Kernel Holding S.A.
ANNUAL REPORT
For the year ended 30 June 2024
Ke
rnel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
1
www.ker
nel.ua
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Kernel is a diversified, vertically
integrated agricultural business,
the largest exporter of agricultural
products from Ukraine.
We are the world’s leading producer and exporter of sunflower oil,
the largest grain exporter from Ukraine, the operator of an exten-
sive agricultural logistics network, and the leading producer of grain
and oilseeds in Ukraine. In FY2024, we supplied 8 million tons of
agricultural products from Ukraine worldwide.
73-81
Corporate Governance
82-144
Financial Statements
82
90
91
92
93
94
95
96
97
144
1-38
Management Report
2
Key Highlights
3
Chairman’s Statement
6
Our Business Model
7
Kernel at Glance
8
Financial Performance in FY2024
12
Segment Performance
12
Oilseed Processing
18
Infrastructure and Trading
25
Farming
30
Risk Management
35
Alternative Performance Measures
39-72
Sustainability Report
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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nel.ua
Key Highlights
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
USD million except ratios and EPS
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
Income statement highlights
Revenue
3,455
3,581
4%
EBITDA
1
544
381
(30%)
Net profit / (loss) attributable to equity holders of Kernel Holding S.A.
299
168
(44%)
/
EBITDA margin
15.8%
10.6%
(5.1pp)
Net margin
8.7%
4.7%
(4.0pp)
EPS, USD
3.86
0.65
(83%)
/
Cash flow highlights
Operating profit before working capital changes
753
604
(20%)
Change in working capital
128
(21)
n/a
Finance costs paid
(120)
(78)
(35%)
Income tax paid
(44)
(32)
(26%)
Net cash provided by / (used in) operating activities
716
472
(34%)
Net cash used in investing activities
10
(113)
n/a
/
Liquidity and credit metrics
Net interest-bearing debt
595
281
(53%)
Readily marketable inventories
282
247
(12%)
Adjusted net debt
2
313
34
(89%)
Shareholders' equity
1,742
1,865
7%
/
Net debt / EBITDA
1.1x
0.7x
(0.4x)
Adjusted net debt
3
/ EBITDA
0.6x
0.1x
(0.5x)
EBITDA / Interest
4.4x
5.5x
1.1x
/
Non-financial highlights
Number of employees (full-time equivalent) as of 30 June
10,733
10,904
2%
Rate of recordable work-related injuries, accidents per million worked hours
0.50
0.81
62%
Social spending, USD million
12.3
25.1
2.0x
Total GHG emission, thousand tons of CO
2
equivalent
280
195
(30%)
Total energy consumption, thousand gigajoules
7,721
8,689
14%
Note:
The financial year ends on 30 June.
1.
Hereinafter, EBITDA is calculated as a sum of the profit from operating activities plus amortization and depreciation.
2.
Commodity inventories are inventories such as corn, wheat, sunflower oil, and other products that were easily convertible into cash before the Russian invasion of
Ukraine given their commodity characteristics, widely available markets, and the international pricing mechanism. The Group used to call such inventories “Readily
marketable inventories”, but after the beginning of the war in Ukraine the Group faced difficulties selling such inventories, and therefore such inventories cannot
any
longer be considered readily marketable.
3.
Adjusted debt is the sum of short-term interest-bearing debt, current maturities of long-term interest-bearing debt, long-term interest-bearing debt and lease liabili-
ties, less cash and cash equivalents, and commodity inventories at cost.
4.
Excluding employees related to assets held for sale as of the reporting date.
Hereinafter differences between totals and sums of the parts are possible due to rounding.
Hereinafter “Kernel”
or “Group” refers to the Kernel Holding S.A. group of companies, while “the Company” refers to Kernel Holding S.A. as the Group’s parent entity.
This Strategic Report
together with the Sustainabilityand Corporate Governance” sections shall be read and perceived as DirectorsReport for the purposes of the
Luxembourg legislation.
……………………………………………………………………
Net debt / EBITDA
……………………………………………………………………
EBITDA
USD million
2.2x
1.0x
6.8x
1.1x
0.7x
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
……………………………………………………………………
Net cash generated by operating activities
USD million
443
806
220
544
381
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
269
460
(305)
716
472
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Chairman’s Statement
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Andrii Verevskyi
Chairman of the Board of Directors,
Founder
Dear Stakeholders,
Reflecting on the fiscal year ending 30 June
2024, a year profoundly impacted by Russia's
ongoing invasion of Ukraine, I am pleased to
present the Kernel Holding S.A. annual report
on behalf of the Board of Directors. This report
provides an overview of the Group’s financial
results, operational achievements, and our
strategic direction as we look ahead to
FY2025 and beyond.
FY2024 highlights
The operating environment in FY2024 was
marked by extreme volatility and elevated
risks. The year began with the full blockade of
our primary export route Ukrainian deep-wa-
ter Black Sea ports after Russia's unilateral
termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative on
18 July 2023. Right after that, Russia esca-
lated its attacks, launching frequent drone and
missile strikes on Ukraine's port infrastructure.
These strikes severely damaged our export
terminal at Chornomorsk, reducing its trans-
shipment capacity from 10 to 8 million tons per
annum, and further damaging our transship-
ment assets along the Danube River.
As a result of these disruptions, our export vol-
umes dropped significantly in Q1 FY2024,
leading to reported losses for that period.
Signs of improvement emerged only in late
September 2023 after the Ukrainian Navy es-
tablished a temporary corridor for vessels de-
parting from Black Sea ports. By mid-October,
vessels began actively using this new route,
seeking to bypass the Russian blockade and
revive sea-borne grain exports. The corridor
proved effective, and from Q2 FY2024, we
managed to significantly increase export vol-
umes and resume operations closer to normal
levels though still nearly 50% below pre-war
quarterly grain export peaks. It also resulted in
the reduction of our carry-over stocks through
FY2024 from 1.3 million tons of vegetable oil,
meal, grain, and oilseeds at the beginning of
the season to 0.8 million tons by the end. How-
ever, war-related risks remain, with periodic
Russian strikes on port infrastructure, railway
logistics, and civilian vessels continuing to
pose significant threats, endangering and
making sea-borne logistics costly or even
leading to a complete shutdown of export
routes.
Export disruptions were not the only chal-
lenges we faced due to the war. Russia tar-
geted our inland assets, including silos and
crushing plants, as well as Ukraine’s key infra-
structure like port railway networks and civilian
vessels, and power generation and distribution
systems. As the war dragged on, the conscrip-
tion intensified. As of the date of this report,
779 of our colleagues are bravely serving in
the Ukrainian military forces, defending our
nation against Russian aggression. We stand
with them and their families, offering support
and contributing to various military initiatives.
Additionally, we are committed to aiding recov-
ery efforts in areas impacted by Russian at-
tacks, with our total social spending in FY2024
reaching USD 25 million. Yet, these efforts are
small in comparison to the immense suffering
endured by countless Ukrainians. Our hearts
are heavy for the 56 Kernel employees who
have lost their lives both as soldiers and ci-
vilians. Their memories are honored on a ded-
icated webpage. The loss of each life leaves
an irreplaceable void, and it is heartbreaking
to speak of such tragedies in the 21st century.
We must ensure that their sacrifices are never
forgotten. We also pray for 20 our employees
who are listed as missing and keep in our
thoughts the 114 employees who have sus-
tained injuries. The physical and emotional
scars they bear are a stark reminder of the bru-
tal realities of war. For these individuals and all
war veterans, we have implemented special
work conditions, launched adaptation pro-
grams, and provided various forms of support
to help them through their recovery.
Describing the financial performance, the
Group's EBITDA in FY2024 fell 30% y-o-y to
USD 381 million, primarily due to a USD 229
million impairment on oilseed processing
plants, port facilities, and other assets, reflect-
ing expected future performance decline and
increased risks. After adjusting for this, the un-
derlying performance remained relatively sta-
ble: margins were lower due to weak grain and
vegetable oil prices, but this was partially off-
set by higher sales volumes, thanks to our re-
cent investments in export infrastructure. Net
profit attributable to shareholders decreased
by 44% y-o-y, to USD 168 million. Additionally,
foreign exchange translation losses of USD 97
million, driven by the depreciation of the
Ukrainian hryvnia against the US dollar,
brought total comprehensive income attributa-
ble to the Company’s shareholders to USD 63
million, up 7% y-o-y.
Contributions by various business segments
were as follows.
The Oilseed Processing segment delivered
USD 83 million in EBITDA in FY2024, a 69%
y-o-y decline, largely impacted by a USD 172
million impairment loss. Besides, the segment
benefited from receiving a USD 27 million in-
surance payment for property damage and
business interruption. Excluding these one-off
factors, the segment's core performance re-
mained robust. A strong sunflower seed sup-
ply, supported by a high harvest of 14.6 million
tons, underpinned Kernel's 24% y-o-y growth
in crushing volumes, reaching 3.2 million tons.
This expansion was bolstered by the commis-
sioning of Ukraine’s largest oilseed processing
plant in February 2024, which processed 231
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Chairman’s Statement continued
Management
Report
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Corporate
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Financial
Statements
thousand tons of oilseeds a project that has
been in development since 2018. The in-
creased crushing volumes drove a 30% rise in
vegetable oil sales, totaling 1.5 million tons.
Our diversified export routes, including access
to the Danube River and reopened Black Sea
ports, combined with our 2022-2023 invest-
ments to diversify transshipment options, ena-
bled us to sustain export activities effectively.
Kernel maintained its leadership as Ukraine’s
largest sunflower oil producer and exporter,
securing 22% of Ukraine's sunflower oil ex-
ports and 9% of global exports. Additionally,
our renewable energy investments, including
a new 20 MW co-generation heat and power
facility launched in December 2023, also paid
off: the biomass-powered operations gener-
ated USD 24 million in EBITDA by selling
green energy to the grid, enhancing energy re-
silience amid potential power shortages.
Despite these positive developments in vol-
ume growth and business expansion, crushing
margins narrowed during FY2024, mainly due
to persistently low global sunflower oil prices
throughout the season.
The Infrastructure and Trading segment
achieved USD 204 million in EBITDA in
FY2024, up 33% y-o-y, which includes a USD
53 million contribution from Avere’s global
trading operations and a USD 45 million one-
off loss from asset impairments. Adjusting for
this and other one-offs, operations in Ukraine
delivered USD 191 million EBITDA, up 56% y-
o-y. The growth in EBITDA was primarily
driven by increased volumes, with grain ex-
port and terminal throughput rising by half as
compared to FY2023. Exporting 5.5 million
tons of grain and oilseeds from Ukraine, we re-
tained our position as a market leader, captur-
ing a 10% share of Ukrainian exports and sig-
nificantly reducing inventory levels throughout
the year. This volume growth was further sup-
ported by recent capital investments in ex-
port infrastructure. The previously idle vegeta-
ble oil export terminal in the port of Chorno-
morsk, acquired at the start of FY2024, was
fully revitalized, and transshipment operations
began there in January 2024. This terminal is
now evolving into a key hub for vegetable oil
transshipment, capable of handling all the sun-
flower oil produced by our facilities, while also
offering services to third parties and facilitating
our purchases of sunflower oil from external
sources. Additionally, we further invested in al-
ternative export routes via the acquisition ac-
quiring vegetable oil transshipment capabili-
ties in the port of Reni and maintained opera-
tions in the Pivdennyi port. Finally, our ac-
quired fleet of vessels fully contributed to our
earnings in FY2024.
While contributions from our Ukrainian opera-
tions increased, the results were highly
volatile. The first quarter saw weak perfor-
mance due to the closure of the Black Sea for
exports, highlighting the lack of viable alterna-
tives to sustain profitable operations. Condi-
tions began to improve in Q2 as exports re-
sumed and showed a strong recovery toward
the end of the season. A key factor was stable
export routes in Q2-Q4 FY2024, as a new ex-
port corridor established by the Ukrainian
Navy appeared to be much more efficient than
the Black Sea Grain Initiative in FY2023. De-
spite the damage inflicted on our terminal in
Chornomorsk early in the season, we man-
aged to transship 6 million tons of goods there
a 50% increase y-o-y.
Finally, a strong 2023 grain harvest in
Ukraine, combined with substantial carry-over
stocks from the previous season, ensured a
solid domestic grain supply in FY2024, sup-
porting both volumes and margins.
Our Farming segment delivered USD 171 mil-
lion in EBITDA, a 23% y-o-y decline. This re-
sult comprises USD 85 million EBITDA from
the sale of the 2023 crop, USD 82 million
from the sale of carry-over stocks from the
2022 crop, and USD 5 million contribution from
other factors. While we benefited from strong
crop yields and lower production costs, sales
prices were significantly lower than in FY2023.
The financial outcome was largely driven by
high sales volumes and material inventory re-
duction.
Our strategic adjustments to the crop mix, in-
cluding increased acreage for soybeans and
rapeseeds and a reduced focus on corn,
proved effective, as oilseeds farming was no-
tably profitable in FY2024. On the other hand,
storage capacity limitations in the previous
season, driven by export logistics constraints,
led to quality deterioration and subsequent
losses of nearly 30 thousand tons of grain due
to improper storage conditions.
Operating performance in FY2024 allowed us
to de-lever the Group. In December 2023, fol-
lowing three debt restructuring processes
since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion,
we repaid over USD 600 million in PXF and
bilateral credit lines. This decision was driven
by an improved export logistics environment,
a stabilized business outlook, and a solid li-
quidity position. After this, our loan portfolio
consisted of long-term facilities from EIB and
EBRD (USD 164 million as of 30 June 2024),
Eurobonds totaling USD 600 million, and USD
159 million in financing from local and interna-
tional banks. The net-debt-to-EBITDA ratio as
of 30 June 2024 was at a comfortable 0.7x
level.
Following the reporting period, despite chal-
lenges posed by restrictive capital controls in
Ukraine due to the ongoing war and uncertain-
ties about future operations, we successfully
repaid the USD 300 million Eurobonds at ma-
turity on 17 October 2024. This achievement
underscores our commitment to maintaining a
strong credit history, positioning us as one of
Ukraine’s most reliable borrowers. Addition-
ally, we secured the first-ever financing pro-
vided by international lenders since the begin-
ning of the full-scale war in Ukraine a sun-
flower oil pre-export financing facility for the to-
tal amount of USD 150 million.
In light of the significant uncertainties and risks
to the Group's future, the Board of Directors
recommended shareholders not distribute div-
idends for the financial year ending 30 June
2024.
FY2025 outlook
The new season, like the three preceding
ones, will be substantially shaped by geopoli-
tics and war-related risks, with significant im-
plications for Kernel:
Our business remains heavily dependent
on the Black Sea as the main export chan-
nel. Any disruptions to this route could se-
verely impact our operations, as we experi-
enced during some periods of FY2022-
2024. While we have developed alternative
export options, they are not sufficient sub-
stitutes should this risk materialize.
The threat of damage to our key assets is
significant and has already materialized in
the past. Our port facilities suffered damage
in the summer and autumn of 2023 and still
remain under repair. Additionally, in August
2024, our largest oil extraction plant was hit
by a Russian drone attack. The crushing
plant in Vovchansk was wiped off the face
of the earth as a result of Russia's offensive
in the northern Kharkiv region, and our facil-
ity in Prykolotne sustained heavy bombing
damage. With the ongoing intensification of
Russian attacks on Ukraine’s civil infrastruc-
ture and no insurance coverage available,
this remains one of the most critical risks we
face in FY2025.
The protracted war in Ukraine has in-
creased risks related to human capital, as
ongoing conscription draws more men into
military service. Although we have managed
to adjust our operations to this challenge so
far, the situation could deteriorate. Addition-
ally, there is a potential for increased tax
obligations if the Ukrainian government
faces difficulties funding escalating war ex-
penses, adding to the already high taxes
and social donations we make.
The threat of power outages looms large,
especially in light of intensified Russian at-
tacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.
Although we have prepared most of our fa-
cilities to manage such scenarios, a severe
power shortage could lead to rising costs
and, in the worst case, substantially disrupt
our operations.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Chairman’s Statement continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Another challenge in FY2025, not existing in
two previous seasons will be significant crop
supply constraints in Ukraine due to a
smaller harvest and limited carry-over stocks.
A summer heatwave has severely affected the
yield potential for both sunflower and corn, two
of our most critical crops:
The sunflower harvest is projected to de-
cline by 17% y-o-y, decreasing by 2.5 mil-
lion tons to 12.1 million tons. This decline
results not only from lower yields but also
from a reduction in sunflower acreage to
more sustainable levels, aligning with our
previous year's guidance. This reduction
comes at a time when crushing capacity is
set to reach a record 20 million tons per an-
num for FY2025, leading to an unprece-
dented gap of 8 million tons between crush-
ing capacity and the available sunflower
harvest. The gap will be even more severe
than the last major deficit of this nature ob-
served in FY2021, when Kernel’s Oilseed
Processing segment achieved an EBITDA
of just USD 37 per ton of oil sold, underscor-
ing the margin pressures that could emerge
in the coming year. While the past two sea-
sons favored crushers, in FY2025 the nego-
tiation power will definitely belong to farm-
ers.
The corn harvest, meanwhile, is estimated
to drop by 6.5 million tons, down 21% y-o-y
due to the summer heat waves. This short-
fall is expected to negatively impact capac-
ity utilization and margins across our grain
export value chain.
Compounding these challenges is an unfavor-
able global situation where Ukraine faces a re-
duced harvest, while other major crop-produc-
ing regions are experiencing strong yields,
leading to potentially weak prices. This rare
combination could have a particularly adverse
impact on Ukrainian farmers: they are con-
tending with both lower crop yields and the in-
ability to capitalize on high prices. A similar
negative outcome is anticipated for Kernel’s
farming segment, making the year ahead ex-
ceptionally difficult.
Update on corporate matters
The Company is still in the process of delist-
ing, which began in spring 2023, but it will be
completed once the Polish Financial Supervi-
sion Authority approves it. This approval is
currently on hold due to legal challenges from
8 minority shareholders, who collectively own
0.4% of the shares in Kernel and have con-
tested the delisting decision in Luxembourg
court.
The same group of minority shareholders also
instrumentalize justice for their personal inter-
est by initiating several other claims against
the Company, including the requests to sus-
pend and annul the share capital increase
conducted in August-September 2023, and
also to suspend and annul the decisions taken
at the annual general meeting of shareholders
held on 11 December 2023. As the Board of
Directors is confident that all the relevant deci-
sions taken were legitimate and had a solid ra-
tionale, the Company is currently defending its
position in courts.
Sustainability progress
Over FY2024, we continued developing our
role as a reliable partner in the decarboniza-
tion of the food supply chain and contribution
to the global climate actions in the agriculture
sector. Within the Farming segment, we fo-
cused on strengthening our methodological
approaches to managing carbon footprint from
agriculture operations. We started working
with Carbon Trust to undertake a gap analysis
of our operational accounting of GHG emis-
sions across individual fields and crops as a
preparatory step for its verification and further
automatization. At Oilseed Processing, we aim
to leverage our existing capacities of green
electricity production to minimize the carbon
footprint of sunflower oil production. As a
demonstration of such ambition, in FY2024,
Kernel’s oil extraction plant in Poltava has
committed to the Science Based Targets initi-
ative, becoming the first company in the
Ukrainian food industry to join this global
framework.
Regarding our social capital priorities, we con-
tinued to adamantly support the Armed Forces
of Ukraine, local communities, and the society
as a whole. We are proud to be among the top
three private companies in Ukraine in terms of
the total military and humanitarian aid pro-
vided since the beginning of the Russian full-
scale invasion. In FY2024, our social spending
amounted to USD 25 million. Further enhance-
ment of our social responsibility and building
the long-term value of the business are among
the company’s strategic priorities, reflecting
the UN Global Compact Ten Principles.
I would like to express our sincere thanks to all
our stakeholders for their continued support.
The entire Kernel team deserves special
recognition for their unwavering dedication
and resilience in overcoming the challenges
posed by the ongoing conflict. Their safety and
well-being remain our top priority. We are also
grateful to the international community for their
invaluable assistance to Ukraine in its struggle
against Russian aggression. A special and
profound thanks go out to the brave Ukrainian
defenders who are courageously protecting
our nation and its people.
Andrii Verevskyi
Chairman of the Board of
Directors, Founder
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Our Business Model
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Oilseed Processing segment
Leading sunflower oil producer (~6% of global production) and exporter (~9% of global exports);
Leading bottled sunflower oil producer and marketer in Ukraine;
4.0 million tons annual sunflower seed processing capacity;
Producer of renewable energy from biomass;
Infrastructure and Trading segment
Leading grain exporter from Ukraine with 10% of country’s total grain export in FY2024;
Leading grain export terminal operator with total annual capacity to transship 11 million tons of soft commodities;
#1 private inland grain silo network in Ukraine with 2.2 million tons of one-time grain storage capacity;
#1 private grain railcar fleet in Ukraine (3.4 thousand of accessible own railcars);
Avere proprietary trading activities;
Farming segment
Leading producer in Ukraine operating 358 thousand hectares of leasehold farmland;
Modern large-scale machinery, sustainable agronomic practices, cluster management system and export-oriented
crop mix;
Nearly 100% of sales volumes flows through our Infrastructure and Trading and Oilseed Processing segments,
earning incremental profits.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..
