| 3. | Summary of significant accounting policies |
| (a) | Business combinations and goodwill |
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the aggregate of the consideration transferred, which is measured at acquisition date fair value, and the amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree. For each business combination, the Group elects whether to measure the non-controlling interests in the acquiree at fair value or at the proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets. Acquisition-related costs are expensed as incurred and included in administrative expenses.
When the Group acquires a business, it assesses the financial assets and liabilities assumed for appropriate classification and designation in accordance with the contractual terms, economic circumstances and pertinent conditions as of the acquisition date.
Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the acquirer will be recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Contingent consideration classified as an asset or liability that is a financial instrument and within the scope of IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, is measured at fair value with the changes in fair value recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
Goodwill is initially measured at cost (being the excess of the aggregate of the consideration transferred and the amount recognised for non-controlling interests) and any previous interest held over the net identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed. If the fair value of the net assets acquired is in excess of the aggregate consideration transferred, the Group re-assesses whether it has correctly identified all of the assets acquired and all of the liabilities assumed and reviews the procedures used to measure the amounts to be recognised at the acquisition date. If the reassessment still results in an excess of the fair value of net assets acquired over the aggregate consideration transferred, then the gain is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
After initial recognition, goodwill is measured at cost less any accumulated impairment losses. For the purpose of impairment testing, goodwill acquired in a business combination is, from the acquisition date, allocated to each of the Group’s cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the combination, irrespective of whether other assets or liabilities of the acquiree are assigned to those units.
Where goodwill has been allocated to a cash-generating unit (CGU) and part of the operation within that unit is disposed of, the goodwill associated with the disposed operation is included in the carrying amount of the operation when determining the gain or loss on disposal. Goodwill disposed in these circumstances is measured based on the relative values of the disposed operation and the portion of the cash-generating unit retained.
| (b) | Investments in associates |
An associate is an entity over which the Group has significant influence. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and operating policy decisions of the investee, but is not control or joint control over those policies.
The considerations made in determining significant influence are similar to those necessary to determine control over subsidiaries.
The Group’s investments in its associate are accounted for using the equity method.
Under the equity method, the investment in an associate is initially recognised at cost. The carrying amount of the investment is adjusted to recognise changes in the Group’s share of net assets of the associate since the acquisition date. Goodwill relating to the associate is included in the carrying amount of the investment and is not tested for impairment separately.
The consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) reflects the Group’s share of the results of operations of the associate. Any change in OCI of those investees is presented as part of the Group’s OCI movements. In addition, when there has been a change recognised directly in the equity of the associate, the Group recognises its share of any changes, when applicable, in the statement of changes in equity. Unrealised gains and losses resulting from transactions between the Group and the associate are eliminated to the extent of the interest in the associate.
The aggregate of the Group’s share of profit or loss of an associate is shown on the face of the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) outside operating profit and represents profit or loss after tax and non-controlling interests in the subsidiaries of the associate.
The financial statements of the associate are prepared for the same reporting period as the Group. When necessary, adjustments are made to bring the accounting policies in line with those of the Group.
After application of the equity method, the Group determines whether it is necessary to recognise an impairment loss on its investment in its associate. At each reporting date, the Group determines whether there is objective evidence that the investment in the associate is impaired. If there is such evidence, the Group calculates the amount of impairment as the difference between the recoverable amount of the investment in associate and its carrying value, and then recognises the loss as ‘Share of profit (loss) of associates’ in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
Upon loss of significant influence over the associate, the Group measures and recognises any retained investment at its fair value. Any difference between the carrying amount of the associate upon loss of significant influence and the fair value of the retained investment and proceeds from disposal is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
| (c) | Current versus non-current classification |
The Group presents assets and liabilities in the consolidated statement of financial position based on current/non-current classification. An asset is current when it is:
| • | Expected to be realised or intended to be sold or consumed in the normal operating cycle; |
| • | Held primarily for the purpose of trading; |
| • | Expected to be realised within twelve months after the reporting period; or |
| • | Cash or cash equivalent unless restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. |
All other assets are classified as non-current.
A liability is current when:
| • | It is expected to be settled in the normal operating cycle; |
| • | It is held primarily for the purpose of trading; |
| • | It is due to be settled within twelve months after the reporting period; or |
| • | There is no unconditional right to defer the settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting period. |
The Group classifies all other liabilities as non-current. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are classified as non-current assets and liabilities.
| (d) | Fair value measurement |
Fair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either:
| • | In the principal market for the asset or liability; or |
| • | In the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for the asset or liability. |
The principal or the most advantageous market must be accessible by the Group.
The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in their economic best interest.
The Group uses valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximising the use of relevant observable inputs and minimising the use of unobservable inputs.
All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the consolidated financial statements are categorised within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:
| • | Level 1 — quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities; |
| • | Level 2 — valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly or indirectly observable; |
| • | Level 3 — valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable. |
For assets and liabilities that are recognised in the consolidated financial statements at fair value on a recurring basis, the Group determines whether transfers have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by re-assessing categorisation (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.
| (e) | Revenue recognition |
Revenue is recognised to the extent that it is probable that the economic benefits will flow to the Group and the revenue can be reliably measured, regardless of when the payment is received. Revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, taking into account contractually defined terms of payment and excluding discounts, rebates, and sales taxes or duty.
Revenues are inflows from sales of goods that constitute ongoing major operations of the Group and are reported as such in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). Inflows from incidental and peripheral operations, net of related costs, are considered gains and are included in other operating income and other income in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
The following criteria are also applicable to other specific revenue transactions:
Sales of goods
Revenue from the sale of goods is recognised when the significant risks and rewards of ownership of the goods have passed to the buyer. Revenue from the sale of goods is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of returns and allowances, trade discounts, associated sales taxes (VAT) and export duties.
Principal vs agent arrangements
The Group is involved in re-selling goods and services produced or rendered by other entities. Revenues are reported based on the gross amount billed to the customer when the Group has earned revenue as a principal from the sale of goods or services, or the net amount retained (that is, the amount billed to the customer reduced by the amount billed by the supplier) when the Group has earned a commission or fee as an agent.
Shipping and handling costs
The Group classifies all amounts billed to customers in a sale transaction and related to shipping and handling as part of sales revenue and all related shipping and handling costs as selling and distribution expenses when the Group is acting as a principal in accordance with the requirements of IAS 18 Revenue.
Sales of power
In the Power segment (Note 26), revenue is recognised based on unit of power measure (kilowatts) delivered to customers, since at that point revenue recognition criteria are met. The billings are usually done on a monthly basis, several days after each month end.
Interest income
For all financial instruments measured at amortised cost interest income is recorded using the effective interest rate (EIR). The EIR is the rate that exactly discounts the estimated future cash receipts over the expected life of the financial instrument or a shorter period, where appropriate, to the net carrying amount of the financial asset. Interest income is included in finance income in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
| (f) | Taxes |
Current income tax
Current income tax assets and liabilities for the current and prior periods are measured at the amount expected to be recovered from or paid to the taxation authorities. The tax rates and tax laws used to compute the amount are those that are enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date in the countries where the Group operates and generates taxable income.
Uncertain tax positions
The Group’s policy is to comply fully with the applicable tax regulations in the jurisdictions in which its operations are subject to income taxes. The Group’s estimates of current income tax expense and liabilities are calculated assuming that all tax computations filed by the Group’s subsidiaries will be subject to a review or audit by the relevant tax authorities. The Group and the relevant tax authorities may have different interpretations of how regulations should be applied to actual transactions. Such uncertain tax positions are accounted for in accordance with IAS 12 Income Taxes and IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets. The Group applies single most likely outcome method of uncertain tax positions estimation.
