SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSIONWashington, D.C. 20549
FORM 6-KReport of Foreign Private Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of theSecurities Exchange Act of 1934For the month of June, 2004.
Commission File Number 001-14485
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A.(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter).
Tele Sudeste Cellular Holding Company(Translation of Registrant's name into English).
Praia de Botafogo, 501, 7o andar
22250-040 Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil(Address of principal executive office).
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F..
Form 20-F ___X___ Form 40-F _______Indicate by check mark whether the registrant by furnishing the information contained in this Form is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to Rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Yes _______ No ___X____.
.
(Convenience Translation Into English from the Original Previously Issued in Portuguese)
Tele Sudeste Celular Participações S.A. and Subsidiaries
Quarterly Information for the Three-month
Period Ended March 31, 2004 and
Independent Auditors' Review Report
Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Auditores Independentes
To the Management and Shareholders of
Tele Sudeste Celular Participações S.A. and Subsidiaries
Rio de Janeiro - RJ
1. We have made a special review of the accompanying quarterly information - ITR, of Tele Sudeste Celular Participações S.A. and subsidiaries for the quarter ended March 31, 2004, prepared under the responsibility of the Companies' Management, in accordance with accounting practices adopted in Brazil, which includes the balance sheets and the related statement of income for the three-month period then ended and the related comments.
2. Our review was conducted in accordance with specific standards established by the IBRACON - Brazilian Institute of Independent Accountants, together with the Federal Accounting Council, and comprised, mainly, of: (a) inquiries of and discussions with the Companies' Management responsible for the accounting, financial and operating areas as to the principal criteria adopted in the preparation of the quarterly information; and (b) review of information and subsequent events that had or might have had significant effects on the financial position and operations of the Companies.
3. Based on our special review, we are not aware of any significant change that should be made to the information contained referred to above for it to be in conformity with accounting practices adopted in Brazil, and with standards established by the Brazilian Securities Commission - CVM, specifically applicable to the preparation of such mandatory quarterly information.
4. The balance sheet, individual and consolidated, as of December 31, 2003, and the statement of income, individual and consolidated, for the quarter ended March 31, 2003, presented for comparative purposes, were, respectively, audited and reviewed by us, and our auditor report and report on special review dated January 27, 2004 and April 15, 2003, respectively, were unqualified.
5. The accompanying financial statements have been translated into English for the convenience of readers outside Brazil.
Rio de Janeiro, April 19, 2004
DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU |
José Carlos Monteiro |
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A.
BALANCE SHEETS AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2003 AND 2002
(In thousands of Brazilian reais)
(Convenience Translation into English from the Original Previously Issued in Portuguese)
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
ASSETS |
2003 |
2002 |
2003 |
2002 |
|
|
|
|
|
CURRENT ASSETS: |
|
|
|
|
Cash and cash equivalents |
11.269 |
14.062 |
388.438 |
109.373 |
Accounts receivable, net |
- |
- |
345.688 |
272.908 |
Interest on capital and dividends |
51.586 |
12.837 |
- |
- |
Inventories |
- |
- |
51.349 |
59.260 |
Recoverable and deferred taxes |
- |
38.633 |
263.610 |
268.663 |
Hedge operations |
- |
- |
- |
57.753 |
Prepaid expenses |
- |
- |
27.143 |
19.522 |
Other assets |
550 |
1.140 |
67.238 |
42.747 |
63.405 |
66.672 |
1.143.466 |
830.226 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
NONCURRENT ASSETS: |
|
|
|
|
Tax incentives |
530 |
3.589 |
1.479 |
9.184 |
Recoverable and deferred taxes |
47.254 |
- |
254.112 |
273.918 |
Hedge operations |
- |
- |
7.632 |
79.945 |
Prepaid expenses |
- |
- |
12.372 |
14.911 |
Other assets |
- |
- |
5.337 |
212 |
47.784 |
3.589 |
280.932 |
378.170 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
PERMANENT ASSETS: |
|
|
|
|
Investments |
1.853.505 |
1.743.759 |
409 |
333 |
Property, plant and equipment |
860 |
1.291 |
1.398.014 |
1.585.057 |
Deferred |
- |
- |
615 |
- |
1.854.365 |
1.745.050 |
1.399.038 |
1.585.390 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total assets |
1.965.554 |
1.815.311 |
2.823.436 |
2.793.786 |
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A.
BALANCE SHEETS AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2003 AND 2002
(In thousands of Brazilian reais)
(Convenience Translation into English from the Original Previously Issued in Portuguese)
Company |
Consolidated |
|||
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY |
2003 |
2002 |
2003 |
2002 |
|
|
|
|
|
CURRENT LIABILITIES: |
|
|
|
|
Payroll and related charges |
286 |
- |
27.030 |
21.685 |
Suppliers and accounts payable |
4.273 |
4.387 |
426.248 |
378.575 |
Taxes, other than taxes on income |
2.009 |
34 |
44.020 |
26.239 |
Loans and financing |
- |
- |
165.802 |
200.922 |
Employee profit sharing and dividends |
48.762 |
29.522 |
50.723 |
31.924 |
Reserve for contingencies |
- |
- |
52.079 |
26.519 |
Hedge operations |
- |
- |
18.392 |
- |
Other liabilities |
6.730 |
1.552 |
58.308 |
45.894 |
62.060 |
35.495 |
842.602 |
731.758 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
LONG-TERM LIABILITIES: |
|
|
|
|
Loans and financing |
- |
- |
53.153 |
259.597 |
Reserve for contingencies |
- |
- |
23.293 |
21.483 |
Other liabilities |
131 |
131 |
1.025 |
1.263 |
131 |
131 |
77.471 |
282.343 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY: |
|
|
|
|
Capital stock |
778.838 |
685.321 |
778.838 |
685.321 |
Capital reserves |
293.424 |
378.069 |
293.424 |
378.069 |
Income reserves |
193.969 |
79.163 |
193.969 |
79.163 |
Retained earnings |
637.132 |
637.132 |
637.132 |
637.132 |
1.903.363 |
1.779.685 |
1.903.363 |
1.779.685 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Total liabilities and shareholders' equity |
1.965.554 |
1.815.311 |
2.823.436 |
2.793.786 |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these balance sheets.
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A.
STATEMENTS OF INCOME
FOR THE YEARS ENDEND DECEMBER 31, 2003 AND 2002
(In thousands of Brazilian reais, except for earnings per thousand shares)
(Convenience Translation into English from the Original Previously Issued in Portuguese)
Company |
Consolidated |
|||
2003 |
2002 |
2003 |
2002 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
GROSS OPERATING REVENUE |
- |
- |
2.526.461 |
2.366.867 |
|
|
|
|
|
Deductions from gross revenue |
- |
- |
(634.010) |
(519.236) |
|
|
|
|
|
NET OPERATING REVENUE |
- |
- |
1.892.451 |
1.847.631 |
|
|
|
|
|
Cost of services and sales |
- |
- |
(1.052.487) |
(981.741) |
|
|
|
|
|
Gross profit |
- |
- |
839.964 |
865.890 |
|
|
|
|
|
OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES): |
|
|
|
|
Selling |
- |
- |
(387.466) |
(392.482) |
General and administrative |
(7.923) |
(12.889) |
(224.408) |
(229.947) |
Equity pick-up |
158.435 |
126.987 |
- |
- |
Other, net |
(324) |
3.119 |
13.309 |
(16.954) |
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS |
|
|
|
|
INCOME (EXPENSES), NET |
150.188 |
117.217 |
241.399 |
226.507 |
|
|
|
|
|
Financial income (expenses), net |
8.793 |
12.908 |
(57.517) |
(28.612) |
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME FROM OPERATIONS |
158.981 |
130.125 |
183.882 |
197.895 |
|
|
|
|
|
Nonoperating expenses, net |
(3.059) |
- |
(8.535) |
(1.202) |
|
|
|
|
|
INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES |
155.922 |
130.125 |
175.347 |
196.693 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax and social contribution |
1.004 |
(9) |
(61.610) |
(69.817) |
Interest on capital reversal |
- |
13.500 |
42.500 |
13.500 |
NET INCOME |
156.926 |
143.616 |
156.237 |
140.376 |
SHARES OUTSTANDING AT THE |
432.598.218 |
414.006.457 |
|
|
EARNINGS PER THOUSAND |
0,36275 |
0,34689 |
|
|
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these statements.
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AS OF MARCH 31, 2004 AND 2003
(Amounts in thousands of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise indicated)
1. OPERATIONS
Tele Sudeste Celular Participações S.A. is a publicly traded Company held by Brasilcel N.V. (51.61% of total capital), Sudestecel Participações S.A. (24.27% of total capital), and Tagilo Participações Ltda. (10.80% of total capital) as of March 31, 2004. Sudestecel Participações S.A. is held by Brasilcel N.V (89.5% of total capital), NTT Docomo, INC. (7% of total capital) and Itochu Corporation (3.50% of total capital). Tagilo is wholly-owned subsidiary of Brasilcel N.V.