Topping industry league tables in all segments
1
2
3
7
4
8
6
9
10
5
6
5
Export terminals
Oilseed processing
Refining and bottling
Renewable energy
Avere trading operations
6
7
8
9
10
Own farming
Origination and procurement
Grain storage
Transportation and logistics assets
Fleet of vessels
1
2
3
4
5
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Kernel at Glance
Management
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Corporate
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…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Segment results summary
Revenue, USD m
EBITDA, USD m
Volume, thousand tons
1
EBITDA margin, USD/t
2
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
Oilseeds processing
1,908
1,864
(2%)
270
83
(69%)
1,139
1,477
30%
237
56
(76%)
Infrastructure & trading
2,602
2,011
(23%)
154
204
33%
3,705
5,452
47%
42
37
(10%)
Farming
695
481
(31%)
221
171
(23%)
1,849
1,813
(2%)
609
476
(22%)
Unallocated corporate expenses
(101)
(77)
(24%)
Reconciliation
(1,750)
(775)
(56%)
Total
3,455
3,581
4%
544
381
(30%)
Note
1 Physical grain volumes exported from Ukraine (ex. Avere) for Infrastructure and Trading; harvest of grain and oilseeds in the Farming segment.
Note
2 USD per ton of vegetable oil sold for Oilseed Processing; USD per ton of grain exported (ex. Avere volumes) for Infrastructure and Trading; USD per hectare for Farming.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Financial Performance in FY2024
Management
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Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Kernel completed another turbulent season in
FY2024. Like the previous year, the season began
with the complete closure of Black Sea ports, leading
to a predominantly negative outlook. Following the
termination of the Black Sea Grain Initiative and the
reinstated blockade of Ukrainian deep-water ports,
Russia launched widespread attacks on agricultural
and port infrastructure, deliberately targeting the
Group's assets with missiles and drones. With export
routes closed, we reported a loss-making first quar-
ter, posting a USD 42 million total comprehensive
loss attributable to shareholders. The overall senti-
ment remained negative, with no clear visibility on
when the business environment might improve. High
debt levels posed a significant threat to the Group’s
financial stability.
Fortunately, conditions improved significantly in the
second quarter of FY2024, following the reopening of
Ukrainian Black Sea ports by the Ukrainian Navy.
Kernel returned to profitable operations, generating
an EBITDA of USD 381 million for the full FY2024,
down 30% y-o-y, and a total comprehensive income
attributable to the Company’s shareholders of USD
63 million, a 7% increase y-o-y. While the business
expanded through the addition of new assets (a
greenfield oilseed processing plant, a renewable en-
ergy generation facility, and newly acquired port
transshipment terminals), the Group also recognized
over USD 200 million in non-cash impairment losses
due to a deteriorating business outlook and antici-
pated high risks for the future.
FY2024 was also a highly volatile year in terms of
debt management. We began the year in difficult
negotiations with creditors to restructure debt, as we
were unable to meet all our maturing obligations. It
wasn’t until October 2023 that we completed the re-
structuring. However, by December 2023, with the
operational environment improving, we decided to
repay a significant portion of our debt, resulting in a
relatively low debt level and a comfortable liquidity
position for the Group.
Our liquidity management strategy throughout the
year was focused on maximizing cash balances to
prepare for potential negative scenarios and risks,
given the ongoing war in Ukraine. This approach led
to maintaining the lowest level of working capital in
the past five years, minimizing potential inventory
losses, but also limiting opportunities for business
expansion.
Looking ahead, our outlook for FY2025 remains
somewhat bearish, primarily due to the expected
weak supply of grain and oilseeds in Ukraine, along
with ongoing war-related risks. While we anticipate
remaining profitable under current conditions, the
business remains fragile and highly exposed to vari-
ous risks. We will continue to follow a cautious capital
allocation policy, prioritizing liquidity, seeking new fi-
nancing opportunities, and fulfilling our existing com-
mitments.
Revenue
USD 3,581 million
+4% y-o-y
EBITDA
USD 381 million
-30% y-o-y
Fragile results in a turbulent environment
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
9
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Financial Performance in FY2024 continued
Management
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Income statement highlights
In FY2024, the Group generated USD 3,581
million in revenue, up 4% y-o-y. This growth
was driven by higher sales volumes across all
key products grain, sunflower oil, and sun-
flower meal boosted by the reopening of
Ukrainian Black Sea ports for exports in mid-
October 2023. However, the increase was
partially offset by lower realized prices. Freight
and other services reached a record high of
USD 405 million, accounting for 11% of total
revenue. Export sales represented 94% of to-
tal revenue.
The Group recognized a USD 10 million loss
from the net change in the fair value of bio-
logical assets and agricultural produce in
FY2024, compared to a USD 115 million loss
in the prior year. This reflects gains from reval-
uing crops in the fields to fair value less costs
to sell as of 30 June 2024, and expensing of
similar gains recorded in the previous year, as
required by IAS 41.
Cost of sales in FY2024 increased by 7% y-
o-y, reaching USD 2,889 million, in line with
revenue growth. This rise was primarily driven
by a 7% y-o-y increase in the cost of goods for
resale and raw materials used, along with a
7% surge in shipping and handling expenses.
Additionally, payroll and payroll-related costs
grew by 24% year-on-year, totaling USD 81
million.
As a result, the gross profit for the period
surged by 7% y-o-y, totaling USD 682 million.
Other operating income amounted to USD
1
The reduction of interest on lease liabilities in FY2024 is linked to the divestment of selected farming entities with 134 thousand hectares of land. This divestment was
completed as of 3 March 2023.
71 million, up 33% y-o-y, primarily driven by a
one-off insurance payment of USD 34 million
for property damage and business interrup-
tion. This also included USD 9 million in gains
from operations with securities (including
Avere trading), income from stock-taking,
gains on the sale of foreign currency, and in-
come from contract wash-outs.
Other operating expenses totaled USD 23
million, down 34% y-o-y. This included USD
17 million in dispatch and other fines (due to
extended waiting times during vessel loading
and unloading at ports), and a USD 5 million
loss from the Group’s operations with securi-
ties and derivatives.
General, administrative and selling ex-
penses in FY2024 increased by 4% y-o-y,
reaching USD 213 million, primarily driven by
higher payroll and payroll-related costs.
Additionally, the Group recognized USD 11
million in net impairment losses on financial
assets, reflecting provisions made for ac-
counts receivable and loans provided to third
parties.
Kernel also recorded a USD 229 million im-
pairment loss in FY2024, primarily resulting
from the impairment of property, plant, and
equipment (USD 117 million), goodwill impair-
ment related to two oilseed processing plants
acquired earlier by Kernel (USD 58 million),
and the impairment of intangible assets re-
lated to Group’s port transshipment business
(USD 24 million). These impairments were
driven by the anticipated deterioration in the
business outlook, growing competition in
Ukraine, and increasing future risks for the
business. Additionally, this line includes im-
pairment of prepayments to suppliers and
other current assets (USD 26 million), write-
offs of assets destroyed by Russian strikes on
the Group’s assets (USD 14 million) and re-
versals of previously created inventory allow-
ances and provisions for VAT receivable (USD
10 million).
Subsequently, operating profit declined by
37% y-o-y, to USD 276 million.
Finance costs in FY2024 decreased by 22%
y-o-y, totaling USD 119 million, driven by the
substantial repayment of the Group’s bank
loans in December 2023 and reduced lease
payments following the divestment of part of
the Group’s farming business in March 2023
1
.
Finance income in FY2024 increased by 62%
y-o-y, settling at USD 50 million, primarily
driven by interest earned on financial assets
held for cash management, as extra liquidity
balances were allocated into interest-bearing
instruments. This also included a USD 6 mil-
lion non-cash gain from the repayment of
some of the Group’s credit facilities at a dis-
count to par. Consequently, net finance
costs decreased by 43% y-o-y, amounting to
USD 69 million for FY2024.
Net foreign exchange gain settled at USD 33
million, primarily driven by the depreciation of
the Ukrainian hryvnia against the USD during
the reporting period and the corresponding re-
valuation of intra-group balances.
Other expenses, net, increased 2.5x y-o-y,
reaching USD 29 million. This primarily
………………………………………………………………………
Kernel’s EBITDA split by segments
USD million
(59)
(65)
(166)
(101)
(77)
134
461
219
221
171
216
359
237
154
204
152
51
(70)
270
83
443
806
220
544
381
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Oilseed Processing
Infrastructure and Trading
Farming
Unallocated corporate expenses
Total EBITDA
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...................
Income statement highlights
USD million
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
Revenue
3,455
3,581
4%
Net IAS 41 gain
(115)
(10)
(91%)
Cost of sales
(2,704)
(2,889)
7%
Gross profit
636
682
7%
Other operating income
54
71
33%
Other operating expenses
(35)
(23)
(34%)
Net impairment losses on financial assets
4
(11)
n/a
Loss on impairment of assets
(15)
(229)
15.6x
General, administrative and selling expenses
(205)
(213)
4%
Operating profit
439
276
(37%)
Finance costs, net
(122)
(69)
(43%)
Foreign exchange gain, net
63
33
(47%)
Other (expenses), net
(12)
(29)
2.5x
Profit before income tax
368
211
(43%)
Income tax (expenses) / benefit
(69)
(43)
(37%)
Profit for the period
299
168
(44%)
Attributable to equity holders of Kernel Holding S.A.
299
168
(44%)
Non-controlling interest
(0.4)
(0.3)
(22%)
EBITDA
544
381
(30%)
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
10
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Financial Performance in FY2024 continued
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Corporate
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Financial
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included USD 25 million in charity expenses
and social spending, USD 6 million in fines
and penalties, and a USD 2 million gain on dis-
posal of subsidiaries, as the Group completed
the sale of three floor-type grain storages in
FY2024 and recognized the respective gain.
With a profit before income tax of USD 211
million, the Group recognized corporate in-
come tax expenses of USD 43 million in
FY2024, resulting in a net profit of USD 168
million attributable to the shareholders of
Kernel Holding S.A. After accounting for ex-
change differences in translating foreign oper-
ations (a loss of USD 97 million) and other
items, the total comprehensive income at-
tributable to equity holders of the Company
amounted to USD 63 million in FY2024, up 7%
y-o-y.
Considering significant uncertainties and risks
related to the Group’s future performance, the
Board of Directors recommended the general
meeting of shareholders to declare a dividend
at nil for the year ended on 30 June 2024.
Cash flow highlights
The Group generated USD 604 million in op-
erating profit before working capital
changes, down 20% y-o-y. This figure was
59% higher than the EBITDA for the reporting
period, reflecting the impact of substantial
non-cash items recognized during the year.
The Group's working capital changes in
FY2024 resulted in a cash outflow of 21 mil-
lion, as compared to USD 128 million cash in-
flow in FY2023.
Interest paid in FY2024 amounted to USD
111 million (including USD 25 million interest
on lease liabilities associated with the farm-
land rent agreements), down 25% y-o-y, while
interest received totaled USD 33 million. Af-
ter accounting for USD 32 million in income
tax paid, Kernel generated USD 472 million in
cash from operating activities, a 34% de-
crease y-o-y.
Net cash generated by investing activities
totaled USD 113 million in FY2024. Major in-
vestments included USD 143 million for the
purchase of property, plant, and equipment
(both maintenance and expansion CapEx),
USD 165 million in purchases of financial as-
sets (highly liquid Ukrainian government
bonds) as a temporary allocation of seasonally
available liquidity in Ukraine, and USD 25 mil-
lion for the acquisition of a subsidiary (a vege-
table oil transshipment terminal in the Reni
River port). Offsetting these expenditures, the
Group received USD 92 million from the dis-
posal of subsidiaries (primarily from the final
payment for the divestment of farming entities
completed in March 2023) and withdrew USD
121 million of pledged deposits previously
used as collateral for certain credit facilities.
In financing activities, the Group repaid USD
790 million in bank borrowings while raising
USD 245 million, primarily from local banks in
Ukraine. Additionally, the Group raised USD
60 million in new equity at the request of its
creditors to complete the debt restructuring
transaction negotiated at the beginning of
FY2024. Finally, the financing activities in-
cluded the repayment of USD 20 million of
farmland lease liabilities.
As a result, the total cash outflow in FY2024
amounted to USD 145 million, compared to
USD 507 million cash inflow in the previous
year, and the Group’s cash position settled at
USD 810 million, down 15% y-o-y.
Debt overview
The Group’s debt liabilities decreased by
35% during FY2024, to USD 1,090 million as
of 30 June 2024, primarily driven by a 63% y-
o-y reduction in outstanding bank debt. The
Group’s debt management approach in
FY2024 was as follows:
Early in the year, the Group was negotiating
its third wartime debt restructuring with
creditors to extend its debt maturity profile.
These negotiations concluded in October
2023, when the Group secured waivers for
USD 778 million in pre-war borrowings, de-
ferring repayment, waiving debt covenants,
and adjusting other conditions through 30
June 2024.
Following the reopening of Ukrainian deep-
water seaports for civilian navigation by the
Ukrainian Navy in October 2023, the busi-
ness environment for the Group improved
significantly. After observing stable export
activity for three months, confidence in busi-
ness prospects increased, and the Group
decided to repay a major portion of its bank
debt in December 2023, including grain and
sunflower oil PXF facilities and various bi-
lateral loans.
Between January and April 2024, the Group
successfully exited waiver agreements with
remaining lenders under long-term facilities
and resumed servicing its debt according to
the original repayment schedules.
Between April and June 2024, the Group
raised new financing, primarily from local
Ukrainian banks, securing a total of USD
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..................
Liquidity positions and credit metrics
USD million, except for ratios
30 June 2023
30 June 2024
y-o-y
Short-term interest-bearing debt
878
323
(63%)
Lease liabilities
198
170
(14%)
Eurobonds
596
598
0%
Debt liabilities
1,672
1,090
(35%)
Cash and cash equivalents
1,077
810
(25%)
Net debt
595
281
(53%)
Commodity inventories
282
247
(12%)
of which edible oil and meal
118
94
(20%)
Sunflower seeds
26
85
3.3x
Grains and other commodity inventories
138
68
(51%)
Adjusted net debt
313
34
(89%)
Shareholders’ equity
1,742
1,865
7%
Net debt / EBITDA
1.1x
0.7x
-0.4x
Adjusted net debt / EBITDA
0.6x
0.1x
-0.5x
EBITDA / Interest
4.4x
5.5x
+1.0x
……………………………………………………………………..
Kernel
2027 Eurobonds mid-YTM
Source: Refinitiv
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
Jan-21
Jul-21
Jan-22
Jul-22
Jan-23
Jul-23
Jan-24
Jul-24
……………………………………………………………………..
Working capital and debt position
USD billion
“Working Capital”, “Net Debt” and “Commodity inventories”
definitions as described in section Alternative Performance
Measures
.
0.0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Working Capital
Net Debt
Commodity inventories
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
11
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Financial Performance in FY2024 continued
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Corporate
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Financial
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149 million to meet the financing needs for
the upcoming season.
Consequently, the Group's total debt out-
standing as of 30 June 2024 amounted to
USD 1,090 million, comprising:
USD 598 million book value of Eurobonds
maturing in October 2024 (USD 300 million
principal) and October 2027 (USD 300 mil-
lion principal). After the reporting date, the
notes maturing in October 2024 were suc-
cessfully repaid;
USD 323 million in other debt (including
USD 164 million owed to the EIB and
EBRD, USD 148 million owed to other
Ukrainian and international banks, and USD
11 million in accrued interest on bonds and
bank loans);
USD 170 million in lease liabilities arising
from farmland lease agreements entered
into by the Group.
As of 30 June 2024, the Group continued to
classify its bank borrowings with long-term in-
itial contractual maturity as short-term as the
Group waived certain financial and non-finan-
cial covenants for a period of less than 12
months. Upon the exit from the standstill, the
Group obtained waivers for covenants cover-
ing the period until March 2025.
The Group’s cash position stood at USD 810
million as of 30 June 2024, a 15% y-o-y de-
cline
1
. As a result, the Group’s net debt was
reduced by more than half during FY2024,
reaching USD 281 million as of 30 June 2024.
The commodity inventories
2
balance as of
30 June 2024 totaled USD 247 million, down
12% y-o-y, covering 88% of net debt outstand-
ing. Inventories related to the oilseed pro-
cessing business (sunflower seeds, edible oil,
and meal) increased in value by 24% y-o-y,
reaching USD 179 million, while grain invento-
ries decreased by 51% y-o-y, to USD 68 mil-
lion. As of 30 June 2024, Kernel had in stock
111 thousand tons of sunflower oil, 51 thou-
sand tons of sunflower meal, 200 thousand
tons of sunflower seeds, and 410 thousand
tons of grain. These commodity inventories
accounted for 89% of the total inventory bal-
ance.
As of the end of FY2024, the net debt ad-
justed for commodity inventories settled at
USD 34 million, down 89% over the reported
period.
1
As of 30 June 2023, the cash balance included a USD 123 million cash deposit that had been pledged as collateral for certain credit facilities in FY2023. However,
this deposit was withdrawn during FY2024, as the pledge was no longer required. Although this deposit was not treated as cash available to the Group in the accounts,
it was considered cash for the purposes of calculating credit and liquidity metrics.
2
Commodity inventories are inventories such as corn, wheat, sunflower oil, and other products that were easily convertible into cash before the Russian invasion of Ukraine
given their commodity characteristics, widely available markets and the international pricing mechanism. The Group used to call such inventories “Readily marketable invento-
ries”, but after the beginning of the war in Ukraine the Group faced difficulties selling such inventories, and therefore such inventories cannot any longer be considered as readily
marketable.
The key leverage metrics as of 30 June 2024
improved to 0.7x Net debt / EBITDA, 0.1x Ad-
justed net debt / EBITDA, and 5.5x EBITDA /
interest coverage.
In April 2024, S&P affirmed Kernel’s rating
at “CC”. Additionally, in October 2024, Fitch
upgraded Kernel’s credit rating to CCC-.
Undrawn facilities as of 30 June 2024
amounted to USD 206 million, primarily com-
prising short-term bank facilities in Ukraine
and Avere’s financing.
After the end of the reporting period, the
Group successfully repaid USD 300 million
of the Eurobond maturing on 17 October
2024, along with the respective coupon. Ini-
tially, the Group faced difficulties accumulat-
ing the required amount in accounts outside
Ukraine due to capital and currency controls
imposed by the National Bank of Ukraine.
However, some of the easing of currency re-
strictions allowed the Group to accumulate the
necessary liquidity and complete the Euro-
bond repayment, demonstrating its commit-
ment to meeting financial obligations.
Additionally, in October 2024, we entered a
USD 150 million sunflower oil pre-export fi-
nancing facility with a syndicate of interna-
tional banks to support the Group's export op-
erations and meet working capital needs for
the upcoming financial year. The facility ma-
tures in August 2025 with an option for exten-
sion. It is the first new financing provided by
international lenders to Kernel since the onset
of the full-scale war in Ukraine.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
12
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Oilseed Processing
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
1
Such investments are attributable to Infrastructure and Trading segment and provide services to the Oilseed Processing segment.
Oilseed Processing remained the Group's largest
earnings contributor for the second consecutive
year, benefiting from a favorable sunflower seed sup-
ply-demand balance in Ukraine, business expansion
through the construction of new assets, and in-
creased resilience in the sunflower oil export value
chain due to investments in transshipment and trans-
portation assets. However, earnings were adversely
impacted by a low-price environment in FY2024.
Ukraine's 2023 sunflower harvest reached 14.6 mil-
lion tons (up 18% y-o-y), fueled by near-record yields
and expanded farming acreage. Oilseed processing
capacities increased by 12% y-o-y, driven by new as-
set construction and the reactivation of war-idled
plants. Overall, capacity utilization growth in
Ukraine in the FY2024 season positively supported
crush margins.
In FY2024, we completed the construction of
Ukraine's largest oilseed processing plant, which
was 80% finished before the war. Originally launched
in 2017, the project was delayed by the COVID-19
pandemic and then paused in 2022 due to the war.
With renewed confidence in export capabilities, we
resumed construction. The facility has increased our
annual sunflower seed processing capacity by 1 mil-
lion tons, bringing the total to 4 million tons and com-
pensating for the loss of two plants in eastern
Ukraine. As a result, we increased oilseed pro-
cessing volume by 24% y-o-y to 3.2 million in
FY2024, returning to pre-war levels.
We also completed a large-scale green energy in-
vestment program. In December 2023, we
launched our fifth cogeneration heat and power facil-
ity with a 20 MW capacity, followed by the final 20
MW CHP unit in October 2024, bringing our total bi-
oenergy portfolio to 84.4 MW.
Finally, the resilience of our export value chain
improved through strategic investments in port in-
frastructure and logistics assets. We now operate
three vegetable oil transshipment terminals in differ-
ent ports, along with a vegetable oil tanker and a fleet
of rail tanks and tank containers
1
, which diversify
and strengthen our export capabilities.
Despite benefiting from favorable factors and the ab-
sence of major export disruptions due to war, the pri-
mary downside in FY2024 was the very low prices
for sunflower oil. Given the adverse market condi-
tions and forecasts, the Group recognized a USD
172 million loss on impairment of assets. Conse-
quently, the segment’s EBITDA declined by 69% y-
o-y to USD 83 million, which also included a one-off
USD 27 million insurance reimbursement for prop-
erty damage and business interruption.
