ 9 months 9 months
SEK b. 2015 2014 change 2015 change 2015 2014
Net sales 27.1 24.5 11% 26.4 3% 77.3 67.9
Of which Professional Services 20.5 17.8 15% 20.0 3% 58.7 49.4
Of which Managed Services 8.0 7.2 11% 8.2 -2% 23.6 19.4
Of which Network Rollout 6.5 6.7 -2% 6.4 2% 18.7 18.5
Sales growth adj. for comparable units and currency - - -2% - 2% -2% -4%
Operating income 2.4 1.6 47% 1.6 44% 5.7 4.1
Of which Professional Services 2.4 2.1 16% 2.4 -1% 6.9 6.0
Of which Network Rollout 0.0 -0.5 -95% -0.8 -97% -1.2 -1.9
Operating margin 9% 7% – 6% – 7% 6%
for Professional Services 12% 12% – 12% – 12% 12%
for Network Rollout 0% -7% – -12% – -6% -10%
Operating income excluding restructuring charges 2.7 1.7 57% 2.3 17% 7.2 4.4
Operating margin excluding restructuring charges 10% 7% - 9% - 9% 6%
EBITA margin 10% 8% - 7% - 8% 7%
Restructuring charges -0.4 -0.1 193% -0.7 -48% -1.5 -0.2
Net sales
Reported sales increased by 11% YoY. Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased by -2% YoY. Network Rollout sales declined. The positive momentum in Professional Services continued, with double-digit growth in eight out of ten regions, driven by strong performance across the portfolio.
Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, increased by
2% QoQ with growth in both Professional Services and Network Rollout.
Operating income and margin
Operating income and margin improved in Global Services YoY. Operating margin, excluding restructuring charges, was 10% (7%), driven by an improved income in Network Rollout and increased sales in Professional Services.
Operating margin in Network Rollout improved YoY, both including and excluding restructuring charges. Network Rollout operating margin, excluding restructuring charges, was 0% (-6%). The work, to restore Network Rollout to a sustainable profitable business, continues.
Operating margin in Professional Services was stable YoY.
The effect of currency hedge contracts YoY was SEK 0.0 (-0.2) b.
Global Services operating income increased QoQ driven by improved income in Network Rollout and lower restructuring charges. Professional Services margin was flat QoQ.
Q3 Q2 Q1 Full year
2015 2015 2015 2014
Number of signed Managed Services contracts 18 30 27 71
Number of signed significant consulting & systems integration contracts 1) 16 16 13 56
1) In the areas of OSS and BSS, IP, Service Delivery Platforms and data center build projects.
7 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
SUPPORT SOLUTIONS
Segment sales Quarterly sales and sales Operating income and
growth year over year operating margin
SEK b. % SEK b. %
4 40 1.0 20
3 3.3 20 0.5 10
2 8% 0 0.0 0% 0.0 0
1 -20 -0.5 -10
0 -40
Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3 Q3 Q4 Q1 Q2 Q3
2014 2015 2014 2015
Networks Quarterly sales Operating income
Global Services Sales growth Operating margin
Support Solutions
Q3 Q3 YoY Q2 QoQ 9 months 9 months
SEK b. 2015 2014 change 2015 change 2015 2014
Net sales 3.3 3.1 8% 3.1 6% 9.5 8.6
Sales growth adj. for comparable units and currency - - -8% - 7% -10% 7%
Operating income 0.0 -0.1 - -0.2 - -0.2 -0.5
Operating income excluding restructuring charges 0.0 0.0 - 0.0 - 0.1 -0.4
Operating margin 0% -4% - -8% - -2% -5%
Operating margin excluding restructuring charges 1% -1% - -1% - 1% -4%
EBITA margin 7% 3% - 0% - 6% 1%
Restructuring charges 0.0 -0.1 -52% -0.2 -81% -0.3 -0.1
Net sales
Reported sales increased by 8% YoY. Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, decreased by -8% YoY. Sales of OSS & BSS continued to show growth while the TV & Media business declined due to lower software licensing sales.
The implementation of the TV & Media strategy showed significant progress in the quarter with two important TV & Media agreements announced in North America. An agreement was also signed, to acquire the Nasdaq-listed company Envivio, a global leader in software-based video encoding. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter, 2015, subject to customary closing conditions.
Sales, adjusted for comparable units and currency, increased slightly QoQ driven by OSS & BSS business.
Operating income and margin
Operating income and margin improved YoY mainly driven by sales growth in OSS & BSS and lower restructuring charges.
The effect of currency hedge contracts YoY was SEK 0.0 (-0.1) b.
Operating income increased QoQ due to reduced restructuring charges, lower operating expenses and higher sales.
8 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CASH FLOW
SEK b.
Net income reconciled to cash
Changes in operating net assets
Cash flow from operating activities
Cash flow from investing activities
Cash flow from financing activities
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
Cash conversion (%)
Q3
2015
6.8
-5.2
1.6
-0.1
-0.3
1.0
23%
Q3
2014
5.0
-6.3
-1.4
-0.7
-1.3
-1.0
-27%
Q2
2015
3.4
-0.3
3.1
7.0
-10.6
-2.3
90%
Cash flow from operating activities YTD has been negatively impacted by increased working capital. This was driven by a business mix with a high share of coverage projects in Mainland China and emerging markets.
Cash flow from operating activities improved YoY. Sequentially, cash flow from operating activities declined. This was mainly due to increased working capital. In addition provisions decreased in the quarter as a result of payments of SEK 1.1 b related to restructuring charges.
Cash flow from investing activities was negatively impacted by the construction of new ICT centers in Sweden and Canada, however at a slower pace in this quarter. In addition, payouts of SEK -1.0 b. were made mainly related to the acquisition of Sunrise Technologies in China. Higher activity in technology platform development also impacted cash flow from investing activities negatively, with higher capitalized development expenses than a year ago. A decrease in short-term investments of SEK
3.6 b. resulted in a cash flow from investing activities close to zero.
Cash flow from financing activities was negatively impacted by dividends paid by subsidiaries to minority owners of SEK 0.3 b.
Working capital KPIs, number of days
Sales outstanding (target: <90)
Inventory (target:<65)
Payable (target:>60)
Jan-Sep
2015
113
72
55
Jan-Jun
2015
112
74
57
Jan-Mar
2015
125
82
64
Jan-Dec
2014
105
64
56
Jan-Sep
2014
111
69
57
9 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
FINANCIAL POSITION
Sep 30 Sep 30 Jun 30
SEK b. 2015 2014 2015
+ Short-term investments 17.6 34.0 20.8
+ Cash and cash equivalents 34.0 32.0 33.0
Gross cash 51.5 66.1 53.8
– Interest bearing liabilities and post-employment benefits 51.8 36.6 50.3
Net cash -0.2 29.4 3.5
Equity 138.0 143.4 136.7
Total assets 278.4 274.0 278.9
Capital turnover (times) 1.2 1.2 1.3
Return on capital employed (%) 8.0% 8.6% 6.9%
Equity ratio (%) 49.6% 52.3% 49.0%
Return on equity (%) 6.2% 6.9% 5.9%
Gross cash decreased mainly due to the acquisition of Sunrise Technologies and investments in ICT centers, partly offset by positive cash flow from operating activities. Actuarial changes in pension liabilities reduced net cash with an additional SEK 1.5 b.
The net cash position, excluding post-employment benefits, was SEK 25.8 b.
In the quarter, Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s confirmed Ericsson’s long-term rating BBB+/Baa1, both with stable outlook.
The average maturity of long-term borrowings as of Sep 30, 2015, was 5.0 years, compared to 6.0 years 12 months earlier.
Debt maturity profile, Parent Company
SEK b.
9 6 3 0
2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022
Swedish Export Credit Corporation MTN Bond
Nordic Investment Bank
European Investment Bank
Notes and Bonds
10 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
PARENT COMPANY
Income after financial items was SEK 10.1 (15.8) b. YTD. The decrease was mainly due to lower recognized dividends from subsidiaries than last year.
