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Ericsson

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FY2010 Annual Report · Ericsson
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TAKE THE WORLD 
WITH YOU

driving mobile broadband

ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
SE-164 83 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone +46 10 719 0000
www.ericsson.com

Printed on Maxi Offset and TerraPrint Silk – chlorine free 
paper that meets international environmental standards
EN/LZT 138 0430 R1A
ISSN 1100-8962
© Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson 2011

COVERXEN_v24.indd   1

28/02/2011   10:39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Wherever you’re going, whatever you’re doing,  
mobile broadband means you take the world with you.

Our friends and families are online. Our workmates too – everyone around us.

We keep our most precious possessions online and we grow our most ambitious 
ideas. We store our music. We post our photos and stream the films we love. We 
manage our diaries and nurture our business plans.

We meet people online. We express ourselves and share our experiences.  
We chat, we network and we trade.

With mobile broadband, you’re not tied down by a cable, or even by a wireless 
hotspot. Wherever you’re going, whatever you’re doing, you take the world with you. 

It could be in your lap, your palm or your pocket. In the city or the country, stationary 
or on the move. You can access anything, on any screen, any time.

In 2010, 600 million people had this possibility. By 2016 almost 5 billion will.

That’s the power of mobile broadband.

TOCXINTROXEN_v30.indd   1

27/02/2011   13:48

CONTENTS

  Annual Report 2010

2 

Letter from the CEO

3  Our Business

4  Our Solutions

9  Our Assets

10   2010 Highlights

11   Five-Year Summary

12   Share Information

16   Letter from the Chairman

17   Board of Directors’ Report*

42   Consolidated Financial Statements*

46  Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements*

99 

Parent Company Financial Statements*

104  Notes to the Parent Company Financial Statements*

119   Risk Factors*

125   Auditors’ Report

126   Forward-Looking Statements

127   Remuneration Report

133  Corporate Governance Report 2010

158  Glossary, Financial Terminology and Exchange Rates

160   Shareholder Information 

* Chapters covered by the Auditors’ Report, constituting the legal annual report.

Our viSiON
Our vision is to be the prime driver in an 
all-communicating world.

This means a world where everyone 
can use voice, data, images and video 
to share ideas and information, wherever 
and whenever they want. 

We aim to make people’s lives 
richer and easier, provide affordable 
communications for all and enable new 
ways of doing business.

Annual Publications

The Annual Report describes Ericsson’s 
financial and operational performance during 
2010. This publication includes a Corporate 
Governance Report.

Ericsson issues a separate Sustainability and 
Corporate Responsibility Report.

TOCXINTROXEN_v30.indd   1

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  CONTENTS  |  1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
LETTER FROM ThE CEO

Letter from Hans VestBerG

Dear shareholders,

In 2010, Group sales decreased –2 percent to SEK 203.3 billion. Our operating 

margin, before JV’s and excluding restructuring charges, was flat at 12 percent. Net 

income increased 172 percent to SEK 11.2 billion, mainly due to improvements in 

earnings in our joint venture Sony Ericsson and less restructuring charges.

In the first half of 2010, we were still impacted by the economic slowdown 

in the world. In the latter part of the year, sales of mobile broadband took off, 

especially in North America and Japan. This was driven by a strong increase in 

mobile data traffic.

During the year, we struggled with the industry-wide component shortage. 

While the supply of components has now normalized we are still not fully meeting 

the increased demand on certain mobile broadband products due to the increased 

customer demand.

We have four Group targets that should secure increased shareholder value: 

grow faster than the market, deliver best-in-class margins, cash conversion of 

more than 70 percent and improved earnings in our JVs.

Early market data indicates that we kept our market shares in our network 

and services businesses. We delivered the industry’s best-in-class margins 

and achieved a cash conversion of 112 percent. The fourth target, growth in JV 

earnings, was partly reached thanks to better performance in Sony Ericsson. 

2010 was the year when mobile broadband took off. The number of mobile 

subscriptions increased by more than 60 percent to about 600 million and the number is 

forecasted to almost double and hit 1 billion this year.

Once you are connected, you want connectivity 24/7, wherever you are.

This will become a reality for more and more people since we will see more smartphones 

in the market, and also more affordable ones. Embedded mobile broadband modules will 

become standard in laptops and other devices. To meet this consumer demand, network 

speed, capacity and quality are prerequisites.

In the networked society, everything that benefits from a connection will be connected. 

We have spoken about how 50 billion devices will be networked by 2020. We are already 

today enabling the networked society: from the concept of building future networks in 

demanding urban settings, to our networks which recently attained speeds of 168 Mbps 

on HSPA – to our business in TV and media, and our services, which help manage and 

integrate the complex networks that are behind the networked society.

Of course our joint ventures bring devices into the picture, and we are finding that this is 

getting more and more personal for consumers. No longer is the device only a tool for them; 

it is part of themselves that they want to have alongside them during their daily lives.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank all our highly dedicated and skilled employees for 

their efforts in 2010. In 2011, we will focus even more on understanding and meeting our 

customer demand, ultimately seeking increased value for our shareholders. Continued  

long-term growth and profitability are Ericsson’s characteristics, along with a healthy 

financial position.

“ LonG-term GrowtH 
and profitaBiLity 
are ericsson’s 
cHaracteristics”

financiaL 
resuLts in sHort

NET saLEs
SEK 203.3 (206.5) billion 

OpERaTiNg MaRgiN*
12% (12%)  

NET iNCOME
SEK 11.2 (4.1) billion 

NET Cash
SEK 51.3 (36.1) billion 

EaRNiNgs pER shaRE
SEK 3.46 (1.14)

* Excluding restructuring charges and 
share in earnings of JVs

Hans Vestberg 

President and CEO

2  |  LETTER FROM THE CEO  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

CEOXEN_v47.indd   2

26/02/2011   14:37

 
OUR BUSINESS

OUR BUSINESS

Communication technology is positively changing the way 
we work and live. As a leading provider of communications 
infrastructure, services and multimedia solutions, Ericsson 
strives to enable this change. We constantly innovate to 
empower people, business and society.

Currently, we serve approximately 400 customers, most of 
whom are network operators. Our ten largest customers account 
for 46 percent of our net sales. 

New customers include TV and media companies as well as 

utility companies. 

Network infrastructure provides the fundamentals for people 

Our total addressable market was estimated at approximately 

to communicate. Today, more than 40 percent of the world’s 
mobile traffic passes through networks provided by Ericsson. 
The networks we support for operators serve more than 2 billion 
subscriptions. 

USD 200 billion in 2009 (excluding joint ventures’ markets).
To best reflect our business, we report five business 

segments, two of which are the joint ventures Sony Ericsson and 
ST-Ericsson. 

We are also a global leader in telecom services, which 

accounts for close to 40 percent of our revenues.

NEtWORkS

MUltIMEdIA

GlOBAl SERvICES

Segment Networks develops  
and delivers mobile and fixed 
infrastructure equipment and related 
software. We pioneered 2G/GSM and 
3G/WCDMA mobile technologies.  
We now provide 4G/LTE as the 
evolution of mobile broadband and 
toward all-IP environments. Our 
portfolio also includes CDMA 
solutions as well as xDSL, fiber  
and microwave transmission.

Segment Multimedia develops and 
delivers software-based solutions 
for real-time & on-demand TV, 
consumer & business applications 
and Business Support Systems 
(BSS) for telecom operators. 
Revenue management, i.e. 
software based solutions for 
charging and billing, is part of BSS.

With more than 45,000 services 
professionals globally, we have 
robust local capabilities with  
global expertise in managed 
services, consulting, systems 
integration, customer support  
and network rollout. We manage 
complex projects with advanced 
IS/IT competence and multi- 
vendor experience. 

JOINt vENtURES

Sony Ericsson offers mobile phones, 
accessories, content and applications. 
Sony Ericsson is a 50/50 joint venture 
with Sony Corporation.

ST-Ericsson offers wireless platforms 
and semiconductors for leading handset 
manufacturers. ST-Ericsson is a 50/50 
joint venture with STMicroelectronics.

TRENDS_v83.indd   3

26/02/2011   15:03

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  OUR BUSINESS  |  3

MOBIlE BROAdBANd

OUR SOLUTIONS

We are shifting our focus toward 
a more solutions-oriented sales 
process. During the year, we therefore 
organized our portfolio into seven 
solution areas to better address 
customer needs. Here we describe 
our solutions, the business drivers 
and the market trends.

MOBIlE BROAdBANd 

FIxEd BROAdBANd ANd CONvERGENCE 

COMMUNICAtION SERvICES 

MANAGEd SERvICES 

tElEvISION ANd MEdIA MANAGEMENt 

OpERAtIONS ANd BUSINESS SUppORt SYStEMS 

CONSUMER ANd BUSINESS ApplICAtIONS 

4

6

6

7

7

8

8

MOBILE BROADBAND

WhAT IS  
MOBILE 
BROADBAND?
Mobile broadband is a wireless 
access technology that offers at 
least 1 Mbps. It enables high-
speed internet access services, 
such as video streaming.

User trends

1.  Smartphones 

change behavior

2.  Soaring  

video usage

3.  Demand for 24/7 

internet connectivity

4  |  OUR SOLUTIONS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

24/7 connectivity to the internet is becoming an essential part of modern 
life. during the year, we met increased demand for mobile broadband 
infrastructure and services. the accelerated demand was fuelled by 
smartphones and notebooks, coupled with sharply rising usage of video 
services (like Youtube). Mobile data traffic more than doubled in 2010 and is 
expected to double annually over the coming three years.

Expansion opportunities
Today, we are doing for broadband what we did for voice 20 years ago – making 
it mobile and affordable for the vast majority of people. Mobile subscriptions 
worldwide have reached 5.3 billion of which approximately ten percent are now on 
mobile broadband. We estimate the number of mobile broadband subscriptions to 
reach almost 5 billion in 2016, the vast majority being for smartphones. 

Our broadband solutions not only include equipment but also business 
advice, systems integration and roll-out service for fast implementation of  
cost-effective solutions.

COvERAGE
Percentage of population

100

80

60

40

Rural

Sub
urban

20

Urban

Metro

0

World
population

World population of 6.9 billion people

>85%

<85%

>70%

35%
35%

<35%
<35%

GSM

GPRS

EDGE

WCDMA

HSPA

GSM

WCDMA

5-10%

HSPA
Evolution

approx 2%

LTE

LTE

TRENDS_v83.indd   4

26/02/2011   15:03

Meeting the need for speed
To accommodate the massive growth in data traffic, operators are turning to us 
to boost capacity and speed in their networks. Networks are continuously being 
upgraded as the number of data users and data volume transported increase.  
All Ericsson-supplied commercial WCDMA networks have now been upgraded to 
HSPA. Four of our customers have launched 4G/LTE networks in 2010, covering 
140 million people, 60 percent of whom are served by Ericsson LTE equipment.

On the devices side, notebooks and other electronic devices are equipped with 

our latest 3G/HSPA broadband modules, delivering speeds of up to 21 Mbps. 

SUBSCRIBER tRAFFIC IN MOBIlE ACCESS NEtWORkS
Yearly Exabytes (1018)

60

50

40

30

20

10

0
2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2016

Source: Ericsson

Mobile PC and tablets

Mobile handheld

Voice

Operators implement tiered pricing
When mobile broadband was introduced, many operators offered flat rates and 
unlimited usage to encourage fast uptake of service. A challenge for operators 
today is to secure user experience and increase revenue from mobile broadband. 
The answer is differentiated service offerings. Tiered pricing and innovative 
business models are becoming more common. The user can thus select and pay 
for a subscription with a certain service level. Voice still represents the main source 
of revenue for operators. Data traffic accounts for approximately 30 percent of total 
revenues on average and will represent the majority of future growth.

Ramp up of our RBS 6000
The multi-standard radio base station, RBS 6000, can run 2G/GSM, 3G/WCDMA 
and 4G/LTE technologies in the same unit, using different frequency spectrum 
bands. The RBS 6000 takes up 25 percent less space and reduces power 
consumption by up to 65 percent compared to previous-generation RBSs. This 
is a significant saving as operators may spend up to 50 percent of operating 
expenses on power. Many operators are therefore looking to modernize their radio 
networks with the RBS 6000. Modernization projects often involve a high degree 
of consulting, systems integration and network rollout. 

Core networks may also need capacity upgrades to accommodate increasing 
data traffic and speed. Our 4G/LTE core network, the Evolved Packet Core, is an 
all-IP network, supporting both mobile and fixed access. Our 2G and 3G packet 
core networks require only a software upgrade to support 4G/LTE access.

Mobile broadband stimulates GDP growth
High-speed broadband infrastructure (mobile and fixed) is becoming as essential as 
roads, water and electricity. Studies show a direct correlation between broadband 
penetration and GDP growth. In emerging markets, many users can access the 
internet only via mobile devices due to the lack of fixed network infrastructure.

MOBIlE BROAdBANd

SpEEd ANd dAtA tRAFFIC

Feature phone user
10 kbps
approx. 10 MB/month

Smartphone user
100-1,000 kbps
approx. 100 MB/month

Mobile pC/tablet user
>1 Mbps
approx. 1 GB/month

MOBIlE BROAdBANd tRENd
Subscriptions (billion)

5

4

3

2

1

0

8
0
0
2

9
0
0
2

0
1
0
2

1
1
0
2

2
1
0
2

3
1
0
2

4
1
0
2

5
1
0
2

6
1
0
2

Mobile PC and tablets

Handheld devices

Source: Ericsson

RBS 6000
Our multi-standard radio base 
station RBS 6000 can be remotely 
upgraded with software.

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  OUR SOLUTIONS  |  5

TRENDS_v83.indd   5

26/02/2011   15:03

FIxEd BROAdBANd ANd CONvERGENCE

FIXED BROADBAND AND CONVERGENCE

500 million 
Subscriptions
are connected to fixed  
broadband networks.
Includes all technologies.

FIxEd BROAdBANd tRENd
Subscriptions (million)

700

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

8
0
0
2

9
0
0
2

0
1
0
2

1
1
0
2

2
1
0
2

3
1
0
2

4
1
0
2

5
1
0
2

6
1
0
2

xDSL

Cable

Fiber

Source: Ericsson.  
Includes xDSL, Cable and Fiber.  
Other technologies excluded.

Fixed broadband
In today’s mature markets, most data traffic is handled by fixed networks. 
Operators compete by evolving their networks to provide fast internet speeds, 
reliable high-definition IPTV and video on demand. We enable this by providing 
end-to-end broadband access solutions via high-speed fiber (such as GPON) 
and copper (xDSL).

All-IP networks and convergence
To reduce cost and enable service bundling, fixed traffic can be provided over a multi-
service network converging telephony, internet and TV. This multi-service network is 
IP based, providing lower-cost and higher-performance broadband services. IP starts 
in the core network. Our Evolved Packet Core (EPC) provides support for multiple 
access technologies and fixed-mobile convergence. New functionality is introduced 
through software upgrades. With our breadth of experience, we provide a service, 
including consulting and systems integration, to manage transformation of networks 
to all-IP, often involving multiple-vendor equipment.

NEtWORk tRANSFORMAtION

k
r
o
w
t
e
n
s
s
e
e
r
i

l

W

k
r
o
w
t
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d
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x
F

i

k
r
o
w
t
e
n
t
e
n
r
e
t
n
i
/
a
t
a
D

k
r
o
w
t
e
n
V
T
e
b
a
C

l

Service network

Core network

Fixed broadband 
access

Mobile broadband 
access

Different services for devices
in separate systems.

Same services irrespective
of access device.

COMMUNICATION SERVICES

Communication services are the services people use to interact with each 
other, such as voice and video calls as well as text and multimedia messaging. 
These operator-based services are provided globally and are based on industry 
standards, ensuring interoperability.

As voice and SMS still account for the main part of operator revenues, 

operators now exploit opportunities to enhance user experience while reducing 
costs for voice communication. 

Users want enriched communication and the ability to instantaneously share 

experiences and information with family, friends and colleagues – anywhere, 
anytime and to any device. Our IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) makes this 
possible. Services controlled by IMS are voice (incl. HD-voice), video calls, the 
Rich Communication Suite (RCS) and messaging. With RCS, consumers get a 
suite of IMS-based services (e.g. presence information, chat and content sharing) 
from the address book of a mobile phone or from a broadband connection.

6  |  OUR SOLUTIONS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

TRENDS_v83.indd   6

26/02/2011   15:03

 
 
 
 
 
tv ANd MEdIA MANAGEMENt

750 MILLION 

subscribers worldwide are served 
by networks that we manage.

Outsourcing trends:
>  Reduce and control spending

> Focus on key business priorities

> Greater operational efficiency
>  Lower risks, reduce complexity
>  Shared capacity – structural 

efficiency

MANAGED SERVICES

Network operations have traditionally been seen as core to operators. 
Today, competitive pressure, rapid technology evolution and changing user 
demands drive another focus. Many operators now view strategy, marketing 
and customer retention as being equally important as technology. Our managed 
services agreements free up in-house resources for this focus, and can reduce 
network operating costs by as much as 20 percent.

We have a long history of taking on employees from operators. We have 
invested USD 1 billion in tools, methods and processes to secure capabilities 
and competence.

Improving operators’ operational efficiency 
The need to improve operational efficiency, reducing both capital expenditures 
and operating expenses, is a key driver for an operator to change its business. 
It is estimated that a mature operator spends approximately 5-6 percent of 
revenues on network equipment and 10-12 percent on operating the network, i.e. 
operating expenses account for twice the capital expenditures for networks. Our 
network operations contracts are often multi-year, multi-technology and multi-
vendor agreements.

Simplifying network complexity 
Another key driver is the increasing complexity of networks as they are transformed 
and modernized. IT and telecom convergence creates many opportunities for 
us to act as an advisor, both in streamlining business and operations support 
systems and helping to quickly and cost-efficiently introduce new services. 

Shared networks and shared capacity 
The initial growth of managed services was driven by operational efficiency. There is 
now an increasing demand for business models that support shared capacity and 
network sharing between two or more operators. This trend also drives structural 
efficiencies in the networks. Managed services play a decisive role in this evolution.

TV AND MEDIA MANAGEMENT

TV is going digital and interactive
In the converging media landscape, broadcast and broadband are coming 
together, moving towards a connected world.

The worldwide digital TV market is growing. TV solutions and services enable 

global media companies and operators (cable, satellite, telecom and terrestrial) 
to deliver TV content, either directly to consumers or for professional digital video 
content exchange. 

With a broad suite of open standards-based products, we offer high-quality 
solutions for digital TV, HDTV, video on demand, IPTV, mobile TV, connected home 
and content management. 

High-performance video means large amounts of traffic in the networks. This 
can be handled with our media distribution (MDN) solution for video delivery over 
IP, combining a content distribution network with our TV portfolio.

Business consulting, systems integration and implementation ensure a smooth 

launch of new TV services and infrastructure.

TRENDS_v83.indd   7

26/02/2011   15:03

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  OUR SOLUTIONS  |  7

OpERAtIONS ANd  
BUSINESS SUppORt SYStEMS

OPERATIONS AND BUSINESS SUPPORT SYSTEMS

Operations Support Systems – for control
Rising network complexity drives the need for one consolidated “dashboard-style” 
Operations Support System (OSS). Our OSS includes capabilities for performance 
monitoring and fault management, configuration and security management as well 
as systems to optimize performance for efficiency. OSS can also handle multi-
vendor equipment.

Business Support Systems – efficient billing and charging
Our Business Support Systems (BSS) support operators in instant provisioning 
and activation of services, devices and price plans. Our solutions can also provide 
real-time convergent charging (i.e. the user gets one invoice for both mobile and 
fixed usage) and billing and data management. With our solutions, operators can 
capture and secure revenue streams. Users can instantly start using a new service 
or device and control their spending.

Operators have to handle the increased data traffic in their networks along 
with many new devices. At the same time, operators introduce tiered pricing and 
new business models in order to maximize their revenues for mobile broadband 
services as well as voice traffic. This development requires upgrading of old 
support systems as well as the introduction of new BSS solutions. 

Consulting and systems integration services are vital components of BSS solutions. 

CONSUMER AND BUSINESS APPLICATIONS

Interaction and collaboration 
To support operators in growing their revenues, we provide new means of 
interaction and collaboration. Our solutions include messaging, social networks, 
location-based services, media, advertising, internet commerce and enterprise 
applications. 

We support our customers in the modernization and consolidation of legacy 

service delivery systems and messaging systems, such as SMS, MMS and 
video mail. 

Our Business Communication Suite (BCS) targets the enterprise market. 
It enables sharing of voice, video data, messaging and web conferences in a 
collaborative environment. 

Our multimedia brokering solution facilitates payment and distribution of 

content. We act as the interface between enterprises and multiple mobile 
operators with consumer data and services such as via SMS. 

Several of our solutions can be delivered as cloud services. 

8  |  OUR SOLUTIONS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010

TRENDS_v83.indd   8

26/02/2011   15:03

OUR ASSETS

OUR ASSETS

Unique global presence and scale
Our global presence and scale give us a competitive advantage. In the industry 
consolidation, where operators are merging, we can handle larger cross-border 
contracts as well as targeted local assignments. It is key for us to stay close to 
customers, building trust, earning a strong track record and applying our  
GPRS, EDGE, WCDMA, HSPA
in-depth expertise. 

LTE & BEYOND

GSM

Today, over 1,000 networks in more than 180 countries use equipment 

supplied by us. Over the years, we have gained local knowledge and experience 
in network rollouts and systems integration as well as managing, upgrading and 
modernizing networks. 

GPRS, EDGE, WCDMA, HSPA

GSM

LEADERSHIP IN 
MOBILE BROADBAND

LEADERSHIP IN 
MOBILE INTERNET

GSM
GSM

LEADERSHIP IN 
MOBILE TELEPHONY

Technology leadership – investing for the future
Our technology leadership is a key asset that we leverage. We focus on early 
involvement in creating new technologies, strong contribution in technology 
standardization work, development of intellectual property rights and 
establishment of licensing agreements. We pioneered the development of digital 
AXE switching, 2G/GSM, 3G/WCDMA and 4G/LTE, leading to 27,000 granted 
patents. We invested approximately 15 percent of our total sales into R&D in 
2010. At year end, the number of R&D employees was more than 20,000. Over 80 
percent of our product development is software related. 

1990

2000

1980

2010

Mobile broadband

HSPA, LTE, CDMA2000 EV-DO

Mobile internet

GPRS, EDGE, WCDMA

Mobile telephony

GSM, CDMA2000

1990

2000

2010

Services leadership
Networks are becoming increasingly 
complex and often include multi-
vendor equipment. The knowledge 
gained from managing networks 
for 750 million subscribers is an 
asset. Today our global services 
organization handles consulting, 
systems integration, network 
rollout, network operation, customer 
support and education. Competence 
development is further enhanced by 
insourcing staff from operators and 
acquiring companies in consulting 
and systems integration.

 nETwORk  
OPERATiOn & 
SUPPORT

COnSUlTing  
& nETwORk  
  dESign

CUSTOMERS

SySTEMS 
 inTEgRATiOn

PROdUCTS  
& SOlUTiOnS 

Our breadth of experience enables us to offer 
end-to-end support to our customers. 

Ericsson Academy
In 2010 we launched Ericsson Academy 
and Learning Services. It is an online 
platform for sharing knowledge and 
inspiration both internally and externally. 
The site offers free telecom tutorials, 
technical snapshots and a forum to 
exchange smart ideas. 
www.ericsson.com/academy

Creating a winning culture 
We want to attract and develop the 
most competent, high-performing and 
motivated people in the industry. The 
culture we encourage is innovative, fast 
moving and responsive, with a business-
winning mindset. To get the entire 
company moving in this direction, we 
implemented a group wide empowerment 
program. We also run a leadership training 
program to promote global diversity and 
cultivate top talent worldwide.

Putting consumer 
insight to work
To stay abreast of consumer 
trends, we use our ConsumerLab 
market research unit, which 
conducts more than 40,000 
interviews annually. This represents 
the combined opinions and 
behavior patterns of more than 
1 billion people. Not only do we 
incorporate these insights into our 
product development, but we can 
also make them available to our 
customers.

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  OUR ASSETS  |  9

EMPLOYEESXEN_v40.indd   9

26/02/2011   14:27

2010 HIGHLIGHTS

2010 HIGHLIGHTS

210
FIve YeAR SALeS 
SEK billion

208.9

206.5
206.5

203.3

200
210

190
200

180
190

170
180

160
170

160

208.9

206.5
206.5

203.3

187.8

187.8

179.8

179.8

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

TOp FIve COUNTRIeS IN SALeS
Percentage of total sales

25

20
25

15
20

10
15

5
10

0
5

0

23%

23%

10%

10%

United
States

United
States

9%
9%

7%

9%
9%

7%

China

5%

3%

5%
Japan
3%

7%

7%

4%
4%

4%4%
4%4%

India

4%
4%

4%4%
4%4%
Italy

2009

China

Japan

2010
India

Italy

 JANUARY-MARCH

 > World record of 84 Mbps HSPA demonstrated.

 > TeliaSonera rolls out 4G/LTE in Norway and Sweden, with core network and 
RBS 6000 from Ericsson. Three more customers have since launched LTE.

 > Ericsson delivers LTE network equipment and services to AT&T.

 > A world record is set with 1 Gbps for LTE in a live demo.

 > Ericsson performs a live demo of the world’s first high-speed microwave radio 

connection with a transporting capacity of 2.5 Gbps.

 ApRIL-JUNe

 > Ericsson increases presence in Korea by acquiring Nortel’s stake in the joint 

venture LG-Nortel. The business is consolidated by Ericsson. 

 > First managed operations contract in Canada, for Mobilicity’s 3G network.

 >

Indosat, Indonesia, prepares for 4G and launched Asia’s fastest network with 
42 Mbps.

 > Ericsson chosen to operate Telefonica’s network operations center in São Paulo.

 > Ericsson provides industry’s first 3D sports television network, ESPN 3D, with 
standards-based video processing solution, tuned for 3D and HD broadcasts.

 JULY-SepTeMbeR

 > Mobile data is growing ten times faster than voice.

 > China Mobile Hebei selects Ericsson as its managed services partner.

 > MetroPCS launches first 4G/LTE network in the USA, with Ericsson as 

primary supplier.

 > Ericsson gets its largest fiber-to-the-home contract in India.

 > Ericsson announces embedded mobile broadband modules – world’s first to 
support 21 Mbps (HSPA) for notebooks and other consumer electronics.

 > EMOBILE upgrades its HSPA network with the HSPA Evolution technology – 

the highest-speed network in Japan with a peak data rate of 42 Mbps. 

OCTObeR-DeCeMbeR

 > TeliaSonera renews and expands its managed services contract with Ericsson 

to include field service for voice and data networks in 29 countries.

 > Hans Vestberg, CEO, participated via Telepresence at COP 16 in Mexico, to 

stress the importance of ICT in addressing climate change. 

 > Ericsson is selected as key equipment and services provider for next evolution  
of the Sprint network, supplying radio access, core and IP/Microwave backhaul.

 > Ericsson wins managed services contract with China Unicom.

 > Verizon Wireless launches the world’s largest LTE network with Ericsson as  

the primary vendor.

 > 3 Italia chooses Ericsson for data center consolidation and modernization of  

IT infrastructure.

10  |  2010 HIGHLIGHTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

RESULTSXSUMMARYXEN_v31.indd   10

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Five-year summary

Five-Year SummarY

For definitions of the financial terms used, see Glossary, Financial Terminology and Exchange Rates.

Five-year summary

seK million

income statement items
Net sales
Operating income
Financial net
Net income

year-end position
Total assets
Working capital 
Capital employed
Gross cash
Net cash
Property, plant and equipment
stockholders’ equity
Non-controlling interest
interest-bearing liabilities and  
post-employment benefits

Other information
Earnings, per share, basic, sEK 
Earnings, per share, diluted, sEK 
Cash dividends per share, sEK
stockholders’ equity per share, sEK

Number of shares outstanding (in millions)

end of period, basic
average, basic
average, diluted

Additions to property, plant and equipment
Depreciation and write-downs/impairments 
of property, plant and equipment
Acquisitions/capitalization of intangible assets
Amortization and write-downs/impairments of 
intangible assets
Research and development expenses

as percentage of net sales

ratios
Operating margin excluding joint ventures
Operating margin
EBiTA margin
Cash conversion
Return on equity
Return on capital employed
Equity ratio
Capital turnover
inventory turnover days
Trade receivables turnover
Payment readiness, sEK million

as percentage of net sales

statistical data, year-end
Number of employees
of which in Sweden

Export sales from sweden, sEK million

1)  For 2010, as proposed by the Board of Directors.

2010

Change

2009

2008

2007

2006  

203,348
16,455
–672
11,235

281,815
105,488
182,640
87,150
51,295
9,434
145,106
1,679

35,855

3.49
3.46
2.25 1)

45.34

3,200
3,197
3,226
3,686

3,296
7,246

6,657
31,558
15.5% 

8.7% 
8.1%
11.0%
112%
7.8%
9.6%
52.1%
1.1
74
3.2
96,951
47.7%

90,261
17,848
100,070

–2%
178%
–307%
172%

4%
6%
1%
14%
42%
–2%
4%
45%

206,477
5,918
325
4,127

269,809
99,079
181,680
76,724
36,071
9,606
139,870
1,157

208,930
16,252
974
11,667

285,684
99,951
182,439
75,005
34,651
9,995
140,823
1,261

187,780
30,646
83
22,135

245,117
86,327
168,456
57,716
24,312
9,304
134,112
940

179,821
35,828
165
26,436

214,940
82,926
142,447
62,280
40,728
7,881
120,113
782

–12%

40,653

40,354

33,404

21,552

203%
204%
13%
4%

–
–
–
–8%

–6%
–

–23%
–5%
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
9%
–

9%
–2%
6%

1.15
1.14
2.00
43.79

3,194
3,190
3,212
4,006

3,502
11,413

8,621
33,055
16.0%

6.5%
2.9%
6.7%
117%
2.6%
4.3%
52.3%
1.1
68
2.9
88,960
43.1%

82,493
18,217
94,829

3.54
3.52
1.85
44.21

3,185
3,183
3,202
4,133

3,105
1,287

5,568
33,584
16.1%

8.0%
7.8%
9.4%
92%
8.2%
11.3%
49.7%
1.2
68
3.1
84,917
40.6%

6.87
6.84
2.50
42.17

3,180
3,178
3,193
4,319

2,914
29,838

5,459
28,842
15.4%

12.5%
16.3%
18.0%
66%
17.2%
20.9%
55.1%
1.2
70
3.4
64,678
34.4%

78,740
20,155
109,254

74,011
19,781
102,486

8.27
8.23
2.50 
37.82

3,176
3,174
3,189
3,827

3,038
18,319

4,479
27,533
15.3%

16.7%
19.9%
21.0%
57%
23.7%
27.4%
56.2%
1.3
71
3.9
67,454
37.5%

63,781
19,094
98,694

5XYEAR_v26.indd   11

2011-02-26   14.10

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  FivE-yEAR summARy |  11

STOCK EXCHANGE TRADING

18%

INcREASE  
IN 2010 OF
MARkET cApITAlIZATION

>  OMX Stockholm Index 

increase in 2010: 23 percent

>  S&P 500 Index increase 

in 2010: 13 percent

>  Ericsson’s total market 

capitalization at year end: 
SEK 255 (215) billion 

THE ERICSSON SHARE

Share listings

NASDAQ OMX, Stockholm 

NASDAQ, New York 

Total number of  
shares outstanding   

3,273,351,735

of which Class A shares 

261,755,983

of which Class B shares  3,011,595,752

of which Ericsson  
treasury shares, Class B 

Quotient value 

Market capitalization, 
December 31, 2010 

GICs (Global Industry  
Classification) 

73,088,515

SEK 5.00

approx. 
SEK 255b.

45201020

Ticker codes

NASDAQ OMX  
Stockholm  

NASDAQ, New York 

Bloomberg NASDAQ  
OMX Stockholm 

Bloomberg NASDAQ 

Reuters NASDAQ  
OMX Stockholm 

Reuters NASDAQ 

ISIN 

ERIC A 

ERIC B 

ERIC 

CUSIP 

ERIC A
ERIC B

ERIC

ERICA SS
ERICB SS

ERIC US

ERICa.ST
ERICb.ST

ERIC.O

SE0000108649

SE0000108656

US2948216088

294821608

SHARE INFORMATION
STOck ExcHANgE TRAdINg

The Ericsson Class A and Class B shares are listed on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm. 
In the United States, the Class B shares are listed on NASDAQ in the form of 
American Depositary Shares (ADS) evidenced by American Depositary Receipts 
(ADR) under the symbol ERIC. Each ADS represents one Class B share. 

In 2010, approximately 6 (7) billion Ericsson shares were traded, of which 
about 3.4 billion were traded on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm and about 1.6 billion 
were traded on NASDAQ. (Note: The approximate total volumes include trading 
on alternative trading venues such as BATS Europe, Burgundy, Chi-X Europe.)
Trading volume in Ericsson shares decreased by approximately 30 percent 

on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm and decreased by approximately 7 percent on 
NASDAQ as compared to 2009.

CHANGES IN NuMbER Of SHARES AND CAPITAl STOCK 2006–2010

Number of shares

Share capital 

2006
2007
2008
2008

2008
2009

2009
2010

December 31 (no changes)
December 31 (no changes)
June 2, reverse split 1:5
July 23, new issue. (Class C shares, 
later converted to Class B) 
December 31
June 8, new issue (Class C-shares, 
later converted to Class B) 
December 31
December 31

16,132,258,678
16,132,258,678
3,226,451,735
19,900,000

3,246,351,735
27,000,000

3,273,351,735
3,273,351,735

16,132,258,678
16,132,258,678
16,132,258,678
99,500,000

16,231,758,678
135,000,000

16,366,758,678
16,366,758,678

PERfORMANCE INDICATORS

Earnings per share, diluted (SEK) 
Operating income per share 
(SEK) 1)
Cash flow from operating  
activities per share (SEK)
Stockholders’ equity per share, 
basic, end of period (SEK) 
P/E ratio
Total shareholder return (%)
Dividend per share (SEK) 3) 

2010

3.46

7.42

8.31

45.34
22
22
2.25

1)  For 2010, 2009 and 2008 excluding restructuring charges.

2)  2006 and 2007 restated for reverse split 1:5 in 2008.

3)  For 2010 as proposed by the Board of Directors.

2009

1.14

5.80

7.67

43.79
57
15
2.00

2008

3.52

7.50

7.54

44.21
17
–20
1.85

2007  2)

2006 2)

6.84

8.23

9.64

11.29

6.04

5.82

42.17 
11
–43
2.50

37.82
17
3
2.50

For definitions of the financial terms used, see Glossary, Financial Terminology and Exchange Rates.

All performance indicators except Earnings per share, diluted, and Stockholders’ 
equity per share, basic, end of period are calculated on average number of shares 
outstanding, basic.

12  |  SHARE INFORMATION  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

SHAREXINFOXEN_v71.indd   12

2011-02-26   14.28

SHARE TRENd

In 2010, Ericsson’s total market capitalization increased by about 18 (13) percent 
to SEK 255 billion (SEK 215 billion in 2009). The OMX Stockholm Index on 
NASDAQ OMX Stockholm increased by 23 percent, the S&P 500 Index increased 
by 13 percent and the NASDAQ composite index increased by 17 percent.

Class A shares

SEK m.

350

SEK m.

Class A shares

SHARE TuRNOvER AND PRICE TREND, NASDAq OMX STOCKHOlM

Class A shares

SEK

200

180

SEK

200

160

180

140

120

160
SEK

140
200

100

120
180

80

100
160

60

80
140

40

60
120

20

40
100

0

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

Turnover, SEK million
Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Price, SEK

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

OMX Stockholm (indexed to share price)

20
80

0
60

40

Turnover, SEK million

Price, SEK

OMX Stockholm (indexed to share price)

20

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Class B shares
Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

0
SEK

200

Turnover, SEK million

Price, SEK

Class B shares

OMX Stockholm (indexed to share price)

SEK

180

Class B shares

200

160

180

140

160
SEK

120

140
200

100

120
180

80

100
160

60

80
140

40

60
120

20

40
100

0

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

Turnover, SEK million 
Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Price, SEK

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

OMX Stockholm (indexed to share price)

20
80

0
60

40

Turnover, SEK million 

Price, SEK

OMX Stockholm (indexed to share price)

20

0

Volumes reflect trading on NASDAQ OMX Stockholm only.

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

0

Turnover, SEK million 

Price, SEK

OMX Stockholm (indexed to share price)

SHARE TuRNOvER AND PRICE TREND, uS MARKET

ADS

ADS

ADS

9.00

8.23

6.84

6.00

3.00

USD

25

USD

25

20

20
USD

15

25

3.52

10

15

20

10

5

15

1.14

5

0

10

300

350

250

300
SEK m.
200
250
350

150

200
300

100

150
250
50
100
200
0
50
150

0
100

50

SEK m.

0

140,000
SEK m.
120,000

140,000

100,000

120,000
SEK m.
80,000
100,000
140,000
60,000
80,000
120,000
40,000
60,000
100,000
20,000

40,000
80,000

0
20,000
60,000

0
40,000

20,000

USD m.

4,500

USD m.

4,000

4,500

3,500

4,000

3,000
USD m.
3,500
2,500

4,500
3,000

2,000

4,000
2,500

1,500

3,500
2,000

1,000

3,000
1,500
500
2,500
1,000
0
2,000
500

1,500
0

1,000

500

0

SHARE TREND
buSINESS DRIvERS
buSINESS DRIvERS

DIvIDEND PER SHARE
SEK

2.50

2.50

2.25

2.00

1.85

2.50

2.00

1.50

1.00

0.50

0.00

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010 1)

1) For 2010 as proposed by the Board of Directors.

EARNINGS PER SHARE,  
DIluTED
SEK

9.00

8.23

50.00

44.21

43.79

45.34

42.17

6.84

40.00

37.82

6.00

3.00

0.00

3.52

3.46

1.14

30.00

20.00

10.00

0.00

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

STOCKHOlDERS’ EquITy  
PER SHARE, bASIC
SEK

50.00

40.00

37.82

44.21

43.79

45.34

42.17

3.46

30.00

20.00

10.00

0.00

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009
0.00

Jan-Dec, 2010

Turnover, USD million

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Price, USD
Jan-Dec, 2008

S&P 500 (indexed to ADS price)
Jan-Dec, 2009

2007
Jan-Dec, 2010

2006

2008

Turnover, USD million

Price, USD

S&P 500 (indexed to ADS price)

Jan-Dec, 2006

Jan-Dec, 2007

Jan-Dec, 2008

Jan-Dec, 2009

Jan-Dec, 2010

Turnover, USD million

Price, USD

S&P 500 (indexed to ADS price)

0

2009

2010

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

5

0

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  SHARE INFORMATION  |  13

SHAREXINFOXEN_v71.indd   13

2011-02-26   14.28

OffER AND lISTING DETAIlS

OFFER ANd lISTINg dETAIlS 

Principal trading market – NASDAq OMX 
Stockholm – share prices

The table below states the high and low share prices for our 
Class A and Class B shares as reported by NASDAQ OMX 
Stockholm for the last five years. Trading on the exchange 
generally continues until 5:30 p.m. (CET) each business day. In 
addition to trading on the exchange there is also trading off the 
exchange and on alternative venues during trading hours and 
also after 5:30 p.m. (CET).

NASDAQ OMX Stockholm publishes a daily Official 
Price List of Shares which includes the volume of recorded 
transactions in each listed stock, together with the prices of 
the highest and lowest recorded trades of the day. The Official 
Price List of Shares reflects price and volume information for 
trades completed by the members. The equity securities listed 
on the NASDAQ OMX Stockholm Official Price List of Shares 
currently comprise the shares of 258 companies.

Host market NASDAq – ADS prices 
The table below states the high and low share prices quoted 
for our ADSs on NASDAQ for the last five years. The NASDAQ 
quotations represent prices between dealers, not including 
retail mark-ups, markdowns or commissions, and do not 
necessarily represent actual transactions.

SHARE PRICES ON NASDAq OMX STOCKHOlM 

(SEK)

2010

2009

2008

2007 1)

2006 1)

Class A at last day of 
trading
Class A high for year  
(June 21, 2010)
Class A low for year  
(January 4, 2010)
Class B at last day of 
trading
Class B high for year  
(June 21, 2010)
Class B low for year  
(January 4, 2010)

74.00

65.00 59.30

76.80

138.00

88.40

78.80 83.60 148.50

154.50

65.20

55.40 40.60

73.00

104.50

78.15

65.90 58.80

75.90

138.25

90.45

79.60

83.70 149.50

155.00

65.90

55.50 40.60

72.65

104.50

1)  2006 and 2007 restated for reverse split 1:5 in 2008.

SHARE PRICES ON NASDAq NEw yORK

(uSD)

2010

2009

2008

2007 1)

2006 1)

ADS at last day of trading
ADS high for year
(April 23, 2010)
ADS low for year 
(February 5, 2010)

11.53

9.19

7.81

11.68

20.12

12.39

10.92 14.00

21.71

20.57

9.40

6.60

5.49

11.12

14.44

1)  2006 and 2007 restated for reverse split 1:5 in 2008.

SHARE PRICES ON NASDAq OMX STOCKHOlM AND NASDAq

            NASDAq OMX Stockholm

                NASDAq

SEK per Class A share
low
High

SEK per Class b share                              uSD per ADS 1)
High

High

low

low

154.50
148.50
83.60
78.80
88.40

78.00
78.80
78.60
76.25
78.70
88.40
86.55
77.05

79.45
78.50
74.50
72.00
77.05
78.55

104.50
73.00
40.60
55.40
65.20

55.40
64.10
65.80
64.70
65.20
73.00
69.00
66.95

69.00
69.70
68.80
66.95
70.00
72.50

155.00
149.50
83.70
79.60
90.45

78.70
79.60
79.50
76.95
80.00
90.45
89.35
79.95

81.05
80.65
76.80
74.20
79.95
82.00

104.50
72.65
40.60
55.50
65.90

55.50
64.00
66.10
65.25
65.90
74.15
70.85
68.85

70.85
71.85
70.65
68.85
72.45
74.80

20.57
21.71
14.00
10.92
12.39

9.65
9.92
10.84
10.92
11.33
12.39
12.20
11.71

11.40
11.33
11.60
11.20
11.71
12.61

14.44
11.12
5.49
6.60
9.40

6.60
8.10
9.10
8.94
9.40
9.51
9.62
9.96

9.62
9.98
10.49
9.96
10.48
10.99

Period

Annual high and low
2006 2)
2007 2)
2008
2009
2010
quarterly high and low 
2009 First Quarter
2009 Second Quarter
2009 Third Quarter
2009 Fourth Quarter
2010 First Quarter
2010 Second Quarter
2010 Third Quarter
2010 Fourth Quarter
Monthly high and low
August 2010
September 2010
October 2010
November 2010
December 2010
January 2011

1)  One ADS = 1 Class B share. 

2)  2006 and 2007 restated for reverse split 1:5 in 2008.

14  |  SHARE INFORMATION  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

SHAREXINFOXEN_v71.indd   14

2011-02-26   14.28

SHAREHOldERS

As of December 31, 2010, the Parent Company had 630,592 shareholders 
registered at Euroclear Sweden AB (the Central Securities Depository – CSD), 
of which 1,334 holders had a US address. According to information provided by 
Citibank, there were 262,814,956 ADSs outstanding as of December 31, 2010, 
and 4,888 registered holders of such ADSs. A significant number of Ericsson 
ADSs are held by banks, broker and/or nominees for the accounts of their 
customer. As of December 31, 2010, the number of bank, broker and/or nominee 
accounts holding Ericsson ADSs was 196,360. 

According to information known at year-end 2010, almost 78 percent of 

our Class A and Class B shares were owned by institutions, Swedish and 
international.

Our major shareholders do not have different voting rights than other 

shareholders holding the same classes of shares.

As far as we know, the Company is not directly or indirectly owned or 
controlled by another corporation, by any foreign government or by any other 
natural or legal person(s) separately or jointly.

TOP EXECuTIvES AND bOARD MEMbERS, OwNERSHIP

SHAREHOlDERS

fIvE lARGEST COuNTRIES 
Percent of capital

Sweden: 45.85% (47.17%)

United States: 24.94% (24.29%)

United Kingdom: 8.17% (7.33%)

Norway: 2.45% (2.63%)

Singapore: 1.34% (0.58%)

Other countries: 17.25% (18.00%)

Number of
Class A shares

Number of
Class b shares

voting rights,
percent

Source: Capital Precision

Top executives and Board members as 
a group (31 persons)

For individual holdings, see Corporate Governance Report.

2,416 

3,937,920

0.07

The table shows the total number of shares in the Parent Company owned by top 
executives and Board members (including Deputy employee representatives) as a 
group as of December 31, 2010.

The following table shows share information, as of December 31, 2010, with respect to our 15 largest shareholders, ranked by voting 
rights, as well as percentage of voting rights as of December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

lARGEST SHAREHOlDERS, DECEMbER 31, 2010 AND PERCENTAGE Of vOTING RIGHTS, DECEMbER 31, 2010, 2009 AND 2008

Identity of person or group 1)

Investor AB
AB Industrivärden
Handelsbankens Pensionsstiftelse
Skandia Liv
Swedbank Robur Fonder AB
Pensionskassan SHB Försäkringsföreningen
BlackRock Fund Advisors
Dodge & Cox, Inc.
AMF Pensionsförsäkring AB
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Handelsbanken Fonder AB
Gamla Livförsäkringsbolaget SEB Trygg Liv
Aberdeen Asset Managers Ltd.
SEB Investment Management AB
PRIMECAP Management Co.
Others
Total

1)  Source: Capital Precision.

Number  
of Class A 
shares

102,664,038 
77,680,600 
19,800,000 
15,719,072 
1,495,549 
11,672,000 
0 
0 
800,000 
0 
1,340 
4,675,919 
0 
498,441 
0 
26,749,024
261,755,983

Of total  
Class A 
shares, 
percent

39.22 
29.68 
7.56 
6.01 
0.57 
4.46 
0.00 
0.00 
0.31 
0.00 
0.00 
1.79 
0.00 
0.19 
0.00 
10.21
100.00

Number  
of Class b  
shares

61,414,664 
0 
0 
10,745,693 
138,868,343 
0 
81,187,654 
80,330,400 
67,174,148 
72,416,412 
59,260,630 
12,275,600 
56,648,517 
50,604,935 
52,241,292 
2,268,427,464
3,011,595,752

Of total  
Class b 
shares, 
percent

2.04 
0.00 
0.00 
0.36 
4.61 
0.00 
2.70 
2.67 
2.23 
2.40 
1.97 
0.41 
1.88 
1.68 
1.73 
75.32 
100.00

2010  
voting  
rights, 
percent

19.33 
13.80 
3.52 
2.98 
2.73 
2.07 
1.44 
1.43 
1.34 
1.29 
1.05 
1.05 
1.01 
0.99 
0.93 
45.04 
100.00

2009  
voting  
rights, 
percent

19.33
13.62
3.52
3.02
3.07
2.25
1.81
1.05
1.30
1.29
0.94
0.98
0.71
0.89
0.83
45.39 
100.00

2008  
voting  
rights, 
percent

19.42
13.28
3.00
2.89
2.44
2.26
0.00
0.98
1.55
1.31
1.02
1.04
0.38
0.98
0.56
48.89 
100.00

SHAREXINFOXEN_v71.indd   15

2011-02-26   14.28

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  SHARE INFORMATION  |  15

Letter from the chairman

Letter from michaeL treSchoW

Dear shareholders,

When i summarized year 2009, i wrote that the key future opportunities for the 

industry and ericsson would be increased mobile traffic. in 2010 we saw massive 

data traffic uptake, driven by laptops and smartphones. the global mobile data 

traffic actually more than doubled. as a consequence, ericsson saw a growing 

demand for mobile broadband.

the telecom industry has for a very long time been characterized by rapid 

technology development and consolidation. along with the introduction of new 

technologies, ericsson’s business is becoming more and more services and 

software-related. management has taken action to adapt the company to this 

change and the implementation of a new organization has so far been smooth. 

this is an important foundation for ericsson’s future growth.

in 2010, ericsson acquired companies to the value of SeK 3.3 billion. many 

new employees came aboard during the year, 5,250 joined through acquisitions 

and about 1,300 through managed services contracts. the Board closely follows 

the integration of acquired businesses and the insourcing of new employees 

from operators via managed services contracts. ericsson has a well-established 

integration process and a culture where new colleagues quickly become a part of 

the company.

During the year, the Board has continued to monitor the company’s 

remuneration principles. the Board is of the opinion that ericsson has a well-

balanced and competitive compensation structure which rewards performance. We think it 

is beneficial that senior executives invest in shares and we hope the new long-term variable 

remuneration (LtV) program will prove to be motivational.

ericsson has a strong financial position with net cash of SeK 51.3 billion. a strong 

cash position is important since it gives the company the ability to play a role in industry 

consolidation and to strengthen its assets in areas such as systems integration and 

consulting. 

at my very first Board meeting in april 2002, ericsson was in a quite different situation. 

the company was in a financial crisis and at that meeting, we took the decision to propose 

a rights offering of SeK 30 billion. Since then we have paid back about SeK 41.9 billion in 

dividends to our shareholders, including the proposed dividend for 2010. in 2002 the share 

price declined below the subscription price of SeK 3.80 per B-share. following the rights 

offering the share price saw sustained growth until 2007. Since then the share price 

has underperformed.

it has been an exciting journey for me to help to steer ericsson and shape the industry 

during my years as chairman of the Board. i have introduced two new ceos and their 

management teams. We have seen the services part of the company grow to represent 

close to 40 percent of revenues. ericsson and the industry are now in the initial phase of 

rolling out mobile broadband on a large scale.

it is an exciting future ahead for ericsson. taking into account the company’s strong 

market and financial position, it is well positioned to continue to lead the industry.

after nine years in this position it is time to hand over to my successor. i wish the new 

chairman and ericsson all the best.

michael treschow

chairman of the Board

16  |  Letter from the chairman  ericsson annual report 2010 

BoDXINTROXCHAIRM_v39.indd   16

26/02/2011   14:15

BOARD OF  
DIRECTORS’ REpORT

Contents

VisioN aNd strategy 

BusiNess focus 

operatioNal goals aNd results 

fiNaNcial results of operatioNs 

fiNaNcial positioN 

cash flow 

BusiNess results 

legal aNd tax proceediNgs 

material coNtracts 

corporate goVerNaNce 

risk maNagemeNt 

sourciNg aNd supply 

sustaiNaBility aNd corporate respoNsiBility 

pareNt compaNy 

Board assuraNce 

18

19

21

22

24

26

28

35

36

36

37

37

38

40

41

This Board of Directors’ Report is based on Ericsson’s consolidated financial 
statements, prepared in accordance with IFRS as endorsed by the EU. The 
application of reasonable but subjective judgments, estimates and assumptions 
to accounting policies and procedures affects the reported amounts of assets 
and liabilities and contingent assets and liabilities at the balance sheet date as 
well as the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting 
period. These amounts could differ materially under different judgments, 
assumptions and estimates. Please see Note C2 – “Critical Accounting Estimates 
and Judgments” (p. 54). 

Also non-IFRS measures are used to provide meaningful supplemental 
information to the IFRS results. Non-IFRS measures are designed to facilitate 
analysis by indicating Ericsson’s underlying performance. However, these 
measures should not be viewed in isolation or as substitutes to the IFRS 
measures. A reconciliation of non-IFRS measures with the IFRS results can be 
found on page 22. 

This report includes forward-looking statements subject to risks and uncertainties. 
Actual developments could differ materially from those described or implied. Please 
see “Forward-Looking Statements” (p. 126) and “Risk Factors” (p. 119).

The external auditors review the quarterly interim reports, perform audits of the 

Annual Report and report their findings to the Board and its Audit Committee.

The terms “Ericsson”, “the Group”, and unless the context reasonably requires 

otherwise also “the Company”, all refer to Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson and 
its subsidiaries. The “Parent Company” solely refers to Telefonaktiebolaget LM 
Ericsson. Unless otherwise noted, numbers in parentheses refer to the previous 
year (i.e. 2009).

BODXPART1XEN_v93.indd   17

coNteNts

NET SAlES 
SEk 203.3 (206.5) 
BIllION
sales decreased –2%.

OpERATINg 
mARgIN 12% (12%)
ExCl. JOINT VENTURES AND 
RESTRUCTURINg ChARgES 
operating income was  
24.4 (24.6) billion.

CASh FlOw 
SEk 29.8 (28.7) 
BIllION
cash flow is adjusted for cash 
outlays for restructuring of  
sek 3.3 (4.2) billion.

Net sales aNd Net iNcome
SEK billion

250

200

150

100

50

0

26.4

179.8

22.122.1

208.9

206.5

203.3

187.8

11.7

11.2

4.1

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

  Net sales   

  Net income

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

30

26.4

operatiNg iNcome aNd 
operatiNg margiN
Excluding restructuring charges and share in 
earnings of JVs

22.1

25

20

12%

12%

11.7

24.6

24.4

11%

23.4

30

25

20

15

10

n
o

i
l
l
i

b
K
E
S

5
2006

0

2007

2008

2008

2009

2010

14%

12%

10%

8%

6%

4.1

4%

2%

2009

0%

  operating income   

  operating margin

26.4

22.1

15

10

5

0

30

25

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  BoARd of diREctoRS’ REpoRt  |  17

20

15

10

5

0

11.7

27/02/2011   13:54

4.1

2006

2007

2008

2009

n

o

i

l

l

i

b

K

E

S

11%

30

25

20

15

10

5

0

12%

12%

12%

12%

24.6

24.6

25

23.4

12%

12%

12%

12%

11%

11%

11%

11%

11%

10%

n

o

i

l

l

i

b

K

E

S

30

20

15

10

5

0

11%

12%

12%

12%

12%

11%

11%

11%

11%

11%

10%

2008

2009

2010

2008

2009

2010

 
 
 
VisioN aNd strategy

VISION

Ericsson’s vision is to be the prime driver in an all-
communicating world. the vision of an all-communicating world 
is rapidly becoming a reality as there are more than 5.3 billion 
subscriptions today for mobile telecommunications. Ericsson 
envisions a continued evolution, from having connected  
5 billion people to connecting 50 billion “things”. the company 
envisions that anything that can benefit from being connected 
will be connected, mainly via mobile broadband.

50 BillioN coNNectioNs iN 2020

s
n
o
i
t
c
e
n
n
o
c
n
o

i
l
l
i

B

50

40

30

20

10

0

Turning point for 
mobile communication

THINGS

PEOPLE

PLACES

1980

1990

2000

2010

2020

STRATEgy

By leveraging global presence and scale as well as technology 
and services leadership, Ericsson will continue to be the prime 
driver in the telecom industry. 

global presence and scale
Ericsson has today business in more than 180 countries. the 
company is the largest provider of operator equipment and 
with 45,000 service professionals, the company has secured 
scale advantages.

Going forward, Ericsson intends to increase its market share 
in the solution areas: communication Services, consumer and 
Business Applications, fixed Broadband and convergence, 
Managed Services, Mobile Broadband, operations and Business 
Support Systems and television and Media Management.

With its strong financial position, the company intends to 
grow also through acquisitions, targeting small and medium-
sized companies. 

Ericsson sees opportunities to increase its footprint, i.e. 
installed equipment base, mainly in Europe, where its market 
share is lower than the overall global position. By outperforming 
its competitors, there is an opportunity for the company to 
grow footprint by achieving a larger part of a roll-out project 
than initially assigned by the customer.

18  |  BoARd of diREctoRS’ REpoRt  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

market iNdicators

in understanding where the market is heading, Ericsson follows 
different drivers.

for segment Networks the company monitors the traffic 
development in the networks and the evolution of the installed 
equipment. these parameters vary between countries and 
regions. operators’ total capital expenditure is not a key 
indicator since only around 50 percent of the cost is related 
to telecom. of the telecom part, about 10-15 percent is 
designated for telecom equipment. Accordingly, operator 
capital expenditure can therefore decrease without necessarily 
impacting Ericsson sales.

for segment Global Services, it is relevant to study 

operators’ operating expenses, since Ericsson offers services 
and solutions to reduce their operating cost.

Multimedia is more fragmented, with a number of parameters 

for different parts of the business.

BusiNess mix

Ericsson’s Group margins depend to a high degree on the 
business mix with the proportion of services, software and 
hardware content as well as type of projects. Rolling out a 
new network, increasing coverage, or modernizing a network, 
means deploying hardware, i.e. radio base stations (RBSs) and 
controllers, on a large scale. these projects are often won in 
open tenders in a highly competitive environment. Later, after 
deployment, the hardware will be regularly upgraded with 
software to enable for example higher data speeds and new 
functionality/features. these upgrades normally provide the 
company with more even revenue streams. the initial large 
projects are a necessary first step to secure future software and 
services business when upgrades and/or expansions of the 
networks take place.

technology leadership
By continuing to invest in research and development (R&d), the 
company will secure its technology leadership. the objectives 
are to deliver superior performance and to be the thought 
leader in the industry. 

Ericsson has one of the industry’s largest organizations  

for R&d.

research aNd deVelopmeNt

the company’s total spend on R&d was SEK 29.9 (27.0) billion 
excluding restructuring charges. More than 20,000 people work 
in developing products and solutions. With approximately 600 
research engineers, research accounts for about three percent 
of the overall investment in R&d. 

All research is closely connected to future solutions and 
products. the applied research usually targets products that will 
reach the market within three to five years. Research performed 
in the areas of multimedia and user services target products 
and solutions which are closer in time. An increasing part of 
the solutions are software based which requires a different 
mode of operation in R&d. during the last years, developing 

BODXPART1XEN_v93.indd   18

27/02/2011   13:54

 
the company’s software capabilities has been important and a 
key part of this has been to implement new ways of working. 
An agile engineering method has been implemented, allowing 
quick response to market changes. the new ways of working as 
well as product packaging, enable online delivery of software, 
and new customization possibilities. the strategy to develop 
software-based solutions also means new business models in 
the customer engagement, such as software subscription or 
software-as-a-service.

the research activities are performed in-house as well as 
in collaboration with research institutes and universities. An 
essential part of the research work is performed in parallel 
with standardization work. Standardization is performed 
together with peers in different industry bodies. open 
standards are a foundation for the industry in order to secure 
ecosystems and interoperability. 

to speed up the transfer of knowledge and research 
concepts into product development, research engineers 
responsible for the initial project usually move along to the 
product development units. to fill the gap in the research 
organization, Ericsson continuously recruits talented research 
engineers with the task to take on new projects. 

When developing new technologies such as 3G/WcdMA or 
4G/LtE, the project cycles have normally been longer, up to ten 
years. However, when developing new services or applications 
other project models have been created with shorter lead-times, 
sometimes only a few months. in order to shorten the time from 
idea to product, Ericsson has introduced beta tests with up to 
1,000 users trying out new services and applications. A focus 
area for Ericsson is now how to support the commercialization 
of these ideas into new solutions.

Every quarter, the executive team in Ericsson reviews the 
project portfolio in R&d. Return on investment is calculated as 
net present value for the different projects.

Read more about Ericsson’s R&d in 2010 on page 20.

iNtellectual property rights aNd liceNsiNg

the intellectual property rights (ipR) are licensed to other 
companies (infrastructure equipment suppliers, embedded module 
suppliers, handset suppliers and mobile application developers) 
in return for royalty payments and/or access to their ipRs. the 
company is of the opinion that it has access to all essential 
patents that are material to the business in part or in whole. the 
net revenue from ipRs was about SEK 4.6 (4.5) billion in 2010.

services leadership
With 45,000 service professionals across the world, the 
company has the industry’s largest services organization. the 
company provides managed services, consulting and systems 
integration, customer support and network rollout.
the services organization, with its broad skills and experiences, 
provides a competitive advantage for sales of infrastructure. 
drawing on the experiences gained in providing services 

related to the infrastructure business, the company is also 
able to offer new, more advanced and stand-alone services, 

BusiNess focus 2010

such as managing data centers. A key area is to develop new 
business models such as network sharing and new ways of 
bundling technology and services. the company has over the 
years strengthened its competence in services through the 
insourcing of staff from telecom operators and acquiring small 
and medium-sized companies in the field of consulting and 
systems integration. 

moving into new industry segments
Ericsson has in 2010 taken the decision to increase its efforts to 
approach customers in new segments, such as governments, 
health industry, transport and utilities. these are industries with 
either similar business models as telecom operators and/or 
obvious benefits from mobile broadband. 

guiding principles
the basic principles for Ericsson’s strategy are:
 > customer intimacy; highly qualified employees working 
closely with the customer to create effective solutions

 > continuous process improvements and innovation in all areas
 > Scale in delivery and technical solutions.

BUSINESS FOCUS

meeting demand for mobile broadband worldwide
the business focus in 2010 has been to provide operators 
with mobile broadband. the most obvious driver of this 
development was the massive data traffic growth, especially in 
the US and Japan. 

Recently introduced mobile devices such as smartphones 

and tablets drive data traffic and the need for higher speeds 
and enhanced capacity in the networks.

telecom operators across the world see an increasing part 
of their revenues emerging from data, although voice still is the 
main source for sales revenues. for some operators in Japan, 
mobile data represents more than 50 percent of total revenues. 
in many countries, such as the US, operators have introduced 
tiered pricing for mobile data services, further spurring demand 
for data services. in addition, quality of service has become a 

moBile BroadBaNd growth
Subscriptions (billion)

5.0

4.5

4.0

3.5

3.0

2.5

2.0

1.5

1.0

0.5

0

2010

2016

  Mobile pc and tablets 

  Handheld devices

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  BoARd of diREctoRS’ REpoRt  |  19

BODXPART1XEN_v93.indd   19

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BusiNess focus 2010

differentiator for operators, driving investments for expansions 
and upgrades.

for Ericsson, this resulted in an increasing demand for mobile 
broadband and quicker than expected ramp-up of volumes of the 
new radio-base station RBS 6000. during the first half of 2010, 
Ericsson was still impacted by the cautious operator investments 
that started in the second half of 2009. the company also put 
a lot of focus on mitigating the effects of the industry-wide 
component shortage that occurred mid 2010. While the supply 
of components has now normalized, we are still not fully meeting 
the increased demand on certain mobile broadband products. 
the total global number of mobile subscriptions is 5.3 billion. 
in 2010, mobile broadband subscriptions increased more than 
60 percent to approximately 600 million, still only representing 
some 10 percent of total mobile subscriptions. Ericsson 
expects the strong uptake for mobile broadband to continue 
in 2011. Already in 2011, the number of mobile broadband 
subscriptions is expected to hit one billion. this development 
is mainly driven by the use of smartphones. devices with 
embedded modules such as tablets are also expected to show 
continuously strong growth.

increasing market share
in 2010, focus was also on increasing footprint in Europe and to 
secure footprint in the rollout of 3G networks in india. in Europe, 
approximately 800,000 radio-base stations are expected to 
be replaced. these base stations were installed before 2004 
and consume 30 percent more energy than new equipment. 
Since energy represents a significant part of the total operating 
expenses of a radio site, replacement is a good business case. 
Ericsson has seen the initial modernization of networks in 
Europe and has so far managed to gain contracts in countries 
where the company previously had a weaker position. 
However, modernization projects typically last for a couple of 
years, so it is still too early to conclude what the company’s 
market position will be. Ericsson has in general a lower market 
share in Europe than in the rest of the world. this was a result 
of the 3G rollouts that took place in Europe approximately eight 
years ago. Ericsson was then in a financially turbulent situation 
and lost out on certain 3G deals. 

in india, 3G rollouts started in 2010 and Ericsson has 

maintained a market share in line with its 2G position.

Ericsson also acquired companies to strengthen its market 

position:
 > Nortel’s GSM business in North America with 350 employees
 > Nortel’s share in LG-Nortel in Korea with 1,300 employees.
Ericsson also signed agreements to acquire GdNt, a chinese 
R&d and services company with 1,100 employees, and the 
Nortel multi-service switch business. these two businesses 
were not consolidated in 2010.

technology
Ericsson invested SEK 29.9 (27.0) billion in R&d in 2010, 
excluding restructuring charges. the increase is mainly a result 
of consolidation of acquired companies. 

20  |  BoARd of diREctoRS’ REpoRt  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

of the total cost for development of new products in 
2010, the majority was spent on further enhancements of 3G/
WcdMA/HSpA as well as 4G/LtE. Resources are also spent 
on further adaptations of 2G/GSM although at lower levels 
compared to previous years.

the complexity in the industry with a number of 

technologies installed, new solutions and services as well as 
more frequencies used, requires continued efforts in R&d to 
secure Ericsson’s technology leadership also in coming years.
current radio research focus is on ensuring that radio 
networks can handle the massive data growth that we have 
experienced since introducing mobile broadband technologies.
Ericsson held 27,000 (25,000) granted patents globally 
as of december 31, 2010. the company is expected to hold 
approximately 25 percent of all essential patents in LtE.

the company has a number of essential patents relating to 
GSM, Edge, WcdMA, HSpA, td-ScdMA, cdMA2000, WiMAX 
and LtE. Ericsson also holds patents in other areas, including 
iMS, voice-over-ip, AtM, messaging, WAp, Bluetooth, SdH/
SoNEt, WdM and carrier Ethernet.

Read more about Ericsson’s R&d strategy and ipR’s on 

page 18.

increasing services business
in 2010, 54 (30) managed services contracts were signed, with 
fixed, mobile and cable operators and for enterprise networks. 
26 (9) of the contracts were extensions or expansions.

the year was also characterized by further acquisitions. the 

company acquired companies in the area of consulting and 
systems integrations: 
 > pride in italy with 1,000 employees

incode, a US strategy and consulting firm with 45 employees

 >
 > optimi, a US-Spanish network management and 

optimization company with 200 employees.

competence and skills
Ericsson introduced a new go-to-market model in 2010. the 
company set up ten regions, replacing the former 23 market 
units. the regions approach customers with solutions, covering 
services, software and hardware. By this, Ericsson will move from 
a product-led to a solutions-led sales approach, selling the full 
breadth of the portfolio. the company also started up projects in 
the regions, developing solutions for new customer segments.
At year end, Ericsson had 90,261 (82,493) employees. in 
2010, 5,250 individuals joined Ericsson through acquisitions 
and about 1,300 through managed services contracts. 
Approximately 5,000 were made redundant and 6,000 were 
recruited. the vast majority of recruitments took place in india, 
china and Brazil. these new recruitments were primarily made 
within the areas of R&d and service delivery. 

Half of the workforce, 45,000 people, are service 

professionals. the competence and capabilities of the company’s 
employees is increasingly service and software oriented. 

BODXPART1XEN_v93.indd   20

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OpERATIONAl gOAlS 
AND RESUlTS 

Ericsson’s overall goal is to create shareholder value. 
Management uses four metrics to monitor the company’s overall 
performance: faster than market sales growth, a best-in-class 
margin, a strong cash conversion and growth in JV earnings.

shareholder value creation

oBJectiVes

GROW FASTER THAN THE MARKET

BEST IN CLASS OPERATING MARGINS

STRONG CASH CONVERSION >70%

GROWTH IN JV EARNINGS

grow faster thaN the market

the company is the largest provider of operator equipment. in 
the market for 4G/LtE, the company’s market share is higher 
than for earlier radio technology generations since Ericsson has 
managed to get a good start in the rollout of 4G/LtE. the 4G/
LtE market is still small though, since it is in its initial phase. 
When including cdMA in the operator equipment market, 
Ericsson increased its market share in 2010 due to the acquired 
Nortel business. in professional services, the company is 
estimated to have kept or slightly increased its market share. 
the overall market position for segment Multimedia is difficult 
to assess, as the market is fragmented.

