VimpelCom Reports 1Q14 Results

AMSTERDAM, May 14, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

KEY RESULTS AND DEVELOPMENTS IN 1Q14

• Revenue declined organically¹ by 5% YoY to USD 5.0 billion
• EBITDA² declined organically¹ by 6% YoY to USD 2.1 billion
• Strong EBITDA margin² of 41.6%
• Net income attributable to VimpelCom shareholders of USD 39 million
• Total mobile customer base increased 3% YoY to 218 million
• Continued investments in high speed data networks with CAPEX up 24% YoY
• USD 4.0 billion Algeria resolution proceeds intended for debt repayment; annual interest savings of ~USD 0.3 billion
• Completed refinancing of Italy's most expensive debt, saving ~USD 0.3 billion in annual interest expense
• Secured credit facilities of USD 2.7 billion
• Revised annual targets for 2014

"VimpelCom Ltd" ("VimpelCom", "Company" or "Group") VIP, a leading global provider of telecommunications services, today announces financial and operating results for the quarter ended March 31, 2014.

JO LUNDER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, COMMENTS:

"We previously indicated our expectation that 2014 would be a challenging year and the Q1 results reflect the more difficult trading environment. Group organic revenues declined by 5%, however due to our continuing focus on cost control the Group's EBITDA margin remains strong at 41.6%. All of our Business Units have reported double-digit data revenue increases and we continue to invest in high-speed networks to drive future growth. In Russia, we continued the roll out of our 3G and 4G/LTE networks and we are also improving many aspects of our customer value proposition. I am confident that we are taking the right measures in Russia but we expect continued pressure on results through 2014. In Italy, we have endured a period of intense price competition and although Wind has continued to outperform its competition, we expect continuing market contraction in 2014. In the Africa & Asia Business Unit there were small declines in organic revenue and EBITDA, although Bangladesh saw strong revenue growth. In Ukraine, our transformation program is going according to plan with early signs of positive results. Our CIS markets again delivered a solid set of results. Recently we also agreed a favorable resolution of our discussions in Algeria and we completed the refinancing of our most expensive debt, related to Italy. Together, we estimate that these achievements will deliver approximately USD 600 million in annual interest savings. Despite these successes, due to the challenging environment in many of our operations, we have revised our targets for 2014."

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL AND OPERATING HIGHLIGHTS

ORGANIC GROWTH REVENUE AND EBITDA

MOBILE CUSTOMERS

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL RESULTS

VimpelCom results presented in this earnings release are based on IFRS and have not been audited.
Certain amounts and percentages that appear in this earnings release have been subject to rounding adjustments.
As a result, certain numerical figures shown as totals, including in tables may not be an exact arithmetic aggregation of the figures that precede or follow them.

Certain unaudited financial information previously disclosed by the Company in its fourth quarter 2013 earnings release published on March 6, 2014 has been revised due to subsequent events. Reconciliation tables showing the changes to the information previously disclosed appear in Attachment E.

STRATEGIC UPDATE AND MAIN EVENTS

• Revised annual targets for 2014
• Favorable resolution in Algeria with proceeds of USD 4.0 billion to be used for debt repayment
• Successful refinancing of WIND Italy's most expensive debt
• Obtained credit facilities of USD 2.7 billion
• 3G license awarded in Pakistan for USD 0.3 billion
• Hamid Akhavan and Andrei Gusev appointed to the Supervisory Board
• Yogesh Malik appointed as Group CTO
• Vincenzo Nesci appointed as Head of Africa & Asia Business Unit and CEO of GTH

VimpelCom provides the following update of its annual targets¹ for 2014:

• Revenue decline of low to mid single digit YoY;
• EBITDA decline of low to mid single digit YoY;
• Net Debt to EBITDA of approximately 2.4x; and
• CAPEX (excluding licenses) to Revenue of approximately 21%.

In April, VimpelCom announced the sale by GTH of a 51% interest in Orascom Telecom Algerie SpA ("OTA" or "Djezzy") to the Fonds National d'Investissement (the "FNI"), the Algerian National Investment Fund, for a purchase consideration of USD 2.6 billion. OTA will distribute a dividend of USD 1.9 billion to GTH immediately prior to the closing of the transaction ("Closing"), which is expected to occur by the end of 2014. GTH and the FNI will enter into a shareholders agreement ("the Shareholders Agreement"), effective as of Closing, which will govern their relationship as shareholders in OTA going forward. GTH will continue to exercise operational control over OTA and, as a result, both GTH and VimpelCom will continue to fully consolidate OTA. This partnership with the FNI provides OTA with a strong and stable shareholder structure on which to build and strengthen its operations in Algeria. As part of the agreement, the Company has agreed to settle its disputes with the Algerian authorities (Bank of Algeria fine and tax claim). Consequently, the Company has taken a one-off charge of USD 2.0 billion in its 2013 Financial Statements. The Company also agreed with the minority shareholder of OTA, Cevital, to purchase its 3% holding in OTA for a total consideration of USD 234 million. The Closing is subject to conditions precedent being satisfied and is expected by the end of 2014.

The total dividends and proceeds due to GTH at Closing are expected to amount to USD 4.0 billion net of all taxes and after the settlement of all outstanding disputes between the parties and the payment of associated fines. All proceeds will be used to pay down the outstanding shareholder loans provided by VimpelCom to GTH. VimpelCom intends to use the USD 4.0 billion proceeds to pay down existing debt, with estimated annual interest savings of approximately USD 0.3 billion.

In April, VimpelCom's subsidiaries also successfully refinanced high yield bonds and, in combination with a EUR 0.5 billion cash injection by the Company, fully repaid the payment-in-kind notes through the issuance of EUR 3.8 billion of new senior notes, lowering annual interest payments by approximately USD 0.3 billion and improving the capital structure of the Group.

In April, Mobilink, the indirect wholly owned Pakistani subsidiary, was awarded 2x10 MHz spectrum in the 2100 MHz band. The total price for the spectrum was USD 0.3 billion and the license is valid for 15 years.