Deferred tax
Deferred tax is provided using the liability method on temporary differences between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts for financial reporting purposes at the reporting date.
Deferred tax liabilities are recognised for all taxable temporary differences, except:
| • | When the deferred tax liability arises from the initial recognition of goodwill or an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss. |
| • | In respect of taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in joint arrangements, when the timing of the reversal of the temporary differences can be controlled and it is probable that the temporary differences will not reverse in the foreseeable future. |
Deferred tax assets are recognised for all deductible temporary differences, the carry forward of unused tax credits and any unused tax losses. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary differences, and the carry forward of unused tax credits and unused tax losses can be utilised, except:
| • | When the deferred tax asset relating to the deductible temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction that is not a business combination and, at the time of the transaction, affects neither the accounting profit nor taxable profit or loss. |
| • | In respect of deductible temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries, associates and interests in joint arrangements, deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that the temporary differences will reverse in the foreseeable future and taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilized. |
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that sufficient taxable profit will be available to allow all or part of the deferred tax asset to be utilised. Unrecognised deferred tax assets are re-assessed at each reporting date and are recognised to the extent that it has become probable that future taxable profits will allow the deferred tax asset to be recovered.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply in the year when the asset is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
Deferred tax relating to items recognised outside profit or loss is recognised in correlation to the underlying transaction either in OCI or directly in equity.
Deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities are offset if a legally enforceable right exists to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and the deferred taxes relate to the same taxable entity and the same taxation authority.
Tax benefits acquired as part of a business combination, but not satisfying the criteria for separate recognition at that date, are recognised subsequently if new information about facts and circumstances change. The adjustment is either treated as a reduction in goodwill (as long as it does not exceed goodwill) if it was incurred during the measurement period or recognised in profit or loss.
| (g) | Foreign currencies |
The Group’s consolidated financial statements are presented in Russian rubles to comply with the Law 208-FZ. Russian rubles is also the parent company’s functional currency.
For each entity, the Group determines the functional currency and items included in the financial statements of each entity are measured using that functional currency. The functional currencies of the main Russian and European subsidiaries of the Group are the Russian ruble and euro, respectively. The U.S. dollar is the functional currency of other main international operations of the Group. The Group uses the direct method of consolidation and on disposal of a foreign operation, the gain or loss that is reclassified to profit or loss reflects the amount that arises from using this method.
| (i) | Transactions and balances |
Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded by the Group’s entities at their respective functional currency spot rates at the date the transaction first qualifies for recognition. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated at the functional currency spot rates of exchange at the reporting date. Differences arising on settlement or translation of monetary items are recognised in profit or loss.
Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the dates of the initial transactions. Non-monetary items measured at fair value in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates at the date when the fair value is determined.
The following table presents the exchange rates for the functional and operating currencies at various subsidiaries, other than the presentation currency:
| Rates at | Average exchange
rates* for the years ended |
|||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Currency |
December 31, 2017 |
December 31, 2016 |
December 31, 2015 |
December 31, 2017 |
December 31, 2016 |
December 31, 2015 |
||||||||||||||||||
|
U.S. dollar |
57.60 | 60.66 | 72.88 | 58.35 | 67.03 | 60.96 | ||||||||||||||||||
|
Euro |
68.87 | 63.81 | 79.70 | 65.90 | 74.23 | 67.78 | ||||||||||||||||||
| (*) | Exchange rates shown in Russian rubles for one currency unit. |
The majority of the balances and operations not already denominated in the presentation currency were denominated in the U.S. dollar and euro. The Russian ruble is not a convertible currency outside the territory of Russia. Official exchange rates are determined daily by the Central Bank of Russia (“CBR”) and are generally considered to be a reasonable approximation of market rates.
| (ii) | Group companies |
On consolidation, the assets and liabilities of foreign operations are translated into rubles at the rate of exchange prevailing at the reporting date and their statements of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) are translated at the average exchange rate for the period. The exchange differences arising on translation for consolidation are recognised in OCI. On disposal of a foreign operation, the component of OCI relating to that particular foreign operation is recognised in profit or loss.
Any goodwill arising on the acquisition of a foreign operation and any fair value adjustments to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities arising on the acquisition are treated as assets and liabilities of the foreign operation and translated at the spot rate of exchange at the reporting date.
| (h) | Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations |
The Group classifies non-current assets (or disposal group) as held for sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use. Such non-current assets (or disposal group) classified as held for sale are measured at the lower of their carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell.
The criteria for held for sale classification is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable and the asset (or disposal group) is available for immediate sale in its present condition subject only to terms that are usual and customary for sales of such assets (or disposal groups). For the sale to be highly probable, the appropriate level of management must be committed to a plan to sell the asset (or disposal group), and an active program to locate a buyer and complete the plan must have been initiated.
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets are not depreciated or amortised once classified as held for sale. Assets and liabilities classified as held for sale are presented separately as current items in the consolidated statement of financial position.
A disposal group qualifies as discontinued operation if it is a component of an entity that either has been disposed of, or is classified as held for sale, and:
| • | Represents a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations; |
| • | Is part of a single co-ordinated plan to dispose of a separate major line of business or geographical area of operations; or |
| • | Is a subsidiary acquired exclusively with a view to resale. |
Discontinued operations are excluded from the results of continuing operations and are presented as a single amount as profit or loss after tax from discontinued operations in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
| (i) | Mineral licenses |
Mineral licenses acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of mineral licenses acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Mineral licenses are amortised under a unit of production basis over proved and probable reserves of the relevant area.
In order to calculate proved and probable reserves, estimates and assumptions are used about a range of geological, technical and economic factors, including but not limited to quantities, grades, production techniques, recovery rates, production costs, transport costs, commodity demand, commodity prices and exchange rates. There are numerous uncertainties inherent in estimating proved and probable reserves, and assumptions that are valid at the time of estimation may change significantly when new information becomes available.
The Group established a policy according to which internal mining engineers review proved and probable reserves annually. This policy does not change the Group’s approach to the measurement of proved and probable reserves as of their acquisition dates as part of business combinations that involve independent mining engineers. The Group’s proved and probable reserve estimates as of the reporting date were made by internal mining engineers and the majority of the assumptions underlying these estimates had been previously reviewed and verified by independent mining engineers.
| (j) | Property, plant and equipment |
Property, plant and equipment and construction in progress are stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses, if any. The initial cost of an asset comprises its purchase price or construction cost, any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset into operation, the initial estimate of the rehabilitation provision, and, for qualifying assets (where relevant), borrowing costs and other costs incurred in connection with the borrowings. The purchase price or construction cost is the aggregate amount paid and the fair value of any other consideration given to acquire the asset.
When significant parts of property, plant and equipment are required to be replaced at intervals, the Group depreciates them separately based on their specific useful lives. Likewise, when a major inspection is performed, its cost is recognised in the carrying amount of the property, plant and equipment as a replacement if the recognition criteria are satisfied. Where a separately depreciated asset, or part of an asset, is replaced, the expenditure is capitalised. Where part of the asset was not separately considered as a component and therefore not depreciated separately, the replacement value adjusted for prices inflation is used to estimate the carrying amount of the replaced asset(s) which is immediately written off. All other repair and maintenance costs are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) as incurred.
The capitalised value of a finance lease is also included in property, plant and equipment. The present value of the expected cost for the rehabilitation of an asset after its use is included in the cost of the respective asset if the recognition criteria for a provision are met.
Inventories planned to be used for construction and spare parts with useful lives over one year are recorded within property, plant and equipment.