Brasilcel N.V. is held by Telefnica M viles S.A. (50.00% of total capital), PT Mveis Servi os de Telecomunicações, SGPS, S.A. (49.999% of total capital) and Portugal Telecom, SGPS, S.A. (0.001% of total capital).
Tele Sudeste Celular Participações S.A ("Tele Sudeste or the Company") holds 100% of the capital of Telerj Celular S.A. ("Telerj") and Telest Celular S.A. ("Telest"), and the companies are providers of cellular telecommunication services in the States of Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo, respectively, and are also engaged in activities required or useful for the performance of these services, in conformity with concessions and authorizations granted to them.
The authorizations granted to the subsidiaries Telerj and Telest are effective until November 30, 2005 and November 30, 2008, respectively, and are later renewable, for one more period, for a 15 year term, being these renewals payable in the future.
On July 6, 2003 Telerj and Telest implemented the Operator Selection Code (CSP) that allows the customer to choose the long distance and international services operator, according to SMP rules. The subsidiaries do not collect the VC2 and VC3 revenues anymore, although they began to charge for the interconnection revenue for the use of their network on these calls.
The subsidiaries' activities, including services that they may provide, are regulated by Ag ncia Nacional de Telecomunicações - ANATEL, the regulatory authority for the Brazilian telecommunications industry, pursuant to Law No. 9,472, of July 16, 1997, and related regulations, decrees, decisions and plans.
2. PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The consolidated financial statements include the balances and transactions of the Company and its subsidiaries. In the consolidated financial statements, all inter-company balances and transactions were eliminated.
The financial statements as of December 31, 2003 and March 31, 2003 were, when necessary, reclassified for better comparability.
3. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING PRACTICES
The quarterly information ("ITRs") are presented in thousand of Reais and were prepared in accordance with accounting practices adopted in Brazil and complementary standards issue by Comissão dos Valores Mobiliários ("CVM"), that do not require the record of the inflation effects after January 1, 1996.
The accounting practices applied by the Company and its subsidiaries in the preparation of the quarterly report ended in March 31, 2004 are consistent with those applied to the December 31, 2003 financial statements, and should be read together with those financial statements.
4. CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2003 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Banks |
282 |
331 |
4,799 |
11,102 |
Temporary cash investments |
8,296 |
10,345 |
457,949 |
371,371 |
Total |
8,578 |
10,676 |
462,748 |
382,473 |
Temporary cash investments refer mainly to fixed-income operations indexed to CDI's variation (Interbank Deposit Certificates).
5. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE, NET
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Unbilled services |
79,217 |
81,573 |
Billed services |
101,949 |
97,109 |
Interconnection |
88,206 |
95,900 |
Receivables from products sold |
92,291 |
102,791 |
Allowance for doubtful accounts |
(38,248) |
(31,685) |
Total |
323,415 |
345,688 |
Changes in the allowance for doubtful accounts are as follows:
|
Consolidated |
|
|
Quarter ended March 31, 2004 |
Year ended December |
|
|
|
Beginning balance |
31,685 |
31,867 |
Supplementary provision |
11,462 |
9,750 |
Write-offs |
(4,899) |
(7,692) |
Ending balance |
38,248 |
33,925 |
Supplementary provision on 2o., 3o. and 4o. quarters |
|
30,489 |
Write-offs on 2o., 3o. and 4o. quarters |
|
(32,729) |
Ending balance |
|
31,685 |
6. INVENTORIES
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Cellular handsets |
81,630 |
75,857 |
Other |
4,364 |
4,542 |
Provision for obsolescence |
(32,326) |
(29,050) |
Total |
53,668 |
51,349 |
7. RECOVERABLE AND DEFERRED TAXES
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
Recoverable income tax and social contribution |
46,151 |
44,871 |
145,379 |
141,548 |
Withholding income tax |
1,373 |
1,803 |
4,587 |
14,665 |
Recoverable ICMS (state VAT) |
- |
- |
59,084 |
59,963 |
PIS/COFINS and other recoverable taxes |
631 |
133 |
18,417 |
3,377 |
Total of ICMS on deferred sales |
- |
- |
5,631 |
8,061 |
Recoverable taxes |
48,155 |
46,807 |
233,098 |
227,614 |
Deferred income tax and social contribution |
275 |
1,040 |
280,196 |
296,073 |
Total |
48,430 |
47,847 |
513,294 |
523,687 |
Current |
2,004 |
593 |
308,289 |
269,575 |
Noncurrent |
46,426 |
47,254 |
205,005 |
254,112 |
The main components of deferred income and social contribution tax assets are as follows:
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Tax credits from corporate restructuring |
144,665 |
168,351 |
Provision- |
|
|
For obsolescence |
10,991 |
9,877 |
For contingencies |
26,381 |
25,626 |
Allowance for doubtful accounts |
13,004 |
10,773 |
Accrual for rewards program |
7,470 |
6,718 |
Tax losses and negative basis carryforwards |
45,542 |
41,862 |
Accelerated depreciation |
18,710 |
17,344 |
Other |
13,433 |
15,522 |
Total |
280,196 |
296,073 |
Current |
124,148 |
112,111 |
Noncurrent |
156,048 |
183,962 |
The deferred tax credits were recognized on the assumption of future realization, as follows:
a) Tax losses and negative basis carryforwards, mainly from the subsidiaries, will be compensated on a 30% limit of the tax basis for upcoming years. The subsidiaries, in accordance with the assumption of future projected results, estimate to carry-forwards tax loss for 5 years.
b) Tax credits from corporate restructuring - represented by the balance of goodwill net of the equity maintenance reserve (see Note 28); the realization of these tax credits occurs in the same proportion as the amortization of goodwill in the subsidiaries. Studies by external consultants used in the restructuring process support the recovery of the amount in five years.
c) Temporary differences: The realization will occur by payment of provisions, the effective loss on allowance for doubtful accounts or provision for obsolescence.
Technical studies approved by the management indicate the full recovery of the amounts recognized by the subsidiaries within the time frames established by the CVM Instruction 371. Based on these studies, the expected period for the realization of these assets is as follows:
March, 31, 2004 |
|
|
|
2004 |
92,098 |
2005 |
128,201 |
2006 |
59,897 |
Total |
280,196 |
The Instruction also establishes that periodic studies must be carried out to support the recorded amounts.
8. PREPAID EXPENSES
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Fistel fee |
45,573 |
9,553 |
Rents |
9,077 |
8,395 |
Advertising |
13,066 |
13,076 |
Employees benefits |
1,300 |
1,255 |
Others |
8,267 |
7,236 |
Total |
77,283 |
39,515 |
Current |
63,856 |
27,143 |
Non current |
13,427 |
12,372 |
9. OTHER ASSETS
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
December 31, 2003 |
December 31, 2003 |
December 31, 2003 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Judicial deposits |
- |
- |
10,437 |
9,759 |
Employees advance |
- |
- |
3,305 |
1,485 |
Credits with suppliers |
- |
- |
10,159 |
13,003 |
Related parties credits |
619 |
391 |
28,355 |
33,669 |
Subsidy on handset sales |
- |
- |
8,469 |
5,899 |
Other assets |
61 |
159 |
9,161 |
8,760 |
Total |
680 |
550 |
69,886 |
72,575 |
|
|
|
|
|
Current |
680 |
550 |
64,549 |
67,238 |
Long-term |
- |
- |
5,337 |
5,337 |
10. INVESTMENTS
a) Investments in Subsidiaries
Subsidiaries |
Ownership |
Total of |
Shareholder's |
Net income |
|
|
|
|
|
Telerj Celular S.A. |
100% |
30,449,109 |
1,616,013 |
25,194 |
Telest Celular S.A. |
100% |
2,038,856 |
275,653 |
12,966 |
b) Composition and Changes
The Company's investments are comprised of shares in the subsidiarie's capital.
Description |
Telerj Celular S.A. |
Telest Celular S.A. |
Total |
|
|
|
|
Balance as of December 31, 2003 |
1,590,818 |
262,687 |
1,853,505 |
Income from equity pick-up |
25,194 |
12,966 |
38,160 |
Balance as of March 31, 2004 |
1,616,012 |
275,653 |
1,891,665 |
11. PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT
|
Consolidated |
||||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December |
|||
Depreciation |
Cost |
Accumulated depreciation |
Net book |
Net book |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Transmission equipment |
14.29 |
1,426,905 |
(994,393) |
432,512 |
450,426 |
Switching equipment |
14.29 |
701,915 |
(440,838) |
261,077 |
282,633 |
Infrastructure |
5.00 - 20.00 |
328,895 |
(164,454) |
164,441 |
171,491 |
Software rights |
20.00 |
261,359 |
(126,832) |
134,527 |
154,909 |
Buildings |
4.00 |
73,896 |
(11,378) |
62,518 |
62,699 |
Terminal equipment |
66.67 |
140,675 |
(105,576) |
35,099 |
35,366 |
Other |
0 - 20.00 |
144,589 |
(70,980) |
73,609 |
77,780 |
Land |
- |
4,353 |
- |
4,353 |
4,353 |
Construction in progress |
- |
136,019 |
- |
136,019 |
158,357 |
Total |
|
3,218,606 |
(1,914,451) |
1,304,155 |
1,398,014 |
The Company adopts the accounting practice of capitalization of financial expenses on loans that are used for financing the construction in progress considering the net indebtedness average balance of cash and banks.