Major YTD changes in the Parent Company’s financial position; decreased cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of SEK 20.3 b. and decreased current and non-current liabilities to subsidiaries of SEK 2.3 b. At the end of the quarter, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments amounted to SEK
34.7 (55.0) b.
The Parent Company has recognized dividends from subsidiaries of SEK 0.4 b. in the quarter.
In accordance with the conditions of the long-term variable compensation program (LTV) for Ericsson employees,
3.394.498 shares from treasury stock were sold or distributed to employees in the third quarter. The holding of treasury stock at September 30, 2015, was 53.212.685 Class B shares.
11 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
OTHER INFORMATION
Apple litigations
A past global patent license agreement between Ericsson and Apple expired in January 2015 and Apple declined to take a new license on offered FRAND terms. Ericsson negotiated a renewal agreement with Apple for more than two years. During the negotiations, the companies were not able to reach an agreement on licensing of Ericsson’s patents that enable Apple’s mobile devices to connect with the world and power many of their applications.
On January 12, 2015, Apple initiated litigation with Ericsson by filing a lawsuit in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, seeking a ruling that Apple does not infringe seven of Ericsson’s patents. Two days later, on January 14, 2015, Ericsson filed a complaint in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas requesting a ruling that its proposed global licensing terms with Apple were fair and reasonable.
On February 26, 2015, after Apple refused Ericsson’s offer to have a court determine fair licensing terms by which both companies would be bound, Ericsson filed two complaints with the International Trade Commission (ITC) and seven complaints in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas against Apple, asserting infringement of 41 additional Ericsson patents. Ericsson subsequently amended its complaints to assert two additional patents in the US. Ericsson seeks exclusion orders in the ITC proceedings and damages and injunctions in the District Court actions. The hearing in the first ITC action is scheduled for December 2015 and the hearing in the second ITC action is scheduled for January 2016. The district court proceedings are all scheduled for trial between May and October 2016.
On May 8, 2015, Ericsson further announced that it has filed patent infringement suits against Apple in Germany, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, seeking damages and injunctions. Ericsson has asserted both standard-essential patents related to the 2G and 4G/LTE standards and other patents that are critical to features and functionality of Apple devices, such as the design of semiconductor components, user interface software, location services and applications, as well as the iOS operating system.
Hearings and trials in the various cases are scheduled to begin in December 2015 and continue into 2016. Ericsson expects that the first court rulings will be issued by a German court in the first quarter of 2016.
Adaptix litigations
In 2013, Adaptix Inc. (“Adaptix”), a US company, filed two lawsuits against Ericsson, AT&T, AT&T Mobility and MetroPCS Communications in the US District Court for Eastern District of Texas alleging that certain Ericsson products infringe five US patents purportedly assigned to Adaptix. Adaptix seeks damages and an injunction. The trial is scheduled for February 2016.
On May 20, 2014, Adaptix filed three patent infringement lawsuits against Ericsson, T-Mobile, Verizon and Sprint in the same court regarding three US patents. One of these lawsuits accuses Ericsson’s LTE products and Sprint’s use thereof of infringement, one accuses Ericsson’s LTE products and Verizon’s use thereof of infringement, and one accuses Ericsson’s LTE products and
T-Mobile’s use thereof of infringement. In January 2015, Adaptix filed one more lawsuit in the same court alleging that Ericsson’s LTE products, and Sprint and Verizon’s use thereof, infringe another U.S. Patent.
In addition to a complaint filed in 2013 with the Tokyo District Court, settled in December 2014, Adaptix filed another lawsuit in Japan in September 2014 alleging that Ericsson’s LTE products infringe another Japanese patent. In the lawsuits in Japan, Adaptix is only seeking damages.
Wi-LAN litigations
In 2012, Wi-LAN Inc., a Canadian patent licensing company, filed a complaint against Ericsson in the US District Court for the Southern District of Florida alleging that Ericsson’s LTE products infringe three of Wi-LAN’s US patents.
In June 2013, Ericsson’s motion for summary judgment was granted and in August 2014, the decision was reversed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.
On May, 22 2015, the Florida Court granted a Motion for Summary Judgment in favor of Ericsson. This matter is currently in appeal.
Ericsson announced agreement to acquire Envivio
On September 10, 2015, Ericsson announced its agreement to acquire Envivio (NASDAQ:ENVI), by means of a tender offer for a price of USD 4.10 per share in cash, or approximately USD 125 million in the aggregate. Envivio is a global leader in software-based video encoding with an installed base of over 400 TV service provider and content owner customers in all markets globally. Envivio generated revenues of USD 43 million in 2014 and is headquartered in San Francisco, CA, US. Envivio was founded in 2000 and has a staff of approximately 200 employees worldwide.
Certain of Envivio’s major stockholders, collectively owning approximately 34 % of Envivio’s outstanding common stock, have entered into a tender and support agreement with Ericsson committing to tender all of their Envivio shares in the tender offer and to vote in favor of the merger. The acquisition is expected to close in the fourth quarter, 2015, subject to customary closing conditions. The board of directors of Envivio has unanimously agreed to recommend that Envivio’s stockholders tender their shares to Ericsson in the tender offer.
On September 21, 2015, a complaint was filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery by a stockholder plaintiff captioned Hollenkamp v. Envivio, Inc. (Envivio), et al., C.A. No. 11528-VCG (Hollenkamp). Hollenkamp is a putative class action on behalf of all of Envivio’s stockholders which challenges, and seeks to enjoin, Ericsson’s proposed acquisition of Envivio. The complaint alleges that the individual defendants (i.e., Envivio’s directors and officers) breached their duties to Envivio’s stockholders in approving the proposed acquisition, and that Ericsson - acting in its capacity as a transactional counterparty - aided and abetted the individual defendants’ breaches of fiduciary duty.
12 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
POST-CLOSING EVENTS
Ericsson intends to acquire software developer Ericpol
On October 15, 2015, Ericsson announced the conclusion of a preliminary share purchase agreement for the acquisition of Ericpol’s operations in Poland and Ukraine. Ericpol is a software development company within telecommunications and has been a supplier to Ericsson for over 20 years. Approximately 2,000 employees will join Ericsson. The acquisition is expected to take place during the first quarter of 2016, pending, among other things, customary regulatory approvals.
13 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
RISK FACTORS
Ericsson’s operational and financial risk factors and uncertainties along with our strategies and tactics to mitigate risk exposures or limit unfavorable outcomes are described in our Annual Report 2014. Compared to the risks described in the Annual Report 2014, no material, new or changed risk factors or uncertainties have been identified in the year.
Risk factors and uncertainties in focus short-term for the Parent Company and the Ericsson Group include:
> Potential negative effects on operators’ willingness to invest in network development due to uncertainty in the financial markets and a weak economic business environment, or reduced consumer telecom spending, or increased pressure on us to provide financing, or delayed auctions of spectrums;
> Uncertainty regarding the financial stability of suppliers, for example due to lack of financing;
> Effects on gross margins and/or working capital of the business mix in the Networks segment between capacity sales and new coverage build-outs;
> Effects on gross margins of the business mix in the Global Services segment including proportion of new network build-outs and share of new managed services deals with initial transition costs;
> Effects of the ongoing industry consolidation among our customers as well as between our largest competitors, e.g. with postponed investments and intensified price competition as a consequence;
> Changes in foreign exchange rates, in particular USD;
> Political unrest or instability in certain markets;
> Effects on production and sales from restrictions with respect
to timely and adequate supply of materials, components and production capacity and other vital services on competitive terms;
> No guarantees that specific restructuring or cost-savings initiatives will be sufficient, successful or executed in time to deliver any improvements in short-term earnings.