FY2025 outlook
The key factor driving the performance in FY2025
will be the unfavorable S&D balance in Ukraine, as
sunflower harvest will reduce, but crush capacities
keep growing to result in the largest-ever deficit of
seeds in the country, sharpening the competition for
the feedstock and depressing margins.
3.2 million tons of
oilseeds processed in
FY2024
EBITDA
(before unallocated head office expenses)
USD 83 million
-69% y-o-y
Revenue
USD 1,864 million
-2% y-o-y
Sustaining excellence amidst adversity
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
13
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Oilseed Processing continued
Management
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Corporate
Governance
Financial
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Market overview
Historically, the two key factors were materi-
ally affecting Kernel’s oilseed processing busi-
ness: 1) the global sunflower oil prices, im-
pacting the combined earnings of local sun-
flower seed farming and processing; and 2)
the sunflower seed supply-demand balance
in Ukraine, which determined the profit distri-
bution between farmers and crushers in the
country.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in
February 2022, capabilities to export sun-
flower oil and meal via channels other than
Ukrainian Black Sea ports and the cost of such
logistics became a new important factor. As
new export routes have been established in
FY2023 and Black Sea ports (specifically
Odesa, Chornomorsk, and Pivdennyi) fully re-
sumed operations starting from mid-October
2023, the market has returned to the normal
course of business.
Supply-demand balance
Over the years, Ukraine's sunflower seed pro-
cessing has been heavily localized, with the
vast majority of sunflower seeds harvested by
local farmers being then processed within the
country. Import-export activities for sunflower
seeds were negligible, and there was minimal
carry-over stock between seasons. However,
this landscape underwent a significant trans-
formation following February 2022. Large vol-
umes of sunflower seeds were exported dur-
ing FY2022-FY2023. However, in FY2024 the
situation on the market returned to normal so
that only 0.3 million tons of sunflower seeds
were exported, and the rest of the harvested
seeds were processed.
In FY2024, sunflower seed processing ca-
pacity in Ukraine increased by 13% y-o-y, to
18.7
1
million tons (not including the plants on
the occupied territories or those with sus-
pended operations for the whole or part of the
season due to the proximity of the frontline).
Local crushers that ceased operations in the
previous two seasons resumed production, in-
creasing the competition for the feedstock.
Sunflower seed harvest increased by 2.2
million tons, to 14.6 million tons, driven by the
larger harvested area and higher yields on the
back of supportive weather conditions. At the
same time, the carry-in stock was substan-
tially lower than for FY2023, which all together
widened the gap between crushing capac-
ities and supply of seeds, squeezing the
crushing margin over the season.
1
Source: Kernel’s estimate.
2
Source: USDA.
3
Source: Kernel’s estimate.
Global sunflower oil prices
Sunflower oil is the fourth-largest consumed
vegetable oil in the world, with a 9.6% mar-
ket share in the 2023/24 season. The largest
consumers and importers are India, EU,
China, Turkey, Iran, Iraq, and Egypt, collec-
tively accounting for 80% of the global imports.
Meanwhile, Ukraine stands as the largest
global exporter, contributing 42% to the total
exports
2
. Throughout the 2023/24 season,
Ukraine exported 6.3 million tons of sunflower
oil, marking an 18% y-o-y increase. In
FY2024, we accounted for ~22% of Ukraine’s
sunflower oil export
3
.
In FY2024, the vegetable oil market experi-
enced significant volatility influenced by a
complex interplay of geopolitical events,
weather patterns, policies, and evolving de-
mand dynamics. However, vegetable oil
prices demonstrated adequate resilience,
avoiding sharp declines and maintaining a rel-
atively stable trajectory albeit remaining at low
levels:
A notable price rally occurred in July 2023,
primarily driven by uncertainty over Black
Sea exports and adverse weather condi-
tions impacting North American soybean
and canola crops. Concurrently, U.S. bio-
diesel demand was on the rise, particularly
for soybean oil, as more states pushed for
renewable fuel mandates. This surge in bi-
odiesel demand further supported prices
during the marketing year.
Subsequently, the market experienced a
period of stabilization as active oilseed
crushing in the Northern Hemisphere was
followed by a slowdown in global demand.
However, concerns over Brazilian soybean
planting conditions and continued strong
U.S. biodiesel demand supported prices. By
December, improved weather in Brazil and
a record sunflower crop contributed to a
more comfortable supply and demand bal-
ance.
A palm oil deficit emerged in early 2024 in
the main production areas of Malaysia and
Indonesia, leading to a price hike that pulled
up the values of all vegetable oils. Sun-
flower oil filled the shortage of palm oil in In-
dia, the biggest consumer of vegetable oils.
Following the switches between different
kinds of vegetable oils and further improve-
ment in palm oil production, a downward
correction occurred, causing a redistribution
of the demand pool, which accelerated over
time due to a more active crush and in-
creased export supply of South American
soybean oil during May-June 2024.
Prices rebounded again in May and re-
mained strong until mid-July, driven by tight-
ening rapeseed supplies in Europe, drought
in the Black Sea area affecting sunflower
crops, and tighter balance sheets in the en-
ergy markets, with crude oil and gasoil re-
visiting year highs.
Outlook for FY2025
In FY2025, the global vegetable oil market is
projected to be relatively balanced.
Key factors shaping the prices include abun-
dant soybean availability offsetting tighter sup-
plies of palm, sunflower, and rapeseed oils,
South American crop weather, and evolving
policies. Given the anticipated tight supply,
which will become more evident in the second
part of the crop year, sunflower oil is expected
to trade at a noticeable premium compared to
competing oils, following the supply seasonal-
ity patterns predominantly in the Black Sea re-
gion.
Kernel's primary concern for FY2025 is the
significant imbalance in Ukraine’s sunflower
seed market. The forecast for the season indi-
cates the largest-ever gap between the
oilseed harvest and processing capacities,
posing a major challenge for the industry.
……………………………………………………………………
Sunflower oil price, FOB 6 ports
USD per ton of unrefined oil sold in bulk
Source: Agricensus,
Kernel
600
800
1,000
1,200
1,400
1,600
1,800
2,000
2,200
2,400
2,600
2,800
FY2024
FY2021 FY2022 FY2023
……………………………………………………………………………………
Processing capacities in
FY2024
million tons
Source: Kernel’s estimates
17%
14%
8%
24%
37%
Kernel Multinationals MHP
Local big Local small
18.7
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Our business model
Market leader in oilseed processing
Kernel is the leading global producer and ex-
porter of sunflower oil. In FY2024, we ac-
counted for ~6% of global sunflower oil pro-
duction and ~9% of global sunflower oil ex-
port
1
.
Asset base
Kernel owns seven oilseed processing plants
across various regions in Ukraine
2
. Following
the mid-season launch of its new plant in west-
ern Ukraine in February 2024, the Group ef-
fectively operated 3.2 million tons of sun-
flower seed processing capacity in FY2024
(17% of Ukraine’s total
3
) but will have 4 mil-
lion tons for full-season operation in
FY2025 (20% of Ukraine’s total
4
).
Most of the Group's crushing facilities are
multi-seed, enabling the processing of soy-
beans or rapeseed as needed. These assets
operate year-round, with maintenance typi-
cally scheduled for one month during the sum-
mer.
At our plants, we have constructed six cogen-
eration heat and power facilities (CHPs)
that utilize sunflower husk (biomass) to gener-
ate electricity for sale to the national grid, with
a combined capacity of 84.4 MW. These
CHPs also enable us to power our crushing
operations and achieve energy self-sufficiency
during power outages in Ukraine.
The oilseed processing plant in Poltava is
equipped with refinery, bottling, and pack-
aging lines, featuring a maximum annual re-
fining capacity of 131.4 thousand tons of oil.
The Group’s crushing plants are modern, well-
maintained facilities that are regularly up-
graded, providing Kernel with processing cost
advantages over many competitors. Energy
self-sufficiency is also an important advantage
in the current Ukrainian market. Additionally,
Kernel’s scale enables more efficient utiliza-
tion of the Group’s nationwide origination net-
work and better allocation of overhead costs
over larger volumes.
All the assets are located across the sunflower
seed production belt in Ukraine in close prox-
imity to farmers, which supports crush
1
Source: USDA, Kernel analysis.
2
Two of Kernel’s oilseed processing plants, which were occupied by Russia at the beginning of the war in February 2022, remained non-operational during the reporting
period, being located close to the Russian border and regularly suffering from Russian air attacks. Closer to the end of FY2024 and due to the Russian offensive in the
Kharkiv region, these facilities sustained severe damages, making the restoration of processing capacities unfeasible in the foreseeable future. Both assets were fully
impaired back in FY2022.
3
Source: Kernel’s estimates.
4
Source: Kernel’s estimates.
5
In previous years, bulk sunflower oil sales were primarily managed through our Avere subsidiary reaching CIF-basis destinations and earning additional margin for
Infrastructure and Trading segment. However, since FY2023, we have shifted our strategy to focus more on direct sales. In FY2024, Avere handled only 11% of our
total edible oil sales.
capacities utilization rates and profitability, as
the low density of sunflower seed negatively
impacts the economics of long-distance seed
transportation.
Origination and production
The Group heavily relies on procuring sun-
flower seeds from external farmers, as the
Group’s Farming segment secured only 11%
of the sunflower seeds and 25% of the rape-
seeds processed in FY2024.
Sunflower seed processing yields two primary
products: sunflower oil and meal, both of
which are exported globally. These products
are loaded to vessels in ports primarily
through the Group’s own terminals.
Sunflower seed husk, a biomass by-product,
is primarily burned in-house to generate steam
for production purposes and electricity for in-
ternal use and sale to the national grid.
Sales
Vegetable oil in bulk
Oilseed processing is primarily export-ori-
ented, with over 90% of produced sunflower
oil exported in bulk to key markets such as In-
dia, Europe, UAE, China, and Iraq. In FY2024,
87% of bulk oils sales were on CIF/CFR terms,
while FOB sales accounted for 7% of the
Group’s export volume
5
.
Nearly 600 thousand tons of vegetable oil
were exported through Danube River ports, in-
cluding our Reni port facility, as we decided to
maintain this export channel considering the
uncertainty in the export logistics. Another 600
thousand tons were shipped via our deep-wa-
ter terminals in Chornomorsk and Pivdennyi,
with the remaining volumes primarily trans-
ported by inland rail.
Our tanker 'Mavka' transported 219 thousand
tons of oil to destinations such as Turkey, Italy,
and Spain, while also serving as a shuttle be-
tween Reni and Constanta when Ukrainian
Black Sea ports were unavailable.
Kernel’s main customers are soft commodity
processors refine and bottle sunflower oil, and
international traders. The largest customer in
FY2024 was Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd,
contributing 7.5% of total bulk oil sales.
……………………………………………………………………………………
Edible oil sold in bulk destinations FY2024
thousand tons
45%
30%
6%
5%
5%
9%
India Europe UAE Iraq China Other
1,393
……………………………………………………………………………………
Bottled sunflower oil destinations FY2024
million liters
42%
42%
6%
4%
3%
Ukraine Europe Middle East
Africa ASIA Other
91
……………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel oilseed processing volumes
thousand tons
Note 1: We revised processing
volumes, adding volumes processed un-
der the tolling agreements
629
663
482
490
610
951
1,001
985
687
811
941
902
563
745
816
916
617
157
655
953
3,436
3,183
2,187
2,577
3,191
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Q1 (ends 30 Sep) Q2 (ends 31 Dec)
Q3 (ends 31 Mar) Q4 (ends 30 Jun)
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Since FY2023, Kernel has been engaged in
sunflower oil trading, purchasing oil on a
CPT basis in Ukraine and exporting it on
CIF/CFR terms. We exported 38 thousand
tons of oil in such a way in FY2024, an 18%
growth y-o-y, capturing trading margins from
this business.
Vegetable meals
Sunflower meal is also a fully export-oriented
product, with exports primarily handled
through the Group’s terminal in Chornomorsk,
and some volumes shipped via Danube River
ports and inland routes.
Bottled sunflower oil
In FY2024, about 9% (131 thousand tons) of
crude sunflower oil was further refined, with
64% (84 thousand tons) of this refined volume
bottled at our Poltava plant, generating addi-
tional margin from this higher value-added
product. The remaining refined oil was sold in
bulk.
In FY2024, 58% of bottled sunflower oil pro-
duction was exported to Europe, the Middle
East, Asia, and Africa under Kernel brands
and private labels. Kernel held a 19% share of
Ukraine's total refined bottled sunflower oil ex-
ports, supplying international retailers like
Walmart and Maxima.
42% of bottled oil was sold domestically
through 20 nationwide retailers and 28 re-
gional distributors. Domestic sales were split
77% to retailers and 23% to distributors under
brands like "Schedryi Dar," "Stozhar," and
"Chumak."
Renewable energy
All renewable energy produced by Kernel’s
CHPs was previously sold under long-term
power purchase agreements to the state-
owned enterprise "Guaranteed Buyer," which
was obligated to purchase the energy at a
fixed feed-in tariff of 0.12 EUR/kWh until 2030.
However, since September 2024, we have
shifted to selling electricity on the open mar-
ket, as the energy deficit in Ukraine caused
by Russian attacks on the country’s energy in-
frastructure has driven day-ahead market
prices to levels that make selling to "Guaran-
teed Buyer" less attractive.
Contractual commitments
As of June 30, 2024, the Group had contrac-
tual commitments to sell 186 thousand tons
of sunflower oil for USD 184 million (USD 988
per ton) and 11 thousand tons of sunflower
meal for USD 40 million (USD 270 per ton).
1
Includes USD 19 million invested in CHP equipment at our Vovchansk oil extraction plant, which was written off in FY2022 due to the war.
Key developments
Completion of large-scale investment
program
In FY2024, we completed strategic investment
projects initiated back in FY2018, which had
been delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic
and the war in Ukraine.
Renewable energy investment program
The project involved installing co-generation
heat and power (CHP) units at our oil-extrac-
tion plants to burn sunflower husk, a biomass
by-product, and generating electricity for both
grid sale and internal use, as well as steam for
sunflower oil production.
Before the full-scale war in Ukraine, four CHP
units with a combined capacity of 44.4 MW
were completed. In December 2023, we
launched a fifth 20 MW unit at the Prydniprov-
skyi oil extraction plant, with total costs of USD
46 million. After the reporting period, in Octo-
ber 2024, we commissioned the final 20 MW
CHP unit at our new plant in the Khmelnytskyi
region, costing USD 48 million.
Although the loss of our plant in the Kharkiv
region together with ready-to-install CHP
equipment reduced the project's scope, we
still became Ukraine's largest biomass elec-
tricity producer, with 84.4 MW of power gener-
ation capacity. This asset portfolio strengthens
our resilience to power outages and supports
the profitability of the Oilseed Processing seg-
ment. The project is strategically important
nowadays, contributing to Ukraine’s energy
security, reducing power outage and business
interruption risks for Kernel, and promoting en-
vironmental sustainability.
Total project investments amounted to USD
237
1
million.
Brand-new oilseed processing plant
In February 2024, the Group commissioned its
state-of-the-art oilseed processing plant in the
Khmelnytskyi region, western Ukraine. With
an annual processing capacity of 1 million tons
of sunflower seeds, it is the largest facility of
its kind in Ukraine. By the end of the reporting
period, the plant was operating at full capacity,
processing both sunflower seeds and rape-
seed.
War impact
The ongoing war in Ukraine has had a pro-
found impact on our operations, manifesting in
several areas:
Assets destruction. At the start of FY2024,
two of our oilseed processing plants in the
Kharkiv region, with a combined annual pro-
cessing capacity of 0.5 million tons of
sunflower seeds, remained shut down due
to their proximity to active hostilities and fre-
quent missile and artillery attacks. These fa-
cilities have been closed since FY2022.
Many employees were relocated and rede-
ployed at other Company plants, and valua-
ble equipment was transferred to other fa-
cilities. However, by the end of FY2024, our
Vovchansk oilseed processing plant in the
Kharkiv region was completely destroyed
following a Russian offensive and heavy
fighting in the town. Our second plant in the
region, located in Prykolotne, sustained se-
vere damage from bombardments, tragi-
cally resulting in the loss of two employees
and injuries to three more.
Logistics disruptions. At the beginning of
FY2024, Russia’s unilateral termination of
the Black Sea Grain Initiative and subse-
quent attacks on Ukraine's port infrastruc-
ture severely disrupted our logistics. With
the blockage of seaborne exports, espe-
cially for sunflower meal, our oilseed pro-
cessing operations were threatened. Stock-
piling of sunflower meal led to plant stop-
pages, and during Q1 FY2024, we shipped
……………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel bottled oil core brands
………………………………………………………………………………..
Kernel bottled oil selected customer
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only 159 thousand tons of meal. Fortu-
nately, the Black Sea was de-blocked by the
Ukrainian navy in autumn 2023, allowing
exports to resume. In Q2 FY2024 (October
December 2023), we shipped 399 thousand
tons of meal, returning to a normal export
pace. A more prolonged blockade would
have severely disrupted our oilseed pro-
cessing operations, as sunflower meal
sales are crucial to the business, and it is
unsustainable to export only sunflower oil
without sunflower meal.
Power outages. In the second half of
FY2024, Russian attacks on Ukraine's en-
ergy infrastructure intensified, causing
widespread blackouts and power outages.
These outages, along with power surges,
led to temporary stoppages of machinery
and equipment. In some instances, it took
several days to restore operations to nor-
mal, further impacting our production ca-
pacity.
Conscription of employees. The ongoing
war has also impacted our workforce, as
employee conscription into the Ukrainian
military created significant labor shortages
at our crushing plants. Finding and retaining
qualified personnel became increasingly
difficult, especially in high-risk regions. The
need to frequently replace conscripted em-
ployees disrupted operations and added
pressure to the remaining workforce, affect-
ing plant productivity and efficiency.
Headcount
In FY2024, the headcount in the Oilseed
Processing segment decreased by 2% y-o-
y, to 2,479 employees. No war-related staff
cuts were introduced during FY2024.
Performance overview
In FY2024, Kernel processed 3.2 million
tons of oilseeds
1
, up 24% y-o-y, achieving
98% capacity utilization of its oil extraction
plants. This increase was driven by the expan-
sion of crushing capacity following the com-
missioning of the new oil extraction plant in
western Ukraine in February 2024, as well as
the uninterrupted operation of existing facili-
ties. Processed volumes include 127 thou-
sand tons of own rapeseeds and 188 thou-
sand tons of oilseeds via tolling agreements in
FY2024 (nil and 75 thousand tons respectively
in FY2023), to maximize plants’ capacity utili-
zation. Kernel’s market share in Ukraine’s
sunflower seed processing is estimated at
21% for FY2024, unchanged as compared to
FY2023.
With increased processing volumes, edible
oil sales grew by 30% y-o-y, reaching 1,477
thousand tons in FY2024 (1,430 thousand
tons of sunflower oil and 47 thousand tons of
1
Includes 188 thousand tons of oilseeds processed by Kernel plants in FY2024 via tolling agreements.
rapeseed oil). This includes 84 thousand tons
of bottled sunflower oil (a 2% decrease y-o-y)
and 38 thousand tons of sunflower oil pur-
chased on a CPT basis in Ukraine and ex-
ported (an 18% increase y-o-y).
In addition to edible oil sales, the Group sold
1,207 thousand tons of sunflower meal and
43 thousand tons of rapeseed meal, both
by-products of the oilseeds crushing process.
While less valuable than oil, sunflower meal
sales are essential for capturing the full crush-
ing margin and preventing stockpiles, which
could disrupt plant operations. Smooth sales
are critical due to the relatively short shelf life
of sunflower meal.
The Oilseed Processing segment EBITDA in
FY2024 declined by 69% y-o-y to USD 83 mil-
lion. Key elements influencing FY2024 earn-
ings include:
A reduction in crushing margin, primarily
due to weak global sunflower oil prices, with
reduced logistics costs and insurance pre-
miums partially offsetting the impact.
Higher processing and sales volumes
driven by new capacities added in FY2024,
though insufficient to fully compensate for
margin decline.
Due to the deteriorating market conditions,
increased competition in Ukraine's oilseed
processing sector, and higher future risks,
we recognized a one-off impairment loss
of property, plant, and equipment, as well as
goodwill, totaling USD 167 million. Also, we
recognized a USD 5 million loss on impair-
ment of prepayments to suppliers and other
current assets.
Increased contributions from the renew-
able energy business line. Following the
launch of the fifth CHP unit with a capacity
of 20 MW, we sold to the grid or replaced
the purchase from the grid of 369 GWh of
electricity in FY2024 (vs 231 GWh in
FY2023). As a result, renewable energy
generation resulted in USD 24 million
EBITDA in FY2024, up from USD 12 million
a year ago.
Bottled oil sales contributed USD 14 mil-
lion EBITDA, down from a record USD 22
million in FY2023, as bottled oil premium
over unrefined bulk oil normalized in
FY2024.
A one-time gain of USD 27 million from
insurance payments for property damage
and business interruption due to the Rus-
sian invasion of Ukraine.
As a result, EBITDA per ton of oil sold in
FY2024 was USD 56, down 76% y-o-y.
FY2025 outlook
The upcoming season is expected to bring sig-
nificant challenges for the crushing business,
worsened by the ongoing war in Ukraine.