In April, VimpelCom announced the appointment of Hamid Akhavan and Andrei Gusev to the Supervisory Board in place of Sergei Tesliuk and Andrei Baranov, respectively. The appointment of Messrs. Akhavan and Gusev will be effective until the next Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of the Company or December 31, 2014.

In March, Yogesh Malik was appointed as Group Chief Technology Officer, succeeding Philip Tohme, who was appointed CEO of Djezzy. Mr. Malik has also been appointed to the Group Management Board.

The Company announced today that Vincenzo Nesci, currently chairman of OTA, will succeed Ahmed Abou Doma as Head of the Africa & Asia Business Unit and will be appointed as CEO of GTH as of June 30, 2014, ensuring a smooth transition. Mr. Nesci will also be appointed to the Group Management Board. Mr. Nesci will continue in his role as OTA's chairman.

As previously disclosed, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC"), the United States Department of Justice ("DOJ") and the Dutch public prosecutor's office are conducting investigations related to the Company's operations in Uzbekistan, including relations with Takilant Ltd. ("Takilant"). Takilant held a minority interest in VimpelCom's business in Uzbekistan from 2007 until 2009 when such minority interest was purchased by the Company pursuant to the exercise by Takilant of a put option. In addition, we had agreements with Takilant in the past relating to the acquisition of frequency spectrum and channels in Uzbekistan.

As previously disclosed, VimpelCom has not filed its Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2013 and will do so as soon as possible.  

VIMPELCOM GROUP – FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS 1Q14

• Revenue of USD 5.0 billion, an organic decline of 5% YoY, mainly due to operational performance in Russia and continued market weakness in Italy
• EBITDA of USD 2.1 billion, an organic decline of 6% YoY, mainly due to declining revenue
• Strong EBITDA margin of 41.6%, supported by the focus on Operational Excellence, to drive cost efficiencies
• CAPEX¹ increased 24% YoY to USD 0.7 billion due to investments for future growth
• Net debt/EBITDA of 2.4x at the end of 1Q14; reduction in net debt offset by lower EBITDA
• Total mobile customer base up 3% YoY to 218 million

OPERATING FINANCIALS PER BUSINESS UNIT

 

FINANCIAL AND OPERATING PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW 1Q14

Total revenue in 1Q14 was negatively impacted by the operational performance in Russia, the intense price competition in Italy particularly through the summer of 2013, regulatory and governmental actions in the Africa & Asia Business Unit, together with unstable macro-economic situations in Pakistan and Ukraine.

Total mobile customers increased by 3% YoY to 218 million at the end of the first quarter, with the largest absolute contribution coming from a substantial increase in customers in Africa & Asia.

EBITDA decreased organically 6% YoY to USD 2.1 billion, reflecting the aforementioned decline in revenue and higher infrastructure and distribution costs in Russia.

The Russian Business Unit continued to see pressure on its results as the Company executes its next phase of the transition focusing on Customer Excellence and implementing a cultural transformation to a customer-centric organization. Revenue was down 6% YoY to RUB 66.1 billion, while mobile service revenue declined 3% YoY to RUB 52.4 billion. Mobile data revenue increased 22% YoY to RUB 8.8 billion. Mobile broadband customers in Russia increased 16% YoY to 3.2 million. EBITDA declined organically 9% YoY to RUB 26.5 billion due to the revenue decrease and the costs related to investments in the mobile data network and in owned monobrand stores. EBITDA margin decreased to 40.1%. Although the improvements in customer perception are expected to become visible in the second half of this year, the Company expects the pressure on the results to continue for the remainder of 2014.

In Italy, WIND continued to outperform the wider market in what remains a challenging environment characterized by further mobile market contraction mainly as a result of the heavy price competition, particularly in the summer of 2013. The competitive environment continued to stabilize during the first quarter of 2014 with certain operators removing their more aggressive promotions. Mobile service revenue in 1Q14 decreased 11% to EUR 729 million driven by 2013 price competition, the MTR reduction impact and a material contraction of SMS revenues, in line with the development witnessed in most mature markets. Mobile broadband revenue increased 24% YoY to EUR 132 million and fixed broadband revenue increased 2% YoY to EUR 138 million. EBITDA declined organically 7% YoY to EUR 430 million mainly due to the pressure on service revenue, as a result of intense price competition and the MTR reduction, partially compensated by cost savings. As a result, EBITDA margin remained stable YoY at 37.6%. The Company expects that the market will continue to be challenging for the remainder of the year mainly as a result of continued impact from the intense price competition in the summer of 2013.

The Africa & Asia Business Unit was impacted by regulatory and governmental actions in several countries. As a consequence, revenue declined organically 1% YoY to USD 846 million in 1Q14 and mobile service revenue declined organically 1% YoY to USD 830 million. EBITDA declined organically 3% YoY to USD 399 million mainly due to governmental and regulatory actions and the macro-economic slowdown in Pakistan. EBITDA margin declined slightly to 47.1%. The customer base in the Africa & Asia Business Unit increased 8% YoY to 90 million.

In Algeria, Djezzy maintained its leadership position, but revenue was down 2% YoY to DZD 33 billion as a result of increased competition in the country. In Pakistan, revenue declined 5% YoY to PKR 26 billion, due to the weak macro-economic situation, lower voice revenue following the implementation of additional withholding tax, strong competition and lower interconnect revenue.

In Bangladesh, banglalink's revenue increased 11% YoY, driven by growth in its mobile customer base, launch of 3G services, and an improved macro-economic environment that supported normal business activities following the general elections that took place in January 2014.

Total revenue of the Ukraine Business Unit decreased 7% YoY to UAH 2.9 billion. Mobile service revenue declined 6% YoY to UAH 2.7 billion, primarily due to lower mobile voice revenue, partly offset by solid mobile data revenue growth of 15% YoY. Fixed-line service revenue declined 2% YoY due to a planned reduction in low margin transit revenue, but was partly offset by a 19% YoY growth in fixed residential broadband (FTTB) revenue. EBITDA decreased 8% YoY to UAH 1.4 billion mainly due to lower mobile service revenue, but EBITDA margin remained robust at 48.6%, down 0.4 percentage points YoY. Kyivstar's transformation program is delivering the first signs of improvement in performance and the Company expects a stable market position in 2014, but the environment is expected to remain challenging throughout 2014.