12. SUPPLIERS AND ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Suppliers |
3,558 |
3,595 |
197,843 |
225,142 |
Interconnection and interlink |
- |
- |
26,699 |
23,947 |
SMP values to repass |
- |
- |
59,228 |
41,269 |
Technical assistance (See note 29.b) |
- |
- |
130,082 |
126,151 |
Other |
679 |
678 |
8,980 |
9,739 |
Total |
4,237 |
4,273 |
422,832 |
426,248 |
SMP values to repass, refers to VC2 and VC3 calls charged to our clients and passed on to the long distance operators.
13. TAXES, OTHER THAN TAXES ON INCOME
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
ICMS (state VAT) |
- |
- |
17,108 |
20,943 |
Income tax and social contribution |
163 |
|
5,172 |
3,746 |
PIS/COFINS (taxes on revenue) |
67 |
2,009 |
11,058 |
12,519 |
FISTEL fee |
- |
- |
2,606 |
5,612 |
FUST and FUNTTEL (regulatory charges) |
- |
- |
1,079 |
1,101 |
Other |
- |
- |
62 |
99 |
Total |
230 |
2,009 |
37,085 |
44,020 |
14. LOANS AND FINANCING
a) Composition of debt
|
|
|
Consolidated |
|
PRINCIPAL |
Currency |
Annual charges |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|||
Financial institutions: |
|
|
||
Citibank - OPIC |
US$ |
4.30% p.a.+ Libor |
36,358 |
36,115 |
Resolution no. 63 and 2770 |
US$ |
4.14% to 14,00% p.a. |
74,169 |
80,898 |
Assumption of debt Res. no. 4,131 and exchange |
US$ |
2.30% to 11.77% p.a. |
73,983 |
73,489 |
Nec do Brasil S.A. |
US$ |
7,30% p.a. |
18,158 |
18,037 |
Interests |
11,793 |
10,416 |
||
214,461 |
218,955 |
|||
Current |
160,951 |
165,802 |
||
Long-term |
53,510 |
53,153 |
Loans from Citibank-OPIC refer to financing for the expansion and modernization of the cellular handset network. Loans from Nec do Brasil supplier and from Export Development Corporation refer to financing of fixed asset items.
b) Composition of Debt
The long-term portion matures in 2005.
c) Restrictive Covenants
The financing from Citibank - OPIC has restrictive covenants, which the main restrictions are related to the indebtedness level, EBITDA and financial expenses.
d) Guarantees
Creditors |
Guarantee |
Citibank |
Overseas Private Investment Corporation (OPIC) - guarantee only for political risk |
Resolution no. 63 |
Promissory Notes |
Assumption of Debt and Resolution no. 4.131 |
Promissory Notes |
NEC do Brasil S.A. |
Tele Sudeste Guarantee (Aval) |
e) Coverage
On March 31, 2004, Telerj Celular had outstanding currency swap contracts with notional amounts of US$124,367 thousand (US$126,563 thousand on December 31, 2003), for coverage of its entire foreign currency liabilities. As of that date, the Company had recorded a net loss of R$4,134 (net loss of R$10,760 on December 31, 2003) on its exchange hedge operations, represented by a balance of R$8,690 in assets, being R$7,340 in long-term assets (R$7,632 on December, 31, 2003), and R$1,350 in current assets, and current liability of R$12,824 (R$18,392 on December 31, 2003).
15. PROFIT SHARING
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Interest on capital |
40,872 |
40,872 |
40,872 |
40,872 |
Dividends |
7,779 |
7,890 |
9,731 |
9,851 |
Total |
48,651 |
48,762 |
50,603 |
50,723 |
Interest on capital and dividends are presented in Note 18e.
16. RESERVE FOR CONTINGENCIES
The Company and its subsidiaries are parties to a number of lawsuits, with respect to labor, tax and civil claims. The subsidiaries management, based on legal counsel's opinion, recognized provision for those of which an unfavorable outcome is considered probable.
The composition of the balance is as follows:
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Labor |
7,455 |
8,042 |
Civil |
16,455 |
15,403 |
Tax |
53,681 |
51,927 |
Total |
77,591 |
75,372 |
Current |
54,445 |
52,079 |
Long-term |
23,146 |
23,293 |
The main tax contingencies, in which the subsidiaries are involved, are as follows:
16.1. Tax claims
16.1.1. Probable Loss
a) ICMS
The subsidiaries, based on legal counsel's opinion, recognized a provision in the amount of R$12,050, being R$124 for Telerj and R$11,926 for Telest, as of March 31, 2004 (R$12,097 as of December 31, 2003) regarding fiscal assessments of ICMS received in 2002, which are examined at administrative level.
b) PIS and COFINS
On November 27, 1998, computation of the PIS and COFINS tax was altered by Law no. 9,718 that (i) increased the COFINS rate from 2% to 3%, (ii) authorized the deduction of up to 1/3 of the COFINS from the Social Contribution on Net Profits - CSLL and (iii) indirectly increased the PIS and COFINS due by the subsidiaries, by determining the inclusion of the revenues exceeding billing in their tax calculation bases.
According to our legal advisors, this increase is unconstitutional, since: (i) article 195 of the Brazilian Federal Constitution, in force at the date Law 9,718 was enacted, established that the PIS and COFINS tax would only be due on payroll, billing and profits; (ii) the Federal Government made use of an improper means to increase the rate of the PIS and the COFINS taxes, i.e., the increase was introduced through an ordinary law, instead of a complementary law.; (iii) the Government did not comply with the 90 (ninety) day term as from publication for the increase in tax rate to take effect.
Both Telerj Celular and Telest Celular obtained judicial decisions authorizing them to exclude the revenues exceeding billing from the PIS and COFINS tax calculation bases and also authorizing those Companies to continue to pay the COFINS tax at the 2% (two percent) rate.
With respect to the claim filed by Telerj Celular, this decisions was partially revoked in August 2000, only remaining valid the authorization to exclude the revenues exceeding billing from the tax calculation bases. For this reason, in September 2000 the Company paid the updated amount of R$12,473. With respect to the part still valid, the Company set up a provision of R$37,345 as of March 31, 2004 (R$35,726 as of December 31, 2003). Telest Celular provided for R$4,286 (R$4,104 as of December 31, 2003).
Due to the alterations introduced by Law no. 10,637/02 (PIS) and 10,833/03 (COFINS), the subsidiaries Telerj Celular and Telest Celular, as from December 2002 and February 2003, started to include revenues exceeding billing in the PIS and COFINS tax calculation basis, respectively. However, the provisions for taxable events prior to said law remain accrued, in addition to being duly supported by the aforementioned judicial decisions.
16.1.2. Possible Loss
Based on the lawyers and tax advisors, the Company's Management believes that the outcome of the issues outlined below will not produce an adverse material effect on the financial situation of the Company and, therefore, did not set up a provision in the financial statements as of March 31, 2004.
a) ICMS, ISS and other taxes
The subsidiaries Telerj Celular and Telest Celular receive tax assessment notifications in the total amount of R$63,790 for: (i) R$39,303 - lack of payment of the ICMS tax on eventual or complementary services not classified as telecommunication services; (ii) R$6,013 - lack of payment of the ICMS tax on international calls originating from Brazil destined for abroad; (iii) R$1,675 - lack of payment of the ICMS tax on calls originating from administrative terminals and tests used by employees; (iv) R$5,281 - lack of payment of the ISS on activation, complementary services and monthly subscription charges (v) R$11,518 - in respect of several notifications regarding the ICMS, ISS and other taxes that are being challenged at the administrative level.
b) CSLL
Telerj Celular was notified for having used part of the CSLL negative tax calculation basis determined by the Company (Telecomunicações do Rio de Janeiro S.A.) from which it originated through a spin-off for year 1997. For the three months period ended March 31, 2004, said infringement notice amounts to R$4,065.
16.1.3. Remote Loss
Based on the opinion of lawyers and legal advisors, the Company's Management believes that the outcome of the issues outlined below will not give rise to an adverse material impact on the Company's financial situation and, therefore, it did not set up a provision in the financial statements as of March 31, 2004.
a) ICMS
a.1) ICMS tax on activation
In June 1998, the CONFAZ - National Council of Fiscal Policy approved the ICMS Convention no. 69/98, which, determined that as from July 1, 1998, the amounts charged as Activation ("habilitação") to be included in the ICMS tax calculation basis. Perhaps because it is an interpretative measure, said Convention also established that this requirement could retroact and be applied to services provided in the five years prior June 30, 1998.
