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Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

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FY2017 Annual Report · Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA
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Annual report
2017

Sustainability
report 2017

With big internal changes and many 
exciting sustainability initiatives happening 
around the world, never before have we seen 
so many great opportunities to shape the 
maritime industry.

I am pleased with our achievements in 2017, 
and our direction going forwards. We are 
committed to address all aspects of our 
business and footprint and I am confident 
that we will continue to do the right things 
the right way. 

Significant changes 
since last report 

In April 2017, the Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics ASA (WWL ASA) merger was 
completed and listed on the Oslo stock 
exchange. Wilhelmsen holds a 37.8% 
shareholding in the new entity with a seat 
on the board and a representative in the 
nomination committee. Because of this 
change, the shipping and logistics activities 
resulting from WWL ASA operations are 
no longer included in the boundary of our 
reporting. Further information on WWL ASA 
sustainability can be found on 
walleniuswilhelmsen.com.

Thomas Wilhelmsen, group CEO

Materiality matrix

HIGH

l

s
r
e
d
o
h
e
k
a
t
s

l

a
n
r
e
t
x
e
o
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c
n
a
t
r
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p
m

I

•  Business ethics and anti-corruption
•  Working conditions, labour 
  standards, health and safety
•  Emissions to air, sea and soil
•  Employee competence and 
  development

•  Local communities
•  Diversity and inclusion

•  Sustainable supplier management
•  Labour relations
•  Tax transparency
•  Ship recycling

•  Energy use
•  Innovation

•  Waste
•  Lobbying

LOW

Importance to us

HIGH

 
 
 
 
Highlights
2017

Targets
for 2018

TAKE 5 program
implemented
in Ships Agency

Implemented
digital trainee 
program

Three start-ups 
utilised the Maritime 
Innovation Lab

Ship Management
screened more than 
300 new suppliers

Vessel LTIF rate 
within target not 
to exceed 0.55

14 628 employees
5 168 onshore
9 460 seafarers

Ship Service achieved 
global certification 
according to the OHSAS 
18001 standard

99% of employees
 assigned for competition 
law training completed 
the course

Vessel LTIF rate 
not to exceed 
0.50

%

1
-

 Ship Management 
to reduce fuel
consumption in the 
managed fleet by 
1% compared with 
the established 
baseline every year

Females represent 36% of 
the onshore population, 
and 1% of the seafarer 
population

Employee engagement 
score was a high 72 
points, up three since the 
last survey in 2015

Conduct a new 
materiality 
assessment 

%
5
8

85% employees 
complete 
performance 
review

Wilhelmsen Chemicals 
will install new factory 
heating systems 
to reduce the 
environmental impact

File binding corporate 
rules (BCR) application 
with data protection 
authorities and ensure 
follow up of identified 
loopholes

Sustainability work in 2017 

The Wilhelmsen group consists of a diverse portfolio of 
maritime related companies operating on six continents. 
We have the world’s largest maritime network with 262 
offices in 69 countries on call 24/7, and deliver products and 
services to more than 50% of the merchant fleet. To enable 
sustainable global trade, we are committed to deliver safe 
and sustainable solutions to the maritime industry. We 
continuously work to improve our environmental footprint, 
our efforts on compliance, to increase our employees’ 

health and safety, and contribute to the communities in 
which we operate. In 2017, we revised our sustainability 
policy and requirements. The requirements are to be 
implemented in our strategies and business goals, 
advocated when representing Wilhelmsen on boards and 
used as requirements in mergers and acquisitions, and 
investment decisions. In 2018, we will continue to build 
internal competence and robust reporting systems based 
on this policy. 

Environment 

As a global company with thousands of people spread across the world, we have an 
opportunity to continuously work towards reducing our environmental footprint 
and set a healthy standard in the maritime industry. In 2017, we saw a shift from our 
environmental focus on vessels to our primary operations, which are the maritime 
service industry. With this shift, we have started the work to map and build a system 
to better understand our global footprint in our locations around the world. We are 
no longer reporting on emissions from previously owned ships, but rather reporting 
on the environmental footprint of where we have people delivering our products 
and services across the globe. 

Governance

We have clear policies on ethics and anti-corruption. We do not tolerate any form 
of corruption, and we expect all employees to live up to the high ethical standards 
we lay down in our governing documents and Code of Conduct. Business standards 
work is ongoing and constant, and our various stakeholders depend on us being a 
transparent and compliant partner. In 2017, we worked on our new personal data 
protection policy which will be rolled out in 2018, we conducted competition law 
training, and conducted business standard audits to name a few initiatives. 

Employees 

We are 14 628 employees of 82 nationalities, with Norway, Malaysia and India 
representing the top three populations in size onshore. Females represent 36% 
of the onshore population, 1% of the seafarer population, and 17% of senior 
management positions. In 2017, our employee engagement survey score was 
up three points, to a high 72, in a period of significant organisational changes, 
and 92% of our employees responded. For both on vessel and onshore 
operations, the lost time injury frequency rate and total recordable frequency 
rate were within target. Regrettably, there was one work related fatality on 
board a vessel during cargo operations.

find more on wilhelmsen.com/sustainability2017

 
Securing a position
to win the future

A swift look in the mirror
I had an ambition for 2017. Personally and as 
a group, I wanted us to engage in potentially 
game-changing technologies and business 
models, and ensure we actively addressed how 
we can create future value for our customers.  

innovative and by disrupting ourselves. We 
will acquire companies and competencies to 
bolster our existing businesses, but also to 
support our need to develop new solutions 
and business models, which will deliver value 
in the years to come.

How did we do? Our knowledge of modern 
technologies and how they can be applied 
in our industry has absolutely increased. 
We have also been engaged in new types of 
dialogues with business partners on how we 
can cooperate to create future solutions. Some 
of these have materialised. Others will be 
public in 2018 and the years to come.  

Our toolbox has expanded and we have 
seen how we can develop new solutions 
fast and in closer cooperation with our 
customers. I have also witnessed that we 
have gone from talking about 3D printing, 
sensors, drones and artificial intelligence to 
piloting these technologies live around the 
world. In addition, and to be able to foster 
this innovative and agile culture, we have 
continued to invest in building tomorrow’s 
leaders. 

Honestly, I’m quite amazed by what we have 
delivered in 2017, not least since we also 
have gone through radical changes. Most 
of our companies have had challenges in 
their markets and seen a need to restructure 
and right size. In addition, with the merger 
that led to Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics 
being a separately listed entity, we don’t own 
any vessels for the first time in 156 years. 
Combined, substantial, but necessary changes 
to ensure we are fit for future growth.  

What next?
Our existing offers and business models will 
continue to be challenged by multiple factors, 
including rapid technology development, 
changing customer- and supplier behaviour, 
new competitors and a changing workforce. 
This creates a vast number of opportunities, 
which we will capture by being agile, 

Our strategic ambition is to develop a 
balanced group of companies across shipping, 
maritime services, logistics operations and 
infrastructure. We will create profitable 
and sustainable operations through active 
ownership and develop businesses that grow 
at or above the market. To be successful, 
we will continue to take advantage of our 
network and competence, brand, and culture, 
and retain, attract and develop the people 
necessary to take us into the future. 

Taking action on ocean sustainability
90% of goods are carried by ships. Living 
off the ocean, we are committed to ensuring 
the oceans are managed in a healthy and 
sustainable way for future generations. 
We are inspired by our responsibility to 
contribute to the UN sustainable development 
goals set for 2030. In 2018, we have already 
launched two new initiatives supporting these 
ambitions – one related to wind, the other 
to autonomous vessels. And we expect new 
innovations to merge in 2018 and the years to 
come.  

My promise
I have 14 627 colleagues in the wide Wilhelmsen 
group*. We are inspired by a drive to shape 
the maritime industry. We will make this 
happen by ensuring our customers succeed 
and continue to stay at the forefront. Through 
powerful curiosity and imagination, we will 
explore new ways of creating value and be 
inspired to change our business models and 
solutions. 

Why? Simply because it is more fun to be in 
in the forefront of developing the maritime 
industry, than to be someone who adopts what 
everyone else is already doing.

*See note 6 on page 58 
for definition.

6

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017GroupGroup CEO statement“It is more fun and satisfying to be in the forefront of 
developing the maritime industry, than to be someone
who just adopts what everyone else is doing.”

Thomas Wilhelmsen, group CEO

7

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017GroupGroup CEO statement Drones

Jessica Chen

Business coordinator

Wilhelmsen Ships Service, Ships Agency

If you could reduce cost, reduce safety risk, reduce negative environment 

impact and increase efficiency, would you be interested? What if you 

could work dramatically faster, still interested? With drones in a maritime 

environment, we can give our customers clear benefits on cargo hold 

inspections, deliveries and more services to come. The best part is that 

the technology we use is only getting better. Jessica Chen is part of the 

team working on our drone projects. By adopting a well-known concept 

of drones, but putting them into a challenging maritime environment, 

Wilhelmsen is shaping the maritime industry. 

Content

10
12

14
16
17
19

22
24
26
27
27
30
30

32
34
34
34
35
36
37
38
44

Key figures
Key figures consolidated accounts

Directors’ report
Main development and strategic direction
Financial summary – the group financial accounts
Performance of the group and business segments
  Maritime services
  Supply services
  Holding and investments
Risk review
Health, working environment and safety
Organisation and people development
Corporate governance
Sustainability
Allocation of profit, dividend and buy-back
Prospects

Accounts and notes
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA group
Income statement
Comprehensive income
Balance sheet
Cash flow statement
Equity
Accounting policies
Notes

88
90
90
91
92
93
109
115

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA parent company
Income statement
Comprehensive income
Balance sheet
Cash flow statement
Notes
Auditor’s report
Responsibility statement

116
118

Corporate governance
Corporate governance report

130
132
132
133
134

Corporate structure
Wilhelmsen group main structure
Holding and investments segment
Supply services segment
Maritime services segment

9

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017GroupContentK
e
y
fi
g
u
r
e
s

 Bots

Sachin Gupta

Business manager oil

Wilhelmsen Ships Service, Marine Products

Imagine a customer journey that means immediate response 

to your product queries and constant access to our product 

catalogues. Imagine having everything you need at your 

fingertips, while the people behind the products and services 

you need can focus even more on giving you the best 

customer experience. At Wilhelmsen, we are developing 

BOTS to serve your needs, because we are simplifying your 

business. Sachin is part of the team working on our BOT 

technology. Interacting with Wilhelmsen is only getting easier. 

 
Key figures

Consolidated accounts

INCOME STATEMENT

Total income *

Operating profit before amortisation and impairment (EBITDA)*

Operating profit *

Profit before tax *

Net profit *

Net profit after non-controlling interests *

BALANCE SHEET

Non current assets

Current assets

Equity

Interest-bearing debt

Total assets

KEY FINANCIAL FIGURES
Cash flow from operation (1)
Liquid funds at 31 December (2)
Liquidy ratio (3)
Equity ratio (4)

YIELD
Return on equity (5)

2017

2016

2015

2014

2013

 USD mill

    USD mill

USD mill

USD mill

USD mill

USD mill

 USD mill

 USD mill

 USD mill

 USD mill

 793   

198    

176

253

(2)

(64)       

2 637    

651

2 188

601

930  

116 

94

151 

251 

201 

3 781 

914

2 492

1 533 

3 173

3 693

3 683

398

165

48

57

54

3 566

1 120

2 206

1 660

566

381

273

292

241

3 687

1 152

2 329

1 693

542

363

374

340

260

3 728

1 218

2 286

1 851

 USD mill

3 288    

4 695

4 686

4 839

4 946

 USD mill

 USD mill

%  

139

268

1.4

67%

420 

580 

1.9 

53% 

 258

638

1.7

47%

241

688

2.1

48%

243

734

1.7

46%

%  

0%

11%

2%

13%

16%

KEY FIGURES PER SHARE
Earnings per share (6)
Operating profit before amortisation and impairment (EBITDA) per share (7)*
Average number of shares outstanding

Dividend per share

 USD

USD

Thousand

NOK

(1.38)

4.26

46 404

5.00

4.34

2.51  

46 404

5.00

1.16

8.55 

46 404

5.00

5.20

12.18

46 404

5.00

5.59

11.66

46 404

5.50

Definition

 (1)  Net cash flow from operating activities
 (2)  Cash, bank deposits and short term financial investments
 (3)  Current assets divided by current liabilities
 (4)  Equity in percent of total assets
 (5)  Profit after tax divided by average equity
 (6)  Profit for the period after non-controlling interests, divided by average number of shares

  Earnings per share taking into consideration the number of shares reduced for own shares

 (7)  Operating profit for the period adjusted for depreciation and impairments of assets, divided by average number of shares outstanding

  *  Figures for 2016 are restated with Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA reported as discontinued operation.

  Figures for 2015, 2014 and 2013 are according to the proportinate method.

12

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017GroupKey figures   
  
  
  
  
  
  
    
  
  
    
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
Highlights for 2017

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA 
merger completed, creating one 
of the largest listed shipping and 
logistics companies globally

Continued development of group 
service offering, including digital 
solutions, bolt-on acquisitions 
and infrastructure investments

67%

Ships service delivers 
products and solutions 
to more than 50% of 
the merchant fleet

75 000

75 000 port calls handled 
by ships service port 
agents per year

Increased ownership 
in NorSea Group from 
40% to 74.1%

Ship management serves 
approximately 390 vessels globally, 
35% on full technical management

9 460

Ship management employs 
approximately 9 460 
seafarers

Book equity ratio 
increased to 67%

Paid dividend of 
NOK 5.00 per share

Ships service has around 210 000 
product deliveries per year. A delivery 
every three minutes 24/7/365

Positive development
in Wilhelmsen
(WWI) share price

1 000 000

1 000 000 tonnes of 
equipment handled for 
offshore installations by 
NorSea Group

Signed agreement to buy Drew Marine, 
subject to regulatory approval

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA share 
price was up 75% during the year

D

i
r
e
c
t
o
r
s

’

r
e
p
o
r
t

 Boiler water

Rune Nygaard 

Business manager water

Wilhelmsen Ships Service, Marine Products

The boiler is one of a vessel’s key components, but if not 

properly maintained can become its most volatile piece of 

equipment. Today, boiler water maintenance is performed 

onboard by overstretched crews that have more and more 

tasks to take care of. Our solution combines automatic 

dosing capability with real time data feedback and analysis 

both on board and onshore, thereby reducing this burden. 

Currently installed on eight test vessels, this is just the 

beginning. As our dosing and monitoring units can include 

other water streams on the vessel, we can deliver asset 

protection in multiple places with a standardized solution that 

is communicated and viewable via a single cloud platform.  

 
Directors’ report 
for 2017

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Main development and strategic direction
The Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group 
(Wilhelmsen or group) is an industrial holding 
company within the maritime and logistics 
industry. The group activities are carried out 
through fully and partly owned entities, most 
of which are among the market leaders within 
their segments. Wilhelmsen’s ambition is to 
develop companies within maritime services, 
shipping, logistics or infrastructure to grow at 
or above the market through active ownership.

In 2017, Wilhelmsen completed several 
structural changes of the group initiated the 
previous year. This has created significant 
shareholder value, a more transparent 
governance and corporate structure, and laid 
the foundation for better services and product 
offerings to customers.

On 4 April, the merger of Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
ASA and Wallroll AB was formally completed, 
and the following day, Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics ASA started trading on the Oslo 
Stock Exchange. Wilhelmsen owns 160 million 
shares in Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics 
ASA, representing an ownership share of 
37.8%.

The creation of Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics ASA opens up for a more effective 
management, operational and financial 
structure. Significant synergies have 
already been achieved, and together with 
increased share liquidity and a positive 
market sentiment amongst others, this 
has contributed to a significant uplift in 
shareholder value.

On 26 September, Wilhelmsen secured 
majority control in NorSea Group. Ownership 
was increased to 74.1 % by the end of the year, 
with further increases taking place early 2018.

NorSea Group has since 2015 cooperated with 
WilNor Governmental Services (owned 51% 

by Wilhelmsen and 49% by NorSea Group) on 
providing services to the armed forces. Early 
2018, NorSea Group and Wilhelmsen Ship 
Management secured a five year agreement 
with TenneT, establishing the two as leading 
suppliers to the offshore-wind industry.

Maritime services activities started the year 
with a new, slimmer platform, following 
previous year sale of non-core activities. 
During the year, new digital product offerings 
and bolt-on acquisitions laid the foundation 
for future growth. On 1 April, Wilhelmsen 
acquired Kemetyl’s sales and marketing 
activities for consumer products in Norway, 
and on 27 April, Wilhelmsen signed an 
agreement to acquire the technical solutions 
business from Drew Marine. The latter is 
subject to regulatory approval, with approval 
process still ongoing.

The corporate transactions and changes in 
the financial structure of the group had a 
strong bearing also on the financial accounts. 
This applies to both the income statement 
and the balance sheet. Under its review of 
group performance, the board balances 
the focus on operational performance and 
measures effecting the net asset value of group 
companies and investments.

In 2017, development in underlying results 
for the group companies were mixed. For 
both maritime services and supply services, 
operating margin adjusted for one-offs were at 
a level below long-term average. While main 
markets remained challenging, the general 
sentiment improved during the second half of 
the year. For investment activities, underlying 
results improved supported by a general 
uptick in world economy and trade.

Market value of investments increased 
significantly during the year, supported by 
an uplift in Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics 
ASA share price and a general positive 

16

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017development in world equity markets.
The reported results for the year included 
significant non-recurring items. Change in 
measurement of Treasure ASA’s shares in 
Hyundai Glovis resulted in a USD 195 million 
accounting gain, while change of measurement 
of NorSea Group resulted in a USD 40 million 
accounting loss. The Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics ASA merger implied a reclassification 
of the previous shareholding in Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen ASA as discontinued operations. 
This had a USD 239 million negative effect 
on reported net result. In addition, Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA’s accounts for 2017 
included significant merger related cost, which 
impacted Wilhelmsen’s net result through 
reduced share of profit from associates.

Total assets for the group were down in 
2017, following the reclassification of Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen ASA as discontinued operations. 
With its large capital base and investments, 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA has historically 
represented more than half the group’s total 
assets. 

The structural changes had a positive effect 
on the ratio and capital base. At the end of the 
year, the group equity ratio was 67%, up from 
53% one year earlier. Total equity to holders 
of the parent was stable. Liquid assets totalled 
USD 268 million by end of 2017, increasing 
to USD 1 069 million if including available-
for-sale financial assets. The debt repayment 
profile for the group remains of a long-term 
nature. 

and create value over time for shareholders 
and other stakeholders. The board further 
acknowledges that sustainability is a vital 
prerequisite for Wilhelmsen being a profitable 
and responsible player in the industry and 
society.

Dividend
NOK 5 
per share

In 2017, anti-corruption, competition law, 
fraud and theft as well as whistleblowing 
received particular attention. Substantial 
efforts were put into combating cyber risk, 
were appropriate risk reduction methods 
and tools were implemented. In addition, the 
group has started the adoption to the new EU 
General Data Protection Regulation that will 
come into force in May 2018.

Financial results
Income statement
In 2017, Wilhelmsen changed the reporting 
sequence in the income statement. Share of 
profit from joint ventures and associates has 
been moved from operating activities to be part 
of investing and financial activities. This has 
an impact on reported total income, EBITDA 
and operating profit, but has no impact on 
reported net result.

Total income for Wilhelmsen was USD 793 
million in the year 2017, a reduction of 15% 
from the previous year. The income reflected 
reduced operating revenue within maritime 
services, a material gain from change in 
measurement of assets, and income from the 
new supply service segment in the fourth 
quarter.

The WWI/WWIB share price developed 
positively during the year, following a strong 
rebound starting early 2016. Total return 
(including dividends reinvested on ex-dates) 
was 27.5% for the WWI share and 28.8% for 
the WWIB share, both substantially above 
the 19.1% increase in the Oslo Stock Exchange 
Benchmark index (source Oslo Stock 
Exchange Annual statistics).

Group EBITDA came in at USD 198 million 
for the year, up 70%. A USD 155 million net 
accounting gain in 2017 from change in 
measurement of assets was the main driver 
behind the increase, while 2016 results 
included USD 44 million in net sales gain and 
related transaction and restructuring costs. 
Excluding these non-recurring items, EBITDA 
was down 41% for the year.

A total dividend of NOK 5.00 per share was 
paid in 2017. A first dividend of NOK 3.50 was 
paid 11 May, followed by a second dividend of 
NOK 1.50 paid 23 November. This represented 
a dividend yield of 2.5% based on the average 
WWI/WWIB share price by the end of 2016.

For maritime services, a continued weak 
shipping and offshore market and reduced 
activities following previous year sale of 
business units had a negative impact on 
EBITDA. The year also includes significant 
corporate cost, mainly related to M&A activities.

In 2017, Wilhelmsen created a new visual 
identity, covering all fully owned entities.

The board believes sound corporate 
governance is the foundation for profitable 
growth and a healthy company culture. 
Good governance contributes to reduced risk 

The new supply services segment contributed 
with a positive EBITDA, following consolidation 
of NorSea Group from end of third quarter. 

EBITDA for the holding and investments 
segment was also positive for the year, with 
accounting gain from change in measurement 

17

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017of Treasure ASA’s investment in Hyundai 
Glovis offsetting net corporate cost.

Share of profit from joint ventures and 
associates was USD 55 million for the year, 
down 33%. A strong second half for Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA made a positive 
contribution, while second quarter merger 
and restructuring cost dragged down. 

Other financials was a net income of USD 
22 million in 2017, lifted by a net currency 
gain and gain from sale of available-for-sale 
financial assets. Investment management and 
interest income contributed positively with a 
total of USD 10 million while interest expenses 
were USD 14 million.

Tax was included with an expense of 
USD 16 million.

Discontinued operation related to previous 
ownership in Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA was 
included with a loss of USD 239 million in 
2017. This mainly reflected difference between 
carrying value of net assets and market value 
at time of the Wallenius Wilhelmsen merger. 
This compares with a USD 113 million gain 
in 2016, following a restatement of Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen ASA. See note 3, discontinued 
operations, for more information. 

Net profit after tax and non-controlling 
interests was a loss of USD 64 million in 2017 
compared with a USD 201 million gain in 2016.

Comprehensive income
Other comprehensive income for the year 
was a gain of USD 77 million, compared with 
a gain of USD 65 million in the previous year. 
This mainly reflected currency translation 
differences on non-USD assets and liabilities 
when converting into USD. Part of the 
translation differences was accounting effect 
from reclassification of Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA 
as discontinued operations.

Total comprehensive income for 2017 was USD 
75 million, of which a profit of USD 14 million 
was attributable to owners of the parent. 
The corresponding figures for 2016 was USD 
315 million and USD 264 million respectively. 

Cash flow, liquidity and debt
The group had a net decrease in cash and cash 
equivalents of USD 130 million for the year, 
compared with a decrease of USD 16 million 
in the previous year.

2016. The reduced cash flow was mainly a 
result of reclassification of Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
ASA as discontinued operation. Cash flow 
from maritime services activities was down 
on the back of reduced operation, while the 
new supply services segment contributed 
positively.

Cash flow from investing activities was 
negative with USD 156 million, compared 
with negative USD 136 million in 2016. The 
group made net investments in fixed assets 
and subsidiaries of USD 41 million 2017, while 
reclassification of Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA as 
discontinued operations had a USD 121 million 
negative effect.

Cash flow from financing activities was 
negative with USD 114 million, evenly spread 
between dividend to shareholders, ordinary 
interest payments for group companies and 
net debt repayment. 

Cash and cash equivalents were USD 167 million 
by end of the year, down from USD 296 million 
one year earlier. 

The parent company carries out active 
financial asset management of part of the 
group’s liquidity, with investments in 
various asset classes including Nordic shares 
and investment grade bonds. The value of 
the investment portfolio amounted to 
USD 101 million at the end of 2017. One year 
earlier, the group investment portfolio was 
USD 285 million, of which USD 83 million were 
in the parent company and the balance were 
in Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA.

Available-for-sale financial assets totalled USD 
801 million by the end of the year, up from 
USD 209 million at the end of 2016. The largest 
investments were the ~12% shareholding in 
Hyundai Glovis (held through Treasure ASA), 
the ~4% shareholding in Qube and the ~20% 
shareholding in Survitec.

Liquid assets (USD million)

2017

2016

Cash and cash equivalent

167

296

Current financial investments

101

285

Available-for-sale financial assets

801

209

Total

1 069

790

Cash flow from operating activities was USD 
139 million, down from USD 420 million in 

The main group companies fund their 
investments and operations on a standalone 

18

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Maritime 
services

• Wilhelmsen Ships Service

• Wilhelmsen Ship 
  Management

• Wilhelmsen Insurance  
  Services

• Survitec Group
  (owned ~20%)

basis, with no recourse to the parent company. 
The primary funding source is the commercial 
bank loan market.

As of 31 December 2017, the group’s total 
interest-bearing debt was USD 601 million, 
compared with USD 1 533 million by end 2016.

Interest bearing debt (USD million)

2017

2016

Maritime services

196

179

Supply services

369

Holding and investments

54

34

Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA 

1 320

Eliminations

(18)

Total

601

1 533

Going concern assumption
Pursuant to section 4, sub-section 5, confer 
section 3, sub-section 3a of the Norwegian 
Accounting Act, it is confirmed that the 
annual accounts have been prepared under 
the assumption that the enterprise is a going 
concern and that the conditions are present. 

compared with an expense of USD 28 million 
in 2016. 2017 financial items were positively 
impacted by a USD 12 million net gain on 
currency and financial instruments and a USD 
3 million revaluation gain related to available-
for-sale financial assets. 

Tax expense was USD 15 million in 2017, the 
same as previous year. A high level of non-
deductible expenses primarily related to M&A 
activities had a bearing on tax expense for the 
year.

Net profit after tax and non-controlling 
interests was USD 29 million in 2017 compared 
with USD 64 million in the previous year.

Ships service
Wilhelmsen Ships Service is a global provider 
of standardised product brands and service 
solutions to the maritime industry, focusing on 
marine products, marine chemicals, maritime 
logistics and ships agency. Ships service is fully 
owned by Wilhelmsen.

Total income from ships service was USD 
534 million in 2017. This was a 12% reduction 
from the previous year, mainly due to loss of 
revenue from activities sold in 2016. Sale of 
marine products was stable, while sale of non-
marine products increased supported by an 
acquisition.

Maritime services
The maritime services segment includes ships 
service, ship management and other maritime 
services activities.

EBITDA and operating margin were relatively 
stable when adjusting for effect of 2016 sale of 
safety activities.

Total income for maritime services was 
USD 580 million in 2017, down 37% when 
compared with the previous year. The reduction 
was due to loss of operating revenue from 
entities sold in 2016.

EBITDA for the year was USD 51 million 
compared with USD 126 million in 2016. 
While 2017 included substantial corporate cost 
mainly related to ongoing M&A activities, the 
previous year includes a substantial sales gain. 
When adjusting for the above items, EBITDA 
was down 9% from 2016. 

The maritime services operating margin was 
6.2% in 2017, which was below both historic 
average and the long-term target. The margin 
reflected a still weak maritime service market, 
while a relatively strong USD continued to lift 
the margin. When adjusting for M&A and other 
corporate cost, the operating margin was 10.3%.

Financial items for maritime services 
amounted to an income of USD 6 million 

On 1 April, Wilhelmsen Chemicals took over 
Kemetyl’s sales and marketing activities for 
consumer products in Norway.

On 27 April 2017, Wilhelmsen signed an 
agreement to acquire the technical solutions 
business from Drew Marine, subject regulatory 
approval. The approval process is still 
ongoing.

Ship management
Wilhelmsen Ship Management provides full 
technical management, crewing and related 
services for all major vessel types. Ship 
management is fully owned by Wilhelmsen.

Total income for ship management was 
USD 45 million in 2017, a reduction of 4%.

Average number of vessels on full technical 
management was stable during the year. By 
the end of the year, ship management served 
approximately 390 ships worldwide, of which 
35% were on full technical management and 

19

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 201710% were on layup management. The remaining 
contracts were related to crewing services.

EBITDA was down for the year, reflecting 
reduced operating income and margin.

Early 2018, ship management announced 
relocation of its global head office from Kuala 
Lumpur, Malaysia, to Singapore.

Survitec Group 
Survitec Group holds market-leading positions 
worldwide in marine, offshore, defence and 
aerospace survival technology. The company is 
majority owned by Onex Corporation, a private 
equity firm. Wilhelmsen owns ~20% of the 
company, which is reported as an available-for-
sale financial asset. 

The investment in Survitec, denominated in 
GBP, was valued at USD 83 million by the end 
of 2017. This is up from USD 79 million one 
year earlier. A revaluation has been made of 
the investment, with a net USD 3 million gain 
reported as financial income. This gain mainly 
relates to currency effect from converting the 
investment from GBP to USD. 

Wilhelmsen Insurance Services
Wilhelmsen Insurance Services provides 
marine and non-marine insurance solutions 
for internal and external clients. Insurance 
services is fully owned by Wilhelmsen.

Total income for insurance services was 
USD 2 million in 2017, a 3% reduction from the 
previous year due to currency. EBITDA was 
down for the year.

In May, Wilhelmsen Insurance Services was 
appointed sole broker to handle marine, land-
based and company related insurances on 
behalf of Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA 
following a tendering process.

Technical services activities
The technical services activities were sold 
in 2016. The business area had no activity in 
2017, while total income and EBITDA for 2016 
reflected operation until completion of the 
sale and a sales gain.

Supply services
The supply services segment includes NorSea 
Group, WilNor Governmental Services and 
other supply services activities. This is a new 
segment in the Wilhelmsen group accounts and 
reporting, and follows the increased ownership 
and consolidation of NorSea Group from 
26 September 2017.
Total income from supply services was 

USD 57 million in 2017. This included income 
in NorSea Group for the fourth quarter, and 
full year income from operating activities 
transferred from holding and investments 
segment to the new supply services segment.

EBITDA came in at USD 9 million, while share 
of profit from associates was USD 1 million.

Reduced financial expenses and a tax income 
had a positive impact on the results. 

Net profit after non-controlling interests was 
USD 3 million.

NorSea Group AS
NorSea Group provides supply bases and 
integrated logistics solution to the offshore 
industry. Wilhelmsen owns ~74,6% of the 
company (40% ownership until 26 September 
and ~74,1% as per 31 December 2017). NorSea 
Group is fully consolidated in Wilhelmsen’s 
accounts from end of third quarter 2017.

Total income for NorSea Group, including 
sales gain but excluding share of profits 
from associates and joint ventures, was 
NOK 1,85 billion in 2017. This was a 
15% reduction from the previous year. 
The reduction followed reduced income 
from supply base activities in Norway and 
Denmark, and a 2016 net sales gain. Activity 
level in Barents Sea increased.

EBITDA was down, following the reduction in 
operating income.

Share of profit from associates and 
joint ventures was also down, with 2016 
contribution increased by a material net sales 
gain. Development in net financial income/
expenses and tax were positive.

Wilhelmsen’s share of net profit in NorSea 
Group for the period up to 26 September 
was USD 5 million in 2017, down from 
USD 12 million for the full year 2016. From 
26 September 2017, NorSea Group was fully 
consolidated in Wilhelmsen’s accounts.

On 26 September, Wilhelmsen increased 
ownership in NorSea Group from 40% to 
~72%. Total consideration was USD 70 million. 
Ownership was increased to ~74.1 % by the 
end of 2017, and has early 2018 been further 
increased to ~74.6%.

WilNor Governmental Services 
WilNor Governmental Services provides 
military logistics services in Norway and 
internationally. Wilhelmsen ownes 51% of the 

Supply
services

• NorSea Group
  (owned ~74.6%)

• WilNor Governmental 
  Services

20

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Holding and 
investments

• Wallenius Wilhelmsen
  Logistics ASA
  (owned ~37.8%)

• Treasure ASA
  (owned ~72.7%)

• Qube Holdings Limited  
  (owned ~4.0%)

• Financial investment 
  portfolio

company directly, with the remaining 49% 
owned through NorSea Group. 

Total income for WilNor Governmental 
Services was USD 5 million in 2017. This was 
47% down from previous year, which included 
services related to a NATO exercise. EBITDA 
was stable. 

Holding and investments
The holding and investments segment includes 
investments in Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics 
ASA and Treasure ASA, financial investments, 
and other holding and investments activities. 
The investments in NorSea Group was reported 
as part of the segment up until 26 September 2017.

Total income for the holding and investments 
segment was USD 171 million in 2017, 
compared with USD 29 million in 2016. 
The increase was due to a USD 195 million 
accounting gain from change in measurement 
of Treasure ASA’s ownership in Hyundai 
Glovis from associates to available-for-sale 
financial asset, partly reduced by a USD 40 
million accounting loss due to fair valuing the 
equity investment when NorSea Group was 
reclassified from associate to subsidiary.

EBITDA was USD 138 million in 2017, 
compared with a loss of USD 10 million in 
the previous year. The increase followed 
development in total income.

Share of profit from associates was USD 
49 million, compared with USD 77 million 
one year earlier. While contribution from 
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA was the 
main source of income in 2017, share of net 
result in Treasure ASA’s holding in Hyundai 
Glovis was the main contributor in 2016.

Net financials was an income of USD 16 million, 
up from USD 4 million in 2016. The increase 
was mainly due to gain from sale of available-
for-sale financial assets. 

Net profit/(loss) after tax and non-controlling 
interests was a net profit of USD 150 million 
compared with a profit of USD 56 million in 
the previous year.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA is a global 
provider of shipping and logistics services 
towards car and ro-ro customers, and is listed 
on the Oslo Stock Exchange. Wilhelmsen owns 
~37,8% of the company, which is reported as an 
associate in Wilhelmsen group’s accounts, with 
share of net result reported as share of profit 
from associates

In 2016, Wilhelmsen and Wallenius Lines 
AB signed an agreement leading to a new 
ownership structure for their jointly owned 
investments in Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics, EUKOR Car Carriers and American 
Roll on Roll off Carrier.

On 4 April 2017, the merger of Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen ASA and Wallroll AB was formally 
completed. The following day, Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA started trading 
on the Oslo Stock Exchange under the new 
ticker, WWL. Following the merger, Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA is reported as an 
associate in the Wilhelmsen accounts. 

As part of the agreement, Wallenius Lines AB 
sold on 20 April part of its newly acquired 
shares in the company. Following the share 
sale, both Wilhelmsen and Wallenius Lines 
AB owns 160 million shares in Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA, representing an 
ownership share of approximately 37.8% each.

Total income for Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics ASA was USD 3 800 million for 
the year 2017, when including pro forma 
figures for the period up to the merger. This 
was an increase of 6% compared with the 
corresponding pro forma total income for 
2016. 

Pro forma EBITDA ended at USD 614 million 
for 2017, up 4% from the previous year. 
However, 2017 included negative non-
recurring items related to a merger accounting 
loss and organisational restructuring costs. 
EBITDA adjusted for these items was 
USD 706 million, an underlying improvement 
of 19% compared to 2016. The improvement 
was primarily driven by an increase in ocean 
volumes, improved cargo mix, realisation of 
synergies, and improved results for the land-
based segment.

Pro forma net result for the full year of 2017 
was USD 154 million. Wilhelmsen’s share of 
net result for the period from 4 April was 
USD 44 million. 

The Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA 
(previous Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA) share 
price was up 75% during the year, closing at 
NOK 59.25. Measured in USD, the share price 
was up 84%. As of 31 December 2017, the 
market value of Wilhelmsen’s investment was 
USD 1 155 million, while the book value of 
the shareholding was USD 831 million.

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA did not 
pay any dividends in 2017.

21

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Treasure ASA 
Treasure ASA owns 12.04% of the shares in 
Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd., a global transportation 
and logistics provider based in Seoul, Korea. 
Wilhelmsen owns ~72.7% of Treasure ASA, 
which is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. 
Hyundai Glovis is from 4 April 2017 reported 
as an available-for-sale financial asset in 
Wilhelmsen’s accounts.

Treasure ASA’s fundamental objective is to 
generate significant total shareholder returns 
from investments within the maritime 
and logistics industries. The company can 
generate shareholder returns by growth in the 
market value of its shares, through dividends 
or other distributions to shareholders. 
Whereas the primary focus is on managing the 
shareholding in Hyundai Glovis, the financial 
capabilities of the group are strong.