Best-iN-class operatiNg margiN

the operating margin for the company, excluding joint 
ventures and restructuring charges, was 12 (12) percent. 
Based on reported results for 2010, the margin remains the 
highest among the company’s traditional telecom competitors 
that are publicly listed. 

cash coNVersioN of oVer 70 perceNt

the cash conversion rate for 2010 was 112 (117) percent, 
reflecting a strong focus on cash flow and a higher net income. 
cash conversion is defined as cash flow from operating 
activities divided by net income reconciled to cash.

operatioNal goals aNd results

growth iN JV earNiNgs

JV earnings improved in 2010 to SEK –0.7 (–6.1) billion, 
excluding restructuring charges. Ericsson’s share in earnings in 
Sony Ericsson was SEK 0.9 (–4.8) billion, excluding restructuring 
charges, and in St-Ericsson SEK –1.5 (–1.3) billion, excluding 
restructuring charges. Sony Ericsson’s improved results were 
driven by a streamlined product portfolio focused on higher-end 
smartphones and an improved cost structure. St-Ericsson is 
on its way of completing the transition program and has new 
products coming. 

other performance indicators
Ericsson believes that satisfied customers and motivated 
employees are key to success. 

customer satisfactioN

Every year, an independent customer satisfaction survey is 
performed. in 2010, approximately 10,000 representatives, 
in different professions, of Ericsson customers around the 
world were polled to assess their satisfaction with Ericsson, 
compared to its main competitors. over the past five years, 
Ericsson has maintained a level of excellence. the goal is to 
increase this level further.

employee eNgagemeNt

in 2004 Ericsson began measuring motivation among its 
employees. this survey is conducted by an independent 
company. in 2010, 87 (91) percent of all employees across the 
world responded to the survey. the human capital index, which 
measures employee contribution in adding value for customers 
and meeting business goals, was 72 (69). this is a high level, 
but as with customer satisfaction, the objective is to further 
increase employee engagement and motivation.

customer satisfactioN aNd 
employee eNgagemeNt

80

70

60

50

40

Excellence

Strength

Potential

Improvements needed

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

customer satisfaction

Employee engagement

BODXPART1XEN_v93.indd   21

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  BoARd of diREctoRS’ REpoRt  |  21

Financial results oF operations

Financial results oF operations

abbreviated income statement with reconciliation iFrs – non-iFrs measures

seK billion

Net sales
cost of sales
Gross income
Gross margin %
operating expenses
operating expenses as 
% of sales
other operating income 
and expenses
operating income before share in 
earnings of Jvs and associated 
companies
operating margin % before share in 
earnings of JVs and associated 
companies
share in earnings of JVs and 
associated companies
operating income
operating margin %
Financial income and expense, net
taxes
net income
eps diluted (seK)

           iFrs
2009

2010

2008

203.3
–129.1
74.3

206.5
–136.3
70.2

208.9
–134.6
74.3
36.5% 34.0% 35.5%
–60.6
–60.0
–58.6

28.8% 29.0% 29.0%

restructuring charges
2010

2009

2008

–3.4
–3.4

–4.2
–4.2

–2.5
–2.5

–3.5

–7.1

–4.2

       non-iFrs 
       measures

2010

2009

percent 
change

non-iFrs 
measures
2008

203.3
–125.7
77.6
38.2%
–55.2

206.5
–132.1
74.4
36.0%
–52.9

27.1%

25.6%

–2%
–5%
4%

4%

208.9
–132.1
76.8
36.8%
–56.4

27.0%

2.0

3.1

3.0

–

–

–

2.0

3.1

–35%

3.0

17.6

13.3

16.7

–6.8

–11.3

–6.7

24.4

24.6

–1%

23.4

–0.5
–7.3

–1.3
–12.6

–0.9
–7.6

12.0%

11.9%

–0.7
23.7
11.7%

–6.1
18.5
9.0%

11.2%

0.4
23.9
11.4%

28%

8.7%

6.5%

8.0%

–1.2
16.5
8.1%
–0.7
–4.5
11.2
3.46

–7.4
5.9
2.9%
0.3
–2.1
4.1
1.14

–0.4
16.3
7.8%
1.0
–5.6
11.7
3.52

Non-IFRS measures are used in the income statement as supplemental information to the IFRS results. Since there were significant 
restructuring costs during 2008, 2009 and 2010 and consequently significant impact on reported results and margins, non-IFRS 
measures excluding restructuring charges are presented to facilitate analysis by indicating Ericsson’s underlying performance. 
However, these measures should not be viewed in isolation or as substitutes to the IFRS measures. For more details on the 
restructuring activities and corresponding charges, please see Note C5 – “Expenses by Nature”.

soFtware, hardware and 
services share oF sales

s
e
a
s

l

l

a
t
o
T

100%

80%

26%

24%

60%

36%

37%

40%

20%

0%

38%

39%

2009

2010

software

Hardware

services

Financial results of operations
Growth of sales, operating margin and net income are the overriding targets. in 
2010, sales did not increase despite the strong demand for mobile broadband in 
the second half of the year. However, net income improved significantly, mainly 
due to improvements in sony ericsson earnings and less restructuring charges. 
for 2011, the main objectives remain. to achieve these targets, an essential 
ingredient is a continued focus on cost and internal efficiency work. 

sales
the cautious operator investments that started to impact in the second half of 
2009 continued during the first half 2010. in the second half of 2010 demand 
for mobile broadband started to increase. during part of the year, the company 
struggled with the industry-wide component shortage. at year end, the supply 
of components had normalized. despite necessary inflow of components, the 
company could at year-end not fully meet the increased demand on certain 
mobile broadband products. in 2010, voice related sales decreased and the 
increase in demand for mobile broadband products and services could not fully 
compensate for that decline. 

sales were also negatively impacted by the strong seK. sales for comparable 

units, adjusted for currency exchange rate effects and hedging, decreased  
–7 percent.

in 2010, the company saw the share of software sales decline to 24 (26) percent 

of sales. the portion of hardware increased to 37 (36) percent. the increase in 

22  |  Board of directors’ report  ericsson annual report 2010 

BODXPART2XEN_v95.indd   22

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Financial results oF operations
business drivers

operating income 

operating income increased significantly, due to improved 
earnings in sony ericsson.

Financial net
the financial net was seK –0.7 (0.3) billion. the difference is 
mainly attributable to a negative impact of around seK 0.6 
billion due to foreign exchange currency revaluation effects and 
lower interest net of seK 0.3 billion compared to 2009. 

taxes
the tax expense for the year was seK 4.5 (2.1) billion or 28.8 
(33.9) percent of income after financial items. the tax rate may 
vary between years depending on business and geographic 
mix. the tax rate excluding joint ventures and associated 
companies was 25.7 (25.7) percent due to lower tax rate from 
the loss-making joint venture.

net income
Net income increased seK 7.1 billion to seK 11.2 (4.1) billion 
as a result of improved earnings in sony ericsson and less 
restructuring charges.  

earnings per share, diluted
earnings per share increased by seK 2.32 to seK 3.46 (1.14), 
as a result of improved net income. the Board of directors 
proposes a dividend of seK 2.25 (2.00).

restructuring charges
total restructuring charges were seK 6.8 (11.3) billion. cash 
outlays was seK 3.3 (4.2) billion. a cost reduction program was 
initiated in 2009 and completed by the second quarter 2010. 
charges of seK 4.2 billion were taken in 2010 related to the 
program. in the second half of the year, an additional seK 2.6 
billion in charges were taken. these charges primarily relate to 
efficiency activities in service delivery, product development 
and administration. at the end of the year, cash outlays of seK 
3.2 billion remain to be made. in 2011, restructuring charges of 
approximately seK 2 billion are estimated.

research and development proGram

2010

2009

2008

expenses (seK billion) 1)
as percent of Net sales
employees within r&d as at december 31 2) 20,800
patents 2)
27,000

30.9
14.7% 13.1% 14.8%
19,800
18,300
24,000
25,000

29.9

27.0

1) excluding restructuring charges.

2) the number of employees and patents are approximate.

hardware is a result of demand for mobile broadband products. 
in the short term, the software share might continue to decrease 
due to a higher portion of projects with a lot of hardware. 
Longer term, the software part should increase following more 
expansions and upgrades of networks.

seasonality
the company’s quarterly sales, income and cash flow from 
operations are seasonal in nature, generally lowest in the first 
quarter of the year and highest in the fourth quarter. this is mainly 
a result of the seasonal purchase patterns of network operators. 

most recent Five-year averaGe seasonality

First 
quarter

second 
quarter

third 
quarter

Fourth 
quarter

sequential change
share of annual sales

–21%
22%

9%
25%

–5%
23%

30%
30%

Gross margin
Gross margin, excluding restructuring, improved to 38 (36) 
percent due to business mix with a higher proportion of 
network upgrades and expansions. cost of sales was also 
reduced as a result of efficiency work. 

operating expenses
to secure continued technology leadership, focus is on 
innovation and r&d. r&d expenses amounted to seK 29.9 
(27.0) billion. spending on r&d as a percentage of sales was 
15 (13) percent. the increase is a result of lower sales, higher 
investments in certain r&d areas and the acquired Nortel and 
LG-ericsson operations. in 2011, r&d expenses of seK 31-33 
billion is estimated, including restructuring charges. the amount 
might fluctuate due to currency exchange rate effects.

selling and administrative expenses, excluding restructuring 

charges, was stable in relation to sales 12 (13) percent. the 
amount was seK 25.3 (25.9) billion. in the year, there were 
positive effects from efficiency work along with the strong 
seK. However, costs for the integration of acquired companies 
impacted negatively. the company also conducted a growing 
number of Lte trials across the world which increased selling 
and administrative expenses. 

operating margin before Jvs
despite the improved gross margin, operating margin, before 
share in JV earnings and excluding restructuring charges, was flat 
at 12 (12) percent. this was an effect of increased r&d expenses. 

share in earnings of Jvs
sony ericsson returned to profit in 2010, after two years 
of losses. the turnaround has been possible thanks to 
restructuring and a streamlined product portfolio focused on 
higher-end smartphones. 

st-ericsson is still reporting a loss. the company is on its 
way of completing the transition program and has new products 
coming. ericsson’s share in sony ericsson’s income before 
tax was seK 0.9 (–4.8) billion, excluding restructuring charges. 
ericsson’s share in st-ericsson’s income before tax, adjusted to 
ifrs, was seK –1.5 (–1.3) billion, excluding restructuring charges.

BODXPART2XEN_v95.indd   23

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ericsson annual report 2010  Board of directors’ report  |  23

Financial position

Financial position

consolidated balance sheet (abbreviated)

december 31, 
seK billion

assets

Non-current assets, total

of which intangible assets

of which property, plant and equipment

of which financial assets

of which deferred tax assets

current assets, total

of which inventory

of which trade receivables

of which other receivables/financing
of which short-term investments, cash 
and cash equivalents

total assets

2010

2009

2008

2010

2009

2008

83.4

46.8

9.4

14.5

12.7

87.4

48.2

9.6

15.3

14.3

87.2

48.2

10.0

14.1

14.9

eQuity and liabilities

equity

Non-current liabilities

of which post-employment benefits

 of which borrowings

of which other non-current liabilities

198.4

182.4

198.5

current liabilities

29.9

61.1

20.2

87.2

281.8

22.7

66.4

16.6

76.7

269.8

27.8

75.9

19.8

75.0

 of which provisions

 of which current borrowings

of which trade payables
of which other current liabilities

146.8

141.0

142.1

38.3

5.1

27.0

6.2

96.8

9.4

3.8

25.0
58.6

43.3

8.5

30.0

4.8

85.5

12.0

2.1

18.9
52.5

39.5

9.9

24.9

4.7

104.1

14.0

5.5

23.5
61.0

285.7

total equity and liabilities 1)

281.8

269.8

285.7

1) of which interest-bearing liabilities and post-employment benefits seK 35.9 billion (seK 40.7 billion in 2009).

Key ratios

120

100

80

85

71

60

54

106

106

102

70

57

68

55

68

57

88

74

62

0

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

days sales outstanding 
target is less than 90 days

inventory turnover days
target is less than 65 days

payable days 
target is more than 60 days

ericsson’s strategy is to maintain a strong balance sheet including a sufficiently 
large cash position to ensure the financial flexibility to operate freely and to 
capture business opportunities. this has been particularly important during the 
past years’ difficult macroeconomic and financial market situation.

By maintaining a strong cash position, the company can also maintain an 
active strategy for mergers and acquisitions. during 2010, ericsson made five 
acquisitions and strengthened its market position in the Usa and Korea along 
with adding competencies in consulting and systems integration. 

an important focus area is the release of working capital. Major efforts 
have been made during the year in order to reduce days sales outstanding 
and inventory turnover days as well as to increase payable days. the target for 
inventory turnover days was not met, while the other two were achieved. the 
efforts to release further working capital will continue in 2011.

at year end, the strong seK impacted net operating assets positively when 

translating assets denominated in foreign currencies into seK.

the Board of directors will propose to the annual General Meeting 2011 a 
dividend of seK 2.25 per share. in 2010, the dividend was seK 2.00 per share. 
When considering the level of dividend, the Board of directors take into account 
the need to secure a continued strong cash position as well as capital needed in 
order to secure a healthy business going forward.

current assets
inventory levels have been higher than expected due to the industry-wide 
component shortage and supply chain bottlenecks. at year end, inventory was 
seK 29.9 (22.7) billion. the higher inventory level followed a higher level of work in 
progress in the regions. this was an effect from delayed project implementations 
within network rollout due to the component shortage earlier in the year. effects 
from component shortage and supply chain bottlenecks were eliminated at year 
end while there was still an impact of slightly higher component inventories. 
the target of inventory turnover days less than 65 days was not reached and 
improvement efforts will continue in 2011.

24  |  Board of directors’ report  ericsson annual report 2010 

BODXPART2XEN_v95.indd   24

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trade receivables: days sales outstanding reached high levels in parts of the 
year, but had improved significantly at year end,  reaching 88 (106) days at year 
end. the improvement was mainly due to a strong collection and positive effects 
from a stronger seK. the company’s nominal credit losses have historically been 
low and continued to be so in 2010. 
net cash increased to seK 51.3 (36.1) billion, mainly due to a strong operating 
cash flow. read more about changes in cash on page 26.

equity
equity increased by seK 5.8 billion to seK 146.8 (141.0) billion. Net income was 
seK 11.2 (4.1) billion and a dividend of seK 6.7 (6.3) billion was paid during the 
year. the equity ratio was maintained at a healthy level of 52 (52) percent.

return on equity increased to 7.8 (2.6) percent, primarily due to improved 

earnings in the joint venture sony ericsson and less restructuring charges.

return on capital employed (roce) improved to 9.6 (4.3) percent. excluding 

restructuring charges, roce would have been 13.6 (11.2) percent.

non-current liabilities
post-employment benefits related to defined benefit plans declined to seK 5.1 
(8.5) billion. the year 2010 was characterized by a general increase in discount 
rates and plan assets yielded higher than expected. consequently, the company 
experienced a decrease in the net pension liability and the funded ratio (plan 
assets as percentage of defined benefit obligations) increased to 89 (76) percent. 

current liabilities
provisions declined to seK 9.4 (12.0) billion. seK 3.2 (4.3) billion were related 
to restructuring. the cash outlays of provisions were seK 7.2 billion. the lower 
amount of provisions is mainly a result of business mix with more upgrades and 
expansions. there is also an effect of improved project management as well as 
geographical mix. provisions will fluctuate over time, depending on business mix, 
market mix and technology shifts.
payable days increased by five days to 62 (57) days. the target of payable days 
of above 60 days was met.
non-current borrowings decreased to seK 27.0 (30.0) billion. No major changes 
were made in the debt maturity profile during 2010. debt of seK 3.4 billion is 
maturing in 2012 and seK 5.4 billion in 2013. the company also has unutilized 
committed credit facilities of Usd 2.0 billion available, maturing in 2014.

credit ratings at “solid investment grade”
credit ratings were unchanged during 2010, remaining at “solid investment grade”: 
Moody’s at Baa1 and standard & poor’s at BBB+, both with stable outlook.

off-balance sheet arrangements
there are currently no material off-balance sheet arrangements that have, 
or would be reasonably likely to have, a current or anticipated effect on the 
company’s financial condition, revenues, expenses, result of operations, liquidity, 
capital expenditures or capital resources.

Financial position

debt maturity proFile
seK billion

5.4

1.21.2

4.0

4.5

3.4

3.4

2.0

1.2

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

0
1
0
2

1
1
0
2

2
1
0
2

3
1
0
2

4
1
0
2

5
1
0
2

6
1
0
2

7
1
0
2

0
2
0
2

Notes and bonds

financial leases

Loan from the european 
investment Bank

Loan from the swedish export 
credit corporation
Loan from the swedish export 
credit corporation, guaranteed 
by the swedish export credit 
Guarantee Board

return on capital employed
percent

30

24

18

12

6

0

27.4%

20.9%

11.2%
11.3%

9.6%

4.3%
4.3%

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

BODXPART2XEN_v95.indd   25

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ericsson annual report 2010  Board of directors’ report  |  25

cash Flow

cash Flow

cash Flow (abbreviated) January-december

seK billion

Net income

income reconciled to cash

changes in operating net assets

cash flow from operating activities

adjusted operating cash flow 1)

cash flow from investing activities

of which capital expenditures, sales of PP&E, product development

 of which acquisitions/divestments, net

of which short-term investments for cash management purposes and other investing activities

cash flow before financing activities

cash flow from financing activities

cash conversion (cash flow from operating activities divided by income reconciled to cash)

Gross cash (cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments)

Net cash (Gross cash less interest-bearing liabilities and post-employment benefits)

1)  cash flow from operations excl. restructuring cash outlays that have been provided for.

2010

11.2

23.7

2.9

26.6

29.8

–12.5

–5.2

–2.8

–4.5

14.0

–5.7

112%

87.1

51.3

2009

4.1

21.0

3.5

24.5

28.7

–37.5

–4.9

–18.1

–14.5

–13.0

–1.7

117%

76.7

36.1

2008

11.7

26.0

–2.0

24.0

22.1

–8.5

–4.1

1.8

–6.2

15.5

–7.2

92%

75.0

34.7

at the end of the year, gross cash had increased by seK 10.4 
billion to seK 87.2 (76.7) billion. the increase was mainly 
attributed to a strong cash flow from operating activities of seK 
26.6 (24.5) billion, offsetting investing activities of seK 12.5 (37.5) 
billion and a dividend to shareholders of seK 6.7 (6.3) billion. 

Net cash increased to seK 51.3 (36.1) billion. 

cash flow from operating activities
the adjusted operating cash flow was positively impacted by 
improved net income as well as released working capital. 

cash flow from operating activities tends to fluctuate between 
quarters. this is due to changes in trade receivables where there 
is a seasonal effect from project completion. there is also an 
effect from seasonal purchase patterns of network operators. 
the cash flow is therefore evaluated on a yearly basis.

cash flow from investing activities
cash outlays for recurring investing activities increased slightly 
to seK –5.2 (–4.9) billion.

acquisitions and divestments during the year were net seK 
–2.8 (–18.1) billion, with the major items being the Nortel stake 
in the LG-Nortel joint venture and Nortel’s GsM business in 
North america. divestments were seK 0.5 (1.2) billion.
cash outflow for short-term investments for cash 

management purposes and other investing activities was net 
seK –4.5 (–14.5) billion, largely attributable to seK –3.0 (–17.1) 
billion of short-term investments.

capital expenditures

annual capital expenditures are normally around two percent of 
sales and are expected to remain at this level. this corresponds 
to the needs for keeping and maintaining the current 
capacity level, including the introduction of new technology 
and methods. the expenditures are largely related to test 
equipment in r&d units, network operations centers as well as 
manufacturing and repair operations.

the Board of directors reviews the company’s investment 

plans and proposals.

the company has sufficient cash and cash generation 
capacity to fund expected capital expenditures as well as 
acquisitions without external borrowings in 2011. 

We believe that the company’s property, plant and 

equipment and the facilities the company occupies are suitable 
for its present needs in most locations. as of december 31, 
2010, no material land, buildings, machinery or equipment were 
pledged as collateral for outstanding indebtedness.

capital eXpenditures 2006–2010

seK billion

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

capital expenditures

of which in Sweden

3.7

1.4

4.0

1.3

4.1

1.6

4.3

1.3

3.8

1.0

as percent of net sales

1.8%

1.9%

2.0%

2.3%

2.2%

26  |  Board of directors’ report  ericsson annual report 2010 

BODXPART2XEN_v95.indd   26

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cash flow from financing activities

restricted cash

dividends paid in the amount of seK –6.7 (–6.3) billion, were 
partly offset by increased borrowings of seK 1.1 billion and 
other financing activities of seK –0.1 billion.

cash balances in certain countries with restrictions on transfers 
of funds to the parent company as cash dividends, loans or 
advances amounted to seK 10.8 (8.9) billion.

cash Flow

cash conversion

cash conversion was 112 (117) percent, well above the 
target of 70 percent. over the past three years, cash conversion 
has been above target.

the cash conversion was largely attributable to the strong 

improvement in net operating assets and the lower income 
reconciled to cash.

chanGe in Gross cash 2010
seK billion

110

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

Operating cash flow 26.6 b

Investing activities  –10.2 b*

Financing activities  –5.7 b

FX on cash  
–0.3 b

6.1
6.1

23.7

–3.3
–3.3

–3.7

76.7

Adjusted cash flow SEK 29.8

–6.5
–6.5

1.0
1.0

–6.7

–0.3

87.2

   Change in gross cash SEK 10.4 bILLION 

Gross cash
opening balance

Net income
reconciled
to cash

Change net
operating
assets excl.
restructuring

Restructuring

Capex

Acquisitions,
divestments
and other

Dividend

Other financing
activities

FX on cash

Gross cash
closing balance

*  as disclosed under financial terminology, Gross cash is defined as cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments. cash, as presented in the balance sheet and 
related notes includes cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of a maturity less than three months. due to different treatment of cash in the above table 
and related foreign currency impact, the amounts differ from those in other presentations of cash flows.

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ericsson annual report 2010  Board of directors’ report  |  27

buSineSS reSultS

SaleS by region 2010
Net sales (SEK billion and percent)

4%

7%

7 . 4

4 . 9

1

6
2

2

.

9

6

.

8

1

.
5

1

13%

5%

4%

24%

4

9
.

5

1
7
.9

12.2

7%

22.6

1

9

.9

6%

11%

10%

North america

Latin america

Northern Europe and central asia

Western and central Europe

Mediterranean

Middle East

india

Sub-Saharan africa

china and North East asia

South East asia and oceania

other*

the contracts mentioned are a selection of deals 
signed by Ericsson in 2010. Ericsson normally publicly 
announces only a part of its wins. typically only 
agreements that have some kind of significance in terms 
of strategy or value are announced via a press release. 
Ericsson also always seeks for customer approval for 
any contract release.

SaleS Per region anD 
SegMent 2010
SEK billion

north aMerica

Business Results

regional development
the regions are the company’s primary sales channels. as of January 1, 2010, 
Ericsson has changed its geographical reporting. instead of the five geographical 
areas reported in previous years, ten regions are reported, mirroring the new 
internal geographical organization. 

SaleS Per region anD SegMent 2010

9%

SeK billion

networks

global 
Services

Multi-
media

North America
Latin America 
Northern Europe & Central Asia
Western & Central Europe
Mediterranean
Middle East
Sub-Saharan Africa
India
China & North East Asia
South East Asia & Oceania
Other*
total
Share of total
percent change

30.5
9.2
7.2
8.3
10.6
7.2
3.6
5.1
17.1
7.8
6.0
112.7
56%
–1%

17.7
7.7
4.3
10.5
10.6
6.6
4.6
2.8
8.3
6.5
0.5
80.1
39%
1%

1.3
0.9
0.6
1.0
1.4
1.4
1.0
0.7
0.5
0.6
1.1
10.5
5 %
–21%

Percent 
change

107%
–11%
2%
–12%
–10%
–17%
–40%
–43%
0%
–29%
4%
–2%

total

49.5
17.9
12.2
19.9
22.6
15.1
9.2
8.6
26.0
14.9
7.4
203.3
100%
–2%

* other – this includes sales of e.g. mobile broadband modules, cables, power modules as well as licensing and 
ipr. Mobile broadband modules are sold directly by business unit Networks to pc/netbook manufacturers. a 
central ipr unit manages sales of licenses to equipment vendors or others who wish to use Ericsson’s patented 
technology. tV solutions are sold both through other equipment vendors as resellers and directly by business 
unit Multimedia to cable-tV operators.

north aMerica

Sales was positively impacted by the acquired Nortel businesses and negatively 
affected by the strong SEK. Ericsson became the largest player in the region, 
driven by organic growth as well as acquisitions. the main growth drivers were the 
managed services agreement with Sprint, data traffic driven network expansions 
and the initial build out of LtE networks. Ericsson is a leading supplier of 
WcdMa/cdMa and LtE to Verizon, at&t and MetropcS. MetropcS and Verizon 
commercially launched their LtE networks in 2010. North america is Ericsson’s 
largest market measured in sales and its second largest after Sweden measured in 
number of employees. 

30.5

Sprint announced Ericsson as key partner in their network evolution strategy 

“Network vision” program.  

latin aMerica

the region was characterized by major mergers between regional operators. 
Lower cost smartphones have created continuous growth in mobile broadband 
usage, driving operators to invest in networks and services. the services 
business developed favorably, especially managed services. LtE trials are 
ongoing in the region.

the world’s first solution to connect public buses to mobile broadband 
was provided by dataprom and Ericsson in Brazil. Ericsson was also selected 
to manage telefonica’s network operation center in São paulo with core, 
transmission and fixed-access equipment. 

17.7

1.3

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

latin aMerica

9.2

7.7

0.9

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

Networks

Global Services

Multimedia

28  |  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  Ericsson annual report 2010 

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buSineSS reSultS

SaleS Per region anD 
SegMent 2010
SEK billion

northern euroPe 
& central aSia

7.2

4.3

0.6

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

WeStern & central euroPe

8.3

10.5

1.0

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

MeDiterranean

10.6

10.6

1.4

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

MiDDle eaSt

7.2

6.6

1.4

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

Networks

Global Services

Multimedia

northern euroPe anD central aSia

in the eastern part of the region, both 2G expansions and mobile broadband 
buildouts are taking place. in Scandinavia, focus is on 4G/LtE deployments. 4G/
LtE trials are planned or ongoing across the region. operators have operational 
efficiency high on the agenda, which creates good demand for managed services. 
denmark’s leading operator tdc is about to upgrade to 4G/LtE and has chosen 
Ericsson to supply and manage its nationwide network. Ericsson was also chosen 
to provide the broadband access network based on VdSL2 technology 
to teliaSonera. 

WeStern anD central euroPe

Mobile broadband usage continues to increase in the region. following 
conclusions of auctions for 4G/LtE in several markets, Ericsson has been 
selected for a number of 4G/LtE trials now being implemented with major 
operators. Ericsson is also supporting operators in connection with data capacity 
and modernization projects. operators’ focus on efficiency continued to drive 
strong interest for managed services, network sharing and network transformation 
leading to opportunities in both services and networks. the UK is at the forefront 
of network sharing. Ericsson has completed the consolidation of shared sites 
(over 12,000) for Mobile Broadband Network Ltd (MBNL). Ericsson also extended 
the managed services business through extensions of existing contracts. this 
includes a three-year extension with Netia poland, as well as a renewed and 
expanded multi-country managed services contract with teliaSonera international 
carrier for field operation services for voice and data networks, built on multi-
vendor equipment. Ericsson also signed a five-year managed field service 
contract for Vodafone in Germany.

MeDiterranean

operator investments especially in Spain and Greece were cautious due to 
the overall economic environment and price competition among operators. in 
order to meet demand for mobile broadband services, operators continued to 
focus on network modernization. operational efficiency continues to be high on 
the agenda, creating good momentum for managed services and consulting in 
networks as well as in all ict areas.

Ericsson signed a seven-year managed services contract with 3 italia for data 

center consolidation and modernization of it infrastructure.

the largest utility company in Spain, Endesa, selected Ericsson to operate its 

corporate telecommunication network.

MiDDle eaSt 

the sales drop was caused by cautious operator investments in parts of the 
region. development in the region showed large variations where the Gulf 
countries continued to show good momentum, while most other parts of 
the region were slow. Services continues to be a large part of the business, 
representing 43 percent of total sales. operators are starting to show interest in 
4G/LtE with several trials going on throughout the region. Mobile subscriptions 
in the region are developing positively with net additions for both voice and 
broadband services.

to offer innovative services to its customers, the Qtel Group chose Ericsson’s 
Service delivery platform. its customers across the Middle East, North africa and 
South East asia get access to new multimedia services such as social networking 
and mobile music.

BODXPART3XEN_v92.indd   29

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Ericsson annual report 2010  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  |  29

buSineSS reSultS

SaleS Per region anD 
SegMent 2010
SEK billion

Sub-Saharan africa 

3.6

4.6

1.0

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

inDia

5.1

2.8

0.7

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

china anD north-eaSt aSia

17.1

8.3

0.5

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

South-eaSt aSia anD oceania

7.8

6.5

0.6

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

Networks

Global Services

Multimedia

Sub-Saharan africa

the region was impacted by the global economic downturn with a tight credit 
environment as well as operator consolidation. the region is predominately a 
market where 2G rollouts are in focus. However, demand for mobile broadband is 
emerging throughout the region, although at a low pace. Services sales increased 
and now represents 50 percent of total sales. 

inDia 

india sales were impacted by 3G auctions and security clearance in the first half 
of the year. in the middle of the year, Ericsson got security clearance for deliveries 
of equipment. in the fall, contracts for 3G deployments were signed. Ericsson has 
a market share for 3G which is in line with its 2G position. throughout the year, 
the recurring services business maintained good development. radius infratel 
signed a fiber-to-the-home contract with Ericsson, providing more than half a 
million subscribers with fixed broadband. 

china anD north-eaSt aSia

While operators on mainland china are still focused on successful 3G launches, 
operators across the region also now have 4G/LtE on the agenda. in Japan, 
demand for mobile broadband had a positive effect on sales.

Ericsson won a managed services contract with china Unicom for field 
maintenance of radio base station sites, fixed network and transmission as well 
as a contract with china Mobile for field maintenance of radio base station sites. 
Leading Japanese operator SoftBank Mobile invested in capacity by upgrading 
its HSpa radio access network with Ericsson’s rBS 6000. increased use of 
smartphones and advanced mobile applications boost data traffic and in order to 
ensure continued user quality, EMoBiLE has enhanced its network with 3G/HSpa 
42 Mbps supplied by Ericsson.

on June 30, the acquisition of Nortel’s part of LG-Nortel was completed. 
this positions Ericsson as a leading vendor in Korea. another milestone was the 
showcase of the first complete td-LtE solution with end-to-end-capabilities, 
together with St-Ericsson in china.

South-eaSt aSia anD oceania

Sales of network equipment were weaker overall due to cautious investment 
in a number of markets. investment highlights include network expansions in 
Bangladesh and indonesia. access to spectrum for 3G and 4G/LtE remains a 
limitation in several markets. overall there is an increasing interest for managed 
services among operators in several countries. 

the region includes a mix of markets focused on long-term government-

sponsored fiber deployments as well as operator investment in 3G/HSpa 
upgrades and 4G/LtE trials. other markets in the region are continuing to expand 
in 2G and mobile broadband.

indonesian GSM and 3G operator aXiS extended its managed services 

contract with Ericsson. Ericsson will be responsible for aXiS’ network operations, 
field maintenance, support services and spare parts management in Greater 
Jakarta and Northern Sumatra. indosat has commissioned Ericsson to modernize 
its network and launched asia’s fastest mobile network, based on Ericsson’s 3G/
HSpa 42 Mbps.

30  |  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  Ericsson annual report 2010 

BODXPART3XEN_v92.indd   30

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networks

Network sales declined –1 percent to SEK 112.7 (114.0) billion. Sales were 
positively impacted by the acquisition of Nortel businesses. there was a negative 
impact from the industry-wide component shortage during the year.

in November 2009, Nortel’s cdMa and LtE business were consolidated in 

Networks. Nortel’s GSM business was consolidated on March 31, 2010. on 
June 30, 2010, the former LG-Nortel business, now named LG-Ericsson, was 
consolidated in Networks. 

Mobile broadband sales increased during the year, especially driven by 
demand in North america and Japan. the increased demand related to radio, 
backhaul and packet core. Voice-related sales, i.e. 2G radio and core, was slow in 
the year and could not be compensated for by the increase in mobile broadband.
the operating margin was 15 (14) percent. the improvement is due to cost 

reductions as well as business mix in the first half of the year with a higher 
proportion of network upgrades and expansions. 

Sales to network operators are normally based on multi-year frame 
agreements after an initial tender. during the frame agreement, software, 
equipment, services and spare parts are called off according to price lists. 

the value of the market for operator equipment was approximately USd 
100 billion in 2009. Market data shows that Ericsson has a market share of 
approximately 40 percent in GSM/WcdMa radio base stations. 

to grow market share organically Ericsson is striving to increase footprint, 

especially in Europe where the company has a lower market share than 
elsewhere. Network modernization projects, along with the 3G rollouts in india, 
puts initial pressure on gross margin. However, these projects are essential parts 
of the company’s strategy to build a good platform for continued long-term 
growth and profitability.

Ericsson has focus on operational excellence and cost efficiencies. 
for hardware, cost efficiencies can be gained by using more standardized 
components, merging platforms and using more land transportation etc. in 
software development and implementation, efficient programming, project 
execution and re-use of platforms are key to keeping costs down. Measures to 
secure these cost efficiencies are an element of every operation.

in 2010, Ericsson commercially launched its multi-standard radio base station 

rBS 6000 which is now shipping in large volumes. a number of commercial 4G/
LtE launches took place in the US and Sweden, with Ericsson as a supplier. 
operators have launched 4G/LtE covering more than 140 million people, of 
whom 60 percent are served by Ericsson 4G/LtE equipment. the company could 
thus secure early volume deliveries of 4G/LtE. these activities should give the 
company competitive scale advantages. 

an industry-wide component shortage hit the company in 2010, making it 
difficult for the company to meet the increased demand for mobile broadband 
related products. Ericsson ramped up production of its new radio base station 
rBS 6000 much quicker and with less quality issues than expected. to mitigate 
the effects of the industry-wide component shortage, internal measures were 
taken to re-design products and to secure a reduced degree of customized 
components. in the fourth quarter, the supply of components had normalized. 
in the Networks segment, Ericsson competes mainly with large and well-

established telecommunication equipment suppliers. the most significant 
competitors include alcatel-Lucent, Huawei, Nokia Siemens Networks, 
cisco, ZtE and Juniper. the company also competes with local and regional 
manufacturers and providers of telecommunications equipment.

buSineSS reSultS

netwoRks sales  
sek 112.7 (114.0)
Billion
>   good demand for
mobile broadband

>  Voice sales slow
>  40% market share

 15%   operating margin excl.
restructuring charges

 –1%   sales growth

netWorKS SaleS of total 
2010

SEK 112.7 billion

55%

Networks

Global Services

Multimedia

netWorKS SaleS  
by region 2010  
Net sales (SEK billion and percent)

5%

6 . 0

7 . 8

7%

.1
7
1

1

.

5

6

.

3

16%

5%

28%

3

0
.

5

9.2

8%

3%

2

7.

6%

10.6

8

.3

7.2

6%

9%

7%

North america

Latin america

Northern Europe and central asia

Western and central Europe

Mediterranean

Middle East

Sub-Saharan africa

india

china and North East asia

South East asia and oceania

other

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Ericsson annual report 2010  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  |  31

buSineSS reSultS

GloBal seRViCes 
sales sek 80.1 
(79.2) Billion

>   Strong growth in

managed services 

>   Supports 2 billion

people 24/7

11%   operating margin excl.
restructuring charges

 1%   sales growth

global SerViceS SaleS 
of total 2010

SEK 80.1 billion

39%

Networks

Global Services

Multimedia

global SerViceS SaleS 
by region 2010 
Net sales (SEK billion and percent)

1%
0.5

8%

10%

. 5

6

8.3

.8
2

6

.

4

6

.

6

3%

6%

8%

23%

1

7
.
7

7
.
7

10%

4.3

10.6

1

0

.5

5%

13%

13%

North america

Latin america

Northern Europe and central asia

Western and central Europe

Mediterranean

Middle East

Sub-Saharan africa

india

china and North East asia

South East asia and oceania

other

global Services 

Global Services sales increased 1 percent to SEK 80.1 (79.2) billion. operating 
margin was 11 (11) percent. Global Services includes professional Services and 
Network rollout. 

professional Services consists of managed services, consulting and systems 
integration, customer support and education. professional Services increased 4 
percent to SEK 58.5 (56.1) billion and in local currencies 9 percent, in line with 
previous years’ growth pace. Managed Services increased 21 percent to SEK 21.1 
(17.4) billion. the increase was primarily driven by the contract with the US-based 
operator Sprint, which started in September 2009. the contract value was USd 
5.5 billion for seven years at the time of the announcement.

two thirds of professional Services’ revenues are recurring, mainly managed 
services and customer support. contracts are often long, five to seven years, and 
payments are made in advance. consulting and systems integration deals are by 
nature shorter and paid after fulfillment of contract. 

Network rollout decreased –7 percent to SEK 21.6 (23.1) billion. Network 

rollout includes turnkey projects with a large part of third party sourcing, making it 
a lower-margin business. 

Ericsson’s services offering covers all areas within an operator’s operational 

scope. Ericsson can be provided the opportunity to design, plan, build and 
manage a core network or operate all field operations for an operator’s business 
support system, service, core, transmission and access network. Most often 
however, operators turn to Ericsson for support in a certain part of its operation. 
Ericsson has three assignments where the company is responsible for everything 
within an operator’s operational scope. those agreements are with Sprint in the 
US, 3 in the UK and 3 in italy. Ericsson manages networks, or parts of networks, 
with 450 million subscribers. if also field operations and spare parts management 
contracts are included, the figure is 750 million subscribers.

over the past years, Ericsson has seen a growing interest from operators for 
sharing the access networks. through this, operators can reduce cost for the so 
called passive equipment at a site, like rental costs for towers, power and cooling. 
Execution of a sharing plan requires complex integration of multi-vendor systems, 
which is one of Ericsson’s key competencies. 

the total global telecom services market was valued at USd 239-249 billion in 
2009 (see graph on next page). roughly two thirds is operator-internal operating 
spending. Services handled by suppliers represented a third of the total market. 
over the years 2005-2009 the total services market grew in average by about 11 
percent annually. 

Ericsson estimates its market share in telecom services at over 10 percent. 
due to the fragmented market, Ericsson is by far the largest player. the company 
has 45,000 professionals across the world. over the years, the company has 
insourced more than 20,000 employees from operators. 

Services is a local business and all competitors therefore basically have the 

same cost structure. in order to gain synergies and cost efficiencies, global 
methods, processes and tools are a prerequisite. over the past years, Ericsson 
has invested USd 1 billion in developing methods, processes and tools, securing 
efficiencies and cost advantages. as telecom is becoming more and more of a 
software industry, monitoring and maintenance of networks as well as upgrading 
of software can be done remotely. Ericsson today has four global network 
operations service centers in Mexico, romania, india and china. the company 
secures the operation of networks around the clock, throughout the year, for 2 
billion subscribers. 

in managed services, Ericsson can insource employees from the customer. 

in the transition period, restructuring costs are taken, for e.g. replacement of 

32  |  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  Ericsson annual report 2010 

BODXPART3XEN_v92.indd   32

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iS/it-systems, migration of employees into new systems and premises. all this 
to transform operations to standardized processes, methods and tools. in this 
process, management’s leadership and communication skills are of utmost 
importance. Ericsson has a culture of putting individuals in focus, showing respect 
and giving employees the opportunities to develop. in the transformation phase, 
following the transition, scale synergies are carried through.

of operators’ internal operating expenditures a large part relates to iS/it. 
With solutions for operations Support Systems (oSS) and Business Support 
Systems (BSS), Ericsson targets also this iS/it-oriented part of the market. 
oSS/BSS are software-based solutions, but require a lot of integration work on 
the customer’s site, both for iS/it and telecom systems. Systems integration 
business is also important to the Business Support System’s (BSS) area within 
segment Multimedia.

competition in the Global Services segment includes many of the traditional 

telecommunication equipment suppliers. Since a lot of business in Global 
Services is about moving up the value chain, the company competes with large 
companies from other industry sectors, such as accenture, Hp, iBM, oracle 
and india-based off-shore companies, e.g. tata consultancy Services and tech 
Mahindra. among competition is also a large number of smaller but specialized 
companies operating on a local or regional basis.

buSineSS reSultS

global telecoM 
SerViceS MarKet 
USd billion

~158-162

~156-160

~150-154

~43-45

~9-11
~19

2007

~49-51

~50-52

~11-13

~21-23

~13-15

~20-22

2008

2009

CAGR 2005-2009: approx 11%

m
a
r
k
e
t

C
u
r
r
e
n
t
l
y

a
d
d
r
e
s
s
e
d

operator-internal services spending

professional services, excluding 
Managed Services

Managed Services

Network roll-out services

BODXPART3XEN_v92.indd   33

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Ericsson annual report 2010  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  |  33

 
 
Multimedia

Multimedia sales declined –21 percent to SEK 10.5 (13.3) billion. operating margin 
was –4 (8) percent. the segment showed a strong recovery in the last quarter, 
mainly as a result of increased operator investments in revenue management as 
well as continued good development for tV solutions. 

in 2010, a program for return to profitability was initiated. the program 
includes phase-out of products, reduction of sourcing and supply costs and 
decoupling of software and hardware using commercial off-the-shelf hardware. 
increased volumes at the end of the year resulted in a recovery in the last quarter.
operations within Multimedia are divided into three areas with their specific 

market drivers.

Business Support Systems is the segment’s largest market with a total value 

of about USd 35 billion in 2009. Within this market, the revenue management 
market is the largest. the company is the market leader and more than 1.2 billion 
subscribers are charged and billed via Ericsson’s solutions.

the decline in Multimedia’s total sales 2010 was mainly related to revenue 

management. Segment Multimedia in general and revenue management in 
particular has a large exposure to markets such as india, Middle East and Sub-
Saharan africa where operators postponed investments mainly due to operator 
consolidation. Going forward, there is growth potential as operators want to 
modernize their business support systems to capture the full revenue potential of 
mobile broadband and to merge billing and charging systems into one solution.

the second largest operation in Multimedia is television and Media 
Management which developed well in 2010. the compression business 
continues to grow. Ericsson is the leading player with a market share of 25 
percent in compression and 40 percent in iptV head-ends. the worldwide digital 
tV market showed strong growth, with digital tV homes expected to double in 
the next five years.

the third operation is consumer and Business applications. a key aim is to 
support operators in modernizing their legacy value-added services environment, 
by providing for example messaging systems and service delivery systems. 
With a market share of 40 percent in mobile positioning and more than 10 
percent in service delivery platforms, Ericsson holds a leading position. the 
Business communication Suite targets the enterprise market. it combines unified 
communication with mobility, providing business communities with a collaboration 
and multimedia solution. 

Multimedia is mainly a software business. the solutions often require local 
adaptations in customers’ networks. therefore Multimedia sales also drive sales 
of systems integration services.

the market for the Multimedia segment is rather fragmented. competitors vary 
widely depending on the solution being offered. they include many of the traditional 
telecommunication equipment and it suppliers, such as amdocs and comverse, as 
well as companies from other industries, such as Harmonic, oracle and thompson.

buSineSS reSultS

MultiMeDia 
sales sek 10.5 
(13.3) Billion

>  Weak sales for revenue 

management

>  good development in tV

 –4%   operating margin excl.
restructuring charges

–21%   sales growth for 
comparable units

MultiMeDia SaleS of total 
2010

SEK 10.5 billion

5%

Networks

Global Services

Multimedia

MultiMeDia SaleS 
by region 2010 
Net sales (SEK billion and percent)

10%

12%

5%

5%

0.6

. 0

1

1.3

0.5

7
.
0

0

.

1

7%

9%

9%

0

.

9

0
.

6

6%

1.0

10%

1.4

1.4

13%

14%

North america

Latin america

Northern Europe and central asia

Western and central Europe

Mediterranean

Middle East

Sub-Saharan africa

india

china and North East asia

South East asia and oceania

other

34  |  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  Ericsson annual report 2010 

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Joint Ventures

Sony ericSSon

Sony Ericsson is a 50/50 joint venture between Sony corporation 
and Ericsson, established in 2001. Sony Ericsson is accounted 
for according to the equity method.

the global handset market is believed to have increased 
slightly in volume to almost 1.2 billion units. Sony Ericsson’s 
market share in the total global handset market 2010 was 
approximately 4 percent in units and 6 percent in value. Sony 
Ericsson focuses on the smartphone segment and the android 
operating system. 

Units shipped declined by –25 percent to 43.1 (57.1) million 
while the average selling price increased by 23 percent to EUr 
146 (119). Sales decreased by –7 percent to EUr 6.3 (6.8) billion. 
Gross margin improved during the year to 29 (15) percent as 
benefits of cost reductions and new smartphones materialized. 
income before taxes, excluding restructuring charges, was 
EUr 0.2 (–0.9) billion. income increased during the year thanks 
to improved gross margin and reduced operating expenses. 
Ericsson’s share in Sony Ericsson’s income before taxes was 
SEK 0.7 (–5.7) billion.

Sony Ericsson’s primary competitors include apple, Htc, 

LG, Motorola, Nokia, riM and Samsung. 

Sony ericSSon net SaleS anD  
aDJuSteD incoMe before taXeS
Euro million

12,916

12,916
11,244
11,244

10,959

14,000

12,000

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

1,298

1,574

92

0

–2,000

2006

2007

2008

Net sales

11,244

6,788

6,294

189

2010

–878

2009

income before taxes excl. restructuring charges

St-ericSSon

St-Ericsson is a 50/50 joint venture between StMicroelectronics 
and Ericsson, which started in february, 2009. St-Ericsson is 
accounted for according to the equity method. it has one of the 
industry’s strongest product offering in semiconductors and 
platforms for mobile devices. St-Ericsson is a key supplier to 
top handset manufacturers. in 2010, St-Ericsson continued its 
transition, merging three operations. its focus today is to deliver 
new products to the market.

legal anD taX ProceeDingS

Sales declined –9 percent to USd 2.3 (2.5) billion. the 

operating loss for the year, adjusted for restructuring costs, was 
USd –0.4 (–0.4) billion.

St-Ericsson is reporting in US-Gaap. Ericsson’s share in 

St-Ericsson’s income before taxes, adjusted to ifrS, was 
SEK –1.8 (–1.8) billion. adjustments for ifrS-compliance 
mainly consist of capitalization of r&d expenses for hardware 
development.

the company’s net financial position was USd –82 (229) 
million at year-end. in the fourth quarter 2010, a short-term 
credit facility of USd 150 million made available on a 50:50 
basis by parent companies was utilized.

during 2010, two restructuring plans of USd 345 million 
were finalized. the first one of USd 230 million gave full impact 
from third quarter and the second plan of USd 115 million was 
completed by year end.

St-Ericsson’s largest competitor is Qualcomm. the market 
is growing in complexity as several new operating systems for 
handsets and other devices have been launched, e.g. Google’s 
android, Microsoft’s Windows and Samsung’s Bada.

St-ericSSon net SaleS anD  
aDJuSteD oPerating incoMe
USd million

3,000

2,500

2,000

1,500

1,000

500

0

–500

12,916

2,524

11,244

2,293

Net sales

operating income 
adjusted for amortization 
of acquired intangibles 
and restructuring charges

–369

2009

–436

2010

all figures in accordance with reported adjusted US Gaap figures

leGal anD tax pRoCeeDinGs
together with most of the mobile communications industry, 
Ericsson has been named a defendant in two class action 
lawsuits in the US in which plaintiffs allege that adverse health 
effects could be associated with mobile phone usage. the 
cases are currently pending in federal court in pennsylvania and 
the Superior court of the district of columbia. in September 
2008, the federal court in pennsylvania dismissed the plaintiffs’ 
claims as preempted by federal law. the third circuit court 
of appeals subsequently affirmed this ruling. in July 2010, 
the d.c. Superior court granted in part and denied in part 
the defendants’ motion to dismiss. in September 2010, the 

Ericsson annual report 2010  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  |  35

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legal anD taX ProceeDingS

plaintiff filed a third amended complaint. in october 2010, the 
defendants moved to dismiss the district of columbia case.

in april 2007, an australian company, QpSX developments 

pty Ltd., filed a patent infringement lawsuit against Ericsson 
and other defendants in the US, alleging that Ericsson infringed 
a patent related to asynchronous transfer Mode (atM) 
technology. the lawsuit was stayed in august 2009 pending the 
resolution of a reexamination proceeding in the US patent and 
trademark office (pto). the stay was lifted in November 2010 
after all the asserted patent claims were confirmed as valid by 
the pto. the trial is scheduled for September 2011. 

Swedish fiscal authorities have disallowed deductions for 
sales commission payments via external service companies 
to sales agents in certain countries. Most of the taxes have 
already been paid. the decision covering the fiscal year 1999 
was appealed. in december 2006, the county administrative 
court in Stockholm rendered a judgment in favor of the fiscal 
authorities. the administrative court of appeal in Stockholm 
affirmed the county administrative court’s judgment. the 
judgment has been appealed to the administrative Supreme 
court. for more information on risks related to litigations, see 
chapter risk factors. 

in January 2011, a US company SynQor filed a patent 

infringement lawsuit against Ericsson inc. in the Eastern district 
of texas alleging that Ericsson infringes five U.S. patents 
related to bus converters. in february 2011, SynQor filed a 
motion for preliminary injunction seeking to prevent Ericsson 
from manufacturing, using, selling, and offering for sale in the 
U.S. and/or importing into the U.S. certain unregulated and 
semi-regulated bus converters and any Ericsson products that 
contain those bus converters. SynQor also seeks to prevent 
Ericsson from selling the accused bus converters to companies 
that in-turn sell products incorporating the bus converters in or 
into the U.S.

MateRial ContRaCts
Material contractual obligations are outlined in Note c32 
“contractual obligations”. these are primarily related 
to operating leases for office and production facilities, 
purchase contracts for outsourced manufacturing, r&d 
and it operations, and the purchase of components for the 
company’s own manufacturing.

Ericsson is party to certain agreements, which include 
provisions that may take effect or be altered or invalidated 
by a change in control of the company as a result of a public 
takeover offer. However, none of the agreements currently in 
effect would entail any material consequence to Ericsson due 
to a change in control of the company.

CoRpoRate GoVeRnanCe
in accordance with the annual accounts act (1995:1554 
chapter 6, Section 6), a separate corporate Governance report, 
including an internal control section, has been prepared. 

continued compliance with the  
Swedish corporate governance code
the company applies the Swedish corporate Governance 
code. the company is committed to complying with best-
practice corporate governance standards on a global level 
wherever possible. this includes continued compliance with 
the corporate governance provisions expressed by this code 
without deviations.

an ethical business
Ericsson’s code of Business Ethics summarizes the Group’s 
fundamental policies and directives governing its relationships 
internally, with its stakeholders and with others. it also sets 
out how the Group works to achieve and maintain its high 
standards. there have been no amendments or waivers to 
Ericsson’s code of Business Ethics for any director, member of 
management or other employee. 

board of Directors 2010/2011
the annual General Meeting on april 13, 2010, re-elected 
Michael treschow as chairman of the Board and roxanne S. 
austin, Sir peter L. Bonfield, Börje Ekholm, Ulf J. Johansson, 
Sverker Martin-Löf, Nancy McKinstry, anders Nyrén,  
carl-Henric Svanberg and Marcus Wallenberg as directors of 
the Board. the annual General Meeting elected Hans Vestberg 
and Michelangelo Volpi as new members of the Board. anna 
Guldstrand, Jan Hedlund and Karin Åberg were appointed as 
union representatives with pehr claesson, Kristina davidsson 
and Karin Lennartsson as deputies.

Management
Hans Vestberg was appointed president and cEo, succeeding 
carl-Henric Svanberg, as of January 1, 2010. the president and 
cEo is supported by the Executive Leadership team which, in 
addition to the president and cEo, consists of heads of Group 
functions, heads of business units, two heads of region and the 
chief Brand officer. a management system is implemented to 
ensure that the business is well controlled and able to fulfill the 
objectives of major stakeholders within established risk limits. 
the system also monitors internal control and compliance with 
applicable laws, listing requirements and governance codes. 

remuneration
fees to the members of the Board of directors and the 
remuneration of Group management as well as the 2010 
guidelines for remuneration to senior management are reported 
in Notes to the consolidated financial Statements – Note c29, 
“information regarding Members of the Board of directors, the 
Group management and Employees”. 

36  |  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  Ericsson annual report 2010 

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Sourcing anD SuPPly

souRCinG anD supply
Ericsson’s hardware largely consists of electronics, such as 
circuit boards, radio frequency (rf) modules, antennas etc. 
for manufacturing, the company purchases customized 
and standardized components, services etc. from several 
global providers as well as from numerous local and regional 
suppliers. certain types of components, such as power 
modules and cables, are produced in-house.

the production of electronic modules and sub-assemblies 

is mostly outsourced to manufacturing services companies, 
of which the vast majority is in low-cost countries. Node 
production is largely done in-house and on-demand. this 
consists of assembly, testing of modules and integrating them 
into complete radio base stations, mobile switching centers etc.
Where possible Ericsson relies on alternative supply sources. 

When selecting a new supplier, the supplier code of conduct 
should be met. Variations in market prices for raw materials 
generally have a limited effect on total cost of goods sold.

as of december 31, 2010, there were no loans outstanding 
from and no guarantees issued to or assumed by Ericsson for 
the benefit of any member of the Board of directors or senior 
management.

all relevant information regarding remuneration can be found 

in chapter remuneration report.

the board of Directors’ proposal for guidelines  
for remuneration to senior management
the Board of directors proposes that the current guidelines 
for remuneration and other employment terms for the senior 
management (remuneration policy) remain unchanged for the 
period up to the 2012 annual General Meeting. 

details of how Ericsson delivers on these principles and 

policy, including information on previously decided long-
term variable remuneration that has not yet become due for 
payment, can be found Note c29, “information regarding 
Members of the Board of directors, the Group management 
and Employees”. 

Risk ManaGeMent

risks are broadly categorized into operational and financial 
risks. Ericsson’s risk management is based on the following 
principles, which apply universally across all business activities 
and risk types:
 > risk management is an integrated part of the Ericsson 

Group Management System

 > Each operational unit is accountable for owning and 

managing its risks according to policies, directives and 
process tools. decisions are made or escalated according 
to defined delegation of authority. financial risks are 
coordinated through Group function finance

 > risks are dealt with during the strategy process, the annual 
planning and target setting, the continuous monitoring 
through monthly and quarterly steering group meetings and 
during operational processes by transaction (customer bid/
contract, acquisition, investment and product development 
projects). they are subject to various controls such as 
decision tollgates and approvals.
a central security unit coordinates management of certain 
risks, such as business interruption, information security and 
physical security. a crisis Management council deals with ad 
hoc events of serious nature.

for information of risks that could impact the fulfillment of 
the targets and form the basis for mitigating activities, see the 
other sections of the Board of directors’ report, Notes c14, 
“trade receivables and customer finance”, c19, “interest-
bearing liabilities”, c20, “financial risk management and 
financial instruments” and chapter risk factors on page 119.

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Ericsson annual report 2010  Board of dirEctorS’ rEport  |  37

sustainability anD 
coRpoRate Responsibility

eRicsson  
life-cycle assessMent 
caRbon footpRint 2010

~18

~3

~2

0.64

e
2
O
C
s
e
n
n
o
t
M

20

15

10

5

0

–5

A

B

C

D

E

activities in 2010

A = Supply chain

B = Ericsson’s own activities

future (lifetime) operation of 
products delivered 2010 

C = Operator activities

D = Products operation

E = End-of-life treatment

Direct emissions 
(Ericsson own 
activities)

Indirect emissions 
(all other life-cycle 
related emissions)

~  = approximately

Ericsson received recognition and 
a number of prestigious awards 
for its sustainability and corporate 
responsibility achievements. 
Vodafone presented Ericsson 
with its Corporate Responsibility 
supplier award.

Greenpeace named Ericsson 
one of the best ICT companies in 
its Cool lT Leaderboard. Ericsson’s 
focus and accomplishment 
on sustainability and life-cycle 
management was awarded the 
InfoWorld Green Award. Gartner 
has also recognized Ericsson for  
its sustainability leadership.

SuStainability and 
Corporate reSponSibility

The Company has implemented strong social, environmental and ethical 
standards supporting risk management and value creation. This commitment 
generates positive business impacts that benefit society.

Ericsson’s approach to Sustainability and Corporate Responsibility (CR) 

is integrated into its core business operations and in its relationships with 
stakeholders. The Board of Directors considers these aspects in governance 
decision-making. Group level policies and directives ensure consistency across 
global operations. 

Ericsson publishes an annual Sustainability and CR Report which provides 

additional information.

Minimizing risk

~–0.2

Responsible business pRactices

Ericsson supports the UN Global Compact and endorses its ten principles regarding 
human and labor rights, anti-corruption and environmental protection. The Ericsson 
Group Management System includes policies and directives that cover responsible 
business practices, such as the Code of Business Ethics, Code of Conduct 
(CoC), anti-corruption and environmental management. It is reinforced by training, 
workshops and monitoring, including a global assessment program run by an 
external assurance provider in which CR criteria represent approximately 20 percent 
of the total areas assessed. During 2010, Ericsson launched a new Sustainability 
Policy and an e-learning program on Sustainability and CR for all employees.

supply chain

Suppliers must comply with Ericsson’s CoC. Some 150 employees, covering 
all regions, are trained as supplier CoC auditors and the Company performs 
regular audits and works with suppliers to ensure measurable and continuous 
improvements. Findings are followed up to ensure that lasting improvements 
are made. As a complement to the audits, a free web-based CoC training is 
now available for all suppliers in 13 languages. To effectively address the issue 
of conflict minerals, Ericsson participates in the Global e-Sustainability Initiative 
(GeSI) work group for conflict minerals. 

Design foR enviRonMent

Processes and controls are in place to ensure compliance with relevant product 
related environmental, customer and regulatory requirements. The areas 
covered are energy efficiency and materials management. To better meet the 
rapidly changing legal requirements on materials management a new materials 
declarations tool was released in 2010.

take-back

Ericsson Ecology Management and Product Take-back is a global initiative to 
take responsibility of products at the end of their life. More than 95 percent of 
decommissioned equipment is recycled, exceeding the EU Waste Electronic 
Electrical Equipment Directive (WEEE) stipulation of 75 percent. During 2010 
more than 2,500 tonnes of e-waste were collected. This is less than 2009 due 
to there being a fewer number of operator change-outs of equipment. During 
2010, Ericsson has continued to improve its capabilities to handle WEEE in Latin 
America and the Middle East as well as in production facilities in Sweden, India 
and China. Alignment of the process in order to comply with the Indian WEEE 
Directive has also begun.

38  |  BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORT  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

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sustainability anD 
coRpoRate Responsibility

caRbon footpRint taRget Result 2010

5

4

3

2

1

0

~–15%

~–26%

~–20%

~–20%

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Product operation kg CO2 /capacity [subscriber/line/port] and year

Ericsson activities kg CO2 /capacity [subscriber/line/port]

Baseline 2008 for Ericsson activities and product operation: 
Actual achievements compared to baseline are shown.

~  = approximately

In 2010, Ericsson and its partners, The Earth Institute, 

Columbia University and Millennium Promise, launched a global 
education initiative, Connect To Learn, as an extension of its 
commitment to the MDGs.

eRicsson Response

Ericsson Response is a global employee volunteer initiative 
with the aim to rapidly roll out communication solutions and 
provide telecommunications experts to assist disaster relief 
operations. Ericsson Response cooperates with the UN Office 
for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA), the 
UN World Food Programme (WFP), the UN Children’s fund 
(UNICEF) and other International Organizations and Non-
Governmental Organizations (NGO) like the International 
Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) 
and Save the Children.

In 2010, support was provided to WFP and UNICEF working 

in Haiti, Port-au-Prince, during six months of on-site work by 
19 volunteers. This is one of the longest disaster response 
deployments of Ericsson Response’s history. This year also 
marked the tenth anniversary and a decade of relief work 
provided by Ericsson Response.

Ericsson is a partner in the Ghana E-waste project. Its goal 
is to establish local recycling capabilities and transform informal 
e-waste recycling into a formal business and thereby help to 
alleviate poverty. This is being coordinated by the Raw Materials 
Group in cooperation with the Ghana Environmental Protection 
Agency and financed by the Nordic Development Fund.

RaDio waves anD health

Ericsson provides public information on radio waves and 
health, and supports independent research to further increase 
knowledge in this area. Ericsson has co-sponsored over 90 
studies related to electromagnetic fields, radio waves and 
health since 1996. Independent expert groups and public 
health authorities, including the World Health Organization, 
have reviewed the total amount of research and consistently 
concluded that the balance of evidence does not demonstrate 
any health effects associated with radio wave exposure from 
either mobile phones or radio base stations.

creating value

the enviRonMental oppoRtunity

Information and Communication Technology (ICT) represents 
about two percent of global CO2 emissions, but can potentially 
offset a significant portion of the remaining 98 percent from 
other sectors. Ericsson takes active measures to ensure that its 
own carbon footprint will be continuously reduced. A carbon 
footprint reduction target was set in 2008, to reduce emissions 
relative to products sold by 40 percent over five years, from in-
house activities and the life-cycle impacts of products. In 2010, 
Ericsson met the annual 10 percent reduction target:
 > There was a slight increase in direct emissions from 

Ericsson’s in-house activities. Component shortages have 
led to an increase in shipping by air, and business travel has 
increased somewhat due to increased number of employees

 > A 14 percent reduction was achieved in indirect emissions 
from products in operation per capacity, resulting in 26 
percent total from 2008. This improvement was mainly due to 
the introduction of the radio base station RBS 6000 family.
In addition, part of Ericsson’s sustainability strategy is 
to focus on the role that broadband can play in helping to 
offset global CO2 emissions. Ericsson focused on sustainable 
city solutions, and has actively engaged in global climate 
policy, including the Guadalajara ICT Declaration and Global 
e-Sustainability Initiative publication “Evaluating the Carbon-
Reducing Impacts of ICT”.

Meeting the MillenniuM DevelopMent goals

Mobile connectivity fuels economic growth, which is particularly 
vital for the billions of people living at the base of the economic 
pyramid – the markets of the future. Ericsson is committed 
to using its technology and competence to help achieve the 
UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), and customer 
engagement is part of its strategy to meet this aim. 

BODXPART4XEN_v64.indd   39

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORT  |  39

proposed disposition of earnings

The Board of Directors proposes that a dividend of SEK 2.25 
(2.00) per share be paid to shareholders duly registered on the 
record date April 18, 2011, and that the Parent Company shall 
retain the remaining part of non-restricted equity.

The Class B treasury shares held by the Parent Company 
are not entitled to receive a dividend. Assuming that no treasury 
shares remain on the record date, the Board of Directors 
proposes that earnings be distributed as follows:

Amount to be paid to the shareholders 
Amount to be retained
by the Parent Company 

SEK 7,365,041,404

SEK 35,608,440,926

Total non-restricted equity
of the Parent Company 

SEK 42,973,482,330

As a basis for its dividend proposal, the Board of Directors has 
made an assessment in accordance with Chapter 18, Section 
4 of the Swedish Companies Act of the Parent Company’s and 
the Group’s need for financial resources as well as the Parent 
Company’s and the Group’s liquidity, financial position in other 
respects and long-term ability to meet their commitments. The 
Group reports an equity ratio of 52 (52) percent and a net cash 
amount of SEK 51.3 (36.1) billion.

The Board of Directors has also considered the Parent 

Company’s result and financial position and the Group’s position 
in general. In this respect, the Board of Directors has taken into 
account known commitments that may have an impact on the 
financial positions of the Parent Company and its subsidiaries.
The proposed dividend does not limit the Group’s ability to 
make investments or raise funds, and it is our assessment that 
the proposed dividend is well-balanced considering the nature, 
scope and risks of the business activities as well as the capital 
requirements for the Parent Company and the Group.

paRent coMpany

parent Company
The Parent Company business consists mainly of corporate 
management, holding company functions and internal banking 
activities. It also handles customer credit management, 
performed on a commission basis by Ericsson Credit AB.
The Parent Company is the owner of a substantial part 
of Ericsson’s intellectual property rights. It manages the 
patent portfolio, including patent applications, licensing and 
crosslicensing of patents and defending of patents in litigations.
The Parent Company has 6 (6) branch offices. In total, the 
Group has 68 (65) branch and representative offices.

financial information
Net sales for the year amounted to SEK 0.0 (0.3) billion and 
income after financial items was SEK 6.8 (8.1) billion. Exports 
accounted for 100 (100) percent of net sales. The Parent 
Company had no sales in 2010 or 2009 to subsidiaries, while 45 
(45) percent of total purchases of goods and services were from 
such companies.

Major changes in the Parent Company’s financial position

for the year included:

Investments in LG-Ericsson of SEK 1.9 billion

 >
 > Decreased current and non-current receivables from 

 >

 >

 >

subsidiaries of SEK 8.3 billion
Increased other current receivables of SEK 1.6 billion
Increased cash, cash equivalents and short-term 
investments of SEK 9.2 billion
Increased current and non-current liabilities to subsidiaries 
of SEK 4.7 billion

 > Decreased other current liabilities of SEK 0.2 billion.

At year end, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 
amounted to SEK 71.6 (62.4) billion.

share information
As per December 31, 2010, the total number of shares 
was 3,273,351,735, of which 261,755,983 were Class A 
shares, each carrying one vote, and 3,011,595,752 Class B 
shares, each carrying one tenth of one vote. The two largest 
shareholders at year end were Investor and Industrivärden 
holding 19.33 and 13.80 percent respectively of the voting 
rights in the Parent Company.

Both classes of shares have the same rights of participation 

in the net assets and earnings.

In accordance with the conditions of the Long-Term 

Variable Remuneration Program (LTV) for Ericsson employees, 
5,890,018 treasury shares were sold or distributed to employees 
in 2010. The quotient value of these shares was SEK 29.4 
million, representing less than 1 percent of capital stock, and 
compensation received amounted to SEK 59.8 million. The 
holding of treasury stock at December 31, 2010 was 73,088,515 
Class B shares. The quotient value of these shares is SEK 365.4 
million, representing 2.2 percent of capital stock, and the 
related acquisition cost amounts to SEK 622.2 million.

40  |  BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORT  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

BODXPART4XEN_v64.indd   40

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boaRD assuRance

board aSSuranCe
The Board of Directors and the President declare that the 
consolidated financial statements have been prepared in 
accordance with IFRS, as adopted by the EU, and give a fair 
view of the Group’s financial position and results of operations. 
The financial statements of the Parent Company have been 
prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting 
principles in Sweden and give a fair view of the Parent 
Company’s financial position and results of operations.

The Board of Directors’ Report for the Ericsson Group and 
the Parent Company provides a fair view of the development 
of the Group’s and the Parent Company’s operations, financial 
position and results of operations and describes material 
risks and uncertainties facing the Parent Company and the 
companies included in the Group.

stockholm february 21, 2011
telefonaktiebolaget lM ericsson (publ)
org. no. 556016-0680

sverker Martin-löf 
Deputy chairman 

Roxanne s. austin 
Member of the board

ulf J. Johansson 
Member of the board

Michael treschow 
chairman

sir peter l. bonfield 
Member of the board 

nancy Mckinstry 
Member of the board 

carl-henric svanberg 
Member of the board 

hans vestberg 
president, ceo and member of the board

anna guldstrand 
Member of the board

Jan hedlund 
Member of the board

Marcus wallenberg 
Deputy chairman

börje ekholm 
Member of the board

anders nyrén 
Member of the board

Michelangelo volpi 
Member of the board

karin Åberg 
Member of the board

BODXPART4XEN_v64.indd   41

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ REPORT  |  41

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT AND 
STATEMENT Of COMprEhENSIvE INCOME

Consolidated Income 
Statement and statement of 
Comprehensive income

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT

Years ended December 31, SEK million 

Net sales 
Cost of sales 
Gross income
Gross margin (%)

Research and development expenses
Selling and administrative expenses 
Operating expenses

Other operating income and expenses
Operating income before shares in earnings  
of joint ventures and associated companies
Operating margin before shares in earnings  
of joint ventures and associated companies (%)

Share in earnings of joint ventures and associated companies 
Operating income

Financial income 
Financial expenses 
Income after financial items

Taxes 
Net income

Net income attributable to:

Stockholders of the Parent Company
Non-controlling interest

Other information

Average number of shares, basic (million)
Earnings per share attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company, basic (SEK) 1)
Earnings per share attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company, diluted (SEK) 1)

1)  Based on Net income attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT Of COMprEhENSIvE INCOME

Years ended December 31, SEK million 

Net income
Other comprehensive income
Actuarial gains and losses, and the effect of the asset ceiling,  
related to pensions
Revaluation of other investments in shares and participations

Fair value remeasurement

Cash Flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the period
Reclassification adjustments for gains/losses included in profit or loss
Adjustments for amounts transferred to initial carrying amount of hedged items

Changes in cumulative translation adjustments
Share of other comprehensive income on joint ventures and associated companies
Tax on items relating to components of Other comprehensive income
Total other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income

Total Comprehensive Income attributable to: 

Stockholders of the Parent Company 
Non-controlling interest

42  |  CONSOlIdATEd FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

Notes

C3, C4

2010

2009

2008

203,348
–129,094
74,254
36.5%

–31,558
–27,072
–58,630

206,477
–136,278
70,199
34.0%

–33,055
–26,908
–59,963

208,930
–134,661
74,269
35.5%

–33,584
–26,974
–60,558

C6

2,003

3,082

2,977

17,627

13,318

16,688

8.7%

–1,172
16,455

1,047
–1,719
15,783

–4,548
11,235

11,146
89

3,197
3.49
3.46

6.5%

–7,400
5,918

1,874
–1,549
6,243

–2,116
4,127

3,672
455

3,190
1.15
1.14

8.0%

–436
16,252

3,458
–2,484
17,226

–5,559
11,667

11,273
394

3,183
3.54
3.52

C12

C7
C7

C8

C9
C9
C9

Notes

2010

11,235

2009

4,127

2008

11,667

C16

C16

C16
C16
C16
C16
C16
C16

3,892

–633

–4,019

7

–2

–6

966
–238
–136
–3,259
–434
–1,120
–322
10,913

10,814
99

665
3,850
–1,029
–1,067
–259
–1,040
485
4,612

4,211
401

–5,116
1,192
–
7,314
1,253
2,330
2,948
14,615

13,988
627

CONSXISXEN_v29.indd   42

2011-02-25   14.30

CoNSolIDAtED BAlANCE ShEEt

Consolidated Balance Sheet

December 31, SEK million 

ASSEtS
Non-current assets
Intangible assets 

Capitalized development expenses
Goodwill
Intellectual property rights, brands and other intangible assets

Notes

2010

2009

C10

3,010
27,151
16,658

2,079
27,375
18,739

Property, plant and equipment

C11, C26, C27

9,434

9,606

Financial assets 

Equity in joint ventures and associated companies
Other investments in shares and participations
Customer finance, non-current
Other financial assets, non-current
Deferred tax assets 

Current assets
Inventories 

Trade receivables
Customer finance, current
Other current receivables

Short-term investments 
Cash and cash equivalents

totAl ASSEtS

EQUItY AND lIABIlItIES
Equity
Stockholders’ equity  
Non-controlling interest in equity of subsidiaries

Non-current liabilities
Post-employment benefits 
Provisions, non-current 
Deferred tax liabilities
Borrowings, non-current 
Other non-current liabilities

Current liabilities
Provisions, current 
Borrowings, current 
Trade payables 
Other current liabilities 

C12
C12
C12
C12
C8

C13

C14
C14
C15

C20
C25

9,803
219
1,281
3,079
12,737
83,372

11,578
256
830
2,577
14,327
87,367

29,897

22,718

61,127
3,123
17,146

56,286
30,864
198,443

66,410
1,444
15,146

53,926
22,798
182,442

281,815

269,809

C16
C16

145,106
1,679
146,785

139,870
1,157
141,027

C17
C18
C8
C19, C20

C18
C19, C20
C22
C21

5,092
353
2,571
26,955
3,296
38,267

9,391
3,808
24,959
58,605
96,763

8,533
461
2,270
29,996
2,035
43,295

11,970
2,124
18,864
52,529
85,487

totAl EQUItY AND lIABIlItIES 1)

281,815

269,809

1)  Of which interest-bearing liabilities and post-employment benefits SEK 35,855 million (SEK 40,653 million in 2009).

