Quarterlytics / Utilities / Packaged Foods / NLMK Group

NLMK Group

nlmk · LSE Utilities
Claim this profile
Ticker nlmk
Exchange LSE
Sector Utilities
Industry Packaged Foods
Employees 10,000+
← All annual reports
FY2015 Annual Report · NLMK Group
Sign in to download
Loading PDF…
ABOUT NLMK

SUSTAINABILITY

CORPORATE
GOVERNANCE

Report 2015

EFFICIENCY 
LEADERSHIP

CONTENT

2015 HIGHLIGHTS ......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................1

CEO STATEMENT .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................3

NLMK PROFILE ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................4

WHERE WE OPERATE ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................6

PRODUCTS AND BRANDS ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................8

BUSINESS MODEL ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................10

INNOVATION ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................12

STRATEGY .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................14

STRATEGY IN ACTION .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................16

MARKET REVIEW ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................18

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING REVIEW 2015 .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................20

5-YEAR HIGHLIGHTS .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................24

NLMK’S SUSTAINABILITY REVIEW .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................25

CEO STATEMENT ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................27

STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................28

OUR EMPLOYEES .................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................30

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................36

ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................38

ENERGY EFFICIENCY .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................40

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ...............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................42

COMMUNICATIONS ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................46

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE REVIEW ..........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................49

MANAGEMENT COMPOSITION ..............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................51

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................58

OPERATIONAL CONTROL AND RISK MANAGEMENT................................................................................................................................................................................................72

INFORMATION FOR SHAREHOLDERS .........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................78

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND APPENDIX

ABOUT US/ REPORT 2015

2015 HIGHLIGHTS

Record high sales: 15.9 m t (+5% y-o-y) 

Largest steel manufacturer in Russia with a share of 22% 

Revenue: $8 bn (–23% y-o-y) 

EBITDA*: $1.9 bn (–18% y-o-y) 

EBITDA margin: 24% (+1 p.p. y-o-y) 

Net cash fl ow: $1 bn 

Net Debt: $1.1 bn (–32% y-o-y) 

Net debt/EBITDA: 0.6x (–0.1 y-o-y) 

NLMK GROUP SALES

15.9 m tonnes

15.2

14.8

15.1

12.8

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

REVENUE BY REGION

10%

39%

Russia

Europe

$8.0
bn

20%

North America

Middle East

Asia

Other markets

REVENUE BY PRODUCT

8%

37%

HVA products

Standard products

Semis to associated 
companies

Semis

Other operations

$8.0
bn

27%

5%

9%

17%

19%

9%

* EBITDA is calculated as operating profi t adjusted to loss from impairment of investments, 
fi xed assets and intangible assets (including goodwill) and depreciation and amortization.

Utilization of production 
capacities:

93%

Our fl exible business model, diversifi ed product mix and 
sales geography enable us to maintain high capacity 
utilization rates

EBITDA margin:

24%

(+1 p.p. y-o-y)

Structural increase of business effi  ciency, low-cost 
steel production and vertical integration allowed 
NLMK to achieve growth of EBITDA margin despite a 
more challenging situation in the industry

Net Debt/EBITDA:

0.6x

(–0.1 p. y-o-y)

The ratio is below the target envisioned in Strategy 
2017. NLMK Group is consistently fi nancially stable 
due to low debt leverage. The Company’s fi nancial 
security is based on high liquidity and its ability to 
operate without raising considerable banking loans

$197 million

Operational effi ciency gains 
outstripped target by 100%

Total savings between 2014 and 2015 amounted 
to $364 million. The number of initiatives increased 
from 29 in 2013 to 1,817 in 2015

ABOUT US/ REPORT 2015 

Sustainability performance

LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY 
(TONNES OF STEEL/PERSON)

 LTIFR (NLMK’S RUSSIAN ASSETS)*

SPECIFIC AIR EMISSIONS 
(KG/TONNE OF STEEL)

463

0.43

406

420

437

329

0.87 0.87

0.86

20.9

27.9

22.6

21.9

21.1

0.55

0,60 ВАТ**

18.9 ВАТ

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

SPECIFIC ENERGY INTENSITY 
(LIPETSK SITE, GCAL/T)

SHARE OF EMPLOYEES 
WHO RECEIVED PROFESSIONAL 
TRAINING (%)

ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTMENTS 
(CUMULATIVE $ M)

5.66

6.10

5.74

5.67

5.72

84

5.10 ВАТ

69

77

68

71

612

505

364

230

153

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

* Lost-time injury frequency rates. For more information refer to ‘Social Responsibility’ of NLMK report.
** Hereinaſt er BAT (best available technologies) refers to the level of best available technologies for integrated steelmakers.

KEY EVENTS OF 2015

CAPITAL MARKETS DAY 2015

CHANGES IN THE DIVIDEND POLICY

NLMK top managers provided the Strategy 2017 
status update along with the changes in the Capex 
budget.

ENHANCEMENT OF INDEPENDENT 
DIRECTORS’ ROLES IN THE COMPANY’S 
BODIES

The number of independent directors on the 
NLMK’s Board increased in 2015. Independent 
Board members now chair the Audit Committee 
and the HR and Remuneration Committee.

The Company updated its dividend policy in 2015 to 
ensure higher visibility of dividend payments. From 
2015 dividends are paid on a quarterly basis subject 
to meeting the targets on net profi t and free cash 
fl ow.

ACTIVE STAGE IN CONSTRUCTION OF THE 
PELLETIZING PLANT

In 2015, construction of the pelletizing plant at 
Stoilensky entered an active stage. This is a key 
investment project in Strategy 2017. The Company 
expects to launch the plant in the second half of 
2016. The capacity of the pelletizing plant is 6 million 
tonnes of pellets per year; at the current iron ore 
prices the annual impact will be $180 million.

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

3

CEO 
STATEMENT 

have strengthened the company’s fi nancial 
stability with net debt/EBITDA of 0.6x at 
the end of 2015, which is four times below 
the average for metals companies.

DIVIDENDS

NLMK’s fi nancial fl exibility was bolstered by 
the structural increase of business profi tability 
and the completion of the capital-intensive 
investment phase of the company’s 
development. In the last year we updated the 
Company’s dividend policy in order to provide 
maximum transparency to shareholders and 
stakeholders on our corporate strategy for 
distribution and allocation of NLMK’s net profi t. 
We began paying dividends on a quarterly basis 
and changed the basis for the calculation of 
dividends to include free cash fl ow on top of 
net profi t.

Based on the results of the fi rst three quarters 
of 2015 and in accordance with the updated 
dividend policy we have already paid over 
$400 million to our shareholders, which is 
equivalent to a dividend yield of 5.5%.

CONCLUSION

I would like to extend my gratitude to our 
employees for their commitment; to the 
management for their astute direction during 
this diffi  cult time; and to our shareholders 
for their belief in the sustainability of our 
business model. 

FORECAST

The year ahead will be extremely challenging 
for the company and the metals industry as a 
whole. The gap between demand and supply in 
the steel market will remain, and the equitable 
conditions of international trade will grow more 
complicated still. These factors are exacerbated 
by the absence of fundamental drivers of 
the sustainable increase in the price of raw 
materials and fi nished products.

The key success factors in this challenging 
environment will include the fl exibility and 
versatility of the business model, operational 
effi  ciency and fi nancial stability. These facets 
are the competitive advantages that NLMK 
Group enjoys, which enables us to look to the 
future with confi dence.

Oleg Bagrin
President of NLMK Group, 
Chairman of the Management Board 

Dear Colleagues,

In 2015 NLMK demonstrated strong 

performance driven by an ongoing 
increase in operational effi ciency, and in 
spite of a signifi cant slow-down of the 
market for steel.

SITUATION IN THE INDUSTRY

The market is oversupplied as a result 
of unprecedented growth in production 
which has been further aggravated by the 
global economic downturn. Excess global 
steelmaking capacity was ten times the total 
volume of steel produced in Russia. China 
made almost as much steel in 2015 as all 
other countries combined, and accounted for 
the lion’s share of this increased production 
capacity. More than 100 million metric tons a 
year of cheap Chinese steel exports led to a 
collapse in prices, sending them crashing to a 
twelve-year low. 

The international trading environment 
became more complicated as a result. 
The US and the EU have begun to impose 
protective import tariff s in a bid to support 
their steelmakers. Around 20 investigations 
have been launched into steel companies 
from various countries, including Russia, since 
the beginning of 2015. The US re-introduced 
protective tariff s on hot-rolled steel from 

Russia. Europe launched an investigation 
into cold-rolled steel imports and introduced 
minimum prices for electrical steel, which 
has impacted upon NLMK Group products. 
Russian companies were forced to address 
challenges in international markets, while 
domestic demand showed a double-digit 
decline. For example, demand for steel 
products used in construction fell by 14% in 
the fi rst nine months of 2015. The slowdown 
in Russian demand in 2015 was worse than 
in any other country, and will continue in 
2016 in almost all sectors of the Russian 
economy.

NLMK PERFORMANCE

Despite this extremely challenging 
environment, NLMK Group has managed 
to not only complete all the projects 
envisioned by Strategy 2017 whilst 
maintaining almost 100% utilization; but 
also to increase sales by 5% to a record 
15.9 million tonnes and achieve greater 
profi tability at the same time. Our profi t 
margin in 2015 displayed 24% growth to 
reach twice the global industry average. 
Our strong operational performance and 
conservative investments have allowed 
the company to maintain free cash fl ow 
of $1 billion, which is almost fl at year-
on-year, despite a 30% reduction of the 
global steel prices. Our operating results 

4                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

NLMK PROFILE

NLMK Group is the largest 
steelmaker in Russia and one of 
the most effi cient in the world. 
NLMK is the only Russian company 
that is part of TOP 20 leading 
global steelmakers.

NLMK’s production assets are located in 

Russia, Europe, and the United States. 

The Company’s liquid steel production 
capacity is over 17 million tonnes per year, of 
which about 16 million tonnes are produced 
in Russia. NLMK has modern production 
capacities that are on par with leading 
international manufacturers in terms of 
technology.

NLMK’s metal products are used in various 
industries, from construction and engineering 
to the manufacture of power-generating 
equipment and off shore wind turbines. NLMK 
has the most competitive cash cost among 
global manufacturers; and one of the highest 
profi tability levels in the sector. 

The company generated $8 billion in revenue; 
$1.95 billion in EBITDA; and a net profi t of 
$967 million in 2015. Net Debt/EBITDA is 0.6x. 
The company has a BBB- credit rating.

NLMK’s ordinary shares are traded on the 
Moscow Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: NLMK), 
and its global depositary shares are traded on the 
London Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: NLMK:LI).

22%

Share in Russian steel 
production

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

5

WIDELY DIVERSIFIED VERTICALLY INTEGRATED BUSINESS MODEL

CAPTIVE COST-
EFFICIENT RAW 
MATERIAL AND ENERGY 
PRODUCTION

COST-EFFICIENT 
STEEL PRODUCTION

ROLLED PRODUCTS 
MANUFACTURED 
CLOSE TO END 
CUSTOMERS

Control over key resources

Steel production model

Product supplies**

Iron ore concentrate

Coke

70%

Scrap

в коксе

57%

Energy* 

в металлоломе

100%

100%

t
/
$

,

n
o
i
t
c
u
d
o
r
p
f
o
t
s
o
c
h
s
a
c
b
a
S

l

600

500

400

300

200

100

0

NLMK

35%

65%

15.9 
mt

0

0
0
1

0
0
2

0
0
3

0
0
4

0
0
5

0
0
6

0
0
7

0
0
8

Cumulative capacity, mln t

To local markets

Export to other regions

Cost-effi cient steel production

Capacity utilization in 2015

Rolling capacity breakdown**

20%

93%

9%

17 
mtpa

BOF

EAF

Key highlights

80%

70%

21%

70%

NLMK

Global
average

16 
mtpa

Steel sheets

Plates

Long steel

Revenue, $ m

EBITDA margin

11,729 12,157

10,818 10,396

23%

24%

19%

8,008

16%

14%

70+

7%

93%

56.7
K

2011

2012

2013 2014 2015

2011

2012

2013 2014 2015

countries of sale

people employed by NLMK**

Russia

Other regions

* At the Lipetsk site.
** Including NBH performance.

 
 
 
 
 
6                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

WHERE 
WE OPERATE

NLMK Group has assets on three 
continents. We sell our high-quality 
products to buyers in more than 
70 countries worldwide.

Legend

Raw materials
producing assets

BF/BOF steelmaking  

EAF mini-mill

Rolling assets 

0

0

0

0

NLMK Divisions

NLMK Russia

NLMK RUSSIA FLAT PRODUCTS

1 . 2   m   t

NLMK USA

17

16 18

1

Novolipetsk

2

VIZ-Steel

Intragroup supply of slabs 

NLMK RUSSIA LONG PRODUCTS

3

5

NSMMZ

4

NLMK Metalware

NLMK Kaluga

NLMK RUSSIA RAW MATERIAL PRODUCTION

Novolipetsk to NLMK USA 

Novolipetsk to NLMK Europe 

Stagdok

7

Altai-Koks

8

Stoilensky

“Domestic” sales of finished steel

6

9

Dolomit

NLMK EU

10

NLMK DanSteel

11

NLMK Coating

12

NLMK La Louviere

14

NLMK Clabecq

13

15

NLMK Strasburg

NLMK Verona

16

NLMK USA

16

Sharon Coating

17

NLMK Indiana

18 NLMK Pennsylvania

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

53%

NLMK Russia

NLMK Europe

NLMK USA

92%

100%

                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

7

13

Over 100%

countries where NLMK 
assets are located

run rate of the core
assets of NLMK

Up to100%

of needs in semis covered by 
supplies from Parent company 
(Lipetsk)

NLMK RUSSIA

3
42

7

10

12
14
13

11

NLMK EU

15

2 . 6   m t

6
1

5

9

8

Revenue by region in 2015 

Steel product sales by region in 2015

Russia

21%

11%

39%

$8.0
bn

17%

9%

9%

5%

9%

4%

15%

15.9
mt

22%

EU

39%

North America

Central and SE Asia

Middle East 

Other markets

8                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

PRODUCTS 
AND BRANDS

NLMK makes a wide range of steels, from 
semi-fi nished (slabs and billets) to high-end, 
high value added products (electrical steels). 
Our balanced product mix comprises 20% of 
long products and 80% of fl at products.

Long products for construction 

purposes are produced by NLMK 
Group’s Russian companies and sold 
all across Russia. Our wide mix of fl at 
products includes hot-rolled steel, 
cold-rolled steel, galvanized steel and 
pre-painted steel. NLMK is also a global 
leader in electrical steel and a regional 
leader in thick plates used in machine 
building. The company’s balanced 
product mix encompasses standard 
and high value added products, 
including high-end steels.

NLMK PRODUCTS IN RUSSIA 

NLMK is a leading provider of high-quality 
steel products in key sales markets. 
Our range of high value added products 
includes cold-rolled steel, pre-painted 
steel, electrical steel (transformer and 
dynamo) and a wide range of long 
products for the construction sector, 
including metalware. Our Russian plants 
off er a wide range of slabs, a large 
portion of which is processed into fi nished 
products at our rolling mills in Europe 
and the USA. NLMK is one of the largest 
suppliers of semi-fi nished rolled products 
(slabs) for large-diameter pipes in the 
domestic market.

We sell up to 100% of our high value 
added products locally, that is, in the 
markets where they were produced. 

NLMK PRODUCTS IN EUROPE 

Our European plants produce a wide 
range of plates; most of them are made 
from Novolipetsk slabs. We make both 
commercial steel for machine building, 
pipe manufacturing and shipbuilding, and 
high-end thick plates used in wind power 

engineering and supporting structures for 
corrosive and high-pressure environments. 
NLMK Clabecq also produces unique 
abrasion-resistant (Quard) and high-
strength (Quend) plates for heavy equipment 
manufacturing, machine building and other 
industries.

NLMK PRODUCTS IN THE USA 

NLMK Group’s US companies focus on fl at 
products made from semi-fi nished steel 
sourced from the Group’s plants in Russia: 
hot-rolled steel, cold-rolled steel, galvanized 
steel and others. 

NLMK PRODUCTS WORLDWIDE 
 ▪ Transformer steel: NLMK is one of 
the world’s major suppliers of transformer 
steel, accounting for 11% of the global 
market. Electrical steels are supplied to 
manufacturers of power-driven machines, 
transformers and instruments.

 ▪ Semi-fi nished products (slabs): NLMK is 
the leading supplier to the global slab market, 
with a market share of nearly 15% (net of 
intragroup sales). The company’s products 
are in high demand thanks to their high 
quality, competitive prices and convenient 
logistics. 

QUALITY OF NLMK PRODUCTS 

Tailored to meet customers’ needs, NLMK 
products have been certifi ed as compliant 
with international quality standards. For a 
complete list of products, please visit our 
website at http://nlmk.ru/our-business/
products-and-innovations/products/. We are 
actively working with our customers and R&D 
centres to expand our range and enhance 
product quality.

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

s
t
c
u
d
o
r
p

d
e
h
s
i
n
fi 

’

s
K
M
L
N

NLMK PRODUCTS AND USES
 ▪ Construction: supporting structures 
and facing materials, reinforced concrete 
structures, fences and other profi led sheet 
structures, roof tiles, air conditioning 
systems, etc.

 ▪ Infrastructure projects: guard rails, 
bridges, light poles, railway infrastructure, 
etc.

 ▪ Automotive manufacturing: body 
panels, power and other components for 
cars and commercial vehicles.

 ▪ Pipes: pipelines, large-diameter pipes 
for the oil and gas industry, water and gas 
pipes.

 
 
                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

9

NLMK product mix in 2015

NLMK’s share in the Russian market

29%

25%

15.9
mt

13%

33%

Semi-finished products

Slabs to subsidiaries

Standard grades

HVA products

27%

100%

100%

19%

24%

20%

26%

19%

6%

22%

21%

0%

16%

36%

25%

8%

22%

17%

HRC

CRC

HDG

Pre-painted 
steel

Rebar

Transformer 
steel

Share in consumption

Share of import in consumption

Share in production

 ▪ Machine building: mining equipment, 
agricultural and construction (yellow) 
machinery, liſt ing and transport equipment, 
railway engineering, shipbuilding, wind power 
engineering, off shore drilling platforms.

 ▪ Electrical equipment and instrument 
making: transformers, electric motors, 
generators, bodies of electrical machines and 
appliances.

 ▪ White goods: gas and electric ovens, 
washing machines, refrigerators, 
dishwashers, extractor fans, household 
boilers, etc.

10                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

NLMK BUSINESS MODEL

Self-suffi ciency in Key Raw 
Materials

100%

115%

85%

70%

57%

Raw Materials 
Production

Iron ore
Coke
Scrap
Energy

of mining capacity 
is located in Russia

One of the most 
cost-effi cient iron ore 
producers in the world

The largest scrap 
collecting network 
in Russia

NLMK Capacity (mt/y)

Steel Production Cost in 2015 ($/t)

4.3

320

206

Steel 
Production

12.8

BOF operations

EAF operations

One of the most 
cost-effi cient 
steel producers 
in the world

NLMK

World 
average

Wide Product Range

Rolling capacities (mt/y)

13%

49%

3.2

Russia - Long products

Finished steel 
production

38%

Semi-finished products

Flat products

Long products and metalware

6.2

Russia - Flat products

3.2

NLMK Europe

2.9

NLMK USA

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

11

BUSINESS MODEL 
NLMK’s business model is leveraging 

grade, NLMK Indiana, NLMK Verona*), and 
80% is manufactured using basic oxygen 
furnaces (Lipetsk site). 

The Company’s products are used in sec-
tors such as construction, pipe manu-
facturing, machine building and energy 
sector, including wind power engineering. 

The Company supplies rolled products 
and billets to Russia, EU, North America, 
the Middle East, Asia and other regions.

the geographical location of our 
assets. Mining and steel production 
assets (the most material- and resource-
intensive part of the integrated process) 
are located in Russia, a low-cost region. 
Production of fi nished products is 
concentrated in the key sales markets 
in close proximity to our customers in 
Russia, North America, and the EU.

UPSTREAM 

How we do it

NLMK resource base is located in Russia. 
NLMK raw material assets are among the 
most effi  cient facilities in Russia and globally. 
Effi  cient vertical integration has enabled 
stable supply of raw materials to further 
production stages and secured minimum steel 
production costs.

Advantages

Stoilensky is one of the most effi  cient iron 
ore producers with a reserve of over six billion 
tonnes and iron ore concentrate production 
cost of approximately $10 per tonne. Stoilen-
sky is situated 250 km from the main plant in 
Lipetsk, enabling maximum logistic effi  ciency. 
Stoilensky supplies up to 80% of concentrate 
produced by the Group.

Captive coke production (covering more than 
100% of the Group’s demand) enables high 
quality of coke products, which in turn boosts 
effi  ciency of blast furnaces, the next stage in 
production.

NLMK’s scrap processing division is the lar-
gest in Russia, securing stable supply of scrap 
to the Group’s steelmaking plants.

The Lipetsk site is 57% self-suffi  cient in elec-
trical energy generated by plants run mainly 
on by-product gases from coke and blast 
furnace operations.

Advantages

Advantages

The capacity utilization rate at the Lipetsk site 
(accounting for 80% of the Group’s steel-
making capacity) is 100% regardless of the 
production cycle on the back of effi  cient verti-
cal integration with the raw material assets, 
technological superiority of equipment, advan-
tageous geographical location and a diversi-
fi ed product mix. These factors have helped to 
guarantee the lowest production cost in the 
global industry. In 2015, steel production cost 
was $206 per tonne while the global average 
fi gure was $320 per tonne. 

NLMK’s rolling facilities are located in 
the key sales markets, close to end users. 
This ensures competitive advantages of 
our product during customer interaction, 
enhancing stability of quality, just-in-time 
deliveries and on-top customer service. 
Approximately 80% of fl at products 
are sold in the region where they are 
produced.

NLMK Russia slab sales (mt)

Production capacity (mt/y)

6.5

6.4

6.5

6.8

17.1
0.8
0.2

16.1

12.3

2.9

3.2

6.2

USA

EU

Russia

3.2

3.2

Steel 
production

Flat 
products

Long 
products

EAF-based plants (NSMMZ and NLMK 
Kaluga) produce long products for the con-
struction industry, ensuring prompt response 
to seasonal changes of demand in the Rus-
sian market. 

2.4

3.0

3.9

3.6

4.1

3.8

2.6

2.8

2012

2013

2014

2015

3rd-party consumers

Affiliates and associated companies

Finished rolled products are made from 
semi-fi nished products produced in Russia, 
ensuring consistently high quality of rolled 
products and expediency in production. 
The Company’s European and US rolling 
capacities process 75% of semi-fi nished 
products exported from the Group’s Rus-
sian assets.

The Company’s global presence in the 
major sales markets is supported by a 
diversifi ed product mix and fl exible sales 
policy. NLMK is therefore in position to 
timely channel products to most promising 
markets maintaining full utilization of the 
entire supply chain. 

MIDSTREAM

How we do it

DOWNSTREAM

How we do it

The Company’s steelmaking capacities are 
over 17 million tonnes per year. 95% of the 
capacities are located in Russia. 

NLMK has a fl exible production chain. Ap-
proximately 20% of our steel is manufactured 
using electric arc furnace technology (NLMK 

NLMK’s rolling facilities are located in Russia, 
Europe, and the USA. The total HVA produc-
tion capacity exceeds 15 million tonnes 
of fl at and long products, which enables 
processing of up to 90% of steel produced at 
our own rolling mills. 

* Inclusive of NBH capacities

12                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

INNOVATION

A commitment to innovative ideas lies at the heart 
of our business culture. NLMK has historically 
provided a platform where new technologies are 
developed which may be later adopted by other 
companies and spread around the world. We work 
with our customers to design new solutions or 
adapt existing ones – offering them the best ways 
to improve their competitiveness. 

NLMK has a comprehensive approach 

to innovation. We are consistently 
developing our product mix, optimizing 
our production and auxiliary processes 
to increase operational effi ciency, and 
mastering new technologies to boost 
equipment productivity.

PROCESS INNOVATION

The key goal of Strategy 2017 is to 
develop NLMK Production System as a 
single business process aimed at achieving 
strategic objectives by optimizing the 
use of the Company’s material and 
intellectual resources. Developed in-house, 
the Production System brings together 
NLMK’s unique technology and knowledge 
base, leveraging the best elements and 
advantages of systems used by leading 
global manufacturers.

Our system is based on the principles 
of continuous improvement and lean 
manufacturing as well as on incentives 
which encourage initiatives and best 
practices from around the world.

NLMK Production System covers processes 
across all NLMK Group operations: 
production, energy, M&R, logistics, 
occupational health and safety, and 
investment. The main elements of the 
system are already in use at practically 
all key NLMK Group companies, including 
international assets. 

Despite its gradual implementation 
process, NLMK Production System has 
already proved to be highly effi  cient. For 
instance, thanks to the active involvement 
of all NLMK Group companies in the 
continuous improvement process in 2015, 
the impact from operational effi  ciency 
programmes (the key element of NLMK 
Production System) was double the target. 
For more details, please see Strategy in 
Action.

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

INNOVATION IN TECHNOLOGY

NLMK is implementing new technological 
solutions either developed internally or 
by bringing in the expertise of third party 
R&D contractors.

Coke operations: Over the last few years, 
NLMK has introduced a new technology 
for producing coke with high CSR without 
using imported coals or coals that are 
in short supply in the Russian market. 
In pig iron manufacturing, NLMK now 
uses small-sized coke and sinter, thus 
boosting resource use effi  ciency. Fine-
tuning of pulverized coal injection modes 
continued at blast furnaces No. 4 and 5, 
which helped cut down the consumption of 
expensive coke, expand the production of 
pig iron with a silicon content of 0.3–0.5%, 
and reduce the possibility of deviations 
from the target chemical composition 
range. 

Blast furnace operations: In 2015, 
innovative technology enabled an increase 
in pig iron production by 0.7 million tonnes, 
while improving its quality and reducing 
specifi c metallurgical coke consumption 
by 5%. Innovations made our blast furnace 
No. 7 launched in 2011 one of the most 
effi  cient in the world; its production 
capacity exceeded 4 million tonnes vs. the 
base level of 3.4 million tonnes.

Steelmaking operations: The use of 
new process solutions and optimization of 
steelmaking operations supported a record 
level of steel production at the Lipetsk site 
in 2015 (12.9 million tonnes). Innovations 
brought steel consumption during rolling 
operations down, and at the same time 
improving product quality and boosting 
equipment productivity.

Other Russian and international NLMK 
Group companies are also introducing 
innovative technologies.

e
r
e
i
v
u
o
L

a
L
K
M
L
N

PRODUCT INNOVATION

Strengthening our position in niche and HVA 
markets is one of NLMK’s Strategy 2017 
goals. This explains our focus on expanding 
the product mix and improving product 
quality. The two key product innovation 
projects that stood out in 2015 were 
fi rstly the adoption of high-permeability 
transformer steel production technology and 
the onset of serial production; and secondly 
the expansion of our high yield strength 
and abrasion resistant Quard® and Quend® 
range. 

High-permeability transformer steel

As one of the leading global suppliers of 
transformer steel, NLMK interacts closely 
with its key customers, carefully monitoring 
all new trends in the sector. As demand 
for powerful, energy effi  cient transformers 
(for which energy losses are a key issue) 
increased, the market has developed a need 
for transformer steel with high magnetic 
permeability and minimal specifi c magnetic 
losses. To satisfy the demand in this 

 
 
                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

13

growing segment, NLMK began developing 
its own technology for making a new type 
of product: high-permeability transformer 
steel. 

To this end, an ambitious set of initiatives 
was implemented across all production 
stages at the Lipetsk site, including the 
commissioning, reconstruction and upgrading 
of the existing steelmaking and rolling 
equipment.

In 2015, NLMK technical experts carried 
out the tests needed to adopt the new 
production process. Also, the Company 
developed a technology to produce pig iron 
and steel which meet stringent chemical 
composition requirements; tested new hot 
rolling modes; and performed a wide set of 
initiatives to develop new process modes and 
use new materials.

At the beginning of 2016, NLMK produced 
its fi rst series batches with specifi c magnetic 
losses in line with those of its international 

peers. The product is in high demand from 
leading global transformer manufacturers.

High strength and abrasion resistant 
plates

In 2015, we continued active promotion of 
our premium products: abrasion resistant 
Quard® plates and high strength Quend® 
plates. Both these products are produced by 
our European plant NLMK Clabecq from slabs 
supplied from Novolipetsk.

Quard® is a martensitic abrasion resistant 
steel produced in a variety of hardness 
options from 400 to 500 HB and available 
in thickness ranging from 4 to 64 mm. 
Key advantages of this steel grade include 
a unique combination of high strength, 
hardness and ductility achieved through 
water quenching – a process that ensures 
the required microstructure throughout the 
thickness of the plate. For more information 
about this product, please visit http://quard.
eu.nlmk.com/.

The high strength Quend® steel is 
characterized by high yield strength: 700, 
960 or 1,100 MPa; and it is also available 
in thickness from 4 to 64 mm. One of the 
key advantages of Quend® plates is their 
guaranteed strength coupled with lower 
weight. Higher strength means that when 
ensuring a load bearing capacity similar to 
standard steel grades, the plates can be 
thinner. Their reduced weight helps lower 
specifi c energy consumption, cut operating 
costs, and leave a smaller environmental 
footprint, which in turn increases our clients’ 
competitiveness.

For more detailed information on this 
product, please visit http://quend.eu.nlmk.
com/.

NLMK supplied 71,000 tonnes of these 
niche Quard® and Quend® plates in 2015. 
The Company plans to further expand this 
product range and introduce new grades of 
high strength and abrasion resistant steel in 
a wider variety of dimensions in 2016.

14                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

STRATEGY

In February 2014, NLMK Group 

announced a new phase of development. 
“Strategy 2017” is focused on 
unlocking signifi cant internal potential 
of the Group’s businesses by boosting 
operational and process effi ciency across 
the entire production chain, enhancing 
vertical integration into key raw materials, 
increasing sales of high value added (HVA) 
products, and pursuing environmental, 
safety and human capital development 
programmes.

Strategy 2017 is centred on gaining 
leadership in operational effi  ciency, 
developing a world-class resource base, 
and achieving leading positions in strategic 
markets. Special emphasis is placed on 
industrial safety, sustainability and human 
capital development.

“Strategy 2017” targets net gains 
of $1.0 billion per annum and envisions 
overall development capex of $1.0 billion.

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

15

STRATEGY 2017: KEY TARGETS 
Targeted annual net gains in 2018 vs 2013: $1,000 m

Leadership 
in operational 
effi ciency

World-class 
resource base

80

80

$330
m

$480
m

250

How we do it

400

How we do it

Maximum use of potential to enhance 
operational effi  ciency through investment 
programmes and NLMK Production System. 

Increased self-suffi  ciency in iron ore with a 
fl exible charge structure and consequential 
reduced consumption of expensive resources.

Leading positions 
in strategic 
markets

Leadership 
in sustainability 
and safety

40

$190
m

150

How we do it

Entering new or expanding presence in 
attractive product niches, industries, and 
regions; higher utilization rates at existing 
capacities; growth in domestic sales; and an 
increased share of HVA products.

Management 
initiatives

Investment 
projects 

Note: all numbers include NBH unless otherwise stated.

8

.

i

o
N
e
n
h
c
a
M
g
n
i
t
s
a
C
s
u
o
u
n
i
t
n
o
C

•  Minimize environmental 

footprint

•  Promote safe operating 

practices

•  Develop motivated and 
engaged workforce

How we do it

Systematic minimization of our environmental 
footprint; compliance of production processes 
with the strictest environmental and OHS 
standards; leadership in labour productivity 
for the sector supported by empowered and 
motivated staff .

Creation of the conditions for high labour 
productivity through provision of opportunities 
for professional training and through fostering 
of a strong corporate culture.

 
 
 
16                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

STRATEGY IN ACTION

In 2014–2015, structural net gain for NLMK Group 
as a result of Strategy 2017 totalled $477 million 
per year (using 2015 prices, vs. 2013 base-level), 
or 48% of the total Strategy 2017 target the Group 
plans to achieve by 2018. Over 85% of the savings 
in 2014–2015 came from operational effi ciency 
programmes that did not require any capital 
outlay; whilst the remaining 15% came from 
investment projects.
In 2015, net gains totalled $256 million 
(from 2014 base-level).

LEADERSHIP IN OPERATIONAL 
EFFICIENCY 

 ▪ As a result of the implementation of this 
strategy in 2014–2015, the net gain from 
dedicated projects totalled $280 million per 
year.

 ▪ In 2015, NLMK undertook extensive 
development of the Group’s Production 
System, with the total number of projects 
growing by over 500 to exceed 1,800 by the 
end of the year. Additional structural net gain 
from operational effi  ciency projects exceeded 
the target eff ect almost two-fold year-on-
year, totalling $145 million per year (to 2014 
base level).

 ▪ As a result of these projects, in 2015 the 
productivity of steelmaking equipment at the 
Lipetsk site increased by 300,000 tonnes per 
year; and the production capacity of the hot-
strip mill increased from 5.9 million tonnes 
per year to 6.0 million tonnes per year in 
2015, among other improvements.

 ▪ In the Mining Segment, the productivity of 
benefi ciation equipment in 2015 increased 
by 0.8 million tonnes of concentrate per year. 
Over the entire strategy implementation period 
in 2014–2015, productivity of Stoilensky’s 
benefi ciation plant increased by 1.3 million 
tonnes per year to 15.2 million tonnes per 
year. In 2016, operational improvements are 
expected to boost productivity by a further 
300,000 tonnes per year. 

WORLD-CLASS RESOURCE BASE 

 ▪ As a result of the implementation of this 
strategy in 2014–2015, the net gain from 
dedicated projects totalled $100 million 
per year.

 ▪ Structural gain from operational 
effi  ciency programmes and investment 
projects in 2015 totalled $61 million from 
2014 level.

 ▪ In 2016, Stoilensky plans to complete 
the construction of its pelletizing plant, 
with launch scheduled for H2 2016. This 
will provide an annual eff ect on the Group’s 
operating performance in excess of 
$180 million (to be fully achieved in 2017).

 ▪ Stoilensky continues to pursue its 
programme aimed at boosting the 
productivity of its benefi ciation plant, in 
order to supply the pelletizing plant with 
suffi  cient iron ore concentrate used as 
a feedstock for pellets manufacturing. 
The programme includes an entire 
range of debottlenecking projects. By 
2018, output of iron ore concentrate 
will increase by 1.6 million tonnes per 
year (from 2015 level), including by 
600,000 tonnes per year in 2016. It has 
been estimated that project investment 
during the period of 2014 to 2017 will 
be $120 million. As a result, production 
capacity will reach 17.3 million tonnes of 
concentrate by 2018. 

Note: all fi gures are shown inclusive of NBH, unless specifi ed otherwise.

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

y
k
s
n
e
l
i

o
t
S
t
a

l

t
n
a
p
g
n
i
z
i
t
e

l
l

e
p

e
h
t

f
o

n
o
i
t
c
u
r
t
s
n
o
C

$477 m

Net gains of NLMK Group 
from achievement of strategic 
objectives in 2014–2015

LEADERSHIP ON STRATEGIC 
MARKETS 
 ▪ As a result of the implementation of this 
strategy in 2014–2015, net gains from 
dedicated projects totalled $97 million per year.

 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

17

 ▪ In 2015, net gain from delivering on this 
goal totalled $50 million from 2014 level.

 ▪ In 2015, steel sales increased by 5% year-
on-year to 15.9 million tonnes, supported by 
high utilization rates at the Group’s Russian 
assets and increased productivity of main 
equipment.

 ▪ Sales in the Russian market totalled 6.2 
million tonnes, or 39% of total sales (43% in 
2014).

 ▪ Deliveries of slabs to Russian pipe 
manufacturers increased in 2015 by 27% 
to 0.9 million tonnes. Over the same 
period, NLMK DanSteel increased sales 
of niche plates by 9% to 400,000 tonnes. 
NLMK Kaluga competed successfully with 
international suppliers and local long steel 
manufacturers in Central Russia, ensuring an 
83% run rate at its rolling capacities.

LEADERSHIP IN SUSTAINABILITY 
AND SAFETY
 ▪ LTIFR at NLMK Russian assets declined 
by 22% year-on-year to 0.43 in 2015 (above 
target level).

 ▪ Specifi c air emissions reduced by 1% year-
on-year to 20.9 kg/t.

 ▪ Labor productivity grew 6% year-on-year 
across the Group.

DIVIDEND POLICY 

High profi tability, and low debt and capex 
resulted in increased free cash fl ow 
available to NLMK Group shareholders. In 
2015, NLMK adopted a new dividend policy 
that provided for quarterly dividends in the 
amount of 50% of net income or free cash 
fl ow if Net debt/EBITDA is less than or 
equal to 1.0.

 ▪ Dividend cash fl ow in 2015 totalled $395 
million (vs. $226 million in 2014), including 
a part of 2014 dividends, and Q1 and Q2 
2015 dividends.

 ▪ 9M 2015 accrued dividends totalled 
$427 million.

 ▪ Dividend yield at the end of 2015 
exceeded 10%.

OLEG BAGRIN, NLMK GROUP CEO, 
SAID 

“The key goal of Strategy 2017 is to 
transform NLMK from a growing steel 
manufacturer into one of the most effi  cient 
steel companies in the world.

“We made substantial progress over the last 
two years, with long-term fi nancial gains 
from the implementation of our strategy 
totalling $477 milllion per year. The bulk of 
the gains are the result of the success of 

our operational effi  ciency programmes, 
which are based on consistent application 
and development of NLMK Group’s 
Production System and so do not require 
investment.

“In 2016 and 2017, we expect that 
more of the gains will be created by 
investment projects and commercial 
strategy programmes that strengthen 
NLMK’s market positions in niche value 
added segments where we have created 
competitive advantages in technology, 
quality and cost of production.

“Despite the challenging market 
conditions, we’ve delivered on the 
objectives we set; increasing steel 
output to a record high, maintaining high 
utilization rates and boosting profi tability. 
NLMK’s debt leverage is four times lower 
than the sector average.

“Substantial cash fl ow from operations 
and conservative investment have 
supported a free cash fl ow level of 
$1 billion in 2015, increasing the 
Company’s fi nancial stability, ensuring 
fl exibility and high dividend yields.

“The consistent and successful 
implementation of our strategy 
ensures a high and stable return for our 
shareholders.”

18                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

MARKET REVIEW

THE GLOBAL MACROECONOMIC 
SITUATION AND THE WORLD STEEL 
MARKET

Global economic growth slowed down to 
2.4% in 2015 from 2.6% a year before due 
to the weakening emerging economies, 
a considerable drop in commodity prices, 
declining world trade and high volatility in 
the capital markets.

Global steel production fell by 2.8% to 
1,589 million tonnes, which aff ected 
all the key producing regions. Capacity 
utilization was declining throughout the 
year, dropping to 64.6% as of late 2015, 
according to estimates by the World Steel 
Association (a 5 p.p. decrease from the 
year before). 

Chinese steel consumption went 
down 5.4%, to 672 million tonnes (the 
country accounts for 45% of the world 
consumption). Steel production fell by 2.1% 
yoy, to 801 million tonnes. The sharper 
decline in demand led to an unprecedented 
increase in exports, which grew by 22% 
and reached 112 million tonnes. This 
factor, together with slumping prices for 
iron ore and excessive mining resulted 
in lower steel prices and more intense 
competition. A number of developed 
countries launched trade investigations to 
support domestic producers.

Global steel production in 2011–2015, mt

1,635
1,635

1,604
1,604

1,589
1,589

1,515
1,515

1,489
1,489

2011
2011

2012
2012

2013
2013

2014
2014

2015
2015

Russia’s share of the global steel production 
in 2015 remained unchanged from the 
previous year (4.5%). Russian steel production 
fell by 0.8%, to 70.9 million tonnes. 

Global apparent steel consumption fell 
by 3.2% in 2015, to 1,495 million tonnes 
(in 2014, it rose by 0.9%).

The fi gure for the USA decreased by 10.6% 
in the same year, to 95.7 million tonnes 
(in 2014, consumption grew by 11.8%). This 
was due to the large reserve stock built up 
earlier coupled with declining demand from 
the energy sector.

t
r
o
p

s
’
l

e
e
t
S
n
a
D
K
M
L
N
t
a

s
e
t
a
P

l

Steel production by region

Prices for hot-rolled steel in the domestic markets ($/t, excl. VAT) in 2014–2015

800

700

600

500

400

300

200

2.2% 1.7% 3.1%

2.8%

4.5%

6.9%

1,589
mt

10.4%

68.4%

South America

Other European 
countries

Middle East

Other regions

Asia

EU-28

North 
America

Russia

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

n
a
J

b
e
F

r
a
M

r
p
A

y
a
M

n
u
J

l

u
J

g
u
A

p
e
S

t
c
O

v
o
N

c
e
D

n
a
J

b
e
F

r
a
M

r
p
A

y
a
M

n
u
J

l

u
J

g
u
A

p
e
S

t
c
O

v
o
N

c
e
D

2014

2015

USA

ЕU

China

Source: Metal Bulletin.

 
 
 
 
                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 
review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

19

Domestic prices for hot-rolled steel in Russia, excl. VAT

650

600

550

500

450

400

350

300

250

200

28

26

24

22

20

18

16

14

12

10

n
a
J

b
e
F

r
a
M

r
p
A

y
a
M

n
u
J

l

u
J

g
u
A

p
e
S

t
c
O

v
o
N

c
e
D

n
a
J

b
e
F

r
a
M

r
p
A

y
a
M

n
u
J

l

u
J

g
u
A

p
e
S

t
c
O

v
o
N

c
e
D

n
a
J

b
e
F

r
a
M

2014

2015

2016

H/r steel ($/t)

H/r steel (‘000 RUB/t)

The EU countries saw a 1.9% increase in 
apparent steel consumption, to 151.4 million 
tonnes, which was driven by growth in the 
key industries except for pipe manufacturing 
(–5.6%). The automotive industry grew 
by 7.8%; construction, by 1.8%; and home 
appliances, by 3.7%.

The decline in global consumption of steel, 
falling prices for iron ore and increasing 
exports from China were the key drivers of 
the 30–40% decrease in steel prices.

RUSSIAN MARKET

Russia’s economic growth slowed down 
by 3.7% due to slumping commodity 
prices, high infl ation and falling consumer 
purchasing power. Investments in fi xed 
assets fell by 8.4%: construction levels went 
down 7%, and production of certain types of 
construction materials decreased by 19%. 
A 5.4% decline in manufacturing industries 
also adversely aff ected the steel market. 

Apparent fi nished steel consumption fell 
by 8.3% in 2015, decreasing by 14% in the 
long steel sector and by 5% in the fl at steel 
sector. The decline was partially off set by 
growing demand for steel used in pipes.

this was due to stable steel supply to 
the domestic market and a rise in steel 
exports accompanied by a 30% decrease 
in imports.

Russian steel production decreased by only 
0.5% in 2015 yoy, to 71 million tonnes; 

The changes in Russian steel prices 
in 2015 were driven by the exchange 

Source: Metal Bulletin.

rate volatility. Prices rose signifi cantly 
in the middle of the second quarter 
from the previous quarter as the ruble 
strengthened, but the resumed fall in oil 
prices and devaluation of the national 
currency made them go down again in a 
decline lasting through the year end.

20                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING 
REVIEW 2015

In 2015, NLMK shareholders approved a new 
dividend policy that presupposes quarterly 
dividend payments. In 2015, NLMK paid 

$395 million in dividends. NLMK’s Board of 
Directors will review management’s dividend 
recommendations for Q1 2016 in April 2016.”

OPERATING REVIEW

2015 operating highlights

Production, m t

 2015

 2014

YoY

Crude steel production

15.866

15.921

0%

Capacity utilization, %

93%

96%

–3 p.p.

Consolidated sales

Semi-fi nished steel

Finished steel

Flat

Long

Total consolidated sales

Sales to Russian market 

Sales to external markets, incl.:

Export from Russian companies

Slab sales to NBH

Foreign subsidiaries sales

6.070

9.793

7.704

2.089

4.903

10.222

7.886

2.336

15.863

15.126

39%

61%

34%

13%

14%

43%

57%

28%

13%

16%

24%

–4%

–2%

–11%

5%

–4 p.p.

+4 p.p.

+6 p.p.

0 p.p.

–2 p.p.

For information: slab sales to foreign subsidiar-
ies and affi liates

3.829

4,051

–5%

Segment sales

Russian Flat Products

13.165

12,260

6%

Russian Long Products

2.375

2,636

–10%

Mining

Foreign rolled products

For information: NBH sales

17.014

16,209

2.199

1.991

2.407

1.807

5%

–9%

10%

2015 Group crude steel output remained stable yoy at 15.9 million tonnes; capacities were 
running at 93%.

COMMENT FROM NLMK GROUP CFO 
GRIGORY FEDORISHIN

“In 2015, global steel consumption continued 
to decline, exacerbating the supply/ demand 
imbalance in the global market. Key factors 
behind the slump in steel product prices 
included an unprecedented spike in steel 
exports from China on the back of the 
continuing fall in demand and the dip in raw 
material prices. 

The deteriorating economic situation in 
Russia had a negative impact on steel 
consumption in the local market where 
demand dropped by approximately 9%.

“NLMK’s competitive advantage in terms 
of production costs and a presence in key 
sales markets supported a 5% increase in 
sales to a record 15.9 m t, while maintaining 
maximum utilization rates at key facilities. 

In 2015, NLMK continued to implement its 
large-scale operational effi  ciency programme, 
rolling it out to all Group sites. 1,800 
optimization projects ensured a structural 
profi t increase of $197 million yoy in 2015, 
more than double the level that was planned 
initially.

Higher sales volumes and gains from 
optimization programmes allowed 
maintaining the EBITDA margin at a high 
level of 24% (+1 p.p. yoy).

In 2015, active construction began of our 
new pelletizing plant at Stoilensky. Launch 
is planned for H2 2016. This factor pushed 
capex up to $595 million.

Signifi cant cash fl ow and conservative 
investment supported a positive free cash 
fl ow of $1.0 billion, consolidating the 
company’s fi nancial stability and ensuring the 
possibility of high dividend payout.

2015 net debt decreased by 32% to 
$1.1 billion; Net debt to EBITDA was 0.6х, 
one of the lowest ratios in the sector. 
We continue to actively manage our debt 
portfolio: at the end of the year NLMK issued 
ruble bonds for a total of 10 billion rubles 
and closed a 4-year $400 million loan facility 
secured by export revenue.

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

                                                 
 
 
 
 
 
 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review

review 2015

21

l

q
c
e
b
a
C
K
M
L
N
t
a

s
e
t
a
p

l

)

R

(

d
r
a
u
Q

FINANCIAL REVIEW

2015 fi nancial highlights

k t/$ million 

2015

2014

Sales volumes

Revenue

EBITDA

EBITDA margin

Profi t for the period

Free cash fl ow

Net debt

Net debt/EBITDA

15,863

8,008

1,948

24%

967

997

1,091

0.56x

15,126

10,396

2,381

23%

773

1,153

1,598

0.67x

YoY

5%

–23%

–18%

+1 p.p.

25%

–14%

–32%

Revenue 

2015 revenue declined by 23% to 
$8,008 million due to the 30–40% yoy 
reduction in prices that was partially 
off set by a 5% yoy increase in sales. 

Pressured by the price factor, revenue from 
sales to international markets decreased 
by 18% yoy to $4.9 billion, with the bulk of 
deliveries going to the EU (20%), the USA 
(17%), Middle East and Turkey (9%). The 
share of revenue from sales to the Russian 

market fell to 39% (–4 p.p. yoy) due 
to a 6% yoy decrease in shipments to 
Russia and the signifi cant devaluation 
of the Russian ruble.

Sales of semi-fi nished products to 
external consumers accounted for 
19% of the revenue (+3 p.p. yoy); 
sales of semi-fi nished products to 
related parties accounted for 9% (fl at 
yoy); sales of HRC and long products 
accounted for 27% (–4% yoy). 

The share of revenue from sales of 
HVA products was 37% (+1% yoy). 
There was an increase in revenue 
from sales of premium products, with 
revenue from transformer steel sales 
increasing by 22% yoy.