Ericsson stringently monitors the compliance with all relevant trade regulations and trade embargos applicable to dealings with customers operating in countries where there are trade restrictions or trade restrictions are discussed. Moreover, Ericsson operates globally in accordance with Group policies and directives for business ethics and conduct.
Stockholm, October 23, 2015
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
Hans Vestberg, President and CEO
Org. Nr 556016-0680
Date for next report: January 27, 2016
14 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
AUDITORS’ REVIEW REPORT
Introduction
We have reviewed the condensed interim financial information (interim report) of Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ.) as of September 30, 2015, and the nine months period then ended. The board of directors and the CEO are responsible for the preparation and presentation of this interim report in accordance with IAS 34 and the Swedish Annual Accounts Act. Our responsibility is to express a conclusion on this interim report based on our review.
Scope of review
We conducted our review in accordance with the International Standard on Review Engagements ISRE 2410, Review of Interim Report Performed by the Independent Auditor of the Entity.
A review consists of making inquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with International Standards on Auditing, ISA, and other generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. The procedures performed in a review do not enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion.
Conclusion
Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the interim report is not prepared, in all material respects, in accordance with IAS 34 and the Swedish Annual Accounts Act, regarding the Group, and with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act, regarding the Parent Company.
Stockholm, October 23, 2015
PricewaterhouseCoopers AB
Peter Nyllinge
Authorized Public Accountant
Auditor in Charge
Bo Hjalmarsson
Authorized Public Accountant
15 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
EDITOR’S NOTE
Ericsson invites media, investors and analysts to a press conference at the Ericsson Studio, Grönlandsgången 4, Stockholm, at 09.00 (CET), October 23, 2015. An financial analyst, investor and media conference call will begin at 14.00 (CET).
Live webcast of the press conference and conference call as well as supporting slides will be available at
www.ericsson.com/press and
www.ericsson.com/investors
Video material will be published during the day on www.ericsson.com/press
For further information, please contact:
Helena Norrman, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Communications Phone: +46 10 719 34 72 E-mail: investor.relations@ericsson.com or media.relations@ericsson.com
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson Org. number: 556016-0680 Torshamnsgatan 21 SE-164 83 Stockholm Phone: +46 10 719 00 00 www.ericsson.com
Investors
Peter Nyquist, Vice President,
Investor Relations
Phone: +46 10 714 64 49, +46 70 575 29 06
E-mail: peter.nyquist@ericsson.com
Stefan Jelvin, Director,
Investor Relations
Phone: +46 10 714 20 39, +46 70 986 02 27
E-mail: stefan.jelvin@ericsson.com
Åsa Konnbjer, Director,
Investor Relations
Phone: +46 10 713 39 28, +46 73 082 59 28
E-mail: asa.konnbjer@ericsson.com
Rikard Tunedal, Director,
Investor Relations
Phone: +46 10 714 54 00, +46 761 005 400
E-mail: rikard.tunedal@ericsson.com
Media
Ola Rembe, Vice President,
Head of External Communications
Phone: +46 10 719 97 27, +46 73 024 48 73
E-mail: media.relations@ericsson.com
Corporate Communications
Phone: +46 10 719 69 92
E-mail: media.relations@ericsson.com
16 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT
All statements made or incorporated by reference in this release, other than statements or characterizations of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations, estimates and projections about our industry, management’s beliefs and certain assumptions made by us. Forward-looking statements can often be identified by words such as “anticipates”, “expects”, “intends”, “plans”, “predicts”, “believes”, “seeks”, “estimates”, “may”, “will”, “should”, “would”, “potential”, “continue”, and variations or negatives of these words, and include, among others, statements regarding: (i) strategies, outlook and growth prospects; (ii) positioning to deliver future plans and to realize potential for future growth; (iii) liquidity and capital resources and expenditure, and our credit ratings; (iv) growth in demand for our products and services; (v) our joint venture activities; (vi) economic outlook and industry trends; (vii) developments of our markets; (viii) the impact of regulatory initiatives; (ix) research and development expenditures; (x) the strength of our competitors; (xi) future cost savings; (xii) plans to launch new products and services; (xiii) assessments of risks; (xiv) integration of acquired businesses; (xv) compliance with rules and regulations and (xvi) infringements of intellectual property rights of others.
In addition, any statements that refer to expectations, projections or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date hereof and are based upon the information available to us at this time. Such information is subject to change, and we will not necessarily inform you of such changes. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and are subject to risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, our actual results could differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Important factors that may cause such a difference for Ericsson include, but are not limited to: (i) material adverse changes in the markets in which we operate or in global economic conditions; (ii) increased product and price competition; (iii) reductions in capital expenditure by network operators; (iv) the cost of technological innovation and increased expenditure to improve quality of service; (v) significant changes in market share for our principal products and services; (vi) foreign exchange rate or interest rate fluctuations; and (vii) the successful implementation of our business and operational initiatives.
17 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Contents
Financial statements
Consolidated income statement 19
Statement of comprehensive income 19
Consolidated balance sheet 20
Consolidated statement of cash flows 21
Consolidated statement of changes in equity 22
Consolidated income statement – isolated quarters 22
Consolidated statement of cash flows – isolated quarters 23
Parent Company income statement 24
Parent Company statement of comprehensive income 24
Parent Company balance sheet 25
Additional information
Accounting policies 26
Net sales by segment by quarter 27
Sales growth adjusted for comparable units and currency 28
Operating income by segment by quarter 29
Operating margin by segment by quarter 29
EBITA by segment by quarter 30
EBITA margin by segment by quarter 30
Net sales by region by quarter 31
Net sales by region by quarter (cont.) 32
Top 5 countries in sales 32
Net sales by region by segment 33
Provisions 34
Information on investments 34
Reconciliation table, non-IFRS measurements 35
Net cash – end of period 35
Other information 36
Number of employees 36
Restructuring charges by function 37
Restructuring charges by segment 37
18 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
Jul–Sep Jan–Sep
SEK million 2015 2014 Change 2015 2014 Change
Net sales 59,161 57,643 3% 173,352 159,997 8%
Cost of sales –39,110 –37,362 5% –114,202 –102,456 11%
Gross income 20,051 20,281 –1% 59,150 57,541 3%
Gross margin (%) 33.9% 35,2% 34.1% 36,0%
Research and development expenses –8,540 –9,281 –8% –26,923 –26,640 1%
Selling and administrative expenses –6,393 –6,000 7% –21,289 –18,993 12%
Operating expenses –14,933 –15,281 –2% –48,212 –45,633 6%
Other operating income and expenses 80 –1,134 –101 –1,319
Shares in earnings of JV and associated companies –121 10 –67 –84
Operating income 5,077 3,876 31% 10,770 10,505 3%
Financial income 188 429 634 1,098
Financial expenses –809 –557 –1,839 –1,634
Income after financial items 4,456 3,748 19% 9,565 9,969 –4%
Taxes –1,338 –1,124 –2,870 –2,991
Net income 3,118 2,624 19% 6,695 6,978 –4%
Net income attributable to:
Stockholders of the Parent Company 3,080 2,646 6,493 7,345
Non–controlling interests 38 –22 202 –367
Other information
Average number of shares, basic (million) 3,251 3,238 3,247 3,235
Earnings per share, basic (SEK) 1) 0.95 0.82 2.00 2.27
Earnings per share, diluted (SEK) 1) 0.94 0.81 1.98 2.25
1) Based on Net income attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company.
STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Jul–Sep Jan–Sep
SEK million 2015 2014 2015 2014
Net income 3,118 2,624 6,695 6,978
Other comprehensive income
Items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss
Remeasurements of defined benefits pension plans incl. asset ceiling –1,113 –441 –5,886 –2,637
Tax on items that will not be reclassified to profit or loss 214 96 1,518 539
Items that may be reclassified to profit or loss
Cash flow hedges
Gains/losses arising during the period 0 0 0 0
Reclassification adjustments for gains/losses included in profit or loss 0 0 0 0
Revaluation of other investments in shares and participations
Fair value remeasurement 60 39 241 39
Changes in cumulative translation adjustments –1,246 2,656 537 5,676
Share of other comprehensive income on JV and associated companies 237 234 141 362
Tax on items that may be reclassified to profit or loss 0 0 0 0
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax –1,848 2,584 –3,449 3,979
Total comprehensive income 1,270 5,208 3,246 10,957
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Stockholders of the Parent Company 1,255 5,180 3,045 11,212
Non–controlling interest 15 28 201 –255
19 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
Sep 30 Jun 30 Dec 31
SEK million 2015 2015 2014
ASSETS
Non–current assets
Intangible assets
Capitalized development expenses 4,660 4,032 3,570
Goodwill 41,524 39,872 38,330
Intellectual property rights, brands and other intangible assets 9,879 10,739 12,534
Property, plant and equipment 15,774 15,309 13,341
Financial assets
Equity in JV and associated companies 1,214 1,627 2,793
Other investments in shares and participations 936 855 591
Customer finance, non–current 2,020 1,919 1,932
Other financial assets, non–current 4,428 5,010 5,900
Deferred tax assets 13,575 14,054 12,778
94,010 93,417 91,769
Current assets
Inventories 32,187 32,327 28,175
Trade receivables 74,957 73,932 77,893
Customer finance, current 2,089 2,552 2,289
Other current receivables 23,588 22,919 21,273
Short–term investments 17,597 20,807 31,171
Cash and cash equivalents 33,950 32,962 40,988
184,368 185,499 201,789
Total assets 278,378 278,916 293,558
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
Stockholders’ equity 137,086 135,565 144,306
Non–controlling interest in equity of subsidiaries 898 1,160 1,003
137,984 136,725 145,309
Non–current liabilities
Post–employment benefits 26,011 24,530 20,385
Provisions, non–current 35 139 202
Deferred tax liabilities 2,208 3,010 3,177
Borrowings, non–current 22,900 22,551 21,864
Other non–current liabilities 1,802 1,939 1,797
52,956 52,169 47,425
Current liabilities
Provisions, current 4,296 5,215 4,225
Borrowings, current 2,885 3,199 2,281
Trade payables 21,734 22,147 24,473
Other current liabilities 58,523 59,461 69,845
87,438 90,022 100,824
Total equity and liabilities 278,378 278,916 293,558
Of which interest–bearing liabilities and post–employment benefits 51,796 50,280 44,530
Of which net cash –249 3,489 27,629
Assets pledged as collateral 2,605 2,608 2,525
Contingent liabilities 768 693 737
20 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT
OF CASH FLOWS
Jul–Sep Jan–Sep Jan–Dec
SEK million 2015 2014 2015 2014 2014
Operating activities
Net income 3,118 2,624 6,695 6,978 11,143
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash
Taxes 51 –388 –3,230 –1,710 –1,235
Earnings/dividends in JV and associated companies 136 –10 163 330 305
Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses 2,425 2,481 7,685 7,255 9,945
Other 1,052 267 2,018 1,220 2,185
6,782 4,974 13,331 14,073 22,343
Changes in operating net assets
Inventories –226 –840 –3,862 –4,127 –2,924
Customer finance, current and non–current 375 –1,101 522 –884 –710
Trade receivables –1,421 –1,222 4,246 5,843 1,182
Trade payables –494 –1,519 –3,562 15 1,265
Provisions and post–employment benefits –302 –18 1,217 –707 –859
Other operating assets and liabilities, net –3,154 –1,624 –13,154 –4,107 –1,595
–5,222 –6,324 –14,593 –3,967 –3,641
Cash flow from operating activities 1,560 –1,350 –1,262 10,106 18,702
Investing activities
Investments in property, plant and equipment –1,807 –1,415 –6,598 –3,769 –5,322
Sales of property, plant and equipment 59 139 1,209 466 522
Acquisitions/divestments of subsidiaries and other operations, net –1,028 –286 –1,255 –2,647 –4,394
Product development –982 –155 –2,119 –537 –1,523
Other investing activities 37 –1,302 –125 –1,859 –3,392
Short–term investments 3,631 2,308 13,708 2,530 6,596
Cash flow from investing activities –90 –711 4,820 –5,816 –7,513
Cash flow before financing activities 1,470 –2,061 3,558 4,290 11,189
Financing activities
Dividends paid –277 –3 –11,337 –9,831 –9,846
Other financing activities –34 –1,288 1,296 –8,750 –8,379
Cash flow from financing activities –311 –1,291 –10,041 –18,581 –18,225
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash –171 2,306 –555 4,238 5,929
Net change in cash and cash equivalents 988 –1,046 –7,038 –10,053 –1,107
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 32,962 33,088 40,988 42,095 42,095
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 33,950 32,042 33,950 32,042 40,988
21 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT
OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
Jan–Sep Jan–Sep Jan–Dec
SEK million 2015 2014 2014
Opening balance 145,309 141,623 141,623
Total comprehensive income 3,246 10,957 12,709
Sale/repurchase of own shares 126 78 106
Stock purchase plan 641 547 717
Dividends paid –11,337 –9,831 –9,846
Transactions with non–controlling interests –1 – –
Closing balance 137,984 143,374 145,309
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
– ISOLATED QUARTERS
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Net sales 59,161 60,671 53,520 67,986 57,643 54,849 47,505
Cost of sales –39,110 –40,536 –34,556 –43,100 –37,362 –34,910 –30,184
Gross income 20,051 20,135 18,964 24,886 20,281 19,939 17,321
Gross margin (%) 33.9% 33.2% 35.4% 36.6% 35.2% 36.4% 36.5%
Research and development expenses –8,540 –9,896 –8,487 –9,668 –9,281 –9,084 –8,275
Selling and administrative expenses –6,393 –7,765 –7,131 –8,107 –6,000 –6,541 –6,452
Operating expenses –14,933 –17,661 –15,618 –17,775 –15,281 –15,625 –14,727
Other operating income and expenses 80 1,059 –1,240 –837 –1,134 –206 21
Shares in earnings of JV and associated companies –121 27 27 28 10 –109 15
Operating income 5,077 3,560 2,133 6,302 3,876 3,999 2,630
Financial income 188 –238 684 179 429 268 401
Financial expenses –809 –290 –740 –639 –557 –465 –612
Income after financial items 4,456 3,032 2,077 5,842 3,748 3,802 2,419
Taxes –1,338 –909 –623 –1,677 –1,124 –1,140 –727
Net income 3,118 2,123 1,454 4,165 2,624 2,662 1,692
Net income attributable to:
Stockholders of the Parent Company 3,080 2,094 1,319 4,223 2,646 2,579 2,120
Non–controlling interests 38 29 135 –58 –22 83 –428
Other information
Average number of shares, basic (million) 3,251 3,247 3,244 3,241 3,238 3,235 3,233
Earnings per share, basic (SEK) 1) 0.95 0.64 0.41 1.30 0.82 0.80 0.66
Earnings per share, diluted (SEK) 1) 0.94 0.64 0.40 1.29 0.81 0.79 0.65
1) Based on Net income attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company.