CONSXBSXEN_v20.indd   43

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  |  43

 
 
CONSOlIDatED StatEmENt  
OF CaSh FlOwS

Consolidated Statement 
of cash flows

January–December, SEK million

Operating activities
Net income 
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash

Changes in operating net assets
Inventories
Customer finance, current and non-current
Trade receivables
Trade payables
Provisions and post-employment benefits
Other operating assets and liabilities, net

Notes

2010

2009

2008

C25

11,235
12,490
23,725

–7,917
–2,125
4,406
5,964
–2,739
5,269
2,858

4,127
16,856
20,983

5,207
598
7,668
–3,522
–2,950
–3,508
3,493

11,667
14,318
25,985

–3,927
549
–11,434
4,794
3,830
4,203
–1,985

Cash flow from operating activities

26,583

24,476

24,000

Investing activities
Investments in property, plant and equipment 
Sales of property, plant and equipment
Acquisitions of subsidiaries and other operations
Divestments of subsidiaries and other operations
Product development
Other investing activities
Short-term investments
Cash flow from investing activities

C11

C25, C26 
C25, C26 
C10

–3,686
124
–3,286
454
–1,644
–1,487
–3,016
–12,541

–4,006
534
–19,321
1,239
–1,443
2,606
–17,071
–37,462

–4,133
1,373
–74
1,910
–1,409
944
–7,155
–8,544

Cash flow before financing activities

14,042

–12,986

15,456

Financing activities
Proceeds from issuance of borrowings
Repayment of borrowings
Sale of own stock and options exercised
Dividends paid
Other financing activities
Cash flow from financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash

Net change in cash 

2,580
–1,449
51
–6,677
–175
–5,670

14,153
–9,804
69
–6,318
199
–1,701

5,245
–4,216
3
–8,240
–
–7,208

–306

–328

1,255

8,066

–15,015

9,503

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

22,798

37,813

28,310

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 

C25

30,864

22,798

37,813

44  |  CONSOlIDATED fINANCIAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

CONSXCF_v24.indd   44

2011-02-25   14.35

CoNSolIDATeD STATemeNT  
of ChANgeS IN equITy

Consolidated Statement 
of Changes in Equity

January 1, 2010
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Stock Purchase Plans
Dividends paid
Business combinations
December 31, 2010

Notes

C16

Addi- 
tional 
paid in 
capital

24,731
–

–
–
–
–
–
24,731

Capital 
stock

16,367
–

–
–
–
–
–
16,367

January 1, 2009
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Repurchase of own shares
Stock Purchase and Stock Option Plans
Dividends paid
Business combinations
December 31, 2009

January 1, 2008
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Repurchase of own shares
Stock Purchase and Stock Option Plans
Dividends paid
Business combinations
December 31, 2008

16,232
–

24,731
–

C16

135
–
–
–
–
–
16,367

–
–
–
–
–
–
24,731

16,132
–

24,731
–

C16

100
–
–
–
–
–
16,232

–
–
–
–
–
–
24,731

Revalua-
tion of 
other 
invest-
ments in 
shares  
and 
partici-
pations

Cumula- 
tive 
transla- 
tion 
adjust-
ments

Cash 
flow 
hedges

Stock-
holders’ 
equity

Non-
controlling 
interest 
(NCI)

Total 
equity

Retained 
earnings

–4
4

–
–
–
–
–
–

–1
–3

–
–
–
–
–
–
–4

5
–6

–
–
–
–
–
–
–1

78
440

–
–
–
–
–
518

663
–3,808

98,035
14,178

139,870
10,814

1,157 141,027
10,913

99

–
–
–
–
–
–3,145

–
52
762
–6,391
–
106,636

–
52
762
–6,391
–
145,106

–
–
–
–286
708

–
52
762
–6,677
708
1,679 146,785

–2,356
2,434

2,124
–1,461

100,093
3,241

140,823
4,211

1,261 142,084
4,612

401

–
–
–
–
–
–
78

–
–
–
–
–
–
663

–
75
–135
658
–5,897
–
98,035

135
75
–135
658
–5,897
–
139,870

–
–
–
–
–421
–84

135
75
–135
658
–6,318
–84
1,157 141,027

307
–2,663

–6,345
8,469

99,282
8,188

134,112
13,988

940 135,052
627
14,615

–
–
–
–
–
–
–2,356

–
–
–
–
–
–
2,124

–
88
–100
589
–7,954
–
100,093

100
88
–100
589
–7,954
–
140,823

–
–
–
–
–286
–20

100
88
–100 
589
–8,240
–20
1,261 142,084

CONSXEQUITYXEN_v23.indd   45

2011-02-25   14.37

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  COnSOliDATED finAnCiAl STATEmEnTS  |  45

Contents

notes to the Consolidated  
Financial statements

Contents

C1	 SignifiCant	aCCounting	PoliCieS	............................................................................................................................................................................................................................47

C2	 CritiCal	aCCounting	eStimateS	and	JudgmentS................................................................................................................................................................................... 55

C3	 Segment	information........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 57

C4	 net	SaleS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 61

C5	 exPenSeS	by	nature................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 61

C6	 other	oPerating	inCome	and	exPenSeS.......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 61

C7	 finanCial	inCome	and	exPenSeS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 62

C8	 taxeS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 62

C9	 earningS	Per	Share............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 64

C10	

intangible	aSSetS..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 64

C11	 ProPerty,	Plant	and	equiPment.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 66

C12	 finanCial	aSSetS,	non-Current............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 67

C13	

inventorieS...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 68

C14	 trade	reCeivableS	and	CuStomer	finanCe................................................................................................................................................................................................. 69

C15	 other	Current	reCeivableS......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 71

C16	 equity	and	other	ComPrehenSive	inCome................................................................................................................................................................................................... 71

C17	 PoSt-emPloyment	benefitS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 75

C18	 ProviSionS..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................81

C19	

intereSt-bearing	liabilitieS.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 82

C20	 finanCial	riSk	management	and	finanCial	inStrumentS............................................................................................................................................................ 83

C21	 other	Current	liabilitieS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 86

C22	 trade	PayableS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 86

C23	 aSSetS	Pledged	aS	Collateral................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 86

C24	 Contingent	liabilitieS......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 87

C25	 Statement	of	CaSh	flowS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 87

C26	 buSineSS	CombinationS...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 88

C27	 leaSing.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 90

C28	 tax	aSSeSSment	valueS	in	Sweden........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 90

C29	 information	regarding	memberS	of	the	board	of	direCtorS,	the	grouP	management	and	emPloyeeS.......................... 91

C30	 related	Party	tranSaCtionS...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 97

C31	 feeS	to	auditorS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 98

C32	 ContraCtual	obligationS.............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 98

46		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   46

2011-02-25   14.38

C1 signiFiCant aCCounting 
PoliCies

the	consolidated	financial	statements	comprise	telefonaktiebolaget	lm	
ericsson,	the	Parent	Company,	and	its	subsidiaries	(“the	Company”)	and	
the	Company’s	interests	in	joint	ventures	and	associated	companies.	the	
Parent	Company	is	domiciled	in	Sweden	at	torshamnsgatan	23,	Se-164	83	
Stockholm.

the	consolidated	financial	statements	for	the	year	ended	december	
31,	2010,	have	been	prepared	in	accordance	with	international	financial	
reporting	Standards	(ifrS)	as	endorsed	by	the	eu	and	rfr	1	“additional	
rules	for	group	accounting”,	related	interpretations	issued	by	the	Swedish	
financial	reporting	board	(rådet	för	finansiell	rapportering),	and	the	
Swedish	annual	accounts	act.	for	the	financial	reporting	of	2010,	the	
Company	has	applied	ifrS	as	issued	by	the	iaSb	(ifrS	effective	as	
per	december	31,	2010)	and	without	any	early	application.	there	is	no	
difference	between	ifrS	effective	as	per	december	31,	2010,	and	ifrS	
as	endorsed	by	the	eu,	nor	is	rfr	1	related	interpretations	issued	by	the	
Swedish	financial	reporting	board	(rådet	för	finansiell	rapportering)	or	the	
Swedish	annual	accounts	act	in	conflict	with	ifrS.	

the	financial	statements	were	approved	by	the	board	of	directors	on	
february	21,	2011.	the	balance	sheets	and	income	statements	are	subject	
to	approval	by	the	annual	meeting	of	shareholders.

new	standards,	amendments	of	standards	and	interpretations,	effective	

as	from	January	1,	2010,	changing	presentation	or	disclosure:	

 >

 >

ifrS	3	business	Combinations	(revised	with	prospective	application)	
the	revised	standard	continues	to	apply	the	acquisition	method	to	
business	combinations,	with	some	significant	changes.	for	example,	the	
definition	of	a	business	and	a	business	combination	has	been	expanded,	
all	payments	to	purchase	a	business	are	to	be	recorded	at	fair	value	
at	the	acquisition	date,	with	contingent	cash	payments	classified	as	
debt	subsequently	re-measured	through	the	income	statement.	there	
is	a	choice	on	an	acquisition-by-acquisition	basis	to	measure	the	
non-controlling	interest	in	the	acquiree	either	at	fair	value	or	at	the	non-
controlling	interest’s	proportionate	share	of	the	acquiree’s	net	assets.	all	
acquisition	related	costs	shall	be	expensed	as	incurred.	
iaS	27	Consolidated	and	separate	financial	statements	(revised	with	
prospective	application).	the	revised	standard	requires	the	effects	of	
all	transactions	with	non-controlling	interests	to	be	recorded	in	equity	
if	there	is	no	change	in	control	and	these	transactions	will	no	longer	
result	in	goodwill	or	gains	or	losses.	the	standard	also	specifies	the	
accounting	when	control	is	lost.	any	remaining	interest	in	the	entity	is	
re-measured	to	fair	value,	and	a	gain	or	loss	is	recognized	in	income	
statement.

the	following	new	or	amended	standards	and	interpretations	have	also	been	
adopted:

 >

 >

 >

ifriC17,	distributions	of	non-Cash	assets	to	owners	(issued	november	
27,	2008)
ifrS	2,	amendment,	group	Cash-settled	Share-based	Payment	
transactions	(issued	June	18,	2009)
improvements	to	ifrSs	(issued	april	16,	2009).

none	of	the	new	or	amended	standards	and	interpretations	has	had	
any	significant	impact	on	the	financial	result	or	position	of	the	Company.	
however,	the	impact	on	business	combination	accounting	due	to	the	
revised	ifrS	3	business	Combinations	is	dependent	on	type	and	size	of	any	
future	arrangement	involving	a	business	combination.

for	information	on	“new	standards	and	interpretations	not	yet	adopted”	

please	see	page	54.

note.C1

Changes.in.financial.reporting.structure

Change.in.segments

as	of	January	1,	2010,	ericsson	reports	the	following	segments:	networks,	
global	Services,	multimedia,	Sony	ericsson	and	St-ericsson.

the	only	change	compared	to	previous	years	is	that	network	rollout	is	
now	included	in	global	Services	instead	of	networks.	all	other	segments	are	
unchanged.	with	this	change	the	external	reporting	is	aligned	with	the	new	
internal	reporting	structure.

Segments	as	of	January	1,	2010:

 > networks
 > global	Services

 > of	which	Professional	Services
 > of	which	managed	Services

 > of	which	network	rollout

 > multimedia
 > Sony	ericsson
 > St-ericsson

Change.in.geographiCal.break.down

as	of	January	1,	2010,	the	geographical	reporting	structure	is	changed.	
instead	of	five	geographical	areas,	ten	regions	are	reported,	mirroring	
the	new	internal	geographical	organization.	a	part	called	“other”	is	also	
reported,	consisting	of	business	not	reported	in	the	geographical	structure,	
e.g.	embedded	modules,	cables,	power	modules	as	well	as	intellectual	
property	rights	and	licenses.

regions	as	of	January	1,	2010:

 > north	america
latin	america
 >
 > northern	europe	and	Central	asia
 > western	and	Central	europe
 > mediterranean
 > middle	east
 > Sub-Saharan	africa
 >
 > China	and	northeast	asia
 > South	east	asia	and	oceania
 > other

india

in	2008	and	2009	ericsson	reported	top	15	countries	in	sales.	as	of	January	
1,	2010,	top	five	countries	are	reported.

basis.of.presentation

the	financial	statements	are	presented	in	millions	of	Swedish	krona	(Sek).	
they	are	prepared	on	a	historical	cost	basis,	except	for	certain	financial	
assets	and	liabilities	that	are	stated	at	fair	value:	derivative	financial	
instruments,	financial	instruments	held	for	trading,	financial	instruments	
classified	as	available-for-sale	and	plan	assets	related	to	defined	benefit	
pension	plans.	

basis.of.consolidation.

the	consolidated	financial	statements	are	prepared	in	accordance	with	the	
purchase	method.	accordingly,	consolidated	stockholders’	equity	includes	
equity	in	subsidiaries,	joint	ventures	and	associated	companies	earned	only	
after	their	acquisition.	

Subsidiaries	are	all	companies	in	which	ericsson	has	an	ownership	
interest,	directly	or	indirectly,	including	effective	potential	voting	rights,	
has	the	power	to	govern	the	financial	and	operating	policies	generally	
associated	with	ownership	of	more	than	one	half	of	the	voting	rights	or	
in	which	ericsson	by	agreement	has	control.	the	financial	statements	of	
subsidiaries	are	included	in	the	consolidated	financial	statements	from	the	
date	that	control	commences	until	the	date	that	control	ceases.	

ericsson	annual	report	2010		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		|..47

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   47

2011-02-25   14.38

note.C1

intra-group	balances	and	any	unrealized	income	and	expense	

arising	from	intra-group	transactions	are	fully	eliminated	in	preparing	the	
consolidated	financial	statements.	unrealized	losses	are	eliminated	in	
the	same	way	as	unrealized	gains,	but	only	to	the	extent	that	there	is	no	
evidence	of	impairment.	

business.combinations

business.Combinations.From.January.1,.2010

at	the	acquisition	of	a	business,	the	cost	of	the	acquisition,	being	the	
purchase	price,	is	measured	as	the	fair	value	of	the	assets	given,	and	
liabilities	incurred	or	assumed	at	the	date	of	exchange,	including	any	cost	
related	to	contingent	consideration.	transaction	costs	attributable	to	the	
acquisition	are	expensed	as	incurred.	the	acquisition	cost	is	allocated	to	
acquired	assets,	liabilities	and	contingent	liabilities	based	upon	appraisals	
made,	including	assets	and	liabilities	that	were	not	recognized	on	the	
acquired	entity’s	balance	sheet,	for	example	intangible	assets	such	as	
customer	relations,	brands,	patents	and	financial	liabilities.	goodwill	arises	
when	the	purchase	price	exceeds	the	fair	value	of	recognizable	acquired	net	
assets.	final	amounts	are	established	within	one	year	after	the	transaction	
date	at	the	latest.

in	case	there	is	a	put	option	for	non-controlling	interest	in	a	subsidiary	a	

corresponding	financial	liability	is	recognized.

business.Combinations.beFore.January.1,.2010

at	the	acquisition	of	a	business,	the	cost	of	the	acquisition,	being	the	
purchase	price,	was	measured	as	the	fair	value	of	assets	acquired,	and	
liabilities	incurred	or	assumed	at	the	date	of	exchange,	plus	costs	directly	
attributable	to	the	acquisition.	the	acquisition	cost	was	allocated	to	
acquired	assets,	liabilities	and	contingent	liabilities	based	upon	appraisals	
made,	including	assets	that	were	not	recognized	on	the	acquired	entity’s	
balance	sheet,	for	example	intangible	assets	such	as	customer	relations,	
brands	and	patents.	goodwill	arose	when	the	purchase	price	exceeded	
the	fair	value	of	recognizable	acquired	net	assets.	final	amounts	had	to	be	
established	within	one	year	after	the	transaction	date.

non-controlling.interest

aCquisitions.From.January.1,.2010

the	Company	treats	transactions	with	non-controlling	interests	as	
transactions	with	equity	owners	of	the	Company.	for	purchases	from	non-
controlling	interests,	the	difference	between	any	consideration	paid	and	the	
relevant	share	acquired	of	the	carrying	value	of	net	assets	of	the	subsidiary	
is	recorded	in	equity.	gains	or	losses	on	disposals	to	non-controlling	
interests	are	also	recorded	in	equity.

when	the	Company	ceases	to	have	control	or	significant	influence,	
any	retained	interest	in	the	entity	is	remeasured	to	its	fair	value,	with	the	
change	in	carrying	amount	recognized	in	profit	or	loss.	the	fair	value	is	the	
initial	carrying	amount	for	the	purposes	of	subsequently	accounting	for	the	
retained	interest	in	an	associate,	joint	venture	or	financial	asset.	in	addition,	
any	amounts	previously	recognized	in	other	comprehensive	income	in	
respect	of	that	entity	are	accounted	for	as	if	the	Company	had	directly	
disposed	of	the	related	assets	or	liabilities.	this	may	mean	that	amounts	
previously	recognized	in	other	comprehensive	income	are	reclassified	to	
profit	or	loss.

if	there	were	differences	between	any	consideration	paid	and	the	relevant	
share	acquired	of	the	carrying	value	of	net	assets	of	the	subsidiary.	the	
non-controlling	interest	in	the	acquiree	was	measured	at	the	non-controlling	
interests	proportionate	share	of	the	acquiree’s	net	assets.

Joint.ventures.and.associated.companies

investments	in	joint	ventures	and	associated	companies,	i.e.	where	voting	
stock	interest,	including	effective	potential	voting	rights,	is	at	least	20	
percent	but	not	more	than	50	percent,	or	where	a	corresponding	influence	
is	obtained	through	agreement,	are	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	the	
equity	method.	under	the	equity	method,	the	investment	in	an	associate	
is	initially	recognized	at	cost	and	the	carrying	amount	is	increased	or	
decreased	to	recognize	the	investor’s	share	of	the	profit	or	loss	of	the	
investee	after	the	date	of	acquisition.	

ericsson’s	share	of	income	before	taxes	is	reported	in	item	“Share	in	
earnings	of	joint	ventures	and	associated	companies”,	included	in	operating	
income.	this	is	due	to	that	these	interests	are	held	for	operating	rather	than	
investing	or	financial	purposes.	ericsson’s	share	of	income	taxes	related	
to	joint	ventures	and	associated	companies	is	reported	under	the	line	item	
taxes	in	the	income	statement.	

unrealized	gains	on	transactions	between	the	Company	and	its	
associated	companies	and	joint	ventures	are	eliminated	to	the	extent	of		
the	Company’s	interest	in	these	entities.	unrealized	losses	are	also	
eliminated	unless	the	transaction	provides	evidence	of	an	impairment	of	the	
asset	transferred.

Shares	in	earnings	of	joint	ventures	and	associated	companies	included	

in	consolidated	equity	which	are	undistributed	are	reported	in	retained	
earnings	in	the	balance	sheet.	

impairment	testing	as	well	as	recognition	or	reversal	of	impairment	

of	investments	in	each	joint	venture	is	performed	in	the	same	manner	as	
for	intangible	assets	other	than	goodwill.	the	entire	carrying	amount	of	
each	investment,	including	goodwill,	is	tested	as	a	single	asset.	See	also	
description	under	“intangible	assets	other	than	goodwill”	below.

if	the	ownership	interest	in	an	associate	is	reduced	but	significant	
influence	is	retained,	only	a	proportionate	share	of	the	amounts	previously	
recognized	in	other	comprehensive	income	are	reclassified	to	profit	or	loss	
where	appropriate.

Foreign.currency.remeasurement.and.translation

items	included	in	the	financial	statements	of	each	entity	of	the	Company	are	
measured	using	the	currency	of	the	primary	economic	environment	in	which	
the	entity	operates	(‘the	functional	currency’).	the	consolidated	financial	
statements	are	presented	in	Swedish	krona	(Sek),	which	is	the	Parent	
Company’s	functional	and	presentation	currency.	

transaCtions.and.balanCes

foreign	currency	transactions	are	translated	into	the	functional	currency	
using	the	exchange	rates	prevailing	at	the	dates	of	the	transactions.	
foreign	exchange	gains	and	losses	resulting	from	the	settlement	of	
such	transactions	and	from	the	translation	at	period-end	exchange	rates	
of	monetary	assets	and	liabilities	denominated	in	foreign	currencies	
are	recognized	in	the	income	statement,	unless	deferred	in	other	
Comprehensive	income	(oCi)	under	the	hedge	accounting	practices	as	
described	below.

at	acquisition,	there	is	a	choice	on	an	acquisition-by-acquisition	basis	to	

Changes	in	the	fair	value	of	monetary	securities	denominated	in	foreign	

measure	the	non-controlling	interest	in	the	acquiree	either	at	fair	value	or	at	
the	non-controlling	interest’s	proportionate	share	of	the	acquiree’s	net	assets.

aCquisitions.beFore.January.1,.2010

the	Company	treated	transactions	with	non-controlling	interests	(formerly	
minority	interests)	as	transactions	with	external	parties.	disposals	of	
minority	interests	were	recognized	as	gains	and	losses	in	the	income	
statement.	Purchases	from	non-controlling	interests	resulted	in	goodwill	

currency	classified	as	available-for-sale	are	analyzed	between	translation	
differences	resulting	from	changes	in	the	amortized	cost	of	the	security	and	
other	changes	in	the	carrying	amount	of	the	security.	translation	differences	
related	to	changes	in	the	amortized	cost	are	recognized	in	profit	or	loss,	and	
other	changes	in	the	carrying	amount	are	recognized	in	oCi.

translation	differences	on	non-monetary	financial	assets	and	liabilities	

are	reported	as	part	of	the	fair	value	gain	or	loss.	

48		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   48

2011-02-25   14.38

group.companies

the	results	and	financial	position	of	all	the	group	entities	that	have	a	
functional	currency	different	from	the	presentation	currency	are	translated	
into	the	presentation	currency	as	follows:

 >

 >

 >

assets	and	liabilities	for	each	balance	sheet	presented	are	translated	at	
the	closing	rate	at	the	date	of	that	balance	sheet;
income	and	expenses	for	each	income	statement	are	translated	at	
average	exchange	rates;	and
all	resulting	net	exchange	differences	are	recognized	as	a	separate	
component	of	oCi.

on	consolidation,	exchange	differences	arising	from	the	translation	of	the	
net	investment	in	foreign	operations,	and	of	borrowings	and	other	currency	
instruments	designated	as	hedges	of	such	investments,	are	accounted	for	
in	oCi.	when	a	foreign	operation	is	partially	disposed	of	or	sold,	exchange	
differences	that	were	recorded	in	oCi	are	recognized	in	the	income	
statement	as	part	of	the	gain	or	loss	on	sale.

goodwill	and	fair	value	adjustments	arising	on	the	acquisition	of	a	
foreign	entity	are	treated	as	assets	and	liabilities	of	the	foreign	entity	and	
translated	at	the	closing	rate.

there	is	no	significant	impact	due	to	a	currency	of	a	hyperinflationary	

economy.

statement.of.cash.flows

the	statement	of	cash	flow	is	prepared	in	accordance	with	the	indirect	
method.	Cash	flows	in	foreign	subsidiaries	are	translated	at	the	average	
exchange	rate	during	the	period.	Payments	for	subsidiaries	acquired	or	
divested	are	reported	as	cash	flow	from	investing	activities,	net	of	cash	and	
cash	equivalents	acquired	or	disposed	of,	respectively.	

Cash	and	cash	equivalents	consist	of	cash,	bank,	and	short-term	
investments	that	are	highly	liquid	monetary	financial	instruments	with	a	
remaining	maturity	of	three	months	or	less	at	the	date	of	acquisition.

revenue.recognition.

the	Company	offers	a	comprehensive	portfolio	of	telecommunication	
and	data	communication	systems,	multimedia	solutions	and	professional	
services,	covering	a	range	of	technologies.	
the	contracts	are	of	four	main	types:	
delivery-type.
contracts	for	various	types	of	services,	for	example	multi-year	managed	
services	contracts.
license	agreements	for	the	use	of	the	Company’s	technology	or	
intellectual	property	rights,	not	being	a	part	of	another	product.	
construction-type.

 >
 >

 >

 >

the	majority	of	the	Company’s	products	and	services	are	sold	under	
delivery-type	contracts	including	multiple	elements,	such	as	base	stations,	
base	station	controllers,	mobile	switching	centers,	routers,	microwave	
transmission	links,	various	software	products	and	related	installation	and	
integration	services.	Such	contract	elements	generally	have	individual	item	
prices	in	agreed	price	lists	per	customer.

Sales	are	recorded	net	of	value	added	taxes,	goods	returned,	trade	

discounts	and	rebates.	revenue	is	recognized	with	reference	to	all	
significant	contractual	terms	when	the	product	or	service	has	been	delivered,	
when	the	revenue	amount	is	fixed	or	determinable,	and	when	collection	
is	reasonably	assured.	Specific	contractual	performance	and	acceptance	
criteria	may	impact	the	timing	and	amounts	of	revenue	recognized.	

the	profitability	of	contracts	is	periodically	assessed,	and	provisions	for	

any	estimated	losses	are	made	immediately	when	losses	are	probable.	

for	sales	between	consolidated	companies,	associated	companies,	joint	

ventures	and	segments,	the	Company	applies	arm’s	length	pricing.	

note.C1

deFinitions.oF.ContraCt.types.and.related.more.
speCiFiC.revenue.reCognition.Criteria
different	revenue	recognition	methods,	based	on	either	iaS	18	“revenue”	
or	iaS	11	“Construction	contracts”,	are	applied	based	on	the	solutions	
provided	to	customers,	the	nature	and	sophistication	of	the	technology	
involved	and	the	contract	conditions	in	each	case.	

the	contract	types	that	are	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	iaS	18	are:	

 > delivery-type	contracts,	i.e.	contracts	for	delivery	of	a	product	or	a	

combination	of	products	to	form	a	whole	or	a	part	of	a	network	as	well	
as	delivery	of	stand-alone	products.	medium-size	and	large	delivery	
type	contracts	generally	include	multiple	elements.	Such	elements	
are	normally	standardized	types	of	equipment	or	software	as	well	as	
services,	such	as	network	rollout.	
revenue	is	recognized	when	risks	and	rewards	have	been	transferred		
to	the	customer,	normally	stipulated	in	the	contractual	terms	of	trade.	
for	delivery-type	contracts	with	multiple	elements,	revenue,	including	
the	impact	of	any	discount	or	rebate,	is	allocated	to	each	element		
based	on	relative	fair	values.	if	there	are	undelivered	elements	essential	
to	the	functionality	of	delivered	elements,	the	Company	defers	
recognition	of	revenue	until	all	elements	essential	to	the	functionality	
have	been	delivered.	

 > Contracts	for	services	include	various	types	of	services	such	as:	training,	
consulting,	engineering,	installation,	multi-year	managed	services	and	
hosting.	revenue	is	generally	recognized	when	the	services	have	been	
provided.	revenue	for	managed	service	contracts	and	other	services	
contracts	covering	longer	periods	is	recognized	pro	rata	over	the	
contract	period.	

 > Contracts	generating	license	fees	from	third	parties	for	the	use	of	the	
Company’s	technology	or	intellectual	property	rights.	revenue		
is	normally	recognized	based	on	sales	of	products	sold	to	the	
customer/licensee.

the	contract	type	that	is	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	iaS	11	is:
 > Construction-type	contracts.	in	general,	a	construction-type	contract	
is	a	contract	where	the	Company	supplies	to	a	customer,	a	complete	
network,	which	to	a	large	extent	is	based	upon	new	technology	or	
includes	major	components	which	are	specifically	designed	for		
the	customer.	revenues	from	construction-type	contracts	are	
recognized	according	to	stage	of	completion,	generally	using	the	
milestone	output	method.	

earnings.per.share.

basic	earnings	per	share	are	calculated	by	dividing	net	income	attributable	
to	stockholders	of	the	Parent	Company	by	the	weighted	average	number		
of	shares	outstanding	(total	number	of	shares	less	treasury	stock)	during		
the	year.	

diluted	earnings	per	share	are	calculated	by	dividing	net	income	
attributable	to	stockholders	of	the	Parent	Company,	when	appropriate	
adjusted	by	the	sum	of	the	weighted	average	number	of	ordinary	shares	
outstanding	and	dilutive	potential	ordinary	shares.	Potential	ordinary	shares	
are	treated	as	dilutive	when,	and	only	when,	their	conversion	to	ordinary	
shares	would	decrease	earnings	per	share.

Stock	options	and	rights	to	matching	shares	are	considered	dilutive	
when	the	actual	fulfillment	of	any	performance	conditions	as	of	the	reporting	
date	would	give	a	right	to	ordinary	shares.	furthermore,	stock	options	are	
considered	dilutive	only	when	the	exercise	price	is	lower	than	the	period’s	
average	share	price.

Financial.assets

financial	assets	are	recognized	when	the	Company	becomes	a	party	to	the	
contractual	provisions	of	the	instrument.	regular	purchases	and	sales	of	
financial	assets	are	recognized	on	the	settlement	date.	

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note.C1

financial	assets	are	derecognized	when	the	rights	to	receive	cash	
flows	from	the	investments	have	expired	or	have	been	transferred	and	the	
Company	has	transferred	substantially	all	risks	and	rewards	of	ownership.	
Separate	assets	or	liabilities	are	recognized	if	any	rights	and	obligations	are	
created	or	retained	in	the	transfer.	

the	Company	classifies	its	financial	assets	in	the	following	categories:	at	
fair	value	through	profit	or	loss,	loans	and	receivables,	and	available	for	sale.	
the	classification	depends	on	the	purpose	for	which	the	financial	assets	
were	acquired.	management	determines	the	classification	of	its	financial	
assets	at	initial	recognition.	

financial	assets	are	initially	recognized	at	fair	value	plus	transaction	
costs	for	all	financial	assets	not	carried	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	loss.	
financial	assets	carried	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	loss	are	initially	
recognized	at	fair	value,	and	transaction	costs	are	expensed	in	the		
income	statement.	

the	fair	values	of	quoted	financial	investments	and	derivatives	are	based	

on	quoted	market	prices	or	rates.	if	official	rates	or	market	prices	are	not	
available,	fair	values	are	calculated	by	discounting	the	expected	future	cash	
flows	at	prevailing	interest	rates.	valuations	of	fx	options	and	interest	rate	
guarantees	(irg)	are	made	by	using	a	black-Scholes	formula.	inputs	to	
the	valuations	are	market	prices	for	implied	volatility,	foreign	exchange	and	
interest	rates.	

FinanCial.assets.at.Fair.value.through.proFit.or.loss

financial	assets	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	loss	are	financial	assets	
held	for	trading.	a	financial	asset	is	classified	in	this	category	if	acquired	
principally	for	the	purpose	of	selling	or	repurchasing	in	the	near	term.

impairment
at	each	balance	sheet	date,	the	Company	assesses	whether	there	is	
objective	evidence	that	a	financial	asset	or	a	group	of	financial	assets	is	
impaired.	in	the	case	of	equity	securities	classified	as	available-for-sale,	a	
significant	or	prolonged	decline	in	the	fair	value	of	the	security	below	its	
cost	is	considered	as	an	evidence	that	the	security	is	impaired.	if	any	such	
evidence	exists	for	available-for-sale	financial	assets,	the	cumulative	loss	–	
measured	as	the	difference	between	the	acquisition	cost	and	the	current	fair	
value,	less	any	impairment	loss	on	that	financial	asset	previously	recognized	
in	profit	or	loss	–	is	removed	from	oCi	and	recognized	in	the	income	
statement.	impairment	losses	recognized	in	the	income	statement	on	equity	
instruments	are	not	reversed	through	the	income	statement.

an	assessment	of	impairment	of	receivables	is	performed	when	there	is	
objective	evidence	that	the	Company	will	not	be	able	to	collect	all	amounts	
due	according	to	the	original	terms	of	the	receivable.	Significant	financial	
difficulties	of	the	debtor,	probability	that	the	debtor	will	enter	bankruptcy	
or	financial	reorganization,	and	default	or	delinquency	in	payments	are	
considered	indicators	that	the	trade	receivable	is	impaired.	the	amount	of	
the	allowance	is	the	difference	between	the	asset’s	carrying	amount	and	
the	present	value	of	estimated	future	cash	flows,	discounted	at	the	original	
effective	interest	rate.	the	carrying	amount	of	the	asset	is	reduced	through	
the	use	of	an	allowance	account,	and	the	amount	of	the	loss	is	recognized	
in	the	income	statement	within	selling	expenses.	when	a	trade	receivable	
is	finally	established	as	uncollectible,	it	is	written	off	against	the	allowance	
account	for	trade	receivables.	Subsequent	recoveries	of	amounts	previously	
written	off	are	credited	to	selling	expenses	in	the	income	statement.

derivatives	are	classified	as	held	for	trading,	unless	they	are	designated	

Financial.liabilities

financial	liabilities	are	recognized	when	the	Company	becomes	bound	to	
the	contractual	obligations	of	the	instrument.	

financial	liabilities	are	derecognized	when	they	are	extinguished,		
i.e.	when	the	obligation	specified	in	the	contract	is	discharged,	cancelled	
or	expires.

borrowings

borrowings	are	initially	recognized	at	fair	value,	net	of	transaction	costs	
incurred.	borrowings	are	subsequently	stated	at	amortized	cost;	any	
difference	between	the	proceeds	(net	of	transaction	costs)	and	the	
redemption	value	is	recognized	in	the	income	statement	over	the	period	of	
the	borrowings	using	the	effective	interest	method.

borrowings	are	classified	as	current	liabilities	unless	the	Company	
has	an	unconditional	right	to	defer	settlement	of	the	liability	for	at	least	12	
months	after	the	balance	sheet	date.

trade.payables

trade	payables	are	recognized	initially	at	fair	value	and	subsequently	
measured	at	amortized	cost	using	the	effective	interest	method.

derivatives.at.Fair.value.through.proFit.or.loss

Certain	derivative	instruments	do	not	qualify	for	hedge	accounting	and	are	
accounted	for	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	loss.	Changes	in	the	fair	value	
of	these	derivative	instruments	that	do	not	qualify	for	hedge	accounting	
are	recognized	immediately	in	the	income	statement	either	as	cost	of	sales,	
other	operating	income,	financial	income	or	financial	expense,	depending	on	
the	intent	of	the	transaction.

as	hedges.	assets	in	this	category	are	classified	as	current	assets.

gains	or	losses	arising	from	changes	in	the	fair	values	of	the	“financial	
assets	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	loss”-category	(excluding	derivatives)	
are	presented	in	the	income	statement	within	financial	income	in	the	period	
in	which	they	arise.	derivatives	are	presented	in	the	income	statement	
either	as	cost	of	sales,	other	operating	income,	financial	income	or	financial	
expense,	depending	on	the	intent	with	the	transaction.

loans.and.reCeivables

receivables	are	subsequently	measured	at	amortized	cost	using	the	
effective	interest	rate	method,	less	allowances	for	impairment	charges.	trade	
receivables	include	amounts	due	from	customers.	the	balance	represents	
amounts	billed	to	customer	as	well	as	amounts	where	risk	and	rewards	have	
been	transferred	to	the	customer	but	the	invoice	has	not	yet	been	issued.
Collectability	of	the	receivables	is	assessed	for	purposes	of	initial	

revenue	recognition.	

available-For-sale.FinanCial.assets

available-for-sale	financial	assets	are	non-derivatives	that	are	either	
designated	in	this	category	or	not	classified	in	any	of	the	other	categories.	
they	are	included	in	non-current	assets	unless	management	intends	to	
dispose	of	the	investment	within	12	months	of	the	balance	sheet	date.

dividends	on	available-for-sale	equity	instruments	are	recognized	in	the	
income	statement	as	part	of	financial	income	when	the	Company’s	right	to	
receive	payments	is	established.

Changes	in	the	fair	value	of	monetary	securities	denominated	in	a	foreign	
currency	and	classified	as	available-for-sale	are	analyzed	between	translation	
differences	resulting	from	changes	in	amortized	cost	of	the	security	and	other	
changes	in	the	carrying	amount	of	the	security.	the	translation	differences	
on	monetary	securities	are	recognized	in	profit	or	loss;	translation	differences	
on	non-monetary	securities	are	recognized	in	oCi.	Changes	in	the	fair	value	
of	monetary	and	non-monetary	securities	classified	as	available-for-sale	are	
recognized	in	oCi.	when	securities	classified	as	available-for-sale	are	sold	
or	impaired,	the	accumulated	fair	value	adjustments	previously	recognized	in	
oCi	are	included	in	the	income	statement.

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note.C1

derivative.financial.instruments.and.hedging.
activities

derivatives	are	initially	recognized	at	fair	value	at	trade	date	and	
subsequently	re-measured	at	fair	value.	the	method	of	recognizing	the	
resulting	gain	or	loss	depends	on	whether	the	derivative	is	designated	as	
a	hedging	instrument,	and	if	so,	the	nature	of	the	item	being	hedged.	the	
Company	designates	certain	derivatives	as	either:	
a)	 fair.value.hedge:.a	hedge	of	the	fair	value	of	recognized	liabilities;	
b)	cash.flow.hedge:	a	hedge	of	a	particular	risk	associated	with	a	highly	

probable	forecast	transaction;	or	

c)	 net.investment.hedge:.a	hedge	of	a	net	investment	in	a	foreign	operation.

at	the	inception	of	the	hedge,	the	Company	documents	the	relationship	
between	hedging	instruments	and	hedged	items,	as	well	as	its	risk	
management	objectives	and	strategy	for	undertaking	various	hedging	
transactions.	the	Company	also	documents	its	assessment,	both	at	hedge	
inception	and	on	an	ongoing	basis,	of	whether	the	derivatives	that	are	used	
in	hedging	transactions	are	highly	effective	in	offsetting	changes	in	fair	
values	or	cash	flows	of	the	hedged	items.

the	fair	values	of	various	derivative	instruments	used	for	hedging	

purposes	are	disclosed	in	note	C20,	“financial	risk	management	and	
financial	instruments”.	movements	in	the	hedging	reserve	in	oCi	are	shown	
in	note	C16,	“equity	and	oCi”.	

the	fair	value	of	a	hedging	derivative	is	classified	as	a	non-current	asset	

or	liability	when	the	remaining	maturity	of	the	hedged	item	is	more	than	12	
months,	and	as	a	current	asset	or	liability	when	the	remaining	maturity	of	
the	hedged	item	is	less	than	12	months.	trading	derivatives	are	classified	as	
current	assets	or	liabilities.

net.investment.hedges
hedges	of	net	investments	in	foreign	operations	are	accounted	for	similarly	
to	cash	flow	hedges.	any	gain	or	loss	on	the	hedging	instrument	relating	
to	the	effective	portion	of	the	hedge	is	recognized	in	oCi.	a	gain	or	loss	
relating	to	an	ineffective	portion	is	recognized	immediately	in	the	income	
statement	within	financial	income	or	expense.	gains	and	losses	deferred	
in	oCi	are	included	in	the	income	statement	when	the	foreign	operation	is	
partially	disposed	of	or	sold.

Financial.guarantees
financial	guarantee	contracts	are	initially	recognized	at	fair	value	(i.e.		
usually	the	fee	received).	Subsequently,	these	contracts	are	measured	at	the	
higher	of:

 >

 >

the	amount	determined	as	the	best	estimate	of	the	net	expenditure	
required	to	settle	the	obligation	according	to	the	guarantee	contract,	and
the	recognized	contractual	fee	less	cumulative	amortization	when	
amortized	over	the	guarantee	period,	using	the	straight-line-method.

the	best	estimate	of	the	net	expenditure	comprises	future	fees	and	cash	
flows	from	subrogation	rights.

inventories.

inventories	are	measured	at	the	lower	of	cost	or	net	realizable	value	on	a	
first-in,	first-out	(fifo)	basis.

risks	of	obsolescence	have	been	measured	by	estimating	market	
value	based	on	future	customer	demand	and	changes	in	technology	and	
customer	acceptance	of	new	products.

Fair.value.hedges

intangible.assets.

Changes	in	the	fair	value	of	derivatives	that	are	designated	and	qualify	as	
fair	value	hedges	are	recorded	in	the	income	statement,	together	with	any	
changes	in	the	fair	value	of	the	hedged	asset	or	liability	that	are	attributable	
to	the	hedged	risk.	the	Company	only	applies	fair	value	hedge	accounting	
for	hedging	fixed	interest	risk	on	borrowings.	both	gains	and	losses	relating	
to	the	interest	rate	swaps	hedging	fixed	rate	borrowings	and	the	changes	in	
the	fair	value	of	the	hedged	fixed	rate	borrowings	attributable	to	interest	rate	
risk	are	recognized	in	the	income	statement	within	financial	expenses.	if	the	
hedge	no	longer	meets	the	criteria	for	hedge	accounting,	the	adjustment	to	
the	carrying	amount	of	a	hedged	item	for	which	the	effective	interest	method	
is	used	is	amortized	to	profit	or	loss	over	the	remaining	period	to	maturity.

Cash.Flow.hedges

the	effective	portion	of	changes	in	the	fair	value	of	derivatives	that	are	
designated	and	qualify	as	cash	flow	hedges	is	recognized	in	oCi.	the	gain	
or	loss	relating	to	an	ineffective	portion	is	recognized	immediately	in	the	
income	statement	within	financial	income	or	expense.

amounts	deferred	in	oCi	are	recycled	in	the	income	statement	in	the	

periods	when	the	hedged	item	affects	profit	or	loss	(for	example,	when	
the	forecast	sale	that	is	hedged	takes	place),	either	in	net	Sales	or	Cost	
of	Sales.	when	the	forecast	transaction	that	is	hedged	results	in	the	
recognition	of	a	non-financial	asset	(for	example,	inventory	or	fixed	assets),	
the	gains	and	losses	previously	deferred	in	oCi	are	transferred	from	oCi	and	
included	in	the	initial	measurement	of	the	cost	of	the	asset.	the	deferred	
amounts	are	ultimately	recognized	in	Cost	of	Sales	in	case	of	inventory	or	in	
depreciation	in	case	of	fixed	assets.	when	a	hedging	instrument	expires	or	
is	sold,	or	when	a	hedge	no	longer	meets	the	criteria	for	hedge	accounting,	
any	cumulative	gain	or	loss	which	at	that	time	remains	in	oCi	is	recognized	
in	the	income	statement	when	the	forecast	transaction	is	ultimately	
recognized.	when	a	forecast	transaction	is	no	longer	expected	to	occur,	the	
cumulative	gain	or	loss	that	was	reported	in	oCi	is	immediately	transferred	
to	the	income	statement	within	financial	income	or	expense.

intangible.assets.other.than.goodwill

intangible	assets	other	than	goodwill	comprise	capitalized	development	
expenses	and	acquired	intangible	assets,	such	as	patents,	customer	
relations,	trademarks	and	software.	at	initial	recognition,	capitalized	
development	expenses	are	stated	at	cost	while	acquired	intangible	assets	
related	to	business	combinations	are	stated	at	fair	value.	Subsequent	to	
initial	recognition,	both	capitalized	development	expenses	and	acquired	
intangible	assets	are	stated	at	initially	recognized	amounts	less	accumulated	
amortization	and	any	impairment.	amortization	and	any	impairment	losses	
are	included	in	research	and	development	expenses,	mainly	for	capitalized	
development	expenses	and	patents,	in	Selling	and	administrative	expenses,	
mainly	for	customer	relations	and	brands,	and	in	Cost	of	sales.

Costs	incurred	for	development	of	products	to	be	sold,	leased	or	
otherwise	marketed	or	intended	for	internal	use	are	capitalized	as	from	
when	technological	and	economical	feasibility	has	been	established	until	
the	product	is	available	for	sale	or	use.	these	capitalized	expenses	are	
mainly	generated	internally	and	include	direct	labor	and	directly	attributable	
overhead.	amortization	of	capitalized	development	expenses	begins	when	
the	product	is	available	for	general	release.	amortization	is	made	on	a	
product	or	platform	basis	according	to	the	straight-line	method	over		
periods	not	exceeding	five	years.	research	and	development	expenses	
directly	related	to	orders	from	customers	are	accounted	for	as	a	part	of	Cost	
of	sales.	other	research	and	development	expenses	are	charged	to	income	
as	incurred.

amortization	of	acquired	intangible	assets,	such	as	patents,	customer	

relations,	brands	and	software,	is	made	according	to	the	straight-line	
method	over	their	estimated	useful	lives,	not	exceeding	ten	years.	however,	
if	the	economic	benefit	related	to	an	item	of	intangible	assets	is	front-end	
loaded	the	amortization	method	reflects	this.	thus,	the	amortization	for	
such	an	item	is	amortized	on	a	digressive	curve	basis	and	the	asset	value	
decreases	with	higher	amounts	in	the	beginning	of	the	useful	life	compared	
to	the	end.

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note.C1

the	Company	has	not	recognized	any	intangible	assets	with	indefinite	

leasing.

useful	life	other	than	goodwill.

impairment	tests	are	performed	whenever	there	is	an	indication	of	
possible	impairment.	however,	intangible	assets	not	yet	available	for	use	
are	tested	annually.	an	impairment	loss	is	recognized	if	the	carrying	amount	
of	an	asset	or	its	cash-generating	unit	exceeds	its	recoverable	amount.	the	
recoverable	amount	is	the	higher	of	the	value	in	use	and	the	fair	value	less	
costs	to	sell.	in	assessing	value	in	use,	the	estimated	future	cash	flows	after	
tax	are	discounted	to	their	present	value	using	an	after-tax	discount	rate	
that	reflects	current	market	assessments	of	the	time	value	of	money	and	the	
risks	specific	to	the	asset.	application	of	after	tax	amounts	in	calculation,	
both	in	relation	to	cash	flows	and	discount	rate	is	applied	due	to	that	
available	models	for	calculating	discount	rate	include	a	tax	component.	the	
after	tax	discounting,	applied	by	the	Company	is	not	materially	different	
from	a	discounting	based	on	before-tax	future	cash	flows	and	before-tax	
discount	rates,	as	required	by	ifrS.

Corporate	assets	have	been	allocated	to	cash-generating	units	in	
relation	to	each	unit’s	proportion	of	total	net	sales.	the	amount	related	to	
corporate	assets	is	not	significant.	impairment	losses	recognized	in	prior	
periods	are	assessed	at	each	reporting	date	for	any	indications	that	the	
loss	has	decreased	or	no	longer	exists.	an	impairment	loss	is	reversed	if	
there	has	been	a	change	in	the	estimates	used	to	determine	the	recoverable	
amounts	and	if	the	recoverable	amount	is	higher	than	the	carrying	value.	
an	impairment	loss	is	reversed	only	to	the	extent	that	the	asset’s	carrying	
amount	after	reversal	does	not	exceed	the	carrying	amount,	net	of	
amortization,	which	would	have	been	reported	if	no	impairment	loss	had	
been	recognized.

goodwill

as	from	the	acquisition	date,	goodwill	acquired	in	a	business	combination	
is	allocated	to	each	cash-generating	unit	(Cgu)	of	the	Company	expected	
to	benefit	from	the	synergies	of	the	combination.	ericsson’s	five	operating	
segments	have	been	identified	as	Cgus.	goodwill	is	assigned	to	four	of	
them,	networks,	Professional	Services,	multimedia	and	St-ericsson.

an	annual	impairment	test	for	the	Cgus	to	which	goodwill	has	been	
allocated	is	performed	in	the	fourth	quarter,	or	when	there	is	an	indication	
of	impairment.	impairment	testing	as	well	as	recognition	of	impairment	of	
goodwill	is	performed	in	the	same	manner	as	for	intangible	assets	other	
than	goodwill,	see	description	under	“intangible	assets	other	than	goodwill”	
above.	an	impairment	loss	in	respect	of	goodwill	is	not	reversed.

additional	disclosure	is	required	in	relation	to	goodwill	impairment	

testing,	see	note	C2,	“Critical	accounting	estimates	and	Judgments”	below	
and	in	note	C10,	“intangible	assets”.

property,.plant.and.equipment.

Property,	plant	and	equipment	are	stated	at	cost	less	accumulated	
depreciation	and	any	impairment	losses.	

depreciation	is	charged	to	income,	generally	on	a	straight-line	basis,	
over	the	estimated	useful	life	of	each	component	of	an	item	of	property,	
plant	and	equipment,	including	buildings.	estimated	useful	lives	are,	in	
general,	25–50	years	for	real	estate	and	3–10	years	for	machinery	and	
equipment.	depreciation	and	any	impairment	charges	are	included	in	Cost	
of	sales,	research	and	development	or	Selling	and	administrative	expenses.	

the	Company	recognizes	in	the	carrying	amount	of	an	item	of	property,	
plant	and	equipment	the	cost	of	replacing	a	component	and	derecognizes	
the	residual	value	of	the	replaced	component.	

impairment	testing	as	well	as	recognition	or	reversal	of	impairment	
of	property,	plant	and	equipment	is	performed	in	the	same	manner	as	for	
intangible	assets	other	than	goodwill,	see	description	under	“intangible	
assets	other	than	goodwill”	above.

gains	and	losses	on	disposals	are	determined	by	comparing	the	
proceeds	less	cost	to	sell	with	the	carrying	amount	and	are	recognized	
within	other	operating	income	and	expenses	in	the	income	statement.

leasing.when.the.Company.is.the.lessee

leases	on	terms	in	which	the	Company	assumes	substantially	all	the	risks	
and	rewards	of	ownership	are	classified	as	finance	leases.	upon	initial	
recognition,	the	leased	asset	is	measured	at	an	amount	equal	to	the	lower	
of	its	fair	value	and	the	present	value	of	the	minimum	lease	payments.	
Subsequent	to	initial	recognition,	the	asset	is	accounted	for	in	accordance	
with	the	accounting	policy	applicable	to	that	type	of	asset,	although	the	
depreciation	period	must	not	exceed	the	lease	term.	

other	leases	are	operating	leases,	and	the	leased	assets	under	such	

contracts	are	not	recognized	on	the	balance	sheet.	Costs	under	operating	
leases	are	recognized	in	the	income	statement	on	a	straight-line	basis	
over	the	term	of	the	lease.	lease	incentives	received	are	recognized	as	an	
integral	part	of	the	total	lease	expense,	over	the	term	of	the	lease.

leasing.when.the.Company.is.the.lessor

leasing	contracts	with	the	Company	as	lessor	are	classified	as	finance	
leases	when	the	majority	of	risks	and	rewards	are	transferred	to	the	lessee,	
and	otherwise	as	operating	leases.	under	a	finance	lease,	a	receivable	
is	recognized	at	an	amount	equal	to	the	net	investment	in	the	lease	and	
revenue	is	recognized	in	accordance	with	the	revenue	recognition	principles.	
under	operating	leases	the	equipment	is	recorded	as	property,	plant	

and	equipment	and	revenue	as	well	as	depreciation	is	recognized	on	a	
straight-line	basis	over	the	lease	term.

income.taxes.

income	taxes	in	the	consolidated	financial	statements	include	both	current	
and	deferred	taxes.	income	taxes	are	reported	in	the	income	statement	
unless	the	underlying	item	is	reported	directly	in	equity	or	oCi.	for	those	
items,	the	related	income	tax	is	also	reported	directly	in	equity	or	oCi.	a	
current	tax	liability	or	asset	is	recognized	for	the	estimated	taxes	payable	or	
refundable	for	the	current	year	or	prior	years.

deferred	tax	is	recognized	for	temporary	differences	between	the	
book	values	of	assets	and	liabilities	and	their	tax	values	and	for	tax	loss	
carry	forwards.	a	deferred	tax	asset	is	recognized	only	to	the	extent	that	
it	is	probable	that	future	taxable	profits	will	be	available	against	which	the	
deductible	temporary	differences	and	tax	loss	carry	forwards	can	be	utilized.	
deferred	tax	is	not	recognized	for	the	following	temporary	differences:	
goodwill	not	deductible	for	tax	purposes,	for	the	initial	recognition	of	
assets	or	liabilities	that	affect	neither	accounting	nor	taxable	profit,	and	for	
differences	related	to	investments	in	subsidiaries	when	it	is	probable	that	
the	temporary	difference	will	not	reverse	in	the	foreseeable	future.

deferred	tax	is	measured	at	the	tax	rate	that	is	expected	to	be	applied	

to	the	temporary	differences	when	they	reverse,	based	on	the	tax	laws	
that	have	been	enacted	or	substantively	enacted	by	the	reporting	date.	an	
adjustment	of	deferred	tax	asset/liability	balances	due	to	a	change	in	the	tax	
rate	is	recognized	in	the	income	statement,	unless	it	relates	to	a	temporary	
difference	earlier	recognized	directly	in	equity	or	oCi,	in	which	case	the	
adjustment	is	also	recognized	in	equity	or	oCi.

the	measurement	of	deferred	tax	assets	involves	judgment	regarding	
the	deductibility	of	costs	not	yet	subject	to	taxation	and	estimates	regarding	
sufficient	future	taxable	income	to	enable	utilization	of	unused	tax	losses	in	
different	tax	jurisdictions.	all	deferred	tax	assets	are	subject	to	annual	review	
of	probable	utilization.	the	largest	amounts	of	tax	loss	carry	forwards	relate	
to	Sweden,	with	indefinite	period	of	utilization.

provisions.

Provisions	are	made	when	there	are	legal	or	constructive	obligations	
as	a	result	of	past	events	and	when	it	is	probable	that	an	outflow	of	
resources	will	be	required	to	settle	the	obligations	and	the	amounts	can	be	
reliably	estimated.	when	the	effect	of	the	time	value	of	money	is	material,	
discounting	is	made	of	estimated	outflows.	however,	the	actual	outflows	as	
a	result	of	the	obligations	may	differ	from	such	estimates.

52		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   52

2011-02-25   14.38

note.C1

the	provisions	are	mainly	related	to	warranty	commitments,	

restructuring,	customer	projects	and	other	obligations,	such	as	unresolved	
income	tax	and	value	added	tax	issues,	claims	or	obligations	as	a	result	
of	patent	infringement	and	other	litigations,	supplier	claims	and	customer	
finance	guarantees.

Product	warranty	commitments	consider	probabilities	of	all	material	
quality	issues	based	on	historical	performance	for	established	products	and	
expected	performance	for	new	products,	estimates	of	repair	cost	per	unit,	
and	volumes	sold	still	under	warranty	up	to	the	reporting	date.

a	restructuring	obligation	is	considered	to	have	arisen	when	the	
Company	has	a	detailed	formal	plan	for	the	restructuring	(approved	by	
management),	which	has	been	communicated	in	such	a	way	that	a	valid	
expectation	has	been	raised	among	those	affected.

Project	related	provisions	include	estimated	losses	on	onerous	

contracts,	contractual	penalties	and	undertakings.	for	losses	on	customer	
contracts,	a	provision	equal	to	the	total	estimated	loss	is	recorded	when	a	
loss	from	a	contract	is	anticipated	and	possible	to	estimate	reliably.	these	
contract	loss	estimates	include	any	probable	penalties	to	a	customer	under	
a	loss	contract.

other	provisions	include	provisions	for	unresolved	tax	issues,	litigations,	

supplier	claims,	customer	finance	and	other	provisions.	the	Company	
provides	for	estimated	future	settlements	related	to	patent	infringements	
based	on	the	probable	outcome	of	each	infringement.	the	ultimate	outcome	
or	actual	cost	of	settling	an	individual	infringement	may	vary	from	the	
Company’s	estimate.	

the	Company	estimates	the	outcome	of	any	potential	patent	

infringement	made	known	to	the	Company	through	assertion	and	through	
the	Company’s	own	monitoring	of	patent-related	cases	in	the	relevant	
legal	systems.	to	the	extent	that	the	Company	makes	the	judgment	that	an	
identified	potential	infringement	will	more	likely	than	not	result	in	an	outflow	
of	resources,	the	Company	records	a	provision	based	on	the	Company’s	
best	estimate	of	the	expenditure	required	to	settle	with	the	counterpart.	

in	the	ordinary	course	of	business,	the	Company	is	subject	to	

proceedings,	lawsuits	and	other	unresolved	claims,	including	proceedings	
under	laws	and	government	regulations	and	other	matters.	these	matters	are	
often	resolved	over	a	long	period	of	time.	the	Company	regularly	assesses	
the	likelihood	of	any	adverse	judgments	in	or	outcomes	of	these	matters,	as	
well	as	potential	ranges	of	possible	losses.	Provisions	are	recognized	when	it	
is	probable	that	an	obligation	has	arisen	and	the	amount	can	be	reasonably	
estimated	based	on	a	detailed	analysis	of	each	individual	issue.

Certain	present	obligations	are	not	recognized	as	provisions	as	it	is	not	
probable	that	an	economic	outflow	will	be	required	to	settle	the	obligation	
or	the	amount	of	the	obligation	cannot	be	measured	with	sufficient	reliability.	
Such	obligations	are	reported	as	contingent	liabilities.	for	further	detailed	
information,	see	note	C24,	“Contingent	liabilities”.

there	is	no	deep	market	in	such	bonds,	the	market	yields	on	government	
bonds	are	used.	the	calculations	are	based	upon	actuarial	assumptions,	
assessed	on	a	quarterly	basis,	and	are	as	a	minimum	prepared	annually.	
actuarial	assumptions	are	the	Company’s	best	estimate	of	the	variables	
that	determine	the	cost	of	providing	the	benefits.	when	using	actuarial	
assumptions,	it	is	possible	that	the	actual	results	will	differ	from	the	
estimated	results	or	that	the	actuarial	assumptions	will	change	from	one	
period	to	another.	these	differences	are	reported	as	actuarial	gains	and	
losses.	they	are	for	example	caused	by	unexpectedly	high	or	low	rates	of	
employee	turnover,	changed	life	expectancy,	salary	changes,	changes	in	the	
discount	rate	and	differences	between	actual	and	expected	return	on	plan	
assets.	actuarial	gains	and	losses	are	recognized	in	oCi	in	the	period	in	
which	they	occur.	the	Company’s	net	liability	for	each	defined	benefit	plan	
consists	of	the	present	value	of	pension	commitments	less	the	fair	value	of	
plan	assets	and	is	recognized	net	on	the	balance	sheet.	when	the	result	is	
a	net	benefit	to	the	Company,	the	recognized	asset	is	limited	to	the	total	of	
any	cumulative	past	service	cost	and	the	present	value	of	any	future	refunds	
from	the	plan	or	reductions	in	future	contributions	to	the	plan.

the	net	of	return	on	plan	assets	and	interest	on	pension	liabilities	is	
reported	as	financial	income	or	expense,	while	the	current	service	cost	and	
any	other	items	in	the	annual	pension	cost	are	reported	as	operating	income	
or	expense.

Payroll	taxes	related	to	actuarial	gains	and	losses	are	included	in	

determining	actuarial	gains	and	losses.

share-based.compensation.to.employees..
and.the.board.of.directors

Share-based	compensation	is	related	to	remuneration	to	all	employees,	
including	key	management	personnel	and	the	board	of	directors.	

under	ifrS,	a	company	shall	recognize	compensation	costs	for	share-

based	compensation	programs	based	on	a	measure	of	the	value	to	the	
company	of	services	received	under	the	plans.

this	value	is	based	on	the	fair	value	of,	for	example	free	shares	at	grant	

date,	measured	as	stock	price	as	per	each	investment	date.	the	value	at	
grant	date	is	charged	to	the	income	statement	as	any	other	remuneration	
over	the	service	period.	for	example,	value	at	grant	date	is	90.	given	the	
normal	service	period	of	three	years	within	ericsson,	30	are	charged	per	
year	during	the	service	period.

the	amount	charged	to	the	income	statement	is	reversed	in	equity	each	

time	of	the	income	statement	charge.

the	reason	for	this	accounting	principle	of	ifrS	is	that	compensation	

cost	is	a	cost	with	no	direct	cash	flow	impact.	the	purpose	of	share-
based	accounting	according	to	ifrS	(ifrS	2)	is	to	present	an	impact	of	
share	based	programs,	being	part	of	the	total	remuneration,	in	the	income	
statement.

post-employment.benefits

Compensation.to.employees

Pensions	and	other	post-employment	benefits	are	classified	as	either	
defined	contribution	plans	or	defined	benefit	plans.	under	a	defined	
contribution	plan,	the	Company’s	only	obligation	is	to	pay	a	fixed	amount	
to	a	separate	entity	(a	pension	trust	fund)	with	no	obligation	to	pay	further	
contributions	if	the	fund	does	not	hold	sufficient	assets	to	pay	all	employee	
benefits.	the	related	actuarial	and	investment	risks	fall	on	the	employee.	
the	expenditures	for	defined	contribution	plans	are	recognized	as	expenses	
during	the	period	when	the	employee	provides	service.	under	a	defined	
benefit	plan,	it	is	the	Company’s	obligation	to	provide	agreed	benefits	to	
current	and	former	employees.	the	related	actuarial	and	investment	risks	fall	
on	the	Company.

the	present	value	of	the	defined	benefit	obligations	for	current	
and	former	employees	is	calculated	using	the	Projected	unit	Credit	
method.	the	discount	rate	for	each	country	is	determined	by	reference	to	
market	yields	on	high-quality	corporate	bonds	that	have	maturity	dates	
approximating	the	terms	of	the	Company’s	obligations.	in	countries	where	

stock.purchase.plans

for	stock	purchase	plans,	compensation	costs	are	recognized	during	
the	vesting	period,	based	on	the	fair	value	of	the	ericsson	share	at	the	
employee’s	investment	date.	the	fair	value	is	based	upon	the	share	
price	at	investment	date,	adjusted	for	the	fact	that	no	dividends	will	be	
received	on	matching	shares	prior	to	matching	and	other	features	that	
are	non-vesting	conditions.	the	employee	pays	a	price	equal	to	the	share	
price	at	investment	date	for	the	investment	shares.	the	investment	date	
is	considered	as	the	grant	date.	in	the	balance	sheet,	the	corresponding	
amounts	are	accounted	for	as	equity.	vesting	conditions	are	non-market	
based	and	affect	the	number	of	shares	that	ericsson	will	match.	other	
features	of	a	share-based	payment	are	not	vesting	conditions.	these	
features	would	need	to	be	included	in	the	grant	date	fair	value	for	
transactions	with	employees	and	others	providing	similar	services.	in	the	
period	when	an	employee	takes	a	refund	of	previously	made	contributions	

ericsson	annual	report	2010		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		|..53

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   53

2011-02-25   14.38

note.C1

(and	stops	making	further	contributions)	all	remaining	compensation	
expense	is	recognized.	non-vesting	conditions	would	not	impact	the	
number	of	awards	expected	to	vest	or	valuation	thereof	subsequent	to	
grant	date.	when	calculating	the	compensation	costs	for	shares	under	
performance-based	matching	programs,	the	Parent	Company	at	each	
reporting	date	assesses	the	probability	that	the	performance	targets	are	met.	
Compensation	expenses	are	based	on	estimates	of	the	number	of	shares	
that	will	match	at	the	end	of	the	vesting	period.	when	shares	are	matched,	
social	security	charges	are	to	be	paid	in	certain	countries	on	the	value	
of	the	employee	benefit.	the	employee	benefit	is	generally	based	on	the	
market	value	of	the	shares	at	the	matching	date.	during	the	vesting	period,	
estimated	amounts	for	such	social	security	charges	are	accrued.	

Compensation.to.the.board.oF.direCtors

during	2008,	the	Parent	Company	introduced	a	share-based	compensation	
program	as	a	part	of	the	remuneration	to	the	board	of	directors.	the	
program	gives	non-employed	directors	elected	by	the	general	meeting	
of	Shareholders	a	right	to	receive	part	of	their	remuneration	as	a	future	
payment	of	an	amount	which	corresponds	to	the	market	value	of	a	share	of	
class	b	in	the	Parent	Company	at	the	time	of	payment,	as	further	disclosed	
in	note	C29,	“information	regarding	members	of	the	board	of	directors,	
the	group	management	and	employees”.	the	cost	for	cash	settlements	is	
measured	and	recognized	based	on	the	estimated	costs	for	the	program	
on	a	pro	rata	basis	during	the	service	period,	being	one	year.	the	estimated	
costs	are	remeasured	during	and	at	the	end	of	the	service	period.

segment.reporting

an	operating	segment	is	a	component	of	a	company	whose	operating	
results	are	regularly	reviewed	by	the	Company’s	chief	operating	decision	
maker,	(Codm),	to	make	decisions	about	resources	to	be	allocated	to	
the	segment	and	assess	its	performance.	within	the	Company,	the	group	
management	team	is	defined	as	the	Codm	function.

the	segment	presentation,	as	per	each	segment	is	based	on	the	
accounting	policies	as	disclosed	in	this	note.	the	arm’s	length	principle	is	
applied	in	transactions	between	the	segments.	

the	Company’s	segment	disclosure	about	geographical	areas	is	based	

on	in	which	country	transfer	of	risks	and	rewards	occur.	

borrowing.costs

the	Company	capitalizes	borrowing	costs	in	relation	to	qualifying	assets,	
for	the	Company	normally	being	internally	generated	intangible	assets	as	
capitalized	development	expenses.	all	other	borrowing	costs	are	expensed	
as	incurred.

government.grants.

government	grants	are	recognized	when	there	is	a	reasonable	assurance	of	
compliance	with	conditions	attached	to	the	grants	and	that	the	grants	will	
be	received.	

for	the	Company,	government	grants	are	linked	to	performance	of	
research	or	development	work	or	to	capital	expenditures	that	are	subsidized	
as	governmental	stimulus	to	employment	or	investments	in	a	certain	country	
or	region.	government	grants	linked	to	research	and	development	are	
normally	deducted	in	reporting	the	related	expense,	whereas	grants	related	
to	assets	are	accounted	for	deducting	the	grant	when	establishing	the	
acquisition	cost	of	the	asset.

new.standards.and.interpretations.not.yet.adopted.

a	number	of	issued	new	standards,	amendments	to	standards	and	
interpretations	are	not	yet	effective	for	the	year	ended	december	31,	
2010,	and	have	not	been	applied	in	preparing	these	consolidated	financial	
statements:

below	is	a	list	of	standards/interpretations	that	have	been	issued,	except	

for	amendments	related	to	ifrS	1,	‘first	time	adoption	of	international	
financial	reporting	Standards’	and	are	effective	for	the	periods	starting	as	
from	January	1,	2011.
 > amendment.to.ias.32,.‘Financial.instruments:.presentation.–.

Classification.of.rights.issues’.
the	iaSb	amended	iaS	32	to	allow	rights,	options	or	warrants	to	acquire	
a	fixed	number	of	the	entity’s	own	equity	instruments	for	a	fixed	amount	
of	any	currency	to	be	classified	as	equity	instruments	provided	the	entity	
offers	the	rights,	options	or	warrants	pro	rata	to	all	of	its	existing	owners	
of	the	same	class	of	its	own	non-derivative	equity	instruments.
iFriC.19,.‘extinguishing.financial.liabilities.with.equity.instruments’
Clarifies	the	requirements	of	ifrSs	when	an	entity	renegotiates	the	
terms	of	a	financial	liability	with	its	creditor	and	the	creditor	agrees	
to	accept	the	entity’s	shares	or	other	equity	instruments	to	settle	the	
financial	liability	fully	or	partially.
ias.24,.‘related.party.disclosures’.(revised.2009)
amends	the	definition	of	a	related	party	and	modifies	certain	related	
party	disclosure	requirements	for	government-related	entities,	
associated	companies	and	joint	ventures.

 >

 >

 > amendments.to.iFrs.7

amends	disclosures	in	relation	to	transfers	of	financial	assets.

 > amendment.to.iFriC.14,.ias.19.–.‘the.limit.on.a.defined.benefit.asset,.

minimum.funding.requirements.and.their.interaction’..
removes	unintended	consequences	arising	from	the	treatment	of	
prepayments	where	there	is	a	minimum	funding	requirement.	this	
results	in	prepayments	of	contributions	in	certain	circumstances	being	
recognized	as	an	asset	rather	than	an	expense.
iFrs.9,.‘Financial.instruments’..
ifrS	9	is	the	first	standard	issued	as	part	of	a	wider	project	to	replace	
iaS	39.	ifrS	9	retains	but	simplifies	the	mixed	measurement	model	and	
establishes	two	primary	measurement	categories	for	financial	assets:	
amortized	cost	and	fair	value.	the	basis	of	classification	depends	on	the	
entity’s	business	model	and	the	contractual	cash	flow	characteristics	of	
the	financial	asset.	the	guidance	in	iaS	39	on	impairment	of	financial	
assets	and	hedge	accounting	continues	to	apply.	
improvements.to.iFrss.2010.

 >

 >

the	amendments	are	generally	applicable	for	annual	periods	beginning	at	
January	1,	2011,	except	for	amendments	to	ifrS	7	that	is	applicable	as	
from	January	1,	2012,	and	ifrS	9	that	is	applicable	as	from	January	1,	2013.	
the	eu	has	not	endorsed	amendments	to	ifrS	7,	ifrS	9	or	improvements	
to	ifrSs.	

none	of	the	amendments	effective	as	from	January	1,	2011,	are	

expected	to	have	a	significant	impact	on	the	Company’s	financial	result	or	
position.	the	impact	of	amendments	to	ifrS	7	and	ifrS	9	have	not	yet	
been	evaluated.

54		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

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C2 CritiCal aCCounting 
estimates and Judgments 

the	preparation	of	financial	statements	and	application	of	accounting	
standards	often	involve	management’s	judgment	and	the	use	of	estimates	
and	assumptions	deemed	to	be	reasonable	at	the	time	they	are	made.	
however,	other	results	may	be	derived	with	different	judgments	or	using	
different	assumptions	or	estimates,	and	events	may	occur	that	could	require	
a	material	adjustment	to	the	carrying	amount	of	the	asset	or	liability	affected.	
following	are	the	accounting	policies	subject	to	such	judgments	and	the	
key	sources	of	estimation	uncertainty	that	the	Company	believes	could	have	
the	most	significant	impact	on	the	reported	results	and	financial	position.	

the	information	in	this	note	is	grouped	as	per:

 > key	sources	of	estimation	uncertainty.
 >

Judgments	management	has	made	in	the	process	of	applying	the	
Company’s	accounting	policies.

revenue.recognition

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

estimates	are	necessary	in	evaluation	of	contractual	performance	and	
estimated	total	contract	costs	for	assessing	whether	any	loss	provisions	
are	to	be	made	or	if	customers	will	reach	conditional	purchase	volumes	
triggering	contractual	discounts	to	be	given.	