Mining assets and processing plant and equipment
Mining assets and processing plant and equipment are those assets, including construction in progress, which are intended to be used only for the needs of a certain mine or field, and upon full extraction exhausting of the reserves of such mine or the field, these assets cannot be further used for any other purpose without a capital reconstruction.
Items of production mines are stated at cost, less accumulated depletion and accumulated impairment losses, if any.
Costs of developing new underground mines are capitalized. Underground development costs, which are costs incurred to make the mineral physically accessible, include costs to prepare property for shafts, driving main entries for ventilation, haulage, personnel, construction of airshafts, roof protection and other facilities. Additionally, interest expense subject to allocation to the cost of developing mining properties and to constructing new facilities is capitalized until assets are ready for their intended use.
Exploration and evaluation activity involves the search for mineral resources, the determination of technical feasibility and the assessment of commercial viability of identified proved and probable reserves. Once the legal right to explore has been acquired, exploration and evaluation expenditure is charged to profit or loss as incurred, unless the Group concludes that a future economic benefit is more likely than not to be realized.
As part of its surface mining operations, the Group incurs stripping costs both during the development phase and production phase of its operations. Stripping costs incurred in the development phase of a mine, before the production phase commences, are capitalized as part of cost of constructing the mine. In general case, the capitalization of development stripping costs ceases when the mine is commissioned and ready for use as intended by management. Stripping costs undertaken during the production phase of mine are charged to profit and loss as cost of sales as incurred.
In some cases, the further development of a mine may require stripping operations, equivalent by scale to those that were incurred in the development phase of a mine. In such cases, production stripping costs are capitalized similarly to the capitalization of costs during the development phase of a mine.
Stripping costs incurred in the production phase are capitalized, if all of the following criteria according to IFRIC 20 Stripping Costs in the Production Phase of a Surface Mine are satisfied:
| (a) | it is probable that the future economic benefit associated with the stripping activity will flow to the entity; |
| (b) | the entity can identify the component of the ore body for which access has been improved; |
| (c) | the costs relating to the stripping activity associated with that component can be measured reliably. |
When mining assets and processing plant and equipment are placed in production, the applicable capitalized costs, including mine development costs, are depleted using the unit-of-production method at the ratio of tonnes of mineral mined or processed to the estimated proved and probable mineral reserves that are expected to be mined during the estimated lives of the mines. Capitalized production stripping costs are also depleted using the unit-of-production method on a basis consistent with the mine production and reserves to which they relate. The unit-of-productionmethod is used for the underground mine development structure costs as their useful lives coincide with the estimated lives of mines, provided that all repairs and maintenance are timely carried out.
A decision to abandon, reduce or expand activity on a specific mine is based upon many factors, including general and specific assessments of mineral reserves, anticipated future mineral prices, anticipated costs of developing and operating a producing mine, the expiration date of mineral licenses, and the likelihood that the Group will continue exploration on the mine. Based on the results at the conclusion of each phase of an exploration program, properties that are not economically feasible for production are re-evaluated to determine if future exploration is warranted and that carrying values are appropriate. The ultimate recovery of these costs depends on the discovery and development of economic ore reserves or the sale of the companies owning such mineral rights.
Other property, plant and equipment
Capitalized production costs for internally developed assets include material, direct labor costs, and allocated material and manufacturing direct overhead costs. When construction activities are performed over an extended period, borrowing costs incurred in connection with the borrowing of funds are capitalized. Construction-in-progress and equipment held for installation are not depreciated until the constructed or installed asset is substantially ready for its intended use.
Property, plant and equipment are depreciated using the straight-line method, apart from railway of the Elga coal deposit which is depreciated using the units of production method as discussed in (u) Significant accounting judgements, estimates and assumptions). Upon sale or retirement, the acquisition or production cost and related accumulated depreciation are removed from the consolidated statement of financial position and any gain or loss is included in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
The following useful lives are used as a basis for calculating depreciation:
|
Category of asset |
Useful economic lives estimates, years |
|||
|
Buildings and constructions |
5-85 | |||
|
Operating machinery and equipment |
2-30 | |||
|
Transportation vehicles |
2-25 | |||
|
Other equipment |
2-15 | |||
| (k) | Leases |
The determination of whether an arrangement is (or contains) a lease is based on the substance of the arrangement at the inception of the lease. The arrangement is, or contains, a lease if fulfilment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of a specific asset or assets and the arrangement conveys a right to use the asset or assets, even if that right is not explicitly specified in an arrangement.
A lease is classified at the inception date as a finance lease or an operating lease. A lease that transfers substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership to the Group is classified as a finance lease.
Finance leases are capitalised at the commencement of the lease at the inception date fair value of the leased property or, if lower, at the present value of the minimum lease payments. Lease payments are apportioned between finance charges and reduction of the lease liability so as to achieve a constant rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability. Finance charges are recognised in finance costs in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
A leased asset is depreciated over the useful life of the asset. However, if there is no reasonable certainty that the Group will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term, the asset is depreciated over the shorter of the estimated useful life of the asset and the lease term.
An operating lease is a lease other than a finance lease. Operating lease payments are recognised as an operating expense in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) on a straight-line basis over the lease term.
| (l) | Borrowing costs |
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of an asset that necessarily takes a substantial period of time to get ready for its intended use or sale (a qualifying asset) are capitalised as part of the cost of the respective asset. Borrowing costs consist of interest including exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings and other costs that an entity incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.
Where funds are borrowed specifically to finance a project, the amount capitalised represents the actual borrowing costs incurred. Where the funds used to finance a project form part of general borrowings, the amount capitalised is calculated using a weighted average of rates applicable to relevant general borrowings of the Group during the period.
According to IAS 23 Borrowing Costs, borrowing costs may include exchange differences arising from foreign currency borrowings to the extent that they are regarded as an adjustment to interest costs. Foreign exchange differences on borrowings directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset are considered by the Group to be eligible for capitalization in the amount of difference between actual amount of interest costs and potential amount of interest costs calculated using a weighted average of rates applicable to ruble-nominated borrowings of the Group during the period. All other borrowing costs are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) in the period in which they are incurred.
| (m) | Intangible assets |
Intangible assets acquired separately are measured on initial recognition at cost. The cost of intangible assets acquired in a business combination is their fair value at the date of acquisition. Following initial recognition, intangible assets are carried at cost less any accumulated amortisation and accumulated impairment losses.
Intangible assets with determinable useful lives are amortised using the straight-line method over their estimated period of benefit, ranging from two to sixteen years.
| (n) | Financial instruments — initial recognition and subsequent measurement |
A financial instrument is any contract that gives rise to a financial asset of one entity and a financial liability or equity instrument of another entity.
| (i) | Financial assets |
Initial recognition and measurement
Financial assets are classified, at initial recognition, as financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, loans and receivables, held-to-maturity investments, available-for-sale (AFS) financial assets, or as derivatives. All financial assets are recognised initially at fair value plus, in the case of financial assets not recorded at fair value through profit or loss, transaction costs that are attributable to the acquisition of the financial asset.
Purchases or sales of financial assets that require delivery of assets within a time frame established by regulation or convention in the market place (regular way trades) are recognised on the trade date, i.e., the date that the Group commits to purchase or sell the asset.
Subsequent measurement
For purposes of subsequent measurement, financial assets are classified in four categories:
| • | Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss; |
| • | Loans and receivables; |
| • | Held-to-maturity investments; |
| • | AFS financial assets. |
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss
Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss include financial assets held for trading and financial assets designated upon initial recognition at fair value through profit or loss. Financial assets are classified as held for trading if they are acquired for the purpose of selling or repurchasing in the near term. Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss are carried in the consolidated statement of financial position at fair value with net changes in fair value presented as finance costs (negative net changes in fair value) or finance income (positive net changes in fair value) in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
Loans and receivables
This category is the most relevant to the Group. Loans and receivables are non-derivative financial assets with fixed or determinable payments that are not quoted in an active market. After initial measurement, such financial assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest rate (EIR) method, less impairment. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included in finance income in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). The losses arising from impairment are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) in finance costs for loans and in other operating expenses for receivables.