The CIS Business Unit delivered 3% YoY organic growth with revenue reaching USD 437 million. Results benefitted from strong mobile data growth in all markets and solid service revenue growth in Kazakhstan. However, the Company continued to face increasing competition in all CIS markets. In Kazakhstan, the Company is transitioning its customer base to bundled tariff plans and VimpelCom's competitive position improved as a result of this new attractive value proposition. The mobile customer base increased 6% YoY to 25 million with a positive YoY trend in most countries. EBITDA increased organically 4% YoY to USD 217 million, with EBITDA margin increasing to 49.6%, driven primarily by a strong performance in Kazakhstan as a result of the Operational Excellence program.

INCOME STATEMENT ELEMENTS

¹⁾ CAPEX in 1Q13 excludes EUR 136 million of non-cash increase in intangible assets related to the contract with Terna for the right of way of WIND's backbone

EBIT in 1Q14 decreased 16% YoY to USD 925 million due to the decline in EBITDA, partly offset by the positive impact of declining amortization of intangible assets associated with the Wind Telecom acquisition.

Profit before tax decreased to USD 246 million, compared to profit before tax of USD 543 million in the same period a year ago. The decrease was primarily the result of the decline in operational performance, as well as foreign exchange losses of USD 92 million.

Net income attributable to VimpelCom shareholders was USD 39 million in 1Q14 compared to a net income of USD 408 million in 1Q13. The decrease was mainly the result of lower profit before tax while tax expenses decreased only by 19% YoY. The high effective tax rate in 1Q14 is mainly due to non-deductible interest expenses and the change in geographical profit mix, with less profit from countries with a lower nominal tax rate.

CAPEX increased 24% YoY to USD 736 million in 1Q14, reflecting the continued investments in high-speed data networks to capture mobile data growth, including the roll out of 4G/LTE networks in Russia, 3G networks in Algeria and Bangladesh and continued investments in Italy in HSPA+ and 4G/LTE.

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION & CASH FLOW 1Q14

¹⁾ 4Q13 has been revised to reflect the write offs related to the successful resolution in Algeria, as disclosed in the Company's release issued on April 18, 2014, and fixed assets write off to operating expenses in Uzbekistan. Please see the reconciliations set out in Exhibit E.

²⁾ Normalized LTM EBITDA excluding one-off charges related to the Algeria resolution and fixed assets write off to operating expenses in Uzbekistan

Total assets decreased 5% QoQ in 1Q14 to USD 47.5 billion, primarily due to the impact of foreign exchange translation, while depreciation and amortization charges were offset by investments in property and equipment. Gross debt remained almost unchanged at USD 27.4 billion in 1Q14. Net debt was slightly down QoQ to USD 22.4 billion due to FX movements, while LTM EBITDA decreased leading to a slight increase in the Net debt to EBITDA ratio to 2.4x at the end of the first quarter.

Net cash from operating activities was USD 1.2 billion in 1Q14, a decrease of 8% YoY, explained by lower EBITDA, partly offset by positive movements in working capital compared to the same period a year ago. Net cash used in investing activities increased to USD 1.2 billion in 1Q14 compared to USD 1.1 billion in 1Q13 mainly as a result of higher CAPEX due to investments in high-speed data networks. The decrease in net cash from financing activities in 1Q14 compared to 1Q13 was primarily caused by fewer proceeds from borrowings, since bonds totaling USD 2.0 billion were issued and dividends of USD 1.3 billion were paid in 1Q13.

BUSINESS UNITS PERFORMANCE IN 1Q14

• Russia
• Italy
• Africa & Asia
• Ukraine
• CIS

RUSSIA – 1Q14

• Mobile data revenue grew 22% YoY with a 25% YoY improvement in data revenue from small screens
• Mobile service revenue decreased 3.0 % YoY affected by measures taken to reduce unrequested services
• EBITDA decreased 9.4% YoY mainly due to continued investments in network and distribution, leading to an EBITDA margin of 40.1%
• Mobile customer base declined 1% to 55.0 million; mobile broadband customers grew 16% to 3.2 million

The Russian Business Unit continued to see pressure on its results as the Company executes the next phase of its transition focusing on Customer Excellence and implementing a cultural transformation to a customer-centric organization. Although the improvements in customer perception are expected to become visible in the second half of this year, the Company expects that the pressure on results will continue for the remainder of 2014.

Mobile service revenue declined 3% YoY to RUB 52.4 billion, negatively affected by the measures taken to reject unrequested services from content providers. The mobile customer base decreased 1% to 55.0 million due to a 2 percentage points YoY increase in quarterly churn to 17%. The Company reported lower gross additions as a result of an increased focus on the quality of its customer base. Mobile voice revenue was down YoY due to declining prices and the migration of customers to the Company's new and more attractive price plans. ARPU declined 3% YoY to RUB 310 mainly as a result of the measures taken to reject spam and unrequested services from content providers. The mobile voice revenue decline was partially offset by increasing mobile data revenue from strong growth in mobile data traffic, which more than doubled YoY. Mobile data revenue increased 22% YoY to RUB 8.8 billion, while data revenue from small screens increased 25% YoY. Mobile financial services, marketed under the brand name RuRu, were also strong, with revenues increasing by 41% YoY to RUB 449 million.

Fixed-line service revenue increased 3% YoY to RUB 12.2 billion due to the growth in FTTB and voice revenue. The fixed-line broadband customer base declined 5% YoY to 2.3 million, while fixed-line broadband ARPU increased 4% YoY. The Company´s strategy in the fixed-line business continues to be centered on profitability in regions where it currently has significant market share, thereby focusing on CAPEX and OPEX efficiency and increasing ARPU in the FTTB segment.

EBITDA decreased 9% YoY to RUB 26.5 billion and EBITDA margin decreased 1.7 percentage points YoY to 40.1% due to lower revenue and the increased demand-driven network investments, as well as an increase in HR costs and customer acquisition costs due to the expansion of owned monobrand stores. In addition, the weakening of the ruble and inflation of utility costs had a negative impact on EBITDA margin.