Judgments made in relation to accounting policies applied
Parts	of	the	Company’s	sales	are	generated	from	large	and	complex	
customer	contracts.	managerial	judgment	is	applied	regarding,	among	other	
aspects,	conformance	with	acceptance	criteria	and	if	transfer	of	risks	and	
rewards	to	the	buyer	has	taken	place	to	determine	if	revenue	and	costs	
should	be	recognized	in	the	current	period,	degree	of	completion	and	the	
customer	credit	standing	to	assess	whether	payment	is	likely	or	not	to	justify	
revenue	recognition.

trade.and.customer.finance.receivables

Key sources of estimation uncertainty 

the	Company	monitors	the	financial	stability	of	its	customers	and	the	
environment	in	which	they	operate	to	make	estimates	regarding	the	
likelihood	that	the	individual	receivables	will	be	paid.	total	allowances	for	
estimated	losses	as	of	december	31,	2010,	were	Sek	1.1	(1.7)	billion	or	1.6	
(2.4)	percent	of	gross	trade	and	customer	finance	receivables.	

Credit	risks	for	outstanding	customer	finance	credits	are	regularly	
assessed	as	well,	and	allowances	are	recorded	for	estimated	losses.	

inventory.valuation

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

inventories	are	valued	at	the	lower	of	cost	and	net	realizable	value.	
estimates	are	required	in	relation	to	forecasted	sales	volumes	and	
inventory	balances.	in	situations	where	excess	inventory	balances	are	
identified,	estimates	of	net	realizable	values	for	the	excess	volumes	are	
made.	inventory	allowances	for	estimated	losses	as	of	december	31,	2010,	
amounted	to	Sek	3.1	(3.0)	billion	or	10	(12)	percent	of	gross	inventory.	

investments.in.joint.ventures.and.associated.
companies

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

impairment	testing	is	performed	after	initial	recognition	whenever	there	is	an	
indication	of	impairment.	

at	december	31,	2010,	the	amount	of	joint	ventures	and	associated	

companies	amounted	to	Sek	9.8	(11.6)	billion.

note.C2

deferred.taxes

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

deferred	tax	assets	are	recognized	for	temporary	differences	between	the	
carrying	amounts	for	financial	reporting	purposes	of	assets	and	liabilities	
and	the	amounts	used	for	taxation	purposes	and	for	tax	loss	carry-forwards.	
the	largest	amounts	of	tax	loss	carry-forwards	are	reported	in	Sweden,	with	
an	indefinite	period	of	utilization	(i.e.	with	no	expiry	date).	the	valuation	of	
tax	loss	carry-forwards,	deferred	tax	assets	and	the	Company’s	ability	to	
utilize	tax	losses	is	based	upon	management’s	estimates	of	future	taxable	
income	in	different	tax	jurisdictions.	for	further	detailed	information,	please	
refer	to	note	C8,	“taxes”.

at	december	31,	2010,	the	value	of	deferred	tax	assets	amounted	to	
Sek	12.7	(14.3)	billion.	the	deferred	tax	assets	related	to	loss	carryforwards	
are	reported	as	non-current	assets.	

accounting.for.income-,.value.added-.and.other.
taxes

Key sources of estimation uncertainty 

accounting	for	these	items	is	based	upon	evaluation	of	income-,	value	
added-	and	other	tax	rules	in	all	jurisdictions	where	we	perform	activities.	
the	total	complexity	of	rules	related	to	taxes	and	the	accounting	for	these	
require	management’s	involvement	in	judgments	regarding	classification	of	
transactions	and	in	estimates	of	probable	outcomes	of	claimed	deductions	
and/or	disputes.

Capitalized.development.expenses

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

impairment	testing	is	performed	after	initial	recognition	whenever	there	is	
an	indication	of	impairment.	intangible	assets	not	yet	available	for	use	are	
tested	annually.	the	impairment	testing	amounts	are	based	on	estimates	of	
future	cash	flows	for	the	respective	products.

at	december	31,	2010,	the	capitalized	development	expenses	
amounted	to	Sek	3.0	(2.1)	billion.	an	impairment	charge	of	Sek	0	(0.2)	
billion	was	recognized	as	a	part	of	the	restructuring	program.	under	
this	program	decisions	were	taken	to	phase	out	certain	products.	the	
impairment	charge	relates	to	balances	for	these	products.

Judgments made in relation to accounting policies applied
development	costs	that	meet	ifrS’	intangible	asset	recognition	criteria	for	
products	that	will	be	sold,	leased	or	otherwise	marketed	as	well	as	those	
intended	for	internal	use	are	capitalized.	the	starting	point	for	capitalization	
is	based	upon	management’s	judgment	that	technological	and	economical	
feasibility	is	confirmed,	usually	when	a	product	development	project	has	
reached	a	defined	milestone	according	to	the	Company’s	established	
project	management	model.	Capitalization	ceases	and	amortization	of	
capitalized	development	costs	begin	when	the	product	is	available	for	
general	release.

the	definition	of	amortization	periods	and	the	evaluation	of	impairment	

indicators	also	require	management’s	judgment.

acquired.intellectual.property.rights.and.other.
intangible.assets,.including.goodwill

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

at	initial	recognition,	future	cash	flows	are	estimated,	to	ensure	that	the	
initial	carrying	values	do	not	exceed	the	expected	discounted	cash	flows	for	
the	items	of	this	type	of	assets.	after	initial	recognition	impairment	testing	
is	performed	whenever	there	is	an	indication	of	impairment,	except	for	
goodwill	for	which	impairment	testing	is	performed	at	least	once	per	year.	
negative	deviations	in	actual	cash	flows	compared	to	estimated	cash	flows	
as	well	as	new	estimates	that	indicate	lower	future	cash	flows	might	result	
in	recognition	of	impairment	charges.	one	source	of	uncertainty	related	to	
future	cash	flows	is	long-term	movements	in	exchange	rates.	

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note.C2

the	market	capitalization	of	the	Company	as	per	year-end	2010	well	

Judgments made in relation to accounting policies applied

exceeded	the	value	of	the	Company’s	net	assets.	

for	further	discussion	on	goodwill,	see	note	C1,	“Significant	accounting	

Policies”	and	C10,	“intangible	assets”.	estimates	related	to	acquired	
intangible	assets	are	based	on	similar	assumptions	and	risks	as	for	goodwill.
at	december	31,	2010,	the	amount	of	acquired	intellectual	property	

rights	and	other	intangible	assets	amounted	to	Sek	43.8	(46.1)	billion,	
including	goodwill	of	Sek	27.2	(27.4)	billion.	the	Company	has	also	
recognized	goodwill	in	St-ericsson	of	Sek	1.4	(1,3)	billion,	as	disclosed	in	
note	C12,	“financial	assets,	non-Current”.	an	impairment	charge	of	Sek	
0.9	(4.3)	billion	was	recognized	as	a	part	of	the	restructuring	program.	under	
this	program	decisions	were	taken	to	phase	out	certain	products.	the	
impairment	charge	relates	to	balances	for	these	products.

Judgments made in relation to accounting policies applied
at	initial	recognition	and	subsequent	remeasurement,	management	
judgments	are	made,	both	for	key	assumptions	and	regarding	impairment	
indicators.	in	the	purchase	price	allocation	made	for	each	acquisition,	the	
purchase	price	shall	be	assigned	to	the	identifiable	assets,	liabilities	and	
contingent	liabilities	based	on	fair	values	for	these	assets.	any	remaining	
excess	value	is	reported	as	goodwill.	this	allocation	requires	management	
judgment	as	well	as	the	definition	of	cash	generating	units	for	impairment	
testing	purposes.	other	judgments	might	result	in	significantly	different	
results	and	financial	position	in	the	future.

provisions

warranty.provisions

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

Provisions	for	product	warranties	are	based	on	current	volumes	of	products	
sold	still	under	warranty	and	on	historic	quality	rates	for	mature	products	as	
well	as	estimates	and	assumptions	on	future	quality	rates	for	new	products	
and	estimates	of	costs	to	remedy	the	various	qualitative	issues	that	might	
occur.	total	provisions	for	product	warranties	as	of	december	31,	2010,	
amounted	to	Sek	2.5	(2.5)	billion.

provisions.other.than.warranty.provisions

Key sources of estimation uncertainty 

Provisions,	other	than	warranty	provisions,	mainly	comprise	amounts	related	
to	contractual	obligations	and	penalties	to	customers	and	estimated	losses	
on	customer	contracts,	restructuring,	risks	associated	with	patent	and	
other	litigations,	supplier	or	subcontractor	claims	and/or	disputes,	as	well	
as	provisions	for	unresolved	income	tax	and	value	added	tax	issues.	the	
estimates	related	to	the	amounts	of	provisions	for	penalties,	claims	or	losses	
receive	special	attention	from	the	management.	at	december	31,	2010,	
provisions	other	than	warranty	commitments	amounted	to	Sek	7.3	(9.9)	
billion.	for	further	detailed	information,	see	note	C18,	“Provisions”.

whether	a	present	obligation	is	probable	or	not	requires	judgment.	the	
nature	and	type	of	risks	for	these	provisions	differ	and	management’s	
judgment	is	applied	regarding	the	nature	and	extent	of	obligations	in	
deciding	if	an	outflow	of	resources	is	probable	or	not.

pension.and.other.post-employment.benefits

Key sources of estimation uncertainty 

accounting	for	the	costs	of	defined	benefit	pension	plans	and	other	
applicable	post-employment	benefits	is	based	on	actuarial	valuations,	
relying	on	key	estimates	for	discount	rates,	expected	return	on	plan	assets,	
future	salary	increases,	employee	turnover	rates	and	mortality	tables.	the	
discount	rate	assumptions	are	based	on	rates	for	high-quality	fixed-income	
investments	with	durations	as	close	as	possible	to	the	Company’s	pension	
plans.	expected	returns	on	plan	assets	consider	long-term	historical	returns,	
allocation	of	assets	and	estimates	of	future	long-term	investment	returns.	
at	december	31,	2010,	defined	benefit	obligations	for	pensions	and	other	
post-employment	benefits	amounted	to	Sek	28.7	(30.7)	billion	and	fair	value	
of	plan	assets	to	Sek	25.4	(23.2)	billion.	for	more	information	on	estimates	
and	assumptions,	see	note	C17,	“Post-employment	benefits”.	

Financial.instruments,.hedge.accounting.and.foreign.
exchange.risks

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

foreign	exchange	risk	in	highly	probable	sales	and	purchases	in	future	
periods	are	hedged	using	foreign	exchange	derivative	instruments	
designated	as	cash-flow	hedges.	forecasts	are	based	on	estimations		
of	future	transactions,	a	forecast	is	therefore	per	definition	uncertain	to	
some	degree.

Judgments made in relation to accounting policies applied
establishing	highly	probable	sales	and	purchases	volumes	involve	gathering	
and	evaluating	sales	and	purchases	estimates	for	future	periods	as	well		
as	analyzing	actual	outcome	versus	estimates	on	a	regular	basis	in	order		
to	fulfill	effectiveness	testing	requirements	for	hedge	accounting.	Changes	
in	estimates	of	sales	and	purchases	might	result	in	that	hedge	accounting		
is	discontinued.	

for	further	information	regarding	risks	in	financial	instruments,	see	note	

C20,	“financial	risk	management	and	financial	instruments”.

56		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

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C3 segment inFormation

operating.segments

when	determining	our	operating	segments,	we	have	looked	at	which	
markets	and	what	type	of	customers	our	products	and	services	aim	to	
attract	as	well	as	what	distribution	channels	they	are	sold	through.	we	
have	also	considered	commonality	regarding	technology,	research	
and	development.	to	best	reflect	our	business	focus	and	to	facilitate	
comparability	with	peers,	we	report	five	operating	segments:
 > networks	
 >
 > multimedia	
 > Sony	ericsson	
 > St-ericsson	

Professional	Services	

 >

networks	delivers	products	and	solutions	for	mobile	and	fixed	broadband	
access,	core	networks,	and	transmission.	the	offering	includes:
 > radio	access	solutions	that	interconnect	with	devices	such	as	mobile	
phones,	notebooks	and	PCs,	supporting	all	major	standardized	mobile	
technologies.
fixed	access	solutions	for	both	fiber	and	copper,	such	as	gPon	and	
dSl,	increase	the	customers’	ability	to	modernize	fixed	networks	to	
enable	iP-based	services	with	high	bandwidth.
iP	core	network	solutions	(switching,	routing	and	control)	include	
softswitches,	iP	infrastructure	for	edge-	and	core	routing,	iP	multimedia	
Subsystem	(imS)	and	media	gateways.
transmission/backhaul;	microwave	(mini-link)	and	optical	transmission	
solutions	for	mobile	and	fixed	networks.	

 >

 >

 > network	management	tools;	supporting	operators’	management	of	

existing	networks	as	well	as	introduction	of	new	network	architectures,	
technologies	and	services.	this	includes	tools	for	configuration,	
performance	monitoring,	security	management,	inventory	management	
and	software	upgrades.

global.services.delivers	managed	services,	consulting	and	systems	
integration,	customer	support	and	network	rollout	services.	the	offering	
includes:
 > managed	services	comprise	solutions	for	network	design	and	planning,	
network	operations	(the	management	of	day-to-day	operations	of	
customer	networks),	field	operations	and	site	maintenance	and	shared	
solutions	such	as	hosting	of	platforms	and	applications.

 > Consulting	and	Systems	integration;	technology	and	operational	
consulting,	integration	of	multi-vendor	equipment,	design	and	
integration	of	new	solutions	and	handling	of	technology	change	and	
transformation	programs,	learning	services	and	optimization	services	
ensuring	the	best	possible	user	experience.	industry-specific	solutions	
for	vertical	industries	are	also	included.

 > Customer	support;	staff	world-wide	provide	around-the-clock	support	

note.C3

 > Consumer	and	business	applications;	solutions	for	the	consumer	

include	service	delivery	platforms,	rich	Communication	Suite	(rCS),	
messaging,	a	social	media	portal,	and	location-based	services.	
enterprise	market	solutions	include	converged	business	communication	
solutions	such	as	ericsson	business	Communication	Suite	(bCS).	
brokering	solutions	facilitate	payment	and	distribution	of	content.
 > business	Support	Systems	includes	revenue	management	(Pre-

paid,	Post-paid,	convergent	Charging	and	billing),	Customer	Care,	
Provisioning,	device	management	and	analytics.

sony.ericsson,	the	joint	venture	delivers	innovative	and	feature-rich	mobile	
phones	and	accessories.	the	Jv	forms	an	essential	part	of	our	end-to-end	
capability	for	mobile	multimedia	services.

st-ericsson,	the	joint	venture	develops	semiconductors	and	wireless	
platforms	for	gSm,	edge,	wCdma,	hSPa,	td-SCdma	and	lte	to	handset	
manufacturers,	as	well	as	to	mobile	operators	and	device	manufacturers.

Sony	ericsson’s	and	St-ericsson’s	results	are	reported	according	to	the	
equity	method	under	“Share	in	earnings	of	joint	ventures	and	associated	
companies”	in	the	income	statement.

unallocated

Some	revenues,	costs,	assets	and	liabilities	are	not	identified	as	part	of	any	
operating	segment	and	are	therefore	not	allocated.	examples	of	such	items	
are	costs	for	corporate	staff,	it	costs	and	general	marketing	costs.

regions

our	regions	are	our	primary	sales	channel.	the	Company	operates	world-
wide	and	reports	its	operations	divided	into	ten	regions.	other	includes	
sales	of	for	example	embedded	modules,	cables,	power	modules	as	well	as	
licensing	and	iPr.
 > north	america
latin	america
 >
 > northern	europe	&	Central	asia	
 > western	and	Central	europe
 > mediterranean
 > middle	east
 > Sub-Saharan	africa
 >
 > China	&	north	east	asia
 > South	east	asia	&	oceania
 > other

india

and	advice	to	ensure	network	uptime	and	performance.

major.customers

 > network	rollout	services,	deploying	new	networks,	modernizing	and	

expanding	existing	networks.

multimedia	provides	enablers	and	applications	for	operators.	the	offering	
includes:

 >

tv	solutions;	a	suite	of	open,	standards-based	digital	tv	solutions	in	
hd,	3g	or	standard	quality	(real-	time	and	on-	demand),	combined	
with	interactive	services.	the	offering	includes	iPtv	solutions,	video	
compression,	on-demand	solutions,	content	management	systems,	
advertising	and	interactive	tv	applications	for	operators,	service	
providers,	advertisers	and	content	providers.	

the	Company	does	not	have	any	customer	for	which	revenues	from	
transactions	have	exceeded	10	percent	of	the	Company’s	total	revenues	for	
the	years	2010,	2009	or	2008.

we	derive	most	of	our	sales	from	large,	multi-year	agreements	with	

a	limited	number	of	significant	customers.	out	of	a	customer	base	of	
approximately	400,	mainly	network	operators,	the	10	largest	customers	
account	for	46	(42)	percent	of	our	net	sales.	our	largest	customer	accounted	
for	approximately	8	(5)	percent	of	sales	in	2010.	for	more	information,	see	
risk	factors,	“market,	technology	and	business	risks”.

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ericsson	annual	report	2010		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		|..57

	
note.C3
note.C1

operating.segments

2010

Segment	sales
inter-segment	sales
net.sales

operating.income
operating	margin	(%)	
financial	income
financial	expenses
income.after.financial.items
taxes
net.income

networks

111,459
1,249
112,708

12,481
11%

other.segment.items
Share	in	earnings	of	joint	ventures	
and	associated	companies
amortization
depreciation
impairment	losses
reversals	of	impairment	losses
restructuring	expenses
gains/losses	from	divestments

–64
–4,554
–2,600
–675
9
–3,915
154

global.
services

multi-.
media

sony.
ericsson

st-
ericsson

total.
segments

unallo-
cated

elimi-
nations 1)

80,117
6
80,123

6,513
8%

–17
–303
–555
–276
2
–2,675
53

10,504
13
10,517

60,118
60
60,178

13,116
3,403
16,519

275,314
4,731
280,045

–
–
–

–73,234
–3,463
–76,697

–643
–6%

1,523
3%

–3,527
–21%

16,347
6%

–805
–

913
–

–2
–806
–144
–52
1
–207
92

664
–25
–731
–
–
–402
–

–1,763
–930
–1,022
–61
–
–536
–

–1,182
–6,618
–5,052
–1,064
12
–7,735
299

10
–
–
–
–
–17
59

–
955
1,753
61
–
469
–

group

202,080
1,268
203,348

16,455
8%
1,047
–1,719
15,783
–4,548
11,235

–1,172
–5,663
–3,299
–1,003
12
–7,283
358

1)	 Sony	ericsson	and	St-ericsson	are	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	the	equity	method.	the	difference	between	what	is	reported	to	the	Codm	and	externally	is	eliminated	in	the	

eliminations	column.

regions

2010

north	america

Of which the United States

latin	america	
northern	europe	&	Central	asia	1)	2)
western	&	Central	europe	2)
mediterranean
middle	east
Sub-Saharan	africa
india
China	&	north	east	asia

Of which China

South	east	asia	&	oceania
other1)	2)
total

1) Of which Sweden
2) Of which EU

non-current.

net.sales

assets 3)

49,473
46,104
17,882
12,171
19,868
22,628
15,099
9,194
8,626
25,965
14,633
14,902
7,540
203,348
4,237
43,707

7,251
6,977
1,998
42,112
8,629
1,523
84
51
262
3,795
1,013
351
–
66,056
41,683
46,563

3)  Total non-current assets excluding financial instruments, deferred tax assets, and post-employment benefit assets.

for	employee	information,	see	note	C29,	“information	regarding	members	of	the	board	of	directors,	the	group	management	and	employees”.

58		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

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note.C3
note.C1

group

205,373
1,104
206,477

5,918
3%
1,874
–1,549
6,243
–2,116
4,127

–7,400
–4,209
–3,550
–4,413
49
–12,581
843

operating.segments

2009

networks 1)

services 1) multi.media

global.

sony.
ericsson

st-.
ericsson

total.

segments unallo.cated

elimi-
nations 2)

Segment	sales
inter-segment	sales
net.sales

113,339
746
114,085

79,038
82
79,120

12,996
276
13,272

71,984
164
72,148

7,598 3)
7%

6,271 4)
8%

655
5%

–10,820
–15%

13,535
5,731
19,266

–2,615
–14%

290,892
6,999
297,891

–
–
–

–85,519
–5,895
–91,414

1,089
0%

–855
–

5,684
–

operating.income
operating	margin	(%)	
financial	income
financial	expenses
income.after.financial.items
taxes
net.income

other.segment.items
Share	in	earnings	of	joint	ventures	
and	associated	companies
amortization
depreciation
impairment	losses
reversals	of	impairment	losses
restructuring	expenses
gains/losses	from	divestments

37
–2,673
–2,768
–4,333 3)
38
–8,358 3)

10

33
–574
–627
–
9
–2,434

777 4)

–1
–910
–155
–80
2
–385
41

–5,693
–165
–1,124
–
–
–1,754
–

–1,762
–828
–997
–46
–
–890
47

–7,386
–5,150
–5,671
–4,459
49
–13,821
875

–14
–
–
–
–
–82
–32

–
941
2,121
46
–
1,322
–

1)	 amounts	for	2009	and	2008	have	been	restated	to	be	consistent	with	the	segment	allocation	method	applied	as	from	2010.

2)	 Sony	ericsson	and	St-ericsson	are	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	the	equity	method.	the	difference	between	what	is	reported	to	the	Codm	and	externally	is	eliminated	in	the	

eliminations	column.

3)	 including	impairment	losses	related	to	restructuring	activities	of	Sek	4.3	billion.	

4)	 in	q2	2009,	the	temS	business	was	divested,	resulting	in	a	capital	gain	of	Sek	0.8	billion.

regions

2009

north	america

Of which the United States

latin	america	
northern	europe	&	Central	asia	1)	2)
western	&	Central	europe	2)
mediterranean
middle	east
Sub-Saharan	africa
india
China	&	north	east	asia

Of which China

South	east	asia	&	oceania
other	1)	2)
total

1) Of which Sweden
2) Of which EU 

non-current.

net.sales

assets 3)

25,301
21,538
20,034
13,124
22,772
25,200
18,252
15,361
15,297
26,115
18,445
21,530
3,492
206,447
4,096
49,313

8,359
8,100
2,066
44,091
11,713
1,352
115
49
225
988
903
417
–
69,375
43,574
49,158

3)  Total non-current assets excluding financial instruments, deferred tax assets, and post-employment benefit assets.

for	employee	information,	see	note	C29,	“information	regarding	members	of	the	board	of	directors,	the	group	management	and	employees”.

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   59

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ericsson	annual	report	2010		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		|..59

note.C3

note.C1

operating.segments

2008

Segment	sales
inter-segment	sales
net.sales

operating.income
operating	margin	(%)	
financial	income
financial	expenses
income.after.financial.items
taxes
net.income

other.segment.items
Share	in	earnings	of	joint	ventures	and	
associated	companies
amortization
depreciation
impairment	losses
reversals	of	impairment	losses
restructuring	expenses
gains/losses	from	divestments

networks 1)

services 1) multi.media 2)

global.

120,504
16
120,520

12,540
10%

70,467
41
70,508

4,951
7%

12,614
5,288
17,902

–118
–1%

sony.
ericsson

108,492
261
108,753

total.

segments unallo.cated

elimi-
nations 3)

312,077
5,606
317,683

–
–
–

–108,492
–261
–108,753

–1,094
0%

16,279
5%

–618
–

591
–

–25
–3,210
–2,347
–547
6
–4,870
9

91
–368
–532
–
1
–1,533
–16

1
–1,429
–228
–19
–
–337
992

-503
–53
–1,138
–
–
–1,692
–

–436
–5,060
–4,245
–566
7
–8,432
985

–
1
–1
–
–
–20
113

–
53
1,138
–
–
846
–

group

203,585
5,345
208,930

16,252
8%
3,458
–2,484
17,226
–5,559
11,667

–436
–5,006
–3,108
–566
7
–7,606
1,098

1)		amounts	for	2009	and	2008	have	been	restated	to	be	consistent	with	the	segment	allocation	method	applied	as	from	2010.

2)		multimedia	figures	include	the	mobile	Platforms	business	which	from	2009	is	part	of	St-ericsson.

3)		Sony	ericsson	is	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	the	equity	method.	the	difference	between	what	is	reported	to	the	Codm	and	externally	is	eliminated	in	the	eliminations	column.

regions

2008

north	america

Of which the United States

latin	america	
northern	europe	&	Central	asia	1)	2)
western	&	Central	europe	2)
mediterranean
middle	east
Sub-Saharan	africa
india
China	&	north	east	asia

Of which China

South	east	asia	&	oceania
other	1)	2)
total

1) Of which Sweden
2) Of which EU

non-current.

net.sales

assets 3)

17,930
14,132
23,047
16,421
22,331
29,830
17,910
15,534
15,253
22,556
15,068
21,320
6,798
208,930
8,876
57,601

8,917
8,829
1,676
47,037
5,537
1,499
70
54
156
816
688
464
–
66,226
46,458
52,945

3)  Total non-current assets excluding financial instruments, deferred tax assets, and post-employment benefit assets.

for	employee	information,	see	note	C29,	“information	regarding	members	of	the	board	of	directors,	the	group	management	and	employees”.

60		|		noteS	to	the	ConSolidated	finanCial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

C1XC3XEN_v89.indd   60

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Note c4–c6

C6 Other OperatiNg 
iNCOme aNd expeNSeS

other operatINg INcome aNd expeNses

Gains on sales of intangible  
assets and PP&E
Losses on sales of intangible  
assets and PP&E
Gains on sales of investments  
and operations 
Losses on sales of investments  
and operations
Capital gains/losses, net
Other operating revenues 
total other operating income 
and expenses

2010

2009

2008

301

193

302

–422

–126

–190

577

962

1,236

–219
237
1,766

–119
910
2,172

–138
1,210
1,767

2,003

3,082

2,977

C4 Net SaleS

Net sales

Sales of products and  
network rollout services
Of which:

Delivery-type contracts
Construction-type contracts

Professional Services sales
License revenues 1)
Net sales
Export sales from Sweden

2010

2009

2008

140,222

145,873

150,846

140,156
66
58,529
4,597
203,348
100,070

144,908
965
56,123
4,481
206,477
94,829

148,358
2,488
48,978
9,106
208,930
109,254

1)  The ST-Ericsson joint venture was formed in February 2009, figures for 2008 include 

licenses revenues from Mobile Platforms.

C5 expeNSeS by Nature

expeNses by Nature

Goods and services
Amortization and depreciation
Impairments and obsolescence
allowances, net of reversals
Employee remunerations
Interest expenses
Taxes
expenses incurred
Less:
Inventory changes 1)
Additions to Capitalized development
expenses charged to the Income 
statement

2010

2009

2008

130,725
8,962

124,627
7,759

138,298
8,114

966
57,183
1,719
4,548
204,103

5,637
54,877
1,549
2,116
196,565

2,680
51,297
2,484
5,559
208,432

8,465
1,647

–4,784
1,443

3,761
1,409

193,991

199,906

203,262

1)  The inventory changes are based on changes of gross inventory values prior to 

obsolescence allowances.

The cost reduction program, initiated in first quarter 2009, has been 
completed by the second quarter 2010. Total restructuring charges in 
2010 were SEK 6.8 (11.3) b. Cost and capital efficiency remain high on 
the company agenda and efficiency work will continue also in 2011. This 
primarily relates to service delivery, product development and administration.  
Restructuring charges are included in the expenses presented above. 

restructurINg charges by fuNctIoN

Cost of sales
R&D expenses
Selling and administrative expenses 
total restructuring charges

2010

3,354
1,682
1,778
6,814

2009

4,180
6,045
1,034
11,259

2008

2,540
2,648
1,572
6,760

C4XC6XEN_v26.indd   61

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  61

note c7–c8

C7 FinanCial inCome and expenses 

fInancIal Income and expenses

Contractual interest on financial assets

Of which on financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

Contractual interest on financial liabilities 

Of which on financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss

Net gain/loss on:

Instruments at fair value through profit or loss 1)

Of which included in fair value hedge relationships

Available for sale
Loans and receivables
Liabilities at amortized cost

Other financial income and expenses 
total

financial 
income

2010
financial 
expenses

financial 
income

2009
financial 
expenses

financial 
income

2008
financial 
expenses

811
304
–
–

295
–
–
–68
–
9
1,047

–
–
–1,315
–

–206
151
–
–
–4
–194
–1,719

1,287
814
–
–

635
–
–
–53
–
5
1,874

–
–
–1,616
–

155
155
–
–
–2
–86
–1,549

2,938
2,282
–
–

322
–
–
191
–
7
3,458

–
–
–2,023
–

280
–32
–
–
–656
–85
–2,484

1)  Excluding net gain from operating assets and liabilities, SEK 1,528 million (net gain of SEK 2,247 million in 2009, net loss of SEK 4,234 million in 2008), reported as Cost of Sales.

C8 Taxes 

The Company’s expense for 2010 was SEK 4,548 (2,116) million or 28.8 
(33.9) percent of the income after financial items. The tax rate may vary 
between years depending on business and geography mix. The tax rate 
excluding joint ventures and associated companies was 25.7 (25.7) percent 
mainly due to a lower tax rate on losses made by the joint venture.

Income taxes recognIzed In the Income statement

Current income taxes for the year
Current income taxes related  
to previous years
Deferred tax income/expense (–) 
Sub total
Share of taxes in joint ventures 
and associated companies
taxes

2010

2009

2008

–4,635

–4,605

–5,574

–35
307
–4,363

–185
–4,548

441
661
–3,503

1,387
–2,116

167
–297
–5,704

145
–5,559

A reconciliation between actual tax expense for the year and the theoretical 
tax expense that would arise when applying statutory tax rate in Sweden, 
26.3 percent, on income before taxes is shown in the table below.

reconcIlIatIon of swedIsh Income tax  
to the actual Income tax

Tax rate in Sweden (26.3%)
Effect of foreign tax rates
Of which joint ventures  
and associated companies  
Current income taxes related to  
previous years
Recognition/remeasurement of  
tax losses related to previous years
Recognition/remeasurement of  
deductible temporary differences  
related to previous years
Tax effect of non-deductible expenses
Tax effect of non-taxable income 
Tax effect of changes in tax rates
taxes

2010

2009

2008

–4,150
–405

–1,643
–812

–4,823
22

–467   

 –550

1  

–35

441

167

–257

8

–169

172
–830
880
77
–4,548

267
–1,155
630
148
–2,116

62
–986
327
–159
–5,559

62  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C7XC8XEN_v58.indd   62

2011-02-25   14.42

 
 
 
note c8

deferred tax balances

Tax effects of temporary differences and tax loss carryforwards are 
attributable as shown in the table below:

tax effects of temporary dIfferences and tax loss carryforwards 

Intangible assets and property,  
plant and equipment
Current assets
Post-employment benefits
Provisions
Equity
Other
Loss carryforwards
Deferred tax assets/liabilities
Netting of assets/liabilities
net deferred tax balances

deferred 
tax assets

deferred  
tax liabilities

net balance

deferred  
tax assets

deferred  
tax liabilities

2010

2009

net balance

543
3,398
976
2,019
781
3,395
3,537
14,649
–1,912
12,737

3,725
110
636
12
–
–
–
4,483
–1,912
2,571

10,166

359
2,481
852
 2,240
 1,901
4,343
3,961
16,137
 –1,810
14,327

3,096
53
472
–
–
459
–
4,080
–1,810
2,270

12,057

changes In deferred taxes, net

tax loss carryforwards 

Opening balance, net
Recognized in income statement
Recognized in OCI
Acquisitions/disposals of subsidiaries
Translation differences
closing balance, net

2010

12,057
307
–1,120
–606
–472
10,166

2009

12,120 
661
–1,040
186 
130 
12,057 

Deferred tax assets regarding tax loss carryforwards are reported to the 
extent that realization of the related tax benefit through future taxable profits 
is probable also when considering the period during which these can be 
utilized, as described below. 

At December 31, 2010, the available tax loss carryforwards amounted to 

SEK 13,030 (14,493) million. The tax effect of these tax loss carryforwards 
are reported as an asset. 

The final years in which these loss carryforwards can be utilized are 

shown in the following table:

tax loss carryforwards year of expIratIon

year of expiration

2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016 or later
total

tax loss 
carryforwards

tax  
effect

0
32
299
 898
498
11,303
13,030

 0
7
 80
244
119
3,087
3,537

Tax loss carryforwards for Sony Ericsson and ST-Ericsson are not included, 
as they are accounted for in accordance with the equity method.

Tax effects reported directly in Other Comprehensive Income amount to 
SEK –1,120 (–1,040) million, of which actuarial gains and losses related 
to pensions SEK –836 (173) million, cash flow hedges SEK –183 ( –1,059) 
million and deferred tax on gains/losses on hedges on investments in foreign 
entities SEK –101 (–154) million. 

Deferred tax assets are only recognized in countries where the Company 
expects to be able to generate corresponding taxable income in the future to 
benefit from tax reductions. 

Significant tax loss carryforwards are related to countries with long or 

indefinite periods of utilization, mainly Sweden and the US. Of the total 
deferred tax assets for tax loss carryforwards, SEK 3,537 million, SEK 
2,222 million relate to Sweden with indefinite time of utilization. Due to the 
Company’s strong current financial position and taxable income during 
2010, Ericsson has been able to utilize part of its tax loss carryforwards 
during the year. The assessment is that Ericsson will be able to generate 
sufficient income in the coming years to also utilize the remaining parts.

Deferred tax assets for Sony Ericsson and ST-Ericsson are not included, 

as they are accounted for in accordance with the equity method. Sony 
Ericsson has in its annual report deferred tax assets of EUR 574 million. The 
major part of the tax assets relates to the Swedish company. 

Investments In subsIdIarIes

Due to losses in certain subsidiary companies, the book value of certain 
investments in those subsidiaries are less than the tax value of these 
investments. Since deferred tax assets have been reported with respect 
also to losses in these companies, and due to the uncertainty as to which 
deductions can be realized in the future, no additional deferred tax assets 
are reported.

C7XC8XEN_v58.indd   63

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEmENTS  |  63

  
NoTE C9–C10

C9>earnIngs>Per>share>

EARNINGS PER SHARE 2008–2010

Basic
Net income attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company (SEK million)
Average number of shares outstanding, basic (millions)
Earnings per share, basic (SEK)

Diluted
Net income attributable to stockholders of the Parent Company (SEK million)
Average number of shares outstanding, basic (millions)
Dilutive effect for stock option plans 
Dilutive effect for stock purchase plans
Average number of shares  
outstanding, diluted (millions)
Earnings per share, diluted (SEK)

C10>IntangIble>assets

INTANGIBLE ASSETS 2010

2010

2009

2008

11,146
3,197
3.49

11,146
3,197
–
29

3,226
3.46

3,672
3,190
1.15

3,672
3,190
–
22

3,212
1.14

11,273
3,183
3.54

11,273
3,183
1
18

3,202
3.52

Capitalized development expenses

Goodwill

Intellectual property rights (IPR), trade­
marks and other intangible assets

         For internal use

To be 
marketed

Acquired 
costs

Internal 
costs

Total

Total

Trademarks, 
customer 
rel ation ships 
and similar 
rights

Patents and 
acquired 
R&D

5,221
1,389

–
–
–
–
6,610

–2,104
–422
–
–
–2,526

–1,665
–49
–1,714
2,370

2,060
153

–
–
–
–
2,213

–1,630
–145
–
–
–1,775

–55
–
–55
383

1,376
102

–
–
–
–
1,478

–1,087
–97
–
–
–1,184

–37
–
–37
257

8,657
1,644

–
–
–
–
10,301

–4,821
–664
–
–
–5,485

–1,757
–49
–1,806
3,010

27,375
–

1,256
–
–
–1,480
27,151

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
27,151

10,624
521

2,800
–
–
–363
13,582

–2,639
–1,450
–
152
–3,937

–
–
–
9,645

24,898
–

1,025
–55
–
–538
25,330

–9,875
–3,549
27
294
–13,103

–4,269
–945
–5,214
7,013

Total

35,522
521

3,825
–55
–
–901
38,912

–12,514
–4,999
27
446
–17,040

–4,269
–945
–5,214
16,658

Accumulated acquisition costs
Opening balance
Acquisitions/capitalization
Balances regarding acquired 
businesses 1)
Sales/disposals
Contribution to joint ventures
Translation difference
Closing balance
Accumulated amortization
Opening balance
Amortization 
Sales/disposals
Translation difference
Closing balance
Accumulated impairment losses
Opening balance
Impairment losses 2)
Closing balance
Net carrying value

1)  For more information on acquired businesses, see Note C26 “Business Combinations”.

2)  The write-down (impairment charge) of SEK 0,9 billion is a consequence of the restructuring program decision to phase out certain products. 

The goodwill is allocated to the operating segments Networks SEK 16.5 
(16.5) billion, Global Services SEK 4.1 (3.7) billion and Multimedia  
SEK 6.6 (7.2) billion. 

The recoverable amounts for cash-generating units are established 
as the present value of expected future cash flows. Estimation of future 
cash flows includes assumptions mainly for the following key financial 
parameters: 
>> Sales growth
>> Development of operating income (based on operating margin or cost of 

goods sold and operating expenses relative to sales)

>> Development of working capital and capital expenditure requirements.

The assumptions regarding revenue growth, approved by group 
management and each operating segment’s management, are based 
on industry sources and projections made within the Company for the 
development 2011–2015 for key industry parameters: 

>>

The number of global mobile subscriptions is estimated to grow from 5.3 
billion by the end of 2010 (6 billion by the end of 2011) to approximately 
8 billion by the end of 2015. Of these, some hundred millions 
(approximately 450 million 2015) will have mobile PC connections, while 
more than 3 billion 2015 will have a mobile broadband connection.  
     Mobile PC includes USB dongles and embedded modules for 
CDMA2000 EV-DO, HSPA, LTE, Mobile WiMax and TDSCDMA and can 
also be used for fixed applications.  

64  |  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C9XC10XEN_v54.indd   64

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     Mobile Broadband includes CDMA2000 EV-DO, HSPA, LTE, Mobile 
WiMax and TDSCDMA. It includes handsets, USB dongles and 
embedded modules. The vast majority is handsets. 
Fixed broadband subscriptions will grow from around 500 million 
(470 in 2010 and 510 in 2011) to around 600 million in the same time 
perspective. Fixed broadband includes Fiber, Cable and xDSL 
>> Mobile traffic volume is estimated to increase (around 15 times 

>>

2010–2015, around 8 times 2011–2015), while the fixed Internet traffic 
is estimated to increase (around 6 times 2010–2015, around 4 times 
2011–2015), however from a much larger base. 

The demand for multimedia solutions is driven by the opportunities for 
new types of service offerings enabled by IP technology and high-speed 
broadband. There is strong IPTV subscriber growth, rapid growth in digital 
viewing and on-demand services. The development and build out of 
Mobile Broadband networks and increasing number of mobile broadband 
subscriptions drives growth in service introduction and traffic. This puts high 
demand on charging and payment systems. The Business Support Systems’ 
growth is driven by introduction of new services, new business models and 
price plans. 

The demand for professional services is also driven by an increasing 

business and technology complexity. Therefore, operators review their 
business models and look for vendor partners that can take on a broader 
responsibility, including outsourcing of network operations. 

The assumptions are also based upon information gathered in the 

INTANGIBLE ASSETS 2009

NoTE C10

Company’s long-term strategy process, including assessments of new 
technology, the Company’s competitive position and new types of business 
and customers, driven by the continued integration of telecom, data and 
media industries.

The impairment testing is based on specific estimates for the first five 
years and with a reduction of nominal annual growth rate to an average GDP 
growth of 3 (3) percent per year thereafter. The impairment tests for goodwill 
did not result in any impairment. 

A number of sensitivity tests have been made, for example applying 
lower levels of revenue and operating income. Also when applying these 
estimates no goodwill impairment is indicated.

As per year end 2010, the market capitalization of the Company well 

exceeded the value of the Company’s net assets.

An after-tax discount rate of 8 (12) percent has for all cash generating 

units been applied for the discounting of projected after-tax cash flows.  
The assumptions for 2009 are disclosed in note C10 in the Annual Report  
of 2009. 

The Company´s discounting is based on after-tax future cash flows and 

after-tax discount rates. This discounting is not materially different from a 
discounting based on before-tax future cash flows and before-tax discount 
rates, as required by IFRS.

In Note C1, “Significant Accounting Policies”, and Note C2, “Critical 

Accounting Estimates and Judgments”, further disclosures are given 
regarding goodwill impairment testing. 

Capitalized development expenses

Goodwill

Intellectual property rights (IPR), trade­
marks and other intangible assets

        For internal use

To be 
marketed

Acquired 
costs

Internal 
costs

Total

Total

Trademarks, 
customer 
rel ation ships 
and similar 
rights

Patents and 
acquired 
R&D

5,518
1,045

–
–
–1,342
–
5,221

–1,570
–534
–
–
–2,104

–1,508
–157
–1,665
1,452

1,821
239

–
–
–
–
2,060

–1,562
–68
–
–
–1,630

–55
–
–55
375

1,217
159

–
–
–
–
1,376

–1,042
–45
–
–
–1,087

–37
–
–37
252

8,556
1,443

–
–
–1,342
–
8,657

–4,174
–647
–
–
–4,821

–1,600
–157
–1,757
2,079

24,877
–

3,534
–21
–
–1,015
27,375

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
27,375

9,429
602

811
–142
–
–76
10,624

–2,425
–360
131
15
–2,639

–
–
–
7,985

20,450
2

5,021
–
–
–575
24,898

–6,853
–3,202
–
180
–9,875

–14
–4,255
–4,269
10,754

Total

29,879
604

5,832
–142
–
–651
35,522

–9,278
–3,562
131
195
–12,514

–14
–4,255
–4,269
18,739

Accumulated acquisition costs
Opening balance
Acquisitions/capitalization
Balances regarding divested/ 
acquired businesses 1)
Sales/disposals
Contribution to joint ventures
Translation difference
Closing balance

Accumulated amortization
Opening balance
Amortization 
Sales/disposals
Translation difference
Closing balance

Accumulated impairment losses
Opening balance
Impairment losses 2)
Closing balance
Net carrying value

1)  During 2009, Ericsson acquired Nortel SEK 8.7 billion.

2)  The write-down (impairment charge) of SEK 4.3 billion is a consequence of the restructuring program decision to phase out certain products. 

C9XC10XEN_v54.indd   65

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  65

NOTE C11

C11 ProPerty, Plant and equiPment

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 2010

Accumulated acquisition costs
Opening balance

Additions
Balances regarding divested/acquired businesses
Sales/disposals
Reclassifications
Translation difference
Closing balance

Accumulated depreciation
Opening balance
Depreciation
Balances regarding divested businesses
Sales/disposals
Reclassifications
Translation difference
Closing balance

Accumulated impairment losses
Opening balance
Impairment losses
Reversals of impairment losses
Sales/disposals
Translation difference
Closing balance
Net carrying value

Real estate

Machinery and 
other technical 
assets

Other equipment, 
tools and 
installations

Construction in 
process and 
advance payments

4,217

283
14
–102
87
–261
4,238

–1,692
–361
–2
60
4
122
–1,869

–45
–
–
–
2
–43
2,326

5,298

411
4
–543
190
–356
5,004

–3,557
–629
–3
553
9
250
–3,377

–91
–6
–
–
2
–95
1,532

18,087

1,480
473
–1,449
817
–832
18,576

–13,058
–2,309
–297
1,384
–13
598
–13,695

–131
–3
12
–
3
–119
4,762

578

1,512
–5
–148
–1,094
–29
814

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
814

Contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and equipment as per December 31, 2010, amounted to SEK 303 (236) million. 

The reversal of impairment losses have been reported under Cost of sales.

PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT 2009

Accumulated acquisition costs
Opening balance
Additions
Balances regarding divested/acquired businesses
Sales/disposals
Reclassifications
Translation difference
Closing balance

Accumulated depreciation
Opening balance
Depreciation
Balances regarding divested businesses
Sales/disposals
Reclassifications
Translation difference
Closing balance

Accumulated impairment losses
Opening balance
Impairment losses
Reversals of impairment losses
Sales/disposals
Translation difference
Closing balance
Net carrying value

Real estate

Machinery and 
other technical 
assets

Other equipment, 
tools and 
installations

Construction in 
process and 
advance payments

4,054
362
–
–282
240
–157
4,217

–1,545
–303
–
174
–75
57
–1,692

–47
–
–
–
2
–45
2,480

6,131
657
–183
–1,241
151
–217
5,298

–4,211
–735
112
1,188
–51
140
–3,557

–125
–
33
–
1
–91
1,650

18,058
1,699
–95
–2,184
947
–338
18,087

–12,967
–2,512
191
1,873
126
231
–13,058

–148
–1
16
–
2
–131
4,898

795
1,288
–1
–148
–1,338
–18
578

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
578

Contractual commitments for the acquisition of property, plant and equipment as per December 31, 2009, amounted to SEK 236 (229) million. 

The reversal of impairment losses have been reported under Cost of sales.

66  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

Total

28,180

3,686
486
–2,242
–
–1,478
28,632

–18,307
–3,299
–302
1,997
–
970
–18,941

–267
–9
12
–
7
–257
9,434

Total

29,038
4,006
–279
–3,855
–
–730
28,180

–18,723
–3,550
303
3,235
–
428
–18,307

–320
–1
49
–
5
–267
9,606

C11XEN_v19.indd   66

2011-02-25   14.46

notE c12

C12 FinanCial assets, non-Current

Equity in joint vEnturEs and associatEd companiEs

Opening balance
Share in earnings
Taxes
Translation difference
Change in hedge reserve
Pensions
Dividends
Contributions to joint ventures and associated companies
Reclassification
closing balance

1)  Including contribution of SEK 5.0 billion paid to STMicroelectronics.

2)  Including goodwill for ST-Ericsson of SEK 1,381 million (SEK 1,341 million in 2009).

3)  Goodwill, net, amounts to SEK 16 million (SEK 16 million in 2009).

             joint ventures
2009

2010

     associated companies
2009

2010

  total            total
2009

2010

10,317
–1,099
–181
–391
22
–20
–
–
–

8,648 2)

6,694
–7,455
1,388
–277
6
21
–
9,941 1)
–1
10,317 2)

1,261
–73
–4
–47
–
–
–119
138
–1
1,155 3)

1,294
55
–1
–17
–
–
–70
2
–2
1,261

11,578
–1,172
–185
–438
22
–20
–119
138
–1
9,803

7,988
–7,400
1,387
–294
6
21
–70
9,943
–3
11,578

Ericsson’s sharE of assEts, liabilitiEs and incomE in joint 
vEnturE sony Ericsson mobilE communications

Ericsson’s sharE of assEts, liabilitiEs and incomE in joint 
vEnturE st-Ericsson

Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
net assets
Net sales
Income after financial items
Income taxes
net income
Net income attributable to:

Stockholders of the Parent Company
Non-controlling interest
Assets pledged as collateral
Contingent liabilities

2010

6,673
2,249
214
2,519
6,189
8,260
–1,762
50
–1,712

–1,713
1
3
–

2009

7,238
3,856
129
2,691
8,274
9,633
–1,762
136
–1,626

–1,626
–
–
6

2010

2009

2008

Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
net assets
Net sales
Income after financial items
Income taxes
net income
Net income attributable to:

Stockholders of the Parent Company
Non-controlling interest
Assets pledged as collateral
Contingent liabilities

3,622
9,904
592
10,533
2,401
30,089
705
–231
474

433
41
–
16

4,003
12,790
130
14,675
1,988
36,074
–5,540
1,252
–4,288

–4,441
153
182
17

Ericsson’s sharE of assEts, liabilitiEs and incomE in 
associatEd company Ericsson nikola tEsla d.d. 1)

2010

2009

Non-current assets
Current assets
Non-current liabilities
Current liabilities
net assets
Net sales
Income after financial items
Income taxes
net income
Net income attributable to:

Stockholders of the Parent Company
Non-controlling interest
Assets pledged as collateral
Contingent liabilities

1)  Ericsson’s share is 49.07 percent.

92
749
2
209
630
784
17
–1
16

16
–
4
43

311
754
3
240
822
994
90
1
91

91
–
5
151

3,228
21,190
157
17,593
6,668
54,377
–400
151
–249

–353
104
–
20

2008

394
695
6
253
830
1,182
139
–5
134

134
–
5
172

All three companies apply IFRS in the reporting to Ericsson.

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  |  67

 
notE c12–c13

othEr financial assEts, non–currEnt

accumulated acquisition costs
Opening balance
Additions
Business combinations
Disposals/repayments/deductions
Change in value in funded pension plans 1)
Reclassifications
Revaluation
Translation difference 
closing balance

accumulated impairment losses/allowances
Opening balance
Impairment losses/allowance
Business combinations
Disposals/repayments/deductions
Translation difference 
closing balance
net carrying value

other investments 
in shares and 
participations
2009

2010

customer finance, 
non-current
2009

2010

1,660
114
–33
–
–
–
–
–134
1,607

–1,404
–75
–
–26
117
–1,388
219

1,783
1
–
–36
–
–1
–
–87 
1,660

–1,474
–3
–
–
73
–1,404
256

1,232
3,562
–
–3,322
–
–
–
2
1,474

–402
2
–
206
1
–193
1,281

1,082
408
–
–258
–
–
–
–
1,232

–236
–222
–
56
–
–402
830

2010

843
–
–
–
–
–
–843
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

derivatives, 
non-current
2009

other  
financial assets,                   
non-current
2009

2010

2,814
–
–
–
–
–
–1,971
–
843

–
–
–
–
–
–
843

3,197
683
–
–35
726
–
–
–189
4,382

–1,463
–7
–
–
167
–1,303
3,079

3,557
389
–
–244
–521
–
–
16
3,197

–1,454
–74
–
–
65
–1,463
1,734

1) This amount includes asset ceiling. For further information, see Note C17, “Post-employment benefits”.

C13 inventories

invEntoriEs

movEmEnts in obsolEscEncE allowancEs

Raw materials, components, consumables  
and manufacturing work in progress
Finished products and goods for resale
Contract work in progress
inventories, net

2010

2009

8,509
11,894
9,494
29,897

6,190
6,621
9,907
22,718

Contract work in progress includes amounts related to delivery-type 
contracts, service contracts and construction-type contracts with ongoing 
work in progress.

Reported amounts are net of obsolescence allowances of SEK 3,090 

(2,961) million. 

The increase in inventories during 2010 is due to higher level of working 

progress in the regions. During the year it has been industry component 
shortages and supply chain bottlenecks.

Opening balance
Additions, net
Utilization
Translation difference
Balances regarding acquired/ 
divested businesses
closing balance

2010

2009

2008

2,961
250
–165
–46

90
3,090

3,493
562
–1,297
2

201
2,961

2,752
1,553
–1,039
250

–23
3,493

The amount of inventories recognized as expense and included in Cost of 
sales was SEK 47,415 (52,255) million. 

68  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C12XC13XEN_v46.indd   68

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NOTE C14

C14 Trade reCeivables and 
CusTomer FinanCe

TRADE RECEIVAbLES AND CUSTOMER FINANCE

Trade receivables excluding  
associated companies and joint ventures
Allowances for impairment
Trade receivables, net
Trade receivables related to associated  
companies and joint ventures
Trade receivables, total

Customer finance 
Allowances for impairment 
Customer finance, net 
Of which short term

2010

2009

61,609
–766
60,843

67,133
–924
66,209

284
61,127

201
66,410

4,725
–321
4,404
3,123

3,046
–772
2,274
1,444

Credit commitments for customer finance

3,282

3,027

Days Sales Outstanding were 88 (106) in December, 2010.

MOVEMENTS IN ALLOWANCES FOR IMPAIRMENT

NOTE C9–C10

Opening balance
Additions
Utilization
Reversal of excess amounts 
Reclassification
Translation difference
Balances regarding acquired/divested business
Closing balance

AgINg ANALySIS AS PER DECEMbER 31, 2010

Trade receivables excluding associated companies  
and joint ventures
Allowances for impairment of receivables
Customer finance
Allowances for impairment of customer finance

AgINg ANALySIS AS PER DECEMbER 31, 2009

Trade receivables excluding associated companies  
and joint ventures
Allowances for impairment of receivables
Customer finance
Allowances for impairment of customer finance

         Trade receivables

2010

924
282
–285
–169
33
–19
–
766

2009

1,471
388
–583
–312
10
–43
–7
924

2008

1,351
651
–492
–81
–69
115
–4
1,471

           Customer finance
2010

2009

772
25
–87
–359
–
–30
–
321

326
595
–67
–37
–
–45
–
772

2008

275
90
–3
–74
–
38
–
326

of which 
neither 
impaired  
nor past due

of which 
impaired, 
not past due

of which past due in the 
following time intervals
90 days 
less than 
or more
90 days

of which past due and 
impaired in the following  
time intervals
90 days 
or more

less than 
90 days

54,510
–
3,804
–

52
–16
528
–75

2,227
–
62
–

1,500
–
85
–

418
–90
18
–18

2,902
–660
228
–228

of which 
neither 
impaired  
nor past due

of which 
impaired, 
not past due

of which past due in the 
following time intervals
90 days 
less than 
or more
90 days

of which past due and 
impaired in the following  
time intervals
90 days 
or more

less than 
90 days

58,727
–
1,292
–

43
–8
1,314
–342

2,962
–
9
–

2,081
–
1
–

774
–180
145
–145

2,546
–736
285
–285

Amount

61,609
–766
4,725
–321

Amount

67,133
–924
3,046
–772

C14XEN_v29.indd   69

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  |  69

 
events can be political (normally outside the control of the borrower) or 
commercial, e.g. a borrower’s deteriorated creditworthiness.

As of December 31, 2010, Ericsson’s total outstanding exposure related 

to customer finance was SEK 4,725 (3,046) million. As of December 31, 
2010, Ericsson also had unutilized customer finance commitments of SEK 
3,282 (3,027) million. During 2010 Ericsson transferred certain customer 
finance assets to third parties, and continues to recognize a part of such 
assets corresponding to the extent of its continuing involvement. The total 
carrying amount of the original assets transferred is SEK 3,808 (560) million, 
the amount of the assets that Ericsson continues to recognize is SEK 190 
(28) million, and the carrying amount of the associated liabilities is SEK 
190 (28) million. Customer finance is arranged for infrastructure projects 
in different geographic markets and for a large number of customers. 
As of December 31, 2010, there were a total of 74 (68) customer finance 
arrangements originated by or guaranteed by Ericsson. The five largest 
facilities represented 44 (43) percent of the total credit exposure. 

Of Ericsson’s total outstanding customer finance exposure as of 
December 31, 2010, 66 (57) percent was related to Central and Eastern 
Europe, middle East and Africa, 11 (15) percent to the Americas, 9 (14) 
percent to Western Europe, and 14 (14) percent to Asia Pacific. 

The effect of risk provisions and reversals for customer finance affecting 
the income statement amounted to a net positive impact of SEK 331 million 
compared to a negative impact of SEK 480 million in 2009. Credit losses 
amounted to SEK 87 (67) million. A credit loss reported in 2005 was partly 
recovered in 2010 for the amount of SEK 136 million. 

Security arrangements for customer finance facilities normally include 

pledges of equipment, pledges of certain assets belonging to the borrower 
and pledges of shares in the operating company. Restructuring efforts for 
cases of troubled debt may lead to temporary holdings of equity interests. 
if available, third-party risk coverage is as a rule arranged. “Third-party risk 
coverage” means that a financial payment guarantee covering the credit 
risk has been issued by a bank, an export credit agency or other financial 
institution. A credit risk transfer under a sub participation arrangement with a 
bank can also be arranged. in this case the entire credit risk and the funding 
is taken care of by the bank for the part that they cover. A credit risk cover 
from a third party may also be issued by an insurance company. During 
2010, Ericsson has not taken possession of any collateral it holds as security 
or called on any other credit enhancement.

information about guarantees related to customer finance is included in 

note C24, “Contingent liabilities”.

The table below summarizes Ericsson’s outstanding customer finance as 

of December 31, 2010 and 2009.

OUTSTANDINg CUSTOMER FINANCE

Total customer finance
Accrued interest
less third-party risk coverage
Ericsson’s risk exposure

2010

4,725
69
–1,409
3,385

2009

3,046
57
–382
2,721

NOTE C14

Credit risk 

Credit risk is divided into three categories: credit risk in trade receivables, 
customer finance risk and financial credit risk (see C20, Financial Risk 
management and Financial instruments).

Credit risk in trade receivables
Credit risk in trade receivables is governed by a policy applicable for all legal 
entities in Ericsson. The purpose of the policy is to:
 > Avoid credit losses through establishing internal standard credit approval 

routines in all Ericsson legal entities

 > Ensure monitoring and risk mitigation of defaulting accounts, i.e. events 

of non-payment and/or delayed payments from customers

 > Ensure efficient credit management within the Company and thereby 

improve Days Sales Outstanding and Cash Flow
 > Ensure payment terms are commercially justifiable
 > Define escalation path and approval process for payment terms and 

customer credit limits. 

The credit worthiness of all customers is regularly assessed and a credit 
limit is set. Through credit management system functionality, credit checks 
are performed every time a sales order or an invoice is generated in the 
source system. This is based on the credit risk set on the customer. Credit 
blocks appear if the credit limit set on customer is exceeded or if past 
due receivables are higher than permitted levels. Release of a credit block 
requires authorization. 

letters of credits are used as a method for securing payments from 
customers operating in emerging markets, in particular in markets with 
unstable political and/or economic environment. By having banks confirming 
the letters of credit, the political and commercial credit risk exposures to 
Ericsson are mitigated.

Trade receivables amounted to SEK 61,609 (67,133) million as of 

December 31, 2010. Provisions for expected losses are regularly assessed 
and amounted to SEK 766 (924) million as of December 31, 2010. Ericsson’s 
nominal credit losses have, however, historically been low. The amounts 
of trade receivables closely follow the distribution of Ericsson’s sales and 
do not include any major concentrations of credit risk by customer or by 
geography. The five largest customers represent 29 (26) percent of the total 
trade receivables.

Customer finance credit risk
All major commitments to finance customers are made only after the 
approval by the Finance Committee of the Board of Directors according to 
the established credit approval process.

Prior to the approval of new facilities reported as customer finance, an 

internal credit risk assessment is conducted in order to assess the credit 
rating of each transaction (for political and commercial risk). The credit risk 
analysis is made by using an assessment tool, where the political risk rating 
is identical to the rating used by all Export Credit Agencies within the OECD. 
The commercial risk is assessed by analyzing a large number of parameters, 
which may affect the level of the future commercial credit risk exposure. The 
output from the assessment tool for the credit rating also include an internal 
pricing of the risk. This is expressed as a risk margin per annum over funding 
cost. The reference pricing for political and commercial risk, on which the 
tool is based, is reviewed using information from Export Credit Agencies and 
prevailing pricing in the bank loan market for structured financed deals. The 
objective is that the internally set risk margin shall reflect the assessed risk 
and that the pricing is as close as possible to the current market pricing. A 
reassessment of the credit rating for each customer finance facility is made 
on a regular basis.

Risk provisions related to customer finance risk exposures are only 
made upon events which occur after the financing arrangement has become 
effective and which are expected to have a significant adverse impact on the 
borrower’s ability and/or willingness to service the outstanding debt. These 

70  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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2011-02-25   14.49

NOTE C15–C16
NOTE C16

C15 Other Current 
reCeivables 

Dividend proposal

The Board of Directors will propose to the Annual General Meeting 2011 a 
dividend of SEK 2.25 per share (2.00 in 2010 and 1.85 in 2009).

OTHER CURRENT RECEIVABLES

Prepaid expenses
Accrued revenues
Advance payments to suppliers
Derivatives with a positive value 1)
Taxes
Other
Total

2010

2,369
1,850
881
3,042
5,439
3,565
17,146

2009

2,403
1,538
776
1,760
4,830
3,839
15,146

Additional paid in capital 

Relates to payments made by owners and includes share premiums paid.

Revaluation of other investments in shares and 
participations 

The fair value reserve comprises the cumulative net change in the fair value 
of available-for-sale financial assets until the investments are derecognized 
or impaired.

Cash flow hedges

The cash flow hedge reserve comprises the effective portion of the 
cumulative net change in the fair value of cash-flow-hedging instruments 
related to hedged transactions that have not yet occurred.

Cumulative translation adjustments

The cumulative translation adjustments comprises all foreign currency 
differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign 
operations, changes regarding revaluation of goodwill in local currency 
as well as from the translation of liabilities that hedge the Company’s net 
investment in foreign subsidiaries.

Retained earnings

Retained earnings, including net income for the year, comprise the earned 
profits of the Parent Company and its share of net income in subsidiaries, 
joint ventures and associated companies. Actuarial gains and losses related 
to pensions are included in retained earnings.

1)  Also see Note C20 “Financial Risk Management and Financial Instruments”

C16 equity and Other 
COmprehensive inCOme 
Capital stock 2010 
Capital stock at December 31, 2010, consisted of the following:

CAPITAL STOCK

Parent Company

Class A shares
Class B shares
Total

Number 
of shares

261,755,983
3,011,595,752
3,273,351,735

Capital 
stock

1,309
15,058
16,367

The capital stock of the Parent Company is divided into two classes: Class 
A shares (quota value SEK 5.00) and Class B shares (quota value SEK 5.00). 
Both classes have the same rights of participation in the net assets and 
earnings. Class A shares, however, are entitled to one vote per share while 
Class B shares are entitled to one tenth of one vote per share. 

At December 31, 2010, the total number of treasury shares was 
73,088,516 (78,978,533 in 2009 and 61,066,097 in 2008) Class B shares. 
Ericsson did not repurchase shares in 2010, in relation to the Stock 
Purchase Plan. 

RECONCILIATION Of NUmBER Of SHARES

Number 

of shares Capital stock

Number of shares Jan 1, 2010
Number of shares Dec 31, 2010

3,273,351,735
3,273,351,735

16,367
16,367

For further information about number of shares, see chapter Share 
information.

C15XC16XEN_v43.indd   71

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  |  71

NOTE C16

EQUITY AND OTHER COmPREHENSIVE INCOmE 2010

Revalua­
tion of 
other 
invest­
ments in 
shares 
and 
partici­
pations

Capital 
stock

Addi tional 
paid in 
capital

Cumula­
tive 
transla­
tion 
adjust­
ments

Cash flow 
hedges

Retained 
earnings

Stock­
holders’ 
equity

Non­
control­
ling 
interest 
(NCI)

Total 
equity

16,367

24,731

–4

78

663

98,035

139,870

1,157

141,027

12,503
–1,357

12,503
–1,357

89
–

12,592
–1,357

2010

January 1, 2010
Net income

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Other comprehensive income
Actuarial gains and losses, and the effect of the 
asset ceiling,  related to pensions

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Revaluation of other investments in shares  
and participations

Fair value remeasurement

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Cash flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the year 

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies
Reclassification adjustments for  gains/losses 
included in profit or loss
Adjustments for amounts transferred to initial 
carrying amount of hedged items

Changes in cumulative translation adjustments

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies
Tax on items relating to components of OCI 3)
Total other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Stock Purchase Plan

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Dividends paid
Business combinations
December 31, 2010

–
–
–
–
16,367

–
–
–
–
24,731

–
–

–
–

7
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–3
4

4

–
–

–
–
–
–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

966
31

–238 1)

–136

–
–
–183
440

440

–
–

–
–
–
–
518

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

3,892
–27

3,892
–27

–
–

–
–

–

–

7
–

966
31

–238

–136

–3,269 2)
–438
–101 4)

–3,808

–3,808

–
–
–833
3,032

–3,269
–438
–1,120
–332

14,178

10,814

–
–

–
–
–
–
–3,145

–
52

762
–
–6,391
–
106,636

–
52

762
–

–6,391 5)

–
145,106

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

10
–
–
10

99

–
–

3,892
–27

7
–

966
31

–238

–136

–3,259
–438
–1,120
–322

10,913

–
52

–
–
–286
708
1,679

762
–
–6,677
708
146,785

1)  SEK 1,139 million is recognized in Net Sales, SEK –586 million is recognized in Cost of Sales and SEK –315 million is recognized in R&D expenses.

2)  Changes in cumulative translation adjustments include changes regarding revaluation of goodwill in local currency of SEK –1,480 million (SEK –1,015 million in 2009, SEK 2,993 million in 

2008), gain/loss from hedging activities of foreign entities, SEK 385 million (SEK 586 in 2009, SEK –660 million in 2008) and SEK 140 million (SEK 10 million in 2009, SEK 13 million in 2008) 
of realized gain/losses net from sold/liquidated companies.

3)  For further disclosures, see note C8 “Taxes”.

4)  Deferred tax on gains/losses on hedges on investments in foreign entities.

5)  Dividends paid per share amounted to SEK 2.25 (SEK 2.00 in 2009 and SEK 1.85 in 2008).

72  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C15XC16XEN_v43.indd   72

2011-02-25   14.51

NOTE C16

EQUITY AND OTHER COmPREHENSIVE INCOmE 2009

Revalua­
tion of 
other 
invest­
ments in 
shares 
and 
partici­
pations

Cumula­
tive 
transla­
tion 
adjust­
ments

Cash flow 
hedges

Capital 
stock

Addi tional 
paid in 
capital

Stock­
holders’ 
equity

Non­
controlling 
interest 
(NCI)

Retained 
earnings

Total 
equity

16,232

24,731

–1

–2,356

2,124

100,093

140,823

1,261

142,084

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

135
–
–

–
–
–
–
16,367

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
24,731

–
–

–
–

–2
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–1
–3
–3

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–4

–
–

–
–

–
–

665
7

3,850

–1,029

–
–
–1,059
2,434
2,434

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
78

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–1,013
–294
–154
–1,461
–1,461

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
663

9,685
–6,013

9,685
–6,013

455
–

10,140
–6,013

–633
28

–633
28

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
174
–431
3,241

–
75
–135

–2
–

665
7

3,850

–1,029

–1,013
–294
–1,040
539
4,211

135
75
–135

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–54
–
–
–54
401

–
–
–

–633
28

–2
–

665
7

3,850

–1,029

–1,067
–294
–1,040
485
4,612

135
75
–135

658
–
–5,897
–
98,035

658
–
–5,897
–
139,870

–
–
–421
–84
1,157

658
–
–6,318
–84
141,027

January 1, 2009
Net income

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Other comprehensive income
Actuarial gains and losses, and the effect of the 
asset ceiling,  related to pensions

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Revaluation of other investments in shares  
and participations

Fair value remeasurement

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Cash flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the year 

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies
Reclassification adjustments for  gains/losses 
included in profit or loss
Adjustments for amounts transferred to initial 
carrying amount of hedged items

Changes in cumulative translation adjustments

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Tax on items relating to components of OCI
Total other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Repurchase of own shares
Stock Purchase and Stock Option Plans

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Dividends paid
Business combinations
December 31, 2009

C15XC16XEN_v43.indd   73

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  |  73

NOTE C16

EQUITY AND OTHER COmPREHENSIVE INCOmE 2008

January 1, 2008
Net income

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Other comprehensive income
Actuarial gains and losses related to pensions

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies
Revaluation of other investments in shares and 
participations

Fair value remeasurement

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Cash flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the year 

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies
Reclassification adjustments for gains/losses 
included in profit or loss
Adjustments for amounts transferred to initial 
carrying amount of hedged items

Changes in cumulative translation adjustments

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Tax on items relating to components of OCI
Total other comprehensive income
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Repurchase of own shares
Stock Purchase and Stock Option Plans

Group
Joint ventures and associated companies

Dividends paid
Business combinations
December 31, 2008

Capital 
stock

Addi tional 
paid in 
capital

16,132

24,731

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

100
–
–

–
–
–
–
16,232

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
24,731

Revalua­
tion of  
other 
invest­
ments in 
shares 
and 
partici­
pations

Cumula­
tive 
transla­
tion 
adjust­
ments

Cash  flow 
hedges

Stock­
holders’ 
equity

Non­
controlling 
interest 
(NCI)

Retained 
earnings

Total 
equity

307

–6,345

99,282

134,112

940

135,052

11,564
–291

11,564
–291

394
–

11,958
–291

–4,019
4

–4,019
4

5

–
–

–
–

–6
–1

–
–

–

–

–
–
1
–6
–6

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–1

–
–

–
–

–
–

–5,116
36

1,192

–

–
–
1,225
–2,663
–2,663

–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–2,356

–
–

–
–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

–6
–1

–5,116
36

1,192

–

7,081
1,214
2,330
2,715
13,988

100
88
–100

7,081
1,214
174
8,469
8,469

–
–
–

–
–
930
–3,085
8,188

–
88
–100

–

–
–

–
–

–

–

233
–
–
233
627

–
–
–

–4,019
4

–6
–1

–5,116
36

1,192

–

7,314
1,214
2,330
2,948
14,615

100
88
–100 

–
–
–
–
2,124

589
–
–7,954
–
100,093

589
–
–7,954
–
140,823

–
–
–286
–20
1,261

589
–
–8,240
–20
142,084

74  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C15XC16XEN_v43.indd   74

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C17 Post-EmPloymEnt 
BEnEfits

Ericsson sponsors a number of post-employment benefit plans throughout 
the Company, which are in line with market practice in each country. The 
year 2010 was characterized by the overall increase in discount rates, and 
a higher than expected return on plan assets. Consequently, the Company 
experienced a decrease in the net pension liability, and an actuarial gain.