Operational effi ciency 
programmes

In 2015, NLMK continued to 
implement its operational effi  ciency 
programmes. Over 1,800 optimization 
projects across all NLMK business 
divisions ensured an economic eff ect 
of $197 million (vs. the 2014 cost 
base). 

 
 
 
 
 
 
22                                                                                                                                                     

1   2015 

Highlights

3   Ceo 

statement

4   NLMK 
profi le

6   Where we 
operate

8   Products 

and brands

10   Business 
model

Operating profi t

Russian Flat Products

2015 operating profi t fell by 13% yoy to 
$1,388 million due to the narrowing of 
spreads between raw material and fi nished 
product prices. This factor was partially off set 
by the eff ect from operational effi  ciency 
programmes, a 5% yoy increase in sales, as 
well as the weakening of the ruble against 
the dollar. 

The 28% yoy decrease in general and 
administrative expenses was driven by 
optimizing management expenses, as well as 
the fall in the ruble exchange rate. 

The 13% yoy decrease in commercial 
expenses was associated mainly with the 
currency factor that was partially off set by 
a 5% yoy increase in sales and an increase 
in the share of shipments to international 
markets with higher transportation costs.

Net profi t

2015 net profi t was $967 million (+25% yoy), 
the increase being associated with the low 
base of 2014 when signifi cant impairment 
losses were accounted for ($657 million vs. 
$86 million in 2015). The decrease in NBH 
losses ($103 million in 2015 vs. $193 million 
in 2014) also had a positive eff ect on the 
profi t. 

Free cash fl ow 

2015 free cash fl ow was $997 million 
(–14% yoy). 

Debt management

Net debt in 2015 declined by 32% yoy to 
$1.09 billion due to NLMK’s conservative 
fi nancial policy and signifi cant free cash fl ow. 

k t/$ million

2015

2014

YoY

Steel product sales, incl.:

sales to third parties

Revenue, incl.:

external customers

intersegmental operations

EBITDA

EBITDA margin

13,165

9,324

6,065

4,719

1,346

1,581

26%

12,258

8,180

7,872

5,684

2,188

1,609

20%

7%

14%

-23%

-17%

-38%

-2%

+6 p.p.

was driven mostly by higher semi-fi nished 
product shipments: +0.7 m t of commercial 
pig iron (vs. 0.3 m t in 2014) and +3.0 m t of 
slabs (vs. 2.4 m t in 2014). 

Total Segment revenue was $6.1 billion 
(–23% yoy), including $4.7 billion (–17% yoy) 
from sales to third parties. The 20–30% 
slump in prices was partially off set by an 
increase in the volume of sales. 

Structural gain from operational effi  ciency 
programmes and the devaluation of the 
Russian ruble supported an increase in 
Segment profi tability to 26% (+6 p.p. yoy), 
at the same time practically off setting 
the impact from the narrowing of spreads 
between steel and raw material prices. While 
steel prices dipped 20–30%, 2015 EBITDA 
declined by 2% yoy to $1,581 million.

Russian Long Products

Segment sales declined by 10% to 
2.38 m t, an improvement on the trend 
seen in the Russian long product market 
where consumption dipped by 17% yoy. 
The decrease in demand in Russia was 
partially off set by an increase in export sales 
to 0.28 m t (+37% yoy). 

Total Segment revenue in the reporting 
period was $1,152 million (–36% yoy) due 
to the decrease in sales volumes and a 
negative pricing trend for long products. 

2015 EBITDA was $49 million (–68% 
yoy) due to the decrease in sales and the 
narrowing of spreads between long product 
and scrap prices. EBITDA margin was 4% 
(–4 p.p. yoy).

Net debt/EBITDA stood at 0.6х as at the end 
of 2015 (vs. 0.7x at the end of 2014). 

Russian Long Products

k t/$ million

2015

2014

YoY

Net changes in fi nancial liabilities in 2015 
totalled $97 million. 

NLMK Group’s total debt in 2015 decreased 
by 3% to $2.68 billion, including 21% of 
short-term debt comprised mainly of ruble 
bonds and revolving credit lines for working 
capital fi nancing. 

Interest expenses in 2015 totalled $119 million 
(–34% yoy), including $32 million of capitalized 
interest expenses accounted for as part of 
capex.

Russian Flat Products

Steel product sales, incl.:

sales to third parties

Revenue, incl.:

external customers

intersegmental operations

Segment sales in 2015 were 13.2 m t 
(+7% yoy), including 9.3 m t (+14% yoy) 
shipped to third parties. This increase in sales 

EBITDA

EBITDA margin

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

2,375

2,239

1,152

859

293

49

4%

2,636

2,619

1,815

1,447

368

152

8%

–10%

–15%

–36%

–41%

–20%

–68%

–4 p.p.

                                                 
12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review

review 2015

23

Mining Segment

k t/$ million

2015

2014

Iron ore concentrate and sinter ore sales, incl.:

17,014

sales to Lipetsk plant

12,380

16,209

11,942

1,068

346

722

640

60%

589

184

405

297

50%

YoY

5%

4%

–45%

–47%

–44%

–54%

–10 p.p.

Segment revenue was down by 28% yoy to 
$1,442 million due to the yoy fall in average 
sales prices and reduced sales volumes. 

2015 EBITDA loss was –$96 million. This was 
associated mainly with the use of expensive 
slabs accumulated at the end of 2014 and 
beginning of 2015. Without this factor 
(assuming slabs were purchased at current 
market prices) Segment EBITDA would have 
been +$25 million.

NBH (associated company) results

Increased demand for steel from key sectors 
in the European market in 2015 drove NBH 
sales up by 10% to 2.0 m t. 

NBH revenue declined by 18% yoy to $1.3 billion 
due to the fall in prices for fi nished products. 

Revenue, incl.:

external customers

intersegmental operations

EBITDA

EBITDA margin

Mining Segment

Iron ore concentrate and sinter ore sales 
in 2015 increased to 17 m t (+5% yoy) 
on the back of improved equipment 
productivity and an increase in iron ore 
shipments to the Lipetsk site (by 4% yoy 
to 12.4 m t). 

A two-fold reduction in global iron 
ore prices determined the Segment’s 
downward revenue trend: in 2015 it 
totalled $589 million (–45% yoy). 

Pressured by the price factor that 
was partially off set by the eff ect from 
operational effi  ciency programmes 
and higher sales volumes, EBITDA was 
$297 million (–54% yoy); and EBITDA 
margin was 50% (–10 p.p. yoy).

Foreign Rolled Products Segment

2015 segment sales totalled 2.2 m t 
(–9% yoy) due to intensifi ed competition 
with import deliveries and a drop in 
demand from OCTG and machine-building 
companies in the US market. 

2015 EBITDA loss of $92 million 
(vs. $115 million in 2014) was determined by 
narrow spreads between prices for semi-
fi nished and fi nished products, the latter 
being partially off set by the increase in sales 
volumes and the eff ect from operational 
effi  ciency programmes.

Foreign Rolled Products Segment

k t/$ million

2015

2014

YoY

Steel product sales

Revenue, incl.:

 external customers

 intersegmental operations

EBITDA

EBITDA margin

2,199

1,442

1,442

–

(96)

–7%

2,412

2,015

2,015

–

104

5%

–9%

–28%

–28%

0%

–193%

–12 p.p.

24 

12   Innovation

14   Strategy

16   Strategy 
in action

18   Market 

review

20   Financial and operating 

24   5-Year highlights

review 2015

5-YEAR HIGHLIGHTS

Financial indicators, US$ m

2011*

2012*

2013

2014

Revenue

Profi t for the period attributable to NLMK shareholders**

EBITDA

EBITDA margin

Cash fl ow from operations

Capital expenditures

Net debt

Dividends per share

11,729

1,315

2,254

19%

1,315

2,048

3,355

12,157

596

1,900

16%

1,825

1,453

3,574

10,818

10,396

145

1,480

14%

1,333

756

2,736

773

2,381

23%

1,806

563

1,598

0,0627

0,0193

0,0243

0,1289

2015

8,008

967

1,948

24%

1,651

595

1,091

n/a

Production indicators, ‘000 t

 2011

 2012

 2013

 2014

2015

Liquid steel output

Total steel product sales

Sales of HVA products

11,968

12,840

4,508

14,923

15,184

5,428

15,429

14,831

5,223

15,921

15,126

4,700

15,866

15,863

4,530

Sustainability indicators

 2011

 2012

 2013

 2014

2015

Headcount, ‘000 people

Labour productivity, t of steel/person (Lipetsk operations)

LTIFR at Russian assets of NLMK Group

Air emissions, kg/t of steel

60.0

329

0.87

26.1

62.5

406

0.87

22.6

62.1

420

0.86

21.9

60.1

437

0.55

21.1

56.7

463

0.43

20.9

* Financial data in line with IFRS. 2011–2012 data in line with US GAAP.

** For 2011–2012: net profi t attributable to NLMK shareholders.

ABOUT US/REPORT 2015

SUSTAINABILITY – REVIEW / REPORT 2015

NLMK’s SUSTAINABILITY REVIEW

NLMK Group headcount: 56,700 people

Labour productivity at Novolipetsk increased by 6%

Cumulative environmental investment since 2001: $1.3 billion

Emission rates dropped to 20.9 kg/t

Specifi c energy consumption decreased by 1% yoy

The number of occupational accidents decreased by 29% yoy

Over 50% of employees are involved in training initiatives 
each year

NLMK Group’s investments in the regions of presence: 
$54 million

Active stakeholder engagement: over 370 meetings 
with shareholders and investors were held

EMPLOYEES BY GEOGRAPHY

4% 2% 0.4%

56.7
K

Russia 

Europe

USA

93%

Other countries

VISUALLY COMPELLING AND EFFECTIVE PROMOTION 
OF OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY

I'm using 
a safety harness.
What about 
                  you?

I observe 
traffic rules.
What about 
                  you?

Safety is easy!

Safety is easy!

STRUCTURE OF INVESTMENT IN SOCIAL PROJECTS

20%

12%

6%

5%

3.3
RUB billion

Sports

Healthcare

Education

Culture

14%

43%

Work with children and young 
people
Charity

6% 

yoy increase in productivity; 
a 41% improvement from 2011

0.43 

Lost time injury frequency 
rate (LTIFR) at NLMK 
Group’s Russian companies: 
a yoy decrease of 22%

In 2015, NLMK Group increased 
the investment in social projects

by 13% 

to RUB 3.3 billion

SUSTAINABILITY – REVIEW / REPORT 2015

Key sustainability indicators

LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY (LIPETSK 
SITE) TONNES OF STEEL PER PERSON

LTIFR (NLMK’S RUSSIAN ASSETS)*

SPECIFIC ATMOSPHERIC EMISSIONS
(KG/TONNE OF STEEL)

463

0.43

406

420

437

329

0.87 0.87

0.86

20.9

27.9

22.6

21.9

21.1

0.55

0.60 ВАТ**

18.9 ВАТ

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

SPECIFIC ENERGY INTENSITY 
(LIPETSK SITE, GCAL/T)

SHARE OF EMPLOYEES 
WHO RECEIVED PROFESSIONAL 
TRAINING (%)

ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTMENT 
(CUMULATIVE $ M)

5.66

6.10

5.74

5.67

5.72

84

69

77

68

71

5.10 ВАТ

612

505

364

230

153

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

*   Lost-time injury frequency rates.  
** Hereinaſt er BAT (best available technologies) refers to the level of best available technologies for integrated steelmakers.

Corporate sustainability-related events in 2015

CERTIFICATION OF THE ENVIRONMENTAL 
MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

In 2015, the Environmental Management System 
at NSMMZ and NLMK Metalware was certifi ed as 
compliant with ISO 14001:2004 by BSI

APPROVAL OF NLMK’S HR STRATEGY

NLMK Group’s HR strategy was designed based 
on the Strategy 2017 targets. Development of the 
talent management system is a key aspect of the 
HR strategy

PRIZE IN THE ENVIRONMENTAL COMPETITION

NLMK Group topped the Urban Ecology nomination in 
the Vernadsky National Environmental Competition for 
the successful implementation of its environmentally 
friendly waterless BF slag cooling technology

RECOGNITION OF NLMK GROUP’S PLANTS AS 
REGIONAL LEADERS IN LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY

NLMK Kaluga, Novolipetsk and Altai-Koks became 
winners in the fi rst national «Labour productivity – 
Industrial Leaders 2015» award and were recognized 
as leaders in labour productivity in their respective 
regions

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

27

CEO 
STATEMENT 

The Company’s ongoing eff orts to minimize 
its environmental impact also continue 
apace. We believe this is a key element 
serving to improve the quality of life of 
our employees and the wider community. 
NLMK Group invested more than $100 
million into environmental projects across 
all production sites in 2015. Implementation 
of environmental projects has helped us to 
signifi cantly reduce the environmental impact 
of our production activities. In 2015 we were 
able to cut specifi c air emissions and water 
consumption, even though in terms of the 
latter NLMK had already surpassed the level 
of global best practice. NLMK Group will 
continue to further reduce its environmental 
footprint, regardless of output growth and 
the steel market environment.

Priority areas of NLMK Group’s social policy 
over the past year included enhancement of 
the health and welfare of NLMK’s employees 
and their family members; organization of 
sports and cultural events; co-fi nancing of 
non-state pensions for workers; and support 
for vulnerable social groups. The Company 
allocated more than $50 million for these 
activities.

I am certain that the achievement of the 
sustainability targets envisioned by Strategy 
2017 will drive the continued dynamic 
development of the Group and improve 
confi dence in the Company yet further; as 
well as providing a foundation for even 
closer cooperation with all NLMK Group’s 
stakeholders.

Best regards,
Oleg Bagrin
President of NLMK Group, 
Chairman of the Management Board

Dear ladies and gentlemen,

Our company is a socially responsible 

business. We understand that our 
responsibility encompasses not only the 
output of high-quality products, but also 
the development of society; protection of 
the environment; provision of comfortable 
and safe working conditions; creation of 
opportunities for career growth for our 
employees; as well as support for the 
health and welfare of not only NLMK 
Group employees but also their families 
and those in the communities where we 
operate.

As a result, leadership in sustainability and 
safety is one of the key targets of Strategy 
2017. We continued our eff orts towards 
achieving this target in 2015 by investing 
in social projects, occupational health and 
safety and development of the potential of 
our employees.

In 2015, NLMK Group’s Management Board 
approved our HR Strategy for the next two 
years. It was devised on the basis of the 
goals set out in Strategy 2017 and the 
volatile economic situation. Today, as never 
before, the company’s success depends on its 
employees’ personal performance and ability 

to tackle challenging tasks. Therefore, the 
development of the talent management 
system is at the core of our new HR 
Strategy.

Identifying, developing and promoting 
talented employees has been a priority for 
NLMK Group for several years now. We 
train our staff  starting from their school 
years and work to continuously improve 
their knowledge. Tens of thousands of 
employees undertake retraining; study for 
a second qualifi cation; and improve their 
skills. Approximately 90% attend the Group’s 
Corporate Training Center.

Injury free and zero incident production, 
achieving best global OHS standards and 
ensuring leadership in production culture 
are important elements of Strategy 2017. 
In the last two years we have implemented 
our top priority programmes for risk 
management; and personnel training, 
involvement, and awareness; which have 
driven a considerable injury rate reduction. 
Today, all NLMK Group plants are covered 
by the integrated occupational health and 
safety programme and the Lost Time Injury 
Frequency Rate (LTIFR) has declined by 20% 
from the 2014 level, bringing it in line with 
the level of global best practice.

28                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

STAKEHOLDER 
ENGAGEMENT

NLMK perceives corporate responsibility as 
integral, involving the selection and application 
of the most effective methods of engaging key 
stakeholders, resulting in decisions which are 
benefi cial for all parties.

In identifying key stakeholders, the 

Company considered the extent of their 
infl uence over NLMK Group’s operations

This approach generated the following 
list of stakeholders: Company employees, 
shareholders and investors, customers 
and suppliers, government regulators and 
supervisors, trade unions, public organizations 
and local communities in the regions where 
the Company operates, including potential 
employees.

The Company conducts regular research into 
the opinions of key stakeholders through 
polls and consultations, engages them in 
discussions, working group meetings to review 
specifi c issues, and standing committees, etc.

By developing a framework for stakeholder 
engagement, the Company seeks to improve 
its current approaches to dialogue with a view 
to identifying problems and developing optimal 
solutions more quickly.

l

i

a
n
a
v
y
s
n
n
e
P
K
M
L
N
t
a
g
n
i
t
e
e
M

Stakeholders’ interests

Tools for bilateral dialogue

Feedback

Company employees

Salary, social package and social guarantees, 
career growth, safety and working conditions

Trade unions

Opinion polls, Dial 06 counselling service, union 
meetings, appointments to discuss personal 
issues, change-of-shift meetings, corporate 
media, incl. corporate magazines, newspapers

Salary indexation, swift response to 
applications, possibilities for further career 
development, improvements in working 
conditions

Compliance with sectoral tariff agreement, 
compliance with collective agreements, 
observance of employment legislation, awareness 
of the Company’s operations, employee salary 
level and social protection, working conditions 
and occupational safety

Meetings and negotiations, discussion and 
conclusion of collective agreements, labour 
dispute commissions, Joint Commission 
involving administration and union, social 
insurance commission, occupational safety 
commission, qualifi cation and staff review 
commissions

Strict application of all social benefi ts 
and guarantees specifi ed in collective 
agreements, joint implementation of 
measures, response to applications, 
following unions’ recommendations

Shareholders and investors

Operational and fi nancial performance, Company 
strategy, dividend payments, corporate 
governance issues, number of ordinary NLMK 
shares fl oating freely on Russian stock 
exchanges, number of shares issued by NLMK 
and traded at the London Stock Exchange of 
Global Depositary Shares

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

Meetings with the Company’s senior 
management, annual reports and fi nancial 
statements, quarterly performance 
presentations, teleconferences to discuss 
quarterly, six-month and annual results, media 
publications, Company website

Dedicated services for shareholder and 
investor relations, dedicated section 
for shareholders and investors on the 
Company website

 
 
 
                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

29

Stakeholders’ interests

Tools for bilateral dialogue

Feedback

Consumers

Fulfi lment of contractual obligations, product 
quality and price, timely review and settlement 
of customer complaints and claims, technical 
upgrades and development, operational and 
fi nancial performance, fi nancial and nonfi nancial 
risks

Annual reports and fi nancial statements, 
conferences, forums, business meetings, 
Russian and international professional 
associations and organizations, media 
publications, Company website

Local communities

Use of customer satisfaction monitoring 
results for future contracts

Regional social and economic development, the 
environment, public health, funding of charity 
programmes, awareness of Company operations, 
reliability and transparency of information, job 
opportunities offered by the Company

Media, representatives of public organizations, 
members of representative and legislative 
bodies at different levels, career guidance 
events, conferences, meetings

Funding to support sports, healthcare, 
education and culture, fi nancing child 
healthcare programmes and projects to 
promote a healthy lifestyle, charitable aid 
to disadvantaged social groups

Government authorities

Compliance with applicable laws, tax liabilities, 
regional social and economic development, 
environmental protection

Public organizations

Compliance with applicable laws, the environment, 
regional social and economic development, 
charitable activities

Suppliers

Participation in the work of state authorities 
including legislative bodies, participation in 
international and Russian professional and 
public organizations, meetings, dialogues, 
media

A dedicated service for communication 
with representatives of state and local 
authorities, Company participation 
in different federal and regional 
programmes

Conferences, clubs, meetings and other events, 
media, letters, Company website

Handling of all issues, participation in the 
implementation of joint projects

Possibility of long-term development, fulfi lment 
of contractual obligations, timely review and 
settlement of supplier complaints and claims of 
customers, operational and fi nancial statements 
of the Company

Annual reports and fi nancial statements, 
conferences, forums, business meetings, 
Russian and international professional 
associations and organizations, media 
publications covering Company activities, 
Company website

Open tenders, contact information for 
procurement department on the Company 
website

30                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

OUR EMPLOYEES

Our team is our greatest asset, and our 
highly-qualifi ed employees are a key factor 
in delivering strong performance.

Working at NLMK is an opportunity 

to create a new future with one 

of the world’s most effi cient steel 
companies.

NLMK is building a team of professionals 
off ering comprehensive support to 
talented and ambitious employees who 
bring new ideas to life and are focused on 
result.

NLMK’S HR POLICY

 ▪ Foster an honest and attractive culture 
that provides equal career opportunities

 ▪ Improve the organization’s effi  ciency by 
consistently promoting high-potential 
employees

 ▪ Build a learning organization

Our Motivation project aims to:

 ▪ Align remuneration principles across the 

Group

The three pillars of our HR strategy and 
our mission on each of them:

 ▪ Establish clear rules for setting fi xed salary 
rates, depending on job attributes (grades)

Employee

We are striving to ensure that every job 
position within NLMK Group is fi lled by 
a properly qualifi ed, motivated and loyal 
member of staff .

Company

We are striving to make NLMK Group the 
preferred employer in the markets where 
we operate, and to off er the best career 
opportunities to employees with high 
potential for advancement. We regard 
cost-eff ectiveness as our priority and 
believe that our personnel costs should 
not exceed our labour productivity growth. 
Our aim is to replicate and develop best 
practices and be able to adapt quickly to 
the changing environment.

HR

We are striving to ensure that our HR 
function uses advanced expertise to become 
a leader in our Employee and Company 
mission, while being a reliable business 
partner and one of the most cost-effi  cient 
functions in the industry.

The foundation and four strategic 
projects aimed at fulfi lling the mission

Our Talent Management project aims to:

 ▪ Proactively identify and train qualifi ed 

staff  

 ▪ Fully unlock employees’ potential and 
help them achieve job fulfi llment

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

 ▪ Make sure that the variable pay is clearly 

linked to performance

 ▪ Create a perfect balance between the 

Company’s competitiveness in the labour 
market and cost control

Our Structure and Process Optimization 
project aims to:

 ▪ Align organization principles across the 

Group

 ▪ Achieve labour effi  ciency with the number 
of employees clearly linked to the volume 
of work

 ▪ Clearly defi ne the responsibilities for each 

task within processes and functions 

 ▪ Ensure optimal timing of organizational 
and structural changes through a single 
point of accountability for project 
coordination

Our Employee Engagement project will 
lead to:

 ▪ Positive attitude: our employees always 
speak positively of the Company when 
talking to their potential or existing 
colleagues or clients

 ▪ Loyalty: our employees want to stay with 
the Company for a long time and seek to 
be part of it

 ▪ Focus on improvement: our employees 
proactively seek to contribute to the 
Company’s success

a
n
a
d
n
I

i

K
M
L
N

,

s
r
e
b
m
e
m
ff 
a
t
s

,

i

g
n
m
m
e
F

l

.

M
d
n
a

s
i
l
l
i

W

.

M

Case study: NLMK Group’s HR 
policy for the next two years 
was approved in 2015. The 
policy is in line with the goals 
set out in the Group’s Strategy 
2017 and adapted to changing 
economic conditions. Its key 
aim is to build an effective 
talent management system, 
as employees’ individual 
performance and ability to 
meet challenges determine the 
Company’s success or failure.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

31

The main goal of NLMK’s HR policy is to 
develop and manage talent eff ectively, 
building a cohesive team capable of 
delivering success and consistent 
growth.

To this end, the Company pursues an 
active policy aimed at attracting and 
retaining the most talented young 
employees, providing equitable salary 
increases, utilizing a range of diff erent 
incentives, conducting professional 
training and staff  development 
programmes, ensuring a safe working 
environment and improving social 
safeguards for employees. 

We are striving to make NLMK Group 
the preferred employer in the markets 
where we operate, off ering the best 
career opportunities and ensuring that 
all NLMK Group employees are properly 
qualifi ed, motivated and loyal, as our 
leadership depends on what each of us 
contributes to the common cause. 

HR POLICY KPI

Each year NLMK Group sets ambitious 
personnel and labour productivity targets, 
measuring KPIs both at the Group and 
individual company level.

Almost all the targets set for 2015 at both levels were met. Below are some typical 
examples of KPIs.

Level

Targets for 2015

Unit

Target

Actual 
performance

Progress

2015

NLMK Group

Labour productivity growth

Novolipetsk

Attrition rate

%

%

5.0

6.0

6.0

2.6

Achieved

Achieved

Stoilensky

Requests for professional 
training granted

Scrap collection 
and processing 
division

Development and 
introduction of Regulations 
on Young Employees

Altai-Koks

Senior management talent 
pool: competence profi les 
for all candidates at Altai-
Koks approved

people

1,395

2,177

Achieved

–

–

–

–

–

–

Achieved

Achieved

Aſt er the new HR strategy was adopted, we added some employee advancement KPIs.

KPI

Unit

Target for 2016

Share of appointments from within the talent pool

Share of key positions to be fi lled with candidates from 
within the talent pool

%

%

75

50

32                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

OUR EMPLOYEES

Average NLMK Group headcount during 
2015 was 56,700 people (–6% year-
on-year), of which 53,200 people were 
employed at Russian sites; 2,400 people 
were employed at NLMK’s European 
divisions; around 1,000 people were 
employed at NLMK USA; and around 300 
people were employed in other countries 
where NLMK Group assets are located, 
including India, China, etc.

Over 50% of NLMK Group personnel 
are directly involved in the mining and 
steel production process; whilst 23% 
are involved in repair and maintenances; 
and approximately 3% are involved in 
research and innovative development. 
The remaining 24% are administrative 
and management personnel, including 
services.

both colleges and universities and among 
those that have completed their service in 
the armed forces of Russia. As a result, the 
Company hires over 1000 young qualifi ed 
workers each year that later form the 
Company’s pool of professional talent, future 
managers and experts.

NLMK Group has no gender limitations.

NLMK has an active HR policy aimed at 
attracting prospective young workers from 

LABOUR PRODUCTIVITY

Personnel structure by asset 
geography

Personnel structure by age

4% 2% 0.4%

26%

21%

NLMK consistently enhances the effi  ciency 
of its business by increasing the level of 
motivation and professionalism of its 
employees; through equipment upgrades; 
by implementing new technologies; and 
rationalizing production processes. 

The Company is currently on par with 
leading global steel companies in terms 
of operational effi  ciency; and NLMK 
continues to develop. The strategic 
target for the next few years is further 
increases in labour productivity through 
both process optimization initiatives and 
equipment productivity increases; with active 
involvement of personnel in the process. 
Continuous development has become the 
cornerstone of NLMK’s corporate culture. 

93%

Russia

Europe

53%

STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONALITY 
OPTIMIZATION

USA

Under 30

Over 50

Other countries

30–50

In 2015, NLMK Group continued 
implementing a programme aimed at 
improving effi  ciency and identifying cost 
saving opportunities. We launched a set of 

Personnel structure by function

Personnel structure by gender

Labour productivity

24%

40%

27%

3%

23%

11%

Steelmaking

Mining and raw materials

Repair and maintenance

Research and development

Services, management, 
administration and other functions

Men 

Women 

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

406

420

437

463

239

249

268

283

329

198

73%

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Labour productivity, 
Novolipetsk

Labour productivity, 
NLMK Group

y
k
s
n
e
l
i

o
t
S

,
r
e
b
m
e
m
ff 
a
t
s

,

v
e
h
z
o
r
o
t
S

.

V

 
 
 
 
                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

22   Communications

33

initiatives, including a successful pilot project 
to outsource Novolipetsk’s steelmaking 
equipment maintenance and repairs to 
SMS Siemag Services. Some of the service 
functions, including catering and cleaning 
services were also outsourced.

Large-scale outsourcing enabled NLMK 
Group to improve service quality, bring down 
costs and cut personnel by moving support 
staff  to external providers.

PERSONNEL MOTIVATION

Personnel motivation is one of the topmost 
priorities stated in NLMK Group’s HR policy.

Our motivation system helps us improve the 
quality of work and achieve more. NLMK 
Group uses fi nancial motivation, social 
motivation and psychological motivation.

The most eff ective technique currently 
employed by NLMK Group is result-
oriented motivation, in which employee 
performance is measured with the help 
of key performance indicators (KPIs).  By 
identifying KPIs for senior management and 
cascading them throughout the organization 
we can greatly improve labour effi  ciency 
and productivity across the Group. This 
principle serves as the basis for management 
by objectives (MBO), a system actively 
implemented across all NLMK Group 
companies in 2015.

Seeking to protect our employees from 
infl ation, we index wages to keep up with 
the increase in price levels each quarter. 
The average monthly salary at NLMK Group 
companies increased by about 8% yoy in 
2015, reaching 47,400 rubles at the Russian 
plants.

To attract and retain people, improve job 
satisfaction and generate internal motivation, 
we off er a number of non-fi nancial incentives: 
badges or certifi cates of appreciation for 
employees who performed exceptionally 
well; stories about the best employees in the 
corporate newspaper; their portraits on the 
Recognition Board; free rides to work and 
back for employees from other cities; and 
management talent pool opportunities for 
successful and talented employees.

3,000 Novolipetsk employees received 
awards in 2015, including:

 ▪ 2,877 corporate awards 

 ▪ 51 regional and city awards

 ▪ 55 industry awards

 ▪ 2 state awards

34                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

Contests and competitions are important 
elements of the incentive system. They 
help increase employee commitment to 
professional development and provide ample 
career growth opportunities. Novolipetsk 
alone held 37 skills competitions with over 
2,000 participants in 2015.

Case study: The Young Leader 
contest held by Altai-Koks had 
32 participants in 2015 and included 
corporate training that covered 
management and leadership skills, as 
well as a special module titled ‘Mini 
Project Management’. More than 
5,000 young employees participated 
in similar contests across NLMK 
Group companies in 2015.

NLMK Group companies annually hold 
Young Leader contests for young employees 
to stimulate their personal and professional 
development.

SOCIAL PACKAGE

As a responsible employer, NLMK 
continuously supports its employees by 
providing benefi ts.

All NLMK Group employees have access 
to such social benefi ts as provisions for 
employee health and welfare, catering and 
recreation, occupational health and safety, 
motherhood and childhood support, support 
for pensioners and veterans and further 
social incentives for the best workers as well 
as a variety of social payments. 

Our female employees enjoy additional 
benefi ts beyond those required by law: 
fl exible working hours for women with 
small children and professional training 
and development programmes following 
maternity leave. 

NLMK Group also implements a 
comprehensive youth programme to provide 
additional support to young employees. 
Graduates of partner colleges and 
universities are off ered a guaranteed average 
salary and kickoff  bonuses upon employment.

NLMK has another good tradition: we give 
New Year presents to our employees’ children 
and off er discounts on package holidays to 
children’s summer camps.

Case study: Winners of the 
Housing for Young Steelworkers 
2015 programme who work at 
Novolipetsk received keys to their 
new apartments in a ceremony 
that took place in July 2015. The 
programme is an annual not-for-
profi t social project targeted at 
top-performing employees aged 
below 35. The 32 young families 
will all live in the same section of a 
new apartment block in Lipetsk’s 
28th district. Four hundred 
and one young families of our 
employees have already been 
provided with housing since the 
start of the programme in 2005.

HEALTH AND WELFARE

The health and welfare of NLMK employees 
is a priority focus of the company’s 
social activities. The health and welfare 
of its employees is a priority for NLMK 
Group, which focuses close attention on 
developing a strong corporate health culture, 
establishing the conditions for a healthier 
lifestyle and improving mental and physical 
health.

NLMK Group runs 3 medical units and over 
25 fi rst aid facilities to provide medical 
support. NLMK employees have the 
opportunity to make visits to health resorts 
and spas, both locally at 10 NLMK health 
resorts and spas, and in other regions of the 
country. NLMK allocated 100 million rubles 
($2 million) in 2015 towards health resort 
treatment for employees.

Healthy lifestyle programmes are aimed at 
involving as many employees as possible in 
sports activities; and at popularizing healthy 
life choices. Employees have the opportunity 
to use gyms located at NLMK facilities, to 
get discounts on memberships to swimming 
pool and fi tness centres.  

Case study: More than 3,500 
employees participate in the 
‘NLMK Olympics’ each year. The 
Olympics are held throughout 
the year in 19 different sports. 
The event also offers a chance to 
take GTO physical fi tness tests.

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

35

The Company organizes regular sports and 
cultural events.

Summer camps are organized each year for 
the children of NLMK employees. Employees 
benefi t from discounted trips to three 
diff erent children’s camps owned by the 
Сompany, as well as camps located on the 
coast of the Black Sea.

TALENT DEVELOPMENT 

NLMK sees investment into personnel 
development as a prerequisite for the 
Сompany’s long-term competitiveness, 
dynamic development, an increased potential 
of its human capital; and, ultimately, the 
increased fundamental value of the Сompany 
as a whole. In line with its Strategy 2017, 
NLMK Group continues to improve its 
professional development procedures.

Professional training at NLMK Group is a 
complex project that provides the level of 
employee qualifi cation necessary for solving 
professional challenges. It also increases 
employee loyalty, forms a favourable social 
and psychological climate in the workplace 
and has a direct impact on the development 
of NLMK’s corporate culture. The primary 
direction of our talent development eff orts 
focuses on our talent pool – promising 
employees, performance reviews of 
managers and line personnel, mandatory 
knowledge tests for workers (knowledge 
checks), induction, coaching, leadership 
initiatives and skills competitions.

The year of 2015 marked the beginning 
of a new process for NLMK Group: we 
are assessing our managers and line and 
administrative personnel to determine 
whether they meet our job requirements. 
We look at how they perform their job duties 
and what personal and professional qualities 
they demonstrate. Following assessment, 
we devise individual training plans aimed at 
improving their performance and develop 
incentives to encourage them to work more 
effi  ciently.

Our talent pool is one of the uppermost 
priorities of the HR policy.  We provide 

training to employees who are able to 
perform managerial work to get them ready 
for specifi c job openings. The programme 
includes theory (seminars and training 
sessions) and practical training in the 
prospective position.

NLMK places a great emphasis on working 
with promising young employees. Also, we 
have an induction programme that aims 
at supporting newcomers through the 
onboarding process and preparing them for 
their new role: they should be able to perform 
their tasks and meet deadlines, have a good 
understanding of their duties, be committed 
to them, and feel personally responsible for 
their work.

Case study: The year of 2015 
saw the start of the fourth stage 
of ‘NLMK Group Leaders 2025’, a 
strategic talent pool development 
programme that provides high-
quality training to the most 
promising employees. The training 
is delivered by world-renowned 
teachers and executives from 
global companies. The programme 
opens up new career and personal 
development horizons, motivating 
employees to reach what seemed 
to be unattainable. More than 
50% of participants have been 
promoted – including to function 
directors – since the start of the 
programme.

About 90% of employees are trained in-
house, enabling them to benefi t from the 
wealth of knowledge accumulated by NLMK 
and providing for a more eff ective training 
process. Highly qualifi ed managers and 
specialists as well as professors from leading 
Russian educational institutions are invited to 
teach employees.

Investment into professional 
development and training ($ m)

5.5

5.5

4.8

4.4

3.3

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

Investment structure into professional 
development by area 

3% 2% 1% 1%

$3.3
m

6%

13%

24%

50%

Talent pool training

Mandatory occupational health 
and safety certification; 
special-purpose courses

Professional training and skill 
enhancement

New placement trainings

IT Tranings

Targeted financing of education 
in colleges/universities
Participation in conferences

Advanced training workshops

36                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

OCCUPATIONAL 
HEALTH AND SAFETY

The Company aims to be a world leader in 
occupational health and safety (OHS) among 
steel companies through applying best available 
OHS practices, effi cient risk management, 
through provision of incentives and by actively 
involving employees in the occupational safety 
programme.

NLMK’S OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY POLICY

OHS is the cornerstone of effi cient production

GOALS

PRINCIPLES

ACTIONS

RESPONSIBILITIES 
OF MANAGEMENT

 ▪ Effi cient accident – and incident-free operations;
 ▪ Achieving global leadership in occupational health and safety.

 ▪ Employees are NLMK’s key value; their health and wellbeing are key to the 

success of our operations;

 ▪ Occupational health and safety is an integral part of our business and the basis 

for decisions on developing and improving our business processes;

 ▪ All accidents, incidents and professional illnesses can and must be prevented;
 ▪ Safe operations are the responsibility of each and every employee.

 ▪ Effi cient management of potential risks to the health and safety of our 

employees, contractors and third parties;

 ▪ Strictly adherence to Russian and international occupational health and safety 

requirements;

 ▪ Continuous improvement of employee skills in the area of occupational health 

and safety;

 ▪ Ensuring the transparency of OHS indicators. 

 ▪ To ensure safe working conditions in line with OHS norms and standards;
 ▪ To allocate resources to ensure OHS compliance;
 ▪ To take measures to prevent accidents, incidents and professional illnesses;
 ▪ To introduce advanced OHS methods and technologies;
 ▪ To consult employees and their representatives on OHS issues; to motivate 

employees to work in a safe and incident-free environment;

 ▪ To regularly assess the quality of the Сompany’s risk management system and 

ensure its constant improvement.

RESPONSIBILITIES 
OF EMPLOYEES

 ▪ To take care of both one’s own safety; and the safety of others;
 ▪ To strictly adhere to established OHS requirements and use of safe working 

methods;

 ▪ To actively participate in OHS programmes. 

KEY OHS INITIATIVES IN 2015

NLMK Group’s Russian plants carried out a 
routine assessment of working conditions 
and used their fi ndings to plan improvements 
and to reduce the adverse eff ects of working 
in industrial settings.

They also made an earlier planned transition 
to new corporate protective clothing designs 
and state-of-the-art high-effi  ciency personal 
protective equipment.

Senior executives of Russian and 
international NLMK Group companies 
completed training in an NLMK programme 
aimed at building a safety culture. The 
Group continued implementing its ‘Risk 
Management’ and ‘In Search of Safety’ 
programmes.

OHS COSTS

NLMK annually fi nances events aimed at 
the continuous improvement of OHS and 
working conditions. The Group spent a total 
of 1.5 billion rubles ($25 million) on OHS 
initiatives in 2015. Its OHS spending has 
thus more than doubled since 2010, when 
measured in US dollars – and increased four-
fold when expressed in rubles.

Breakdown of Occupational Health 
and Safety Costs

21%

42%

$25
m

2%

18%

5%

12%

Personal protection equipment

Improvement of working conditions

Healthy meals

Occupational safety

OHS trainings

Other

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

37

NLMK GROUP’S OCCUPATIONAL 
INJURY STATISTICS

NLMK Group achieved a signifi cant reduction in 
occupational injury rates in 2015, as compared 
with 2014 levels:
 ▪ The total number of lost time injuries 
dropped 44 points, or 29% across all 
NLMK Group plants

 ▪ The number of work days lost due to work-

related accidents fell by 34%

 ▪ Lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR 
per 1,000,000 hours worked) among 
employees was down:

– by 27% for NLMK Group;

– by 22% for NLMK’s Russian assets;

– by 28% for NLMK’s international assets.

TARGET OHS KPI

 ▪ Lost time injury severity rate (LTISR 
per 1,000,000 hours worked) among 
employees was down:

– by 33% for NLMK Group;

– by 26% for NLMK’s Russian assets;

– by 37% for NLMK’s international assets.

Ten NLMK Group companies had no lost 
time injuries at all in 2015.

Unlike 2014, when there was not a single 
work-related fatality, we were regrettably 
not able to avoid them in 2015. However, 
their number was smaller than in 2011, 
2012 or 2013: four fatalities in Russia and 
one abroad.

Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) – 
Russian Assets

0.87

0.87

0.86

0.55

0.60 ВАТ

0.43

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

The effi ciency of our OHS efforts is measured with the help of KPIs. Here is an overview of some of our OHS targets for 2015.

Key corporate 
social responsibility 
aspects

Occupational health 
and safety

Targets for 2015

Performance in 2015

Progress

Targets for 2016

Ensuring that the lost time 
injury frequency rate (LTIFR) 
at NLMK Group’s Russian 
companies remains unchanged 
from 2014

Reducing lost time injury 
frequency rate (LTIFR) at 
NLMK Group’s international 
companies by 10% from 2014

Lost time injury 
frequency rate (LTIFR) 
dropped 22% from 2014

Target exceeded 
by 22%

Target exceeded 
by 18%

The lost time injury 
frequency rate (LTIFR) 
at NLMK Group’s 
international companies 
decreased by 28% from 
2014

Eliminating or reducing no 
less than 50% of identifi ed 
unacceptable risks

72% of identifi ed 
unacceptable risks 
eliminated or reduced

Target exceeded 
by 22%

Ensure that no less than 20% 
of employees (10,000) are 
involved in the ‘In Search of 
Safety’ programme 

20,433 employees 
became involved in the 
programme

Target exceeded 
by 104%

Keeping lost time injury 
frequency rate (LTIFR) at 
NLMK Group’s Russian 
companies below or equal 
to 0.60

Reducing lost time injury 
frequency rate (LTIFR) at 
NLMK Group’s international 
companies by 10% from 
2015

Eliminating or reducing 
no less than 50% of  
unacceptable risks identifi ed 
in 2016 that were also 
revealed in 2015

Ensure that no less than 20% 
of employees (10,000) are 
involved in the ‘In Search of 
Safety’ programme

38                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

ENVIRONMENTAL 
SAFETY 

NLMK Group’s environmental efforts are focused on 
preventing – or where not possible, then minimizing – 
its negative environmental impacts, providing safe 
working conditions and creating a good living 
environment in the regions where it operates.

COMPREHENSIVE APPROACH TO 
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION

NLMK undertakes to meet regulatory 
requirements and set higher environmental 
standards for its companies, bringing them 
in line with best environmental practices 
from around the world. This approach is 
part of our Strategy 2017, which aims at 
reducing the Company’s emission rates 
and achieving best-in-class environmental 
performance.

Approved in 2015, NLMK Group’s 
Environmental Policy describes the 
Company’s environmental principles, targets, 
actions and commitments. 

NLMK Group consistently adopts the best 
environmental safety management practices 
from around the world. Seven of our key plants 
have achieved international certifi cation, and 
two more companies – NLMK Kaluga and 
Altai-Koks – plan to do so in 2016.

ENVIRONMENTAL INVESTMENT

A reduced negative impact on the 
environment is the result of NLMK Group’s 
capex programme alongside planned 
environmental and technological initiatives 
outside of the investment process. 

NLMK Group’s investment into projects to 
ensure a reduced environmental impact 

KEY ENVIRONMENTAL TARGETS

Targets for 2015

Performance in 2015

Reduce emission rate 
by 0.2 kg per tonne of 
steel compared with 
2014 levels 

Emission rate reduced 
by 0.2 kg per tonne of 
steel compared with 
2014 levels

Progress 
(analysis)

Target achieved

Reduce water 
consumption by 0.4 
cbm per tonne of steel 
compared with 2014 
levels

Water consumption 
reduced by 0.5 cbm 
per tonne of steel 
compared with 2014 
levels

Target exceeded 
by 0.1 cbm per 
tonne of steel

Targets for 2016*

Reduce emission rate 
by 0.1 kg per tonne of 
steel compared with 
2015 levels

Reduce water 
consumption by 0.1 
cbm per tonne of steel 
compared with 2015 
levels

Increase NLMK 
Group’s overall 
recycling rate by 15% 
of the 2011 levels

Recycling rate 
increased by 17% of the 
2011 levels

* with steel production remaining at the same level in 2016.

Target exceeded 
by 2%

Increase recycling rate 
to 15%

and the cost of environmental initiatives 
in 2015 totaled 6.5 billion rubles 
($107 million).

23.1 billion rubles (over $600 million) was 
spent in total on environmental activities 
between 2011 and 2015.

Examples of environmental initiatives 
implemented in 2015

NLMK Group ran a number of major 
environmental initiatives at diff erent 
stages of completion in 2015. All of them 
were aimed at reducing the Company’s 
environmental impact.

NLMK’s environmental investments 
($ m)

153

134

141

107

77

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

For instance, an environmentally friendly 
waterless BG slag cooling technology was 
successfully implemented at the Lipetsk 
site, resulting in an 8-fold reduction in 
hydrogen sulphide content of emissions 
produced during this process.

The refractory shop completed the 
upgrading of dust collectors for rotary 
furnaces, which helped reduce dust 
emissions by about 200 tonnes a year.

Other NLMK Group companies also 
implemented major environmental 
initiatives, including:

 ▪ Equipment repairs and upgrades at Altai-

Koks’ coke batteries

 ▪ A new dust suppression system at 

Stoilensky’s tailings pond (fi rst stage)

 ▪ Filtering equipment upgrades for 

improved off -gas treatment at NLMK 
Kaluga’s EAF.

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

39

REDUCTION OF ENVIRONMENTAL 
FOOTPRINT

kg per tonne of steel, bringing the total 
decrease over the past fi ve years to 25%.

NLMK’s systematic and consistent 
approach to environmental protection, 
alongside the high priority it gives to 
environmental initiatives guarantees 
continuous improvement of its environmental 
performance.

Novolipetsk produces 81% of NLMK 
Group’s steel, and accounts for more than 
80% of all emissions. This explains the 
plant’s heavy investment in environmental 
initiatives at all stages of the production 
process.

Air

In 2015, NLMK Group reduced its emission rate, 
the key environmental performance indicator – 
which is now very close to the best available 
technology levels. While the Company’s steel 
production was at the same level as in the 
previous years, emission rates dropped to 20.9 

The Lipetsk site is focused on 
improving its environmental 
performance and thus minimizing 
its environmental footprint. 
Hard work and massive 
investment enabled the plant 
to reduce its contribution to 
air pollution by almost 50% in 
the past 15 years. According to 
Rosgidromet (Russian Federal 
Service for Hydrometeorology 
and Environmental Monitoring), 
air pollution in Lipetsk is fi ve 
times lower than 10 years ago, 
bringing it in line with cities with 
no industrial operations.

The Group’s mining companies 
(Stoilensky, Stagdok, and Dolomit) 
accounted for about 1% of the total 
emissions.

NLMK Group will continue to reduce its 
emission rate in 2016; the next target 
is to cut the rate by another 0.1 kg per 
tonne of steel.

Water

One of the key indicators which refl ects 
the impact of production on water bodies 
is the water consumption per tonne of 
steel.

NLMK Group leads the way in this area, 
outperforming its global peers. With 
its unique technologies and effi  cient 
production, the Company was able to 
reduce water consumption to 4.9 cbm 
per tonne of steel in 2015 – compared to 
the best available technologies level at 
7.0 cbm per tonne for integrated world 
producers.

This great care for one of the most 
important natural resources was made 
possible thanks to a closed loop water 
system introduced by Novolipetsk, 
Stoilensky, Altai-Koks, VIZ-Steel and NLMK 

Specifi c air emissions (kg/t)

Specifi c water consumption (m3/t)

27.9

22.6 21.9

21.1

20.9

18.9

18.9 ВАТ*

6.6

7 ВАТ

5.5

5.4

5.4

4.9

2011

2012 2013 2014 2015

Target
2020

* BAT = best available technologies.

2011

2012 2013 2014 2015

Kaluga. The system enabled these facilities 
to stop polluting discharges into water 
bodies entirely. 

NLMK Group will continue taking steps to 
reduce its water consumption in 2016; the 
next target is to cut it by another 0.1 cbm 
per tonne of steel.

Waste management

NLMK Group produced 63 million tonnes 
of waste in 2015 (just like the year before); 
92% of this was attributed to Stoilensky. 

Novolipetsk accounted for 7% of the waste 
produced in 2015. It is worth saying that 
the Group’s main production site was able 
to reduce its waste by 11% yoy thanks to 
a number of resource-saving initiatives. 

While the other NLMK Group plants 
accounted for only about 1% of waste, 
they were also involved in the programme 
aimed at making more use of recycled 
materials.

The recycling rate at NLMK Group’s 
steelmaking companies in Russia exceeded 
90% in 2015. Novolipetsk increased 
its recycling rate by 2 p.p., to 96%, and 
a number of NLMK Group companies 
managed to make use of accumulated 
waste. With a recycling rate of 110% and 
102%, respectively, NSMMZ and Dolomit 
were among the most environmentally 
responsible NLMK Group companies.

As part of Strategy 2017, Novolipetsk 
plans to build a briquetting plant that will 
recycle accumulated ferrous waste into 
material used in pig iron manufacturing. 
With a capacity of 700,000 t briquettes, 
the new facility will make its contribution 
to improving the Company’s recycling rate. 
It is slated for launch in 2018.