22 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT
OF CASH FLOWS – ISOLATED QUARTERS
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Operating activities
Net income 3,118 2,123 1,454 4,165 2,624 2,662 1,692
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash
Taxes 51 –1,360 –1,921 475 –388 26 –1,348
Earnings/dividends in JV and associated companies 136 49 –22 –25 –10 356 –16
Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses 2,425 2,579 2,681 2,690 2,481 2,414 2,360
Other 1,052 22 944 965 267 404 549
6,782 3,413 3,136 8,270 4,974 5,862 3,237
Changes in operating net assets
Inventories –226 383 –4,019 1,203 –840 –1,188 –2,099
Customer finance, current and non–current 375 405 –258 174 –1,101 –341 558
Trade receivables –1,421 3,630 2,037 –4,661 –1,222 –892 7,957
Trade payables –494 –1,400 –1,668 1,250 –1,519 1,644 –110
Provisions and post–employment benefits –302 1,685 –166 –152 –18 –225 –464
Other operating assets and liabilities, net –3,154 –5,038 –4,962 2,512 –1,624 –2,806 323
–5,222 –335 –9,036 326 –6,324 –3,808 6,165
Cash flow from operating activities 1,560 3,078 –5,900 8,596 –1,350 2,054 9,402
Investing activities
Investments in property, plant and equipment –1,807 –2,424 –2,367 –1,553 –1,415 –1,320 –1,034
Sales of property, plant and equipment 59 1,075 75 56 139 53 274
Acquisitions/divestments of subsidiaries and other operations, net –1,028 –169 –58 –1,747 –286 –1,512 –849
Product development –982 –843 –294 –986 –155 –185 –197
Other investing activities 37 –280 118 –1,533 –1,302 –388 –169
Short–term investments 3,631 9,678 399 4,066 2,308 7,012 –6,790
Cash flow from investing activities –90 7,037 –2,127 –1,697 –711 3,660 –8,765
Cash flow before financing activities 1,470 10,115 –8,027 6,899 –2,061 5,714 637
Financing activities
Dividends paid –277 –11,035 –25 –15 –3 –9,828 –
Other financing activities –34 431 899 371 –1,288 –2,393 –5,069
Cash flow from financing activities –311 –10,604 874 356 –1,291 –12,221 –5,069
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash –171 –1,860 1,476 1,691 2,306 1,499 433
Net change in cash and cash equivalents 988 –2,349 –5,677 8,946 –1,046 –5,008 –3,999
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 32,962 35,311 40,988 32,042 33,088 38,096 42,095
Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 33,950 32,962 35,311 40,988 32,042 33,088 38,096
23 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
PARENT COMPANY INCOME STATEMENT
Jul–Sep Jan–Sep Jan–Dec
SEK million 2015 2014 2015 2014 2014
Net sales – – – – –
Cost of sales – – – – –
Gross income – – – – –
Operating expenses –135 –232 –615 –783 –1,209
Other operating income and expenses 822 752 2,160 2,075 3,088
Operating income 687 520 1,545 1,292 1,879
Financial net 318 12,344 8,505 14,484 23,684
Income after financial items 1,005 12,864 10,050 15,776 25,563
Transfers to (–) / from untaxed reserves – – – – –1,700
Taxes –155 –237 –366 –498 –263
Net income 850 12,627 9,684 15,278 23,600
PARENT COMPANY STATEMENT
OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Jul–Sep Jan–Sep Jan–Dec
SEK million 2015 2014 2015 2014 2014
Net income 850 12,627 9,684 15,278 23,600
Revaluation of other investments in shares and participations
Fair value remeasurement 60 39 241 39 46
Total other comprehensive income, net of tax 60 39 241 39 46
Total comprehensive income 910 12,666 9,925 15,317 23,646
24 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
PARENT COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
Sep 30 Dec 31
SEK million 2015 2014
ASSETS
Fixed assets
Intangible assets 907 1,193
Tangible assets 453 470
Financial assets 99,277 97,901
100,637 99,564
Current assets
Inventories 1 27
Receivables 38,821 24,819
Short–term investments 16,937 30,576
Cash and cash equivalents 17,752 24,443
73,511 79,865
Total assets 174,148 179,429
STOCKHOLDERS’ EQUITY, PROVISIONS AND LIABILITIES
Equity
Restricted equity 48,018 48,018
Non–restricted equity 36,904 37,871
84,922 85,889
Provisions 681 1,471
Non–current liabilities 46,606 45,512
Current liabilities 41,939 46,557
Total stockholders’ equity, provisions and liabilities 174,148 179,429
Assets pledged as collateral 605 525
Contingent liabilities 22,767 20,906
25 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
THE GROUP
This interim report is prepared in accordance with IAS 34. The term “IFRS” used in this document refers to the application of IAS and IFRS as well as interpretations of these standards as issued by IASB’s Standards Interpretation Committee (SIC) and IFRS Interpretations Committee (IFRIC). The accounting policies adopted are consistent with those of the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2014, and should be read in conjunction with that annual report.
There is no significant difference between IFRS effective as per September 30, 2015 and IFRS as endorsed by the EU.
Discount rate applied for pension liability calculation in Sweden
The Company has in previous periods estimated the discount rate for the Swedish pension liability based on the interest rates for Swedish covered bonds. Due to the recent development of the deepness of the Swedish covered bond market and the volatility in interest rates, the Company has decided to evaluate this method of estimating the discount rate. The discount rate used for the interim report is 2.25%, which is in line with the interest rates for Swedish government bonds of September 30th, 2015.
26 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
NET SALES BY SEGMENT BY QUARTER
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks 28,817 31,163 26,436 34,110 30,030 28,964 24,383
Global Services 27,055 26,392 23,901 29,777 24,467 23,059 20,356
Of which Professional Services 20,545 20,001 18,131 21,405 17,794 16,554 15,078
Of which Managed Services 7,976 8,150 7,501 7,741 7,175 6,485 5,754
Of which Network Rollout 6,510 6,391 5,770 8,372 6,673 6,505 5,278
Support Solutions 3,289 3,092 3,074 4,009 3,057 2,824 2,765
Modems – 24 109 90 89 2 1
Total 59,161 60,671 53,520 67,986 57,643 54,849 47,505
2015 2014
Sequential change, percent Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks –8% 18% –22% 14% 4% 19% –30%
Global Services 3% 10% –20% 22% 6% 13% –25%
Of which Professional Services 3% 10% –15% 20% 7% 10% –20%
Of which Managed Services –2% 9% –3% 8% 11% 13% –12%
Of which Network Rollout 2% 11% –31% 25% 3% 23% –37%
Support Solutions 6% 1% –23% 31% 8% 2% –46%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total –2% 13% –21% 18% 5% 15% –29%
2015 2014
Year over year change, percent Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks –4% 8% 8% –2% 13% 3% –13%
Global Services 11% 14% 17% 10% 2% –7% –5%
Of which Professional Services 15% 21% 20% 14% 10% –1% 3%
Of which Managed Services 11% 26% 30% 18% 15% –4% –2%
Of which Network Rollout –2% –2% 9% 0% –14% –19% –23%
Support Solutions 8% 9% 11% –21% 30% 21% 13%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total 3% 11% 13% 1% 9% –1% –9%
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks 86,416 57,599 26,436 117,487 83,377 53,347 24,383
Global Services 77,348 50,293 23,901 97,659 67,882 43,415 20,356
Of which Professional Services 58,677 38,132 18,131 70,831 49,426 31,632 15,078
Of which Managed Services 23,627 15,651 7,501 27,155 19,414 12,239 5,754
Of which Network Rollout 18,671 12,161 5,770 26,828 18,456 11,783 5,278
Support Solutions 9,455 6,166 3,074 12,655 8,646 5,589 2,765
Modems 133 133 109 182 92 3 1
Total 173,352 114,191 53,520 227,983 159,997 102,354 47,505
2015 2014
Year to date, year over year change, percent Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks 4% 8% 8% 0% 1% –5% –13%
Global Services 14% 16% 17% 0% –3% –6% –5%
Of which Professional Services 19% 21% 20% 7% 4% 1% 3%
Of which Managed Services 22% 28% 30% 7% 3% –3% –2%
Of which Network Rollout 1% 3% 9% –14% –19% –21% –23%
Support Solutions 9% 10% 11% 3% 21% 17% 13%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total 8% 12% 13% 0% 0% –5% –9%
27 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
SALES GROWTH ADJUSTED FOR COMPARABLE UNITS AND CURRENCY
2015 2014
Sequential change, percent Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks –6% 16% –28% 7% –2% 16% –30%
Global Services 2% 10% –26% 20% 5% 11% –25%
Support Solutions 7% –3% –31% 25% 6% 1% –45%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total –2% 12% –28% 13% 2% 13% –28%
Isolated quarter, year over year change, 2015 2014
percent Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 1) Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks –15% –9% –9% –7% 7% 5% –10%
Global Services –2% –2% –2% 5% –2% –8% –3%
Support Solutions –8% –13% –11% –5% 10% 5% 4%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total –9% –6% –6% –2% 3% –1% –7%
Year to date, year over year change, 2015 2014
percent Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec 1) Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks –11% –9% –9% –3% 0% –3% –10%
Global Services –2% –2% –2% –2% –4% –5% –3%
Support Solutions –10% –12% –11% –2% 7% 4% 4%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total –7% –6% –6% –2% –2% –4% –7%
1) Partly adjusted for the initial IPR payment from Samsung in Q4 2013.