The value of Treasure ASA’s investment 
in Hyundai Glovis was USD 575 million by 
the end of 2017. This was a decrease of USD 
5 million for the year. The ~72.7% investment 
value attributable to owners of Wilhelmsen 
was USD 418 million, a decrease of USD 
3 million for the year.

The Treasure ASA share price was down 14% 
for the year, closing at NOK 14.40. Measured 
in USD, the share price was down 9%. This 
represented a discount of 33% compared 
with net asset value of the company. As 
of 31 December 2017, the market value of 
Wilhelmsen’s shareholding in Treasure ASA 
was USD 281 million.

In 2017, Treasure ASA paid total dividend of 
NOK 0.95 per share. Total cash proceeds to 
Wilhelmsen was USD 18 million.

Qube Holdings Limited
Qube Holdings is an Australian based diversified 
logistics and infrastructure company, and is 
listed on the Australian Securities Exchange. 
Wilhelmsen owns ~4.0% of the company, which 
is reported as available-for-sale financial asset. 

Early 2017, Qube received formal approval to 
develop the 243 hectare Moorebank Logistics 
Park in Sydney. This will become the largest 
intermodal freight precinct in Australia 
when fully developed. As part funding of 
the project, Wilhelmsen participating in the 
subsequent Qube equity raising. Following 
a later sell down, the group held 65 million 
shares in Qube by the end of 2017. The value 
of Wilhelmsen’s investment in Qube was 
USD 132 million by the end of the year, up 
from USD 123 million one year earlier.

In 2017, Qube paid dividend of AUD 0.055 per 
share. Total proceeds to Wilhelmsen of USD 
3 million were reported as financial income. 

Financial investment portfolio
The financial investment portfolio includes 
investments in equities, bonds and other 
financial assets available-for-sale and 
managed as part of an investment portfolio.

The financial investment portfolio held by the 
holding company was USD 101 million by the 
end of the year, compared with USD 83 million 
one year earlier. The portfolio primarily 
included Nordic equities and investment-
grade bonds. Net income from investment 
management was an income of USD 6 million 
in 2017, up from USD 2 million in 2016.

Risk review
The Wilhelmsen group consists of operating 
companies and investments exposed to the 
global economy and world merchandised trade.

From an operating perspective, maritime 
services and its exposure mainly towards the 
global merchant fleet is the most significant 
activity. Exposure to the offshore industry has 
increased following a larger shareholding in 
NorSea Group. 

From an investment perspective, Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA is the largest 
exposure, supported by a strong value 
appreciation during the year. Through its 
capital intensity and cyclical nature, shipping 
has historically represented a relatively 
high degree of volatility and financial risk. 
Treasure ASA, and indirectly its shareholding 
in Hyundai Glovis, also remains a significant 
investment.

The restructuring of Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA, 
completed in 2017, has had a positive effect on 
the group’s risk. While the new shareholding 
in Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA 
remains the largest investment of the group, 
an integrated business model and a larger 
shareholder base reduce the Wilhelmsen 
ownership risk. 

Internal control and risk management
The group is committed to manage risks in 
a sound manner related to its businesses 
and operations. To accomplish this, the 
governing concept of conscious strategy and 
controllable procedures for risk mitigation 
ultimately provides a positive impact to 
profitability. The responsibility of governing 
boards, management and all employees is 
to be aware of the current environment in 

22

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017which they operate, implement measures to 
mitigate risks, prepare to act upon unusual 
observations, threats or incidents, and 
respond to risks to mitigate consequences. 
The group has put in place a risk monitor 
process based on identification of risks for 
each business unit, with a consolidated report 
presented to the board on a quarterly basis for 
review and necessary actions.

Market risk 
Demand for the group’s service offerings are, 
to various degree, correlated with the general 
global economic activity and in particular 
trade in commodities and manufactured 
goods. Projections for 2018 provided by the 
International Monetary Fund and other 
institutions indicates that global economic 
activity continues to firm up. Risks to the 
global growth forecast appear broadly 
balanced in the near term, but remain skewed 
to the downside over the medium term.

Maritime services’ exposure is to the general 
shipping market, which remains weak. 
While the overall market improved during 
second half of 2017, differences in sentiment 
between different market segments remains. 
Wilhelmsen’s exposure to the newbuilding 
market has been substantially reduced, 
following sale of business units in 2016.

Supply services’ exposure is mainly to the 
North Sea offshore sector. This sector has 
seen a downturn during the last few years, 
but market sentiment has recently been 
improving. 

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA is 
primarily exposed to the automotive and 
high and heavy logistics markets. Global 
automotive sales continues to grow broadly in 
line with global GDP. High and heavy markets 
have seen several years of declining volumes, 
but market sentiment is now improving. 

Of main investments, Hyundai Glovis (owned 
through Treasure ASA) remains exposed to 
Korea, the Hyundai group and in particular 
Hyundai and Kia car volumes. Qube Holdings 
has a similar exposure to the Australian and 
New Zealand economies, and in particular 
export of commodities and merchandised 
imports. 

Operational risk
The various operating entities of the group 
are exposed to and manage risk specific to the 
markets in which they operate. The general 
risk picture broadly remains unchanged from 
previous years. 

Through its global reach and broad product 
spectre, maritime services operations are 
exposed to a wide range of operational risk 
factors. These are, however, mainly related to 
local markets and specific product offerings. 
While any such incident will normally have 
limited global consequences, a major accident, 
turbulence within a key geographical market, 
product quality issues, disruption of IT systems 
or loss of main customers may affect the wider 
financial and operational performance.

Supply services operations will have a similar 
risk exposure as maritime services, though 
mainly related to the offshore industry and the 
northern European region.

The group has established a range of measure 
in order to avoid and, potentially, mitigate the 
consequences of operational risk incidents. 

Financial risk
Wilhelmsen remains exposed to a wide range 
of financial risk, either on a general basis or 
related to specific group companies. In the 
currency markets, the USD weakened against 
a range of currencies during 2017. Many 
commodity prices moved in the opposite 
direction, with oil price touching USD 70 per 
barrel towards the end of the year. Most equity 
markets followed a steady upward trend in 
2017, but have since experienced increased 
volatility. Interest rates remains at historic low 
levels in most markets, but with an upward 
trend lead by the US.

The group’s exposure to and management of 
financial risk are further described in Note 17 of 
the 2017 group accounts. This includes foreign 
exchange rate risk, interest rate risk, investment 
portfolio risk, credit risk and liquidity risk.

All group companies were in compliance with 
their loan covenant requirements in 2017. 

Two Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA 
subsidiaries have been part of anti-trust 
investigations in several jurisdictions since 
2012. This process is now drawing towards 
an end with outstanding jurisdictions likely 
to reach their conclusion in 2018. Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA’s provision at year 
end was USD 440 million.

The group has substantial investments 
exposed to external market pricing, including 
shares in Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics 
ASA, Treasure ASA (with underlying exposure 
to shares in Hyundai Glovis) and Qube. While 
majority of investments are of a long-term 
industrial nature, any fluctuations in values 

23

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017will have impact on the net asset value 
and solidity of the group and may affect 
profitability. During 2017, the Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA share price 
appreciated strongly, while the share price of 
Treasure ASA was down. Value in USD was 
also impacted by currency movements against 
NOK, AUD, GBP and, indirectly, KRW. 

Health, working environment and safety
Working environment and occupational health
By living the company values (empowerment, 
stewardship, customer centred, teaming 
and collaboration, learning and innovation), 
Wilhelmsen focuses on developing an 
engaging and safe working environment 
at sea and onshore. The group conducts its 
business with respect for human rights and 
labour standards, including conventions 
and guidelines related to the prevention of 
child or forced labour, minimum wage and 
salary, working conditions and freedom 
of association. Employees and external 
stakeholders are encouraged to report on 
non-compliant behaviour through the group’s 
global whistleblowing system. 

A healthy working environment leads to 
more efficient, sustainable and profitable 
business. The group’s governing elements 
and policies describe the requirements for 
ensuring this. 

Five metrics related to health and safety are 
measured on a quarterly basis, including 
sickness absence, occupational disease, lost 
time injury frequency, total recordable case 
frequency, and safety observations. 

Exposure hours
In 2017, there were around 38.8 million 
exposure hours (work hours) in the group. 
Vessel based operations accounted for 78% of 
total exposure hours and onshore operations 
accounted for 22%.

Sickness absence rate
The sickness absence rate for onshore 
operations was 1.56%, in line with base year 
2015 result of 1.67%.

The group has implemented a variety of 
initiatives to maintain a healthy work 
environment, for example focusing on 
monitoring and reporting absence cases, 
health and wellness awareness events, 
annual health checks, employee assistance 
programme, adapted working hours, social 
activities, employee engagement surveys and 
opportunities for personal development.
In 2016, reporting of occupational disease 

cases was introduced. The 2017 result of 0.07 is 
in line with the 2016 base year result of 0.29. 

Turnover
The turnover rate for employees in the parent 
company and subsidiaries was 4.32 % in 2017, 
decreasing from 8.45% in 2016. The turnover 
rate varies from segment to segment. As an 
example, the turnover rate is higher in the 
warehouse environment than in the office 
environment. 

Lost time injuries and total recordable cases
Regrettably, there was an incident in 2017 that 
lead to one work related fatality on board a 
vessel during cargo operations. This further 
emphasized the need to continuously improve 
measures that secure a safe work environment 
and a robust safety culture in the group.

A number of safety campaigns aimed at 
creating safer and healthier working conditions 
on board the vessels were conducted during 
the year with focus on analysing results and 
measuring the effectiveness of the action taken. 

There was a positive improvement in lost-time 
injuries and total recordable cases. The lost-
time injury frequency rate was 0.49, within the 
target not to exceed 0.55. The total recordable 
case frequency rate was 2.27 within the target 
not to exceed 2.8.

For onshore operations, there was also a 
reduction in overall injuries. The lost-time 
injury frequency rate was 0.20 and within 
target not to exceed 0.5. The total recordable 
case frequency rate result of 0.34 was within 
target not to exceed 1.5. 

In 2017, ships service implemented a new 
organisational structure and re-allocated 
persons and responsibilities in health, safety 
and environment closer to the operations. 
Ships service also achieved global certification 
according to the OHSAS 18001 standard and 
introduced a new risk management process 
called TAKE5. 

The awareness, identification, monitoring and 
reporting of cases in all locations will continue 
to be a key focus area into 2018.

All reported incidents were investigated to 
avoid similar incidents in the future, improve 
necessary training and awareness measures. 

Near miss incidents and safety observations
For vessel based and onshore operations, there 
continued to be room for improvement in near 
miss incident and safety observation reporting. 

Employee 
turnover 
Turnover 
rate 4.32%

24

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017All reported near misses were investigated to 
avoid similar incidents in the future, improve 
necessary training and awareness measures, 
and improve control measures. 

Safety observation reporting on vessel 
operations decreased in 2017 with 8 064 cases 
reported compared to 9 580 in 2016. Reporting 
and utilization of analytics to identify key 
potential improvement areas continues to be 
in focus. Safety observation reporting onshore 
improved in 2017 with a total of 224 versus 
185 in 2016. Manual observation reporting 
will continue to impact the completeness of 
reporting on this metric. 

Working committee and executive committee
The management cooperates closely with 
employees through several bodies, including 
the joint working committee and the executive 
committee for industrial democracy in foreign 
trade shipping. The bodies give valuable 
input to solve company related issues in a 
constructive way.

The joint working committee discusses issues 
related to health, work environment and 
safety. The executive committee for industrial 
democracy in foreign trade shipping consider 
drafts of the accounts and budget, as well as 
matters of major financial significance for 
the company or of special importance for 
the workforce. In 2017, both committees held 
official meetings according to plan. 

Organisation and people development
Workforce
The group’s head office is located in Norway, 
and the group has 262 offices in 69 countries 
within its controlled structure.

The group employs approximately 5 168 onshore 
employees and 9 460 seafarers. In addition, 
WWL ASA has approximately 7 500 employees. 

Equal opportunities
Wilhelmsen has a clear policy stating that 
males and females have the right to equal 
opportunities. Harassment and discrimination 
based on race, gender or similar grounds, 
or other behaviour that may be perceived as 
threatening or degrading, is not acceptable. 
The industry’s unequal recruitment base 
makes it difficult to achieve an equal mix of 
gender in the company.

Females represent 36% of the land-based 
population, and 1% of the seafarer population.

Two of the five directors on the board of 
directors of Wilhelmsen are female, and one 

of the five members of the company’s global 
management team.

Driving performance
Wilhelmsen strives to create a performance 
culture where engaged employees deliver 
desired results and are rewarded accordingly. 
Employee performance is measured through 
annual engagement surveys, performance 
appraisals and annual activity plans. 

The performance appraisal is a formal 
dialogue between manager and employee. 
In 2017, 87% of the population completed the 
performance appraisal, above our target of 80%. 

In the fourth quarter of 2017, Wilhelmsen 
conducted an employee engagement survey 
to measure the group’s ability to provide an 
engaging and safe work environment where 
employees are motivated to work and achieve 
their full potential. 

The survey results were positive in a period 
of significant organisational changes. The 
overall engagement score was 72 points, up 
three since the last survey in 2015. There also 
was an all-time high survey completion rate 
of 92%.

Compensation and benefits
The purpose of Wilhelmsen’s compensation 
and benefit framework is to drive performance 
and to attract and retain the right employees. 
These are considered to be people with the 
right experience and knowledge deemed 
necessary to achieve the company’s strategic 
ambitions. The framework takes local 
regulations and competition into account, as 
well as the responsibility and complexity of 
the position. 

The bonus scheme is one of several 
instruments focusing attention on driving 
performance. Bonus is paid if set bonus 
targets are reached. Compensation to 
executives is described in the notes 6 and 2 to 
the group and parent accounts respectively. 
Wilhelmsen also issues a declaration on 
the determination of employee benefits 
for senior executives, note 16 to the parent 
company accounts.

Investing in competence 
“Learning and innovation” is one of the 
group’s core values, and Wilhelmsen 
pays particular attention to competence 
and knowledge development. A learning 
organisation with motivated employees 
contributes to efficient operations and has a 
positive impact on revenue and earnings. 

Vessel LTIF 
result 0.49 
Onshore LTIF 
result 0.20 

25

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Personal development plans are integrated in 
the performance appraisal and review process. 
In 2017, 3 766 classroom internal training 
sessions were conducted and 13 593 e-learning 
sessions were completed. The average hours 
of training recorded per employee was eight 
hours.

Developing leaders for the future
The world is becoming more complex. To 
meet challenging and changing environments, 
Wilhelmsen is dependent on highly qualified 
leaders. 

In 2017, Wilhelmsen introduced a new 
programme for developing a pool of 
potential leaders ready to take on the future. 
24 candidates, nine women and 15 men, 
representing 11 different nationalities from 
around the world, participated in the four 
module program held in Oslo, Singapore and 
Dubai. In addition to leadership training, the 
candidates focused on design thinking and 
innovation.

Digital trainees
To increase the digital competence in the 
group and challenge existing mind-sets in 
the organisation, Wilhelmsen recruited four 
digital trainees (one female and three male) 
in 2017. The trainees are assigned to digital 
projects in the group companies over an 
18-month period.

Maritime trainees
As part of an ongoing commitment to 
developing maritime competence, ship 
management recruited two maritime trainees 
(one female and one male) in 2016 to embark 
on an 18-month maritime trainee programme. 
The trainees completed their programme in 
2017 and the company will recruit two more 
trainees in 2018 to continue building this 
competence in the industry.

Corporate governance
The board believes sound corporate 
governance is a foundation for profitable 
growth and that it provides a healthy company 
culture. Good governance contributes to 
reducing risk and creating long-term value for 
shareholders and other stakeholder.

Wilhelmsen observes the Norwegian Code of 
Practice for corporate governance, in addition 
to requirements as specified in the Norwegian 
Public Companies Act and the Norwegian 
Accounting Act. The board’s corporate 
governance report for 2017 can be found on 
page 118 and on www.wilhelmsen.com. It is 
the board’s view that the company has an 

appropriate governance structure and that it is 
managed in a satisfactory way. The corporate 
governance report is to be reviewed by the 
annual general meeting on 26 April 2018. 

Sustainability
Wilhelmsen assesses environmental, social 
and corporate governance issues in its 
investment analysis, business decisions, 
ownership practises and financial reporting. 
The company has a sustainability policy that 
includes human rights, labour standards 
and a commitment to promote greater 
environmental responsibility. 

Sustainability governance
The board acknowledges that sustainability 
is a vital prerequisite for Wilhelmsen to be 
a profitable and responsible player in the 
industry and society at large. With an aim to 
increase transparency, the board therefore 
issues a sustainability report following the 
guidelines set forward in the Global Reporting 
Initiative (GRI) standards. The report 
describes how Wilhelmsen combines long-
term profitability with emphasis on ethical 
business conduct, sustainable solutions 
and with respect for human beings, the 
environment and society. 

Materiality assessment
In 2016, the company conducted an extensive 
materiality assessment supported by DNVGL 
to ensure attention is on material aspects 
of the group’s business. The assessment 
concluded that the following topics are of 
most importance:
• Business ethics and anti-corruption
• Working conditions, labour standards, health  
  and safety
• Emissions to air, sea and soil
• Employee competence and development
• Sustainable supplier management

The summary of the status on each aspect 
is available in the sustainability section of 
the 2017 Annual Report. The full report, 
which will be reviewed by the annual general 
meeting on 26 April 2018, is available on
www.wilhelmsen.com. 

Significant changes to sustainability reporting 
boundary in 2017
In 2017, there was a change to the Wilhelmsen 
group ownership structure affecting the 
reporting boundary for 2017.

In April, the previously reported Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA (WWL) merger 
was completed. As a result of this change, 
the shipping and logistics activities resulting 

Gender mix

(onshore population in wholly 
owned subsidiaries)

36%

64%

Men

Women

26

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017from WWL’s operations are no longer included 
in the boundary of the Wilhelmsen group 
reporting. Further information on WWL’s 
sustainability progress can be found on 
walleniuswilhelmsen.com. 

Focus areas and achievements in 2017
In 2017, the following areas received particular 
attention:
• Anti-corruption, competition law, fraud 
  and theft as well as whistleblowing
• Cyber security
• EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) 
• Health and safety culture
• Talent management

The company’s achievements included:
• Appropriate risk reduction methods and  
  tools implemented for cyber security.
• Started adoption to the new EU General Data  
  Protection Regulation (GDPR) that comes  
  into force in May 2018. 
• Ships service achieved OHSAS 18001  
  certification 
• 87% completed performance appraisals 
• 92% participation rate in employee  
  engagement survey and three-point increase  
  in employee engagement score.
• 24 leadership potentials identified and  
  trained 

For further details on the progress on the 
focus areas, please view the full report on 
wilhelmsen.com.

Ambitions for 2018
A new materiality assessment will 
be conducted in 2018 to continue to 
prioritise, refine and streamline the group’s 
sustainability work and reporting. The 
assessment will also reflect the recent 
structural changes in the group. 

Through clearly expressed expectations to 
employees as well as companies in which 
Wilhelmsen is a shareholder, the group will 
contribute to promote human rights, sound 
working standards, reduce its environmental 
impact, and work towards eliminating 
corruption in own operations, as well as the 
operations of suppliers and business partners.

In 2018, Wilhelmsen will continue to improve 
guidelines and standards as well as data 
quality and reporting routines to follow up 
on issues defined as material for the group’s 
sustainability ambitions.

Further, Wilhelmsen’s emphasis on zero 
tolerance for facilitation payments and 
corruption will continue.

Stakeholder engagement 
In 2017, Wilhelmsen was engaged in 
dialogues with governments, investors, 
non-governmental organisations and other 
stakeholders discussing topics related to 
the group or industry at large. The main 
questions were related to financial and 
environmental issues, but there were also 
forums specifically addressing sustainability 
at large. Wilhelmsen or companies within 
the Wilhelmsen group are engaged in, 
amongst others, the International Maritime 
Organisation, BIMCO, Transparency 
International, TRACE, the Norwegian 
Shipowners’ Association and the Maritime 
Anti-Corruption Network. 

Allocation of profit, dividend and buy back
The board’s proposal for allocation of the net 
profit for the year is as follows:

Parent company accounts (NOK thousand)

Profit for the year

To equity

Proposed dividend

Interim dividend paid

Total allocations 

262 982

 30 813

162 413

 69 756

262 982

Wilhelmsen has a tradition of paying dividend 
twice a year. The board is proposing a NOK 3.50 
dividend per share payable during the second 
quarter of 2018, representing a total payment 
of NOK 162.4 million. The board also proposes 
that the annual general meeting gives the board 
authority to approve further dividend of up to 
NOK 2.50 per share for a period limited in time 
up to the annual general meeting in 2019, but 
no longer than to 30 June 2019.

The board is granted an authorisation to, 
on behalf of the company, acquire up to 
10% of the company’s own issued shares. 
The authorisation is valid until the annual 
general meeting in 2018, but no longer than 
to 30 June 2018. 

Prospects
Group business drivers
Wilhelmsen is a global provider of maritime 
related services, transportation and logistics 
solutions. The prospects for the group and 
its business segments are, to various degree, 
correlated with general development in world 
economy and trade. 

27

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 201728

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017The board of
Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
Holding ASA

From left:
Carl Erik Steen
Irene Waage Basili
Diderik Schnitler (chair)
Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen
Odd Rune Austgulen

29

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Projections for 2018 provided by the 
International Monetary Fund and other 
institutions indicates that global economic 
activity continues to firm up. Risks to the 
global growth forecast appear broadly 
balanced in the near term, but remain skewed 
to the downside over the medium term. 

Outlook for maritime services 
Increased global growth and low newbuilding 
activity support a gradually recovery in the 
general shipping market. While momentum is 
positive, a volatile start of 2018 is a reminder 
that uncertainty persists. 

Following sale of business activities in 2016, 
Wilhelmsen has focused on building leading 
positions within marine products, ships 
agency and ship management globally. This 
will continue, with outcome of the Drew 
Marine transaction transaction, see note 24 
in the group accounts. A more streamlined 
business organisation will support a more 
cost efficient operation. On this, the full 
potential has not yet been achieved. Focus 
on improvement in the operating margin, 
strengthening the profitability and growing 
the business will remain.

The ~20% ownership stake in Survitec Group is 
not expected to generate any revenue or cash 
contribution in the short to medium term, but 
has substantial long term value upside. 

Outlook for supply services 
NorSea Group, where Wilhelmsen has a ~74,6% 
shareholding, is exposed to the Norwegian 
and Danish oil and gas industry. Oil prices has 
continued to recover from lows experienced 
early 2016. This support an uplift in activity 
level, though from a low level. Income 
from supply base real estate properties will 
continue to be an important contributor, while 
activity within offshore wind is expected to 
gradually increase.

For governmental services, a significant 
increase in income is expected in 2018 in 
connection with the NATO exercise Trident 
Juncture. 

Outlook for other activities 
Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA, where 
Wilhelmsen has a ~37.8% shareholding, has a 
balanced view on prospects. Positive volume 
development and synergies will positively 
effect the results. However, reduced volumes 
and rates from Hyundai Motor Group will 
weight down.

Treasure ASA, where Wilhelmsen has a ~72.7% 
shareholding, remains sensitive to development 
of Hyundai Glovis and, indirectly, Hyundai 
Motor Group and Kia Motor Group. Treasure 
ASA expects the value of the company’s main 
asset to fluctuate in line with the general 
equity indexes of the Korean Stock Exchange.

30

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Qube, where Wilhelmsen has a ~4.0% equity 
stake, remains exposed to the general Australian 
economy and trade. Long-term value creation 
is also sensitive to successful development of 
Qube’s logistics infrastructure. Outlook for the 
Australian economy remains positive. 

Outlook for the Wilhelmsen group 
In 2017, the group successfully completed 
several structural changes creating value 
for shareholders. Markets are challenging, 
but Wilhelmsen continues to hold leading 
positions in main business segments. Through 
the structural changes, group is positioned for 
future growth. 

The board believes the underlying sentiments 
for the group’s businesses are positive, and 
expects the group to take advantage of the 

optimistic outlook and generate organic 
growth. 

Further, the board will continue its focus 
on operational excellence, improving cash 
flow and further strengthening financial 
robustness. By doing so, the board expects 
the group to be able to capitalise on emerging 
opportunities. 

Combining organic growth and development 
through mergers and acquisitions with the 
group’s network, competence, brand, and 
culture, and by retaining, attracting and 
developing the people necessary to take the 
group into the future, the board is confident 
that the group will be a key shaper in the 
maritime industry going forward.

Lysaker, 22 March 2018
The board of directors of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Diderik Schnitler
chair

Odd Rune Austgulen

Carl Erik Steen

 Irene Waage Basili

Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen

Thomas Wilhelmsen
group CEO

31

GroupDirectors’ reportWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
A
c
c
o
u
n
t
s
a
n
d
n
o
t
e
s
–
g
r
o
u
p

 3D-printing

Nakul Malhotra  

Vice president technical solutions and marketing

Wilhelmsen Ships Service, Marine Products

In 2017, ordering a spare part to your vessel could take up 

to a few weeks to arrive. In 2018, the same spare part could 

be in your hands in a matter of hours. 3D-printing allows 

you to basically have access to a micro factory in your next 

port. By adopting a well-known technology and putting it 

to the test of serving the maritime industry, Wilhelmsen is 

enabling its customers to be more efficient. Nakul is part of 

the team working in our 3D-printing initiative. The old slogan 

of Wilhelmsen was “Speed and Service”, we might bring that 

back in play.

 
 
 
 
Income statement Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group

USD mill

Operating revenue

Other income
Gain/(loss) on sale of assets
Total income

Operating expenses
Cost of goods and change in inventory
Employee benefits
Other expenses
Depreciation
Total operating expenses

Operating profit

Share of profits from joint ventures and associates
Financial income
Financial expenses
Financial income/(expenses)

Profit before tax

Tax income/(expenses)
Profit from continued operations

Discontinued operations
Net profit/(loss) from discontinued operations (net after tax)
Profit/(loss) for the period

Of which:
Profit attributable to non-controlling interests continued operations
Profit attributable to non-controlling interests discontinued operations
Profit/(loss) attributable to owners of the parent

Basic / diluted earnings per share (USD)

 Note 

1/20

1/19

13
6
1/20
7

4
1
1

8

3

9

2017 

 632 

 161 
 793 

 (194)
 (252)
 (150)
 (22)
 (617)

 176 

 55 
 36 
 (14)
 77 

 253 

 (16)
 236 

 (239)
 (2)

 55 
 7 
 (64)

 (1.38) 

Comprehensive income Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group

 Note 

2017 

USD mill

Profit/(loss) for the year

Items that may be reclassified to the income statement
Revaluation mark to market value available-for-sale financial assets
Comprehensive income from associates
Currency translation differences 
Currency translation differences recycled to income statement as part of loss of sale of assets
Comprehensive income discontinued operations 
Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement
Remeasurement postemployment benefits, net of tax
Other comprehensive income, net of tax
Total comprehensive income for the year

12

19

10

Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Owners of the parent continued operations
Owners of the parent discontinued operations
Non-controlling interests
Total comprehensive income for the year

Notes 1 to 24 on the next pages are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

34

 (2)

 3 
 (1)
 47 
 28 
 (1)

 77 
 75 

 253 
 (239)
 62 
 75 

2016 

 867 

 62 
 930 

 (377)
 (279)
 (157)
 (23)
 (836)

 94 

 82 
 11 
 (35)
 58 

 151 

 (14)
 138 

 113 
 251 

 19 
 31 
 201 

 4.34 

2016 

 251 

 8 

 46 

 10 

 65 
 315 

 172 
 91 
 52 
 315 

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Balance sheet Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group

USD mill

Note

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

ASSETS
Non current assets
Deferred tax asset
Goodwill and other intangible assets
Vessel, property and other tangible assets
Investments in joint ventures and associates
Available-for-sale financial assets
Other non current assets
Total non current assets

Current assets
Inventories
Current financial investments
Other current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Total current assets
Total assets

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
Equity
Paid-in capital
Retained earnings and other reserves
Attributable to equity holders of the parent
Non-controlling interests
Total equity

Non current liabilities
Pension liabilities
Deferred tax
Non current interest-bearing debt
Other non current liabilities
Total non current liabilities

Current liabilities
Current income tax
Public duties payable
Current interest-bearing debt
Other current liabilities
Total current liabilities
Total equity and liabilities 

8
7
7
4
12/17
11

13
14/17
11/15
15

10
8
16/17
11

8

16/17
11

18
171
590
1 019
801
37
2 637

81
101
302
167
651
3 288

122
1 853
1 975
212
2 188

23
6
493
112
634

11
7
108
341
466
3 288

Lysaker, 22 March 2018
The board of directors of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Diderik Schnitler
chair

Odd Rune Austgulen

Carl Erik Steen

 Irene Waage Basili

Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen

Thomas Wilhelmsen
group CEO

Notes 1 to 24 on the next pages are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 75 
 145 
 2 047 
 1 259 
 209 
 47 
 3 781 

 65 
 285 
 268 
 296 
 914 
 4 695 

 122 
 1 868 
 1 990 
 502 
 2 492 

 63 
 12 
 1 418 
 233 
 1 727 

 15 
 7 
 115 
 340 
 477 
 4 695 

35

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cash flow statement Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group

USD mill

Note

2017

2016

Cash flow from operating activities

Profit before tax (included discontinued operations and before non-controlling interests)

Financial (income)/expenses

Financial derivatives unrealised

Depreciation/impairment

Loss/(gain) on sale of fixed assets

Gain from sale of subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates

Change in net pension asset/liability

Change in inventory

Change in working capital

Tax paid (company income tax, withholding tax)

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash flow from investing activities

Share of (profit)/loss from joint ventures and associates

Dividend received from joint ventures and associates

Proceeds from sale of fixed assets

Investments in tangible and intangible assets 

Net proceeds from sale of subsidiaries

Cash discontinued operations

Investments in subsidiaries

Loans granted to joint ventures and associates

Proceeds from sale of financial investments

Current financial investments

Interest received

Net cash flow from investing activities

Cash flow from financing activities

Net proceeds from issue of debt after debt expenses

Repayment of debt

Interest paid including interest derivatives

Realised financial derivatives 

Dividend to shareholders

Net cash flow from financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period

Cash and cash equivalents at 31.12

1

1

7

1

3/4

4

4

7

3

19

1

16

16

1

1

 14 

 (6)

 (8)

 42 

 (11)

 107 

 (5)

 (21)

 38 

 (11)

 139 

 (69)

 18 

 63 

 (29)

 14 

 (121)

 (89)

 111 

 (58)

 5 

 (156)

 230 

 (271)

 (37)

 (36)

 (114)

 (130)

 296 

 167 

 286 

 66 

 (25)

 104 

 (3)

 (56)

 (4)

 19 

 44 

 (11)

 420 

 (187)

 72 

 44 

 (205)

 107 

 (7)

 168 

 (131)

 4 

 (136)

 291 

 (432)

 (84)

 (45)

 (30)

 (299)

 (16)

 312 

 296 

The group is located and operating world wide and every entity has several bank accounts in different currencies. The cash flow effect from revaluation of cash and 
cash equivalents is included in net cash flow provided by operating activities.

Notes 1 to 24 on the next pages are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

36

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Equity Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

USD mill

Balance 31.12.2016

Comprehensive income for the period:

Profit/(loss) for the period

Other comprehensive income*

Incoming non controlling interests

Outgoing non-controlling interests

Total comprehensive income for the period

 0 

Transactions with owners:

Dividends

Balance 31.12.2017

USD mill

Balance 31.12.2015

 122 

 Share 
capital 

 122 

 Share 
capital 

 122 

 Own 
shares 

Retained 
earnings

 Total 

Non-
controlling 
interests 

 Total 
equity 

 1 868 

 1 990 

 502 

 2 492 

 (64)

 77 

 (64)

 77 

 11 

 11 

 (28)

 1 853 

 (28)

 1 975 

 0 

 0 

 62 

(1) 

 56 

 (398)

 (278)

 (8)

 212 

 Own 
shares 

Retained 
earnings

 Total 

Non-
controlling 
interests 

 (2)

 77 

 56 

 (398)

 (267)

 (36)

 2 188 

 Total 
equity 

 1 632 

 1 754 

 452 

 2 206 

Comprehensive income for the period:

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive income*

Total comprehensive income for the period

 0 

Transactions with owners:

Dividends

Balance 31.12.2016

 122 

 201 

 62 

 264 

 201 

 62 

 264 

 (28)

 1 868 

 (28)

 1 990 

 0 

 0 

 49 

 2 

 52 

 (2)

 502 

 251 

 65 

 315 

 (30)

 2 492 

*Other comprehensive income in statement of equity is not restated in 
discontinued and continued operations.

The proposed dividend for fiscal year 2017 is NOK 3.50 per share, payable in 
the second quarter of 2018.  

Own shares represented 0.22% of the share capital in nominal value at 
31 December 2017 (analogous for 31 December 2016).

Dividend for fiscal year 2016 was NOK 5.00 per share, where NOK 3.50 per share 
was paid in May 2017 and NOK 1.50 per share was paid in November 2017.

Dividend for fiscal year 2015 was NOK 5.00 per share, where NOK 3.00 per 
share was paid in May 2016 and NOK 2.00 per share was paid in November 2016.

A decision on this proposal will be taken by the annual general meeting 
on 26 April 2018. The proposed dividend is not accrued in the year-end 
balance sheet. The dividend will have effect on retained earnings in second 
quarter of 2018.

Notes 1 to 24 on the next pages are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

37

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Accounting policies 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

GENERAL INFORMATION
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA (referred to as the parent company) is domiciled 
in Norway. The parent company’s consolidated accounts for fiscal year 2017 
include the parent company and its subsidiaries (referred to collectively as the 
group) and the group’s share of joint ventures and associated companies.

On 4 April 2017, the subsidiary WWASA was merged with Wall Roll AB.  After 
the merger the group own 37.8% of WWL ASA. The profit in WWASA previous 
periods is presented as discontinued operations, see note 3 i the group 
accounts. The assets and liabilities from WWASA segment are included in the 
group balance sheet at 31.12.2016.

The annual accounts for the group and the parent company were adopted by 
the board of directors on 22 March 2018.

The parent company is a public limited liability company, listed on the Oslo 
Stock Exchange.

BASIC POLICIES
The consolidated accounts have been prepared in accordance with the 
International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as endorsed by the 
European Union. The financial statements for the parent company have 
been prepared and presented in accordance with simplified IFRS approved 
by Ministry of Finance 3 November 2014. The parent company has elected 
to apply the exception from IFRS for dividends and group contributions. 
Otherwise, the explanations of the accounting policy for the group also apply to 
the parent company, and the notes to the consolidated financial statements will 
in some cases cover the parent company.

The accounts for the group and the parent company are referred to collectively 
as the accounts.

The group accounts are presented in US dollars (USD), rounded off to the 
nearest whole million. 

Entities in Maritime Services and Holding and Investments are measured using 
currency of primary economic location in which the entity operates. The 
exceptions are investments activity in Malta, where AUD is the functional 
currency and the parent company Wilhelmsen Maritime Services (WMS AS) 
has USD.

The parent company is presented in its functional currency NOK.

The income statements and balance sheets for group companies with a 
functional currency which differs from the presentation currency (USD) are 
translated as follows:

•  the balance sheet is translated at the closing exchange rate on the balance  
  sheet date

•  income and expense items are translated at a rate that is representative as  
  an average exchange rate for the period, unless the exchange rates fluctuate  
  significantly for that period, in which case the exchange rates at the dates of  
  transaction are used 

•  the translation difference is recognised in other comprehensive income and  
  split between controlling and non-controlling interests

Goodwill and the fair value of assets and liabilities related to the acquisition 
of entities which have a functional currency other than USD are attributed in 
the acquired entity’s functional currency and translated at the exchange rate 
prevailing on the balance sheet date.

The accounts have been prepared under the historical cost convention as 
modified by the revaluation of financial assets and liabilities (including financial 
derivatives) at fair value through the income statement.

Preparing financial statements in conformity with IFRS and simplified IFRS 
requires the management to make use of estimates and assumptions which 
affect the application of the accounting policies and the reported amounts of 
assets and liabilities, revenues and expenses. 

Estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical experience 
and other factors regarded as reasonable under the circumstances. The actual 
result may vary from these estimates. 

The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas 
where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial 
statements are described in more detail in the section on critical accounting 
estimates and assumptions.

The accounting policies outlined have been applied consistently for all the 
periods presented in the accounts.

Standards, amendments and interpretations
Apart from the new disclosure requirement for financial liabilities in IAS 7, there 
has been no significant changes in standards or amendments with effect for 
the group from 1 January 2017 or later.

New standards, amendments and interpretations to existing standards that are 
not yet effective and have not been early adopted by the group;

•  IFRS 9, The complete version of IFRS 9 was issued in July 2014. It replaces  
  the guidance in IAS 39 that relates to the classification and measurement  
  of financial instruments. IFRS 9 retains but simplifies the mixed measurement  
  model and establishes three primary measurement categories for financial  
  assets: amortised cost, fair value through OCI and fair value through P&L.  
  The basis of classification depends on the entity’s business model and the  
  contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset. Investments in  
  equity instruments are required to be measured at fair value through profit or 
   loss with the irrevocable option at inception to present changes in fair value  
in OCI not recycling. There is now a new expected credit losses model that  

  replaces the incurred loss impairment model used in IAS 39. For financial  

liabilities there were no changes to classification and measurement except  
for the recognition of changes in own credit risk in other comprehensive  
income, for liabilities designated at fair value through profit or loss. IFRS  
  9 relaxes the requirements for hedge effectiveness by replacing the bright  

line hedge effectiveness tests. It requires an economic relationship between  
  the hedged item and hedging instrument and for the ‘hedged ratio’ to be the  
  same as the one management actually use for risk management purposes.  
  Contemporaneous documentation is still required but is different to that  
  currently prepared under IAS 39. The standard is effective for accounting  
  periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018. Early adoption is permitted.  
  The group has assessed the impact of IFRS 9 and has concluded that no  
  material financial effect is expected from the implementation of the standard.  
  See note 12 regarding the accounting of Available-for-sale assets under the  
  new standard.

•  IFRS 15, ‘Revenue from contracts with customers’ deals with revenue  
  recognition and establishes principles for reporting useful information to  
  users of financial statements about the nature, amount, timing and  
  uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from an entity’s contracts with  
  customers. Revenue is recognised when a customer obtains control of  
  a good or service and thus has the ability to direct the use and obtain the  
  benefits from the good or service. The standard replaces IAS 18 ‘Revenue’  
  and IAS 11 ‘Construction contracts’ and related interpretations. The standard  

is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2018 and  

  earlier application is permitted. The group has assessed the potential impact  
  of IFRS 15 on the groups revenue streams. Summarized the group is not  
  expecting any material changes to the current recognition of revenue arising  
from the implementation of IFRS 15. Expected date of adoption by the group  
is 1 January 2018.

•  IFRS 16, ’Leases’, issued in January 2016 and effective from 1 January  
  2019 covers the recognition of leases and related disclosure in the financial  
  statements, and will replace IAS 17 Leases. In the financial statement of  

lessees, the new standard requires recognition of all contracts that qualify  
  under its definition of a lease as right-of-use assets and lease liabilities in the  
  balance sheet, while lease payments should be split in interest expense and  
  reduction of lease liabilities. The right-of-use assets are to be depreciated  

in accordance with IAS 16 “Property, Plant and Equipment” over the shorter  
  of each contract’s term and the assets useful life. The standard consequently  

implies a significant change in lessees’ accounting for leases currently  

38

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Accounting policies 

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Accounting policies 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

  defined as operating leases under IAS 17. While this definition is similar to
  that of IAS 17, it would have required further evaluation of each contract to 
  determine whether all lease contracts in the group currently not defined 
  as financial lease, would qualify as leases under new standard. Expected 
  date of adoption by the group is 1 January 2019. The group has evaluated 
  the impact of IFRS 16. The current material lease contracts are related to 
land and properties. At effective date 01.01.2019 IFRS 16 is expected to 

  have material effect on the balance sheet.

There are no other IFRSs or IFRIC interpretations that are not yet effective that 
would be expected to have a material impact on the group and the parent company.

COMPARATIVE FIGURES
When items are reclassified in the segment reporting, the comparative figures 
are included from the beginning of the earliest comparative period.

CHANGE OF PRESENTATION
Share of profit from joint ventures and associates 
As part of the restructuring of the group, the share of profit from joint ventures 
and associates has been moved from operating activities to be a part of 
investing and financial activities in the groups income statement for 2017. 
The presentation as part of investing and financial activities is considered 
to better reflect the group’s operations going forward. On 4 April 2017 the 
previously held subsidiary WW ASA was merged with Wall Roll AB creating 
WWL ASA. The merger resulted in consolidation of material joint ventures 
in WWL ASA, previously being reported based on the groups choice of 
presenting share of profit as part of operations.

SHARES IN SUBSIDIARIES, JOINT VENTURES AND ASSOCIATES 
(PARENT COMPANY)
Shares in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are presented according 
to the cost method. Group relief received is included in dividends from 
subsidiaries. Group contributions and dividends from subsidiaries are 
recognised in the year for which they are proposed by the subsidiary to the 
extent the parent company can control the decision of the subsidiary through 
its share holdings. Shares in subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are 
reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances 
indicate that the carrying amount may exceed the recoverable amount of 
the investment. An impairment loss is reversed if the impairment situation is 
deemed to no longer exist.  

CONSOLIDATION POLICIES
Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries are all entities over which the group has the power to govern the 
financial and operating policies, generally accompanying a shareholding of 
more than half of the voting rights. Subsidiaries are consolidated from the date 
on which control is transferred to the group. They are deconsolidated from the 
date that control ceases.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains and losses on 
transactions between group companies are eliminated.

Business combination
The acquisition method of accounting is used to account for all business 
combinations, regardless of whether equity instruments or other assets are 
acquired. The consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary 
comprises the: 

•  fair value of the asset transferred
•  liabilities incurred to the former owners of the acquired business
•  equity interests issued by the group
•  fair value of any assets or liability resulting from a contingent consideration  
  arrangement, and
•  fair value of any pre-existing equity interest in the subsidiary.

Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in 
a business combination are, with limited exceptions, measured initially at their 
fair values at the acquisition date. The group recognises any non-controlling 
interests in the acquired entity on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis either at 
fair value or at non-controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquired 
entity’s net identifiable assets. 

Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred. 

The excess of the 
•  consideration transferred,
•  amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquired entity, and
•  acquisition-date fair value of any previous equity interest in the acquired  
  entity over the fair value of the net identifiable assets acquired is recorded  
  as goodwill. If those amounts are less than the fair value of the net identifiable  
  assets of the business acquired, the difference is recognised directly in profit  
  and loss as a bargain purchase. 

Contingent consideration is classified either as equity or a financial liability. 
Amounts classified as a financial liability are subsequently remeasured to fair 
value with changes in fair value recognised in profit and loss. 

If the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition date 
carrying value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the acquiree 
is remeasured to fair value at the acquisition date. Any gain or loss arising from 
such remeasurement are recognised in profit and loss. 

Joint arrangements and associates
Joint arrangements and associates are entities over which the group or parent 
company has joint control or significant influence respectively but does not 
control alone. 

Investments in joint arrangements are classified as either joint operations or 
joint ventures depending on the contractual rights and obligations to each 
investor. The group has assessed the nature of its joint arrangements and 
determined them to be joint ventures. Joint ventures are accounted for using 
the equity method.

Significant influence generally accompanies investments where the group or 
the parent company has 20-50% of the voting rights. The group’s investments 
in joint ventures and associates are accounted for by the equity method. Such 
investments are recognised at the date of acquisition at acquisition cost, 
including excess values and possible goodwill. 

The group’s share of profit after tax from joint ventures and associates, are 
recognised in the income statement as an investing and financial activity. 
The share of profit after tax from joint ventures and associates is added to 
the capitalised value of the investments together with its share of equity 
movements not recognised in the income statement. Sale and dilution of the 
share of associate companies is recognised in the income statement when 
the transactions occur for the group. Unrealised gains on transactions are 
eliminated. 

When an investment ceases to be an associate, the difference between (1) the 
fair value of any retained investment and proceeds from disposing of the part 
interest in the associate and (2) the carrying amount of the investment at the 
date when significant influence is lost, is recognised in the income statement. 

If the ownership interest in a joint venture or an associate is reduced, but the 
investment continues to be a joint venture or an associate, a gain or loss is 
recognised in the income statement corresponding to the difference between 
the proportionate book value of the investment sold and the proceeds from 
disposing of the part interest in the joint venture or associate.

Non-controlling interests 
The group treats transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions 
with equity owners of the group. 

For purchases from non-controlling interests, the difference between any 
consideration paid and relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net 
assets of the subsidiary is recorded in equity. 

Gains or losses on disposals to non-controlling interests are also recorded in equity.

Discontinued operations
A discontinued operation is a component of the entity that has been disposed 
of or is classified as held for sale and that represents a separate major line of 
business or geographical area or operations, is part of a single co-ordinated 
plan to dispose of such a line of business or area of operations, or is a 

39

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Accounting policies 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. The result of discontinued 
operations is presented separately in the statement of profit and loss. 

risk and control has been transferred to the customer. This will normally be 
when the goods are delivered to the customer. Revenue is recognised at the 
transaction value on the time of the transaction.

SEGMENT REPORTING
The operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal 
financial reporting provided to the chief operating decision-maker. 

Comparative figures have been reclassified in the segments figures from the 
beginning of earliest comparative period.

The chief operating decision-maker, who is responsible for allocating 
resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been 
identified as the board and Group Management Team, consisting of the group 
chief executive officer (group CEO) and four executive managers. 

Revenue from sale of services is recognised when it is earned, i.e. when 
demand for payment rises. Revenue is recognised with the transaction value at 
the time of the transaction. 

INVENTORIES 
Inventories of purchased goods and work in progress are valued at cost in 
accordance with the weighted average cost method. Impairment losses are 
recognised if the net realisable value is lower than the cost price. Sales costs 
include all remaining sales, administrative and storage costs.

RELATED PARTIES TRANSACTIONS
The group and the parent company have transactions with joint ventures and 
associated companies. These contracts are based on commercial market terms. 

CASH-SETTLED PAYMENTS TRANSACTIONS
Cash–settled payments / bonus plans
For cash-settled payments, a liability equal to the portion services received is 
recognised at the current fair value determined at each balance sheet date.

See note 11 and 20 to the group accounts for transactions with joint ventures 
and associates, and note 6 and 14 to the parent company accounts. 

See note 6 to the group accounts and note 2 and 16 to the parent accounts 
concerning remuneration of senior executives

See note 6 to the group accounts concerning remuneration of senior executives 
in the group, and note 2 to the parent company accounts for information 
concerning loans and guarantees for employees in the parent company.

TANGIBLE ASSETS
Vessel, property and other tangible assets acquired by group companies are 
stated at historical cost. Depreciation is calculated on a straight-line basis. 

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTION AND TRANSLATION
Transactions
Individual companies’ transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded in 
the functional currency by applying the rate of exchange as of the date of the 
transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies 
are translated into the respective functional currency at the rate of the exchange 
at the balance sheet date. The realised and unrealised currency gains or losses 
are included in financial income or expense. Changes in the currency position 
related to qualified cash flow hedging derivatives, qualifying net investment 
hedges, gains and losses are recognised in comprehensive income.

Translations
In the consolidated financial statements, the assets and liabilities of non USD 
functional currency subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates, including the 
related goodwill, are translated into USD using the rate of exchange as of the 
balance sheet date. The results and cash flow of non USD functional currency 
subsidiaries, joint ventures and associates are translated into USD using 
average exchange rate for the period reported (unless this average 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 rate on the dates of the transactions). Exchange adjustments arising when 
the opening net assets and the net income for the year retained by non USD 
operation are translated into USD are recognised in other comprehensive 
income. On disposals of a non USD functional currency subsidiary, joint 
ventures or associates, the deferred cumulative amount recognised in equity 
relating to that particular entity is recognised in the income statement. 

REVENUE RECOGNITION
Revenue is recognised when it is probable that a transaction will generate a 
future economic benefit that will accrue to the entity and the size of the amount 
can be reliably estimated. Revenues are recognised at fair value and presented 
net of value added tax and discounts.

Maritime services
Revenue from the sale of goods and services is recognised at fair value, net 
of VAT, returns and discounts. Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised 
when ownership passes to the customers. Generally, this is when products 
are delivered. Rebates and incentive allowance are deferred and recognised in 
income upon the realisation or the closing of the rebate period. Services are 
recognised as they are rendered. 

Sales of goods and services are recognised in the accounting period in which 
the services are rendered or goods sold.

Supply Services
Recognition of revenue is recorded when it is earned, i.e. when the main 

The carrying value of tangible assets equals the historical cost less 
accumulated depreciation and any impairment charges.

The group’s borrowing costs are recognised in the income statement when 
they arise. Borrowing costs are capitalised to the extent that they are directly 
related to the acquisition of the asset. 

Land is not depreciated. Other tangible assets are depreciated over the 
following expected useful lives:
Property 
Other tangible assets  

10-50 years
3-10 years 

Each component of a tangible asset which is significant for the total cost of the 
item will be depreciated separately. Components with similar useful lives will be 
included in a single component. 

The estimated residual value and expected useful life of long-lived assets are 
reviewed at each balance sheet date, and where they differ significantly from 
previous estimates, depreciation charges will be changed accordingly.

GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS   
Amortisation of intangible fixed assets is based on the following expected 
useful lives:
Goodwill 
Software and licenses 
Other intangible assets 

Indefinite life
3-5 years
5-10 years

Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the consideration transferred, the amount 
of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree and the acquisition date fair 
value of any previous equity interests in the acquiree over the fair value of the 
group’s share of the identifiable net assets of the acquired subsidiary, joint 
venture or associate. Goodwill arising from the acquisition of subsidiaries is 
classified as an intangible asset. Goodwill arising from the acquisition of an 
interest in an associated company is included under investment in associated 
companies, and tested for impairment as part of the carried amount of the 
investment annually. 

Goodwill from acquisition of subsidiaries is tested annually for impairment and 
carried at cost less impairment losses. Impairment losses on goodwill are not 
reversed. Gain or loss on the sale of a business includes the carried amount of 
goodwill related to the sold business.

Goodwill is allocated to relevant cash-generating units (“CGU”). The allocation 
is made to those CGU or groups of CGU which are expected to benefit from 
the acquisition.

40

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Accounting policies 

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Accounting policies 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Details concerning the accounting treatment of goodwill are provided in the 
section on consolidation policies above.

Other intangible assets
Costs associated with maintaining computer software programmes are 
recognised as an expense as incurred. Development costs that are directly 
attributable to the design and testing of identifiable and unique software 
products controlled by the group are recognised as intangible assets when the 
following criteria are met:
•  it is technically feasible to complete the software product so that it will be  
  available for use;
•  management intends to complete the software product and use or sell it;
•  it can be demonstrated how the software product will generate probable  

future economic benefits;

•  adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the  
  development and to use or sell the software product are available; and
•  the expenditure attributable to the software product during its development  
  can be reliably measured.

Trademark, technology/licenses and customer relationship have a finite life and 
are recognised at historical cost less accumulated amortisation. Amortisation 
is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate the cost of trademarks 
and licenses over their estimated useful life.

Capitalised expenses related to other intangible assets are amortised over the 
expected useful lives in accordance with the straight-line method.

IMPAIRMENT OF GOODWILL AND OTHER NON FINANCIAL ASSETS
Non financial assets 
At each reporting date the accounts are assessed whether there is an indication 
that an asset may be impaired. If any such indication exists, or when annual 
impairment testing for an asset is required, estimates of the asset’s recoverable 
amount are done. The recoverable amount is the highest of the fair market value 
of the asset, less cost to sell, and the net present value (NPV) of future estimated 
cash flow from the employment of the asset (“value in use”). The NPV is based 
on a discount rate according to a weighted average cost of capital (“WACC”) 
reflecting the company’s required rate of return. The WACC is calculated based 
on the company’s long-term borrowing rate and a risk free rate plus a risk 
premium for the equity. If the recoverable amount is lower than the book value, 
impairment has occurred and the asset shall be revalued. Impairment losses are 
recognised in the profit and loss statement. Assets are grouped at the lowest 
level where there are separately identifiable independent cash flows. 

Goodwill 
Goodwill acquired through business combinations has been allocated to the 
relevant CGU. An assessment is made as to whether the carrying amount of 
the goodwill can be justified by future earnings from the CGU to which the 
goodwill relates. Future earnings are based on next year’s expectations with a 
1% growth rate. If the ”value in use” of the CGU is less than the carrying amount 
of the CGU, including goodwill, goodwill will be written down first. Thereafter the 
carrying amount of the CGU will be written down. Impairment losses related to 
goodwill cannot be reversed.

LEASES
Leases for property and equipment where the group carries substantially all the 
risks and rewards of ownership are classified as financial leases. 

Financial leases are capitalised at the inception of the lease at the lower of 
fair value of the leased item or the present value of agreed lease payments. 
Each lease payment is allocated between liability and finance charges. The 
corresponding rental obligations are included in other non current liabilities. 
The associated interest element is charged to the income statement over 
the lease period so as to produce a periodic rate of interest on the remaining 
balance of the liability for each period.

Financial leases are depreciated over the shorter of the useful life of the asset 
or the lease term.

FINANCIAL ASSETS
The group and the parent company classify financial assets in the following 
categories: trading financial assets at fair value through the income statement, 
loans and receivables, and available-for-sale financial assets. The classification 
depends on the purpose of the asset. 

Management determines the classification of financial assets at their initial 
recognition.

Financial assets carried at fair value through the income statement are initially 
recognised at fair value, and transaction costs are expensed in the income 
statement.

Short term investments
This category consists of financial assets held for trading. A financial asset is 
classified in this category if acquired principally for the purpose of profit from 
short term price gains. Short term investments are measured at fair value. 
The resulting unrealised gains and losses are included in financial income and 
expense. Derivatives are also placed in this category unless designated as 
hedges. Assets in this category are classified as current. 

Loans and receivables
Loans and receivables are non derivative financial assets with fixed or 
determinable payments, which are not traded in an active market. They are 
included in current assets, except for maturities greater than 12 months after 
the balance sheet date. These are classified as non current assets. Loans and 
receivable are classified as other current assets or other non current assets in 
the balance sheet.

Loans and receivables are recognised initially at their fair value plus transaction 
costs. Financial assets are derecognised when the contractual rights to the 
cash flows from the financial assets expire or are transferred, and the group has 
transferred by and large all risk and return from the financial asset.

Realised gains and losses are recognised in the income statement in the 
period they arise. 

Available-for-sale financial assets
Available-for-sale financial assets are non derivatives that are either designated 
in this category or not classified in any of the other categories. After initial 
recognition, available-for-sale financial assets are measured at fair value with 
gains or losses recognised as a separate component in other comprehensive 
income until the investments is derecognised, at which time the cumulative 
gain or loss previously reported in equity is included in the income statement.

The fair value of the investments that are actively traded in organised financial 
markets is determined by reference to quoted market bid price at the close of 
business on the balance sheet date. For investments where there is no active 
market fair value are determined applying acknowledged valuation techniques.

Available-for-sale financial assets are included in non current assets unless the 
investment matures or management intends to dispose of it within 12 months 
of the end of the reporting period. 

FINANCIAL DERIVATIVES
Derivatives are included in current assets or current liabilities, except for 
maturities greater than 12 months after the balance sheet date. These are 
classified as non current assets or other non current liabilities as they form part 
of the group’s long term economic hedging strategy and are not classified as 
held for trading.

Derivatives are recognised at fair value on the date a derivative contract is 
entered into and are revalued on a continuous basis at their fair value. 

Derivatives which do not qualify for hedge accounting
Most derivative instruments do not qualify for hedge accounting. Changes in the 
fair value of any derivative instruments which do not qualify for hedge accounting 
are recognised in the income statement as financial income/expense.

Leases where a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are 
retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments made under 
operating leases, net of any financial incentives from the lessor, are charged to 
the income statement on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.

Derivatives which do qualify for hedge accounting
The group designates certain derivatives as hedges of highly probable forecast 
transactions (cash flow hedges). 

41

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
Accounting policies 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

At the date of the hedging transaction, the group documents the relationship 
between hedging instruments and hedged items, as well as the objective of its 
risk management and the strategy underlying the various hedge transactions. 
The group also documents the extent to which the applied derivatives are 
effective in smoothing changes in fair value or cash flow associated with the 
hedge items. Such assessments are documented both initially and on an 
ongoing basis.

The fair value of derivatives used for hedging is shown in note 17 to the group 
accounts. Changes in the valuation of qualified hedges are recognised directly 
in other comprehensive income until the hedged transactions are realised.

The fair value of financial derivatives traded in active markets is based on 
quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The fair value of financial 
derivatives not traded in an active market is determined using valuation 
methodology, such as the discounted value of future cash flows. 
Independent experts verify the value determination for instruments which 
are considered material.

Cash flow hedge
The effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives designated 
as cash flow hedges are recognised in comprehensive income together with 
the deferred tax effect. Gain and loss on the ineffective portion is recognised 
in the income statement. Amounts recognised in comprehensive income are 
recognised as income or expense in the income statement in the period when 
the hedged liability or planned transaction will affect the income statement. 

Net investment hedge
Gains and losses arising from the hedging instruments relating to the effective 
portions of the net investment hedges are recognised in comprehensive 
income. These translation reserves are reclassified to the income statement 
upon disposal of the hedged net investments, offsetting the translation 
differences from these net investments. Any ineffective portion is recognised 
immediately in the income statement as net financial income/(expenses).

Gains and losses accumulated in equity are included in the income statement 
when the foreign operation is partially disposed of, sold or change of 
functional currency. 

DEFERRED TAX / DEFERRED TAX ASSET
Deferred tax is calculated using the liability method on all temporary 
differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their 
carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. Deferred income 
tax is determined using tax rates and laws which have been enacted by the 
balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred 
income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability settled.

Deferred income tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that 
future taxable profit will be available, and that the temporary differences can be 
deducted from this profit. 

Deferred income tax is calculated on temporary differences arising on 
investments in subsidiaries and associates, except where the timing of the 
reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the group.

PENSION OBLIGATIONS
Group companies have various pension schemes, and the employees are 
covered by pension plans which comply with local laws and regulations. These 
schemes are generally funded through payments to insurance companies or 
pension funds on the basis of periodic actuarial calculations. The group and 
the parent company have both defined contribution and defined benefit plans 
up to 31 December 2017. 

The group has “Ekstrapensjon”, a contribution plan for all Norwegian 
employees with salaries exceeding 12 times the Norwegian National Insurance 
base amount (G). The contribution plan replaced the group obligations mainly 
financed from operation. However, the group still has obligations for some 
employees’ related to salaries exceeding 12 times the Norwegian National 
Insurance base amount (G) mainly financed from operations.

the parent company have no legal or constructive obligations to pay further 
contributions if the fund does not hold sufficient assets to pay all employees 
the benefits relating to employee service in the current and prior periods.

A defined benefit plan is one which is not a defined contribution plan. This type 
of plan typically defines an amount of pension benefit an employee will receive 
on retirement, normally dependent on one or more factors such as age, years 
of service and pay. 

The liability recognised in the balance sheet in respect of defined benefit 
pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the end 
of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets. The defined benefit 
obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries using the projected 
unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit obligation is 
determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows using interest 
rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in 
which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating 
to the terms of the related pension obligation.

The pension obligation is calculated annually by independent actuaries 
using a straight-line earnings method. Actuarial gains and losses arising from 
experience adjustments and changes in actuarial assumptions are charged or 
credited to equity in other comprehensive income in the period in which they 
arise. Past-service costs are recognised immediately in the income statement.

RECEIVABLES
Account receivables and other receivables, that have fixed or determinable 
payments that are not quoted in an active market are classified as receivables. 

Receivables are recognised at face value less any impairment. Provision for 
impairment is made to specified receivable items when there is objective 
evidence that, as a result of one or more events that occurred after the 
initial recognition of the receivable, the estimated future cash flows of the 
investments have been affected.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, deposits held at call with 
banks and other liquid investments with maturities of three months or less. 
Bank overdrafts are presented under borrowings in current liabilities on the 
balance sheet.

SHARE CAPITAL AND TREASURY SHARES
When the parent company purchases its own shares (treasury shares), 
the consideration paid, including any attributable transaction costs net of 
income tax, is deducted from the equity attributable to the parent company’s 
shareholders until the shares are cancelled or sold. Should such shares 
subsequently be sold or reissued, any consideration received is included in 
share capital.

DIVIDEND IN THE GROUP ACCOUNTS
Dividend payments to the parent company’s shareholders are recognised as a 
liability in the group’s financial statements from the date when the dividend is 
approved by the general meeting. 

DIVIDEND AND GROUP CONTRIBUTION IN PARENT ACCOUNTS
Proposed dividend for the parent company’s shareholders is shown in the 
parent company account as a liability at 31 December current year. Group 
contribution to the parent company is recognised as a financial income and 
current asset in the financial statement at 31 December current year. 

LOANS
Loans are recognised at fair value when the proceeds are received, net of 
transaction costs. In subsequent periods, loans are stated at amortised cost 
using the effective yield method. Any difference between proceeds (net of 
transaction costs) and the redemption value is recognised in the income 
statement over the term of the loan. Loans are classified as current liabilities 
unless the group or the parent company has an unconditional right to defer 
settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the balance sheet date.

A defined contribution plan is one under which the group and the parent 
company pay fixed contributions to a separate legal entity. The group and 

PROVISIONS
The group and the parent company make provisions for legal claims when a 
legal or constructive obligation exists as a result of past events, it is more likely 

42

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Accounting policies 

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Accounting policies 
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding group and Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

than not that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, 
and the amount can be estimated with a sufficient degree of reliability. 
Provisions are not made for future operating losses.

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS
When preparing the financial statements, the group and the parent company 
must make assumptions and estimates. These estimates are based on the 
actual underlying business, its present and forecast profitability over time, 
and expectations about external factors such as interest rates, foreign 
exchange rates and oil prices which are outside the group’s and parent 
company’s control. This presents a substantial risk that actual conditions will 
vary from the estimates.

Impairment of goodwill
Assets that have an indefinite useful life, for example goodwill, are not subject 
to amortisation and are tested annually for impairment. 

Assets that are subject to amortisation or depreciation are reviewed for 
impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the 
carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for 
the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. 
The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to 
sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are 
grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash 
flows (cash-generating units). Non financial assets other than goodwill that 
suffered impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment 
at each reporting date. The group has financial models which calculate and 
determine the value in use through a combination of actual and expected cash 
flow generation discounted to present value. The expected future cash flow 
generation and models are based on assumptions and estimate.

See note 7 in the group accounts for additional information. 

The main risks are:
•  Growth
•  Net profit
•  Cash flow

43

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 1 Combined items, income statement

USD mill

OPERATING REVENUE

Ships service revenue

Technical solutions revenue

Ship management and crewing revenue

Other revenue

Total operating revenue

GAIN ON SALE OF ASSETS

Gain on sale of assets

Gain on sale of subsidiaries

Disposal of associate (step up loss)

Gain from change in measurement of Hyundai Glovis

Total gain on sale of assets

OTHER EXPENSES

Loss on sale of assets

Office expenses

Communication and IT expenses

External services

Travel and meeting expenses

Marketing expenses

Other operating expenses

Total other expenses

FINANCIAL INCOME AND EXPENSES

Financial items

Investment management

Interest income

Other financial items

Net financial items

Financial – interest expenses

Interest expenses

Net financial – interest expenses

Financial currency

Net currency gain/(loss) – non financial currency

Net currency gain/(loss) – financial currency

Derivatives for hedging of cash flow risk – realised

Derivatives for hedging of cash flow risk – unrealised

Net financial currency

Financial income/(expenses)

Spesification of financial income and expenses

Net financial items

Net financial currency

Financial income

Net financial – interest expenses

Net financial currency

Financial expenses

Note

2017

2016

20

19

19

12

20

 525 

 43 

 63 

 632 

 6 

 (40)

 195 

 161 

 (1)

 (39)

 (30)

 (35)

 (8)

 (4)

 (32)

 (150)

 5 

 5 

 12 

 22 

 (14)

 (14)

 7 

 (2)

 9 

 14 

 22 

 22 

 14 

 36 

 (14)

 (14)

 586 

 223 

 43 

 15 

 867 

 3 

 59 

 62 

 (1)

 (37)

 (34)

 (34)

 (12)

 (5)

 (35)

 (157)

 2 

 3 

 6 

 11 

 (14)

 (14)

 (14)

 (6)

 (21)

 (24)

 11 

 11 

 (14)

 (21)

 (35)

See note 17 on financial risk and the section of the accounting policies concerning financial derivatives.

44

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Note 2 Segment reporting
SEGMENTS 
The chief operating decision-maker monitors the business by combining 
entities with similar operational characteristics such as product services, 
market and underlying asset base, into operating segments.

The Maritime Services segment offers marine products, ship agency services 
and logistics to the merchant fleet and ship management including manning for 
all major vessel types through a worldwide network.

The Supply Services segment is mainly related to the operation of supply 
bases for the oil industry in Norway, as well as real estate development and 
operation of properties both on and off the supply bases. In addition to the 
activity in Norway, the segment offers its services in both Denmark and in 
the UK. The international activity consists of both operation of supply bases, 
maintenance of rigs and handling of logistics related to international pipeline 
projects and windmill parks.

The Holding and Investments segment includes the parent company, Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen Holding ASA, Treasure ASA group, Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding Invest 
AS group and other internal focused activities (WilService AS, Wilhelmsen 
Accounting Services AS, Wilh Wilhelmsen HK and corporate group activities 
like operational management, tax, legal, finance, portfolio management, 
communication and human relations) which fail to meet the definition for other 

core activities. The groups investment in WWL ASA is presented as part of 
Holding and Investments as an investment in associates.

Discontinued operations (previously WWASA group) covers shipping and 
logistics activities in the group. The shipping activity is engaged in ocean 
transport of cars, roll-on roll-off cargo and project cargo. Its main customers 
are global car manufacturers and manufacturers of agriculture and other high 
and heavy equipment. The customer’s cargo is carried in a worldwide transport 
network. This was the group’s most capital-intensive activity. 

The logistics activity has basically the same customer groups as shipping. 
Customers operating globally are offered sophisticated logistics services. 
The activity’s primary assets are human capital (expertise and systems) and 
customer contacts reflected in long-term relationships.

Eliminations are between the group’s three segments mentioned above.

The segment income statement are measured in the same way as in the 
financial statements. 

The segment information provided to the chief operating decision-maker for 
the reportable segments for the year ended 31 December 2017 is as follows:

USD mill

Maritime Services

Supply Services 

Holding  
and Investments

Eliminations/
discontinued 
operations*

Total

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

INCOME STATEMENT

Operating revenue

Gain on disposals of assets

Total income

Cost of goods and change in inventory

Employee benefits

Other expenses

Depreciation and impairments

Total operating expenses

Operating profit/(loss) 

Share of profit from associates 

Net financial income / expenses

Profit/(loss) before tax

Tax income/(expense)

Profit/(loss)

Result of discontinued operations

Non-controlling interests

Profit/(loss) to the owners of parent

*Discontinued operations, see note 3.

 574 

6 

580 

 (182)

 (214)

 (133)

(15)

(544)

36 

 4 

6 

46 

(15)

30 

1 

29 

 862 

62 

924 

 (376)

 (263)

 (158)

(22)

(820)

104 

 4 

(28)

80 

(15)

65 

1 

64 

 57 

57 

 (10)

 (20)

 (18)

(6)

(54)

2 

 1 

(1)

3 

1 

4 

1 

3 

 16 

155 

171 

 (1)

 (19)

 (13)

(34)

138 

 49 

16 

204 

(2)

202 

52 

150 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

0 

 29 

 (14)

 (23)

29 

(14)

(23)

 (1)

 (17)

 (21)

(39)

(10)

 77 

4 

72 

2 

73 

18 

56 

 14 

14 

(0)

(0)

(0)

 (239)

7 

(246)

 1 

 22 

23 

(0)

(0)

0 

 113 

31 

82 

632 

161 

793 

(194)

(252)

(150)

(22)

(617)

176 

55 

22 

253 

(16)

236 

(239)

62 

(64)

 867 

62 

930 

 (377)

 (279)

 (157)

(23)

(836)

94 

 82 

(24)

151 

(14)

138 

 113 

49 

201 

45

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
    
    
 
    
 
    
    
    
    
    
 
 
 
 
Cont. note 2 Segment reporting
The amounts provided to the chief operating decision-maker with respect to total assets, liabilities and equity are measured in the same way as in the financial statements.

WWASA group 
(discontinued 
operations)*

Maritme Services 

Supply Services 

Holding and 
Investments 

Eliminations

Total

31.12.17 31.12.16 31.12.17 31.12.16 31.12.17 31.12.16 31.12.17 31.12.16 31.12.17 31.12.16 31.12.17 31.12.16

 55 

 6 

 1 879 

 768 

 1 

 202 

 22 

 81 

 3 013 

 11 

 163 

 187 

 12 

 83 

 29 

 320 

 144 

 949 

 79 

 29 

 307 

 161 

 908 

 15 

 138 

 166 

4

8

401

 2 

 2 

 5 

 2 

 18 

 171 

 590 

 75 

 145 

 2 047 

 13 

 176 

 832 

 479 

 1 019 

 1 259 

 5 

 62 

 8 

 664 

 150 

 55 

 369 

 18 

 71 

 664 

 718 

 22 

 101 

 38 

 15 

 130 

 17 

 83 

 7 

 54 

 (19)

 (37)

 (2)

 801 

 37 

 101 

 383 

 167 

 209 

 47 

 285 

 333 

 296 

 0 

 1 730 

 776 

 (56)

 (2)

 3 288 

 4 695 

 1 497 

 158 

 616 

 112 

 54 

 9 

 14 

 34 

 7 

 7 

 0 

 1 730 

 776 

 (18)

 (1)

 (37)

 (56)

 (2)

 (2)

 1 975 

 1 990 

 212 

 6 

 601 

 135 

 358 

 502 

 12 

 1 533 

 296 

 362 

 3 288 

 4 695 

 26 

 50 

USD mill

BALANCE SHEET

Assets

Deferred tax asset

Intangible assets

Tangible assets

Investments in joint ventures 
and associates

Investments in available- 
for-sale financial assets

Other non current assets

Current financial investments

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets

Equity and liabilities

Equity majority

 1 044 

 329 

 330 

Equity non controlling interests

 391 

Deferred tax

Interest-bearing debt

Other non current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Total equity and liabilities

 1 320 

 169 

 89 

 3 013 

 (1)

 6 

 196 

 109 

 310 

 949 

 (1)

 12 

 179 

 120 

 267 

 908 

Investments in tangible assets

 21 

 50 

 4 

*Discontinued operations, see note 3.

46

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
  
  
  
    
    
   
    
  
    
    
  
Cont. note 2 Segment reporting
The amounts provided to the chief operating decision-maker with respect to cash flows are measured in a manner consistent with that of the balance sheet.