Based on the opinion of its external legal advisors, the Companies' Management understands that this requirement is unconstitutional, considering that the hypothesis of incidence of the ICMS tax was extended to administrative activities, which do not mix with the telecommunication services themselves. Further, the creation of new cases for incidence or for alteration in the calculation method implying in increase of the tax burden could not be applied to events having occurred before the law took effect.
Each of the companies filed judicial claims against the State where they are located, aiming at obtaining injunctions against the retroactive and future application of the ICMS tax on activation. Both Telerj and Telest Celular obtained injunctions, exempting them from the payment for the time of the judicial proceedings. In April 2000, Telerj Celular obtained a favorable decision, defining the ICMS tax on activation of cellular service as undue. This decision was later unanimously ratified at the Court of Appeals, by the 3rd Civil Chamber of the Rio de Janeiro State, in May 2001. However, said court decision has not yet become final. The merits of the action filed by Telest Celular have not yet been judged.
The Company's management understands that the predecessor companies are liable for tax arising from the retroactive application of the ICMS tax on activation revenues recorded for years prior to 1998. The Company has not set up provision in the consolidated financial statements for years prior to 1998.
a.2) Limitation of immediate and full use of the ICMS credit
In compliance with the original wording of Complementary Law no. 87/97, the ICMS tax charged on fixed assets is subject to tax credit. At the beginning, this right was recognized by all states. However, on February 2, 1999, the state of Rio de Janeiro enacted state Law no. 3,188, restrained the immediate and full use of the tax credit right, guaranteed by the Brazilian Constitution and by Complementary Law no. 87/97. State Law no 3, 188 provides that the credit could be used on a monthly basis of /60.
In disagreement with this restriction, Telerj Celular filed a writ of mandamus and obtained an authorization to make immediate and full use of the ICMS tax credit on fixed assets. Such decision was ratified in the decision issued at the first court level and later unanimously confirmed by the Rio de Janeiro Appeals Court. However, this decision has not yet become final.
The Companies' Administration, based on its legal advisors' opinion, understands that the possibility of incurring losses arising from this matter is remote and did not provide for such contingency.
Presently, in view of the alterations introduced by Complementary Law no. 102/00, the use of the ICMS tax credit arising from the acquisition of fixed assets is no longer fully made at the acquisition date. The credit is now based on the monthly fraction of 1/48.
16.2. Labor and Civil
These claims comprise several labor and civil litigations, for which provision has been set up as previously mentioned, and that is considered sufficient to cover possible losses on those lawsuits.
With respect to the claims with possible loss, the amount provided for is R$15,251 for civil claims and R$4,065 for labor claims.
17. OTHER LIABILITIES
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Advances from customers - prepaid recharge cards |
- |
- |
3,575 |
21,786 |
Accrual for rewards program |
- |
- |
21,971 |
19,760 |
Related parties debits |
7,631 |
6,730 |
11,939 |
15,850 |
Other |
131 |
131 |
2,107 |
1,937 |
Total |
7,762 |
6,861 |
39,592 |
59,333 |
Current |
7,631 |
6,730 |
38,536 |
58,308 |
Long-term |
131 |
131 |
1,056 |
1,025 |
In August 2001, the subsidiaries started a rewards program, which transforms calls into points, for future exchange for cellular handsets. Points accumulated are accrued as they are obtained, considering the customer's consumption profile and the point average cost, based on handset cost. The accrual is reduced when the customer pays for the handset.
18. SHAREHOLDER'S EQUITY
a) Capital Stock
The capital is comprised of shares without par value, as follows:
|
March |
December |
|
|
|
Common shares |
189,434,958 |
173,023,182 |
Preferred shares |
259,575,036 |
259,575,036 |
Total |
449,009,994 |
432,598,218 |
At the Ordinary/Extraordinary Stockholders' General Meeting held on March 23, 2004 the increase of capital stock by R$26,132 referring to the capitalization of the profits reserves excess relating to the capital stock as of December 31, 2003.
At the Extraordinary Meeting of the Administration Council held on March 30, 2004 the increase of capital stock by R$ 86,490 was approved, through the issuance of 16,411,776 thousand new shares, as a result of the financial realization of part of the capital reserve generated in the corporate restructuring.
b) Special Reserve for Goodwill
This reserve represents the goodwill special reserve recognized as a result of the Company's corporate restructuring (Note 28).
c) Legal Reserve
The legal reserve is calculated based on 5% of annual net income until this reserve reaches 20% of paid-up capital stock or 30% of capital stock plus capital reserves; thereafter, the appropriation to this reserve is not mandatory. The purpose of this reserve is to assure the integrity of capital stock and can only be used to offset losses or increase capital.
d) Reserve for Expansion and Modernization
Based on the budget prepared by management, describes the need of resources for investment projects for the next years, the balance of retained earnings was transferred to the special reserve of expansion and modernization after the distribution of profits foreseen in the law and the amount of dividends prescribed from 1999.
e) Dividends and interest on capital
Preferred shares have no voting right, but have priority in the reimbursement of capital, without premium, and are entitled to receive cash dividends 10% higher than those attributed to common shares.
Dividends are calculated in accordance with the Company's by-laws and in conformity with the Corporation Law that establishes minimum dividends of 25% of net income.
19. NET OPERATING REVENUE
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Monthly subscription charges |
39,442 |
55,385 |
Usage charges |
262,873 |
255,171 |
Additional charges per call |
11,513 |
19,184 |
Interconnection (network usage charges) |
195,293 |
197,162 |
Additional services |
9,783 |
4,573 |
Products sold |
91,296 |
76,315 |
Other |
3,203 |
6,706 |
Gross operating revenue |
613,403 |
614,496 |
Deductions from gross revenue |
(164,599) |
(151,035) |
Net operating revenue |
448,804 |
463,461 |
20. COST OF SERVICES AND SALES
Consolidated |
||
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
Personnel |
3,916 |
3,658 |
Outside services |
10,200 |
9,174 |
Network connections |
14,556 |
21,179 |
Rent, insurance and building services fees |
10,630 |
11,029 |
Interconnection/interlinks |
14,595 |
42,919 |
Taxes |
17,356 |
16,014 |
Depreciation |
75,257 |
89,098 |
Products sold |
80,728 |
71,087 |
Other |
168 |
583 |
Total |
227,406 |
264,741 |
21. SELLING EXPENSES
Consolidated |
||
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
Personnel |
11,635 |
10,507 |
Materials |
1,107 |
576 |
Outside services |
64,813 |
45,932 |
Rent, insurance and building services fees |
1,839 |
2,636 |
Taxes |
78 |
164 |
Depreciation |
17,881 |
8,574 |
Allowance for doubtful accounts |
11,462 |
9,750 |
Other |
776 |
241 |
Total |
109,591 |
78,380 |
22. GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Personnel |
413 |
871 |
8,162 |
15,631 |
Materials |
- |
- |
976 |
795 |
Outside services |
511 |
2,645 |
21,725 |
27,256 |
Rent, insurance and building services fees |
- |
- |
2,947 |
3,061 |
Taxes |
7 |
16 |
733 |
683 |
Depreciation |
108 |
108 |
16,354 |
11,934 |
Other |
- |
- |
415 |
515 |
Total |
1,039 |
3,640 |
51,312 |
59,875 |
23. OTHER OPERATING INCOME (EXPENSES)
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
Revenues |
|
|
|
|
Fines |
- |
- |
2,168 |
2,351 |
Recovered expenses |
- |
- |
402 |
1,449 |
Infra-structure sharing |
- |
- |
1,172 |
316 |
Other |
- |
- |
960 |
1,877 |
Total |
- |
- |
4,702 |
5,993 |
|
|
|
|
|
Expenses |
|
|
|
|
Provision for contingencies |
- |
- |
(1,432) |
(3,595) |
Taxes (except IRPJ and CSLL) |
(14) |
(9) |
(4,112) |
(4,076) |
Amortization of pre-operational expenses |
- |
- |
(109) |
(125) |
Other |
- |
- |
(491) |
(514) |
Total |
(14) |
(9) |
(6,144) |
(8,310) |
|
|
|
|
|
Total, net |
(14) |
(9) |
(1,442) |
(2,317) |
24. FINANCIAL INCOME (EXPENSES), NET
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
Financial Income |
|
|
|
|
Income from temporary cash investments |
1,707 |
2,845 |
20,692 |
13,361 |
Monetary/exchange variations |
182 |
165 |
2,294 |
20,859 |
PIS/COFINS on financial income |
(131) |
(132) |
(1,770) |
(861) |
Financial Expenses |
|
|
|
|
Hedge operations, net |
- |
- |
(5,403) |
(35,672) |
Monetary/exchange variations |
- |
- |
(4,096) |
(684) |
Other financial expenses |
(18) |
(45) |
(9,954) |
(9,266) |
Total |
1,740 |
2,833 |
1,763 |
(12,263) |
25. INCOME TAX AND SOCIAL CONTRIBUTION
The Company and its subsidiaries have been recording monthly the portion of tax and social contribution on income, in accordance with the accrual basis, and pay these taxes based on monthly estimates. Deferred taxes are attributable to temporary differences, as per Note 7. The composition of income tax and social contribution expense is as follow:
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income tax |
(181) |
- |
(4,475) |
(1,198) |
Social contribution |
(67) |
- |
(1,550) |
(433) |
Deferred income tax |
(765) |
204 |
(12,810) |
(10,510) |
Deferred social contribution |
- |
73 |
(3,956) |
(3,786) |
Total |
(1,013) |
277 |
(22,791) |
(15,927) |
The following is a reconciliation of the reported expense of taxes on income, and the amounts calculated based on the combined official rate of 34%:
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Income before taxes |
38,847 |
29,633 |
60,625 |
45,817 |
Tax expense at the combined official rate |
(13,208) |
(10,076) |
(20,613) |
(15,578) |
|
|
|
|
|
Additions: |
(779) |
- |
(2,192) |
(364) |
Nondeductible fines |
- |
- |
(25) |
(4) |
Other additions |
(779) |
- |
(2,167) |
(360) |
|
|
|
|
|
Exclusions: |
12,974 |
10,353 |
14 |
15 |
Equity pick-up |
12,974 |
10,353 |
- |
- |
Other exclusions |
- |
- |
14 |
15 |
Tax expense per statement of income |
(1,013) |
277 |
(22,791) |
(15,927) |
26. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND MANAGEMENT RISK (CONSOLIDATED)
a) Risks considerations
The subsidiaries Telerj and Telest provide cellular communication services in the States of Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo under concessions from the Federal Government. Both of them are also engaged in activities of purchasing and distribution of cellular handsets through their own distribution network in order to increase their business operations.