28 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
OPERATING INCOME
BY SEGMENT BY QUARTER
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million
Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks 2,764 2,435 590 4,319 3,175 3,574 2,476
Global Services 2,364 1,640 1,681 1,937 1,607 1,487 1,036
Of which Professional Services 2,386 2,403 2,109 2,472 2,059 2,095 1,893
Of which Network Rollout –22 –763 –428 –535 –452 –608 –857
Support Solutions –6 –240 82 443 –108 –378 12
Modems –1 7 0 –85 –739 –456 –745
Unallocated 1) –44 –282 –220 –312 –59 –228 –149
Total 5,077 3,560 2,133 6,302 3,876 3,999 2,630
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks 5,789 3,025 590 13,544 9,225 6,050 2,476
Global Services 5,685 3,321 1,681 6,067 4,130 2,523 1,036
Of which Professional Services 6,898 4,512 2,109 8,519 6,047 3,988 1,893
Of which Network Rollout –1,213 –1,191 –428 –2,452 –1,917 –1,465 –857
Support Solutions –164 –158 82 –31 –474 –366 12
Modems 6 7 0 –2,025 –1,940 –1,201 –745
Unallocated 1) –546 –502 –220 –748 –436 –377 –149
Total 10,770 5,693 2,133 16,807 10,505 6,629 2,630
1) “Unallocated” consists mainly of costs for corporate staff, non–operational capital gains and losses.
OPERATING MARGIN
BY SEGMENT BY QUARTER
As percentage of net sales, isolated quarters
2015 2014
Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks 10% 8% 2% 13% 11% 12% 10%
Global Services 9% 6% 7% 7% 7% 6% 5%
Of which Professional Services 12% 12% 12% 12% 12% 13% 13%
Of which Network Rollout 0% –12% –7% –6% –7% –9% –16%
Support Solutions 0% –8% 3% 11% –4% –13% 0%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total 9% 6% 4% 9% 7% 7% 6%
2015 2014
As percentage of net sales, year to date Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks 7% 5% 2% 12% 11% 11% 10%
Global Services 7% 7% 7% 6% 6% 6% 5%
Of which Professional Services 12% 12% 12% 12% 12% 13% 13%
Of which Network Rollout –6% –10% –7% –9% –10% –12% –16%
Support Solutions –2% –3% 3% 0% –5% –7% 0%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total 6% 5% 4% 7% 7% 6% 6%
29 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
EBITA
BY SEGMENT BY QUARTER
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks 3,233 3,014 1,218 4,914 3,773 4,156 3,052
Global Services 2,604 1,918 1,952 2,259 1,857 1,731 1,257
Of which Professional Services 2,605 2,635 2,344 2,711 2,254 2,289 2,073
Of which Network Rollout –1 –717 –392 –452 –397 –558 –816
Support Solutions 226 –4 308 647 95 –196 192
Modems –1 7 0 –44 –698 –416 –699
Unallocated 1) –44 –281 –220 –312 –59 –226 –149
Total 6,018 4,654 3,258 7,464 4,968 5,049 3,653
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks 7,465 4,232 1,218 15,895 10,981 7,208 3,052
Global Services 6,474 3,870 1,952 7,104 4,845 2,988 1,257
Of which Professional Services 7,584 4,979 2,344 9,327 6,616 4,362 2,073
Of which Network Rollout –1,110 –1,109 –392 –2,223 –1,771 –1,374 –816
Support Solutions 530 304 308 738 91 –4 192
Modems 6 7 0 –1,857 –1,813 –1,115 –699
Unallocated 1) –545 –501 –220 –746 –434 –375 –149
Total 13,930 7,912 3,258 21,134 13,670 8,702 3,653
1) “Unallocated” consists mainly of costs for corporate staff, non–operational capital gains and losses.
EBITA MARGIN
BY SEGMENT BY QUARTER
As percentage of net sales,
2015 2014
isolated quarters Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks 11% 10% 5% 14% 13% 14% 13%
Global Services 10% 7% 8% 8% 8% 8% 6%
Of which Professional Services 13% 13% 13% 13% 13% 14% 14%
Of which Network Rollout 0% –11% –7% –5% –6% –9% –15%
Support Solutions 7% 0% 10% 16% 3% –7% 7%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total 10% 8% 6% 11% 9% 9% 8%
As percentage of net sales,
2015 2014
year to date Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks 9% 7% 5% 14% 13% 14% 13%
Global Services 8% 8% 8% 7% 7% 7% 6%
Of which Professional Services 13% 13% 13% 13% 13% 14% 14%
Of which Network Rollout –6% –9% –7% –8% –10% –12% –15%
Support Solutions 6% 5% 10% 6% 1% 0% 7%
Modems – – – – – – –
Total 8% 7% 6% 9% 9% 9% 8%
30 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
NET SALES
BY REGION BY QUARTER
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
North America 14,355 14,578 12,246 13,082 14,033 15,179 12,215
Latin America 5,610 5,067 4,574 6,564 5,882 5,414 4,710
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2) 2,520 2,556 2,726 4,069 3,151 2,717 2,436
Western & Central Europe 2) 4,540 5,131 4,741 6,097 4,646 4,582 4,381
Mediterranean 2) 5,470 5,887 4,982 7,513 5,218 5,487 4,785
Middle East 5,728 6,515 4,517 6,865 6,039 4,514 3,859
Sub Saharan Africa 2,691 2,653 2,158 2,603 2,447 1,886 1,813
India 3,629 3,049 3,531 2,362 2,000 1,645 1,695
North East Asia 6,348 6,943 6,030 9,225 7,033 6,406 4,908
South East Asia & Oceania 4,750 4,897 4,259 4,956 3,794 3,662 3,446
Other 1) 2) 3,520 3,395 3,756 4,650 3,400 3,357 3,257
Total 59,161 60,671 53,520 67,986 57,643 54,849 47,505
1) Of which in Sweden 1,135 598 1,091 1,047 1,090 1,008 999
2) Of which in EU 10,584 11,453 10,904 14,325 10,736 10,320 9,720
2015 2014
Sequential change, percent Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
North America –2% 19% –6% –7% –8% 24% –11%
Latin America 11% 11% –30% 12% 9% 15% –30%
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2) –1% –6% –33% 29% 16% 12% –34%
Western & Central Europe 2) –12% 8% –22% 31% 1% 5% –16%
Mediterranean 2) –7% 18% –34% 44% –5% 15% –32%
Middle East –12% 44% –34% 14% 34% 17% –35%
Sub Saharan Africa 1% 23% –17% 6% 30% 4% –30%
India 19% –14% 49% 18% 22% –3% –14%
North East Asia –9% 15% –35% 31% 10% 31% –43%
South East Asia & Oceania –3% 15% –14% 31% 4% 6% –20%
Other 1) 2) 4% –10% –19% 37% 1% 3% –55%
Total –2% 13% –21% 18% 5% 15% –29%
1) Of which in Sweden 90% –45% 4% –4% 8% 1% –25%
2) Of which in EU –8% 5% –24% 33% 4% 6% –24%
2015 2014
Year–over–year change, percent Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
North America 2% –4% 0% –5% –3% –1% –23%
Latin America –5% –6% –3% –3% 11% –3% 8%
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2) –20% –6% 12% 11% 7% 0% 7%
Western & Central Europe 2) –2% 12% 8% 17% 6% 1% 1%
Mediterranean 2) 5% 7% 4% 6% –8% –11% –9%
Middle East –5% 44% 17% 16% 38% 13% 22%
Sub Saharan Africa 10% 41% 19% 1% –9% –29% –15%
India 81% 85% 108% 20% 56% 29% 6%
North East Asia –10% 8% 23% 7% 16% –4% –19%
South East Asia & Oceania 25% 34% 24% 16% 5% –3% –17%
Other 1) 2) 4% 1% 15% –35% 55% 23% 12%
Total 3% 11% 13% 1% 9% –1% –9%
1) Of which in Sweden 4% –41% 9% –21% 37% –21% –2%
2) Of which in EU –1% 11% 12% 12% 6% –5% –1%
31 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
NET SALES
BY REGION BY QUARTER, CONT.