NOTE C17

ContEnts
AMOUNT RECOGNIZED IN THE  
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET 

TOTAL PENSION ExPENSES RECOGNIZED  
IN THE INCOME STATEMENT 

CHANGE IN THE DEfINED BENEfIT  
OBLIGATION, DBO 

CHANGE IN THE PLAN ASSETS 

ACTUARIAL GAINS AND LOSSES  
REPORTED DIRECTLy IN OTHER  
COMPREHENSIvE INCOME 

ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTIONS 

INfORMATION ON ISSUES AffECTING THE  
NET PENSION LIABILITy fOR THE yEAR 

75

76

77

78

79

79

80

Section One: Amount Recognized in the Consolidated Balance Sheet

AMOUNT RECOGNIZED IN THE CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET

2010
Defined benefit obligation (DBO) 1)
Fair value of plan assets 2)
Deficit/Surplus (+/–)
Unrecognized past service costs
Closing balance
Plans with net surplus excluding asset ceiling 3)
Provision for post-employment benefits 4)

2009
Defined benefit obligation (DBO) 1)
Fair value of plan assets 2)
Deficit/Surplus (+/–)
Unrecognized past service costs
Closing balance
Plans with net surplus excluding asset ceiling 3)
Provision for post-employment benefits 4)

1)  For details on DBO, please refer to section three of this note.

2)  For details on plan assets, please refer to section four of this note.

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

14,980
12,389
2,591
–
2,591
–
2,591

16,150
10,927
5,223
–
5,223
–
5,223

5,437
5,691
–254
–
–254
290
36

5,688
5,336
352
–
352
190
542

3,163
2,514
649
5
654
643
1,297

3,840
2,406
1,434
–14
1,420
29
1,449

2,693
2,048
645
–
645
–
645

2,781
1,974
807
–
807
–
807

2,437
2,793
–356
–60
–416
939
523

2,258
2,563
–305
–79
–384
896
512

28,710
25,435
3,275
–55
3,220
1,872
5,092

30,717
23,206
7,511
–93
7,418
1,115
8,533

3)  Plans with a net surplus, i.e. where plan assets exceed DBO, are reported as Other financial assets, non-current (please see Note C12 “Financial Assets”). 

4)  Plans with net liabilities are reported in the balance sheet as Post-employment benefits, non-current. 

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  |  75

NOTE C17

Section Two: Total Pension Expenses Recognized in the Income Statement

The expenses for post-employment benefits within Ericsson are  
distributed between defined contribution plans and defined benefit  
plans, with a trend toward defined contribution plans.

PENSION COSTS fOR DEfINED CONTRIBUTION PLANS AND DEfINED BENEfIT PLANS

2010
Pension cost for defined contribution plans
Pension cost for defined benefit plans 1)
Total
Total pension cost expressed as a percentage of wages and salaries
2009
Pension cost for defined contribution plans
Pension cost for defined benefit plans 1)
Total
Total pension cost expressed as a percentage of wages and salaries
2008
Pension cost for defined contribution plans
Pension cost for defined benefit plans 1)
Total
Total pension cost expressed as a percentage of wages and salaries

1)  See cost details in table below.

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

1,037
762
1,799

1,686
674
2,360

1,607
625
2,232

95
153
248

73
66
139

40
156
196

433
159
592

385
202
587

345
179
524

244
30
274

124
49
173

114
35
149

192
–14
178

185
144
329

72
33
105

2,001
1,090
3,091
7.1%

2,453
1,135
3,588
8.7%

2,178
1,028
3,206
8.3%

COST DETAILS fOR DEfINED BENEfIT PLANS RECOGNIZED IN THE INCOME STATEMENT

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

2010
Current service cost 
interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets
Past service cost
Curtailments, settlements and other 
Total

2009
Current service cost 
interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets
Past service cost
Curtailments, settlements and other 
Total

2008
Current service cost 
interest cost 
Expected return on plan assets
Past service cost
Curtailments, settlements and other 
Total

631
643
–511
–
–1
762

594
590
–366
–
–144
674

539
549
–431
–
–32
625

161
314
–322
–
–
153

205
284
–270
–
–153
66

186
299
–310
–
–19
156

129
182
–141
33
–44
159

138
194
–125
5
–10
202

141
160
–143
11
10
179

32
159
–130
–
–31
30

35
171
–156
–
–1
49

29
142
–137
–
1
35

140
172
–253
9
–82
–14

131
155
–208
25
41
144

122
133
–201
8
–29
33

1,093
1,470
–1,357
42
–158
1,090

1,103
1,394
–1,125
30
–267
1,135

1,017
1,283
–1,222
19
–69
1,028

76  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C17XEN_v38.indd   76

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Sections three to six focus on the defined benefit plans  
Section Three: Change in the Defined Benefit Obligation, DBO

The DBO is the gross pension liability.

CHANGE IN THE DEfINED BENEfIT OBLIGATION

NOTE C17

2010
Opening balance
Current service cost
interest cost
Employee contributions
Pension payments 
Actuarial gain/loss (–/+)
Settlements
Curtailments
Business combinations 1)
Other
Translation difference
Closing balance 

Of which medical benefit schemes

2009
Opening balance
Current service cost
interest cost
Employee contributions
Pension payments 
Actuarial gain/loss (–/+)
Settlements
Curtailments
Business combinations
Other
Translation difference
Closing balance 

Of which medical benefit schemes

1)  Business combinations in 2010 are related to the acquisition of lG-Nortel and Pride Spa.

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

16,150
631
643
–
–159
–2,285
–
–1
–
1
–
14,980
–

14,866
594
590
–
–107
351
–
–144
–
–
–
16,150
–

5,688
161
314
11
–99
–157
–
–
–
–20
–461
5,437
–

4,867
205
284
14
–108
543
–
–153
–
–13
49
5,688
–

3,840
129
182
4
–82
–569
–14
–30
74
95
–466
3,163
–

3,557
138
194
4
–90
204
–
–14
–
74
–227
3,840
–

2,781
32
159
–
–169
46
–
–38
–
30
–148
2,693
594

2,789
35
171
–
–172
143
–
–
–
26
–211
2,781
631

2,258
140
172
5
–194
104
–104
–93
148
8
–7
2,437
–

1,931
131
155
12
–142
–120
–1
–
–13
40
265
2,258
–

30,717
1,093
1,470
20
–703
–2,861
–118
–162
222
114
–1,082
28,710
594

28,010
1,103
1,394
30
–619
1,121
–1
–311
–13
127
–124
30,717
631

fUNDED STATUS
The funded ratio, defined as total plan assets in relation to the total defined 
benefit obligation (DBO), was 88.6 percent in 2010, compared to 75.5 
percent in 2009. 

The following table summarizes the value of the DBO per geographical 
area based on whether there are plan assets wholly or partially funding each 
pension plan.

vALUE Of THE DEfINED BENEfIT OBLIGATION

2010
DBO, closing balance

Of which partially or fully funded
Of which unfunded

2009
DBO, closing balance

Of which partially or fully funded
Of which unfunded

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

14,980
14,527
453

16,150
15,660
490

5,437
5,437
–

5,688
5,688
–

3,163
2,086
1,077

3,840
2,659
1,181

2,693
2,072
621

2,781
2,119
662

2,437
1,998
439

2,258
1,813
445

28,710
26,120
2,590

30,717
27,939
2,778

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  |  77

 
NOTE C17

Section four: Change in the Plan Assets

A majority of pension plans have assets managed by local Pension 
Trust funds, whose sole purpose is to secure the future pension 
payments to the employees.

CHANGE IN THE PLAN ASSETS

2010
Opening balance
Expected return on plan assets
Actuarial gain/loss (+/–)
Employer contributions
Employee contributions
Pension payments
Settlements
Business combinations 1)
Other
Translation difference
Closing balance

2009
Opening balance
Expected return on plan assets
Actuarial gain/loss (+/–)
Employer contributions
Employee contributions
Pension payments
Settlements
Business combinations 
Other
Translation difference
Closing balance

1)  Business combinations in 2010 are related to the acquisition of lG-Nortel. 

Refunds from or reductions in future contributions to plan assets are 
recognized if they are available and firmly decided. 

ACTUAL RETURN ON PLAN ASSETS

2010
2009

ASSET ALLOCATION

2010
Equities
interest-bearing securities
Other
Total 

Of which Ericsson securities

2009
Equities
interest-bearing securities
Other
Total 

Of which Ericsson securities

Equity instruments amount to 36 (35) percent of the total assets, interest 
bearing instruments amount to 57 (59) percent of the total assets, and other 
instruments amount to 7 (6) percent of the total assets. 

The contributions to the defined benefit plans for the upcoming year 
will be based on the development of the financial markets as well as on the 
growth of the pension liability, and how these developments affect the target 
funding ratio of the Company.

78  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

10,927
511
222
729
–
–
–
–
–
–
12,389

8,181
366
1,076
1,305
–
–
–
–
–1
–
10,927

5,336
322
265
343
11
–119
–
–
–
–467
5,691

4,407
270
342
387
14
–122
–
–
–
38
5,336

2,406
141
105
173
3
–43
–
–
53
–324
2,514

2,330
125
–136
213
4
–75
–
–1
90
–144
2,406

1,974
130
103
58
–
–103
–
–
–
–114
2,048

2,289
156
–253
49
–
–115
–
–
–
–152
1,974

2,563
253
–42
93
5
–119
–104
164
–4
–16
2,793

1,830
208
162
122
12
–125
–
–11
–2
367
2,563

23,206
1,357
653
1,396
19
–384
–104
164
49
–921
25,435

19,037
1,125
1,191
2,076
30
–437
–
–12
87
109
23,206

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

733
1,441

587
612

246
–10

US

233
–97

Other

211
370

Total

2,010
2,316

Sweden 

UK Euro zone

US

Other

Total

4,326
7,508
555
12,389
–

3,824
7,103
–
10,927
–

2,028
3,207
456
5,691
–

1,825
2,801
710
5,336
–

1,277
970
267
2,514
–

1,094
1,051
261
2,406
–

1,134
870
44
2,048
–

1,069
741
164
1,974
–

458
1,837
498
2,793
–

394
1,747
422
2,563
–

9,223
14,392
1,820
25,435
–

8,063
13,586
1,557
23,206
–

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Section five: Actuarial Gains and Losses Reported Directly in Other Comprehensive Income

ACTUARIAL GAINS AND LOSSES REPORTED DIRECTLy IN OTHER 
COMPREHENSIvE INCOME

MULTI-yEAR SUMMARy

2010

2009

2008

2007

2006

NOTE C17

Cumulative gain/loss (–/+) at beginning of year
Recognized gain/loss (–/+) during the year
Translation difference
Cumulative gain/loss (–/+) at end of year

2010

2009

5,326
–3,514
37
1,849

5,402
–70
–6
5,326

Since January 1, 2006, Ericsson applies immediate recognition of actuarial 
gains and losses directly in the statement of Other Comprehensive income. 
Actuarial gains and losses may arise from either a change in actuarial 
assumptions or in deviations between estimated and actual outcome.

Actuarial gains/losses (–/+) related to iFRiC 14 “The limit on a Defined 
Benefit Asset, minimum Funding Requirements and their interaction”, had 
an effect on other comprehensive income amounting to SEK 29 million in 
2010 (SEK 662 million in 2009). For further details, see Note C12, “Financial 
Assets, Non-Current”.

Section Six: Actuarial Assumptions

ACTUARIAL ASSUMPTIONS

2010
Discount rate 
Expected return on plan assets for the year
Future salary increases
inflation
health care cost inflation, current year
life expectancy after age 65 in years, males
life expectancy after age 65 in years, females

2009
Discount rate 
Expected return on plan assets for the year
Future salary increases
inflation
health care cost inflation, current year
life expectancy after age 65 in years, males
life expectancy after age 65 in years, females

1)  Weighted average.

 >

 > Actuarial assumptions are assessed on a quarterly basis.
 >

The discount rate for each country is determined by reference to market 
yields on high-quality corporate bonds.
The overall expected long-term return on plan assets is a weighted 
average of each asset category’s expected rate of return. The expected 
return on interest-bearing investments is set in line with each country’s 
market yield. Expected return on equities is derived from each country’s 
risk free rate with the addition of a risk premium. 

 > Salary increases are partially affected by fluctuations in inflation rate.
The net periodic pension cost and the present value of the DBO for 
 >
current and former employees are calculated using the Projected Unit 
Credit (PUC) actuarial cost method, where the objective is to spread 
the cost of each employee’s benefits over the period that the employee 
works for the Company.

Plan assets
DBO
Deficit/Surplus (–/+)

25,435
28,710
–3,275

23,206
  30,717
–7,511

19,037
28,010
–8,973

20,236
25,226
–4,990

18,395
24,612
–6,217

Actuarial gains and losses (–/+)
Experience-based 
adjustments of 
pension obligations
Experience-based 
adjustments of plan 
assets

–653

177

310

57

–76

232

–1,191

2,952

59

–358

Sweden 

UK

Euro zone  1)

US 1)

Other  1)

4.80%
4.55%
3.25%
2.00%
n/a
21
24

4.00%
4.55%
3.25%
2.00%
n/a
21
24

5.40%
6.00%
4.50%
3.50%
n/a
22
24

5.60%
6.00%
4.90%
3.60%
n/a
21
24

5.59%
6.27%
2.91%
2.00%
n/a
22
25

5.26%
6.31%
2.92%
2.17%
n/a
22
25

5.73%
7.00%
4.50%
2.50%
9.00%
18
20

5.89%
7.00%
4.50%
2.50%
9.00%
18
20

8.55%
9.91%
5.70%
3.50%
n/a
19
22

8.91%
9.34%
6.77%
3.80%
n/a
18
22

SENSITIvITy ANALySIS fOR MEDICAL BENEfIT SCHEMES

The effect (in SEK million) of a one percentage point change in the assumed 
trend rate of medical cost would have the following effect:

SENSITIvITy ANALySIS fOR MEDICAL BENEfIT SCHEMES

Net periodic post-employment medical cost
Accumulated post-employment benefit obligation
for medical costs

3

54

–3

–46

1 percent 
increase

1 percent
decrease

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  |  79

NOTE C17

Section Seven: Information on issues affecting the 
Net Pension Liability for the year

SwEDEN

in 2010, The Swedish defined benefit obligation has been calculated using 
a discount rate based on yields of covered bonds, which is higher than a 
discount rate based on yields of government bonds. The Swedish covered 
bonds are considered high quality bonds, mainly AAA-rated, as they are 
secured with assets, and the market for covered bonds is considered deep 
and liquid, thereby meeting iAS19 requirements. 

As before, Ericsson has secured the disability- and survivors’ pension 

part of the iTP Plan through an insurance solution with the insurance 
company Alecta. Although this part of the plan is classified as a multi-
employer defined benefit plan, it has not been possible for Ericsson to get 
sufficient information to apply defined benefit accounting, and therefore, it 
has been accounted for as a defined contribution plan. 

Alecta has a collective funding ratio which is a buffer for its insurance 

commitments to protect against fluctuations in investment return and 
insurance risks. Alecta’s target ratio is 140 percent and reflects the fair 
value of Alecta’s plan assets as a percentage of plan commitments, then 
measured in accordance with Alecta’s actuarial assumptions, which are 
different from those in iAS 19. Alecta’s collective funding ratio was 146 in 
2010 (141 in 2009).

80  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOliDATED FiNANCiAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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C18 Provisions

PROVISIONS

2010
Opening balance
Additions
Reversal of excess amounts

Negative effect on Income Statement

Cash out/Utilization
Balances regarding divested/acquired businesses
Reclassification
Translation differences
Closing balance

2009
Opening balance
Additions
Reversal of excess amounts

Negative effect on Income Statement

Cash out/Utilization
Balances regarding divested/acquired businesses
Reclassification
Translation differences
Closing balance

Provisions will fluctuate over time depending on business mix, market mix 
as well as technology shifts. Risk assessment in the ongoing business is 
performed monthly to identify the need for new additions and reversals. 
Management uses its best judgment to estimate provisions based on this 
assessment. In certain circumstances, provisions are no longer required due 
to more favo  rable outcomes than anticipated, which affect the provisions 
balance as a reversal. In other cases the outcome can be negative, and if so, 
a charge is recorded in the income statement.

For 2010, new or additional provisions amounting to SEK 6.7 billion 
were made, and SEK 1.9 billion were reversed. The actual cash outlays for 
2010 was SEK 7.2 billion compared with the estimated SEK 8 billion. The 
expected cash outlays in 2011 is approximately SEK 8 billion.

Of the total provisions, SEK 353 (461) million are classified as non-

current. For more information, see Note C1, “Significant Accounting 
Policies” and Note C2, “Critical Accounting Estimates and Judgments”.

Warranty provisions

Warranty provisions are based on historic quality rates for established 
products as well as estimates regarding quality rates for new products 
and costs to remedy the various types of faults predicted. The actual cash 
outlays for 2010 was SEK 1.5 billion and in line with the expected SEK 2 
billion. Provisions amounting to SEK 1.7 billion were made and due to more 
favorable outcomes in certain cases reversals of SEK 0.3 billion were made. 
The cash outlays of warranty provisions during year 2011 is estimated to 
approximately SEK 2 billion. 

NOTe C18

Warranty

Restruc turing

Project related

Other

Total

2,533
1,743
–297

–1,466
182
–182
–44
2,469

1,931
2,141
–171

–1,427
96
19
–56
2,533

4,299
2,640
–335

–3,261
–
176
–289
3,230

3,830
4,920
–210

–4,248
–
146
–139
4,299

1,694
1,285
–353

–1,547
28
62
–64
1,105

3,794
1,952
–451

–3,459
–
–128
–14
1,694

3,905
1,046
–869

–880
–
–200
–62
2,940

4,795
2,129
–915

–1,595
16
–595
70
3,905

12,431
6,714
–1,854
4,860
–7,154
210
–144
–459
9,744

14,350
11,142
–1,747
9,395
–10,729
112
–558
–139
12,431

Restructuring provisions

The cost reduction program initiated in the first quarter 2009 was completed 
by the second quarter 2010. The total restructuring charges for the 
program was SEK 15.5 billion of which SEK 6.9 billion were provided for as 
restructuring provisions. In the second half of the year the cost reduction 
continued and primarily relates to continuous efficiency activities in service 
delivery and development, transformation in managed services contracts 
and product rationalization. In 2010 SEK 2.6 billion (4.9) in provision were 
made. The cash outlays were 3.3 billion (4.2) for the full year and SEK 0.7 
billion were related to restructuring programs before 2009. The cash outlay 
for 2011 is estimated to approximately SEK 3 billion.

Project related provisions

Project provisions relate to estimated losses on onerous contracts, 
including probable contractual penalties. The cash outlays of project related 
provisions were SEK 1.5 billion and in line with the estimated SEK 1 billion. 
Provisions amounting to SEK 1.3 billion were made and SEK 0.4 billion were 
reversed due to a more favorable outcome than expected. The cash outlays 
for 2011 is estimated to be approximately SEK 1 billion.

Other provisions

Other provisions include provisions for tax issues, litigations, supplier claims, 
and other. The cash outlays was SEK 0.9 billion in 2010 compared to the 
estimate of SEK 2 billion. During 2010, new provisions amounting to SEK 
1.0 billion were made and SEK 0.9 billion were reversed during the year 
due to a more favorable outcome. For 2011, the estimated cash outlays is 
approximately SEK 2 billion.

C18XEN_v25.indd   81

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOlIDATED FINANCIAl STATEMENTS  |  81

NOTE C19

C19 Interest-BearIng 
LIaBILItIes

As of December 31, 2010, Ericsson’s outstanding interest-bearing liabilities 
were SEK 30.8 (32.1) billion.

INTEREST-BEARING LIABILITIES

Borrowings, current
Current part of non-current borrowings 1)
Other current borrowings
Total current borrowings
Borrowings, non-current
Notes and bond loans
Other borrowings, non-current
Total non-current interest-bearing liabilities
Total interest-bearing liabilities

1)  Including notes and bond loans of SEK 0 (0) million.

swaps, resulting in a weighted average interest rate of 2.65 (2.88) percent 
at December 31, 2010. These bonds are revalued based on changes in 
benchmark interest rates according to the fair value hedge methodology 
stipulated in IAS 39. 

2010

2009

On December 23, 2010, the USD 625 million bilateral loan with Swedish 

760
3,048
3,808

20,646
6,309
26,955
30,763

684
1,440
2,124

23,801
6,195
29,996
32,120

Export Credit Corporation (SEK) was renegotiated to reduce interest 
expense and to prolong the maturity profile. USD 325 million was amortized. 
The remaining USD 300 million will mature in 2016 according to the original 
plan. At the same time a new bilateral bond of USD 170 million was issued 
with maturity 2020. Consequently gross cash was reduced by USD 155 
million. The new bond is not guaranteed by EKN (The Swedish Export Credit 
Guarantee Board).

In 2008 Ericsson signed a seven year loan of SEK 4.0 billion with the 
European Investment Bank. The loan supports Ericsson’s R&D activities 
to develop the next generation of mobile broadband technology at sites in 
Kista, Gothenburg and Linköping in Sweden.

All outstanding notes and bond loans are issued by the Parent Company 
under its Euro Medium-Term Note (EMTN) program. Bonds issued at a 
fixed interest rate are swapped to a floating interest rate using interest rate 

NOTES AND BOND LOANS

Nominal 
amount

Coupon

Currency

Book value 
(SEK m.)

Maturity 
date 
(yy-mm-dd)

Unrealized 
hedge gain/
loss (incl. in 
book value)

450
1,000
2,000
375
500
600
300
170

2.420%
5.100%
2.200%
1.314%
5.380%
5.000%
3.35281%
2.69281%

SEK
SEK
SEK
EUR
EUR
EUR
USD
USD

450
1,035
2,000
3,383
5,059 1)
5,521 1)
2,041
1,157
20,646

12-12-07 2)
12-06-29
12-06-29 3)
14-06-27 4)
17-06-27
13-06-24
16-06-23 
20-12-23 6)

5)

–35

–571
–129

–735

Issued–maturing

2004–2012
2007–2012
2007–2012
2007–2014
2007–2017
2009–2013
2009–2016
2010–2020
Total

1)  Interest rate swaps are designated as fair value hedges.

2)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-06-03 (semi annual).

3)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-25 (quarterly).

4)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-24 (quarterly).

5)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-21 (quarterly).

6)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-18 (quarterly).

82  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C19XEN_v22.indd   82

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C20 FinanCial Risk 
ManageMent and 
FinanCial instRuMents

Ericsson’s financial risk management is governed by a policy approved by 
the Board of Directors. The Finance Committee of the Board of Directors is 
responsible for overseeing the capital structure and financial management 
of the Company and approving certain matters (such as acquisitions, 
investments, customer finance commitments, guarantees and borrowing) 
and is continuously monitoring the exposure to financial risks.

Ericsson defines its managed capital as the total Company equity. For 
Ericsson, a robust financial position with a strong equity ratio, investment 
grade rating, low leverage and ample liquidity is deemed important. This 
provides financial flexibility and independence to operate and manage 
variations in working capital needs as well as to capitalize on business 
opportunities. 

Ericsson’s overall capital structure should support the financial targets: 
to grow faster than the market, deliver best-in-class margins and generate 
a healthy cash flow. The capital structure is managed by balancing equity, 
debt financing and liquidity in such a way that the Company secure funding 
of operations at a reasonable cost of capital. Regular borrowings are 
complemented with committed credit facilities to give additional flexibility to 
manage unforeseen funding needs. Ericsson strive to finance growth, normal 
capital expenditures and dividends to shareholders by generating sufficient 
positive cash flows from operating activities.

Ericsson’s capital objectives are:
 > An equity ratio above 40 percent.
 > A cash conversion rate above 70 percent.
To maintain a positive net cash position.
 >
To maintain a solid investment grade rating by Moody’s and Standard & 
 >
Poor’s.

Capital objeCtives related information

Capital (SEK billion)
Equity ratio (percent)
Cash conversion rate (percent)
Positive net cash (SEK billion)
Credit rating
Moody’s
Standard & Poor’s

2010

2009

147
52
112
51.3

141
52
117
36.1

baa1 Baa1
bbb+ BBB+

Ericsson has a treasury function with the principal role to ensure that 
appropriate financing is in place through loans and committed credit 
facilities, to actively manage the Company’s liquidity as well as financial 
assets and liabilities, and to manage and control financial risk exposures in 
a manner consistent with underlying business risks and financial policies. 
Hedging activities, cash management and insurance management are 
largely centralized to the treasury function in Stockholm. 

Ericsson also has a customer finance function with the main objective to 

find suitable third-party financing solutions for customers and to minimize 
recourse to Ericsson. To the extent customer loans are not provided directly 
by banks, the Parent Company provides or guarantees vendor credits. The 
customer finance function monitors the exposure from outstanding vendor 
credits and credit commitments.

Ericsson classifies financial risks as:
Foreign exchange risk
Interest rate risk

 >
 >
 > Credit risk
 >
 > Market price risk in own and other equity instruments.

Liquidity and refinancing risk

note C20

The Board of Directors has established risk limits for defined exposures to 
foreign exchange and interest rate risks as well as to political risks in certain 
countries. 

For further information about accounting policies, please see Note C1, 

“Significant Accounting Policies”.

foreign exchange risk

Ericsson is a global company with sales mainly outside Sweden. Revenues 
and costs are to a large extent in currencies other than SEK and therefore 
the financial results of the Company are impacted by currency fluctuations. 
Ericsson reports the financial accounts in SEK and movements in 

exchange rates between currencies will affect:
 > Specific line items such as Net sales and Operating income.
 >
 >
 > Reported cash flows.

The comparability of our results between periods.
The carrying value of assets and liabilities.

Net sales and Operating Income are affected by changes in foreign 
exchange rates from two different kinds of exposures, translation exposure 
and transaction exposure. In the Operating Income we are primarily exposed 
to transaction exposure which is partially addressed by hedging.

CurrenCy exposure

exposure  
currency

translation 
exposure

transaction 
exposure

net  
exposure

net 
expo sure, 
percent  
of total

net sales
USD
EUR
CNY
JPY
INR
GBP
BRL
SEK
Other
pre-hedge total
Hedge
total net sales
net cost
USD
SEK
EUR
CNY
INR
BRL
JPY
GBP
Other
pre-hedge total
Hedge
total net cost
operating income

46.6
27.4
13.5
8.8
8.3
7.8
5.9
41.7
42.2
202.2

–45.9
–32.8
–25.8
–12.8
–9.0
–5.9
–8.4
–7.5
–37.9
–186.0

40.8
10.5
–0.3
0.6
–1.1
–1.5
–0.2
–37.6
–11.2
0.0

–14.7
–15.3
–4.5
1.1
3.6
0.7
4.3
6.8
18.0
0.0

43%
19%
6%
5%
4%
3%
3%
2%
15%
100%

33%
26%
16%
6%
3%
3%
2%
0%
11%
100%

87.4
37.9
13.2
9.4
7.2
6.3
5.7
4.1
31.0
202.2
1.1
203.3

–60.6
–48.1
–30.3
–11.7
–5.4
–5.2
–4.1
–0.7
–19.9
–186.0
–0.8
–186.8
16.5

translation exposure 

Translation exposure relates to Sales and Cost of Sales in foreign entities 
when translated into SEK upon consolidation. These exposures can not 
be addressed by hedging, but as the Income Statement is translated using 
average rate, the impact of volatility in foreign currency rates is reduced.

C20XC23XEN_v56.indd   83

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  83

note C20

transaCtion exposure
Transaction exposure relates to Sales and Cost of sales in non-reporting 
currencies in individual group companies. Foreign exchange risk is as far 
as possible concentrated to Swedish group companies, primarily Ericsson 
AB. Sales to foreign subsidiaries are normally denominated in the functional 
currency of the receiving entity, and export sales from Sweden to external 
customers are normally denominated in USD or other foreign currency. 
In order to limit the exposure toward exchange rate fluctuations on future 
revenues and costs, committed and forecasted future sales and purchases 
in major currencies are hedged, for the coming 6–12 months.

According to Company policy, transaction exposure in subsidiaries’ 
balance sheets (i.e. trade receivables and payables and customer finance 
receivables) should be fully hedged, except for non-tradable currencies. 
Group Treasury has a mandate to leave selected transaction exposures in 
subsidiaries’ balance sheets unhedged up to an aggregate Value at Risk 
(VaR) of SEK 20 million, given a confidence level of 99 percent and a 1-day 
horizon.  

Foreign exchange exposures in balance sheet items are hedged through 

offsetting balances or derivatives. 

As of December 31, 2010, outstanding foreign exchange derivatives 

hedging transaction exposures had a net market value of SEK 0.6 (0.3) 
billion. The market value is partly deferred in the hedge reserve in OCI to 
offset the gains/losses on hedged future sales in foreign currency. 

Cash flow hedges
The purpose of hedging forecasted revenues and costs is to reduce  
volatility in the income statement. Hedging is done by selling or buying 
foreign currencies against the functional currency of the hedging entity using 
FX forwards. 

Hedging is done based on a rolling 12-month exposure forecast. 
Ericsson uses a layered hedging approach, where the closest quarters are 
hedged to a higher degree than later quarters. Each consecutive quarter 
is hereby hedged on several occasions and is covered by an aggregate of 
hedging contracts initiated at various points in time, which supports the 
objective of reducing volatility in the income statement from changes in 
foreign exchange rates.

translation exposure in net assets

Ericsson has many subsidiaries operating outside Sweden with other 
functional currencies than SEK. The results and net assets of such 
companies are exposed to exchange rate fluctuations, which affect the 
consolidated income statement and balance sheet when translated to SEK. 
Translation risk related to forecasted results from foreign operations can not 
be hedged, but net assets can be addressed by hedging.

Translation exposure in foreign subsidiaries is hedged according to the 

following policy established by the Board of Directors:

Translation risk related to net assets in foreign subsidiaries is hedged up 

to 20 percent in selected companies. The translation differences reported 
in OCI during 2010 were negative, SEK 3.7 billion, including hedging gain of 
SEK 0.4 billion.

interest rate risk

Ericsson is exposed to interest rate risk through market value fluctuations in 
certain balance sheet items and through changes in interest revenues and 
expenses. The net cash position was SEK 51.3 (36.1) billion at the end of 
2010, consisting of cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments of 
SEK 87.2 (76.7) billion and interest-bearing liabilities and post-employment 
benefits of SEK 35.9 (40.7) billion. 

Ericsson manages the interest rate risk by (i) matching fixed and floating 

interest rates in interest-bearing balance sheet items and (ii) avoiding 
significant fixed interest rate exposure in Ericsson’s net cash position. The 
policy is that interest-bearing assets shall have an average interest duration 
between 10 and 14 months and interest-bearing liabilities an average 

84  |  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

interest duration shorter than 6 months, taking derivative instruments 
into consideration. Treasury has a mandate to deviate from the asset 
management benchmark given by the Board and take FX positions up to an 
aggregate risk of VaR SEK 30 million given a confidence level of 99 percent 
and a 1-day horizon. 

As of December 31, 2010, 97 (88) percent of Ericsson’s interest-bearing 

liabilities and 90 (61) percent of Ericsson’s interest-bearing assets had 
floating interest rates, i.e. interest periods of less than 12 months.

When managing the interest rate exposure, Ericsson uses derivative 
instruments, such as interest rate swaps. Derivative instruments used for 
converting fixed rate debt into floating rate debt are designated as fair  
value hedges.

fair value hedges
The purpose of fair value hedges is to hedge the variability in the fair value of 
fixed-rate debt (issued bonds) from changes in the relevant benchmark yield 
curve for its entire term by converting fixed interest payments to a floating 
rate (e.g. STIBOR or LIBOR) by using interest rate swaps (IRS). The credit 
risk/spread is not hedged. 

The fixed leg of the IRS is matched against the cash flows of the hedged 
bond. Hereby the fixed-rate bond/debt is converted into a floating-rate debt 
in accordance with the policy. 

outstandinG derivatives 1)

fair value

Currency derivatives
Maturity within 3 months
Maturity between 3 and 12 
months
Maturity 1 to 3 years
Maturity 3 to 5 years
Maturity more than 5 years
total currency derivatives

Of which designated in cash 
flow hedge relations
Of which designated in net 
investment hedge relations

interest rate derivatives
Maturity within 3 months
Maturity between 3  
and 12 months
Maturity 1 to 3 years
Maturity 3 to 5 years
Maturity more than 5 years
Total interest rate derivatives
Of which designated in fair 
value hedge relations

asset

2010
liability

asset

2009
liability

581

1,086

580

945
2
–
–
1,528

662

–

6

76
544
184
705
1,515

862

505
21
–
–

910
90
84
3

1,613 2) 1,666 3)

–

3

28

96

–

–

61
118
34
87
329  2)

28
49
175
685
937 3)

–

845

500

423
44
–
–
967

–

62

–

40
151
40
58
289

–

1)  Some of the derivatives with short maturities are recognized in the balance sheet as 

non-current due to hedge accounting.

2)  Of which SEK 902 million is reported as non-current liabilities.

3)  Of which SEK 843 million is reported as non-current assets.

sensitivity analysis

Ericsson uses the VaR methodology to measure foreign exchange and 
interest rate risks in portfolios managed by Treasury. This statistical method 
expresses the maximum potential loss that can arise with a certain degree 
of probability during a certain period of time. For the VaR measurement, 
Ericsson has chosen a probability level of 99 percent and a 1-day time 
horizon. The daily VaR measurement uses market volatilities and correlations 
based on historical daily data (one year).

The average VaR calculated for 2010 was for the interest rate mandate 
SEK 20.3 (14.3) million and for the transaction exposure mandate SEK 9.8 
(13.9) million. No VaR-limits were exceeded during 2010.

C20XC23XEN_v56.indd   84

2011-02-27   15.45

financial credit risk

Financial instruments carry an element of risk in that counterparts may 
be unable to fulfill their payment obligations. This exposure arises in the 
investments in cash, cash equivalents, short-term Investments and from 
derivative positions with positive unrealized results against banks and  
other counterparties.

Ericsson mitigates these risks by investing cash primarily in well-rated 

securities such as treasury bills, government bonds, commercial papers, 
and mortgage covered bonds with short-term ratings of at least A-1/P-1 
and long-term ratings of AAA. Separate credit limits are assigned to each 
counterpart in order to minimize risk concentration. We have had no  
sub-prime exposure in our investments. All derivative transactions are 
covered by ISDA netting agreements to reduce the credit risk. No credit 
losses were incurred during 2010, neither on external investments nor on 
derivative positions.

At December 31, 2010, the credit risk in financial cash instruments 
was equal to the instruments’ carrying value. Credit exposure in derivative 
instruments was SEK 3.0 (2.6) billion.

liquidity risk

Liquidity risk is that Ericsson is unable to meet its short-term payment 
obligations due to insufficient or illiquid cash reserves.

Ericsson minimizes the liquidity risk by maintaining a sufficient net 
cash position. This is managed through centralized cash management, 
investments in highly liquid interest-bearing securities, and by having 
sufficient committed credit lines in place to meet potential funding needs. 
For information about contractual obligations, please see Note C32, 
“Contractual obligations”. The current cash position is deemed to satisfy all 
short-term liquidity requirements.

During 2010, cash and bank and short-term investments increased by 
SEK 10.5 billion to SEK 87.2 billion. The increase was mainly due to positive 
operating cash flow. 

Cash, Cash equivalents and short-term investments

(seK billion)

Bank Deposits
type of issuer/
counterpart
Governments
Banks
Corporations
Mortgage 
institutes
2010
2009

remaining time to maturity

< 3 
months

29.4

< 1 
year

0.1

1–5 
years

–

>5 
years

–

–
1.5
–

–
30.9
31.8

9.3
–
–

–
9.4
2.6

23.5
4.0
–

15.3
42.8
34.4

2.9
–
–

1.2
4.1
7.9

total

29.5

35.7
5.5
–

16.5
87.2
76.7

The instruments are either classified as held for trading or as assets 
available for sale with maturity less than one year and therefore short-term 
investments. Cash, Cash Equivalents and short-term investments are mainly 
held in SEK unless off-set by EUR-funding.

refinanCinG risK

Refinancing risk is the risk that Ericsson is unable to refinance outstanding 
debt at reasonable terms and conditions, or at all, at a given point in time.

repayment sChedule of lonG-term borrowinGs 1)

nominal  
amount  
(seK billion)

Current 
maturities 
of long- 
term debt

notes 
and bonds 
(non-current)

liabilities 
to financial 
institutions 
(non-current)

2011
2012
2013

2014
2015
2016
2017
2018
2019
2020
total

0.8
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
0.8

–
3.5
5.4

3.4
–
2.0
4.5
–
–
1.2
20.0

–
0.9
–

–
4.1
–
–
–
–
–
5.0

note C20

total

0.8
4.4
5.4

3.4
4.1
2.0
4.5
–
–
1.2
25.8

1)  Excluding finance leases reported in Note C27, “Leasing”.

Debt financing is mainly carried out through borrowing in the Swedish and 
international debt capital markets.

Bank financing is used for certain subsidiary funding and to obtain 

committed credit facilities.

fundinG proGrams 1)

Euro Medium-Term Note program  
(USD million)
Euro Commercial Paper program 
(USD million) 
Swedish Commercial Paper program 
(SEK million)
Long-term Committed Credit facility 
(USD million)
Indian Commercial Paper program  
(INR million)

amount

utilized unutilized

5,000

3,003

1,997

1,500

5,000

2,000

–

–

–

1,500

5,000

2,000 

5,000

3,200

1,800

1)  There are no financial covenants related to these programs.

At year-end, Ericsson’s credit ratings remained at Baa1 (Baa1) by Moody’s 
and BBB+ (BBB+) by Standard & Poor’s, both considered to be “Solid 
Investment Grade”.

financial instruments carried 
at other than fair value

The fair value of the majority of the Company’s financial instruments are 
determined based on quoted market prices or rates. In the following tables, 
carrying amounts and fair values of financial instruments that are carried 
in the financial statements at other than fair values are presented. Assets 
valued at fair value through profit or loss showed a net gain of SEK 1.1 
billion. For further information about valuation principles, please see Note 
C1, “Significant accounting policies”. 

finanCial instruments Carried at other than fair value 1)

seK billion

Current maturities of  
non-current borrowings
Notes and bonds
Other borrowings non-current
total

 Carrying amount
2009

2010

fair value
2010

2009

0.8
20.6
5.1
26.5

0.7
23.8
4.8
29.3

0.8
20.5
5.0
26.3

0.7
22.8
4.0
27.5

1)  Excluding finance leases reported in Note C27, “Leasing”.

Financial instruments excluded from the tables, such as trade receivables 
and payables, are carried at amortized cost which is deemed to be equal 
to fair value. When a market price is not readily available and there is 
insignificant interest rate exposure affecting the value, the carrying value is 
considered to represent a reasonable estimate of fair value.

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  85

C20XC23XEN_v56.indd   85

2011-02-27   15.45

note C20–C23
note C20

market price risk in own shares and other listed 
equity investments

risK related to our own share priCe 

Ericsson is exposed to the development of its own share price through  
stock option and stock purchase plans for employees and synthetic share-
based compensations to the Board of Directors. The obligation to deliver 
shares, or pay compensation amounts, under these plans is covered by 
holding Ericsson Class B shares as treasury stock and warrants for issuance 
of new Ericsson Class B shares or provisions. An increase in the share  
price will result in social security charges, which represents a risk to both  
income and cash flow. The cash flow exposure is fully hedged through  
the holding of Ericsson Class B shares as treasury stock to be sold to 

finanCial instruments, CarryinG amounts

generate funds to cover also social security payments, and through the 
purchase of call options on Ericsson Class B shares. For further information 
about the stock option and stock purchase plans, please see note C29, 
“Information Regarding Members of the Board of Directors, the Group 
Management and Employees”.

Customer 
finance 
C14

trade 
receiv-
ables  
C14

short-
term 
invest-
ments

Cash 
equiva-
lents

borrow-
ings 
C19

trade 
payables 
C22

other 
financial 
assets  
C12

other 
current 
receiv-
ables 
C15

other 
current 
liabilities 
C21

other 
non-
current 
liabilities

2010

2009

–
4.4
–

–
4.4

–
61.1
–

–
61.1

56.3
–
–

–
56.3

1.5
2.1
–

–
3.6

–
–
–

–
–
–

–30.8
–30.8

–25.0
–25.0

–
2.7
–

–
2.7

3.0
–
–

–
3.0

–1.0
–
–

–
–1.0

–0.9
–
–

–
–0.9

58.9
70.3
–

–55.8
73.4

56.0
73.7
–

–51.0
78.7

seK billion

Assets at fair value  
through profit or loss
Loans and receivables
Available for sale assets
Financial liabilities at  
amortized cost
total

C21 otheR CuRRent 
liabilities 

C22 tRade Payables  

other Current liabilities

trade payables

Income tax liabilities
Advances from customers
Liabilities to associated companies  
and joint ventures
Accrued interest
Accrued expenses, of which

Employee related
Supplier related
Other 1)

Deferred revenues
Derivatives with a negative value 2)
Other 3)
total

2010

2,228
5,946

115
349
31,463
10,063
12,273
9,127
11,415
1,039
6,050
58,605

2009

1,890
4,903

152
378
29,957
10,137
10,769
9,051
8,267
1,255
5,727
52,529

1)  Major balance relates to accrued expenses for customer projects.

2)  See Note C20, “Financial Risk Management and Financial Instruments”.

3)  Includes items such as VAT and withholding tax payables and other payroll deductions, 

and liabilities for goods received where invoice is not yet received.

Payables to associated  
companies and joint ventures
Other
total

2010

2009

157
24,802
24,959

1,186
17,678
18,864

C23 assets Pledged  
as CollateRal 

assets pledGed as Collateral

Chattel mortgages
Bank deposits
total

2010

191
467
658

2009

167
383
550

86  |  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C20XC23XEN_v56.indd   86

2011-02-27   15.45

C24 Contingent LiabiLities

coNtINGeNt LIABILItIeS

contingent liabilities
total

2010

875
875

2009

1,245
1,245

contingent liabilities assumed by Ericsson include guarantees of loans to 
other companies of sEK 25 (76) million. Ericsson has sEK 413 (542) million 
issued to guarantee the performance of a third party. All ongoing legal and 
tax proceedings have been evaluated, their potential economic outflows and 
probability estimated and necessary provisions made.

financial guarantees for third party amounted to sEK 191 (52) million as 
of december 31, 2010. maturity date for major part of the issued guarantees 
occurs in 2019 at latest.

sony Ericsson mobile communications AB (sEmc) has been granted 

term loans and credit facilities of sEK 3,157 million, of which sEK 2,106 
million were utilized as of december 31, 2010. the parent companies of 
Ericsson and sony corporation have issued guarantees for these term 
loans and credit facilities on a 50/50 basis, without joint responsibility. 
thus Ericsson’s guaranteed amount is maximum sEK 1,579 million 
excluding interest. As of december 31, 2010, Ericsson’s part of the 
outstanding amount is sEK 1,037 million excluding accrued interest of sEK 
16 million. maturity dates for the issued guarantees are 2011 (sEK  
1,128 million) and 2012 (sEK 451 million). see also note c30, “Related 
Party transactions”.

C25 statement of Cash 
fLows

interest paid in 2010 was sEK 977 million (sEK 772 million in 2009, sEK 
1,689 million in 2008) and interest received was sEK 1,083 million (sEK 
1,900 million in 2009, sEK 2,375 million in 2008). taxes paid, including 
withholding tax, were sEK 4,808 million (sEK 4,427 million in 2009, sEK 
4,274 million in 2008). 

cash and cash equivalents includes cash of sEK 27,231 million (sEK 

18,372 million in 2009) and temporary investments of sEK 3,633 million 
(sEK 4,426 million in 2009). for more information regarding the disposition 
of cash and cash equivalents and unutilized credit commitments, see note 
c20, “financial Risk management and financial instruments”.

cash restricted due to currency regulations or other legal restrictions 
in certain countries amounted to sEK 10,836 million (sEK 8,907 million in 
2009, sEK 8,197 million in 2008).

Note c24–c25

ADJUStMeNtS to RecoNcILe Net INcoMe to cASH

Property, plant and equipment

depreciation
impairment losses/reversals of 
impairments

total 
Intangible assets
Amortization
capitalized development expenses
intellectual Property Rights, brands and 
other intangible assets
total amortization
Impairments
capitalized development expenses
intellectual Property Rights, brands and 
other intangible assets
total 
total depreciation, amortization and 
impairment losses on property, plant 
and equipment and intangible assets 
taxes
dividends from joint ventures/associated 
companies 1)
Undistributed earnings in joint ventures/
associated companies 1)
Gains/losses on sales of investments 
and operations, intangible assets and 
PP&E, net 2)
other non-cash items 2) 3)
total adjustments to reconcile net 
income to cash

2010

2009

2008

3,299

3,550

3,108

–3
3,296

–48
3,502

–3
3,105

664

647

1,726

4,999
5,663

3,562
4,209

3,280
5,006

49

157

562

945
6,657

4,255
8,621

–
5,568

9,953
351

12,123
–1,011

8,673
1,032

119

70

3,863

1,357

6,013

291

–237
947

–910
571

–1,210
1,669

12,490

16,856

14,318

1) see also note c12, “financial Assets, non-current”.

2) see also note c26, “Business combinations”.

3) Refers mainly to unrealized foreign exchange, gains/losses on financial instruments.

AcqUISItIoNS/DIveStMeNtS of SUBSIDIARIeS AND otHeR 
oPeRAtIoNS

Acquisitions

Divestments

2010

cash flow from business combinations 1)
total

2009

cash flow from business combinations 1)
capital contribution to joint venture
total

2008

cash flow from business combinations 1)
other investments
total

1)  see also note c26, “Business combinations”.

–3,286
–3,286

–9,633
–9,688
–19,321

–74
–
–74

454
454

1,239
–
1,239

654
1,256
1,910

C24XC25XEN_v37.indd   87

2011-02-25   15.57

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  notEs to thE consolidAtEd finAnciAl stAtEmEnts  |  87

notE c26

C26 Business ComBinations
Acquisitions and divestments

Acquisitions

Acquisitions 2008–2010

Cash
total consideration

2010

3,789
3,789

2009

9,633
9,633

Acquisition-related costs

67 1)

–

net asset acquired
Cash and cash equivalents
Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets
Investments in associates
Other assets
Provision, incl. post-employment 
benefits
Other liabilities
total identifiable net assets

non-controlling interest
Goodwill

570
205
3,825
138
2,506

–390
–3,573
3,281

–748
1,256
3,789

5
297
5,832
–
1,235

–
–1,270
6,099

–
3,534
9,633

2008

74
74

–

–
–
–209
–
887

–
278
956

–
–882
74

1)  Acquisition-related costs are included in Selling and administrative expenses in the 

consolidated income statement.

In 2010, Ericsson made acquisitions with a cash flow effect amounting to 
SEK 3,286 (9,633) million, primarily: 

incode: On September 7, 2010, the Company announced that it had 
entered into an asset purchase agreement to acquire certain assets 
of inCode’s Strategy and Technology Group, a premier professional 
services firm providing strategic business and consulting services 
to leading North American telecommunications clients. inCode is 
consolidated by the Company as of September 30 2010. The purchase 
price was USD 12 million on a cash and debt free basis. The acquisition 
includes certain assets of inCode’s Strategy and Technology Group, 
including contracts, technology and intellectual property, and about 45 
employees throughout the US and Canada.
LG-nortel: On April 21, 2010, the Company announced that it had 
entered into a share purchase agreement to acquire Nortel’s majority 
shareholding (50 percent + 1 share) in LG-Nortel, the joint venture of 
LG Electronics and Nortel Networks. In 2009, LG-Nortel generated 
approximately USD 650 million of sales. The purchase price was 
USD 234 million on a cash and debt free basis. The acquisition has 
significantly expanded the Company’s footprint in the Korean market 
and provided well established sales channel and strong R&D capability 
in the country. Furthermore, the acquisition provided the Company with 
an industrial base and the ability to build new customer relationships. 
Part of the acquisition costs is recognized as goodwill due to the 
competence acquired. The non-controlling interest is measured at the 
non-controlling interest’s share of the acquiree’s net assets. Net Sales 
for acquired LG-Nortel business amounted to approximately SEK 2,322 
million for the period July 1 – December 31, 2010. If LG-Nortel had 
been consolidated from January 1, 2010, the sales had amounted to 
approximately SEK 3,820 million. The acquired LG-Nortel business had 
a positive impact on the result. Approximately 1,300 employees were 
transferred. LG-Nortel is consolidated by the Company as of June 30, 
2010, and is included in segment Networks. The new name of the joint 
venture is LG-Ericsson. Transaction costs for the acquisition amounted 
to SEK 24 million.

 >

 >

 >

 > nortel GsM: On November 25, 2009, the Company announced it had 
entered to acquire certain assets of the Carrier Networks division of 
Nortel relating to Nortel’s GSM business in the US and Canada. Nortel 
GSM was consolidated by the Company as of March 31, 2010. The 
acquisition further strengthens the Company’s ability to serve North 
Americas leading wireless operators. The purchase was structured as 
an asset sale at a cash purchase price of USD 79 million on a cash 
and debt free basis. Approximately 350 employees were transferred 
to Ericsson. Transaction costs for the acquisition amounted to SEK 22 
million

 > optimi: On December 22, 2010, the Company announced the 

acquisition of Optimi Corporation, a US-Spanish telecommunications 
vendor providing products and services within the networks optimization 
and management sector to leading clients in telecommunications. The 
purchase price was USD 99 million on a cash and debt free basis. 
Approximately 200 highly skilled professionals and a complete portfolio 
of services and tools were transferred to the Company. Optimi is 
consolidated by the Company as of December 31.

 > Pride: On January 12, 2010, the Company announced it had acquired 
all shares in Italian Pride Spa, a consulting and systems integration 
company, operating in Italy. The purchase price was EUR 66 million 
on a cash and debt free basis. The aim was to further strengthen the 
Company’s offering in the systems integration and consultancy field. 
Pride employs about 1,000 employees. Goodwill is related to business 
footprint and critical mass in Systems Integration. Pride is consolidated 
by the Company as of January 29, 2010.

The preliminary purchase price allocation made in 2009 related to Nortel 
CDMA were finalized 2010 with the following effects: An increase in 
inventory of SEK 114 million, a decrease in other assets of SEK 191 million, 
an increase of other liabilities of SEK 67 million, an increase of intangible 
assets of SEK 281 MSEK and a decrease in goodwill of SEK 137 million.

noRtEL cDMA businEss (2009)

net assets acquired

intangible assets

Intellectual property rights
Customer relationships
Goodwill

other assets and liabilities

book 
value

Fair value 

adjustments Fair value

–
–
–

4,979
811
2,957

Inventory
Property, plant and equipment
Other assets
Other liabilities

187
261
392
–1,242

total purchase price
Less:

Cash and cash equivalents

–

cash flow effect

–
–
–
–

–

The determination of purchase price allocation and fair values of assets acquired and 
liabilities assumed is based on preliminary appraisal; therefore, these values may be 
subject to adjustments.

4,979
811
2,957

187
261
392
–1,242
8,345

–
8,345

88  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C26XEN_v54.indd   88

2011-02-25   15.59

 
 
notE c26

Divestments in 2009 refer mainly to TEMS with a gain amounting to SEK 777 
million and a cash flow effect of SEK 926 million.

DiVEstMEnts

DiVEstMEnts 2008–2010

cash

net assets disposed of
Property, plant and equipment
Other assets 
Other liabilities

Net gains from divestments

Less Cash and cash equivalents

cash flow effect

2010

454

21
372
–183
210

357
–113
454

2009

1,239

5
586
–38
553

780
–94
1,239

2008

654

3
1,005
–456
552

296
–194
654

tEMs businEss (2009)

net assets disposed of

Property, plant and equipment
Other assets 
Other liabilities

Net gains from divestments
Less:

Cash and cash equivalents

cash flow effect

In 2010, the Company made divestments with a cash flow effect amounting 
to SEK 454 (1,239) million.

 >

Ericsson Federal inc. (EFi): On January 3, 2011, the Company 
announced the completion of the sale of 100 percent of the shares 
in EFI to Tailwind Capital, a private equity firm focused on growing 
companies. EFI was consolidated by the Company until the sale in the 
end of December 2010. The sale resulted in a gain amounting to SEK 
216 million and a cash flow effect of SEK 360 million.

Acquisitions 2008–2010

company

Optimi

inCode

LG-Nortel

Pride

Description

A US-Spanish telecommunications vendor providing products and services within the networks optimization 
and management sector with around 200 employees.

An asset purchase agreement of certain assets with around 45 employees. A premier professional services 
firm providing strategic business and consulting services.

Nortel’s majority shareholding (50 percent + 1 share) in LG-Nortel with around 1,300 employees.

Italian consulting and systems integration company with around 1,000 employees.

Nortel GSM

An asset purchase agreement of the Carrier Networks division of Nortel relating to GSM business.

Nortel

Elcoteq

Bizitek
Mobeon

An asset purchase agreement of the Carrier networks division of Nortel relating to CDMA and LTE 
technology.

Estonian electronics manufacturing service company with around 1,200 employees.

Turkish systems integrator of business support systems with around 116 employees. 
Swedish company. Acquisition of shares.

DiVEstMEnts 2008–2010

company

Description

EFI

TEMS
Enterprise

Sale of Ericsson Federal Inc. (EFI). 

Tools for air interface monitoring and radio network planning. 
PBX solutions business. 

2009

5
276
–38
243
777

94
926

Date of 
announcement

Dec 22, 2010

Sep 7, 2010

Apr 21, 2010

Jan 12, 2010

Nov 25, 2009

Nov 13, 2009 

June 17, 2009

May 28, 2009
Mar 31, 2008

Date of 
announcement

Jan 3, 2011

Mar 23, 2009
May 1, 2008

C26XEN_v54.indd   89

2011-02-25   15.59

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  89

 
nOTe C27–C28

C27 Leasing 
Leasing with the Company as lessee 

Assets under finance leases, recorded as property, plant and equipment, 
consist of: 

FinanCe Leases

acquisition costs
Real estate
Machinery

accumulated depreciation
Real estate
Machinery

accumulated impairment losses
Real estate
net carrying value

Leases with the Company as lessor 

Leasing income mainly relates to subleasing of real estate. These leasing 
contracts vary in length from 1 to 11 years. 

At December 31, 2010, future minimum payment receivables were 

distributed as follows: 

FUTURe MiniMUM PaYMenT ReCeiVaBLes

2010

2009

1,846
3
1,849

–687
–3
–690

–54
1,105

1,942
4
1,946

–662
–4
–666

–49
1,231

2011 
2012 
2013
2014
2015
2016 and later
Total
Unearned financial income
Uncollectible lease payments
net investments in financial leases

Finance 
leases 

Operating 
leases

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–

52
13
13
13
13
38
142
n/a
n/a
n/a

Leasing income in 2010 was SEK 94 (181) million.

C28 Tax assessmenT 
VaLues in sweden 

TaX assessMenT VaLUes in sWeDen

Land and land improvements
Buildings
Total

2010

65
295
360

2009

58
265
323

As of December 31, 2010, future minimum lease payment obligations for 
leases were distributed as follows: 

FUTURe MiniMUM Lease PaYMenT OBLiGaTiOns FOR Leases

Finance 
leases 

Operating 
leases

2011
2012
2013
2014
2015
2016 and later
Total
Future finance charges 1)
Present value of finance lease liabilities
1) Average effective interest rate on lease payables is 5.87 percent.

155
153
151
230
131
997
1,817
–568
1,249

3,097
2,586
1,754
1,203
722
2,216
11,578
n/a
11,578

Expenses in 2010 for leasing of assets were SEK 3,675 (3,839) million, of 
which variable expenses were SEK 51 (0) million. The leasing contracts vary 
in length from 1 to 18 years.

The Company’s lease agreements normally do not include any 
contingent rents. In the few cases they occur, they relate to charges for 
heating linked to the oil price index. Most of the leases of real estate contain 
terms of renewal, giving the company the right to prolong the agreement in 
question for a predefined period of time. All of the finance leases of facilities 
contain purchase options. Only a very limited number of the Company’s 
lease agreements contain restrictions on stockholders’ equity or other 
means of finance. The major agreement contains a restriction stating that 
the Parent Company must maintain a stockholders’ equity of at least SEK 
25 billion.

90  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C27XC28XEN_v17.indd   90

2011-02-25   16.00

C29 InformatIon 
regardIng members  
of the board of dIreCtors, 
the groUP management 
and emPloyees 

note c29

Contents
RemuneRation to the BoaRD  
of DiRectoRs  

RemuneRation to the GRoup  
manaGement 

LonG-teRm VaRiaBLe RemuneRation 

empLoyee numBeRs, waGes  
anD saLaRies 

91

92

93

96

Remuneration to the Board of Directors

RemuneRation to memBeRs of the BoaRD of DiRectoRs

number of 
synthetic 
shares/portion 
of Board fee

Board fees

Value at grant 
date of 
synthetic 
shares 
allocated 2010

a

number of 
previously 
allocated 
synthetic 
shares

net change  
in value  of 
allocated 
synthetic 

shares  1) 

B

committee  
fees

total 
fees paid 

total 
remuneration   

in cash 2)  

2010   

c

(a+B+c) 

Board member
Michael Treschow
Marcus Wallenberg
Sverker Martin-Löf
Roxanne S. Austin
Sir Peter L. Bonfield
Börje Ekholm
Ulf J. Johansson
Nancy McKinstry
Anders Nyrén
Carl-Henric Svanberg
Hans Vestberg
Michelangelo Volpi

3,750,000 
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
–
750,000

32,856/75%
2,190/25%
0/0%
6,571/75%
2,190/25%
6,571/75%
6,571/75%
4,380/50%
0/0%
4,380/50%
–
4,380/50%

Employee Representatives
Monica Bergström
Pehr Claesson
Kristina Davidsson
Anna Guldstrand
Jan Hedlund
Karin Lennartsson
Karin Åberg
total

4,500
15,000
15,000
15,000
15,000
10,500
15,000
11,340,000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
70,089

2,812,474
187,464
–
562,478
187,464
562,478
562,478
374,928
–
374,928
–
374,928

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
5,999,618

79,070.80
5,270.80
–
15,813.60
5,270.80
15,813.60
15,813.60
13,097.60
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
150,150.80

948,927
63,256
–
189,779
63,256
189,779
189,779
167,534
–
–32,631
–
–32,631

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
1,747,048

250,000
125,000
–
250,000
250,000
125,000
350,000
125,000
125,000
–
–
–

1,359,509 3)
687,500
750,000
437,500
812,500
312,500
615,357 3)
500,000
875,000
375,000
–
375,000

–
–
–
–
–
–
–
1,600,000

4,500
15,000
15,000
15,000
15,000
10,500
15,000
7,189,866

5,120,910
938,220
750,000
1,189,756
1,063,220
1,064,756
1,367,613
1,042,462
875,000
717,297
–
717,297

4,500
15,000
15,000
15,000
15,000
10,500
15,000

14,936,533 4)

1)  The difference in value as of December 31, 2010, compared to December 31, 2009 (for synthetic shares allocated 2008 and 2009), and compared to grant date 2010 (for synthetic shares 
allocated 2010). The value of synthetic shares allocated in 2008 and 2009 includes respectively SEK 1.85 and SEK 2.00 per share in compensation for dividends resolved by the Annual 
General Meetings 2009 and 2010.

2)  Committee fee and cash portion of the Board fee.

3)  Including an amount corresponding to statutory social charges in respect of the part of the fee that has been invoiced through a limited liability company. 

4)  Excluding social security charges in the amount of SEK 3,077,266

comments to the table

 >

 >

The Chairman of the Board was entitled to a Board fee of  
SEK 3,750,000 and a fee of SEK 125,000 for each Board committee  
on which he served. 
The other Directors appointed by the Annual General Meeting were 
entitled to a fee of SEK 750,000 each. In addition, each non-employed 
Director serving on a Board committee received a fee of SEK 125,000 
for each committee. However, the Chairman of the Audit Committee 
received a fee of SEK 350,000 and the other non-employed members of 
the Audit Committee received a fee of SEK 250,000 each. 

 > Members of the Board, who are not employees of the Company, have 

not received any remuneration other than the fees and synthetic shares 

as above. None of the directors have entered into a service contract  
with the Parent Company or any of its subsidiaries, providing for 
termination benefits.

 > Members and Deputy Members of the Board who are Ericsson 

employees received no remuneration or benefits other than their 
entitlements as employees. However, a fee of SEK 1,500 per attended  
Board meeting was paid to each employee representative on the Board 
and their deputies. 

 > According to new rules it has been possible for Board members fulfilling 

certain criteria to invoice the amount of the Board and Committee 
fee. The Board member is allowed to add to the invoice an amount 
corresponding to social charges. The social charges thus included in the 

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NoTES To THE CoNSoLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  91

C29XEN_v99.indd   91

2011-02-25   16.02

note c29

 >

invoiced amount are not higher than the general payroll tax that would 
otherwise have been paid by the Company. The entire amount, e.g. the 
cash portion of the Board fee and the committee fee, including social 
charges, constitutes the invoiced Board fee
The Annual General Meeting 2010 resolved that non-employed Directors 
may choose to receive the Board fee, (i.e. exclusive of committee fee) 
as follows: i) 25 percent of the Board fee in cash and 75 percent in the 
form of synthetic shares, with a value corresponding to 75 percent of 
the Board fee at the time of allocation, ii) 50 percent in cash and 50 
percent in the form of synthetic shares, or iii) 75 percent in cash and 25 
percent in the form of synthetic shares. Directors may also choose not to 
participate in the synthetic share program and receive 100 percent of the 
Board fee in cash. Committee fees are always paid in cash.  
  The number of synthetic shares is based on a volume-weighed 
average of the market price of Ericsson Class B shares on the NASDAQ 
oMX Stockholm exchange during the five trading days immediately 
following the publication of Ericsson’s interim report for the first quarter 
of 2010: SEK 85.60. The number of synthetic shares is rounded down to 
the nearest whole number of shares. 
  The synthetic shares are vested during the Directors’ term of office 
and the right to receive payment with regard to the allocated synthetic 
shares occurs after the publication of the Company’s year-end financial 
statement during the fifth year following the Annual General Meeting 
which resolved on the synthetic share program, i.e. in 2015. 
  The amount payable shall be determined based on the volume-

weighed average price for shares of Class B during the five trading 
days immediately following the publication of the year-end financial 
statement. 
  Synthetic shares were allocated to members of the Board for the first 
time 2008, on equal terms and conditions as resolved 2009 and 2010. 
Payment based on synthetic shares may thus occur for the first time in 
2013 with respect to the synthetic shares allocated 2008. The value of 
all outstanding synthetic shares fluctuates in line with the market value 
of Ericsson’s Class B share and may differ from year to year compared 
to the original value on their respective grant dates. The change in value 
of the outstanding synthetic shares is established each year and affects 
the total recognized costs that year. As per December 31, 2010 the total 
number of synthetic shares under the programs is 220,239.80 and the 
total accounted debt is SEK 17,649,112. 

Remuneration to the Group management

RemuneRation costs 

The total remuneration to the President and CEo and to other members of 
the Group management, hereafter presented as the Executive Leadership 
Team (ELT) includes fixed salary, short-term and long-term variable 
remuneration, pension and other benefits. These remuneration elements are 
based on the guidelines for remuneration and other employment conditions 
for senior management as approved at AGM 2010, see the approved 
guidelines in section “2010 Remuneration Policy”. 

RemuneRation costs incuRReD DuRinG 2010 foR the pResiDent anD ceo anD otheR memBeRs of executiVe 
LeaDeRship team

seK

Salary
Provisions for annual variable remuneration 
earned 2010 to be paid 2011
Long-term variable remuneration provision
Pension costs

other benefits
Social charges and taxes
total 

the president

12 573 789

6 737 556
1 253 262
5 586 760

80 962
7 842 186
34 074 515

other members  
of eLt

84 697 698

26 592 809
6 467 584
24 994 073

4 142 484
30 246 918
177 141 565

total 2010

97 271 487

33 330 365
7 720 846
30 580 833

4 223 446
38 089 103
211 216 080

total 2009

61 653 309

21 364 557
3 172 351
47 573 897

2 423 437
36 674 431
172 861 982

comments to the table
 > As of January 1, 2010, Hans Vestberg was appointed President and 

CEo. 

 >

 > During 2010, there were two Executive Vice Presidents, appointed by the 
Board of Directors. None of them has acted as deputy to the President 
and CEo during the year. The Executive Vice Presidents are included in 
the group “other members of ELT”. 
The group “other members of ELT” comprises the following persons: 
Jan Frykhammar, Johan Wibergh, Jan Wäreby, Magnus Mandersson, 
Cesare Avenia, Carl olof Blomqvist, Håkan Eriksson, Douglas Gilstrap, 
Henry Sténson, Marita Hellberg (up to June 30), Torbjörn Possne (up to 
September 30), Rima Qureshi (from February 1), Mats H. olsson (from 
February 8), Angel Ruiz (from February 8) and Bina Chaurasia (from 
November 15). 
Included in “salary” for the President and CEo is vacation pay and a 
one-off cost of SEK 2 million in connection with changing the terms and 
conditions of the President and CEo’s long-term variable remuneration 
arrangements 2010.
The ELT has a significantly different composition compared to 2009, with 
more diversity as to nationalities, gender and experience, both on local 
contracts as well as expatriate contracts. To be able to attract and retain, 
decisions on long-term compensation commitments have been made 

 >

 >

 >

 >

 >

during 2010, cost for these commitments are included in salary for other 
members of ELT. For 2009 there were no such commitments.
The salary stated in the table for other members of the ELT includes 
vacation pay paid during 2010 as well as other contracted compensation 
which were paid during 2010 or provisioned for 2010. Deferred salary, 
earned 2010 to be paid 12 months or later after period end amounts to 
SEK 6,097,404.
“Long-term variable remuneration provisions” refers to the 
compensation costs during 2010 for all outstanding share-based plans. 
For a description of compensation cost, including accounting treatment, 
see Note C1, “Significant Accounting Policies”, section Share-based 
compensation to employees and the Board of Directors.
For the President and CEo and other members of ELT employed in 
Sweden a supplementary plan is applied in addition to the occupational 
pension plan for salaried staff on the Swedish labor market (ITP) with 
pension from 60 years. These pension plans are not conditional upon 
future employment at Ericsson. 

 > Ericsson’s commitments for benefit based pensions per December 31, 
2010, under IAS 19 amounted to SEK 5,177,173 for the President and 
CEo which includes ITP plan and temporary disability and survivor’s 
pension. For other members of ELT the Company’s commitments 
amounted to SEK 45,368,650 of which SEK 35,087,673 refers to the 

92  |  NoTES To THE CoNSoLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C29XEN_v99.indd   92

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note c29

 >

ITP plan and the remaining SEK 10,280,977 to temporary disability and 
survivor’s pensions. 
For previous Presidents and CEos, the Company has made provisions 
for defined benefit pension plans in connection with their active service 
periods within the Company.

can, at a constant share price, amount to between 0 and 140 percent of 
the aggregate fixed salary cost, all excluding social security costs.

 > All benefits, including pension benefits, follow the competitive practice in 
the home country taking total compensation into account. The retirement 
age is normally 60 to 65 years of age.

outstanDinG matchinG RiGhts 

as per December 31, 2010 
number of class B shares

the  president

other members 
of eLt

Stock Purchase Plans 2007, 2008, 
2009 and 2010 and Executive 
Performance Stock Plans 2008, 
2009 and 2010

142,373

687,562

comments to the table

 >

 >

 >

For the definition of matching rights, see description in section “Long-
term variable remuneration”. 
The number of matching rights is based on maximum performance 
matching under Executive Performance Stock Plans, 2008, 2009 and 
2010 for all members of ELT during 2010.
2007 award lapsed for the Performance Stock Plan, so for 2007 only 
the matching under the Stock Purchase Plan is included in outstanding 
matching rights.

 > During 2010, the President and CEo received 2,314 matching shares 

and other members of ELT 17,093 matching shares.

2010 RemuneRation poLicy

Remuneration at Ericsson is based on the principles of performance, 
competitiveness and fairness. These principles and good practice in 
Sweden guide our policy to:
 > Attract and retain highly competent, performing and motivated  

people that have the ability, experience and skill to deliver on the 
Ericsson strategy.

 > Encourage behavior consistent with Ericsson’s culture and core values 

of professionalism, respect and perseverance.

 > Ensure fairness in reward by delivering total remuneration that is 

 >

 > By way of exception, additional arrangements can be made when 
deemed required. Such additional arrangement shall be limited in 
time and shall not exceed a period of 36 months and two times the 
remuneration that the individual concerned would have received had no 
additional arrangement been made.
The mutual notice period may be no more than six months. Upon 
termination of employment by the Company, severance pay amounting 
to a maximum of 18 months fixed salary is paid. Notice of termination 
given by the employee due to significant structural changes, or other 
events that in a determining manner affect the content of work or the 
condition for the position, is equated with notice of termination served 
by the Company.

Long-term Variable Remuneration

the stocK puRchase pLan

The Stock Purchase Plan is designed to offer an incentive for all employees 
to participate in the Company where practicable, which is consistent with 
industry practice and with our ways of working. For the 2010 plan employees 
are able to save up to 7.5 percent (President and CEo 10 percent) of gross 
fixed salary (President and CEo gross fixed salary and annual variable 
remuneration) for purchase of Class B contribution shares at market price 
on the NASDAQ oMX Stockholm or ADS’s (American Depositary Share) at 
NASDAQ (contribution shares) during a twelve-month period (contribution 
period). If the contribution shares are retained by the employee for three 
years after the investment and the employment with the Ericsson Group 
continues during that time, the employee’s shares will be matched with a 
corresponding number of Class B shares or ADS’s free of consideration. 
Employees in 94 countries participate in the plans. 

The table below shows the contribution periods and participation details 

for ongoing plans as of December 31, 2010.

appropriate but not excessive.

stocK puRchase pLans

 > Ensure a total compensation mix of fixed and variable remuneration and 
benefits that reflects the Company’s principles and is competitive where 
Ericsson competes for talent.

 > Encourage variable remuneration which, first, aligns employees with 

clear and relevant targets, second, reinforces performance and, third, 
enables flexible remuneration costs.