PUBLIC APPRAISAL OF NLMK 
GROUP’S ENVIRONMENTAL 
ACTIVITIES

In 2015, NLMK Group received a silver 
medal at Metal-Expo’2015 international 
industry awards for the successful 
implementation of its environmentally 
friendly waterless BG slag cooling 
technology at the Lipetsk site that resulted 
in an 8-fold reduction in emission of 
hydrogen sulfi de.

With the same innovation NLMK Group 
topped the Urban Ecology nomination in 
the Vernadsky National Environmental 
Competition.  

40                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

NLMK Group continued its efforts to increase 
operational and energy effi ciency in 2015; the 
initiatives generated a total impact of 1.3 billion 
rubles ($21 million).

In 2015, NLMK Group signed long-
term agreements with NOVATEK for 
the supply of natural gas to all of 
NLMK Group’s Russian production 
facilities. The contracts have been 
signed for a term of 5 years and will 
come into effect on January 1st, 
2016. The agreements provide for 
the supply of an annual volume of 
2.8 billion cubic meters of natural gas 
to NLMK Group’s production facilities. 
This will cover 100% of NLMK 
Group’s natural gas needs that were 
previously met by other companies.

international standard. Stagdok, Dolomit and 
NLMK Kaluga also successfully passed their 
energy management effi  ciency audits in 2015. 
Currently, all of the main NLMK Group Russian 
facilities have valid certifi cates of compliance 
with the requirements of the ISO 50001 
international standard. This is the result of 
the Company’s consistent approach to the 
generation, consumption and use of energy for 
the production of goods.

Specifi c energy intensity of steel 
production (Gcal/t)

6.1

5.74 5.67

5.72 5.66

5.1 ВАТ

2011

2012 2013 2014 2015

k
s
t
e
p

i
l

o
v
o
N
t
a

t
n
a
p

l

t
n
e
m
t
a
e
r
t

r
e
t
a
w
e
t
s
a
W

These were achieved by a reduction in 

natural gas costs by over 270 million 
rubles through purchases at an organized 
trading venue; long-term gas supply 
contracts with NOVATEK that would meet 
100% of the Russian companies’ natural 
gas needs in 2016–2020; and improved 
utilization of process equipment to avoid 
downtime, etc.

The improvements helped NLMK Group’s 
Russian companies achieve a 3% yoy 
decrease in energy consumption in 2015 
despite the fact that production remained at 
the same level as it was in the previous years.

Key energy effi  ciency investment projects 
in 2015 included the launch of a 20 MW 
top-pressure recovery turbine (TRT) for 
Blast Furnace No. 7 at the Lipetsk site 
and air separation unit No. 17. Among 
other benefi ts, these projects increased 
Novolipetsk’s self-suffi  ciency in energy from 
54% to 57%. Almost 77% of all in-house 
energy was generated through the recovery 
of by-product BF and coke gases. 

Initiatives to boost energy effi  ciency resulted 
in a 1% year-on-year improvement in the 
energy intensity of the Lipetsk site during 
2015, to reach 5.66 Gcal per tonne of steel.

NLMK Group’s target energy effi  ciency 
level is equal to the level of best available 
technologies (BAT). To achieve this target, 
we plan to implement a series of low-cost 
initiatives within the optimization programme, 
as well as local energy savings programmes 
at production sites and Strategy 2017 
investment projects each year.

NLMK Group’s energy management effi  ciency 
during 2015 was endorsed by international 
specialists. Representatives of the British 
Standards Institute (BSI) confi rmed the 
compliance of the energy management 
system at Altai-Koks, Stoilensky, VIZ-Steel, 
NSMMZ, NLMK Metalware, and Novolipetsk 
with the requirements of the ISO 50001 

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

 
 
 
 
                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

41

Sergey Chebotarev, NLMK Group Vice President for Energy, said: “In order to reach 
the level of best available technologies, in 2015 NLMK Group implemented a set of 
investment projects and a signifi cant number of cost-effi cient optimization initiatives. 
Key projects in the pipeline include the construction of a TRT for blast furnace No. 6; 
improved reliability of the energy supply to BOF shops; replacement of turbine-driven 
generator No. 5; completion of upgrades to bell-type furnaces at Novolipetsk rolling 
operations; and establishing the energy supply for the Stoilensky pelletizing plant 
currently under construction.”

42                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

COMMUNITY 
DEVELOPMENT 

SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY MISSION 
AND STRATEGIC OBJECTIVES

Social mission

The Company sees its social mission as 
achieving sustainability goals, which meet 
the long-term economic interests of the 
business, contribute to community welfare, 
along with conservation of the environment 
and the observance of human rights within 
the territories of its operation.

Social responsibility and sustainability: 
NLMK’s strategic goals

The combined eff orts of the Company, its 
employees and communities are aimed at 
achieving the following strategic goals:

 ▪ Create a favourable and predictable 

social and economic environment for its 
employees and local communities;

 ▪ Improve corporate governance frameworks 
for economic, environmental and social 
activities of the Company; 

 ▪ Comply with international environmental 
protection standards. Focus on the best 
state-of-the-art technologies; 

 ▪ Observe business ethics principles, resist 

corruption and terrorism; 

 ▪ Develop new types of products to meet 

customer expectations; 

 ▪ Create an environment for the stronger 
performance by Company employees; 

 ▪ Ensure sustainable improvements in 

welfare and social safety for Company 
employees and safe workplace 
environments.

IMPROVING THE SOCIAL 
ENVIRONMENT

Improving the quality of life for people 
that live in the regions in which the 
Company operates is one of NLMK’s 
key social responsibility goals. The 
Company works with local communities; 
and the authorities at diff erent levels; 
to strive to create new opportunities 
for using cutting-edge mechanisms for 
development of the regions where NLMK 
operates and to resolve the most burning 
social issues. 

The Company makes a signifi cant 
contribution to local employment, 
providing jobs with competitive salaries. 
Almost all our employees are local 
residents. 

l

t
e
e
m
d
e
fi 
-
d
n
a
-
k
c
a
r
t

a

n

i

l

y
a
D
s
’
r
e
k
a
m
e
e
t
S
e
t
a
r
b
e
e
c

l

Pursuing a policy of regional responsibility 
produces economic benefi ts for the 
Company including development of the 
potential of the labour force; as well 
as improved engagement with local 
communities and creation of comfortable 
living conditions for Company employees.

l

s
e
e
y
o
p
m
e
K
M
L
N

NLMK creates comfortable and safe 
working conditions in order to stimulate 
personnel development; and strives 
to provide workers with an adequate 
standard of living. The level of salaries 
at all Group companies exceeds average 

The combined efforts of the Company, its employees and communities are aimed at achieving the following strategic goals: 

Key aspects 
of corporate 
responsibility

2015 objectives

2015 results

Engagement with local 
communities

Development of 
regions where NLMK 
operates

To implement initiatives 
that promote the 
sustainable development 
of the regions where 
the company operates 
and maintain social and 
economic stability in local 
communities.

Investment in social needs and the 
development of the regions where the 
company operates totaled 3.3 billion rubles 
($54 million) in 2015; whilst over 400 million 
rubles ($7 million) was allocated to charity. 

NLMK was ranked one of the top fi ve 
socially responsible companies in a study 
by the Agency of Political and Economic 
Communications 

Achievement of 
set objectives: 
analysis

2015 objective 
achieved

NLMK Group actively 
participated in the 
development of the 
regions where its 
assets operate

2016 objectives

To continue 
implementing 
measures to 
promote the 
sustainable 
development 
of the regions 
where the 
Company 
operates

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

43

income levels in the regions in which they 
operate, which attracts new workers to 
the Company. NLMK implements several 
dozen social programmes.

NLMK GROUP’S INVESTMENTS 
IN THE REGIONS IN WHICH IT 
OPERATES

Financing for social programmes is a 
key prerequisite of their effi  ciency. The 
Company is focused on projects that 
ensure tangible improvement of the 
quality of life for people in the regions in 
which it operates.

NLMK consistently fi nances programmes 
aimed at promoting education, healthcare, 
and culture. Promotion of sport is an 
important area for the Company, including 
for children.

NLMK Investment in social projects 
($ m)

2015 Investment structure in social 
projects

73

75

70

20%

12%

43

54

2011

2012

2013

2014

2015

 ▪ Work with children and young people 

$54
m

6%

5%

14%

43%

Sport

Healthcare

Education

Culture

Key areas of social investment:

 ▪ Charitable activities.

 ▪ Promotion of sport and healthcare 

 ▪ Promotion of education and culture 

NLMK Group’s social investment at its 
Russian sites totaled 3.3 billion rubles 
($54 million) in 2015.

Work with children and young people 

Charitable activities

44                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

PROMOTION OF SPORT 
AND HEALTHCARE 

The Company sees the promotion of welfare 
and a healthy lifestyle for its employees and 
people in regions in which it operates as a 
priority of its social responsibility. Special 
focus is placed on involving children and 
young people in regular sports activities. 

NLMK provides assistance to sports groups 
and schools for children and young people, 
as well as to sports clubs and athletes. 
Funds are allocated for the maintenance 
of sports facilities and buildings (stadiums, 
sports complexes, sports halls), and the 
purchase of sports equipment.

NLMK fi nances the ‘Lipetsk Metallurgist’ 
sports club that is successfully promoting 
sport in Lipetsk and creates the conditions 
for Novolipetsk employees and the members 
of their families, as well as all other Lipetsk 
dwellers, to practice sports. 

One of the most modern shooting clubs 
in Russia; a shooting range; and the 
‘Novolipetsky’ health and welfare centre for 
summer and winter sports are all located in 
Lipetsk. The shooting club is equipped with 
top-notch equipment which means it can 
host international competitions.

The Company has medical centres in 
Lipetsk, Belgorod and Sverdlovsk Regions; 
and in the Altai Republic; that provide high-
quality medical care for NLMK employees 
and people living in the regions.

PROMOTION OF EDUCATION 
AND CULTURE

NLMK has a comprehensive programme to 
support the younger generation receiving a 
quality education by creating its own talent 
pool of driven and technically qualifi ed 
personnel.

Colleges and universities NLMK supports 
organize ‘Open Doors’ days for school 
students. The Company organizes site 
visits, competitions, contests, and scientifi c 
conferences.

NLMK cooperates with over 30 colleges 
and universities. Around 4,000 technical 
college students take internships at 
NLMK Group companies each year. NLMK 
runs special scholarship programmes for 
higher professional education students in 
order to provide additional social support 
to giſt ed students.

NLMK’s career guidance 
programme involves school 
students; and is aimed at helping 
students to make conscious 
career choices and to satisfy the 
Company’s personnel requirements 
in key areas by studying in 
colleges and universities certifi ed 
and supported by NLMK, with 
subsequent employment at the 
Company. Over 11,000 students 
from 72 schools in Lipetsk and 
Lipetsk Region participated in 
career guidance initiatives in 2015.

NLMK provides comprehensive support 
for its partner colleges and universities, 
which started introducing a dual 
education system on the Company’s 
initiative in 2015. The programme 
combines education at the college or 
university with apprenticeships in the 
Company.

Other NLMK Group companies also have 
many youth programmes. For example, 
Altai-Koks has partnered with three 
local schools, and more than 200 school 
students took part in career guidance 
events.

NLMK provides support to children’s 
creative clubs, studios, libraries, museums, 
and art galleries, and also allocates 
funds for the protection and proper 
maintenance of cultural and architectural 
monuments and other objects of cultural 
and historical value.

WORK WITH CHILDREN 
AND YOUNG PEOPLE

NLMK invests a lot of eff ort into 
organizing healthy recreational activities 
for children. During the summer vacation 
the Company arranges trips for children 
of its employees to summer camps; which 
are also open to children from low-income 
families and orphans.

Through sponsorship and charitable 
assistance, NLMK invests in improving the 
material and technical infrastructure of 
preschools, schools, colleges, professional 
schools, children’s creative centres, 
children’s homes, and boarding schools. 

Special emphasis is placed on patriotic 
education. Together with organizations 
of war veterans and trade unions, NLMK 
organizes meetings with veterans and 
visits to war memorials; as well as lessons 
on bravery in schools and colleges.

CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES

NLMK contributes to charities through 
its own charitable organizations as well 
as through direct contributions to other 
charities. 

The ‘Miloserdiye’ (‘Mercy’) social 
protection fund, founded by Novolipetsk, 
runs 11 programmes that cover all 
aspects of social support. Priority areas 
include support for orphans, low-income 
households, pensioners and diff erently-able 
persons; as well as people that have found 
themselves in challenging life situations 

Over 30,000 people from Lipetsk Region 
that require additional social support 
receive help annually. Funds are allocated 
to pay for long-term medical treatment, 
medicine, technical rehab means, trips 
to resorts and children’s camps and 
preparation for the beginning of the 
academic year; as well as other social 
projects.

The ‘Zabota, pomoshch, miloserdiye’ (‘Care, 
help, mercy’) charity fund in Sverdlovsk 

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

45

Region helps promote sports and 
protect cultural heritage; also supporting 
veterans and pensioners.

NLMK held a series of events to 
celebrate the 70th anniversary of 
the end of World War II. Celebrations, 
meetings and concerts were organized 
to honour the veterans and home-
front workers. All our veterans received 
medals, letters of appreciation and 
giſt s from employees of NLMK Group 
companies.

NLMK allocated over 400 million rubles 
($7 million) to charity programmes in 
2015.

NLMK employees created the 
www.Pobeda48.ru internet portal, 
a regularly updated website that 
has a database of NLMK and 
Lipetsk Region veterans who 
participated in the war. It is based 
on archive documents about 
those that participated in the war, 
home-front workers, survivors 
of the Leningrad blockade, and 
concentration camp prisoners.

46                                                                                                                                                     

25   NLMK’s 

sustainability review

27   Ceo 

statement

28   Stakeholder 
engagement

30   Our

employees

36   Occupational health 

and safety

COMMUNICATIONS

TRANSPARENCY AND REPUTATION 
MANAGEMENT

NLMK Group follows best global practice in 
interacting with stakeholders: employees, 
local communities, shareholders, investors, 
customers, business partners, mass media, 
government authorities and non-profi t 
organizations. Constructive dialogue is 
facilitated by transparency, which has 
been traditionally maintained across the 
Group.  We use all available communication 
channels to keep the public informed 
promptly and in detail: websites of NLMK 
Group and its companies, press releases, 
comments in mass media, press tours, 
press conferences, posts on social networks 
and multimedia websites, our corporate 
newspapers, portal and magazines, and 
employee feedback channels.

NLMK Group strives to provide the public 
with more information than it is required by 
disclosure laws, because we are convinced 
that openness and transparency strengthen 
our reputation as a socially responsible, 
effi  cient and sustainable multinational 
company.

EFFECTIVE EXTERNAL 
COMMUNICATIONS

NLMK Group made more extensive use 
of communication channels targeted at 
external audience in 2015, publishing 
about 600 press releases dedicated 
to its investment, production, fi nancial, 
social, environmental and other activities.  
The management of NLMK Group 
and its companies continued its open 
communication with journalists and the 
professional community through press 
conferences, interviews and participation in 
industry-related and economic conferences 
and exhibitions.

Seeking to improve the quality of 
information about the Company and 
facilitate the process of obtaining and 
analyzing this data, NLMK Group updated 
its offi  cial website (www.nlmk.com), adding 
new and advanced functionality, and a wide 
range of information about its activities.

We have had a lot of positive feedback 
from our customers and partners about our 
new product catalogues and our fi rst global 
online website dedicated to NLMK products 
(products.nlmk.com).

VOICE OF EMPLOYEES

NLMK Group continues developing 
an eff ective internal communications 
system that covers all production sites 
and encompasses several advanced 
communication channels:

 ▪ Extensive feedback network

 ▪ Corporate-wide intranet

 ▪ Corporate newspapers issued by NLMK 

Group’s Russian companies

 ▪ NLMK Group corporate magazine available 

in Russian and English

 ▪ Newsletters at NLMK Europe companies

 ▪ NLMK-TV with stories streamed on the 

intranet

In 2015, NLMK Group’s corporate mass 
media published over 1,700 items that helped 
employees promptly get latest information 
on the industry and company-related 
events, operational and social programmes, 
and development and career growth 
opportunities.

An important corporate communications 
trend seen in 2015 was the growing share of 
news items based on employees’ feedback 
received through telephone hotlines, 
complaint boxes, and emails to newspapers 
and the magazine, as well as through new 
channels such as text messages and a 
special service on NLMK Group’s corporate 
portal.  The new feedback channels expanded 
employees’ opportunities for contacting 
management on urgent issues and doing it 
anonymously. The Company will continue to 
develop its feedback channels, which play 
an important role in improving employee 
motivation and loyalty.

RECOGNITION

NLMK Group’s corporate media has always 
been highly rated on top-lists and by media 
awards.

NLMK Group corporate intranet: 
 ▪ A project to develop NLMK corporate 

portal’s media centre by a PR specialist 
won Young People in Media Landscape 
and was granted 100,000 rubles at an 

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

e
n
i
z
a
g
a
M
e
t
a
r
o
p
r
o
C
K
M
L
N

international corporate youth project 
awards.

 ▪ NLMK’s project titled ‘Corporate portal: 
platform for development of internal 
communications’ was ranked among 
the top three in the Best Internal 
Communications and Corporate Media 
Project category at the 19th Silver Archer 
national public relations awards. 

NLMK Group magazine:
 ▪ Named Best Corporate Media of the Year 

2015.

 ▪ Recognized as best corporate media at 

Metal-Expo’2015.

 
 
                                                 
38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

47

 ▪ Topped the list of the best corporate 

 ▪ Named Best Digital Corporate Media at 

magazines issued by industrial 
companies, which was compiled by 
Production Management magazine in 
2015.

 ▪ Topped the Well-Written Media list in 

2015.

The Big Ore newspaper (Stoilensky):
 ▪ Named Best Publication of an Ore Mining 

Company at Metal-Expo’2015.

Metal-Expo’2015.

NLMK Group’s corporate videos:
 ▪ NLMK Group’s Made of Steel video 

awarded the Grand Prix at the Moscow 
International Festival of Corporate Videos 
in 2015.

 ▪ NLMK Group’s Special Steel video won 
Best Corporate Video. Corporate Image 
and Best Infographics at Silver Threads 
Awards in 2015.

 ▪ Steel Symphony, a New Year video, won 
Best Cameraman and Best Musical 
Score at Best Corporate Video 2016 
Awards. 

NLMK’S DIALOGUE WITH 
INVESTORS AND ANALYSTS 

Openness and transparency are at 
the core of NLMK’s information policy. 
This approach helps us maintain a high 
level of trust between NLMK and all its 
stakeholders.

NLMK-TV:
 ▪ Won Best Directing and Editing, and Best 
Host at Silver Threads Awards in 2015.

 ▪ NLMK Group’s Special Steel video 

won Best Audio Engineering at Metal-
Vision’2015.

NLMK shares are traded on the Moscow 
Exchange, while its global depositary 
shares are listed on the London Stock 
Exchange. Furthermore, NLMK’s debt 

48                                                                                                                                                     

38   Environmental 

safety 

40   Energy effi  ciency

42   Сommunity 
development

46   Communications

securities – bonds denominated in both 
rubles and Eurobonds – are traded in the 
Russian and foreign markets.

NLMK Group uses numerous eff ective tools 
for communicating with investors and 
analysts. Such tools range from regular 
disclosure of the Company’s performance 
data to meetings with partners and potential 
investors.

Capital Markets Day 2015

On 30 March 2015, London hosted Capital 
Markets Day 2015 where NLMK Group’s 
key managers spoke about the Company’s 
progress toward achieving its Strategy 
2017 targets. The event was attended 
by Independent Director Helmut Wieser, 
who spoke about the effi  ciency of NLMK’s 
corporate governance. The meeting also 
featured a presentation of NLMK’s updated 
dividend policy – which was later approved by 
the Group’s Board of Directors. http://nlmk.
com/en/investor-relations/cmd/

Disclosure of operating and fi nancial 
performance

In the interests of keeping its investors 
continuously informed, NLMK publishes its 
operating and fi nancial performance data 
each quarter.

Reports on the Company’s operating results 
include overviews of industry trends, the 
current situation in the steel and mineral 
markets, and forecasts for the near future.

The Group discloses its consolidated fi nancial 
results and reports under IFRS. Before the 
third quarter of 2015, NLMK had reported 
under US GAAP.

http://nlmk.com/en/investor-relations/
reporting-center/ 

Visits to production sites

For those who wish to get deeper insight 
into our business model and steel production 
process, we annually organize visits to 
production sites where guests can see the 
key production facilities and talk with the 
management.

NLMK Group off ered tours of its key 
production sites in 2015 as well. The Group 
holds between three and six visits to its 
production sites annually. 

For the schedule of upcoming tours, please 
contact our Investor Relations team (st@
nlmk.com).

Industry-related and analytical events

In 2015, the Company’s key managers 
attended a number of industry conferences 
held in Russia, the UK, the USA and 
continental Europe. These events featured 
over 370 group and face-to-face meetings 
with investors where a wide range of issues 
were discussed – including industry trends, 
implementation of the strategy and NLMK’s 
achievements. 

Recognition

The Company’s eff orts to disclose as much 
information on its activities and prospects as 
possible are highly appraised by the market.

Extel Survey ranked NLMK among the top 
ten European companies (in the metals and 
mining sector) for investor relations in 2015. 
Additionally, NLMK won IR magazine Russia 
& CIS Awards as one of the best Russian 
mid-cap companies for investor relations.

SUSTAINABILITY / REPORT 2015

                                                 
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE  / REPORT 2015 

Corporate governance review

4 out of 9 Board members are independent directors

Corporate governance effi  ciency assessed as high

Independent directors chair 2 out of 3 Board committees

2 out of 3 Remuneration committee members are 
independent directors 

100% of top managers are members of the Company’s 
governance bodies

New dividend policy provides more transparency 
and visibility, consistent with interests of all stakeholders

5

3

BOARD OF DIRECTORS’ STRUCTURE

Independent Board members 

Board members

4

NLMK BOARD MEMBERS’ LENGTH OF TENURE

< 4 years

4-10 years

> 10 years

1

5

3 

General Shareholders’ 
Meetings 

12  

Board meetings

PARTICIPATION OF TOP MANAGERS IN MEETINGS OF 
THE COMPANY’S GOVERNING BODIES

0%

100%

Participation in meetings

Absence at meetings
(all reasons)

44  

meetings of the Management 
Board 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE  / REPORT 2015 

Key 2015 corporate governance events

CHANGES IN THE DIVIDEND POLICY

In 2015, the Company updated its dividend policy 
to ensure higher visibility of dividend payments. 
From 2015, dividends are paid on a quarterly basis 
subject to meeting the targets on net profi t and 
free cash fl ow.

ENHANCEMENT OF INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS’ 
ROLES IN THE COMPANY’S GOVERNANCE BODIES

The Board of Directors was elected at the Annual 
General Shareholders’ Meeting in June 2015 and 
included 4 independent directors (3 independent 
directors in the previous Board composition). In 2015, 
independent directors chaired 2 out of 3 Board 
committees. This enabled NLMK to enhance the roles 
of independent directors’ in the Company’s governance 
bodies.

ADOPTION OF REVISED CORPORATE 
DOCUMENTS

In 2015, corporate governance bodies approved 
the revised versions of corporate documents, 
including the Charter, Corporate Governance 
Code, Regulations of General Shareholders’ 
Meeting, Regulations of the Board of Directors, 
etc. The amendments in the documents mostly 
refl ect the recommended corporate governance 
practices, including the OECD principles of 
corporate governance and recommendations of 
Bank of Russia.

Modular Annuaal Report of NLMK for 22015
Modular Annual Report of NLMK for 2015

or 2

ABOUT NLMK

 ▪ NLMK Profi le
 ▪ Business model and value chain
 ▪ Geography of assets and sales
 ▪ Strategy in action
 ▪ Key highlights

SUSTAINABILITY

 ▪ NLMK employees
 ▪ Health and safety
 ▪ Environmental protection
 ▪ Engaging stakeholders

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

 ▪ Leadership of NLMK
 ▪ Governance system
 ▪ Risk management
 ▪ Information for shareholders

You can download report modules here http://nlmk.com/en/investor-relations/reporting-center/annual-reports/?from=ru

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

51

MANAGEMENT 
COMPOSITION

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NLMK Board of Directors was elected 
on 5 June 2015. There are 4 independent 
directors on the Board. 

 ▪ To assess risks

Related corporate documents:

 ▪ To approve budgets and business plans

 ▪ Charter of NLMK

 ▪ To set target indicators

 ▪ Corporate Governance Code

Main functions of the Board of Directors:

 ▪ To assess the performance of the 

 ▪ Regulations of the Board of Directors

 ▪ To develop and implement the corporate 

strategy

 ▪ To approve priority business areas for the 

company

company and its bodies

 ▪ To control large-scale capital expenses; 
asset acquisition and sale transactions, 
etc.

 ▪ Remuneration and compensation to 
members of the Board of Directors

Composition of the Board of Directors of NLMK as at 31 December 2015

Full name 

Position

Years on the 
Board

Independent

Participation 
in Strategic 
Planning 
Committee

Participation 
in Audit 
Committee

Participation in 
Human Resources, 
Remuneration and 
Social Policies 
Committee

Vladimir 
Lisin

Oleg 
Bagrin

Chairman of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Benedict 
Sciortino

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Helmut 
Wieser

Nikolai 
Gagarin

Karl 
Doering

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Karen 
Sarkisov

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Franz 
Struzl

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Stanislav 
Shekshnya

Member of the 
Board of Directors

19

11

4

5

14

9

6

5

1

Chairman

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

Chairman

Chairman

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

52                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

Board of Directors 
as at 31.12.2015

Executive director

Independent directors

1

2

4

6

8

3

5

7

9

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

53

1

Vladimir Lisin
Year of birth: 1956
Chairman of the Board of Directors

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings 

Member of the Human Resources, 
Remuneration and Social Policies 
Committee; and Chairman of the 
Strategic Planning Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 1996, Chairman 
of the Board since 1998.

Professional experience

Started career in 1975 as electrical 
fi tter. Worked at Tulachermet, rising 
through the ranks from assistant 
steelmaker to deputy shop manager. 
From 1986 worked in Kazakhstan, fi rst 
as Deputy Chief Engineer, and later 
Deputy CEO of the Karaganda Steel 
Plant. Member of Boards of Directors 
of several leading Russian steel 
companies since 1993. 

Education 

Graduate of Ordzhonikidze Siberian 
Metallurgic Institute, majored in Ferrous 
and Non-Ferrous Foundries. In 1990, 
graduated from the Higher School of 
Commerce with the All-Russian Foreign 
Trade Academy decorated with the 
order of International Friendship. In 
1992, graduated from the Academy of 
National Economy under the Government 
of the Russian Federation, majored in 
Economics and Management. Ph.D., 
Tech.; Ph.D., Ec.; Professor, Associate 
Fellow of Russian Academy of Natural 
Sciences. Winner, USSR Council 
of Ministers prize for Science and 
Technology. Honorary Metallurgist of the 
RF. Knight of the Order of Honor.

2

Oleg Bagrin
Year of birth: 1974

Member of the Board of Directors, 
President (Chairman of the 
Management Board)

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings 

Member of the Strategic Planning 
Committee.

Length of tenure 

Member of NLMK Group Board of 
Directors (executive director) since 2004, 

President (Chairman of the Management 
Board) of NLMK since 2012.

Professional experience

Board member of a number of NLMK 
subsidiary and affi  liate companies: NLMK 
International B. V. (Netherlands), NLMK 
Pennsylvania LLC, NLMK Indiana LLC, 
Sharon Coating LLC (USA).
Chairman of the Board of Directors 
of investment company Libra Capital, 
management company Libra Capital, 
Moscow; Board member of Freight One, 
a railroad transportation company. 

Education

Holds a graduate degree in Operations 
Research and a post-graduate degree 
in Economics from State Management 
University, Moscow and a degree in 
Business Administration from the 
University of Cambridge, UK.

3

Nikolai Gagarin
Year of birth: 1950
Member of the Board of Directors

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings 

Member of the Audit Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 2001.

Professional experience

In 2003 – being Managing Partner – he 
was appointed Chairman of the Board at 
Reznik, Gagarin, and Partners Law Offi  ces. 
Chairman of the Board, Managing Partner 
at Reznik, Gagarin and Partners Law 
Offi  ces, Moscow, since 2009.

Education 

Graduate of Moscow State University, 
majored in Law.

4

Karen Sarkisov 
Year of birth: 1963
Member of the Board of Directors

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings 

Member of the Strategic Planning 
Committee and member of the Audit 
Committee.

Length of tenure 
Board member since 2010.

Professional experience

He serves as an Aide to the Chairman 
of the Board of Directors on External 

Economic Relations. He is also a 
member of the Board of Directors at 
NLMK International B.V.

From 2006 to 2007 Mr. Sarkisov 
served as the Chairman of the Board of 
Directors of VIZ-Steel. From the early 
1990’s to 2008 he worked at steel 
trading companies holding various 
executive positions at a number of 
international trading entities. 

Education

Graduated from the Tashkent State 
University majoring in Oriental Studies.

5

Karl Doering
Year of birth: 1937
Member of the Board of Directors

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings

Member of the Strategic Planning 
Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 2006

Professional experience

Currently heads Project Consulting, a 
consulting company. Represented the 
French USINOR in Central and Eastern 
Europe. Between 1967 and 2000 
held senior positions in metallurgical 
companies in Eastern Germany. From 
1979 to 1985 was Deputy Minister, 
Mining, Metals and Potassium Industry 
Ministry, German Democratic Republic, 
supervised technology development 
and capital expenditures.

Education

Graduated from the Moscow Institute of 
Steel and Alloys. Ph.D., Tech.; Ph.D., Ec.

6

Helmut Wieser 
Year of birth: 1953
Member of the Board of Directors, 
Independent director

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings

Member of the Strategic Planning 
Committee and member of the Human 
Resources, Remuneration and Social 
Policies Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 2011 
(independent director).

54                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

Professional experience

Helmut Wieser was an Executive Vice 
President of Alcoa and Group President 
responsible for Alcoa’s global mill 
products and rigid packaging businesses 
till November 2011. He also oversaw 
Alcoa’s businesses in the Asia Pacifi c 
region, with a focus on China, the 
Australian rolled products businesses 
and Alcoa’s operations in Russia. In 
addition, Helmut Wieser was a member 
of the Alcoa Executive Council, the 
senior leadership group that provides 
strategic direction for the company. He 
also serves on the board of governors of 
the International Graduate University in 
Washington, D.C. on Capitol Hill. Before 
joining Alcoa, Helmut Wieser worked 
for Austria Metal Group (AMAG) for 10 
years, holding a series of management 
positions in its rolled products unit, 
culminating in 1997 as an executive 
member of the board and chief 
operating offi  cer. Earlier, he held several 
senior management positions with Voest 
Alpine in Austria and Venezuela, including 
President of Voest Alpine Venezuela. 
Member of the Management Board at 
AMAG Austria Metall AG since March 
2014; and Chief Executive Offi  cer since 
April 2014. 

Member of the Board of Directors 
(Independent Director) at Rain Carbon 
Inc. since 2014.

Education

Helmut Wieser received a Master’s 
degree in Mechanical Engineering and 
Economics in 1981 from the University 
of Graz.

7

Franz Struzl 
Year of birth: 1942
Member of the Board of Directors, 
Independent director

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings

Member of the Audit Committee and 
member of the Strategic Planning 
Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 2011.

Professional experience

In 1967 Franz Struzl joined Alpine 
Steelgroup, later renamed Voestalpine 
AG, based in Linz, Austria, serving the 
Company for over four decades. During 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

his career at Voestalpine Franz Struzl 
held various positions in a number 
of fi elds including strategic planning, 
commercial and technical areas. In 
1981 he was appointed Chief Financial 
Offi  cer before becoming Chief Executive 
Offi  cer of Voestalpine Long Products 
Group and a member of the Executive 
Board in 1991. From 1995 until 2001 
he served as Vice Chief Executive 
Offi  cer of Group. In 2001 Franz Struzl 
was appointed as Voestalpine Group 
Chief Executive Offi  cer and Chairman. 
He held the position until 2004, when 
he moved to become Chief Executive 
Offi  cer of Voestalpine, Brazil – Villares 
Metals, remaining there until 2010. 
From 2011 he is General Director of 
RHI AG.

Education

Franz Struzl graduated from the 
University of Economics, Vienna in 
1964.

8

Benedict Sciortino 
Year of birth: 1950
Member of the Board of Directors, 
Independent director

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings

Chairman of the Audit Committee and 
member of the Strategic Planning 
Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 2012

Professional experience

From 1977 to 1995 Benedict Sciortino 
worked as an attorney-at-law and a 
partner with Baker & McKenzie, New 
York. He joined Duferco in 1995. Now 
he serves as a member of the Board of 
Directors of Duferco S. A. responsible 
for Duferco Group North American 
and South African business as well as 
trading operations, fi nance and legal 
matters, mergers and acquisitions. Mr. 
Sciortino serves as a director of several 
operating companies. 

Education

Mr. Sciortino graduated from Queens 
College, New York with a BA degree and 
received JD and LLM degrees from New 
England School of Law (Boston, MA) 
and New York University Law School, 
New York.

9

Stanislav Shekshnya
Year of birth: 1964
Member of the Board of Directors, 
Independent director

Participation in BoD committee 
meetings

Chairman of the Human Resources, 
Remuneration and Social Policies 
Committee and member of the Audit 
Committee.

Length of tenure 

Board member since 2015.

Professional experience

From 1991 to 2002, Dr. Shekshnya 
held the positions of Director of Human 
Resources for Otis Elevator in Central 
and Eastern Europe, President and CEO 
of Millicom International Cellular in 
Russia and CIS, Chief Operating Offi  cer 
of VimpelCom, and CEO of Alfa-Telecom. 
He has served as Chairman of SUEK, 
Vimpelcom-R and as Director of a number 
of Russian and Ukrainian companies. 
Stanislav was an independent director at 
DTEK BV, Ilim Timber Industry and Ener1. 
Currently Dr. Shekshnia is an independent 
director at Dentsu Aegis Network Russia 
Board of Directors. In 2002, Stanislav 
Shekshnia co-founded Zest Leadership 
International Consultancy.

Currently Stanislav Shekshnia is a Senior 
Partner of Howell Zest, Talent Equity 
Consulting Company, which has offi  ces in 
Moscow, Paris, St. Petersburg, Kiev, Almaty 
and Riga. He focuses on leadership, 
leadership development, corporate 
governance and business in emerging 
economies. Dr. Shekshnia also provides 
personal coaching to business owners and 
corporate executives. 

Dr. Shekshnia is an Affi  liate Professor 
of Entrepreneurship at INSEAD. He has 
over 15 years of graduate level teaching 
experience in Russia, France and United 
States; and is the author, co-author, or 
editor of 7 books, and numerous articles, 
executive commentaries, interviews 
and case studies on entrepreneurship, 
leadership, people management, 
intercultural management and business 
and management in Russia.

Education

Stanislav Shekshnia has a Master’s 
Degree in Economics, a Ph.D. from 
Moscow State University, and an MBA 
from Northeastern University in Boston.

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

55

MANAGEMENT BOARD 
as at 31.12.2015

President (Chairman of the Management Board)

1

2

4

6

8

3

5

7

9

56                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

MANAGEMENT BOARD

Composition of the Management Board as at 31 December 2015

The NLMK Group Management Board 
as at 31 December 2015 consists of 9 
members and holds regular meetings. 
Members of the Management Board 
are in charge of the Group’s every-
day operations. They also monitor 
subsidiaries and affi  liates, and other 
legal entities

Related corporate documents:

 ▪ Charter of NLMK

 ▪ Corporate Governance Code

Full name

Position

Oleg Bagrin

Brijesh Garg

Ilya Gushchin

Yuri Larin

Member of the Board of Directors President 
(Chairman of the Management Board)

Vice President, Procurement

Vice President, Sales

Vice President, Technology Development & Operational 
Effi ciency

Sergey Likharev

Vice President, Logistics

 ▪ Regulations on Management Board

Alexander Saprykin

Vice President, Strategic Raw Materials Division

Grigory Fedorishin

Vice President, Finance

Sergey Filatov

Stanislav Tsyrlin

Managing Director

Vice President, HR & Management System

2

Brijesh Garg 
Year of birth: 1964
Vice President, Procurement

3

Ilya Gushchin
Year of birth: 1976
Vice President, Sales

Length of tenure 

Length of tenure 

Member of the Management Board 
since 2012

Member of the Management Board 
since 2014.

Professional experience

Professional experience

He started his career in 1985 with 
Tata Steel, India as Industrial Engineer 
and moved through various positions 
within the company and worked with 
other steel plants in New Zealand 
Steel (BlueScope Steel, Australia) and 
ArcelorMittal, Kazakhstan & Ukraine.
He has about 14 years of experience 
in supply chain management and 
business processes re-engineering 
in steel industry and 13 year of 
experience in industrial engineering.

Education

Holds a Bachelor of Engineering 
degree with a major in Industrial 
Engineering, has CPIM Certifi cation 
from American Production and 
Inventory Control Society (APICS) and 
is a certifi ed SAP Solution Consultant.

From 2009 to 2013 he worked for 
SIBUR Group, including as head of 
SIBUR International; the group’s 
export division.
From 2008 to 2009, he served 
as Financial Director at Skolkovo 
School of Management, Moscow. 
From 2002 to 2007, he held various 
positions at Microsoſt .

Education

Ilya Gushchin holds a Ph.D. in 
Economics; and is a graduate of the 
Faculty of Economics, Moscow State 
University.

1

Oleg Bagrin
Year of birth: 1974
Member of the Board of Directors,
President (Chairman of the 
Management Board)

Length of tenure 

Member of NLMK Group Board of 
Directors (executive director) since 
2004, President (Chairman of the 
Management Board) of NLMK since 
2012.

Professional experience

Board member of a number of 
NLMK subsidiary and affi  liate 
companies: NLMK International B. V. 
(Netherlands), NLMK Pennsylvania 
LLC, NLMK Indiana LLC, Sharon 
Coating LLC (USA).
Chairman of the Board of Directors 
of investment company Libra Capital, 
management company Libra Capital, 
Moscow; Board member of Freight 
One, a railroad transportation 
company.

Education

Holds a graduate degree in 
Operations Research and a post-
graduate degree in Economics from 
State Management University, 
Moscow and a degree in Business 
Administration from the University of 
Cambridge, UK.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

57

4

Yuri Larin 
Year of birth: 1952
Vice President, Technology 
Development & Operational 
Effi ciency

Length of tenure

Member of the Management Board 
since 2006. 

Professional experience

From 2007 to 2013, Mr. Larin was 
NLMK Vice President for Long-Term 
Development & Environment. Vice 
President for Technical Development 
and Environment, NLMK, from 2006 
to 2007. Prior to that he was Director 
of the NLMK Engineering Centre from 
1999 to 2006, and from 1996 to 
1999 he worked as Deputy Director of 
NLMK’s Central Laboratory in charge 
of technology.

Education

Graduate of the Voronezh Polytechnic 
Institute. Ph.D., Tech. Honorary 
metallurgist of Russia.

6

Alexander Saprykin 
Year of birth: 1967
Vice President, Strategic Raw 
Materials Division

8

Sergey Filatov 
Year of birth: 1959
Managing Director

Length of tenure

Member of the Management Board 
since 2006.

Professional experience

From 2007 to 2013, Mr. Saprykin 
was NLMK Vice President, Head of 
Coal Division. From 2006 to 2007, 
he served as Vice President, Head of 
Iron Ore Division. From 2002 until 
2006, he headed the Raw Materials 
Market Department at Rumelco 
and served as General Director of 
RUDPROM between 1998 and 2001. 
In 1997 and 1998, Mr. Saprykin was 
General Director of VIZEL. Prior to 
that, he worked as chief specialist for 
Metallurg from 1996 to 1997.

Education

Graduated from the Moscow State 
Mining University.

Length of tenure

Member of the Management Board 
since 2013. 

Professional experience

On January 25, 2013 Sergey Filatov 
was appointed to the position of 
NLMK’s Managing Director. Mr Filatov 
has been with NLMK since October 
2012, serving as Deputy Senior Vice 
President – General Director for 
Production and Technology. 
From 2009 to 2012 he served as Chief 
Engineer at NTMK. From 2007 to 2009 
he was Project Manager at NTMK 
Project Management Department.  

Education

Mr Filatov graduated from the Moscow 
Institute of Steel and Alloys. He holds 
a Ph.D. (Tech.), and is an Honorary 
Metallurgist of Russia.

5

Sergey Likharev 
Year of birth: 1964
Vice President, Logistics

7

Grigory Fedorishin
Year of birth: 1979
Vice President, Finance

9

Stanislav Tsyrlin 
Year of birth: 1968
Vice President, HR & Management 
System

Length of tenure

Length of tenure

Length of tenure

Member of the Management Board 
since 2014. 

Member of the Management Board 
since 2012. 

Member of the Management Board 
since 2005. 

Professional experience

Professional experience

Professional experience

Sergey Likharev joined NLMK in October 
2013. From 2012 to 2013 he was 
Aviation Business Director at Russian 
Machines Group; and Chairman of the 
Board of Directors of the Aviacor aviation 
plant. Aſt er serving as CEO of Aviacor 
Aviation Plant in Samara from 2004 to 
2007, he became CEO of the Basel Aero 
airport group from 2008 to 2012. From 
1993 to 2004, he held senior positions 
at Interros, Ostankino Meat Processing 
Plant, Golden Telecom, Cannon 
Associates and Coopers & Lybrand. From 
1990 to 1993 he worked as a researcher 
at Moscow State University.

Education
Sergey Likharev holds a PhD in Physics 
and Mathematics; and a Masters of 
Business Administration from Cornell 
University.

From 2011 to 2013, he served as 
NLMK Director of Strategy and 
Business Development. From 2009 
to 2012 served as an investment 
manager at Libra Capital, a Moscow-
based investment management 
company. From 2001 to 2009 
worked for PricewaterhouseCoopers 
consulting company where he held 
positions up to a director of business 
restructuring practice.

Education

Graduated from Academy of Finance, 
Moscow. Holds a master degree in 
Business Administration from INSEAD 
business school, France & Singapore. 
a member of an association of 
Certifi ed Financial Analysts (CFA).

From 2004 to 2006 served as Director 
for Strategy and Management 
Systems at NLMK, having previously 
worked for Rumelco (from 2003 to 
2004). Prior to that he worked for the 
Boston Consulting Group from 1996 to 
2003, serving initially as a consultant, 
then as a project manager before 
being appointed Deputy Director.

Education

Graduated from the Moscow Institute 
of Physics and Technology and from 
Stanford University. 

58                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

the existing legislation of the countries where 
the Company operates.

The Corporate Governance Code adopted by 
the Company in 2015 is the basic document 
describing all the key corporate governance 
principles.

Key principles lying at the core of our Corporate 
Governance are to:

 ▪ Ensure equal and fair treatment of all 

shareholders when they use their right to be 
involved in management processes, receive 
dividends from the Company, participate in 
meetings, vote on issues on the agenda and 
get up-to-date information on the Company’s 
activities and its governing bodies.

in hand with the most advanced practices 
of corporate governance. We are constantly 
striving to remain aligned with the high 
standards of corporate governance that are 
expected of a public company.

Vladimir Lisin,
Chairman of NLMK’s Board 
of Directors

 ▪ Ensure equal treatment of all shareholders, 

including foreigners and minority 
shareholders.

GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT 
NLMK’S CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

As a public company, NLMK is constantly 
improving its corporate governance 
practices. In its activity, NLMK adheres 
to best international practices and high 
standards of corporate governance. 
NLMK corporate governance system 
is designed to ensure the Company’s 
sustainable development and increase 
return on investment in equity in the long 
run. The Company maintains a policy of 
maximum openness and transparency 
that allows our shareholders and investors 
to have all the necessary information 
on the activities of NLMK provided in a 
timely manner so that they can make a 
grounded investment decision regarding 
the Company’s securities.

In 2015, the Company continued to improve 
its corporate governance in a broader eff ort 
to revise its corporate actions procedures.

All corporate documents determining the 
principles and rules of corporate governance 
are freely accessible at NLMK Group’s 
corporate website.

 ▪ Ensure reliable and eff ective registration of 

title to shares and guarantee the opportunity 
to alienate them freely and without 
encumbrances.

 ▪ Ensure compliance with the existing laws, 

principles of the Corporate Governance Code 
and international corporate governance 
standards.

 ▪ Strictly observe the rights of third parties, 
including their creditors and employees, as 
required by the law, the Charter and other 
regulatory documents.

 ▪ Pursue a common corporate policy in respect 
of subsidiary companies, affi  liates and other 
legal entities in which NLMK is the founder, a 
participant or a member.

 ▪ Maintain a policy of open and transparent 
communications, including by disclosing 
full and up-to-date information about 
the Company to give shareholders and 
investors an opportunity to make informed 
decisions, as well as by providing documents 
(information) related to the Company upon 
shareholders’ request.

 ▪ Promote a policy of complying with business 

ethics in conducting its operations.

NLMK CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
SYSTEM 

NLMK corporate governance system is 
built on the requirements of the existing 
Russian legislation, principles provided by 
the Organization for Economic Co-operation 
and Development and provisions of the 
Corporate Governance Code approved by 
the Central Bank of Russia, and fully meets 

According to acting corporate documents, the 
governance structure includes:

 ▪ General Meeting of Shareholders, which is 

the supreme governing body of the Company 
that makes decisions on the key business 
issues.

 ▪ The Board of Directors, which is responsible 
for strategic management of NLMK, controls 

CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE

CHAIRMAN’S LETTER

Dear Shareholders,

Over the past twelve months, NLMK has 
invested a lot of eff ort into enhancing its 
corporate governance system and practices.

The process of improving corporate 
governance practice included the revision 
of the Company’s corporate documents to 
refl ect amendments to corporate governance 
legislation of the Russian Federation, as well 
as guidance from the Central Bank of Russia. 

NLMK’s Board of Directors was a focus of 
the corporate governance improvement and 
enhancement initiatives undertaken in 2015.

A new independent director, Stanislav 
Shekshnya, joined the Board. Stanislav is 
an expert in the areas of leadership and 
corporate governance and his skills will 
undoubtedly be a tremendous asset to 
the Company in the future. The increase 
in the number of independent directors 
will ensure even greater eff ectiveness of 
the Board, including in its duties related 
to risk management and the protection of 
shareholders’ interests.

We enhanced the role of independent 
directors in 2015 and they now chair 2 of 
the 3 Board committees.

We also updated the Company’s dividend 
policy to refl ect the current stage of the 
Company’s development.

Particular attention was paid to the 
Company’s risk management system, 
which covers all management levels, from 
shareholders to line managers across all 
NLMK Group companies.

In its relations with shareholders over the 
past year, NLMK maintained its commitment 
to the fundamental corporate governance 
principles of fairness, accountability, 
responsibility and transparency.

We focus all our eff orts to ensure that 
NLMK’s leadership in performance goes hand 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

59

NLMK Corporate Governance Structure (as at 31 December 2015)

Independent 
Auditor

Internal Audit 
Commission

Corporate 
Secretary

General Shareholders’ Meeting

Strategic Planning Committee

Human Resources, Remuneration 
and Social Policies Committee

Audit Committee

Corporate Audit and Control Services

Board of Directors

President (Chairman
of the Management Board)

Members of the Management Board

Managing 
Director

Vice President, 
HR
and Management
System

Vice President,
Sales

Vice President, 
Procurement

Vice President,
Finance

Vice President, 
Technology, 
Development 
and Operational 
Effeciency

Vice President,
Strategic Raw
Materials Division

Vice President,
Logistics

executive bodies, determines the principles 
of and approaches to organization of 
the Company’s risk management system 
and internal control, develops NLMK’s 
executive compensation policy, controls 
corporate governance practices and plays 
the key role in the Company’s signifi cant 
corporate events.

 ▪ The executive bodies of the Company 

including the President (Chairman of the 
Management Board) and the Management 
Board that manage day-to-day activities 
of the Company and ensure its effi  cient 

operation, while implementing the 
objectives set by the Board of Directors.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 
EFFICIENCY IN 2015

 ▪ The Corporate Secretary, who ensures 

interaction with shareholders, coordinates 
the Company’s activities aimed at 
protection of shareholders’ rights and 
interests and supports the Board of 
Directors and the Management Board.