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
North America 41,179 26,824 12,246 54,509 41,427 27,394 12,215
Latin America 15,251 9,641 4,574 22,570 16,006 10,124 4,710
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2) 7,802 5,282 2,726 12,373 8,304 5,153 2,436
Western & Central Europe 2) 14,412 9,872 4,741 19,706 13,609 8,963 4,381
Mediterranean 2) 16,339 10,869 4,982 23,003 15,490 10,272 4,785
Middle East 16,760 11,032 4,517 21,277 14,412 8,373 3,859
Sub Saharan Africa 7,502 4,811 2,158 8,749 6,146 3,699 1,813
India 10,209 6,580 3,531 7,702 5,340 3,340 1,695
North East Asia 19,321 12,973 6,030 27,572 18,347 11,314 4,908
South East Asia & Oceania 13,906 9,156 4,259 15,858 10,902 7,108 3,446
Other 1) 2) 10,671 7,151 3,756 14,664 10,014 6,614 3,257
Total 173,352 114,191 53,520 227,983 159,997 102,354 47,505
1) Of which in Sweden 2,824 1,689 1,091 4,144 3,097 2,007 999
2) Of which in EU 32,941 22,357 10,904 45,101 30,776 20,040 9,720
Year to date, year–over–year change,
2015 2014
percent Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
North America –1% –2% 0% –8% –9% –12% –23%
Latin America –5% –5% –3% 3% 5% 2% 8%
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2) –6% 3% 12% 6% 5% 3% 7%
Western & Central Europe 2) 6% 10% 8% 7% 3% 1% 1%
Mediterranean 2) 5% 6% 4% –5% –9% –10% –9%
Middle East 16% 32% 17% 22% 25% 17% 22%
Sub Saharan Africa 22% 30% 19% –13% –18% –23% –15%
India 91% 97% 108% 25% 28% 16% 6%
North East Asia 5% 15% 23% 1% –2% –11% –19%
South East Asia & Oceania 28% 29% 24% 0% –5% –10% –17%
Other 1) 2) 7% 8% 15% –2% 28% 18% 12%
Total 8% 12% 13% 0% 0% –5% –9%
1) Of which in Sweden –9% –16% 9% –6% 0% –13% –2%
2) Of which in EU 7% 12% 12% 4% 0% –3% –1%
TOP 5 COUNTRIES IN SALES
Q3 Jan–Sep
Country 2015 2014 2015 2014
United States 24% 24% 24% 26%
China 7% 6% 8% 6%
India 6% 4% 6% 3%
United Kingdom 3% 3% 3% 3%
Italy 3% 3% 3% 3%
32 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
NET SALES BY REGION BY SEGMENT
Q3 2015 Jan–Sep 2015
SEK milion Networks Global Services Support Solutions Modems Total Networks Global Services Support Solutions Modems Total
North America 6,427 6,943 985 – 14,355 18,242 20,310 2,627 – 41,179
Latin America 2,510 2,910 190 – 5,610 6,906 7,756 589 – 15,251
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1,419 1,011 90 – 2,520 4,777 2,794 231 – 7,802
Western & Central Europe 1,377 2,978 185 – 4,540 4,917 8,997 498 – 14,412
Mediterranean 2,159 3,153 158 – 5,470 6,477 9,365 497 – 16,339
Middle East 2,683 2,649 396 – 5,728 9,127 6,731 902 – 16,760
Sub Saharan Africa 1,219 1,344 128 – 2,691 3,217 3,764 521 – 7,502
India 2,434 1,083 112 – 3,629 6,365 3,250 594 – 10,209
North East Asia 4,142 2,013 193 – 6,348 12,899 5,975 447 – 19,321
South East Asia & Oceania 2,428 2,221 101 – 4,750 7,361 6,263 282 – 13,906
Other 2,019 750 751 – 3,520 6,128 2,143 2,267 133 10,671
Total 28,817 27,055 3,289 – 59,161 86,416 77,348 9,455 133 173,352
Share of Total 49% 46% 5% – 100% 50% 45% 5% – 100%
Q3 2015
Sequential change, percent Networks Global Services Support Solutions Modems Total
North America –4% –2% 16% – –2%
Latin America 11% 11% 4% – 11%
Northern Europe & Central Asia –8% 7% 34% – –1%
Western & Central Europe –28% –3% 27% – –12%
Mediterranean –10% –4% –18% – –7%
Middle East –34% 23% 23% – –12%
Sub Saharan Africa –2% 7% –18% – 1%
India 33% 2% –29% – 19%
North East Asia –14% 3% –1% – –9%
South East Asia & Oceania –4% –3% 0% – –3%
Other 3% 11% 3% – 4%
Total –8% 3% 6% – –2%
Q3 2015
Year over year change, percent Networks Global Services Support Solutions Modems Total
North America –6% 8% 31% – 2%
Latin America –7% 2% –43% – –5%
Northern Europe & Central Asia –34% 8% 27% – –20%
Western & Central Europe –22% 9% 21% – –2%
Mediterranean 3% 7% –16% – 5%
Middle East –28% 31% 29% – –5%
Sub Saharan Africa –1% 19% 52% – 10%
India 120% 46% –26% – 81%
North East Asia –7% –12% –30% – –10%
South East Asia & Oceania 19% 32% 46% – 25%
Other 4% 9% 11% – 4%
Total –4% 11% 8% – 3%
Jan–Sep 2015
Year over year change, percent Networks Global Services Support Solutions Modems Total
North America –13% 14% 6% – –1%
Latin America –11% 3% –19% – –5%
Northern Europe & Central Asia –9% –2% 29% – –6%
Western & Central Europe –9% 16% 13% – 6%
Mediterranean –1% 11% –10% – 5%
Middle East 13% 19% 32% – 16%
Sub Saharan Africa 14% 29% 26% – 22%
India 121% 51% 93% – 91% North East Asia 12% –6% –6% – 5%
South East Asia & Oceania 29% 28% –1% – 28%
Other –3% 43% 9% – 7%
Total 4% 14% 9% – 8%
33 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
PROVISIONS
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Opening balance 5,354 4,056 4,427 4,567 4,579 4,928 5,362
Additions 695 2,777 915 996 675 430 625
Utilization/Cash out –1,545 –1,217 –1,204 –794 –648 –642 –977
Of which restructuring –1,103 –472 –437 –213 –231 –246 –512
Reversal of excess amounts –168 –161 –236 –420 –132 –298 –88
Reclassification, translation difference and other –5 –101 154 78 93 161 6
Closing balance 4,331 5,354 4,056 4,427 4,567 4,579 4,928
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Opening balance 4,427 4,427 4,427 5,362 5,362 5,362 5,362
Additions 4,387 3,692 915 2,726 1,730 1,055 625
Utilization/Cash out –3,966 –2,421 –1,204 –3,061 –2,267 –1,619 –977
Of which restructuring –2,012 –909 –437 –1,202 –989 –758 –512
Reversal of excess amounts –565 –397 –236 –938 –518 –386 –88
Reclassification, translation difference and other 48 53 154 338 260 167 6
Closing balance 4,331 5,354 4,056 4,427 4,567 4,579 4,928
INFORMATION ON INVESTMENTS
Investments in assets subject to depreciation, amortization, impairment and write-downs
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Additions
Property, plant and equipment 1,807 2,424 2,367 1,553 1,415 1,320 1,034
Capitalized development expenses 982 843 294 986 155 185 197
IPR, brands and other intangible assets 10 26 11 1,014 935 621 77