This category generally applies to trade and other receivables (Note 13).
AFS financial assets
AFS financial assets include equity investments and debt securities. Equity investments classified as AFS are those that are neither classified as held for trading nor designated at fair value through profit or loss. Debt securities in this category are those that are intended to be held for an indefinite period of time and that may be sold in response to needs for liquidity or in response to changes in the market conditions.
After initial measurement, AFS financial assets are subsequently measured at fair value with unrealised gains or losses recognised in OCI and credited to the AFS reserve until the investment is derecognised, at which time, the cumulative gain or loss is recognised in other operating income, or the investment is determined to be impaired, when the cumulative loss is reclassified from the AFS reserve to the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) in finance costs. Interest earned whilst holding AFS financial assets is reported as interest income using the EIR method.
Derecognition
A financial asset (or, where applicable, a part of a financial asset or part of a group of similar financial assets) is primarily derecognised (i.e., removed from the Group’s consolidated statement of financial position) when:
| • | The rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or |
| • | The Group has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a “pass-through” arrangement; and either (a) the Group has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) the Group has neither transferred nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset. |
Impairment of financial assets
Further disclosures relating to impairment of financial assets are also provided in the following notes:
| • | Financial assets — Note 11. |
| • | Trade and other receivables — Note 13. |
The Group assesses, at each reporting date, whether there is objective evidence that a financial asset or a group of financial assets is impaired. An impairment exists if one or more events that has occurred since the initial recognition of the asset (an incurred “loss event”), has an impact on the estimated future cash flows of the financial asset or the group of financial assets that can be reliably estimated. Evidence of impairment may include indications that the debtors or a group of debtors is experiencing significant financial difficulty, default or delinquency in interest or principal payments, the probability that they will enter bankruptcy or other financial reorganisation and observable data indicating that there is a measurable decrease in the estimated future cash flows, such as changes in arrears or economic conditions that correlate with defaults.
Financial assets carried at amortised cost
For financial assets carried at amortised cost, the Group first assesses whether impairment exists individually for financial assets that are individually significant, or collectively for financial assets that are not individually significant. If the Group determines that no objective evidence of impairment exists for an individually assessed financial asset, whether significant or not, it includes the asset in a group of financial assets with similar credit risk characteristics and collectively assesses them for impairment. Assets that are individually assessed for impairment and for which an impairment loss is, or continues to be, recognised are not included in a collective assessment of impairment.
| (ii) | Financial liabilities |
Initial recognition and measurement
Financial liabilities are classified, at initial recognition, as financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss, loans and borrowings, payables, or as derivatives.
All financial liabilities are recognised initially at fair value and, in the case of loans and borrowings and payables, net of directly attributable transaction costs.
The Group’s financial liabilities include trade and other payables, loans and borrowings including bank overdrafts, financial guarantee contracts and derivative financial instruments.
Subsequent measurement
The measurement of financial liabilities depends on their classification, as described below:
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss include financial liabilities held for trading and financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition as at fair value through profit or loss.
Financial liabilities are classified as held for trading if they are incurred for the purpose of repurchasing in the near term. Gains or losses on liabilities held for trading are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
Financial liabilities designated upon initial recognition at fair value through profit or loss are designated at the initial date of recognition, and only if the criteria in IAS 39 Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement are satisfied.
Loans and borrowings
This is the category most relevant to the Group. After initial recognition, interest-bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the EIR method. Gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss when the liabilities are derecognised as well as through the EIR amortisation process. Amortised cost is calculated by taking into account any discount or premium on acquisition and fees or costs that are an integral part of the EIR. The EIR amortisation is included as finance costs in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss). This category generally applies to interest-bearing loans and borrowings (Note 11).
Financial guarantee contracts
Financial guarantee contracts issued by the Group are those contracts that require a payment to be made to reimburse the holder for a loss it incurs because the specified debtor fails to make a payment when due in accordance with the terms of a debt instrument. Financial guarantee contracts are recognised initially as a liability at fair value, adjusted for transaction costs that are directly attributable to the issuance of the guarantee. Subsequently, the liability is measured at the higher of the best estimate of the expenditure required to settle the present obligation at the reporting date and the amount recognised less cumulative amortisation.
Put Options Written on Non-controlling Interests
The Group initially measures a financial liability at the present value of the redemption amount in the parent’s consolidated financial statements for written puts on non-controlling interests, therefore, when the Group grants non-controlling interests a put option to sell part or all of their interests in a subsidiary during a certain period, on the date of grant, the non-controlling interests are classified as a financial liability. The Group remeasures the financial liability at the end of each reporting period based on the estimated present value of the consideration to be transferred upon the exercise of the put option. The respective finance cost is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) within finance costs.
Call Options Written on preferred shares
In the consolidated financial statements the Group initially measures a financial liability for call options granted in respect of preferred shares at fair value. Determining the fair value of the call options at the recognition date is subject to judgment. The Group calculated the fair value of call options using mix of the Black-Scholes option pricing model and model of Asian options. The models require input of assumptions, including expected volatility, expected term, risk-free interest rate and dividend yield and other subjective assumptions. The Group remeasures the financial liability at the end of each reporting period at fair value. The respective finance cost or income is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) within finance costs or finance income.
Derecognition
A financial liability is derecognised when the obligation under the liability is discharged or cancelled or expires. When an existing financial liability is replaced by another from the same lender on substantially different terms, or the terms of an existing liability are substantially modified, such an exchange or modification is treated as the derecognition of the original liability and the recognition of a new liability. The difference in the respective carrying amounts is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
| (o) | Derivative financial instruments |
The Group uses derivative financial instruments, such as cross currency swap and cross currency option. Such derivative financial instruments are initially recognised at fair value on the date on which a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured at fair value. Derivatives are carried as financial assets when the fair value is positive and as financial liabilities when the fair value is negative.
For the years ended December 31, 2017, 2016 and 2015, the Group did not have any derivatives designated as hedging instruments.
| (p) | Inventories |
Inventories are measured at the lower of cost or net realisable value. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of completion and selling expenses.
The cost of inventories is determined under the weighted average cost method, and includes all costs in bringing the inventory to its present location and condition. The elements of costs include direct material, labor and allocable material and manufacturing overhead.
Costs of production in process and finished goods include the purchase costs of raw materials and conversion costs such as direct labor and allocation of fixed and variable production overheads. Raw materials are valued at a purchase cost inclusive of freight and other shipping costs.
Coal and iron ore inventory costs include direct labor, supplies, depreciation of equipment, depletion of mining assets and amortisation of licenses to use mineral reserves, mine operating overheads and other related costs. Operating overheads are charged to expenses in the periods when the production is temporarily paused or abnormally low.
| (q) | Impairment of non-current assets |
Further disclosures relating to impairment of non-current assets are also provided in the following notes:
| • | Intangible assets — Note 17. |
| • | Impairment of goodwill and other non-current assets — Note 18. |
The Group assesses, at each reporting date, whether there is an indication that an asset may be impaired. If any indication exists, or when annual impairment testing for an asset is required, the Group estimates the asset’s recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s or CGU’s fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. The recoverable amount is determined for an individual asset, unless the asset does not generate cash inflows that are largely independent of those from other assets or groups of assets. When the carrying amount of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the asset is considered impaired and is written down to its recoverable amount. The Group’s CGUs represent single entities with one component of business in each case. As of December 31, 2017, the Group performed the impairment testing for the following number of CGUs by segments: Steel — 4, Mining — 7 and Power — 2.