 ▪ An independent auditor, the Internal Audit 
Commission, Audit Committee and Internal 
Audit department oversee fi nancial and 
economic activities. 

The Internal Audit Directorate carried 
out several audits in 2015 to assess the 
Company’s corporate governance for 
compliance with all its principles. The 
audits examined the following areas: 
shareholders’ rights; the Board of Directors; 
the compensation system for the Board 
of Directors, executive bodies and key 
managers; risk management, internal control 
and internal audit; Corporate Secretary; 
disclosure of information about the Company 

60                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

and the Company’s information policy; 
signifi cant corporate actions; and corporate 
social responsibility, business ethics and 
compliance.

The auditors assessed the existing corporate 
governance practices for compliance with the 
Corporate Governance Code recommended 
by the Bank of Russia and mandatory 
requirements set out in MICEX Stock 
Exchange Listing Rules, and verifi ed the 
information given in the Company’s external 
corporate governance reports.

Overall, the corporate governance system 
was highly rated by the auditors, which 
means that the Company observes the 
Russian corporate governance laws and 
follows the majority of recommendations 
provided in the Corporate Governance Code.

In March 2016, the effi  ciency of the Board 
of Directors was evaluated by means of 
anonymous online survey. All Members of 
the Board participated in the survey. The 
results showed that the Board of Directors 
owns diverse functional expertise (fi nance, 
risk management, talent management) 
and industry experience. The Board bases 
its work on the Strategy, has an effi  cient 
decision-making process and follows up the 
implementation of the decisions. The Board 
of Directors eff ectively interacts with the 
President and the management in general. 
The evaluation has identifi ed some areas 
of improvement, namely, in the work of the 
Committees.

IMPROVEMENT OF CORPORATE 
GOVERNANCE PRACTICES IN 2015

In 2015, the Company focused on improving 
the quality of its corporate governance 
system and practices. 

Throughout the year, all the components of 
the Company’s corporate governance system 
were thoroughly assessed for compliance 
with the Corporate Governance Code 
recommended by the Central Bank of Russia, 
as well as with the Moscow Exchange Listing 
Rules. 

By increasing the number of independent 
directors in its Board of Directors, the 
Company enhanced the effi  ciency of the 
Board, including with regard to its duties 
related to risk management and protection 
of shareholders’ interests.

According to the Moscow Exchange Listing 
Rules and recommendations provided in 
the Corporate Governance Code, the Audit 

Committee and the Human Resources, 
Remuneration and Social Policies Committee 
shall be headed by independent directors.

Aiming to harmonize its internal 
documents, NLMK approved in 2015 the 
Company’s internal documents that refl ect 
recent legislative changes in Russia and 
follow the Corporate Governance Code 
recommendations:

 ▪ In April 2015, the Company’s Board of 
Directors approved the Dividend Policy

 ▪ In June 2015, the General Meeting of 

Shareholders approved an updated version 
of Regulations on Remuneration of 
Members of the Board of Directors

 ▪ In December 2015, the General Meeting of 
Shareholders approved an updated version 
of the Charter of NLMK, Regulations on 
the General Shareholders’ Meeting and 
Regulations on the Board of Directors

 ▪ In December 2015, the Company’s Board 
of Directors approved Regulations on 
the Board of Directors Audit Committee; 
Regulations on the Strategic Planning 
Committee; Regulations on the Human 
Resources, Remuneration and Social 
Policies Committee; and the Corporate 
Governance Code

Also, the Company adopted its fi rst time 
ever Regulations on Corporate Secretary, 
which govern the activities and detail the 
procedures of the Corporate Secretary.

The Company is taking consistent steps 
to ensure compliance with other principles 
and recommendations of the Corporate 
Governance Code.

GENERAL SHAREHOLDERS’ 
MEETING

NLMK corporate governance practices

The General Meeting of Shareholders is 
NLMK’s supreme governing body responsible 
for substantive issues related to the 
Company’s activities. NLMK’s shareholders 
are entitled to make decisions at the 
General Meeting of Shareholders. Such 
decisions include election to the Company’s 
key governing bodies; approval of annual 
reports; profi t distribution; amendments 
and additions to the Company’s Charter or 
approval of a new version of the Company’s 
Charter; approval of internal documents 
governing the activities of the Company’s 
bodies, etc.

NLMK strives to ensure equal and fair 
treatment of all shareholders when 
they use their right to participate in the 
Company’s management processes. 

NLMK has Regulations on the General 
Shareholders’ Meeting that comply with 
the recommendations of the Corporate 
Governance Code and determine the 
key procedures for organizing, calling 
and holding the General Meeting of 
Shareholders (some of the procedures 
for organizing, calling and holding the 
General Meeting of Shareholders are also 
regulated by the Charter of NLMK).

The procedure for holding the General 
Meeting of Shareholders aims to ensure 
that the rights of shareholders are 
observed; it is fully compliant with the 
current legislation and follows global best 
practices in corporate governance.

The Company provides its shareholders 
with easily accessible communication 
channels such as a hotline or email so 
that they can share their opinions and 
ask questions concerning the agenda 
during preparation for the General 
Meeting of Shareholders.

We inform our shareholders about an 
upcoming General Meeting by posting 
an announcement on NLMK’s website 
at least 30 days prior to the date of the 
meeting (unless the Russian legislation 
requires doing it earlier).

NLMK provides access to meeting 
materials at least 30 days prior to 
the date of the General Meeting of 
Shareholders and supplies shareholders 
with additional information and 
materials, as recommended by the 
Corporate Governance Code. In 
addition, the Company publishes travel 
information, a sample form for a 
power of attorney that a shareholder 
can give to his or her representative 
for participation in the meeting, and 
information on the procedure for its 
attestation.

The information (materials) provided 
to persons entitled to participate in 
the General Meeting of Shareholders is 
published on NLMK’s website (www.nlmk.
com). 

The Company also publishes all the 
information in English to ensure equal 
treatment of all shareholders, including 
foreigners.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

61

In the course of preparation for a General 
Meeting of Shareholders, NLMK Board 
of Directors approves regulations that 
determine the procedure for questions on the 
Company’s activities from the shareholders to 
members of the governing bodies, the person 
responsible for the Company’s accounting, the 
Company’s auditors and candidates for the 
governing bodies.

Participants of the General Meeting of 
Shareholders are entitled to freely contact 
and consult each other on issues on the 
meeting’s agenda without violating the 
meeting procedure (regulations).

NLMK corporate governance system and 
practices provide a level playing fi eld for 
all shareholders, including foreigners and 
minority shareholders, and ensure equal 
treatment for all of them.

NLMK adheres to a policy that prevents unfair 
redistribution of corporate control, because 
NLMK does not have preferred shares and 
there are no quasi-treasury shares on the 
balance sheets of its subsidiaries and affi  liates.

According to the corporate documents, a 
meeting of shareholders is deemed valid (has 
a quorum) if shareholders owing collectively 
more than 50% of NLMK’s voting shares have 
participated in it.

Activity in 2015

In 2015, NLMK updated its dividend policy 
and shiſt ed to paying dividends on a quarterly 
basis, which resulted in more frequent 
meetings of the company’s shareholders, 
since the payout is to be approved at the 
General Meeting of Shareholders, according 
to NLMK’s corporate procedures.

Three General Meetings of Shareholders (one 
annual and two extraordinary meetings) were 
held in 2015, including one meeting in person 
and two meetings in the form of absentee 
voting.

General Meeting of 
Shareholders by status

Number

Annual meeting

Extraordinary meeting

1

2

NLMK’s Annual General Shareholders’ 
Meeting for FY2014 was held on 5 June 2015. 
Shareholders and shareholder representatives 
holding a total of 89.97% of NLMK’s 
shareholder capital were present, meeting 

62                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

the quorum requirements. During the 
meeting, the following issues were reviewed 
and decisions taken:

On approval of NLMK’s 2014 annual report, 
annual fi nancial statements, including 
the 2014 profi t and loss statement and 
distribution of NLMK’s profi ts (including 
announcement of dividends) based on the 
results of the 2014 fi scal year, the following 
decisions were made:

 ▪ Approve NLMK’s 2014 annual report, 

annual fi nancial statements, including the 
2014 profi t and loss statement.

 ▪ Approve distribution of NLMK’s profi ts 
based on the results of the 2014 fi scal 
year:
 – Pay (announce) dividends for FY2014 
in the amount of 2.44 rubles per 
ordinary share. With consideration 
of the interim dividends paid for H1 
2014 in the amount of 0.88 rubles per 
ordinary share, the amount outstanding 
for payment is 1.56 rubles per ordinary 
share. Set the date upon which the 
shareholders entitled to receive 
dividends are to be determined as June 
16th 2015.

 – Make the balance of profi ts not paid as 

dividends available for NLMK.

On payment (announcement) of dividends 
on the basis of Q1 2015 results, a decision 
was made to pay (announce) dividends for 
Q1 2015 in the amount of 1.64 rubles per 
ordinary share. Set the date upon which the 
shareholders entitled to receive dividends are 
to be determined as June 16th 2015.

On declaring NLMK’s Dividend Policy 
approved at NLMK’s Annual General Meeting 
of Shareholders on 6 June 2014 invalid, 
a decision was made to declare NLMK’s 
Dividend Policy approved at NLMK’s Annual 
General Meeting of Shareholders on 6 June 
2014 invalid.

On election of NLMK’s Board of Directors, 
a decision was made to elect the following 
members to the Board of Directors:

 ▪ Oleg Bagrin

 ▪ Helmut Wieser*

 ▪ Nikolai Gagarin

 ▪ Karl Doering

 ▪ Vladimir Lisin

 ▪ Karen Sarkisov

 ▪ Stanislav Shekshnya*

 ▪ Benedict Sciortino*

 ▪ Franz Struzl*

On election of NLMK’s President (Chairman 
of the Management Board), a decision 
was made to elect Oleg Bagrin President 
(Chairman of the Management Board).

On election of the members of NLMK’s 
Internal Audit Commission, a decision was 
made to elect the following members to 
NLMK’s Internal Audit Commission:

 ▪ Vladislav Ershov

 ▪ Natalia Krasnykh

 ▪ Vladimir Markin

 ▪ Sergey Nesmeyanov

 ▪ Galina Shipilova

On payment of remuneration to the members 
of NLMK’s Board of Directors, a decision was 
made to approve payment of remuneration 
to the members of NLMK’s Board of 
Directors.

On approval of the revised versions of NLMK’s 
internal corporate documents, a decision 
was made to approve the revised version 
of NLMK’s Regulations on Remuneration of 
Members of the Board of Directors.

On approval of the base remuneration for 
the members of the Board of Directors, a 
decision was made to approve the base 
remuneration paid to each member of 
NLMK’s Board of Directors in the amount of 
$160,000 (one hundred and sixty thousand 
US dollars).

On approval of NLMK’s Auditor, 
a decision was made to approve 
ZAO PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit as 
the Auditor of NLMK’s 2015 fi nancial 
statements prepared in accordance 
with Russian Accounting Standards 
(RAS). ZAO PricewaterhouseCoopers 
Audit was authorized to audit NLMK’s 
2015 consolidated fi nancial statements 
prepared in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS).

At NLMK’s Extraordinary General Meeting 
of Shareholders held on 30 September 
2015, a decision was made to pay 
(announce) dividends on the basis of the 
Company’s H1 2015 results in the amount 
of 0.93 rubles per ordinary share. The date 
upon which the shareholders entitled to 
receive dividends were to be determined 
was set as 12 October 2015.

At the Extraordinary General Meeting of 
Shareholders held on 21 December 2015, 
the following decisions were made:

 ▪ Pay (announce) dividends based on 
the results of nine months of 2015 
in the amount of 1.95 rubles per 
ordinary share. The date upon which 
the shareholders entitled to receive 
dividends were to be determined was 
set as 8 January 2016.

 ▪ Approve the revised version of the 

Company’s Charter.

 ▪ Approve Regulations on the General 
Shareholders’ Meeting and declare 
Regulations on Holding NLMK’s General 
Shareholders’ Meeting approved 
at the Annual General Meeting of 
Shareholders on 6 June 2014 to be no 
longer in force.

 ▪ Approve the revised version of NLMK’s 
Regulations on the Board of Directors.

NLMK’s Extraordinary General Meetings of Shareholders were held in the form of 
absentee voting:

Name

Date

Percentage of 
shareholders participating 
in the meeting

NLMK’s Extraordinary General Meeting 
of Shareholders

30 September 2015

91.75%

* These members of NLMK’s Board of Directors were 
elected as independent directors.

NLMK’s Extraordinary General Meeting 
of Shareholders

21 December 2015

91.63%

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

63

 ▪ Declare NLMK’s Corporate Governance 

Code approved at NLMK’s Annual General 
Meeting of Shareholders on 6 June 2006 
to be no longer in force. 

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

NLMK corporate governance in action

The Board of Directors is a key element 
of the Company’s corporate governance 
system. The Company’s Board of Directors 
is responsible for strategic management 
of Public Joint Stock Company “Novolipetsk 
Steel”, supervises activities of the 
Company’s executive bodies, determines 
principles of and approaches to the risk 
management and internal control system, 
the Company’s policy on remunerations for 
members of the executive bodies, controls 
the corporate governance practice and 
plays a key part in the Company’s signifi cant 
corporate events. 

NLMK’s Board of Directors reports to the 
Company’s shareholders.

NLMK’s Board of Directors is an effi  cient and 
professional governing body able to form 
independent opinions and make decisions 
serving the interests of the Company and its 
shareholders. 

NLMK’s Regulations on the Board of 
Directors govern the procedures of the 
Board of Directors and, in particular, 
include the procedure for arranging and 
holding meetings of the Board of Directors, 
which allows the members of the Board 
of Directors to prepare for the meetings 
properly, and stipulates the following:

 ▪ The period of notice of an upcoming 
meeting given to the members of the 
Board of Directors

 ▪ The deadline for sending out documents 
(ballots) for voting and receiving the fi lled-
in documents (ballots) when meetings are 
held in the form of absentee voting

 ▪ A possibility for the members of the Board 

of Directors who are absent at an in-
person meeting to send a written opinion 
on issues included in the agenda of the 
meeting of the Board of Directors

 ▪ A possibility for discussion and voting 
by means of a conference call or video 
conference

According to the current corporate 
documents, the Board of Directors, acting 
within its powers:

 ▪ Ensures execution of resolutions passed by 

the General Meeting of Shareholders.

 ▪ Assesses political, fi nancial and other 
risks impacting Company’s operations, 
as well as operations of subsidiaries, 
associates and other legal entities in which 
the Company is a founder, participant or 
member.

 ▪ Determines approaches to investment and 

participation in other organizations.

 ▪ Assesses the performance of the Company 

and its bodies.

 ▪ Determines the terms of dividend 

payment.

 ▪ Develops remuneration incentive methods 
and systems for company employees.

 ▪ Ensures the disclosure of information 

about the Company.

 ▪ Supervises activities of the Company’s 

executive bodies.

 ▪ Ensures the Company’s compliance with 

the applicable legislation.

 ▪ Defi nes materiality criteria for the 

subsidiaries, associates and other legal 
entities in which the Company is a founder, 
participant or member, for decision-
making concerning the issues that fall 
within the powers of the Management 
Board.

 ▪ Ensures compliance with corporate 

governance principles.

The Board of Directors operates in the form 
of meetings held in accordance with the 
Schedule approved by the Chairman of the 
Board of Directors. Meetings of the Board of 
Directors are held on a regular basis at least 
6 times a year.

The most important issues are resolved at 
meetings of NLMK’s Board of Directors held 
in person (convening and holding the Annual 
General Meeting of Shareholders, including 
recommendations on the distribution of 
profi ts and payment of dividends, preliminary 
approval of the Company’s annual reports, 
fi nancial statements and budget, etc.).

The Board of Directors is guided by the 
following principles in its decision-making 
process:

 ▪ Prevent prejudice of shareholders’ legal 

right to participate in the management of 
the Company.

 ▪ Balance interests of diff erent shareholder 
groups and make the most impartial 
decisions in the interests of all 
shareholders of the Company.

 ▪ Make informed decisions based on 

reliable information about the Company’s 
operations.

Chairman of the Board of Directors

The Chairman of the Board of Directors 
organizes the work of this body and 
contributes to the most effi  cient performance 
of its functions. 

The Chairman of the Board of Directors 
ensures a constructive environment at the 
meetings and free discussion of issues on 
the agenda, and supervises execution of 
resolutions passed by the Board of Directors.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors is 
elected by the members of the Board of 
Directors among themselves by a majority 
vote of the total number of the members.

The Chairman of the Board of Directors 
has the most extensive experience, 
professional expertise and authority among 
the Company’s shareholders, members of 
governing bodies and employees.

Independent board members

One of the essential prerequisites for effi  cient 
operation of the Board of Directors is its 
independent directors who play a crucial part 
in preventing internal confl icts in the Company 
and carrying out signifi cant corporate actions 
by the Company. Independent directors 
also ensure that the Board forms impartial 
opinions on the issues under discussion, 
which, in its turn, helps build up investors’ and 
shareholders’ confi dence in the Company.

The Company’s Board of Directors includes 
four independent directors who contribute 
to the implementation of one of the 
fundamental corporate governance principles 
developed by the Organisation for Economic 
Co-operation and Development, according to 
which the Board of Directors should be able 
to pass independent impartial judgments 
on corporate matters. Participation of 
independent directors in the work of the 
Board of Directors is a primary way to 
ensure that such judgments are formed since 
independent directors view the Company and 
its management objectively. 

Independent directors fully meet the 
independence criteria recommended by the 
Code. The Company’s Regulations on the 
Board of Directors include the criteria to 
determine independence of the members of 
the Board of Directors which fully comply with 
the recommendations specifi ed in the Code. 

NLMK’s independent directors are people 
with suffi  cient professional expertise, 
experience and independence to form their 

64                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

own attitudes and pass objective and honest 
judgments, which are not infl uenced by 
the Company’s executive bodies, individual 
groups of shareholders or other stakeholders.

Composition of the Board of Directors

qualifi cation, experience, knowledge and 
business acumen. The members of the 
Board of Directors have impeccable business 
reputation, knowledge, skills and experience 
in steelmaking, mining, science, economics, 
business management, and law.

The composition of the Company’s Board 
of Directors is balanced in terms of 

As at 31 December 2015, the Board of 
Directors consists of 9 people, including 

4 members of the Board of Directors who 
are independent.

The members of NLMK’s Board of Directors 
conducted no equity transactions in 2015.

There was no confl ict of interests between 
NLMK Board of Directors members 
in 2015.

Composition of the Board of Directors of NLMK as at 31 December 2015 

Full name

Position

Years on 
the Board

Independent

Participation in 
Strategic Planning 
Committee

Participation 
in Audit 
Committee

Participation in 
Human Resources, 
Remuneration and 
Social Policies 
Committee

Vladimir 
Lisin

Oleg 
Bagrin

Benedict 
Sciortino

Helmut 
Wieser

Nikolai 
Gagarin

Karl 
Doering

Karen 
Sarkisov

Franz 
Struzl

Chairman of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Member of the 
Board of Directors

Stanislav 
Shekshnya

Member of the 
Board of Directors

19

11

4

5

14

9

6

5

1

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

Shares owned by members of NLMK Board of Directors*

Chairman

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

Chairman

Chairman

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

(cid:2)

Full name

Vladimir Lisin

Oleg Bagrin

Position

Share of the authorized capital stock of NLMK

Chairman of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Benedict Sciortino

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Helmut Wieser

Nikolai Gagarin

Karl Doering

Karen Sarkisov

Franz Struzl

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

Stanislav Shekshnya

Member of the Board of Directors

Not an NLMK shareholder

* The structure of the share capital with benefi ciary ownership specifi ed is available in the Information for Shareholders section.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

65

Directors’ expertise and professional background

Directors’ expertise in the steel sector

9

8

5

Metals and Mining

Science

Economics 
and Business 
Administration

2

Law

Directors’ location

Directors’ length of tenure

4

5

3

1

5

5

2

2

Up to 15 years

Over 30 years

15-30 years

Composition of the Board of 
Directors by director status

4

4

Russia

Europe

Under 4 years

Over 10 years

4-10 years

1

Independent director

Executive director

Other

The Board of Directors’ activity in 2015

In 2015 there were 12 meetings of the Board 
of Directors of NLMK, 9 of which were held 
by absentee ballot. 

The following are the main issues that were 
examined by the Group’s Board of Directors 
in 2015:

 ▪ Reviewing proposals on the agenda of 
the General Shareholders’ Meeting and 
proposals on nomination of candidates to 
NLMK’s governing bodies received from 
NLMK shareholders

statements, including the 2014 profi t and 
loss statement, as well as the NLMK’s 
2014 annual consolidated fi nancial 
statements prepared in accordance with 
the US Generally Accepted Accounting 
Principles (US GAAP)

 ▪ Providing recommendations to NLMK’s 
Annual General Meeting of Shareholders 
regarding the distribution of profi ts

 ▪ Chairman of the Board of Directors

 ▪ Formation of Committees under the Board 

of Directors of NLMK

 ▪ Approving the plan for holding the 

meetings of NLMK’s Board of Directors

 ▪ Approving the consolidated budget of the 

Group

 ▪ Providing recommendations to the Annual 
General Meeting of Shareholders regarding 
the payment of remuneration to the 
members of NLMK’s Board of Directors

 ▪ Restructuring the European assets of 

NLMK Group

 ▪ Approving related party transactions

 ▪ Convening the Annual General 

 ▪ Providing recommendations to the 

 ▪ Approving the amount of payment for 

Shareholders’ Meeting and approving the 
date to provide a list of persons entitled to 
participate in the Annual General Meeting 
of Shareholders

 ▪ Approving the Company’s draſt  annual 

report for 2014, annual fi nancial 

Annual General Meeting of Shareholders 
regarding approval of NLMK’s Auditor

 ▪ Approving the agenda, draſt  documents 
and measures necessary for preparing 
for and holding the Annual General 
Shareholders’ meeting

NLMK auditor services

 ▪ Establishing the Company’s priority 

areas of activity (including signing an 
addendum to the agreement on creating a 
consolidated group of taxpayers (including 
new participants))

66                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

 ▪ Approving the composition of the NLMK 

Management Board

 ▪ Approving internal corporate documents of 

NLMK

 ▪ Approving the Corporate Secretary of the 

Company

 ▪ Convening an Extraordinary General Meeting 

of Shareholders (EGM); approving the 
agenda, draſt  documents and events required 
to prepare for and organize the EGM

 ▪ The members of NLMK’s Management 

Board concurrently holding management 
positions in other companies

 ▪ The long-term incentive program for NLMK 

Group’s executives

Participation of Members of the Board of 
Directors in the Meetings of this Body in 
2015

Board of 
Directors’ 
Member

Participation 
in meetings

Vladimir Lisin

Oleg Bagrin

Benedict Sciortino

Helmut Wieser

Nikolai Gagarin

Karl Doering

Karen Sarkisov

Franz Struzl

Stanislav Shekshnya

12

12

12

12

12

12

12

12

8*

* Stanislav Shekshnya was elected to the Board of 
Directors at the Annual General Shareholders’ Meeting 
held on 5 June 2015.

COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD OF 
DIRECTORS

One of the key instruments of the corporate 
governance system and a prerequisite for 
effi  cient operation of the Board of Directors is 
streamlined operation of its committees. Best 
practices and the Corporate Governance Code 
adopted in 2014 and recommended by the 
Central Bank of the Russian Federation provide 
for establishing a number of committees 
within the Boards of Directors – the Audit 
Committee, Human Resources, Remuneration 
and Social Policies Committee, and Strategic 
Planning Committee.

The committees are advisory bodies of the 
Board of Directors; they are established 
primarily for preliminary review and analysis of 
the most signifi cant issues within the powers 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

of the Board of Directors. The composition 
of the committees is supposed to allow them 
to hold in-depth discussions of the issues 
involved taking into consideration various 
opinions.

The members of the committees have 
professional qualifi cations, knowledge and 
experience in the committee’s area as well 
as other specifi c expertise, ability and time 
required to serve and fulfi ll their functions as 
members of the committee.

The status, goals, objectives and functions of 
the committees as well as their composition, 
establishment and operation are set out in 
regulations on committees approved by the 
Company’s Board of Directors.

Strategic Planning Committee 

Committee’s activities and powers

The Strategic Planning Committee draſt s 
and submits recommendations to the 
Board regarding priority areas for company 
activities and its development strategy, 
including long-term actions to improve 
eff ectiveness, and to promote asset growth, 
profi tability and a stronger investment case. 

The main objectives of the Strategic Planning 
Committee are: 

1) To provide consulting support required by 
the Board of Directors for:

 ▪ Setting strategic objectives aimed at the 
long-term development of the Company

 ▪ Developing initiatives aimed at increasing 

the Company’s profi tability and its 
investment appeal

 ▪ Coordinating the activities of the 

Company’s structural units and the Board 
of Directors with regard to strategic 
planning 

Directors with regard to determining priority 
directions for business development and 
strategic planning; 

3) To assess the Company’s investor and 
shareholder relations policy.

The Committee membership had been 
changed during 2015

The Committee membership before June 2015:
 ▪ Vladimir Lisin (Chairman of the 

Committee);
 ▪ Oleg Bagrin
 ▪ Benedict Sciortino
 ▪ Karl Doering
 ▪ Helmut Wieser
 ▪ Franz Struzl
 ▪ Karen Sarkisov
 ▪ Aleksey Lapshin

The Committee membership between June 
and December 2015:
 ▪ Vladimir Lisin (Chairman of the 

Committee);
 ▪ Oleg Bagrin
 ▪ Benedict Sciortino
 ▪ Karl Doering 
 ▪ Helmut Wieser
 ▪ Franz Struzl
 ▪ Karen Sarkisov

According to Regulations on the Strategic 
Planning Committee approved in December 
2015, the Strategic Planning Committee with 
the following membership was established 
at the meeting of the Company’s Board of 
Directors:
 ▪ Vladimir Lisin (Chairman of the 

2) To exercise control over the execution 
of resolutions adopted by the Board of 

Committee)
 ▪ Oleg Bagrin

Participation of committee members in committee meetings in 2015

Full name

Position

Participation in Committee 
meetings in 2015

Vladimir Lisin

Chairman of the Committee

Oleg Bagrin

Member of the Committee 

Karen Sarkisov

Member of the Committee

Karl Doering

Member of the Committee

Benedict Sciortino

Member of the Committee

Franz Struzl

Member of the Committee

Helmut Wieser

Member of the Committee

3

3

3

3

3

3

3

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

67

 ▪ Benedict Sciortino
 ▪ Karl Doering
 ▪ Helmut Wieser
 ▪ Franz Struzl
 ▪ Karen Sarkisov

Secretary of the Committee: Grigory 
Fedorishin (Vice President, Finance)

Results of the Committee’s activity in 2015

In 2015, the Strategic Planning Committee 
held three meetings, including one meeting 
in person and two meetings in the form of 
absentee voting. 

Resolutions on the following key issues were 
passed at the meetings of the Committee:

 ▪ Updating NLMK’s dividend policy

 ▪ Developing NLMK Belgium Holdings’ 

assets

 ▪ Implementing NLMK Group’s investment 
program, including the development of 
Stoilensky

Audit Committee

Activity description, authority

The Audit Committee chaired by an 
independent director was established to 
contribute to eff ective performance of 
functions related to supervision of the 
Company’s fi nancial and business activities by 
the Board of Directors.

The Committee’s main objectives are to 
improve effi  ciency of internal control, risk 
management and corporate governance 
systems, verify the accuracy of fi nancial 
statements, supervise the internal and 
external audit, and prevent fraud by 
employees and other parties.

The Committee membership before June 
2015:
 ▪ Benedict Sciortino (Chairman of the 

Committee)
 ▪ Karen Sarkisov
 ▪ Nikolai Gagarin
 ▪ Karl Doering
 ▪ Franz Struzl

The Committee membership between June 
and December 2015:
 ▪ Benedict Sciortino (Chairman of the 

Committee)
 ▪ Karen Sarkisov
 ▪ Nikolai Gagarin
 ▪ Franz Struzl

According to Regulations on the Audit 
Committee approved in December 2015, 
the Audit Committee with the following 
membership was established at the meeting 
of the Company’s Board of Directors: (as at 
31.12.2015):
 ▪ Benedict Sciortino (Chairman of the 

Committee)
 ▪ Karen Sarkisov
 ▪ Nikolai Gagarin
 ▪ Stanislav Shekshnya
 ▪ Franz Struzl

Secretary of the Committee: Andrei 
Dozhdikov (Head of Consolidated Financial 
Statements Department)

Results of the Committee’s activity for 
2015

In 2015 there were 6 meetings of the Audit 
Committee held in-person, including 3 held 
by conference call.

The Committee membership had been 
changed during 2015

The Committee reviewed and passed 
resolutions on the following key issues:

Participation of committee members in committee meetings in 2015

Full name

Position

Participation in meetings 
in 2015*

Benedict Sciortino

Chairman of the Committee

Franz Struzl

Member of the Committee

Stanislav Shekshnya**

Member of the Committee

Nikolai Gagarin

Karen Sarkisov

Member of the Committee

Member of the Committee

6 (6)

6 (6)

–

6 (6)

6 (6)

*  The number of the Committee’s meetings over the period of the person’s participation as a member of the Committee is 
specifi ed in brackets.
** Elected to the Committee in December 2015.

 ▪ Review of the results of the audit of 
NLMK’s 2014 US GAAP Consolidated 
Financial Statements

 ▪ Review of the results of the audit 

of NLMK’s 2014 IFRS Consolidated 
Financial Statements

 ▪ Review of draſt  interim abridged US 

GAAP Consolidated Financial Statements 
for Q1 and H1 2015; and IFRS 
Consolidated Financial Statements for 
9M 2015

 ▪ Review of potential auditors for 

NLMK Group’s RAS and IFRS-based 
consolidated fi nancial statements for 
2015

 ▪ Review of the report on the progress of 
the Risk Management, Internal Control 
and Internal Audit business process 
development

 ▪ Review of the results of risk 

management activities and the risk 
matrix for 2015

 ▪ Review of the report on the Internal Audit 
Service performance in 2014, and the 
audit plan for 2015

 ▪ Review of the reports on the interim 
results of the Group’s Internal Audit 
Service operation, risk management and 
internal control activities

Human Resources, Remuneration and 
Social Policies Committee 

Committee’s activities and powers

The Human Resources, Remuneration and 
Social Policies Committee chaired by an 
independent director was established for 
preliminary review of issues related to the 
development of effi  cient and transparent 
practices of remuneration, human resource 
planning (succession planning), areas of 
expertise and performance of the Board 
of Directors. The main purpose of the 
Committee is to ensure effi  cient decision 
making by the Company’s Board of 
Directors on the following issues:

 ▪ Appointment of members of the 

Company’s governing bodies and other 
key executives, and succession planning 
for management and other key positions 
in the Company

 ▪ Assessment of members of the 

Company’s governing bodies and other 
key executives

 ▪ Remuneration of members of the 

Company’s governing bodies and other 
key executives

 ▪ The Company’s social policy

68                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

The main objective of the Committee is to 
review, develop and provide recommendations 
to the Company’s Board of Directors on the 
following issues:

 ▪ The priority areas for appointment, 

assessment, development and remuneration 
of members of the Company’s governing 
bodies and other key executives

 ▪ Human resource planning, expanding 
the range of expertise and improving 
performance of the Company’s Board of 
Directors

 ▪ Human resource planning and succession 
planning for management and other key 
positions in the Company 

 ▪ Development of effi  cient and transparent 
practices of remuneration for members of 
the Company’s governing bodies and other 
key executives

 ▪ Other issues, including the development of 

the social policy

The Committee membership had been 
changed during 2015:

The Committee membership before June 
2015:
 ▪ Vladimir Lisin (Chairman of the Committee)
 ▪ Oleg Bagrin
 ▪ Aleksey Lapshin
The Committee membership between June 
and December 2015:
 ▪ Stanislav Shekshnya (Chairman of the 

Committee)
 ▪ Vladimir Lisin
 ▪ Oleg Bagrin
 ▪ Helmut Wieser

According to the Regulations on the Human 
Resources, Remuneration and Social Policies 
Committee approved in December 2015, 
the Human Resources, Remuneration and 
Social Policies Committee with the following 
membership was established at the meeting 
of the Company’s Board of Directors: (as at 
December 31, 2015):

 ▪ Stanislav Shekshnya (Chairman of the 

Committee)
 ▪ Vladimir Lisin
 ▪ Helmut Wieser

Secretary of the Committee: Irina Bevz 
(Director, Talent Management).

Results of the Committee’s activity for 
2015

In 2015, there were four meetings of the 
Human Resources, Remuneration and Social 
Policies Committee, including one meeting 
in person and three meetings in the form of 
absentee voting.

The Committee reviewed and passed 
resolutions on the following key issues:

 ▪ Approve the objectives, scope and schedule 
of the Committee’s activities in 2015–2016 
and the Secretary of the Committee

 ▪ Adopt the 2015–2016 HR Strategy 

approved by the NLMK’s Management 
Board

 ▪ Take into consideration the new MICEX 
requirements related to criteria of 
independent directors’ connection with the 
issuer (the maximum length of tenure on 
the Board of Directors cannot exceed seven 
years)

 ▪ Identify the current best practices for 

assessing a board of directors and develop 
an assessment procedure on their basis. 
Use the ideal target vision of the Board of 
Directors’ performance as a benchmarking 
criterion when assessing the Board of 
Directors

 ▪ Recommend to NLMK’s Board of Directors 
to approve the proposed methodology and 
schedule for assessment of the Board of 
Directors. Conduct the assessment of the 
Board of Directors in accordance with the 
proposed methodology and schedule

CORPORATE SECRETARY  

NLMK’s Corporate Secretary ensures eff ective 
interaction with shareholders, coordinates 

Participation of committee members in committee meetings in 2015

Full name

Position

Stanislav Shekshnya

Chairman of the Committee

Vladimir Lisin

Member of the Committee

Helmut Wieser

Member of the Committee

Participation in meetings 
in 2015

2 (2)

4 (4)

1 (2)

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

69

NLMK’s activities aimed at protecting the rights 
and interests of its shareholders, and supports 
the operation of the Board of Directors. 

Functionally reporting to the Board of 
Directors and administratively reporting 
to NLMK President (Chairman of the 
Management Board), the Corporate Secretary 
is appointed and dismissed by NLMK 
President (Chairman of the Management 
Board) on the basis of a decision by the 
Board of Directors. 

NLMK’s Corporate Secretary ensures 
interaction with shareholders, coordinates 
NLMK’s activities aimed at protecting the rights 
and interests of its shareholders, supports 
the operation of the Board of Directors and 
acts as the Head of the Management Board 
Secretariat, which helps improve the effi  ciency 
of NLMK’s corporate governance. The duties 
performed by the Corporate Secretary are in 
line with recommendations given in the Code, 
and the Corporate Secretary has suffi  cient 
resources to exercise his powers.

The Corporate Secretary’s main duties are to:

 ▪ Contribute to preparing for and organizing 

of General Meetings of Shareholders

 ▪ Support the operation of the Board of 

Directors and its Committees

 ▪ Contribute to the execution of NLMK’s 

disclosure policy and oversee the storage 
of NLMK’s corporate documents

 ▪ Support the interaction between NLMK 

and its shareholders

 ▪ Support the interaction between NLMK 
and regulators, brokerage fi rms, the 
registrar and other players in the securities 
market, as well as NLMK’s affi  liates, within 
the powers assigned to the Corporate 
Secretary

 ▪ Secure compliance with the procedures 
established by the law and NLMK’s 
internal documents that provide for the 
enforcement of rights and legitimate 
interests of shareholders; and control their 
execution

 ▪ Contribute to improving NLMK’s corporate 

governance system and practices

The rights and duties of NLMK’s Corporate 
Secretary are governed by Regulations on the 
Corporate Secretary (which were approved 
for the fi rst time in 2015), the Company’s 
Charter and Regulations on the Board of 
Directors.

Valery Loskutov has been the Company’s 
Corporate Secretary from 2005.

The Corporate Secretary oversees the 
Corporate Secretary Offi  ce.

MANAGEMENT BOARD

NLMK corporate governance in action

According to NLMK’s current corporate 
documents, the implementation of the 
approved strategy and specifi c decisions of 
the Board of Directors is delegated to the 
President and the Management Board. 

The main objective of the Management 
Board is to ensure that the Company is 
operating effi  ciently. In order to reach its 
objective the Management Board is guided 
by the following principles:

 ▪ Effi  cient and objective decision-making 

that favors the interests of the Company 
and its shareholders

 ▪ Fair, timely and effi  cient execution of the 
decisions of the General Shareholders’ 
Meeting and the Board of Directors

 ▪ Cooperation with trade unions of the 

Company’s employees with the purpose 
of taking into account the employees’ 
interests

 ▪ Cooperation with government agencies 

and local authorities on the most 
important issues.

The key issues that the Management Board 
is responsible for addressing are as follows:

 ▪ Devising and conceptualizing the 

developmental steps, long-term plans and 
core areas of activity for the Company 
and its subsidiaries and affi  liates; and 
submitting them to the Board of Directors 
for approval

 ▪ Developing modes of interaction between 
the Company and other companies and 

legal entities in which the Company 
holds shares or interest or of which the 
Company is a founder, participant or 
member

 ▪ Approving proposals concerning the 
agenda of the General Meetings of 
Shareholders/participants as well as 
the list of candidates to the governing 
bodies which supervise the subsidiaries, 
affi  liates and other legal entities of 
which the Company is a founder, 
participant or member

 ▪ Approving the Company’s representatives 
for participation in the General Meetings 
of Shareholders and participants held 
at subsidiaries, affi  liates and other legal 
entities of which the Company is a 
shareholder, founder or member, as well 
as approving guidelines for voting on 
agenda items for those representatives

 ▪ Giving recommendations and opinions on 
issues concerning approval of budgets, 
key development trends, governance 
structure, and other critical issues, which 
are considered by the governing bodies 
of subsidiaries, affi  liates and other legal 
entities of which the Company is a 
founder, participant or member

 ▪ Advising the Board of Directors on 

major and/or related party transactions 
submitted for review by the Board of 
Directors in accordance with its powers

 ▪ Approving transactions involving the 
Company’s assets in cases where the 
value of the deal or property in question 
exceeds 10% of the Company’s asset 
book value

 ▪ Deciding on Company participation or 
termination of participation in other 
organizations in cases where the value of 

Composition of the Management Board as at 31 December 2015

Full name

Position

Oleg Bagrin

Brijesh Garg

Ilya Gushchin

Yuri Larin

Sergey Likharev

Alexander Saprykin

Grigory Fedorishin

Sergey Filatov

Stanislav Tsyrlin

Member of the Board of Directors, President 
(Chairman of the Management Board)

Vice President, Procurement

Vice President, Sales

Vice President, Technology Development & Operational 
Effi ciency

Vice President, Logistics

Vice President, Strategic Raw Materials Division

Vice President, Finance

Managing Director

Vice President, HR & Management System

There was no confl ict of interests between NLMK Management Board members in 2015.

70                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

the acquired (disposed) property is less than 
2% of the Company’s asset book value

Board) cannot simultaneously be the Chairman 
of the Board of Directors of the Company.

Participation of Members of the 
Management Board in Meetings of this 
body in 2015

 ▪ Setting up and dissolving Company’s 

branches and representative offi  ces, as 
well as approving, revising and amending 
regulations on branches and representative 
offi  ces

The make-up and structure of members of 
the Management Board is approved by the 
Board of Directors with consideration of the 
opinion of the President (Chairman of the 
Management Board). The composition of the 
Management Board is approved by the Board 
of Directors based on recommendations from 
the President (Chairman of the Management 
Board).

President (Chairman of the Management 
Board)

President (Chairman of the Management 
Board) manages the day-to-day activities of 
the Company, excluding issues that fall within 
the exclusive competence of the General 
Shareholders’ Meeting, the Board of Directors 
and the Management Board; arranges for 
the execution of the decisions made by the 
General Shareholders’ Meeting and the Board 
of Directors. President (Chairman of the 
Management Board) acts without any Power 
of Attorney on behalf of the Company.

According to the corporate documents, 
President (Chairman of the Management 

The President (Chairman of the Management 
Board) is elected by the General Shareholders’ 
Meeting for a period lasting until the next 
Annual Meeting, unless otherwise stipulated 
by the General Shareholders’ Meeting. Oleg 
Bagrin has been the President (Chairman of 
the Management Board) since 2012 and is 
also a member of the Board of Directors. He 
was last elected on 5 June 2015.

Full name

Oleg Bagrin

Brijesh Garg

Ilya Gushchin

Activity of the Management Board in 2015

Yuri Larin

In 2015, there were 44 meetings of the 
Management Board, including 22 meetings 
that were held using absentee ballots. The 
following issues were considered at these 
meetings:
 ▪ Meeting Group’s key performance indicators 

in occupational health & safety

Sergey Likharev

Alexander Saprykin

Grigory Fedorishin

Sergey Filatov

Stanislav Tsyrlin

Participation in 
meetings

44

44

44

44

44

44

44

44

44

 ▪ Group’s consolidated budget execution
 ▪ Achievement of NLMK Group’s KPIs 

and implementation of its companies’ 
optimization programmes

 ▪ Participation / withdrawing participation of 

the Group in other companies

 ▪ Approval of draſt  decisions on matters 
within the competence of the General 
Shareholders’ Meetings of companies 
in which the Group is the sole 
participant / shareholder

 ▪ Execution of the development programmes 

of NLMK’s divisions (functional areas)
 ▪ Recommendations to the Company’s 

Board of Directors (with regard to approval 
of related party transactions, dividend 
payments and NLMK’s draſt  annual report 
for 2014)

 ▪ Recommendations to the governing bodies 

of subsidiaries and affi  liates

 ▪ Approval of transactions
 ▪ Effi  ciency of sales portfolio management
 ▪ Comprehensive risk management system
 ▪ Approval of the Management Board’s 

meeting schedule for 2015

REPORT ON REMUNERATION TO 
GOVERNING BODIES

The levels of remuneration are suffi  cient to 
attract, motivate and retain competent and 
properly qualifi ed executives. Remuneration 
is paid to members of NLMK’s Board of 
Directors in accordance with the approved 
Regulations on Remuneration.

The Regulations on Remuneration contain 
transparent mechanisms for determining 
the levels of remuneration paid to members 
of NLMK’s Board of Directors, and govern 
all types of payments, benefi ts and perks 
off ered to them.

Remuneration and compensation 
of members of the Board of Directors

The remuneration system for members 
of the Board of Directors serves to align 

Shares owned by members of the Management Board

Full name

Position

Oleg Bagrin

Member of the Board of Directors, 
President (Chairman of the 
Management Board)

Share of the authorized 
capital stock of NLMK

Not an NLMK shareholder

Brijesh Garg

Vice President, Procurement

Not an NLMK shareholder

Ilya Gushchin

Vice President, Sales

Not an NLMK shareholder

Yuri Larin

Vice President, Technology 
Development & Operational 
Effi ciency

0.00083 %

Sergey Likharev

Vice President, Logistics

Not an NLMK shareholder

Alexander Saprykin

Vice President, Strategic Raw 
Materials Division

Not an NLMK shareholder

Grigory Fedorishin

Vice President, Finance

Not an NLMK shareholder

Sergey Filatov

Managing Director

Not an NLMK shareholder

Stanislav Tsyrlin

Vice President, HR & Management 
System

Not an NLMK shareholder

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

71

their fi nancial interests with the long-term 
fi nancial interests of shareholders.

The levels of remuneration and 
compensation paid to members of NLMK’s 
Board of Directors are determined on the 
basis of Regulations on Remuneration 
of Members of the Board of Directors of 
Novolipetsk Steel approved by the General 
Meeting of Shareholders on 5 June 2015 
(Minutes of Meeting No. 40). The Regulations 
outline the terms and conditions and the 
procedure for payment of remuneration and 
compensation for expenses to members of 
NLMK’s Board of Directors related to their 
performing the functions of members of the 
Board of Directors during their term / from 
their election to the Board of Directors till the 
date of termination of offi  ce of the member 
of the Board of Directors.

Remuneration is paid to the members of the 
Board of Directors for reasonable and faithful 
exercise of their rights and their duties in 
the interests of NLMK. Remuneration to 
members of the Board of Directors consists 
of base remuneration and a bonus.

The amount of base remuneration is 
determined on the basis of a resolution by 
the General Meeting of Shareholders. The 
Annual General Meeting decided to set 
the base remuneration for 2014 paid to 
each member of the Board of Directors at 
$160,000 (one hundred and sixty thousand 
US dollars).

A member of the Board of Directors may 
receive a bonus that shall not exceed two 
base remunerations. The amount of the 
bonus is determined on the basis of the 
member’s contribution to the work of the 
Board of Directors and its Committees 
and recommendations given by the Human 
Resources, Remuneration and Social Policies 
Committee.

Remuneration is paid following a decision by 
NLMK’s General Meeting of Shareholders.

Regulations on Remuneration of Members of 
the Board of Directors of Novolipetsk Steel 
set the rules for reimbursing Board members’ 
work-related expenses. The following 
expenses are considered to be reimbursable:

 ▪ Transportation costs of the members 

of the Board of Directors incurred while 
travelling to meetings

 ▪ Costs for accommodation incurred while 

attending meetings

 ▪ Representation expenses

 ▪ Costs associated with obtaining the 

professional advice of experts on issues 
under consideration at the meetings of the 
Board of Directors 

 ▪ Costs associated with translating 

materials to be studied by members of the 
Board of Directors into a foreign language.

The maximum amount of a Board 
member’s expenses reimbursed by NLMK 
during a settlement period is determined 
by a decision of the General Meeting of 
Shareholders and shall not exceed 30% of 
the base remuneration. The compensation 
shall be paid only if the member of the 
Board of Directors participated in more than 
a half of meetings held by the Board of 
Directors.

Since the Company does not have any 
stock option programmes, members of the 
Board of Directors are not provided with an 
opportunity to participate in them, and their 
right to sell their NLMK shares is not linked 
to performance.

Remuneration and compensation of 
members of the Management Board

The remuneration system for members 
of NLMK’s executive bodies and other key 
executives links the remuneration to NLMK’s 
performance and their contribution to it. 
NLMK is consistently implementing a long-
term motivation programme for members 
of NLMK’s executive bodies and other key 
executives. 

In accordance with the Regulations on the 
Management Board, members of the Board 
shall receive remuneration and compensation 
for expenses related to the performance 
of their responsibilities as members of 
the Board for their period of service. The 
conditions and procedure for remuneration of 
Management Board members are governed 
by an agreement that is concluded with Board 
members as advised by the Human Resources, 
Remuneration, and Social Policies Committee. 
The Management Board shall be compensated 
in monetary form. 

The following principles outline the mechanism 
for determining the amount of compensation 
that is awarded to NLMK top management:
 ▪ Honest and effi  cient performance of their 
duties by members of the Management 
Board

 ▪ Rational use of the rights that are granted 

to them

 ▪ The size of the bonuses awarded to 

members of the Management Board is 
dependent on their achievement of key 
performance indicators (KPIs) and on 
the Company’s overall results during the 
reporting period

 ▪ Active involvement by members of the 
Management Board in the work of the 
Group’s executive bodies.

Remuneration paid to Board members in 2014–2015

2014 
‘000 rubles

2015 
‘000 rubles

2015 
$ million

Payments to Board members, incl.:

Remuneration

Salary

Bonuses

Commission

Benefi ts

Refunded expenses

Other types of remuneration

125,585

123,605

162,549

160,054

–

–

–

–

1,980

–

–

–

–

–

2,495

–

2.67

2.63

–

–

–

–

0.04

–

Remuneration paid to Management Board members in 2014–2015

2014 
‘000 rubles

2015 
‘000 rubles

2015 
$ million

Payments to Board members, incl.:

Salary

Bonuses

Commission

Benefi ts

Refunded expenses

Other types of remuneration

486,545

120,576

362,846

–

–

3,123

–

560,604

198,191

359,957

–

–

2,440

16

9.20

3.25

5.91

–

–

0.04

0.00

 
 
72                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

OPERATIONAL 
CONTROL AND 
RISK MANAGEMENT

SUPERVISION OVER THE FINANCIAL 
AND BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

Transition to new consolidated fi nancial 
reporting standards

Keeping up with the recent regulatory changes 
in Russia, NLMK switched to reporting its 
consolidated fi nancial results under the 
International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRS) starting from its report for the fi rst nine 
months of 2015.