 > Ensure that all variable remuneration plans have maximum award and 

vesting limits.

 > Encourage employees to deliver sustained performance and build up a 
personal shareholding in Ericsson, aligning the interests of shareholders 
and employees.

 > Communicate clearly to both employees and shareholders how Ericsson 

translates remuneration principles and policy into practice.

Group Management
For senior management consisting of the Executive Leadership Team, 
including the President and CEo, in the following referred to as the “Group 
Management”, total remuneration consists of fixed salary, short- and long-
term variable remuneration, pension and other benefits. Furthermore, the 
following guidelines apply for Group Management:
 > Variable remuneration is through cash and stock-based programs 

awarded against specific business targets derived from the long-term 
business plan approved by the Board of Directors. Targets may include 
financial targets at either corporate or unit level, operational targets, 
employee motivation targets and customer satisfaction targets.
 > With the current composition of Group Management, the Company’s 
cost during 2010 for the variable remuneration of Group Management 

plan

Stock Purchase 
plan 2007
Stock Purchase 
plan 2008
Stock Purchase 
plan 2009
Stock Purchase 
plan 2010

contribution 
period

August 2007 
– July 2008
August 2008 
– July 2009
August 2009 
– July 2010
August 2010 
–  July 2011

number of 
participants  
at launch

take-up rate  
– percent of  
all employees

19,000

19,000

18,000

22,000

26%

25%

25%

27%

Participants save each month, beginning with August payroll, towards 
quarterly investments. These investments (in November, February, May 
and August) are matched on the third anniversary of each such investment, 
subject to continued employment, and hence the matching spans over two 
financial years and two tax years.

the Key contRiButoR Retention pLan

The Key Contributor Retention Plan is part of Ericsson’s talent management 
strategy and is designed to give recognition for performance, critical skills 
and potential as well as encourage retention of key employees. Under 
the program, up to 10 percent of employees (2010: 7,201 employees) are 
selected through a nomination process that identifies individuals according 
to performance, critical skills and potential. Participants selected obtain 
one extra matching share in addition to the ordinary one matching share for 
each contribution share purchased under the Stock Purchase Plan during a 
twelve-month program period. 

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NoTES To THE CoNSoLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  93

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note c29

executiVe peRfoRmance stocK pLans

plan

Executive Performance Stock Plan 2007 
5)

Executive Performance Stock Plan 2008

Executive Performance Stock Plan 2009

Executive Performance Stock Plan 2010

Base year 

target average annual  

eps 1)

 8.83

eps growth range 2)

5% to 15% 

4.43

2.90

1.14

 5% to 15%

 5% to 15%

5% to 15%

matching share  

vesting range 3) 

maximum opportunity 
as percentage  
of fixed salary 4)

0.67 to 4
1 to 6 
1.33 to 8
0.67 to 4
1 to 6
1.33 to 8
0.67 to 4
1 to 6
1.33 to 8
0.67 to 4
1 to 6
1.5 to 9

30%
45%
72%
30%
45%
72% 
30%
45%
72% 
30%
45%
162%

1)  Sum of four quarters up to June 30 of plan years, up to and including 2009. For 2010 plan the sum of 4 quarters up to December 31, 2010.

2)  EPS range found from three-year average EPS of the twelve quarters to the end of the performance period and corresponding growth targets. 

3)  Corresponding to EPS range (no Performance Share Plan matching below this range). Matching shares per contribution share invested in addition to Stock Purchase Plan matching 

according to program of up to 4, 6 or 9 matching shares.

4)  At full investment, full vesting and constant share price. Excludes Stock Purchase Plan matching.

5)  The 2007 Executive Performance Stock Plan did not vest. All awards have also lapsed for the matching share vesting range 1.33 to 8 shares for the 2008 and 2009 plans following the only 

participant, the former President and CEo, leaving the Company.

the executiVe peRfoRmance stocK pLan

The Executive Performance Stock Plan is designed to focus the 
management on driving earnings and provide competitive remuneration. 
Senior executives, including ELT, are selected to obtain up to four or six 
extra shares (performance matching shares) in addition to the ordinary one 
matching share for each contribution share purchased under the Stock 
Purchase Plan. Up to 0.5 percent of employees (2010: 264 executives) are 
offered to participate in the plan. The President and CEo is allowed to invest 

up to 10 percent of fixed salary and Short-Term Variable Remuneration 
in contribution shares and may obtain up to nine performance matching 
shares in addition to the Stock Purchase Plan matching share for each 
contribution share. The performance matching is subject to the fulfillment 
of a performance target of average annual Earnings per Share (EPS)  
growth. The table shows all Executive Performance Stock Plans as per 
December 31, 2010.

94  |  NoTES To THE CoNSoLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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originally 
designated  1) 

outstanding  
beginning         
of 2010

awarded  
during 2010

exercised/
matched  
during 2010

forfeited/
expired  
during 2010

outstanding 
end of 2010

note c29

compensation 
costs charged 
during 2010 
(mseK)

a

6.4

9.7

B

3.3

8.6

16.5

11.3

c

–

–

–

22.4

2.5

7.6

19.4
74.4

–
25.7

3.0
10.6

D

e

f=B+c-D-e

G

2.7

1.4

0.1

0.1

–
4.3

0.6

0.1

–

18 3)

7.1 2)

130 3)

0.2

11.0 2)

247 3)

0.1

–
1.0

9.9 2)

351 3)

3.0 2)

31.0

11 3)
757 4)

shaRes foR aLL pLans

plan (million shares)

2006 Stock Purchase Plan, Key 
Contributor Retention Plan and 
Executive Performance Stock 
Plans 

2007 Stock Purchase Plan, Key 
Contributor Retention Plan and 
Executive Performance Stock 
Plans

2008 Stock Purchase Plan, Key 
Contributor Retention Plan and 
Executive Performance Stock 
Plans

2009 Stock Purchase Plan, Key 
Contributor Retention Plan and 
Executive Performance Stock 
Plans

2010 Stock Purchase Plan, Key 
Contributor Retention Plan and 
Executive Performance Stock 
Plans
total

1)  Adjusted for rights offering and reverse split when applicable.

2)  Presuming maximum performance matching under the Executive Performance Stock Plans. The 2006 and 2007 plans have lapsed.

3)  Fair value is calculated as the share price on the investment date, reduced by the net present value of the dividend expectations during the three-year vesting period. Net present value 

calculations are based on data from external party. Fair value is also adjusted for participants failing to keep hold of their contribution shares during the vesting period. For shares under 
the Executive Performance Stock Plans, the Company assesses the probability of meeting the performance targets when calculating the compensation cost. Fair value of the Class B 
share at each investment date during 2010 was: February 15 SEK 64.47, May 15 SEK 75.26, August 15 SEK 67.44 and November 15 SEK 62.57. 

4)  Total compensation costs charged during 2009: SEK 529 million, 2008: SEK 572 million.

shaRes foR aLL pLans
All plans are funded with treasury stock and are equity settled. Treasury 
stock for all plans has been issued in directed cash issues of Class C 
shares at the quotient value and purchased under a public offering at 
the subscription price plus a premium corresponding to the subscribers’ 
financing costs, and then converted to Class B shares. 

For all plans, additional shares have been allocated for financing of 
social security expenses. Treasury stock is sold on the NASDAQ oMX 
Stockholm to cover social security payments when arising due to matching 
of shares. During 2010, 669,700 shares were sold at an average price of 
SEK 77.09. Sale of shares is recognized directly in equity.

If, as of December 31, 2010, all shares allocated for future matching 
under the Stock Purchase Plan were transferred, and shares designated 
to cover social security payments were disposed of as a result of the 
exercise and the matching, approximately 50 million Class B shares would 
be transferred, corresponding to 1.5 percent of the total number of shares 
outstanding, 3,200 million. As of December 31, 2010, 73 million Class B 
shares were held as treasury stock.

The table above shows how shares (representing matching rights 
but excluding shares for social security expenses) are being used for all 
outstanding plans. From left to right the table includes (A) the number of 
shares originally approved by the Annual General Meeting, adjusted for 
reverse split where applicable; (B) the number of originally designated shares 
that were outstanding at the beginning of 2010; (C) the number of shares 
awards that were granted during 2010; (D) the number of shares matched 
during 2010; (E) the number of shares forfeited by participants or expired 
under the plan rules during 2010; (F) the balance left as outstanding at the 
end of 2010, having added new awards to the shares outstanding at the 
beginning of the year and deducted the shares related to awards matched, 
forfeited and expired. The final column (G) shows the compensation costs 
charged to the accounts during 2010 for each plan, calculated as fair value 
in SEK.

For a description of compensation cost, including accounting treatment, 

see Note C1, “Significant Accounting Policies”, section Share-based 
compensation to employees and the Board of Directors.

C29XEN_v99.indd   95

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NoTES To THE CoNSoLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  95

note c29

employee numbers, wages and salaries

empLoyee moVements 

empLoyee numBeRs

aVeRaGe numBeR of empLoyees

men women

2010
total

men women

2009
total

11,005
5,326

2,770 13,775
6,654
1,328

9,366
5,876

2,358
1,254

11,724
7,130

15,227

5,821 21,048 16,271

6,082 22,353

Head count at year-end
Employees who have left the Company
Employees who have joined the Company
Temporary employees

2010

2009

90,261
10,066
17,834
978

82,493
9,147
12,900
693

empLoyee waGes anD saLaRies

waGes anD saLaRies anD sociaL secuRity expenses 

9,338
9,034
3,544
1,331
5,783

1,817
2,670 11,704
4,012
1,690
6,618

11,155 10,003
7,956
3,541
1,716
3,818

468
359
835

2,021 12,024
2,403 10,359
3,969
2,128
4,188

428
412
370

Wages and salaries
Social security expenses
Of which pension costs

2010

2009

43,390
13,793
3,091

41,247
13,630
3,588

6,867

2,948

9,815

4,897

2,113

7,010

Amounts related to the President and CEo and the Group Management 
Team are included.

North America
Latin America 
Northern Europe & 
Central Asia 1) 2)
Western & Central 
Europe 2)
Mediterranean 2)
Middle East 
Sub Saharan Africa 
India 
China & North East 
Asia 
South East Asia & 
oceania 
total

1)  Of which  
Sweden

2)  Of which EU

3,976

5,475
71,431 20,394 91,825 67,599 18,761 86,360

5,354

1,378

1,320

4,155

13,066
32,045

4,355 17,421 13,930
4,591 18,521
9,843 41,888 32,970 10,055 43,025

numBeR of empLoyees at yeaR enD

2010

2009

employees by region
North America
Latin America 
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2)
Western & Central Europe 2)
Mediterranean 2)
Middle East 
Sub Saharan Africa 
India 
China & North East Asia 
South East Asia & oceania 
total

1)  Of which Sweden
2)  Of which EU

13,498
7,181
21,425
10,818
10,795
3,982
1,626
6,710
9,807
4,419
90,261
17,848
40,743

empLoyees By GenDeR anD aGe at yeaR enD 2010  

Under 25 years old
26–35 years old
36–45 years old
46–55 years old
over 55 years old
percent of total

female

male

1,385
6,976
7,317
3,264
908
22%

3,911
24,369
26,135
12,668
3,328
78%

11,222
6,055
21,993
11,622
9,509
3,744
2,104
4,184
6,894
5,166
82,493
18,217
41,396

percent 
of total

6%
35%
37%
18%
5%
100%

numBeR of empLoyees ReLateD to cost of saLes  
anD opeRatinG expenses

Cost of sales
operating expenses
total

2010

2009

2008

45,628
44,633
90,261

41,521
40,972
82,493

35,717
43,023
78,740

waGes anD saLaRies peR ReGion

North America 3)
Latin America 
Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2)
Western & Central Europe 2)
Mediterranean 2)
Middle East 
Sub Saharan Africa 
India 
China & North East Asia 
South East Asia & oceania 
total

1)  Of which Sweden
2)  Of which EU
3)  Of which the United States

2010

10,236
2,269
11,464
6,153
5,053
1,680
849
881
2,923
1,882
43,390
10,086
21,858
8,098

2009

6,358
2,181
11,918
7,063
5,619
1,865
974
674
2,393
2,202
41,247
10,324
23,734
4,928

Remuneration in foreign currency has been translated to SEK at average exchange rates 
for the year. 

RemuneRation to BoaRD memBeRs anD pResiDents 
in suBsiDiaRies

Salary and other remuneration

Of which annual variable remuneration 

Pension costs

2010

289
43
29

BoaRD memBeRs, pResiDents anD GRoup manaGement  
By GenDeR at yeaR enD

2010

females

males females

2009

315
42
34

2009
males

parent company
Board members and President 
Group Management 
subsidiaries
Board members and Presidents

33%
14%

67%
86%

38%
8%

62%
92%

10%

90%

10%

90%

96  |  NoTES To THE CoNSoLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C29XEN_v99.indd   96

2011-02-25   16.02

 
NOTE C30

Major transactions are as follows: 

>> Sales. Ericsson provides ST-Ericsson with services in the areas of R&D, 

HR, IT and facilities.

>> Purchases. Major part of Ericsson’s purchases from ST-Ericsson 

consists of chipsets and R&D services.

>> Dividends. Both owners of ST-Ericsson receive dividends, when so 

decided by the board of directors. During 2010 Ericsson received no 
dividends from ST-Ericsson.

ST-ERICSSON

Related party transactions
Sales
Purchases
Ericsson’s share of dividends

Related party balances
Receivables
Liabilities

2010

2009

403
629
–

53
48

740
624
–

244
365

ST-Ericsson has been granted a revolving credit facility of USD 200 
million, which is equally shared by Ericsson and STMicroelectronics. As of 
December 31, 2010, the amount drawn on the facility was SEK 1,030 million. 
Each parent lent SEK 515 million.

Ericsson does not have any contingent liabilities, assets pledged as 
collateral or guarantees towards ST-Ericsson. 

Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d.

Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d. is a joint stock company for design, sales and 
service of telecommunication systems and equipment, and an associated 
member of the Ericsson Group. Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d. is located in 
Zagreb, Croatia. Ericsson holds 49.07 percent of the shares.

Major transactions are as follows:

>> Sales. Ericsson sells telecommunication equipment to Ericsson Nikola 

>>

Tesla d.d.
License revenues. Ericsson receives license revenues for Ericsson 
Nikola Tesla d.d.’s usage of trademarks.

>> Purchases. Ericsson purchases development resources from Ericsson 

Nikola Tesla d.d.

>> Dividends. Ericsson received dividends from Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d. 

during 2010.

ERICSSON NIKOLA TESLA D.D.

Related party transactions
Sales
License revenues
Purchases
Ericsson’s share of dividends

Related party balances
Receivables
Liabilities

2010

2009

2008

563
2
566
104

120
75

654
7
569
66

93
70

1,020
9
547
227

85
58

Ericsson does not have any contingent liabilities, assets pledged as 
collateral or guarantees toward Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d.

C30>Related>PaRty>
tRansaCtions

During 2010, various related party transactions were executed pursuant 
to contracts based on terms customary in the industry and negotiated 
on an arm’s length basis. For information regarding equity and Ericsson’s 
share of assets, liabilities and income in joint ventures and associated 
companies, see Note C12, “Financial Assets, Non-Current”. For information 
regarding transactions with senior management, see Note 29, “Information 
Regarding Members of the Board of Directors, the Group Management and 
Employees”.

Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB (SEMC)

In October 2001, SEMC was established as a joint venture between Sony 
Corporation and Ericsson, and a substantial portion of Ericsson’s handset 
operations was sold to SEMC. The joint venture is headquartered in London, 
United Kingdom. As part of the formation of the joint venture, contracts were 
entered into between Ericsson and SEMC.
Major transactions are as follows:
License revenues. Both owners of SEMC, Sony Corporation and 
Ericsson, receive license revenues for SEMC’s usage of trademarks and 
intellectual property rights. The decline in license revenues during 2009 
is a consequence of the formation of ST-Ericsson.

>>

>> Purchases. Ericsson purchases mobile phones from SEMC to support 
contracts with a number of customers for mobile systems which also 
include limited quantities of phones. 

>> Dividends. Both owners of SEMC receive dividends, when so decided 
by the board of directors. During 2010 Ericsson received no dividends 
from SEMC.

SONY ERICSSON MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS

Related party transactions
License revenues
Purchases
Ericsson’s share of dividends

Related party balances
Receivables
Liabilities

2010

2009

2008

1,255
61
–

258
8

1,746
164
–

369
14

5,856
261
3,627

1,002
176

SEMC has been granted term loans and credit facilities of SEK 3,157 
million, of which SEK 2,106 million were utilized as of December 31, 2010. 
The parent companies of Ericsson and Sony Corporation have issued 
guarantees for these term loans and credit facilities on a 50/50 basis, 
without joint responsibility. Thus Ericsson’s guaranteed amount is maximum 
SEK 1,579 million excluding interest. As of December 31, 2010, Ericsson’s 
part of the outstanding amount is SEK 1,037 million excluding accrued 
interest of SEK 16 million. Maturity dates for the issued guarantees are 
2011 (SEK 1,128 million) and 2012 (SEK 451 million). See also Note C24, 
“Contingent Liabilities”.

ST-Ericsson 

ST-Ericsson, the joint venture between Ericsson and STMicroelectronics, 
was formed on February 2, 2009, by merging Ericsson Mobile Platforms 
with ST-NXP Wireless. The joint venture is equally owned by Ericsson 
and STMicroelectronics. ST-Ericsson is an industry leader in design, 
development and the creation of cutting-edge mobile platforms and wireless 
semiconductors. ST-Ericsson is a key supplier to four of the industry’s top 
five handset manufacturers, who together represent about 80 percent of 
global handset shipments, as well as to other leading companies in the 
industry. The joint venture is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and 
employs approximately 8,000 persons.

C30XEN_v22.indd   97

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  |  97

NOTE C31–C32

C31 Fees to auditors 

FEES TO AUDITORS

2010
Audit fees
Audit related fees
Tax services fees
Other fees
Total

2009
Audit fees 1)
Audit related fees 1)
Tax services fees
Other fees 1)
Total

2008
Audit fees 1)
Audit related fees 1)
Tax services fees
Other fees 1)
Total

1)  Allocation of fees to auditors is based on the requirements in the Swedish Annual 

Accounts Act. 2008 and 2009 figures are restated for comparability.

During the period 2008–2010, in addition to audit services, PwC provided 
certain audit related services, tax and other services to the Company. 
The audit related services include quarterly reviews, SAS 70 reviews and 
services in connection with issuing of certificates and opinions. The tax 
services include general expatriate services and corporate tax compliance 
work. Other services include consultation on financial accounting, services 
related to acquisitions, operational effectiveness and assessments of 
internal control.

Audit fees to other auditors largely consist of local statutory audits for 

minor companies.

C32 ContraCtual 
obligations

PwC

Others

Total

CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS 2010 

79
17
16
7
119

88
18
16
3
125

88
15
14
2
119

5
1
2
2
10

3
–
2
2
7

4
–
2
5
11

84
18
18
9
129

91
18
18
5
132

92
15
16
7
130

SEK billion

Long-term debt 1) 2)
Finance lease  
obligations 3)
Operating leases 3)
Other non-current 
liabilities
Purchase  
obligations 4)
Trade Payables
Commitments  
for customer  
financing 5)
Total

         Payment due by period
<1  
year

3–5 
years

1–3  
years

>5  
years

8.1

1.0
2.2

1.8

–
–

10.7

0.3
4.3

0.4

–
–

7.9

0.4
1.9

0.2

–
–

–
15.7

–
10.4

–
13.1

Total 
2010

28.3

1.8
11.5

2.4

7.7
25.0

3.3
80.0

1.6

0.1
3.1

0.0

7.7
25.0

3.3
40.8

1)  Including interest payments.

2)  See also Note C20, “Financial Risk Management and Financial Instruments”. 

3)  See also Note C27, “Leasing”.

4)  The amounts of purchase obligations are gross, before deduction of any related 

provisions.

5)  See also Note C14, “Trade Receivables and Customer Financing”.

For information about financial guarantees, see Note C24, “Contingent 
Liabilities”

Except for those transactions described in this report, Ericsson has not 
been a party to any material contracts over the past three years other than 
those entered into during the ordinary course of business.

98  |  NOTES TO ThE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

C31XC33XEN_v28.indd   98

2011-02-25   16.04

 
Parent ComPany InCome Statement anD 
Statement of other ComPrehenSIve InCome

Parent Company Income 
Statement And statement  
of comprehensive income

Parent ComPany InCome Statement

years ended December 31, SeK million 

Net sales 1)
Cost of sales
Gross income

Selling expenses 
Administrative expenses
operating expenses

Other operating income and expenses 
operating income

Financial income 
Financial expenses 
Income after financial items

Transfers to (–)/from untaxed reserves

Changes in depreciation in excess of plan 
Changes in other untaxed reserves 

Taxes 
net income

notes

P2

P3

P4
P4

P15
P15

P5

1)  Effective January 1, 2009, the right to all license revenues from third parties was transferred to Ericsson AB, a wholly owned subsidiary.

Parent ComPany Statement of ComPrehenSIve InCome

years ended December 31, SeK million 

notes

net income
other comprehensive income
Cash Flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the period
Amounts transferred to initial carrying amount of hedged items

Tax on items relating to components of OCI
total other comprehensive income
total comprehensive income

2010

2009 1)

2008

33
–29
4

–1,370
–1,586
–2,956

3,118
166

7,474
–829
6,811

–100
–
–100

–117
6,594

2010

6,594

136
–136
–
–
6,594

300
–21
279

–1,399
–1,738
–3,137

2,977
119

9,358
–1,396
8,081

417
485
902

–804
8,179

5,086
–669
4,417

–1,113
–1,271
–2,384

3,065
5,098

24,131
–9,791
19,438

–251
–227
–478

–1,733
17,227

2009

8,179

2008

17,227

612
–1,385
204
–569
7,610

773
–
–204
569
17,796

PCXISXEN_v20.indd   99

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  |  99

PArENT ComPANy BAlANCE ShEET

Parent Company  
Balance Sheet

December 31, SEK million 

Notes

2010

2009

ASSETS
Fixed assets
Intangible assets 
Tangible assets 
Financial assets
Investments

Subsidiaries 
Joint ventures and associated companies 
Other investments 

Receivables from subsidiaries 
Customer finance, non-current 
Deferred tax assets 
Other financial assets, non-current 

Current assets
Inventories 
Receivables

Trade receivables
Customer finance, current
Receivables from subsidiaries 
Current income taxes
Other current receivables 

Short-term investments
Cash and cash equivalents 

ToTAl ASSETS

P6
P7, P26

1,046
527

2,219
527

P8, P9
P8, P9
P8
P8, P12
P8, P11
P5
P8

P10

P11
P11
P12

P13
P19
P19

77,566
13,066
84
6,666
1,027
302
302
100,586

75,540
13,066
10
10,316
846
387
1,179
104,090

57

61

36
1,479
15,385
355
4,299
56,148
15,439
93,198

42
590
20,035
360
2,677
53,926
8,477
86,168

193,784

190,258

100  |  PaRenT COmPany FInanCIal STaTemenTS  ericsson annual Report 2010   

PCXBSXEN_v17.indd   100

2011-02-25   16.07

 
 
Parent ComPany BalanCe Sheet (Continued)

PArENT ComPANy BAlANCE ShEET

December 31, SEK million 

Notes

2010

2009

SToCKholDErS’ EQUITy, ProVISIoNS AND lIABIlITIES
Stockholders’ equity 
Capital stock
Revaluation reserve
Statutory reserve

Restricted equity

Retained earnings
net income

non-restricted equity

Untaxed reserves

Provisions
Pensions 
Other provisions 

Non-current liabilities 
notes and bond loans 
liabilities to credit institutions
liabilities to subsidiaries 
Other non-current liabilities

Current liabilities
Current maturities of long-term borrowings
Trade payables 
liabilities to subsidiaries 
Other current liabilities 

P14

16,367
20
31,472
47,859

36,380
6,594
42,974
90,833

16,367
20
31,472
47,859

33,774
8,179
41,953
89,812

P15

1,015

915

P16
P17

P18
P18
P12

P18
P21
P12
P20

389
571
960

20,646
4,000
26,862
1,334
52,842

–
399
45,956
1,779
48,134

372
697
1,069

23,801
4,000
28,966
244
57,011

–
335
39,135
1,981
41,451

ToTAl SToCKholDErS’ EQUITy, ProVISIoNS AND lIABIlITIES

193,784

190,258

assets pledged as collateral 
Contingent liabilities 

P22
P23

658
13,783

550
13,072

PCXBSXEN_v17.indd   101

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ericsson annual Report 2010  PaRenT COmPany FInanCIal STaTemenTS  |  101

 
 
 
ParENt COmPaNY StatEmENt  
OF CaSh FlOwS

Parent Company  
Statement of Cash Flows

Years ended December 31, SEK million 

Operating activities
Net income
Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash

Changes in operating net assets
Inventories
Customer finance, current and non-current
Trade receivables
Trade payables 
Provisions and pensions
Other operating assets and liabilities, net

Notes

2010

2009

2008

P24

6,594
1,288
7,882

4
–1,070
283
331
–109
1,954
1,393

8,179
–3,831
4,348

17,227
5,146
22,373

20
193
261
–132
–4
–685
-347

4
–478
–464
16
–49
2,252
1,281

Cash flow from operating activities

9,275

4,001

23,654

Investing activities
Investments in tangible assets
Sales of tangible assets
Investments in shares and other investments
Divestments of shares and other investments
Lending, net
Other investing activities 
Short-term investments
Cash flow from investing activities

–160
9
–2,178
42
8,973
–287
–2,940
3,459

–124
109
–11,015
1,134
6,663
–9
–14,436
–17,678

–388
8
–305
2,122
1,541
31
–6,760
–3,751

Cash flow before financing activities

12,734

–13,677

19,903

Financing activities
Changes in current liabilities to subsidiaries
Proceeds from new borrowings
Repayment of borrowings
Sale of own shares and options exercised
Dividends paid
Settled contributions from/to (–) subsidiaries
Other financing activities
Cash flow from financing activities

Effect from remeasurement in cash

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period

3,503
–
–1,055
–
 –6,391
–209
–310
-4,462

4,755
11,532
–8,910
68
–5,897
–1,363
–
185

–470
4,000
–3,119
89
–7,954
–7,582
–7
–15,043

–1,310

–79

629

6,962

–13,571

5,489

8,477

22,048

16,559

Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 

P19

15,439

8,477

22,048

From 2008, the effect from remeasurement in cash and other adjustments to reconcile net income to cash have been included. From 2009, Short-term investments with remaining maturity 
greater than three months have been moved to Investing activities  from cash and short-term investments, and 2008 have been restated accordingly.

102  |  PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAL STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

PCXCFXEN_v22.indd   102

2011-02-25   16.08

PaReNT COmPaNy STaTemeNT OF 
ChaNgeS iN STOCkhOlDeRS’ equiTy

Parent Company  
Statement of Changes  
in Stockholders’ Equity

Capital 
stock

Revaluation 
reserve

Statutory 
reserve

Total 
restricted 
equity

Disposition 
reserve

Fair value 
reserves

Other 
retained 
earnings

Non-
restricted 
equity

January 1, 2010
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Stock Purchase Plans
Repurchase of own shares
Contribution from/to (–) subsidiary 
companies
Tax on contributions
Dividends paid
December 31, 2010

January 1, 2009
Total comprehensive income
Transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Stock Purchase and Stock Option Plans
Repurchase of own shares
Contribution from/to (–) subsidiary 
companies
Tax on contributions
Dividends paid
December 31, 2009

16,367
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
16,367

16,232
–
–
135
–
–
–

–
–
–
16,367

20
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
20

20
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
20

31,472
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
31,472

31,472
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
31,472

47,859
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
47,859

47,724
–
–
135
–
–
–

–
–
–
47,859

100
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
100

100
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
100

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

569
–569
–
–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

41,853
6,594
–
–
52
8
–

1,029
–271
–6,391
42,874

41,285
8,179
–
–
75
139
–135

–2,403
610
–5,897
41,853

41,953
6,594
–
–
52
8
–

1,029
–271
–6,391
42,974

41,954
7,610
–
–
75
139
–135

–2,403
610
–5,897
41,953

Total

89,812
6,594
–
–
52
8
–

1,029
–271
–6,391
90,833

89,678
7,610
–
135
75
139
–135

–2,403
610
–5,897
89,812

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  PAREnT COmPAny FinAnCiAl STATEmEnTS  |  103

contents

notes to the Parent Company 
Financial statements

Contents

P1	

Significant	accounting	PolicieS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 105

P2	

Segment	information...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 105

P3	 other	oPerating	income	and	exPenSeS...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 105

P4	

financial	income	and	exPenSeS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 106

P5	

taxeS.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 106

P6	

intangible	aSSetS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 106

P7	

tangible	aSSetS....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 107

P8	

financial	aSSetS.................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 108

P9	

inveStmentS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 109

P10	

inventorieS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 110

P11	 trade	receivableS	and	cuStomer	finance.............................................................................................................................................................................................. 110

P12	 receivableS	and	liabilitieS	–	SubSidiary	comPanieS..................................................................................................................................................................... 111

P13	 other	current	receivableS...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 112

P14	 StockholderS’	equity..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 112

P15	 untaxed	reServeS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 113

P16	 PenSionS........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 113

P17	 other	ProviSionS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 114

P18	

intereSt-bearing	liabilitieS...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 114

P19	 financial	riSk	management	and	financial	inStrumentS......................................................................................................................................................... 115

P20	 other	current	liabilitieS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 116

P21	 trade	PayableS......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 116

P22	 aSSetS	Pledged	aS	collateral............................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 116

P23	 contingent	liabilitieS...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 116

P24	 Statement	of	caSh	flowS............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 117

P25	 leaSing............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 117

P26	 tax	aSSeSSment	valueS	in	Sweden..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 117

P27	

information	regarding	emPloyeeS.................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 117

P28	 related	Party	tranSactionS................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 118

P29	 feeS	to	auditorS..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 118

104		|		noteS	to	the	Parent	comPany	financial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

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P1 sIgnIFICant aCCountIng 
PolICIes 

the	financial	statements	of	the	Parent	company,	telefonaktiebolaget	lm	
ericsson,	have	been	prepared	in	accordance	with	rfr	2	“reporting	in	
separate	financial	statements”.	rfr	2	requires	the	Parent	company	to	use	
the	same	accounting	principles	as	for	the	group,	i.e.	ifrS	to	the	extent	
allowed	by	rfr	2.	

the	main	deviations	between	accounting	policies	adopted	for	the	group	

and	accounting	policies	for	the	Parent	company	are:

subsidiaries,.associated.companies.and.joint.
ventures.

the	investments	are	accounted	for	according	to	the	acquisition	cost	method.	
investments	are	carried	at	cost	and	only	dividends	are	accounted	for	in	the	
income	statement.	an	impairment	test	is	performed	annually	and	write-
downs	are	made	when	permanent	decline	in	value	is	established.	

contributions	to/from	subsidiaries	and	shareholders’	contributions	
are	accounted	for	according	to	ufr	2	issued	by	the	Swedish	financial	
reporting	board.	contributions	to/from	Swedish	subsidiaries	are		
reported	directly	in	equity,	net	of	taxes,	as	these	transactions	are	aimed		
at	reducing	Swedish	taxes.	Shareholders’	contributions	increase	the		
Parent	company’s	investments.

classification.and.measurement.of.financial.
instruments

iaS	39	financial	instruments:	recognition	and	measurement	is	adopted,	
except	regarding	financial	guarantees	where	the	exception	allowed	in	rfr	2	
is	chosen.	financial	guarantees	are	included	in	contingent	liabilities.

leasing

the	Parent	company	has	one	rental	agreement	which	is	accounted	for	as	a	
finance	lease	in	the	consolidated	statements	and	as	an	operating	lease	in	
the	Parent	company	financial	statements.

Deferred.taxes

the	accounting	of	untaxed	reserves	in	the	balance	sheet	results	in	different	
accounting	of	deferred	taxes	as	compared	to	the	principles	applied	in	the	
consolidated	statements.	Swedish	gaaP	and	tax	regulations	require	a	
company	to	report	certain	differences	between	the	tax	basis	and	book	value	
as	an	untaxed	reserve	in	the	balance	sheet	of	the	stand-alone	financial	
statements.	changes	to	these	reserves	are	reported	as	an	addition	to,	or	
withdrawal	from,	untaxed	reserves	in	the	income	statement.

Pensions

Pensions	are	accounted	for	in	accordance	with	the	recommendation		
far	SrS	redr	4	“accounting	for	pension	liability	and	pension	cost”		
from	the	institute	for	the	accountancy	Profession	in	Sweden.	according		
to	rfr	2,	iaS	19	shall	be	adopted	regarding	supplementary	disclosures	
when	applicable.

note.P1–P3

segment.information

Segment	information	is	reported	according	to	requirements	in	the	Swedish	
annual	accounts	act	regarding	net	sales	for	business	segments	and	
geographical	areas.

Borrowing.costs

all	borrowing	costs	in	relation	to	qualifying	assets	are	expensed	as	incurred.

Business.combinations

transaction	costs	attributable	to	the	acquisition	are	included	in	the	cost	
of	acquisition	in	the	parent	company	statements		compared	to	group	
Statements	where	these	costs	are	expenses	as	incurred.	

critical.accounting.estimates.and.judgments
See	notes	to	the	consolidated	financial	Statements	–	note	c2,	“critical	
accounting	estimates	and	Judgments”.	major	critical	accounting	estimates	
and	judgments	applicable	to	the	Parent	company	include	“trade	and	
customer	finance	receivables”	and	“acquired	intellectual	property	rights	and	
other	intangible	assets,	excluding	goodwill”.

P2 segment InFormatIon

net.sales

north	america

Of which the United States

latin	america	
northern	europe	&	central	asia	1)	2)
western	&	central	europe	2)
mediterranean	2)
middle	east
Sub-Saharan	africa
india
china	&	north	east	asia

Of which China

South	east	asia	&	oceania
other
total
1) Of which Sweden
2) Of which EU

2010

2009

2008

–
–
33
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
–
33
–
–

99
–7
47
–56
12
31
–
–
–
167
38
–
–
300
–56
–13

2,192
–
37
1,506
97
–
–
–
–
1,254
50
–
–
5,086
1,506
1,603

Parent	company	net	sales	in	2010	relate	to	business	segment	networks.		
(Parent	company	net	sales	in	2009	and	2008	in	Sweden	were	mainly	related	
to	business	segment	multimedia	and	the	remaining	part	of	net	sales	were	
related	to	business	segment	networks).

P3 other oPeratIng InCome  
and exPenses

otHeR.oPeRatInG.IncoMe.anD.eXPenses

license	revenues	and	other		
operating	revenues

Subsidiary	companies
other

net	gains/losses	(–)	on	sales	of		
tangible	assets
total

2010

2009

2008

2,305
815

–2
3,118

2,433
532

12
2,977

2,407
659

–1
3,065

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ericsson	annual	report	2010		noteS	to	the	Parent	comPany	financial	StatementS		|		105

note.P4–P6

note.P4–P6

P4 FInanCIal InCome  
and exPenses

a	reconciliation	between	actual	tax	expense	for	the	year	and	the	theoretical	
tax	expense	that	would	arise	when	applying	the	statutory	tax	rate	in	
Sweden,	26.3	percent	(starting	from	January	1,	2009),	on	income	before	
taxes	shown	in	the	the	table	below.

2010

2009

2008

ReconcIlIatIon.oF.actUal.IncoMe.taX.Rate.to.tHe.actUal.
IncoMe.taX.Rate

6,369
8

5,732
1,087

14,465
676

104
–

66
1

3,854
–

26

–

807

221
746
7,474

386
2,086
9,358

1,233
3,096
24,131

tax	rate	in	Sweden	(26.3%)
current	income	taxes	related		
to	prior	years
tax	effect	of	non-deductible		
expenses
tax	effect	of	non-taxable		
income
tax	effect	related	to	write-downs	of		
investments	in	subsidiary	companies
tax	effect	of	change	in	deferred		
tax	rate			
actual.tax.cost.(–)

2010

2009

2008

–1,765

–2,363

–5,309

–15

–91

–47

–77

–21

–83

1,776

1,828

5,630

–22

–145

–1,968

–
–117

–
–804

18
–1,733

Deferred.tax.balances

tax	effects	of	temporary	differences	have	resulted	in	deferred	tax	assets		
as	follows:	

–

–27

–

DeFeRReD.taX.assets

–82

–551

–7,027

deferred	tax	assets

2010

302

2009

387

–

–1

–

deferred	tax	assets	refer	mainly	to	costs	related	to	customer	finance	and	
provisions	for	restructuring	costs.

FInancIal.IncoMe.anD.eXPenses

Financial.Income
result	from	participations		
in	subsidiary	companies

dividends
net	gains	on	sales

result	from	participations	in	joint		
ventures	and	associated	companies

dividends
net	gains	on	sales

result	from	other	securities	and		
receivables	accounted	for	as	fixed	
assets

net	gains	on	sales

other	interest	income	and		
similar	profit/loss	items
Subsidiary	companies
other	

total
Financial.expenses.
losses	on	sales	of	participations		
in	subsidiary	companies
write-down	of	investments		
in	subsidiary	companies
write-down	of	participations	
in	other	companies
interest	expenses	and		
similar	profit/loss	items
Subsidiary	companies
other

other	financial	expenses
total
Financial.net

–95
–612
–40
–829
6,645

–150
–630
–37
–1,396
7,962

–1,068
–1,655
–41
–9,791
14,340

interest	expenses	on	pension	liabilities	are	included	in	the	interest	expenses	shown	
above.	

P5 taxes 
Income.taxes.recognized.in.the.income.statement

the	following	items	are	included	in	taxes:	

taXes

current	income	tax	on		
contributions,	net
other	current	income	taxes	for	the	year	
current	income	taxes	related	to	prior	
years
deferred	tax	income/expense	(–)		
related	to	temporary	differences
taxes

2010

2009

2008

271
–288

–610
–250

–1,155
–250

–15

–47

–21

–85
–117

103
–804

–307
–1,733

P6 IntangIble assets 

Patents,.lIcenses,.tRaDeMaRks.anD.sIMIlaR.RIGHts

accumulated.acquisition.costs
opening	balance
Sales/disposals
closing.balance
accumulated.amortization
opening	balance
amortization
Sales/disposals
closing.balance
accumulated.impairment.losses
opening	balance
impairment	losses
closing.balance
net.carrying.value

2010

2009

3,888
–
3,888

–1,669
–228
–
–1,897

–
–945
–945
1,046

3,888
–
3,888

–1,284
–385
–
–1,669

–
–
–
2,219

the	balances	relate	mainly	to	marconi	and	redback	trademarks	acquired	
during	2006	and	2007.	the	useful	life	and	amortization	period	for	these	
trademarks	has	been	set	to	10	years.	the	write-down	(impairment	charge)	
of	Sek	945	million	is	a	consequence	of	the	restructuring	program	decision	
to	phase	out	certain	products.

106		|		noteS	to	the	Parent	comPany	financial	StatementS		ericsson	annual	report	2010			

P1XP7XEN_v42.indd   106

2011-02-25   16.10

P7 tangIble assets

tanGIBle.assets

2010
accumulated.acquisition.costs
opening	balance
additions
Sales/disposals
reclassifications
closing.balance
accumulated.depreciation
opening	balance
depreciation
Sales/disposals
closing.balance
net.carrying.value
2009
accumulated.acquisition.costs
opening	balance
additions
Sales/disposals
reclassifications
closing.balance
accumulated.depreciation
opening	balance
depreciation
Sales/disposals
closing.balance
net.carrying.value

note.P7
note.P7

total

1,130
161
–50
–
1,241

–603
–149
38
–714
527

1,266
122
–258
–
1,130

–571
–193
161
–603
527

land.and
buildings

other
.equipment.
and.installations

construction.
in.process.and
advance.payments

13
–
–
–
13

–
–
–
–
13

13
–
–
–
13

–
–
–
–
13

1,050
26
–50
76
1,102

–603
–149
38
–714
388

1,113
22
–258
173
1,050

–571
–193
161
–603
447

67
135
–
–76
126

–
–
–
–
126

140
100
–
–173
67

–
–
–
–
67

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ericsson	annual	report	2010		noteS	to	the	Parent	comPany	financial	StatementS		|		107

note p8

P8 Financial assets 

Investments In subsIdIary companIes, joInt ventures and assocIated companIes

Opening balance
Acquisitions and stock issues
Shareholders’ contribution
Write-downs
Disposals
Reclassification
closing balance

other fInancIal assets

accumulated acquisition costs
Opening balance
Additions
Disposals/repayments/deductions
Reclassifications
Translation difference 
closing balance

accumulated write-downs/allowances
Opening balance
Write-downs/allowances
Disposals/repayments/deductions
Translation difference 
closing balance
net carrying value

subsidiary companies
2009

2010

joint ventures
2009

2010

75,540
2,083
25
–82
–
–
77,566

74,571
1,480
508
–551
–461
–7
75,540

12,736
–
–
–
–
–
12,736

4,136
8,384
209
–
–
7
12,736

associated  
companies
2009

330
–
–
–
–
–
330

2010

330
–
–
–
–
–
330

other
investments in shares 
and participations
2009
2010

receivables
from subsidiaries,
non-current
2009

2010

customer finance,

non-current 1)

2010

2009

other financial
assets, non-current
2009
2010

19
81
–7
–
–
93

–9
–
–
–
–9
84

19
–
–
–
–
19

–8
–1
–
–
–9
10

10,316
651
–55
–4,212
–34
6,666

–
–
–
–
–
6,666

15,781
–
–1
–5,464
–
10,316

–
–
–
–
–
10, 316

1,093
406
–136
–241
–49
1,073

–247
–
197
4
–46
1,027

974
363
–84
–111
–49
1 093

–64
–208
22
3
–247
846

1,179
4
–38
–843
–
302

–
–
–
–
–
302

3,030
178
–2,029
–
–
1,179

–
–
–
–
–
1,179

1)  From time to time, customer finance amounts may include equity instruments or equity-related instruments in our customers due to reconstruction activities of troubled receivables. We 

sometimes receive such instruments as security for our receivable and our policy is to sell them as soon as feasible. 

108  |  NOTeS TO The PAReNT cOmPANy FiNANciAl STATemeNTS  ericsson Annual Report 2010   

P8XP12XEN_v51.indd   108

2011-02-25   16.12

note p9
note p9

P9 investments 

The following listing shows certain shareholdings owned directly and 
indirectly by the Parent company as of December 31, 2010. A complete 
listing of shareholdings, prepared in accordance with the Swedish Annual 

Accounts Act and filed with the Swedish companies Registration Office 
(Bolagsverket), may be obtained upon request to: Telefonaktiebolaget lm 
ericsson, external Reporting, Se-164 83 Stockholm, Sweden. 

shares owned dIrectly by the parent company 

type company

reg. no.

domicile

percentage
of ownership

par value
in local
currency,
million

carrying
value,
seK million

556056-6258
556251-3266
556404-4286
556030-9899
556326-0552

Sweden
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden

subsidiary companies
i
i
i
ii
iii

ericsson AB
ericsson Shared Services AB
Netwise AB
AB Aulis
ericsson credit AB
Other (Sweden)
ericsson Austria Gmbh
ericsson Danmark A/S
Oy lm ericsson Ab
ericsson Participations France SAS
ericsson Gmbh
ericsson hungary ltd.
lm ericsson holdings ltd.
ericsson Telecomunicazioni S.p.A.
ericsson holding international B.V.
ericsson A/S
ericsson Television AS
ericsson corporatia AO
ericsson AG
ericsson holding ltd.
Other (europe, excluding Sweden)
ericsson holding ii inc.
cía ericsson S.A.c.i.
ericsson Telecom S.A. de c.V.
Other (United States, latin America)
Teleric Pty ltd.
ericsson ltd.
ericsson (china) company ltd.
ericsson india Private ltd.
ericsson india Global Services PVT. ltd
lG-ericsson ltd.
ericsson (malaysia) Sdn. Bhd.
ericsson Telecommunications Pte. ltd.
ericsson South Africa PTy. ltd
ericsson Taiwan ltd.
ericsson (Thailand) ltd.
Other countries (the rest of the world)
total

i
i
i
ii
i
i
ii
i
ii
i
ii
i
i
ii

ii
i
i

ii
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i

joint ventures and associated companies
i
ii
iii
i

Sony ericsson mobile communications AB 556615-6658
ST-ericsson SA
ST-ericsson AT SA
ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d.
total

Austria
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
hungary
ireland
italy
The Netherlands
Norway
Norway
Russia
Switzerland
United Kingdom

United States
Argentina
mexico

Australia
china
china
india
india
Korea
malaysia
Singapore
South Africa
Taiwan
Thailand

Sweden
Switzerland
Switzerland
croatia

100
100
100
100
100
–
100
100
100
100
100
100
100

53 1)

100
100
100
100
100
100
–
100

95  2)

100
–
100
100
100
100
100
50
70
100
100
80
49  3)
–

50
50
51
49

50
361
2
14
5
–
4
90
13
26
20
1,301
2
23
222
75
161
5
–
328
–
2,830
41
n/a
–
20
2
65
725
389
100
2
2
10
240
90
–
–

50
436
5
65
–

20,731
2,216
306
6
5
2,083
115
216
196
524
4,227
120
15
3,151
3,200
114
1,788
5
–
4,094
428
29,006
178
1,550
61
100
2
475
147
65
1,943
4
1
108
20
17
349
77,566

4,136
8,325
275
330
13,066

Key to type of company 
I	 Manufacturing,	distribution	and	development	companies
II	 Holding	companies
III	Finance	companies

1)	 Through	subsidiary	holdings,	total	holdings	amount	to	100%	of	Ericsson	Telecomunicazioni	S.p.A.
2)	 Through	subsidiary	holdings,	total	holdings	amount	to	100%	of	Cia	Ericsson	S.A.C.I.	
3)	 Through	subsidiary	holdings,	total	holdings	amount	to	100%	of	Ericsson	(Thailand)	Ltd.

P8XP12XEN_v51.indd   109

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ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTeS TO The PAReNT cOmPANy FiNANciAl STATemeNTS  |  109

 
 
 
 
note p9–p11

note p9–p11

shares owned by subsIdIary companIes 

type company

reg. no.

domicile

percentage 
of ownership

556044-9489

subsidiary companies
ii
i
i
i
ii
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i

ericsson cables holding AB
ericsson France SAS
lhS Telekommunikation Gmbh & co. KG 1)
lm ericsson ltd.
ericsson Nederland B.V.
ericsson Telecommunicatie B.V.
ericsson españa S.A.
ericsson Telekomunikasyon A.S.
ericsson ltd.
ericsson canada inc.
ericsson inc.
ericsson iP infrastructure inc.
ericsson Services inc.
Drutt corporation inc.
Optimi  corporation
Redback Networks inc.
ericsson Telecommunicações S.A.
ericsson Australia Pty. ltd.
ericsson (china) communications co. ltd.
Nanjing ericsson Panda communication co. ltd.
Nippon ericsson K.K.
ericsson communication Solutions Pte ltd.

Sweden
France
Germany
ireland
The Netherlands
The Netherlands
Spain
Turkey
United Kingdom
canada
United States
United States
United States
United States
United States
United States
Brazil
Australia
china
china
Japan
Singapore

100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
100
51
100
100

Key to type of company 
I	 Manufacturing,	distribution	and	development	companies
II	 Holding	companies

P10 inventories 

1)  disclosures pursuant to section 264b of the German commercial code (handelsgesetzbuch – hGb)
  Applying Section 264b hGB, lhS holding Gmbh & co. KG, lhS communication Gmbh & co. KG and lhS 

Telekommunikation Gmbh & co. KG, all located in Frankfurt am main/Germany, are exempted from the obligation to 
prepare, have audited and disclose financial statements and a management report in accordance with the legal 
requirements being applicable for German corporations.

2010

2009

movements In allowances for ImpaIrment 

Opening balance
Additions
Utilization
Reversal of excess amounts
Translation difference
closing balance

trade receivables
2009

2010

customer finance
2009

2010

37
–
–
–10
–3
24

2
38
–
–
–3
37

393
–
–87
–206
–7
93

94
355
–12
–20
–24
393

Finished products and goods for resale
inventories

57
57

61
61

P11 trade receivables  
and customer Finance

credit risk management is governed on a Group level. 

For further information, see Notes to the consolidated Financial 
Statements – Note c14, “Trade Receivables and customer Finance” and 
Note c20, “Financial Risk management and Financial instruments”.

trade receIvables and customer fInance

Trade receivables excluding associated  
companies and joint ventures
Allowances for impairment
Trade receivables, net
Trade receivables related to associated  
companies and joint ventures
trade receivables, total
customer finance 
Allowances for impairment
customer finance, net

2010

2009

57
–24
33

3
36
2,599
–93
2,506

70
–37
33

9
42
1,829
–393
1,436

110  |  NOTeS TO The PAReNT cOmPANy FiNANciAl STATemeNTS  ericsson Annual Report 2010   

P8XP12XEN_v51.indd   110

2011-02-25   16.12

note p11–p12
note p11–p12

aGInG analysIs as per december 31, 2010

Trade receivables excluding associated companies  
and joint ventures
Allowances for impairment of receivables
Trade receivables related to associated  
companies and joint ventures
customer finance
Allowances for impairment of customer finance

aGInG analysIs as per december 31, 2009

Trade receivables excluding associated companies  
and joint ventures
Allowances for impairment of receivables
Trade receivables related to associated  
companies and joint ventures
customer finance
Allowances for impairment of customer finance

of which
neither
impaired
nor past
due

of which 
impaired
not past
due

of which  
past due in the  
following time intervals
90 days
less than
or more
90 days

of which past due  
and impaired in the 
following time intervals
90 days
less than
or more
90 days

16
–

3
2,020
–

–
–

–
516
–54

4
–

–
24
–

13
–

–
–
–

1
–1

–
18
–18

23
–23

–
21
–21

of which
neither
impaired
nor past
due

of which 
impaired
not past
due

of which  
past due in the  
following time intervals
90 days
less than
or more
90 days

of which past due  
and impaired in the 
following time intervals
90 days
less than
or more
90 days

12
–

5
709
–

–
–

–
1,043
–317

18
–

4
1
–

3
–

–
–
–

1
–1

–
20
–20

36
–36

–
56
–56

amount

57
–24

3
2,599
–93

amount

70
–37

9
1,829
–393

outstandInG customer fInance

On-balance sheet customer finance
Financial guarantees for third parties
total customer finance
Accrued interest
less third-party risk coverage
parent company’s risk exposure
On-balance sheet credits, net carrying value

Of which short term

credit commitments for customer finance

2010

2,599
212
2,811
34
–1,353
1,492
2,506
1,479
1,104

2009

1,829
135
1,964
18
–382
1,600
1,436
590
762

During 2010 the Parent company transferred certain customer finance 
assets to third parties, and continues to recognize a part of such assets 
corresponding to the extent of its continuing involvement. The total carrying 
amount of the original assets transferred is SeK 3,808 million, the amount 
of the assets that the Parent company continues to recognize is SeK 190 
million, and the carrying amount of the associated liabilities is SeK 190 
million. maturity date for major part of the issued guarantees occurs in 2019 
the latest.

P12 receivables and 
liabilities – subsidiary 
comPanies 

receIvables and lIabIlItIes – subsIdIary companIes

total
2010

payment due by period
>5
1–5
< 1
years
years
year

total
2009

6,666

4

613

6,049

10,316

882
14,503
15,385

882
14,503
15,385

26,862

–

828
45,128
45,956

828
45,128
45,956

–
–
–

–

–
–
–

–
–

2,358
17,677
20,035

26,862

28,966

–
–
–

560
38,575
39,135

non-current  
receivables 1)
Financial receivables
current receivables
Trade receivables
Financial receivables
total
non-current  
liabilities 1)
Financial liabilities
current liabilities
Trade payables
Financial liabilities
total

1)  including non interest-bearing receivables and liabilities, net, amounting to 
SeK –20,196 million in 2010 (SeK –18,650 million in 2009).  

P8XP12XEN_v51.indd   111

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ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTeS TO The PAReNT cOmPANy FiNANciAl STATemeNTS  |  111

Note p13–p14

P13 other current 
receivableS 

other CurreNt reCeivables

Receivables from associated  
companies and joint ventures
Prepaid expenses
Accrued revenues
Derivatives with a positive value
Other
total

ChaNges iN stoCkholders’ equity 2010

P14 StockholderS’ equity 
Capital stock 2010 

Capital stock at December 31, 2010, consisted of the following: 

2010

2009

Capital stoCk

69
590
246
3,038
356
4,299

88
430
125
1,762
272
2,677

Class A shares 1)
Class B shares 1)
total

Number
of shares

261,755,983
3,011,595,752
3,273,351,735

Capital
stock

1,309
15,058
16,367

1)  Class A shares (quotient value SEK 5.00) and Class B shares (quotient value SEK 5.00).

2010
January 1, 2010
Net income
other comprehensive income
Cash flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the period
Amounts transferred to initial carrying 
amount of hedged items

Tax on items relating to components of OCI
total other comprehensive income
total comprehensive income
transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Stock Purchase Plans
Repurchase of own shares
Contribution from/to (–) subsidiary 
companies
Tax on contributions
Dividends paid

Capital 
stock

16,367
–

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

december 31, 2010

16,367

ChaNges iN stoCkholders’ equity 2009

Capital 
stock

16,232
–

–

–
–
–
–

135
–
–
–

2009
January 1, 2009
Net income
other comprehensive income
Cash flow hedges

Gains/losses arising during the period
Amounts transferred to initial carrying 
amount of hedged items

Tax on items relating to components of OCI
total other comprehensive income
total comprehensive income
transactions with owners
Stock issue
Sale of own shares
Stock Purchase and Stock Option plans
Repurchase of own shares
Contribution from/to (–) subsidiary 
companies
Tax on contributions
Dividends paid
december 31, 2009

revalua-
tion 
reserve

statutory 
reserve

total 
restricted 
equity

disposi-
tion
reserve

Fair
value
reserves

other 
retained 
earnings

Non-
restricted 
equity

total

20
–

31,472
–

47,859
–

100
–

–
–

41,853
6,594

41,953
6,594

89,812
6,594

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

20

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

31,472

47,859

100

136

–136
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–

–

136

136

–
–
–
6,594

–
52
8
–

–136
–
–
6,594

–
52
8
–

–136
–
–
6,594

–
52
8
–

          1,029
–271
–6,391

42,874

1,029
–271
–6,391

42,974

1,029
–271
–6,391

90,833

revalua-
tion 
reserve

statutory 
reserve

total 
restricted 
equity

disposi-
tion
reserve

Fair
value
reserves

other 
retained 
earnings

Non-
restricted 
equity

total

20
–

31,472
–

47,724
–

100
–

569
–

41,285
8,179

41,954
8,179

89,678
8,179

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–

135
–
–
–

–

–
–
–
–

–
–
–
–

612

–

612

612

–1,385
204
–569
–569

–
–
–
–

–
–

–
–
–
8,179

–
75
139
–135

–2,403
610
–5,897
41,853

–1,385
204
–569
7,610

–
75
139
–135

–2,403
610
–5,897
41,953

–1,385
204
–569
7,610

135
75
139
–135

–2,403
610
–5,897
89,812

–
16,367

–
20

–
31,472

–
47,859

–
100

112  |  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

P13XP23XEN_v65.indd   112

2011-02-25   16.17

plaN assets alloCatioN

Equities
Interest-bearing securities
Fixed income
Other
total

Of which Ericsson securities

ChaNge iN the deFiNed beNeFit obligatioN 

Opening balance 

Payment to pension trust
Pension costs, excluding taxes, related to 
defined benefit obligations accounted for  
in the income statement

Pension payments

Return on plan assets for the year

Return on plan assets not accounted for 
Previous excess from plan assets reclassified
Closing balance provision for pensions

Estimated pension payments for 2011 are SEK 49 million.

total peNsioN Cost aNd iNCome reCogNized 
iN the iNCome statemeNt

defined benefit obligations
Costs excluding interest and taxes
Interest cost
Credit insurance premium
total cost defined benefit plans  
excluding taxes
defined contribution plans
Pension insurance premium
total cost defined contribution plans  
excluding taxes
Return on plan assets
total pension cost, net excluding taxes

Note p15–p16
Note p15–p16

2010

2009

249
-
433
32
714
–

224
416
-
–
640
–

2010

2009

372

–31

98

–44

–102

96
–
389

403

–23

63

–42

–87

58
–
372

2010

2009

54
44
–2

96

96

96
–5
187

28
35
2

65

107

107
–29
143

Of the total pension cost SEK 149 million (SEK 137 million in 2009) is 
included in operating expenses and SEK 38 million (SEK 6 million in 2009) in 
the financial net.

P15 untaxed reServeS

uNtaxed reserves

2010

accumulated depreciation  
in excess of plan
Intangible assets
Tangible assets
Total accumulated depre- 
ciation in excess of plan
total untaxed reserves

Jan 1

additions/
withdrawals (–)

dec 31

875
40

915
915

56
44

100
100

931
84

1,015
1,015

Change in depreciation in excess of plan of intangible assets relates mainly 
to marconi and Redback trademarks. Deferred tax liability on untaxed 
reserves, not accounted for in deferred taxes, amounts to SEK 267 million 
(SEK 241 million in 2009).

P16 PenSionS 

The Parent Company has two types of pension plans:
 > Defined contribution plans: post-employment benefit plans where the 
Parent Company pays fixed contributions into separate entities and 
has no legal or constructive obligation to pay further contributions if the 
entities do not hold sufficient assets to pay all employee benefits relating 
to employee service. The expenses for defined contribution plans are 
recognized during the period when the employee provides service.
 > Defined benefit plans: post-employment benefit plans where the Parent 
Company’s undertaking is to provide predetermined benefits that the 
employee will receive on or after retirement. The FPG/PRI plan for the 
Parent Company is partly funded. FPG is a Swedish credit insurance 
company for pension obligations and PRI is a pension registration 
institute. Pension obligations are calculated annually, on the balance 
sheet date, based on actuarial assumptions.

deFiNed beNeFit obligatioN – amouNt reCogNized iN the 
balaNCe sheet

Present value of wholly or partially  
funded pension plans 1)
Fair value of plan assets
Unfunded/net surplus(-) of funded pension plans
Present value of unfunded pension plans
Excess from plan assets not accounted for
Closing balance provision for pensions

2010

2009

618
–714
–96
389
96
389

582
–640
–58
372
58
372

1)  This FPG/PRI obligation is covered by the Swedish law on safeguarding of pension 

commitments.

The defined benefit obligations are calculated based on the actual salary 
levels at year-end and based on a discount rate of 3.7 percent.
Weighted average life expectancy after the age of 65 is 24 years for women 
and 21 years for men.

In 2005, SEK 524 million was transferred into the Swedish pension trust 

and in 2010 an additional transfer of SEK 31 million was made.   

The Parent Company utilizes no assets held by the pension trust. Return 

on plan assets for 2010 is 17.4 percent (16.5 percent).  

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  |  113

Note p17–p18

Note p17–p18

P17 other ProviSionS 

other provisioNs

2010

Opening balance
Additions
Reversal of excess amounts
Utilization/Cash out
Reclassification
Closing balance
2009

Opening balance
Additions
Reversal of excess amounts
Utilization/Cash out
Reclassification
Closing balance

Warranty
commitments

restruc-
turing

Customer
finance

–
–
–
–
–
–

1
–
–
–1
–
–

349
70
–9
–92
–
318

109
297
–7
–50
–
349

95
2
–6
–
–
91

162
–
–16
–51
–
95

other

253
–
–13
–78
–
162

384
295
–303
–123
–
253

total other
provisions 1)

697
72
–28
–170
–
571

656
592
–326
–225
–
697

1)  Of which SEK 203 million (SEK 230 million in 2009) are expected to be utilized within one year.

P18 intereSt-bearing 
liabilitieS

As per December 31, 2010, the Parent Company’s outstanding interest-
bearing liabilities, excluding liabilities to subsidiaries, were SEK 24.6 billion.

iNterest-beariNg liabilities

borrowings, current 
Current maturities of long-term borrowings
total current borrowings
borrowings, non-current
Notes and bond loans
liabilities to credit institutions
total non-current interest- 
bearing liabilities
total interest-bearing liabilities

Notes aNd boNd loaNs

2010

2009

–
–

–
–

20,646
4,000

24,646
24,646

23,801
4,000

27,801
27,801

Nominal
amount

450
1,000
2,000
375
500
600
300
170

Coupon

Currency

book value
(sek million)

maturity date
(yy-mm-dd)

unrealized hedge
gain/loss (incl. in
book value)

2.420%
5.100%
2.200%
1.314%
5.380%
5.000%
3.35281%
2.69281%

SEK
SEK
SEK
EUR
EUR
EUR
USD
USD

450
1,035
2,000
3,383
5,059 1)
5,521 1)
2,041
1,157
20,646

12-12-07 2)
12-06-29
12-06-29 3)
14-06-27 4)
17-06-27
13-06-24
16-06-23 5)
20-12-23 6)

–35

–571
–129

–735

issued-maturing

2004–2012
2007–2012
2007–2012
2007–2014
2007–2017
2009–2013
2009–2016
2010–2020
total

1)  Interest rate swaps are designated as fair value hedges.

2)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-06-03 (semi annual).

3)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-25 (quarterly).

4)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-24 (quarterly).

5)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-21 (quarterly).

6)  Next contractual repricing date 2011-03-18 (quarterly).

All outstanding notes and bond loans are issued under the Euro medium-
Term Note (EmTN) program. Bonds issued at a fixed interest rate are 
swapped to a floating interest rate using interest rate swaps, resulting in a 

weighted average interest rate of 2.65 (2.88) percent at December 31, 2010. 
These bonds are revalued based on changes in benchmark interest rates 
according to the fair value hedge methodology stipulated in IAS 39. 

114  |  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

P13XP23XEN_v65.indd   114

2011-02-25   16.17

 
On December 23, 2010, the USD 625 million bilateral loan with Swedish 

Export Credit Corporation (SEK) was renegotiated to reduce interest 
expense and to prolong the maturity profile. USD 325 million was amortized. 
The remaining USD 300 million will mature in 2016 according to the original 
plan. At the same time a new bilateral bond of USD 170 million was issued 
with maturity 2020. Consequently gross cash was reduced by USD 155 
million. The new bond is not guaranteed by EKN (The Swedish Export Credit 
Guarantee Board).

In 2008 Ericsson signed a seven year loan of SEK 4.0 billion with the 
European Investment Bank. The loan supports Ericsson’s R&D activities 
to develop the next generation of mobile broadband technology at sites in 
Kista, Gothenburg and linköping in Sweden.

P19 Financial riSk 
ManageMent and 
Financial inStruMentS

Financial risk management
Ericsson’s financial risk management is governed on a Group level. For 
further information see Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – 
Note C20, “Financial Risk management and Financial Instruments”.

outstaNdiNg derivatives

asset

2010
liability

asset

2009
liability

Note p18–p19
Note p18–p19

Cash, Cash equivaleNts aNd short-term iNvestmeNts

sek billion

Bank deposits
type of issuer/ 
counterpart
Governments
Banks
Corporations
mortgage institutes
total 

remaining time to maturity
> 5
years

1–5
years

< 1
year

< 3
months

2010

2009

13.9

–

–

–

13.9

6.9

–
1.5
–
–
15.4

9.3
–
–
–
9.3

23.5
4.0
–
15.3
42.8

2.9
–
–
1.2
4.1

35.7
5.5
–
16.5
71.6

36.9
3.1
0.2
15.3
62.4

The instruments are classified as held for trading and are therefore short-
term investments. 

During 2010, cash, cash equivalents and short-term investments 

increased by SEK 9.2 billion to SEK 71.6 billion.

repaymeNt sChedule oF loNg-term borroWiNgs

Nominal amount
sek billion

Current maturities  
of long-term debt

borrowings
(non-current)

2011
2012
2013 
2014 
2015
2016 and later
total

–
–
–
–
–
–
–

–
3.5
5.4
3.4
4.0
7.7
24.0

total

–
3.5
5.4
3.4
4.0
7.7
24.0

Fair value

Currency derivatives
maturity within 3 months
maturity between 3  
and 12 months
maturity 1 to 3 years
maturity 3 to 5 years
maturity more than 5 years
total currency derivatives
Of which designated in 
cash flow hedge relations

interest rate derivatives
maturity within 3 months
maturity between 3  
and 12 months
maturity 1 to 3 years
maturity 3 to 5 years
maturity more than 5 years
total interest rate 
derivatives

Of which designated in 
fair value hedge relations

600

1,031

606

531

Debt financing is mainly carried out through borrowing in the Swedish and 
international debt capital markets.

945
10
–
–
1,556 1)

1,291
27
–
–
2,350 2)3)

1,039
134
84
3
1,866 4)

–

6

76
544
184
705

–

28

61
118
34
87

–

–

28
49
175
685

817
44
–
–
1,392

–

–

40
151
40
58

1,515

329

3)

937 4)

289

862

–

845

–

FuNdiNg programs 1)

Euro medium-Term Note program  
(USD million)
Euro Commercial Paper program  
(USD million) 
Swedish Commercial Paper program  
(SEK million)
long-Term Committed Credit facility  
(USD million)

amount

utilized

unused

5,000

3,003

1,997

1,500

5,000

2,000

–

–

–

1,500

5,000

2,000

1)  There are no financial covenants related to these programs.

At year-end Ericsson’s credit rating remained at Baa1 (Baa1) by moody’s 
and BBB+ (BBB+) by Standard & Poor’s, both considered to be “Solid 
Investment Grade”.

1)  Of which internal counterparts SEK 33 million.

2) Of which internal counterparts SEK 817 million.

3) Of which SEK 902 million is reported as non-current liabilities for 2010.
4) Of which SEK 843 million is reported as non-current assets for 2009

P13XP23XEN_v65.indd   115

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  |  115

Note p19–p23

Note p19–p23

Financial instruments carried at other  
than fair value 

In the following tables, carrying amounts and fair values of financial 
instruments that are carried in the financial statements at other than fair 
values are presented. Assets valued at fair value through profit and loss 

had a net gain of SEK 0.3 billion. For further information about valuation 
principles, see Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C1, 
“Significant Accounting Policies”.

FiNaNCial iNstrumeNts CarryiNg amouNt

trade
receiv-
ables
p11

short-term
invest-
ments

receiv-
ables and 
liabili ties 
subsidia-
ries p12

borrow-
ings
p18

trade
payables
p21

Financial
assets
p8

other
current
receiv-
ables
p13

other
current
liabilities
p20

other 
non-
current 
liabilities

–
2.5
–

–
2.5

57.6
–
–

–
57.6

–0.8
22.0
–

–72.0
–50.8

–
–
–

–
–
–

–24.6
–24.6

–0.4
–0.4

–
–
–

–
–

3.0
0.1
–

–
3.1

–1.0
–
–

–
–1.0

–0.9
–
–

–
–0.9

sek billion

Assets at fair value  
through profit or loss
loans and receivables
Available for sale assets
Financial liabilities at  
amortized cost
total

FiNaNCial iNstrumeNts Carried at other thaN Fair value

P21 trade PayableS

sek billion

Current maturities of  
long-term borrowings
Borrowings non-current
total

Carrying amount
2009
2010

Fair value
2009

2010

trade payables

–
24.6
24.6

–
27.8
27.8

–
24.5
24.5

–
26.0
26.0

Trade payables excluding associated  
companies and joint ventures
total

2010

2009

58.0
24.6
–

–97.0
–14.5

56.7
31.8
–

–95.7
–9.7

2010

2009

399
399

335
335

Financial instruments excluded from the tables, such as trade receivables 
and payables, are carried at amortized cost which is deemed to be equal 
to fair value. When a market price is not readily available and there is 
insignificant interest rate exposure affecting the value, the carrying value is 
considered to represent a reasonable estimate of a fair value.

P20 other current 
liabilitieS 

other CurreNt liabilities

Accrued interest
Accrued expenses, of which

Employee related
Other

Deferred revenues
Derivatives with a negative value
Other current liabilities
total

2010

320
362
294
68
12
960
125
1,779

2009

341
327
283
44
23
1,143
147
1,981

All trade payables fall due within 90 days.

P22 aSSetS Pledged  
aS collateral 

assets pledged as Collateral

Bank deposits
total

2010

658
658

2009

550
550

The major item in bank deposits is the internal bank’s clearing and 
settlement commitments of SEK 467 million (SEK 383 million in 2009)

P23 contingent liabilitieS 

CoNtiNgeNt liabilities

Total contingent liabilities

2010

2009

13,783

13,072

Contingent liabilities include pension commitments of SEK 11,004 million 
(SEK 10,797 million in 2009) and guarantees for Sony Ericsson mobile 
Communications AB’s borrowing from financial institutions of SEK 1,053 
million (SEK 779 million in 2009). 

In accordance with standard industry practice, Ericsson enters into 

commercial contract guarantees related to contracts for the supply of 
telecommunication equipment and services. Total amount for 2010 was 
SEK 19,691 million (SEK 18,001 million in 2009). Potential payments due 
under these bonds are related to Ericsson’s performance under applicable 
contracts.