The main market risks to which Telerj and Telest are exposed in their activities are:
• Credit Risk: originates from the difficulties in which these companies have in collecting the service charges for services rendered to their clients, including the sales of cellular handsets to the distribution networks.
• Interest Rate Risk: originates from a portion of the debt and the derivatives premium contracted at floating rates, and involves the risk of financial expenses increasing by unfavorable movement in interest rates (mainly Libor).
• Exchange Rate Risk: originates from the debt and the derivatives contracted in foreign currency and are related to potential losses on unfavorable fluctuations in exchange rates.
Since their creation Telerj and Telest have taken a pro-active position in the management of sundry risks, through initiative, operating procedures and general policy that allow reduction in the inherent risks of the activities.
Credit Risk
The credit risk related to telecommunication services rendered, is minimized by the control performed on costumer's basis and management of indebtedness by clear policy for concession of billed cellular handset. The subsidiaries has 69.58% of its client basis participating on prepaid service, which requires prepaid handset cards and does not represent credit risk. Customer's indebtedness represented 1.40% of gross revenue as of March 31, 2003 (1.40% as of March 31, 2003).
The credit risk related to cellular handsets sales is managed by a conservative policy for credit concession, through modern management methods, which involve the "credit scoring", technical application, balance sheet analysis and commercial data base consultation as well as the automatic control for sales authorization integrated into the distribution system. Network distribution's indebtedness represented about 4.55% of cellular handsets sales during the first quarter of 2004 (2.58% as of March 31, 2003).
Interest Rate Risk
The Company is exposed to the risk of increase in interest rates, especially interest associated with the cost of "Certificados de Depósitos Interbancários - CDI", due to the liability position of the operations with interest rate derivatives. These operations amount to R$365,870 as of March 31, 2004 (R$ 376,425 as of December 31, 2003).
Loans contracted in foreign currency present the same risk of increase in interest rates associated with the loans. These operations amount to R$108,308 as of March 31, 2004 (R$104,807 as of December 31, 2003).
The Company has not carried-out derivative operations to cover these risks.
Exchange Rate Risk
Telerj has carried out derivative operations in order to hedge its foreign currency loans from exchange rate variation. The related instruments used are "swaps".
The table below shows the Company's net exposure to exchange rate as of March 31, 2004:
|
US$ |
|
|
Loans and financing |
(73,733) |
Other liabilities |
(53,568) |
"Hedge" instruments |
124,367 |
Net exposure |
(2,934) |
b) Derivative operations
The Company and its subsidiaries record gains and losses on derivative contracts as "Financial income (expenses), net".
The table below shows an estimate of the book and market values of loans and financing and foreign currency liabilities, as well as derivative operations:
|
Book |
Market |
Unrealized |
|
|
|
|
Other liabilities |
(155,808) |
(155,808) |
- |
Loans and financing |
(214,461) |
(222,017) |
(7,556) |
Derivative instruments - contractual amount |
(4,134) |
3,279 |
7,413 |
Total |
(374,403) |
(374,546) |
143 |
c) Market Value of Financial Instruments
The market value of loans and financing, as well as swaps, were stated based on discounted cash flows, using available interest rate projections.
The market values are calculated in a specific moment, based on available information and own evaluation methodologies, therefore the indicated estimates do not necessarily represent market realization values. The use of different assumptions may significantly affect the estimates.
27. PENSION PLANS
The subsidiaries, together with other companies of the former Telebrás system, sponsor private pension and health care plans for retired employees, managed by Fundação Sistel de Seguridade Social - ("Sistel").Until December 1999, all sponsors of the plans managed by Sistel were joint and severally liable participants in relation to all plans then existent. On December 28, 1999, a single-employer sponsored pension plan for active employees was created (PBS - Tele Sudeste Celular Plan). Pension benefits for retired employees (PBS-A) and postretirement health care benefits (PAMA) remained as part of the multiemployer plans. The implementation of the restructuring was approved by Secretaria de Previdncia Complementar (Secretariat for Social Security and Supplementary Benefits) on January 13, 2000.
Due to the end of unification in December 1999, the subsidiaries individually sponsor a defined benefit plan (PBS Tele Sudeste Celular Plan), which covers approximately 1% of the Company's employees. In addition to the supplementary pension benefit, a multi-sponsored health care plan is provided to retired employees and their dependents, at shared costs (PAMA).
Contributions to the PBS Tele Sudeste Celular Plan are determined based on actuarial valuations prepared by independent actuaries, in accordance with the standards applicable in Brazil. The method used for cost determination is the capitalization method and the sponsor's contribution represents 13.5% of the participating employees' payroll, 12% of which is earmarked for PBS Tele Sudeste Celular Plan and 1.5 % for the PAMA Plan.
For the other 84% of the subsidiaries' employees, there is an individual defined contribution plan - Visão Celular Benefit Plan, established by SISTEL in August 2000. The Visão Celular Plan is supported by contributions made by the participants (employees) and by the sponsor, which are credited to participants' individual accounts. The subsidiaries are responsible for all administrative and maintenance expenses, including risks of death and disability of participants. The employees participating in the defined benefit plan (PBS Tele Sudeste Celular) were granted the option of migrating to the Viso Celular Plan. This option was extended to employees who did not participate in the PBS Tele Sudeste Celular Plan, as well as to all new hires. The Company's matching contribution to the Visão Celular Plan is similar to those of the participants, varying from 2% to 9% of the contribution salary, according to the percentage opted for by the participant.
For the quarter ended on March, 31 2004, the subsidiaries contributed the amount of R$5 (R$33 in 2003) to PBS Tele Sudeste Celular Plan and R$711 (R$702 in 2003) to Visão Celular Plan.
As permitted by CVM Instruction No. 371, of December 13, 2000, the Company, conservatively elected to recognize the actuarial liabilities of its benefit plans directly in shareholders' equity as of December 31, 2001, net of related tax effects. The Company recorded the actuarial gains and losses in the net income as of December 31, 2003 and 2002. Regarding the actuarial valuation of the plans, the Company established the projected unit credit method for the plans' positions as of November 30, 2003 and November 30, 2002, respectively. For multi-sponsored plans (PAMA and PBS-A), the apportionment of the plan's assets was made in accordance with the Company's actuarial liabilities, in relation to the plan's total liabilities. The net amount recorded was R$839.
For the quarter ended on March 31, 2004, the Company recognized proportionally the actuarial cost estimated for the year 2004, and R$32 was recorded related to these costs on administrative expenses.
28. CORPORATE RESTRUCTURING
On November 30, 2000, the Company completed its corporate restructuring, according to which the goodwill recorded by the Holding Company as a result of the privatization process was transferred to the subsidiaries.