The date of the fi rst-time adoption of IFRS is 
1 January 2013; the fi rst reporting under IFRS 
was NLMK’s consolidated fi nancial statement 
for the year ending on 31 December 2014, 
with data for 2013 as the benchmark. The 
timeframe for the transition to IFRS was due 
to the narrowing gap between US GAAP and 
IFRS principles in 2012–2014; this made data 
reported under US GAAP and IFRS more easily 
comparable and helped improve the transition 
process.

The transition to IFRS had no signifi cant eff ect 
on the Company’s fi nancial performance data.

External Auditor

According to the legislation of the Russian 
Federation, the Group’s General Shareholders’ 
Meeting selects auditors on an annual 
basis. The Audit Committee advances 
candidates for Group auditor who are 
recognized independent auditors with strong 
professional reputation for consideration by 
the Board of Directors. 

The Audit Committee is guided by the 
following core principles when making its 
recommendations:

 ▪ The qualifi cations of the audit organization 

and its professional reputation 

 ▪ The quality of its services 

 ▪ Its compliance with auditor independence 

requirements.

AO PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit was 
selected at the Annual General Shareholders’ 
Meeting held in June 2015, to conduct an 
audit of fi nancial statements prepared 
in accordance with Russian Accounting 
Standards (RAS), the US Generally Accepted 
Accounting Principles (US GAAP), and 
International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRS). Address: 10 Butyrsky Val, Moscow, 
125047, Russia.

Remuneration

The Board of Directors has determined the 
amount of remuneration for audit services 
(review) of the US GAAP consolidated 
fi nancial statements of NLMK for H1 2015, 
the IFRS consolidated fi nancial statements 
of NLMK for 9M 2015, 12M 2015 and 
Q1 2016, and the RAS Statements for 2015 
to be US$ 1,000,000 and 32 million rubles 
(excluding VAT).

Independence of external auditors

In 2015, AO PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit 
performed audits of consolidated fi nancial 
statements prepared in accordance with US 
GAAP and IFRS; and fi nancial statements 
of NLMK Group’s major companies in 
accordance with RAS. 

AO PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit has 
several systems to ensure the independence 
of its auditors, for example, it regularly 
rotates the key staff  in its audit working 
group (as least once every seven years).

The Group has hired AO 
PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit and other 
PricewaterhouseCoopers companies 
(hereaſt er PwC) to provide consulting (non-
audit) services. 

The management of NLMK has conducted 
the necessary procedures, and is sure 
that these services do not aff ect the 
independence of the auditor and are not 
related to fi nancial reporting. The share of 
consulting (non-audit) services provided 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

by ZAO PricewaterhouseCoopers Audit for 
NLMK in 2015 did no exceed 10 % of the total 
amount of services performed.

Internal Audit Commission 

Corporate governance in action

The Internal Audit Commission is a full-
time internal control authority exercising 
continuous supervision over the fi nancial 
and business activities of the Company. 
The Internal Audit Commission operates 
under the Charter and the Internal Audit 
Commission Regulations. It audits the 
fi nancial and business activities of NLMK 
Group in order to obtain adequate assurance 
that the activities of NLMK Group comply 

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

73

with applicable Russian Federation laws 
and do not infringe upon the rights of 
Company shareholders, and that the 
Company reports and accounts contain no 
material misstatements. 

The Internal Audit Commission acts for the 
protection of the shareholders’ investments 
and the Group’s assets and is elected by 
the General Meeting of Shareholders for a 
term until the next Annual General Meeting 
of Shareholders. The Internal Audit 
Commission report is an essential part of 
NLMK’s RAS Financial Statements. 

The members of the Internal Audit 
Commission were elected on 5 June 
2015 at the Annual General Meeting of 
Shareholders. As of 31 December 2015 
the Internal Audit Commission had the 
following composition:

 ▪ Vladislav Ershov 

 ▪ Natalia Krasnykh 

 ▪ Vladimir Markin 

 ▪ Sergey Nesmeyanov 

 ▪ Galina Shipilova

Activities of the Internal Audit Commission 
in 2015

The newly elected Internal Audit Commission 
held one meeting in 2015 to discuss its 
operation in 2015, elect its chairman and 
approve an audit plan and programme. 
The Commission reviewed the Group’s 
fi nancial and business activities for 2015 in 
accordance with its powers and on the basis 
of the approved plan.

Remuneration

Remuneration to members of the Internal 
Audit Commission is paid in accordance with 
the Regulations on NLMK Group’s Internal 
Audit Commissions approved by NLMK’s 
President (Chairman of the Management 
Board) on 25 November 2014. According 
to the Regulations, the main criterion for 
determining whether to pay the remuneration 
is participation in audits of the Company’s 

Remuneration paid to Internal Audit Commission members in 2014–2015

Payments to Commission members, incl.

Salary

Bonuses

Remuneration for participation in the Commission’s 
activities

Refunded expenses

2014 
‘000 rubles

2015 
‘000 rubles

18,142

6,912 

1,445

180

–

6,700

3,670 

2,906

–

–

Other types of remuneration

9 605

124

74                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

fi nancial and business operations. The 
remuneration paid to members of the 
Internal Audit Commission shall be equal to 
the amount of base remuneration, which is 
determined by the Regulations.

The total remuneration paid to members of 
the Internal Audit Commission for audits of 
NLMK’s operations in 2015 was 220,000 
rubles ($4,000).

Secretary of the Committee: Andrei 
Dozhdikov (Head of Consolidated Financial 
Statements Department).

Results of the Committee’s activity for 
2015

In 2015 there were 6 meetings of the Audit 
Committee held in-person, including 3 held by 
conference call.

Audit Committee 

Committee’s activities and powers

The Audit Committee chaired by an 
independent director was established to 
contribute to eff ective performance of 
functions related to supervision of the 
Company’s fi nancial and business activities 
by the Board of Directors.

The Committee’s main objectives are to 
improve effi  ciency of internal control, risk 
management and corporate governance 
systems, verify the accuracy of fi nancial 
statements, supervise the internal and 
external audit, and prevent fraud by 
employees and other parties.

According to Regulations on the Audit 
Committee approved in December 2015, 
the Audit Committee with the following 
membership was established at the meeting 
of the Company’s Board of Directors:

 ▪ Benedict Sciortino (Chairman)

 ▪ Karen Sarkisov

 ▪ Nikolai Gagarin

 ▪ Stanislav Shekshnya

 ▪ Franz Struzl

The Committee reviewed and passed 
resolutions on the following key issues:

 ▪ Review of the results of the audit of 
NLMK’s 2014 US GAAP Consolidated 
Financial Statements

 ▪ Review of the results of the audit of 

NLMK’s 2014 IFRS Consolidated Financial 
Statements

 ▪ Review of the results of the audit of 

NLMK’s 2014 RAS Financial Statements

 ▪ Review of draſt  interim abridged US GAAP 
Consolidated Financial Statements for 
Q1 and H1 2015; and IFRS Consolidated 
Financial Statements for 9M 2015

 ▪ Review of potential auditors for NLMK 

Group’s RAS and IFRS-based consolidated 
fi nancial statements for 2015

 ▪ Review of the report on the progress of 
the Risk Management, Internal Control 
and Internal Audit business process 
development

 ▪ Review of the report on the Internal Audit 
Service performance in 2014, and the 
audit plan for 2015

Participation of committee members in committee meetings in 2015

Full name

Position

Participation in meetings 
in 2015*

Benedict Sciortino

Chairman of the Committee

Franz Struzl

Member of the Committee

Stanislav Shekshnya**

Member of the Committee

Nikolai Gagarin

Member of the Committee

Karen Sarkisov

Member of the Committee

6 (6)

6 (6)

 –

6 (6)

6 (6)

*  The number of the Committee’s meetings over the period of the person’s participation as a member of the 
Committee is specifi ed in brackets.

** Elected to the Committee in December 2015.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

 ▪ Review of the reports on the interim 
results of the Group’s Internal Audit 
Service operation, risk management and 
internal control activities

Internal Audit

Practices 

Internal Audit is an integral part of 
NLMK’s internal control system, exercising 
continuous supervision over the fi nancial 
and business activities of the Company. 
Internal auditing is an activity designed to 
provide objective and impartial assurance 
and consulting in order to enhance the 
organizational activities. The key functions 
of the Internal Audit Department are as 
follows:

 ▪ Assess effi  ciency of the internal control 

system

 ▪ Assess effi  ciency of the risk management 

system

 ▪ Assess effi  ciency of corporate governance

 ▪ Consulting

Internal auditing activity is performed by the 
Internal Audit Department and local Internal 
Audit offi  ces of NLMK Group’s companies. 
Head of Internal Audit interacts with the 
local Internal Audit offi  ces by undertaking:

 ▪ General functional management of local 

Internal Audit offi  ces

 ▪ Quality control

 ▪ Organization of consulting services

Internal Audit activities in 2015 

In 2015, Internal Audit experts performed 
the following activities:

 ▪ Audits of risk management effi  ciency in 

relation to material risks and assessments 
of effi  ciency of the internal control system 
applicable to business processes. The 
audits revealed both insignifi cant and 
signifi cant defi ciencies. It confi rms that 
the risk management system is in place, 
yet certain organizational weaknesses 
and/or control procedure compliance 
issues exist which could have an impact 
on achieving process objectives 

 ▪ Assessment of NLMK’s corporate 

governance effi  ciency. The effi  ciency was 
assessed as high and complying with the 
requirements of Stock exchanges

 ▪ Audits of Company’s fi nancial and 

business activities; compliance with 

 ▪ Review of the results of risk management 
activities and the risk matrix for 2015

 ▪ Organization of methodological support 

for Internal Audit activities

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

75

fi nancial and tax accounting regulations; 
and preparation of fi nancial (tax) 
statements

practices in Russia and encouraging fair 
competition and sustainable economic 
growth.

stakeholders and the Company in general 
through an effi  cient risk management 
system. 

 ▪ Experts of Internal Audit Department 

conducted internal audits in NLMK Group’s 
companies in accordance with the laws 
on joint-stock companies and charters of 
limited liability companies. Internal audits 
were conducted in 17 subsidiaries and 
affi  liates followed by reports on validity of 
accounting (fi nancial) statements 

 ▪ Consulting services: consulting services 
were provided to business units of the 
Lipetsk site and other NLMK Group’s 
companies on issues related to taxation 
and fi nancial and business activities; 
auditors participated in meetings of 
commissions and work groups and shared 
their opinions on subject matters

 ▪ Audits of repair and construction activities

Following the audits, auditors provided 
recommendations on how to improve NLMK 
Group activities, including improvement 
of the company’s risk management and 
internal control system. Internal Audit 
consistently monitors implementation of its 
recommendations. In 2015, 95% of auditors’ 
recommendations were implemented.

Anti-corruption efforts

NLMK Group is guided by high ethical 
standards and principles of business 
transparency. Respect for existing legislation, 
professionalism and honesty are essential for 
all NLMK Group employees.

NLMK adheres to best corporate governance 
practices and deems any form of corruption 
to be unacceptable, including bribery, 
collusion, corrupt payments, abuse of position, 
facilitation payments, etc. Direct and indirect 
involvement of NLMK Group employees 
in corrupt activities is prohibited without 
exception.

NLMK Group is a member of the Anti-
Corruption Charter of the Russian Business, 
which was established by the Russian Union 
of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs; this 
underlines NLMK’s commitment to promoting 
fair business and corporate governance 

NLMK Group companies have an extensive 
internal communications network that 
enables all employees to report any 
instances of corruption, past and future. 
At Novolipetsk, concerns can be reported 
to a special hotline; at a face-to-face 
meeting with executives or the person in 
charge of anti-corruption enforcement, or 
to Asset Protection. Staff  members can 
also send e-mails to a special address, 
anticorruption@nlmk.com, or use ‘help 
boxes’ placed at entrance checkpoints. 

NLMK Group adopted special practices 
for operations with the highest risk of 
fraud: confl icts of interest should be 
declared, and employees should undergo 
psychophysiological tests. Their Internal 
Regulations were amended to include anti-
corruption responsibilities.

Acknowledgement of and compliance 
with the principles and practices set out 
in the Anti-Corruption Charter of the 
Russian Business is one of the standard 
qualifi cation criteria our potential 
counterparties should meet to become 
NLMK Group’s partners. The Roadmap 
of the Charter is an integral part of the 
standard contractual relationship between 
NLMK Group companies and their partners. 

Risk mitigation is one of the key 
prerequisites for achieving our targets and 
improving key performance indicators.

The Group has a number of regulations 
concerning the risk management system 
in general and the key risk management 
methodologies and procedures.

The responsibilities within the risk 
management system are allocated as 
follows:

 ▪ The Management Board approves the 
critical/signifi cant risk matrix and risk 
management action plan and monitors 
the performance of the risk management 
system

 ▪ The Audit Committee approves the 
critical/signifi cant risk management 
programme and monitors the 
performance of the risk management 
system

 ▪ The Risk Management Committee 

performs day-to-day risk management 
duties, determines assessment 
approaches and risk structure and 
develops risk management and impact 
mitigation measures

The formalization and implementation of 
processes within our anti-corruption system 
are expected to be completed in 2016.

 ▪ Risk owners identify new threats 
and implement the approved risk 
management programme

RISK MANAGEMENT

NLMK risk management system

NLMK Group’s business is exposed to 
various risks. The Group has adopted a 
risk management system to make optimal 
decisions in the course of its activities. 
The system includes risk identifi cation, 
classifi cation and impact assessment 
procedures, as well as development of risk 
management measures and mitigation of 
the negative impact of external factors.

Our risk management policy is aimed at 
protecting the interests of shareholders, 

Changes introduced to the risk 
management system in 2015 

The Company continued with integration 
processes in 2015 to further develop its 
risk management system. Specifi cally, it 
appointed risk management and internal 
control coordinators across NLMK Group 
operations and functions. Their main task 
is to communicate the approaches and 
values of the risk management system to all 
business units.

In 2015, NLMK Group approved its Credit 
Policy, improved the Maintenance Schedule 
and developed a draſt  Anticorruption Policy.

76                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

Risks NLMK is exposed to

Risk

Impact level

Description

Mitigation measures

PRODUCTION RISKS

Business continuity risk

Critical risk

Risks related to downtime caused by 
equipment failure, human errors, supply of 
low-quality raw materials, or other sources 
of risk, including acts of nature

Maintenance and repair programmes, a system for 
controlling incoming raw materials and supplies

Equipment productivity 
reduction risk and low 
quality product risk 

Signifi cant risk

Risks related to limited equipment 
availability and lower equipment productivity 
and quality of end products 

Operational effi ciency programme

COMMERCIAL RISKS

Price risk

Critical risk

Credit risk

Critical risk

Risk of ineffi cient ready 
inventory management 

Critical risk

FINANCIAL RISKS

Currency risk

Critical risk

INVESTMENT RISKS

Investment risk

Critical risk

REGULATORY RISKS

Tax risk

Signifi cant risk

Risk associated with unfavourable changes 
in market prices and the government’s 
position on energy pricing

Risk caused by counterparty default on 
payment or supply of products (accounts 
receivable and advance payments) or 
NLMK Group’s bank deposits

Risk caused by ineffi cient inventory 
management: non-compliance with 
(absence of) standards, unlawful actions by 
inventory keepers or poor logistics chain

 ▪ Monitoring spreads between steel products and 

key raw materials

 ▪ Development of a purchasing strategy by 

category of material

The credit risk is minimized through credit security, 
accounts receivable insurance, limits on certain 
types of credit, and concentration risk management

Development of raw material and end product stock 
keeping standards, audit and stock taking

Risks associated with fl uctuations in 
currency rates. The Company receives 
the majority of its revenues from exports 
in foreign currency, while the majority of 
expenditure is established in Russian rubles

Control of open foreign exchange position

Risk associated with failure to achieve 
project KPIs, including completion deadlines, 
project budget and surplus inventory 

 ▪ Application of project management principles
 ▪ Assessment of risks related to each project
 ▪ Root cause analysis for key risks. Development 

of preventive measures 

When accounting, declaring and paying 
taxes, the Company seeks to comply with 
all requirements of the applicable legislation. 
Nonetheless, changes in tax laws and 
regulators’ enforcement practices, as well as 
introduction of new business processes and 
operations expose the Company to tax risks 

 ▪ Continuous monitoring of tax legislation 
 ▪ Regular diagnostic and strengthening of internal 

control for tax accounting, declaration and 
payment processes

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

77

Risk

Impact level

Description

Mitigation measures

Free trade restriction 
risks 

Signifi cant risk

The signifi cant volume of exports and 
imports make the Company vulnerable 
to tariff and non-tariff measures, as well 
as other restrictions imposed by foreign 
regulators on raw and other materials and 
equipment purchased by the Company, and 
the products the Company sells

 ▪ Monitoring of foreign regulators’ activities 
 ▪ Promotion of the Company’s interests through 
available legal tools, transparency and effective 
interaction with regulators

 ▪ Sales channel management to minimize the 

negative effect of sanction regimes

OPERATIONAL RISKS

Environmental risk

Critical risk

Risk of environmental changes or 
unfavourable long-term consequences 
of these changes resulting from negative 
environmental impact

Occupational health and 
safety risks

Signifi cant risk

Risks associated with the occurrence of 
accidents and other incidents

Fraud, corruption and 
asset theft risk 

Signifi cant risk

Risk associated with illegal actions (fraud) 
taken by employees, counterparties and 
third parties to benefi t themselves to 
the prejudice (at the expense) of NLMK’s 
interests

IT risks

Signifi cant risk

 ▪ The Company is exposed to IT risks as 
its processes and data fl ows are heavily 
dependent on applied IT solutions. 
There are two key areas of IT risk 
management:

 ▪ Protection of information classifi ed 
as trade secrets, personal data and 
information intended for internal use
 ▪ Delivery of business process continuity 
and high availability of IT systems and 
infrastructure

The Company is implementing a comprehensive 
investment programme aimed at upgrading 
pollution prevention equipment, introducing new, 
more eco-friendly production technologies and 
ensuring compliance with environmental standards

 ▪ Development and implementation of a corporate 
OHS management system with unifi ed standards 
across all sites 

 ▪ Development of NLMK Group’s preventative fi re 

safety system 

 ▪ Ensuring employees are supplied with the latest 
personal protection and hygiene equipment 

 ▪ OHS training for managers and experts.

 ▪ Promotion of principles stipulated in the 
Anticorruption Policy and Ethics Code 

 ▪ Declaration of absence of a confl ict of interests 

by employees in positions that are most 
vulnerable to the risk 

 ▪ Development of the Company’s hotline as an 

important and secure channel for informing the 
Company about corruption and fraud

 ▪ Qualifi cation of counterparties engaged by the 
Company with regard to their compliance with 
anticorruption principles 

 ▪ Regular diagnostic of the Company’s internal 

control system

 ▪ Strengthening of NLMK Group’s regulations 
concerning information security, business 
continuity procedures and emergency response 
plans 

 ▪ Implementation of several projects aimed at 
strengthening the Company’s information 
security, including introduction of SAP GRC 
access control tools, comprehensive roll-out 
of information protection tools and a project to 
improve the maturity of critical business system 
change management

 
78                                                                                                                                                     

49  Corporate governance review

51  Management composition

58  Corporate governance

INFORMATION FOR 
SHAREHOLDERS

Global Depositary Shares (GDS)

The ratio of Global Depositary Shares to 
ordinary shares is 1:10. The volume of 
Global Depositary Shares issued by NLMK 
and traded on the London Stock Exchange 
amounted to 8.56 % of share capital as of 
31 December 2015. 

The Company’s depositary bank is Deutsche 
Bank Trust Company Americas.

ORDINARY SHARES

Share price

NLMK Global Depositary Shares on the London Stock Exchange

Price of GDS (US$)

Maximum

Minimum

Mean

End of year

Ordinary NLMK shares on MICEX

Share price (RUB)

Maximum

Minimum

Mean

End of year

2015

14.80

8.11

12.36

8.51

2015

92.00

58.29

75.21

62.6

2014

16.69

9.80

13.45

11.48

2014

71.02

39.30

51.66

67.41

NLMK GDS price on the London Stock Exchange (LSE) ($/GDS)

18

16

14

12

10

8

6

4

2

0

y
r
a
u
n
a
J

y
r
a
u
r
b
e
F

h
c
r
a
M

l
i
r
p
A

y
a
M

e
n
u
J

l

y
u
J

2014

t
s
u
g
u
A

r
e
b
m
e
t
p
e
S

r
e
b
o
t
c
O

r
e
b
m
e
v
o
N

r
e
b
m
e
c
e
D

y
r
a
u
n
a
J

y
r
a
u
r
b
e
F

h
c
r
a
M

l
i
r
p
A

y
a
M

e
n
u
J

l

y
u
J

2015

t
s
u
g
u
A

r
e
b
m
e
t
p
e
S

r
e
b
o
t
c
O

r
e
b
m
e
v
o
N

r
e
b
m
e
c
e
D

NLMK GDS price on LSE, lhs

MICEX index (indicator of Russian companies’ share prices), rhs

2000

1800

1600

1400

1200

1000

800

600

400

200

0

The Group’s share capital is divided into 
5,993,227,240 shares with a nominal value 
of RUB 1 each. NLMK’s shares are traded 
on the MICEX and RTS trading platforms of 
the Moscow Stock Exchange, as well as in 
the form of Global Depositary Shares (GDS) 
(1 GDS = 10 ordinary shares) on the London 
Stock Exchange (LSE).

LSE (London) 
Ticker Code 

NLMK

MICEX 
(Moscow) Ticker 
Code

NLMK

Bloomberg 
Ticker Code

− NLMK LI for GDS 
traded on the LSE 

− NLMK RX for shares 
traded on the MICEX 
platform of the Moscow 
Exchange

Reuters Ticker 
Code

− NLMKq.L for GDS 
traded on the LSE 

− NLMK.MM for shares 
traded on the MICEX 
platform of the Moscow 
Stock Exchange

Indices that include NLMK shares

 ▪ RTS Index (NLMK’s share as at 15.03.16 – 

0.76%) 

 ▪ MICEX index (NLMK’s share as at 15.03.16 – 

0.76%)

 ▪ Moscow Stock Exchange Metals & Mining 
(NLMK’s share as at 15.03.16 – 13.86%)

 ▪ FTSE Russia IOB index.

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

                                                 
72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

79

consolidated fi nancial statements, if Net 
debt/ EBITDA is 1.0x or less.

 ▪ 30% of net profi t and 30% of free 

cash fl ow calculated on US GAAP/IFRS 
consolidated fi nancial statements, if Net 
Debt/EBITDA exceeds 1.0x.

 ▪ Dividends are paid annually. If conditions 
for fi nancial stability are maintained, 
NLMK will strive to pay interim dividends 
on a quarterly basis.

 ▪ The amount to be paid as a dividend for 
a specifi c period is approved by company 
shareholders in line with recommendations 
by the Board of Directors.

Dividends payable to GDS holders

Any dividends paid on shares certifi ed by GDS 
will be declared and paid to the Depositary 
in roubles or foreign currency, converted into 
US dollars by the Depositary (in the case of 
dividend payment in a currency other than US 
dollars), and distributed to the holders of GDS, 
net of fees and Depositary expenses.

The Board of Directors recommends that 
the Annual General Meeting of NLMK 
Shareholders pay (announce the payment 
of) 2015 dividends for ordinary shares in 
the amount of RUB 6.95 in cash per one 
ordinary share. Taking into account that 
interim dividends have been paid in the 
amount of RUB 4.52 per one ordinary share, 
the remaining balance to be paid per one 
ordinary share is RUB 2.43. 

The Board of Directors recommended 
using the balance of profi ts aſt er payment 
of dividends for funding investment 
programmes and paying dividends in the 
future.

NLMK share price on MICEX (RUB/share)

100

90

80

70

60

50

40

30

20

10

0

y
r
a
u
n
a
J

y
r
a
u
r
b
e
F

h
c
r
a
M

l
i
r
p
A

y
a
M

e
n
u
J

l

y
u
J

2014

t
s
u
g
u
A

r
e
b
m
e
t
p
e
S

r
e
b
o
t
c
O

r
e
b
m
e
v
o
N

r
e
b
m
e
c
e
D

y
r
a
u
n
a
J

y
r
a
u
r
b
e
F

h
c
r
a
M

l
i
r
p
A

y
a
M

e
n
u
J

l

y
u
J

2015

t
s
u
g
u
A

r
e
b
m
e
t
p
e
S

r
e
b
o
t
c
O

r
e
b
m
e
v
o
N

r
e
b
m
e
c
e
D

5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

0

own advisors regarding the tax consequences 
of investing in the Company’s shares, including 
Global Depositary Shares (GDS).

DIVIDENDS

Dividend policy

The dividend policy was updated in 2015 
to improve the transparency of dividend 
payouts.

According to the current dividend policy, 
dividends are to be paid with the payout in 
the range of:

 ▪ 50% of net income and 50% of free cash 
fl ow calculated based on US GAAP/ IFRS 

Dividend history (US$ m)

NLMK share price on MICEX, lhs

MICEX Metals & Mining Index, rhs

Market capitalization
NLMK market capitalization in 2015 was 
largely in line with the general trends seen 
in capital markets and the global steel 
market. Average market capitalization of the 
Company on the London Stock Exchange 
was US$ 7.4 billion (–8 % year-on-year). At 
the end of 2015, NLMK share price was 
US$ 0.85, or US$ 8.51 per GDS, consistent 
with capitalization of US$ 5.1 billion. 

Taxation

Legal entities 

Tax treatment of organizations’ revenues 
received as dividends on shares is 
governed by Chapter 25 ‘Tax on 
Organizations’ Profi t’ of the Russian Tax 
Code. Dividends paid to organizations that 
are Russian taxpayers are subject to a 0% 
or 13% income tax (subclauses 1 and 2 of 
Clause 3 of Article 284 of the Russian Tax 
Code); foreign organizations are subject 
to a 15% income tax (subclause 3 of 
Clause 3 of article 284 of the Russian Tax 
Code). 

Individuals

The personal income tax rate is 13% for 
Russian individuals (Clause 1 of Article 
224 of the Russian Tax Code) and 15% for 
foreign individuals (paragraph 2 of Clause 3 
of article 224 of the Russian Tax Code). 

Note: Information on taxation is provided for 
general information purposes only. Potential 
and existing investors should consult with their 

800  

600  

400  

200  

0

738  

660  683  

60% 

651

50% 

386  

471  

379   376  

304  

125 

62

43  

116 

115  

2002   2003   2004   2005   2006   2007   2008   2009   2010   2011   2012   2013   2014  2015  
draft

Declared dividends for the year

Dividend payout ratio (dividend/net profit), rhs

40% 

30% 

20% 

10% 

0% 0% 

 
80                                                                                                                                                     

72  Operational control and risk management

78  Information for shareholders

CORPORATE DOCUMENTS

The Group’s corporate documents, 
including the Company Charter, are 
available at www.nlmk.com.

FINANCIAL REPORTING 
AND DISCLOSURE

The Group posts announcements of 
fi nancial results on the London Stock 
Exchange website via the regulatory 
news service (RNS) and then publishes 
them on the Group website in the 
form of press releases, and distributes 
them to the media. The Company 
publishes its fi nancial results on a 
quarterly basis. The annual report is 
published in electronic form on the 
Group website, www.nlmk.com, on 
the day of its offi  cial publication. The 
Group shall give notice of this date 
in a specially issued press release. 
A hard copy of the annual report is 
available on request in the offi  ce of the 
Register of Shareholders and NLMK 
PR Consultants’ offi  ce in London.

Financial calendar for 2016

Structure of share capital 
as at 31 December 2015

14.5%

85.5%

CONTACTS FOR 
SHAREHOLDERS

Registrar 

The register of holders of NLMK 
securities is maintained by the 
Regional Independent Registrar 
Agency (RIR Agency). 

Registered address: 10 B, 9 Maya St., 
Lipetsk, 398017, Russia

Telephone: +7 (4742) 44-30-95

E-mail: info@a-rnr.ru

Fletcher Group Holdings Limited*

Depositary bank

Other free floating shares**

*  The company’s benefi ciary is Vladimir Lisin, according to 
the defi nition of ‘benefi ciary’ in the Russian legislation.
** All other free-fl oating shares, including global depositary 
shares traded on the London Stock Exchange (Deutsche Bank 
Trust Company Americas is NLMK’s depositary bank) and 
shares traded on Moscow Exchange.

Date

Event

19 5 January 2016

Q4 2015 trading update

24 March 2016 

24 March 2016 

25 March 2016 

14 April 2016

22 April 2016 

17 May 2016 

3 June 2016 

14 July 2016

12M 2015 consolidated fi nancial results 

NLMK Capital Markets Day

12M 2015 fi nancial results for the Group’s major companies 
(under Russian Accounting Standards, RAS) 

Q1 2016 trading update

Meeting of the Board of Directors (BoD)

Q1 2016 consolidated fi nancial results

Annual General Meeting of Shareholders

Q2 2016 trading update

25–29 July 2016

H1 2016 consolidated fi nancial results

8–12 August 2016

Meeting of the Board of Directors (BoD)

26–30 September 2016

Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders

13 October 2016 

Q3 2016 trading update

31 October – 4 November 2016

9M 2016 consolidated fi nancial results

14–18 November 2016

Meeting of the Board of Directors (BoD)

19–21 December 2016

Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE / REPORT 2015

Deutsche Bank Trust Company 
Americas

New York Headquarters

60 Wall St., New-York, NY, 10005

USA

London Offi ce

Winchester House
1 Great Winchester St.
London EC2N 2DQ
United Kingdom

Contacts

London: +44 20 7547 6500
New York: +1 212 250 91 00
Moscow: +7 495 642-06-16

E-mail: adr@db.com

Valery Loskutov

Corporate Secretary

Tel.: +7 (4742) 44 49 89

E-mail: loskutov_va@nlmk.com

Sergey Takhiev

Head of Investor Relations

Tel.: +7 (495) 915 15 75

E-mail: tahiev_sa@nlmk.com

                                                 
Financial statements 
and appendix

RESPONSIBILITY STATEMENT 

Financial statements and appendix 

NLMK management, having considered the information available regarding the activities of the Company, 
confirms its responsibility for: 

1.  Preparation  and  reliability  of  the  Group’s  consolidated  financial  statements,  prepared 

in 
accordance with IFRS, as of December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013, and also for the years ended on 
those  dates,  within  balance  sheets,  profit  and  loss  statements,  cash  flow  statements,  equity 
statements and the statements on the total income of shareholders and notes to the consolidated 
financial statements. 

Management confirms the reliability of NLMK’s financial status, operational results and cash flow 
results,  as  well  as  its  subsidiaries  and  dependent  companies  in  the  consolidated  financial 
statements. 

2.  The completeness and correctness of the information submitted in the NLMK Group Annual Report 
for 2015, specifically the information on the operational results of NLMK Group, the results of its 
strategic  development,  risks  and  events  which  in  the  near  future  may  have  impact  on  the 
operations of the Group. 

The  Company  management  confirms  that  the  operational  and  financial  indices  fully  reflect  the 
outcome of NLMK Group’s operations in 2015 and main changes regarding the previous periods as 
well as give a comprehensive representation on the development of NLMK and its subsidiaries and 
dependent companies. 

President (Chairman of the Management Board)                                                                 O. Bagrin 

                                                                 O.OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

 
 
 
 
 
No 

Company name 

Activity 

NLMK subsidiaries and affiliates as of (cid:1007)(cid:1005)(cid:856)(cid:1005)(cid:1006)(cid:856)(cid:1006)(cid:1004)(cid:1005)(cid:1009)(cid:3)(cid:784)(cid:856) 

Financial statements and appendix 

Annex 1 

Novolipetsk in 
Charter Capital (%) 

1 
2 
3 

4 

5 
6 

7 
8 

9 
10 
11 

12 

13 

14 
15 

16 
17 

18 

VIZ-Steel, Limited Liability Company 
Vtorchermet NLMK, Limited Liability Company 
Zhernovsky-1 Mining and Processing Complex, Limited 
Liability Company 
Usinsky-3 Mining and Processing Complex, Limited Liability 
Company 
Hotel Metallurg, Limited Liability Company 
SHANS Lipetsk Insurance Company, Limited Liability 
Company 
NLMK Information Technologies, Limited Liability Company 

NLMK Kaluga, Limited Liability Company 

NLMK-Metiz, Limited Liability Company 
NLMK-Svyaz, Limited Liability Company 
NLMK-Sort (NLMK Long Products), Limited Liability 
Company 
NLMK-Uchetniy Tsentr (Accounting Centre), Limited Liability 
Company 

NLMK Overseas Holdings, Limited Liability Company 

Novolipetskaya Metallobaza, Limited Liability Company 
Novolipetsky Pechatny Dom (Printing House), Limited 
Liability Company 
Novolipetsky Metallurg Resort, a subsidiary of Novolipetsk 
NLMK Construction and Assembly Trust, Limited Liability 
Company 
NLMK Trade House, Limited Liability Company 

Subsidiaries 

Production and marketing of electrical steel. 
Collection, processing and sales of ferrous and non-ferrous scrap 
Entire range of works related to coal mining and processing 

Entire range of works related to coal mining and processing 

Hotel services 

Insurance 

IT, computing and telecom services. 
Production of steel, re-rolling stock (billets), hot-rolled and forged flats, unpainted 
and pre-painted cold-rolled flat steel 
Production of pig iron, ferrous alloys, steel, hot and cold-rolled flat steel 
 Telecom services 

Managing company, trading and procurement activities 

Book-keeping and tax accounting services for NLMK Group businesses 

Develops the growth strategy for NLMK Group companies, supports relations 
between the Group’s Russian and international businesses 
Manufacturing of plastic and steel products 

Printing services 

Rest and recreation services, health and rehabilitation facility. 
Contracting of industrial, housing, utilities, cultural services and road construction 
works. Construction of health facilities, household natural gas supply lines. 
Consolidated purchases of raw materials and inputs, sale of NLMK Group by-products 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

Report 2015 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 3 

Financial statements and appendix 

19 

20 
21 

22 
23 

24 

25 

Uralvtorchermet, Closely-held Joint-Stock Company 

Ussuriyskaya Metallobaza, Limited Liability Company 

Altai-Koks, Open Joint-Stock Company 

Dolomit, Open Joint-Stock Company 
Stoilensky Mining and Processing Plant, Open Joint-Stock 
Company 
Studenovskaya Joint Stock Mining Company, Open Joint-
Stock Company 
Nizhneserginsky Metizno Metallurgicheskiy Zavod 
(NSMMZ), Open Joint-Stock Company» 
Lipetsky Gipromez, Limited Liability Company 

26 
27  Maxi-Group, Open Joint-Stock Company 

Consulting services re commercial activities, management, investing in securities, 
leasing of assets. 
Acquisition, processing, storage and domestic sale of ferrous and non-ferrous metals. 
Production and marketing of coke and by-products, generation and marketing of heat 
and electric power 
Mining and processing of dolomite 

Mining and processing of iron ore and other minerals 

Production of fluxing limestone for steel-making, process limestone for the sugar 
industry, lime-containing materials and crushed stone for construction and roadwork 

Production of long steel stock, hot-rolled and forged flat steel 

Design and survey operations 
Consulting services, corporate financial management 

Affiliated companies 

28 

Neptune, Limited Liability Company 

Wellness services 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

100 

92,59 

57,57 
50,00005 

25 

Report 2015 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 4 

 
NOVOLIPETSK STEEL 

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 

PREPARED IN ACCORDANCE WITH 
INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL 
REPORTING STANDARDS 

AS AT AND FOR THE YEAR ENDED 
31 DECEMBER 2015 

(WITH INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT THEREON) 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 

CONTENTS 

Independent auditor’s report 

Consolidated statement of financial position 

Consolidated statement of profit or loss 

Consolidated statement of comprehensive income 

Consolidated statement of changes in equity 

Consolidated statement of cash flows 

Notes to the consolidated financial statements 

3 

5 

6 

7 

8 

9 

11 

2 

 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated statement of financial position as at 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

Note 

As at
31 December 2015 

As at
31 December 2014

As at
31 December 2013

Assets 

Current assets 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Short-term financial investments 

Trade and other accounts receivable 

Inventories 

Other current assets 

Non-current assets 

Long-term financial investments 

Investments in associates and other companies 
accounted for using the equity method of accounting 

Property, plant and equipment 

Goodwill 

Other intangible assets 

Deferred income tax assets 

Other non-current assets 

Total assets 

Liabilities and equity 

Current liabilities 

Trade and other accounts payable 

Short-term borrowings 

Current income tax liability 

Non-current liabilities 

Long-term borrowings 

Deferred income tax liability 

Other long-term liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Equity attributable to NLMK shareholders 

Common stock 

Additional paid-in capital 

Accumulated other comprehensive loss 

Retained earnings 

Non-controlling interests 

Total equity 

Total liabilities and equity 

3 

5 

6 

7 

5 

4 

8 

9 

9 

17 

10 

11 

11 

17 

12(a) 

23(f) 

343.0  

1,242.6  

920.9  

1,205.3  

8.8  

3,720.6  

219.8  

117.7  

4,452.3  

214.6  

112.3  

68.2  

13.9  

5,198.8  

8,919.4  

726.4  

559.8  

27.7  

1,313.9  

2,116.3  

339.3  

12.2  

2,467.8  

3,781.7  

221.2  

9.9  

(6,988.4) 

11,883.4  

5,126.1  

11.6  

5,137.7  

8,919.4  

549.2  

621.3  

1,122.5  

1,562.8  

5.3  

3,861.1  

141.3  

106.2  

5,613.6  

285.4  

193.9  

124.9  

23.0  

6,488.3  

10,349.4  

775.9  

804.3  

47.5  

1,627.7  

1,964.2  

407.4  

93.4  

2,465.0  

4,092.7  

221.2  

-  

(5,491.9) 

11,512.7  

6,242.0  

14.7  

6,256.7  

10,349.4  

970.0  

485.0  

1,459.0  

2,123.8  

7.6  

5,045.4  

82.5  

419.1  

9,892.1  

463.4  

374.5  

136.4  

39.6  

11,407.6  

16,453.0  

1,161.8  

1,136.7  

21.6  

2,320.1  

3,053.8  

641.0  

39.6  

3,734.4  

6,054.5  

221.2  

-  

(839.9) 

10,989.1  

10,370.4  

28.1  

10,398.5  

16,453.0  

The consolidated financial statements as set out on pages 5 to 65 were approved on 23 March 2016. 

The accompanying notes constitute an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

5 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated statement of profit or loss for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars, unless otherwise stated) 

Revenue 

Cost of sales 

Gross profit 

General and administrative expenses 

Selling expenses 

Other operating income / (expenses) 

Taxes, other than income tax 

Operating profit before equity share in net losses of 
associates and other companies accounted for using the 
equity method of accounting, impairment and write-off of 
assets 

Loss on disposals of property, plant and equipment 

Impairment losses and write-off of assets 

Share in net losses of associates and other companies 
accounted for using the equity method 

Result of disposal of subsidiary 

Income on change of restructuring provision 

Gains on investments 

Finance income 

Finance costs 

Foreign currency exchange gain, net 

Other expenses, net 

Note 

14 

16 

4, 8 

4 

20 

20 

18 

18 

19 

For the year ended 
31 December 2015 

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

For the year ended
31 December 2013

8,008.3  

(5,495.7) 

10,395.7  

(7,389.0) 

10,818.4  

(8,665.9) 

2,512.6  

3,006.7  

2,152.5  

(261.1) 

(801.6) 

14.1  

(75.7) 

(364.3) 

(923.1) 

6.1  

(137.5) 

(456.9) 

(945.6) 

(6.6) 

(134.6) 

1,388.3  

1,587.9  

608.8  

(7.6) 

(85.5) 

(103.0) 

-  

-  

80.3  

51.9  

(95.3) 

109.5  

(17.5) 

(11.9) 

(657.2) 

(193.1) 

-  

-  

37.4  

36.5  

(136.8) 

488.2  

(15.0) 

(23.0) 

(21.0) 

(54.0) 

(51.4) 

7.5  

2.3  

40.6  

(121.9) 

85.2  

(53.9) 

Profit before income tax 

1,321.1  

1,136.0  

419.2  

Income tax expense 

17 

(352.9) 

(362.4) 

(255.0) 

Profit for the year 

968.2  

773.6  

164.2  

Profit attributable to: 

NLMK shareholders 

Non-controlling interests 

Earnings per share – basic and diluted: 

967.4  

0.8  

772.5  

1.1  

145.4  

18.8  

Earnings attributable to NLMK stockholders per share 
(US dollars) 

13 

0.1614  

0.1289  

0.0243  

Weighted-average shares outstanding: 
basic and diluted (in thousands) 

12(a) 

5,993,227  

5,993,227  

5,993,227  

The accompanying notes constitute an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

6 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

Profit for the year 

968.2  

773.6  

164.2  

Note 

For the year ended 
31 December 2015 

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

For the year ended
31 December 2013

Other comprehensive loss: 

Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss: 

Cumulative translation adjustment 

2(b) 

(1,500.3) 

(4,666.5) 

(780.4) 

Total comprehensive loss for the year attributable to 

NLMK shareholders 

Non-controlling interests 

(532.1) 

(529.1) 

(3.0) 

(3,892.9) 

(3,879.5) 

(13.4) 

(616.2) 

(634.5) 

18.3  

The accompanying notes constitute an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

7 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

NLMK shareholders 

Note 

Common stock 

Additional 
 paid-in capital 

Accumulated 
other 
comprehensive 
loss 

Retained 
earnings 

Non-controlling 
interest

Total equity 

Balance at 
1 January 2013 

Profit for the year 

Cumulative translation 
adjustment 

2(b) 

Change of non-controlling 
interests in existing 
subsidiaries 

Disposal of other 
comprehensive income as a 
result of deconsolidation 

20 

Dividends to shareholders 

12(b) 

Balance at 
31 December 2013 

Profit for the year 

Cumulative translation 
adjustment 

2(b) 

Dividends to shareholders 

12(b) 

Balance at 
31 December 2014 

Profit for the year 

Disposal of assets to an 
entity under common 
control 

Cumulative translation 
adjustment 

23(f) 

2(b) 

Dividends to shareholders 

12(b) 

Balance at 
31 December 2015 

221.2  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

221.2  

-  

-  

-  

221.2  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

9.9  

-  

-  

-  

-  

11,008.8  

(32.9) 

11,197.1  

145.4  

18.8  

164.2  

(779.9) 

-  

(0.5) 

(780.4) 

-  

(49.5) 

42.7  

(6.8) 

(60.0) 

-  

-  

(115.6) 

-  

-  

(60.0) 

(115.6) 

(839.9) 

10,989.1  

28.1  

10,398.5  

-  

772.5  

1.1  

773.6  

(4,652.0) 

-  

(14.5) 

(4,666.5) 

-  

(248.9) 

-  

(248.9) 

(5,491.9) 

11,512.7  

-  

-  

(1,496.5) 

967.4  

-  

-  

14.7  

0.8  

6,256.7  

968.2  

(0.1) 

9.8  

(3.8) 

(1,500.3) 

-  

(596.7) 

-  

(596.7) 

221.2  

9.9  

(6,988.4) 

11,883.4  

11.6  

5,137.7  

The accompanying notes constitute an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

8 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

Note 

For the year ended 
31 December 2015 

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

For the year ended
31 December 2013

Cash flows from operating activities 

Profit for the year 

Adjustments to reconcile profit for the year to net cash 
provided by operating activities: 

Depreciation and amortization 

Loss on disposals of property, plant and equipment 

(Income) / losses on investments 

Finance income 

Finance costs 

Share in net losses of associates and other companies 
accounted for using the equity method 

Deferred income tax expense / (benefit) 

4 

17 

Impairment losses 

Unrealized gains on foreign currency exchange 

Other adjustments 

Changes in operating assets and liabilities 

Decrease / (increase) in trade and other accounts 
receivable 

Decrease / (increase) in inventories 

(Increase) / decrease in other current assets 

(Decrease) / increase in trade and other accounts 
payable 

(Decrease) / increase in current income tax liability 

Net cash provided by operating activities 

Cash flows from investing activities 

Purchases and construction of property, plant and 
equipment 

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment 

Purchases of investments and loans given, net 

Placement of bank deposits, net 

Interest received 

Contribution to share capital of the company accounted 
for using the equity method 

20 

Advance VAT payments on imported equipment 

Disposal of assets to an entity under common control 

Cash received in course of bankruptcy proceedings 

Disposal of investment in subsidiary 

Net cash used in investing activities 

Cash flows from financing activities 

Proceeds from borrowings 

23(f) 

24(b) 

20 

Repayment of borrowings and capital lease payments 

Interest paid 

Dividends to shareholders 

Acquisition of additional stake in existing subsidiary 

Net cash used in financing activities 

Net (decrease) / increase in cash and cash equivalents 

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 

3 

3 

968.2  

773.6  

164.2  

560.0  

7.6  

(80.3) 

(51.9) 

95.3  

103.0  

51.8  

85.5  

(173.4) 

(8.4) 

98.2  

82.8  

(5.5) 

(75.5) 

(6.3) 

1,651.1  

(594.7) 

10.8  

(198.8) 

(641.0) 

43.6  

(22.0) 

(23.8) 

9.8  

16.8  

-  

793.5  

11.9  

(37.4) 

(36.5) 

136.8  

193.1  

(15.9) 

657.2  

(574.0) 

31.5  

(49.9) 

(97.6) 

(1.8) 

(28.9) 

50.1  

1,805.7  

(562.6) 

15.0  

(231.6) 

(197.1) 

30.7  

-  

-  

-  

-  

-  

(1,399.3) 

(945.6) 

675.6  

(578.8) 

(79.4) 

(395.2) 

-  

(377.8) 

(126.0) 

(80.2) 

549.2  

343.0  

110.2  

(910.7) 

(120.6) 

(225.9) 

-  

(1,147.0) 

(286.9) 

(133.9) 

970.0  

549.2  

871.1  

23.0  

49.1  

(40.6) 

121.9  

54.0  

87.7  

-  

-  

14.2  

(321.3) 

(95.8) 

7.4  

396.4  

2.1  

1,333.4  

(756.3) 

5.8  

(87.4) 

(264.4) 

40.4  

-  

-  

-  

-  

46.2  

(1,015.7) 

2,000.7  

(2,020.2) 

(81.5) 

(113.6) 

(9.6) 

(224.2) 

93.5  

(74.7) 

951.2  

970.0  

The accompanying notes constitute an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

9 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information 

Cash paid during the year for: 

Income tax paid 

Placements of bank deposits 

Withdrawals of bank deposits 

Non cash investing activities: 

Note 

For the year ended 
31 December 2015 

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

For the year ended
31 December 2013

(320.9) 

(1,594.7) 

953.7  

(352.4) 

(1,997.8) 

1,800.7  

(143.3) 

(1,232.0) 

967.6  

Fair value of assets disposed of in course of partial disposal of 
investment 

Conversion of debt to equity 

20 

20 

-  

109.5  

-  

270.4  

867.3  

-  

The accompanying notes constitute an integral part of these consolidated financial statements. 

10 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

1 

Background 

Novolipetsk  Steel  (the  “Parent  Company”)  and  its  subsidiaries  (together  –  the  “Group”)  is  one  of  the  world’s 
leading  steelmakers  with  facilities  that  allow  it  to  operate  an  integrated  steel  production  cycle.  The  Parent 
Company  is  a  Russian  Federation  public  joint  stock  company  in  accordance  with  the  Civil  Code  of  the  Russian 
Federation.  The  Parent  Company  was  originally  established  as  a  State  owned  enterprise  in  1934  and  was 
privatized  in  the  form  of  an  open  joint  stock  company  on  28 January 1993.  On  12 August 1998  the  Parent 
Company’s  name  was  re-registered  as  an  open  joint  stock  company  in  accordance  with  the  Law  on  Joint  Stock 
Companies of the Russian Federation and on 29 December 2015 the name of the Parent Company was changed to 
public joint stock company due to changes in legislation of the Russian Federation. 