Beeline continued its efforts to improve customer perception by introducing a new simplified tariff portfolio with competitive prices in combination with transparent services. This was supported by an attractive smartphone offering, underpinning the new customer value proposition. Beeline introduced the first smartphone on the market priced below RUB 500, in combination with the new bundle tariff plan "ALL!". In addition, the Company continued with its new content and spam policy, filtering SMS spam from short numbers and offering free Beeline antivirus protection. In addition, Beeline introduced a new mobile self-service application for iOS and Android, allowing customers to manage all charged Beeline services. The Company will continue its Operational Excellence 2.0 program in 2014, focusing on simultaneously improving both customer service and efficiency.

Beeline continued to invest in high-speed data networks and is on track with its plans for the accelerated roll out of 4G/LTE. The Company launched 4G/LTE in Saint Petersburg and Leningradskaya Oblast during the first quarter. In 1Q14, CAPEX increased 71% YoY and Beeline expects CAPEX to revenue of 22% in Russia for FY14.

RUSSIA KEY INDICATORS

ITALY – 1Q14

•  Continued outperformance in a challenging environment
• Strong data revenue growth: mobile broadband up 24% YoY and fixed broadband up 2% YoY
• Mobile customer base stable YoY at 22.0 million
• Total revenue of EUR 1,144 million, down 7% YoY
• EBITDA at EUR 430 million with stable YoY margin of 37.6%
• In April, successfully completed refinancing of high coupon debt with ~USD 300 million in interest savings

In 1Q14, WIND continued to outperform its peers in what remains a challenging environment characterized by further mobile market contraction as a result of the intense price competition particularly in the summer of 2013. The competitive environment continued to stabilize during the first quarter of 2014 with certain operators removing their more aggressive promotions. As a result, gross additions in the market declined materially leading to a positive impact on churn. In this context, WIND maintained a stable customer market share despite the aggressive promotions of one competitor. The Company expects that the market will continue to be challenging for the remainder of the year.

Total revenue in 1Q14 decreased 7% YoY to EUR 1,144 million, driven by the 10% reduction in service revenues, primarily due to the aforementioned intense competition in the mobile segment coupled with the tail end impact of the MTR reductions. Net of the MTR reductions, total revenues declined by 5%.

Mobile service revenue in 1Q14 decreased 11% to EUR 729 million driven by price competition, MTR reductions and a material contraction of SMS revenues, in line with the development witnessed in most mature markets. However, these headwinds were partially mitigated by solid results in WIND's mobile data offerings with mobile broadband revenue up 24% YoY to EUR 132 million driven by a 40% YoY growth in mobile broadband customers to 9.3 million.

In the first quarter of 2014, WIND's mobile customer base remained stable YoY at 22.0 million, a result of the renewed 'All-Inclusive' bundle portfolio characterized by simplicity and transparency. WIND's solid performance is the result of its market-leading customer satisfaction.

Mobile ARPU declined 12% to EUR 11 driven by the decline in voice ARPU caused by the 2013 competitive pressure coupled with the increased number of "data only" SIM cards. Mobile data ARPU increased 2% YoY and now generates 38% of total mobile ARPU.

In fixed-line, service revenue decreased 8% YoY to EUR 306 million mainly due to the decline in the fixed-line customer base, primarily in the less profitable indirect segment, as a result of the focus on higher margin LLU customers, and due to the ongoing decline in voice volumes and revenue. Fixed broadband revenue increased 2% YoY to EUR 138 million with broadband LLU customers and dual play customers growing 1% YoY. Fixed EBITDA margin increased driven by the focus on the LLU segment and the use of more efficient pull distribution channels.

WIND's EBITDA in 1Q14 declined 7% YoY, to EUR 430 million, due to the decline in revenues partially offset by cost savings. EBITDA margin remained stable YoY at 37.6%.

During the first quarter, WIND continued to invest in increasing the capacity and coverage of its existing HSPA+ network, as well as expanding its 4G/LTE services in the main cities and the main Italian airports. As a result, 1Q14 CAPEX was EUR 137 million.

In April, WIND's subsidiary Wind Acquisition Finance S.A. successfully issued EUR 3.8 billion senior notes due in 2021 in the 7% coupon range through which it refinanced its EUR 2.7 billion 11.75% senior notes and, together with a cash contribution from VimpelCom, repaid in full the outstanding EUR 1.3 billion 12.25% PIK notes issued by Wind Acquisition Holdings Finance S.A. and guaranteed by WIND's direct parent. The transaction will provide significant annual interest savings of up to USD 300 million and a more stable capital structure.

ITALY KEY INDICATORS

¹⁾ CAPEX in 1Q13 excludes EUR 136 million of non-cash increase in intangible assets related to the contract with Terna for the right of way of WIND's backbone.

²⁾ Mobile broadband include customers that have performed at least one mobile internet event in the previous month.

AFRICA & ASIA¹ – 1Q14

• Revenue decreased organically 1% YoY to USD 846 million
• EBITDA decreased organically 3% YoY to USD 399 million, with an EBITDA margin of 47.1%
• Customer base grew 8% YoY to 90 million, mainly driven by strong additions in Bangladesh
• Awarded 3G license in Pakistan, 3G launch expected in 2Q14

Revenue in the Africa & Asia Business Unit decreased organically 1% YoY to USD 846 million and the customer base increased 8% to 89.8 million, supported by strong additions in Bangladesh and steady growth in Algeria, Pakistan and Sub-Saharan Africa.

EBITDA decreased organically 3% YoY to USD 399 million. Reported results in US dollars continued to be adversely impacted by local currency depreciations, mainly in Pakistan, which resulted in a reported revenue decline of 2% YoY and an EBITDA decline of 3% YoY.

CAPEX in 1Q14 increased 377% YoY to USD 143 million due to investments in 3G in Algeria and Bangladesh, coupled with network modernization in Pakistan.

The following analysis of the performance of the operating units is in local currencies.