The financial statements maintained for the Companies' corporate and tax purposes include specific accounts related to transferred goodwill and reserves, and corresponding amortization, reversals and tax credits, the balances of which are as follows:
|
Consolidated |
||
BALANCE SHEET |
Balances as of merger date |
Balances as |
Balances as |
|
|
|
|
Goodwill |
1,393,279 |
495,148 |
425,484 |
Reserves |
(928,437) |
(326,797) |
(280,819) |
|
|
|
|
Net effect equivalent to tax credit from corporate restructuring |
464,842 |
168,351 |
144,665 |
|
|
|
|
STATEMENTS OF INCOME |
|
|
|
Goodwill amortization |
|
278,656 |
69,664 |
Reversal of reserve |
|
(183,913) |
(45,978) |
Tax credit |
|
(94,743) |
(23,686) |
|
|
|
|
Net effect on income |
|
- |
- |
As shown above, the amortization of goodwill, net of the reversal of the reserve and of the corresponding tax credit, results in a zero effect on income and, consequently, on the basis for calculating the minimum mandatory dividend. In order to better present the financial position of the Companies in the financial statements, the net amount of R$144,665 as of March 31, 2004 (R$168,351 as of December 31, 2003), which, in essence, represents the tax credit transferred, was classified in the balance sheet in current and non-current assets as deferred taxes (see Note 7).
Tax credit from corporate restructuring is capitalized on its effective realization.
29. TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED PARTIES
The principal transactions with unconsolidated related parties are as follows:
a) Use of Network and Long-distance (Roaming) Cellular Communication - These transactions involve the companies owned by same group: Telesp Celular S.A., Global Telecom S.A., Telebahia Celular S.A., Telergipe Celular S.A., Telecomunicações de São Paulo S.A. - Telesp, Celular CRT S.A., Tele Centro Oeste Celular Participações S.A., Telems Celular S.A., Teleron Celular S.A., Telemat Celular S.A., Teleacre Celular S.A., Telegoiás Celular S.A. e Norte Brasil Telecom S.A.. Part of these transactions was established based on contracts between Telebrás and the operating concessionaires before privatization. The terms of these transactions are regulated by Anatel. As from July 2003, users may select the long distance operator.
b) Technical assistance - The technical assistance is due to Telefónica Móviles for Telecommunication services, based on a percentage applied to the net revenue for services, monetarily restated.
c) Corporate services rendered - transferred to other subsidiaries by the effective cost incurred.
d) Call center services rendered by Atento Brasil S.A. to users of telecommunications services of the subsidiaries Telerj and Telest, effective for 12 months, renewable for the same period.
e) Services for implementation and maintenance of systems rendered by Telefónica Móbile Solution.
f) Services for implementation of a facilities' security system rendered by Telefónica Engenharia.
The summary of balances and transactions with unconsolidated related parties is presented as follows:
|
Company |
Consolidated |
||
STATEMENTS OF INCOME |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
December 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
|
|
Current assets: |
|
|
|
|
Accounts receivable |
- |
- |
8,214 |
12,833 |
Dividends and interest on capital |
51,768 |
51,586 |
- |
- |
Other assets |
619 |
391 |
28,355 |
33,669 |
|
|
|
|
|
Liabilities: |
|
|
|
|
Accounts payable and accrued expenses |
(3,531) |
(3,531) |
(164,922) |
(154,441) |
Profits sharing |
(32,105) |
(32,105) |
(32,105) |
(32,105) |
Other liabilities |
(7,631) |
(6,730) |
(11,939) |
(15,850) |
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
Equity: |
|
|
|
|
Telecommunication services revenues |
- |
- |
14,342 |
6,676 |
Other revenues |
- |
- |
- |
- |
Cost of services and sales |
- |
- |
(11) |
(3,549) |
Selling expenses |
- |
- |
(13,730) |
(10,956) |
General and administrative expenses |
(176) |
(1,110) |
(3,006) |
(4,873) |
Financial income (expenses) net |
92 |
165 |
818 |
6,636 |
30. INSURANCE
The Company and subsidiaries follow the policy of monitoring inherent risks on its operations. Therefore, as of March 31, 2004, the Company and subsidiaries had insurance agreements to cover operational risks, loss of income, civil liabilities, health etc. The Company and subsidiaries administration understand that the insurance coverage provided is enough to cover contingent losses. The main assets, responsibilities, or interest by insurance and the respective amounts are shown below:
Classification |
Covered amount |
|
|
Operating risks |
US$300,000 thousands |
Vehicle fleet |
R$100 |
General civil liability |
R$5,822 |
31. TELEFÓNICA MÓVILES STOCK PLAN
In May, 2001, Telefónica Móviles, S.A. (Telefónica Móviles) launched a stock option plan based on Telefónica Móviles' stock (the Plan) that covered the employees of the Company. Pursuant to the Plan, between May 20 and July 20, 2002, Telefónica Móviles granted a total of 231,016 stock options to the Company's employees, vesting over a four-year period. The options were granted in Series A, B and C, with strike prices of 11.00 Euros, 16.50 Euros and 7.23 Euros, respectively. The total options granted to each employee consisted of 25% Series A options, 25% Series B options, and 50% Series C options. The market price of Telefónica Móviles' stock as traded at the Madrid Stock Exchange was 8.28 Euros on December 31, 2003. The Plan also gives the Company's employees the option to receive in cash, the appreciation in the market price of Telefónica Móviles' stock over the respective strike price.
In accordance with the stock option plan conditions based on Telefónica Móviles S.A. stocks (Mos Program), the employees of the Company did not comply with the basic assumption of the program, i.e. the control stock of the Company in which they are participating by Telefónica Móviles S.A. As a result, on December 31, 2003, the settlement of the existing options occurred.
The adjusted settlement amount will be calculated for 50% of total options, considering the price of Series C and the Telefónica Móviles, S.A. stocks final bid price on January 2, 2004, converted average exchange at the date of payment, which is pendent.
In accordance with accounting practices adopted in Brazil, the Company is not required to account for any effect of the plan, therefore no effect in the financial statements of the Company was recorded.
32. AMERICAN DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS PROGRAM (ADRs)
On November 16, 1998, the Company started the negotiation process of ADRs on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), which have the following characteristics:
Custodian bank in Brazil: Banco Itaú S.A.
33. RECONCILIATION BETWEEN THE COMPANY'S NET INCOME AND CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME
As of March 31, 2004 and 2003, the reconciliation between company net income and consolidated net income is as follows:
|
Consolidated |
|
|
March 31, 2004 |
March 31, 2003 |
|
|
|
Company's net income |
37,834 |
29,910 |
Telest capital reserves |
- |
(20) |
Consolidated net income |
37,834 |
29,890 |
34. EXPLANATION ADDED FOR TRANSLATION TO ENGLISH
The accompanying financial statements are presented on the basis of accounting practices followed in Brazil. Certain accounting practices applied by the Company and its subsidiaries that conform with those accounting practices in Brazil may not conform with generally accepted accounting principles in the countries where these financial statements may be used.
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A. AND SUBSIDIARIES
COMMENTS ON CONSOLIDATED PERFORMANCE
AND OTHER INFORMATION DEEMED RELEVANT
(Amounts in thousands of Brazilian reais, unless otherwise indicated)
Rio de Janeiro, Brasil - April 26th, 2004 - Tele Sudeste Celular Participações S.A. (TSD), (BOVESPA: TSEP3 (Common); TSEP4 (Preferred); NYSE: TSD), discloses today its consolidated results for the first quarter 2004 (1Q04). The closing rates for April 26th, 2004 were: TSEP3: R$ 5.30 / 1,000 shares, TSEP4: R$ 6.40 / 1,000 shares and TSD: US$ 10.65 / ADR (1:5,000 preferred shares). TSD is a holding company controlling 100% of Telerj Celular S.A. (Telerj) and Telest Celular S.A. (Telest), leading wireless telecommunications service providers in Rio de Janeiro and Espírito Santo, respectively. The company provides services in an area that covers approximately 1% of the Brazilian territory and 10% of the total population of the country.
Except where otherwise stated, the financial and operating information here is presented on a consolidated basis in accordance with the Brazilian Corporate Law:
HIGHLIGHTS
Tele Sudeste Celular |
|||||
R$ million |
1Q04 |
4Q03 |
∆ % |
1Q03 |
∆ % |
Net Operating Revenue/ |
448.8 |
498.3 |
-9.9% |
463.5 |
-3.2% |
Net Operating Revenue from Services |
395.7 |
411.4 |
-3.8% |
416.3 |
-4.9% |
Net Operating Revenue from |
53.1 |
86.9 |
-38.9% |
47.2 |
12.5% |
Total Operating Costs |
(280.2) |
(320.5) |
-12.6% |
(295.7) |
-5.2% |
EBITDA |
168.6 |
177.8 |
-5.2% |
167.8 |
0.5% |
EBITDA Margin (%) |
37.6% |
35.7% |
1.9p.p. |
36.2% |
1.4p.p. |
Depreciation and Amortization |
(109.6) |
(114.6) |
-4.4% |
(109.7) |
-0.1% |
EBIT |
59.0 |
63.2 |
-6.6% |
58.1 |
1.5% |
Net Profit |
37.8 |
57.3 |
-34.0% |
29.9 |
26.4% |
Profit per share (R$ per 1,000 shares) |
0.08 |
0.13 |
-38.5% |
0.07 |
14.3% |
Profit per ADR (R$) |
0.42 |
0.66 |
-36.4% |
0.35 |
20.7% |
Number of shares (billion) |
449.0 |
432.6 |
3.8% |
432.6 |
3.8% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Capital Expenditures |
17.8 |
108.7 |
83.6% |
68.5 |
-74.0% |
Investment as % of revenues |
4.0% |
21.8% |
-17.8p.p. |
14.8% |
-10.8p.p. |
Operating Cash Flow |
150.8 |
69.1 |
118.2% |
99.3 |
51.9% |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Clients (thousands) |
3,774 |
3,709 |
1.8% |
3,365 |
12.2% |
Net additions |
65 |
225 |
-71.1% |
(89) |
n.d. |
Total figures are subject to discrepancies resulting from rounding up/down.