In assessing value in use, the Group uses assumptions that include estimates regarding the discount rates, growth rates and expected changes in selling prices, sales volumes and operating costs, as well as capital expenditures and working capital requirements during the forecasted period. The estimated future cash flows expected to be generated by the asset, when the quoted market prices are not available, are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. The growth rates are based on the Group’s growth forecasts, which are largely in line with industry trends. Changes in selling prices and direct costs are based on historical experience and expectations of future changes in the market. In determining fair value less costs of disposal, recent market transactions are taken into account.
The Group bases its impairment calculation on detailed budgets and forecast calculations, which are prepared separately for each of the Group’s CGUs to which the individual assets are allocated. These budgets and forecast calculations generally cover a period of five years. A long-term growth rate is calculated and applied to project future cash flows after the fifth year.
For CGUs involved in mining activity future cash flows include estimates of recoverable minerals that will be obtained from proved and probable reserves, mineral prices (considering current and historical prices, price trends and other related factors), production levels, capital and reclamation costs, all based on the life of mine models prepared by the Group’s engineers.
Impairment losses of continuing operations are recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
For impaired assets excluding goodwill, an assessment is made at each reporting date to determine whether there is an indication that previously recognised impairment losses no longer exist or have decreased. If such indication exists, the Group estimates the asset’s or CGU’s recoverable amount. A previously recognised impairment loss is reversed only if there has been a change in the assumptions used to determine the asset’s recoverable amount since the last impairment loss was recognised. The reversal is limited so that the carrying amount of the asset does not exceed its recoverable amount, nor exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation, had no impairment loss been recognised for the asset in prior years. Such reversal is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) unless the asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case, the reversal is treated as a revaluation increase.
Goodwill is tested for impairment annually as of December 31 and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired.
Impairment is determined for goodwill by assessing the recoverable amount of each CGU to which the goodwill relates. When the recoverable amount of the CGU is less than its carrying amount, an impairment loss is recognised. Impairment losses relating to goodwill cannot be reversed in future periods.
| (r) | Cash and cash equivalents |
Cash and cash equivalents in the consolidated statement of financial position comprise cash at banks and on hand and short-term deposits with an original maturity of three months or less, which are subject to an insignificant risk of changes in value.
For the purpose of the consolidated statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents consist of cash and short-term deposits, as defined above, net of outstanding bank overdrafts as they are considered an integral part of the Group’s cash management.
| (s) | Provisions |
General
Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present obligation (legal or constructive) as a result of a past event, it is probable that an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, including legal or tax proceedings’ obligations, and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount of the obligation. The expense relating to a provision is presented in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss), net of any reimbursment.
If the effect of the time value of money is material, provisions are discounted using a current pre-tax rate that reflects, when appropriate, the risks specific to the liability. When discounting is used, the increase in the provision due to the passage of time is recognised as a finance cost.
Rehabilitation provision
Mine rehabilitation costs will be incurred by the Group either while operating, or at the end of the operating life of the Group’s facilities and mine properties. The Group assesses its mine rehabilitation provision at each reporting date. The Group recognises a rehabilitation provision where it has a legal and constructive obligation as a result of past events, and it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate of the amount of obligation can be made. The nature of these restoration activities includes: dismantling and removing structures; rehabilitating mines and tailings dams; dismantling operating facilities; closing plant and waste sites; and restoring, reclaiming and revegetating affected areas.
The obligation generally arises when the asset is installed or the ground/environment is disturbed at the mining operation’s location. When the liability is initially recognised, the present value of the estimated costs is capitalised by increasing the carrying amount of the related mining assets to the extent that it was incurred as a result of the development/construction of the mine.
Changes in the estimated timing of rehabilitation or changes to the estimated future costs are dealt with prospectively by recognising an adjustment to the rehabilitation provision and a corresponding adjustment to the asset to which it relates, if the initial estimate was originally recognised as part of an asset measured in accordance with IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment.
Any reduction in the rehabilitation provision and, therefore, any deduction from the asset to which it relates, may not exceed the carrying amount of that asset. If it does, any excess over the carrying value is taken immediately to the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
Over time, the discounted liability is increased for the change in present value based on the discount rates that reflect current market assessments and the risks specific to the liability. The periodic unwinding of the discount is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) as part of finance costs.
For closed sites, changes to estimated rehabilitation costs are recognised immediately in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
Environmental expenditures and liabilities
Environmental expenditures that relate to current or future revenues are expensed or capitalised as appropriate. Expenditures that relate to an existing condition caused by past operations and do not contribute to current or future earnings are expensed. Liabilities for environmental costs are recognised when a clean-up is probable and the associated costs can be reliably estimated. Generally, the timing of recognition of these provisions coincides with the commitment to a formal plan of action or, if earlier, on divestment or on closure of inactive sites. The amount recognised is the best estimate of the expenditure required. Where the liability will not be settled for a number of years, the amount recognised is the present value of the estimated future expenditure.
| (t) | Pensions and other post-employment benefits |
Defined benefit pension and other post-retirement plans
The Group has a number of defined benefit pension plans and other long-term benefits that cover the majority of production employees.
Benefits under these plans are primarily based upon years of service and average earnings. The Group accounts for the cost of defined benefit plans and other long-term benefits using the projected unit credit method. Under this method, the cost of providing pensions is charged to the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss), so as to attribute the total pension cost over the service lives of employees in accordance with the benefit formula of the plan.
The Group’s obligation in respect of defined retirement benefit plans and other long-term benefits is calculated separately for each defined benefit plan and other long-term benefit plan by discounting the amounts of future benefits that employees have already earned through their service in the current and prior periods. The discount rate applied represents the yield at the year end on highly rated long-term bonds.
Where there is a change in actuarial assumptions, the resulting actuarial gains and losses are recognised directly in other comprehensive income.
For unfunded plans, the Group recognizes a pension liability, which is equal to the projected benefit obligation. For funded plans, the Group offsets the fair value of the plan assets with the projected benefit obligations and recognizes the net amount of pension liability. The market value of plan assets is measured at each reporting date.
State pension fund
The Group’s Russian subsidiaries are legally obligated to make defined contributions to the Russian Pension Fund, managed by the Russian Federation Social Security (a defined contribution plan financed on a pay-as-you-go basis). The Group’s contributions to the Russian Pension Fund relating to defined contribution plans are charged to income in the year, to which they relate.
| (u) | Significant accounting judgments, estimates and assumptions |
The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the reported carrying amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the consolidated financial statements, and the amounts of revenues and expenses recognised during the reporting period. Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated and are based on the Group’s experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Actual results could differ from those estimates. Uncertainty about these assumptions and estimates could result in outcomes that require a material adjustment to the carrying amount of assets or liabilities affected in future periods.
Judgments
In the process of applying the Group’s accounting policies, management has made the following judgments, which have the most significant effect on the amount recognised in the consolidated financial statements.
Capitalization of interest related to the Elga Coal Deposit and Railway Construction
In 2013 and 2014, Elgaugol OOO (“Elgaugol”) and the Russian State Corporation “Bank for Development and Foreign Economic Affairs” (“VEB”) signed credit agreements for financing of the Elga coal project approved by the VEB’s Supervisory Board in September 2013. The use of proceeds under these facilities is limited to the development of the Elga coal project. Borrowing costs under these VEB facilities that are directly attributable to the construction of the Elga coal project are capitalized. Borrowing costs consist of interest including exchange differences arising from revaluation of foreign currency borrowings and other costs that the Group incurs in connection with the debt servicing.