The Group is vertically integrated steel company and the largest steel producer in Russia. The Group also operates 
in the mining segment (Note 21). 

The Group’s main operations are in the Russian Federation, the European Union and the USA and are subject to 
the legislative requirements of the subsidiaries’ state and regional authorities. The Parent Company’s registered 
office is located at 2, Metallurgov sq., 398040, Lipetsk, Russian Federation. 

As  at  31 December 2015  the  Parent  Company’s  major  shareholder  with  85.54%  ownership  interest  is  Fletcher 
Group Holdings Limited which is beneficially owned by Mr. Vladimir Lisin. 

The major companies of the Group are: 

Activity 

Country of 
incorporation 

Share at
31 December 
2015   

Share at
31 December 
2014   

Share at
31 December 
2013 

Companies under the Group’s 
control: 
Russian flat products 
LLC VIZ-Stahl 
OJSC Altai-Koks 

Novex Trading (Swiss) S.A. 
Novexco (Cyprus) Ltd. 

Foreign rolled products 
NLMK DanSteel A/S 
NLMK Indiana LLC 
NLMK Pennsylvania LLC 

Russian long products 
OJSC Nizhneserginski 
Hardware-Metallurgical Plant 
LLC NLMK-Metalware 
LLC NLMK-Kaluga 

LLC Vtorchermet NLMK 

Mining 
OJSC Stoilensky GOK 

Production of steel 
Production of blast 
furnace coke 
Trading 
Trading 

Russia 
Russia 

Switzerland 
Cyprus 

Production of steel 
Production of steel 
Production of steel 

Denmark 
USA 
USA 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 
100.00% 

Production of steel and 
long products 
Production of metalware 
Production of long 
products 
Processing of metal scrap 

Russia 

Russia 
Russia 

Russia 

92.59% 

92.59% 

92.59% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 
100.00% 

100.00% 

100.00% 

100.00% 

Mining and processing of 
iron-ore raw 

Russia 

100.00% 

100.00% 

100.00% 

Among associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method the major is: 

Activity 

Country of 
incorporation 

Share at
31 December 
2015   

Share at
31 December 
2014   

Share at
31 December 
2013 

NLMK Belgium Holdings S.A. 
(Note 20) 

Holding company 

Belgium 

51.00% 

79.50% 

79.50% 

11 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

2 

Basis of consolidated financial statements preparation 

(a) 

Basis of preparation 

These  consolidated  financial  statements  are  prepared  in  accordance  with  International  Financial  Reporting 
Standards (“IFRS”) under the historical cost convention except those, described in the principal accounting policies 
applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements, as set out in Note 25. These policies have 
been consistently applied to all the periods presented in these consolidated financial statements. Figures for three 
periods are presented for users’ convenience. 

(b) 

Functional and reporting currency 

Functional currency of all Group’s Russian entities is considered to be the Russian ruble. The functional currency 
of  the  majority  of  the  foreign  subsidiaries  is  their  local  currency.  The  Group  uses  US  dollars  as  presentation 
currency for users’ convenience. 

The results of operations and financial position of each Group entity are translated into the presentation currency 
as follows: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

assets and liabilities in statement of financial position are translated at the closing rate at the end of the 
respective reporting period; 

income and expenses are translated at average exchange rates for each quarter (unless this average rate 
is  not  a  reasonable  approximation  of  the  cumulative  effect  of  the  rates  prevailing  on  the  transaction 
dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the dates of the transactions); 

components of equity are translated at the historical rate; 

all resulting exchange differences are recognized in other comprehensive income. 

Items of consolidated statements of cash flow are translated at average exchange rates for each quarter (unless 
this  average  rate  is  not  a  reasonable  approximation  of  the  cumulative  effect  of  the  rates  prevailing  on  the 
transaction dates, in which case proceeds and disposals are translated at the dates of the transactions). 

When control over a foreign operation is lost, the previously recognized exchange differences on translation to a 
different presentation currency are reclassified from other comprehensive income to profit or loss for the year as 
part of the gain or loss on disposal. On partial disposal of a subsidiary without loss of control, the related portion 
of accumulated currency translation differences is reclassified to non-controlling interest within equity. 

The  Central  Bank  of  the  Russian  Federation’s  Russian  ruble  to  US  dollar  closing  rates  of  exchange  as  of  the 
reporting  dates  and  the  period  weighted  average  exchange  rates  for  corresponding  reporting  periods  are 
indicated below. 

As at 1 January 
For the 1st quarter 
For the 2nd quarter 
For the 3rd quarter 
For the 4th quarter 
As at 31 December 

2015

2014

2013 

62.1919  
52.6543  
62.9784  
65.9434  
72.8827  

34.9591  
34.9999  
36.1909  
47.4243  
56.2584  

30.3727  
30.4142  
31.6130  
32.7977  
32.5334  
32.7292  

12 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

3 

Cash and cash equivalents 

As at
31 December 2015

As at
31 December 2014

As at 
31 December 2013 

Cash 
Russian rubles 
US dollars 
Euros 
Other currencies 

Deposits 
Russian rubles 
US dollars 
Euros 
Other currencies 

Other cash equivalents 

20.4  
99.0  
41.2  
1.7  

29.6  
140.3  
-  
10.7  

0.1  

343.0  

20.3  
150.8  
54.3  
8.0  

96.3  
158.0  
53.6  
7.8  

0.1  

549.2  

70.8  
194.1  
158.6  
2.0  

204.9  
331.8  
5.7  
1.9  

0.2  

970.0  

4 

Investments in associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting 

NLMK Belgium Holdings S.A. (Note 20) 
TBEA & NLMK (Shenyang) Metal Product Co., Ltd. 

As at
31 December 2015

As at
31 December 2014

As at 
31 December 2013 

108.8  
8.9  

117.7  

97.3  
8.9  

106.2  

412.8  
6.3  

419.1  

The table below summarizes the movements in the carrying amount of the Group’s investments in associates and 
other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting. 

2015

2014

2013 

As at 1 January 
Share of net loss of associates and other companies 
accounted for using the equity method of accounting 
Conversion of debt to equity 
Contributions to the share capital by the Group 
Impairment of investments 
Disposal of 28.5% shares in NBH 
Unrealized profit in inventory of associates and other 
companies accounted for using the equity method of 
accounting 
Translation adjustment 
Reclassification due to loss of control (Note 20) 
Other adjustments 
As at 31 December 

106.2  

(103.0) 
109.5  
22.0  
-  
(35.6) 

30.3  
(12.8) 
-  
1.1  
117.7  

419.1  

(193.1) 
270.4  
-  
(325.2) 

(28.0) 
(29.7) 
-  
(7.3) 
106.2  

8.1  

(54.0) 
-  
-  
-  

(2.3) 
(0.2) 
467.5  
-  
419.1  

13 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

4 

Investments in associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting 
(continued) 

The Group’s interests in its principal associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of 
accounting and their summarized financial information were as follows: 

Company 

Year  

Share  

Assets  

Liabilities  

Revenue  

Profit / 
(loss) 
 for the year 

NLMK Belgium Holdings S.A. 
(Note 20) (Belgium) 

including 
from / (to) the Group 

including 
from / (to) the Group 

including 
from / (to) the Group 

TBEA & NLMK (Shenyang) 
Metal Product Co., Ltd. (China) 

2015   

51.0%   

1,485.4    

(1,281.7)   

1,277.6    

(191.3) 

2014   

79.5%   

2013   

79.5%   

18.4    
1,857.2    

24.7    
2,094.2    

(505.9)   
(1,542.9)   

55.5    
1,517.3    

(510.5)   
(1,782.4)   

54.9    
405.6    

-  
(243.4) 

-  
(70.9) 

6.1    

(479.8)   

5.9    

-  

2015   
2014   
2013   

50.0%   
50.0%   
50.0%   

18.0    
18.4    
17.4    

(0.2)   
(0.6)   
(0.1)   

9.9    
12.3    
4.4    

0.7  
0.9  
0.5  

Reconciliation  of  net  assets  of  NBH,  calculated  in  accordance  with  its  consolidated  financial  statements,  to 
carrying amount of investment is below. 

2015

2014 

Net assets as at 1 January 
Net loss for the period (Note 20) 
Proportional contributions into share capital 
Conversion of debt to equity 
Other adjustments 
Translation adjustment 
Net assets as at 31 December 
Share in net assets 
Share in PP&E valuation difference 
Share of other investor in conversion of debt to equity 
(Note 20) 
Impairment of investments 
Unrealised profit 
Cumulative translation adjustment and other adjustments 
Investments in NBH 

28.2  
(178.4) 
43.2  
109.5  
1.9  
(0.2) 
4.2  
2.1  
205.7  

109.1  
(239.8) 
30.3  
1.4  
108.8  

27.3  
(276.1) 
-  
270.4  
(8.4) 
15.0  
28.2  
22.4  
349.2  

55.4  
(325.2) 
(28.0) 
23.5  
97.3  

Net assets of NBH as of the date of disposal, calculated in accordance with its consolidated financial statements, 
amounted to $88.8. Major adjustments in reconciliation of net assets of NBH to carrying amount of investment 
were: net loss (Note 20) and share in PP&E valuation difference. 

14 

 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

5 

Financial investments 

Short-term financial investments 
Loans to related parties (Note 23) 
Bank deposits (Note 22(c)), including: 

- Russian rubles 
- US dollars 
- Euros 
- other currencies 

Other short-term financial investments 

Long-term financial investments 
Loans to related parties (Note 23) 
Bank deposits and other long-term financial investments 

6 

Trade and other accounts receivable 

Financial assets 
Trade accounts receivable 
Allowance for impairment of trade accounts receivable 
Other accounts receivable 
Allowance for impairment of other accounts receivable 

Non-financial assets 
Advances given to suppliers 
Allowance for impairment of advances given to suppliers 
VAT and other taxes receivable 
Accounts receivable from employees 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

65.4  
1,171.7  
14.8  
1,090.7  
66.2  
-  
5.5  

1,242.6  

219.7  
0.1  

219.8  

1,462.4  

68.4  
549.4  
14.8  
425.8  
96.5  
12.3  

3.5  

621.3  

141.2  
0.1  

141.3  

762.6  

107.6  
376.9  
26.9  
350.0  
-  
-  
0.5  

485.0  

78.0  
4.5  

82.5  

567.5  

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

613.6  
(16.3) 
40.3  
(15.3) 

622.3  

54.0  
(4.2) 
247.3  
1.5  

298.6  

920.9  

802.0  
(28.6) 
38.7  
(20.4) 

791.7  

69.7  
(9.6) 
269.0  
1.7  

330.8  

901.7  
(39.3) 
67.5  
(25.1) 

904.8  

81.7  
(19.3) 
488.5  
3.3  

554.2  

1,122.5  

1,459.0  

The carrying amounts of trade and other accounts receivable approximate their fair values. 

As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 accounts receivable of $74.0, $137.6 and $141.7, respectively, served as 
collateral for certain borrowings (Note 11). 

15 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

6 

Trade and other accounts receivable (continued) 

Movements in the Group’s provision for impairment of trade and other accounts receivables are as follows: 

As at 1 January 
Provision for impairment during the year 
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible 
Unused amounts reversed 
Change in scope of consolidation 
Translation adjustment 
As at 31 December 

2015

2014

2013 

(58.6) 
(22.8) 
21.1  
13.7  
0.1  
10.7  
(35.8) 

(83.7) 
(35.9) 
0.3  
21.1  
4.3  
35.3  
(58.6) 

(95.1) 
(45.1) 
2.4  
38.6  
9.1  
6.4  
(83.7) 

The allocation of trade accounts receivable, net of provision for doubtful debt, by geographical area is follows: 

Russia 
European Union 
North America 
Asia and Oceania 
Middle East, including Turkey 
Other regions 

7 

Inventories 

Raw materials 
Work in process 
Finished goods and goods for resale 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

130.5  
288.6  
58.7  
48.8  
42.2  
28.5  

597.3  

133.6  
399.3  
146.9  
37.0  
21.0  
35.6  

773.4  

167.9  
422.6  
142.5  
95.3  
10.6  
23.5  

862.4  

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

522.0  
400.3  
340.7  

623.1  
569.7  
419.5  

980.7  
526.6  
684.2  

1,263.0  

1,612.3  

2,191.5  

Valuation to net realizable value 

(57.7) 

(49.5) 

(67.7) 

1,205.3  

1,562.8  

2,123.8  

As  at  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013  inventories  of  $303.5,  $562.0  and  $310.5,  respectively,  served  as 
collateral for certain borrowings (Note 11). 

Share of raw materials and acquired semi-finished goods in cost of sales for the years ended 31 December 2015, 
2014 and 2013 amounted to 63.5%, 61.3% and 61.7%, respectively. Share of fuel and energy resources expenses 
in  cost  of  sales  for  the  years  ended  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013  amounted  to  10.9%,  13.0%  and  13.4%, 
respectively. 

16 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

8 

Property, plant and equipment 

Land 

Buildings 

Land and buildings 
improvements

Machinery and 
equipment 

Vehicles  

Construction in 
progress 

Other 

Total 

Cost at 1 January 2013 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book value 
at 1 January 2013 

Additions 
Disposals 
Deconsolidation of subsidiaries 
(Note 20) 
Available for use 
Depreciation charge 
Translation adjustment 

Cost at 31 December 2013 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book value 
at 31 December 2013 

Additions 
Disposals 
Impairment 
Available for use 
Depreciation charge 
Translation adjustment 

Cost at 31 December 2014 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book value 
at 31 December 2014 

270.9  
-  

270.9  

-  
(0.1) 

(42.2) 
3.9  
-  
(16.7) 

215.8  
-  

215.8  

-  
(6.0) 
-  
9.2  
-  
(88.1) 

130.9  
-  

130.9  

2,544.7  
(806.4) 

2,218.9  
(992.7) 

10,737.9  
(5,485.6) 

1,738.3  

1,226.2  

5,252.3  

-  
(2.2) 

(174.0) 
580.0  
(75.6) 
(117.3) 

2,748.0  
(798.8) 

-  
(2.9) 

(12.5) 
239.1  
(74.7) 
(91.7) 

10.4  
(11.9) 

(698.1) 
691.2  
(655.5) 
(279.6) 

2,267.0  
(983.5) 

9,804.7  
(5,495.9) 

437.8  
(223.9) 

213.9  

7.1  
(4.1) 

-  
22.3  
(37.2) 
(15.0) 

413.8  
(226.8) 

2,827.3  
-  

2,827.3  

836.2  
(15.3) 

(30.4) 
(1,554.7) 
-  
(161.0) 

1,902.1  
-  

1,949.2  

1,283.5  

4,308.8  

187.0  

1,902.1  

-  
(3.0) 
(122.6) 
90.0  
(78.6) 
(773.2) 

1,583.7  
(521.9) 

1,061.8  

-  
(3.2) 
(41.6) 
154.7  
(82.8) 
(554.3) 

1,378.7  
(622.4) 

0.5  
(10.8) 
(139.3) 
645.5  
(542.5) 
(1,638.8) 

6,231.3  
(3,607.9) 

756.3  

2,623.4  

-  
(2.6) 
-  
13.9  
(33.3) 
(66.5) 

235.5  
(137.0) 

98.5  

605.5  
(1.5) 
(4.3) 
(921.8) 
-  
(674.4) 

905.6  
-  

905.6  

153.3  
(78.9) 

74.4  

-  
(0.6) 

(24.0) 
18.2  
(20.5) 
(1.8) 

103.2  
(57.5) 

45.7  

-  
(0.8) 
-  
8.5  
(13.6) 
(2.7) 

78.6  
(41.5) 

37.1  

19,190.8  
(7,587.5) 

11,603.3  

853.7  
(37.1) 

(981.2) 
-  
(863.5) 
(683.1) 

17,454.6  
(7,562.5) 

9,892.1  

606.0  
(27.9) 
(307.8) 
-  
(750.8) 
(3,798.0) 

10,544.3  
(4,930.7) 

5,613.6  

17 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

8 

Property, plant and equipment (continued) 

Land 

Buildings 

Land and buildings 
improvements

Machinery and 
equipment 

Vehicles  

Construction in 
progress 

Other 

Total 

Additions 
Disposals 
Impairment 
Available for use 
Depreciation charge 
Translation adjustment 

Cost at 31 December 2014 
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book value 
at 31 December 2015 

-  
(1.3) 
-  
0.6  
-  
(29.2) 

101.0  
-  

101.0  

-  
(0.6) 
(13.7) 
30.4  
(40.0) 
(218.3) 

1,263.3  
(443.7) 

-  
(4.0) 
(7.1) 
36.2  
(45.3) 
(166.4) 

1,088.5  
(518.8) 

-  
(11.8) 
(26.8) 
220.3  
(393.6) 
(494.9) 

5,027.4  
(3,110.8) 

819.6  

569.7  

1,916.6  

-  
(1.9) 
(11.0) 
10.3  
(18.1) 
(20.5) 

174.5  
(117.2) 

57.3  

639.8  
(33.4) 
-  
(309.0) 
-  
(252.7) 

950.3  
-  

950.3  

-  
(0.2) 
-  
11.2  
(7.5) 
(2.8) 

77.4  
(39.6) 

37.8  

639.8  
(53.2) 
(58.6) 
-  
(504.5) 
(1,184.8) 

8,682.4  
(4,230.1) 

4,452.3  

18 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

8 

Property, plant and equipment (continued) 

As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 the Group did not have pledged property, plant and equipment. 

The  amount  of  borrowing  costs  capitalized  is  $50.7,  $59.0  and  $164.0  for  the  years  ended  31 December 2015, 
2014 and 2013, respectively. 

At 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 the Group’s management considered that the low level of economic activity 
combined  with  a  deterioration  in  the  steel  market  represented  a  trigger  for  impairment  testing  and  has 
performed the tests for impairment of assets using the income approach based on primarily Level 3 inputs. 

For  the  purpose  of  impairment  testing  for  the  years  ended  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013,  the  Group’s 
management  has  estimated  cash  flows  for  7  years  due  to  long  useful-lives  of  steel  making  equipment  and 
normalized cash flows for a  post-forecast period. Prices for steel products in this  estimate were determined on 
the basis of forecasts of investment banks’ analysts. 

The  table  below  summarizes  companies  and  types  of  assets,  also  subject  to 
impairment  test  as  of 
31 December 2015,  major  assumptions  and  their  sensitivity  used  in  the  impairment  models.  Prices  for  steel 
products in this estimate were determined on the basis of forecasts of investment banks’ analysts. Sensitivity in 
the table below was determined as a percent of changes of corresponding factors in forecast and post-forecast 
periods  when  recoverable  values  of  assets  (value  in  use)  become  equal  to  their  balance  values.  As  of 
31 December 2015  an  impairment  testing  showed  that  recoverable  amount  of  property,  plant  and  equipment 
(value  in  use)  of  scrap  collecting  assets  in  Russian  long  products  segment  and  OJSC  Nizhneserginski  Hardware-
Metallurgical Plant was below its carrying amount by $23.9 and $34.7, respectively. An impairment testing also 
showed impairment of goodwill in NLMK Indiana LLC by $14.4. 

Company 

Asset type 

Forecast 
period, 
years 

Discount 
rate, % 

  Product types 

Average sale 
price*, $ per 
tonne (FCA) 

Sensitivity, 
% of change 

Price 

Sales 
volume 

7 

12-16% 

Iron ore 

44    

-43%  

-56%

OJSC Stoilensky GOK 

OJSC Stoilensky GOK 

Property, plant 
and equipment 
and intangible 
assets 
Goodwill 

NLMK Pennsylvania LLC  Property, plant 
and equipment 
Property, plant 
and equipment 
Goodwill 

NLMK Indiana LLC 

NLMK Indiana LLC 

OJSC Altai-Koks 

OJSC Altai-Koks 

Property, plant 
and equipment 
Goodwill 

Scrap collecting assets in 
Russian long products 
segment 
OJSC NSMMZ 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

LLC NLMK-Kaluga 

LLC NLMK-Metalware 

NLMK DanSteel A/S 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 
Property, plant 
and equipment 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

12-16% 

Iron ore 

44    

-36%  

-47%

8% 

Flat products 

646    

-3%  

-22%

8% 

Flat products 

540    

-0.4%  

8% 

Flat products 

540    

+0.3%  

-3%

+2%

12-16% 

12-16% 

12-16% 

Coke, chemical 
products 
Coke, chemical 
products 
Metal scrap 

172    

-15%  

-40%

172    

-13%  

-35%

171    

+3%  

- 

12-16% 

12-16% 

12-16% 

Long products and 
semi-finished 
goods 
Long-products 
and semi-finished 
goods 
Metalware 

8% 

Plate 

344    

+1%  

+2%

353    

-0.2%  

-1%

464    

630    

-7%  

-1%  

-31%

-5%

19 

* Weighted average prices giving the product mix, averaged for the period from 2016 to 2022 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

8 

Property, plant and equipment (continued) 

The  table  below  summarizes  companies  and  types  of  assets,  also  subject  to 
impairment  test  as  of 
31 December 2014,  major  assumptions  and  their  sensitivity  used  in  the  impairment  models.  Prices  for  steel 
products in this estimate were determined on the basis of forecasts of investment banks’ analysts. Sensitivity in 
the table below was determined as a percent of changes of corresponding factors in forecast and post-forecast 
periods  when  recoverable  values  of  assets  (value  in  use)  become  equal  to  their  balance  values.  As  of 
31 December 2014  an  impairment  testing  showed  that  recoverable  amount  of  property,  plant  and  equipment 
(value  in  use)  of  OJSC  Nizhneserginski  Hardware-Metallurgical  Plant,  LLC  NLMK-Kaluga  and  NLMK  DanSteel  A/S 
was below its carrying amount by $113.7, $127.0 and $67.1, respectively. 

Company 

Asset type 

Forecast 
period, 
years 

Discount 
rate, % 

  Product types 

Average sale 
price*, $ per 
tonne (FCA) 

Sensitivity, 
% of change 

Price 

Sales 
volume 

NLMK 

OJSC Stoilensky GOK 

OJSC Stoilensky GOK 

Property, plant 
and equipment 
and intangible 
assets 
Property, plant 
and equipment 
and intangible 
assets 
Goodwill 

NLMK Pennsylvania LLC  Property, plant 
and equipment 
Property, plant 
and equipment 
Goodwill 

NLMK Indiana LLC 

OJSC Altai-Koks 

Scrap collecting assets in 
Russian long products 
segment 
OJSC NSMMZ 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

LLC NLMK-Kaluga 

NLMK DanSteel A/S 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

7 

12-16% 

Flat products 

405    

-17%   

-17% 

7 

12-16% 

Iron ore 

34    

-25%   

-27% 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

6 

12-16% 

Iron ore 

34    

-7%   

-8% 

9% 

Flat products 

799    

-5%   

-62% 

9% 

Flat products 

705    

-4%   

-35% 

12-16% 

12-16% 

Coke, chemical 
products 
Metal scrap 

116    

-3%   

-14% 

199    

-2%   

-43% 

12-16% 

12-16% 

9% 

Long products and 
semi-finished 
goods 
Long-products 
and semi-finished 
goods 
Plate 

403    

+2%   

+7% 

437    

+3%   

738    

+2%   

-  

-  

* Weighted average prices giving the product mix, averaged for the period from 2015 to 2021 

20 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

8 

Property, plant and equipment (continued) 

The table below summarizes companies and types of assets, subject to impairment test as of 31 December 2013, 
major assumptions and their sensitivity used in the impairment models. Prices for steel products in this estimate 
were  determined  on  the  basis  of  forecasts  of  investment  banks’  analysts.  Sensitivity  in  the  table  below  was 
determined  as  a  percent  of  changes  of  corresponding  factors  in  forecast  and  post-forecast  periods  when 
recoverable values of assets (value in use) become equal to their balance values. 

Company 

Asset type 

Forecast 
period, 
years 

Discount 
rate, % 

  Product types 

Average sale 
price*, $ per 
tonne (FCA) 

Sensitivity, 
% of change 

Price 

Sales 
volume 

LLC NLMK-Kaluga 

OJSC Nizhneserginski 
Hardware-Metallurgical 
Plant 
LLC NLMK-Metalware 

Scrap collecting assets in 
Russian long products 
segment 
NLMK 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 
Property, plant 
and equipment 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

NLMK DanSteel A/S 

Property, plant 
and equipment 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

7 

11% 

11% 

Long products and 
semi-finished 
goods 
Long products 

592    

-1%   

-5% 

568    

-3%   

-10% 

11% 

Metalware 

697    

-4%   

-19% 

11% 

Scrap 

268    

-1%   

-5% 

11% 

8% 

Flat products and 
semi-finished 
goods 
Plate 

631    

-6%   

-24% 

895    

-4%   

-24% 

* Weighted average prices giving the product mix, averaged for the period from 2014 to 2020 

21 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
   
   
   
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

9 

Intangible assets 

Goodwill  Mineral rights   Customer base   

property   

Industrial 
intellectual 

Beneficial 
lease interest 

Total 

Cost at 1 January 2013 
Accumulated amortisation 
Net book value at 
1 January 2013 

786.1    
-    

557.7    
(281.7)   

196.8    
(93.5)   

59.5    
(29.1)   

8.7    
(0.4)   

1,608.8  
(404.7) 

786.1    

276.0    

103.3    

30.4    

8.3    

1,204.1  

Additions 
Disposals (Note 20) 
Amortisation charge 
Translation adjustment 

-    
(289.7)   
-    
(33.0)   

15.6    
-    
(12.6)   
(20.5)   

-    
-    
(15.8)   
(0.7)   

463.4    
-    

532.1    
(273.6)   

189.1    
(102.3)   

-    
(3.0)   
(4.3)   
(2.1)   

52.2    
(31.2)   

-    
-    
(0.1)   
-    

8.7    
(0.5)   

15.6  
(292.7) 
(32.8) 
(56.3) 

1,245.5  
(407.6) 

Cost at 31 December 2013 
Accumulated amortisation 
Net book value at 
31 December 2013 

Amortisation charge 
Translation adjustment 

Cost at 31 December 2014 
Accumulated amortisation 
Net book value at 
31 December 2014 

Amortisation charge 
Impairment 
Translation adjustment 

Cost at 31 December 2015 
Accumulated amortisation 
Net book value at 
31 December 2015 

463.4    

258.5    

86.8    

21.0    

8.2    

837.9  

-    
(178.0)   

285.4    
-    

(11.4)   
(104.4)   

309.6    
(166.9)   

(44.4)   
(5.1)   

147.6    
(110.3)   

(9.4)   
(5.8)   

30.4    
(24.6)   

(0.1)   
-    

8.7    
(0.6)   

(65.3) 
(293.3) 

781.7  
(302.4) 

285.4    

142.7    

37.3    

5.8    

8.1    

479.3  

-    
(14.4)   
(56.4)   

214.6    
-    

(7.1)   
-    
(31.3)   

239.0    
(134.7)   

214.6    

104.3    

(36.9)   
-    
(0.4)   

-    
-    

-    

(5.6)   
-    
(0.2)   

-    
-    

-    

(0.1)   
-    
-    

8.7    
(0.7)   

(49.7) 
(14.4) 
(88.3) 

462.3  
(135.4) 

8.0    

326.9  

The intangible assets were acquired in business combinations and met the criteria for separate recognition. They 
were recorded at fair values at the date of acquisition, based on their appraised values. 

Useful lives of the Group’s intangible assets as at 31 December 2015 are shown below. 
Total useful life, 
months 

Company 

Remaining useful life, 
months 

Mineral rights 
Mineral rights 
Mineral rights 
Mineral rights 
Customer base 
Customer base 

Industrial intellectual property 
Beneficial lease interest 

LLC Zhernovsky GOK 
LLC Zhernovsky GOK 
LLC Usinsky GOK 
OJSC Stoilensky GOK 
LLC VIZ-Stahl 
Novexco (Cyprus) Ltd., 
Novex Trading (Swiss) S.A. 
LLC VIZ-Stahl 
NLMK Indiana LLC 

240  
240  
240  
306  
125  

180  
149  
974  

116  
192  
181  
240  
-  

-  
-  
888  

22 

 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

9 

Intangible assets (continued) 

During 2015 the Group revised useful lives of  customer base and industrial intellectual property and completed 
their amortization in the third quarter of 2015. 

In May 2011, the Group acquired a license for exploration and extraction of coal in the Zhernovsky Glubokiy coal 
field of the Zhernovsky coal deposit expiring in 2031. The carrying value of this license as at 31 December 2015 is 
$4.6. In August 2005, the Group acquired a license for exploration and mining of Zhernovsky coal deposit expiring 
in 2025. The carrying value of this license as at 31 December 2015 is $7.3. 

In March 2011, the Group acquired a license for exploration and extraction of coal in the mine field area No. 3 of 
the Usinsky coal deposit expiring in 2031. The carrying value of this license as at 31 December 2015 is $16.8. 

A license for iron ore and non-metallics mining at Stoilensky iron-ore deposit in Belgorod Region expiring in 2035 
was acquired by the Group in 2004 through a business combination. The carrying value of these mineral rights as 
at 31 December 2015 is $75.7. 

The Group’s management believes that these licenses will be extended. 

Goodwill arising on acquisitions was allocated to the appropriate business segment in which each acquisition took 
place.  Goodwill  arising  from  the  acquisition  in  2011  of  a  controlling  interest  in  SIF  S.A.  (Note  20)  amounted  to 
$289.7.  At  the  time  of  acquisition  this  goodwill  was  assigned  to  the  steel  segment  and  foreign  rolled  products 
segment in the amount of $128.4 and $161.3, respectively, and was disposed as a result of NBH deconsolidation 
(Note 20). 

Goodwill allocation to each segment is as follows: 

Russian flat products 
Foreign rolled products 
Russian long products 
Mining 

Goodwill impairment testing 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

139.2  
21.3  
2.5  
51.6  

214.6  

179.7  
35.7  
3.3  
66.7  

285.4  

307.5  
35.7  
5.7  
114.5  

463.4  

The Group tested goodwill for impairment as at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013. The recoverable amount has 
been determined as values in use of respective assets. For the purpose of this impairment testing the Group used 
the  same  estimates  as  for  testing  of  other  assets,  as  disclosed  in  Note  8.  An  impairment  testing  showed 
impairment of goodwill in NLMK Indiana LLC by $14.4. 

10 

Trade and other accounts payable 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

Financial liabilities 
Trade accounts payable 
Dividends payable 
Other accounts payable 

Non-financial liabilities 
Advances received 
Taxes payable other than income tax 
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities to employees 

342.3  
161.2  
16.0  

519.5  

62.9  
39.2  
104.8  

206.9  

726.4  

440.9  
0.7  
23.1  

464.7  

105.4  
77.3  
128.5  

311.2  

775.9  

621.9  
1.4  
89.0  

712.3  

111.4  
134.0  
204.1  

449.5  

1,161.8  

23 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

11 

Borrowings 

Rates 

Currency 

Maturity 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

Bonds 
8% to 11.5% 
4.45% to 4.95% 

Loans 
5% and 10% 
LIBOR +1.375% to LIBOR +3% 
and PRIME +0.375% 
EURIBOR +0.9% to  
EURIBOR +2% 

RUR 
USD 

RUR 

USD 

EUR 

2015-2017  
2018-2019  

2015-2017  

2015-2019 

2015-2022 

350.4  
1,195.9  

543.9  
1,196.1  

1,400.7  
1,319.6  

-  

583.4  

546.4  

23.1  

374.9  

620.9  

38.4  

541.0  

853.4  

Short-term and long-term finance lease liability and other 
borrowings 

-  

9.6  

37.4  

2,676.1  

2,768.5  

4,190.5  

Less: short-term loans and current maturities of long-term 
loans 

(559.8) 

(804.3) 

(1,136.7) 

Long-term borrowings 

2,116.3  

1,964.2  

3,053.8  

The carrying amounts and fair value of long-term bonds are as follows: 

As at 
31 December 2015  
Fair
value 

Carrying
amount  

As at 
31 December 2014  
Fair
value 

Carrying
amount 

As at 
31 December 2013 
Fair
value

Carrying
amount  

Bonds 

1,315.5    

1,300.8    

1,444.9    

1,278.6    

2,216.6    

2,215.8  

The fair value of short-term borrowings equals their carrying amount. The fair values of long-term borrowings and 
finance  lease  liabilities  approximate  their  carrying  amount.  The  fair  values  of  bonds  are  based  on  cash  flows 
discounted using an applicable rate and are within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. 

The payments scheduled for long-term borrowings are as follows: 

1-2 year 
2-5 years 
over 5 years 

Collateral 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

359.6  
1,719.3  
37.4  

580.0  
1,347.4  
36.8  

1,169.2  
1,300.6  
584.0  

2,116.3  

1,964.2  

3,053.8  

As  at  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013,  the  total  amount  of  collateral  was  $377.5,  $699.6  and  $452.2, 
respectively (Notes 6, 7). 

24 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
   
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

12 

(a) 

Shareholders’ equity 

Shares 

As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013, the Parent Company’s share capital consisted of 5,993,227,240 issued 
common shares, with a par value of 1 Russian ruble each. For each common share held, the stockholder has the 
right to one vote at the stockholders’ meetings. 

(b) 

Dividends 

Dividends are paid on common shares at the recommendation of the Board of Directors and approval at a General 
Stockholders’  Meeting,  subject  to  certain  limitations  as  determined  by  Russian  legislation.  Profits  available  for 
distribution  to  shareholders  in  respect  of  any  reporting  period  are  determined  by  reference  to  the  statutory 
financial statements of the Parent Company. As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013, the retained earnings of 
the  Parent  Company,  available  for  distribution  in  accordance  with  the  legislative  requirements  of  the  Russian 
Federation,  amounted  to  $4,360.9,  $5,409.3  and  $8,971.7,  converted  into  US  dollars  using  exchange  rates  at 
31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. 

According to the dividend policy, the Group pays dividends on a quarterly basis as follows: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

if Net Debt/EBITDA is 1.0x or less: dividends are in range with the boundaries of 50% of net income and 
50% of free cash flow calculated based on IFRS consolidated financial statements; 

if  Net  Debt/EBITDA  exceeds  1.0x:  dividends  are  in  range  with  the  boundaries  of  30%  of  net  profit  and 
30% of free cash flow calculated based on IFRS consolidated financial statements. 

In December 2015, the Parent Company declared dividends for the third quarter of 2015 of 1.95 Russian ruble per 
share for the total of $163.9 (at the historical rate as of the announcement date). Dividends payable amounted to 
$161.2 at 31 December 2015 (Note 10). 

In September 2015, the Parent Company declared dividends for the second quarter of 2015 of 0.93 Russian ruble 
per share for the total of $84.1 (at the historical rate as of the announcement date). 

In  June 2015,  the  Parent  Company  declared  dividends  for  the  year  ended  31 December 2014  of  2.44  Russian 
rubles per share for the total of $303.9 (including interim dividends for the six months ended 30 June 2014 of 0.88 
Russian ruble per share for the total of $133.9) translated at the historical rate as of the announcement date and 
for  the  three  months  ended  31 March 2015  of  1.64  Russian  rubles  per  share  for  the  total  of  $178.7  (at  the 
historical rate as of the announcement date). 

In September 2014 the Parent Company declared interim dividends for the six months ended 30 June 2014 of 0.88 
Russian rubles per share for the total of $133.9 (at the historical rate).  

In  June 2014,  the  Parent  Company  declared  dividends  for  the  year  ended  31 December 2013  of  0.67  Russian 
rubles per share for the total of $115.0 (at the historical rate). 

In  June 2013,  the  Parent  Company  declared  dividends  for  the  year  ended  31 December 2012  of  0.62  Russian 
rubles per share for the total of $115.6 (at the historical rate). 

25 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

12 

(c) 

Shareholders’ equity (continued) 

Capital management 

The  Group’s  objectives  when  managing  capital  are  to  safeguard  a  financial  stability  and  a  target  return  for 
shareholders, as well as reduction of capital cost and optimization of its structure. To achieve these objectives the 
Group  may  revise  investing  program,  borrow  new  or  repay  existing  loans,  offer  share  of  debt  instruments  on 
capital markets. 

When managing capital the Group uses the following indicators: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

the return on invested capital ratio, which is defined as operating profit for the last twelve months less 
tax divided by capital employed, should exceed cost of capital; 

free  cash-flow,  which  is  defined  as  net  cash  provided  by  operating  activities  less  net  interest  paid  less 
capital expenditures less advances given in investing activities, should be positive. 

There were no changes in the Group’s approach to capital management during the reporting period. 

13 

Earnings per share 

For the year ended 
31 December 2015

  For the year ended
31 December 2014

  For the year ended
31 December 2013 

Profit for the year attributable to NLMK shareholders 
(millions of US dollars) 
Weighted average number of shares 

Basic and diluted earnings per share attributable to 
NLMK shareholders (US dollars) 

967.4  
5,993,227,240  

772.5  
5,993,227,240  

145.4  
5,993,227,240  

0.1614  

0.1289  

0.0243  

Basic net earnings per share is calculated by dividing profit for the year attributable to NLMK shareholders by the 
weighted average number of common shares outstanding during the reporting period. 

The  average  shares  outstanding  for  the  purposes  of  basic  and  diluted  earnings  per  share  information  was 
5,993,227,240  for  the  years  ended  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013.  The  Parent  Company  does  not  have 
potentially dilutive financial instruments outstanding. 

14 

(a) 

Revenue 

Revenue by product 

Pig iron, slabs and billets 
Flat products 
Long products and metalware 
Iron-ore and sintering ore 
Coke and other chemical products 
Scrap 
Other products 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

  For the year ended
31 December 2013

2,207.2  
4,366.4  
808.9  
165.8  
228.9  
46.9  
184.2  

2,486.4  
5,651.1  
1,301.3  
311.4  
259.8  
74.7  
311.0  

2,202.2  
6,367.5  
1,240.6  
327.0  
254.4  
66.5  
360.2  

8,008.3  

10,395.7  

10,818.4  

26 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

14 

Revenue (continued) 

(b) 

Revenue by geographical area 

The allocation of total revenue by geographical area is based on the location of end customers who purchased the 
Group’s products. The Group’s total revenue from external customers by geographical area for the years ended 
31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 is as follows: 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

  For the year ended
31 December 2013

Russia 
North America 
European Union 
Middle East, including Turkey 
Asia and Oceania 
Other regions 

3,146.0  
1,356.8  
1,603.0  
684.1  
374.4  
844.0  

4,434.3  
2,084.9  
1,819.6  
636.5  
319.3  
1,101.1  

4,373.4  
1,558.9  
1,982.8  
875.4  
794.2  
1,233.7  

8,008.3  

10,395.7  

10,818.4  

The Group does not have customers with a share of more than 10% from revenue. 

15 

Labour costs 

Group’s  labour  costs,  including  social  security  costs,  which  are  included  in  the  corresponding  lines  of  the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss were as indicated below. 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended 
31 December 2014   

For the year ended
31 December 2013

Cost of sales 
General and administrative expenses 
Selling expenses 

(608.2) 
(153.8) 
(31.3) 

(858.6) 
(231.4) 
(40.4) 

(1,038.4) 
(295.8) 
(40.8) 

(793.3) 

(1,130.4) 

(1,375.0) 

Management remuneration consists of payments to the members of Management Board and Board of Directors 
of the Parent Company. Compensation comprises annual remuneration and a performance bonus contingent on 
results.  Total  management  remuneration,  including  social  security  costs,  amounted  to  $11.3,  $13.6  and  $9.3  in 
2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. 

16 

Taxes, other than income tax 

Allocation of taxes, other than income tax to the functional items of consolidated statement of profit or loss is 
indicated below. 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended 
31 December 2014   

For the year ended
31 December 2013

Cost of sales 
General and administrative expenses 
Selling expenses 
Other operating expenses 

(65.7) 
(4.4) 
(0.4) 
(5.2) 

(75.7) 

(122.4) 
(7.5) 
(0.6) 
(7.0) 

(122.5) 
(6.6) 
(0.7) 
(4.8) 

(137.5) 

(134.6) 

27 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

17 

Income tax 

Income tax charge comprises the following: 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

  For the year ended
31 December 2013

Current income tax expense 
Deferred income tax benefit / (expense) 
Adjustment of current income tax for the previous periods, 
recognized in the reporting period 

(301.1) 
(51.8) 

-  

(378.3) 
15.9  

-  

(141.1) 
(87.7) 

(26.2) 

Total income tax expense 

(352.9) 

(362.4) 

(255.0) 

The  corporate  income  tax  rate  applicable  to  the  Group  entities,  located  in  Russia,  is  predominantly  20%.  The 
corporate income tax rate applicable to income of foreign subsidiaries ranges from 30% to 35%. 

Income before income tax is reconciled to the income tax expense as follows: 

For the year ended 
31 December 2015  

For the year ended
31 December 2014

  For the year ended
31 December 2013 

Profit before income tax 

1,321.1  

1,136.0  

Income tax at applicable tax rate 20% 

(264.2) 

(227.2) 

Change in income tax: 

- tax effect of non-deductible expenses 
- non-taxable translation adjustments 
- effect of different tax rates 
- unrecognized tax loss carry forward for current year 
- utilization of previously unrecognized tax-losses carry-
forward 
- change in option and in NBH ownership (Note 20) 
- write-off of previously recognized deferred tax assets 
- loss on impairment of investment (Note 20) 
- adjustment of current income tax for the previous periods, 
recognized in the reporting period 
- other 

(63.3) 
17.0  
31.7  
(82.4) 

-  
18.6  
(9.8) 
-  

-  
(0.5) 

(20.5) 
39.4  
118.3  
(99.6) 

22.6  
(16.3) 
(53.0) 
(100.5) 

-  
(25.6) 

419.2  

(83.8) 

(59.5) 
7.2  
25.6  
(82.3) 

-  
-  
(62.7) 
-  

(26.2) 
26.7  

Total income tax expense 

(352.9) 

(362.4) 

(255.0) 

The tax effects of temporary differences that give rise to the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are 
presented below: 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at
31 December 2013

Deferred tax assets 
Trade and other accounts payable 
Other non-current liabilities 
Trade and other accounts receivable 
Inventories 
Net operating loss and credit carry-forwards 
Other 

74.2  
-  
3.2  
-  
-  
15.7  

100.8  
-  
15.8  
24.5  
14.6  
13.9  

170.3  
0.1  
27.5  
-  
73.3  
6.4  

28 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

17 

Income tax (continued) 

Deferred tax liabilities 
Property, plant and equipment 
Other intangible assets 
Inventories 
Other non-current liabilities 

Total deferred tax liability, net 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at
31 December 2013

93.1  

(341.8) 
(7.9) 
(12.9) 
(1.6) 

(364.2) 

(271.1) 

169.6  

(429.9) 
(8.5) 
-  
(13.7) 

(452.1) 

(282.5) 

277.6  

(728.2) 
(21.8) 
(32.2) 
-  

(782.2) 

(504.6) 

The movements in deferred income tax assets and liabilities are presented below: 

As at 1 January 
Recognized in consolidated statement of profit or loss 
Deconsolidation of subsidiaries (Note 20) 
Translation adjustment 
As at 31 December 

2015

2014

2013 

(282.5) 
(51.8) 
-  
63.2  
(271.1) 

(504.6) 
15.9  
-  
206.2  
(282.5) 

(501.1) 
(87.7) 
50.1  
34.1  
(504.6) 

The  amount  of  net  operating  losses  that  can  be  utilized  each  year  is  limited  under  the  Group’s  different  tax 
jurisdictions.  The  Group  regularly  evaluates  assumptions  underlying  its  assessment  of  the  realizability  of  its 
deferred tax assets and makes adjustments to the extent necessary. In assessing whether it is probable that future 
taxable  profit  against  which  the  Group  can  utilize  the  potential  benefit  of  the  tax  loss  carry-forwards  will  be 
available,  management  considers  the  current  situation  and  the  future  economic  benefits  outlined  in  specific 
business plans for each subsidiary. 

The table below summarizes not recognized cumulative tax-loss carry forwards, for which no deferred tax assets 
were recognised, with a breakdown by the expiry dates. 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at
31 December 2013

From 1 to 5 years 
From 5 to 10 years 
More than 10 years 
No expiration 

294.3  
376.3  
850.9  
976.5  

310.9  
600.4  
680.9  
1,084.8  

165.4  
1,060.9  
714.6  
1,180.9  

2,498.0  

2,677.0  

3,121.8  

Deferred tax assets are recorded only to the extent that it is probable that the temporary difference will reverse in 
the future and there is sufficient future taxable profit available against which the deductions can be utilized. In the 
second  quarter  of  2013  valuation  models,  previously  supported  deferred  tax  assets  recoverability  in  Group’s 
major  European  entities,  were  revised  based  on  the  results  of  analysis  of  economic  condition  in  Europe.  The 
revised  models  did  not  support  recoverability  of  a  part  of  these  assets  of  $62.7,  which  resulted  in  write-off  of 
previously recognized deferred tax assets in the second quarter of 2013. As at 31 December 2013 figures of these 
European entities were eliminated from consolidated statement of financial position of the Group (Note 20). 

The Group has not recorded a deferred tax liability in respect of temporary differences of $908.2, $1,274.5 and 
$1,628.9  for  the  years  ended  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013,  respectively,  associated  with  investments  in 
subsidiaries as the Group is able to control the timing of the reversal of those temporary differences and does not 
intend to reverse them in the foreseeable future. 

29 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

17 

Income tax (continued) 

In accordance with Russian legislation, the Group’s key Russian entities, including NLMK, were integrated in one 
consolidated  tax  group  for  the  purpose  of  assessment  and  payment  of  corporate  income  tax  in  line  with  the 
comprehensive  financial  result  of  business  operations.  The  Group’s  entities  that  do  not  constitute  the 
consolidated tax group assess their income taxes individually. 

As  at  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013  the  Group  analysed  its  tax  positions  for  uncertainties  affecting 
recognition  and  measurement  thereof.  Following  the  analysis,  the  Group  believes  that  it  is  likely  that  all 
deductible  tax  positions  stated  in  the  income  tax  return  recognised  and  valuated  in  accordance  with  the  tax 
legislation. 

18 

Finance income and costs 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended
31 December 2014   

For the year ended
31 December 2013 

Interest income on bank accounts and bank deposits 
Other finance income 

Total finance income 

Interest expense on borrowings 
Capitalized interest 
Other finance costs 

44.5  
7.4  

51.9  

(118.9) 
32.2  
(8.6) 

29.5  
7.0  

36.5  

(178.9) 
61.6  
(19.5) 

36.2  
4.4  

40.6  

(221.5) 
121.9  
(22.3) 

Total finance costs 

(95.3) 

(136.8) 

(121.9) 

19 

Foreign currency exchange 

Foreign exchange gain on cash and cash equivalents 
Foreign exchange gain on financial investments 
Foreign exchange gain / (loss) on financial instruments 
Foreign exchange loss on debt financing 
Foreign exchange (loss) / gain on other assets and liabilities 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended
31 December 2014   

For the year ended
31 December 2013 

44.6  
542.1  
1.8  
(415.1) 
(63.9) 

109.5  

251.9  
1,249.9  
(33.1) 
(898.5) 
(82.0) 

488.2  

55.1  
180.1  
(1.2) 
(170.0) 
21.2  

85.2  

20 

Disposal of companies which are under the Group’s control 

In September 2013, the  Group signed an agreement  with  Societe Wallonne de Gestion et de Participations S.A. 
(SOGEPA), a Belgian state-owned company, to sell a 20.5% stake in SIF S.A.’s subsidiary – NLMK Belgium Holdings 
S.A. (NBH), which comprises NLMK Europe’s operating and trading companies, excluding NLMK DanSteel A/S, for 
EUR  91.1  million  ($122.9).  The  agreement  provides  SOGEPA  with  certain  governance  rights  over  NBH  and  its 
subsidiaries,  and  key  management  decisions  will  be  taken  jointly  by  the  Group  and  SOGEPA  by  their 
representation on the Board of Directors of NBH. 

30 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

20 

Disposal of companies which are under the Group’s control (continued) 

The Group brought in SOGEPA as a strategic investor in the context of the continuing restructuring of its European 
assets aimed at further enhancing efficiency and optimizing costs. 