ALGERIA ("DJEZZY")

Djezzy's revenue decreased 2% YoY, as a result of the strong competition following the launch of 3G services by other operators, lower outgoing traffic, and lower interconnect revenue due to the new interconnect pricing which included lower local rates. Djezzy grew its mobile customer base 6% YoY to 17.6 million. Djezzy's customer market share decreased to 51%, due to the discovery of non-counted customers of competition, and hence customers of competitors were under-estimated by 592 thousand. ARPU declined 7% YoY to DZD 628, as a result of the strong competition following the launch of 3G services by competitors and the impact of the new, lower interconnect rates and the increase in multi SIM cards.

EBITDA decreased 5% YoY, negatively impacted by higher network and IT costs. 3G network rollout remains on track with targeted launch of services during 2Q14. The regulator has approved Djezzy's commercial initiatives including its 3G launch offers.

CAPEX increased 610% YoY mainly due to the investments in the high-speed 3G network, following the lifting of the ban on 3G equipment in December 2013.

PAKISTAN ("MOBILINK")

Mobilink's revenue decreased 5% YoY, adversely affected by a macro-economic slowdown, lower voice revenue following the implementation of additional withholding taxes and strong competition coupled with lower interconnect revenue. Mobilink's mobile customer base increased 5% YoY to 38.2 million, supported by attractive on-net offerings, reactivation campaigns, and attractive bonus on recharge offers as well as new tariff plans. ARPU declined 12% YoY to PKR 216, negatively impacted by the implementation of the additional withholding taxes and lower interconnect revenue.

EBITDA decreased 11% YoY, with the revenue decline being partly mitigated by cost efficiencies, particularly in content costs and interconnect costs.

CAPEX increased 509% YoY due to the network modernization project, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2Q14.

On April 23, 2014, Mobilink was awarded 2x10 MHz spectrum in the 2100 MHz band for a price of USD 301 million. The license shall be valid for 15 years. This milestone paves the way to launch 3G services in Pakistan during 2014 and solidifies the Group's commitment to the Pakistani market and to maintaining Mobilink's market leadership position.

BANGLADESH ("BANGLALINK")

banglalink's revenue increased 11% YoY, driven by growth in its mobile customer base, the launch of 3G services, and an improved macro-economic environment that supported normal business activities, following the general elections that took place in January 2014. The mobile customer base grew 13% YoY to 29.4 million, following the launch of 3G services, reactivation offers, and handset on recharge offers. ARPU declined 2% YoY to BDT 117, due to the impact from political turmoil in early January 2014, more competitive pricing and a change in the mix of on-net and off-net traffic. After launching 3G services in October 2013 with various 3G packs together with handsets and a content portal, banglalink continued to promote mobile data by incorporating it in its start-up offers as a bonus and also as a tool for reactivation. banglalink also launched "Peer SIM" which is a pack of one pair SIM making them default Friends & Family for each other. During the quarter, banglalink also launched the "best value for money" campaign with added bonuses on both outgoing and incoming offers to facilitate both customer acquisition and retention.

EBITDA decreased 0.4% YoY, due to the reversal of a bad debt provision in 1Q13, coupled with higher dealer commission on gross additions and higher Network, IT, and HR costs.

CAPEX in 1Q14 increased to USD 27 million due to the roll out of 3G and 2G network modernization.

LAOS

In Laos, total service revenues increased 10% YoY in local currency, due to an increase of low margin international terminating traffic, impacting EBITDA. Total mobile customers increased by 5%.

AFRICA & ASIA KEY INDICATORS 

AFRICA & ASIA BUSINESS UNIT: COUNTRY DETAIL

ALGERIA

PAKISTAN

BANGLADESH

¹⁾ CAPEX excl. licenses

²⁾ The customer numbers for 1Q13 have been adjusted to remove customers in operations that have been sold and to reflect revised customer numbers in Algeria, due to the reported technical issue 

UKRAINE – 1Q14

• Transformation program on track, delivering first signs of improvement
• Mobile customer base¹ decreased 3% YoY to 25.6 million
• Mobile service revenue decreased 6% YoY to UAH 2.7 billion, primarily due to the transition to lower priced bundled tariff plans
• EBITDA declined 8% YoY to UAH 1.4 billion; EBITDA margin of 48.6%

The Ukraine Business Unit delivered strong EBITDA and operating cash flow margins in 1Q14 despite the challenging macro-economic and political environment. Kyivstar's operations in the first quarter have not been materially impacted by the turbulence. The transformation program, which was presented at VimpelCom's recent Analyst and Investor Conference, aims to improve customer excellence and operational performance. The program is on track and is showing initial positive results, with improving QoQ performance. The Company expects stabilization of its revenue market share in 2014, but the environment is expected to remain challenging for the remainder of this year.

Total revenue decreased 7% YoY to UAH 2.9 billion due to the decline in mobile revenue. Mobile service revenue decreased 6% YoY to UAH 2.7 billion primarily due to lower mobile voice revenue following the reconnection of existing customers to bundled tariff plans. This negative performance was partly offset by solid mobile data revenue growth of 15% YoY to UAH 242 million, driven by the introduction of a new tariff plan based on the principle of "per day of usage" charging instead of "per megabyte" charging. Kyivstar's mobile customer base decreased 3%¹ YoY to 25.6 million and mobile ARPU declined 5% YoY to UAH 35.

Fixed-line service revenue declined 2% YoY to UAH 259 million due to a planned reduction in low margin transit revenue, which was partly offset by a strong growth in fixed residential broadband (FTTB) revenue. FTTB revenue continued to outgrow the market, increasing 19% YoY to UAH 114 million. The increase was driven by growth in the fixed broadband customer base of 19% YoY to 787 thousand while fixed broadband ARPU declined by 2% YoY to UAH 49.1.

EBITDA decreased 8% YoY to UAH 1.4 billion mainly due to lower mobile voice revenue, while EBITDA margin remained at a solid level of 48.6%, down 0.4 percentage points YoY.

Kyivstar continued modernizing its network to prepare for future mobile data growth. CAPEX totaled UAH 305 million in 1Q14 and LTM 1Q14 CAPEX to revenue was at an efficient level of 13%. Operating cash flow declined by 7% YoY to UAH 1.1 billion leading to a strong OCF margin of 38%.