Railway depreciation method
In 2015, the Group commenced to depreciate the railway of the Elga coal deposit using units of production method. In applying the units of production method, depreciation is normally calculated based on produced and delivered tonnes in the period as a percentage of total expected tonnes to be produced and delivered in current and future periods over the Elga coal deposit life cycle. The Group’s analysis has shown that the consumption of the economic benefits of the asset is linked to production and delivery of coal. The Group assesses the total or ultimate railway capacity in tonnes at least at each financial year end and, if expectations differ from previous estimates, the changes will be accounted for as a change in an accounting estimate in accordance with IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors.
DEMP property complex
On June 25, 2016, by the decree of the Council of Ministers of the self-proclaimed People’s Republic of Donetsk, the State Enterprise “Yuzovsky metallurgical plant” was established on the basis of the property complex of the Group’s subsidiary Donetsk Electrometallurgical Plant (“DEMP”). The Group’s ability to manage and control the assets of the DEMP property complex is restricted by this decree. The Group concluded that the assets included in the DEMP’s property complex do not meet the recognition criteria and derecognized these assets in the consolidated financial statements.
The DEMP’s assets were fully impaired based on the results of impairment tests as of January 1, 2014 and December 31, 2014 due to conservation of production since 2013. The loss of control over the assets of nil carrying value has no impact on the financial result for the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2017.
Principal vs agent arrangements
The Group makes significant judgment on gross or net revenue recognition. The Group evaluates the relevant facts and circumstances and takes into consideration the following factors in determining whether to recognize revenue on a gross basis:
| • | The Group has the primary responsibility for providing the goods or services to the customer or for fulfilling the order, for example by being responsible for the acceptability of the products or services ordered or purchased by the customer; |
| • | The Group has inventory risk before or after the customer order, during shipping or on return; |
| • | The Group has latitude in establishing prices, either directly or indirectly, for example by providing additional goods or services; and |
| • | The Group bears the customer’s credit risk for the amount receivable from the customer. |
Otherwise, revenues are reported net when the Group performs as an agent or a broker without assuming the risks and rewards of ownership of goods. The evaluations of these factors, which at times can be contradictory, are subject to significant judgment and subjectivity. In the situation when the Group acts as a supplier and as a buyer with the same counterparty, the Group analyzes the respective purchase and sales agreements to identify whether these transactions were concluded in contemplation with each other and, therefore, should be combined for accounting purposes deferring the revenue recognition to the point when the earnings process has culminated.
Estimates and assumptions
The key assumptions concerning the future and other key sources of estimation uncertainty at the reporting date, that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year, are described below or in the related accounting policy note. The Group based its assumptions and estimates on parameters available when the consolidated financial statements were prepared. Existing circumstances and assumptions about future developments, however, may change due to market change or circumstances arising beyond the control of the Group.
In particular, the Group has identified a number of areas where significant estimates and assumptions are required. Further information on each of these areas and how they impact the various accounting policies are described with the associated accounting policy note within the related qualitative and quantitative note as described below.
Deferred tax assets and uncertain tax positions
Deferred tax assets are recognised for unused tax losses to the extent that it is probable that taxable profit will be available against which the losses can be utilised. Significant management judgment is required to determine the amount of deferred tax assets that can be recognised, based upon the likely timing and the level of future taxable profits and the existence of taxable temporary differences (Note 20). Various factors are considered to assess the probability of the future utilization of deferred tax assets for individual subsidiaries and for the consolidated group of taxpayers, including past operating results, operational plans for not longer than five years as this term is considered reliable and accurate for forecast, same assumptions for operational plans as used for determination of the expected future cash flows from the cash generating units, financial plans based on historical data and expectation built on the debt portfolio, terms of the expiration of tax losses carried forward depending on respective tax legislation, and tax planning strategies based on changes in tax regulation for tax losses offsetting for 2018-2020. If actual results differ from these estimates or if these estimates must be adjusted in future periods, the Group’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows may be affected. In the event that the assessment of future utilization of deferred tax assets must be changed, this effect is recognised in the consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss).
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at each reporting date and is adjusted to reflect the likelihood that the estimated taxable profit and taxable temporary differences will be sufficient to recover the asset in whole or in part.
Impairment of property, plant and equipment and other non-current assets
The Group assesses at each reporting date whether there is any indication that an asset may be impaired. If any such indication exists, the Group makes an estimate of the asset’s recoverable amount. An impairment exists when the carrying value of an asset or CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, which is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. The fair value less costs of disposal calculation is based on available data from binding sales transactions, conducted at arm’s length for similar assets or observable market prices less incremental costs for disposing of the asset. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessment of the time value of money and the risks specific to the assets.
Impairment is based on a large number of factors, such as changes in current competitive conditions, expectations of growth in the industry, changes in cost of capital, changes in the future availability of financing, technological obsolescence, and other changes in circumstances that indicate that impairment exists. The determination of the recoverable amount of a cash-generating unit involves the use of estimates by management. Methods used to determine the value in use include discounted cash flow-based methods, which require the Group to make an estimate of the expected future cash flows from the cash-generating unit and also to choose a suitable discount rate in order to calculate the present value of those cash flows. These estimates, including the methodologies used, may have a material impact on the value in use and, ultimately, the amount of any impairment (Note 18).
Impairment of goodwill
The Group determines whether goodwill is impaired at least on an annual basis and when circumstances indicate that the carrying value may be impaired. This requires an estimation of the value in use of the cash generating units to which the goodwill is allocated. Estimating the value in use requires the Group to make an estimate of the expected future cash flows from the cash-generating unit and also to choose a suitable discount rate in order to calculate the present value of those cash flows. More details of the assumptions used in estimating the value in use of the cash-generating units to which goodwill is allocated are provided in Note 18.
Useful lives of items of property, plant and equipment
The Group assesses the remaining useful lives of items of property, plant and equipment at least at each financial year end and, if expectations differ from previous estimates, the changes are accounted for as a change in an accounting estimate in accordance with IAS 8 Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors. These estimates may have a material impact on the amount of the carrying values of property, plant and equipment and on depreciation expense for the period.
Mineral reserves
Mineral reserves and the associated mine plans are a material factor in the Group’s computation of a depletion charge. Estimation of reserves involves some degree of uncertainty. The uncertainty depends mainly on the amount of reliable geological and engineering data available at the time of the estimate and the interpretation of this data, which also requires use of subjective judgment and development of assumptions. Mine plans are periodically updated which can have a material impact on the depletion charge for the period. More details are provided in Note 3(i).
Fair value of financial instruments
Where the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities recorded in the consolidated statement of financial position cannot be derived from active markets, their fair value is determined using valuation techniques, including discounted cash flow models and other specific models. The inputs to these models are taken from observable markets where possible, but when these are not available, a degree of judgment is required in establishing fair values. The judgments include considerations of inputs such as dividend yield, terms of redemption, liquidity risk, credit risk and volatility. Changes in assumptions about these factors could affect the reported fair value of financial instruments (Note 10).
Provisions
The Group is subject to various legal proceedings, disputes and claims, including regulatory discussions related to the Group’s business, licenses, tax positions and the outcomes are subject to significant uncertainty. Management evaluates, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss. Unanticipated events or changes in these factors may require the Group to increase or decrease the amount recorded or to be recorded for a matter that has not been previously recorded because it was not considered probable (Note 23).