USD mill

CASH FLOW

Profit/(loss) before tax 

Net financial (income)/expenses

Depreciation/impairment

Change in working capital

Net gain from sale of associate

Net cash provided by operating activities

Share of (profit)/loss from joint ventures and associates

Dividend received from joint ventures and associates

Net sale/(investments) in fixed assets

Net sale/(investments) in entities and segments

Net investments in financial investments

Net cash flow from investing activities

Net change of debt

Net change in other financial items

Net dividend from other segments/ to shareholders

Net cash flow from financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of period

GEOGRAPHICAL AREAS

Maritime Services 

Supply Services

Holding and Investments 

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

 46 

 (6)

 15 

 (10)

 (3)

42 

 (4)

 5 

 (15)

 (21)

 1 

(34)

 20 

 (12)

 (34)

(25)

(17)

161 

144 

 80 

 25 

 22 

 28 

 (62)

94 

 (4)

 7 

 (25)

 107 

 2 

86 

 (128)

 (13)

 (59)

(200)

(20)

181 

 161 

 3 

 1 

 6 

 6 

15 

 (1)

 (5)

 3 

(4)

 (6)

 (4)

(10)

2 

6 

7 

 204 

 (16)

 9 

 (155)

41 

 (49)

 13 

 (54)

(90)

 19 

 (2)

 (7)

10 

(39)

54 

15 

 71 

 (4)

 (9)

58 

 (77)

 13 

 (1)

 (8)

 (3)

(76)

 (2)

 (2)

 53 

49 

31 

22 

54 

USD mill

Europe

Americas

Asia & Africa

Oceania

Other

Total

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

2017

2016

Total income

Total assets*

 429 

 455 

 2 914 

 1 455 

Investment in tangible assets*

 16 

 33 

 63 

 36 

 1 

 86 

 70 

 2 

 271 

 287 

 9 

 359 

 292 

 14 

 30 

 51 

 30 

 50 

 1 

 793 

 930 

 2 828 

 3 288 

 4 695 

 149 

 26 

 199 

*In 2016, 2 506 million of total assets and 149 millon of investments in tangible assets were related to discontiued operations. See note 3.

Russia is defined as Europe. 

Total income
Area income is based on the geographical location of the company and 
includes sales gains.

Total assets
Area assets are based on the geographical location of the assets.

Investments in tangible assets
Area capital expenditure is based on the geographical location of the assets. 

47

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
    
   
    
    
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 3 Discontinued operations
On 4. April 2017, the subsidiary WWASA was merged with Wall Roll AB. After 
the merger the group own 37.8% of the WWL ASA. The profit in WWASA 
previous periods is presented as discontinued operations in WWH. The assets 
and liabilities from WWASA segment are included in the group balance sheet at 
31.12.2016. Financial information (income statement and net assets) relating to the 
discontinued operations for each period to the date of disposal is set out below.

Prior to the merger, WWH held 160 000 000 shares in WWASA (renamed 
to WWL ASA). Number of shares remains unchanged after the merger.

The financial performance and cash flow information presented are for the 
Q1 2017 and the year ended 31 December 2016.

USD mill

Operating revenue

Other income

Share of profits from associates

Gain/(loss) on sale of assets

Total income

Operating expenses

Vessel expenses

Employee benefits

Other expenses

Depreciation and impairments

Total operating expenses

Operating profit

Financial income/(expenses)

Profit before tax

Tax income/(expense)

Profit from discontinued operations

Non controlling interests

Changes in fair value cash flow hedge 

Exchange differences on translation of discontinued operations

Remeasurement pension liabilities, net of tax

Other comprehensive income from discontinued operations

Cash flow from discontinued operations

Net cash flow from operating activities

Net cash flow from investing activities

Net cash flow from financing activities 

Net increase in cash generated by the discontinued operations

Details of the merger between WWASA and Wall Roll AB

Cash received

Shares in WWL ASA (market value)

Total disposals consideration

Carrying amount of net assets disposal

Currency translation differences in WWASA group

Accounting loss (discontinued operations) majority (Q2 2017)

Net profit before non-controlling interests Q1 2017

Profit/(loss) from discontinued operations

48

Q1 2017

2016

 59 

 257 

 14 

 9 

 82 

 (15)

 (11)

 (3)

 (20)

 (49)

 33 

 (8)

 25 

 1 

 26 

 7 

 2 

 1 

 7 

 107 

 (74)

 40 

 106 

 363 

 (61)

 (51)

 (18)

 (81)

 (212)

 151 

 (17)

 134 

 (22)

 113 

 31 

 12 

 (2)

 1 

 10 

 211 

 (95)

 (143)

 (27)

2017

 14 

 789 

 804 

 1 062 

 (5)

 (264)

 26 

 (239)

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 3 Discontinued operations
The carry amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the merger 4 April 2017 were:

USD mill

Deferred tax asset

Intangible assets

Tangible assets

Investments in joint ventures and associates

Other non current assets

Current financial investments

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets

Deferred tax

Interest-bearing debt

Other non current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Non controlling interests

Liabilities and non-controlling interests 

Net assets for controlling shareholders

04.04.2017

 56 

 6 

 1 822 

 775 

 1 

 150 

 16 

 121 

 2 946 

 1 267 

 164 

 55 

 398 

 1 884 

 1 062 

Assets and liabilities of disposed group 
The following assets and liabilities are related to the discontinued operations at 31 December 2016:

USD mill

31.12.2016

Assets and liabilities related to discontinued operations

Deferred tax asset

Intangible assets

Tangible assets

Investments in joint ventures and associates

Other non current assets

Current financial investments

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents 

Total assets

Interest-bearing debt

Other non current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Total liabilities

 55 

 6 

 1 879 

 768 

 1 

 202 

 22 

 81 

 3 013 

 1 320 

 169 

 89 

 1 578 

49

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
Note 4 Investments in associates

Holding and Investments

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA

Wilhelmsen Ferd Offshore AS 

Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd

Maritime Services – companies with significant shares of profits

Almoayed Wilhelmsen Ltd

Wilhelmsen Huayang Ships Services (Shanghai) Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Huayang Ships Services (Beijing) Co Ltd

Diana Wilhelmsen Management Limited

Barwil Arabia Shipping Agencies SAE

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Georgia Ltd

Barwil Georgia Ltd. 

Barklav (Hong Kong) Ltd

BWW LPG Limited

Alghanim Barwil Shipping Co-Kutayba Yusuf Ahmed & Partner WLL

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Lebanon S.A.L.

BWW LPG Sdn. Bhd.

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Private) Limited

Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Shipping Inc

Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell (Subic) Inc.

Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Manning, Inc. 

Perez Torres – Portugal Lda

Wilhelmsen Hyopwoon Ships Services Ltd

Haeyoung Maritime Services Co Ltd

Barklav S.R.L.

Binzagr Barwil Maritime Transport Co Ltd

Nagliyat Al Saudia Company Ltd

Krew-Barwil (Pty) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Meridian Navigation Ltd, Sri Lanka

Baasher Barwil Agencies Ltd

Triangle Shipping Agencies LLC

Wilhelmsen Ships Service LLC 

Barwil Abu Dhabi Ruwais LLC

Barwil Dubai LLC

Denholm Wilhelmsen Ltd

Wilhelmsen Sunnytrans Co Ltd

Supply Services – companies with significant shares of profits

Bring Polarbase AS

Hammerfest Næringsinvest AS

Strandparken Holding AS

Risavika Havnering 14 AS

Eldøyane Næringspark AS

Risavika Havn AS

Risavika Eiendom AS

Smart Management AS

Business office/country

Lysaker, Norway

Oslo, Norway 

Seoul, Republic of Korea

Bahrain

China

China

Cyprus

Egypt

Georgia

Georgia

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Kuwait

Lebanon

Malayisia

Pakistan 

Philippines 

Philippines 

Philippines 

Portugal

Republic of Korea

Republic of Korea

Romania

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

South Africa

Sri Lanka

Sudan

United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vietnam

Hammerfest, Norway

Hammerfest, Norway

Hammerfest, Norway

Stavanger, Norway

Stord, Noway

Tananger, Norway

Tananger, Norway 

Tananger, Norway 

2017

2016

Voting share/Ownership

37.8%

50.0%

12.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

35.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

49.0%

49.0%

49.0%

49.0%

50.0%

49.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

20.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

49.0%

40.0%

50.0%

50.0%

43.0%

50.0%

50.0%

40.0%

50.0%

41.0%

32.3%

33.1%

33.3%

37.9%

42.8%

42.0%

40.0%

37.8%

50.0%

12.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

35.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

49.0%

49.0%

49.0%

49.0%

50.0%

49.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

20.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

49.0%

40.0%

50.0%

50.0%

43.0%

50.0%

50.0%

40.0%

50.0%

41.0%

32.3%

33.1%

33.3%

37.9%

42.8%

42.0%

40.0%

*The investment in NorSea Group AS is collateral. See note 16.

An overview of actual equity holdings can be found in the presentation of 
company structure on page 132. 

With effect from 1 April 2017, the group changed the classification for Hyundai 
Glovis from Investment in associate to Available-for-sale financial assets. 
See note 12.

On 4 April 2017, the subsidiary WWASA was merged with Wall Roll AB creating 
WWL ASA. After the merger the group own 37.8% of WWL ASA. See note 3 for 
further information. 

WWL ASA is an operating company within both shipping segment and 
logistics segment. The company provides global transportation services for 
the automotive, agricultural, mining and construction equipment industries 
and its services consist of supply chain management, ocean transportation, 
terminal services, inland distribution and technical services. WWL ASA is the 
contracting party in customer contracts with industrial manufacturers for cars, 
agricultural machinery etc.

With effect from 26 September 2017, the group increased its shareholding in 
NorSea Group from 40% to 72%. Following the transaction, the group further 
acquired a minor portion of management controlled shares of 2.11% bringing 
the total shareholding to 74.11%. See note 19 for further information.

50

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 4 Investments in associates

USD mill

Share of profit from associates

Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd

NorSea Group AS

WWL ASA

Other associates Maritime Services

Share of profit from associates

Book value of material associates

Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd

NorSea Group AS

WWL ASA

Specification of share of equity and profit/loss:

Share of equity 01.01

Share of profit for the year

Merger WWL ASA

Business combination NorSea Group 

Associates in Supply Services

Transfer to Available-for-sale Hyundai Glovis 

Dividend

Other comprehensive income

Share of equity 31.12

2017

2016

 5 

 44 

 4 

 54 

 831 

 491 

 54 

 790 

 (100)

 60 

 (378)

 (18)

 1 

 900 

 65 

 12 

 4 

 82 

 390 

 88 

 428 

 82 

 (20)

 2 

 491 

There are no contingent liabilities relating to the group’s interest in the associates.

Set out below are the summarised financial information for, based on 100%, 
for WWL ASA group, which, in the opinion of the directors, is the material 
associates to the group. 

with increased ownership effective from this date with figures for associates in 
NorSea Group included in ”Other” with from 27.09.2017 to 31.12.2017.

Hyundai Glovis figures presented from 01.01.2017–31.03.2017 in accordance 
with transfer to Available-for-sale with effect from 01.04.17.

NorSea Group figures presented from 01.01.17 to 26.09.2017 in accordance 

Associates not considered to be material is defined under ”other” (based on 100%).

Hyundai Glovis is presented  a quarter in arrears and figures correspond to 
periods consolidated into the Holding and Investments segment.

USD mill

WWL ASA

Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd.

NorSea Group AS

Other

2017

2016

2017*

2016*

2017

2016

2017

2016

SUMMARISED STATEMENT 
OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Total income

Operating expenses

Net operating profit

Finance income & expenses

Other financial expenses

Profit before tax

Tax

Profit/(loss) after minority interest

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive (expense)/income

 2 992 

 (2 739)

 253 

 (105)

 1 

 148 

 (3)

 134 

 (3)

 132 

WWH share of dividend from associates

 12 

 12 

*Corresponding to Hyundai Glovis’ accounting period respectively 01.10.2016 through 31.12.2016 and 01.10.2015 through 30.09.2016.

 3 454 

 13 056 

 166 

 286 

 91 

 93 

 (3 288)

 (12 402)

 167 

 7 

 89 

 262 

 (48)

 214 

 (39)

 175 

 654 

 (33)

 126 

 748 

 (206)

 542 

 542 

 (143)

 23 

 (242)

 45 

 (9)

 14 

 14 

 14 

 2 

 (11)

 33 

 (3)

 31 

 2 

 32 

 2 

 (78)

 13 

 12 

 (2)

 10 

 10 

 5 

 (84)

 9 

 2 

 11 

 (1)

 9 

 9 

 7 

51

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
    
  
    
Cont. note 4 Investments in associates

USD mill

WWL ASA

Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd.

NorSea Group AS

Other

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

31.12.2017 31.12.2016**

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

SUMMARISED BALANCE SHEET

Non current assets

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Non current financial liabilities

Other non current liabilities

Current financial liabilities

Other current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

 6 272 

 690 

 797 

 7 759 

 3 103 

 389 

 661 

 810 

 4 963 

 2 796 

 3 300 

 2 622 

 514 

 6 436 

 808 

 632 

 370 

 1 765 

 3 574 

 2 862 

 0 

 0 

 0 

 572 

 97 

 20 

 689 

 358 

 2 

 25 

 84 

 469 

 186 

 56 

 79 

 321 

 72 

 6 

 6 

 108 

 193 

 221 

 128 

 0 

 0 

 0 

 13 

 41 

 36 

 90 

 5 

 60 

 65 

 25 

The information above reflects the 100% amount presented in the financial statements of the associates, adjusted for differences in accounting policies 
between the group and the associates. 
**Corresponding to Hyundai Glovis’ accounting period ending respectively 30.09.2016.

USD mill

WWL ASA

Hyundai Glovis Co Ltd.

NorSea Group AS

Other

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

31.03.2017

31.12.2016

26.09.2017

31.12.2016

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

RECONCILIATION OF SUMMARISED
FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Net asset 01.01

Increased capital

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive income***

    Currency translation differences

Dividend

Transfer to Available-for-sale/busi-
ness combination

Net assets 31.12

WWH share 

Goodwill

Currency 

Fair value adjustment vessel 
and goodwill

Carrying value 31.12

 2 664 

 134 

 (3)

 2 796 

 1 057 

 (226)

 831 

***Including currency translation differences on net assets 01.01.

Reconciliations of the group's income statement and balance sheet

USD mill

Share of profit/(loss) from joint ventures

Share of profit from associates

Share of profit/(loss) from joint ventures and associates

Share of equity from joint ventures

Share of equity from associates

Share of equity from joint ventures and associates

 2 862 

 2 654 

 221 

 189 

 214 

 (39)

 (98)

 542 

 14 

 (236)

 (2 939)

 0 

 (98)

 2 862 

 (235)

 0 

 31 

 5 

 (4)

 221 

 25 

 105 

 12 

 (2)

 (11)

 129 

 343 

 18 

 29 

 88 

 69 

 32 

 9 

 (1)

 (16)

 25 

 13 

 0 

 390 

 0 

 88 

 69 

 13 

2017

2016

 1 

 54 

 55 

 119 

 900 

 106 

 82 

 187 

 768 

 491 

 1 019 

 1 259 

The group’s share of profit/(loss), after tax from joint ventures and associates is recognised in the income statement as an operating income. The investments 
in joint ventures and associates are related to the group’s operating activities and therefore classified as part of the operating activity. All joint ventures and 
associates are equity consolidated. 

52

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
 
    
    
    
Note 4 Investments in joint ventures

NorSea Group 

Coast Center Base AS (CCB)

KS Coast Center Base (CCB)

Vikan Næringspark AS

SørSea AS

Polar Lift AS

Business office, country

Fjell, Norway

Fjell, Norway

Kristiansund, Norway

Tananger, Norway

Hammerfest, Norway

2017

2016

Voting share/ownership

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

50.0%

Coast Center Base AS is a joint venture between NorSea Group and Bernh. 
Larsen Holding AS and was established in 1998. It delivers services related to 
logistics, quay, project and maintenance to the oil & gas industry in addition to 
maritime industry.

SørSea AS is a joint venture between NorSea Group and Røsi AS/Stangeland 
Gruppen AS. It owns land in Risavika in Norway.

Polar Lift AS is a joint venture between NorSea Group and Havator AS. It rents 
out cranes and other equipment and is located in Hammerfest in Norway.

KS Coast Center Base AS is a joint venture between NorSea Group and 
Bernh. Larsen Holding AS and was established in 1973. It is mainly a property 
company owning infrastructure rented out to Coast Center Base AS.

All companies are private companies and there are no quoted market price 
available for the shares.

Vikan Næringspark AS is a joint venture between NorSea Group and 
Kristiansund Baseselskap AS. It owns property that is rented out to Vestbase 
AS, a subsidiary of NorSea Group, in Kristiansund.

There are no other contingent liabilities relating to the group’s interest in the 
joint ventures.

53

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 4 Investments in joint ventures

USD mill

Summarised financial information – according to the group's ownership

Share of total income

Share of operating expenses

Share of depreciation

Share of net financial items

Share of tax expense

Share of profit/(loss) for the year

Share of equity (equity method)

Book value

Excess value (goodwill)

USD mill

Joint ventures' assets, equity and liabilities (group's share of investments)

Share of non current assets

Share of cash and cash equivalents

Share of current assets

Total share of assets

Share of equity 26.09

Share of profit/(loss) for the period

Currency translation differences

Share of equity 31.12

Share of non current financial liabilities

Share of other non current liabilities

Share of current financial liabilities

Share of other current liabilities

Total share of liabilities

Total share of equity and liabilities

*Discontinued operations.

2017

2016*

 21 

 (17)

 (1)

 (1)

 1 

 69 

 50 

2017

2016*

 169 

 19 

 13 

 201 

 70 

 1 

 (2)

 69 

 104 

 3 

 25 

 132 

 201 

Set out below are the summarised financial information, based on 100%, for Cost Center Base AS (CCB), which, in the opinion of the directors, is a material joint 
venture to the group.

Joint venture not considered to be material, is defined under ”other” (based on 100%).

USD mill

SUMMARISED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

CCB

Other

2017

2016

2017

2016

Total income

Operating expenses

Depreciation / amortisation

Net operating profit/(loss)

Financial income/(expenses)

Profit/(loss) before tax

Tax income/(expense)

Profit/(loss) after minority interest

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

WWH share of dividend from joint ventures

54

 38 

 (33)

 (2)

 4 

 (2)

 2 

 2 

 2 

 4 

 (1)

 (1)

 2 

 (1)

 1 

 0 

 0 

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
    
    
  
   
    
Cont. note 4 Investments in joint ventures

USD mill

SUMMARISED BALANCE SHEET

Non current assets

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Non current financial liabilities

Other non current liabilities

Current financial liabilities

Other current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

CCB

Other

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

 200 

 37 

 22 

 260 

 119 

 3 

 45 

 167 

 93 

 138 

 4 

 142 

 89 

 3 

 5 

 97 

 45 

The information above reflects the 100% amount presented in the financial statements of the joint ventures, adjusted for differences in accounting policies 
between the group and the joint ventures.

USD mill

RECONCILIATION OF SUMMARISED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CCB

Other

2017

2016

2017

2016

Opening net asset 26.09

Profit for the period

Other comprehensive income

– Currency translation differences 

Closing net assets 31.12

WWH share 

Goodwill

Carrying value 31.12

 93 

 2 

 (3)

 93 

 47 

 56 

 102 

 46 

 (1)

 45 

 22 

 (5)

 17 

55

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
    
  
 
Cont. note 4 Investments in joint ventures

Discontinued joint ventures

USD mill

SUMMARISED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

Total income

Operating expenses

Depreciation / amortisation

Net operating profit/(loss)

Financial income/(expenses)

Profit/(loss) before tax

Tax income/(expense)

Profit/(loss) after minority interest

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

WWH share of dividend from joint ventures

USD mill

SUMMARISED BALANCE SHEET

Non current assets

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total assets

Non current financial liabilities

Other non current liabilities

Current financial liabilities

Other current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

USD mill

RECONCILIATION OF SUMMARISED FINANCIAL INFORMATION

Opening net asset 01.01

Profit/(loss) for the period

Other comprehensive income

– Cash flow hedges, net of tax

– Remeasurement postemployment benefits, net of tax

– Dividend to shareholder

– Reclassification

Closing net assets 31.12

WWH share 

Goodwill

Carrying value 31.12

56

EUKOR Car Carriers Inc

Other

2017

2016

2017

2016

 1 381 

 (1 168)

 (105)

 108 

 (43)

 65 

 (2)

 63 

 30 

 93 

 40 

 2 311 

 (2 023)

 (49)

 238 

 (5)

 234 

 (33)

 193 

 (3)

 190 

 12 

EUKOR Car Carriers Inc

Other

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

 2 704 

 136 

 189 

 3 029 

 1 290 

 5 

 167 

 238 

 1 700 

 1 329 

 787 

 387 

 211 

 1 385 

 303 

 231 

 53 

 344 

 931 

 454 

EUKOR Car Carriers Inc

Other

2017

2016

2017

2016

 1 336 

 63 

 29 

 1 

 (100)

 1 329 

 532 

 11 

 542 

 289 

 193 

 (2)

 (1)

 (24)

 454 

 221 

 6 

 226 

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
    
Note 5 Principal subsidiaries

Maritime Services 

Business office/country

Nature of business

Proportion of ordinary 
shares directly held by 
parent (%)

Proportion of ordinary 
shares held by the 
group (%)

Wilhelmsen Maritime Services AS

Wilhelmsen Ships Service AS

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Maritime products and services

Maritime products and services

100%

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Ltd

Hong Kong

Ship management

Supply Services 

NorSea Group AS

Holding and Investments

Tananger, Norway

Supply Services

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding Invest AS

Lysaker, Norway

Treasure ASA 

Lysaker, Norway

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding Invest Malta Ltd

Valletta, Malta

Investment

Investment

Investment

100%

72.73%

100%

100%

100%

74.11%

100%

72.73%

100%

The group’s principal subsidiaries at 31 December 2017 are set out above. Unless otherwise stated, they have share capital consisting solely of ordinary shares 
that are held directly by the group, and the proportion of ownership interests held equals the voting rights held by the group. The country of incorporation or 
registration is also their principal place of business.

57

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 6 Employee benefits

USD mill

Pay

Payroll tax

Pension cost

Other remuneration

Total employee benefits

Number of employees:

Group companies in Norway

Group companies abroad

Seagoing personnel Ship Management

Total employees

Average number of employees

*Including discontinued operations.
**Including Supply Services.

REMUNERATION OF SENIOR EXECUTIVES

USD thousand

2017

Group CEO

Group CFO

President and CEO Wilhelmsen Maritime Services AS**

President Wilhelmsen Ships Service

President Wilhelmsen Ship Management 

CEO NorSea Group  

2016

Group CEO

Group CFO until April 2016

Group CFO from April 2016

President and CEO Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA

President and CEO Wilhelmsen Maritime Services AS

Note

2017

2016

10

 193 

 26 

 10 

 22 

 252 

 193 

 36 

 14 

 36 

 279 

2017**

2016*

 1 053 

 4 115 

 9 460 

 497 

 4 087 

 9 176 

 14 628 

 13 760 

 14 194 

 15 117 

Pay

Bonus

Pension 
premium

*Other 
remuneration

Total

Total in NOK 
thousand

 575 

 398 

 204 

 360 

 252 

 257 

 552 

 203 

 254 

 405 

 389 

 841 

 329 

 395 

 39 

 49 

 63 

 92 

 60 

 181 

 29 

 215 

 46 

 153 

 102 

 35 

 9 

 189 

 7 

 33 

 498 

 410 

 205 

 1 837 

 15 186 

 51 

 53 

 23 

 54 

 21 

 182 

 27 

 32 

 412 

 381 

 825 

 805 

 524 

 390 

 350 

 1 016 

 297 

 319 

 1 495 

 1 207 

 6 818 

 6 656 

 4 333 

 3 228 

 2 896 

 8 529 

 2 493 

 2 677 

 12 559 

 10 140 

Remuneration is paid in NOK, which means that the USD amounts are not comparable from year to year. Rates of remuneration can be compared by taking account 
of changes in the USD exchange rate.

*Mainly related to gross up pension expenses and company car.
**Until 30.06.2017.

58

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
Cont. note 6 Employee benefits

Remuneration of the board of directors

USD thousand

Diderik Schnitler (chair)

Helen Juell

Odd Rune Austgulen

Carl E. Steen

Irene Waage Basili 

Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen 

Bettina Banoun

2017

2016

 79 

 45 

 45 

 45 

 45 

 0 

 0 

 77* 

 45 

 45 

 45 

 0 

 0 

 45 

*2016 excluded board of directors fee and consulting agreement from discontinued operations, totalled USD 63 thousand.

The board’s remuneration for fiscal year 2017 will be approved by the general meeting 26 April 2018.
Remuneration of the nomination committee, for both Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and Treasure ASA, totalled USD 21 thousand for 2017 (2016: USD 20 thousand 
for Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA).

Senior executives 
Thomas Wilhelmsen – group CEO   
Christian Berg – group CFO 
Dag Schjerven – president and CEO Wilhelmsen Maritime Services AS until end June 2017 
Bjoerge Grimholt – president Wilhelmsen Ships Service  
Carl Schou – president Wilhelmsen Ship Management  
John Stangeland – CEO NorSea Group

See note 2 Employee benefits in the parent company accounts, and note 19 Related party transaction.

LONG-TERM INCENTIVE SCHEME
The long-term incentive scheme (LTI) was introduced in 2015. Participants 
are members of the group management team and the presidents for 
Wilhelmsen Ships Service and Wilhelmsen Ship Management. For the group 
CEO, maximum annual payment is 100% of base salary. For the remaining 
participants, the maximum annual payment is 6–9 months of base salary.

The LTI focuses on long term shareholder value creation and is based on 
positive development of the Wilhelmsen group’s value adjusted equity. The 
ambitions set for the programme are to increase alignment with value creation 
for shareholders, to attract, retain and motivate participants and drive long-
term group performance.

Settlement is based on return on value adjusted equity the last four years 
leading up to the settlement. The value adjusted equity is determined by using 

a “sum-of-the-parts” principle.  For listed companies, value adjusted equity is 
based on market price, while earnings multiples or net asset value are used for 
non-listed entities. 

The board sets value adjusted equity targets at the beginning of each four year 
measurement period. Without consultation or agreement with the individual, 
the board has the right to change or terminate the incentive programme after 
each year.  

Per 31 December 2017, a provision has been made equivalent to 34% of 
maximum annual payment, covering provisions for 2017 related to the LTI 
programme expiring on 31 December 2018. The provision has been calculated 
based on value adjusted equity per 31 December 2017, risk free return and 
standard deviation of historic annual value creation. No provision has been 
made for the LTI programme expiring on 31 December 2020.

EXPENSED AUDIT FEE

USD mill

Statutory audit

Other assurance services

Tax advisory fee

Other assistance

Total expensed audit fee

The fees above cover the group expenses to all external auditors and tax advisors.

2017

2016

2.2

0.3

0.5

0.3

3.3

2.3

0.1

1.9

0.9

5.3

59

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
Note 7 Property, vessels and other tangible assets

USD mill

TANGIBLE ASSETS

2017

Cost price 1.1

Acquisition

Business combination 

Discontinued operations

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Cost price 31.12

Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses 1.1

Depreciation/amortisation

Depreciation discontinued operations

Business combination

Discontinued operations

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses 31.12

Carrying amounts 31.12

2016*

Cost price 1.1

Acquisition

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Cost price 31.12

Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses 1.1

Depreciation/amortisation

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses 31.12

Carrying amounts 31.12

Economic lifetime

Depreciation schedule

*Including discontinued operations.

Property

Vessels

Other 
tangible assets

Total 
tangible assets

 90 

 4 

 479 

 13 

 (11)

 575 

 (38)

 (6)

 (100)

 (15)

 1 

 (159)

 416 

 92 

 1 

 (3)

 90 

 (37)

 (3)

 1 

 (38)

 51 

 2 457 

 38 

 (2 404)

 (54)

 (1)

 36 

 (579)

 (20)

 (17)

 582 

 17 

 1 

 (17)

 19 

 2 439 

 11 

 7 

 2 457 

 (646)

 (81)

 148 

 (579)

 189 

 21 

 57 

 (2)

 (8)

 12 

 269 

 (72)

 (9)

 (37)

 1 

 5 

 (3)

 (114)

 155 

215 

 49 

 (72)

 (4)

 189 

 (86)

 (11)

 24 

 1 

 (72)

 2 736 

 26 

 574 

 (2 405)

 (49)

 (1)

 880 

 (689)

 (16)

 (20)

 (155)

 584 

 7 

 (1)

 (290)

 590 

 2 746 

 61 

 (67)

 (4)

 2 736 

 (768)

 (95)

 173 

 1 

 (689)

 1 878 

 117 

 2 047 

10-50 years

Straight-line

30 years

Straight-line

3-10 years

Straight-line

60

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
    
  
    
Cont. note 7 Goodwill and other intangible assets

USD mill

INTANGIBLE ASSETS

2017

Cost price 01.01

Acquisition

Business combination 

Discontinued operations

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Cost price 31.12

Accumulated amortisation and impairment losses 01.01

Amortisation/impairment

Amortisation/impairment discontinued operations 

Business combination

Discontinued operations

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Accumulated amortisation and impairment losses 31.12

Carrying amounts 31.12

2016*

Cost price 01.01

Acquisition

Reclass/disposal

Currency translation differences

Cost price 31.12

Accumulated amortisation and impairment losses 01.01

Amortisation/impairment

Disposals

Currency translation differences

Accumulated amortisation and impairment losses 31.12

Carrying amounts 31.12

*Including discontinued operations.

Segment-level summary of the goodwill allocation:

Maritime Services 

Discontinued operations 

Total goodwill allocation

Goodwill

Other 
intangible assets

Software 
and licences

Total 
intangible assets

 118 

 14 

 (6)

 6 

 133 

 (2)

 (2)

 131 

 194 

 14 

 (90)

 118 

 (52)

 49 

 1 

 (2)

 116 

 16 

 16 

 (7)

 (7)

 9 

 23 

 (23)

 0 

 (6)

 6 

 0 

 0 

 91 

 3 

 (1)

 (1)

 4 

 95 

 (62)

 1 

 (2)

 (63)

 32 

 109 

 6 

 (27)

 2 

 91 

 (64)

 (9)

 11 

 (1)

 (62)

 28 

2017

 131 

 131 

 209 

 3 

 30 

 (7)

 (1)

 10 

 244 

 (64)

 (7)

 1 

 (2)

 (72)

 171 

 327 

 20 

 (140)

 2 

 209 

 (122)

 (9)

 66 

 (64)

 145 

2016

 110 

 6 

 116 

In 2017, the group increased its ownership in NorSea Group from 40% to 74.11%. The purchase did not generate goodwill. 

In 2017, Wilhelmsen Chemical (Maritime Services segment) aquired Kemetyl Konsument AS. The excess value of USD 19 million (nominated in NOK) was split into 
intangible assets of USD 5 million and goodwill of USD 14 million.

In 2016, the group conducted no material aquisitions.

61

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
    
    
    
    
    
    
    
  
  
    
  
Cont. note 7 Goodwill and other intangible assets
Impairment testing of goodwill
In the Maritime Services segment, USD 131 million relate to business area 
Ships Service mainly to the acquisition of Unitor ASA and Kemetyl. The 
goodwill figures are originally calculated in NOK and USD (2016: NOK and USD).

No impairment was conducted in 2017 (Analogous for 2016). During 2016, 
Callenberg was disposed of, and the goodwill originally in GBP from acquistion 
of IES Callenberg Ltd was offset against the loss.

In connection with the disposal of Safety activities in 2016, USD 22 
million (including currency effect) was offset against the gain, representing 
approximately 20% of the original goodwill from the aquisition of Unitor ASA.

For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to the respective 
cash generating unit which are Ships Service. 

Value in use was determined by discounting the future cash flows generated 
from the continuing operation of the units.

Cash flows were projected based on actual operating results and next year’s 
forecast. Cash flows is based on a 5-year strategy plan period with terminal 
value (terminal growth rate 1%) were extrapolated using the following key 
assumptions:

USD/NOK

Discount rate

Growth rate

Increase in material cost

Increase in pay and other remuneration

Increase in other expenses  

2017

7.80

9.0%

1-4%

1-4%

1-4%

1-4%

2016

8.30

9.0%

1-5%

3-3.5%

3-3.5%

1-3%

The values assigned to the key assumptions represent management’s 
assessment of future trends in the maritime industry and are based on both 
external sources and internal sources.

Had the WACC been 0.5 percentage point higher, the estimated value would be 
reduced by USD 5 million for WSS net value. Had the WACC been 0.5 percentage 
point lower, the estimated value would be increased by USD 5 million for WSS. 

No reasonably possible change in any of the key assumptions on which 
management has based its determination of the recoverable amount would 
cause the carrying amount to exceed its recoverable amount.

Had the multiple, enterprise value / EBITDA  been 1 point lower, the estimated 
value would be reduced by USD 45 million for WSS net value. Had the multiple, 
enterprise value / EBITDA  been 1 point higher, the estimated value would be 
increased by USD 45 million for WSS.

62

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 8 Tax
Ordinary taxation
The ordinary rate of corporation tax in Norway is 24% of net profit for 2017 
(2016: 25%). Norwegian limited liability companies are encompassed by the 
participation exemption method for share income. Thus, share dividends 
and gains are tax free for the receiving company. Corresponding losses on 
shares are not deductible. The participation exemption method does not 
apply to share income from companies considered low taxed and that are 
located outside the European Economic Area (EEA), and on share income from 
companies owned by less than 10% resident outside the EEA.

For group companies located in the same country and within the same tax 
regime, taxable profits in one company can be offset against tax losses and tax 
loss carry forwards in other group companies. Deferred tax/deferred tax asset 

has been calculated on temporary differences to the extent that it is likely that 
these can be utilised in each country and for Norwegian entities the group has 
applied a rate of 23% (2016: 24%).

The effective tax rate for the group will, from period to period, change 
dependent on the group gains and losses from investments inside the 
exemption method and tax exempt revenues from tonnage tax regimes.

Foreign taxes
Companies domiciled outside Norway will be subject to local taxation, either 
on ordinary terms or under special tonnage tax rules. When dividends are paid, 
local withholding taxes may be applicable. This generally applies to dividends 
paid by companies domiciled outside the EEA.

USD mill

2017

2016

Allocation of tax income/(expense) for the year

Payable tax in Norway

Payable tax foreign

Change in deferred tax

Total tax income/(expense)

Reconciliation of actual tax cost against expected tax cost in accordance with the ordinary Norwegian income tax rate of 24%

Profit before tax

24% tax (2016: 25%) 

Tax effect from:

Permanent differences

Non-taxable income

Share of profits from joint ventures and associates

Change in difference tax rate and currency translation

Withholding tax and payable tax previous year

Calculated tax (income)/expense for the group

 (4)

 (16)

 4 

 (16)

 253 

 61 

 16 

 (50)

 (17)

 5 

 2 

 16 

 (2)

 (8)

 (3)

 (14)

 151 

 38 

 1 

 (8)

 (16)

 1 

 1 

 14 

Effective tax rate for the group

6.4%

9.5%

63

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
Cont. note 8 Tax

USD mill

Net deferred tax assets/(liabilities) at 01.01

Decrease due to discontinued operations

Increase due to business combinations

Currency translation differences

Tax charged to equity / acquisition

Income statement charge

Net deferred tax assets at 31.12

Deferred tax assets in balance sheet

Deferred tax liabilities in balance sheet

Net deferred tax assets at 31.12

2017

2016

 63 

 (55)

 2 

 (2)

 4 

 12 

 18 

 (6)

 12 

 72 

 3 

 5 

 (16)

 63 

 75 

 (12)

 63 

The movement in deferred income tax assets and liabilities during the year, without taking into consideration the offsetting of balances within the same tax 
jurisdiction, is as follows:

USD mill

Deferred tax liabilities 

At 31.12.2016*

Through income statement

Discontinued operations

Business combination 

Deferred tax liabilities at 31.12.2017

At 31.12.2015

Through income statement

Currency translations

Deferred tax liabilities at 31.12.2016*

*Including tax liabilities related to discontinued operations of USD 50 mill.

Fixed assets

Tonnage 
tax regime

Other

Total

 (52)

 (1)

 37 

 (16)

 (54)

 (4)

 4 

 (52)

 (15)

 15 

 0 

 (19)

 12 

 4 

 (15)

 (2)

 3 

 (2)

 (2)

 (1)

 (19)

 (3)

 7 

 (2)

 (71)

 3 

 50 

 (2)

 (19)

 (93)

 6 

 14 

 (71)

64

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
    
    
Cont. note 8 Tax

USD mill

Deferred tax assets 

At 31.12.2016**

Through income statement

Discontinued operations

Business combination 

Currency translations

Deferred tax assets at 31.12.2017

At 31.12.2015

Through income statement

Charged directly to equity

Currency translations

Deferred tax assets at 31.12.2016**

Non current 
assets and 
liabilities

Current 
assets and 
liabilities

Tax losses carried 
forward

Total

 60 

 7 

 (57)

 3 

 (1)

 14 

 90 

 (24)

 (2)

 (3)

 60 

 2 

 (4)

 1 

 1 

 (1)

 (7)

 14 

 (5)

 2 

 68 

 (3)

 (51)

 1 

 (1)

 14 

 79 

 (18)

 4 

 3 

 68 

 134 

 (106)

 4 

 (2)

 31 

 165 

 (28)

 3 

 (6)

 134 

**Including tax assets related to discontinued operations of USD 106 mill.

Temporary differences related to joint ventures and associates are USD 0 for 
the group, since all the units are regarded as located within the area in which the 
exemption method applies, and no plans exist to sell any of these companies.