For information about financial guarantees, see Note P11, “Trade 

Receivables and Customer Finance”

116  |  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAl STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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note P24–P27

P24 Statement of CaSh 
flowS 

P26 tax aSSeSSment 
ValueS in Sweden 

Interest paid in 2010 was SEK 657 million (SEK 508 million in 2009 and SEK 
2,376 million in 2008) and interest received was SEK 816 million (SEK 2,083 
million in 2009 and SEK 3,520 million in 2008). Income taxes paid were SEK 
269 million (SEK 341 million in 2009 and SEK 370 million in 2008). 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cAsh

tAx Assessment vAlues in sweden

Land and land improvements
total

2010

2009

8
8

8
8

tangible assets
Depreciation
total 
intangible assets
Amortization
Impairment losses
total 
total depreciation and amortization  
on tangible and intangible assets 
Taxes
Write-downs and capital gains (–)/ 
losses on sale of fixed assets,  
excluding customer finance, net
Additions to/withdrawals from (–)  
untaxed reserves
Unsettled dividends
Other non-cash items 
total adjustments to reconcile net  
income to cash

2010

2009

2008

149
149

228
945
1,173

1, 322
–152

193
193

385
–
385

578
463

127
127

385
–
385

512
1,363

50

–521

5,545

100
–
86

–902
–1,254
–2,195

478
–5
–2,747

1,288

–3,831

5,146

P25 leaSing 
leasing with the Parent company as lessee

P27 information 
regarding emPloyeeS

AverAge number oF emPloyees

Northern Europe & 
Central Asia 1) 2)
middle East 
total
1)  Of which Sweden
2)  Of which EU

men women

198
121
319
198
198

148
14
162
148
148

2010
total

346
135
481
346
346

men women

194
108
302
194
194

147
15
162
147
147

2009
total

341
123
464
341
341

Absence due to illness

Percent of working hours

Absence due to illness for men
Absence due to illness for women
Employees 30–49 years old
Employees 50 years or older
Long-term absence due to illness total 1)

2010

2009

1%
2%
1%
1%
1%

0%
2%
1%
1%
1%

1)  Defined as absence during a consecutive period of time of 60 days or more. 
Information Absence due to illness regards employees employed in Sweden.

At December 31, 2010, future payment obligations for leases were 
distributed as follows: 

remuneration 

wAges And sAlAries And sociAl security exPenses 

Future PAyment obligAtions For leAses

2011 
2012 
2013 
2014 
2015
2016 and later
total

operating
leases

927
826
605
650
299
1,045
4,352

leasing with the Parent company as lessor

At December 31, 2010, future minimum payment receivables were 
distributed as follows:

Future minimum PAyment receivAbles

2011 
2012 
2013 
2014 
2015
2016 and later
total

operating
leases

15
2
1
1
1
1
21

The operating lease income is mainly income from sublease of real estate. 
See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C27, “Leasing”.

Wages and salaries
Social security expenses
Of which pension costs

wAges And sAlAries Per geogrAPhicAl AreA

Northern Europe & Central Asia 1) 2)
middle East
total
1)  Of which Sweden
2)  Of which EU

2010

2009

518
384
210

480
421
174

2010

2009

409
109
518
409
409

380
100
480
380
380

Remuneration in foreign currency has been translated to SEK at average exchange rates 
for the year. 

remuneration policy and remuneration to the board 
of directors and the President and ceo
See Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C29, 
“Information Regarding members of the Board of Directors, the Group 
management and Employees”.

long-term variable remuneration

the stock PurchAse PlAn

Compensation costs for all employees of the Parent Company amounted to 
SEK 8.0 million in 2010 (SEK 9.1 million in 2009).

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAL STATEmENTS  |  117

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st-ericsson

related party transactions
License revenues
Dividends
related party balances
Receivables

2010

2009

–
–

3

–
–

–

other related parties
For information regarding the remuneration of management, see Notes 
to the Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C29, “Information 
Regarding members of the Board of Directors, the Group management and 
Employees”.

P29 feeS to auditorS 

Fees to Auditors

2010
Audit fees
Audit related fees
Tax services fees
Other fees
total

2009
Audit fees
Audit related fees
Tax services fees
Other fees
total

2008
Audit fees
Audit related fees
Tax services fees
Other fees
total

Pwc

19
12
1
3
35

23
12
2
1
38

23
11
1
1
36

2010

2009

Allocation of fees to auditors is based on the requirements in the Swedish Annual 
Accounts Act. 2008 and 2009 figures are restated for comparability.

2
104

–

7
 66

3

During the period 2008–2010, in addition to audit services, PwC provided 
certain audit related services, tax and other services to the Parent Company. 
The audit related services include quarterly reviews, SAS 70 reviews and 
services in connection with issuing of certificates and opinions. The tax 
services include general expatriate services and corporate tax compliance 
work. Other services include consultation on financial accounting, services 
related to acquisitions, operational effectiveness and assessments of 
internal control.

note P27–P30

note P28–P29

P28 related Party 
tranSaCtionS

During 2010, various transactions were executed pursuant to contracts 
based on terms customary in the industry and negotiated on an arm’s length 
basis.

sony ericsson mobile communications Ab (semc)

In October 2001, SEmC was organized as a joint venture between Sony 
Corporation and Ericsson. A substantial portion of Ericsson’s handset 
operations was sold to SEmC. As part of the formation of the joint venture, 
contracts were entered into between the Parent Company and SEmC. 

For the Parent Company, the major transactions are license revenues for 

SEmC’s usage of trademarks and patents and received dividends.

SEmC has been granted a long-term loan with a maximum amount of 
SEK 3,606 million. The Parent Company and Sony Corporation have issued 
guarantees for this loan on a 50/50 basis, without joint responsibility. As 
of December 31, 2010, the Parent Company´s share of the outstanding 
principle and accrued interest, in the total amount of SEK 1,053 million, has 
been reported as a contingent liability in the Parent Company.

sony ericsson mobile communicAtions

related party transactions
License revenues
Dividends
related party balances
Receivables

2010

2009

296
–

69

293
–

90

ericsson nikola tesla d.d.
Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d. is a joint stock company for design, sales and 
service of telecommunications systems and equipment and an associated 
member of the Ericsson Group. The Parent Company holds 49.07 percent of 
the shares. 

For the Parent Company, the major transactions are license revenues for 

Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d.’s usage of trademarks and received dividends.

ericsson nikolA teslA d.d.

related party transactions
License revenues
Dividends
related party balances
Payables

The Parent Company does not have any contingent liabilities, assets 
pledged as collateral or guarantees toward Ericsson Nikola Tesla d.d.

st-ericsson

ST-Ericsson was formed on February 2, 2009, by merging Ericsson mobile 
Platforms with STmicroelectronics’ wireless business. It is an industry leader 
in design, development and the creation of cutting-edge mobile platforms 
and wireless semiconductors. 

The Parent Company holds 49.99 percent of shares in ST-Ericsson SA 

and 51 percent in ST-Ericsson AT SA, both in Switzerland.

ST-Ericsson has been granted a revolving credit facility of USD 200 
million which is equally shared by LmE and STmicroelectronics. As per 
December, 2010, the amount drawn on the facility was SEK 1,030 million, 
SEK 515 million lent per parent. The Parent Company’s accrued interest 
towards ST-Ericsson amounted of SEK 1.7 million.

The Parent Company does not have any contingent liabilities, assets 

pledged as collateral or guarantees toward ST-Ericsson.

118  |  NOTES TO ThE PARENT COmPANy FINANCIAL STATEmENTS  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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risk>factors

you should carefully consider all the information in 
this annual report and in particular the risks and 
uncertainties outlined below. any of the factors 
described below, or any other risk factors discussed 
elsewhere in this report, could have a material 
negative effect on our business, operational and 
after-tax results, financial position, cash flow, 
liquidity, credit rating, brand and/or our share 
price. Furthermore, our operational results may 
have a greater variability than in the past and 
we may have difficulties in accurately predicting 
future developments. see also “Forward-looking 
statements”.

Market,>technology>>
and>Business>risks>

demand is difficult to predict

Adverse economic conditions could cause network operators 
to postpone investments or initiate other cost-cutting 
initiatives to improve their financial position. this could result 
in significantly reduced expenditures for network infrastructure 
and services, in which case our operating results would 
suffer. We have established flexibility to cost-effectively 
accommodate fluctuations in demand. However, if demand 
were to fall in the future, we may experience material adverse 
effects on our revenues, cash flow, capital employed and 
value of our assets and we may even incur operating losses. if 
demand is significantly weaker or more volatile than expected, 
this may have a material adverse impact on our credit rating, 
borrowing opportunities and costs as well as on the trading 
price of our shares. When deemed necessary, we undertake 
specific restructuring or cost saving initiatives, however,  
there are no guarantees that such initiatives are sufficient, 
successful or executed in time to deliver necessary 
improvements in earnings. 

some of the risk factors we are exposed to may exacerbate 

in an adverse condition in the financial market. Most of our 
customers are financially stable and have networks with good 
utilization. However, some operators, in particular in markets 
with weak currencies, may incur borrowing difficulties and lower 
traffic than expected, which may affect their investment plans. 
the potential adverse effects of an economic downturn include:
>> Reduced demand for products and services, resulting in 

increased price competition or deferrals of purchases, with 
lower revenues not being possible to compensate with 
reduced costs. 

Market, technology  
and business risks

contents

Market, technology and  
business risks 

regulatory, coMpliance and  
corporate governance risks 

risks associated with owning  
ericsson shares 

119

123

124

>> Risks of excess and obsolete inventories and excess 

>>

manufacturing capacity and risk of financial difficulties or 
failures among our suppliers. 
increased demand for customer finance, difficulties in 
collection of accounts receivable and increased risk of 
counterpart failures. 

>> Risk of impairment losses related to our intangible assets as 

>>

a result of lower forecasted sales of certain products. 
increased difficulties in forecasting sales and financial 
results as well as increased volatility in our reported results.

>> Decline in the value of the assets in the company’s  

pension plans.  

short-term volatility has an impact

our sales to network operators represent a mix of equipment, 
software and services, which normally generate different 
gross margins. third party products normally have lower 
margins than own products. As a consequence, reported 
gross margin in a specific period will be affected by the overall 
mix of products and services as well as the relative content 
of third party products. Network expansions and upgrades 
have much shorter lead times for delivery than initial network 
buildouts. such orders are normally placed with short notice by 
customers, i.e. less than a month, and consequently variations 
in demand are difficult to forecast. As a result, changes in our 
product and service mix may affect our ability to accurately 
forecast sales and margins or detect in advance whether actual 
results will deviate from market consensus.

convergence brings opportunity and risk

We are affected by market conditions within the telecom 
industry, including the convergence of the telecom, 
data and media industries. the convergence is largely 
driven by technological development related to iP-based 
communications. this change increases our addressable 
market, changes the competitive landscape, and affects our 
objective setting, risk assessment and strategies. if we fail to 
understand the market development, acquire the necessary 
competence or develop and market products, services and 
solutions that are competitive in this changing market, our 
future results will suffer.

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  Risk fActoRs |  119

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2011-02-26   14.30

Market, technology  
and business risks

we depend on growth and the success  
of new services

vendor consolidation may lead to a new 
competitive landscape

Most of our business depends on continued growth in mobile 
communications in terms of both number of subscriptions and 
usage per subscriber, which in turn requires the continued 
deployment and evolution of our network systems by 
customers. if operators are not successful in their attempts to 
increase the number of subscribers and/or stimulate increased 
usage, our business and operational results could be materially 
adversely affected. Also, if operators experience a decline 
in ARPU or profitability despite the introduction of new non-
voice services, their willingness for further investments will be 
reduced and thus adversely affect our business.

fixed and mobile networks converge and new technologies, 
such as iP and broadband, enable operators to deliver a range 
of new types of services in both fixed and mobile networks. We 
are dependent upon the market acceptance of such services, 
e.g. music, internet and navigation in the handset, and on the 
outcome of regulatory and standardization activities in this 
field, such as spectrum allocation. if delays in standardization 
or market acceptance occur, this could adversely affect our 
business and operational results.

we operate in a highly competitive industry

the markets we operate in are highly competitive in price, 
functionality and service quality as well as in the timing of 
development and introduction of new products and services. 
We face intense competition from significant competitors 
and chinese companies in particular have become relatively 
stronger in recent years. our competitors may implement 
new technologies before we do, offer more attractively priced 
or enhanced products, services or solutions, or they may 
offer other incentives that we do not provide. some of our 
competitors may have greater resources in certain business 
segments or geographic markets than we do. We may also 
encounter increased competition from new market entrants, 
alternative technologies or evolving industry standards. the 
rapid technological change also results in shorter life-cycles for 
products, increasing the risk in all product investments. 
continuous price erosion is a symptom of this rapid 

technological change and we must counteract this by 
introducing new products to the market and by continuously 
enhancing the functionality while reducing the cost of new and 
existing products. our operating results depend largely on our 
ability to compete in this market environment.

industry convergence and consolidation among equipment 
suppliers could potentially result in stronger competitors that 
are competing as end-to-end suppliers as well as competitors 
more specialized in particular areas. consolidation may also 
result in competitors with greater resources than we have or in 
reduction of our current scale advantages. this could have a 
material adverse effect on our business, operating results, and 
financial condition.

operator consolidation may increase our 
dependence on a limited number of customers

We derive most of our business from large, multi-year 
agreements with a limited number of significant customers. 
Although no single customer currently represents more than 5 
percent of sales, a loss of or a reduced role with a key customer 
could have a significant adverse impact on sales, profit and 
market share for an extended period.

in recent years, network operators have undergone 
significant consolidation, resulting in a large number of 
operators with activities in several countries. this trend is 
expected to continue, and also intra-country consolidation is 
likely to accelerate as a result of competitive pressure. 

A market with fewer and larger operators will increase 
our reliance on key customers and may negatively impact 
our bargaining position and profit margins. Moreover, if 
the combined companies operate in the same geographic 
market, networks may be shared and less network equipment 
and associated services will be required. Another possible 
consequence of customer consolidation could be a delay in 
network investments pending negotiations of e.g. merger/
acquisition agreements, securing necessary approvals, or 
integration of their businesses. Recently, network operators 
have started to share parts of their network infrastructure 
through cooperation agreements rather than legal 
consolidations, which may adversely affect demand for  
network equipment.

long-term frame agreements can expose us to 
risk

Long-term agreements are typically awarded on a competitive 
bidding basis. in some cases, such agreements also include 
commitments to future price reductions. in order to maintain  
the gross margin with such price reductions, we continuously 
strive to reduce the costs of our products. We reduce costs 
through design improvements, negotiation of better purchase 
prices, allocation of more production to low-cost countries  
and increased productivity in our own production. However, 
there can be no assurance that our actions to reduce costs will 
be sufficient or quick enough to maintain our gross margin in 
such contracts.

120  |  Risk fActoRs  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

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2011-02-26   14.30

transforming into a more service-based company

operators are increasingly outsourcing parts of their operations 
as a way to reduce cost and focus on new services. this has 
opened up a market which we have addressed. the growth 
rate is difficult to forecast and each new contract carries a risk 
that transformation and integration of the operations is not as 
fast or smooth as planned. Early contract margins are generally 
lower and the mix of new/old contracts may affect reported 
results negatively in a given period. contracts normally cover 
several years and revenues are of a recurring nature. However, 
sometimes contract scopes are reduced with negative impact 
on sales and earnings. Ericsson is the market leader in 
managed services but competition in this area is increasing, 
which may have adverse effects on growth and profitability.

success of r&d investments is uncertain

to be a player in our industry requires large investments in 
technology and creates exposure to rapid technological and 
market changes. We spend significant amounts and resources 
in innovation work for new technology, products and solutions. 
in order for us to be successful, those technologies, products 
and solutions must be accepted by relevant standardization 
bodies and by the industry as a whole. if we invest in the 
development of technologies, products and solutions that do 
not function as expected, are not adopted by the industry, are 
not ready in time or are not successful in the marketplace our 
sales and earnings may suffer.

acquisitions and divestments

in addition to in-house innovation efforts, we make strategic 
acquisitions in order to obtain various benefits, e.g. to 
reduce time-to-market, to gain access to technology and/
or competence, to increase our scale or to broaden our 
product portfolio or expand our customer base. from time 
to time we also divest parts of our operations to optimize our 
product portfolio or operations. there are no guarantees that 
such acquisitions or divestments are successful or that we 
will succeed in integrating the acquired entities to gain the 
expected benefits within the time frame we expect or at all.

Joint ventures and partnerships

if our partnering arrangements fail to perform as expected 
(whether through an incorrect assessment of our needs or the 
capabilities or financial stability of our strategic partners), our 
ability to work with these partners or develop new products 
and solutions may be constrained and this may harm our 
competitive position in the market. Additionally, our share 
of any losses from, or commitments to contribute additional 
capital to, such partnerships may adversely affect our results of 
operations or financial position.

Market, technology  
and business risks

a limited number of suppliers of components, 
production capacity and r&d and it services

our ability to deliver according to market demands and 
contractual commitments depends significantly on obtaining 
timely and adequate supply of materials, components and 
production capacity and other vital services on competitive 
terms. Although we strive to avoid single-source supplier 
solutions, this is not always possible. failure by any of our 
suppliers could interrupt our product supply or operations 
and significantly limit our sales or increase our costs. to 
find an alternative supplier or re-design products to replace 
components may take significant time. if we fail to anticipate 
customer demand properly, an over/under-supply of 
components and production capacity could occur. in many 
cases, some of our competitors utilize the same contract 
manufacturers and if they have purchased capacity ahead of us 
we could be blocked from acquiring the needed products. this 
factor could limit our ability to supply our customers or could 
increase our costs. At the same time, we commit to certain 
capacity levels or component quantities, which, if unused, will 
result in charges for unused capacity or scrapping costs. We 
are also exposed to financial counterpart risks to suppliers 
where we pay in advance. We conduct regular supplier audits 
and evaluations to mitigate the risks mentioned as well as 
brand risks related to the suppliers’ compliance with e.g. labor 
and environmental regulations. 

product or service quality issues

sales contracts normally include warranty undertakings for 
faulty products and often also provisions regarding penalties 
and/or termination rights in the event of a failure to deliver 
ordered products or services on time or with required quality. 
Although we undertake a number of quality assurance 
measures to reduce such risks, product quality or service 
performance issues may affect our results negatively. 

significant foreign exchange exposures

With the majority of our cost base in sEk and a very large share 
of sales in other currencies, and significant operations outside 
sweden, our foreign exchange exposures are significant. 
currency exchange rate fluctuations affect our consolidated 
income statement, balance sheet and cash flows when foreign 
currencies are exchanged or translated to sEk, which increases 
volatility in reported results. 

As market prices are predominantly established in UsD or 
EUR, and with a net revenue exposure in foreign currencies, a 
stronger sEk exchange rate would generally have a negative 
effect on our reported results. our attempts to reduce the 
effects of exchange rate fluctuations through a variety of 
hedging activities may not be sufficient or successful, resulting 
in an adverse impact on our results.

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  Risk fActoRs |  121

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2011-02-26   14.30

Market, technology  
and business risks

intellectual property rights (ipr)

Although we have a large number of patents, there can be 
no assurance that they will not be challenged, invalidated, 
or circumvented, or that any rights granted in relation to our 
patents will in fact provide competitive advantages to us.

in 2005, the European Union considered placing restrictions 

on the patentability of software. Although the European Union 
ultimately rejected this proposal, we cannot guarantee that they 
will not revisit this issue in the future. We rely on many software 
patents, and any limitations on the patentability of software may 
materially affect our business.

We utilize a combination of trade secrets, confidentiality 
policies, non-disclosure and other contractual arrangements 
in addition to relying on patent, copyright and trademark laws 
to protect our intellectual property rights. However, these 
measures may not be adequate to prevent or deter infringement 
or other misappropriation. Moreover, we may not be able to 
detect unauthorized use or take appropriate and timely steps 
to establish and enforce our proprietary rights. in fact, existing 
laws of some countries in which we conduct business offer only 
limited protection of intellectual property rights, if at all.

our solutions may also require us to license technologies 

from third parties. it may be necessary in the future to seek 
or renew licenses and there can be no assurance that they 
would be available on acceptable terms, or at all. Moreover, 
the inclusion in our products of software or other intellectual 
property licensed from third parties on a non-exclusive  
basis could limit our ability to protect proprietary rights  
in our products.

Many key aspects of telecommunications and data network 

technology are governed by industry-wide standards usable 
by all market participants. As the number of market entrants 
and the complexity of technology increases, the possibility of 
functional overlap and inadvertent infringement of intellectual 
property rights also increases. third parties have asserted, and 
may assert in the future, claims, directly against us or indirectly 
against our customers, alleging infringement of their intellectual 
property rights. Defending such claims may be expensive, 
time-consuming and divert the efforts of our management 
and/or technical personnel. As a result of litigation, we could 
be required to pay damages and other compensation directly 
or indemnifying our customers for such damages and other 
compensation, develop non-infringing products/technology 
or enter into royalty or licensing agreements. However, we 
cannot be certain that such licenses will be available to us on 
commercially reasonable terms or at all.

litigations

in the normal course of our business we are involved in 
legal proceedings. Litigation can be expensive, lengthy and 
disruptive to normal business operations. Moreover, the 
results of complex legal proceedings are difficult to predict. 
An unfavorable resolution of a particular lawsuit could have a 

122  |  Risk fActoRs  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

material adverse effect on our business, reputation, operating 
results, or financial condition. 

As a publicly listed company, Ericsson may be exposed 

to lawsuits, in which plaintiffs allege that the company or 
its officers have failed to comply with securities laws, stock 
market regulation or other laws, regulations or requirements. 
Whether or not there is merit to such claims, the time and 
costs incurred to defend the company and its officers and the 
potential settlement or compensation to the plaintiffs may have 
significant impact on our reported results and reputation.  for 
additional information regarding certain of the lawsuits in which 
we are involved, see “Legal and tax Proceedings” in the Board 
of Directors’ Report.

business interruption

our business operations rely on complex operations and 
communications networks, which are vulnerable to damage 
or disturbance from a variety of sources. Having outsourced 
a significant portion of our it operations, we depend partly 
on security and reliability measures of external companies. 
Regardless of protection measures, essentially all systems and 
communications networks are susceptible to disruption due to 
failure, vandalism, computer viruses, security breaches, natural 
disasters, power outages and other events. We also have a 
concentration of operations on certain sites, e.g. for R&D, 
production, network operation centers, logistic centers and 
shared services centers, where business interruptions could 
cause material damage and costs. transport of goods from 
suppliers, and to customers, could also be hampered for the 
reasons stated above. Although we have assessed these risks, 
implemented controls, performed business continuity planning 
and selected reputable companies for outsourced services, we 
cannot be sure that interruptions with material adverse effects 
will not occur.

attract and retain highly qualified employees

We believe that our future success largely depends on our 
continued ability to hire, develop, motivate and retain engineers 
and other qualified personnel needed to develop successful 
new products, support our existing product range and provide 
services to our customers. competition for skilled personnel 
and highly qualified managers in the telecommunications 
industry remains intense. We are continuously developing our 
corporate culture, remuneration, promotion and benefit policies 
as well as other measures aimed at empowering our employees 
and reducing employee turnover. However, there are no 
guarantees that we will be successful in attracting and retaining 
employees with appropriate skills in the future.

access to short-term and long-term capital

if we do not generate sufficient amounts of capital to support 
our operations, service our debt and continue our research and 
development and customer finance programs, or if we cannot 
raise sufficient amounts of capital at the times and on the terms 

RISKXFACTORSXEN_v20.indd   122

2011-02-26   14.30

required by us, our business is likely to be adversely affected. 
Access to short-term funding may decrease or become more 
expensive as a result of our operational and financial condition 
and market conditions or due to deterioration in our credit 
rating. We cannot assure that additional sources of funds that 
we from time to time may need will be available or available on 
reasonable terms.

regulatory,>coMpliance>
and>corporate>
governance>risks

regulatory environment changes

telecommunications is an industry subject to particular 
regulation and regulatory changes affect both our customers’ 
and our own operations. for example, regulations imposing 
more stringent, time-consuming or costly planning and zoning 
requirements or building approvals for radio base stations and 
other network infrastructure could adversely affect the timing 
and costs of network construction or expansion, and ultimately 
the commercial launch and success of these networks. 
similarly, tariff and roaming regulations or rules on network 
neutrality could also affect operators’ ability or willingness 
to invest in network infrastructure, which in turn could affect 
the sales of our systems and services. Also radio frequency 
spectrum allocation between different types of usage may 
affect operator spending adversely or force us to develop new 
products to be able to compete.

License fees, environmental, health and safety, privacy 
and other regulatory changes, in general or particular to our 
industry, may increase costs and restrict operations for network 
operators and service providers or us. Also indirect impacts of 
such changes could affect our business adversely even though 
the specific regulations may not apply directly to our products 
or us.

country-specific political, economic and 
regulatory risks

We conduct business throughout the world and are subject 
to the effects of general global economic conditions as well 
as conditions unique to a specific country or region. We 
conduct business in more than 180 countries, with a significant 
proportion of our sales to emerging markets in Asia Pacific, 
Latin America, Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. 
We expect that sales to such emerging markets will represent 
an increasing portion of total sales, as developing nations 
and regions around the world increase their investments in 
telecommunications. We already have extensive operations in 
many of these countries, which involve certain risks, including 
volatility in gross domestic product, civil disturbances, 
economic and political instability, nationalization of private 
assets and the imposition of exchange controls. 

regulatory, coMpliance and 
corporate governance risks

changes in regulatory requirements, tariffs and other trade 

barriers, price or exchange controls or other governmental 
policies in the countries where we do business could limit 
our operations and make the repatriation of profits difficult. 
in addition, the uncertainty of the legal environment in some 
regions could limit our ability to enforce our rights. in addition 
we must comply with the export control regulations of the 
countries and any trade embargoes in force at the time of sale 
and/or delivery. Although we seek to comply with all such 
regulations, even unintentional violations could have material 
adverse effects on our business, operational results and brand.

compliance with high standards of corporate 
governance

Ericsson applies mandatory corporate governance statutes 
and rules, such as the swedish corporate Governance code 
and is also committed to several corporate responsibility 
and environmental initiatives. to ensure that our operations 
are executed in accordance with these requirements, our 
management system includes a robust corporate culture and 
a code of Business Ethics as well as policies and directives 
to govern our processes and operations. We regularly perform 
communication and training in these areas, and we monitor 
and audit internal compliance with the policies and directives 
as well as our suppliers’ adherence to our supplier code of 
conduct. there is however no guarantee that violations will not 
occur, which could have material adverse effects on our brand, 
reputation and business.

compliance with environmental, health  
and safety regulations

We are subject to certain environmental, health and safety 
laws and regulations that affect our operations, facilities and 
products in each of the jurisdictions in which we operate.  
We believe that we are in compliance with all material laws  
and regulations. However, there is a risk that we may have 
to incur expenditures to cover environmental and health 
liabilities to maintain compliance with current or future laws 
and regulations or to undertake any necessary remediation. 
it is difficult to reasonably estimate the future impact of 
environmental matters, including potential liabilities. this is  
due to several factors, particularly the length of time often 
involved in resolving such matters.

potential health risks related to electromagnetic 
fields 

the mobile telecommunications industry is subject to claims 
that mobile handsets and other devices that generate 
electromagnetic fields expose users to health risks. At 
present, a substantial number of scientific studies conducted 
by various independent research bodies have indicated that 
electromagnetic fields, at levels within the limits prescribed by 
public health authority safety standards and recommendations, 
cause no adverse effects to human health. However, any 

Ericsson Annual Report 2010  Risk fActoRs |  123

RISKXFACTORSXEN_v20.indd   123

2011-02-26   14.30

regulatory, coMpliance and 
corporate governance risks

perceived risk or new scientific findings of adverse health 
effects of mobile communication devices and equipment could 
adversely affect us through a reduction in sales or through 
liability claims. Although Ericsson’s products are designed to 
comply with all current safety standards and recommendations 
regarding electromagnetic fields, we cannot guarantee that we 
or the jointly owned sony Ericsson Mobile communications 
or st-Ericsson will not become the subject of product liability 
claims or be held liable for such claims or be required to 
comply with future regulatory changes that may have an 
adverse effect on our business. 

risks>associated>with>
owning>ericsson>shares

>> financial difficulties for our customers 
>> Awards of large supply or service contracts 
>> speculation in the press or investment community about 
the business level or growth in the market for mobile 
communications

>> technical problems, in particular those relating to the 
introduction and viability of new network systems like 
LtE/4G and new platforms such as the RBs 6000 (multi-
standard radio base station) platform

>> Actual or expected results of ongoing or potential litigation 
>> Announcements concerning bankruptcy or investigations 

into the accounting procedures of other telecommunications 
companies, even if we are not involved  

>> our ability to forecast and communicate our future results in 

a manner consistent with investor expectations.

our share price has been and may continue  
to be volatile

currency fluctuations may adversely affect share 
value or value of dividends

our share price has been volatile partly due to the high volatility 
in the securities markets generally and for telecommunications 
and technology companies in particular. the share price is 
also likely to be affected by the development in our market, 
our reported financial results and the expectations of financial 
analysts, as well as statements and market speculation 
regarding our future prospects or the timing or content of any 
profit warning by us or our competitors. 

factors other than our financial results that may affect our 

share price include, but are not limited to:
>> A weakening of our brand name or other circumstances with 

adverse effects on our reputation

>> Announcements by our customers, competitors or us 
regarding capital spending plans of network operators

Because our shares are quoted in sEk on NAsDAQ oMX 
stockholm (our primary stock exchange), but in UsD on 
NAsDAQ (ADss), fluctuations in exchange rates between 
sEk and UsD may affect the value of your investment. in 
addition, because we pay cash dividends in sEk, fluctuations 
in exchange rates may affect the value of distributions if 
arrangements with your bank, broker or depositary call for 
distributions to you in currencies other than sEk. An increasing 
part of the trade in our shares is carried out on alternative 
exchanges or markets, which may lead to less accurate share 
price information on NAsDAQ oMX stockholm or NAsDAQ,

124  |  Risk fActoRs  Ericsson Annual Report 2010 

RISKXFACTORSXEN_v20.indd   124

2011-02-26   14.30

Auditors’ report

Auditors’ report

to the Annual General Meeting of the shareholders  
of telefonaktiebolaget LM ericsson (publ),  
organization number 556016-0680 

We have audited the annual accounts, the consolidated 
accounts, the accounting records and the administration 
of the Board of directors and the president and CEo of 
telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)  for the year  2010. 
(the Company’s annual accounts are included in the printed 
version on pages 17–124). the Board of directors and the 
president and CEo are responsible for these accounts and the 
administration of the Company as well as for the application of 
the Annual Accounts Act when preparing the annual accounts 
and the application of international financial reporting standards 
iFRss as adopted by the Eu and the Annual Accounts Act 
when preparing the consolidated accounts. our responsibility is 
to express an opinion on the annual accounts, the consolidated 
accounts and the administration based on our audit. 

We conducted our audit in accordance with generally 
accepted auditing standards in sweden. those standards 
require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable 
assurance that the annual accounts and the consolidated 
accounts are free of material misstatement. An audit includes 
examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts 
and disclosures in the accounts. An audit also includes 
assessing the accounting principles used and their application 
by the Board of directors and the president and CEo and 
significant estimates made by the Board of directors and 
the president and CEo when preparing the annual accounts 
and consolidated accounts as well as evaluating the overall 

presentation of information in the annual accounts and the 
consolidated accounts. As a basis for our opinion concerning 
discharge from liability, we examined significant decisions, 
actions taken and circumstances of the Company in order to 
be able to determine the liability, if any, to the Company of any 
Board Member or the president and CEo. We also examined 
whether any Board Member or the president and CEo has, 
in any other way, acted in contravention of the Companies 
Act, the Annual Accounts Act or the Articles of Association. 
We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our 
opinion set out below.

the annual accounts have been prepared in accordance 
with the Annual Accounts Act and give a true and fair view of 
the Company’s financial position and results of operations in 
accordance with generally accepted accounting principles in 
sweden. the consolidated accounts have been prepared in 
accordance with international financial reporting standards, 
iFRss, as  adopted by the Eu and the Annual Accounts Act 
and give a true and fair view of the group’s financial position 
and results of  operations. the Board of directors’ report is 
consistent with the other parts of the annual accounts and the 
consolidated accounts.

We recommend to the annual general meeting of share­
holders that the income statements and balance sheets of the 
parent Company and the Group be adopted, that the profit 
of the parent Company be dealt with in accordance with the 
proposal in the Board of directors’ report and that the members 
of the Board of directors and the president and CEo be 
discharged from liability for the financial year.

stockholm, February 21, 2011

peter Clemedtson

Authorized public Accountant
pricewaterhouseCoopers AB

AUDITXEN_v8.indd   125

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  AuditoRs’ REpoRt  |  125

Forward-looking statements

Forward-looking>statements

>>

>>

>>

>>

>>

including partnerships, acquisitions and divestments;
financial risks, including changes in foreign exchange 
rates or interest rates, lack of liquidity or access to 
financing, changes in tax liabilities, credit risks in relation 
to counterparties, customer defaults under significant 
customer finance arrangements and risks of confiscation of 
assets in foreign countries;
the impact of the consolidation in the industry, and the 
resulting (i) reduction in the number of customers, and 
adverse consequences of a loss of, or significant decline in, 
our business with a major customer; (ii) increased strength 
of a competitor or the establishment of new competitors;
the impact of changes in product demand, price erosion, 
competition from existing or new competitors or new 
technologies or alliances between vendors of different types 
of technology and the risk that our products and services 
may not sell at the rates or levels we anticipate;
the product mix and margins of our sales;
the volatility of market demand and difficulties to forecast 
such demand; 

>> our ability to develop commercially viable products, systems 
and services, to acquire licenses of necessary technology, to 
protect our intellectual property rights through patents and 
trademarks and to license them to others and defend them 
against infringement, and the results of patent litigation;
supply constraints, including component or production 
capacity shortages, suppliers’ abilities to cost effectively 
deliver quality products on time and in sufficient volumes, 
and risks related to concentration of proprietary or 
outsourced production in a single facility or sole source 
situations with a single vendor;

>>

>> our ability to successfully manage operators’ networks to 

their satisfaction with satisfactory margins;

>> our ability to maintain a strong brand and good reputation 
and to be acknowledged for good corporate governance;
>> our ability to recruit and retain qualified management and 

other key employees.

Certain of these risks and uncertainties are described further in 
“risk Factors”. we undertake no obligation to publicly update 
or revise any forward-looking statements included in this 
annual report, whether as a result of new information, future 
events or otherwise, except as required by applicable law or 
stock exchange regulation.

this annual report includes forward-looking statements, 
including statements reflecting management’s current views 
relating to the growth of the market, future market conditions, 
future events and expected operational and financial 
performance.  the words “believe”, “expect”, “foresee”, 
“anticipate”, “assume”, “intend”, “may”, “could”, “plan”, 
“estimate”, “will”, “should”, “could”, “aim”, “target”, “might” 
or, in each case, their negative, and similar words are intended 
to help identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking 
statements may be found throughout this document, but in 
particular in the chapter “Board of directors’ report” and 
include statements regarding: 
>> our goals, strategies and operational or financial 

performance expectations;

>> development of corporate governance standards, stock 

market regulations and related legislation;
the growth of the markets in which we operate;

>>
>> our liquidity, capital resources, capital expenditures, our 

>>

>>

>>

>>

credit ratings and the development in the capital markets, 
affecting our industry or us;
the expected demand for our existing as well as new 
products and services;
the expected operational or financial performance of our 
joint ventures and other strategic cooperation activities;
the time until acquired entities will be accretive to income;
technology and industry trends including regulatory and 
standardization environment, competition and our customer 
structure; 

>> our plans for new products and services including research 

and development expenditures.

although we believe that the expectations reflected in these 
and other forward-looking statements are reasonable, we 
cannot assure you that these expectations will materialize. 
Because forward-looking statements are based on 
assumptions, judgments and estimates, and are subject to risks 
and uncertainties, actual results could differ materially from 
those described or implied herein. important factors that could 
affect whether and to what extent any of our forward-looking 
statements materialize include, but are not limited to: 
>> our ability to respond to changes in the telecommunications 

market and other general market conditions in a cost 
effective and timely manner;

>> developments in the political, economic or regulatory 

environment affecting the markets in which we operate, 
including trade embargoes, changes in tax rates, changes 
in patent protection regulations, allegations of health risks 
from electromagnetic fields, cost of radio licenses for our 
customers, allocation of radio frequencies for different 
purposes and results of standardization activities; 
the effectiveness of our strategies and their execution, 

>>

126  |  Forward-looking statements  ericsson annual report 2010 

FLSXEN_v6.indd   126

2011-02-26   14.37

business drivers 2009
contents

remuneratIon 
polIcy

Remuneration at Ericsson is based 
on the principles of performance, 
competitiveness and fairness. 
our remuneration policy together 
with the mix of remuneration 
elements are designed to reflect 
these remuneration principles by 
creating a balanced remuneration 
package. the policy for 2010 
can be found in note C29. the 
auditors’ opinion on how we have 
followed our policy during 2010 is 
posted on the website.

remuneratIon report

contents
introduction 

the remuneration committee 

remuneration 2010 

total remuneration 

remuneration of the board of directors 

127

127

128

130

132

IntroductIon
this report outlines how the remuneration policy is implemented throughout 
Ericsson in line with corporate governance best practice, with specific references 
to Group management. to begin with, the work of the Remuneration Committee 
2010 and the remuneration policy are explained, followed by descriptions of plans 
and approaches. this report also includes information on how the remuneration 
programs have been evaluated and conclusions from that. more details of the 
remuneration of Group management and Board members’ fees can be found in 
the notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements – note C29, “information 
regarding members of the Board of Directors, the Group management and 
employees” (“note C29”). 

the remuneratIon commIttee

the Remuneration Committee advises the Board of Directors on an ongoing 
basis on the remuneration of the Group management, hereafter referred to as the 
Executive Leadership team (ELt). this includes fixed salaries, pensions, other 
benefits and short-term and long-term variable remuneration, all in the context 
of pay and employment conditions throughout Ericsson. the Remuneration 
Committee also approves variable remuneration outcomes, prepares 
remuneration related proposals for Board and shareholder approval and develops 
and monitors the remuneration policy, strategies and general guidelines for 
employee remuneration. 

the Remuneration Committee’s work is the foundation for the governance of 
our remuneration processes together with our internal systems and audit controls. 
the Committee is chaired by michael treschow and its other members are nancy 
mcKinstry, Börje Ekholm and Karin Åberg. All the members are non-executive 
directors, independent (except for the employee representative) as required by 
the Swedish Corporate Governance Code and have relevant knowledge and 
experience of remuneration matters. 

the Company’s General Counsel acts as secretary to the Committee. 
the Chief Executive officer, the Senior Vice president Human Resources & 
organization and the Vice president Compensation & Benefits attend the 
Remuneration Committee meetings by invitation and assist the Committee in  
its considerations, except when issues relating to their own remuneration are 
being discussed.

the Remuneration Committee has appointed an independent expert advisor, 
Gerrit Aronson, to assist and advise the Committee. Gerrit Aronson provided no 

REMUNXEN_v58.indd   127

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  REmunERAtion REpoRt  |  127

the remuneration committee
remuneration report

annual cycle of the remuneration committee’s work

AuGuSt–oCtoBER
 > Review of committee working arrangements
 > issues, trends and market practice analyses
 > Review of Executive performance Stock plan 

target achievement and vesting decision

 > Review of risks associated with remuneration
 > Review of remuneration policy, package 

  con struction and design of individual elements

mAY–JuLY
 > Review of appropriateness of targets

Q4

Nov

Dec

Jan

Q1

Feb

Oct

Sep

Annual cycle of 
the Remuneration 
Committee’s work

Mar

Apr

Aug

Q3

Jul

Jun

May

Q2

noVEmBER–FEBRuARY
 > Salary review for Executive Leadership team (ELt) and 

other senior executives

 > Review of target achievements for Short-term Variable 

plan, vesting and target setting decisions
 > target setting for Long-term Variable plan
 > proposals for AGm
 > Communications to investors, including  Annual Report
 > Review of total remuneration outcomes and costs 

 > mARCH–ApRiL
 > Annual General meeting of shareholders

other services to the Company during 2010. the Remuneration 
Committee is also provided with national and international pay 
data collected from external survey providers and can call on 
other independent expertise, should it so require. the Chairman 
continues to ensure that contact is maintained, as necessary 
and appropriate, with principal shareholders on the subject  
of remuneration.

the purpose and function of the Remuneration Committee 

will continue going forward and its responsibilities can be 
found on the Ericsson website (www.ericsson.com). these 
responsibilities, together with the remuneration policy, are 
reviewed and evaluated annually in light of matters such as 
changes to corporate governance best practice or changes to 
accounting, legislation, political opinion or business practices 
among peers. this helps to ensure that the policy continues to 
provide Ericsson with a competitive remuneration strategy.  
the policy for Group management remuneration is, in 
accordance with Swedish law, brought to shareholders  
annually for approval.

remuneratIon 2010
the Remuneration Committee met nine times during the 
year. the winter meetings focused on following-up results 
from the 2009 variable remuneration programs and preparing 
proposals to shareholders for the 2010 Annual General meeting 
(AGm). During winter and spring the committee considered 
the new Regional organization and new members in the 
Executive Leadership team (ELt). in the fall the work began 
with a review of the remuneration strategy with focus on the 
Long-term Variable remuneration, the Short-term Variable 
remuneration plans and levels of fixed compensation. Feedback 
from meetings with investors, market analysis and global 
trend analyses served as input to the remuneration strategy 
discussion. As is illustrated above, the Committee has also 
considered market trends, existing and potential remuneration 
risks, target setting, its working arrangements and corporate 
governance. 

evaluation of remuneration policy and plans
the Remuneration Committee has supported the Board with 
the review and evaluation of the remuneration policy and 
practice. As described later in this report, all remuneration 
elements and levels are evaluated through benchmarking 
against market data provided by external sources. Analyses of 
market data, as well as of attrition data, show that Ericsson is in 
general competitive in local markets and that total remuneration 
is appropriate but not excessive. 

the remuneration policy is evaluated annually in light of the 
long-term strategy and the Remuneration Committee’s overview 
of total remuneration and each individual remuneration element. 
the Committee has concluded and the Board has decided that 
the remuneration policy remains valid and right for Ericsson and 
should not be materially changed for 2011.

Evaluation through employee surveys show that the 

common understanding of Ericsson’s remuneration policy could 

128  |  REmunERAtion REpoRt  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

REMUNXEN_v58.indd   128

2011-02-26   16.36

be improved. to enhance the understanding of how Ericsson 
translates remuneration principles and policy into practice, a 
Remuneration website has been launched in January 2011. 
this is a training program containing e-learning and training 
targeted at line managers to support more informed decisions 
and better communication to the wider employee population.
Extensive analyses of local market data for each position 
in the Executive Leadership team have been conducted and 
decisions on budget and increases for ELt have been taken 
by Remuneration Committee. the work is also reviewed by the 
independent advisor to the Committee.

the evaluation of Long-term Variable remuneration plans 
concluded that the objectives of the Stock purchase plan to 
promote “one Ericsson” and align the interests of employees 
with those of shareholders have been successful. the 
participation rate has increased from 25 percent to 27 percent 
over the year. the evaluation conducted also confirms that the 
Key Contributor Retention plan meets the purpose to retain 
our key employees, the voluntary attrition rate among Key 
Contributors being about two thirds compared to total number 
of employees. 

A survey of Ericsson’s managers in January 2011 verified 
that over half of managers think the Long-term Variable and 

business drivers 2009
remuneration 2010
remuneration report

Short-term Variable remuneration plans are “effective” or “very 
effective” in meeting the purpose of the plans.

this confirms earlier third-party research that has shown 
that the Long-term Variable plans drive the right values and 
enhance retention. the plans remain competitive by Swedish 
standards. the participation rate among Key Contributors 
remains high compared with international benchmarks. 

However, the evaluation has also shown that the Executive 

performance Stock plan has had limited success in terms 
of meeting the purpose of rewarding long-term financial 
performance. the performance target has proved to be more 
binary than anticipated, where the 2004 program vested in 
full and the programs for 2005, 2006 and 2007 did not vest. 
Extensive work has been conducted to define how the plan 
should be developed and this has identified the need to secure 
clear targets that are more aligned with strategy and value 
creation. Based on this, the Board has evaluated targets and 
target levels to identify those that best support the long-term 
strategy and value creation of the company and will propose 
these targets for the 2011 Executive performance Stock plan to 
the AGm.

summaries of 2010 short- and lonG-term variable remuneration

what we call it

what is it?

what is the objective?

who participates?

how is it earned?

short-term: remuneration delivered over 12 months or less

Fixed salary

Fixed remuneration paid at 
set times 

Short-term Variable 
remuneration (StV)

A variable plan that is 
measured and paid over a 
single year

Attract and retain employees, 
delivering part of annual 
remuneration in a predictable 
format

Align employees with clear 
and relevant targets, 
providing an earnings 
opportunity in return for 
performance and flexible cost

All employees

managers, including 
Executive Leadership team

Local and Sales incentive 
plans

tailored versions of the StV  As for StV, tailored for local 

most employees 

long-term: remuneration delivered over 3 years or more

Stock purchase plan (Spp)

All-employee stock-based 
plan

Key Contributor Retention 
plan (KC)

Share-based plan for 
selected individuals 

Executive performance 
Stock plan (EpSp)

Share-based plan for senior 
executives

or business requirements, 
such as sales

Reinforce a “one Ericsson” 
and align employees’ 
interests with those of 
shareholders

Recognize, retain and 
motivate key contributors for 
performance, critical skills 
and potential
Remuneration for long-term 
commitment and earnings 
performance

All employees are eligible

up to 10 percent of 
employees

Senior executives, including 
Executive Leadership team

market appropriate levels set 
according to position and 
evaluated according to 
individual performance

Achievements against set 
targets. Reward can increase 
to up to twice the target level 
and decrease to zero, 
depending on performance

Similar to StV. All plans have 
maximum award and vesting 
limits

Buy one share and it will be 
matched by one share after 3 
years if still employed

if selected, get one more 
matching share in addition to 
the Spp one 

Get up to 4, 6 or, for CEo, 9 
further matching shares to 
the Spp one for long-term 
performance.

REMUNXEN_v58.indd   129

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  REmunERAtion REpoRt  |  129

total remuneration

business drivers 2009
remuneration report

fixed salary, short-term 
and lonG-term variable 
remuneration as percent of 
total tarGet remuneration

100

80

60

40

20

0

CEO

Average ELT
excl. CEO

Target Long-Term Variable 2010

Short-Term Variable Target 2010

Fixed salary 2010

1,0

0,8

0,6

0,4

0,2

0,0

short-term variable 
remuneration payouts and 
tarGet levels

Max

Target

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

CEO

Average Ericsson Leadership Team 

excluding CEO

total remuneratIon
When we consider the remuneration of an individual, it is the total remuneration 
that matters. We first consider the total annual cash compensation, looking at 
target level of short-term variable remuneration plus fixed salary. We then add 
target long-term variable remuneration to get total target remuneration and, finally, 
pension and other benefits to arrive at the total package. 

For the ELt, remuneration consists of fixed salary, short-term and long-term 
variable remuneration, pension and other benefits. if the size of any one of these 
elements is increased or decreased, at least one other element has to change 
where the competitive position should remain unchanged. 

the remuneration costs for the CEo and the ELt are reported in note C29. 

fixed salary
Fixed salaries are set to be competitive within an individual’s home market. When 
setting fixed salaries the Remuneration Committee considers the impact on 
total remuneration, including pension and associated costs. the absolute levels 
are determined by the size and complexity of the position and the year-to-year 
performance of the individual. together with other elements of remuneration, the 
ELt salaries are subject to an annual review by the Remuneration Committee, 
which considers external pay data to ensure that levels of pay remain competitive 
and appropriate to the remuneration policy. 

variable remuneration
At Ericsson we strongly believe that, where possible, we should encourage 
variable compensation as integral part of total target remuneration approach. 
First and foremost this aligns employees with clear and relevant targets but it also 
enables more flexible payroll costs and emphasizes the link between performance 
and pay. All variable remuneration plans have maximum award and vesting limits. 

short-term variable remuneration

the annual variable remuneration is delivered through cash-based programs. 
Specific business targets are derived from the annual business plan approved by 
the Board of Directors and, in turn, defined by the Company’s long-term strategy. 
Ericsson strives to grow faster than the market with best-in-class margins and 
strong cash conversion and therefore the starting point is to have these as three 
core targets:
 > Sales Growth
 > operating income
 > Cash Flow

For the ELt, targets are thus predominantly financial targets at either Group 
level or at the individual unit level and may also include operational targets 
like customer satisfaction and employee motivation. targets are cascaded 
to all managers and will vary depending on the specific position. All variable 
remuneration targets have to be objective and measurable and typically refer 
to a result that is achieved on a collective basis. Each target is, in accordance 
with our strict governance instructions, defined in a “target specification” and 
measured over the calendar year. the target setting process is fully integrated 
with the strategy work and target levels are tested against plans and forecasts 
up until they are finalized around the turn of the year. the Board of Directors 
and the Remuneration Committee decide on all Ericsson Group targets, which 
are cascaded to unit-related targets throughout the Company, always subject to 
a two levels of management approval process. the Remuneration Committee 
monitors the appropriateness and fairness of Group target levels throughout 

130  |  REmunERAtion REpoRt  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

REMUNXEN_v58.indd   130

2011-02-26   16.36

short-term variable remuneration structure

short-term variable remuneration 
as percentage of fixed salary
maximum
level 

target 
level 

actual paid
for 2010 

remuneration report

total remuneration

percentage of short-term variable
remuneration opportunity

Group financial
targets

unit/functional
financial targets

non-financial
targets

CEo 2010
CEo 2011
Average ELt 2010 1)
Average ELt 2011 1)

40%
40%
31%
34%

80%
80%
62%
68%

64%
–
46%
–

90%
90%
73%
61%

0%
0%
16%
23%

10%
10%
11%
16%

1) Excludes CEo – differences in target and maximum levels from year to year are due to changes in the composition of the ELt.

the performance year and has the authority to revise them 
should they cease to be relevant, stretching and/or enhance 
shareholder value. 

During 2010, approximately 75,000 employees participated 
in short-term variable plans. of these 8,000 were in the global 
Short-term Variable remuneration plan (“StV”) for management, 
including the ELt, and 4,000 were in the global Sales incentive 
plan (“Sip”). Local plans vary in design according to local 
competitive practice but typically mirror the StV.

the chart on page 130 illustrates how payouts to the ELt 

have varied with performance over the past five years.

lonG-term variable remuneration

Share-based long-term variable remuneration plans are 
submitted each year for approval by shareholders at the AGm. 
All long-term variable remuneration plans are designed to form 
part of a well-balanced total remuneration and span over a 
minimum of three years. As these are variable plans, outcomes 
are unknown and rewards depend on long-term personal 
investment, corporate performance and resulting share price 
performance. During 2010, share-based remuneration was 
made up of three different but linked plans: the all-employee 
Stock purchase plan, the Key Contributor Retention plan and 
the Executive performance Stock plan.

the stock purchase plan 

the all-employee Stock purchase plan is designed to offer, 
where practicable, an incentive for all employees to participate, 
reinforcing a “one Ericsson” aligned with shareholder interests. 
Employees can save up to 7.5 percent (CEo 10 percent ) of 
gross fixed salary (CEo, gross fixed salary and annual variable 
remuneration) for purchase of Class B shares at market price on 
nASDAQ omX Stockholm or ADSs on nASDAQ (contribution 
shares) over a twelve-month period. if the contribution 
shares are retained by the employee for three years after the 
investment and employment with the Ericsson Group continues 
during that time, the employee’s shares will be matched with 
a corresponding number of Class B shares or ADSs. the 
plan was introduced in 2002 and employees in 94 countries 
participate. in December 2010 the number of participants was 
in excess of 22,000 or approximately 27 percent of eligible 
employees. 

participants save each month, beginning with August 
payroll, towards quarterly investments. these investments (in 
november, February, may and August) are matched on the third 
anniversary of each such investment and hence the matching 
spans over two financial years and two tax years. 

the key contributor retention plan

the Key Contributor Retention plan is part of Ericsson’s talent 
management strategy and is designed to give individuals 
recognition for performance, critical skills and potential as well 
as encourage retention of key employees. under the program, 
operating units around the world are given quotas that total 
no more than 10 percent of employees world-wide. Each unit 
nominates individuals that have been identified according to 
performance, critical skills and potential. the nominations are 
calibrated in management teams locally and reviewed by both 
local and corporate Human Resources to ensure that there is a 
minimum of bias and a strong belief in the system. participants 
selected obtain one extra matching share in addition to the 
one matching share for each contribution share purchased 
under the Stock purchase plan during a twelve-month program 
period. the plan was introduced in 2004.

the executive performance stock plan

the Executive performance Stock plan was also first 
introduced in 2004. the plan is designed to focus management 
on driving long-term financial performance and provide market 
competitive remuneration. Senior executives, including the 
ELt, are selected to obtain up to four or six extra shares 
(performance matching shares). this is in addition to the one 
matching share for each contribution share purchased under 
the all employee Stock purchase plan and the performance 
matching is subject to the fulfillment of an Earnings per Share 
(EpS) performance target. Since 2010, the CEo may obtain up 
to nine performance matching shares in addition to the Stock 
purchase plan matching share for each contribution share. 

the Remuneration Committee has been satisfied that the 

use of an EpS performance target has been an appropriate 
measure to date. However, following its evaluation, the 
Remuneration Committee and the Board have decided to 
propose to the 2011 AGm a new set of performance measures 
for the 2011 Executive performance Stock plan. 

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total remuneration
remuneration report

the performance targets are not capable of being retested 

after the end of the three-year performance period. if the 
minimum required performance is not achieved, all matching 
shares subject to performance will lapse. the Board may also 
reduce the number of performance matching shares, if deemed 
appropriate, considering the Company’s financial results and 
position, conditions on the stock market and other relevant 
circumstances at the time of matching. the Remuneration 
Committee analyzes the financial results against those of 
competitors in the industry.

benefits and terms of employment
pension benefits follow the competitive practice in the 
employee’s home country and may contain various 
supplementary plans, in addition to any national system for 
social security. Where possible, pension plans are operated on 
a defined contribution basis. under these plans, Ericsson pays 
contributions into a plan but does not guarantee the ultimate 
benefit, unless local regulations or legislation prescribe that 
defined benefit plans that do give such guarantees have to  
be offered. 

For the CEo and other members of the ELt employed in 
Sweden a supplementary pension plan is applied in addition to 
the occupational pension plan for salaried staff on the Swedish 
labor market (itp). the pension age is according to local 
practice, for ELt members normally 60 years. the pensionable 
salary for ELt members on local contract in Sweden consists 

of the annual fixed salary including vacation pay and the target 
value of the Short-term Variable remuneration. For members 
of the ELt who are not employed in Sweden, local market 
competitive pension arrangements apply.

other benefits, such as company car and medical insurance, 
are also set to be competitive in the local market. ELt members 
may not receive loans from the Company. 

ELt members locally employed in Sweden have a mutual 

notice period of up to six months. upon termination of 
employment by the Company, severance pay can amount to 
up to 18 months fixed salary. For other ELt members different 
notice period and severance pay agreement apply, however 
no agreements exceeds the notice period of 6 months or the 
severance pay of 18 months.

remuneratIon of the 
Board of dIrectors
the remuneration of Directors not employed by Ericsson 
is handled separately by the nomination Committee and 
approved by the Annual General meeting of shareholders. the 
remuneration consists of fees for Board and committee work, 
part of which can be delivered under a synthetic share program. 
the synthetic shares, which are valued in line with Ericsson’s 
Class B shares, vest in cash after the publication of the year-
end financial statement during the fifth year after award.

132  |  REmunERAtion REpoRt  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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Corporate governanCe 
report 2010

ConTenTs

Contents

RegulaTion and CoMplianCe 

shaReholdeRs 

geneRal MeeTing of  shaReholdeRs 

noMinaTion CoMMiTTee 

BoaRd of diReCToRs 

CoMMiTTees of The BoaRd of diReCToRs 

ReMuneRaTion To BoaRd MeMBeRs 

MeMBeRs of The BoaRd of diReCToRs 

CoMpany ManageMenT 

MeMBeRs of The exeCuTive leadeRship TeaM 

audiToRs 

inTeRnal ConTRol oveR finanCial RepoRTing 2010 

audiToR’s RepoRT on The CoRpoRaTe  
goveRnanCe RepoRT 

134

135

136

137

138

140

143

144

148

151

154

154

157

Corporate governance is not only about efficient and reliable controls and 
procedures. We believe that adherence to a strong ethos of ethical business 
practice by all people in our organization – starting at the top and permeating to 
all employees – is essential to maintaining a sound and reliable corporate 
governance structure.

As Chairman of the Board it lies at the core of my responsibilities to ensure that 

the Board work is conducted in an optimal manner and in line with the principles 
and processes in the work procedure of the Board of Directors. It is crucial that 
the Board is at all times well informed in order to efficiently and in a constructive 
manner promote open and meaningful debates on important issues. The Board 
work is constantly scrutinized and improved to ensure that the Board has the best 
possible basis for its resolutions. 

The Board has two key roles: firstly to be a good supporter to the Company 

management, and, secondly, to exercise a critical review and raise difficult 
questions. These two roles must be well-balanced. It is crucial to ensure that the 
Board and the executive management at all times have an open and straight-
forward dialogue. 

Good corporate governance is the basis for building robust corporate culture. 

It will further promote sustainable business practice which in turn generates 
shareholder value.

Michael Treschow
Chairman of the Board of Directors

Highlights 
of 2010

 > Hans Vestberg (President & 

CEO) and Michelangelo Volpi 
were elected new Board 
members 

 > New organization – 23 Market 
Units became 10 Regions

 > Four new members joined the 
Executive Leadership Team

Corporate governance describes 
the ways in which rights and 
responsibilities are distributed among 
the various corporate bodies according 
to the laws, rules and processes to 
which they are subject. It defines the 
decision-making systems and structure 
through which owners directly or 
indirectly control a company.

This Corporate Governance 
Report is rendered as a separate 
report added to the Annual Report 
in accordance with the Annual 
Accounts Act (1995:1554 Chapter 
6, Section 6) and the Swedish 
Corporate Governance Code. 
The report has been reviewed by 
Ericsson’s auditor in accordance 
with the Annual Accounts Act and 
a separate report from the auditor 
is appended hereto.

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Business dRiveRs 2009
RegulaTion and CoMplianCe

 CODE OF 
BUSINESS 
ETHICS 

The Code of Business Ethics 
can be found at www.ericsson.
com/article/code-of-business-
ethics_429026570_c

 Information on the Ericsson website does not form 
part of this Report. 

regulation and ComplianCe
external rules 
As a Swedish public limited liability company with securities quoted on NASDAQ 
OMX Stockholm as well as on NASDAQ New York, Ericsson is subject to a variety 
of rules that affect its governance. Major external rules include:
 > The Swedish Companies Act
 > Rulebook for issuers of NASDAQ OMX Stockholm
 > The Swedish Corporate Governance Code (the “Code”) which is found on the 
website of the Swedish Corporate Governance Board who administrates the 
Code (www.corporategovernanceboard.se)

 > NASDAQ New York Stock Market Rules – including applicable NASDAQ 

New York corporate governance requirements, subject to certain exemptions 
principally reflecting mandatory Swedish legal requirements

 > Applicable requirements of the US Securities and Exchange Commission.

internal rules 
In addition, to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and the 
high ethical standards that we set for ourselves, Ericsson has internal rules that 
include:
 > Code of Business Ethics
 > Group Steering Documents including Group policies and directives, 
instructions and business processes for approval, control and risk 
management

 > Code of Conduct to be applied in the product development, production, 

supply and support of Ericsson products and services worldwide.

The Board of Directors has also included internal rules in its work procedure. 

Compliance with the swedish Corporate governance Code
The Code has been applied by Ericsson since July 2005. Ericsson is committed 
to complying with best-practice corporate governance on a global level wherever 
possible. This includes continued compliance with the Code. Ericsson has not 
deviated from any of the provisions of the Code.

Compliance with applicable stock exchange rules
There has been no infringement of applicable stock exchange rules and Ericsson 
has complied with good stock market practice.

Code of Business ethics
Ericsson’s Code of Business Ethics sets out how the Group achieves and 
maintains its high ethical standards. It summarizes the Group’s fundamental 
policies and directives. 

The ethical code has been translated into 25 languages. This ensures that it is 

accessible to all employees and underpins the importance of ethical conduct in 
all business activities. During recruitment, employees sign a form to acknowledge 
that they are aware of the principles of the Code of Business Ethics. This 
procedure is repeated at regular intervals throughout the term of employment. 

Through this process, Ericsson strives to ensure that high ethical standards are 
continuously upheld. All employees have an individual responsibility to ensure that 
business practice adheres to the rules of the Code of Business Ethics. 

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Business dRiveRs 2009
shaReholdeRs

oWneRship peRCenTage 
(voTing RighTs)

X%
X

%

0

8

,

3

1

1 %

1

%

19,33

5

3

%

Swedish institutions. 60.90%,  
of which:
   – Investor: 19.33%
   – Industrivärden: 19.39% 

Foreign investors: 28.07% 

Retail Swedish investors: 7.40%

Other: 3.63%

Source: Capital Precision

sHareHolders 
ownership structure
As of December 31, 2010 Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (the “Parent 
Company”), had 630,592 shareholders (according to the share register kept by 
Euroclear Sweden AB). Institutions, both Swedish and international, own almost 
78 percent of the shares. The largest shareholders are Industrivärden, holding 
19.39 percent of the votes (together with Handelsbankens Pensionsstiftelse and 
Pensionskassan SHB Försäkringsförening) and Investor, holding 19.33 percent of 
the votes.

A significant number of the shares held by foreign investors are nominee-
registered, i.e. held off-record by banks, brokers and/or nominees. This means 
that the actual shareholder is not displayed in the share register or included in the 
shareholding statistics. 

More information on Ericsson’s shareholders can be found in the chapter 

“Share Information” in the Annual Report.

shares and voting rights
The share capital of the Parent Company consists of two classes of listed shares: 
A and B. Each Class A share carries one vote and each Class B share carries one 
tenth of one vote. Class A and B shares entitle the holder to the same proportion 
of assets and earnings. They also carry equal rights in terms of dividends.

The Parent Company may also issue Class C shares in order to create treasury 
stock to hedge variable remuneration programs resolved by the General Meeting. 
The Class C shares are converted into Class B shares before they are transferred 
to participants of the variable remuneration programs. 

The members of the Board of Directors and the Executive Leadership Team 

have the same voting rights on shares as other shareholders.

goveRnanCe sTRuCTuRe

Shareholders’ Meeting
Annual General Meeting/
Extraordinary General Meeting

Unions

Board of Directors
12 Directors elected by the Shareholders’ Meeting
3 Directors and 3 Deputies appointed by the Unions

Audit 
Committee

Finance 
Committee

Remuneration 
Committee

Nomination
Committee

External
Auditor

President and CEO

Management

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in writing with the Company at any time.

The auditor is always present at the AGM.

ericsson’s annual general Meeting 2010
1,836 shareholders attended the AGM held on April 13, 2010, 
including shareholders represented by proxy, representing 
approximately 62 percent of the votes. 

The meeting was also attended by the Board of Directors, 
members of the Executive Leadership Team and the external 
auditor.

Decisions of the AGM 2010 included:

 > Payment of a dividend of SEK 2.00 per share for 2009
 > Re-election of Chairman of the Board of Directors, Michael 

Treschow

 > Re-election of members of the Board of Directors, 

Roxanne S. Austin, Sir Peter L. Bonfield, Börje Ekholm, 
Ulf J. Johansson, Sverker Martin-Löf, Marcus Wallenberg, 
Nancy McKinstry, Anders Nyrén and Carl-Henric Svanberg
 > Election of Hans Vestberg and Michelangelo Volpi as new 

members of the Board of Directors

 > Board of Directors’ fees to remain unchanged:

– Chairman: SEK 3,750,000
– Other non-employed Board members: SEK 750,000 each
– Chairman of the Audit Committee: SEK 350,000
–  Other non-employed members of the Audit Committee: 

SEK 250,000 each

–  Chairmen and other non-employed members of the 

Finance and Remuneration committees: SEK 125,000 each
 > Approval for part of the Directors’ fees to be paid in the form 

of synthetic shares

 > Approval of the remuneration policy for senior management
Implementation of a Long-Term Variable Remuneration 
Program.

 >

The minutes of the AGM 2010 are available at: 
www.ericsson.com/res/investors/docs/2010/agm/101119_
minutes_agm.pdf. (Information on the Ericsson website does 
not form part of this Report). 

Business dRiveRs 2009
geneRal MeeTing of shaReholdeRs

general meeting  
of sHareHolders
decision making at general Meetings
The decision-making rights of Ericsson’s shareholders are 
exercised at General Meetings. Most resolutions at General 
Meetings are passed by a simple majority. However, the 
Swedish Companies Act requires qualified majorities in certain 
cases, for example:
 > Amending the articles of association
 > The resolution to transfer own shares to employees 

participating in employee share plans

The annual general Meeting  
of shareholders
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) is held in Stockholm. The 
date and venue for the meeting is announced on the Ericsson 
website no later than in conjunction with the release of the 
third-quarter report.

Shareholders who cannot participate in person may be 
represented by proxy. Only named shareholders registered 
in the share register have voting rights. Nominee-registered 
shareholders who wish to vote may request to be entered into 
the share register by the record date for the AGM.

The AGM is held in Swedish and is simultaneously 
interpreted into English. All documentation provided by the 
Company is available in both Swedish and English. 

The AGM gives shareholders the opportunity to raise 
questions relating to the operations of the Group. Ericsson 
always strives to ensure that the members of the Board 
of Directors and the Group management (the Executive 
Leadership Team) are present to answer such questions. 
Shareholders and other interested parties may also correspond 

annual general 
meeting 2011

Ericsson’s Annual General Meeting 2011 will take place 
on April 13, at the Annex to the Ericsson Globe Arena in 
Stockholm.
Shareholders who wish to have a matter considered at 
the AGM should make a written request to the Board 
in due time before the AGM. Further information on 
Ericsson’s website.

How to contact  
the Board of directors 

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
The Board of Directors’ Secretariat
SE-164 83 Stockholm, Sweden
boardsecretariat@ericsson.com

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Business dRiveRs 2009
noMinaTion CoMMiTTee

Work of the nomination Committee  
for the agM 2011

The Nomination Committee starts its work by going through 
a checklist of all its duties according to the Code and its 
procedure resolved by the AGM. It also sets a time plan for 
its work ahead. As understanding of Ericsson’s business 
is paramount to the members of the Committee, both the 
Chairman of the Board and the President and CEO have 
presented their views to the Committee on the Company’s 
position and strategy.

The Committee has also been thoroughly informed of the 
results of the evaluation of the Board work and procedures, 
including the performance of the Chairman of the Board. From 
this basis the Committee is able to make assessments on the 
competence and experience required by the Board members. 

The Committee has also acquainted itself with the 

assessments made by the Company and the Audit Committee 
in terms of quality and efficiency of external auditor work, 
including recommendations regarding auditors and audit 
fees. Following the Chairman of the Boards’ announcement 
of his intention to resign from the Board, one main focus for 
the Nomination Committee this year has been to nominate a 
successor. As of February 21, 2011 the Nomination Committee 
has held 8 meetings. 

Shareholders may submit proposals to the Nomination 
Committee at any time, but should do so in due time 
before the AGM to ensure that they are considered 
by the Committee. Further information is available on 
Ericsson’s website.

HoW to Contact the 
nomination Committee

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
The Nomination Committee
c/o General Counsel’s Office
SE-164 83 Stockholm, Sweden
nomination.committee@ericsson.com

nomination Committee
A Nomination Committee was elected by the AGM for the 
first time in 2001. Since then, each AGM has appointed a 
Nomination Committee, or resolved on the procedure for 
appointing the Nomination Committee. 

The AGM 2010 resolved that the Nomination Committee 

shall consist of:
 > Representatives of the four largest shareholders by voting 
power by the end of the month in which the AGM was held 

 > The Chairman of the Board of Directors.

However, as described in the procedure for appointing 
members, the Nomination Committee may include additional 
members following a request by a shareholder. The request 
must be justified by changes in the shareholder’s share 
ownership and be received by the Nomination Committee no 
later than December 31. 

Members of the nomination Committee
In addition to the Chairman of the Board of Directors, 
the current Nomination Committee consists of the four 
representatives appointed by the four shareholders with the 
largest voting power as of April 30, 2010: 
 > Jacob Wallenberg (Investor AB, Chairman of the Nomination 

Committeee)

 > Carl-Olof By (AB Industrivärden, Svenska Handelsbankens 

Pensionsstiftelse and Pensionskassan SHB 
Försäkringsförening)

 > Caroline af Ugglas (Livförsäkringsaktiebolaget Skandia)
 > Marianne Nilsson (Swedbank Robur Fonder).

The tasks of the nomination Committee
Over the years the tasks of the Nomination Committee 
have evolved to comply with the requirements of the Code. 
However, the main task of the Committee remains to propose 
candidates for election to the Board of Directors. In doing this, 
the Committee must not only orientate itself on the Company’s 
strategy and future challenges to be able to assess the 
competence and experience that is required by the Board, but 
also consider all applicable rules on the independence of the 
Board of Directors.

It also prepares remuneration proposals for resolution by the 

AGM for:
 > Non-employed Directors elected by the AGM 
 > The auditor
 > Members of the Nomination Committee.

To date, the Committee has not proposed that it should be paid 
any fees. When proposing auditors, the Nomination Committee 
selects candidates in cooperation with the Audit Committee of 
the Board.

The Committee also proposes a candidate for election of the 

Chairman of General Meetings.

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BoaRd of diReCToRs

Board of direCtors 
The Board of Directors is ultimately responsible for the 
organization of Ericsson and the management of its operations. 
It develops guidelines and instructions for day-to-day 
operations, managed by the President and CEO. In turn, the 
President and CEO ensures the Board is updated regularly 
on events of importance to the Group. This includes business 
development, results, financial position and the liquidity of  
the Group.

According to the Articles of Association, the Board of 
Directors shall consist of no less than 5 and no more than 12 
directors, with no more than 6 deputies. In addition, under 
Swedish law, trade unions have the right to appoint three 
directors and their deputies to the Board. 

Directors will serve from the close of one AGM to the close 

of the next, but can serve any number of consecutive terms.

While the President and CEO may be elected as a director of 

the Board, the Swedish Companies Act prohibits the President 
of a public company from being elected Chairman of the Board.

Rules and regulations
Ericsson strictly follows rules and regulations regarding 
conflicts of interest. Directors are disqualified from participating 
in any decision regarding agreements between themselves and 
Ericsson. The same applies for agreements between Ericsson 
and any third party or legal entity in which the Board member 
has an interest. 