Pensions and other post-employment benefits
The cost of defined benefit pension plans and other post-employment benefits and the present value of the pension obligation are determined using actuarial valuations. An actuarial valuation involves making various assumptions which may differ from actual developments in the future. These include the determination of the discount rate, future salary increases, mortality rates and future pension increases. Due to the complexity of the valuation, the underlying assumptions and its long-term nature, a defined benefit obligation and other long-term benefit plans are highly sensitive to changes in these assumptions. All assumptions are reviewed at each reporting date. More details are provided in Note 22.
Rehabilitation provisions
The Group reviews rehabilitation provisions at each reporting date and adjusts them to reflect the current best estimate. Rehabilitation provisions are recognised in the period in which they arise and are stated at the best estimate of the present value of estimated future costs. These estimates require extensive judgment about the nature, cost and timing of the work to be completed, and may change with future changes to costs, environmental laws and regulations and remediation practices. Changes in the estimated timing of rehabilitation or changes to the estimated future costs are dealt with prospectively by recognizing an adjustment to the rehabilitation provision and a corresponding adjustment to the asset to which it relates, if the initial estimate was originally recognised as part of an asset measured in accordance with IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment(Note 16).
Impairment of financial assets
The Group makes allowances for doubtful receivables to account for estimated losses resulting from the inability of customers to make required payments. When evaluating the adequacy of an allowance for doubtful accounts, management bases its estimates on the current overall economic conditions, the ageing of accounts receivable balances, historical write-off experience, customer creditworthiness and changes in payment terms. Changes in the economy, industry or specific customer conditions may require adjustments to the allowance for doubtful accounts recorded in the consolidated financial statements (Note 13).
Determining net realizable value of inventories
The Group makes write-downs for obsolete and slow-moving raw materials and spare parts. In addition, finished goods of the Group are carried at net realizable value (Note 12). Estimates of net realizable value of finished goods are based on the most reliable evidence available at the time the estimates are made. These estimates take into consideration fluctuations of price or cost directly relating to events occurring subsequent to the end of the reporting period to the extent that such events confirm conditions existing at the end of the period.
For other judgments, estimates and assumptions and details refer to:
| • | Mineral licenses (Note 3(i)); |
| • | Property, plant and equipment (Note 3(j)); |
| • | Deferred tax assets (Note 3(f)); |
| • | Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations (Note 3(h)); |
| • | Inventories (Note 3(p)); |
| • | Impairment of non-current assets (Note 3(q)); |
| • | Pensions and other post-employment benefits (Note 3(t)); |
| • | Provisions (Note 3(s)); |
| • | Fair value measurement (Note 3(d)). |
| (v) | Reclassifications |
Certain reclassifications have been made to the prior periods’ consolidated financial statements to conform to the current year presentation. Such reclassifications affect the presentation of certain items in the consolidated statement of financial position, consolidated statement of profit (loss) and other comprehensive income (loss) and consolidated statement of cash flows and have no impact on net income or equity.
| (w) | New and amended standards and interpretations |
The Group applied for the first time certain standards and amendments, which are effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2017. The Group has not early adopted any other standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective. The nature and the effect of these changes are described below.
Amendments to IAS 7 Statement of Cash Flows: Disclosure Initiative
The amendments require entities to provide disclosure of changes in their liabilities arising from financing activities, including both changes arising from cash flows and non-cash changes (such as foreign exchange gains or losses). The Group has provided the information for the current and comparative periods in Note 15.
Amendments to IAS 12 Income Taxes: Recognition of Deferred Tax Assets for Unrealised Losses
The amendments clarify that an entity needs to consider whether tax law restricts the sources of taxable profits against which it may make deductions on the reversal of deductible temporary difference related to unrealized losses. Furthermore, the amendments provide guidance on how an entity should determine future taxable profits and explain the circumstances in which taxable profit may include the recovery of some assets for more than their carrying amount.
The Group applied amendments retrospectively. However, their application did not affect the Group’s financial position and performance as the Group has no deductible temporary differences or assets that are in the scope of the amendments.
Annual Improvements Cycle — 2014-2016
Amendments to IFRS 12 Disclosure of Interests in Other Entities: Clarification of the scope of disclosure requirements in IFRS 12
The amendments clarify that the disclosure requirements in IFRS 12, other than those in paragraphs B10–B16, apply to an entity’s interest in a subsidiary, a joint venture or an associate (or a portion of its interest in a joint venture or an associate) that is classified (or included in a disposal group that is classified) as held for sale.
The amendments and improvements described above had no significant impact on the Group’s financial position and performance of the Group or the disclosures in the consolidated financial statements.
Standards issued but not effective
The standards and interpretations that are issued, but not yet effective, up to the date of issuance of the Group’s financial statements are discussed below. The Group intends to adopt these standards and amendments, if applicable, when they become effective.
Amendments to IAS 40 Transfers of Investment Property
The amendments effective January 1, 2018 clarify when an entity should transfer property, including property under construction or development into, or out of investment property.
IFRIC 22 Foreign Currency Transactions and Advance Consideration
The Interpretation effective January 1, 2018 clarifies that, in determining the spot exchange rate to use on initial recognition of the related asset, expense or income (or part of it) on the derecognition of a non-monetary asset or non-monetary liability relating to advance consideration, the date of the transaction is the date on which an entity initially recognises the non-monetary asset or non-monetary liability arising from the advance consideration. If there are multiple payments or receipts in advance, then the entity must determine the transaction date for each payment or receipt of advance consideration.
Annual improvements to IFRS 2014-2016 cycle (issued in December 2016)
This annual improvements package amended two standards:
IFRS 1 First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards. Short-term exemptions in paragraphs E3-E7 of IFRS 1 were deleted, because they have now served their intended purpose.
IAS 28 Investments in Associates and Joint Ventures. The amendment clarified that the election to measure at fair value through profit or loss an investment in an associate or a joint venture that is held by an entity that is a venture capital organisation, or other qualifying entity, is available for each investment in an associate or joint venture on an investment-by-investment basis, upon initial recognition.
The amendments described above and effective January 1, 2018 had no significant impact on the Group’s financial position and performance of the Group or the disclosures in the consolidated financial statements. The Group has not early adopted any standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but is not yet effective.
The Group is in the process of assessing the impact of the adoption of the pronouncements listed below on the Group’s consolidated financial statements:
| • | IFRIC 23 Uncertainty over Income Tax Treatment |
The Interpretation addresses the accounting for income taxes when tax treatments involve uncertainty that affects the application of IAS 12 and does not apply to taxes or levies outside the scope of IAS 12, nor does it specifically include requirements relating to interest and penalties associated with uncertain tax treatments.
The Interpretation specifically addresses the following:
| • | Whether an entity considers uncertain tax treatments separately; |
| • | The assumptions an entity makes about the examination of tax treatments by taxation authorities; |
| • | How an entity determines taxable profit (tax loss), tax bases, unused tax losses, unused tax credits and tax rates; |
| • | How an entity considers changes in facts and circumstances. |
An entity must determine whether to consider each uncertain tax treatment separately or together with one or more other uncertain tax treatments. The approach that better predicts the resolution of the uncertainty should be followed. The interpretation is effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2019, but certain transition reliefs are available. The Group will apply interpretation from its effective date. Since the Group operates in a complex multinational tax environment, applying the Interpretation may affect its consolidated financial statements and the required disclosures. In addition, the Group may need to establish processes and procedures to obtain information that is necessary to apply the Interpretation on a timely basis.
| • | Amendments to IFRS 10 and IAS 28: Sale or Contribution of Assets between an Investor and its Associateor Joint Venture |
The amendments address the conflict between IFRS 10 and IAS 28 in dealing with the loss of control of a subsidiary that is sold or contributed to an associate or joint venture. The amendments clarify that the gain or loss resulting from the sale or contribution of assets that constitute a business, as defined in IFRS 3, between an investor and its associate or joint venture, is recognised in full. Any gain or loss resulting from the sale or contribution of assets that do not constitute a business, however, is recognised only to the extent of unrelated investors’ interests in the associate or joint venture. The IASB has deferred the effective date of these amendments indefinitely, but an entity that early adopts the amendments must apply them prospectively. The Group will apply these amendments when they are effective.