The Maritime Services segment will have shares in subsidiaries not subject to the 
exemption method which could give rise to a tax charge in the event of a sale, 
where no provision has been made for deferred tax associated with a possible 
sale or dividend. No plans exist at present to dispose of such companies.

Note 9 Earnings per shares
Earnings per share taking into consideration the number of outstanding shares 
in the period. The group acquired 100 000 own A shares during August 2011.

Basic / diluted earnings per share is calculated by dividing profit for the period 
after minority interests, by average number of total outstanding shares. 

Earnings per share is calculated based on 46 403 824 shares for 2016 and 2017.

65

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
    
    
Note 10 Pension
The group’s defined contribution pension schemes for Norwegian employees 
are with financial institutions providing solutions based on investment funds. 

Subsidiaries outside Norway have separate schemes for their employees in 
accordance with local rules, and the pension schemes are for the material part 
defined contribution plans.

The group has “Ekstrapensjon”, a contribution plan for all Norwegian 
employees with salaries exceeding 12 times the Norwegian National Insurance 
base amount (G). The contribution plan replaced the group obligations, mainly 
financed from operation. However, the group still has obligations for some 
employees’ related to salaries exceeding 12 times the Norwegian National 
Insurance base amount (G) mainly financed from operations.

Pension costs and obligations include payroll taxes. No provision has been 
made for payroll tax in pension plans where the plan assets exceed the plan 
obligations.

The liability recognised in the balance sheet in respect of the remaining defined 
benefit pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at 
the end of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets. The defined 
benefit obligations are calculated annually by independent actuaries using 
the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit 
obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows 
using interest rates of corporate bonds that are denominated in the currency in 
which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity approximating 
to the terms of the related pension obligation. 

In addition, the group has agreements on early retirement. These obligations 
are mainly financed from operations.

In a few countries without deep markets in such bonds, the market rates on 
government bonds are used. 

The group has obligations towards some employees in the group’s senior 
executive management. These obligations are mainly covered via group 
annuity policies in Storebrand.

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes 
in actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to equity in other 
comprehensive income in the period in which they arise.

Number of people covered by pension schemes at 31.12*

2017

2016

2017

2016

Funded

Unfunded

In employment

On retirement (inclusive disability pensions)

Total number of people covered by pension schemes

 23 

 139 

 162 

 4 

 12 

 16 

 4 

 27 

 31 

 3 

 699 

 702 

*2016 both funded and unfunded consists of 2 in employment related to discontinued operations and 687 on retirement related to discontinued operations. 

Financial assumptions for the pension calculations:

2017

2016

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

Expenses

Commitments

Discount rate

Anticipated pay regulation

Anticipated increase in National Insurance base amount (G)

Anticipated regulation of pensions

2.40%

2.25%

2.25%

0.40%

2.50%

2.25%

2.25%

0.60%

2.30%

2.00%

2.00%

0.10%

2.30%

2.00%

2.00%

0.10%

66

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Cont. note 10 Pension

USD mill

Pension expenses     

2017

2016*

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Service cost

Termination gain defined benefit plan

Cost of defined contribution plan

Net pension expenses

*Excluding discontinued operations

 (4)

 13 

 10 

 1 

 1 

 1 

 (4)

 13 

 10 

 14 

 14 

 1 

 1 

 1 

 14 

14

USD mill

Remeasurements – Other comprehensive income

2017

2016

Total remeasurements included in OCI

 (0)

 0 

USD mill

Pension obligations

Defined benefit obligation at end of prior year

Decrease due to discontinued operations

Increase due to business combination

Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates

Service cost

Termination gain defined benefit plan

Interest expense

Benefit payments from plan

Benefit payments from employer

Remeasurements – change in assumptions

Pension obligations 31.12

Fair value of plan assets

Fair value of plan assets at end of prior year

Decrease due to discontinued operations

Increase due to business combination

Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates

Interest income

Employer contributions

Benefit payments from plan

Gross pension assets  31.12

2017

2016

 71 

 (43)

 19 

 2 

 1 

 (4)

 1 

 (1)

 45 

 7 

 (3)

 16 

 1 

 1 

 (1)

 22 

 73 

 2 

 2 

 (3)

 (2)

 71 

 6 

 1 

 1 

 7 

67

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017   
Cont. note 10 Pension

USD mill

2017

2016**

Total pension obligations

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Service cost

Total pension obligation

Fair value of plan assets

Net liability (asset)

 1 

 25 

 22 

 3 

 2 

 19 

 19 

 3 

 45 

 22 

 22 

 1 

 11 

 7 

 4 

 2 

 60 

 60 

 3 

 71 

 7 

 63 

Premium payments in 2018 are expected to be USD 0.5 million (2017: USD 5.0 million).
Payments from operations are estimated at USD 1.0 million (2017: USD 4.1 million).

USD mill

Historical developments

31.12.2017

31.12.2016**

31.12.2015

31.12.2014

31.12.2013

31.12.2012

Gross pension obligations, including payroll tax

Gross pension assets

Net recorded pension obligations

 (45)

 22 

 (23)

 (71)

 7 

 (63)

 (73)

 6 

 (67)

 (109)

 17 

 (92)

 (213)

 105 

 (108)

 (206)

 107 

 (99)

**Net liability at 31.12.2016 and years before includes discontinued operations. 

Note 11 Combined items, balance sheet

USD mill

OTHER NON CURRENT ASSETS*

Non current share investments

Related party non current assets

Other non current assets**

Total other non current assets

OTHER CURRENT ASSETS*

Account receivables

Financial derivatives

Restricted cash

Other current assets

Total other current assets

OTHER NON CURRENT LIABILITIES*

Financial derivatives

Other non current liabilities***

Total other non current liabilities

OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES*

Account payables

Financial derivatives

Other current liabilities

Total other current liabilities

Note

17

17/20

17

20

17

15

17

17

20

17

2017

2016

 3 

 34 

 37 

 217 

 2 

 1 

 81 

 302 

 112 

 112 

 206 

 13 

 122 

 341 

 17 

 29 

 47 

 163 

 10 

 1 

 94 

 268 

 128 

 105 

 233 

 164 

 35 

 140 

 340 

*Current assets and current liabilities are due within 12 months. Non current 
assets and non current liabilities are due in more than 12 months.

**As part of the settlement of the sale of Callenberg group, Maritime Services 
agreed a vendor note and an earn out of USD 16.5 million and USD 6 million, 
respectively. The vendor note and the earn out is accounted for as long term 
receivable. See note 19.

***Maritime Services has 609 623 (2016: 586 000) cylinders booked as other 

tangible asset in the balance sheet, see note 7. The cylinders are valued at USD 
107 million (2016: USD 95 million). These cylinders are partly in the group’s own 
possession and partly on board customers vessels. Most customers have paid 
a deposit for the cylinders they have onboard their vessels. The total deposit 
liability booked is USD 86 million (2016: USD 97 million). 

If cylinders are not returned within 48 months statistics show that the cylinders 
will not be returned and the net between deposit value and booked value is 
booked to the income statement.

68

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Cont. note 11 Combined items, balance sheet
ACCOUNT RECEIVABLES
At 31 December 2017, USD 15 million (2016: USD 17 million) in account receivables had fallen due but not been subject to impairment. These receivables are 
related to a number of separate customers. Historically, the percentage of bad debts has been low and the group expects the customers to settle outstanding 
receivables. Receivables fallen due but not subject to impairment have the following age composition:

USD mill

2017

2016

Aging of account receivables past due but not impaired

Up to 90 days

90-180 days

Over 180 days

Movements in group provision for impairment of account receivables are as follows

Balance at 01.01

Net provision for receivables impairment

Balance 31.12

Account receivables per segment

Maritime Services 

Supply services 

Discontinued operations

Total account receivables

See note 17 on credit risk.

 9 

 6 

 8 

 (2)

 6 

 170 

 47 

 217 

 8 

 9 

 6 

 2 

 8 

 159 

 4 

 163 

ACCOUNT PAYABLES
At 31 December 2017, USD 17 million (2016: USD 10 million) in account payables had fallen due. These payables refer to a number of separate suppliers and are 
related to general business. The group expects to settle outstanding payables. Payables fallen due have the following age composition:

USD mill

Account payables per segment

Maritime Services 

Supply services 

Holding and Investments

Discontinued operations

Total account payables

See note 17 on credit risk.

2017

2016

 183 

 22 

 1 

 206 

 161 

 1 

 2 

 164 

69

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 12 Available-for-sale assets

USD mill

Available-for-sale financial assets

At 01.01

Acquistion 

Sale during the year

Transfer from equity method measurement – Hyundai Glovis

Mark to market valuation

Currency translation adjustment

Total available-for-sale financial assets

Available-for-sale financial assets

Qube Holdings Limited

Kaplan Equity Limited (KEL)

Survitec UK Ltd.

Hyundai Glovis 

Total Available-for-sale financial assets

2017

2016

 209 

 12 

 (11)

 573 

 18 

 801 

 132 

 11 

 83 

 575 

801

 122 

 91 

 (7)

 4 

 (2)

 209 

 123 

 6 

 79 

209

Qube Holdings Limited is a diversified Australian based logistics and 
infrastructure company providing logistics services for clients in both import 
and export cargo supply chains. Qube is listed on the Australian Securities 
Exchange (ASX). As per 31 December 2017, Wilhelmsen held 65 million shares 
in Qube (approximately 4% of total), of which 35 million were mortgaged. See 
note 16.

Survitec group holds market-leading positions worldwide in marine, offshore, 
defence and aerospace survival technology. The company is majority owned 
by Onex Corporation, a private equity firm. Changes in fair value of the 
investment in Survitec has been recognised through the income statement.

Hyundai Glovis Co., Ltd., is a global Korean based general logistics and 
distribution company, providing business service such as logistics, marine 
transportation, KD, used cars and trading. Glovis is listed on the Korean Stock 

Exchange. As per 31 December 2017, Treasure ASA held 4.5 million shares in 
Glovis (12.04% of total). Treasure ASA is listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange. As 
per 31 December 2017, Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA owned 72.7% of Treasure 
ASA. The change in measurement of the shares in Hyundai Glovis from equity 
method to available-for-sale financial asset is due to loss of significant influance 
following the discontinued operation related to previous ownership in Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen ASA.

Available-for-sale financial assets are held in subsidiaries with different 
reporting currency and thereby creating translation adjustments.

Effective from 01.01.2018 all available-for-sale assets held 31.12.2017 will be 
measured at fair value throuh the income statement in accordance with IFRS 9. 
Related fair value gains of USD 2.8 mill will have to be transferred from the 
available-for-sale financial assets reserve to retained earnings on 1 January 2018.

Note 13 Inventories

USD mill

Inventories

Raw materials

Goods/projects in process

Finished goods/products for onward sale

Luboil

Total inventories

Obsolescence allowance, deducted above

Note 14 Current financial investments

USD mill

Market value current financial investments

Equities

Bonds

Total current financial investments

2017

2016

 8 

 1 

 72 

 81 

 2 

 6 

 1 

 56 

 3 

 65 

 2 

2017

2016

 53 

 48 

 101 

 100 

 185 

 285 

The fair value of all equity securities, bonds and other financial assets is based on their closing prices in an active market.

The net unrealised gain/(loss) at 31.12

 15 

 2 

The parent company’s portfolio of financial investments USD 101 million is held as collateral within a securities’ finance facility. See note 16.

70

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 15 Cash, restricted bank deposits and undrawn credit facilities

USD mill

Payroll tax withholding account

2017

2016

1

1

Companies that do not have payroll tax withholding account use bank guarantees. As per 31.12.2017 total guarantees amounted to USD 6.8 million (2016: USD 3.1 
million).

Undrawn credit facilities

600

374

Undrawn credit facilities are key part of the liquidity reserve, amounting to USD 600 million at 31 December 2017 (2016: USD 374 million – adjusted for 
discontinued operations).

Cash and cash equivalents

Banks

Deposit banks 3 months

Total cash and cash equivalents

 167 

 167 

 278 

 17 

 296 

Note 16 Interest-bearing debt

USD mill

Interest-bearing debt

Bank loan

Interest-bearing debt discontinued operations

Total interest-bearing debt

Book value of collateral, mortgaged and leased assets:

Available-for-sale-financial assets, current financial investments

Investment in NorSea Group AS 

Assets NorSea Group AS

Discontinued operations (vessels)

Total book value of collateral, mortgaged and leased assets

Note

2017

2016

17

14

 601 

 601 

 171 

 112 

 693 

 976 

 213 

 1 320 

 1 533 

 144 

 98 

 1 814 

 2 056 

The bank debt which partly finances the investment in NorSea Group AS utilizes the investment itself together with financial assets available-for-sale as collateral.
The parent company’s portfolio of financial investments is held as collateral within a securities’ finance facility. 

Repayment schedule for interest-bearing debt

Due in year 1

Due in year 2

Due in year 3

Due in year 4

Due in year 5 and later

Interest-bearing debt discontinued operations

Total interest-bearing debt

 108 

 25 

 22 

 22 

 425 

 601 

 34 

 180 

 1 320 

 1 533 

17

The overview above shows the actual maturity structure, with the amount due 
in year one as the first year’s instalment classified under other current liabilities.

Loan agreements entered into by the group contain financial covenants 
relating to liquidity, leverage and value-adjusted equity. The group was in 
compliance with all covenants at 31 December 2017.

71

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Cont. note 16 Interest-bearing debt

USD mill

The group net interest-bearing debt

Non current interest-bearing debt

Current interest-bearing debt

Interest-bearing debt discontinued operations

Total interest-bearing debt

Cash and cash equivalents

Current financial investments

Cash and cash equivalents and current financial investments discontinued operations

Net interest-bearing debt

Net interest-bearing debt in joint ventures

Non current interest-bearing debt

Interest-bearing debt discontinued operations

Total interest-bearing debt in joint ventures

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents discontinued operations

Net interest-bearing debt in joint ventures

USD mill

Guarantee commitments

Guarantees for group companies

Discontinued operations

Total

The carrying amounts of the group’s borrowings are denominated in the following currencies

USD

NOK

DKK

Discontinued operations

Total

See otherwise note 17 for information on financial derivatives (currency hedges) relating to interest-bearing debt.

Note

2017

2016

14

4

4

 493 

 108 

 601 

 167 

 101 

 333 

 104 

 104 

 19 

 85 

 213 

 1 320 

 1 533 

 215 

 83 

 283 

 953 

 761 

 761 

 181 

 580 

2017

2016

 70 

 70 

 196 

 372 

 33 

 601 

 72 

 1 132 

 1 204 

 180 

 34 

 1 320 

 1 533 

72

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Cont. note 16 Interest-bearing debt

USD mill

Net debt

Cash and cash equivalents

Liquid investments*

Borrowings – repayable within one year

Borrowings – repayable after one year

Discontinued operations

Net debt

Cash and cash equivalents and liquid investments

Gross debt – fixed interest rates

Gross debt – variable interest rates

Discontinued operations

Net debt

Note

2017

2016

 167 

 101 

 (108)

 (493)

 (333)

 215 

 83 

 (213)

 (1 037)

 (953)

 268 

 297 

 (601)

 (333)

 (213)

 (1 037)

 (953)

*Liquid investments comprise current investments that are traded in an acive market, being the group’s financial assets held at fair value through the income 
statement.

USD mill

Net debt 01.01.2017

Decrease by discontinued operations

Increase by business combination NorSea Group

Reclass

Cash flows

Foreign exchange adjustments

Net debt 31.12.2017

Other assets

Liabilites from financing activities

Liquid  
invest-
ments

 83 

Cash/ 
bank
overdrafts

 497 

 (121)

 5 

 (215)

 18 

Finance 
leases 
due within  
1 year

Finance 
leases 
due after  
1 year

Borrow.  
due 
within  
1 year

Borrow.  
due 
after 
1 year

 (2)

 (11)

 2 

 (115)

 112 

 (106)

 3 

 (1 418)

 1 155 

 (341)

 106 

 16 

 (1)

 167 

 101 

 (2)

 (9)

 (106)

 (483)

Total 

 (953)

 1 146 

 (347)

 (178)

 (1)

 (333)

73

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
   
Note 17 Financial risk
The group has exposure to the following financial risks from its ordinary 
operations:

•  Market risk
  -  Foreign exchange rate risk
  -  Interest rate risk
  -  Equity market risk
•  Credit risk
•  Liquidity risk

MARKET RISK
The group has established hedging strategies to mitigate risks on material 
exposures originating from movements in currencies and interest rates. This is 
compliant with the financial strategy approved by the board of directors. 

Changes in the market value of financial derivatives are recognised through the 
income statement with the exception of the Supply Services segment, where 
derivatives are recognised in other comprehensive income.

Associates hedge their own exposures. The group records the effects of 
realised and unrealised changes in financial derivatives held in these entities in 
accordance with the equity method under “share of profit from joint ventures 
and associates”. The material joint ventures and associates are Coast Center 
Base in Supply Services segment and WWL ASA group in Holding and 
Investments segment.

Foreign exchange rate risk
The group is exposed to currency risk on revenues and costs in non-functional 
currencies, mainly USD (transaction risk) and balance sheet items denominated 
in currencies other than non-functional currencies, mainly USD (translation 
risk). The group’s largest individual foreign exchange exposure is NOK against 
USD. Other currency exposures include EUR, SGD and KRW. 

Transaction risk hedging (cash flow)
The group’s operating segments are responsible for hedging their own material 
transaction risk. Within Maritime Services, USDNOK and EURUSD exposures 
are subject to a systematic 3-year rolling hedge program. Hedge programs 
utilize a portfolio of currency options and currency forwards. Remaining 
exposures are non-material and not hedged. 

Translation risk hedging (balance sheet)
The group’s policy for mitigating translation risk is to match the denomination 
currency of assets and liabilities to as large extent as possible. 

FX sensitivites (translation risk)
The group monitors the net exposure and calculate sensitivities on a regular 
basis, based on average market volatility per currency cross. Sensitivities 
showing a potential accounting effect below USD 5 million on group level are 
considered non-material.

Through income statement

Net currency gain/(loss) – Operating currency

Net currency gain/(loss) – Financial currency

Currency derivatives – realised

Currency derivatives – unrealised

Net financial currency

Through other comprehensive income

Currency translation differences through other comprehensive  income

Total net currency effect 

Note

2017

2016

1

 7 

 (2)

 9 

 14 

 47 

 61 

 (14)

 (6)

 (21)

 51 

 30 

74

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
 
 
 
Cont. note 17 Financial risk
For Maritime Services, Supply Services and Holding and Investments, the 
material translation risk are booked to other comprehensive income due to 
the functional currency for the majority of the entities being different from the 
reporting currency USD.

The group’s segments perform sensitivity analyses on the unhedged part of 
the transaction risk on a regular basis.

The portfolio of derivatives used to hedge the group’s transaction risk 
(described above), exhibit the following income statement sensitivity:

USD mill

Sensitivity

Income statement sensitivities of economic hedge program

Transaction risk

USD/NOK spot rate

Income statement effect (post tax)

EUR/USD spot rate

Income statement effect (post tax)

(Tax rate used is 24% that equals the Norwegian tax rate)

 (20%)

 (10%)

0%

10%

20%

6.97

 16 

1.08

 (3)

7.44

 8 

1.14

 (1)

8.60

 0 

1.20

 0 

9.46

 (6)

1.26

 2 

10.32

 (13)

1.32

 4 

Interest rate risk
The group’s strategy is to hedge material parts of the interest-bearing debt 
against rising interest rates. The group’s segments have their own policies on 
hedging of interest rate risk, hence hedge ratios will fluctuate as the capital 
intensity varies.

Wthin Holding and Investments and Maritime Services respectively, no interest 
rate hedging is implemented due to low net interest-bearing debt (NIBD), whereas 
Supply Services has hedged about 50% of its NIBD as of 31 December 2017.

USD mill

Maturity schedule interest rate hedges (nominal amounts)

Due in year 1

Due in year 2

Due in year 3

Due in year 4

Due in year 5 and later*

Total interest rate hedges

*Per 31.12.2016, 760 million was related to discontinued operations 

2017

2016

 25 

 13 

 25 

 81 

 144 

 100 

 150 

 230 

 50 

 230 

 760 

The Supply Services segment has entered swaption contracts with a notional 
value of about USD 16 million, with expiry date in 2022. 

The average remaining term of the existing total debt portfolio is approximately 
5 years. The hedges in place for a portion of the debt has an average remaining 
term of approximately 6 years.

Depending on interest rate levels on the expiry date, exercising the swaptions 
by the counterparties will extend the maturity of expiring swaps until 2032, but 
will not increase the notional value of the existing swap portfolio. 

75

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 17 Financial risk
Interest rate sensitivity
The group’s interest rate risk originates from differences in duration between 
assets and liabilities. On the asset side, bank deposits and investments in 
interest-bearing instruments are subject to risk from changes in the general 
level of interest rates, primarily in USD. On the liability side, the mix of debt 
with attached fixed or floating interest rates – in combination with financial 
derivatives on interest rates (plain vanilla interest rates swaps and swaptions) 
– are exposed to changes in the level and curvature of interest rates. 

The group use the weighted average duration of interest-bearing assets, 
liabilities and financial interest rate derivatives to compute the group’s 

sensitivity towards changes in interest rates. This methodology differs from 
the accounting principles, as only the changes in market value of interest rate 
derivatives are recognised as a financial item through the income statement (or 
for Supply Services against “Other comprehensive income”). Outstanding debt 
is booked at the respective outstanding nominal value. 

Sensitivities resulting in a potential accounting effect below USD 5 million on 
group level are considered non-material. On 31 December 2017, the group has 
no material exposure subject to interest rate risk. 

USD mill

Interest rate derivatives

Maritime Services

Supply Services

Holding and Investments

Total interest rate derivatives

Currency derivatives

Maritime Services

Supply Services

Holding and Investments

Total currency derivatives

Total market value of financial derivatives

Book value equals market value.

2017

2016

Assets 

Liabilities

Assets 

Liabilities

 11 

 11 

 1 

 1 

 1 

 13 

 0 

 2 

 2 

 2 

 0 

 1 

 1 

 2 

 2 

0

 9 

 1 

 10 

 10 

76

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
   
 
 
 
Cont. note 17 Financial risk
Equity market risk
The group holds several assets listed on equity markets as well as a defined 
portfolio of financial assets for a proportion of the group’s short-term liquidity.

 Below table summarizes the equity market sensitivity towards the market value 
of listed equities:

USD mill

Change in equity prices

Change in market value

Income statement effect

(Tax rate used is 24% that equals the Norwegian tax rate)

 (20%)

 (91)

 (10%)

 (46)

0%

 0 

10%

 46 

20%

 91 

CREDIT RISK
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the group if a customer or counterparty 
to a financial derivative fails to meet its contractual obligations. The risk 
originates primarily from the group’s customer receivables, financial 
derivatives used to hedge interest rate risk or foreign exchange risk, as well as 
investments, including bank deposits. 

Other credit exposures
The disposal of Technical Services and Callenberg in 2016 generated a 
settlement consideration including subordinated debt certificates, vendor note 
and earn-out note with credit exposure towards the buyers of these entities. 
On 31 December 2017 these credit risks are considered non-material and 
supportive of the accounting value in the general ledger. 

Loans and receivables
Trade receivables
The group’s exposure to credit risk on its receivables varies across segments 
and subsidiaries. 

Within the Maritime Services and Supply Services, the global customer 
base provides a certain level of diversification with respect to credit risk on 
receivables. The segment monitors and manages its credit risk on a regular 
basis. Reference is made to note 11.

Given the negative market sentiment in several shipping and offshore 
segments, some customers are currently facing increased financial difficulties 
relative to previous years, implying that the group’s credit risk has increased 
somewhat, but is still regarded as moderate.

Bank deposits and financial derivatives
The group maintains cash management operations and trades financial 
derivatives with a selection of financially solid banks (as determined by their 
official credit ratings), limiting the corresponding credit risk. 

No material loans or receivables were past due or impaired at 31 December 
2017 (analogous for 2016).

Guarantees
The group’s policy is that no financial guarantees are provided by the parent 
company. However, financial guarantees are provided within Maritime Services 
and Supply Services. See note 16 for further details.

Credit risk exposure
The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit 
exposure. 

The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date was:

USD mill

Exposure to credit risk

Financial derivatives

Account receivables

Financial investments

Other non current assets

Other current assets

Cash and bank deposits

Total exposure to credit risk

Note

2017

2016

 11

 11

 14

 11

 11

15

 2 

 217 

 48 

 37 

 81 

 167 

 552 

 10 

 163 

 185 

 47 

 94 

 296 

 793 

77

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Cont. note 17 Financial risk
LIQUIDITY RISK
The group’s approach to managing liquidity is to secure sufficient liquidity to 
meet its liabilities, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring 
unacceptable losses or risking damage to the group’s reputation.

The group’s liquidity risk is low in that it holds significant liquid assets in 
addition to credit facilities with the banks.

At 31 December 2017, the group had excess of USD 268 million (2016: USD 
297 million) in liquid assets, in addition to USD 600 million (2016: USD 374 
million) in undrawn credit facilities. Figures for 2016 have been adjusted for 
discontinued operations.

USD mill

Undiscounted cash flows financial liabilities 2017

Mortgages

Finance lease liabilities    

Bank loan

Financial derivatives

Total undiscounted cash flow financial liabilities

Current liabilities (excluding next year's instalment on interest-bearing debt)

Total gross undiscounted cash flows financial liabilities 31.12.2017

Undiscounted cash flows financial liabilities 2016

Mortgages

Finance lease liabilities

Bonds

Bank loan

Financial derivatives

Total undiscounted cash flow financial liabilities

Current liabilities (excluding next year's instalment on interest-bearing debt)

Total gross undiscounted cash flows financial liabilities 31.12.2016

Less than  
1 year

Between 1 
and 2 years

Between 2 
and 5 years

Later than 
5 years

 43 

 11 

 54 

 13 

 121 

 274 

 395 

 156 

 13 

 5 

 66 

 240 

 331 

 571 

 25 

 43 

 25 

 25 

 229 

 13 

 87 

 34 

 57 

 421 

 421 

 43 

 43 

 365 

 39 

 105 

 179 

 42 

 731 

 731 

 229 

 196 

 425 

 425 

 348 

 185 

 13 

 2 

 548 

 548 

78

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017   
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cont. note 17 Financial risk
COVENANTS
The group’s bank and lease financing is subject to financial or non-financial 
covenant clauses related to one or several of the following:

•  Limitation on the ability to pledge assets
•  Change of control
•  Minimum liquidity
•  NIBD / EBITDA or equivalent Debt-Service Coverage-Ratios
•  Loan-to-Value (Real Estate, Financial Assets) 

The group was in compliance with all loan covenants at 31 December 2017.

CAPITAL RISK MANAGEMENT 
The group’s overall policy is to maintain a strong capital base to maintain 
investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future business 
development. The board of directors monitors various return metrics, where 
Return on Equity and dividend levels are predominant.

The group seeks to maintain a balance between the potential higher returns 
stemming from higher levels of financial gearing and the advantages of a 
strong balance sheet. The financial strategy and setting of thresholds for 
capital structure, return requirements and risk (and corresponding metrics) 
will be revised by the board of directors during 2018, following the significant 
structural changes taking place in 2017.

FAIR VALUE ESTIMATION 
The fair value of financial instruments traded in an active market is based on 
quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. The fair value of financial 
instruments not traded in an active market (over-the-counter contracts) is 
based on third party quotes. These quotes use observable market rates for 
price discovery. Specific valuation techniques used by financial counterparties 
(banks) to value financial derivatives include:

•  Quoted market prices or dealer quotes for similar derivatives 

•  The fair value of interest rate swaps is calculated as the net present value of 

the estimated future cash flows based on observable yield curves 

•  The fair value of interest rate swap option (swaption) contracts is determined 
using observable volatility, yield curve and time-to-maturity parameters at 
the balance sheet date, resulting in a swaption premium. Options are typically 
valued by applying the Black-Scholes model 

•  The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts is determined using 
forward exchange rates at the balance sheet date, with the resulting value 
discounted back to net present value 

•  The fair value of foreign exchange option contracts is determined using 
observable forward exchange rates, volatility, yield curves and time-to- 
maturity parameters at the balance sheet date, resulting in an option premium. 
Options are typically valued by applying the Black-Scholes model.

The carrying value less impairment provision of receivables and payables are 
assumed to approximate their fair values. The group estimates the fair value of 
financial liabilities for disclosure purposes by discounting the future contractual 
cash flows at current market interest rates available to the group for similar 
financial derivatives.   

USD mill

Interest-bearing debt

Mortgages

Finance lease liabilities

Bank loan

Note

Fair value

Book value

 340 

 11 

 254 

 605 

 882 

 238 

 193 

 213 

 340 

 11 

 250 

 601 

 886 

 239 

 196 

 213 

Total interest-bearing debt 31.12.2017

 16

Mortgages

Finance lease liabilities

Bonds

Bank loan

Total interest-bearing debt 31.12.2016

 16

 1 525 

 1 533 

79

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 17 Financial risk
The fair value is based on cash flows discounted using a rate based on market rates including margins and are within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

USD mill

Financial assets at fair value

Equities

Bonds

Financial derivatives

Available-for-sale financial assets

Total financial assets 31.12.2017

Financial liabilities at fair value

Financial derivatives

Total financial liabilities 31.12.2017

Financial assets at fair value

Equities

Bonds

Financial derivatives

Available-for-sale financial assets

Total financial assets 31.12.2016

Financial liabilities at fair value

Financial derivatives

Total financial liabilities 31.12.2016

USD mill

Changes in level 3 instruments

Opening balance 01.01

Acquisition 

Transfer to level 3

Gain and loss recognised through other comprehensive income

Gain and loss recognised through income statement

Closing balance 31.12

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total

 52 

 48 

 707 

 807 

 0 

 100 

 185 

 123 

 408 

 0 

 2 

 2 

 13 

 13 

 10 

 10 

 163 

 163 

 1 

 93 

 94 

 0 

 86 

 86 

 0 

 52 

 48 

 2 

 801 

 904 

 13 

 13 

 100 

 185 

 10 

 209 

 504 

 163 

 163 

2017

2016

 86 

 4 

 1 

 3 

 94 

 80 

 6 

 86 

The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets is based on 
quoted market prices at the balance sheet date. A market is regarded as active 
if quoted prices are readily and regularly available from an exchange, dealer, 
broker, industry group, pricing service, or regulatory agency, and those prices 
represent actual and regularly occurring market transactions on an arm’s 
length basis. 

The fair value of financial instruments not traded in an active market 
(over-the-counter contracts) are based on third party quotes (Mark-to-Market). 
These quotes use observable market rates for price discovery. The different 
techniques typically applied by financial counterparties (banks) have been 
described above. These instruments – FX and IR derivatives – are included in 
level 2. 

The quoted market price used for financial assets held by the group is the 
current close price. These instruments are included in level 1. Instruments 
included in level 1 at the end of 2017 are liquid investment grade bonds and 
listed equities (analogous for 2016).

If one or more of the significant inputs are not based on observable market 
data, the derivatives are in level 3. 

80

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
  
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
  
  
 
  
  
 
 
 
Cont. note 17 Financial risk

Financial instruments by category

USD mill

Assets

Other non current assets

Available-for-sale financial assets

Current financial investments

Current financial derivatives

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalent

Assets at 31.12.2017

Liabilities

Non current interest-bearing debt

Current interest bearing liabilities

Non current financial derivatives

Current financial derivatives

Other non current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Liabilities 31.12.2017

Assets

Other non current assets

Available-for-sale financial assets

Current financial investments

Current financial derviatives

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalent

Assets at 31.12.2016

Liabilities

Non current interest-bearing debt

Current interest bearing liabilities

Non current financial derivatives

Current financial derivatives

Other non current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Liabilities 31.12.2016

Note

Loans and 
receivables

Assets at fair
 value through
 the income
 statement

Available-
for-sale 
financial asset

Other

Total

11

12

14

11

11

15

Note

16

16

11

11

11

11

 23 

 298 

 167 

 488 

 3 

 101 

 2 

 801 

 106 

 801 

 15 

 1 

 16 

Liabilites at fair
value through 
the income
 statement

Other financial
 liabilites at  
amortised cost

 493 

 108 

 328 

 929 

 13 

 112 

 125 

 40 

 801 

 101 

 2 

 300 

 167 

 1 410 

Total

 493 

 108 

 13 

 112 

 328 

 1 054 

Note

Loans and 
receivables

Assets at fair
 value through
 the income
 statement

Available-
for-sale 
financial asset

Other

Total

11

12

14

11

11

15

Note

16

16

11

11

11

11

 40 

 256 

 296 

 592 

 209 

 285 

 10 

 295 

 209 

 7 

 1 

 8 

Liabilites at fair
 value through 
the income
 statement

Other financial
 liabilites at  
amortised cost

 1 418 

 115 

 305 

 1 838 

 128 

 35 

 105 

 268 

 47 

 209 

 285 

 10 

 258 

 296 

 1 104 

Total

 1 418 

 115 

 128 

 35 

 105 

 305 

 2 106 

81

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
   
   
 
   
 
 
  
 
  
   
 
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
Note 18 Operating lease commitments
The business combination increasing the ownership in NorSea Group (see note 
19) included lease agreements for variuos properties on operating leases. The 
rental agreements are subject to varying lifespan with the longest agreement 
ending on 1 July 2064. 

In addition the group has:
Sale and leaseback agreement for the office building, Strandveien 20 for 15 years 
from 1 October 2009, with an option to extend for additional 5 years + 5 years.

The commitment related to this is as set out below (nominal amounts):

USD mill

Due in year 1

Due in year 2

Due in year 3

Due in year 4

Due in year 5 and later

Nominal amount of operating lease commitments 

*Per 31.12.2016, 111 million was related to discontinued operations. 

Lease agreement for the office building (including storage and parking) 
Strandveien 12. The lease run over 10 years from 1 June 2006, with an option 
to extend for additional 5 years. The option to extend was exercised in 2016, 
with the new 5 years the lease agreement runs until 2021.

2017

2016*

 22 

 22 

 23 

 22 

 124 

 214 

 29 

 29 

 29 

 29 

 44 

 159 

In connection to the daily operation the group has additional lease agreements for office rental, office equipment and other fixed assets.
The additional lease agreements are not material for the group.

82

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 19 Business combinations
With effect from 26 September 2017, the group increased its shareholding in 
NorSea Group from 40% to approximately 72%. Eidesvik Eiendomsinvest AS 
and Simon Møkster Eiendom AS will hold approximately 12% each, while 
management in NorSea Group controls the remaining 4%. In the end of the 
year, Wilhelmsen additionally acquired a small portion of management control-
led shares, 2.11%, bringing the total Wilhelmsen shareholding to 74.11%.

The acquistion balance from NorSea Group is consolidated at the end of Sep-
tember 2017 and a part of the segment ”Supply Services”. With effect from the 
fourth quarter 2017, NorSea Group will be reported as a subsidiary in the group 
accounts. Total income, cost and balance sheet items of NorSea Group will 
then be consolidated on a 100% basis, with non-controlling interests deducted 
on a net basis.

Total consideration for the Wilhelmsen’s additional 32% investment in NorSea 
Group is NOK 545 million (USD 70 million). The acquistion from management 
increased the total consideration with USD 4 million. 

NorSea Group has previously been reported as associate in the group 
accounts. Accounting loss of the disposal of associate is USD 40 million, 
mainly due to change in NOK/USD from 2012 to 2017.

The investment is financed through existing liquidity and funding reserves. The 
group originally acquired 35.4% of the shares in NorSea Group in July 2012, 
and increased to 40% ownership in April 2014. In addition, the group has USD 
18 million in shareholder loans to NorSea Group. 