In order to ensure compliance with NASDAQ Stock Market 
Rules, the Audit Committee has implemented a procedure on 
related-party transactions. Furthermore, the Audit Committee 
has established a pre-approval process for non-audit services 
carried out by the external auditor.

Composition of the Board of directors

The Board of Directors consists of 12 Directors, including the 
Chairman of the Board, elected by the shareholders at the  
AGM 2010, for the period until the close of the AGM 2011. 
It also includes three employee representatives, each with a 
deputy, appointed by the trade unions for the same period of 
time. The President and CEO, Hans Vestberg, is the only Board 
member who was also a member of Ericsson’s management 
during 2010. 

Work procedure
Pursuant to the Swedish Companies Act, the Board of Directors 
has adopted a work procedure that outlines rules for the 
distribution of tasks between the Board and its Committees as 
well as between the Board, its Committees and the President 
and CEO. This complements the regulation in the Swedish 
Companies Act and the Articles of Association of the Company. 
The work procedure is reviewed, evaluated and adopted by the 
Board at least once a year as required.

independence
The Board of Directors and its Committees are subject to 
a variety of independence requirements. Ericsson applies 
independence rules in applicable Swedish law, the Swedish 
Corporate Governance Code, the NASDAQ Stock Market Rules 
and in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. However, Ericsson has 
sought and received exemptions from certain requirements 
in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and in the NASDAQ Stock Market 
Rules that are contrary to Swedish law.

The composition of the Board of Directors meets all 

applicable independence criteria.

The Nomination Committee concluded before the AGM 
2010 that, for the purposes of the Code, at least six of the 
persons nominated to the Board were independent of Ericsson, 
its senior management and its major shareholders. These were 
Roxanne S. Austin, Sir Peter L. Bonfield, Ulf J. Johansson, 
Nancy McKinstry, Michael Treschow and Michelangelo Volpi.

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BoaRd of diReCToRs

 > Third interim Report Meeting and Board evaluation 

A Board meeting is held at the end of October to handle the 
third-quarter interim report.  
The results of the Board evaluation are presented and 
discussed by the Board during this meeting.

 > Budget and financial outlook Meeting

The last meeting of the calendar year addresses budget 
and financial outlook and a further analysis of internal and 
external risks.

 > full-year financial Results Meeting

At the first meeting of the calendar year the Board focuses 
on the financial result of the entire year and handles the 
fourth-quarter report. 
 > annual Report Meeting

At the second Board meeting in February, which closes 
the yearly cycle of work, the Board concludes the Annual 
Report. 

As the Board is responsible for financial oversight, financials are 
presented and evaluated at each Board meeting. Each Board 
meeting generally also includes reports on committee work by 
the Chairman of each committee. In addition, minutes from the 
committee meetings are distributed to all Directors prior to the 
Board meeting. 

At each Board meeting the President and CEO reports on 

business and market developments as well as the financial 
performance of the Company. The Board is regularly informed 
of developments in legal and regulatory matters of importance. 

structure of the work of the Board of directors

The work of the Board follows a yearly cycle in order to  
address each of the duties of the Board appropriately and to  
be able to keep strategy, risk assessment and value creation 
high on the agenda. 
 > statutory Meeting 

The yearly cycle starts with the statutory Board meeting 
which is held in connection with the AGM. At this meeting, 
members of each of the three Committees are appointed 
and the Board resolves on matters such as signatory power. 

 > first interim Report Meeting

At the next ordinary meeting, the Board handles the first 
interim report for the year. 

 > Main strategy Meeting

Various strategic issues are addressed in most of the Board 
meetings. However, in accordance with the annual cycle 
for the strategy process, this Board meeting is in essence 
dedicated to short and long-term strategies of the Group. 
Following the Board’s input and approval of the overall 
strategy, the strategy is cascaded throughout the entire 
organization, starting at the Global Leadership Summit with 
the top 250 managers in Ericsson.
 second interim Report Meeting 
In July, the Board convenes to handle the interim report for 
the second quarter of the year.

 >

 > follow-up on strategy & Risk Management Meeting 

Following the summer, this meeting addresses particular 
strategy matters in further detail and finally confirms the 
Group strategy. The meeting also addresses the overall risk 
management of the Group. 

The BoaRd’s annual WoRk CyCle

Budget and financial outlook meeting

Q4 meeting
– Financial result of the entire year

Q3 meeting
– Q3 Financial report
– Board work evaluation
– Board training

Q4

Nov

Dec

Jan

Q1

Feb

Annual report meeting
– Board signs the annual report
– Board training

Follow-up Strategy & Risk 
Management Meeting

Oct

Sep

Aug

Q3

Board 
meetings 
– annual cycle

Mar

Apr

Statutory meeting (in connection with AGM)
– Appointment of Committee Members
– Authorization to sign for the Company

Jul

Jun

May

Q2

Q1 meeting
– Q1 Financial report

Q2 meeting 
– Q2 Financial report

Main Strategy meeting

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BoaRd of diReCToRs

auditor involvement

Board work evaluation

A key objective of the Board evaluation is to ensure that 
the Board is functioning well. This includes gaining an 
understanding of the issues which the Board thinks warrant 
greater scope and determining areas within the Board where 
additional competence is needed. The evaluation also serves as 
guidance for the work of the Nomination Committee.

Each year, the Chairman of the Board initiates and leads  
the evaluation of Board and Committee work and procedures. 
The evaluation tools include detailed questionnaires, interviews 
and discussions.

In 2010, the Chairman held individual meetings with all the 

Directors, following their response to two separate written 
questionnaires, one covering the Board work in general and 
the other the Chairman’s performance. The Chairman was not 
involved in the development, compilation or evaluation of the 
questionnaire which related to his performance, nor was he 
present when his performance was evaluated. The evaluations 
were thoroughly discussed and an action plan was developed 
in order to further improve the work of the Board. 

Committees of tHe  
Board of direCtors
The Board of Directors has established three Committees: 
the Audit Committee, the Finance Committee and the 
Remuneration Committee. Members of each Committee 
are appointed for one year amongst the Board members 
in accordance with the principles set forth in the Swedish 
Companies Act and the Code.

The work of the Committees is mainly to prepare matters 

for final resolution by the Board. However, the Board has 
authorized each Committee to determine certain issues in 
limited areas. It may also on occasion provide extended 
authorization to determine specific matters.

If deemed appropriate, the Board of Directors and each 
Committee have the right to engage external expertise, either in 
general or in respect to specific matters.

Prior to every Board meeting, each Committee submits, in 

addition to minutes, a written summary to the Board on the 
issues handled or resolved since the previous ordinary Board 
meeting. In addition to the minutes and the written summary, 
the Chairman of the Committee also reports on the Committee 
work at each Board meeting.

The Board meets with Ericsson’s external auditor at least once 
a year to receive and consider the auditor’s observations. The 
auditor prepares reports for the management on the accounting 
and financial reporting practices of the Group.

The Audit Committee also meets with the auditor to receive 

and consider observations on the interim reports. The auditor 
has been instructed to report on whether the accounts, the 
management of funds and the general financial position of the 
Group are well controlled in all material respects. 

The Board also reviews and assesses the process for 
financial reporting, as described later in “Internal control over 
financial reporting 2010”. Combined with the internal controls, 
the Board’s and the auditor’s review of interim and annual 
reports are deemed to give reasonable assurance on the quality 
of the financial reporting.

Training of the Board of directors 
All new Directors receive comprehensive training tailored to 
their individual requirements. Introductory training typically 
includes meetings with the heads of the major businesses and 
functions and training arranged by NASDAQ OMX Stockholm 
on listing issues and insider rules. In addition, full-day training 
sessions are held twice a year for all Directors. The sessions 
enhance their knowledge of specific operations and issues 
as appropriate to ensure that the Board has knowledge and 
understanding at the forefront of technical development.
As a rule, the Board receives Sustainability and Corporate 
Responsibility training at least once a year. 
Key focus areas in Board training 2010 were:
 > Radio Technology, including R&D strategy and intellectual 

property rights

 > Major trends impacting the competitive landscape.

Work of the Board of directors in 2010
Ten Board meetings were held in 2010.  For attendance at 
Board meetings see the table on page 143. Among the matters 
addressed by the Board this year (apart from regular matters in 
the annual Board work cycle) were :
 > A more consolidated and efficient go-to-market model with 

10 Regions instead of 23 Market Units 

 > A redefined management team, the Executive Leadership 

Team, including two regional heads

 > Continued effects of the general financial uncertainty in  

the market

 > The causes and consequences of the general shortage of 
components that telecom equipment providers, including 
Ericsson, have experienced during the year

 > The rollout of the multi-standard radio base station RBS 
6000 – Ericsson’s first multi-standard base station. 

 > A number of acquisitions and divestments, including the 
acquisition of Nortel’s stake in the joint venture LG-Nortel.

140  |  coRpoRAtE govERnAncE REpoRt 2010  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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CoMMiTTees of The  
BoaRd of diReCToRs

Alleged violations are investigated by Ericsson’s internal audit 
function in conjunction with the relevant Group Function. 
Information regarding any incidents are reported to the Audit 
Committee. The report includes measures taken, details of the 
responsible Group Function and the status of any investigation.

MeMBeRs of The audiT CoMMiTTee

The Audit Committee consists of four Board members 
appointed by the Board. In 2010, the Audit Committee 
comprised Ulf J. Johansson (Chairman of the Committee), 
Roxanne S. Austin, Sir Peter L. Bonfield and Jan Hedlund. 
All members are independent from the Company and 
senior management, except Jan Hedlund, who is appointed 
Board member by the unions pursuant to Swedish mandatory 
law. Each member is financially literate and familiar with the 
accounting practices of an international company such as 
Ericsson. At least one member must be an audit committee 
financial expert, in accordance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, 
Section 407. The Board of Directors has determined that Ulf 
J. Johansson, Roxanne S. Austin and Sir Peter L. Bonfield all 
satisfy this requirement. 

Former authorized public accountant, Peter Markborn,  
is appointed external expert advisor to assist and advise the 
Audit Committee.

WoRk of The audiT CoMMiTTee

The Audit Committee held eight meetings in 2010. Directors’ 
attendance is reflected in the table on page 143. During the 
year, the Audit Committee reviewed the scope and results of 
external financial audits and the independence of the external 
auditor. It also monitored the external audit fees and approved 
non-audit services performed by the external auditor.

Certain additional non-audit services performed by the 

external auditor were approved by the Audit Committee 
Chairman under the Committee’s pre-approval policies and 
procedures. The Committee approved the annual audit plan 
for the internal audit function and reviewed its reports. Prior to 
publishing, the Committee also reviewed and discussed each 
interim report with the external auditor.

The Committee monitored the continued compliance with 

the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and the internal control and risk 
management process. It has also reviewed certain related-party 
transactions in accordance with its established process. 

audit Committee

On behalf of the Board, the Audit Committee monitors 
the following:
 > The scope and correctness of the financial statements
 > Compliance with legal and regulatory requirements

Internal control over financial reporting

 >
 > Risk management.

The Audit Committee also reviews the annual and interim 
financial reports and oversees the external audit process, 
including audit fees. This involves:
 > Reviewing, with management and the external auditor, the 

financial statements. This includes conformity with generally 
accepted accounting principles

 > Reviewing, with management, the reasonableness of 

significant estimates and judgments made in preparing the 
financial statements, as well as the quality of the disclosures 
in the financial statements

 > Reviewing matters arising from reviews and audits performed. 

The Audit Committee itself does not perform audit work. 
Ericsson has an internal audit function which reports to the Audit 
Committee and performs independent audits.

When applicable, the Committee is also involved in the 

preparatory work of proposing candidates for the election of the 
auditor. It also monitors Group transactions and the ongoing 
performance and independence of the auditor. This avoids 
conflicts of interest. 

In order to ensure the auditor’s independence, the Audit 

Committee has established pre-approval policies and  
procedures for non-audit related services to be performed  
by the external auditor. Pre-approval authority may not be 
delegated to management. 

Also in place are the following:

 > A process for reviewing transactions with related parties
 > A whistleblower procedure for the reporting of violations 

relating to accounting, internal control and auditing matters.

oRganizaTion of The BoaRd WoRk

Board of Directors
15 Directors

Finance
Committee
(4 Directors)

> Financing
> Investing
> Customer credits

Remuneration
Committee
(4 Directors)

> Remuneration policy
> Long-Term Variable 
  Remuneration
> Executive 
   compensation

Audit
Committee
(4 Directors)

> Oversight over 
  financial reporting
> Oversight over 
internal control
> Oversight over 
  auditing

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CoMMiTTees of The  
BoaRd of diReCToRs

finance Committee

MeMBeRs of The CoMMiTTees

The Finance Committee is primarily responsible for:
 > Handling matters related to acquisitions and divestments
 > Handling capital contributions to companies inside and 

outside the Ericsson Group

 > Raising of loans, issuances of guarantees and similar 
undertakings, and the approval of financial support to 
customers and suppliers

 > Continuously monitoring the Group’s financial risk exposure.

The Finance Committee is authorized to determine matters 
such as: 
 > Direct or indirect financing
 > Provision of credits
 > Granting of securities and guarantees 
 > Certain investments, divestments and financial 

commitments.

MeMBeRs of The finanCe CoMMiTTee

The Finance Committee consists of four Board members as 
appointed by the Board. In 2010, the Finance Committee 
comprised: Marcus Wallenberg (Chairman of the Committee), 
Anna Guldstrand, Anders Nyrén and Michael Treschow. 

WoRk of The finanCe CoMMiTTee in 2010

The Finance Committee held nine meetings in 2010. Directors’ 
attendance is reflected in the table on page 143. During the 
year the Finance Committee has approved numerous customer 
finance and credit facility arrangements with a continued focus 
on capital structure, cash flow and cash generating ability. It 
has also continuously monitored Ericsson’s financial position 
and credit exposure.

Remuneration Committee
The Remuneration Committee’s main responsibility is to prepare 
for resolution by the Board of Directors matters regarding salary 
and other remuneration. This includes pension benefits of the 
President and CEO, the Executive Vice Presidents and other 
officers who report directly to the President and CEO. Other 
responsibilities include:
 > Developing, monitoring and evaluating strategies and 

general guidelines for employee remuneration, including 
short-term variable remuneration and pension benefits
 > Reviewing the results of short-term variable remuneration 

plans before pay out

 > Preparation of the long-term variable remuneration  

program for referral to the Board and resolution by the 
General Meeting

 > Preparation of targets for short-term variable remuneration 

for the following year, for resolution by the Board.

To achieve this, the Committee holds annual remuneration 
reviews with Company representatives. These reviews 
determine the strategic direction, and align program designs 
and pay policies with the business objectives. 

142  |  coRpoRAtE govERnAncE REpoRt 2010  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

Members of the Committees of the Board of Directors 2010

Audit
Committee

Finance
Committee

Remuneration
Committee

> Ulf J Johansson
  (Chairman)
> Roxanne S. Austin
> Sir Peter L. Bonfield
> Jan Hedlund

> Marcus Wallenberg
  (Chairman)
> Anna Guldstrand
> Anders Nyrén
> Michael Treschow

> Michael Treschow
  (Chairman)
> Börje Ekholm
> Nancy McKinstry
> Karin Åberg

Consideration is given to trends in remuneration, legislative 
changes, disclosure rules and the general global environment 
surrounding executive pay. The Committee reviews salary survey 
data before approving any salary adjustment for CEO direct 
reports. In addition the Committee prepares salary adjustments 
for the President and CEO for resolution by the Board.

MeMBeRs of The ReMuneRaTion CoMMiTTee

The Remuneration Committee consists of four Board members 
as appointed by the Board. In 2010, the Remuneration 
Committee comprised: Michael Treschow (Chairman of the 
Committee), Börje Ekholm, Nancy McKinstry, and Karin Åberg.

Gerrit Aronson is appointed by the Remuneration Committee 

as an independent expert advisor to assist the Committee, 
particularly regarding international trends and developments.

WoRk of The ReMuneRaTion CoMMiTTee in 2010

The Remuneration Committee held eight meetings in 2010. 
Directors’ attendance is reflected in the table on page 143.

The Committee reviewed and prepared for resolution by the 

Board a proposal for the Long-Term Variable Remuneration 
Program 2010. This was approved by the AGM 2010. The 
Committee further resolved on salaries and short term variable 
pay for 2010 for CEO direct reports and prepared for resolution 
by the Board remuneration to the President and CEO, Hans 
Vestberg. The Committee also prepared a remuneration policy 
which was subsequently referred by the Board to the AGM  
for approval.

Towards the end of the year, the Committee concluded 
its analysis of the current long-term variable remuneration 
structure and remuneration policy. The resulting proposals will 
be referred to the AGM 2011 for resolution.

For further information on remuneration, fixed and variable 

pay, please see Note C29 “Information Regarding Members 
of the Board of Directors, the Group management and 
Employees” in the Annual Report and the “Remuneration 
Report” included the Annual Report.

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ReMuneRaTion To BoaRd MeMBeRs

remuneration  
to Board memBers
Remuneration to Board members not employed by the 
Company is proposed by the Nomination Committee for 
resolution by the Annual General Meeting.
The Annual General Meeting 2010 approved the Nomination 
Committee’s proposal for fees to the non-employed Board 
members for Board and Committee work. For information on 
Board of Directors’ fees 2010, please refer to Notes to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C29 “Information 
Regarding Members of the Board of Directors, the Group 
Management and Employees” in the Annual Report. The 
Annual General Meeting 2010 also approved the Nomination 
Committee’s proposal that Board members may be paid part of 
their Board fee in the form of synthetic shares. 
A synthetic share gives the right to receive a future cash 
payment of an amount which corresponds to the market value 
of a class B share in Ericsson at the time of payment. The 
purpose of paying part of the Board of Director’s fee in the form 
of synthetic shares is to further align the Directors’ interest with 
shareholder interest. For more information on the terms and 
conditions of the synthetic shares, please refer to the notice 
convening the Annual General Meeting 2010  at www.ericsson.
com/thecompany/investors/general-meetings. (Information on 
the Ericsson website does not form part of this document.)

diReCToRs’ aTTendanCe and fees 2010

Board member

Board fees 1)

Committee fees Board

audit Committee

finance Committee

Remuneration Committee

fees resolved by the agM 2010

number of Board/Committee meetings attended

Michael Treschow
Sverker Martin-Löf
Marcus Wallenberg
Roxanne S. Austin
Sir Peter L. Bonfield
Börje Ekholm

Ulf J. Johansson
Nancy McKinstry
Anders Nyrén
Carl-Henric Svanberg
Hans Vestberg
Michelangelo Volpi 2)
Anna Guldstrand
Jan Hedlund
Karin Åberg 
Monica Bergström 3)
Pehr Claesson
Kristina Davidsson
Karin Lennartsson 4)
Total number of meetings

3,750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000

750,000
750,000
750,000
750,000
–
750,000

15,000 5)
15,000 5)
15,000 5)
4,500 5)
15,000 5)
15,000 5)
10,500 5)

250,000

125,000
250,000
250,000
125,000

350,000
125,000
125,000

10
10
9
7
10
9

10
10
10
8
8
6
10
10
10
3
10
10
7
10

6
8

8

8

8

9

9

9

9

9

1)  Non-employed Directors can choose to receive part of their Board fee (exclusive of Committee fees) in the form of synthetic shares.

2)  Elected as Board member as of April 13, 2010.

2)  Resigned as Deputy employee representative as of April 13, 2010.

3)  Deputy employee representative as of April 13, 2010.

5)  Employee representative Board members and their deputies are not entitled to a Board fee but a compensation in the amount of SEK 1,500 per attended Board meeting.

8

7

7

8

8

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  coRpoRAtE govERnAncE REpoRt 2010  |  143

members of the board of directors

members of the  
board of directors

board members elected by the annual General meeting 2010

michael treschow (first elected 2002). Chairman of the Board of Directors.
Chairman of the Remuneration Committee. Member of the Finance Committee.
Born 1943. Master of Science, Lund Institute of Technology, Sweden. 
board chairman: Unilever NV, and Unilever PLC. 
board member: ABB Ltd and the Knut and Alice Wallenberg Foundation.
holdings in ericsson 1): 164,008 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: Board Chairman of the 
Confederation of Swedish Enterprise 2004–2007. President and CEO of AB 
Electrolux 1997–2002 and Chairman of its Board of Directors 2004–2007. Earlier 
experience includes positions in Atlas Copco, where he served as President and 
CEO 1991–1997. Member of the Royal Academy of Engineering Sciences.

marcus Wallenberg (first elected 1996). Deputy Chairman of the Board of 
Directors. Chairman of the Finance Committee. 
Born 1956. Bachelor of Science of Foreign Service, Georgetown University, USA.
board chairman: Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken, Saab AB and AB Electrolux.
board member: AstraZeneca PLC, Stora Enso Oy, the Knut and Alice Wallenberg 
Foundation and Temasek Holdings Limited. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 1,200 Class A shares and 140,800 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: Positions in Investor AB, where
he served as President and CEO 1999–2005. Prior to this he was Executive Vice 
President at Investor. Previous employers include Stora Feldmühle AG, Citicorp, 
Citibank and Deutsche Bank.

sverker martin-Löf (first elected 1993). Deputy Chairman of the Board
of Directors.
Born 1943. Doctor of Technology and Master of Engineering, Royal Institute of
Technology, Stockholm.
board chairman: Skanska AB, Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget SCA, SSAB and 
AB Industrivärden. 
board member: Svenska Handelsbanken.
holdings in ericsson 1): 10,400 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: President and CEO of Svenska 
Cellulosa Aktiebolaget SCA 1990–2002, where he was employed 1977–1983 and 
1986–2002. Previous positions at Sunds Defibrator and Mo och Domsjö AB.

roxanne s. austin (first elected 2008). Member of the Audit Committee.
Born 1961. B.B.A. in Accounting, University of Texas, San Antonio, USA.
board member: Abbott Laboratories, Teledyne Technologies Inc.
and Target Corporation. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 3,000 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: President of Austin Investment 
Advisors since 2004. President and CEO of Move Networks Inc. 2009–2010. 
President and CEO of DIRECTV 2001–2003. Corporate Senior Vice President and 
Chief Financial Officer of Hughes Electronics Corporation 1997–2000, which she 
joined in 1993. Previously a partner at Deloitte & Touche. Member of the board of 
trustees of the California Science Center. Member of the California State Society 
of certified Public Accountants and the American Institute of Certified Public 
Accountants. 

michael treschow

marcus Wallenberg

sverker martin-Löf

roxanne s. austin

144  |  corporate governance report 2010  ericsson annual report 2010   

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business drivers 2009
members of the board of directors

sir Peter L. bonfield 

börje ekholm 

ulf J. Johansson 

sir Peter L. bonfield (first elected 2002). Member of the Audit Committee.
Born 1944. Honors degree in Engineering, Loughborough University, 
Leicestershire, UK.  
board chairman: NXP Semiconductors.
deputy chairman: British Quality Foundation.
board member: Mentor Graphics Inc., Sony Corporation, TSMC
and Actis Capital LLP.
holdings in ericsson 1): 4,400 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: CEO and Chairman of the 
Executive Committee of British Telecommunications plc. 1996–2002. Chairman 
and CEO of ICL plc 1990–1996. Positions with STC plc and Texas Instruments 
Inc. Member of the Advisory Boards of New Venture Partners LLP, the Longreach 
Group and Apax Partners LLP. Board Mentor of CMi. Senior Advisor, Rothschild, 
London. Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering.

börje ekholm (first elected 2006) Member of the Remuneration Committee.
Born 1963. Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, Royal Institute of 
Technology, Stockholm. Master of Business Administration, INSEAD, France.
board chairman: Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm.
board member: Investor AB, AB Chalmersinvest, EQT Partners AB, Husqvarna 
AB, Lindorff Group AB, the Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm and Scania. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 30,760 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: President and CEO of 
Investor AB since 2005. Formerly Head of Investor Growth Capital Inc. and New 
Investments. Previous positions at Novare Kapital AB and McKinsey & Co Inc.

ulf J. Johansson (first elected 2005) Chairman of the Audit Committee.
Born 1945. Doctor of Technology and Master of Science in Electrical Engineering,
Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm. 
board chairman: Acando AB, Eurostep Group AB, Novo A/S,
Novo Nordisk Foundation, and Trimble Navigation Ltd. 
board member: Jump Tap Inc.
holdings in ericsson 1): 6,435 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: Founder of Europolitan 
Vodafone AB, where he was the Chairman of the Board 1990–2005. Previous 
positions at Spectra-Physics AB as President and CEO and at Ericsson Radio 
Systems AB. Member of the Royal Academy of Engineering Sciences.

nancy mcKinstry (first elected 2004) Member of the Remuneration Committee.
Born 1959. Master of Business Administration in Finance and Marketing, 
Columbia University, USA. Bachelor of Arts in Economics, University of Rhode 
Island, USA.
board chairman: CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board of Wolters Kluwer n.v.
board member: TiasNimbas Business School.
holdings in ericsson 1): 4,000 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: CEO and Chairman of 
the Executive Board of Wolters Kluwer n.v. President and CEO of CCH Legal 
Information Services 1996–1999. Previous positions at Booz, Allen & Hamilton, 
and New England Telephone Company. Member of the Advisory Board of the 
University of Rhode Island, the Advisory Council of the Amsterdam Institute 
of Finance, the Dutch Advisory Council of INSEAD, the Board of Overseers of 
Columbia Business School and the Advisory Board of the Harrington School of 
Communication and Media.

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nancy mcKinstry 

ericsson annual report 2010  corporate governance report 2010  |  145

business drivers 2009
members of the board of directors

anders nyrén (first elected 2006) Member of the Finance Committee.
Born 1954. Graduate of Stockholm School of Economics, Master of Business 
Administration from Anderson School of Management, UCLA, USA.
board chairman: Sandvik AB. Vice Chairman Svenska Handelsbanken.
board member: Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget SCA, AB Industrivärden, 
SSAB, AB Volvo, Ernströmgruppen and Stockholm School of Economics.            
holdings in ericsson 1): 6,686 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: President and CEO of 
Industrivärden since 2001. CFO and EVP of Skanska AB 1997–2001. Director 
Capital Markets of Nordbanken 1996–1997. CFO and EVP of Securum AB 1992–
1996. Managing Director of OM International AB 1987–1992. Earlier positions at 
STC Scandinavian Trading Co AB and AB Wilhelm Becker.

carl-henric svanberg (first elected 2003)
Born 1952. Master of Science, Linköping Institute of Technology. Bachelor of 
Science in Business Administration, University of Uppsala. 
board chairman: BP p.l.c. 
board member: Melker Schörling AB and University of Uppsala.
holdings in ericsson 1): 3,234,441 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: President and CEO of 
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson 2003-2009. President and CEO of Assa Abloy 
AB 1994–2003. Various positions within Securitas AB 1986–1994 and Asea 
Brown Boveri (ABB) 1977–1985. Member of the Steering Committee of the Global 
Alliance for Information and Communication Technologies and Development 
(GAID), the External Advisory Board of the Earth Institute at Columbia University 
and the Advisory Board of Harvard Kennedy School. Holds Honorary Doctorates 
at Luleå University of Technology and Linköping University and is the recipient of 
the King of Sweden’s medal for his contribution to Swedish industry.

hans vestberg  (first elected 2010)
Born 1965. Bachelor of Business Administration and Economics, 
University of Uppsala.
board chairman: ST-Ericsson and Svenska Handbollförbundet.
board member: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications AB and Thernlunds AB. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 54,368 Class B shares.
Principal work experience and other information: President and CEO as of 
January 1, 2010. First Executive Vice President until December 31, 2009. Chief 
Financial Officer and Head of Group Function Finance until October 31, 2009. 
Previously Executive Vice President and Head of Business Unit Global Services. 
Has held various positions in the Company since 1988, including Vice President 
and Head of Market Unit Mexico and Head of Finance and Control in USA, Brazil 
and Chile.

michelangelo volpi (first elected 2010)
Born 1966. Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering and Masters in 
Manufacturing Systems Engineering from Stanford University, USA. MBA from the 
Stanford Graduate School of Business, USA.  
board member: None.
holdings in ericsson 1): None.
Principal work experience and other information: Partner at Index Ventures since 
July 2009. Previously CEO of Joost Inc.. Employed by Cisco from 1994-2007 in 
positions including Senior Vice President & General Manager of the Routing and 
Service Provider Technology Group and Chief Strategy Officer. Has also worked 
for Hewlett Packard in the optoelectronics division.

anders nyrén 

carl-henric svanberg 

hans vestberg 

michelangelo volpi 

146  |  corporate governance report 2010  ericsson annual report 2010   

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business drivers 2009
members of the board of directors

members of the  
board of directors

board members and deputies appointed by the unions

Jan hedlund (first appointed 1994)
Employee representative, Member of the Audit Committee
Born 1946. Appointed by the IF Metall union. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 964 Class B shares. 
Employed since 1982. Previously working with model production  
mechanics within Business Unit Networks and currently working full  
time as union representative.

anna Guldstrand (first appointed 2004)
Employee representative, Member of the Finance Committee
Born 1964. Appointed by the union The Swedish Association of  
Graduate Engineers. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 1,667 Class B shares.
Employed since 1996. Working as knowledge manager within Business  
Unit Global Services.

Karin Åberg (first appointed 2007)
Employee representative, Member of the Remuneration Committee
Born 1959. Appointed by the union Unionen. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 1,900 Class B shares.
Employed since 1995. Working as Service Engineer within Business  
Unit Global Services.

Kristina davidsson (first appointed 2006)
Deputy employee representative
Born 1955. Appointed by the IF Metall union. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 1,146 Class B shares. 
Employed since 1995. Previously working as repairman within Business  
Unit Networks and currently working full time as union representative. 

Pehr claesson (first appointed 2008)
Deputy employee representative 
Born 1966. Appointed by the union The Swedish Association of Graduate 
Engineers. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 619 Class B shares
Employed since 1997. Working with marketing and communication for  
Consulting and Systems Integration within Business Unit Global Services.

Karin Lennartsson (first appointed 2010)
Deputy employee representative
Born 1957. Appointed by the Unionen union. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 328 Class B shares.
Employed since 1976. Working as Process Expert within Group Function Finance 
– Process and Quality.

Hans Vestberg was the only Director who held an operational management position 
at Ericsson in 2010. No Director has been elected pursuant to an arrangement or 
understanding with any major shareholder, customer, supplier or other person.

Jan hedlund

anna Guldstrand

Karin Åberg

Kristina davidsson

Pehr claesson

1) The number of Class B shares (and Class A shares, if applicable) includes holdings by related natural or legal 

persons and American Depositary Receipts, where applicable.

Karin Lennartsson

ericsson annual report 2010  corporate governance report 2010  |  147

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business drivers 2009
comPany manaGement

company management

the President/ceo and Group management

The Board of Directors appoints the President and CEO and 
the Executive Vice Presidents. The President and CEO is 
responsible for the management of day-to-day operations and 
is supported by the Group management, called the Executive 
Leadership Team (ELT). In addition to the President and 
CEO, the ELT consists of heads of Group functions, heads of 
business units, two regional heads and the Chief Brand Officer.
The role of the ELT is to:
 > Establish a long-term vision, a strong corporate culture and 
group strategies and policies, all based on objectives stated 
by the Board

 > Determine targets for operational units, allocate resources 

and monitor unit performance

 > Secure operational excellence and realize global synergies 

through efficient organization of the Group.

remuneration of the executive Leadership team 
A Remuneration policy including guidelines on remuneration and 
other employment terms for the ELT were approved by the AGM 
2010. For further information on fixed and variable remuneration, 
see the Remuneration Report and Notes to the Consolidated 
Financial Statements – Note C29, “Information Regarding 
Members of the Board of Directors, the Group management and 
Employees” in the Annual Report.

the ericsson Group management system 
The CEO and heads of Group functions have implemented a 
management system to ensure that the business is managed:
 > So that the objectives of Ericsson’s major stakeholders 

(customers, shareholders, employees) are fulfilled

 > Within established risk limits and with reliable internal control
 > So the Company is compliant with applicable laws, listing 

requirements and governance codes and fulfills its corporate 
social responsibilities.

ericsson GrouP manaGement system

Ericsson is ISO 9001 (quality) and ISO 14001 (environment)
globally certified and ISO 27001 (information security) certified 
in selected units. Certification to OHSAS 18001 (health & safety) 
is ongoing. The management system is an important foundation 
and is continuously evaluated and improved in line with ISO 
requirements.

The Ericsson Group Management System comprises three 

elements:
 > Management and control: corporate culture, objective 

setting, strategy formulation and steering documents such 
as Group policies and directives

 > Operational processes and IT tools: to support operational 

excellence and leverage Ericsson’s scale advantages

 > Organization and resources.

Risk management is an integrated part of the Ericsson Group 
Management System. 

manaGement and controL

strategy, targets and monitoring

Ericsson uses balanced scorecards as tools for translating 
strategic objectives into a set of performance indicators for its 
operational units. These focus primarily on:
 > Market and customer performance
 > Competitive position
Internal efficiency
 >
 > Financial performance
 > Employee satisfaction and empowerment.

Based on the annual strategy work, these scorecards are 
updated with targets for each unit for the next year and 
communicated throughout the organization. The balanced 
scorecard is also used as a management tool to align operating 
unit and individual goals to Company goals, follow up progress 
and monitor identified risks.

Demands 
and Expectations

Objectives
Strategies

Performance
Improvement

Customers
Key Stakeholders
Business Environment

Management and Control
Vision 

Policies and Directives

Corporate Culture

Satisfaction through 
Value Deliverables

Results

Performance
Evaluation

The Ericsson Business Processes
IT 

Organization and Resources 

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comPany manaGement

ericsson’s core vaLues

organization and resources

Professionalism

Respect

Perseverance

corporate culture

Corporate culture has long been acknowledged as an important 
factor for driving behavior, not only for compliance but also 
in communication, decision making, efficiency and reaching 
objectives. Respect, professionalism and perseverance are 
the values that underpin Ericsson’s culture, guiding daily 
work, relationships and business. Consequently, executive 
management makes the communication and development of 
Ericsson’s culture a key task in the management of the Group.

Group policies and directives

Group-wide policies and directives govern how the 
organization works. These include a Code of Business Ethics, 
policies on roles and responsibilities, segregation of duties, 
capital expenditures, management of intellectual property 
rights, financial reporting, environmental matters, and risk 
management.

Ericsson is operated in two dimensions:
 > Legal entities: more than 200 companies in more than 100 

countries

 > Operational units: Four business units and ten regions.

In addition, Group functions coordinate Ericsson’s strategies, 
operations and resource allocation and define the necessary 
directives, processes and organization for the effective 
governance of the Group.

risk management

Ericsson’s risk management is integrated with the business 
and its operational processes and is a part of the Ericsson 
Group Management System to ensure accountability, 
effectiveness, efficiency, business continuity and compliance 
with corporate governance, legal and other requirements. The 
Board of Directors is also actively engaged in the Company’s 
risk management. Risks related to set long-term objectives 
are discussed and strategies are formally approved by the 
Board as part of the annual strategy process. Risks related 
to annual targets for the Company are also reviewed by the 
Board and then monitored continuously during the year. 
Certain transactional risks require specific Board approval, 
e.g. acquisitions, management remuneration, borrowing or 
customer finance in excess of pre-defined limits. 

operational processes and it tools

strateGic and tacticaL risKs

As a market leader, Ericsson tries to utilize the competitive 
advantages that are gained through scale and has implemented 
common processes and IT tools across all its operational 
units. Through management and continuous improvement of 
these processes and IT tools, Ericsson reduces costs with 
standardized internal controls and performance indicators.

Strategic risks constitute the highest risk to the Company 
if not managed properly as they could have a long-term 
impact. Ericsson therefore reviews its long-term objectives, 
main strategies and business scope on an annual basis and 
continuously works on the tactics to reach these objectives and 
mitigate any risks identified.

strateGic, tarGet settinG and risK manaGement cycLe

Board Target Approval
Review of one-year risks     

Group Management Strategy directives
       Quantitative and qualitative situation analysis

Target Setting 
(12 month horizon) Related risk    
identification and mitigation        

Q4

Nov

Dec

Jan

Oct

Sep

New Business 
Development

Q1

 Group Strategy Development
    (five year perspective)

Feb

Mar

Apr

Board Follow-up 
Strategy and Risk 
Management meeting

Q3

Aug

May

Q2

Jul

Jun

      Business Unit & Group
    Function Strategy planning
Strategic risk identification and mitigation

Board Main Strategy Meeting

Quarterly risk monitoring

Global Strategy Conference for senior management

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comPany manaGement

In the annual strategy and target setting process, objectives 

are set for the next five years, risks and opportunities are 
assessed and strategies are developed to achieve the 
objectives. The strategy process in the Company is well 
established and involves regions, business units and Group 
functions. The strategy is finally summarized and discussed in 
a yearly senior management meeting with approximately 250 
managers from all parts of the business. By involving all parts  
of the business in the process, potential risks are identified 
early and mitigating actions can be incorporated in the strategy 
and in the annual target process following the finalization of  
the strategy. 

Technology development, industry and market fundamentals 

as well as the development of the economy are key 
components in the evaluation of risks related to Ericsson’s 
long-term objectives. 

The outcome from the strategy process forms the basis for 

the annual target process which involves regions, business 
units and Group functions. Risks and opportunities linked to 
the targets are identified as part of this process together with 
actions to mitigate the identified risks. Follow-up of targets, 
risks and mitigating actions are reported and discussed 
continuously in business unit and region steering groups as well 
as being reviewed by the Board of Directors. 

The Company has been using the Balanced Scorecard 
concept to structure its targets, risks and opportunities for 
many years. For 2010 risks and opportunities were identified 
and analyzed in the five balanced scorecard perspectives. For 
more information on risks related to Ericsson’s business, see 
Risk Factors.

oPerationaL and financiaL risKs

Operational risks are owned and managed by operational 
units. Risk management is embedded in various process 
controls, such as decision tollgates and approvals. Certain 
cross-process risks, such as information security/IT, corporate 

responsibility & business continuity and insurable risks are 
centrally coordinated. Financial risk management is governed 
by a Group policy and carried out by the Treasury and 
Customer Finance functions, both supervised by the Finance 
Committee. The policy governs risk exposures related to  
foreign exchange, liquidity/financing, interest rates, credit 
risk and market price risk in equity instruments. For further 
information on financial risk management, see Notes to 
the Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C14, “Trade 
Receivables and Customer Finance”, Note C19, “Interest-
Bearing Liabilities” and Note C20, “Financial Risk Management 
and Financial Instruments”. 

comPLiance risKs

Ericsson has implemented Group policies and directives to 
ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, 
including a Code of Business Ethics and a Code of Conduct. 
Risk management is integrated in the Company’s business 
processes. Policies and controls are implemented to ensure 
compliance with financial reporting standards and stock market
regulations, e.g. the US Sarbanes-Oxley Act.

monitorinG and audits

Company management monitors the compliance with policies, 
directives and processes through internal self-assessment 
within all units. This is complemented by internal and external 
audits. External financial audits are performed by PwC, and 
ISO/management system audits by Det Norske Veritas, DNV. 
Internal audits are performed by the company’s internal audit 
function which reports to the Audit Committee. Audits of 
suppliers are also conducted in order to secure compliance 
with agreed key performance indicators and Ericsson’s  
Code of Conduct which is mandatory for suppliers to the 
Ericsson Group. 

Process to identify and manaGe oPerationaL risKs for reGions and business units

Leadership Team meeting and workshop

Preparations

Establish gross list

Prioritize risks

Assign responsibility

Manage risks

> Group similar risks together
> Rank
> Prioritize

Assign responsibility for 
managing each top risk to a 
Leadership Team member

Develop mitigation actions 
(Leadership Team member)
Secure risk reviews in 
connection with performance 
reviews

Compile input:
> Business plan/Growth plan 

SWOT and risks

> Previously identified risks
> Scorecard and target 

descriptions

> Preparatory meeting/ 

workshop

> BCM for local operation

Consider each scorecard 
perspective
Consider risk areas to make 
additions to list:
> External environment 

(e.g. political risk)

> Customers
> Competitors
> Suppliers/subcontractors
> Internal operations
> Competence
> Contractual conditions
> Product roadmaps

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business drivers 2009

members of the  
eXecutive LeadershiP team

members of the eXecUtiVe Leadership team 

c

b

e

h

J

f

i

L

m

a

d

g

K

n

a   angel ruiz

b   carl olof blomqvist 
c   douglas L. Gilstrap 

d   bina chaurasia
e   magnus mandersson
f   hans vestberg
g   Jan Wäreby

h   mats h. olsson

i

  Jan frykhammar

J   rima Qureshi
K   cesare avenia 

L   henry sténson
m   Johan Wibergh
n   håkan eriksson

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business drivers 2009
members of the  
eXecutive LeadershiP team

business drivers 2009

a   angel ruiz 

e   magnus mandersson

senior vice President and head of business unit Global 
services (since 2010).
Born 1959.
Bachelor of Business Administration, University of Lund.
holdings in ericsson 1): 8,605 Class B shares.
background: Previously Head of Business Unit CDMA, 
Head of Market Unit Northern Europe and Global 
Customer Account Deutsche Telekom AG.

f   hans vestberg

President and ceo (since January 1, 2010). 
Born 1965.
Bachelor of Business Administration, University of 
Uppsala.  
board member: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications 
AB and Thernlunds AB.
chairman: ST-Ericsson and Svenska Handbollförbundet. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 54,368  Class B shares. 
background: Chief Financial Officer and Head of Group 
Function Finance until October 31, 2009. Previously 
Executive Vice President and Head of Business Unit 
Global Services. Has held various positions in the 
Company since 1988, including Vice President and Head 
of Market Unit Mexico and Head of Finance and Control in 
USA, Brazil and Chile. 

g   Jan Wäreby

senior vice President and head of business unit 
multimedia (since 2007).
Born 1956.
Master of Science, Chalmers University, Göteborg. 
board member: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications 
AB, ST-Ericsson. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 47,551 Class B shares.
background: Executive Vice President and Head of Sales 
and Marketing for Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications 
from 2002-2006.

head of region north america (since 2010). 
Born 1956.
Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from University 
of Central Florida and a Master’s degree in Management 
Science and Information Systems from Johns Hopkins 
University, USA.
holdings in ericsson 1): 21,688  Class B shares. 
background: Previously Head of Market Unit North 
America. He joined Ericsson in 1990 and has held a variety 
of sales and managerial positions within the company, 
including heading up the global account teams for 
Cingular/SBC/BellSouth (now AT&T). Appointed President 
of Ericsson North America in 2001.

b   carl olof blomqvist 

senior vice President, General counsel and head of 
Group function Legal affairs (since 1999).
Born 1951.
Master of Law, LLM, University of Uppsala.
holdings in ericsson 1): 1,216 Class A shares and 38,914 
Class B shares.
background: Previously partner of Mannheimer Swartling 
law firm.

c   douglas L. Gilstrap 

senior vice President and head of Group function 
strategy (since 2009).
Born 1963.
Bachelor in accounting from the University of Richmond, 
Master of Business Administration, Emory University, 
Atlanta. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 2,643 Class B shares.
background: CFO and Co-Founder of Asia Pacific 
Exploration Consolidated (APEC), Has also held various 
global managerial positions in different companies within the 
telecommunications and IT sector for more than 15 years.

d   bina chaurasia

senior vice President and head of Group function 
human resources and organization 
(since November 2010).
Born 1962.
Holds a Master of Science in Management and Human 
Resources from the Ohio State University and a Masters 
of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Wisconsin.
holdings in ericsson 1): 11,627 Class B shares.
background: Joined Ericsson from Hewlett Packard, 
where she was the Vice President of Global Talent 
Management. Has also held senior HR leadership roles at 
Gap, Sun Microsystems and PepsiCo/Yum.

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business drivers 2009

business drivers 2009
members of the  
eXecutive LeadershiP team

h   mats h. olsson

K   cesare avenia 

head of region china & north east asia  
(since 2010).
Born 1954.
Master of Business Administration from the Stockholm 
School of Economics. 

        holdings in ericsson 1): 43,088 Class B shares.

background: Previously Head of Market Unit Greater 
China and has held various positions in Asia for Ericsson. 
Appointed President of Ericsson Greater China in 2004, 
with overall responsibility for Mainland China, Hong Kong, 
Macao and Taiwan.

i

  Jan frykhammar
executive vice President and chief financial officer and 
head of Group function finance (since 2009).
Born 1965.
Bachelor of Business Administration and Economics, 
University of Uppsala. 
board member: Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications 
AB, ST-Ericsson.
holdings in ericsson 1): 3,650 Class B shares.
background: Previously Senior Vice President and Head 
of Business Unit Global Services. Has held various 
positions within Ericsson such as Sales and Business 
Control in Business Unit Global Services, CFO in North 
America and Vice President, Finance and Commercial 
within the Global Customer Account for Vodafone.

J   rima Qureshi

senior vice President and head of business unit cdma 
mobile systems (since 2010).
Born 1965.
Holds a Bachelor’s degree of Information Systems and 
a Master’s degree of administration, McGill University, 
Montreal, Canada. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 2,662 Class B shares
background: Also serves as head of Ericsson Response. 
Previously head of the AT&T Improvement Program within 
Market Unit North America.

chief brand officer (since 2010).
Born 1950.
Bachelor’s degree of Electronics engineering, 
University of Naples, Italy. 
board member: Member of the Steering Committee for 
Innovation and Technology Services within the Association 
of Telecom service providers within Confindustria, the 
National Association of Industralists in Italy. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 11,618 Class B shares.
background: Previously Head of Market Unit Italy.

L   henry sténson

senior vice President and head of Group function 
communications (since 2002).
Born 1955.
Studied law, sociology and political science, Linköping 
University and at the Swedish War Academy, Karlberg, 
Stockholm.
board member: Stronghold Invest AB. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 27,855 Class B shares.
background: Previously Head of SAS Group 
Communication.

m   Johan Wibergh

executive vice President (since January 1, 2010) and
head of business unit networks (since 2008).
Born 1963.
Master of Computer Science, Linköping Institute of 
Technology. 
holdings in ericsson 1): 19,967 Class B shares.
background: President of Ericsson Brazil. Has also been 
President of Market Unit Nordic and Baltics,  
Vice President and Head of Sales at Business Unit  
Global Services.

n   håkan eriksson

senior vice President, chief technology officer, head 
of Group function technology & Portfolio management 
(since 2003) and head of ericsson in silicon valley (since 
January 1, 2010). 
Born 1961.
Master of Science and Honorary Ph D, Linköping Institute 
of Technology. 
board member: Vestas.
holdings in ericsson 1): 32,130 Class B shares.
background: Previously Senior Vice President and Head 
of Research and Development. Has held various positions 
within Ericsson since 1986.

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auditors

business drivers 2009

aUditors
According to the Articles of Association, the Parent Company 
shall have no less than one and no more than three registered 
public accounting firms as external independent auditors. The 
auditors have been elected by the shareholders at the Annual 
General Meeting for periods of four years. However, according 
to a recent change in the Swedish Companies Act, the mandate 
period of the Auditors shall be one year, unless the Articles 
of Association provides for a longer mandate period up to 
four years. The auditors report to the shareholders at General 
Meetings.

The auditors:

 > Update the Board of Directors regarding the planning, scope 

and content of the annual audit

 > Examine the interim and year-end financial statements to 
assess accuracy and completeness of the accounts and 
adherence to accounting standards and policies
 > Advise the Board of Directors of non-audit services 

performed, the consideration paid and other issues that 
determine the auditors’ independence. 

For further information on the contacts between the Board and 
the auditors, please see “Work of the Board of Directors” earlier 
in the report.

All Ericsson’s quarterly reports are reviewed by the auditors.

current auditor
PricewaterhouseCoopers AB was elected at the Annual General 
Meeting 2007 for a period of four years until the close of the 
Annual General Meeting 2011.

PricewaterhouseCoopers AB has appointed Peter 

Clemedtson, Authorized Public Accountant, to serve as auditor 
in charge. Peter Clemedtson is also auditor in charge of 
Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken. 

fees to the auditor
Ericsson paid the fees (including expenses) for audit-
related and other services listed in the table in Notes to the 
Consolidated Financial Statements – Note C31, “Fees to 
Auditors” in the Annual Report.

internaL controL oVer 
financiaL reporting 2010

This section has been prepared in accordance with the Annual 
Accounts Act and the Swedish Corporate Governance Code 
and is limited to internal control over financial reporting. 
Since Ericsson is listed in the United States, the 

requirements outlined in the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (SOX) apply. 
These regulate the establishment and maintenance of internal 
controls over financial reporting as well as management’s 
assessment of the effectiveness of the controls.

In order to comply with SOX, the Company has implemented 

detailed documented controls and testing and reporting 
procedures based on the COSO framework for internal 
control. The COSO framework is issued by the Committee of 
Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

Management’s internal control report according to SOX will 
be included in Ericsson’s Annual Report on Form 20-F and filed 
with the SEC in the United States.

During 2010, the Company has included operations of 
acquired entities as well as continued to improve the design 
and execution of its financial reporting controls.

disclosure policies
Ericsson’s financial disclosure policies aim to ensure 
transparent, relevant and consistent communication with the 
equity and debt investors on a fair and equal basis. This will 
support a fair market value for Ericsson shares. Ericsson wants 
current and potential investors to have a good understanding 
of how the Company works, including operational performance, 
prospects and potential risks.  

To achieve these objectives, financial reporting and 

disclosure must be:
 > Transparent – enhancing understanding of the economic 
drivers and operational performance of the business, 
building trust and credibility

 > Consistent – comparable in scope and level of detail to 

facilitate comparison between reporting periods

 > Simple – to support understanding of business operations 

and performance and to avoid misinterpretations

 > Relevant – with focus on what is relevant to Ericsson’s 

stakeholders or required by regulation or listing agreements, 
to avoid information overload

 > Timely – with regular scheduled disclosures as well as 

ad-hoc information, such as press releases on important 
events, performed on a timely basis

 > Fair and equal – where all material information is published 
via press releases to ensure the whole investor community 
receives the information at the same time

 > Complete, free from material errors and a reflection of best 
practice – disclosure is compliant with applicable financial 
reporting standards and listing requirements and in line with 
industry norms. 

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internaL controL over  
financiaL rePortinG 2010

Ericsson’s website (www.ericsson.com/investors) comprises 
comprehensive information on the Group, including:
 > An archive of annual and interim reports
 > On-demand access to recent news 
 > Copies of presentations given by senior management at 

industry conferences.

(Information on the Ericsson website does not form part of 
this Report).

disclosure controls and procedures 
Ericsson has controls and procedures in place to ensure timely 
information disclosure under the US Securities Exchange Act of 
1934 and under agreements with NASDAQ and NASDAQ OMX 
Stockholm. These procedures also ensure that such information 
is provided to management, including the CEO and CFO, so 
timely decisions can be made regarding required disclosure.

The Disclosure Committee comprises 15 members 
with various expertise. It assists managers in fulfilling their 
responsibility regarding disclosures made to the shareholders 
and the investment community. One of the main tasks of the 
committee is to monitor the integrity and effectiveness of the 
disclosure controls and procedures.

Ericsson has investments in certain entities that the 

Company does not control or manage. With respect to such 
entities, disclosure controls and procedures are substantially 
more limited than those maintained with respect to subsidiaries. 

During the year, Ericsson’s President and CEO and the 
CFO evaluated the disclosure controls and procedures and 
concluded that they were effective at a reasonable assurance 
level as at December 31, 2010.

During the period covered by the Annual Report 2010, there 
were no changes to the disclosure controls and procedures that 
have materially affected, or are likely to materially affect, the 
internal control over financial reporting. 

internal control over financial reporting
Ericsson has integrated risk management and internal 
control into its business processes. As defined in the COSO 
framework, internal control includes components such as 
a control environment, risk assessment, control activities, 
information and communication and monitoring.

control environment

The Company’s internal control structure is based on the 
division of labor between the Board of Directors and its 
Committees and the President and CEO. The Company has 
implemented a management system that is based on: 
 > Steering documents, such as policies, directives and a Code 

of Business Ethics

 > A strong corporate culture
 > The Company’s organization and mode of operations, 

 > Several well-defined group-wide processes for planning, 

operations and support.

The most essential parts of the control environment relative 
to financial reporting are included in steering documents 
and processes for accounting and financial reporting. These 
steering documents are updated regularly to include, among 
other things:
 > Changes to laws
 > Financial reporting standards and listing requirements, such 

as IFRS and SOX.

The processes include specific controls to be performed to 
ensure high quality reports. The management of each reporting 
legal entity, region and business unit is supported by a financial 
controller function with execution of controls related to 
transactions and reporting. A financial controller function is also 
established on Group level, reporting to the CFO.

risk assessment

Risks of material misstatements in financial reporting may exist 
in relation to recognition and measurement of assets, liabilities, 
revenue and cost or insufficient disclosure. Other risks related 
to financial reporting include fraud, loss or embezzlement of 
assets and undue favorable treatment of counterparties at the 
expense of the Company. 

Policies and directives regarding accounting and financial 

reporting cover areas of particular significance to support 
correct, complete and timely accounting, reporting and 
disclosure.

Identified types of risks are mitigated through well-defined 
business processes with integrated risk management activities, 
segregation of duties and appropriate delegation of authority. 
This requires specific approval of material transactions and 
ensures adequate asset management. 

control activities

The Company’s business processes include financial 
controls regarding the approval and accounting of business 
transactions. The financial closing and reporting process has 
controls regarding recognition, measurement and disclosure. 
These include the application of critical accounting policies 
and estimates, in individual subsidiaries as well as in the 
consolidated accounts. 

Regular analyses of the financial results for each subsidiary, 

region and business unit cover the significant elements of 
assets, liabilities, revenues, costs and cash flow. Together 
with further analysis of the consolidated financial statements 
performed at Group level, this ensures that the financial reports 
do not contain material errors.

For external financial reporting purposes, additional 

with well-defined roles and responsibilities and delegations 
of authority

controls performed by the Disclosure Committee ensure that all 
disclosure requirements are fulfilled. 

The Company has implemented controls to ensure that the 

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internaL controL over  
financiaL rePortinG 2010

financial reports are prepared in accordance with its internal 
accounting and reporting policies and IFRS as well as with 
relevant listing regulations. It maintains detailed documentation 
on internal controls related to accounting and financial 
reporting. It also keeps records on the monitoring of the 
execution and results of such controls. This ensures that the 
CEO and CFO can assess the effectiveness of the controls in a 
way that is compliant with SOX.

Entity-wide controls, focusing on the control environment 

and compliance with the financial reporting policies and 
directives, are implemented in all subsidiaries. Detailed process 
controls and documentation of controls performed are also 
implemented in almost all subsidiaries, covering all items with 
significant materiality and risk. 

To ensure efficient and standardized accounting and 
reporting processes, the Company operates several shared 
services centers. Based on a common IT platform, a common 
chart of account and common master data, the centers 
perform accounting and financial reporting services for most 
subsidiaries.

information and communication

The Company’s information and communication channels 
support complete, correct and timely financial reporting  
by making all relevant internal process instructions and  
policies accessible to all the employees concerned. Regular 
updates and briefing documents regarding changes in 
accounting policies, reporting and disclosure requirements  
are also supplied.

Subsidiaries and operating units prepare regular financial 

and management reports to internal steering groups and 
Company management. These include analysis and comments 
on financial performance and risks. The Board of Directors 
receives financial reports monthly. The Audit Committee of the 
Board has established a whistleblower procedure for reporting 
violations in accounting, internal controls and auditing matters.

monitoring

The Company’s process for financial reporting is reviewed 
annually by the management. This forms a basis for evaluating 
the internal management system and internal steering 
documents to ensure that they cover all significant areas 
related to financial reporting. The shared service center 
management continuously monitors accounting quality through 
a set of performance indicators. Compliance with policies 
and directives is monitored through annual self-assessments 
and representation letters from heads and controllers in all 
subsidiaries as well as in business units and regions. 

The Company’s financial performance is also reviewed 
at each Board meeting. The committees of the Board fulfill 
important monitoring functions regarding remuneration, 
borrowing, investments, customer finance, cash management, 
financial reporting and internal control. The Audit Committee 
and the Board of Directors review all interim and annual 
financial reports before they are released to the market. The 
Company’s internal audit function, which reports to the Audit 
Committee, performs independent audits. The Audit Committee 
also receives regular reports from the external auditor. The 
Audit Committee follows up on any actions taken to improve or 
modify controls.

the board of directors

Stockholm, February 21, 2011
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ)
Org. no. 556016–0680

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auditor’s rePort on the corPorate 
Governance rePort

aUditor’s report  
on the corporate 
goVernance report
To the annual meeting of the shareholders in 
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson (publ), corporate identity 
number 556016-0680

It is the Board of Directors who is responsible for the 

report has been prepared and is consistent with the annual 
accounts and the consolidated accounts, we have read the 
corporate governance report and assessed its statutory content 
based on our knowledge of the company.

corporate governance report for the year 2010 and that it has 
been prepared in accordance with the Annual Accounts Act.
As a basis for our opinion that the corporate governance 

In our opinion, the corporate governance report has been 
prepared and its statutory content is consistent with the annual 
accounts and the consolidated accounts.

Stockholm 21 February, 2011

Peter clemedtson
Authorized Public Accountant
PricewaterhouseCoopers AB

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ericsson annual report 2010  corporate governance report 2010  |  157

GLOSSARY

GLOSSARY

2G
First digital generation of mobile 
systems, includes GSM, TDMA, PDC 
and cdmaOne.

EDGE
A 3G mobile standard, developed as 
an enhancement of GSM. Enables 
the transmission of data at speeds 
up to 250 kbps.

3G
3rd generation mobile system, 
includes WCDMA/HSPA, EDGE, 
CDMA2000 and TD-SCDMA.

4G
See LTE.

All-IP
A single, common IP infrastructure 
that can handle all network services, 
including fixed and mobile 
communications, for voice and data 
services and also video services 
such as TV.

ATM
(Asynchronous Transfer Mode)  
A communication standard for 
transmission and management of 
high-speed packet-switched 
networks.

Backhaul
Transmission between radio base 
stations and the core network.

Emerging market
Defined as a country that has a  
GNP per capita index below the 
World Bank average and a mobile 
subscription penetration below  
60 percent.

Evo RAN
A Radio Access Network (RAN) 
solution to run GSM, WCDMA and 
LTE as a single network.

Exabyte
= billion gigabytes.

GDP
Gross domestic product the  
total annual cost of all finished 
goods  and services produced  
within a country.

Broadband
Data speeds that are high enough to 
allow transmission of multimedia 
services with good quality.

GPON
(Gigabit Passive Optical Network) 
Used for fiber-optic communication 
to the home (FTTH).

Capex
Capital expenditure.

CDMA 
(Code division multiple access) 
The cdmaOne (2G) and CDMA2000 
(3G) mobile communication 
standards are both based on CDMA.

GPRS
(General Packet Radio Service)
A packet-switched technology (2.5G) 
that enables GSM networks to 
handle mobile data communications 
at rates up to 115 kbps.

Opex
Operating expenses.

Penetration
The number of subscriptions  
divided by the population in a 
geographical area.

Softswitch
A software-based system for 
handling call management 
functionality. Integrates IP-telephony 
and the legacy circuit-switched part 
of the network.

TDM
Time division multiplexing, legacy 
technology for circuit switching.

WCDMA
(Wideband Code Division Multiple 
Access) A 3G mobile communication 
standard. WCDMA builds on the 
same core network infrastructure  
as GSM. 

xDSL 
Digital Subscriber Line technologies 
for broadband multimedia 
communications in fixed line 
networks. Examples: IP-DSL, ADSL 
and VDSL.

HSPA
(High Speed Packet Access) 
Enhancement of 3G/WCDMA that 
enables mobile broadband. 

ICT
Information and Communication 
Technology.

IMS
(IP Multimedia Subsystem)  
A standard for offering voice and 
multimedia services over mobile and 
fixed networks using internet 
technology (IP).

IP
(Internet Protocol) Defines how 
information travels between network 
elements across the internet.

JV
(Joint venture) A business enterprise 
in which two or more companies 
enter a partnership. 

LTE
(Long-Term Evolution) The next 
evolutionary step of mobile 
technology beyond HSPA, allowing 
data rates above 100 Mbps.

Managed services
Management of operator networks 
and/or hosting of their services.

FTTH
(Fiber-to-the-home) refers to fiber 
optic broadband connections to 
individual homes.

IPTV
(IP Television) A technology that 
delivers digital television via fixed 
broadband access.

158  |  GLOSSARY, FINANCIAL TERMINOLOGY AND EXCHANGE RATES  Ericsson Annual Report 2010   

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FINANCIAL TERMINOLOGY

Capital employed
Total assets less non-interest-
bearing provisions and liabilities.

Capital turnover
Net sales divided by average  
Capital employed.

Cash conversion
Cash flow from operating activities 
divided by net income reconciled to 
cash – expressed in percent.

Cash dividends per share
Dividends paid divided by average 
number of shares, basic.

Compound annual growth rate
(CAGR)
The year-over-year growth rate over 
a specified period of time.

Days sales outstanding (DSO)
Trade receivables balance at quarter 
end divided by Net Sales in the 
quarter and multiplied by 90 days.  
If the amount of trade receivables  
is larger than last quarter’s sales,  
the excess amount is divided by  
Net Sales in the previous quarter  
and multiplied by 90 days, and  
total days outstanding (DSO) are  
the 90 days of the most current 
quarter plus the additional days  
from the previous quarter.

Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share; profit or 
loss attributable to stockholders of 
the Parent Company divided by the 
weighted average number of 
ordinary shares outstanding during 
the period. Diluted earnings per 
share; the weighted average number 
of shares outstanding are adjusted 
for the effects of all dilutive potential 
ordinary shares.

EBITA margin
Earnings Before Interest, Taxes, 
Amortization and write-downs of 
acquired intangibles, as a 
percentage of Net Sales.

Equity ratio
Equity, expressed as a percentage 
of total assets.

Gross Cash
Cash and cash equivalents plus 
short-term investments.

Inventory turnover days
(ITO-days) 
365 divided by inventory turnover, 
calculated as total adjusted cost of 
sales divided by the average 
inventories for the year (net of 
advances from customers).

Net cash
Cash and cash equivalents plus 
short-term investments less interest-
bearing liabilities and post-
employment benefits.

Payable days
The average balance of Trade 
payables at the beginning and at the 
end of the year divided by Cost of 
sales for the year, and multiplied by 
365 days.

Payment readiness
Cash and cash equivalents and 
short-term investments less short-
term borrowings plus long-term 
unused credit commitments. 
Payment readiness is also shown as 
a percentage of Net Sales.

Return on capital employed
The total of Operating income plus 
Financial income as a percentage of 
average capital employed (based on 
the amounts at January 1 and 
December 31).

Return on equity
Net income attributable to 
stockholders of the Parent  
Company as a percentage of 
average Stockholders’ equity (based 
on the amounts at January 1 and 
December 31).

FINANCIAL TERMINOLOGY

Stockholders’ equity per share
Stockholders’ equity divided by the 
number of shares outstanding at end 
of period, basic.

Total Shareholder Return (TSR)
The increase or decrease in share 
price during the period plus 
dividends paid, expressed as a 
percentage of the share price at the 
start of the period.

Trade receivables turnover 
Net sales divided by average Trade 
receivables.

Value at Risk (VaR)
A statistical method that expresses 
the maximum potential loss that can 
arise with a certain degree of 
probability during a certain period  
of time.

Working capital
Current assets less current  
non-interest-bearing provisions  
and liabilities.

EXCHANGE RATES

EXCHANGE RATES USED IN THE CONSOLIDATION

                      January–December

SEK/EUR

Average rate
Closing rate

SEK/USD

Average rate
Closing rate

2010

9.56 
9.02

7.20
6.80

2009

10.63 
10.30

7.63
7.18

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Ericsson Annual Report 2010  GLOSSARY, FINANCIAL TERMINOLOGY AND EXCHANGE RATES  |  159

SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

Shareholder>InformatIon

FOR PRINTED PUBLICATIONS, 
CONTACT:

a printed copy of the annual report is 
provided on request. 
>> Strömberg distribution  

Se-120 88 Stockholm, Sweden 
Phone: +46 8 449 89 57,  
email: ericsson@strd.se 

>> in the United States,  

ericsson’s transfer agent Citibank: 
Citibank Shareholder Services 
registered holders: +1 877 881 59 69  
(toll free within the U.S.) 
interested investors: +1 781 575 45 55 
(outside of the U.S.) 
email: ericsson@shareholders-online.com 
www.citi.com/dr  
ordering a hard copy of  
the annual report: 
Phone toll free: +1 866 216 046 
http://proxy.georgeson.com/
annualreport/ericsson.htm

telefonaktiebolaget lm ericsson’s shareholders are invited to participate in the 
annual General meeting to be held on Wednesday, april 13, 2011, at 3 p.m. at the 
annex to the ericsson Globe, Globentorget, Stockholm.

Registration and notice of attendance
Shareholders who wish to attend the annual General meeting must
>> be recorded in the share register kept by euroclear Sweden aB (the Swedish 

Securities registry) on thursday, april 7, 2011, and 

>> give notice of attendance to the Company at the latest on thursday, april 7, 

2011. notice of attendance can be given on ericsson’s website: www.ericsson.
com/investors, by telephone: +46 8 402 90 54 on weekdays between 10 a.m. 
and 4 p.m. or by fax: +46 8 402 9256.

notice of attendance may also be given in writing to:
telefonaktiebolaget lm ericsson
General meeting of Shareholders
Box 7835, Se-103 98 Stockholm, Sweden

When giving notice of attendance, please state name, date of birth, address, 
telephone number and number of assistants. 

the meeting will be conducted in Swedish and simultaneously interpreted  

WHERE YOU CAN FIND OUT MORE:

into english.

it is our ambition to provide our 
shareholder with up to date information 
about ericsson and its development. 
information is available on ericsson’s 
website: 
www.ericsson.com

on the website, the annual report is 
available as either an online version or as a 
pdf document. Previous annual and 
Quarterly reports and other relevant 
shareholder information can be found on:
www.ericsson.com/investors

By publishing the annual report on the 
web, we will not only reduce the cost for 
print and distribution, but also the impact  
on the environment.

the annual report on form 20-f (filed with 
the Securities and exchange Commission, 
SeC) is also available  
www.ericsson.com/investors

Shares registered in the name of a nominee
in addition to giving notice of attendance, shareholders who have their shares 
registered in the name of a nominee must request the nominee to temporarily 
enter the shareholder into the share register in order to be entitled to attend the 
meeting. in order for such registration to be effective on thursday, april 7, 2011, 
shareholders should contact their nominee well before that day. 

Proxy
Shareholders represented by proxy shall submit to the Company a power of 
attorney for the representative. a power of attorney issued by a legal entity must 
be accompanied by a copy of the entity’s certificate of registration (should no such 
certificate exist, a corresponding document of authority must be submitted). Such 
documents must be no more than one year old. in order to facilitate the registration 
at the annual General meeting, the power of attorney in original, certificates of 
registration and other documents of authority should be sent to the Company in 
advance. all documents should be sent to the Company at the address above for 
receipt by tuesday, april 12, 2011. forms of power of attorney in Swedish and 
english are available on ericsson’s website: www.ericsson.com/investors.

Dividend
the Board of directors has decided to propose the annual General meeting to 
resolve on a dividend of SeK 2.25 per share for the year 2010 and that monday, 
april 18, 2011 will be the record day for dividend.

Financial information from Ericsson
>> april 27, 2011 (Q1)
interim reports 2011: 
>> July 21, 2011 (Q2)

annual report 2011: march, 2012
2010 form 20-f for the US market: march, 2011

>> october 20, 2011 (Q3)
>> January 25, 2012 (Q4)

160  |  Shareholder information  ericsson annual report 2010 

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SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION

CONTACT INFORMATION

Headquarters
torshamnsgatan 23 
Kista 
Sweden

Registered office
telefonaktiebolaget lm ericsson
Se–164 83 Stockholm
Sweden

Investor Relations
for questions on the Company, please 
contact investor relations:
>> investor relations for europe, middle 

east, africa and asia Pacific: 
telefonaktiebolaget lm ericsson 
Se-164 83 Stockholm, Sweden 
telephone: +46 10 719 00 00 
email: investor.relations@ericsson.com

>> investor relations for the americas: 

ericsson, the Grace Building 
1114 ave of the americas, Suite #3410 
new York, nY 10036, USa 
telephone: +1 212 685 40 30  
email: investor.relations@ericsson.com

ericsson headquarters at torshamnsgatan 23 in Kista, Sweden.

UncertaIntIeS>In>the>fUtUre

ERICSSON ANNUAL REPORT 2010:

Some of the information provided in this material is or may contain forward-looking information such as statements about expectations, 
assumptions about future market conditions, projections or other characterizations of future events. the words “believe”, “expect”, 
“anticipate”, “intend”, “may”, “plan”, the negative of such terms, and similar expressions are intended to identify these statements. 
although we believe that the expectations reflected in these and other forward-looking statements are reasonable, we can give no 
assurance that these expectations will prove to be correct and actual results may differ materially. We undertake no obligation to 
publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except 
as required by law or stock exchange regulation. We advise you that ericsson is subject to risks both specific to our industry and 
specific to our company that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those contained in our projections or forward-
looking  statements,  including,  among  others,  changing  conditions  in  the  telecommunications  industry,  political  economic  and 
regulatory developments in our markets, our management’s ability to develop and execute a successful strategy, various financial 
risks such as interest rate changes and exchange rate changes, erosion of our market position, structure and financial strength of our 
customer base, our credit ratings, product development risks, supply constraints, and our ability to recruit and retain quality staff.

Project Management: 
ericsson investor relations 

Design and production: 
harleys and Paues media 

Photography: 
hans Berggren 

Reprographics and Printing: 
alfaprint aB 2011

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ericsson annual report 2010  Shareholder information  |  161

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TAKE THE WORLD 
WITH YOU

driving mobile broadband

ANNUAL REPORT 2010

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson
SE-164 83 Stockholm, Sweden
Telephone +46 10 719 0000
www.ericsson.com

Printed on Maxi Offset and TerraPrint Silk – chlorine free 
paper that meets international environmental standards
EN/LZT 138 0430 R1A
ISSN 1100-8962
© Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson 2011

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