While we entered FY2025 with record-high
processing capacity (7 plants with a total an-
nual crushing capacity of 4 million tons), max-
imizing utilization will be a difficult task. De-
spite opening stocks of 200 thousand tons of
sunflower seeds nearly 3x higher than last
……………………………………………………………………………………
Oilseed Processing segment EBITDA
152
51
(70)
270
83
100
37
(73)
237
56
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
USD million USD / ton of oil sold
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Oilseed Processing segment performance
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
Oilseeds processed
thousand tons
2,577
3,191
24%
Edible oil sales
thousand tons
1,139
1,477
30%
Revenue
USD million
1,908
1,864
(2%)
EBITDA
USD million
270
83
(69%)
EBITDA per ton of oil sold
USD / ton
237
56
(76%)
EBITDA margin
% of revenue
14.2%
4.5%
(68%)
……………………………………………………………………………………
Meal sales by type of oilseeds
thousand tons
1,420
1,408
889
984
1,207
1,420
1,408
962
984
1,250
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Sunflower meal Rapeseed meal
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year this is unlikely to offset the unfavorable
supply-demand environment expected in
FY2025.
Supply-demand balance
Sunflower seed supply in Ukraine
We expect Ukraine's sunflower seed harvest
in 2024 to decline by 17% y-o-y to 12.1 million
tons, driven by:
Crop yield reduction: dry weather during
the pollination and ripening periods is ex-
pected to reduce yields by 12% y-o-y to
2.26 tons per hectare.
Reduced harvested area: we estimate the
2024 sunflower acreage to decline by 6% y-
o-y to 5.4 million hectares, as farmers, in-
cluding Kernel’s farming business, shift to a
more sustainable crop mix, reducing sun-
flower plantings from the unsustainably high
levels seen during the early war years in
Ukraine.
While some relief may come from the surpris-
ingly high oil content in sunflower seeds ob-
served at the beginning of the season, it is un-
likely to compensate for the production drop.
Oilseed processing capacities
Crushing capacity in Ukraine is expected
to reach 20 million tons in FY2025, a 7% y-
o-y increase driven by new plant construction.
This will widen the gap between crushing ca-
pacity and sunflower seed supply to a record
8.1 million tons, with industry capacity utiliza-
tion projected to fall to an all-time low of 60%.
The most recent low point was FY2021 when
Kernel generated just USD 37 EBITDA per ton
of oil sold. Margin pressure is already evident
at the beginning of the season, as farmers
hold back oilseeds, expecting higher prices.
Competition for oilseeds will be intense, lead-
ing to early shutdowns of processing plants
and a shift towards processing other oilseeds.
We will face a trade-off between optimizing ca-
pacity utilization and maximizing margins but
aim to maintain above-market utilization lev-
els.
At the start of the season, two of our oil extrac-
tion plants switched to rapeseed processing,
and we plan to test soybean processing for the
first time. Additionally, we will continue offering
tolling services and processing oilseeds pro-
vided by third parties.
War impact
War risks remain the most significant threat to
our business. There is a risk of damage to port
infrastructure and crushing plants. Blackouts
in Ukraine, due to ongoing Russian attacks on
the country’s energy grid, could also disrupt
the inland railway transportation of sunflower
oil and meal. Finally, the conscription of our
employees may cause business interruptions.
For example, in early August 2024, our largest
oilseed processing plant in western Ukraine
was damaged by a Russian drone attack,
leading to a temporary shutdown. The esti-
mated damage was USD 341 thousand. Op-
erations resumed in September 2024 after a
month of pre-season maintenance and re-
pairs.
Although we have taken steps to reduce these
risks by diversifying export channels and in-
vesting in energy self-sufficiency, the full im-
pact of the war remains unpredictable.
Other profit drivers
Our electricity generation business is ex-
pected to grow in FY2025. In October 2024,
we commissioned the final 20 MW CHP unit,
bringing our total capacity to 84.4 MW. We aim
to sell over 500 GWh to the grid in FY2025, a
36% y-o-y increase, which will serve as a ba-
sis for earnings growth.
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FY2024 was one of the most challenging periods in
Kernel’s history, particularly for the Infrastructure and
Trading segment, which faced severe disruptions in
export logistics and the constant threat of war-related
damage to core assets.
The season began as a total disaster: major export
routes via Ukrainian Black Sea ports were blocked
as Russia terminated the Black Sea Grain Initiative,
key assets were hit by Russian missile and drone at-
tacks, inventories remained high, and there was no
clear outlook for improvement. The ongoing Russian
invasion of Ukraine casted a long shadow over the
Group’s operations.
Fortunately, after three months of uncertainty, civil
navigation through Ukrainian Black Sea ports re-
sumed in October 2023, providing much-needed re-
lief. This allowed Kernel to increase grain export vol-
umes to 5.5 million tons in FY2024, up 47% y-o-y,
reinforcing its position as Ukraine’s largest grain ex-
porter with a 10% market share. We also significantly
reduced inventory levels from 1.1 million tons at the
start of the season to 0.4 million tons by season’s
end, much closer to pre-war norms. Finally, we re-
sumed active grain procurements, originating 3.3 mil-
lion tons of grain in Ukraine in FY2024, a 3.3x growth
y-o-y.
Despite the adversities, Kernel demonstrated re-
markable resilience, leveraging its extensive logisti-
cal network and adaptive strategies. Investments in
additional transshipment capacity at Reni and Chor-
nomorsk, alongside the expansion of rail and fleet as-
sets, helped mitigate some of the logistical bottle-
necks caused by the war.
Subsequently, the segment generated USD 204 mil-
lion in EBITDA, including a USD 53 million contribu-
tion from Avere's global trading operations unrelated
to Ukraine and a loss of USD 61 million due to im-
pairment of assets.
FY2025 Outlook
The reliance on Black Sea ports remains critical, and
any future escalation could once again halt export
operations. Russia continues to jeopardize global
food security by targeting civilian vessels carrying
grain, as well as port infrastructure. Ongoing security
concerns, fluctuating export routes, and the unpre-
dictability of global markets will continue to test Ker-
nel’s Infrastructure and Trading segment for resili-
ence in FY2025.
Additional pressure is expected due to a reduced
grain supply in Ukraine available for export in
FY2025, unlike the previous two seasons. Grain ex-
ports in FY2025 are projected to decline by 10.8 mil-
lion tons y-o-y, a 22% drop. This will likely lead to
underutilized capacities and depressed margins
across the entire export value chain.
Despite these challenges, Kernel’s commitment to
adaptability, operational efficiency, and strategic in-
vestments will be crucial in navigating the uncertain
and volatile environment ahead.
Exported 5.5 million
tons of grains from
Ukraine in FY2024
EBITDA
(before unallocated head office expenses)
USD 204 million
+33% y-o-y
Navigating unprecedented challenges
Revenue
USD 2,011 million
-23% y-o-y
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Market overview
The key market factors impacting the perfor-
mance of the Infrastructure and Trading seg-
ment include the availability of Ukrainian Black
Sea ports for export operations, the size of the
grain harvest in Ukraine, and global grain price
dynamics. Additional factors include competi-
tion among grain traders and grain infrastruc-
ture assets, to name a few.
Grain export corridor
Following the termination of the UN-brokered
Black Sea Grain Initiative (BSGI) on 17 July
2023, Russia withdrew its security guarantees
for navigation to Ukraine's deep-sea ports and
launched regular attacks on port and agricul-
tural infrastructure. The BSGI had been crucial
for the export of agricultural products from
Ukraine in FY2023, and its termination posed
a significant financial risk to the Group in
FY2024.
On 16 August 2023, the first vessel departed
from Odesa Port using a temporary corridor
for commercial navigation established by the
Ukrainian Navy. However, the first inbound
vessel did not arrive until 16 September, with
normal shipping traffic only resuming in mid-
October 2023. From October 2023 to June
2024, 43.6 million tons of grain were exported
from Ukraine
1
, with 76% of this volume
shipped via deep-water routes through the
Black Sea ports.
Grain supply in Ukraine
In FY2024, Ukrainian farmers harvested 58
million tons
2
of grain, up 11% y-o-y. Although
acreage under grains (corn, wheat, and bar-
ley) decreased by 9% y-o-y to 10 million hec-
tares as farmers shifted toward oilseeds,
strong crop yields (up 14-23% y-o-y) contrib-
uted to the overall increase in crop size. Com-
bined with high carry-in stocks of 8 million
tons, this ensured a robust domestic grain
supply for the FY2024 season.
Despite the closure of Ukrainian Black Sea
ports for export operations from July to mid-
October 2023, Ukraine's grain exports sur-
passed 50 million tons in FY2024, an 8% y-o-
y increase. Ukraine became the third-largest
global exporter in the 2023/24 season, follow-
ing the USA, and Russia, and holding an 11%
market share in global grain trade
3
.
Competition among grain traders
Historically, we have competed with estab-
lished multinational trade houses such as
COFCO, Cargill, ADM, Bunge, Louis Dreyfus,
and Glencore, along with numerous local
1
Three key grains: corn, wheat, and barley. Source: Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, Kernel’s analysis.
2
Three key grains: corn, wheat, and barley. Source: Kernel’s estimates as of October 2024.
3
Three key grains: corn, wheat, and barley. Source: USDA, as of October 2024.
peers. Over the past two years, many new,
smaller players have entered the grain export
market, swiftly managing trade operations and
gaining market share by utilizing alternative
export routes during turbulent times. In this in-
creasingly competitive landscape, Kernel lev-
erages its extensive infrastructure network
and logistical assets to maintain a competitive
edge.
Global grain prices
FY2024 was marked by significant volatility in
the grain markets, driven by geopolitical fac-
tors, weather conditions, and irregular pur-
chasing activity:
Russia's withdrawal from the BSGI in July
2023 triggered a sharp price spike due to
concerns over future wheat supplies from
the region. However, Ukrainian exports con-
tinued via Danube ports, albeit at reduced
volumes. At the same time, the market was
flooded with cheap Russian grain following
a second consecutive bumper crop, and the
corn market faced pressure from Brazil's
record corn harvest, leading to a sharp price
decline in August.
Price stabilization occurred in September
2023, primarily due to short positions held
by funds, ongoing tensions in the Black
Sea, and drought conditions in Australia.
Global grain oversupply intensified again in
October and November as the Ukrainian
maritime corridor reopened and record corn
harvests in Brazil and the U.S. struggled to
find sufficient import demand.
China's unexpected purchase of U.S. wheat
in late November provided a reprieve from
downward price pressure. However, prices
continued to decline due to overproduction
and weak global demand. The crisis in the
Red Sea increased freight rates, further ex-
acerbating market bearishness and forcing
sellers to lower their prices.
In March 2024, wheat prices experienced a
significant drop following the cancellation of
0.5 million tons of contracted wheat by Chi-
nese buyers. This cancellation underscored
the ongoing uncertainty in demand and con-
tributed to bearish market sentiment. Sub-
sequent price consolidation was supported
by dry conditions in Brazil and the U.S., rais-
ing concerns about the harvests of safrinha
corn and hard red winter wheat.
A sharp rally in wheat prices began in the
second half of April 2024, driven by severe
drought conditions in Russia, which height-
ened fears about potential supply short-
ages. However, prices began to decline
again in June ahead of the Northern Hemi-
sphere harvest, as the market anticipated
an abundant grain supply.
……………………………………………………………………..
Top 5 grain exporters from Ukraine in
FY2024
% of total grain export
Source: Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, Kernel
10%
7%
6%
5%
4%
Kernel
Louis Dreyfus
Nibulon
ADM
Cargill
……………………………………………………………………..
Grain exports from Ukraine by transport in
FY2024
thousand tons
Source: Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, Kernel
66%
23%
10%
1%
Black Sea ports Danube ports
Railway Trucks
50.6
……………………………………………………………………..
Corn and feed wheat prices, FOB Ukraine
USD per ton
Source: Agricensus, Kernel
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
Corn Feed wheat
FY2024FY2021 FY2022 FY2023
……………………………………………………………………..
Grain exports by transport mode in FY2024
million tons
Source: Ministry of Agrarian Policy and Food of Ukraine, Kernel
2.5
2.4
2.1
2.5
3.8
5.4
5.3
5.8
5.2
5.5
3.9
Jul-23
Aug-23
Sep-23
Oct-23
Nov-23
Dec-23
Jan-24
Feb-24
Mar-24
Apr-24
May-24
Jun-24
Black Sea ports Danube River ports
Railway Trucks
6.3
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Our business model
The Infrastructure and Trading segment con-
sists of two business arms:
Grain and sunflower oil export value
chain in Ukraine. This arm comprises inter-
connected business units that form a supply
chain linking Ukrainian farmers to global
markets: silo services, transportation and
logistics assets, export terminals, vessels,
grain origination, and export operations in
Ukraine.
Avere's global physical and proprietary
trading operations.
Grain export business in Ukraine
Kernel is the leading grain exporter from
the Black Sea region and the largest from
Ukraine. The Group sources grain from local
growers, including its own Farming segment,
and exports it from Ukraine, effectively navi-
gating this low-margin business by leveraging
the following:
Experienced procurement team with na-
tionwide presence and deep understanding
of local trends and regional peculiarities;
First-hand access to the unique in Ukraine
own infrastructure the largest private
silo network, the largest private fleet of grain
railcars, as well as the largest deep-water
grain transshipment capacity in ports and
own vessels;
Prudent risk management: locking up the
margins by selling grain through forward
contracts in a similar time frame as purchas-
ing it from farmers on the spot market
1
;
Client-focused approach: Kernel differen-
tiates itself through strong farmer relation-
ships managed via the IBuyMore CRM sys-
tem and supported by numerous value-
added initiatives:
Kernel, once a major pre-crop finan-
cier with loan amounts and prepay-
ments to farmers reaching USD 120
million at its peak, suspended this initi-
ative due to the war. However, it was re-
sumed towards the end of the reporting
period, albeit on a smaller scale
Through the Open Agribusiness initi-
ative, Kernel shares expertise and pro-
vides various services to third-party
farmers operating on a total of 148 thou-
sand hectares of land.
Kernel also provides advanced IT solu-
tions, such as an electronic document
flow system to streamline paperwork
and Transithub, a virtual truck naviga-
tion solution for logistics providers.
Approximately 2/3 of Kernel’s grain exports
are corn. Wheat is the second-largest export,
accounting for 20-30% annually, with the re-
mainder consisting of barley, soybeans, and
1
Deviations from such approach may appear during the business disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine.
2
ISCC certification confirms that corn was produced in an environmentally and socially sustainable way, making it suitable for use in bioethanol production.
3
Transshipment capacity was revised after the missile attack on 19 July 2023 damaged the terminal’s infrastructure.
rapeseed. Most of the exported grain is used
for feed, but we also export grain for human
consumption (0.8 million tons of food-quality
wheat in FY2024, flat y-o-y) and for bioetha-
nol production (1.6 million tons of ISCC-
compliant
2
corn exported in FY2024, granting
a price premium over conventional corn).
In FY2024, more than 85% of Kernel’s grain
exports from Ukraine were sold on a CIF/CFR
basis, with Kernel handling sea transportation
to the destination port. FOB sales accounted
for almost 12% of the Group’s export volumes
during the period.
Silo services
Kernel operates the largest private inland
silo network in Ukraine consisting of 28 silos
with a total grain storage capacity of 2.2 million
tons. Our network includes both highly produc-
tive silos capable of loading shuttle trains (54
railcars) in a day, and smaller, less efficient
floor-type storages.
Strategically located in Ukraine’s key grain-
producing regions, these silos provide a full
range of services, including grain intake, dry-
ing, cleaning, storage, and off-loading, serving
both our Farming segment and third-party
farmers. Grain intake starts with wheat in July
and ends with corn in November-December,
enabling seasonal turnover of more than 1.0x
storage capacity.
Beyond standard services, Kernel’s silo net-
work is a critical grain origination tool. It al-
lows procurement teams to acquire grain and
sunflower seeds from within a 100-kilometer
radius, making Kernel a preferred partner for
farmers. This network also strengthens rela-
tionships with farmers and provides valuable
insights into Ukraine’s grain supply.
Transportation and logistics assets
Kernel operates a fleet of transportation and
logistics assets to deliver grain, sunflower oil,
and meal to Ukrainian ports or for inland ex-
ports:
Grain railcars: Kernel is the largest private
operator of grain railcars in Ukraine, holding
an 11% market share with 3,400 railcars.
These railcars transport grain from Kernel-
owned and third-party silos to transship-
ment terminals. Ownership allows Kernel to
save on lease costs, though railway traction
and infrastructure fees still apply. Since the
war began, 8% of the Group's railcars have
been stuck in Russian-occupied territories,
but the remaining fleet strongly supports ex-
port operations.
Specialized containers: Kernel owns 100
specialized railway containers for transport-
ing grain and sunflower meal, along with
400 tank containers for sunflower oil.
Rail flatcars: the Group operates 99
flatcars to transport containers by rail.
Railway tanks: Kernel has 77 railway tanks
for sunflower oil transportation.
Vehicles: the Group also owns 26 tanker
trucks for sunflower oil and 77 trucks with
trailers for grain transport.
Export terminals
Kernel is one of the largest port operators
in Ukraine, with infrastructure that includes:
TransBulkTerminal in the deep-water port
of Chornomorsk, the largest grain trans-
shipment facility in Ukraine with a capac-
ity to handle 8.0
3
million tons of grain per
annum. It is capable of servicing over-Pan-
amax vessels with deadweights of up to
100,000 tons and maximum berth loading of
up to 80,000 tons. As a core asset for Ker-
nel, it is critical for handling the Group’s ex-
ports, with no viable alternative for this ca-
pacity.
TGT-Oil terminal in Chornomorsk port,
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel grain export from Ukraine destina-
tions
million tons
………………………………………………………………………
Kernel grain export from Ukraine
million tons
52%
40%
7%
Europe Asia Middle East Other
5.5
69%
69%
61%
77%
63%
26%
23%
21%
17%
30%
7.9 8.0 8.0
3.7
5.5
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Corn Wheat Other
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acquired in July 2023, with a sunflower oil
transshipment capacity of 1.4 million tons
per year and storage capacity of 97 thou-
sand tons. It is a Group’s core asset for sun-
flower oil loading to vessels.
OilExportTerminal in the deep-water port
of Pivdennyi, with an annual capacity to
transship 0.5 million tons of sunflower oil.
Reni-Oil terminal in the port of Reni on the
Danube River, acquired in FY2024, with a
capacity of 700 thousand tons of sunflower
oil annually.
Danube Prom Agro terminal in the river
port of Reni, allowing to export of 0.4 million
tons of grain/sunflower meal per annum.
Kernel’s terminals primarily handle grain (75%
of total throughput in FY2024), along with sun-
flower meal and oil.
The Group also has transshipment agree-
ments with port facilities in Romania and the
Netherlands to support export operations.
Vessels
Kernel owns and operates the bulk carrier Rot-
terdam Pearl V with a grain cargo capacity of
50 thousand tons and the tanker Mavka with a
sunflower oil cargo capacity of 12.5 thousand
tons. The Group also owned the bulk carrier
Eneida (44 thousand tons of grain cargo ca-
pacity), which was sold in April 2024.
By controlling the entire value chain from si-
los to railcars, port terminals, and vessels
Kernel enhances efficiency and reduces ex-
port logistics costs.
Avere operations
Founded in FY2018, Avere is a 100%-owned
subsidiary of Kernel, headquartered in Swit-
zerland with representative offices in the USA,
Singapore, the Cayman Islands, Australia,
Brazil, the UK, and China. Avere’s team of 39
professionals specializes in research, trading,
and execution. It focuses on merchandising
and proprietary trading of grains, oilseeds, and
related commodities in key global markets, op-
erating independently of Kernel’s Ukrainian
operations.
Due to its trading nature, Avere’s financial re-
sults can be volatile. Market risk is managed
through various tools, including:
Drawdown: Monitoring the difference be-
tween the most recent peak and trough in
market value.
Value-at-Risk: Managing the maximum po-
tential loss over one day with 95% confi-
dence.
Key developments
War impact
The Infrastructure and Trading segment is sig-
nificantly affected by the war in Ukraine, as its
performance heavily depends on the availabil-
ity of Ukrainian Black Sea ports for exports.
With these ports blocked, viable alternatives
for exporting grain are limited. Inland exports
or exports via Danube River ports lack capac-
ity and are associated with higher costs, ren-
dering export operations unprofitable.
The Black Sea Grain Initiative, which was in
place for most of FY2023 and allowed us to
substantially reduce stock levels, was unilater-
ally terminated by Russia on July 17, 2023, at
the beginning of FY2024. Our grain export vol-
umes dropped to as low as 10 thousand tons
per month in July 2023, with no clarity on when
exports would recover.
What followed clearly demonstrates the terror-
istic nature of the regime in Russia, which
launched a series of attacks on Ukrainian port
infrastructure, also damaging Kernel's assets:
July 19: A missile attack on the port of
Chornomorsk targeted our TransBulkTermi-
nal, damaging storage facilities, intake ca-
pacities, and loading equipment, and result-
ing in the loss of commodity inventories. We
lost 136 thousand tons of storage capacity
out of 480, and 2 million tons of annual
transshipment capacity.
July 24: Another missile attack targeted the
Reni port, causing damage to our vegetable
oil transshipment terminal. We lost 6 thou-
sand tons of storage capacity, and railway
intake capabilities and piping equipment
were damaged.