UKRAINE KEY INDICATORS 

CIS¹ – 1Q14

• Mobile service revenue increased organically by 2% YoY
• EBITDA reached USD 217 million with organic growth of 4% YoY
• EBITDA margin increased marginally YoY to 49.6%
• Mobile customers increased 6% YoY to 25 million
• Mobile data customer base grew 7% YoY; mobile data revenue growth of 29% YoY

Competition in the CIS countries increased in 1Q14, however, mobile data revenue growth was strong in all CIS markets while EBITDA margins and cash flows were solid as a result of efficiencies implemented through the Company´s Operational Excellence and Capital Efficiency programs.

Total revenue increased organically by 3% YoY while total reported revenue declined by 3% YoY to USD 437 million, mainly due to currency devaluation in particular in Kazakhstan. Mobile service revenue increased organically 2% YoY to USD 394 million driven by strong mobile data revenue growth of 29%. The CIS Business Unit grew its mobile customer base 6% YoY to 25 million, primarily driven by an 8% YoY growth in Kazakhstan.

EBITDA grew organically 4% YoY mainly due to strong mobile revenue growth in Kazakhstan, but declined 1% on a reported basis to USD 217 million mainly due to the devaluation of local currencies against the US dollar in Kazakhstan.

1Q14 CAPEX decreased to USD 38 million, primarily related to temporary delays in equipment delivery and network roll out in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan.

The following analysis of the performance in the operating units is in local currencies.

KAZAKHSTAN

In Kazakhstan Beeline improved its market position against its main competitors despite the highly competitive market. Customers continued to be attracted to Beeline´s value proposition as a result of the ongoing transition to bundled tariff plans, as well as the introduction of regional offers in major cities with attractive on-net tariffs during 1Q14. In line with the agreed glide path of Mobile Termination Rates, the MTR was reduced by 15% at the beginning of 2014.

Total service revenue in Kazakhstan increased 6% YoY in 1Q14 to KZT 30 billion driven by 3% YoY growth in mobile service revenue and a 39% YoY increase in fixed-line service revenue. The mobile customer base increased 8% YoY to 9.2 million and mobile ARPU decreased 4% YoY to KZT 975 due to declining voice revenue, partly offset by strong mobile data revenue growth. Mobile data revenue increased 22% YoY as a result of both an increase in data users and data ARPU. Annualized churn improved to 52% due to the customer base quality management and retention initiatives. The strong growth in fixed-line service revenue was supported by the increasing traffic termination charge and FTTB revenue.

EBITDA grew 9% YoY and EBITDA margin increased 1.1 percentage points to 47.8% as a result of efficiencies realized as part of the Operational Excellence program.

CAPEX decreased 62% YoY to USD 9 million, due to a temporary delay in equipment delivery.

UZBEKISTAN

As the market leader, Beeline's primary focus was to maintain the quality of service and further improve its network capacity, although 1Q14 results were negatively affected by electricity outages in the most important regions. Mobile service revenue increased 4% YoY to USD 161 million driven by a 1% YoY growth in the customer base to 10.4 million and a 2% YoY improvement in ARPU to USD 5.1. The ARPU increase was mainly driven by a 50% YoY increase in mobile data revenue to USD 30 million, as Beeline launched a data campaign for mobile Internet usage. EBITDA grew 3% YoY to USD 105 million leading to a strong EBITDA margin of 64.4%.

CAPEX decreased 64% YoY to USD 21 million, due to a temporary delay in equipment roll out.

Beeline aims to maintain its leading market position in 2014 by focusing on high value customers, while it is expected that a third mobile operator will enter the market in 4Q14.

KYRGYZSTAN

Mobile service revenue decreased 5% YoY to KGS 2.0 billion, due to strong competition and declining prices. This was partly compensated by strong growth in mobile data revenue of 45% YoY to KGS 221 million as a result of initiatives aimed at stimulating data usage for small screens. The mobile customer base increased 16% YoY due to Beeline´s attractive on-net and data offering. ARPU decreased 16% YoY to KGS 248, as a result of declining voice revenue. EBITDA decreased 16% and EBITDA margin declined by 6 percentage points to 45.2% due to the increase in international interconnect costs, increase of customer acquisition costs and commercial OPEX caused by the strong competitive pressure.

ARMENIA

Mobile service revenue in Armenia decreased 4% YoY to AMD 5.5 billion in 1Q14, as a result of an 8% YoY decline in its mobile customer base to 0.7 million, due to strong competition. Mobile ARPU increased 6% YoY to AMD 2,589 as a result of the value for money proposition. Fixed service revenue declined 4% due to decline in voice revenue and a 3% YoY loss of customers. EBITDA declined 10% YoY and EBITDA margin decreased 2.5 percentage points to 36.6% mainly due to the decrease in mobile voice revenue. Competition is expected to remain strong following the introduction of MNP in April 2014.

TAJIKISTAN

In Tajikistan, mobile service revenue increased 7% YoY to USD 31 million in 1Q14 as a result of increased international interconnect revenue and 11% YoY growth in the mobile customer base to 1.3 million. Mobile ARPU decreased 5% to USD 8 mainly due to decreasing prices and declining international calls. EBITDA increased 15% YoY while EBITDA margin increased 4.1 percentage points to 46.6%.

GEORGIA

The market in Georgia remained highly competitive in 1Q14 with mobile service revenue to declining by 2% YoY to GEL 30 million and ARPU declining by 16% YoY to GEL 9. Despite the lack of a 3G license, which was partly responsible for the decline in revenue, the Company grew its mobile customer base by 15% YoY to 1.1 million as a result of its attractive tariff offerings. EBITDA decreased 8% YoY to GEL 9 million and EBITDA margin decreased 1.7 percentage points YoY to 26.2%.

¹⁾ CIS operations include operations in Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Georgia

CIS KEY INDICATORS

For details per country unit please see Attachment B

CIS BUSINESS UNIT: COUNTRY DETAIL

KAZAKHSTAN

UZBEKISTAN

CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

On May 14, 2014, the Company will host an analyst & investor conference call on its first quarter results at 2:00 pm CET. The call and slide presentation may be accessed at http://www.vimpelcom.com.