The purchase price allocation is preliminary due to final valuation of fair value 
of assets.

Details of net assets acquired and goodwill are as follows:

USD mill

Cash 

Option fair value*

Non-controlling interests

Fair value of previously held equity interest

Total purchase consideration

Fair value of net identifiable assets acquired (see below)

Goodwill

*The option is related to remaining part of the shares, currently held by non controlling interests.

The preliminary purchase price allocation are as follows:

USD mill

Intangible assets

Property, fixtures and vessels

Other long-term assets/ associate and joint arrangements

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Non current interest-bearing debt

Other non-current liabilities

Other current liabilities

Net identifiable assets acquired

 74 

 2 

 56 

 80 

 211 

 211 

 0 

Fair value

10 

417 

185 

67 

5 

(352)

(4)

(118)

211 

Summary of acquisition
The group recognises non-controlling interests in an acquired entity at fair value  This decision is made on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis. For the non-controlling 
interests in NorSea Group, the group elected to recognise the non-controlling interests in at its proportionate share of the acquired net identifiable assets.

83

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 19 Business combinations
Revenue and profit contribution
The acquired business contributed revenues of USD 53 million and net profit 
before non-controlling interests of USD 3.9 million to the group for the period 
from 26 September to 31 December 2017.

If the acquisition had occurred on 1 January 2017, consolidated pro-forma 
revenue and profit before non-controlling interests for the period from 1 January 
to 26 September 2017 would have been USD 186 million and USD 12 million 
respectively.

Purchase consideration – cash outflow

Cash consideration September 2017

Less balance acquired

– Cash

– Net

Net outflow of cash => investing activities

74 

5 

5 

(69)

Acquisition-related costs
Acquisition-related costs of USD 1 million that were not directly attributable to the issue of shares are included in other expenses in income statement and in 
operating cash flows in the statement of cash flows.

Reported net profit from NorSea Group as an associate in 2016 and up to conolidation 26 September 2017 are:

USD mill

Net profit from NorSea Group as an associate a part of segment Holding and Investments

Loss upon consolidation of the former NorSea Group 

26.09.2017

31.12.2016

5 

(40)

12

Sale of Wilhelmsen safety activities
On 23 June 2016, Wilhelmsen Maritime Service agreed the transfer of all of 
its safety activities (100% of shares in Wilhelmsen Technical Solution AS and 
safety division in Wilhelmsen Ships Service group) to Survitec group Ltd. The 
sale was completed on 30 November 2016 resulting in WMS holding a 20% 
stake in Survitec UK through shares and shareholder loans value of USD 79 
million. In addition to the shares and loans, WMS received USD 108 million 
in cash at closing. The net gain was USD 71 million.

The recycling of net urealised currency loss of USD 42 million (Callenberg 
group and Wilhelmsen Safety activities) was included in the gain and presented 
as part of the other comprehensive income in 2016.

The total revenue in 2016 for Callenberg group and Wilhelmsen safety activity 
were approximately USD 315 million.

Kemetyl Konsument Norge AS
On 1 April 2017 the group acquired Kemetyl Konsument Norge AS. The 
investment cost was approximately USD 20 mill.

There were no material acquisitions in the group in 2016.

SIGNIFICANT DISPOSALS

Demerger Treasure ASA
Treasure ASA and the subsidiary Den Norske Amerikalinje AS, was demerged 
from WWASA and the company was listed at 8 June 2016. Treasure ASA hold 
12.04% ownership in the listed company Hyundai Glovis. Treasure ASA group is 
a part of Holding and Investment segment. 

Merger WWASA
On 4 April 2017, the subsidiary Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA (WWASA) was merged 
with Wall Roll AB. After the merger the group own 37.8% of the Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA. The profit in WWASA previous periods is presented 
as discontinued operations in WWH, see note 3.

Sale of  Callenberg group
On 11 August 2016, Wilhelmsen Maritime Services agreed the sale of 
Callenberg Technology group to Trident Maritime Systems. The transaction 
was finalised on 3 October 2016. WMS received a net sale price of 
approximately USD 65 million, of which USD 10 mill received in dividend before 
closing, USD 32 million was in cash at closing, and a seller-financing package 
of USD 23 million consisting of a vendor note of USD 16.5 million and an earn 
out of USD 6 million. The net loss was USD 15 million.

84

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 20 Related party transaction
The ultimate owner of the group is Tallyman AS, which controls about 60% 
of voting shares of the group. The beneficial owners of Tallyman AS are the 
Wilhelmsen family and Mr Wilhelm Wilhelmsen controls Tallyman AS.

Remuneration to Mr Wilhelm Wilhelmsen for 2017 totalled USD 323 thousand 
(2016: USD 315 thousand) whereof USD 93 thousand (2016: USD 89 thousand) 
was consulting fee, USD 8 thousand (2016: USD 8 thousand) in nomination 
committee for Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and Treasure ASA and USD 
221 thousand (2016: USD 218 thousand) in ordinary paid pension and other 
remuneration.

See note 6 regarding fees to board of directors, and note 2 and note 9 in the 
parent company regarding ownership.

The group has undertaken several agreements and transactions with related 
parties in WWL ASA group, Maritime Services, Supply Services and Holding 
and Investments segment  in 2017 and 2016. All transactions are in the market 
terms. 

The services are:
•  Ship management including crewing, technical and management services
•  Agency services
•  Freight and liner services
•  Marine products
•  Shared services

Generally, Shared Services are priced using a cost plus 5% margin calculation, 
in accordance with the principles set out in the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines 
and are delivered according to agreements that are renewed annually.

Material related parties in the group are:

Business office, country

Ownership

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA

Coast Center Base AS

Risavika Havn AS 

Lysaker, Norway

Fjell, Norway 

Tanager, Norway 

37.80%

50.00%

42.82%

WWL ASA is a result of the merger between WWASA and Wall Roll AB on 
4 April 2017. The company brings together the jointly owned shipping activities 
and relevant assets of Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA and Wallenius Lines. It unites their 
ownership of the shipping and logistics businesses of EUKOR Car Carriers, 
WWL ASA and American RoRo Carriers.

Cost Center Base AS and Risavika Havn AS in the Supply Services segment 
delivers IT project, administration and handling services and the transactions 
are based on market terms.

USD mill

Note

2017

2016

OPERATING REVENUE FROM RELATED PARTY

Sale of goods and services to joint ventures and associates from:

WWL ASA group

Maritime Services 

Supply Services 

Holding and Investments

Operating revenue from related party

OPERATING EXPENSES FROM RELATED PARTY

Purchase of goods and services from joint ventures and associates to:

Maritime Services 

Supply Services 

Operating expenses to related party

ACCOUNT RECEIVABLES FROM RELATED PARTY

Maritime Services 

Discontinued operations 

Account receivables from related party

ACCOUNT PAYABLES TO RELATED PARTY

Maritime Services 

Supply Services

Discontinued operations 

Account payables to related party

NON CURRENT ASSETS TO RELATED PARTY

Holding and Investments

Non current assets to related party

 1 

 7 

 1 

 9 

 7 

 7 

 19 

 19 

 5 

 7 

 11 

 0 

 10 

 2 

 12 

 1 

 1 

 3 

 3 

 6 

 1 

 1 

 17 

 17 

85

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017    
  
  
Note 21 Operating lease revenue
Per 31.12.2017 the group has no vessels chartered out as the previously controlled fleet is part of discontiued operations. 

Note 22 Subsidiaries with material non-controlling interests

NorSea Group AS

Treasure ASA

Business office/country

Voting/control share

2017

Tananger, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

74.11%

72.73%

Set out below is the summarised financial information for the subsidiary that has non-controlling interests (NCI) material to the group. The amounts disclosed are 
100% and before inter-company eliminations.

USD mill

Summarised balance sheet

Non current assets

Current assets

Total assets

Non current liabilities

Current liabilities

Total liabilities

Net assets

Summarised income statement/OCI

Total income

Profit/(loss) for the year

Other comprehensive income

Total comprehensive income

Profit allocated to NCIs

Dividends paid to NCIs

Summarised cash flows

Net cash flow provided by/(used in) operating activities

Net cash flow provided by/(used in) investing activities

Net cash flow provided by/(used in) financing activities

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

USD mill

Total allocation to NCIs

Profit for the period to material NCIs

Profit to discontiued operations NCI

Profit to NCI in Treasure ASA related to change of investment from equity asset to Available-for-sale

Profit for the period to NCIs

86

NorSea Group AS

Treasure ASA

2017

2017

 594 

 66 

 660 

 333 

 123 

 456 

 204 

 53 

 1 

 1 

 15 

 (4)

 (10)

 2 

 576 

 2 

 578 

 0 

 578 

 12 

 (128)

 134 

 6 

 2 

 7 

 11 

 (25)

 (14)

2017

 2 

 7 

 53 

 62 

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017   
 
 
 
   
Note 23 Contingencies
The size and global activities of the group dictate that companies in the group will be involved from time to time in disputes and legal actions.

The group is not aware of any financial risk associated with disputes and legal actions which are not largely covered through insurance arrangements. Nevertheless, 
any such disputes/actions which might exist are of such a nature that they will not significantly affect the group’s financial position.

Note 24 Events after the balance sheet date
In 2017, Wilhelmsen signed an agreement to acquire the technical solutions 
business from Drew Marine, subject to regulatory approval. 23 February 2018, 
the United States’ Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that they will 
file a complaint opposing the Wilhelmsen group’s planned acquisition. This 
is standard procedure in cases where the FTC considers that a proposed 
transaction will substantially lessen competition. Wilhelmsen disagrees with 
the FTC’s evaluation and will continue to work towards a positive outcome.

No other material events occurred between the balance sheet date and the 
date when the accounts were presented which provide new information about 
conditions prevailing on the balance sheet date.

87

GroupAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017A
c
c
o
u
n
t
s
a
n
d
n
o
t
e
s
–
p
a
r
e
n
t
c
o
m
p
a
n
y

 Smart ropes

Veronika Aspelund 

Product marketing manager

Wilhelmsen Ships Service, Marine Products

Ropes as a concept is older than the wheel, it’s even older 

than beer. Still, more than 30 000 years after the first record 

of the rope, never has anyone attempted to smarten up 

the ropes. Until now. What if your mooring ropes could 

communicate with you, what if you knew how your ropes felt? 

Instead of banging on your ropes with a hammer, with the 

inaccuracy and not to mention risk that includes, the ropes 

would talk to a software system and let you know exactly 

their current state. Veronika is part of the team creating 

smart ropes at Wilhelmsen. After thousands of years, it is fair 

to say that we are shaping the maritime industry and even the 

concept of ropes. 

 
 
 
 
 
Income statement Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

NOK thousand

Operating income

Operating expenses

Employee benefits

Operating expenses

Depreciation

Total operating expenses

Operating profit/(loss)

Financial income/(expenses)

Net financial income

Net financial expenses

Financial income/(expenses)

Profit before tax

Tax income/(expense)

Profit for the year

Transfers and allocations

To equity

Proposed dividend

Interim dividend paid

Total transfers and allocations

Note

2017

2016

1

2

1

3

1

1

4

9

9

9

 66 971 

 89 389 

 (130 537)

 (110 208)

 (65 533)

 (2 190)

 (46 826)

 (1 961)

 (198 260)

 (158 995)

 (131 289)

 (69 606)

 397 395 

 (10 147)

 387 248 

 540 561 

 (41 166)

 499 395 

 255 960 

 429 788 

 7 023 

 262 982 

 (23 184)

 406 604 

 30 813 

 162 413 

 69 756 

 262 982 

 151 383 

 162 413 

 92 808 

 406 604 

Comprehensive income Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

NOK thousand

Profit for the year

Items that will not be reclassified to the income statement

Remeasurement postemployment benefits, net of tax

Total comprehensive income

Note

2017

2016

 262 982 

 406 604 

9/10

 1 156 

 264 138 

 (1 667)

 404 937 

Notes 1 to 16 on the next pages are an integral part of these financial statements.

90

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
Balance sheet Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

NOK thousand

ASSETS

Non current assets

Deferred tax asset

Intangible assets

Tangible assets

Investments in subsidiaries

Other non current assets

Total non current assets

Current assets

Current financial investments

Trade and other receivables

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalents

Total current assets

Total assets

EQUITY AND LIABILITIES

Equity

Paid-in capital

Own shares

Retained earnings

Total equity

Non current liabilities

Pension liabilities

Other non current liabilities

Total non current liabilities

Current liabilities

Public duties payable

Trade and other payables 

Other current liabilities

Total current liabilities

Total equity and liabilities

Note

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

4

3

3

5

6

7/8

6

6/8/13

8

9

9

9

10

6

6

6/11/13

 2 653 

 3 764 

 11 693 

 1 488 

 4 066 

 12 671 

 4 872 004 

 4 365 977 

 7 613 

 8 613 

 4 897 727 

 4 392 815 

 824 661 

 16 171 

 265 206 

 78 624 

 711 518 

 17 824 

 523 887 

 274 244 

 1 184 663 

 1 527 473 

 6 082 390 

 5 920 289 

 930 076 

 (2 000)

 930 076 

 (2 000)

 4 692 238 

 4 660 268 

 5 620 314 

 5 588 344 

 44 948 

 42 671 

 87 619 

 7 105 

 10 017 

 357 334 

 374 456 

 47 744 

 43 922 

 91 666 

 8 125 

 5 411 

 226 743 

 240 279 

 6 082 390 

 5 920 289 

Lysaker, 22 March 2018
The board of directors of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Diderik Schnitler
chair

Odd Rune Austgulen

Carl Erik Steen

 Irene Waage Basili

Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen

Thomas Wilhelmsen
group CEO

Notes 1 to 16 on the next pages are an integral part of these financial statements.

91

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cash flow statement Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

NOK thousand

Note

2017

2016

Cash flow from operating activities

Profit before tax

Financial (income)/expenses

Depreciation

Gain on sale of fixed assets

Change in net pension liability

Change in other current assets

Change in working capital

Net cash provided by operating activities

Cash flow from investing activities

Proceeds from sale of fixed assets

Investments in fixed assets 

Investments in subsidiaries

Loan repayments received from subsidiaries

Loans granted to subsidiaries

Proceeds from sale of financial investments

Current financial investments

Group Contribution 

Dividend received

Paid witholding tax on dividend portfolio management

Interest received

Cash from financial derivatives 

Net cash flow from investing activities

Cash flow from financing activities

Proceeds from issue of debt

Repayment of debt 

Interest paid

Dividend to shareholders

Net cash flow from financing activities

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, at the beginning of the period

Cash and cash equivalents at 31.12

3

3

3

1

11

9

 255 960 

 (402 710)

 429 788 

 (475 295)

 2 190 

 (233)

 (3 587)

 1 996 

 1 137 

 1 961 

 (1 108)

 753 

 (4 311)

 (39)

 (145 247)

 (48 250)

 1 132 

 (1 871)

 (506 027)

 3 500 

 (2 500)

 265 255 

 (336 166)

 477 000 

 12 769 

 (2 005)

 1 573 

 119 657 

 32 316 

 150 000 

 (520)

 (232 169)

 (82 689)

 (195 620)

 274 244 

 78 624 

 1 630 

 (3 484)

 (5 000)

 (4 050)

 207 796 

 (208 694)

 500 000 

 12 746 

 (454)

 1 752 

 2 243 

 (100 000)

 (628)

 (232 019)

 167 353 

 121 348 

 152 896 

 274 244 

The company has several bank accounts in different currencies. Unrealised currency effects are included in net cash provided by operating activities.

Notes 1 to 16 on the next pages are an integral part of these financial statements.

92

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Note 1 Combined items, income statement

NOK thousand

OPERATING INCOME

Other income

Income from group companies

Gain on sale of assets

Total operating income

OTHER OPERATING EXPENSES

Expenses to group companies

Communication and IT expenses

External services

Travel and meeting expenses

Marketing expenses

Other administration expenses

Total other operating expenses

FINANCIAL INCOME/(EXPENSES)

Financial income

Investment management

Interest income

Dividend/group contribution from subsidiaries

Other financial income 

Net currency gain

Net financial income

Financial expenses

Interest expenses

Other financial items

Net currency loss

Net financial expenses

Net financial income

Note

2017

2016

14

14

2

7

14

14

 3 976 

 62 762 

 233 

 66 971 

 (23 044)

 (4 382)

 (11 769)

 (6 354)

 (6 141)

 (13 842)

 (65 533)

 21 840 

 1 573 

 227 000 

 119 657 

 27 326 

 397 395 

 (8 271)

 (1 876)

 (10 147)

 1 314 

 86 967 

 1 108 

 89 389 

 (20 420)

 (4 788)

 (3 433)

 (4 843)

 (1 918)

 (11 424)

 (46 826)

 38 808 

 1 752 

 500 000 

 540 561 

 (6 320)

 (1 532)

 (33 314)

 (41 166)

 387 248 

 499 395 

93

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 2 Employee benefits

NOK thousand

Pay

Payroll tax

Pension cost 

Other remuneration

Total employee benefits

Average number of employees

REMUNERATION OF SENIOR EXECUTIVES

NOK thousand

2017

Group CEO

Group CFO

2016

Group CEO

Group CFO until April 2016

Group CFO from April 2016

*Mainly related to gross up pension expenses and company car.

2017

2016

 99 156 

 14 107 

 9 025 

 8 250 

 77 384 

 12 431 

 10 740 

 9 652 

 130 537 

 110 208 

 45 

 52 

Pay

Bonus

Pension 
premium

*Other 
remuneration

 4 753 

 3 293 

 4 640 

 1 707 

 2 134 

 6 957 

 2 717 

 773 

 506 

 1 779 

 383 

 1 585 

 55 

 273 

 1 696 

 425 

 1 532 

 225 

 270 

Total

 15 186 

 6 818 

 8 529 

 2 493 

 2 677 

Board of directors 
Remuneration of the five directors totalled NOK 2 150 for 2017 (2016: NOK 
2 150). The board’s remuneration for the fiscal year 2017 will be approved by 
the general assembly 26 April 2018. 

Remuneration of the nomination committee totalled NOK 85 for 2017 (2016: 
NOK 85).  

Senior executives 
Thomas Wilhelmsen – group CEO   
Christian Berg – group CFO 

The group CEO has a severance pay guarantee under which he has the right 
to receive up to 100% of his annual salary for 24 months after leaving the 
company as a result of mergers, substantial changes in ownership, or a 
decision by the board of directors. Possible income during the period is 
deducted up to 50%, which comes into force after six months notice period.

The group CFO is following the company pension policy for salary below and 
above 12G (defined contribution plan). His retirement age is 65.  

Loans and guarantees employees
There were no loan or guarantees to employees per 31.12.2017.  

94

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cont. note 2 Employee benefits

SHARES OWNED OR CONTROLLED BY REPRESENTATIVES OF WILH. WILHELMSEN HOLDING ASA AT 31 DECEMBER 2017

Name

Board of directors

Diderik Schnitler (chair)

Odd Rune Austgulen

Carl E. Steen

Irene Waage Basili 

Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen 

Senior executives

Thomas Wilhelmsen – group CEO

Christian Berg – group CFO

Nomination committee

Wilhelm Wilhelmsen*

Gunnar Fredrik Selvaag

Jan Gunnar Hartvig

A shares

B shares

Total

Part of 
total shares

Part of 
voting stock

 2 000 

 136 

 8 000 

 25 000 

 40 000 

 27 000 

 40 136 

 8 000 

 22 100 

 105 

 750 

 22 850 

 105 

 97 384 

 21 000 

 118 384

0.06%

0.09%

0.02%

0.00%

0.00%

0.05%

0.00%

0.25%

0.00%

0.00%

0.01%

0.00%

0.02%

0.00%

0.00%

0.06%

0.00%

0.28%

0.00%

0.00%

*For an overview of the total shares controlled by the Family Wilhelm Wilhelmsen, see note 14.

OPTION PROGRAM FOR EMPLOYEES AT A SPECIFIED LEVEL OF  
MANAGEMENT 
Long-term incentive scheme
The long-term incentive scheme (LTI) was introduced in 2015. Participants are 
members of the group management team and the presidents for Wilhelmsen 
Ships Service and Wilhelmsen Ship Management. For the group CEO, maximum 
annual payment is 100% of base salary. For the remaining participants, the 
maximum annual payment is 6-9 months of base salary. 

The LTI focuses on long term shareholder value creation and is based on 
positive development of the Wilhelmsen group’s value adjusted equity. The 
ambitions set for the programme are to increase alignment with value creation 
for shareholders, to attract, retain and motivate participants and drive long-term 
group performance. 

Settlement is based on return on value adjusted equity the last four years 
leading up to the settlement. The value adjusted equity is determined by using 

a “sum-of-the-parts” principle.  For listed companies, value adjusted equity is 
based on market price, while earnings multiples or net asset value are used for 
non-listed entities.  

The board sets value adjusted equity targets at the beginning of each four year 
measurement period. Without consultation or agreement with the individual, 
the board has the right to change or terminate the incentive programme after 
each year.   

Per 31 December 2017, a provision has been made equivalent to 34% of 
maximum annual payment, covering provisions for 2017 related to the LTI 
programme expiring on 31 December 2018. The provision has been calculated 
based on value adjusted equity per 31 December 2017, risk free return and 
standard deviation of historic annual value creation. No provision has been 
made for the LTI programme expiring on 31 December 2020.

EXPENSED AUDIT FEE (excluding VAT)

NOK thousand

Statutory audit

Other service fees

Total expensed audit fee

2017

 540 

 708 

 1 248 

2016

 482 

 482 

95

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   
Note 3 Intangible and tangible assets

NOK thousand

2017

Cost 01.01

Additions

Disposals

Cost 31.12

Accumulated depreciation 01.01

Depreciation/amortisation

Disposals

Accumulated depreciation 31.12

Intangible
assets

Buildings

Other tangible 
assets

Total

 5 309 

 871 

 10 582 

 6 180 

 10 582 

 (1 242)

 (1 173)

 (2 174)

 (423)

 (2 415)

 (2 597)

 9 842 

 1 000 

 (2 027)

 8 815 

 (5 579)

 (594)

 1 066 

 (5 107)

 25 733 

 1 871 

 (2 027)

 25 577 

 (8 995)

 (2 190)

 1 066 

 (10 119)

Carrying amounts 31.12

 3 764 

 7 985 

 3 708 

 15 458 

2016

Cost 01.01

Additions

Disposals

Cost 31.12

Accumulated depreciation 01.01

Depreciation/amortisation

Disposals

Accumulated depreciation 31.12

 2 156 

 3 153 

 10 582 

 5 309 

 10 582 

 (626)

 (616)

 (1 751)

 (423)

 (1 242)

 (2 174)

 12 688 

 330 

 (3 177)

 9 842 

 (7 311)

 (922)

 2 654 

 (5 579)

 25 426 

 3 484 

 (3 177)

 25 733 

 (9 688)

 (1 961)

 2 654 

 (8 995)

Carrying amounts 31.12

 4 066 

 8 408 

 4 263 

 16 737 

Useful life

Amortisation/depreciation schedule

Up to 3 years

Up to 25 years

3-10 years

Straight-line

Straight-line

Straight-line

96

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Note 4 Tax

NOK thousand

Allocation of tax income

Payable tax/withholding tax

Change in deferred tax

Total tax income/(expense) 

Basis for tax computation

Profit before tax

24% tax 

Tax effect from

Permanent differences

Withholding tax

Change in different tax rate 

Adjustment group contribution 

Current year calculated tax

Effective tax rate

Deferred tax asset/(liability)

Tax effect of temporary differences

Fixtures

Current assets and liabilities

Non current liabilities and provisions for liabilities

Tax losses carried forward

Deferred tax asset/(liability)

Deferred tax asset/(liability) 01.01

Charge to equity (tax of OCI)

Change of deferred tax through income statement

Tax effect of group contribution 

Deferred tax asset/(liability) 31.12

2017

2016

 (2 005)

 9 028 

 7 023 

 (454)

 (22 730)

 (23 184)

 255 960 

 61 430 

 429 788 

 103 149 

 (62 830)

 2 005 

 284 

 (7 913)

 (7 023)

 (80 361)

 454 

 (58)

 23 184 

 (2.7%)

 5.4% 

 643 

 (6 221)

 8 230 

 2 653 

 1 488 

 (365)

 9 028 

 (7 500)

 2 653 

 634 

 (2 039)

 2 557 

 335 

 1 488 

 16 163 

 556 

 (22 730)

 7 500 

 1 488 

Note 5 Investments in subsidiaries
Investments in subsidiaries are recorded at cost. Where a reduction in the value of shares in subsidiaries is considered to be permanent and significant,  
a impairment to net realisable value is recorded.

NOK thousand

Business office country

Voting share/
ownership share

2017 
Book value

2016 
Book value

Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA*

Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA*

Treasure ASA

Wilhelmsen Maritime Services AS

Wilh. Wilhelmsen (Hong Kong) Ltd**

WilService AS

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding Invest AS***

Wilhelmsen Accounting Services AS

WilNor Governmental Services AS

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Hong Kong

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Lysaker, Norway

Wilhelmsen GRC Sdn Bhd****

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia 

Total investments in subsidiaries

73%

38%

73%

100%

100%

100%

100%

100%

51%

100%

 1 130 964 

 1 130 964 

 1 043 967 

 1 043 967 

 1 264 440 

 1 264 440 

 900 

 17 550 

 898 095 

 3 622 

 6 439 

 17 550 

 1 405 014 

 3 622 

 6 439 

 8 

 4 872 004 

 4 365 977 

*Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics ASA is a result of the merger between Wilh. Wilhelmsen ASA and Wall Roll AB on 4th April 2017. 
After the merger the the company own 37.8% of the WWL ASA.  
**Liquidated in 2017. 
***Increased investment through cash contribution of NOK 500 000 000 and through group contribution of NOK 6 918 498. 
****Established in 2017.  

97

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note 6 Combined items, balance sheet

NOK thousand

Note

2017

2016

OTHER NON CURRENT ASSETS

Non current loan group companies (subsidiary and associates)

Total other non current assets

Of which non current debitors falling due for payment later than one year:

Loans to subsidiary and associates

Total other non current assets due after one year

OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

Group Contribution 

Other current assets

Total other current assets

OTHER NON CURRENT LIABILITIES

Allocation of commitment

Total other non current liabilities

13/14

13/14

14

13

 7 613 

 7 613 

 7 613 

 7 613 

 8 613 

 8 613 

 8 613 

 8 613 

 250 000 

 15 206 

 265 206 

 500 000 

 23 887 

 523 887 

 42 671 

 42 671 

 43 922 

 43 922 

Allocation of commitment relates to a sale leaseback contract for house rental, including both deferred revenue and provision for loss contract. Net change of NOK 
910 thousand (current and non current liability) has been reversed through income statment in 2017.
Per 31 December 2017 NOK 3 275 thousand was reclassed to short term liability (2016: NOK 2 935 thousand).

OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

Next year's instalment on interest-bearing debt

Proposed dividend

Other current liabilities

Total other current liabilities

11/13

9

13

 150 000 

 162 413 

 44 920 

 357 334 

 162 413 

 64 329 

 226 743 

The fair value of current receivables and payables is virtually the same as the carried amount, since the effect of discounting is insignificant.

Lending is at floating rates of interest. Fair value is virtually identical with the carried amount. See note 13.

Note 7 Current financial investments

NOK thousand

Market value asset management portfolio

Equities

Bonds

Other financial derivatives

Total current financial investments

2017

2016

 430 114 

 394 183 

 (5 961)

 818 336 

 356 120 

 357 845 

 (2 446)

 711 518 

The fair value of all equity securities, bonds and other financial assets is based on their closing prices in an active market.

The net unrealised gain at 31.12

 123 915 

 112 780 

The portfolio of financial investments is held as collateral within a securities’ finance facility. See note 11.

98

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 8 Restricted bank deposits and undrawn committed drawing rights

NOK thousand

Restricted bank deposits

Payroll tax withholding account

NOK thousand

Undrawn committed drawing rights

2017

 3 781 

2016

 4 828 

2017

2016

Undrawn committed drawing rights for 31 December

 1 019 630 

 1 060 420 

NOK thousand

Cash and cash equivalents

Banks

Deposit banks 3 months

Total Cash and cash equivalents

Note 9 Equity

NOK thousand

Current year's change in equity

Equity 31.12.2016

Interim dividend paid

Proposed dividend

Profit for the year

Comprehensive income for the year

Equity 31.12.2017

NOK thousand

2016 change in equity

Equity 31.12.2015

Interim dividend paid

Proposed dividend

Profit for the year

Comprehensive income for the year

Equity 31.12.2016

2017

 78 624 

 78 624 

2016

 124 244 

 150 000 

 274 244 

Share capital

Own shares

Retained earnings

Total

 930 076 

 (2 000)

 930 076 

 (2 000)

 4 660 268 

 (69 756)

 (162 413)

 262 982 

 1 156 

 4 692 238 

 5 588 344 

 (69 756)

 (162 413)

 262 982 

 1 156 

 5 620 314 

Share capital

Own shares

Retained earnings

Total

 930 076 

 (2 000)

 930 076 

 (2 000)

 4 510 551 

 (92 808)

 (162 413)

 406 604 

 (1 667)

 4 660 268 

 5 438 628 

 (92 808)

 (162 413)

 406 604 

 (1 667)

 5 588 344 

At 31 December 2017 the company’s share capital comprises 34 637 092 
Class A shares and 11 866 732 Class B shares, totalling 46 503 824 shares 
with a nominal value of NOK 20 each. Class B shares do not carry a vote at 
the general meeting. Otherwise, each share confers the same rights in the 
company.

At 31 December 2017 Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA had own shares of 100 000 
Class A shares. The total purchase price of these shares was NOK 12.7 million.

Dividend
The proposed dividend for fiscal year 2017 is NOK 3.50 per share, payable 
in the second quarter 2018. A decision on this proposal will be taken by the 
annual general meeting on 26 April 2018.

Dividend for fiscal year 2016 was NOK 5.00 per share, where NOK 3.50 per share 
was paid in May 2017 and NOK 1.50 per share was paid in November 2017. 

Dividend for fiscal year 2015 was NOK 5.00 per share, where NOK 3.00 per share 
was paid in May 2016 and NOK 2.00 per share was paid in November 2016.

99

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cont. note 9 Equity
The largest shareholders at 31 December 2017

Shareholders

Tallyman AS

Folketrygdfondet

VPF Nordea Norge Verdi

Pareto Aksje Norge

Citibank, NA

J. P. Morgan Bank Luxembourg S.A.

UBS Switzerland AG 

Stiftelsen Tom Wilhelmsen 

Nordea Nordic Small Cap Fund

Skagen Vekst

J. P. Morgan Chase Bank, N.A., London

State Street Bank and Trust Comp. 

Forsvarets Personellservice

Pareto AS

MP Pensjon PK

Deutsche Bank International Ltd.

Oslo Pensjonsforsikring AS PM

Nordnet Bank AB 

VPF Nordea Kapital

Eika Norge 

Other 

Total number of shares

A shares

B shares

Total number 
of shares

% of
total shares

% of
voting stock

 20 784 730 

 2 281 044 

23 065 774

49.60%

60.01%

 1 231 880 

 247 695 

 874 161 

 494 167 

 638 658 

 607 657 

 370 400 

 126 875 

 512 647 

 351 022 

 430 084 

 375 400 

 270 000 

 79 965 

 248 597 

 126 443 

 119 230 

 1 058 832 

 1 484 612 

 583 789 

 494 973 

 5 700 

 236 000 

 415 630 

 125 000 

 101 000 

 276 636 

 100 000 

 345 086 

 214 197 

 194 222 

 287 325 

2 290 712

1 732 307

1 457 950

989 140

638 658

613 357

606 400

542 505

512 647

476 022

430 084

375 400

371 000

356 601

348 597

345 086

340 640

313 452

287 325

4.93%

3.73%

3.14%

2.13%

1.37%

1.32%

1.30%

1.17%

1.10%

1.02%

0.92%

0.81%

0.80%

0.77%

0.75%

0.74%

0.73%

0.67%

0.62%

3.56%

0.72%

2.52%

1.43%

1.84%

1.75%

1.07%

0.37%

1.48%

1.01%

1.24%

1.08%

0.78%

0.23%

0.72%

0.00%

0.37%

0.34%

0.00%

 6 747 481 

 3 662 686 

 10 410 167 

34 637 092

11 866 732

46 503 824

22.39%

100.00%

19.48%

100.00%

Shares on foreigners hands
At 31. December 2017 – 5 200 373 (15.01%) A shares and 2 448 814 (20.64%) B shares.
Corresponding figures at 31. December 2016 – 4 906 128 (14.16%) A shares and 2 233 706 (18.82%) B shares.

100

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 10 Pension
Description of the pension scheme
The company’s defined contribution pension schemes for Norwegian employees 
are with financial institute, similar solutions with different investment funds. 

The company has “Ekstrapensjon”, a contribution plan for all Norwegian 
employees with salaries exceeding12 times the Norwegian National Insurance 
base amount (G). The contribution plan replaced the company obligations, 
mainly financed from operation. 

In addition the company has agreements on early retirement. This obligations 
are mainly financed from operations.

The company has obligations towards some employees in the company’s 
senior executive management. These obligations are mainly covered via group 
annuity policies in Storebrand.

Pension costs and obligations includes payroll taxes. No provision has been 
made for payroll tax in pension plans where the plan assets exceed the plan 
obligations.

The liability recognised in the balance sheet in respect of the remaining defined 
benefit pension plans is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at 
the end of the reporting period less the fair value of plan assets. The defined 
benefit obligations are calculated annually by independent actuaries using 
the projected unit credit method. The present value of the defined benefit 
obligation is determined by discounting the estimated future cash outflows 
using interest rates of high-quality corporate bonds that are denominated in 
the currency in which the benefits will be paid, and that have terms to maturity 
approximating to the terms of the related pension obligation. 

Actuarial gains and losses arising from experience adjustments and changes in 
actuarial assumptions are charged or credited to equity in other comprehensive 
income in the period in which they arise.

Number of people covered by pension schemes at 31.12

2017

2016

2017

2016

Funded

Unfunded

In employment

On retirement (inclusive disability pensions)

Total number of people covered by pension schemes

 1 

 2 

 3 

 2 

 1 

 3 

 4 

 4 

 5 

 5 

Financial assumptions for the pension calculations:

2017

2016

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

Expenses

Commitments

Discount rate

Anticipated pay regulation

Anticipated increase in National Insurance base amount (G)

Anticipated regulation of pensions

2.40%

2.25%

2.25%

0.40%

2.50%

2.25%

2.25%

0.60%

2.30%

2.00%

2.00%

0.10%

2.30%

2.00%

2.00%

0.10%

Anticipated pay regulation are business sector specific, influenced by 
composition of employees under the plans. Anticipated increase in G is tied 
up to the anticipated pay regulations. Anticipated regulation of pensions is 
determined by the difference between return on assets and the hurdle rate.

Actuarial assumptions: all calculations are calculated on the basis of the K2013 
mortality tariff. The disability tariff is based on the KU table.