August 6: A major missile strike hit one of
our largest inland silos in the Khmelnytskyi
region, destroying 21 thousand tons of stor-
age and truck unloading equipment. Addi-
tionally, 44 thousand tons of storage, drying
facilities, and administrative buildings sus-
tained substantial damage.
August 16: Russian drones severely
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Repair works at the Group’s TransBulkTerminal in the port of Chornomorsk following dam-
age from a Russian missile attack in July 2023
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damaged all grain storage facilities belong-
ing to our grain transshipment terminal at
the Reni port.
September 2: Russia targeted key Danube
port infrastructure in Ukraine, vital to the op-
erations of our subsidiaries involved in sun-
flower oil exports from the region.
September 3: Russian forces attacked
grain flat storages operated by a port oper-
ator in the Danube region, which provided
crucial grain transshipment services to Ker-
nel.
September 6: Another strike occurred, im-
pacting our assets in the Danube ports,
among other sites.
While the intensity of attacks reduced starting
from October 2023, periodic strikes continued,
affecting civilian vessels, transshipment facili-
ties, and railway infrastructure.
In April 2024, missile assaults on transport
infrastructure near the port of Chornomorsk
halted railway deliveries entirely. Our grain
and sunflower oil transshipment assets in
Chornomorsk rely heavily on railway intake,
and the attack significantly impacted termi-
nal throughput and increased logistics
costs.
Toward the end of the financial year, two of
our elevators in the Poltava region were
damaged due to missile attacks, destroying
administrative buildings, silos, locomotives,
and railcars.
Following damage assessments, we recog-
nized an impairment loss on property, plant,
and equipment totaling USD 11 million. Inven-
tory write-offs amounted to USD 2.8 million,
with USD 1.5 million attributed to losses in ed-
ible oil and the remainder to grain. Preliminary
assessments indicate that restoring and reha-
bilitating damaged or destroyed equipment will
require a minimum capital expenditure of USD
28 million. While some reconstruction could be
deferred, immediate renovation was neces-
sary since the grain harvesting season was in
full swing.
In the autumn of 2023, the Ukrainian Navy
secured a new export corridor a highly un-
expected and fortunate development for the
Company. Normal shipping traffic resumed by
mid-October after a pause in Russian attacks
on port infrastructure, restoring business con-
fidence in exporting goods through the Black
Sea ports. This turnaround provided a critical
boost to Kernel's operations amid the ongoing
conflict. From October to December 2023,
Kernel exported 1.7 million tons of grain, a sig-
nificant recovery from the 0.2 million tons ex-
ported in Q1 FY2024. Over the remaining pe-
riod of FY2024, the new export corridor func-
tioned relatively well, allowing Kernel to export
all produced goods. However, periodic Rus-
sian attacks continued to target port infrastruc-
ture and vessels, posing significant risks to
Kernel’s operations.
Strengthening the asset base
With the realization that the Black Sea Grain
Initiative would not be extended, we urgently
needed to secure sunflower oil transshipment
capacity via the Danube River. In July 2023,
we agreed to acquire 100% of the corporate
rights in Reni-Oil LLC a sunflower oil trans-
shipment terminal with 15,000 tons of one-
time sunflower oil storage at the Reni port for
USD 24.75 million. This terminal is the only fa-
cility among Ukrainian Danube River ports
with proper intake, storage, and off-loading ca-
pacities, enabling the export of sunflower oil
even if the Black Sea ports are blockaded. The
deal was completed by the end of December
2023.
Additionally, to strengthen the resilience of our
oilseed processing business the Group's
major earnings driver we acquired vegeta-
ble oil transshipment assets in the port of
Chornomorsk in July 2023 for USD 19.4 mil-
lion. This facility offers a one-time sunflower oil
storage capacity of 97 thousand tons. In the
event of a Black Sea blockade, these addi-
tional storage facilities would enable us to
keep our crushing plants operational during
transportation disruptions, as experienced
heavily in FY2022FY2023, thereby smooth-
ing our logistics. If the Black Sea remains open
for export operations, the facility becomes cru-
cial for sunflower oil transshipment, allowing
us to shift away from relying on third-party ca-
pacities and improving supply chain efficiency.
Historically inactive and inadequately main-
tained, the terminal required rehabilitation. In
Q2 FY2024, we allocated an additional USD
2.3 million for its restoration and preparation
for operations. The facility became functional
in January 2024, and we began transshipping
sunflower oil. Now called TGT-Oil, it has an
annual transshipment capacity of 1.4 million
tons and serves as a vegetable oil transship-
ment and trading hub. It offers transshipment
services to third parties and allows Kernel to
procure sunflower oil on a CPT basis for fur-
ther exports.
To further bolster Kernel’s transportation and
logistics capabilities, the Group acquired a
bulk carrier Rotterdam Pearl V with a grain
cargo capacity of 50,000 tons for USD 15.7
million in December 2023. In April 2024, amid
an improved market climate in Ukraine and the
stabilization of deep-water exports, we de-
cided to divest one of our bulk carrier ves-
sels, Eneida, due to its diminished im-
portance for our export operations. The cash
consideration received was USD 7.4 million.
In FY2024, the Group also completed several
divestments of old, outdated, and inefficient
grain storage facilities:
In September 2023, we divested a floor-
type grain silo located in the Kharkiv region
for a cash consideration of USD 1.1 million.
In June 2024, we divested two grain storage
facilities in the Poltava region for a cash
consideration of USD 1.7 million.
Headcount
As of June 30, 2024, the headcount of the
Infrastructure and Trading segment in-
creased by 6% year-on-year to 2,894 employ-
ees. The new hires are primarily associated
with staffing the Group’s newly acquired ex-
port terminals in Chornomorsk and Reni.
Performance overview
Operational performance
Grain export from Ukraine
Kernel began the season with 1.1 million tons
of grain in carry-in stock significantly above
the pre-war average of 250300 thousand
tons but below the 1.8 million tons at the start
of the previous season. When the Black Sea
was inaccessible for exports in Q1 FY2024,
we managed to export only 0.2 million tons of
grain between July and September 2023.
However, as the season progressed, the
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel grain export from Ukraine by transportation mode
thousand tons
Source: Kernel
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
700
800
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
FY2023 FY2024
Black Sea ports Danube River ports Other
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Ukrainian Navy established a temporary corri-
dor to the Black Sea ports, revitalizing export
logistics by mid-October. This allowed Kernel
to resume quarterly export volumes of 1.61.9
million tons in Q2Q4 FY2024, although still
below the pre-war quarterly maximum of 3.5
million tons.
In FY2024, the Group exported 5.5 million
tons of grain, up 47% y-o-y, driven by well-
functioning Black Sea export routes for most
of the season. Corn made up 63% of the total
exported volume, wheat accounted for 30%,
and the remainder consisted of barley and
other crops. More than half of Kernel's grain
exports in FY2024 were produced by our
Farming segment, with the remainder sourced
from third-party farmers as we resumed pro-
curement activities. During the reporting pe-
riod, we procured 3.3 million tons of grain from
other farmers, up 3.3x y-o-y though still below
pre-war levels. By season's end, our grain in-
ventories stood at 0.4 million tons, close to
pre-war norms.
Nearly 80% of the exported grain volume was
transshipped through our grain terminal in
Chornomorsk, with the remainder delivered
via Danube ports.
Thanks to the reopening of Ukrainian deep-
water Black Sea ports and the team's efforts,
Kernel's market share in grain exports in-
creased to 10% in FY2024, up from 8% in the
previous season, maintaining its position as
Ukraine’s largest grain exporter. We ac-
counted for 12% of Ukraine's corn exports, 9%
of wheat, and 7% of barley.
Export terminals throughput
During the reported period, Kernel trans-
shipped 6.7 million tons of goods (grain,
sunflower meal, and sunflower oil) through its
port facilities, marking a 51% y-o-y increase.
This growth was primarily driven by the reo-
pening of export routes through deep-water
ports in Q2 FY2024 and the commencement
of vegetable oil transshipment operations in
Q3 FY2024 at newly acquired terminals in
Reni and Chornomorsk, which together con-
tributed 0.6 million tons of sunflower oil trans-
shipped. Grain accounted for 75% of the total
transshipped volume in FY2024, edible oil
1
This volume is included in the export terminal’s throughput total figure.
made up 12%, and meal comprised the re-
mainder.
Starting in FY2024, the Group began offering
transshipment services to third parties to im-
prove terminal capacity utilization, handling a
total of 486 thousand tons of third-party-
owned grain
1
.
Grain and oilseeds received in inland silos
The volume of grain received in inland silos
in FY2024 amounted to 2.8 million tons, re-
maining flat y-o-y. Of this total, 1.9 million tons
were produced by the Group's own Farming
segment, with an additional 122 thousand tons
procured by the Group. The remaining volume
was supplied by third-party farmers who uti-
lized the Group's storage and drying capaci-
ties.
The primary grains received were corn and
wheat. Corn deliveries totaled 1.3 million tons,
a 34% decline y-o-y, while wheat volumes
doubled y-o-y to 0.8 million tons. The rest of
the intake consisted of sunflower seeds, soy-
beans, and rapeseed.
Financial results
The Infrastructure and Trading segment deliv-
ered USD 204 million in EBITDA in FY2024,
marking a 33% y-o-y increase. Of that, Avere’s
trading business contributed USD 53 million in
EBITDA (a 40% increase y-o-y), and the grain
and sunflower oil export value chain in Ukraine
generated USD 151 million in EBITDA (a 30%
increase y-o-y).
Key performance drivers within the grain and
sunflower oil export value chain in Ukraine
were as follows:
Export terminals achieved an EBITDA of
USD 43 million, up 24% y-o-y, driven by
growth in transshipment volumes and mar-
ket transshipment rates. This result also in-
cludes a USD 47 million impairment loss
recognized in FY2024.
Unlike the previous reporting period, when
high logistics costs nearly wiped out trading
margins, grain origination and trading op-
erations were profitable this year, generat-
ing USD 54 million in EBITDA.
Railcars business saw its EBITDA decline
significantly to USD 22 million from USD 72
million in FY2023. The drop was primarily
due to a 56% y-o-y reduction in market
lease rates for grain railcars, caused by an
increase in the number of wagons available
for grain transportation in Ukraine.
Our own fleet of vessels contributed USD
12 million in EBITDA by transporting 475
thousand tons of grains and 219 thousand
tons of oil. This business line did not con-
tribute in FY2023.
Due to a lack of rain during the harvesting
period, demand for grain drying services de-
creased. Consequently, the silo services
business line generated an EBITDA of
USD 20 million, down 59% y-o-y.
FY2025 outlook
Grain supply for exports from Ukraine
Unlike the previous two seasons, when strong
harvests and carry-over stocks ensured suffi-
cient domestic grain supply, the grain export
surplus in Ukraine is a major concern for the
Group in FY2025. We estimate that FY2025
grain exports (corn, wheat, and barley) will de-
cline by 10.8 million tons y-o-y, down 22%.
This reduction is roughly split equally between
the impact of lower harvests and reduced
carry-in stocks.
While weather conditions have been largely
favorable for winter crops, insufficient rainfall
has negatively impacted spring crop yields.
Corn yield is projected to decline by 22% y-o-
y, despite stable planted areas of around 4 mil-
lion hectares. As a result, the total grain har-
vest is expected to reach 52 million tons, down
11% y-o-y.
Signs of low grain supply are already visible in
the first half of the season, with slow farmer
selling driving prices higher. Unlike previous
seasons, farmers feel less pressure to sell and
have more silo capacity to store grain, opting
to wait for better prices. The bargaining power
is shifting from traders to farmers. A low supply
………………………………………………………………………
Infrastructure and Trading segment EBITDA
USD million
180
111
115
116
151
36
248
122
38
53
216
359
237
154
204
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Avere Ukraine
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Infrastructure and Trading segment performance
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
Grain export volumes
thousand tons
3,705
5,452
47%
Export terminal's throughput (Ukraine)
thousand tons
4,433
6,700
51%
Grain received in inland silos
thousand tons
2,825
2,801
(1%)
Revenue
USD million
2,602
2,011
(23%)
EBITDA
USD million
154
204
33%
EBITDA margin per ton of grain exported
USD
42
37
(10%)
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of grain will impact both margins across the
entire value chain (storage, logistics, trans-
shipment), but also will result in underutilized
transshipment capacities in the second half of
the season.
War impact
Despite a reduction in the intensity of Russian
attacks on Ukraine's port infrastructure, these
attacks continue periodically. For instance, in
September 2024, a missile strike targeted a ci-
vilian vessel carrying Ukrainian wheat to
Egypt. Later, another attack on transport infra-
structure near the port of Chornomorsk dam-
aged railcars and resulted in the loss of grain.
In October 2024, a Russian drone attack tar-
geted Ukraine’s port infrastructure, causing
damage to the Group’s assets at the port of
Chornomorsk, among others. These actions
highlight two major risks for the Group:
The potential damage or destruction of the
Group's core port assets, disrupting export
operations.
The risk of Russia reinstating a blockade on
Ukrainian Black Sea ports by regularly at-
tacking civilian vessels.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Damaged silos in the Khmelnytskyi region following a Russian missile attack in August 2023
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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FY2024 posed significant challenges for Kernel’s
Farming segment, characterized by resilience amidst
a volatile geopolitical environment. The segment's
performance was heavily influenced by the fluctuat-
ing accessibility of export routes through Ukrainian
Black Sea ports. The year began with severe disrup-
tions, as the ports remained closed, hindering export
activities and placing the business in a difficult posi-
tion during the first quarter. Russian attacks on infra-
structure and export routes, combined with logistical
constraints and high carry-over stocks, resulted in
losses early in the year.
However, starting in October 2023, the reopening of
Ukrainian Black Sea ports by the Ukrainian Navy
marked a pivotal shift. With export routes reestab-
lished, Kernel rapidly increased its export activities,
lowering inventory levels and stabilizing operations.
This regained export capacity enabled the segment
to continue selling grain and oilseeds despite chal-
lenging market conditions. Throughout FY2024, the
segment realized 2.3 million tons of agricultural
products, including 0.7 million tons of carry-over
stock from the previous season, effectively destock-
ing especially considering the record crop yields for
corn and wheat from the 2023 harvest.
Segment EBITDA reached USD 171 million, a 23%
decline y-o-y, largely due to lower global prices for
grain and oilseeds. However, the profitable sale of
the previous year's crop provided a significant boost,
contributing nearly half of the segment's EBITDA.
Record crop yields were a positive surprise, but stor-
age capacity limitations during the harvest season,
compounded by blocked sales channels, led to grain
losses due to quality deterioration because of im-
proper storage.
FY2025 outlook
Looking ahead to FY2025, both positive and nega-
tive factors are likely to influence the segment's
performance. On the positive side, a decline in 2024
crop production costs and an anticipated rise in
prices provide a potential upside. Conversely, lower
crop yields from the 2024 harvest and reduced carry-
over stocks from the previous year will limit the grain
and oilseed supply available for sale. The stability of
the Black Sea export routes remains a critical risk
factor any renewed disruptions or increased risk
premiums could hamper exports and increase logis-
tics costs, directly affecting profitability.
In this uncertain context, Kernel’s strategic focus will
be on maintaining operational resilience, optimizing
costs, and ensuring flexibility to adapt swiftly to
changing market and geopolitical conditions. The
path forward requires a careful balance between
managing risks and seizing opportunities, with an
unwavering focus on sustaining profitability amidst
ongoing challenges.
Revenue
USD 481 million
-31% y-o-y
EBITDA
(before unallocated head office expenses)
USD 171 million
-23% y-o-y
Produced 1.8 million
tons of corn, wheat,
soybean and sun-
flower in FY2024
Managing one of the largest farmland banks in
Ukraine
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Our business model
Large-scale farming
Kernel is one of the largest crop producers in
Ukraine. As of 30 June 2024, the total area of
leasehold farmlands under Kernel’s opera-
tions amounted to 358 thousand hectares,
including 332 thousand hectares under 2024
crops to be sold, 6 thousand hectares of land
under seeds and crops grown for in-house use
(cattle business), and 20 thousand hectares of
fallow land
1
. In FY2024, we harvested 1.8 mil-
lion tons of corn, wheat, sunflower seeds, and
soybeans.
We operate in the central and northern regions
of Ukraine with highly fertile “chornozem”
black soils and sufficient precipitation. Our
land bank is divided into five production clus-
ters, each with a decentralized operational de-
cision-making structure that enables rapid re-
sponses to external factors. The central office
is responsible for shaping our overall business
strategy, procuring key inputs, and overseeing
operations. A spirit of healthy competition
among these clusters promotes ongoing effi-
ciency enhancements.
Except for 2,884 hectares of irrigated land
used for in-house seed production, all our
farmland is rain-fed, with all the associated
weather risks.
We adhere to a simple crop mix dominated
1
Part of this fallow land (13 thousand hectares), located near the hostilities and the Russian border, was subleased to local farmers.
2
The Group substantially deviated from such an approach in FY2023 and in FY2024, when the share of sunflower seeds in the acreage substantially increased, and
the Group re-introduced soybeans in the crop mix. However, such crop mix is not sustainable, and we will revert to our normal crop rotation practice in 2-3 years.
by corn and sunflower, covering in total of
80-85% of our farmland bank, and the remain-
ing percentage stands for wheat, rapeseed,
soybean, and other minor crops
2
.
The Farming business is characterized by a
long working capital cycle (~18 months), as
illustrated in the “FY2024 crop production cy-
cle” graph below.
Leasehold land operations
Approximately one-quarter of Ukraine's agri-
cultural land is held by the state, municipali-
ties, and state-owned companies. The remain-
ing 75% consists of small land parcels, rang-
ing from 1 to 10 hectares depending on the re-
gion, owned by private individuals who ac-
quired these rights during the land distribution
process in the 1990s following the collapse of
the Soviet Union.
For the past two decades, all farmland in
Ukraine has been subject to a moratorium,
preventing its sale. Initially implemented in
2001, this moratorium has been repeatedly
extended by the parliament, impeding the
growth of the farming sector in Ukraine. Con-
sequently, agricultural producers lease land
from current owners, with new lease agree-
ments since 2015 having a minimum term of
seven years to ensure the stability of farmers'
business operations. The farmland market fi-
nally opened on 1 July 2021, albeit with
……………………………………………………………...………
Kernel’s farmland lease rights maturity
as % of total landbank
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
FY2024 crop production cycle
FY2023
FY2024
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
July
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar-Jun
Corn
Land preparation
Fertilization
Planting
Plant protection
Harvesting
Selling
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
July
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar-Jun
Sunflower
Land preparation
Fertilization
Planting
Plant protection
Harvesting
Selling
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
July
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar-Jun
Winter wheat
Land preparation
Fertilization
Planting
Plant protection
Harvesting
Selling
16%
44%
27%
6%
7%
< 5 years 5-10 10-15 15-20 > 20
years
………………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel’s production of key crops
thousand tons
1,975
2,032
2,360
1,324
853
473
449
469
332
337
569
357
395
161
403
61
187
3,078
2,841
3,234
1,836
1,780
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Corn Sunflower Wheat Soybean
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several restrictions. The most significant of
these
restrictions include:
Ukrainian citizens initially were permitted to
acquire agricultural land, but individual own-
ership was limited to a maximum of 100
hectares.
Starting from 1 January 2024, also Ukrain-
ian-incorporated legal entities became al-
lowed to purchase agricultural land, and the
ownership cap increased from 100 hectares
to 10,000 hectares for both private individu-
als and legal entities.
Foreign individuals and corporations, as
well as legal entities with foreign sharehold-
ers under the Law of Ukraine, are prohibited
from purchasing land unless a nationwide
referendum decides otherwise.
Kernel leases all the land under operation,
with lease contracts having an average ma-
turity of 13 years. All lease contracts include
the right of first refusal to prolong leases or to
buy the land in case of being allowed to do so.
We've secured the use of 15,000 hectares of
land through long-term land lease agree-
ments, extending up until the year 2118.
These agreements, known as 'emphyteusis'
leases, involve making a single lump-sum
payment of all rent to the lessor at the agree-
ment's signing. This approach enables us to
ensure the continuity of our operations for an
extended duration, well beyond the scope of
typical farmland lease contracts.
Private individuals own 88% of the landbank
that we lease, and 12% is owned by the state.
Despite all the Group’s efforts to maintain the
integrity of its landbank, some landowners
prefer not to extend the lease agreements,
and as a result the Group naturally loses part
of its farmland bank, in the range of 1-2% each
year.
Starting from FY2020, land lease expenses
are not accounted for among operating ex-
penses thus impacting segments EBITDA, but
are reflected as amortization of rather as
amortization of right-of-use assets and finance
expenses attached to lease liabilities.
Performance overview
The performance of Kernel’s Farming seg-
ment in FY2024 heavily depended on the
availability of the Black Sea as a primary ex-
port route for the Group's agricultural produce.
The year began with a complete blockade of
the Black Sea, resulting in a challenging first
quarter. However, from October 2023 onward,
Ukrainian Black Sea ports reopened, allowing
for the export of all available goods, which sig-
nificantly improved the business environment.
As a result, the Farming segment sold 2.3 mil-
lion tons of grains and oilseeds in FY2024, in-
cluding 0.4 million tons of sunflower seeds and
rapeseeds processed in Kernel's oilseed
plants and 1.9 million tons sold for export.