The agreement resulted in the loss of control by the Group over NBH and therefore NBH was deconsolidated from 
the Group consolidated financial statements with effect from 30 September 2013. 

The  fair  value  of  the  Group’s  remaining  79.5%  interest  in  NBH  was  determined  based  on  management’s  best 
estimates  of  future  cash  flows,  including  assumptions  regarding  the  increase  in  capacity  utilization  and  the 
implementation  of  the  operational  business  plan,  including  the  restructuring  plan.  This  stake  in  the  amount  of 
$459.2 was accounted for as a company using the equity method which is treated as a related party. Calculation 
of  the  result  of  disposal  also  includes  cash  proceeds  of  $122.9,  release  of  cumulative  translation  adjustment  of 
$60.0,  written  off  goodwill  of  $289.7,  written  off  option  of  $30.0  and  write  off  of  net  assets  of  NBH  at  date  of 
disposal  disclosed  below.  The  Group  has  recorded  a  loss  on  disposal  related  to  the  transaction  amounting  to 
$51.4, which is included in “Result of disposal of subsidiary” line. 

The carrying amounts of assets and liabilities of NBH as at the date of disposal were as follows: 

Current assets, including: 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Other current assets 

Non-current assets 
Total assets 

Current liabilities 
Non-current liabilities 
Total liabilities 

Equity 

1,029.9  
76.7  
953.2  
1,133.5  
2,163.4  

(926.9) 
(862.7) 
(1,789.6) 

373.8  

Current assets include trade and other accounts receivable of $329.5, inventories of $609.4. Non-current assets 
include  property,  plant  and  equipment  of  $980.7  and  deferred  income  tax  assets  of  $149.1.  Current  liabilities 
include  trade  and  other  accounts  payable  of  $624.7.  Non-current  liabilities  include  long-term  borrowings  of 
$531.9 and deferred income tax liability of $199.2. 

Information on NBH’s operations from 1 January 2013 to the date of disposal is as follows: 

Revenue 
Cost of sales 
Income tax expense 
Net loss for the period 

1,047.1  
(973.3) 
(53.0) 
(276.7) 

Revenue  and  net  loss  of  NBH  for  the  fourth  quarter  of  2013  amounted  to  $405.6  and  $(70.9),  respectively. 
Revenue  and  loss  of  NBH  before  impairment  losses  for  2014  amounted  to  $1,517.3  and  $(243.4),  respectively. 
Revenue and net loss of NBH for 2015 amounted to $1,277.6 and $(191.3), respectively. 

Continuous  trend  of  low  prices  for  steel  products  in  Europe  and  underperformance  of  NBH  holding  companies 
resulted in a necessity of reassessment of impairment testing model for the investments in NBH in 2014, which 
showed  no  impairment  in  2013.  The  revised  model  showed  a  necessity  of  further  impairment  of  $325.2  as  at 
31 December 2014.  For  the  purpose  of  impairment  testing  the  Group  has  estimated  cash  flows  for  9  years  for 
different  groups  of  assets  and  respective  cash  flows  in  the  post-forecast  period.  Prices  for  steel  products  were 
determined  on  the  basis  of  forecasts  of  investment  banks’  analysts.  A  discount  rate  of  8%  was  used.  The 
impairment testing model is sensitive to assumptions used. For example, increase in the discount rate by 1% will 
result in additional impairment of $117. 

31 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

20 

Disposal of companies which are under the Group’s control (continued) 

Information about the Group’s operations with NBH is disclosed in Note 23. 

Summarized financial information for NBH before impairment losses is as follows: 

Current assets 
Non-current assets 

Total assets 

Current liabilities 
Non-current liabilities 

Total liabilities 

Equity 

As at

As at

31 December 2015  

31 December 2014  

As at 
31 December 2013 

734.1  
751.3  

921.9  
935.3  

993.0  
1,101.2  

1,485.4  

1,857.2  

2,094.2  

(657.5) 
(624.2) 

(1,054.3) 
(488.6) 

(819.4) 
(963.0) 

(1,281.7) 

(1,542.9) 

(1,782.4) 

203.7  

314.3  

311.8  

NBH  cash  and  cash  equivalents  as  at  31 December 2015,  2014  and  2013  amounted  to  $59.8,  $46.1  and  $25.1, 
respectively. 

The Group’s share in NBH’s net loss for the year ended 31 December 2015, 2014 and from the date of disposal to 
31 December 2013  amounted  to  $(103.4),  $(193.5)  and  $(54.2),  respectively,  and  is  included  in  “Share  in  net 
losses  of  associates  and  other  companies  accounted  for  using  the  equity  method”  line  in  the  consolidated 
statement of profit or loss. 

Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities of NBH as at the date of disposal refer to the temporary differences 
originated from the following: 

Trade and other accounts receivable 
Inventories 
Property, plant and equipment 
Other intangible assets 
Trade and other accounts payable 
Non-current liabilities 
Net operating loss and credit carry-forwards 
Other 

Net deferred tax liability 

Fair value of options 

0.2  
(8.0) 
(148.7) 
0.3  
5.5  
2.3  
94.7  
3.6  

(50.1) 

In September 2013 SOGEPA and the Group also signed an option agreement, which provides call options for the 
Group and put options for SOGEPA over its 20.5% stake (5.1% of the common shares of NBH in each of 2016, 2017 
and 2018, and any remaining stake after 2023). 

Under  the  option  agreement  the  exercise  price  was  based  on  the  book  value  of  NBH  net  assets,  subject  to  a 
minimum value of 20.5% of the shares of EUR 91.1 million plus fixed interest. The Group has recognized a liability 
in respect of these options, based on their fair value in the amount of $82.5 and $30.0 as at 31 December 2014 
and  2013,  respectively,  included  in  “Other  long-term  liabilities”  line  of  the  consolidated  statement  of  financial 
position. The change in the value of the option resulted in loss amounted to $(52.5) and included in “Gains on 
investments” line of the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

The  options  have  been  valued  using  standard,  market-based  valuation  techniques.  The  Level  3  significant 
unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurement of the option agreement are the annualized volatility of 
the underlying shares and the fair value of the underlying shares. 

32 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

20 

Disposal of companies which are under the Group’s control (continued) 

Changes to NLMK Belgium Holdings’ ownership structure and governance 

In March 2015, the Group and SOGEPA signed an agreement to increase SOGEPA’s share in NBH from 20.5% to 
49%. Under the agreement the Group’s and SOGEPA’s existing respective put and call options over the SOGEPA 
shares in NBH were terminated. 

NBH board of directors is increased to include four representatives of NLMK Group and three representatives of 
SOGEPA. SOGEPA also received board seats at production subsidiaries of NBH. 

Disposal  of  the  option  resulted  in  gain  amounted  to  $76.0  and  included  in  “Gains  on  investments”  line  of  the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

Earlier,  in  December 2014,  the  Group  made  a  conversion  of  existing  loans  given  into  NBH  share  capital  in  the 
amount of EUR 220 million with a corresponding reflection in the consolidated financial statements for the year 
ended  31 December 2014.  These  investments  are  also  a  part  of  the  agreement  signed  in  March 2015.  In 
December 2015, the Group made a conversion of existing loans given into NBH share capital in the amount of EUR 
100  million  with  a  corresponding  reflection  in  the  consolidated  financial  statements  for  the  year  ended 
31 December 2015. These contributions did not change Group’s share in NBH. 

The Group and SOGEPA have agreed to support NBH in obtaining financing of its working capital. In March 2015 
the  shareholders  made  additional  contributions  into  NBH  share  capital  proportionally  their  shares  (EUR  20.4 
million and EUR 19.6 million, respectively). 

21 

Segment information 

The  Group  has  five  reportable  business  segments:  Russian  flat  products,  Foreign  rolled  products,  Russian  long 
products,  Mining  and  Investments  in  associate  entity  NBH  (Note  20).  These  segments  are  combinations  of 
subsidiaries,  have  separate  management  teams  and  offer  different  products  and  services.  The  above  five 
segments meet the criteria for reportable segments. Subsidiaries are consolidated by the segment to which they 
belong based on their products and management. 

Revenue  from  segments  that  does  not  exceed  the  quantitative  thresholds  is  primarily  attributable  to  two 
operating segments of the Group. Those segments include insurance and other services. None of these segments 
has  met  any  of  the  quantitative  thresholds  to  be  reported  separately.  Equity  in  net  earnings / (losses)  of 
associates are included in the Russian flat products segment. 

The Group’s management determines intersegmental sales and transfers, as if the sales or transfers were to third 
parties.  The  Group’s  management  evaluates  performance  of  the  segments  based  on  segment  revenues,  gross 
profit, operating profit before equity share in net losses of associates and other companies accounted for using 
the equity method of accounting, impairment and write-off of assets, and profit for the year. 

Intersegmental  operations  and  balances  include  elimination  of  intercompany  dividends  paid  to  Russian  flat 
products segment by other segments and presented within line “Profit / (loss) for the year” together with other 
intercompany elimination adjustments, including elimination of NBH liabilities to the Group companies (Note 23). 
NBH deconsolidation adjustments include full elimination of sales of NBH with further recognition of the Group’s 
sales to NBH and elimination of unrealised profits (Notes 4, 23), recognition of investment in associate (Note 4), 
recognition of impairment and share of loss arising for NBH and other consolidation adjustments. 

33 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

21 

Segment information (continued) 

Information on segments’ profit or loss for the year ended 31 December 2015 and their assets and liabilities on this date is as follows: 

Investments in
associate entity
NBH   

Inter-
segmental
operations and 
balances   

NBH deconsoli-
dation adjust-
ments   

Russian long 
products   
859.0  
Revenue from external customers 
293.3  
Intersegment revenue 
(1,026.1) 
Cost of sales 
126.2  
Gross profit / (loss) 
(16.8) 
Operating profit / (loss)* 
(26.1) 
Net finance income / (costs) 
2.1  
Income tax expense 
(92.7) 
Profit / (loss) for the year 
953.4  
Segment assets 
(565.6) 
Segment liabilities 
(65.4) 
Depreciation and amortization 
Capital expenditures 
(24.9) 
* Operating profit / (loss) before equity share in net losses of associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting, impairment and write-off of assets 

Foreign rolled 
products   
1,441.9  
-  
(1,512.5) 
(70.6) 
(165.7) 
(39.9) 
(0.6) 
(203.8) 
1,036.6  
(1,458.9) 
(69.3) 
(22.7) 

Russian flat 
products   
4,718.7  
1,345.9  
(4,000.1) 
2,064.5  
1,195.9  
4.8  
(244.9) 
1,290.3  
7,509.6  
(3,603.2) 
(384.6) 
(259.8) 

Mining   
184.2  
405.0  
(225.9) 
363.3  
256.8  
16.8  
(71.2) 
279.1  
1,476.6  
(326.0) 
(40.6) 
(281.3) 

All other   
11.7  
0.1  
(5.0) 
6.8  
5.2  
1.0  
(0.8) 
(5.4) 
11.6  
(1.0) 
(0.1) 
(6.0) 

1,212.7  
64.9  
(1,121.5) 
156.2  
(172.2) 
(19.5) 
6.5  
(191.3) 
1,485.4  
(1,281.7) 
(80.2) 
-  

-  
(2,044.3) 
2,066.7  
22.4  
112.9  
-  
(37.5) 
(195.9) 
(2,195.6) 
2,679.0  
-  
-  

(419.9) 
(64.9) 
328.7  
(156.2) 
172.2  
19.5  
(6.5) 
87.9  
(1,358.2) 
775.7  
80.2  
-  

Total 

8,008.3  
-  
(5,495.7) 
2,512.6  
1,388.3  
(43.4) 
(352.9) 
968.2  
8,919.4  
(3,781.7) 
(560.0) 
(594.7) 

34 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

21 

Segment information (continued) 

Information on segments’ profit or loss for the year ended 31 December 2014 and their assets and liabilities on this date is as follows: 

Investments in
associate entity
NBH   

Inter-
segmental
operations and 
balances   

NBH deconsoli-
dation adjust-
ments   

Foreign rolled 
products   
2,015.0  
-  

Russian long 
products   
1,446.9  
Revenue from external customers 
367.7  
Intersegment revenue 
(1,578.4) 
Cost of sales 
236.2  
Gross profit / (loss) 
242.3  
Operating profit / (loss)* 
(82.9) 
Net finance income / (costs) 
(19.0) 
Income tax expense 
(96.3) 
Profit / (loss) for the year 
1,367.9  
Segment assets 
(996.3) 
Segment liabilities 
(106.6) 
Depreciation and amortization 
Capital expenditures 
(51.2) 
* Operating profit / (loss) before equity share in net losses of associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting, impairment and write-off of assets 

Russian flat 
products   
5,684.1  
2,187.9  
(5,667.2) 
2,204.8  
874.2  
(9.1) 
(221.9) 
1,426.3  
8,902.9  
(4,138.9) 
(538.5) 
(220.9) 

Mining   
345.9  
721.8  
(347.5) 
720.2  
576.3  
27.9  
(193.6) 
763.0  
1,948.9  
(480.0) 
(63.6) 
(253.9) 

All other   
0.1  
-  
(0.1) 
-  
(2.2) 
1.0  
(0.2) 
6.4  
99.7  
(27.6) 
(2.1) 
(18.7) 

(1,896.7)   
118.3  
21.4  
(37.2) 
27.2  
(154.6) 
1,491.9  
(1,956.0) 
(82.7) 
(17.9) 

1,462.4  
54.9  
(1,375.3) 
142.0  
(215.9) 
(21.3) 
11.1  
(243.4) 
1,857.2  
(1,542.9) 
(101.1) 
-  

-  
(3,277.4) 
3,004.6  
(272.8) 
(124.1) 
-  
45.1  
(652.5) 
(3,611.8) 
4,016.6  
-  
-  

(558.7) 
(54.9) 
471.6  
(142.0) 
215.9  
21.3  
(11.1) 
(275.3) 
(1,707.3) 
1,032.4  
101.1  
-  

Total 

10,395.7  
-  
(7,389.0) 
3,006.7  
1,587.9  
(100.3) 
(362.4) 
773.6  
10,349.4  
(4,092.7) 
(793.5) 
(562.6) 

35 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

21 

Segment information (continued) 

Information on segments’ profit or loss for the year ended 31 December 2013 and their assets and liabilities on this date is as follows: 

Investments in
associate entity
NBH   

Inter-
segmental
operations and 
balances   

NBH deconsoli-
dation adjust-
ments   

Russian long 
products   
1,328.2  
Revenue from external customers 
388.1  
Intersegment revenue 
(1,507.8) 
Cost of sales 
208.5  
Gross profit / (loss) 
324.8  
Operating profit / (loss)* 
(107.3) 
Net finance income / (costs) 
(5.5) 
Income tax expense 
197.3  
Profit / (loss) for the year 
2,799.6  
Segment assets 
(1,996.5) 
Segment liabilities 
(88.0) 
Depreciation and amortization 
Capital expenditures 
(179.8) 
* Operating profit / (loss) before equity share in net losses of associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting, impairment and write-off of assets 

Foreign rolled 
products   
1,693.0  
1.7  
(1,795.7) 
(101.0) 
(42.3) 
(37.0) 
6.0  
(61.4) 
1,476.3  
(1,692.2) 
(74.8) 
(48.5) 

Russian flat 
products   
6,240.6  
1,623.8  
(6,655.5) 
1,208.9  
(254.6) 
52.1  
(85.8) 
167.1  
13,223.2  
(6,021.3) 
(553.1) 
(391.5) 

Mining   
372.2  
978.8  
(423.0) 
928.0  
787.1  
23.3  
(118.1) 
766.2  
2,382.5  
(177.0) 
(71.5) 
(125.7) 

1,446.9  
5.8  
(1,327.6)   
125.1  
(244.9) 
(18.5) 
(81.7) 
(347.6) 
2,094.2  
(1,782.4) 
(112.6) 
-  

All other   
0.6  
-  
(0.3) 
0.3  
(8.1) 
1.0  
(0.2) 
0.8  
62.8  
(53.1) 
-  
(10.8) 

-  
(2,992.4) 
2,826.3  
(166.1) 
10.3  
-  
1.6  
(574.9) 
(3,912.6) 
4,366.1  
-  
-  

(263.1) 
(5.8) 
217.7  
(51.2) 
36.5  
5.1  
28.7  
16.7  
(1,673.0) 
1,301.9  
28.9  
-  

Geographically, all significant assets, production and administrative facilities of the Group are located in Russia, USA and Europe. 

Total 

10,818.4  
-  
(8,665.9) 
2,152.5  
608.8  
(81.3) 
(255.0) 
164.2  
16,453.0  
(6,054.5) 
(871.1) 
(756.3) 

36 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

22 

(a) 

Risks and uncertainties 

Operating environment of the Group 

The  Russian  Federation’s  economy  continues  to  display  some  characteristics  of  an  emerging  market.  These 
characteristics include, but are not limited to, the existence of a currency that in practice is not freely convertible 
in  most  countries  outside  the  Russian  Federation  and  relatively  high  inflation.  The  legal,  tax  and  regulatory 
frameworks continue to develop and are subject to varying interpretations (Note 24(f)). 

The future economic direction of the Russian Federation is largely dependent upon the effectiveness of economic, 
financial and monetary measures undertaken by the Government, together with tax, legal, regulatory and political 
developments.  Management  believes  it  is  taking  all  the  necessary  measures  to  support  the  sustainability  and 
growth of the Group’s business. 

The political and economic turmoil witnessed in the region, including continuing international sanctions against 
certain Russian companies and individuals have had and may continue to have a negative impact on the Russian 
economy.  The  financial  markets  continue  to  be  volatile  and  are  characterised  by  frequent  significant  price 
movements  and  increased  trading  spreads.  This  operating  environment  may  have  a  significant  impact  on  the 
Group’s  operations  and  financial  position,  the  effect  of  which  is  difficult  to  predict,  however,  Management  is 
taking necessary measures to ensure sustainability of the Group’s operations. 

The  major  financial  risks  inherent  to  the  Group’s  operations  are  those  related  to  market  risk,  credit  risk  and 
liquidity risk. The objectives of the financial risk management function are to establish risk limits, and then ensure 
that exposure to risks stays within these limits. 

(b) 

Market risk 

Market risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because of 
changes in market prices. Market risk comprises of three types of risk: interest rate risk, foreign currency risk and 
commodity price risk. 

Interest rate risk 

Interest rate risk is the risk that the fair value of future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate because 
of changes in market interest rates. 

The  risk  of  changes  in  market  interest  rates  relates  primarily  to  the  Group’s  long-term  debt  obligations  with 
variable interest rates. To  manage this risk the Group analyses interest rate risks on a regular basis.  The Group 
reduces its exposure to this risk by having a balanced portfolio of fixed and variable rate loans. 

The interest rate risk profile of the Group is follows: 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at 
31 December 2013 

Fixed rate instruments 

Financial assets 

- cash and cash equivalents (Note 3) 
- short-term financial investments (Note 5) 
- trade and other accounts receivable less allowance 
(Note 6) 
- long-term financial investments (Note 5) 

2,427.7  

343.0  
1,242.6  

622.3  
219.8  

2,103.5  

2,363.9  

549.2  
621.3  

791.7  
141.3  

970.0  
484.6  

904.8  
4.5  

Financial liabilities 

(2,065.8) 

(2,366.9) 

(3,508.3) 

- trade, other accounts payable and dividends payable 
(Note 10) 
- short-term borrowings (Note 11) 
- long-term borrowings (Note 11) 

(519.5) 
(230.8) 
(1,315.5) 

(464.7) 
(302.5) 
(1,599.7) 

(712.3) 
(525.0) 
(2,271.0) 

37 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

22 

Risks and uncertainties (continued) 

Variable rate instruments 

Financial assets 

- short-term financial investments (Note 5) 
- long-term financial investments (Note 5) 

Financial liabilities 

- short-term borrowings (Note 11) 
- long-term borrowings (Note 11) 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at 
31 December 2013 

-  

-  
-  

(1,129.8) 

(329.0) 
(800.8) 

-  

-  
-  

(866.3) 

(501.8) 
(364.5) 

78.4  

0.4  
78.0  

(1,394.5) 

(611.7) 
(782.8) 

A change of 100 basis points in interest rates for variable rate instruments would have insignificantly change profit 
and equity. 

Foreign currency risk 

Foreign  currency  risk  is  the  risk  that  the  fair  value  of  future  cash  flows  of  a  financial  instrument  will  fluctuate 
because of changes in foreign exchange rates. 

The export-oriented companies of the Group are exposed to foreign currency risks. To minimize foreign currency 
risks the export program is designed taking into account potential (forecast) major foreign currencies’ exchange 
fluctuations. The Group diversifies its revenues in different currencies. In its export contracts the Group controls 
the  balance  of  currency  positions:  payments  in  foreign  currency  are  settled  with  export  revenues  in  the  same 
currency. At the same time standard hedging instruments to manage foreign currency risk might be used. 

The  net  foreign  currency  position  presented  below  is  calculated  in  respect  of  major  currencies  by  items  of 
consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  as  the  difference  between  assets  and  liabilities  denominated  in  a 
currency other than the functional currency of the entity at 31 December 2015. 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other accounts receivable 
Short-term financial investments 
Long-term financial investments 
Trade and other accounts payable 
Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 

Net foreign currency position 

US dollar   

Euro

196.4  
2.9  
1,079.9  
-  
(42.3) 
(19.8) 
(1,578.3) 

(361.2) 

39.6  
303.6  
129.4  
222.1  
(95.2) 
(145.6) 
(400.8) 

53.1  

The  net  foreign  currency  position  presented  below  is  calculated  in  respect  of  major  currencies  by  items  of 
consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  as  the  difference  between  assets  and  liabilities  denominated  in  a 
currency other than the functional currency of the entity at 31 December 2014. 

US dollar   

Euro

Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other accounts receivable 
Short-term financial investments 
Long-term financial investments 
Trade and other accounts payable 
Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 

Net foreign currency position 

230.4  
7.0  
423.0  
-  
(40.7) 
(117.7) 
(1,178.3) 

(676.3) 

107.1  
402.1  
164.8  
141.2  
(107.2) 
(126.9) 
(494.0) 

87.1  

38 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

22 

Risks and uncertainties (continued) 

The  net  foreign  currency  position  presented  below  is  calculated  in  respect  of  major  currencies  by  items  of 
consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  as  the  difference  between  assets  and  liabilities  denominated  in  a 
currency other than the functional currency of the entity at 31 December 2013. 

Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other accounts receivable 
Short-term financial investments 
Other non-current assets 
Trade and other accounts payable 
Short-term borrowings 
Long-term borrowings 

Net foreign currency position 

Sensitivity analysis 

US dollar   

Euro

460.5  
3.1  
350.3  
0.6 
(51.2) 
(169.6) 
(1,400.0) 

161.2  
418.4  
107.2  
-  
(93.3) 
(170.6) 
(682.8) 

(806.3) 

(259.9) 

Sensitivity is calculated by multiplying a net foreign currency position of a corresponding currency by percentage 
of currency rates changes. 

A 25 percent strengthening of the following currencies against the functional currency  as at 31 December 2015, 
2014 and 2013 would have increased / (decreased) equity by the amounts shown below, however effect on profit 
for  the  year  would  be  different,  and  would  amount  to  $87.6,  $196.8  and  $105.3,  respectively,  due  to  foreign 
exchange gain from intercompany operations (Note 19). 

US dollar 
Euro 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended
31 December 2014 

  For the year ended
31 December 2013 

(90.3) 
13.3  

(169.1) 
21.8  

(201.6) 
(65.0) 

A weakening of these currencies against the functional currency would have had the equal but opposite effect to 
the amounts shown above, on the basis that all other variables remain constant. 

Commodity price risk 

Commodity price risk is a risk arising from possible changes in price of raw materials and metal products, and their 
impact on the Group’s future performance and the Group’s operational results. 

The Group minimizes its risks, related to production distribution, by having a wide range of geographical zones for 
sales,  which  allows  the  Group  to  respond  quickly  to  negative  changes  in  the  situation  on  one  or  more  sales 
markets on the basis of an analysis of the existing and prospective markets. 

One  of  the  commodity  price  risk  management  instruments  is  vertical  integration.  A  high  degree  of  vertical 
integration allows cost control and effective management of the entire process of production: from mining of raw 
materials and generation of electric and heat energy to production, processing and distribution of metal products. 

To  mitigate  the  corresponding  risks  the  Group  also  uses  formula  pricing  tied  to  price  indices  for  steel  products 
when contracting raw and auxiliary materials. 

39 

 
 
 
 
   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

22 

(c) 

Risks and uncertainties (continued) 

Credit risk 

Credit  risk  is  the  risk  when  counterparty  will  not  meet  its  obligations  under  a  financial  instrument  or  customer 
contract, leading to a financial loss for the Group. 

The Group is exposed to credit risk from its operating activities (primarily for trade receivables and advances given 
to  suppliers)  and  from  its  financing  activities,  including  deposits  with  banks  and  financial  institutions,  foreign 
exchange  transactions  and  other  financial  instruments.  Customer  credit  risk  is  managed  by  each  business  unit 
subject to the Group’s established policy, procedures and control relating to customer credit risk management. 

The Group controls the levels of credit risk it undertakes by assessing the degree of risk for each counterparty or 
groups of parties. Such risks are monitored on a revolving basis and are subject to a quarterly, or more frequent, 
review. 

The  Group’s  management  reviews  ageing  analysis  of  outstanding  trade  receivables  and  follows  up  on  past  due 
balances. 

The  Group’s  maximum  exposure  to  credit  risk  by  class  of  assets  reflected  in  the  carrying  amounts  of  financial 
assets on the consolidated statement of financial position is as follows: 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at 
31 December 2013 

Cash and cash equivalents (Note 3) 
Trade and other accounts receivable (Note 6) 
Short-term financial investments (Note 5) 
Long-term financial investments (Note 5) 

343.0  
622.3  
1,242.6  
219.8  

549.2  
791.7  
621.3  
141.3  

970.0  
904.8  
485.0  
82.5  

Total on-balance sheet exposure 

2,427.7  

2,103.5  

2,442.3  

Financial guarantees issued (Note 23(d)) 

273.2  

611.6  

790.6  

Analysis  by  credit  quality,  based  on  international  agencies’  credit  rating  of  bank  balances  and  term  deposits  as 
well as short-term and long-term bank deposits is as follows: 

2,700.9  

2,715.1  

3,232.9  

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at 
31 December 2013 

Bank balances and term deposits 
AAA-BBB 
BB-B 
Unrated and cash on hand 

Short-term and long-term bank deposits 
AAA-BBB 
BB-B 
Unrated 

244.3  
95.6  
3.1  

343.0  

756.4  
415.3  
-  

1,171.7  

504.9  
38.9  
5.4  

549.2  

549.2  
0.2  
-  

549.4  

837.6  
122.0  
10.4  

970.0  

370.3  
10.4  
-  

380.7  

40 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

22 

Risks and uncertainties (continued) 

As  at  31 December 2015,  trade,  other  receivables  and  advances  given  to  suppliers  were  overdue  as  indicated 
below with accruals of corresponding allowance after due dates: 

Undue 

Overdue, including: 
- up to 1 month 
- from 1 to 3 months 
- from 3 to 12 months 
- over 12 months 

Allowance 

Net of allowance 

Trade accounts 
receivable  

Advances given to
suppliers

Other accounts 
receivable 

485.8  

127.8  
84.9  
16.0  
7.8  
19.1  

613.6  

(16.3) 

597.3  

43.8  

10.2  
3.0  
0.7  
1.3  
5.2  

54.0  

(4.2) 

49.8  

269.9  

19.2  
1.0  
0.6  
9.8  
7.8  

289.1  

(15.3) 

273.8  

As  at  31 December 2014,  trade,  other  receivables  and  advances  given  to  suppliers  were  overdue  as  indicated 
below with accruals of corresponding allowance after due dates: 

Trade accounts 
receivable  

Advances given to
suppliers

Other accounts 
receivable 

Undue 

Overdue, including: 
- up to 1 month 
- from 1 to 3 months 
- from 3 to 12 months 
- over 12 months 

Allowance 

Net of allowance 

669.3  

132.7  
60.1  
31.2  
11.7  
29.7  

802.0  

(28.6) 

773.4  

49.3  

20.4  
6.8  
3.6  
5.3  
4.7  

69.7  

(9.6) 

60.1  

290.9  

18.5  
0.9  
0.5  
4.9  
12.2  

309.4  

(20.4) 

289.0  

41 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

22 

Risks and uncertainties (continued) 

As  at  31 December 2013,  trade,  other  receivables  and  advances  given  to  suppliers  were  overdue  as  indicated 
below with accruals of corresponding allowance after due dates: 

Undue 

Overdue, including: 
- up to 1 month 
- from 1 to 3 months 
- from 3 to 12 months 
- over 12 months 

Allowance 

Net of allowance 

Trade accounts 
receivable  

Advances given to
suppliers

Other accounts 
receivable 

730.7 

171.0 
67.2  
43.8  
5.3  
54.7  

901.7  

(39.3) 

862.4  

55.9  

25.8  
7.4  
4.8  
2.5  
11.1  

81.7  

(19.3) 

62.4  

529.2  

30.1  
0.9  
0.6  
2.3  
26.3  

559.3  

(25.1) 

534.2  

As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 the Group does not have trade and other accounts receivable which was 
overdue and not impaired. 

(d) 

Liquidity risk 

Liquidity  risk  is  the  risk  that  an  entity  will  encounter  difficulty  in  meeting  obligations  associated  with  financial 
liabilities. The Group is exposed to daily calls on its available cash resources. 

The Group monitors its risk to a shortage of funds using a regular cash flow forecast. The Group’s objective is to 
maintain a balance between continuity of funding and flexibility through the use of bank overdrafts, bank loans, 
debentures,  finance  leases.  To  provide  for  sufficient  cash  balances  required  for  settlement  of  its  obligations  in 
time the Group uses detailed budgeting and cash flow forecasting instruments. 

The  table  below  analyses  the  Group’s  short-term  and  long-term  borrowings  by  their  remaining  corresponding 
contractual maturity. The amounts disclosed in the maturity table are the undiscounted cash outflows. 

Less than 1 year 
From 1 to 2 years 
From 2 to 5 years 
Over 5 years 

Total borrowings 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at 
31 December 2013 

752.5  
473.1  
1,799.8  
37.6  

3,063.0  

877.6  
719.7  
1,442.7  
8.7  

3,048.7  

1,269.1  
1,396.0  
1,998.0  
29.1  

4,692.2  

Liquidity risk related to financial guarantees issued disclosed in Note 23(d). 

As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 the Group does not have  significant trade and other accounts payable 
with maturity over one year and its carrying amount approximates its fair value. 

(e) 

Insurance 

To  minimize  risks  the  Group  concludes  insurance  policies  which  cover  property  damages  and  business 
interruptions,  freightage,  general  liability  and  vehicles.  In  respect  of  legislation  requirements,  the  Group 
purchases  compulsory  motor  third  party  liability  insurance,  insurance  of  civil  liability  of  organizations  operating 
hazardous facilities. The Group also buys civil liability insurance of the members of self-regulatory organizations, 
directors and officers liability insurance, voluntary health insurance for employees of the Group. 

42 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

23 

Related party transactions 

Parties  are  considered  to  be  related  if  one  party  has  the  ability  to  control  the  other  party,  is  under  common 
control, or can exercise significant influence or joint control over the other party in making financial or operational 
decisions as defined by IAS 24, Related Party Disclosures. In considering each possible related party relationship, 
attention  is  directed  to  the  substance  of  the  relationship,  not  merely  the  legal  form.  The  Group  carries  out 
operations with related parties on arm’s length. 

(a) 

Sales to and purchases from related parties 

Sales 
NBH group companies 
Other related parties 

Purchases 
Universal Cargo Logistics Holding group companies 
(companies under the common control of beneficial owner) 
Other related parties 

For the year ended
31 December 2015   

For the year ended 
31 December 2014 

  For the year ended
31 December 2013

731.8  
4.7  

324.9  
64.4  

985.7  
7.7  

375.9  
60.6  

227.7  
9.1  

411.3  
16.3  

(b) 

Accounts receivable from and accounts payable to related parties 

Accounts receivable and advances given 
NBH group companies 
Other related parties 

Accounts payable 
Universal Cargo Logistics Holding group companies 
(companies under the common control of beneficial owner) 
Other related parties 

(c) 

Financial transactions 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at
31 December 2013

220.8  
27.3  

5.8  
18.9  

300.9  
17.5  

2.3  
25.2  

294.2  
36.8  

15.2  
6.3  

Loans, issued to NBH group companies (Note 5) 
Deposits and current accounts in PJSC Bank ZENIT and PJSC 
Lipetskcombank (companies under the significant influence of 
the Group’s controlling shareholder) 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at
31 December 2013

285.1  

209.6  

185.6  

24.2  

36.5  

92.4  

When issuing loans to the foreign companies of the Group and companies accounted for using the equity method, 
interest rate is determined using information on similar external deals subject to company’s internal credit rating. 

Interest income from deposits and current accounts  in PJSC Bank ZENIT and PJSC Lipetskcombank for the years 
ended 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 amounted to $2.4, $3.5 and $3.3, respectively. 

(d) 

Financial guarantees issued 

As at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013 guarantees issued by the Group for borrowings of NBH group companies’ 
amounted  to  $273.2,  $611.6  and  $790.6,  respectively,  which  is  the  maximum  potential  amount  of  future 
payments,  paid  on  demand  of  the  guarantee.  No  amount  has  been  accrued  in  these  consolidated  financial 
statements for the Group’s obligation under these guarantees as the Group assesses probability of cash outflows, 
related to these guarantees, as low. 

43 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

23 

Related party transactions (continued) 

The maturity of the guaranteed obligations is as follows: 

Less than 1 year 
From 1 to 2 years 
Over 2 years 

As at 
31 December 2015   

As at 
31 December 2014   

As at
31 December 2013

82.0  
14.3  
176.9  

273.2  

528.9  
61.8  
20.9  

611.6  

176.8  
533.3  
80.5  

790.6  

(e) 

Contributions to non-governmental pension fund and charity fund 

Total contributions to a non-governmental pension fund and charity fund in 2015, 2014 and 2013 amounted to 
$6.5,  $9.1  and  $6.5,  respectively.  The  Group  has  no  long-term  commitments  to  provide  funding,  guarantees  or 
other support to the abovementioned funds. 

(f) 

Common control transfers 

In September 2015, the Parent Company completed the sales of its full controlling interest in OJSC North Oil and 
Gas  Company  (51.0%)  for  $10.1  cash  consideration  from  a  company  under  common  control.  Disposal  of  OJSC 
North Oil and Gas Company resulted in deconsolidation of assets amounting to $20.4 and liabilities amounting to 
$20.1. 

The difference between transaction price and value of net assets is recorded in line item “Disposal of assets to an 
entity under common control” of consolidated statement of changes in equity. Revenue and profit of OJSC North 
Oil and Gas Company for the nine months ended 30 September 2015 are not material. 

This transaction was carried out in line with the Group’s management of none-core assets portfolio. 

24 

(a) 

Commitments and contingencies 

Anti-dumping investigations 

The Group’s export trading activities are subject from time to time to compliance reviews of importers’ regulatory 
authorities. The Group’s export sales were considered within several anti-dumping investigation frameworks. The 
Group  takes  steps  to  address  negative  effects  of  the  current  and  potential  anti-dumping  investigations  and 
participates in the settlement efforts coordinated through the Russian authorities. No provision arising from any 
possible agreements as a result of anti-dumping investigations has been made in the accompanying consolidated 
financial statements. 

(b) 

Litigation 

The Group, in the ordinary course of business, is the subject of, or party to, various pending or threatened legal 
actions.  The  Group’s  management  believes  that  any  ultimate  liability  resulting  from  these  legal  actions  will  not 
significantly  affect  its  financial  position  or  results  of  operations,  and  no  amount  has  been  accrued  in  the 
accompanying consolidated financial statements. 

Initiated  in  January 2010  by  the  non-controlling  shareholder  of  OJSC Maxi-Group  court  proceeding  at  the 
International Commercial Arbitration Court at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Russian Federation 
(hereinafter,  ICA  Court)  regarding  the  enforcement  of  the  additional  payment  by  the  Parent  Company  for  the 
shares of OJSC Maxi-Group ended in January 2012 in favour to the Parent Company. 

Initiated in December 2012 by the non-controlling shareholder of OJSC Maxi-Group court proceeding at ICA Court 
regarding  the  loss  of  assets  in  connection  with  a  share-purchase  agreement  ended  in  January 2014.  Arbitrators 
stated  that  ICA  Court  lacks  jurisdiction  to  adjudicate  the  claim  of  Maxi-Group’s  non-controlling  shareholder 
against the Parent Company and terminated examinations. 

No further appeal is possible in these claims. 

44 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

24 

Commitments and contingencies (continued) 

In the third quarter of 2014 the Group received about $104.0, in November 2015 about $17 and in January 2016 
about  $11,  in  course  of  bankruptcy  proceedings  which  were  the  result  of  execution  of  the  decision  taken  by 
Russian court in 2012. These amounts are included in “Gains on investments” line in the consolidated statement 
of profit or loss. 

Recently there are still certain court proceedings initiated by the non-controlling shareholder of OJSC Maxi-Group 
going on in European courts and related to the claim filed to ICA Court in January 2010. In 2014 courts in France 
and England decided to execute a decision of ICA Court (which was cancelled in Russia) on the territory of these 
states.  In  December 2014  the  Parent  Company  claimed  the  appeal  on  a  decision  of  French  court  and  in 
November 2015 – the appeal on a decision of English court. The Group’s management considers the probability of 
unfavorable  outcome  and  cash  outflow  in  connection  with  these  court  proceedings  is  low  and  accordingly,  no 
accruals in relation to these claims were made in these consolidated financial statements. 

(c) 

Environmental matters 

The enforcement of environmental regulation in the Russian Federation is evolving and the enforcement posture 
of  government  authorities  is  continually  being  reconsidered.  The  Group  periodically  evaluates  its  obligations 
under  environmental  regulations.  As  obligations  are  determined,  they  are  recognized  immediately.  Potential 
liabilities, which might arise as a result of changes in existing regulations, civil litigation or legislation, cannot be 
reasonably estimated. In the  current enforcement  climate  under existing legislation, management believes that 
the  Group  has  met  the  Government’s  federal  and  regional  requirements  concerning  environmental  matters, 
therefore there are no significant liabilities for environmental damage or remediation. 

(d) 

Capital commitments 

Management  estimates  the  outstanding  agreements  in  connection  with  equipment  supply  and  construction 
works amounted to $564.7, $620.8 and $498.6 as at 31 December 2015, 2014 and 2013, respectively. 

(e) 

Social commitments 

The Group makes contributions to mandatory and voluntary social programs. The Group’s social assets, as well as 
local social programs, benefit the community at large and are not normally restricted to the Group’s employees. 
The  Group  has  transferred  certain  social  operations  and  assets  to  local  authorities,  however,  management 
expects that the Group will continue to fund certain social programs through the foreseeable future. These costs 
are recorded in the period they are incurred. 

(f) 

Tax contingencies 

Russian tax, currency and customs legislation is subject to varying interpretations and changes, which can occur 
frequently.  Management’s  interpretation  of  such  legislation  as  applied  to  the  transactions  and  activity  of  the 
Group  may  be  challenged  by  the  relevant  regional  and  federal  authorities.  Recent  events  within  the  Russian 
Federation suggest that the tax authorities may be taking a more assertive position in their interpretation of the 
legislation  and  assessments,  and  it  is  possible  that  transactions  and  activities,  including  certain  operation  of 
intercompany financing of Russian subsidiaries within the Group, that have not been challenged in the past may 
be  challenged.  As  a  result,  significant  additional  taxes,  penalties  and  interest  may  be  assessed,  and  certain 
expenses used for profit tax calculation may be excluded from tax returns. Fiscal periods remain open to review 
by  the  authorities  in  respect  of  taxes  for  three  calendar  years  preceding  the  year  of  review.  Under  certain 
circumstances reviews may cover longer periods. 

Russian  transfer  pricing  legislation  was  amended  starting  from  1 January 2012.  The  new  transfer  pricing  rules 
appear to be more technically elaborate and, to a certain extent, better aligned with the international principles. 
The new legislation provides the possibility for tax authorities to make transfer pricing adjustments and impose 
additional tax liabilities in respect of controlled transactions (defined by applicable legislation), provided that the 
transaction  price  is  not  arm’s  length.  Management  exercises  its  judgment  about  whether  or  not  the  transfer 
pricing  documentation  that  the  entity  has  prepared,  as  required  by  the  new  legislation,  provides  sufficient 
evidence  to  support  the  Group’s  tax  positions.  Given  that  the  practice  of  implementation  of  the  new  Russian 
transfer pricing rules has not yet developed, the impact of any challenge of the Group’s transfer prices cannot be 
reliably  estimated,  however,  it  may  be  significant  to  the  financial  position  and  the  results  of  the  Group’s 
operations. 

45 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

24 

Commitments and contingencies (continued) 

The Group includes companies incorporated outside of Russia. The tax liabilities of the Group are determined on 
the certainty that these companies do not have a permanent establishment in Russia  and, correspondingly, are 
not subject to profit tax. This interpretation of relevant legislation may be challenged but the impact of any such 
challenge cannot be reliably estimated currently. However, it may be significant to the financial position and/or 
the overall operations of the Group. In 2014, the Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) legislation introduced Russian 
taxation of profits of foreign companies and non-corporate structures (including trusts) controlled by Russian tax 
residents (controlling parties). Starting from 2015, CFC income may be a subject to a 20% tax rate. As a result, the 
Group’s management analyses the impact of new tax provisions on Group’s activity and implements the required 
actions in order to comply with Russian tax requirements. Based on its own understanding of new provisions of 
tax legislation and the fact that the practice of implementation of these provisions has not formed, management 
does  not  recognised  current  tax  expense  as  well  as  deferred  taxes  for  temporary  differences  related  to  the 
relevant Group’s subsidiaries to which the CFC legislation applies to and to the extent that the Group is obliged to 
settle such taxes. 

As  at  31 December 2015,  management  believes  that  its  interpretation  of  the  relevant  legislation  is  appropriate 
and the Group’s tax, currency and customs positions will be sustained. 

(g) 

Major terms of loan agreements 

Certain  of  the  loan  agreements  contain  debt  covenants  that  impose  restrictions  on  the  purposes  for  which  the 
loans may be utilized, covenants with respect to disposal of assets, incurrence of additional liabilities, issuance of 
loans or guarantees, obligations in respect of any future reorganizations procedures or bankruptcy of borrowers, 
and also require that borrowers maintain pledged assets to their current value and conditions. In addition, these 
agreements  contain  covenants  with  respect  to  compliance  with  certain  financial  ratios,  clauses  in  relation  to 
performance  of  the  borrowers,  including  cross  default  provisions,  as  well  as  legal  claims  in  excess  of  certain 
amount, where reasonable expectations of a negative outcome  exist, and covenants triggered by any failure of 
the borrower to fulfill contractual obligations. The Group companies are in compliance with all debt covenants as 
at each reporting date. 

25 

Significant accounting policies 

The principal accounting policies applied in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements are set out 
below.  These  accounting  policies  have  been  consistently  applied  by  the  Group  from  one  reporting  period  to 
another. 

(a) 

Basis of consolidation 

Subsidiaries 

Subsidiaries are those entities that the Group controls because the Group has (a) power over the investees (that 
is, it can direct relevant activities of the investees that significantly affect their returns); (b) exposure, or rights, to 
variable returns from its involvement with the investees; and (c) the ability to use its power over the investees to 
affect the amount of investor returns. 

Subsidiaries are consolidated when the Group obtains control over an investee and terminates when the Group 
ceases to have control over the investee. 

Non-controlling interest is that part of the net results and of the equity of a subsidiary attributable to interests 
which are not owned, directly or indirectly, by the Group. Non-controlling interest forms a separate component of 
the Parent Company’s equity. 

The  acquisition  method  of  accounting  is  used  to  account  for  the  acquisition  of  subsidiaries  other  than  those 
acquired from parties under common control. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities 
assumed in a business combination are measured at their fair values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the 
extent of any non-controlling interest. 

46 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

The Group measures non-controlling interest that represents present ownership interest and entitles the holder 
to a proportionate share of net assets in the event of liquidation on a transaction-by-transaction basis, either at: 
(a) fair value, or (b) the non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of net assets of the acquiree. 

Goodwill  is  measured  by  deducting  the  net  assets  of  an  acquiree  from  the  aggregate  of:  the  consideration 
transferred  for  the  acquiree,  the  amount  of  non-controlling  interest  in  the  acquiree,  and  the  fair  value  of  an 
interest in the acquiree held immediately before the acquisition date. Any negative amount (“negative goodwill”) 
is recognised in profit or loss, after management reassesses whether it identified all the assets acquired and all 
liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed, and reviews the appropriateness of their measurement. 

Consideration transferred for an acquiree is measured at the fair value of the assets given up, equity instruments 
issued  and  liabilities  incurred  or  assumed,  including  the  fair  value  of  assets  or  liabilities  from  contingent 
consideration arrangements, but excludes acquisition-related costs such as fees for advisory, legal, valuation and 
similar  professional  services.  Transaction  costs  related  to  an  acquisition  and  incurred  for  issuing  equity 
instruments  are  deducted  from  equity;  transaction  costs  incurred  for  issuing  debt  as  part  of  a  business 
combination are deducted from the carrying amount of the debt and all other transaction costs associated with 
the acquisition are expensed. 

All intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between the Group companies are 
eliminated. Unrealised losses are also eliminated, unless the cost cannot be recovered. The Parent Company and 
all of its subsidiaries use uniform accounting policies consistent with the Group’s policies. 

Associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting 

Associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting are entities over which the 
Group has significant influence, but not control or joint control over financial or operating policies. 

Investments in associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting are initially 
recognised at cost (fair value of the consideration transferred). 

The  Group  also  uses  the  equity  method  of  accounting  to  account  for  an  agreement  under  which  the  parties 
exercising joint control of the arrangement are entitled to the net assets of the company accounted for using the 
equity method of accounting. Joint control is the contractually agreed sharing of control, which exists only when 
decisions about the relevant activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. 

Dividends  received  from  associates  and  other  companies  accounted  for  using  the  equity  method  of  accounting 
reduce  the  carrying  value  of  the  investment  in  associates  and  other  companies  accounted  for  using  the  equity 
method  of  accounting.  The  Group’s  share  of  profits  or  losses  of  associates  and  other  companies  accounted  for 
using the equity method of accounting after acquisition is recorded in the consolidated statement of profit or loss 
for the year as share of financial result of associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method 
of accounting. The Group’s share in the change of other comprehensive income after the acquisition is recorded 
within other comprehensive income as a separate line item. All other changes in the Group’s share of the carrying 
amount of net assets of the associates and other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting 
are  recognised  in  profit  or  loss  within  the  share  of  financial  results  of  the  associates  and  other  companies 
accounted  for  using  the  equity  method  of  accounting,  but  the  treatment  could  be  different  depending  on  the 
substance of the change. 

However, when the Group’s share of losses in an associate and other companies accounted for using the equity 
method of accounting equals or exceeds its interest in the associate or company accounted for using the equity 
method of accounting, including any other unsecured receivables, the Group does not recognise further losses, 
unless this is required by law or it has incurred obligations or made payments on behalf of the associate or other 
companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting. 

47 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Unrealised gains on transactions between the Group and its associates and other companies accounted for using 
the equity method of accounting are eliminated to the extent of the Group’s interest in these entities. Unrealised 
losses arising from transactions between the Group and its associates and other companies accounted for using 
the equity method of accounting are also eliminated unless the transaction provides evidence of an impairment of 
the transferred asset. 

In  the  consolidated  statement  of  financial  position,  the  Group’s  share  in  the  associate  or  other  companies 
accounted for using the equity method of accounting is presented at the carrying amount inclusive of goodwill at 
the acquisition date and the Group’s share of post-acquisition profits and losses net of impairment loss. 