101

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 10 Pension

NOK thousand

Pension expenses     

Service cost

Net interest cost

Cost of defined contribution plan

Net pension expenses

2017

2016

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Funded

Unfunded

Total

 2 440 

 162 

 5 597 

 8 199 

 52 

 774 

 826 

 2 492 

 936 

 5 597 

 9 025 

 3 748 

 204 

 5 945 

 9 897 

 52 

 791 

 3 800 

 995 

 5 945 

 843 

 10 740 

Remeasurements – Other comprehensive income

2017

2016

 (171)

 (1 350)

 (1 521)

 (365)

 (1 156)

 27 

 3 061 

 (866)

 2 222 

 556 

1 667 

2017

2016

 91 344 

 2 492 

 1 988 

 (3 955)

 (171)

 91 698 

 85 572 

 3 800 

 2 002 

 (3 118)

 3 088 

 91 344 

 43 600 

 37 470 

 1 052 

 3 274 

 (2 526)

 (597)

 1 947 

 1 007 

 5 281 

 (1 024)

 (473)

 1 339 

 46 750 

 43 600 

Effect of changes in financial assumptions

Effect of experience adjustments

(Return) on plan assets (excluding interest income) 

Gross remeasurement (gain) loss included in OCI

Tax effect

Remeasurement (gain) loss recognised in OCI – net of tax

NOK thousand

Pension obligations

Defined benefit obligation at end of prior year

Service cost

Interest expense

Benefit payments from plan

Effect of experience adjustments

Pension obligations 31.12

Fair value of plan assets

Fair value of plan assets at end of prior year

Interest income

Employer contributions

Benefit payments from plan

Administrative expenses paid from plan assets

Return on plan assets (excluding interest income)

Gross pension assets  31.12

102

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 10 Pension

NOK thousand

2017

2016

Specification of funded and unfunded obligation

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Funded

Unfunded

Total

Service cost

Defined benefit obligation

Fair value of plan assets

Net liability (asset)

 2 440 

 54 187 

 46 750 

 52 

 37 511 

 7 437 

 37 511 

 2 492 

 91 698 

 46 750 

 44 948 

 3 748 

 53 286 

 43 600 

 52 

 38 058 

 9 686 

 38 058 

 3 800 

 91 344 

 43 600 

 47 744 

Premium payments in 2018 are expected to be NOK 4.9 million (2017: NOK 4.7 million). Payments from operations are estimated at NOK 2.3 million (2017: NOK 2.4 million)

NOK thousand

Historical developments

Gross pension obligations, including payroll tax

Gross pension assets

Net recorded pension obligations

Note 11 Interest-bearing debt

NOK thousand

Interest-bearing debt 

Bank loan

Total interest-bearing debt

Repayment schedule for interest-bearing debt

Due in year 1

Total interest-bearing debt

Held as collateral within a securities’ finance facility

The portfolio of financial investments

31.12.2017

31.12.2016

 91 698 

 46 750 

 44 948 

 91 344 

 43 600 

 47 744 

2017

2016

150 000

150 000

150 000

150 000

0

0

 824 297 

 711 518 

The parent company had in addition undrawn revolving facilities at 31 
December 2017. The parent company’s financing arrangement provides for 
customary financial covenants related to minimum liquidity, and minimum value 
adjusted equity ratio. The company was in compliance with these covenants at 
31 December 2017 (analougue for 31 December 2016).

FINANCIAL RISK
See note 13 to the parent accounts and note 17 to the group accounts for 
further information on financial risk, and note 16 to the group accounts 
concerning the fair value of interest-bearing debt.

Note 12 Operating lease commitments
The company has a sale and leaseback agreement for the office building, Strandveien 20. The lease run over 15 years from 1 October 2009, with an option to 
extend for additional 5 years + 5 years.

The company also has a lease agreement for the office building (including storage and parking) Strandveien 12. The lease run over 10 years from 1 June 2006, 
with an option to extend for additional 5 years. In 2016 the lease agreement was extended with 5 years and runs until 2021.

NOK thousand

Due in year 1

Due in year 2

Due in year 3

Due in year 4

Due in year 5 and later

Total expense related to operating leasing commitments

2017

 51 365 

 52 392 

 53 440 

 49 131 

 141 377 

 347 705 

2016

 50 770 

 52 039 

 53 340 

 54 673 

 204 442 

 415 264 

103

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 13 Financial risk
CREDIT RISK 
Guarantees 
The group’s policy is that the parent company will not provide any financial 
guarantees. 

Cash and bank deposits 
The parent’s exposure to credit risk on cash and bank deposits is considered 
to be very limited as the parent maintain banking relationships with a selection 
of solid banks. 

LIQUIDITY RISK 
The parent’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure sufficient liquidity to 
meet its liabilities, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring 
unacceptable losses or risking damage to the parent and group’s reputation. 

The parent’s liquidity risk is considered to be low in the sense that it holds 
significant liquid assets in addition to undrawn credit facilities.  

FAIR VALUE ESTIMATION  
The fair value of financial instruments traded in an active market is based on 
quoted market prices on the balance sheet date. The fair value of financial 
instruments not traded in an active market (over-the-counter contracts) are 
based on third party quotes. Specific valuation techniques used to value 
financial instruments include:

Quoted market prices or dealer quotes for similar instruments. 

The fair value of interest rate swaps is calculated as the present value of the 
estimated future cash flows based on observable yield curves.  

The fair value of interest rate swaps is calculated as the present value of the 
estimated future cash flows based on observable yield curves.  

The fair value of interest rate swap option (swaption) contracts is determined 
using observable yield curve, volatility and time-to-maturity parameters at the 
balance sheet date, resulting in a swaption premium. 

The fair value of forward foreign exchange contracts is determined using 
forward exchange rates at the balance sheet date, with the resulting value 
discounted back to present value.   
The fair value of foreign exchange option contracts is determined using 
observable forward exchange rates, volatility, yield curves and time-to-maturity 
parameters at the balance sheet date, resulting in an option premium.   

The carrying value less impairment provision of receivables and payables are 
assumed to approximate their fair values. The fair value of financial liabilities for 
disclosure purposes is estimated by discounting the future contractual cash 
flows at the current market interest rate that is available to the company for 
similar financial instruments. 

NOK thousand

2017

Interest-bearing debt 

Bank loan

Total interest-bearing debt 31.12

2016

Interest-bearing debt

Bank loan

Total interest-bearing debt 31.12

Fair value

Carrying amount

 150 000 

 150 000 

 150 000 

 150 000 

0

0

The fair value of financial instruments traded in active markets is based on 
closing prices at the balance sheet date. A market is regarded as active if 
quoted prices are readily and regularly available from an exchange, dealer, 
broker, industry group, pricing service, or regulatory agency, and those prices 
represent actual and regularly occurring market transactions on an arm’s 
length basis. 

The price used for valuation of financial assets held by the group is the closing 
price. These instruments are included in level 1. Instruments included in level 1 
at the end of 2017 and 2016 are investment grade bonds, equities and listed 
financial derivatives.

The fair value of financial instruments not traded in an active market is 
determined by using valuation techniques. These valuation techniques use 
observable market data where available and rely as little as possible on entity 
specific estimates. These instruments are included in level 2. Instruments 
included in level 2 are FX and IR derivatives.

If one or more of significant valuation inputs is not based on observable market 
data, the instruments are in level 3. 

Total financial instruments and short term financial investments

NOK thousand

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total balance

Financial assets at fair value through income statement 2017

– Bonds 

– Equities 

– Financial derivatives 

Total assets 31.12

Financial liabilities fair value through income statement 2017

– Financial derivatives 

Total liabilities 31.12

104

 394 183 

 423 522 

 817 705 

 1 828 

 1 828 

 6 593 

 6 593 

 394 183 

 430 114 

 1 828 

 826 125 

 (270)

 (270)

 (7 519)

 (7 519)

 0 

 (7 789)

 (7 789)

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cont. note 13 Financial risk

NOK thousand

Level 1

Level 2

Level 3

Total balance

Financial assets at fair value through income statement 2016

– Bonds 

– Equities 

– Financial derivatives 

Total assets 31.12

Financial liabilities fair value through income statement 2016

– Financial derivatives 

Total liabilities 31.12

 357 845 

 356 120 

 713 965 

 (2 407)

 (2 407)

Financial instruments by category

Assets

Other non current assets

Current financial investments

Financial derivatives 

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalent

Assets at 31.12.2017

Liabilities

Financial derivatives

Current interest-bearing debt

Other current liabilities

Liabilities 31.12.2017

Assets

Other non current assets

Current financial investments

Financial derivatives 

Other current assets

Cash and cash equivalent

Assets at 31.12.2016

Liabilities

Financial derivatives

Current interest-bearing debt

Other current liabilities

Liabilities 31.12.2016

Note

6

7

6

6

Note

6

6

6

Note

6

7

6

6

Note

6

6

6

See note 17 to the group financial statement for further information about the group risk factors.

 1 345 

 1 345 

 (860)

 (860)

 0 

 0 

Loans and 
receivables

Assets at fair 
value through the
income statement

 7 613 

 279 549 

 78 624 

 365 786 

 824 297 

 1 828 

Other financial 
liabilities at 
amortised cost

Assets at fair 
value through the
income statement

 150 000 

 209 562 

 359 562 

 7 789 

 7 789 

Loans and 
receivables

Assets at fair 
value through the
income statement

 8 613 

 535 011 

 274 244 

 817 867 

 711 518 

 6 700 

 357 845 

 356 120 

 1 345 

 715 310 

 (3 267)

 (3 267)

Total

 7 613 

 824 297 

 1 828 

 279 549 

 78 624 

Total

 7 789 

 150 000 

 209 562 

 367 351 

Total

 8 613 

 711 518 

 6 700 

 535 011 

 274 244 

 826 125 

 1 191 911 

 718 219 

 1 536 086 

Other financial
liabilities at 
amortised cost

Assets at fair 
value through the
income statement

Total

 6 196 

 6 196 

 63 544 

 63 544 

 6 196 

 63 544 

 69 741 

105

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
Note 14 Related party transaction
The ultimate owner of the group Wilh.Wilhelmsen Holding ASA is Tallyman AS, 
which control about 60% of voting shares of the group. The ulimate owners of 

Tallyman AS are the Wilhelmsen family and Mr Wilhelm Wilhelmsen controls 
Tallyman AS. 

Shares owned or controlled by related party of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA at 31 December 2017

Name

A shares

B shares

Total

Part of 
total shares

Part of 
voting stock

Family Wilhelm Wilhelmsen

 20 882 114 

 2 302 444 

 23 184 558 

49.86%

60.29%

Wilhelm Wilhelmsen has in 2017 received remuneration of NOK 768 thousand 
(2016: NOK 750 thousand) in consulting fee, NOK 70 thousand (2016: NOK 
70 thousand) in nomination committee for Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and 
Treasure ASA (2016 for Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
ASA) and NOK 1 830 thousand (2016: NOK 1 829 thousand) in ordinary paid 
pension and other remunerations.

WWH ASA delivers services to other group companies in Holding and Investment, 
WWL ASA group and Maritime Services, these include primarily human resources, 
tax, communication, treasury and legal services (“Shared Services”).

In accordance with service level agreements, WilService AS delivers in-house 
services such as canteen, post, switchboard and rent of office facilities. 
Wilhelmsen Accounting Services delivers accounting services and Maritime 
Services delivers IT services and group consolidation services to WWH. 
Generally, Shared Services are priced using a cost plus 5% margin calculation, 
in accordance with the principles set out in the OECD Transfer Pricing Guidelines 
and are delivered according to agreements that are renewed annually.

NOK thousand

Note

2017

2016

OPERATING REVENUE FROM GROUP COMPANIES

Discontinued operations 

WWL ASA group

Maritime Services 

Holding and Investments

Operating revenue from group companies

OPERATING EXPENSES TO GROUP COMPANIES

Maritime Services 

Holding and Investments

Operating expenses to group companies

FINANCIAL INCOME FROM GROUP COMPANIES

Maritime Services 

Holding and Investments

Financial income from group companies

ACCOUNT RECEIVABLES AND ACCOUNT PAYABLES WITH GROUP COMPANIES

Account receivables

Discontinued operations 

Maritime Services 

Holding and Investments

Account receivables from group companies

Account payables

Discontinued operations 

Maritime Services 

Holding and Investments

Account payables to group companies

106

 4 130 

 54 312 

 4 320 

 62 762 

 (5 801)

 (17 243)

 (23 044)

 227 279 

 227 279 

 264 346 

 922 

 265 269 

 (1 455)

 (1 012)

 (2 467)

 4 221 

 65 953 

 16 792 

 86 967 

 (6 354)

 (14 066)

 (20 420)

 500 000 

 298 

 500 298 

 5 224 

 510 869 

 1 173 

 517 265 

 (35)

 (190)

 (30 254)

 (30 479)

1

1

1

6

6

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. note 14 Related party transaction

NOK thousand

Note

2017

2016

NON CURRENT LOAN TO GROUP COMPANIES

Holding and Investments*

Non current loan to group companies

6

 7 613 

 7 613 

 8 613 

 8 613 

*Loan to WilService (Holding and Investments segment) was provided at commercially reasonable market terms (average margins 3%). Interest rates are based on 
floating LIBOR-rates.

CURRENT LOAN TO GROUP COMPANIES

Holding and Investments

Current loan to group companies

6

 0 

 1 

 1 

Note 15 Events after the balance sheet date
No material events occurred between the balance sheet date and the date when the accounts were presented which provide new information about conditions 
prevailing on the balance sheet date.

107

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Note 16 Statement on the remuneration for senior executives
The statement on senior executives’ remuneration has been prepared in 
accordance with the Norwegian Public Limited Companies Act, the Norwegian 
Accounting Act and the Norwegian Code of Practice and is adopted by the 
board of directors.

derived from the group’s strategic goals. The variable pay scheme takes into 
consideration both key financial targets and individual targets (derived from the 
agreed targets related to the long-term strategy). Maximum opportunities for 
annual payments are capped at four to six months’ salary, depending on role. 

For the purpose of this statement, company employees referred to as senior 
executives are: Thomas Wilhelmsen (group CEO), Christian Berg (group CFO), 
Jan Eyvin Wang (senior vice president industrial investments), Erik Nyheim 
(senior vice president industrial investments), Benedicte Teigen Gude (senior 
vice president HR and communications), Bjørge Grimholt (president WSS), Carl 
Schou (president WSM), and John Stangeland (CEO of NorSea Group).

Long-term variable remuneration 
The senior executives also participate in a long term incentive scheme running 
over a four-year period, based on positive development of the group’s value 
adjusted equity. The scheme aims to increase alignment with the shareholders’ 
interests and how senior executives executes strategy and develop value for 
the group and its shareholders. 

The following guidelines are applicable for 2018. 

General principles for the remuneration of senior executives
The remuneration of the group CEO is determined by the board of directors, 
whereas remuneration of other senior executives is determined 
administratively on the basis of frameworks specified by the board.

The remuneration level shall reflect the complexity and responsibilities of each 
role and shall take into account the group’s breadth of international operations. 
With the majority of the positions based in Norway, the board primarily looks 
to other Norwegian companies operating in an international environment to 
ensure that remuneration levels are competitive.  

Remuneration shall be at a competitive level in the relevant labour market(s). 
It should be a tool for the board to retain and attract required leadership and 
motivational for the individual executive. The total remuneration package shall 
therefore consist of fixed remuneration (basic salary and benefits in kind) and 
variable, performance based remuneration (short- and long term incentives). 
The remuneration system should be flexible and understandable.  

Fixed salary
The main element of the remuneration package shall be the annual base salary. 
This is normally evaluated once a year based on individual performance, market 
competitiveness and local labour market trends.  

Benefits in kind
The senior executives receive benefits in kind that are common for comparable 
positions. These include newspapers, telecommunication, broadband, 
insurance and car salary.

Short-term variable remuneration 
As a key component of the total remuneration package, the annual variable 
pay scheme emphasises the link between performance and pay, and aims 
to be motivational. It aligns the senior executives with relevant, clear targets 

For group CEO, maximum annual payment is 100% of base salary. For the 
remaining, the maximum payment is six to nine months of base salary. The CEO 
of NorSea Group is not part of the long-term scheme. For additional details, 
see note 6 page 59 or note 2 page 95.

Pension scheme
Pension benefits for senior executives include coverage for old age, disability, 
spouse and children, and supplement payments by the Norwegian National 
Insurance system. Pension obligations related to salaries in excess of 12G and 
the option to take early retirement are insured in the case of group CEO and 
group CFO. 

The presidents for Ships Service and Ship Management have a defined benefit 
plan for salary exceeding 12G financed through operations.

The remaining executives have a defined contribution plan for salary above 
12G. For salary below 12G, they are all a part of the collective agreement. 

Severance package scheme
The group CEO has a severance pay guarantee under which he has the 
right to receive up to 100% of his annual salary for 24 months after leaving 
the company as a result of mergers, substantial changes in ownership, or a 
decision by the board. After six months’ notice period, possible income during 
the severance pay period will be deducted by up to 50%.

The other senior executives also have arrangements for severance payment 
beyond redundancy period following departure from the group.

Statement on senior executive remuneration in the previous fiscal year 
Remuneration policy and development for the senior executives in the previous 
fiscal year built upon the same policies as those described above. For further 
details regarding the individual remuneration elements, see note 2 concerning 
pay and other remuneration for senior executives of the parent company and 
note 6 of the group accounts concerning senior executives of the group.

108

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Auditor’s report

To the Annual Shareholders’Meeting of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA 

Independent Auditor’s Report 

Report on the Audit of the Financial Statements 

Opinion 

We have audited the financial statements of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA. The financial statements 
comprise: 

  The financial statements of the parent company, which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 
December 2017, and income statement, comprehensive income, cash flow statement for the 
year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary of significant 
accounting policies, and 

  The financial statements of the group, which comprise the balance sheet as at 31 December 

2017, and income statement, comprehensive income, statement of changes in equity, cash flow 
statement for the year then ended, and notes to the financial statements, including a summary 
of significant accounting policies. 

In our opinion: 

•  The financial statements are prepared in accordance with the law and regulations. 

•  The accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial 

position of the parent company as at 31 December 2017, and its financial performance and its 
cash flows for the year then ended in accordance with simplified application of international 
accounting standards according to § 3-9 of the Norwegian Accounting Act. 

•  The accompanying financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial 

position of the group as at 31 December 2017, and its financial performance and its cash flows 
for the year then ended in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as 
adopted by the EU. 

Basis for Opinion 

We conducted our audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices 
generally accepted in Norway, including International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Our 
responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s Responsibilities for the 
Audit of the Financial Statements section of our report. We are independent of the Company and the 
Group as required by laws and regulations, and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in 
accordance with these requirements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient 
and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

PricewaterhouseCoopers AS, Postboks 748 Sentrum, NO-0106 Oslo 
T: 02316, org. no.: 987 009 713 MVA, www.pwc.no 
Statsautoriserte revisorer, medlemmer av Den norske Revisorforening og autorisert regnskapsførerselskap 

109

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s report

 Independent Auditor's Report - Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA 

Key Audit Matters  

Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in 
our audit of the financial statements of the current period. These matters were addressed in the 
context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we 
do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.  

During 2017, Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA completed a discontinuing of the operations in the 
shipping and logistics segment and completed a material business combination reported in the supply 
services segment. These transactions was a focus area for our audit in 2017. A consequence of the 
transaction that discontinued the operations in the shipping and logistics segment was that the two 
Key Audit Matter’s reported in our 2016 Audit Report related to anti-trust provisions and impairment 
considerations related to vessels no longer are relevant to Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA.   

Key Audit Matter 

How our audit addressed the Key Audit Matter 

Discontinuing operations and business 
combinations 

We refer to note 3 Discontinued 
operations, note 4 Investments in 
associates and note 19 Business 
combinations. 

In April Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics 
ASA (WWL) merged with Wallroll AB. The 
transaction diluted Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
Holding ASA’s ownership interest in 
WWL. The consequence for the financial 
statements was that the shipping and 
logistics segment described in note 3 no 
longer was consolidated, but accounted for 
as an investment in associates reported in 
the holding and investments segment.  

The carrying amount of discontinued net 
assets was USD 1,062 million. The 
transaction caused an accounting loss of 
USD 264 million reported as discontinued 
operations. In arriving at the total 
accounting loss, management were 
required to exercise judgment to identify 
the relevant elements in other 
comprehensive income, and Non-
Controlling Interests (NCI).  

We assessed managements’ accounting policy against 
relevant IFRSs, in particular IFRS 3 – Business 
Combinations, IFRS 10 – Consolidated Financial 
Statements and IAS 28 – Investments in Associates and 
Joint Ventures. Further, we obtained explanations from 
management as to how the specific requirements of the 
standards were met.  

We evaluated and challenged managements’ assessment 
and conclusion to report the shipping and logistics 
segment, a major line of business, as discontinued 
operations. In addition, we assessed and discussed with 
management the identification of discontinued assets, 
liabilities including NCI and elements in Other 
Comprehensive Income, which determined the 
accounting loss identified. We found management’s 
assessment to be appropriate.  

We discussed with management their assessment to 
account for the retained ownership interest in WWL as 
an associate and corroborated management 
documentation to information such as the shareholder 
agreement between Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and 
Wallenius Lines AB. We found that we agreed with 
management’s assessment that WWH have a significant 
influence through their ownership interest and presence 
at the Board of Directors. 

In September, Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding 
ASA obtained control in NorSea Group AS 
(NSG), thereby increasing the ownership 
from 40 % to ca 74 %.  As a result, Wilh. 

The fair value of the remaining investment in WWL of 
USD 790 million, was determined by reference to quoted 
market bid price at the close of business expressed in 
USD. In order to assess each of the assumptions in 

(2) 

110

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s report

 Independent Auditor's Report - Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA 

Wilhelmsen Holding ASA now owns a 
controlling interest in NSG. The 
consequence for the financial statements 
was that the investment is no longer 
presented using the equity method, but is 
fully consolidated.     

Due to the size of the transactions, the 
complex accounting policy assessments 
made by management and the significant 
judgment required by management in 
determining the purchase price allocation 
(PPA) for the retained investment in WWL 
and business combination of NSG, this has 
been an area of focus for our audit. 

managements’ purchase price allocation, we discussed 
with management and challenged their assessments. In 
particular we discussed the identification of assets and 
liabilities, and the assumptions underpinning the fair 
value used in the PPA. In addition, we assessed the 
allocation of the purchase consideration, which 
contributed to determining the elimination adjustments 
to goodwill and vessels in the transaction.  

We further discussed with and instructed the component 
auditor in WWL related to their procedures for certain 
key assumptions. This includes, procedures related to 
reasonableness of cash flows used by management, 
assumptions used to build the discount rate and the use 
of broker valuation certificates to support valuations of 
the vessels. We concluded that management’s 
assumptions were reasonable. 

The total purchase consideration for NSG was USD 211 
million. To assess the assumptions in the purchase price 
allocations for the investment in NSG, we discussed with 
management and challenged their assessments.  In 
particular, we focused on the valuation of property, 
vessel, investment in associates and joint ventures and 
the liabilities, debt and derivatives assumed. In addition, 
we assessed the allocation of purchase consideration and 
verified the mathematical accuracy of the model.  

  We reviewed managements’ budgets and 

forecasting and where possible compared these 
to current and historical data to corroborate the 
reasonableness of cash flows and normalized 
EBITDAs used by management. In addition, we 
verified the mathematical accuracy of the model. 
We found that the cash flows and normalized 
EBITDAs were reasonable.  

  We used our internal valuation specialists and 
external market data to assess the assumptions 
used to build the yield and discount rate. We 
considered that the assessment made by 
management was within a reasonable range.  

We evaluated the appropriateness of the related 
disclosures in note 3, 4 and 19 to the financial statements 
for the Group to the requirements of the applicable 
financial reporting framework, IFRS. We found that the 
disclosure appropriately explained the transactions.  

(3) 

111

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s report

 Independent Auditor's Report - Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA 

Other information 

Management is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the Board of 
Directors’ report, the statements on Corporate Governance and Corporate Social Responsibility, but 
does not include the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon. 

Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other information and we do not express 
any form of assurance conclusion thereon. 

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other 
information and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with 
the financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit or otherwise appears to be materially 
misstated. 

If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this 
other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard. 

Responsibilities of the Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer for the 
Financial Statements 

The Board of Directors and the Chief Executive Officer (management) are responsible for the 
preparation in accordance with law and regulations, including fair presentation of the financial 
statements of the parent company in accordance with simplified application of international 
accounting standards according to the Norwegian Accounting Act section 3-9, and for the preparation 
and fair presentation of the financial statements of the group in accordance with International 
Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the EU, and for such internal control as management 
determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.  

In preparing the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the Company’s and the 
Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going 
concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless management either intends to 
liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so. 

Auditor’s Responsibilities for the Audit of the Financial Statements  

Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole 
are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report 
that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee 
that an audit conducted in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices 
generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs will always detect a material misstatement when it 
exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually or in 
aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the 
basis of these financial statements. 

As part of an audit in accordance with laws, regulations, and auditing standards and practices 
generally accepted in Norway, including ISAs, we exercise professional judgment and maintain 
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also: 

(4) 

112

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s report

 Independent Auditor's Report - Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA 

• 

identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due 
to fraud or error. We design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and 
obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The 
risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one 
resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, 
misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.  

•  obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit 

procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an 
opinion on the effectiveness of the Company and the Group's internal control. 

• 

• 

evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting 
estimates and related disclosures made by management. 

conclude on the appropriateness of management’s use of the going concern basis of accounting 
and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to 
events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company or the Group’s ability to 
continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required 
to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements 
or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the 
audit evidence obtained up to the date of our auditor’s report. However, future events or 
conditions may cause the Company or the Group to cease to continue as a going concern. 

• 

evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including 
the disclosures, and whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions 
and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation. 

•  obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities 
or business activities within the Group to express an opinion on the consolidated financial 
statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the group 
audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion. 

We communicate with the Board of Directors regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and 
timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal 
control that we identify during our audit. 

We also provide the Board of Directors with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical 
requirements regarding independence, and to communicate with them all relationships and other 
matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, related 
safeguards. 

From the matters communicated with the Board of Directors, we determine those matters that were of 
most significance in the audit of the financial statements of the current period and are therefore the 
key audit matters. We describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulation precludes 
public disclosure about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a 
matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse consequences of doing so would 
reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication. 

(5) 

113

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Auditor’s report

 Independent Auditor's Report - Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA 

Report on Other Legal and Regulatory Requirements 

Opinion on the Board of Directors’ report 

Based on our audit of the financial statements as described above, it is our opinion that the 
information presented in the Board of Directors’ report and in the reports on Corporate Governance 
and Sustainability concerning the financial statements, the going concern assumption, and the 
proposal for the allocation of the profit is consistent with the financial statements and complies with 
the law and regulations. 

Opinion on Registration and Documentation 

Based on our audit of the financial statements as described above, and control procedures we have 
considered necessary in accordance with the International Standard on Assurance Engagements 
(ISAE) 3000, Assurance Engagements Other than Audits or Reviews of Historical Financial 
Information, it is our opinion that management has fulfilled its duty to produce a proper and clearly 
set out registration and documentation of the Company and the Group’s accounting information in 
accordance with the law and bookkeeping standards and practices generally accepted in Norway. 

Oslo, 22 March 2018 
PricewaterhouseCoopers AS 

Thomas Fraurud 
State Authorised Public Accountant 

114

(6) 

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Responsibility statement
We confirm, to the best of our knowledge, that the financial statements for the 
period 1 January to 31 December 2017 have been prepared in accordance 
with current applicable accounting standards, and give a true and fair view of 
the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit for the entity and the group 
taken as a whole. 

We also confirm that the Board of Directors’ Report includes a true and fair 
review of the development and performance of the business and the position 
of the entity and the group, together with a description of the principal risks and 
uncertainties facing the entity and the group.

Lysaker, 22 March 2018
The board of directors of Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA

Diderik Schnitler
chair

Odd Rune Austgulen

Carl Erik Steen

 Irene Waage Basili

Cathrine Løvenskiold Wilhelmsen

Thomas Wilhelmsen
group CEO

115

Parent companyAccount and notesWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017C
o
r
p
o
r
a
t
e
g
o
v
e
r
n
a
n
c
e

 Sustainability

Melanie Moore 

Head of sustainability

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding, HR and Communications

The conditions for systematically addressing sustainability challenges 

are better now than before, where concepts can more rapidly become 

realities that make a real difference for bottom lines and society. That’s a 

pretty exciting development and means we get to look at our value chain 

and impacts of our operations with a fresh set of eyes. Melanie is part 

of our sustainability team, overseeing our sustainability direction in the 

group and challenging our own ways to always improve. As an enabler of 

sustainable global trade, we have a responsibility and we stand by it. 

 
Corporate governance

A summary of the corporate governance report for 2017

Corporate governance comply or explain overview

Principle

Deviations

Reference in this report

1.

Implementation and reporting on 
corporate governance 

2. The business

3. Equity and dividends

None

None

None

4. Equal treatment of shareholders and 
transactions with close associates

The company has two share classes. The B shares do not carry voting rights at 
the general meeting. Apart from this, each B share carries the same rights in the 
company and holders of the respective classes are treated equally. Converting to a 
single share class is not regarded as appropriate in the present circumstances.

5.

Freely negotiable shares

None

6. General meetings

7. Nomination committee

The chair of the board also acts as chair of the general meeting as stated in the 
company’s Articles of Association. 

The nomination committee is not described in the Articles of Association and the 
company has not developed a formal way for shareholders to submit proposals for 
candidates to the committee. 

8. Corporate assembly and board of dire-
ctors: composition and independence

Executive committee for industrial democracy in foreign trade shipping instead of 
corporate assembly. General meeting elects the board.

9. The work of the board of directors

The whole board acts as remuneration and audit committee. Without a corporate 
assembly, the board elects its own chair. 

10. Risk management and internal control

None

11. Remuneration of the board of directors

None

12. Remuneration of the executive per-

None

sonnel

13.

Information and communications

None

14. Take-overs

15. Auditor

No policy developed. However, intention is described in the report.

None

On page 119

On page 119

On page 119

On page 120

On page 121

On page 121

On page 122

On page 122

On page 126

On page 126

On page 127

On page 127

On page 127

On page 128

On page 128

Reducing risk 
and improving 
accountability

The board is responsible for ensuring that 
the company is directed and controlled in an 
appropriate and satisfactory manner according 
to existing laws and regulations. 

• ensures easy access to timely, accurate and  
  relevant information about the company’s  
  business
• strengthens the confidence in the company  
  and increases the company’s attractiveness.

This report is, amongst others, based on the 
requirements covered in the Norwegian Code 
of Practice for Corporate Governance. 

For the board, a sound corporate governance 
model is important because it:
• reduces risk
• contributes to the greatest possible value  
  creation over time in the best interests of the  
  company’s shareholders, employees and  
  other stakeholders
• ensures fair treatment of all our stakeholders
• strengthens confidence in the company

The board assesses the company’s corporate 
governance performance to be of high 
standard, and discussed and approved this 
report 22 March 2018. All the directors were 
present at the meeting.

Diderik Schnitler, Chair of the board
Lysaker 22 March 2018

118

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017The board’s 
corporate 
governance 
report for 
2017

1. Implementation and reporting on corporate 
governance
Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA (Wilhelmsen) 
is a public limited company organised 
under Norwegian law. Listed on the Oslo 
Stock Exchange, the company is subject to 
Norwegian securities legislation and
stock exchange regulations.

This report is based on the requirements 
covered in the Norwegian Code of Practice for 
Corporate Governance (“the code”, dated 30 
October 2014), the Public Limited Companies 
Act and the Norwegian Accounting Act, 
approved by the board and published as part 
of the company’s annual report. The report is 
also available on the company’s webpage.

Comply or explain principle
In addition to provisions and guidance that in 
part elaborate on company, accounting, stock 
exchange and securities legislations, as well 
as the Stock Exchange Rules (dated 1 October 
2014), the code also covers areas not addressed 
by legislation. Build on a “comply or explain” 
principle, the code requires the company to 
justify deviations from its 15 provisions and 
to describe alternative solutions where and 
if applicable. A summary of Wilhelmsen’s 
adherence to the code can be found on page 
118 in this report.

Sustainable business model
A responsible business model is necessary 
to be sustainable. Acknowledging that the 
company’s activities affect its surroundings, 
the company issues a sustainability report 
based on the requirements stated in the GRI 
(Global Reporting Initiative) standards. The 
report describes how Wilhelmsen combines 
long-term profitability with emphasis on 
ethical business conduct including respect for 
human rights, the natural environment and 
the societies in which the company operates. 
The report includes how the company 
addresses employee rights and working 
environment, human rights, health and 
safety issues, the environment, prevention of 
corruption and how the company contributes 
to communities in which it operates.

Governing elements
Employees and others working for and 
on behalf of the group should carry out 
their business in a sustainable, ethical and 
responsible manner and in accordance 
withcurrent legislation and the company’s 
standards.

To ensure the right results are achieved 
the right way, the company has a set of 

governing elements including its vision 
“shaping the maritime industry”, values, 
leadership expectations, and code of 
conduct. A sustainability policy is part of 
the group’s policy framework. As the core of 
the company’s governance framework, the 
governing elements guide the employees in 
making the right decisions and navigating 
safely in a dynamic global environment.

A summary of the governing elements is 
available electronically on the group’s intranet, 
as written documentation, as e-learning 
and on the company’s webpages. In 2017, 
anti-corruption, competition law, fraud and 
theft as well as whistleblowing received 
particular attention. Substantial efforts 
were put into combating cyber risk where 
appropriate risk reduction methods and tools 
were implemented. In addition, Wilhelmsen 
started adoption to the new EU General Data 
Protection Regulation (GDPR) that comes into 
force in May 2018 and the group will continue 
this work in 2018.    

Deviations from the code: None

2. The business
Articles of Association
The company’s business activities are 
specified in its Articles of Association. In 
brief, the company’s objective is to engage 
in shipping, maritime services, aviation, 
industry, commerce, finance business, 
brokerage, agencies and forwarding, to own 
or manage real estate, and to run business 
related thereto or associated therewith. The 
full articles of association are presented on the 
company’s webpages.

Strategy
The company’s main strategy is to create value 
by developing a diversified business portfolio. 
The company will leverage its market 
positions, global network and collective 
competence to continue to grow a sustainable 
and profitable business. 

The present strategic direction of the company 
is outlined in the directors report on page 16.  

For a further presentation of the business 
segments, see the company’s webpages.

Deviations from the code: None

3. Equity and dividends
Equity
The parent company has a sound level of 
equity tailored to its objectives, strategy 
and risk profile. As of 31 December 2017, the 

119

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Number of 
shareholders

total equity amounted to NOK 5 620 million, 
corresponding to 92% of the total capital 
(parent account).

9
5
2
3

9
6
2
3

250

242

8
3
0
3

268

3009

3027

2770

Dividend policy
A dividend policy approved by the board 
states that the company’s goal is to provide 
shareholders with a high return over time 
through a combination of value creation
for the company’s shares and payment of 
dividend. The objective is to have consistent 
yearly dividend paid twice annually.

2015

2016

2017

Foreign shareholders

Norwegian shareholders

Dividend paid in 2017
In 2017, the company paid NOK 5.00 in 
dividend per share, totalling approximately 
USD 28 million. The payable dividend was in 
line with the company’s dividend policy and 
based on approved annual accounts.

Proposed dividend
The board has proposed that the annual general 
meeting (AGM), to be held 26 April 2018, 
approves an ordinary dividend for the fiscal 
year 2017 amounting to NOK 3.50 per share.

The board has further proposed that the AGM 
authorise the board to distribute additional 
dividend of up to NOK 2.50 per share for a 
period limited in time up to the next AGM, 
but not later than 30 June 2019.

Own shares
As of 31 December 2017, the company held 
100 000 own shares. On behalf of Wilhelmsen, 

Dividend payout 2013-2018 (NOK per share)

*2018 proposed payout pending AGM approval

8

7

6

5

4

3

2

1

0

120

FY 2013

FY 2014

FY 2015

FY 2016

FY 2017

FY 2018

the board is authorised by the AGM to acquire 
up to 10% of the current share capital. The 
minutes from the AGM held 27 April 2017 
describes the authorisation, expiring 30 June 
2018, in more detail. The board has proposed to 
the AGM that the share capital be reduced from 
NOK 930 076 480 by NOK 200 000 to NOK 
929 876 480 by liquidation of the 100 000 own 
A shares denominated NOK 20,– per share.

It is further proposed to the AGM that the 
board be granted a new authorization to 
acquire shares in the company with a nominal 
value of up to NOK 92 987 648, equivalent to 
10% of the current share capital, valid until the 
company’s annual general meeting in 2019, 
but no longer than until 30 June 2019.

Increase of the share capital
The AGM has not granted the board any 
mandate to increase the company’s share 
capital.

Deviations from the code: None

4. Equal treatment of shareholders and 
transactions with close associates
Shareholders
As of 31 December 2017, the company had 
3 038 registered shareholders, a reduction of 
7% from one year earlier.  The company had 
268 foreign shareholders (domiciled abroad) 
and the remaining were Norwegian (domiciled 
in Norway).  The Norwegian shareholders 
counted for 91% of the company’s shareholder 
base and held  84% of the total number of 
shares as of 31 December 2017.