Tele Sudeste, along with Telesp Celular Participações S.A., Tele Leste Celular Participações S.A., and Celular CRT Participações S.A make up the assets of the Joint Venture between Telefónica Móviles and Portugal Telecom. On April 13, 2003, the Vivo brand was launched to unify the group's operations, providing evidence of its coverage area and capitalizing on its national coverage and market strategy. Today the brand is Top of Mind in the Brazilian market.
HIGHLIGHTS1Q04 |
|
Technological Innovation |
TSD employs CDMA and 1xRTT digital technologies to provide wireless telephony services, reaching 100% of the municipalities within its coverage region On March 31, the 1xRTT service covered 10 municipalities in TSD's region, or approximately 45% of the population. In Rio de Janeiro metropolitan region, it reached from Galeão Airport to Recreio dos Bandeirantes, and also the center of Niterói, Icaraí and Macaé. In the state of Espírito Santo the 1xRTT service covered the cities of Vitória, Vila Velha, Cariacica, Serra and Colatina. TSD, launched IN October 2003 "Vivo ao Vivo" - a multimedia super platform, which is a revolution in the concept of service access. "Vivo ao Vivo" brings all services to the handset within reach of a click. "Vivo ao Vivo": Usage interface through icons which represent the operator's main services - making it easy for the users to access and handle these services (WAP, SMS, voice mail, voice portal, MMS, tones and images, messaging, camera and customization - which is called "Meu Vivo ao Vivo" ). |
Basis of Presentation of Results |
On July 6, 2003, the Personal Mobile Service (SMP) operators implemented the Carrier Selection Code (CSP) for long distance calls. Therefore, the TCP operators no longer earn VC2 or VC3 (long-distance) revenues, which were replaced with interconnection revenues from the use of its network to complete long distance calls. As of July 2003, Bill & Keep was implemented, for which payment for the use of the local network between the SMP operators will only occur when the traffic between them exceeds 55%, causing an impact on revenue and interconnection costs. However, this change does not materially affect EBITDA. |
OPERATING PERFORMANCE
Operating Data | |||||
|
1Q04 |
4Q03 |
∆ % |
1Q03 |
∆ % |
Total clients (thousands) |
3,774 |
3,709 |
1.8% |
3,365 |
12.2% |
Contract |
1,148 |
1,156 |
-0.7% |
1,116 |
2.9% |
Prepaid |
2,626 |
2,552 |
2.9% |
2,250 |
16.7% |
Market Share (%)* |
49.1% |
49.6% |
-0.5p.p. |
54.8% |
-5.7p.p. |
Net Additions (thousands) |
65 |
225 |
-71.1% |
(89) |
n.d. |
Contract |
(9) |
19 |
n.d. |
29 |
n.d. |
Prepaid |
74 |
206 |
-64.1% |
(118) |
n.d. |
Market Share of Net Additions (%)* |
30.5% |
35.6% |
-5.1p.p. |
- |
- |
Market Penetration (%) |
41.9% |
40.7% |
1.2p.p. |
33.1% |
8.8p.p. |
SAC (R$) |
145 |
131 |
10.7% |
164 |
-11.6% |
Monthly Churn (%) |
2.45% |
2.48% |
-0.03p.p. |
2.45% |
0p.p. |
ARPU (in R$/month) |
35.5 |
38.6 |
-8.0% |
40.1 |
-11.5% |
Contract |
75.5 |
77.9 |
-3.1% |
80.2 |
-5.9% |
Prepaid |
16.6 |
17.9 |
-7.3% |
18.4 |
-9.8% |
Total MOU (minutes) |
99 |
105 |
-6.1% |
102 |
-2.9% |
Contract |
185 |
199 |
-6.8% |
188 |
-1.2% |
Prepaid |
56 |
57 |
-2.1% |
58 |
-2.3% |
Employees |
1,643 |
1,668 |
-1.5% |
1,849 |
-11.1% |
Client / Employee |
2,297 |
2,224 |
3.3% |
1,820 |
26.2% |
* Source: Anatel
Operating Highlights |
|
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE
Net Operating Revenues |
|||||
R$ million |
1Q04 |
4Q03 |
∆% |
1Q03 |
∆% |
Subscription and usage |
198.0 |
208.1 |
-4.8% |
223.3 |
-11.3% |
Network usage charges |
188.2 |
190.0 |
-0.9% |
189.7 |
-0.8% |
Other services charges |
9.5 |
13.3 |
-28.6% |
3.3 |
187.9% |
Net operating revenues from services |
395.7 |
411.4 |
-3.8% |
416.3 |
-4.9% |
Net operating revenues from handsets |
53.1 |
86.9 |
-39,0% |
47.2 |
12,5% |
Total Operating Revenue |
448.8 |
498.3 |
-9.9% |
463.5 |
-3.2% |
Net Operating Revenue from Services |
Net operating revenue from services reached R$ 395.7 million, which, excluding the effect of SMP (B&K and CSP) would have risen 3.8% compared to 1Q03, reflecting the 8.0% growth in the average customer base. This was offset by an increase in prepaid clients as a percentage of the total base (69.6% in 1Q04 and 66.9% in 1Q03) and also due to higher promotional bonuses granted in the period for acquisition and stimulating to prepaid recharges.
|
Data Revenues |
Data revenue presented strong growth, increasing 80.7% and representing 1.9% of net operating revenue from services in 1Q04 (1.0% in 1Q03). Incremental data revenue grew as a function of new services made available and from popular nationwide campaigns to promote the access and use of these services. SMS represented 67.4% of data revenue, and increased by 167.2% compared to 1Q03. The average number of SMS messages sent per month in 1Q04 was approximately 10 million, 92% above 1Q03. In 1Q04, 93% of total customer base held handsets with WAP services capabilities and 74% with SMS.