2:00 pm CET investor and analyst conference call
US call-in number: +1 (877) 616-4476
Confirmation Code: 33247951

International call-in number: + 1 (402) 875-4763
Confirmation Code: 33247951

The conference call replay and the slide presentations webcast will be available until May 21, 2014. The slide presentation will also be available for download on the Company's website.

Investor and analyst call replay
US Replay Number: +1 (855) 859-2056
Confirmation Code: 33247951

International Replay Number: +1 (404) 537-3406
Confirmation Code: 33247951

DISCLAIMER

This press release contains "forward-looking statements", as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements relate to, among other things, the Company's anticipated performance, its expectation to close and derive benefits from the Algeria transaction, its revised expected capital expenditures, 2014 annual targets, operational and network development in Russia, refinancing plans, potential future dividend payments and the Company's ability to realize its strategic initiatives in the various countries of operation. The forward-looking statements included in this presentation are based on management's best assessment of the Company's strategic and financial position and of future market conditions and trends. These discussions involve risks and uncertainties. The actual outcome may differ materially from these statements as a result of continued volatility in the economies in our markets, unforeseen developments from competition, governmental regulation of the telecommunications industries, general political uncertainties in our markets and/or litigation with third parties. There can be no assurance that such risks and uncertainties will not have a material adverse effect on the Company. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in any forward-looking statements include the risk factors described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2012 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other public filings made by the Company with the SEC, which risk factors are incorporated herein by reference. The Company disclaims any obligation to update developments of these risk factors or to announce publicly any revision to any of the forward-looking statements contained in this release, or to make corrections to reflect future events or developments.

ABOUT VIMPELCOM LTD

VimpelCom is one of the world's largest integrated telecommunications services operators providing voice and data services through a range of traditional and broadband mobile and fixed technologies in Russia, Italy, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Algeria, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Burundi, Zimbabwe, Central African Republic and Canada. VimpelCom's operations around the globe cover territory with a total population of approximately 754 million people. VimpelCom provides services under the "Beeline", "Kyivstar", "WIND", "Infostrada" "Mobilink", "Leo", "banglalink", "Telecel", and "Djezzy" brands. As of March 31, 2014 VimpelCom had 218 million mobile customers on a combined basis. VimpelCom is traded on the NASDAQ Global Stock Market under the symbol (VIP). For more information visit: http://www.vimpelcom.com.

CONTENT OF THE ATTACHMENTS

For more information on financial and operating data for specific countries, please refer to the supplementary file Factbook1Q2014.xls on VimpelCom's website at http://vimpelcom.com/ir/financials/results.wbp

ATTACHMENT A: VIMPELCOM LTD INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

VIMPELCOM LTD UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

ATTACHMENT A: VIMPELCOM LTD INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

VIMPELCOM LTD UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

¹⁾ The 2013 statement of financial position has been revised to reflect the resolution in Algeria and fixed assets write off to operating expenses in Uzbekistan

ATTACHMENT A: VIMPELCOM LTD INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

VIMPELCOM LTD UNAUDITED INTERIM CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

ATTACHMENT B: COUNTRY UNITS KEY INDICATORS

AFRICA & ASIA BUSINESS UNIT: COUNTRY DETAIL

ALGERIA

PAKISTAN

BANGLADESH

SUB SAHARAN AFRICA (TELECEL GLOBE)

SEA (CONSOLIDATED)

¹⁾ CAPEX excluding licenses

²⁾ The customer numbers for 1Q13 have been adjusted to remove customers in operations that have been sold and to reflect revised customer numbers in Algeria, due to the reported technical issue

CIS BUSINESS UNIT: COUNTRY DETAIL

KAZAKHSTAN

ARMENIA

UZBEKISTAN

TAJIKISTAN

GEORGIA

KYRGYZSTAN

CANADA: COUNTRY DETAIL

ATTACHMENT C: RECONCILIATION TABLES

RECONCILIATION OF CONSOLIDATED EBITDA OF VIMPELCOM

ATTACHMENT C: RECONCILIATION TABLES

RECONCILIATION OF VIMPELCOM CONSOLIDATED NET DEBT 

RATES OF FUNCTIONAL CURRENCIES TO USD¹

¹⁾ Functional currencies in Tajikistan and Uzbekistan are USD

ATTACHMENT D: WIND TELECOMUNICAZIONI GROUP CONDENSED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

ATTACHMENT E: RECONCILIATION OF REVISED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 4Q13

REVISED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

REVISED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

ATTACHMENT F: DEFINITIONS

ARPU (Average Revenue per User) is calculated by dividing service revenue for the relevant period, including revenue from voice-, roaming-, interconnect-, and value added services (including mobile data, SMS, MMS), but excluding revenue from visitors roaming, connection fees, sales of handsets and accessories and other non-service revenue, by the average number of customers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. For Business Unit Italy visitors roaming revenue is included into service revenue.

Broadband customers are the customer contracts that served as a basis for revenue generating activity in the three months prior to the measurement date, as a result of activities including monthly Internet access using FTTB and xDSL technologies as well as mobile Internet access via WiFi and USB modems using 2.5G/3G/4G/HSPA+ technologies. Italian Business Unit measure fixed broadband customers based on the number of active contracts signed, mobile broadband include customers that have performed at least one mobile Internet event in the previous month. Russian Business Unit includes IPTV activities. For CIS subsidiaries mobile broadband customers are those who have performed at least one mobile Internet event in the three-month period prior to the measurement date.

Capital expenditures (CAPEX), purchases of new equipment, new construction, upgrades, software, other long lived assets and related reasonable costs incurred prior to intended use of the non-current asset, accounted at the earliest event of advance payment or delivery. Long-lived assets acquired in business combinations are not included in capital expenditures.

EBIT is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated as EBITDA plus depreciation, amortization and impairment loss. Our management uses EBIT as a supplemental performance measure and believes that it provides useful information of earnings of the Company before making accruals for financial income and expenses and Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others. Reconciliation of EBIT to net income attributable to VimpelCom Ltd., the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented above.

EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. EBITDA is defined as earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortization. VimpelCom calculates EBITDA as operating income before depreciation, amortization, loss from disposal of non-current assets and impairment loss and includes certain non-operating losses and gains mainly represented by litigation provisions for all of its Business Units except for its Russia Business Unit. The Russia Business Unit's EBITDA is calculated as operating income before depreciation, amortization, loss from disposal of non-current assets and impairment loss. EBITDA should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analyses of the results as reported under IFRS. Historically our management used OIBDA (defined as operating income before depreciation, amortization and impairment losses) instead of EBITDA. Following the acquisition of WIND Telecom, our management concluded that EBITDA is a more appropriate measure because it is more widely used amongst European-based analysts and investors to assess the performance of an entity and compare it with other market players. Our management uses EBITDA and EBITDA margin as supplemental performance measures and believes that EBITDA and EBITDA margin provide useful information to investors because they are indicators of the strength and performance of the Company's business operations, including its ability to fund discretionary spending, such as capital expenditures, acquisitions and other investments, as well as indicating its ability to incur and service debt. In addition, the components of EBITDA include the key revenue and expense items for which the Company's operating managers are responsible and upon which their performance is evaluated. EBITDA also assists management and investors by increasing the comparability of the Company's performance against the performance of other telecommunications companies that provide EBITDA information. This increased comparability is achieved by excluding the potentially inconsistent effects between periods or companies of depreciation, amortization and impairment losses, which items may significantly affect operating income between periods. However, our EBITDA results may not be directly comparable to other companies' reported EBITDA results due to variances and adjustments in the components of EBITDA (including our calculation of EBITDA) or calculation measures. Additionally, a limitation of EBITDA's use as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain capitalized tangible and intangible assets used in generating revenue or the need to replace capital equipment over time. Reconciliation of EBITDA to net income attributable to VimpelCom Ltd., the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented above.

EBITDA margin is calculated as EBITDA divided by net operating revenue, expressed as a percentage.

Households passed are households located within buildings, in which indoor installation of all the FTTB equipment necessary to install terminal residential equipment has been completed.

LLU (local loop unbundling), in Italy, this is the regulatory process of allowing multiple telecommunications operators to use connections from Telecom Italia's local exchanges to the customer's premises.

MFS (Mobile financial services): mobile commerce or m-commerce, encapsulates a variety of innovative services that use a mobile phone as the primary payment user interface. With this technology mobile customers can conduct money transfers to pay for goods at an online store, make utility payments, pay fines and state fees, loan repayments, domestic and international remittances, pay mobile insurance and purchase tickets for air and rail travel, all via their mobile phone.

MNP (Mobile number portability) is a facility provided by telecommunications operators which enables customers to keep their telephone numbers when they change operators.

Mobile customers are SIM-cards registered in the system as of a measurement date, users of which generated revenue at any time during the three months prior to the measurement date. This includes revenue coming from any incoming and outgoing calls, subscription fee accruals, debits related to service, outgoing SMS, Multimedia Messaging Service (referred to as MMS), data transmission and receipt sessions, but does not include incoming SMS and MMS sent by VimpelCom or abandoned calls. VimpelCom's total number of mobile customers also includes SIM-cards for use of mobile Internet service via USB modems and customers for WiFi. The number for Italy is based on SIM-cards, users of which generated revenue at any time during the twelve months prior to the measurement date. For the purpose of this earnings release, we include all customers of Zimbabwe, which is accounted for as investment at cost, into Business Unit Africa & Asia and customers of all our Canada equity investee into Business Unit Europe and North America, both of which are included into total customers of VimpelCom.

MOU (Monthly Average Minutes of Use per User) is generally calculated by dividing the total number of minutes of usage for incoming and outgoing calls during the relevant period (excluding guest roamers) by the average number of mobile customers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. Africa & Asia Business Unit measures MOU based on billed minutes

Net debt is a non-GAAP financial measure and is calculated as the sum of interest bearing long-term debt and short-term debt minus cash and cash equivalents, long-term and short-term deposits and fair value hedges. The Company believes that net debt provides useful information to investors because it shows the amount of debt outstanding to be paid after using available cash and cash equivalent and long-term and short-term deposits. Net debt should not be considered in isolation as an alternative to long-term debt and short-term debt, or any other measure of the company financial position. Reconciliation of net debt to long-term debt and short-term debt, the most directly comparable IFRS financial measures, is presented above in the reconciliation tables section.

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others represents the sum of Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain, Equity in net (loss)/gain of associates and Other (expense)/income, net (primarily losses from derivative instruments), and is adjusted for certain non-operating losses and gains mainly represented by litigation provisions. Our management uses Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others as a supplemental performance measure and believes that it provides useful information about the impact of our debt denominated in foreign currencies on our results of operations due to fluctuations in exchange rates, the performance of our equity investees and other losses and gains the Company needs to manage to run the business.

OPEX, operational expenses, represents service costs and selling, general and administrative expenses.

Organic growth in revenue and EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures that reflect changes in Revenue and EBITDA excluding foreign currency movements and other factors, such as businesses under liquidation, disposals, mergers and acquisitions.

Underlying growth Revenue and EBITDA also excludes MTR reductions and one-offs. We believe investors should consider these measures as they are more indicative of our ongoing performance and management uses these measures to evaluate the Company's operational results and trends.

Reportable segments: the Company identified Russia, Italy, Africa & Asia, Ukraine and CIS based on the business activities in different geographical areas. Although Georgia is no longer a member of the CIS, consistent with VimpelCom's historic reporting practice VimpelCom continues to include Georgia in its CIS reporting segment. Intersegment revenue is eliminated in consolidation.

Service costs represent costs directly associated with revenue generating activity such as traffic related expenses, cost of content and sim-cards as well as cost of handsets, telephone equipment and accessories sold.

Selling, general and administrative expenses represent expenses associated with customer acquisition and retention activities, network and IT maintenance, regular frequency payment, professional and consulting support, rent of premises, utilities, personnel and outsourcing as well as other general and administrative expenses. These expenses do not include personnel costs that have been capitalized as part of long-lived assets.

SOURCE VimpelCom Ltd.