These sales included 702 thousand tons of
corn and wheat from carry-over stocks of the
2022 crop.
Sales prices in FY2024 declined for all crops
compared to the previous year. While lower lo-
gistics costs provided some relief, the overall
impact on the Farming segment’s
performance appeared to be significantly neg-
ative.
EBITDA of the segment reached USD 171
million, a 23% decline y-o-y, influenced by
several factors:
1. USD 85 million in EBITDA from the sale
of the 2023 crop.
The crop mix for 2023 was adjusted to reduce
dependence on energy- and logistics-inten-
sive corn, focusing on more sustainable alter-
natives like soybeans and winter wheat:
Corn acreage decreased by 44% y-o-y to
84 thousand hectares, despite the initial
plan to leave 50 thousand hectares of this
land fallow due to uncertainties with export
capabilities.
Sunflower acreage decreased to 120 thou-
sand hectares, accounting for 33% of the to-
tal crop mix, down 8% y-o-y. Despite the re-
duction, sunflower remained the largest
crop, important for supporting the Group’s
oilseed processing operations.
Winter wheat acreage expanded signifi-
cantly to 61 thousand hectares, a 75% in-
crease y-o-y.
Soybeans were reintroduced into the crop
mix, covering 65 thousand hectares. This
proved to be a sound decision, as soybeans
emerged as the most profitable crop within
………………………………………………………………………...........................................................................................................................
FY2024 harvest results
Acreage
thousand ha
Net crop yields
tons / ha
1
Harvest size
thousand tons
2
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
FY2023
FY2024
y-o-y
Corn
150
84
(44%)
8.8
10.1
14%
1,324
853
(36%)
Sunflower
131
120
(8%)
2.5
2.8
10%
332
337
1%
Wheat
35
61
75%
4.6
6.6
43%
161
403
2.5x
Soybean
6
65
10x
2.9
2.9
0%
18
187
10x
Other
3
41
28
(32%)
363
359
(1%)
1,836
1,780
(3%)
Note 1
One ton per hectare equals 15.9 bushels per acre for corn and 14.9 bushels per acre for wheat and soybean.
Note 2
For the four main crops: corn, sunflower and wheat.
Note 3
Includes pea, rapeseed, barley, forage crops and other minor crops, as well as land left fallow for crop rotation purposes.
Part of this fallow land (13 thousand hectares), located near the hostilities and the Russian border, was subleased to local
farmer
s.
………………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel’s acreage harvested by crops
thousand hectares
45%
51%
51%
41%
24%
27%
30%
31%
36%
33%
19%
15%
13%
10%
17%
5%
4%
5%
13%
26%
513
501
499
363
359
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Corn Sunflower Wheat Other
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Kernel’s crop yields
tons per hectare
8.5
8.0
9.3
8.8
10.1
5.9
4.9
6.1
4.6
6.6
3.5
3.0
3.0
2.5
2.8
2.5
1.2
2.0
2.9
2.9
FY2020
FY2021
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Ukraine
Corn Wheat Sunflower Soybean
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the Farming portfolio.
We benefited from record crop yields for
corn and wheat, reaching 10.1 and 6.6 tons
per hectare, respectively marking a 14% and
43% y-o-y increase. This improvement was
largely due to consistently favorable weather
conditions throughout the season, despite a
reduced level of fertilizers applied due to local
shortages of some crop inputs. Sunflower
yields also increased by 10% y-o-y to 2.8 tons
per hectare, while soybean yields remained
stable at 2.9 tons per hectare. As a result, Ker-
nel harvested 1.8 million tons of grain and
oilseeds, with 1.6 million tons sold in FY2024
and 132 thousand tons of corn and wheat car-
ried over as stock for FY2025.
Our costs per hectare decreased by 7% y-o-
y on average, mainly due to savings on silo
grain drying services, as the harvested corn
had a low moisture content because of dry
weather before harvesting. However, we
faced inflation in the costs of fertilizers and
crop protection agents, alongside increases in
payroll and growth in repairs and maintenance
costs, as we postponed investments in up-
grading our machinery and vehicle fleet due to
the war in Ukraine.
Logistical constraints early in the season,
combined with large carry-in stocks and rec-
ord crop yields, limited our silo storage capac-
ity, forcing us to use flexi bags for grain stor-
age. This storage method led to quality deteri-
oration, resulting in a loss of ~30 thousand
tons of corn out of 459 thousand tons of grain
and oilseeds stored this way in FY2024.
2. USD 82 million in EBITDA from the sale
of the 2022 crop.
In FY2024, we sold 702 thousand tons of corn
and wheat from carry-over stocks of the previ-
ous season. It was a relatively low-cost good,
as due to price fluctuations in FY2023 Kernel
had already written it to a net realizable value
of below actual cost. However, as we sold this
grain in FY2024 at improved prices, the write-
downs from the previous year contributed to
profits in FY2024.
3. USD 10 million loss from the net
change in the fair value of biological
assets and agricultural produce, com-
pared to a USD 115 million loss a year
ago, reflecting lower price volatility in
FY2024.
4. USD 14 million from other impacts, in-
cluding a USD 8 million reversal of
1
For the 2025 harvest, the acreage under sunflower is planned to decrease further, to 12% of the total land bank (40 thousand hectares). After this reduction, we aim
to gradually return to sustainable levels of around 25% of total acreage in subsequent years, aligning with long-term crop rotation practices.
previously recognized impairments.
It is important to note that, as required by IFRS
16, farmland lease costs are not included
in the segment’s EBITDA. Instead, they are
presented as lease interest payments (dis-
closed under finance costs) and repayments
of lease liabilities (disclosed under cash used
in financing activities). In FY2024, these pay-
ments totaled USD 45 million.
The segment’s earnings translated into USD
476 EBITDA per hectare, with 359 thousand
hectares in operation in FY2024.
The headcount of the Farming segment re-
mained relatively unchanged y-o-y, with 4,527
employees as of 30 June 2024.
FY2025 outlook
Several key factors will influence the perfor-
mance of the Farming segment in FY2025:
Availability of Ukrainian Black Sea ports
for exports;
Lower Crop Size: The 2024 crop size is ex-
pected to be lower y-o-y, primarily due to re-
duced crop yields caused by unfavorable
weather conditions.
Minimal Carry-Over Stock: Unlike the pre-
vious year, we will have minimal carry-over
stock to supplement sales volumes.
Higher Sales Prices: Sales prices for most
crops are anticipated to increase y-o-y,
which could positively impact revenue, alt-
hough the sustainability of this trend re-
mains uncertain.
Reduced Production Costs: Production
costs are expected to decrease, driven by
lower expenses in grain drying due to low
rainfall during the harvesting of spring
crops.
Further details on these factors are provided
below.
Availability of Ukrainian Black Sea
ports for exports
Since October 2023, we have benefited from
relatively stable export operations through
Ukrainian Black Sea ports, and the stability of
these routes remains crucial for Kernel. Any
disruptions, such as Russian attacks on the
Group’s port assets or strikes on civilian ves-
sels, could lead to a renewed blockade or a
sharp increase in risk premiums and logistics
costs, affecting navigation and the profitability
of the entire export value chain. Any such dis-
turbances would ultimately be absorbed into
the farming business’s profitability. Thus, the
accessibility of these ports is essential for effi-
cient grain exports, directly impacting sales
volumes, logistics costs, and the overall per-
formance of the Farming segment.
Harvest size 2024
For the 2024 crop (planted in FY2024 and to
be sold in FY2025), the Group adjusted its
crop structure to reestablish sustainable
farming practices and crop rotation, which had
been disrupted by Russia's invasion of
Ukraine:
Sunflower acreage was reduced by 44% y-
o-y, to 67 thousand hectares, representing
19% of the total acreage, down from the el-
evated levels of 33-36% seen in 2022-2023.
These higher levels marked a deviation
from normal crop rotation practices, which,
if extended over time, could lead to reduced
yields due to increased risks of pests and
diseases. However, maintaining such a high
percentage of sunflower acreage in 2022-
2023 was necessary given the uncertainties
surrounding grain export logistics capacity
at that time
1
.
The acreage under corn remained virtually
unchanged, at 87 thousand hectares.
Kernel expanded the winter wheat acreage
to 93 thousand hectares, a 52% y-o-y
………………………………………………………………………………………
Profitability dynamics
USD million
………………………………………………………………………………………
Realized crops produced by Farming
thousand tons
604
657
635
695
481
134
461
219
221
171
22%
70%
35%
32%
35%
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Revenue EBITDA
EBITDA margin, %
65%
69%
67%
61%
62%
17%
12%
16%
10%
15%
13%
18%
15%
27%
14%
3,237
2,966
2,320
2,497
2,311
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Corn Wheat Sunflower
Soybean Rapeseeds Other
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increase, making up 26% of the total acre-
age. This is the highest proportion of wheat
in the Group’s crop structure since 2012.
The Group increased plantings of soybeans
and rapeseeds to 72 thousand hectares and
14 thousand hectares, respectively, driven
by the strong profitability of oilseeds in
FY2024.
As of the date of this report, the harvesting of
all crops, except for corn, is complete, with
crop yields showing a decline across most
crops due to severe drought conditions in
Ukraine during critical grain filling and matura-
tion periods. Corn yields declined by 17% y-o-
y to 8.4 tons per hectare (based on 98% of the
acreage harvested), wheat by 8% y-o-y to 6.1
tons per hectare, soybeans by 24% y-o-y to
2.2 tons per hectare, rapeseeds by 27% y-o-y
to 2.4 tons per hectare. Sunflower yields
showed greater resilience, with yields remain-
ing stable in our operating regions, despite
more severe drought impacts in other crop-
producing areas of Ukraine
1
. The drought had
a particularly adverse effect on the growth and
overall production of corn and soybeans.
As a result, the total crop size for 2024 is pro-
jected to be lower than the previous year.
At the start of FY2025, the Group expanded its
land bank by acquiring an agricultural enter-
prise with lease rights over 3.6 thousand hec-
tares. This acquisition aligns with the Group’s
strategy to maintain the integrity of its land
1
These are preliminary data; the final crop yields will be published at later stage.
bank, offsetting the natural loss of land due to
the non-renewal of lease agreements by land-
owners.
Carry-over stock
As of 30 June 2024, the Farming segment held
a total of 147 thousand tons of carry-over
stock from the 2023 crop, consisting of 70
thousand tons of wheat and 62 thousand tons
of corn, with the remainder primarily made up
of soybeans and other crops.
Prices
In FY2025, prices have limited downside po-
tential and are anticipated to improve y-o-y for
all crops except soybeans, which already ben-
efited from high price levels in FY2024. The
upward trend in prices is evident at the begin-
ning of the season, though it remains uncer-
tain how sustainable this increase will be over
time.
Production costs
We anticipate a 12% y-o-y decrease in pro-
duction costs for the 2024 crop, driven mainly
by a reduction in per-hectare costs for corn
and wheat, down by 21% and 15%, respec-
tively. This decrease is largely due to lower ex-
penses for grain harvesting and delivery
driven by lower crop yields and lower cost of
silo services, as the dry conditions during har-
vesting reduced grain moisture levels, leading
to lower drying costs.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Risk management
Management
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Financial
Statements
Risk management system
The Group’s management defines risk as an
event, action, or lack of action, which can lead
to failure to achieve the Company’s objectives.
Kernel has an evolving system of risk man-
agement aimed at preserving the stability
and solvency of the Company under ex-
treme conditions to secure long-term sus-
tainable value for shareholders.
Based on the Risk Management Policy
(adopted by the Board of Directors in Novem-
ber 2018) and underlying policies and proce-
dures, Kernel monitors and assesses its risk
exposures regularly and takes steps to mini-
mize their impact.
Key roles
The Company’s risk management is realized
by the Board of Directors, Executive Manage-
ment Team, and other management and staff,
starting from the strategy development and
impacting all activities and processes of the
Company. These activities set out to identify
and manage risks, to provide reasonable as-
surance of the Companies’ goals accomplish-
ment. Please see the details in the “Key roles
and duties in the risk management process
chart.
Risk management cycle
The risk management cycle includes five
stages:
risk identification;
risk assessment and prioritization;
development and execution of mitigation
plan;
monitoring of mitigation plan execution;
risk management process enhancement.
Risk categories
The management classifies all risks into five
categories:
Strategic (Business)
Operational
Financial
Regulatory
Sustainability
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………................
Kernel’s risk identification and mitigation system
Risk identification
Risk assessment
and prioritization
Development
and execution
of
mitigation plan
Monitoring of
mitigation
plan
execution
Risk manage-
ment process
enhancement
1
2
3
4
5
Risk management
cycle
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..................
Key roles and duties in the risk management process
CEO
owner of the risk management
process for the Company as a
whole;
responsible for implementing the
risk management strategy and
functioning of the effective risk
management system.
Board of Directors
Risk Committee of the Executive Management Team
Audit Committee
Assists the Board of Directors in the discharge of its risk man-
agement responsibilities:
formulating the description of the risks specific to the Com-
pany;
overseeing adequacy and effectiveness of Kernel’s risk
management system;
reviewing the Company’s policies on risk assessment and
risk management.
supervise the risk manage-
ment process;
determine and approve the
level of risk acceptability and
Company’s risk appetite;
decide on critical and signifi-
cant risks;
review the risk related reports.
ensure the introduction and implementation of the risk
management policy and procedures;
develop and continuously improve an effective risk
management and monitoring system, spreading the
culture of decision-making in terms of risks, their valu-
ation and likelihood of occurrence;
coordinate roles and participants;
identify, assess, manage and control key risks;
coordinate updating and improvement of the internal
control system.
Internal Audit
assess the adequacy and effectiveness of risk man-
agement processes and internal controls in opera-
tions;
assist Directors on operational risk identification, as-
sessment, and prioritization in operations;
implementation, status monitoring, internal controls,
and mitigation activities of action plan of operational
risks;
assist, advise and consult management in improving
the effectiveness of risk management and internal
control systems in operations.
Directors and executives
risk owners within their functional duties
Identification of risks;
Assessment of risks;
Making and implementing deci-
sions on risks mitigating actions.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Top 10 risks
This section includes a summary of the main
risks that Kernel may face during the normal
course of its business. However:
this section does not purport to contain an
exhaustive list of the risks faced by Kernel
and Kernel may be significantly affected by
risks that it has not identified or considered
not to be material;
some risks faced by Kernel, whether they
are mentioned in this section or not, may
arise from external factors beyond Kernel’s
control;
whereas mitigations are mentioned in this
section, there is no guarantee that such
measures will be effective (in whole or in
part) to remove or reduce the effect of the
risk;
investors may face other risks when dealing
with Kernel securities (shares and bonds).
As a result of the latest review cycle, the Board
approved the Top 10 risks for the Group for
FY2025 as depicted on the risk matrix. A list
of risks, together with disclosure of change in
assumptions on impact and probability, is pre-
sented in the table below.
………………………………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………............
Risks matrix
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Risk impact
Risk Probability
Very low Low High Very high
Severe
MajorModerate
Minor
Medium
Medium
Strategic
(Business) risks
Operational
risks
Change
y-o-y
# Risk Name
Change in estimates
FY2025 vs FY2024
Rationale on changes in estimates
Impact
Probability
1 Weak harvest in Ukraine
New New
With high opening stocks in two previous seasons, the size of the harvest was not
of big importance for a total supply of grain and oilseeds in Ukraine,
and was not
considered a top risk
. However, as stocks normalized for the FY2025 season, the
risk of a weak harvest has re-emerged as a significant concern. Moreover, unfa-
vorable weather in 2024 lead to a material decline in crop size in Ukraine.
2 Logistics disruptions Increase Decrease
Increased impact, since in addition to possible logistic disruption caused by the
blockade of Ukrainian deep-
sea ports, the Group is subject to Red Sea logistics
risks.
Decreased probability
due to a slightly more optimistic view on the operating
environment as compared to the prior year.
3
Loss of critical infra-
structure
No change
Increase
Increased probability
given the increased Group’s footprint in Ukrainian ports
following the acquisition of new assets in the last 2 years.
4
Low global soft com-
modity prices
Decrease
Increase
Decreased impact and increased probability, as prices in FY2025 tend to re-
bound from low FY2024 levels.
5 Loss of Inventories Increase Decrease
Decreased probability due to the reduced accumulation of inventories at termi-
nals, direct loading to the vessels.
6
Trade position risk due
to unforeseen market
volatility
Decrease
Decrease
Decreased impact and probability due to more predictable freight rates, allow-
ing better control over contract execution periods.
7
Credit and counterparty
risks
Decrease Decrease
Decreased impact and probability given increased creditworthiness of Ukrain-
ian farmers (recipients of financing from the Group) since there are more sales
opportunities, hence sources of liquidity as compared to the prior year.
8
Information security and
IT risks
No change
Decrease
Decreased probability as result of the mitigating actions implemented.
9
Disruption or limitation
of electricity supply
New New
The risk was not in TOP 10 in FY2024 and was reinstated given Russian attacks
targeting energy infrastructure of Ukraine.
10 Human capital risks Increase Increase
Increased impact and probability considering the protracted war in Ukraine and
ongoing conscription of men into military service.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
32
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nel.ua
Risk management continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Kernel FY2025 Top 10 risks and mitigating factors
Risk
Possible impact
Mitigating factors
1. Weak harvest
in Ukraine
Subdued Farming segment EBITDA be-
cause of reduced total harvest size due to
unfavorable weather conditions while un-
changed cost base.
Low crushing margins
due to
higher competition among crushers
for the limited supply of oilseeds.
Low capacity utilization of the
Company’s oilseed processing
plants due to the physical deficit of
the oilseeds on the market;
Low profitability of grain export
value chain (underutilized infra-
structure capacities or depressed
margins) given that a major portion
of our grain export volumes origi-
nates from third-party farmers.
A diversified land bank reduces to some extent the overall Farm-
ing segment's exposure to weather risks.
Diversified oilseeds origination base:
Our oilseed origination areas cover the whole sunflower seed
growing belt in Ukraine, thus reducing our exposure to
weather volatility in any particular region.
Comprehensive data-driven procurement strategy based on
regional supply-demand balances composed of the official
statistics, market consensuses, and inputs from our farming
and procurement teams.
Multi-seed processing: rapeseed processing has been in place at
some of our plants.
The Open Agribusiness” platform serves to share our farming
know-how with third-party farmers (thus increasing their productiv-
ity) and to provide various services to crop producers, improving in
such a way their loyalty to Kernel as a grain and oilseeds originator.
Pre-crop financing of third-party farmers conditional upon obliga-
tory sale of future harvest (sunflower seeds and grain) to Kernel,
thus covering part of our needs.
2. Logistics dis-
ruption: closed
Ukrainian seaports
due to the war;
Reduction in export volumes of grain, sun-
flower oil, and meal in case of continued dif-
ficulties with the export of agriproducts via
the Ukrainian Black Sea ports (a usual and
most convenient export route for Ukrainian
agricultural products);
Growing logistics costs (railway in Ukraine
and EU, truck and barges services) caused
by substituting cheap sea freight with more
expensive auto, railway, and river logistics
with multi-modal transshipment. It hurts mar-
gins including loss-making grain export busi-
ness;
Increase in the shipment time resulting in
more working capital required; quality deteri-
oration of goods due to long-time multi-
modal transportation.
In case of Ukrainian Black Sea ports being blocked, the Group will
focus on transshipments via Ukrainian Danube River ports
and railway deliveries to Constanta port in Romania, as other
export channels proved to be not so efficient (higher costs and
lower throughput capacities).
Capacity expansion. For the facilities under control, the Group un-
dertakes regular capacity expansion initiatives.
Diversified load points in ports to mitigate risks related to any
particular port. The Group has secured transshipment capacities in
the following ports: Pivdennyi, Chornomorsk, and Reni. Addition-
ally, the Group arranged for a provision of transshipment services
with operators in the Izmail port in Ukraine, Rotterdam port in the
Netherlands, and Constanta port in Romania.
Fleet investments to support river logistics. In FY2023, the Group
acquired two vessels (a bulker and a tanker) to support the export
of grain/meal and sunflower oil.
3. Loss of
critical
infrastructure
Undermined earnings generation capac-
ity and additional CapEx required due to
potential loss or damages of critical infra-
structure (export terminals, oil-extraction
plants, key silos) as a result of Russian mis-
sile or drone attacks.
Diversified asset base located relatively far from the regions of
active military actions;
Grain and oil transshipment agreements with third-party export
terminals;
Diversified load points in ports.
4. Low global
soft commodity
prices: grain and
oilseeds, sun-
flower oil
Undermined profitability of the Group’s
Farming segment (which is always in a nat-
urally long position as a typical upstream
business) in case of low global grain and
oilseeds prices.
Undermined profitability of the Group’s
Infrastructure and Trading segment, as
low prices do not allow to absorb high logis-
tics costs, and farmers prefer to wait with
sales of grain.
Compressed margins in the Oilseed Pro-
cessing segment: low prices for sunflower
oil reduce combined earnings shared by
farmers and crushers in Ukraine in the short
term and discourage farmers from expand-
ing acreage under sunflower in the long
term.