Total 2,799 3,293 2,672 3,553 2,505 2,126 1,308
Depreciation, amortization and impairment losses
Property, plant and equipment 1,129 1,152 1,214 1,187 1,078 1,048 1,004
Capitalized development expenses 354 333 342 342 311 315 333
IPR, brands and other intangible assets, etc. 942 1,094 1,125 1,161 1,092 1,051 1,023
Total 2,425 2,579 2,681 2,690 2,481 2,414 2,360
34 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
RECONCILIATION TABLE, NON-IFRS MEASUREMENTS – CASH CONVERSION
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Net income 3,118 2,123 1,454 4,165 2,624 2,662 1,692
Net income reconciled to cash 6,782 3,413 3,136 8,270 4,974 5,862 3,237
Cash flow from operating activities 1,560 3,078 –5,900 8,596 –1,350 2,054 9,402
Cash conversion 23.0% 90.2% –188.1% 103.9% –27.1% 35.0% 290.5%
NET CASH – END OF PERIOD
Sep 30 Jun 30 Mar 31 Dec 31
SEK million 2015 2015 2015 2014
Cash and cash equivalents 33,950 32,962 35,311 40,988
+ Short term investments 17,597 20,807 30,776 31,171
– Borrowings, non–current 22,900 22,551 23,496 21,864
– Borrowings, current 2,885 3,199 2,847 2,281
– Post employment benefits 26,011 24,530 24,163 20,385
Net cash, end of period –249 3,489 15,581 27,629
35 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
OTHER INFORMATION
Jul–Sep Jan–Sep Jan–Dec
SEK million 2015 2014 2015 2014 2014
Number of shares and earnings per share
Number of shares, end of period (million) 3,305 3,305 3,305 3,305 3,305
Of which class A–shares (million) 262 262 262 262 262
Of which class B–shares (million) 3,043 3,043 3,043 3,043 3,043
Number of treasury shares, end of period (million) 53 66 53 66 63
Number of shares outstanding, basic, end of period (million) 3,252 3,239 3,252 3,239 3,242
Numbers of shares outstanding, diluted, end of period (million) 3,284 3,271 3,284 3,271 3,275
Average number of treasury shares (million) 54 67 58 70 68
Average number of shares outstanding, basic (million) 3,251 3,238 3,247 3,235 3,237
Average number of shares outstanding, diluted (million) 1) 3,283 3,270 3,280 3,268 3,270
Earnings per share, basic (SEK) 0.95 0.82 2.00 2.27 3.57
Earnings per share, diluted (SEK) 1) 0.94 0.81 1.98 2.25 3.54
Earnings per share (Non–IFRS), diluted (SEK) 2) 1.13 1.05 2.64 2.94 4.49
Earnings per share (Non–IFRS, excluding restructuring), diluted (SEK) 2) 1.34 1.11 3.56 3.08 4.80
Ratios
Days sales outstanding – – 113 111 105
Inventory turnover days 75 68 72 69 64
Payable days 51 55 55 57 56
Equity ratio (%) – – 49.6% 52.3% 49.5%
Return on equity (%) 9.0% 7.6% 6.2% 6.9% 8.1%
Return on capital employed (%) 11.2% 9.7% 8.0% 8.6% 9.8%
Capital turnover (times) 1.3 1.3 1.2 1.2 1.2
Cash conversion % 23.0% –27.1% –9.5% 71.8% 83.7%
Exchange rates used in the consolidation 3)
SEK/EUR– closing rate – – 9.40 9.15 9.47
SEK/USD– closing rate – – 8.38 7.27 7.79
Other
Regional inventory, end of period 18,413 17,094 18,413 17,094 17,142
Export sales from Sweden 26,921 26,871 82,885 79,106 113,734
1) Potential ordinary shares are not considered when their conversion to ordinary shares would increase earnings per share.
2) Excluding amortizations and write–downs of acquired intangibles.
3) Translation method changed from 2015. Monthly rates used to translate transactions are available on www.ericsson.com/the company/investors
NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES
2015 2014
End of period Sep 30 Jun 30 Mar 31 Dec 31 Sep 30 Jun 30 Mar 31
North America 14,669 14,975 15,156 15,516 15,554 15,306 14,902
Latin America 10,754 10,823 10,970 11,066 10,901 11,179 9,731
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 20,953 21,441 21,556 21,633 21,691 21,476 21,484
Western & Central Europe 12,042 12,400 12,575 12,617 12,606 12,624 11,455
Mediterranean 12,748 12,925 13,363 13,387 13,306 12,475 12,253
Middle East 3,634 3,717 3,813 3,858 3,831 3,736 3,749
Sub Saharan Africa 2,306 2,389 2,442 2,406 2,288 2,284 2,094
India 21,343 21,353 21,215 19,971 19,413 18,495 17,991
North East Asia 13,782 13,104 13,488 13,464 13,653 13,448 13,490
South East Asia & Oceania 4,009 4,056 4,128 4,137 4,265 4,359 4,234
Total 116,240 117,183 118,706 118,055 117,508 115,382 111,383
1) Of which in Sweden 17,242 17,560 17,569 17,580 17,655 17,497 17,545
36 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015
RESTRUCTURING CHARGES BY FUNCTION
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Cost of sales –351 –1,157 –484 –663 –168 –116 –82
Research and development expenses –547 –1,118 –51 –113 –92 –80 –19
Selling and administrative expenses –80 –469 –79 –28 –19 –47 –29
Total –978 –2,744 –614 –804 –279 –243 –130
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Cost of sales –1,992 –1,641 –484 –1,029 –366 –198 –82
Research and development expenses –1,716 –1,169 –51 –304 –191 –99 –19
Selling and administrative expenses –628 –548 –79 –123 –95 –76 –29
Total –4,336 –3,358 –614 –1,456 –652 –373 –130
RESTRUCTURING CHARGES BY SEGMENT
2015 2014
Isolated quarters, SEK million Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3 Q2 Q1
Networks –565 –1,842 –173 –142 –80 –128 –93
Global Services –358 –691 –419 –600 –122 –81 –32
Of which Professional Services –316 –175 –140 –435 –85 –63 –25
Of which Network Rollout –42 –516 –279 –165 –37 –18 –7
Support Solutions –37 –194 –19 –30 –77 –34 –5
Modems –1 –12 –3 –32 – – –
Unallocated –17 –5 – – – – –
Total –978 –2,744 –614 –804 –279 –243 –130
2015 2014
Year to date, SEK million Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar Jan–Dec Jan–Sep Jan–Jun Jan–Mar
Networks –2,580 –2,015 –173 –443 –301 –221 –93
Global Services –1,468 –1,110 –419 –835 –235 –113 –32
Of which Professional Services –631 –315 –140 –608 –173 –88 –25
Of which Network Rollout –837 –795 –279 –227 –62 –25 –7
Support Solutions –250 –213 –19 –146 –116 –39 –5
Modems –16 –15 –3 –32 – – –
Unallocated –22 –5 – – – – –
Total –4,336 –3,358 –614 –1,456 –652 –373 –130
37 Ericsson | Third Quarter Report 2015