Disposals of subsidiaries, associates or other companies accounted for using the equity method of accounting 

When the Group ceases to have control or significant influence, any retained interest in the subsidiary, associate 
or company accounted for using the equity method of accounting is re-measured to its fair value, with the change 
in the carrying amount recognised in profit or loss. The fair value is the initial carrying amount for the purposes of 
subsequently  accounting  for  the  retained  interest  as  an  associate,  company  accounted  for  using  the  equity 
method of accounting, or financial asset. In addition, any amounts previously recognised in other comprehensive 
income, in respect of that entity, are accounted for as if the Group had directly disposed of the related assets or 
liabilities.  This  may  mean  that  amounts  previously  recognised  in  other  comprehensive  income  are  recycled  to 
profit or loss. 

At the date when  the Group’s control ceases, it de-recognises the assets and liabilities  of the former subsidiary 
from  the  consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  and  recognises  profit  or  loss  connected  with  the  loss  of 
control attributable to the former controlling stake. 

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

(b) 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Cash and cash equivalents include cash balances in hand, cash on current accounts with banks, bank deposits and 
other short-term highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less. 

(c) 

Restricted cash 

Restricted  cash  balances  comprise  balances  of  cash  and  cash  equivalents  which  are  legally  or  contractually 
restricted from withdrawal. 

Restricted balances are excluded from cash and cash equivalents for the purposes of the consolidated statement 
of  cash  flows.  Balances  restricted  from  being  exchanged  or  used  to  settle  a  liability  for  at  least  twelve  months 
after the reporting period are included in other non-current assets. 

(d) 

Value added tax (VAT) 

Output value added tax arising upon the sale of goods (performance of work, provision of services) is payable to 
the tax authorities on the earlier of: (a) collection of receivables from customers; or (b) delivery of goods (work, 
services) or property rights to customers. VAT is excluded from revenue. 

Input VAT on goods and services purchased (received) is generally recoverable against output VAT upon receipt of 
the VAT invoice. VAT related to sales / purchases and services provision / receipt payments to the budget which 
has not been settled with at the balance sheet date (deferred VAT) is recognised in the consolidated statement of 
financial position on a gross basis and disclosed separately within current assets and current liabilities. 

Where  provision  has  been  made  for  impairment  of  receivables,  an  impairment  loss  is  recorded  for  the  gross 
amount of the debt, including VAT. 

48 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

(e) 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Inventories 

Inventories are recorded at the lower of cost and net realisable value (the estimated selling price in the ordinary 
course of business, less the estimated cost of completion and selling expenses). 

Inventories include raw materials designated for use in the production process, finished goods, work in progress 
and goods for resale. 

Release to production or any other write-down of inventories is carried at the weighted average cost. 

The  cost  of  finished  goods  and  work  in  progress  comprises  raw  materials,  direct  labour,  other  direct  costs  and 
related production overheads (based on normal operating capacity). 

Other costs are included in the cost of inventories only to the extent they were incurred to provide for the current 
location and condition of inventories. 

When  inventories  are  sold,  the  carrying  amount  of  those  inventories  shall  be  recognised  as  an  expense  in  the 
period in which the related revenue is recognised. The amount of any write-down of inventories to net realisable 
value and all losses of inventories, including obsolete inventories written down, shall be recognised as an expense 
in  the  period  in  which  the  write-down  or  loss  occurs.  The  amount  of  any  reversal  of  any  write-down  of 
inventories, arising from an increase in net realisable value, shall be recognised as a reduction in the amount of 
inventories recognised as an expense in the period in which the reversal occurs. 

(f) 

Property, plant and equipment (PP&E) 

Measurement at recognition 

Property, plant and equipment are initially stated at cost (historical cost model). The PP&E cost includes: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

its  purchase  price,  including  import  duties  and  non-refundable  purchase  taxes,  after  deducting  trade 
discounts and rebates; 

any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be 
capable of operating in the manner intended by the relevant entity’s management; 

the initial estimate of the cost of subsequent dismantling and removal of a fixed asset, and restoring the 
site on which it was located, the obligation for which the relevant entity incurs either when the item is 
acquired or as a consequence of having used the item during a specific period for purposes other than to 
produce inventories during that period. 

The value of property, plant and equipment built using an entity’s own resources includes the cost of materials 
and labour, and the relevant portion of production overhead costs directly attributable to the construction of the 
PP&E. 

Borrowing  costs  directly  attributable  to  the  acquisition,  construction  or  production  of  an  asset  which  takes  a 
substantial period of time to prepare for use or sale are included in the cost of this asset. 

Recognition of costs in the carrying amount of a property, plant and equipment item ceases when the item is in 
the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management of 
the relevant entity. 

Subsequent measurement 

Property,  plant  and  equipment  items  are  carried  at  cost  less  accumulated  depreciation  and  recognised 
impairment losses. 

49 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Subsequent expenditures 

The costs of minor repairs are expensed when incurred. The costs of regular replacement of large components of 
property, plant and equipment items are recognised in the carrying amount of the relevant asset when incurred 
subject to recognition criteria. The carrying amount of the parts being replaced is de-recognised. 

When  a  large-scale  technical  inspection  is  conducted,  related  costs  are  recognised  in  the  carrying  amount  of  a 
fixed asset as replacement of previous technical inspection subject to recognition criteria. Any costs related to the 
previous technical inspection that remain in the carrying value shall be de-recognised. 

Other subsequent expenditures are capitalised only when they increase the future economic benefits embodied 
in these assets. 

All other expenses are treated as costs in the consolidated statement of profit or loss in the reporting period as 
incurred. 

Property,  plant  and  equipment  line  of  the  consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  also  includes  capital 
construction and machinery, and equipment to be installed. 

If  PP&E  items  include  major  units  with  different  useful  lives,  then  each  individual  unit  of  the  related  asset  is 
accounted for separately. 

Borrowing costs 

Borrowing  costs  are  capitalised  from  the  date  of  capitalisation  and  up  to  the  date  when  the  assets  are 
substantially ready for utilisation or sale. 

The commencement date for capitalisation is when the Group (a) incurs expenditures for the qualifying asset; (b) 
incurs borrowing costs; and (c) undertakes activities that are necessary to prepare the asset for its intended use or 
sale. 

When  funds  borrowed  for  common  purposes  are  used  to  purchase  an  asset,  capitalised  borrowing  costs  are 
determined through multiplying the capitalisation rate by expenses related to the asset. 

Interest payments capitalised under IAS 23 are classified in consolidated statement of cash flows in a manner that 
is consistent with the classification of the underlying asset on which the interest is capitalised. 

All other borrowing costs are attributed to expenses in the reporting period when incurred and recorded in the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss in the “Finance costs” line. 

Mineral rights 

Exploration  and  evaluation  assets  are  carried  at  original  cost  and  classified  consistently  within  tangible  or 
intangible  assets  depending  on  their  nature.  Mineral  rights  acquired  as  a  result  of  a  business  combination  are 
measured  at  fair  value  at  the  acquisition  date.  Other  mineral  rights  and  licenses  are  recorded  at  cost.  Mineral 
rights  are  amortised  using  the  straight-line  basis  over  the  license  term  given  approximately  even  production 
output during the license period. 

50 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Depreciation 

Depreciation is charged on a straight-line basis over the estimated remaining useful lives of the individual assets 
through an even write-down of historical cost to their net book value. Property, plant and equipment items under 
finance  leases  and  subsequent  capitalised  expenses  are  depreciated  on  a  straight-line  basis  over  the  estimated 
remaining  useful  lives  of  the  individual  assets.  Depreciation  commences  from  the  time  an  asset  is  available  for 
use,  i.e.  when  the  location  and  condition  provide  for  its  operation  in  line  with  the  Group  management’s 
intentions. 

Depreciation is not charged  on assets to be disposed of  and on land. In some cases,  the land itself may have a 
limited  useful  life,  in  which  case  it  is  depreciated  in  a  manner  that  reflects  the  consumption  of  benefits  to  be 
derived from it. 

The range of estimated useful lives of different asset categories is as follows: 

Buildings and land and buildings improvements 
Machinery and equipment 
Vehicles 

1 – 105 years 
1 – 87 years 
1 – 39 years 

The residual value of an asset is the estimated amount that the Group would currently obtain from disposal of the 
asset less the estimated costs of disposal if the asset were already of the age and in the condition expected at the 
end of its useful life. The assets’ residual values and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at the 
end of each reporting period. 

If the cost of land includes the costs of site dismantlement, removal of PP&E items and restoration expenses, that 
portion of the land asset is depreciated over the period of consumption of benefits obtained by incurring those 
costs. 

Impairment of PP&E is outlined in section (j) “Impairment of non-current assets”. 

(g) 

Leasing 

Leasing transactions are classified according to the relevant lease agreements, which specify the risks and rewards 
associated  with  the  leased  property  and  distributed  between  the  lessor  and  lessee.  Lease  agreements  are 
classified as financial leases or operating leases. 

In  a  financial  lease,  the  Group  receives  the  major  portion  of  economic  benefits  and  risks  associated  with  the 
ownership  of  the  asset.  At  the  commencement  of  the  lease  term,  the  leased  asset  is  recognised  in  the 
consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  at  the  lower  of  fair  value  or  discounted  value  of  future  minimum 
lease payments. The corresponding rental obligations are included in borrowings. Interest expenses within lease 
payments are charged to profit or loss over the lease term using the effective interest method. 

Accounting  policies  for  depreciation  of  leased  assets  are  consistent  with  the  accounting  policies  applicable  to 
owned depreciable assets. 

A lease is classified as an operating lease if it does not imply transferring the major portion of risks and rewards 
associated with the ownership of the asset. Payments made under operating leases are recorded as an expense 
on a straight-line basis over the lease term. 

51 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

(h) 

Goodwill and intangible assets 

Goodwill is the difference between: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

the  comprehensive  acquisition  date  fair  value  of  the  consideration  transferred  and  non-controlling 
interest,  and,  where  the  entity  is  acquired  in  instalments,  the  acquisition  date  fair  value  of  the  non-
controlling interest previously held by the buyer in the acquired entity; and 

the share of net fair value of identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. 

The excess of the share of net fair value of identifiable assets bought and obligations assumed by the Group over 
the  consideration  transferred  and  the  fair  value  of  non-controlling  interest  at  the  acquisition  date  previously 
owned by the buyer in the acquired entity, represents income from a profitable acquisition. Income is recognised 
in the consolidated statement of profit or loss at the acquisition date. 

Goodwill on associates and other equity-accounted entities is included in the carrying amount of investments in 
these entities. 

When  interest  in  the  previously  acquired  entity  increases  (within  non-controlling  interest)  goodwill  is  not 
recognised. The difference between the acquired share of net assets and consideration transferred is recognised 
in equity. 

Goodwill is measured at historical cost and subsequently stated less accumulated impairment losses. 

Impairment of goodwill 

The goodwill is not amortised but tested for impairment at least annually and whenever there are indications that 
goodwill  may  be  impaired.  For  the  purpose  of  impairment  testing,  goodwill  is  allocated  to  each  of  the  Group’s 
cash-generating  units  (“CGUs”)  that  are  expected  to  benefit  from  the  synergies  of  the  combination.  The 
evaluation of impairment for cash-generating units, among which goodwill was distributed, is performed once a 
year or more often, when there are indicators of impairment of such CGUs. 

If  the  recoverable  amount  of  a  cash-generating  unit  is  less  than  its  carrying  amount,  the  impairment  loss  is 
allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the CGU and then to any other assets of 
the CGU pro-rata to the carrying amount of each asset in the unit. An impairment loss recognised for goodwill is 
not reversed in subsequent periods. 

Disposal of goodwill 

If goodwill is a part of the cash-generating unit, and a part of the unit is disposed of, the goodwill pertaining to 
that part of disposed operations is included in the carrying amount of that  operation when profit or loss on its 
disposal is determined. In such circumstances, the goodwill disposed of is generally measured on the basis of the 
relative values of the operation disposed of and the portion of the cash-generating unit which is retained. 

52 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Intangible assets 

Intangible assets are initially recognised at cost. 

The cost of a separately acquired intangible asset comprises: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

its purchase price, including non-refundable purchase taxes, after deducting trade discounts and rebates; 

any directly attributable cost of preparing the asset for its intended use. 

If an intangible asset is acquired as a result of a business combination, the cost of the intangible asset equals its 
fair value at the acquisition date. 

If payment for an intangible asset is deferred beyond normal credit terms, its cost is the cash price equivalent. The 
difference between this amount and the total payments is recognised as interest expense over the entire period 
of credit unless it is capitalised in accordance with IAS 23, “Borrowing Costs”. 

If an intangible asset is an integral part of a fixed asset to which it belongs, then it is recorded as part of that asset. 

After  the  initial  recognition  of  intangibles,  they  are  carried  at  cost  less  any  accumulated  amortisation  and  any 
accumulated impairment loss. If impaired, the carrying amount of intangible assets is written down to the higher 
of value in use and fair value less costs to sell. 

Amortisation 

An intangible asset with an indefinite useful life is not amortised. Intangible assets with a definite useful life are 
amortised using the straight-line method over the shorter of: the useful life or legal rights thereto. 

(i) 

Decommissioning obligation 

The  Group’s  obligations  related  to  assets  disposal  include  estimating  costs  related  to  restoration  of  land  in 
accordance with applicable legal requirements and licenses. 

Decommissioning  costs  are  carried  at  the  present  value  of  expected  expenses  to  settle  obligations  that  is 
calculated using estimated cash flows and are recognised as a part of the historical cost of the asset. Capitalised 
costs are amortised over the asset’s useful life. 

Cash  flows  are  discounted  at  the  current  rate  before  tax,  which  reflects  risks  inherent  to  the  asset 
decommissioning  obligations.  The  effect  of  discounting  is  recognised  in  the  consolidated  statement  of  profit  or 
loss as finance costs. 

The estimated future costs related to decommissioning are reviewed annually and adjusted as necessary. 

(j) 

Impairment of non-current assets 

At each reporting date, the Group determines if there are any objective indications of potential impairment of an 
individual asset or group of assets. 

Intangible assets with indefinite useful lives are tested for impairment at least once a year if their carrying amount 
impairment indicators are identified. 

53 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Recoverable value measurement 

If  any  such  impairment  indicators  exist,  then  the  asset’s  recoverable  amount  is  estimated.  In  the  event  of 
impairment, the value of the asset is written down to its recoverable value, which represents the higher of: the 
fair value less costs to sell or the value in use. 

Fair  value  less  costs  to  sell  is  the  amount  obtainable  from  the  sale  of  an  asset  or  payable  on  the  transfer  of  a 
liability  at  the  evaluation  date,  in  an  arm’s  length  transaction  between  knowledgeable,  willing  parties,  less  any 
direct costs related to the sale or transfer. 

Value in use is the present value of estimated future cash flows from expected continuous use of an asset and its 
disposal at the end of its useful life. 

In assessing value-in-use, the anticipated future cash proceeds are discounted to their current value using a pre-
tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the 
asset. 

For  the  purposes  of  assessing  impairment,  assets  are  grouped  at  the  lowest  levels  for  which  there  are  largely 
independent cash inflows (cash-generating units), which in most cases are determined as individual subsidiaries of 
the Group. Estimated cash flows are adjusted in line with the risk of specific conditions at sites and discounted at 
the rate based on the weighted average cost of capital. With regard to assets that do not generate cash regardless 
of cash flows generated by other assets, the recoverable amounts are based on the cash-generating unit to which 
such assets relate. 

Impairment loss 

The  asset’s  carrying  amount  is  written  down  to  its  estimated  recoverable  value,  and  loss  is  included  in  the 
consolidated statement of profit or loss for the period. Impairment loss is reversed if there are indications that the 
assets’  impairment  losses  (other  than  goodwill)  recognised  in  previous  periods  no  longer  exist  or  have  been 
reduced, and if any consequent increase in the recoverable value can be objectively linked to the event that took 
place  after  the  impairment  loss  recognition.  Impairment  loss  is  reversed  only  to  the  extent  that  the  carrying 
amount of an asset does not exceed its carrying amount that would be established (less amortisation) if the asset 
impairment  loss  had  not  been  recognised.  An  impairment  loss  is  reversed  for  the  relevant  asset  immediately 
through consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

(k) 

Pension and post-retirement benefits other than pensions 

The Group recognises liabilities for post-employment benefits, including one-off payments made upon retirement. 
For the nine months ended 30 September 2013, the Group maintained defined benefit pension plans that covered 
the majority of its employees in Europe (Note 20). 

The Parent Company and some other Group companies maintain defined contribution plans in accordance with 
which contributions are made on a monthly basis to a non-government pension fund (the “Fund”), calculated as a 
certain  fixed  percentage  of  the  employees’  salaries.  These  pension  contributions  are  accumulated  in  the  Fund 
during  the  employment  period  and  subsequently  distributed  by  the  Fund.  Accordingly,  the  Group  has  no  long-
term commitments to provide funding, guarantees, or other support to the Fund. 

The  Group  complies  with  the  pension  and  social  insurance  legislation  of  the  Russian  Federation  and  the  other 
countries where it operates. Contributions to the Russian Federation Pension Fund by the employer are calculated 
as a percentage of current gross salaries. Such contributions constitute defined contribution plans. 

Payments under defined contribution plans are expensed as incurred. 

54 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

(l) 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Provisions for liabilities and charges 

Provisions for liabilities and charges are accrued when the Group: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

has present obligations (legal or constructive) as a result of past events; 

it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle such 
an obligation; 

a reliable estimate of the amount of the obligation can be made. 

The amount recognised as a provision shall be the best estimate of the expenses required to settle the present 
obligation  at  the  end  of  the  reporting  period.  Where  the  impact  of  the  time  factor  on  the  value  of  money  is 
significant,  the  provision  should  equal  the  present  value  of  the  expected  cost  of  settling  the  liability  using  the 
discount rate before taxes. Any increase in the carrying amount of the provision is recorded in the consolidated 
statement of profit or loss as finance costs. 

The nature and estimated  value of contingent  liabilities and assets (including  court proceedings, environmental 
costs,  etc.)  are  disclosed  in  notes  to  the  consolidated  financial  statements  where  the  probability  of  economic 
benefits outflow is insignificant. 

The  creation  and  release  of  provision  for  impaired  receivables  have  been  included  in  selling  expenses  in  the 
consolidated  statement  of  profit  or  loss.  Amounts  charged  to  the  allowance  account  are  generally  written  off, 
when there is no expectation of recovering additional cash. 

(m) 

Call and put options 

Call  and  put  options  are  carried  at  their  fair  value  in  the  consolidated  financial  statements.  These  options  are 
accounted for as assets when their fair value is positive (for call options) and as liabilities when the fair value is 
negative  (for  put  options).  Changes  in  the  fair  value  of  options  are  reflected  in  the  consolidated  statement  of 
profit or loss. 

(n) 

Income taxes 

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. The current and deferred taxes are recognised in profit 
or loss for the period, except for the portion thereof that arises from a business combination or transactions or 
events that are recognised directly within equity. 

Current tax  

Current tax  liabilities are  measured in the amount expected to be paid to (recovered  from)  the tax authorities, 
applying the tax rates and tax laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the end of the reporting 
period. 

Deferred tax 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recognised for the differences between the carrying amount of an asset or 
liability in the consolidated statement of financial position and their tax base.  

55 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Deferred tax is not recognised if temporary differences: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

arise at the goodwill initial recognition; 

arise  at  the  initial  recognition  (except  for  business  combination)  of  assets  and  liabilities  that  do  not 
impact taxable or accounting profits; 

are  associated  with  investments  in  subsidiaries  where  the  Group  controls  the  timing  of  the  reversal  of 
these temporary differences, and it is probable that the temporary differences will not be utilised in the 
foreseeable future. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities shall be measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply to the period when 
the  asset  is  realised  or  the  liability  is  settled,  based  on  tax  rates  (and  tax  laws)  that  have  been  enacted  or 
substantively enacted by the end of the reporting period. 

Estimation of tax assets and liabilities reflects tax implications that would arise depending on the method to be 
used at the end of the reporting period to recover or settle carrying value of these assets or liabilities. 

Deferred tax assets are recognised in respect of the carry forward of unused tax losses and unused tax credits to 
the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the unused tax losses and 
unused tax credits may be utilised. 

The  carrying  amount  of  deferred  tax  assets  is  subject  to  revision  at  the  end  of  each  reporting  period  and  is 
decreased to the extent of reduced probability of receiving sufficient taxable income to benefit from utilising the 
deferred tax assets partially or in full. 

Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legal right for the offset of current tax assets and liabilities, 
and when they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority or on the same taxpayer; and the Group 
intends to either settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 

Uncertain tax positions 

The Group’s uncertain tax positions are reassessed by management at the end of each reporting period. Liabilities 
are recorded for income tax  positions that are determined by management as more likely than not to result in 
additional taxes being levied if the positions were to be challenged by the tax authorities. The assessment is based 
on  the  interpretation  of  tax  laws  that  have  been  enacted  or  substantively  enacted  by  the  end  of  the  reporting 
period, and any known court or other rulings on such issues. Liabilities for penalties, interest and taxes other than 
on  income  are  recognised  based  on  management’s  best  estimate  of  the  expenditure  required  to  settle  the 
obligations at the end of the reporting period. 

(o) 

Dividends payable 

Dividends  are  recorded  as  a  liability  and  deducted  from  equity  in  the  period  in  which  they  are  declared  and 
approved. Any dividends declared after the reporting date and before the consolidated financial statements have 
been authorised for issue are disclosed in the subsequent events note. 

(p) 

Revenue recognition 

Revenue from sales of goods and provision of services 

Revenue comprises the fair value of the consideration received or receivable for the sale of goods and services in 
the  ordinary  course  of  the  Group’s  activities.  The  Group  recognises  revenue  when  the  amount  can  be  reliably 
measured, it is probable that future economic benefits will flow to the Group, and the specific criteria stipulated 
by IAS 18, “Revenue” have been met for each type of Group revenues.  

Revenue  is  recorded  less  of  discounts,  provisions,  value  added  tax  and  export  duties,  and  refunds,  and  after 
excluding internal Group sales turnover. 

56 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Revenues  from  sales  of  goods  are  recognised  at  the  point  of  transfer  of  risks  and  rewards  of  ownership  of  the 
goods,  normally  when  the  goods  are  shipped.  If  the  Group  agrees  to  transport  goods  to  a  specified  location, 
revenue is recognised when the goods are passed to the customer at the destination point. Revenue from services 
is recognised in the period in which the services were rendered, by reference to the stage of completion of the 
specific transaction assessed on the basis of the actual service provided as a proportion of the total services to be 
rendered under the relevant agreement. 

Interest income 

Interest income is recognised on a time-proportion basis using the effective interest method.  

Dividend income 

Dividend income on investments is recognised when the Group becomes entitled to receive the payment.  

(q) 

Segment information 

The Group provides separate disclosures on each operating segment that meets the criteria outlined in paragraph 
11 of IFRS 8, “Operating Segments”. 

The Group’s organisation comprises five reportable segments: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

the Russian flat products segment, comprising production and sales of steel products and coke, primarily 
pig iron, steel slabs, hot rolled steel, cold rolled steel, galvanised cold rolled sheet and cold rolled sheet 
with polymeric coatings and also electro-technical steel; 

the  Foreign  rolled  products  segment,  comprising  production  and  sales  of  steel  products  in  the  United 
States and Europe; 

the  Russian  long  products  segment,  comprising  a  number  of  steel-production  facilities  combined  in  a 
single production system beginning from scrap iron collection and recycling to steel-making, production 
of long products, reinforcing rebar and metalware; 

the  Mining  segment,  which  comprises  mining,  processing  and  sales  of  iron  ore,  fluxing  limestone  and 
metallurgical dolomite, and supplies raw materials to the steel segment and third parties; 

Investments in associate entity NBH, comprising production of hot rolled, cold rolled coils and galvanized 
and pre-pained steel, and also production of a wide range of plates as well as a number of steel service 
centers located in the European Union. 

Other  activities  and  operating  segments  that  are  not  reportable  segments  are  combined  and  disclosed  in  “all 
other segments”. 

The accounting policies of each segment are similar to the principles outlined in significant accounting policies.  

(r) 

Financial instruments 

Financial assets 

The Group’s financial assets include cash and short-term deposits, trade and other accounts receivable, loans and 
other amounts receivable, quoted and non-quoted financial instruments and derivatives. 

Financial assets have the following categories:  

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

loans and receivables; 

held-to-maturity investments. 

57 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Loans and receivables 

Loans and receivables represent non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not 
quoted in an active market. Subsequent to the initial recognition, such financial assets are measured at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method less any impairment losses.  

Held-to-maturity investments 

Non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable  payments and fixed maturity are classified as held to 
maturity  investments  if  the  Group  intends  and  is  able  to  hold  them  to  maturity.  Subsequent  to  the  initial 
recognition,  held-to-maturity  investments  are  measured  at  amortised  cost  using  the  effective  interest  method 
less any impairment losses. 

Valuation techniques 

Depending on their classification, financial instruments are carried at fair value or amortised cost. Below are the 
methods and key definitions. 

Fair  value  is  the  price  that  would  be  received  from  selling  an  asset  or  paid  when  transferring  a  liability  in  an 
orderly transaction between  market participants as at the valuation date. The best evidence of fair value is the 
price quoted in an active market. 

The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets at each reporting date is determined based on the 
market  quotes  or  dealers’  quotes  (buy  quotes  for  long  positions  and  sell  quotes  for  short  positions)  without 
deducting transaction costs.  

Valuation techniques, such as discounted cash flow models, or models based on recent arm’s length transactions 
or consideration of financial data of the investees, are used to measure the fair value of financial instruments for 
which external market pricing information is unavailable.  

Transaction  costs  are  incremental  costs  that  are  directly  attributable  to  the  acquisition,  issue  or  disposal  of  a 
financial  instrument.  An  incremental  cost  is  one  that  would  not  have  been  incurred  if  the  transaction  had  not 
taken place. 

Amortised  cost  is  the  amount  at  which  the  financial  instrument  was  recognised  at  initial  recognition  less  any 
principal  repayments,  plus  or  minus  the  cumulative  amortisation  of  any  difference  between  that  initial  amount 
and  the  maturity  amount  (calculated  using  the  effective  interest  method),  and  for  financial  assets  less  any 
impairment loss. 

The  effective  interest  method  is  a  method  of  allocating  interest  income  or  interest  expense  over  the  relevant 
period, so as to achieve a constant periodic rate of interest (effective interest rate) on the carrying amount. The 
effective  interest  rate  is  the  rate  that  exactly  discounts  estimated  future  cash  payments  or  receipts  (excluding 
future credit losses) through the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, if appropriate, to 
the net carrying amount of the financial instrument.  

Initial recognition of financial assets 

Financial investments available for sale and financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are initially recorded 
at fair value. All other financial assets are initially recorded at fair value plus transaction costs.  

All purchases and sales of financial assets that require delivery within the time frame established by regulation or 
market convention (“regular way” purchases and sales) are recorded at the trade date, which is the date when the 
Group commits to buy or sell a financial asset. 

58 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

De-recognition 

The Group de-recognises financial assets when (a) the assets are redeemed or the rights to cash flows from the 
assets otherwise expire or (b) the Group has transferred the rights to the cash flows from the financial assets or 
entered into a qualifying pass-through arrangement while (i) also transferring substantially all risks and rewards of 
ownership of the assets, or (ii) neither transferring nor retaining substantially all risks and rewards of ownership 
but not retaining control in respect of these assets. 

Control of an asset is retained if the counterparty does not have the practical ability to sell the asset in its entirety 
to  an  unrelated  third  party  without  needing  to  impose  additional  restrictions  on  the  sale.  If  the  Group  neither 
transfers nor retains  substantially all risks and rewards of ownership of the asset, but retains control over such 
transferred  asset,  the  Group  continues  recognition  of  its  share  in  this  asset  and  the  related  obligation  in  the 
amount of the anticipated consideration.  

Impairment of financial assets 

At each reporting date, the Group assesses whether the objective indicators exist that a financial asset or group of 
financial assets is impaired. A financial asset or group of financial assets are considered to be impaired only when 
there  is  objective  evidence  of  impairment  as  a  result  of  one  or  more  events  that  occurred  after  the  initial 
recognition of the asset, and that have had an impact on the amount or timing of the estimated future cash flows 
of  the  financial  asset  or  group  of  financial  assets  that  can  be  reliably  estimated.  Evidence  of  impairment  may 
include  indications  that  the  debtor  or  group  of  debtors  are  experiencing  significant  financial  difficulty,  cannot 
service  their  debt  or  are  demonstrating  delinquency  in  interest  or  principal  payments;  or  they  are  likely  to 
undergo  bankruptcy  procedures  or  any  other  financial  reorganisation.  In  addition,  such  evidence  includes 
observable data testifying to an identifiable decline in estimated future cash flows under a financial instrument, in 
particular,  negative  changes  in  a  counterparty’s  payment  status  caused  by  changes  in  the  national  or  local 
business environment that impact the counterparty, or a significant impairment of collateral, if any, as a result of 
deteriorated market conditions.  

Impairment of financial assets carried at amortised cost 

The carrying amount of an asset is reduced by the amount of the allowance for impairment of  financial assets. 
Losses  from  impairment  of  financial  assets  carried  at  amortised  cost  are  carried  through  profit  or  loss  as  they 
arise. 

Accrual  of  interest  income  on  the  reduced  carrying  value  is  continued  based  on  the  interest  rate  applied  to 
discounting the future cash flows for impairment loss assessment. 

If the terms of an impaired financial asset held at amortised cost are renegotiated or otherwise modified because 
of  financial  difficulties  of  the  counterparty,  impairment  is  measured  using  the  original  effective  interest  rate 
before the modification of terms. The renegotiated asset is then de-recognised and a new asset is recognised at 
its  fair  value  only  if  the  risks  and  rewards  of  the  asset  substantially  changed.  This  is  normally  evidenced  by  a 
substantial difference between the present values of the original cash flows and the new expected cash flows. 

Impairment of financial investments available for sale 

For available-for-sale financial investments, the Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is objective 
evidence that a financial investment or a group of financial investments is impaired. 

Impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss for the year when incurred as a result of one or more events 
(“loss  events”)  that  occurred  after  the  initial  recognition  of  available-for-sale  investments.  A significant  or 
prolonged  decline  in  the  fair  value  of  an  equity  security  below  its  cost  is  an  indicator  that  it  is  impaired.  The 
cumulative impairment loss – measured as the difference between the acquisition cost and the current fair value, 
less  any  impairment  loss  on  that  asset  previously  recognised  in  profit  or  loss  –  is  reclassified  from  other 
comprehensive income to finance costs in profit or loss for the year. 

59 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Impairment  losses  on  equity  instruments  are  not  reversed  and  any  subsequent  gains  are  recognised  in  other 
comprehensive income. If, in a subsequent period, the fair value of a debt instrument classified as available for 
sale  increases  and  the  increase  can  be  objectively  related  to  an  event  occurring  after  the  impairment  loss  was 
recognised in profit or loss, the impairment loss is reversed through the current period’s profit or loss. 

Financial liabilities 

The Group’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables, bank overdrafts, borrowings, financial guarantee 
agreements and derivative financial instruments. 

Financial liabilities are respectively classified as: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss;  

borrowings and loans. 

Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss 

Financial  liabilities  at  fair  value  through  profit  or  loss  include  financial  liabilities  held  for  trade  and  financial 
liabilities designated initially at fair value through profit or loss. Financial liabilities are classified as held for trade if 
acquired  for  the  purpose  of  selling  in  the  short  term.  Income  and  expense  on  liabilities  held  for  trade  are 
recognised in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

Borrowings 

After  initial  recognition,  interest-bearing  borrowings  are  carried  at  amortised  cost  using  the  effective  interest 
method. Gains and losses on such financial liabilities are recognised in consolidated statements of profit or loss 
upon their de-recognition and also as amortisation accrued using the effective interest method. 

Initial recognition of financial liabilities 

All  financial  liabilities  are  initially  recorded  at  fair  value  less  transaction  costs  incurred  (except  for  financial 
liabilities at fair value through the consolidated statements of profit or loss). 

De-recognition 

A  financial  liability  is  de-recognised  from  the  consolidated  statement  of  financial  position  if  it  was  settled, 
cancelled or expired. 

If  the  existing  financial  liability  is  replaced  by  another  liability  to  the  same  creditor,  on  terms  that  significantly 
differ  from the previous terms, or the terms of the existing liability significantly differ from the previous terms, 
such replacement or change is recorded as de-recognition of the initial liability and recognition of a new liability, 
and the difference in their carrying amount is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit or loss. 

Financial guarantee agreements 

Financial guarantees issued by the Group are irrevocable agreements requiring a payment to compensate losses 
incurred by the owner of the agreement due to the inability of the debtor to duly pay under the terms of a debt 
instrument.  Financial  guarantee  agreements  are  initially  recorded  at  fair  value.  Consequently  the  liability  is 
measured at the higher of the best likelihood estimate of  costs necessary to  settle the  liability at the reporting 
date, and the amount of the liability less accumulated amortisation. 

Derivative financial instruments 

Derivative  financial  instruments,  including  foreign  exchange  contracts,  interest  rate  futures,  forward  rate 
agreements,  currency  and  interest  rate  swaps,  and  currency  and  interest  rate  options,  are  carried  at  their  fair 
value. All derivative instruments are carried as assets when fair value is positive and as liabilities when fair value is 
negative. Changes in the fair value of derivative instruments are included in profit or loss for the year. The Group 
does not apply hedge accounting. 

60 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

25 

Significant accounting policies (continued) 

Offsetting financial instruments 

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount is reported in the consolidated statement of financial 
position only when there is a legally enforceable right to offset the recognised amounts, and there is an intention 
to either settle on a net basis, or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously. 

(s) 

Related parties 

Parties  are  generally  considered  to  be  related  if  the  parties  are  under  common  control  or  if  one  party  has  the 
ability to control the other party or can exercise significant influence over the other party in making financial and 
operational  decisions  or  exercise  a  joint  control  over  it.  In  considering  each  possible  related-party  relationship, 
attention is directed to the substance of the relationship, not merely the legal form. 

26 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements 

The  preparation  of  the  consolidated  financial  statements  requires  management  to  make  estimates  and 
assumptions  that  affect  the  reported  amount  of  assets  and  liabilities  as  well  as  disclosures.  Management  also 
makes certain judgements, in the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies. Estimates and judgements 
are continually evaluated based on historical experience and other factors, including forecasts and expectations of 
future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual  results may differ  from these 
estimates, and management’s estimates can be revised in the future, either negatively or positively, based on the 
facts surrounding each estimate. 

Judgments  that  have  the  most  significant  effect  on  the  amounts  recognised  in  the  consolidated  financial 
statements and estimates that can cause a significant adjustment to the carrying amount of assets and liabilities 
within the next financial year are reported below. 

(a) 

Consolidation of subsidiaries 

Management  judgement  is  involved  in  the  assessment  of  control  and  the  consolidation  of  subsidiaries  in 
the Group’s consolidated financial statements. 

(b) 

Tax legislation and potential tax gains and losses 

The  Group’s  potential  tax  gains  and  losses  are  reassessed  by  management  at  every  reporting  date.  Liabilities 
which  are  recorded  for  income  tax  positions  are  determined  by  management  based  on  the  interpretation  of 
current  tax  laws.  Liabilities  for  penalties,  interest  and  taxes  other  than  on  income  are  recognised  based  on 
management’s best estimate of the expenditure required to settle tax liabilities at the reporting date. 

(c) 

Estimation of remaining useful lives of property, plant and equipment 

The  estimation  of  the  useful  life  of  an  item  of  property,  plant  and  equipment  is  a  matter  of  management 
judgement  based  upon  experience  with  similar  assets.  In  determining  the  useful  life  of  an  asset,  management 
considers  the  expected  usage  based  on  production  volumes,  inventories,  technical  obsolescence  rates,  physical 
wear and tear and the physical environment in which the asset is operated. Changes in any of these conditions or 
estimates may affect future useful lives (Note 8). 

(d) 

Fair value estimation for acquisitions 

In accounting for business combinations, the purchase price paid to acquire a business is allocated to its assets 
and liabilities based on the estimated fair values of the assets acquired and liabilities assumed as of the date of 
acquisition. The excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the tangible and identifiable intangible assets 
acquired, net of liabilities, is recorded as goodwill. A significant amount of judgement is involved in estimating the 
individual fair values of property, plant and equipment and identifiable intangible assets. 

61 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

26 

Critical accounting estimates and judgements (continued) 

The estimates used in determining fair values are based on assumptions believed to be reasonable but which are 
inherently  uncertain.  Accordingly,  actual  results  may  differ  from  the  projected  results  used  to  determine  fair 
value. 

(e) 

Impairment analysis of property, plant and equipment and goodwill 

The  estimation  of  forecasted  cash  flows  for  the  purposes  of  impairment  testing  involves  the  application  of  a 
number  of  significant  judgements  and  estimates  to  certain  variables  including  volumes  of  production  and 
extraction,  prices  on  finished  goods,  operating  costs,  capital  investment,  and  macroeconomic  factors  such  as 
inflation and discount rates. In addition, judgement is applied in determining the cash-generating units assessed 
for impairment (Notes 8, 9). 

Accounting for provisions 

Accounting  for  impairment  includes  provisions  against  capital  construction  projects,  financial  assets  and  other 
non-current assets (at least annually). 

(f) 

Accrual of accounts receivable impairment provision 

The impairment provision for accounts receivable is based on the management’s assessment of the collectability 
and recoverable amount of specific customer accounts, being the present value of expected cash flows. If there is 
deterioration  in  a  major  customer’s  creditworthiness  or  actual  defaults  are  higher  or  lower  than  estimates, 
the actual results could differ from these estimates. 

(g) 

Control and the consolidation or accounting using equity method of accounting of entities in the 
Group’s consolidated financial statements 

Management judgement is involved in the assessment of control and the consolidation or accounting using equity 
method  of  accounting  of  certain  entities 
in  the  Group’s  consolidated  financial  statements.  As  at 
31 December 2015  and  2014  the  Group  owned  51.0%  and  79.5%  of  shares  in  NBH,  respectively,  however, 
management had concluded that in the light of giving certain governance rights to the party owing the residual 
interest in this company, the Group does not control this company, thus the Group’s investment in NBH should be 
accounted for under the equity method starting 30 September 2013 (Note 20). 

After  the  partial  disposal  of  NBH  as  of  30 September 2013,  which  the  Group  executed  in  the  context  of  the 
continuing  restructuring  of  its  European  operations  aimed  at  further  enhancing  efficiency  optimizing  costs,  the 
Group retained its presence in Europe and in the rolled products line of business. Therefore management believes 
that this disposal does not meet the definition of a discontinued operations under IFRS 5. 

27 

New or revised standards and interpretations 

Certain new standards and interpretations have been issued that are mandatory for the annual periods beginning 
on or after 1 January 2016 or later, and which the Group has not early adopted: 

(cid:131)

IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement” (amended in July 2014 and effective for 
annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018). Key features of the new standard are: 

-

Financial  assets  are  required  to  be  classified  into  three  measurement  categories:  those  to  be 
measured  subsequently  at  amortised  cost,  those  to  be  measured  subsequently  at  fair  value 
through  other  comprehensive  income  (FVOCI)  and  those  to  be  measured  subsequently  at  fair 
value through profit or loss (FVPL). 

62 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

27 

New or revised standards and interpretations (continued) 

-

-

Classification  for  debt  instruments  is  driven  by  the  entity’s  business  model  for  managing  the 
financial assets and whether the contractual cash flows represent solely payments of principal 
and interest (SPPI). If a debt instrument is held to collect, it may be carried at amortised cost if it 
also  meets  the  SPPI  requirement.  Debt  instruments  that  meet  the  SPPI  requirement  that  are 
held in a portfolio where an entity both holds to collect assets’ cash flows and sells assets may 
be  classified  as  FVOCI.  Financial  assets  that  do  not  contain  cash  flows  that  are  SPPI  must  be 
measured  at  FVPL  (for  example,  derivatives).  Embedded  derivatives  are  no  longer  separated 
from financial assets but will be included in assessing the SPPI condition. 

Investments  in  equity  instruments  are  always  measured  at  fair  value.  However,  management 
can  make  an  irrevocable  election  to  present  changes  in  fair  value  in  other  comprehensive 
income,  provided  the  instrument  is  not  held  for  trading.  If  the  equity  instrument  is  held  for 
trading, changes in fair value are presented in profit or loss. 

- Most  of  the  requirements  in  IAS  39  for  classification  and  measurement  of  financial  liabilities 
were carried forward unchanged to IFRS 9. The key change is that an entity will be required to 
present the effects of changes in own credit risk of  financial liabilities designated at fair value 
through profit or loss in other comprehensive income.  

-

IFRS 9 introduces a new model for the recognition of impairment losses – the expected credit 
losses  (ECL)  model.  There  is  a  “three  stage”  approach  which  is  based  on  the  change  in  credit 
quality of financial assets since initial recognition. In practice, the new rules mean that entities 
will  have  to  record  an  immediate  loss  equal  to  the  12-month  ECL  on  initial  recognition  of 
financial assets that are not credit impaired (or lifetime ECL for trade receivables). Where there 
has been a significant increase in credit risk, impairment is measured using lifetime ECL rather 
than  12-month  ECL.  The  model  includes  operational  simplifications  for  trade  and  lease 
receivables. 

- Hedge  accounting  requirements  were  amended  to  align  accounting  more  closely  with  risk 
management. The standard provides entities with an accounting policy choice between applying 
the  hedge  accounting  requirements  of  IFRS  9  and  continuing  to  apply  IAS  39  to  all  hedges 
because the standard currently does not address accounting for macro hedging. 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

Sale or Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associate or Joint Venture - Amendments to 
IFRS  10  and  IAS  28  (issued  on  11  September  2014  and  effective  from  the  uncertain  date).  These 
amendments  address  an  inconsistency  between  the  requirements  in  IFRS  10  and  those  in  IAS  28  in 
dealing with the sale or contribution of assets between an investor and its associate or joint venture. The 
main consequence of the amendments is that a full gain or loss is recognised when a transaction involves 
a business. A partial gain or loss is recognised when a transaction involves assets that do not constitute a 
business, even if these assets are held by a subsidiary. 

Clarification of Acceptable Methods of Depreciation and Amortisation - Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 
38 (issued on 12 May 2014 and effective for the periods  beginning on or after 1 January 2016). In this 
amendment, the IASB has clarified that the use of revenue-based methods to calculate the depreciation 
of an asset is not appropriate because revenue generated by an activity that includes the use of an asset 
generally reflects factors other than the consumption of the economic benefits embodied in the asset. 

IFRS 15, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (issued on 28 May 2014 and effective for the periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2018). The new standard introduces the core principle that revenue must 
be recognised when the goods or services are transferred to the customer, at the transaction price. Any 
bundled goods or services that are distinct must be separately recognised, and any discounts or rebates 
on  the  contract  price  must  generally  be  allocated  to  the  separate  elements.  When  the  consideration 
varies for any reason, minimum amounts must be recognised if they are not at significant risk of reversal. 
Costs incurred to secure contracts with customers have to be capitalised and amortised over the period 
when the benefits of the contract are consumed. 

63 

 
 
 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

27 

New or revised standards and interpretations (continued) 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

IFRS 16 "Leases" (issued in January 2016 and effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 
2019).    The  new  standard  sets  out  the  principles  for  the  recognition,  measurement,  presentation  and 
disclosure of leases. All leases result in the lessee obtaining the right to use an asset at the start of the 
lease and, if lease payments are made over time, also obtaining financing. Accordingly, IFRS 16 eliminates 
the  classification  of  leases  as  either  operating  leases  or  finance  leases  as  is  required  by  IAS  17  and, 
instead, introduces a single lessee accounting model. Lessees will be required to recognise: (a) assets and 
liabilities for all leases with a term of more than 12 months, unless the underlying asset is of low value; 
and (b) depreciation of lease assets separately from interest on lease liabilities in the income statement. 
IFRS 16 substantially carries forward the lessor accounting requirements in IAS 17. Accordingly, a lessor 
continues to classify its leases as operating leases or finance leases, and to account for those two types of 
leases differently. 

Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses - Amendments to IAS 12 (issued in January 2016 
and effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2017). The amendment has clarified the 
requirements on recognition of deferred tax assets for unrealised losses on debt instruments. The entity 
will have to recognise deferred tax asset for unrealised losses that arise as a result of discounting cash 
flows of debt instruments at market interest rates, even if it expects to hold the instrument to maturity 
and no tax will be payable upon collecting the principal amount. The economic benefit embodied in the 
deferred  tax  asset  arises  from  the  ability  of  the  holder  of  the  debt  instrument  to  achieve  future  gains 
(unwinding of the effects of discounting) without paying taxes on those gains. 

Annual  Improvements  to  IFRSs  2014  (issued  on  25  September  2014  and  effective  for  annual  periods 
beginning  on  or  after  1  January  2016).  The  amendments  impact  4  standards.  IFRS  5  was  amended  to 
clarify  that  change  in  the  manner  of  disposal  (reclassification  from  "held  for  sale"  to  "held  for 
distribution" or vice versa) does not constitute a change to a plan of sale or distribution, and does not 
have  to  be  accounted  for  as  such.  The  amendment  to  IFRS  7  adds  guidance  to  help  management 
determine whether the terms of an arrangement to service a financial asset which has been transferred 
constitute continuing involvement, for the purposes of disclosures required by IFRS 7. The amendment 
also clarifies that the offsetting disclosures of IFRS 7 are not specifically required for all interim periods, 
unless  required  by  IAS  34.  The  amendment  to  IAS  19  clarifies  that  for  post-employment  benefit 
obligations,  the  decisions  regarding  discount  rate,  existence  of  deep  market  in  high-quality  corporate 
bonds, or which government bonds to use as a basis, should be based on the currency that the liabilities 
are denominated in, and not the country where they arise. IAS 34 will require a cross reference from the 
interim financial statements to the location of "information disclosed elsewhere in the interim financial 
report". 

Disclosure Initiative Amendments to IAS 1 (issued in December 2014 and effective for annual periods on 
or after 1 January 2016). The Standard was amended to clarify the concept of  materiality and explains 
that an entity need not provide a specific disclosure required by an IFRS if the information resulting from 
that disclosure is not material, even if the IFRS contains a list of specific requirements or describes them 
as  minimum  requirements.  The  Standard  also  provides  new  guidance  on  subtotals  in  financial 
statements,  in  particular,  such  subtotals  (a)  should  be  comprised  of  line  items  made  up  of  amounts 
recognised and measured in accordance with IFRS; (b) be presented and labelled in a manner that makes 
the  line  items  that  constitute  the  subtotal  clear  and  understandable;  (c)  be  consistent  from  period  to 
period; and (d) not be displayed with more prominence than the subtotals and totals required by IFRS 
standards. 

Disclosure Initiative - Amendments to IAS 7 (issued on 29 January 2016 and effective for annual periods 
beginning on or after 1 January 2017) The amended IAS  7 will require disclosure of a  reconciliation of 
movements in liabilities arising from financing activities. 

64 

 
 
 
Novolipetsk Steel 
Notes to the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2015 
(millions of US dollars) 

27 

New or revised standards and interpretations (continued) 

The Group is currently assessing the impact of the amendments on its financial position and results of operation. 

The following new standards and interpretations are not expected to affect significantly the Group’s consolidated 
financial statements once adopted: 

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

(cid:131)

IFRS 14, Regulatory deferral accounts (issued in January 2014 and effective for annual periods beginning 
on or after 1 January 2016). 

Accounting for Acquisitions of Interests in Joint Operations - Amendments to IFRS 11 (issued on 6 May 
2014 and effective for the periods beginning on or after 1 January 2016). 

Agriculture: Bearer plants - Amendments to IAS 16 and IAS 41 (issued on 30 June 2014 and effective for 
annual periods beginning 1 January 2016). 

Equity Method in Separate Financial Statements - Amendments to IAS 27 (issued on 12 August 2014 and 
effective for annual periods beginning 1 January 2016). 

Investment  Entities:  Applying  the  Consolidation  Exception  Amendment  to  IFRS  10,  IFRS  12  and  IAS  28 
(issued in December 2014 and effective for annual periods on or after 1 January 2016). 

28 

Subsequent events 

The Group’s management has performed an evaluation of subsequent events and did not find any  through the 
period from 1 January 2016 to 23 March 2016, which is the date when these consolidated financial statements are 
published. 

65