Hedging grain prices: we use various hedging tools, including
CME corn and soybean futures and options, forward contracts for
the Black Sea origin premium, and direct forward contacts (if avail-
able). Physical delivery forward contracts (if available) are typically
used for shorter duration hedging, normally within six months;
A longer period of crop sales: under normal conditions, we start
selling next year’s crop as soon as we have the initial understand-
ing of the next year’s production costs, considering also the entire
value chain margin;
Partial flexibility in determining the timing of sale of own crop,
allowing to avoid sales during extremely low-price periods;
Deep analysis of global soft commodity fundamentals: Avere
research and trading unit provides insights into the global soft com-
modity market, guiding the selection of proper timing and pricing of
our hedging operations.
Active procurements of sunflower seeds at the beginning of
the season (when a huge post-harvest supply of sunflower seeds
allows for negotiating more attractive prices) to partially mitigate
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
33
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nel.ua
Risk management continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Kernel FY2025 Top 10 risks and mitigating factors
Risk
Possible impact
Mitigating factors
long-term sunflower oil price weakness;
Careful sales management during the season to mitigate sea-
sonal price declines.
5. Loss of inven-
tories
Physical loss of the Group’s inventories
due to Russian missile or drone attacks.
Expanding the Group’s export capacities via alternative routes;
Regular inventory inspection of the commodities stored in the
third-party-owned silos;
Investments into additional storage capacities (including plastic
silo bags); signing of long-term contracts with third-party storage
service providers;
Diversified load points in ports;
Minimizing onsite storage in ports in favor of direct loading.
6. Trade position
risk due to un-
foreseen market
volatility
Losses arising from the Group’s trade po-
sition mismanagement. For example, an
open position in sunflower oil may hurt the
Company’s earnings in case of significant
movements in sunflower oil prices;
Losses arising from Avere trading busi-
ness.
Trade position control system:
maximum limits on the position (long/short) with daily control.
Separate limits for various goods (e.g., for sunflower oil produced
from own seeds, sunflower oil produced from purchased seeds,
and sunflower oil purchased from third parties). Specific limits are
set for sunflower seed procurement not covered by sunflower oil
sold. Special approvals are required to exceed the limits.
a part of positions is controlled by restricting Value at Risk and
drawdown limits with daily monitoring.
Constant monitoring of the impact of changes in market prices
on existing trade positions and improvement of the monitoring
system.
The “Balanced book” policy employed by the Company reduces
the impact of the commodities price fluctuations through price and
volume hedging. Such a policy presupposes the arrangement of
the forward contracts for the sunflower seed sales, alongside the
procurement of the same sunflower seeds from farmers. In such a
manner, the Company reduces the risk exposure by ensuring the
sales volumes, as well as locking the selling price. Deviations from
the balanced book approach may appear during the business dis-
ruptions caused by the war in Ukraine;
Centralized contract execution and scheduling of shipments.
7. Credit and
counterparty
risks
Defaults of third-party farmers under fi-
nancing received from the Group (includ-
ing the Open Agribusiness program);
Losses arising due to the Group’s counter-
parties not performing their trade obliga-
tions.
Defined parameters and high criteria for selecting farmers to par-
ticipate in the Group's financing program at the application submis-
sion and review stages.
Constant monitoring of solvency and business performance of
the farmers who received financing from the Group;
Negotiating with farmers on extending the obligations repayment
period or agreeing on alternative ways of repayment;
Active restructuring and claim work against counterparties in
default.
8. Information se-
curity and IT
risks
The loss or disclosure of key information
may threaten business operations and de-
velopment of the business;
Interruption of business processes and
decisions which are dependent on the con-
tinuity of IT applications and infrastructure.
Leakage of the information stored at assets
currently occupied by Russia;
Cyber-attacks on the Group’s IT infrastruc-
ture;
Damage to the Group’s cloud IT infrastruc-
ture occurred due to the military actions in
Ukraine; and lack of access to cloud services
provided outside of Ukraine.
The backup data center was relocated to Lviv (Western Ukraine);
Access to the IT systems is denied at night for developers and
contractors;
Implemented IT business continuity and data recovery policy;
Multifactor authentication is being implemented to reduce the
risk of documents, correspondence, and other confidential data
leakage;
Password policy, access control for external users to company IT
systems; Privileged access management solutions.
Regular testing of IT recovery plan; regular vulnerability testing
from inside and outside;
Patch management policy regular installations of critical and
security patches on servers and workstations;
Special solution to combat the advanced persistent threat (APT)
and 0-day virus attacks;
Implementation of incident and change management processes in
the IT infrastructure;
Improving the maturity of the access management process by
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Risk management continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Kernel FY2025 Top 10 risks and mitigating factors
Risk
Possible impact
Mitigating factors
automating the process of reviewing access rights.
Regular training and testing of employees for knowledge and
compliance with information security rules.
9. Disruption or
limitation of elec-
tricity supply: oil
extraction plants
and export termi-
nals
Disruption of oilseed processing
Reduction in export volumes of grain, sun-
flower oil, and meal in case of continuing
blackout.
Alternative electricity source. Major production and export sites
are equipped with diesel electricity generation that allows continu-
ing operations during blackouts although not always at full capacity.
The Group’s own co-generation heat and power plants serve to
mitigate power disruption risks.
10. Human capi-
tal risk
Disruptions in business and support pro-
cesses due to:
a shortage of staff in general and the
challenge of replacing key employees
due to the low qualifications of new can-
didates, exacerbated by significant emi-
gration from Ukraine;
employee conscription for military ser-
vice, a consequence of the protracted
war in Ukraine;
increased mental stress among remain-
ing employees as a result of the ongoing
and prolonged war in Ukraine.
Competitive compensation: the level we pay matches or exceeds
the benchmark in our industries. We aim to increase further com-
pensation levels to successfully compete with neighboring coun-
tries along the way. The compensation system is regularly re-
viewed to match the Company strategy and HR strategy. We regu-
larly measure employee satisfaction levels and react to the results;
Extensive social package:
Housing repayable loans to young employees in the regions;
Voluntary medical insurance (full cost coverage for employees
and 50% cost coverage for employees’ children);
Social monetary support in case of employee’s personal life dif-
ficulties.
Talent management, professional development, and educa-
tion of our employees. We have numerous education programs
with extensive coverage and a system of individual development
and career planning, as well as mental health education (as dis-
closed in the Sustainability section of the annual report);
Safe and convenient working conditions. Constant improve-
ment of working conditions and infrastructure for staff. Remote
work and flexible working hours. Support of employee affinity and
networking groups;
Effective recruitment: we use various tools and channels to re-
cruit the best people on the market. We actively work with univer-
sities and the business community and have a separate Kernel
Chance program to develop and solicit new associates;
Employee involvement through an effective KPI system, respon-
sibility delegation, rewards for operation efficiency improvement,
and teambuilding events;
Comprehensive new employees’ adaptation programs;
Labor productivity improvement through processes automation
and optimization, job versatility, and employee fungibility increase;
HR brand development, creating a sustainable employer reputa-
tion. Corporate social responsibility strategy.
Other risks identified by the Company’s management include (but are not limited to):
Liquidity associated risks;
Failure to maintain the integrity of the leasehold farmland bank;
Fraudulent activities;
A shortfall of proceeds from sales of renewable energy;
Investment projects management associated risks;
Increase in competition;
Sustainability-related risks: non-
compliance with environmental standards; undermined profitability due to more severe environmental require-
ments applicable to farming and oilseed processing related to the implementation of the European Green Deal; low sus
tainability rating of
Kernel may increase the cost of capital;
Weak economic growth, either globally or in the Group’s key markets;
Economic policy, political, social, and legal risks and uncertainties in countries other than Ukraine in which Kernel Holding S.A. operates;
Any loss or diminution in the services of Mr. Andrii Verevskyi, Kernel Holding S.A.’s chairman of the Board of Directors;
The risk that changes in the assumptions underlying the carrying value of certain assets, including those occurring as a resu
lt of adverse market
conditions, could result in the impairment of tangible and intangible assets, including goodwill;
The risk of fluctuations in the exchange rate of the Ukrainian hryvnia to the US dollar;
The risk of disruption or limitation of natural gas;
The risk of product liability claims;
The risk of potential liabilities from investigations, litigation, and fines regarding antitrust matters;
The risk that Kernel Holding S.A.’s governance and compliance processes may fail to prevent regulatory penalties or reputatio
nal harm, both
at operating subsidiaries and in joint ventures; and
The risk that Kernel Holding S.A.’s insurance policies may provide inadequate coverage.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
35
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Alternative Performance Measures
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
To comply with the ESMA Directive on Alter-
native Performance Measures (“APMs”), Ker-
nel Holding S.A. (hereinafter “the Group”) pre-
sents this additional disclosure, which en-
hances the comparability, reliability, and com-
prehension of its financial information.
The Group presents its results in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles
(IFRS), but management considers that cer-
tain supplemental non-IFRS measures, such
as
EBITDA;
EBITDA margin;
Segment EBITDA;
Segment EBITDA margin;
Investing Cash Flows net of Fixed As-
sets Investments;
Net Fixed Assets Investments;
Operating Cash Flows before Working
Capital Changes;
Free Cash Flows to the Firm;
Debt Liabilities;
Net Debt;
Commodity Inventories;
Adjusted Net Debt; and
Adjusted Working Capital;
(together, the ‘Alternative Performance
Measures’) provide investors with a supple-
mental tool to assist in evaluating current busi-
ness performance.
The Group believes the Alternative Perfor-
mance Measures are frequently used by se-
curities analysts, investors, and other parties
interested in evaluating companies in the
Group’s industry. The Alternative Perfor-
mance Measures have limitations as analyti-
cal tools, and investors should not consider
any of them in isolation or any combination of
them together as a substitute for analysis of
the Company’s operating results as reported
under IFRS. Other companies in the industry
may calculate these Alternative Perfor-
mance Measures differently or may use them
for different purposes than Kernel Holding
S.A, limiting their usefulness as comparative
measures. Each of the Alternative Perfor-
mance Measures is defined below.
Before FY2019, the Group used to report such
APMs as Funds from Operations and Free
Cash Flows, but since FY2019 the Group
considers these metrics as not relevant any-
more, being distortive going forward. The first
APM included purchases of property, plant,
and equipment distorting the operating cash
generation capacity of the Group given the
current heavy CapEx cycle for the Group. The
second APM included dividends paid, thus
distorting the cash flow available to repay debt
1
In other documents (e.g. listing particulars) the Group could use the term Adjusted EBITDA, which is calculated as profit before income tax adding back net finance costs,
net foreign exchange gain, net other expenses, share of income/(loss) of joint ventures, and amortization and depreciation, and coming to the same result as EBITDA
and distribute dividends to shareholders. In-
stead, two additional APMs were introduced
(as defined below): Operating Cash Flows
before Working Capital Changes and Free
Cash Flows to the Firm.
EBITDA and EBITDA margin
The Group uses EBITDA
1
as a key measure
of operating performance, and it is defined as
profit from operating activities adding back
amortization and depreciation.
The Group defines EBITDA margin as
EBITDA divided by revenue during the re-
ported period.
Kernel Holding S.A. views EBITDA and
EBITDA margin as the key measures of the
Group’s performance. The Group uses
EBITDA and EBITDA margin in its public re-
porting, which is also related to the listing of
the Company’s equity on the Warsaw Stock
Exchange. The Group believes that these
measures better reflect the Group and its sub-
sidiaries’ core operating activities and provide
both management and investors with infor-
mation regarding operating performance,
which is more useful for evaluating the finan-
cial position of the Group and its subsidiaries
than traditional measures, to the exclusion of
external factors unrelated to their perfor-
mance.
EBITDA and EBITDA margin have limitations
as analytical tools, and investors should not
consider these measures in isolation or in any
combination with Non-IFRS Measures as a
substitute for analysis of the Group’s operating
results as reported under IFRS. Some of these
limitations are as follows:
EBITDA and EBITDA margin do not reflect
the impact of finance costs, the significance
of which reflects macroeconomic conditions
and has little effect on the Group’s operating
performance;
EBITDA and EBITDA margin do not reflect
the impact of taxes on the Group’s operat-
ing performance;
EBITDA and EBITDA margin do not reflect
the impact of depreciation and amortization
on the Group’s performance. The assets of
the Group, which are being depreciated
and/or amortized, will need to be replaced
in the future and such depreciation and
amortization expenses may approximate
the cost of replacing these assets in the fu-
ture. By excluding this expense from
EBITDA and EBITDA margin, such
measures do not reflect the Group’s future
cash requirements for these replacements;
EBITDA and EBITDA margin do not reflect
the impact of share of income/loss of joint
ventures, which are accounted under the
equity method;
EBITDA and EBITDA margin do not reflect
the impact of foreign exchange gain/(loss),
which the Group does not consider to be
part of its core operating performance be-
cause the main difference arises on trans-
actions between entities of the Group with
different functional currencies;
EBITDA and EBITDA margin do not reflect
the impact of other expenses; as such ex-
penses are not a part of the Group’s core
operations.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Reconciliation of profit from operating activities to
EBITDA and EBITDA margin:
in thousand USD, except the margin
FY2023
FY2024
Profit from operating activities
439,460
276,428
add back:
Amortization and depreciation
104,786
104,723
EBITDA
544,246
381,151
Revenue
3,455,121
3,581,462
EBITDA margin
15.8%
10.6%
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
36
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Alternative Performance Measures continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Segment EBITDA and Segment
EBITDA margin
The Group uses Segment EBITDA and Seg-
ment EBITDA margin as the key measures of
segment operating performance. The Group
defines Segment EBITDA as profit/(loss) from
operating activities adding back amortization
and depreciation.
The Group defines Segment EBITDA margin
as Segment EBITDA divided by the segment
revenue during the reporting period.
Investing Cash Flows net of
Fixed Assets Investments
The Group uses Investing Cash Flows less
Net Fixed Assets Investments as a measure
of its expenditures on investments other than
property plant and equipment and it is defined
as net cash used in investing activities adding
back:
purchase of property, plant and equipment;
proceeds from disposal of property, plant,
and equipment.
Net Fixed Assets Investments
The Group uses Net Fixed Assets Invest-
ments as a measure of its expenditures on
fixed assets maintenance and it is defined as
net cash used in investing activities less In-
vesting Cash Flows net of Fixed Assets In-
vestments or, alternatively, may be calcu-
lated as cash used for purchase of property,
plant and equipment less proceeds from dis-
posal of property, plant, and equipment.
Operating Cash Flows before
Working Capital Changes
The Group uses Operating Cash Flows as a
measure of the cash generation of its core
business operations and it is defined as net
cash generated by operating activities less
changes in working capital, including:
change in trade receivables and other finan-
cial assets;
change in prepayments and other current
assets;
change in restricted cash balance;
change in taxes recoverable and prepaid;
change in biological assets;
change in inventories;
change in trade accounts payable; and
change in advances from customers and
other current liabilities.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Calculation of Segment EBITDA and Segment EBITDA margin:
in thousand USD
FY2023
FY2024
Oilseed Processing
Profit from operating activities
240,693
49,642
plus Amortization and depreciation
29,651
33,734
Segment EBITDA
270,344
83,376
Segment revenue
1,907,681
1,863,798
Segment EBITDA margin
14%
4%
Infrastructure and Trading
Profit from operating activities
129,149
175,536
plus Amortization and depreciation
24,608
28,255
Segment EBITDA
153,757
203,791
Segment revenue
2,601,847
2,011,138
Segment EBITDA margin
6%
10%
Farming
Profit from operating activities
174,059
131,966
plus Amortization and depreciation
47,068
38,836
Segment EBITDA
221,127
170,802
Segment revenue
695,155
481,359
Segment EBITDA margin
32%
35%
Other
Loss from operating activities
(104,441)
(80,716)
plus Amortization and depreciation
3,459
3,898
Segment EBITDA
(100,982)
(76,818)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Reconciliation of net cash used in investing activities to
Net Fixed Assets Investments:
in thousand USD
FY2023
FY2024
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(77,093)
(142,578)
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment
2,720
10,175
Net Fixed Assets Investments
(74,373)
(132,403)
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Reconciliation of net cash used in investing activities to Investing Cash Flows net of Fixed
Assets Investments
:
in thousand USD
FY2023
FY2024
Net cash used in investing activities
9,576
(112,548)
Adding back:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(77,093)
(142,578)
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment
2,720
10,175
Investing Cash Flows net of Fixed Assets Investments
83,949
19,855
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Reconciliation of net cash generated by operating activities to Operating Cash Flows before
Working Capital Changes
:
in thousand USD
FY2023
FY2024
Net cash generated by operating activities
716,132
472,136
Less:
Changes in working capital, including:
127,633
(21,322)
Change in trade receivable and other financial assets
(443,226)
(8,803)
Change in prepayments and other current assets
(70,235)
30,859
Change in restricted cash balance
58
-
Change in taxes recoverable and prepaid
2,733
36,391
Change in biological assets
73,662
(17,181)
Change in inventories
508,182
(16,899)
Change in trade accounts payable
1,063
(45,292)
Change in advances from customers and other current lia-
bilities
55,396
(397)
Operating Cash Flows before Working Capital Changes
588,499
493,458
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
37
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Alternative Performance Measures continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Free Cash Flows to the Firm
The Group uses Free Cash Flows to the Firm
as a measure of the cash generation of its core
business operations and it is defined as the
sum of net cash generated by the operating ac-
tivities and the net cash used in investing activ-
ities.
Commodity Inventories
The Group uses Commodity Inventories
(hereinafter ‘CI), as an additional measure of its
liquidity, which the Group uses to provide a sup-
plemental tool to assist in evaluating current
business performance and in calculating credit
ratios under certain of the Group’s financing ar-
rangements. The Group defines CI as agricul-
tural inventories, such as corn, wheat, sun-
flower oil, and other products that were easily
convertible into cash before the Russian inva-
sion of Ukraine given their commodity charac-
teristics, widely available markets, and the inter-
national pricing mechanism. The Group used to
call such inventories “Readily marketable in-
ventories”, but after the beginning of the war in
Ukraine the Group faced difficulties with selling
such inventories, and therefore such invento-
ries cannot be considered as readily marketa-
ble any longer.
Debt Liabilities
The Group uses three metrics as the measure
of its leverage and indebtedness, which con-
sists of Debt Liabilities, Net Debt, and Ad-
justed Net Debt. The Group defines Debt Li-
abilities as the sum of:
bonds issued;
current bond issued
interest on bonds issued;
long-term borrowings;
current portion of long-term borrowings;
short-term borrowings;
lease liabilities and
current portion of lease liabilities.
The Group defines Net Debt as Debt Liabili-
ties less cash and cash equivalents and cash
deposits pledged under credit facilities. Fi-
nally, the Group defines Adjusted Net Debt,
as Net Debt less commodity inventories.
Adjusted Working Capital
The Group uses Adjusted Working Capital
as a measure of its efficiency and short-term
liquidity which is defined as current assets (ex-
cluding cash and cash equivalents, and assets
classified as held for sale) less current liabili-
ties (excluding the short-term borrowings, the
current portion of long-term borrowings, cur-
rent portion of lease liabilities, the current
bond issued, the interest on bonds issued, and
liabilities associated with assets classified as
held for sale).
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
The following table shows the Group’s key inventories considered eligible for
CI
by type and the
amounts of such inventory that the Group treats as
CI as in the periods indicated:
in thousand USD
As of 30
June 2023
As of 30
June 2024
Sunflower oil & meal
117,971
93,850
Sunflower seed
25,627
84,789
Grains
137,092
67,839
Other
60,853
31,182
Total
341,543
277,660
of which: Commodity Inventories
281,855
246,749
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Calculation of
Debt Liabilities, Net and Adjusted Net Debts as on the dates indicated:
in thousand USD
As of 30
June 2023
As of 30
June 2024
Current bonds issued
596,211
597,580
Interest on bonds issued
7,612
7,612
Short-term borrowings
869,933
315,166
Lease liabilities
166,735
142,534
Current portion of lease liability
31,160
27,206
Debt Liabilities
1,671,651
1,090,098
less: cash and cash equivalents
1,076,806
809,584
Net Debt
594,845
280,514
less: commodity inventories
281,855
246,749
Adjusted Net Debt
312,990
33,765
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Reconciliation of total current assets to
Adjusted Working Capital as at the dates indicated:
in thousand USD
As of 30
June 2023
As of 30
June 2024
Total current assets
2,442,102
2,155,355
less:
Cash and cash equivalents
954,103
809,584
Total current liabilities
1,898,804
1,367,062
add back:
Short-term borrowings
869,933
315,166
Current portion of lease liabilities
31,160
27,206
Current bonds issued
596,211
597,580
Interest on bonds issued
7,612
7,612
Adjusted Working Capital
1,094,111
926,273
…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...
Calculation of
Free Cash Flows to the Firm:
in thousand USD
FY2023
FY2024
Net cash generated by operating activities
716,132
472,136
Net cash used in investing activities
9,576
(112,548)
Free Cash Flows to the Firm
725,708
359,588
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
38
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Alternative Performance Measures continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
The Management believes that these APMs assist in providing additional useful information on the underlying trends, performance and position of
the Group. APMs are used by the Management for performance analysis, planning, reporting and incentive setting purposes. The measures are
also used in discussions with the investors, investment analyst community and credit rating agencies.
APM
Calculation
Why APM is the most important for management
EBITDA
Profit from operating activities adding back amortization
and depreciation.
EBITDA is the main metric used by the management of the Group
to measure operating performance. It is also widely used by inves-
tors when evaluating businesses, and by rating agencies and cred-
itors to evaluate the leverage.