|
Operating Costs |
|||||
R$ million |
1Q04 |
4Q03 |
∆% |
1Q03 |
∆% |
Personnel |
(23.7) |
(27.9) |
-15.1% |
(29.8) |
-20.5% |
Cost of services rendered |
(67.5) |
(71.0) |
-4.9% |
(100.9) |
-33.1% |
Leased Lines |
(14.6) |
(14.6) |
- |
(21.2) |
-31.1% |
Interconnection |
(14.6) |
(21.2) |
-31.1% |
(42.9) |
-66.0% |
Rents / Insurance / Condominium fees |
(10.6) |
(10.8) |
-1.9% |
(11.0) |
-3.6% |
Fistel and other fees and contributions |
(17.4) |
(14.1) |
23.4% |
(16.0) |
8.7% |
Third-party services |
(10.2) |
(9.9) |
3.0% |
(9.2) |
10.9% |
Others |
(0.1) |
(0.4) |
-75.0% |
(0.6) |
-83.3% |
Cost of goods sold |
(80.7) |
(133.0) |
-39.3% |
(71.1) |
13.5% |
Selling expenses |
(80.1) |
(80.4) |
-0.4% |
(59.3) |
35.1% |
Provision for doubtful debtors |
(11.4) |
(12.1) |
-5.8% |
(9.8) |
16.3% |
Third-party services |
(64.9) |
(63.5) |
2.2% |
(45.9) |
41.4% |
Others |
(3.8) |
(4.8) |
-20.8% |
(3.6) |
5.6% |
General and administrative expenses |
(26.8) |
(36.3) |
-26.2% |
(32.3) |
-17.0% |
Other operating revenues (expenses) |
(1.4) |
28.0 |
- |
(2.3) |
-39.1% |
Costs excluding depreciation or amortization |
(280.2) |
(320.5) |
-12.6% |
(295.7) |
-5.2% |
Depreciation and amortization |
(109.6) |
(114.6) |
-4.4% |
(109.7) |
-0.1% |
Total Operating Costs |
(389.8) |
(435.1) |
-10.4% |
(405.4) |
-3.8% |
Cost of Personnel |
TSD's cost of personnel was reduced 15.1% in relation to 4Q03 and 20.5% when compared to 1Q03. This reduction is related to the productivity increase and by the workforce optimization (26% productivity growth). |
Cost of Services Rendered |
Cost of services provided by TSD decreased by 33.1% when compared to 1Q03 and was mainly affected by lower interconnection costs (SMP effects), and in leased lines due to the installation of the company's own backbone infrastructure. Excluding the SMP effects, this account would have presented a 1.5%-rise. |
Cost of Goods Sold |
TSD's cost of goods sold in 1Q04 rose by 13.5% in relation to 1Q03, despite the rise of 57% and the incentive to the upgrade in terminals. The raise is mainly explained by best prices presented by suppliers. |
Selling Expenses |
Commercialization of services expenses increased by 35.1% in relation to 1Q03 mainly due to intensified marketing actions and investments in events related to the "VIVO" brand consolidation - which reached a Top of Mind of 50% vs. 25% two months after the launching. |
Bad debt |
Bad debt was 1.9% of total gross operating revenues in 1Q04, in line with the 4Q03, and has remained low due to the constant efforts accomplished to maintain the quality of the contract customer base, as well as to keep the VIVO Group's strategy for controlling credit to resellers and corporate clients. |
EBITDA |
In 1Q04, TSD's EBITDA reached R$168.6 million and its EBITDA margin for the period was 37.6%, up 1.4 p.p. when compared to the 1Q03, despite the competitive environment (4 operators) and the greater commercial activity. |
Depreciation |
Depreciation and Amortization decreased by 4.4% in 1Q04 in relation to 4Q03 due to the end of the depreciation period of analog network equipment. |
Financial Result |
|||||
R$ million |
1Q04 |
4Q03 |
∆% |
1Q03 |
∆% |
Financial Income |
21.2 |
22.7 |
-6.6% |
33.4 |
-36.5% |
Exchange rate variation |
2.3 |
5.3 |
-56.6% |
20.9 |
-89.0% |
Other financial income |
20.7 |
20.1 |
3.0% |
13.4 |
54.5% |
(-) PIS/Cofins taxes on financial income |
(1.8) |
(2.7) |
-33.3% |
(0.9) |
100.0% |
Financial Expenses |
(19.4) |
(59.4) |
-67.3% |
(45.6) |
-57.5% |
Exchange rate variation |
(4.1) |
(5.2) |
-21.2% |
(0.6) |
583.3% |
Losses from derivatives |
(5.4) |
(4.1) |
31.7% |
(35.7) |
-84.9% |
Interest on shareholder's equity |
- |
(42.5) |
- |
|
|
Other Financial Expenses |
(9.9) |
(7.5) |
32.0% |
(9.3) |
6.5% |
Net Financial Result (Expenses) |
1.8 |
(36.7) |
n.d. |
(12.2) |
n.d. |
Financial Result |
TSD's net financial result for 1Q04 mainly reflected a strong reduction in losses from derivatives due to exchange rate variations of the Brazilian real against the US dollar, when compared to 1Q03. The company posted financial income of R$1.8 million vs. a financial expense of R$36.7 million in 4Q03, as an impact of the payment of Interest on Shareholder's Equity, and vs. 12.2 million on 1Q03. |
Loans and Financings |
|
R$ million |
March 31, 2004 |
|
Denominated |
|
in US$ |
Suppliers |
18.1 |
Financial institutions |
196.4 |
Total |
214.5 |
R$ million |
Mar 31, 2004 |
Dec 31, 2003 |
Mar 31, 2003 |
Short-term |
161.0 |
165.8 |
152.1 |
Long-term |
53.5 |
53.2 |
238.6 |
Total Debt |
214.5 |
219.0 |
390.8 |
Cash and financial investments |
(462.7) |
(388.4) |
(197.5) |
Derivatives |
4.1 |
10.8 |
|
Net debt |
(244.1) |
(158.6) |
193.3 |
Long-term debt repayment schedule |
|
|
Denominated |
R$ million |
in US$ |
2005 |
53.5 |
Total |
53.5 |
Indebtedness |
TSD's debt with loans and financing on March 31, 2004 amounted to R$214.5 million (against R$219.0 million on December 31, 2003), which is 100% denominated in US dollars and fully covered by hedging transactions. This debt was offset by cash and financial investments (R$462.7 million) and by derivative assets and liabilities (R$4.1 million in payables), resulting in a net cash of R$244.1 million. The Company's debt has been showing steady improvement, and is 45.1% lower than the same period last year. At the end of 1Q04, short-term debt represented 75.1% of total debt. |
CapitalExpenditures |
During the first quarter, TSD invested R$17.8 million in property, plant and equipment, mainly for providing new telecommunications services and developing its own transmission routes, which cover all the municipalities in its coverage area, consolidating the position of operator with largest coverage. |
Operating Cash Flow |
The positive operating cash flow demonstrates that TSD generates enough resources within its operations to afford its capital expenditures program. When one compares 1Q04 with 1Q03, operating cash flow presents an increase of 51.9%, totaling R$150.8 million. |
Subsequent Events |
On April 13, the "Vivo" brand celebrated its first year, reaching the 22 million client mark, making it the 10th largest wireless operator in the world and number one in the southern hemisphere, covering 20 Brazilian states, representing 87% of the territory in the country and 83% of GDP, with a market share of 45% on a national basis and 56% in its coverage area. |
Contacts |
Ronald Aitken - IR Officer ronald.aitken@vivo.com.br (11) 5105-1172 |
Information available on the website http://www.vivo.com.br/ri |
Glossary
Financial Terms: EBIT - Operating result before interest and taxes. EBITDA - Operating result before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. EBITDA Margin = EBITDA / Net Operating Income. CAPEX - Capital Expenditure Operating Cash Flow = EBITDA - CAPEX. Subsidy = (net income from goods - cost of goods sold + discounts given by suppliers) / gross additions PDD - Provision for doubtful debtors. A concept in accounting that measures the provision made for accounts receivable due for more than 90 days. Net debt = Gross debt - cash - financial investments - securities - active derivative transactions + passive derivative transactions Debt / EBITDA - Index which evaluates the Company's ability to pay its debt with the generation of operating cash in a one-year period. NE - Net Equity Net debt/ (Net debt + NE) - Index which measures the Companys financial leverage. Current Capital (Short-term capital) = Current assets - Current liabilities Working capital = Current Capital - Net Debt Technology and Services CDMA - (Code Division Multiple Access) - Aerial interface technology for cellular networks based on spectral spreading of the radio signal and channel division in the code domain. 1XRTT - (1x Radio Transmission Technology) - It is the CDMA 2000 1X technology which, pursuant to the ITU (International Telecommunication Union), and in accordance with the IMT-2000 rules, is the 3G (third generation) Technology. ZAP - A service which allows quick wireless access to the Internet through a computer, notebook or palmtop, using the CDMA 1XRTT technology. WAP - Wireless Application Protocol is an open and standardized protocol started in 1997, which allows access to Internet servers through specific equipment, a WAP Gateway at the carrier, and WAP browsers in customers' handsets. WAP supports a specific language (WML) and specific applications (WML script). SMS - Short Message Service - Short text message service for cellular handsets, allowing customers to send and receive alphanumerical messages. |
Operating indicators: Customers - Number of wireless lines in service. Gross additions - Total of new customers acquired in the period. Net additions = Gross Additions - Reduction in number of customers Market share = Company's total number of customers / number of customers in its operating area Net additions market share: participation of estimated net additions in the operating area. Market penetration = Company's total number of customers + estimated number of customers of competitors) / each 100 inhabitants in the Company's operating area Churn rate - Percentage measuring the number of inactive customers during a specific time period, relative to the average number of active customers in the same period = number of customers lost in the period / ((customers at the beginning of the period + customers at the end of the period) / 2) ARPU (Average Revenue per User) - net income from services per month / monthly average of customers in the period Blended ARPU - ARPU of the total customer base (contract + prepaid) Contract ARPU - ARPU of contract service users Prepaid ARPU - ARPU of prepaid service users MOU (minutes of use) - monthly average, in minutes, of traffic per customer = (Total number of outgoing minutes + incoming minutes) / monthly average of customers in the period Contract MOU - MOU of contract service users Prepaid MOU - MOU of prepaid service users SAC - cost of acquisition per customer = (70% marketing expenses + costs of the distribution network + handset subsidies) / gross additions. Productivity = number of customers / permanent employees |
SIGNATURE
TELE SUDESTE CELULAR PARTICIPAÇÕES S.A.
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By:
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/S/ Fernando
Abella Garcia
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Fernando Abella Garcia
Investor Relations Officer
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This press release may contain forward-looking statements. These statements are statements that are not historical facts, and are based on management's current view and estimates of future economic circumstances, industry conditions, company performance and financial results. The words "anticipates", "believes", "estimates", "expects", "plans" and similar expressions, as they relate to the company, are intended to identify forward-looking statements. Statements regarding the declaration or payment of dividends, the implementation of principal operating and financing strategies and capital expenditure plans, the direction of future operations and the factors or trends affecting financial condition, liquidity or results of operations are examples of forward-looking statements. Such statements reflect the current views of management and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties. There is no guarantee that the expected events, trends or results will actually occur. The statements are based on many assumptions and factors, including general economic and market conditions, industry conditions, and operating factors. Any changes in such assumptions or factors could cause actual results to differ materially from current expectations.