IFRS 9 Financial Instruments
In July 2014, the IASB issued the final version of IFRS 9 Financial Instruments. The final version of IFRS 9 replaces IAS 39 Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement, and all previous versions of IFRS 9. IFRS 9 brings together the requirements for the classification and measurement, impairment and hedge accounting of financial instruments. In respect of impairment, IFRS 9 replaces the ‘incurred loss’ model used in IAS 39 with a new ‘expected credit loss’ model that will require a more timely recognition of expected credit losses. Except for hedge accounting, retrospective application is required but providing comparative information is not compulsory. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier application permitted.
The Group plans to adopt the new standard on the required effective date and will not restate comparative information. During 2017, the Group has performed a detailed impact assessment of all aspects of IFRS 9. This assessment is based on currently available information and may be subject to changes arising from further reasonable and supportable information being made available to the Group in 2018 when the Group will adopt IFRS 9. Overall, the Group does not expect a significant impact on its consolidated statement of financial position except for the effect of adjustments to amortised cost of the financial liability due to restructuring as discussed below.
(a) Classification and measurement
The Group does not expect a significant impact on its statement of financial position or equity on applying the classification and measurement requirements of IFRS 9. It expects to continue measuring at fair value all financial assets currently held at fair value.
Loans as well as trade receivables are held to collect contractual cash flows and are expected to give rise to cash flows representing solely payments of principal and interest. The Group analysed the contractual cash flow characteristics of those instruments and concluded that they meet the criteria for amortised cost measurement under IFRS 9. No reclassification for these instruments is required.
IFRS 9 does not require reclassification of the Group’s financial liabilities (including interest-bearing loans and borrowings and other financial liabilities) compared to IAS 39. However, as of January 1, 2018, the Group plans to recalculate its estimates of the present value of the cash outflows under borrowings restructured before January 1, 2018 (for restructurings accounted for as debt modifications) using original effective interest rates as prescribed by IFRS 9. Under IAS 39, such modifications were accounted for at revised effective interest rates. As of January 1, 2018, these adjustments are expected to be recognized in the amount of RUB 2,062 million to increase interest-bearing loans and borrowings, and RUB 412 million to decrease deferred tax liabilities with the corresponding decrease of RUB 1,650 million recognized in accumulated deficit.
In summary, the impact of IFRS 9 adoption as of January 1, 2018 is expected to be as follows:
| Millions of Russian rubles |
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Liabilities |
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Deferred tax liabilities |
(412 | ) | ||
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Interest-bearing loans and borrowings |
2,062 | |||
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Total liabilities |
1,650 | |||
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Net impact on equity, including |
(1,650 | ) | ||
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Accumulated deficit |
(1,650 | ) | ||
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(b) Impairment
IFRS 9 requires the Group to record expected credit losses on all of its debt securities, loans and trade receivables, either on a 12-month or lifetime basis. The Group will apply the simplified approach and record lifetime expected losses on all trade receivables. The Group has determined that, as of January 1, 2018, there is no significant impact of loss allowance on its consolidated statement of financial position.
IFRS 16 Leases
In January 2016, the IASB issued IFRS 16 Leases. IFRS 16 eliminates the classification of leases as either operating leases or finance leases and establishes a single lessee accounting model. The most significant effect of the new requirements for the lessee will be an increase in lease assets and financial liabilities. The new standard effective January 1, 2019 replaces the previous leases standard, IAS 17 Leases, and the related interpretations.
The Group plans to apply IFRS 16 starting from the respective effective date and to use the cumulative catch-up transition method in IFRS 16 when first applying the Standard. The Group is currently assessing the impact of the standard on the consolidated financial statements and expects a significant impact on its statement of financial position and equity.
IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
In May 2014, the IASB issued IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers. IFRS 15 establishes a single framework for revenue recognition and contains requirements for related disclosures. The new standard supersede IAS 18 Revenue, IAS 11 Construction Contracts, and the related interpretations on revenue recognition. The standard is effective for annual periods beginning on or after January 1, 2018, with earlier application permitted.
IFRS 15 establishes a five-step model to account for revenue arising from contracts with customers. Under IFRS 15, revenue is recognized at an amount that reflects the consideration to which an entity expects to be entitled in exchange for transferring goods or services to a customer.
IFRS 15 provides presentation and disclosure requirements, which are more detailed than under the current IFRS. The presentation requirements represent a significant change from current practice and increase the volume and level of details of disclosures required in the Group’s consolidated financial statements. The Group expects to adopt the new standard from January 1, 2018 using full retrospective method. During 2016, the Group performed a preliminary assessment of IFRS 15, which was continued with a more detailed analysis completed in 2017.
In preparing to adopt IFRS 15, the Group is considering the following:
(a) Variable consideration
Some contracts with customers provide a right of return, trade discounts or volume rebates. IFRS 15 requires the estimated variable consideration to be constrained to prevent over-recognition of revenue. The Group does not expect that application of the constraint will result in more revenue being deferred than under current IFRS.
The Group provides rights of return based on poor quality of product. The Group has no history of significant returns due to higher transportation cost for sending product back to supplier. The Group concluded that, when it adopts IFRS 15, there would not be any significant adjustments based on future returns.
Certain steel and mining traders and producers of the Group provide retrospective volume rebates to its customers. These amounts may subsequently be repaid in cash to the customer or are offset against amounts payable by customer. The Group applied the requirements of IFRS 15 on constraining estimates of variable consideration and concluded that no adjustments to reduce revenue from sale of goods due to volume rebates are required.
(b) Warranty obligations
The Group provides warranties to its customers under the Russian Federation Law requirements. These warranties represent assurance type warranties and do not require to provide any additional service to the Group’s customers. This type of warranties will continue to be accounted for under IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets, consistent with its current practice.
(c) Principal versus agent considerations
The Group is engaged into contracts, which include transportation, freight services. Under certain agreements, the Group is responsible for providing shipping services after the date at which control of the goods passes to the customer at the loading port or place. Under IAS 18, the Group recognises such shipping and other freight revenue and accrues the associated costs in full on loading whereas under IFRS 15, freight and transportation services are required to be accounted for as separate performance obligations with revenue recognised over time as the service is rendered. The railway transportation service inside Russia is provided by the carrier Russian Railways JSC. When control is transferred to the customer at a point when goods are accepted by the first carrier the Group will account for two separate performance obligations: the obligation to provide goods to the customer and the obligation to arrange the delivery (transportation, freight) of goods to the customer. In these contracts, the Group is not primarily responsible for fulfilling the promise to provide transportation and the Group acts as an agent. For agent services related to transportation of goods sold, when cost of transportation is included into the goods price, the revenue and selling expenses should be adjusted by approximately RUB 3,300 million for the year ended December 31, 2017 and recognised on a net basis.
(d) Presentation and disclosure requirements
The Group expects that the notes to the consolidated financial statements will be expanded because of the disclosure of significant judgements made: when determining the transaction price of those contracts that include variable consideration, how the transaction price has been allocated to the performance obligations, and the assumptions made to estimate the stand-alone selling prices of each performance obligation. Also, extended disclosures are expected due to significant judgements made when assessing the contracts if the Group conclude that it acts as an agent instead of a principal. Additionally, the Group will disaggregate revenue recognised from contracts with customers into categories that depict how the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows are affected by economic factors.