Two share classes
The company has two share classes, 
comprising 34 637 092 A shares and 11 866 
732 B shares. According to the company’s 
Articles of Association, the B shares do not 
carry voting rights at general meetings. Apart 
from this, each B share carries the same rights 
in the company and holders of the respective 
classes are treated equally. Converting 
to a single share class is not regarded as 
appropriate in the present circumstances. 

Share capital
Where the board resolves to carry out an 
increase in share capital and waive the pre-
emption rights of existing shareholders on 
the basis of a mandate granted to the board, 
the justification should be publicly disclosed 
in a stock exchange announcement issued in 
connection with the increase in share capital.

Transactions with close associates
Any transactions the company carries out 

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017% of shares 
owned by 
Norwegian 
and foreign 
shareholders

12%

15%

16%

88%

85%

84%

2015

2016

2017

Foreign shareholders

Norwegian shareholders

in its own shares are carried out through 
the stock exchange and at prevailing stock 
exchange prices. Any transactions taking 
place between a principal shareholder or 
close associates and the company will be 
conducted on arm’s length terms. A similar 
principle will be used for certain transactions 
between companies with in the group. 
In the event of material transactions, the 
company will seek independent valuation. 
Relevant transactions will be publicly 
disclosed to seek transparency. Pursuant to 
the instructions issued by and for the board, 
directors are required to inform the board if 
they have interests and/or relations, directly 
or indirectly, with the Wilhelmsen group 
(including subsidiaries).

Overview of insiders
A list of primary insiders can be found on the 
Oslo Stock Exchange under the company’s 
ticker. 

Deviations from the code: The code 
recommends only one share class. The company 
has two share classes. The B shares do not carry 
voting rights at general meetings. Apart from 
this, each B share carries the same rights in the 
company and holders of the respective classes 
are treated equally. Converting to a single share 
class is not regarded as appropriate in the 
present circumstances.

tickers “WWI” and “WWIB” for the A and 
B share respectively, both shares are freely 
negotiable. There are no restrictions on 
negotiability in the company’s Articles of 
Associations. 

Deviations from the code: None

6.–9. Governing bodies
The company’s governing bodies consist of 
the general meeting, the executive committee 
for industrial democracy, the board of 
directors, the group chief executive and the 
group management team.

General meeting
The general meetings deal with and decide
on the following matters:
• Adoption of the annual report and accounts  
  including the consolidated accounts and  
  the distribution of dividend Adoption of the  
  auditor’s remuneration
• Determination of the remuneration for board  
  and committee members
• Election of members to the board and  
  election of the auditors
• Any other matter that belongs under the  
  annual general meeting by law or according  
  to the Articles of Association.

The annual general meeting is normally held 
April or early May.

5. Freely negotiable shares
Listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange with the 

Shareholders with known address are 
notified by mail no later than 21 days prior 

Governing bodies

Executive committee for
industrial democracy

General
meeting

Board of directors 
(audit and remuneration 
committee)

Group
CEO

Nomination
committee

Group
management team

121

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017to the meeting and all relevant documents 
are published on Wilhelmsen’s website 
no later than 21 days prior to the meeting. 
Shareholders may, upon request, receive hard 
copies of the material.

board. None of the committee members are 
executives in the company.

In 2017, the nomination committee held two 
meetings.

Shareholders wishing to attend the general 
meeting must notify the company at least 
two working days before the meeting takes 
place. Shareholders may participate at the 
meeting without being present in person, 
and can vote in advance through electronic 
communication. Guidelines for voting are 
included in the notice to the meeting Last, but 
not least, the shareholders can appoint a proxy 
to vote for their shares. Shareholders with 
known address receives a proxy appointment 
form. The form is downloadable from the 
company’s web pages.

The chair, auditor and representatives from 
the company are present at the general 
meeting, which is organised in a way that 
facilitates dialogue between shareholders and 
representatives from the company.

The chair opens and directs the general 
meeting, as described in the Articles of 
Association.

The minutes from the AGM are available 
on the company’s website immediately 
after the meeting and may be inspected by 
shareholders at the company’s office.

Nomination committee
The general meeting appoints the nomination 
committee and has approved guidelines 
for the committee’s work. The committee 
nominates candidates to the board and 
proposes board members’ remuneration. As 
part of its nomination process, the committee 
will have contact with major shareholders, the 
board and the company’s executives to ensure 
the process takes the board’s and company’s 
needs into consideration. A justification 
for a candidate will include information on 
each candidate’s competence, capacity and 
independence.

The nomination committee currently consists 
of Wilhelm Wilhelmsen (chair), Gunnar 
Frederik Selvaag and Jan Gunnar Hartvig. 
Elected at the general meeting in April 2016 
for a period of two years, the committee 
members are up for election in 2018.

Board of directors – composition and 
independence
The company does not have a corporate 
assembly (see executive committee), and 
therefore the general meeting elects the 
board. The board comprises five directors, 
of which minimum two are women, elected 
for minimum two years at a time. Four of the 
directors are independent of the majority 
owner and the executive management. The 
board does not include executive personnel. 
However, the group CEO and group CFO are 
always present at the board meetings as is 
other executives depending on agenda and 
issues to be discussed.

Information on the background and experience 
of the directors is available on the company’s 
web pages, which also lists the number of 
shares in the company held by each director.

All the board members have or are planning 
to attend a seminar hosted by the Oslo Stock 
Exchange. The objective of the course was 
to provide information on legislation, rules, 
regulations and best practice that are relevant 
for board members of listed companies.

Board member

Elected

Period Elected to

Diderik Schnitler

April 2017

2 years

2019

Cathrine L. Wilhelmsen April 2017

2 years

2019

Irene W. Basili

April 2016

2 years

2018

Carl Erik Steen

April 2017

2 years

2019

Odd Rune Austgulen

April 2016

2 years

2018

Board responsibility and work
The instruction for the board includes rules on 
the work of the board and its administrative 
procedures determining what matters should 
be considered by the board. The board has the 
ultimate responsibility for the management of 
the company and that the business is run in a 
sustainable and responsible way.

The majority of the committee is independent 
of the board and executives in the company. 
Mr Wilhelmsen meets in the executive 
committee and acts as an advisor for the 

The board head the company’s strategic 
planning and makes decisions that form the 
basis for the administrations execution of the 
agreed strategy.

122

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017The chair of the board has an extended duty to 
ensure the board operates well and carries out 
its duties.

The board establishes an annual plan for 
its work. In 2017, the company hosted nine 
board meeting, including one full day strategy 
meeting. Two of the directors had lawful 
excuse for non-appearance at two separate 
board meetings.

In addition to the board meetings, the board 
visits business related locations to ensure they 
have a solid understanding of the business, 
market and outlook for the maritime
industry. The company keeps the board 
regularly updated on development in the 
group through a variety of communication 
channels, including a board portal containing 
timely and relevant information.

Audit committee
The whole board serves as the company’s 
audit committee, as the board only comprises 
five members. 

In 2017, the audit committee have had 
particular attention on anti-corruption, theft 
and fraud, whistleblowing and competition 
law and the roll-out of an awareness 
programmes related to these topics. 

Remuneration committee
The board has not deemed it as relevant to 
have a separate remuneration committee, and 
therefore acts collectively as the remuneration 
committee. The board sets guidelines for 
remuneration for the executive personnel, 
including long- and short-term bonus 
schemes and pension plans. The also decide 
the general remuneration principles for other 
employees in the company.

Executive committee
An executive committee for industrial 
democracy in foreign trade shipping, chaired 
by the group CEO Thomas Wilhelmsen, 
ensures the interest of the employees. The 
committee comprises six members, four 
appointed from the management and two 
elected by the workforce. It meets regularly 
through the year. Issues submitted for 
consideration by the committee include a 
draft of the accounts and budget as well as 
matters of major financial significance for 
the company or of special importance for the 
workforce. The executive committee members 
were elected in 2014 for a three-year period.

Group management team
The group management structure was 

reshaped during the first half of 2017.  
The group management team (GMT) in 
Wilhelmsen consists of the group chief 
executive officer (group CEO) and five 
executive managers:
• group chief financial officer (group CFO) 
• group VP corporate communications
• group VP human resources and  
  organisational development 
• group SVP industrial investments
• group SVP industrial investments

In January 2018, the corporate communications 
and human resources and organisational 
development roles will be merged into one role 
named group SVP HR and communications.  
This will bring the executive members reporting 
to the group CEO from five down to four in 2018.

GMT discusses and coordinates all main 
business and management issues relevant for 
the group of companies. It also makes benefit 
of the group’s total expertise and knowledge 
when executing strategies and goals set by the 
board. An overview of the background and 
expertise of the GMT member is available on 
the company’s website. 

Group CEO
The board’s instruction to the group CEO 
includes a statement of duties, responsibilities 
and delegated authorities. The group CEO has 
the overall responsibility for the company’s 
results and for conducting the businesses and 
affairs of the company and its subsidiaries in a 
proper and efficient manner, in the company’s 
and its shareholders best interest.

The group CEO has a particular responsibility 
to ensure that the board receives accurate, 
relevant and timely information that is 
sufficient to allow it to carry out its duties. 
Group’s operations, financial results, 
projections, financial status or other topics 
specified by the board, is regularly shared with 
the board between board meetings.

The group CEO has delegated the 
responsibility of the different professions and 
subsidiaries to other members of the GMT.

Group CFO
The group CFO heads finance and strategy 
for Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA and the 
consolidated Wilhelmsen group. The group 
CFO is responsible for providing group CEO 
and the board with reliable, relevant and 
sufficient financial information related to 
the WWH group’s business activities, and 
assuring that such information is based on 
requirements for listed companies.

123

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
Group
mangement
team

From left:
Erik Nyheim
(senior vice president
industrial investments)

Benedicte Teigen Gude
(senior vice president
HR and communications)

Thomas Wilhelmsen
(group CEO)

Jan Eyvin Wang
(senior vice president
industrial investments)

Christian Berg
(group CFO)

124

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017125

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Governance of subsidiaries
The Wilhelmsen group consists of several legal 
entities (for a full overview, please see page 
132). Each entity has its own board responsible 
for issues related to the specific entity.

The board reviews the company’s risk matrix 
at least four times a year and the internal 
control arrangements at least once a year, 
preferably together with the company’s 
auditor.

Wilhelmsen’s ambition is to be a demanding 
and reliable owner, taking the long-term 
interests of the companies and the total 
group into consideration when developing 
its future strategy, including how ownership 
will be exercised, financial prospects as well 
as expectation towards code of conduct, 
environmental and sustainable standards and
aspirations.

Control and management of all entities are 
based on the same governance principles 
applicable to Wilhelmsen.

In the case of partly owned subsidiary, 
the same principle applies concerning 
control and management of the business. 
Wilhelmsen’s is represented on the board 
of partly owned subsidiaries. Wilhelmsen’s 
ownership in the subsidiaries is formally 
exercised through the respective companies’ 
general meetings.

Deviations from the code: The chair of 
the board also acts as chair of the general 
meeting as stated in the company’s Articles 
of Association. Further, the company has an 
executive committee for industrial democracy 
in foreign trade shipping instead of a corporate 
assembly. Without a corporate assembly, the 
board elects its own chair. Given the size of 
the board and the fact that the board jointly 
is responsible for its decisions, separate 
committees is not valued as necessary. The 
whole board therefore acts as remuneration 
and audit committee. Last, the Articles of 
Association does not include a reference to the 
nomination committee and the company has 
not developed a formal way for shareholders 
to submit proposals for candidates to the 
committee.

10. Risk management and internal control
Board responsibility
The board is responsible for the company’s 
internal control and risk management, and 
believes that the company’s systems are 
sound and appropriate given the extent and 
nature of the company’s activities. The system 
contributes to sound control characterised 
by integrity and ethical attitudes throughout 
the organisation. It is based on the company’s 
governing elements including the guidelines 
for business standard and corporate social 
responsibility.

About the system
Governing documents, code of conduct, 
policies (including sustainability) and policy 
descriptions, and procedures are documented 
and electronically available to the company’s 
employees through the company’s global 
integrated management system. Various 
internal control activities give management 
assurance that the internal control of financial 
systems is working adequately and according 
to segment management’s expectations.

The company’s internal control is a process 
designed to provide reasonable assurance of:
• Effective and efficient operations
• Sound risk management
• Reliable financial reporting
• Compliance with laws and regulations
• Necessary resources provided and used in  
  cost efficient ways.

Internal control includes:
• Activities established to evaluate and  
  confirm the quality of internal control  
  regarding financial reporting (per segment)
• Procedure for year-end financial statement  
  and the board’s responsibility  
  statement semi-annually and annually
• Enterprise risk assessment – including  
  reporting of the segment’s internal control
• Quarterly reporting on risk assessment to the  
  board
• Risk factors are described and made public  
  to the market in the company’s second  
  quarter and annual reports

The group’s finance and strategy division 
has the responsibility for updating internal 
control procedures on a group level, 
including:
• Wilhelmsen group financial mandate
• Wilhelmsen group accounting policies and  
  guidelines 
• Wilhelmsen (parent) accounting policies and  
  guidelines
• Wilhelmsen group enterprise risk  
  management policy and guidelines

The group financial strategy is approved 
by the board and covers all main elements 
related to financial management of the group, 
including:
• Responsibility 
• Key ratios
• Equity and dividend 

126

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 
• Investor relation
• Financing and debt management 
• Financial investment management 
• Currency management
• Contingent liabilities 
• Merger and acquisitions
• Accounting and financial reporting 
• Internal control and risk management
• Reporting to WWH board

Main group companies have implemented 
similar governing documents approved by the 
respective boards and in line with the group 
strategy.

External reassurance
Confirmation from external auditors and 
internal procedures i.e. business reviews 
(financial, operational and quality) give the 
management and board confidence that the 
group complies with external and internal 
rules and regulations.

The company’s auditors conduct audit in 
accordance with the laws, regulations and 
auditing standards and practices generally 
accepted in Norway and give reasonable 
assurance as to whether the consolidated 
financial statements are free from material 
misstatements and whether internal control 
over financial reporting were appropriate 
in the circumstances relevant to the audit. 
The audit includes examining on test basis 
evidence supporting the amounts and 
disclosures in the financial statements. It also 
includes assessing the accounting policies 
used and the reasonableness of accounting 
estimates made by management as well as 
evaluation of the overall financial statement 
presentation including the disclosures.

Whistleblowing
The group has a global whistleblowing system 
including procedures and channels for 
giving notice to the company about potential 
non-compliance, e.g. corruption, theft, 
fraud, sexual harassment or other breaches 
to the company’s business standards. The 
whistleblowing channel is available for both 
internal and external parties.  Strengthening 
transparency and safeguarding that the 
business standards are applied the way they 
are intended, the procedures also ensure that 
the group has a professional way of handling 
potential breaches to laws and regulations, 
self-imposed business standards or other 
serious irregularities. The procedures also 
include guidelines to safeguard the whistle-
blower.

Deviations from the code: None

11. Remuneration of the board of directors 
Remuneration of directors is determined 
by the annual general meeting and is not 
dependent upon the company’s results. The 
fee reflects the responsibilities of the board, 
its expertise, the amount of time devoted to 
its work and the complexity of the company’s 
businesses. No director holds share options in 
the company.

None of the directors performs assignments 
for the company other than serving on the 
board of the company or one or more of 
its subsidiaries, except for board member 
Diderik Schnitler’s company, Løkta AS, which 
performed certain consultancy work for Wilh. 
Wilhelmsen ASA (WWASA) up to the end of 
the second quarter of 2017. Amongst others, 
Mr Schnitler represented WWASA on the 
joint WWASA/Wallenius steering committee 
governing the joint ventures Wallenius 
Wilhelmsen Logistics, EUKOR Car Carriers 
and American Shipping and Logistics. The 
board had approved the assignment including 
remuneration.

An overview of the directors’ remuneration 
is specified in note 6 to Wilhelmsen group 
accounts and note 2 to the parent company 
accounts, of which the latter includes an 
overview of shares in company held by the 
individual director.

Deviations from the code: None

12. Remuneration of executive personnel 
Remuneration policy
An overview of Wilhelmsen’s remuneration 
policy, employee benefits, including salary 
and other components of the chief executive’s 
and group senior executives’ remuneration 
packages, is detailed in note 6 to the group 
accounts and note 2 and 16 to the parent 
company accounts. The board’s statement 
of executive personnel is also a separate 
appendix to the agenda for the annual general 
meeting, which approves the remuneration as 
part of the annual report.

Deviations from the code: None

13. Information and communication 
Communication principles and standards 
Transparency, accountability and timeliness 
guides the group’s communication activities. 
The company follow the guidelines set out by 
the Oslo Stock Exchange and The Norwegian 
Investor Relations Association and their 
opinion of best practice related to financial 
reporting and Investor Relations information.

127

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Communication channels and activities
The interim and annual results are presented 
to the financial markets and business 
journalists. At least two of these presentations 
are transmitted directly by webcast. Results 
are also posted on the group’s investor 
relations pages. Further, the company strives 
to host an annual capital markets day, to give 
the stakeholders more in-depth knowledge 
about the group’s activities and strategies. 
The market is regularly informed about the 
group’s activities and results through stock 
exchange notices, annual and interim reports, 
press releases and updates on the group’s web 
site.

Extensive information about the activities 
of the group is provided on the group’s web 
pages. A separate section named “Investors 
relations” includes relevant information 
to shareholders, including reports and 
presentations, financial calendar, analysts, 
share information, corporate governance, IR 
contact and news and media. The company 
has a dedicated Investor relations team, and 
main point of contact is Mr Åge S Holm. 

The group is present on social media, but have 
strict rules on who can utilise social media for 
company purposes and has clear guidelines 
stating that stock sensitive information must 
be published through the stock exchange 
before it is made available on social media.

Silent period
Two weeks before the planned release of 
quarterly financial reports – the silent period 
– the company will not comment on matters 
related to the general financial results or 
expectations, and contact with external 
analysts, investors and journalists will be 
minimised. This is done to reduce the risk of 
information leakages and that the market has 
access to different information.

Deviations from the code: None

14. Takeovers
The board has not established a policy for 
its response to possible takeover bids. The 
board and management will seek to treat any 
takeover bids for the company’s activities or 
shares in a professional way and in the best 
interest of the company’s shareholders. If 

such circumstances arise, the board and the 
company’s management will seek to treat all 
shareholders equally and take action to secure 
that shareholders receive sufficient and timely 
information to consider the offer.

Deviations from the code: No policy developed, 
but intention described above.

15. Auditor
The company’s auditor – Pricewaterhouse-
Coopers AS (PwC) – attends board meetings 
as required and is always present when the 
annual accounts are approved.

To ensure the board has solid understanding 
of the accounts and any changes in the 
accounting principles, the auditor discuss 
changes in IFRS relevant for the group’s
accounting principles or other law 
requirements relevant for the company with 
the board. The auditor also runs through 
the main features of the audits carried out. 
There were no disagreements between the 
management and PwC during 2017.

It is of importance to the board that the 
auditor is independent of management. The 
board therefore has at least one meeting 
with PwC without senior management being 
present. If used for other services than 
accounting, the parties will follow guidelines 
as described in the Auditing and Auditors’ 
Act. The auditor provides the board with a 
confirmation of independence in relation to 
non-audit services provided.

In 2017, PwC has audited accounts, notes, 
the director’s report and read through 
and commented on the board’s report on 
corporate governance and the company’s 
sustainability report.

The fee to external auditors, broken down by 
statutory work, other assurance services, tax 
services and other assistance, is specified in 
note 6 to the Wilhelmsen group accounts
and note 2 to the parent company accounts.

For the financial year 2017, Thomas Fraurud 
has been the company’s engagement partner 
from PwC. 

Deviations from the code: None

128

GroupCorporate governanceWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 Augmented 
reality

Cara Wong

Marketing Manager

Wilhelmsen Ships Service, Marine Products

Constantly working to enhance the total offer for our solutions on board 

the rigs and vessels we serve, Cara is part of the team driving the use of 

Augmented Reality and interactive 3D experiences. This makes it easier 

for customers on board and in the offices to quickly understand the 

application areas, product features and key usage information, increasing 

effectiveness and efficiency. We see a tremendous training potential here 

as well. This is just the start as we have an ambition to bring to life more 

solutions for more vessel types in the near future. 

C
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 Autonomous
 ships

Haakon Lenz 

Regional vice president Americas and Europe

Wilhelmsen Ship Management, Management Team

What if we could remove trucks and big vehicles from the 

roads, what if we could lessen the strain on society by 

making roads safer, cleaner, and decrease wear and tear? By 

reducing costs dramatically for anyone wishing to transport 

their goods via shortsea logistics, we might have something 

interesting to offer. Vessels running on cleaner energy and 

being fully autonomous will create a perfect way to utilize 

waterways around the globe. Instead of having thousands 

of trucks driving around the bay, have a low emission 

autonomous vessel carry your goods straight across. It saves 

you time, money, risk, and the society at large will benefit 

simultaneously. Haakon works on the team creating the first 

ever company, building and operating fully autonomous 

vessels. Wilhelmsen is enabling sustainable global trade, 

even shaping the future of logistics by the sound of it. 

 
Corporate structure

As of 31 December 2017

Wilhelmsen group

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA, Norway

Wallenius Wilhelmsen
Logistics ASA,
Norway 37.82%

Treasure ASA,
Norway
72.73%

Wilhelmsen Maritime
Services AS,
Norway

Wilh. Wilhelmsen
Holding Invest AS,
Norway

WilService AS,
Norway

Wilhelmsen Accounting
Services AS,
Norway

Wilh. Wilhelmsen
(Hong Kong) Ltd,
 Hong Kong

WilNor Governmental
Services AS, 
Norway 51%

Holding and investments segment

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA, Norway

Wallenius Wilhelmsen 
Logistics ASA
37.82%

Treasure ASA
72.73%

Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
Holding Invest AS

Wilh. Wilhelmsen 
(Hong Kong) Ltd,
Hong Kong

WilService AS,
Norway

Wilhelmsen 
Accounting
 Services AS, Norway

Den Norske 
Amerikalinje AS

Hyundai Glovis Ltd
12.04%

Wilh. Wilhelmsen
Holding Invest 
Malta Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ferd
Offshore AS
50%

Unless otherwise stated, the company is wholly-owned.

132

GroupCorporate structureWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Supply services segment

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA, Norway

WilNor Governmental
Services AS
51%

Wilh. Wilhelmsen
Holding Invest AS

NorSea Group AS
74.11%

For group company list sorted 
by business areas see below list.

Supply services segment
Company name

Norsea Group AS 

Companies owned by NorSea Group AS

NorSea Group Property AS

NorSea Group Operations AS

NorSea Group DENMARK A/S

NorSea Group UK Ltd

NorSea Group Australia PTY Ltd

Wilnor Governmental Services AS

Companies owned through subsidiaries

Vestbase AS

Vestbase Eiendom AS

Omagata 124 AS

Averøy Eiendom AS

Orvikan Eiendom AS

Stordbase AS

NorSea AS

Maritime Logistic Services AS

Viking Fighter AS

NorSea Eiendom Dusavik AS

NorSea Eiendom Tananger AS

NorSea Tananger 107 AS

NorSea Ekofiskvegen AS

Tananger Eiendom AS

Nsg Wind A/S

Nsg Digital As

Øer Energy Ltd

Øer GMBH

Country

Business office

Share

Norway

Norway

Denmark

Scotland

Australia

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Denmark

Norway

Germany

Tananger

Tananger

Esbjerg

Aberdeen

Perth

Lysaker

Kristiansund

Kristiansund

Kristiansund

Kristiansund

Kristiansund

Stord

Stavanger

Stavanger

Tananger

Stavanger

Tananger

Tananger

Tananger

Tananger

Esbjerg

Stavanger

UK

Germany

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00%

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%

133

GroupCorporate structureWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Share

100.00%

100.00%

95.62%

94.96%

75.00%

75.00%

75.00%

73.00%

50.10%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

50.00%

49.75%

42.82%

42.00%

41.00%

40.00%

37.91%

33.33%

33.07%

32.26%

Cont. Supply services segment
Company name

Companies owned through subsidiaries

Country

Business office

Øer A/S

Øer BV

Polarbase Eiendom AS

Polarbase AS

Maritime Waste Management AS *

Norbase AS

Mid-Nor Yard Service AS ***

NSG Maritime AS

Dusavik Utvikling AS *****

Coast Center Base AS

Vikan Næringspark Invest AS

SørSea AS

Polarlift AS

Artic Base Supply AS

KS Coast Center Base

Risavika Havn AS **

Risavika Eiendom AS

Bring Polarbase AS

Smart Management AS

Eldøyane Næringspark AS

Risavika Havnering 14 AS

Strandparken Holding AS ***

Hammerfest Næringsinvest AS

Denmark

Netherland

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Greenland

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Denmark

Netherland

Hammerfest

Hammerfest

Kristiansund

Harstad

Kristiansund

Stavanger

Stavanger

Fjell

Kristiansund

Tananger

Hammerfest

Greenland

Fjell

Tananger

Tananger

Hammerfest

Tananger

Stord

Stavanger

Hammerfest

Hammerfest

*  NorSea Group Operations AS owns 50 % of Maritime Waste Management AS, remaining 50 % is owned by Coast Center Base AS. NorSea Group Operations AS 
  owns 50 % of Coast Center Base AS. Total direct and indirect NorSea Group AS owns 75 % of Maritime Waste Management AS. 

**  NorSea Eiendom Tananger AS owns 34 % of Risavika Havn AS. NorSea Eiendom Tananger AS owns 42 % of Risavika Eiendom AS which owns 21 %

  of Risavika Havn AS. Total direct and indirect NorSea Group AS owns 42,82 % of Risavika Havn AS. 

  ***  Polarbase Eiendom AS owns 25 % of Strandparken Holding AS. Polarbase Eiendom AS owns 32,26 % of Hammerfest Næringsinvest AS. 

  Hammerfest Næringsinvest AS owns 25 % of Strandparken Holding AS. Total direct and indirect NorSea Group AS owns 33,07 % of Strandparken Holding AS.” 

  ****  Vestbase Eiendom AS owns 50 % of Mid-Nor Yard Services AS, remaining 50 % is owned by Coast Center Base AS. NorSea Group Operations owns 50% of 

  Coast Center Base AS. Total direct and indirect NorSea Group AS owns 75 % of Mid-Nor Yard Services AS.  

 *****  NSG own 40% of Dusavik Utvikling AS. K2 owns 60% of Dusavik Utvikling. NorSea Eiendom dusavik owns 16,83% of K2.

Investments in subsidiaries and associates are measured according to cost method in the financial statements.
In the consolidated accounts associated companies are measured according to the equity method.

Maritime services segment

Wilhelmsen Maritime Services AS, Norway

Wilhelmsen
Ships Service

Wilhelmsen Ships
Service AS, 
Norway

Wilhelmsen Ship
Management

Wilhelmsen Ship
Management 
Holding Ltd, Hong Kong

For group company list sorted by business areas see following list.

Wilhelmsen Insurance Services AS

Business area

Legal entity

Unless otherwise stated, the company is wholly-owned.

134

GroupCorporate structureWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Cont. Maritime services segment
Company name

Wilhelmsen Maritime Services

Wilhelmsen Insurance Services AS

Wilhelmsen Ship Management 

Unicorn Shipping Services Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Serviços Marítimos do Brasil Ltda

Wilhelmsen Marine Personnel d.o.o.

BWW LPG Limited (formerly known as Aurora Wilhelmsen Management Limited)

Barklav (Hong Kong) Limited

Wilhelmsen Marine Personnel (Hong Kong) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Holding Limited

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Limited

WSM Global Services Limited 

Wilhelmsen Ship Management (India) Private Limited

BWW LPG Sdn Bhd (formerly known as Aurora Wilhelmsen Management Limited)

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Sdn Bhd

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Services Sdn Bhd

WSM Offshore Services Sdn Bhd

Diana Wilhelmsen Management Limited

Unicorn Shipping Services Limited

Barber Moss Ship Management AS

Wilhelmsen Marine Personnel (Norway) AS

Wilhelmsen Ship Management (Norway) AS

OOPS (Panama) SA

Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Manning Inc

Wilhelmsen Marine Personnel Sp z.o.o.

Haeyoung Maritime Services Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Korea Ltd

Barklav SRL

Wilhelmsen Marine Personnel Novorossiysk Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ship Management Singapore Pte Ltd

Wilhelmsen Marine Personnel (Ukraine) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ship Management (USA) Inc

Wilhelmsen Ships Service

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Algeria SPA 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Argentina SA 

New Wave Maritime Services Pty Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Pty Limited

WLB Shipping Pty Ltd

WWHI Property Australia Pty Ltd

Almoayed Wilhelmsen Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service NV 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service do Brasil Ltda

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Inc 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Agencia Maritima SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Chile) S.A.

Wilhelmsen Huayang Ships Service (Beijing) Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Huayang Ships Service (Shanghai) Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Colombia SAS 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Cote d'Ivoire SARL

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Cyprus Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service A/S

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Ecuador SA 

Barwil Arabia Shipping Agencies SAE

Barwil Egytrans Shipping Agencies SAE 

Country

Norway

Bangladesh

Brazil

Croatia

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

Hong Kong

India

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Marshall Islands

Mauritius

Norway

Norway

Norway

Panama

Philippines

Poland

Republic of Korea

Republic of Korea

Romania

Russia

Singapore

Ukraine

United States

Algeria

Argentina

Australia

Australia

Australia

Australia

Bahrain

Belgium

Brazil

Bulgaria

Canada

Chile

Chile

China

China

China

Colombia

Cote d'Ivoire

Cyprus

Denmark

Ecuador 

Egypt

Egypt

Ownership %

100.00%

51.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00%

50.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

50.00%

51.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

25.00% *

100.00%

20.00%

100.00%

50.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

40.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

50.00%

49.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

35.00%

49.00% *

135

GroupCorporate structureWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. Maritime services segment
Company name

Wilhelmsen Ships Service

Scan Arabia Shipping Agencies SAE

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Oy Ab

Auxiliaire Maritime SAS

Wilhelmsen Ships Service France SAS

Barwil Georgia Ltd 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Georgia Ltd 

Barwil Agencies GmbH

Wilhelmsen Ships Service GmbH

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Gibraltar) Limited

Wiltrans (Gilbraltar) Limited

Barwil Hellas Ltd

Uniref SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Hellas SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Limited

Wilhelmsen Maritime Services Private Limited

Barwil For Maritime Services Co Ltd 

Iraqi-Norwegian Company For Marine Navigation and Maritime Services Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service SpA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Japan) Pte Ltd – Legal Branch 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Ltd

Alghanim Barwil Shipping Co-Kutayba Yusuf Ahmed & Partners WLL 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Lebanon SAL

Wilhelmsen Freight & Logistics Sdn Bhd

Wilhelmsen IT Services Sdn Bhd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Holdings Sdn Bhd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Malaysia Sdn Bhd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Trading Sdn Bhd

WSS Global Business Services Sdn Bhd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Malta Limited

Unitor de Mexico, SA de CV

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Mozambique), Limitada

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Myanmar) Limited

Wilhelmsen Ships Service BV

Unitor Ships Service NV Netherland Anthilles 

Wilh. Wilhelmsen (New Zealand) Limited

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Limited

Barwil Agencies AS

Kemetyl Norge Konsument AS

Wilhelmsen Chemicals AS 

Wilhelmsen IT Services AS

Wilhelmsen Ships Service AS

Wilhelmsen Towell Co LLC

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Private) Limited 

Barwil Agencies SA

Intertransport Air Logistics SA

Lowill SA

Scan Cargo Services SA

Transcanal Agency SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Peru SA

Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell (Subic) Inc 

Wilhelmsen-Smith Bell Shipping Inc 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Philippines Inc

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Polska Sp z.o.o.

Argomar-Navegcao e Transportes SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Portugal, S.A

136

Country

Egypt

Finland

France

France

Georgia

Georgia

Germany

Germany

Gibraltar

Gibraltar

Greece

Greece

Greece

Hong Kong

India

Iraq

Iraq

Italy

Japan

Japan

Kenya

Kuwait

Lebanon

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malaysia

Malta

Mexico

Mozambique

Myanmar

Netherlands

Netherlands Antilles

New Zealand

New Zealand

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Norway

Oman

Pakistan

Panama

Panama

Panama

Panama

Panama

Panama

Peru

Philippines

Philippines

Philippines

Poland

Portugal

Portugal

Ownership %

49.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

50.00%

50.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

60.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00%

49.00%

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%

60.00%

49.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

50.00%

40.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

GroupCorporate structureWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017Cont. Maritime services segment
Company name

Wilhelmsen Ships Service

Perez Torres Portugal Lda

Wilhelmsen Ship Services Qatar Ltd

Wilhelmsen Hyopwoon Ships Service Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ship Services Co Ltd

Barwil Star Agencies SRL 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service OOO

Barwil Agencies Ltd For Shipping 

Binzagr Barwil Maritime Transport Co Ltd 

Nagliyat Al-Saudia Co Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Senegal SUARL

Unitor Cylinder Pte Ltd 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Japan) Pte Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (S) Pte Ltd

Timm Slovakia s.r.o

Barwil (South Africa) Pty Ltd

Krew-Barwil (Pty) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Services (Pty) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Services South Africa (Pty) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Canarias SA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Spain SAU

Wilhelmsen Meridian Navigation Ltd

Baasher Barwil Agencies Ltd 

Alarbab For Shipping Co. Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service AB

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Inc

Wilhelmsen Ship Services Ltd 

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (Thailand) Ltd

Wilhelmsen Denizcilik Hizmetleri Ltd Sirketi

Wilhelmsen Lojistick Hizmetleri Ltd Sirketi

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Ukraine Ltd

Barwil Abu Dhabi Ruwais LLC 

Barwil Dubai LLC 

Wilhelmsen Ship Services LLC 

Triangle Shipping Agencies LLC

Wilhelmsen Ships Service AS (Dubai Branch) 

Wilhelmsen Maritime Services JAFZA

Wilhelmsen Ships Service (LLC)

Denholm Wilhelmsen Ltd

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Limited

Wilhelmsen Ships Service Inc

Wilhelmsen Sunnytrans Co Ltd (formerly known as Barwil-Sunnytrans Co Ltd)

International Shipping Co Ltd

* Additional profit share agreement

Country

Portugal

Qatar

Republic of Korea

Republic of Korea

Romania

Russia

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia

Senegal

Singapore

Singapore

Singapore

Slovakia

South Africa

South Africa

South Africa

South Africa

Spain

Spain

Sri Lanka

Sudan

Sudan

Sweden

Taiwan

Tanzania

Thailand

Turkey

Turkey

Ukraine

United Arab Emirates 

United Arab Emirates 

United Arab Emirates 

United Arab Emirates 

United Arab Emirates 

United Arab Emirates 

United Arab Emirates 

United Kingdom

United Kingdom

United States

Vietnam

Yemen

Ownership %

50.00%

0.00% *

50.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

70.00%

50.00%

0.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00%

100.00%

70.00%

100.00%

100.00%

40.00%

50.00%

0.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

100.00%

0.00% *

49.00% *

42.50%

49.00% *

100.00%

100.00%

49.00% *

40.00%

100.00%

100.00%

49.00% *

0.00% *

137

GroupCorporate structureWilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA Annual Report 2017 Learning

Emilie Maria Waagsaether

Learning manager

Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding, HR and communications

It is a cliché to say it, but people are your most important 

asset. Nevertheless, that is no joke – it is what you do with 

your people that really defines if you take care of them. At 

Wilhelmsen we train our people to lift Wilhelmsen into the 

next generation of maritime companies, it is that simple. 

To shape new mindsets and make sure we are fit for fight, 

teaching our people how to work at their very best and think 

bigger than the task at hand becomes our number one 

priority. We retain and attract people that are in it to make a 

difference. Emilie is part of our learning team, making sure 

that everyone from our highly valued trainees to the group 

CEO are fully equipped to shape the maritime industry. 

wilhelmsen.com

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Wilh. Wilhelmsen Holding ASA
Phone: (+47) 67 58 40 00
Fax: (+47) 67 58 40 80

Postal Address:
PO Box 33, NO-1324
Lysaker, Norway

Visiting Address:
Strandveien 20, NO-1366
Lysaker, Norway

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