EBITDA margin
EBITDA divided by revenue during the reported period.
EBITDA margin is a metric widely used to measure profitability of
Group's operations.
Segment EBITDA
Segment profit from operating activities adding back
amortization and depreciation.
EBITDA is the main metric used by management of the Group to
measure segment operating performance.
Segment EBITDA
margin
Segment EBITDA divided by segment revenue during
the reporting period.
Segment EBITDA margin is the metric widely used to measure
profitability of Group's segment operations.
Investing Cash
Flows net of Fixed
Assets Invest-
ments
Net cash used in investing activities adding back pur-
chase of property, plant and equipment, and proceeds
from disposal of property, plant and equipment.
As the Group has grown and developed through acquisitions, this
APM helps to monitor the M&A and other investing activities of the
Group.
Net Fixed Assets
Investments
Net cash used in investing activities less Investing Cash
Flows net of Fixed Assets Investments.
The Group is executing a solid investment program, and fixed as-
sets investment is an important measure to monitor capital expendi-
ture as a part of the execution of investment program.
Operating Cash
Flows before
Working Capital
Changes
Net cash generated by operating activities less changes
in working capital activities, including:
change in trade receivables and other financial assets;
change in prepayments and other current assets;
change in restricted cash balance;
change in taxes recoverable and prepaid;
change in biological assets;
change in inventories;
change in trade accounts payable; and
change in advances from customers and other current
liabilities.
The Group uses this APM as a pre-working capital measure that
reflects Group’s ability to generate cash for investment, debt ser-
vicing and distributions to shareholders.
Free Cash Flows
to the Firm
Sum of net cash generated by operating activities and
net cash used in investing activities.
The Group uses this APM as it reflects the cash generating capa-
bility of the Group to repay debt and distribute dividends to share-
holders.
Commodity
Inventories
Agricultural inventories, such as corn, wheat, barley, soy-
bean, sunflower seed, meal and oil.
The Group uses this APM as an additional measure of its liquidity,
which the Group uses to provide a supplemental tool to assist man-
agement and investors in evaluating current business performance
and in calculating credit ratios under certain of the Group’s financ-
ing arrangements.
Debt Liabilities
Sum of bonds issued, current bonds issued, interest on
bonds issued, long-
term borrowings, current portion of
long-term borrowings, short-term borrowings; lease lia-
bilities and current portion of lease liabilities.
The Group uses this APM, as it is a useful measure of the leverage
of the Group, which is widely used by credit investors and rating
agencies.
Net Debt
Debt Liabilities less cash and cash equivalents and
cash deposits pledged under credit facilities.
The Group uses this APM, as it is a useful measure of the leverage
of the Group, which is widely used by credit and equity investors
and rating agencies.
Adjusted Net Debt
Net Debt less commodity inventories.
The Group uses this APM as a supplemental measure of the
Group’s liquidity
, which shows the amount of Debt Liabilities not
covered by cash and commodity inventories.
Adjusted
Working
Capital
Current assets (excluding cash and cash equivalents,
and assets classified as held for sale) less current liabili-
ties (excluding short-
term borrowings, current portion of
long-
term borrowings, current portion of lease liabilities,
current bonds issued, interest on bonds issued, and lia-
bilities associated with assets classified as held for sale).
The indicator of working capital is important for the Group, as the
Group is involved in trading and processing activities and hold large
volumes of inventories on the balance. The Group also invests in
business expansion, which needs working capital inves
tments to
increase efficiency. It is useful for users and investors because it
measures both a Group’s efficiency and its short-
term financial
health. It also helps management to keep a business operating
smoothly and meet all its financial obligation within the coming year.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Sustainability report
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Over FY2024, we were focusing on advancing our
methodological approaches to the management of
decarbonization initiatives. We now have a working
prototype of the operational accounting of GHG
emissions from farming operations across individual
fields and crops. This way we can capture the differ-
ence between agroclimatic conditions, soil charac-
teristics, and agricultural technologies, including re-
generative practices, for every field. This translates
into a spectrum of carbon footprints, showing re-
movals of GHG emissions as well. As a result, we
can disclose more precise data, offer our clients dif-
ferentiated low-carbon commodities, and plan our
decarbonization efforts more efficiently.
We took the first steps towards setting concrete cli-
mate targets. Indeed, in FY2024 our Poltavsky Veg-
etable Oil Extraction Plant has committed to the Sci-
ence-Based Targets (SBTi), becoming the first
company in the Ukrainian food industry to join this
global initiative. We aim to develop a GHG emission
reduction target for the plant within the next year,
leveraging our capacity for green electricity produc-
tion from biomass by our co-generation heat and
power plants (CHPs). This exercise will equip us
with practical knowledge of the SBTi procedures be-
fore cascading such a commitment to Kernel as a
whole.
In terms of social capital development, we have pri-
oritized supporting our employees serving in the
Armed Forces of Ukraine and integrating veterans.
We are among the Top 3 companies in Ukraine re-
garding the humanitarian and societal aid during
wartime, having directed a total of USD 14 million of
material support in FY2024.
Our values and purpose that help us manage ESG risks and opportunities in agriculture sector in Ukraine
…………………………………………………………………..………………………………………………………..…..…..…..…..…..…..…..….
Sustainability as a data-driven pathway of strategic business
development
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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nel.ua
Key highlights
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
ESG Topics Key indicators in FY2024
ENVIRONMENTAL
CAPITAL
Contribution to SDGs:
Energy management
8,689 TJ total electricity consumption
2,146 MJ/t energy intensity of sunflower seed processing in
FY2023
71 MJ/t-% energy intensity of drying grain
630 MJ/t energy intensity
Water and effluent man-
agement
6,391 ML the total volume of water withdrawn
1,136 ML total volume of water discharged
Waste management
349 tons total volume of hazardous waste generated
49,915 tons total volume of non-hazardous waste generated
Biodiversity management
Around 35 thousand ha of cover crops
Collaboration with NASA Harvest to monitor the impact of war on
the agriculture and environment
CLIMATE ACTION
Contribution to SDGs:
TCFD aligned disclosure
179 thousand tCO2e total Scope 1 GHG emissions, excluding
690.5 thousand tCO2 of biogenic emissions
92 thousand tCO2e total Scope 2 GHG emissions (location-
based)
150 thousand tCO2e total Scope 2 GHG emissions (market-
based)
3,042 thousand tCO2e total Scope 3 GHG emissions
Investment rating on
climate performance
Confirmed CDP rating (Carbon Disclosure Project) at the level B,
making Kernel the only company in Ukraine with such a rating
SBTi Commitment
Poltavsky Vegetable Oil Extraction Plant committed the SBTi, be-
coming the first company in the Ukrainian food industry to join this
global initiative
HUMAN CAPITAL
Contribution to SDGs:
Employment
10,904 а total number of employees
2,464 total number of new hires
1,491 total number of employee turnover
The Best Employer in the agriculture sector according to Delo.ua
national rating
HR Brilliance Recruiting, 9
th
Annual HR Brilliance Awards (United
Kingdom)
Training and career
advancement
200,188total number of training hours
1,676 total number of employees, receiving regular performance
and career reviews
Occupational health and
safety
15 total number of recordable work-related injuries
0.81 lost time injury frequency rate
SOCIAL CAPITAL
Contribution to SDGs:
Economic performance
USD 3,652 millionDirect economic value generated
USD 3,244 millionTotal economic value distributed
Disclosure in line with the EU Taxonomy
Support of local commu-
nities and society as a
whole
USD 25 million total amount of social spendings, which in-
cludes support of the Ukrainian Army, humanitarian aid during mili-
tary time and other charity expenses.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
41
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Environmental capital
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Environmental capital
Energy management
Our management approach to energy re-
sources and efficiency
Consumption of energy resources is one of
the most material indicators of our operational
activities. We constantly research and inte-
grate various approaches towards the im-
provement of our energy efficiency, which in
turn reduces our contribution to the national
volume of GHG emissions. In addition, given
our potential to be the largest producer of elec-
tricity from biomass in Ukraine, we strive to be
a role model in the regional agriculture market
in driving energy saving and climate actions.
Our management approach towards energy
resources and energy efficiency is rooted in
the corporate Code of Conduct and Environ-
mental protection policy. There are energy
managers employed within each business
segment, who are responsible for overseeing
Kernel’s energy-related operations and inte-
grating energy efficiency measures. In fact,
the team of nine specialists (Energy Manage-
ment Service) covers Oilseed Processing and
Infrastructure and Trading; in addition, there
are engineers on production sites, providing
technical support for the energy system. En-
ergy efficiency issues in the Farming segment,
namely efficient use of fuel by agricultural ma-
chinery, are managed by the Engineering ser-
vice. The latter is also responsible for explor-
ing and testing new technologies and ma-
chines, which can help decrease fuel con-
sumption.
Our energy management performance
In FY2024, the overall consumption of energy
slightly increased due to the gradual commis-
sioning of the newly constructed Starokosti-
antyniv oilseed processing plant.
Our Oilseed Processing segment is the main
consumer of electricity. Its most significant en-
ergy-intensive technological processes in-
clude drying of raw materials, wet heat treat-
ment of raw materials, cooling, oil treatment by
steam and cooling, drying and cooling of
meals, steam condensation, and heat recov-
ery processes. Natural gas is mostly con-
sumed by Infrastructure and Trading, partic-
ularly by silos. It is used in grain drying opera-
tions, the most energy-intensive processes
being purification and drying of production,
handling, and shipment of raw materials and
storage. With regards to the Farming seg-
ment, it predominantly uses liquid fuel, such
as diesel and petroleum, in agricultural ma-
chinery.
1
Vovchansk OEP in the Kharkiv region, along with ready-to-install CHP equipment, was lost, reducing the initial project scope. The total amount of USD 19 million invest-
ments directed in CHP equipment was written-off in FY2022.
Over the reporting period, the Group in-
creased the volume of electricity sold to the
national energy grid by 73%, reaching a total
of 1,094 terajoules. This electricity was pro-
duced from biomass at five co-generation heat
and power plants (CHPs), located at our Kro-
pyvnytskyi, Prydniprovskyi, Poltava, Ban-
durka, and Ukrainian Black Sea Industryoil
extraction plants (OEPs). Our ‘green’ electric-
ity is particularly valuable since we do not pro-
duce biomass separately to be combusted on
our CHPs but rather use sunflower seed husk,
a side product of the main operational activity
approved as a feedstock for advanced biofu-
els by Annex IX.A. of RED II EU Directive.
These CHPs are a part of our USD 218 million
investment project, resulting in a total of six
CHPs with 84.4MW of power generation ca-
pacity, making Kernel the largest in Ukraine
producer of electricity from biomass
1
.
In addition to being sold to the national energy
grid, the produced electricity is also used for
our own needs, namely, to produce steam on
our OEPs. The Group seeks to strengthen its
energy efficiency efforts within the Oilseed
Processing segment by scaling up the con-
sumption of our own electricity produced at
CHPs. This is one of the key aspects of Ker-
nel’s systematic approach to decarbonizing
each stage of sunflower oil production.
In the Farming segment, our energy effi-
ciency approaches the target for our agricul-
tural machinery fleet. We continuously re-
search the market and development projects
of major global producers of agricultural ma-
chines. Besides, we upgrade our machines
every 5-6 years to replace them with more ef-
ficient fuel-consuming options.
In addition, our existing machines, especially
fuel-intensive ones, are equipped with GPS
trackers and a remote system for monitoring
fuel consumption. These help us to optimize
the usage of fuel and decrease the fuel inten-
sity of standard operations. For example, the
operation of deep loosening with mineral ferti-
lizers application executed by a machine us-
ing an RTK-guided autopilot system, which al-
lows to avoid overlaps in application, saving
around 4.2% of both fuel and fertilizers. Over-
all, Kernel dedicated significant resources to
the development of its agricultural innovative
solutions with the Digital Agribusiness system
and application of AI to increase production ef-
ficiency. The company regularly collects and
analyses data, both with agricultural machin-
ery and remote sensing technology, on agro-
chemical and weather conditions from individ-
ual field plots. The long-term goal of such a
process is to operate based on a highly gran-
ulated understanding of soil characteristics
and potential within every field. This allows us
to apply a tailored set of practices and precise
amounts of fertilizers or pesticides. Such ap-
proach helps to achieve higher productivity
with minimum destruction of natural capital. In
FY2024, Kernel continued testing the ap-
proach of a tailored combination of practices
on a pilot set of fields. Preliminary calculations
estimate savings of USD 28 per hectare from
this method.
Over FY2024, Kernel also made efforts to re-
duce fuel consumption in the logistics depart-
ment. The Group has integrated the eco-driv-
ing approach into the fleet of the road trains.
Using special GPS-based tracking software,
we collect detailed operational data from each
vehicle, including actual fuel consumption and
driving styles. By analyzing this data, we iden-
tify ways to improve routes and modes of
transportation to increase fuel efficiency. The
system ranks drivers according to their perfor-
mance, and those with the highest grades re-
ceive additional remuneration as motivation.
As a result of this program, we achieved a 3%
reduction in overall fuel consumption by inter-
group logistics (more than 200 thousand li-
ters). The logistics department has also con-
ducted training to raise awareness of the new
approach and the need to improve energy ef-
ficiency.
RTK-guided autopilot system saves
4.2% of fuel and fertilizer avoiding
application overlaps
Drone sprayers allow to reduce die-
sel consumption by 1.5-
2.5 liters per
hectare
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Environmental capital continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Water and effluent management
Our management approach to water re-
sources and efficiency
We constantly improve our approaches to ra-
tional water consumption and wastewater
treatment, aiming to increase water use effi-
ciency and decrease our impact on the envi-
ronment. Our approach is embedded in Envi-
ronmental protection policy. Kernel under-
takes water withdrawal in line with valid ‘Spe-
cial water use’ permits, fully compliant with
national legislation.
Kernel closely monitors operations in water-
stressed areas. Our water use accounting sys-
tem includes information on assets' location in
terms of water stress zones: two of our active
oil extraction plants withdraw water in areas
with high water stress, and two plants operate
in areas with medium water stress. In addition,
we undertake strict measures to prevent water
contamination from our operations, the high-
est risk of which is associated with farming ac-
tivities. Specifically, we ensure the precise ap-
plication of fertilizers and pesticides to the soil,
allowing us to control the risk of their runoff to
water bodies; in addition, we do not have farm-
ing and manure management operations in
the protection buffer zones of water bodies.
Our water management performance
In the Oilseed Processing segment water is
used primarily for technical purposes, namely
production of steam, and domestic needs.
Each of our OEPs has an emergency water
reserve, used in case of fire, and six of our
plants have stormwater collection systems to
prevent contamination of soil and groundwater
with oil residue and solid particles. The col-
lected stormwater is not used in the production
processes, due to food safety requirements
limitations.
Natural precipitation is the main source of wa-
ter for our crop production operations, thus
less than 1% of our landbank is irrigated. Con-
sequently, irrigation purposes account for the
largest share of the total volume of water used
by the Farming segment. We apply ad-
vanced monitoring techniques to accurately
identify the water needs of our crops and ex-
ploit the modern pumping and distribution
equipment, allowing minimal technical loss of
water. Kernel’s irrigation experts have been
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..……………………………………………………………………………..
Key energy management indicators
1
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Energy consumption, terajoules
Non-renewable fuel consumed
2,915.1
2,381.2
1,895.0
Natural gas
1,578.8
1,194.6
717.0
Oilseed Processing
149.1
112.0
212.2
Infrastructure and Trading
1,394.9
1,031.8
486.3
Farming
34.7
50.8
18.5
Other
-
-
0.0
Diesel
1,247.3
1,113.1
1,099.6
Oilseed Processing
8.2
3.6
9.1
Infrastructure and Trading
34.6
50.3
28.8
Farming
1,198.3
1,051.2
1,056.6
Other
6.2
7.9
5.2
Petroleum
39.7
37.9
43.4
Oilseed Processing
1.2
0.6
1.0
Infrastructure and Trading
4.5
4.2
5.8
Farming
25.8
32.4
29.2
Other
8.2
0.7
7.4
LNG
49.3
35.6
35.0
Oilseed Processing
0.3
0.2
0.2
Infrastructure and Trading
2.5
1.7
2.0
Farming
45.3
33.7
32.2
Other
1.2
-
0.5
Renewable fuel consumed (sunflower seed husk)
3,551.5
5,189.2
7,028.0
Electricity
736.4
782.6
820.9
Oilseed Processing
512.3
617.4
689.7
Infrastructure and Trading
171.9
127.3
83.8
Farming
49.7
38.0
47.5
Other
2.5
-
0.0
Heating
0.9
0.0
0.2
Oilseed Processing
-
-
-
Infrastructure and Trading
-
-
-
Farming
0.1
-
0.2
Other
0.7
-
-
Electricity sold to the grid
322,5
631.7
1,094.3
Total energy consumption
6,881.4
7,721.4
8,688.5
Oilseed processing
3,900.1
5,291.3
6,846.0
Infrastructure and Trading
1,608.6
1,215.3
652.6
Farming
1,353.9
1,206.1
1,176.9
Other
18.8
8.7
13.0
Energy intensity indicators, megajoules,
Energy consumed per ton of sunflower seed crushed
1,425.6
2,058.7
2,279.6
Energy consumed per ton-% of grain dried
57.8
64.3
70.6
Energy consumed per ton of harvested grain
589.5
632.2
629.5
Note 1:
Any discrepancies between data in this and previous reports (FY2023 and FY2022) are associated with clarifications of raw data and alignment of conversion
factors.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
43
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Environmental capital continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
actively involved in the working group, coordi-
nated by the Ministry of Agrarian Policy of
Ukraine, aimed at developing the foundation
for the implementation of the Law of Ukraine
“On the organization of water users and stim-
ulation of hydro-technical melioration of land”,
adopted in March 2022. The Law provides for
the establishment of water use organiza-
tions (WOUs), drive the development of irri-
gation systems in Ukraine and make them ac-
cessible for farmers.
In FY2024, Kernel’s Prydniprovskyi Cluster
successfully initiated the establishment of the
two WUOs, namely Hradizka WOU in the Pol-
tava region and Dmytrivka WOU in the Cher-
kasy region. This project contributes to the im-
plementation of the broader Irrigation and
Drainage Strategy of Ukraine, developed by
the Ministry of Agrarian Policy. As part of this
project, we modernized outdated and ineffi-
cient pumping equipment and automated wa-
ter supply systems. We also improved compo-
nents of the irrigation infrastructure, i.e. hydro-
insulating intake canals. These developments
are expected to enhance the efficiency of irri-
gation, reduce water usage costs, and im-
prove overall agricultural productivity.
In the Farming division, water is also used for
animal husbandry and technological pur-
poses, such as dilution and application of crop
protection chemicals and fertilizers. In the
case of animal husbandry, we reduce water
usage by applying a dry method of removing
manure from cowsheds using conveyor scrap-
ers. We also constantly test and integrate dif-
ferent avenues to reduce water use in the pro-
cess of agrochemical application.
In addition to the water-saving measures on
the operational level, Kernel invests in techno-
logical solutions that allow it to increase water
use efficiency in the long term. On our Ban-
durka and Black Sea Industry CHPs, we ex-
ploit dry cooling systems. These are three
times more expensive than traditional wet
cooling systems but allow us to save up to 320
megaliters of water annually.
In FY2024, Kernel implemented a project on
the modernization of the system of steam sup-
ply and condensate removal from the heat ex-
changer and toaster at Poltava OEP. As a re-
sult, the plant reduced steam consumption by
two tons per hour, which is about 15% lower
compared to pre-project levels. The project
also led to decreased volumes of water and
chemicals involved in the process of water
preparation. Furthermore, this allowed us to
increase electricity generation capacity by 0.3
MW. Building upon these results, the Group
plans to implement similar projects at four
other plants.
Our management approach to
wastewater treatment
All wastewater generated during our pro-
cessing operations undergoes treatment be-
fore being discharged to water bodies. Four oil
extraction plants have full-cycle water treat-
ment systems in operations, which provide bi-
ological, physical, and chemical purification.
In FY2024, we purified 128.2 megaliters of
wastewater on our water treatment system,
105.3 megaliters of which underwent physical-
chemical and biological treatments, and 22.92
megaliters were treated through dissolved air
flotation. In case an oil extraction plant is con-
nected to a municipal wastewater treatment
plant (WWTP), wastewater is pre-treated on
the site to meet the requirements of a WWTP
and is directed at a proper external treatment.
The quality of treated wastewater is monitored
by our laboratories, which analyze water sam-
ples in line with the Ukrainian national regula-
tion on maximum permissible discharges of
pollutants, maximum levels of which are spec-
ified in a “Special water use” permit.
Such permits limit the volumes of withdrawn
water and/or the volumes and quality of efflu-
ents based on surveys that define hydrological
conditions, baseline water quality, and the as-
similation capacity of a water body. The per-
mitting authority uses information on water
use within a watershed or aquifer to set permit
conditions in a way that balances the interests
of all users and keeps cumulative pollution lev-
els within the national water quality standards.
The regulatory requirements were the only cri-
teria for setting permit conditions that define
the quality of our effluents. Parameters of
wastewater, controlled during laboratory test-
ing, include eight substances, as well as bio-
logical (five-day) and chemical demands of ox-
ygen. In FY2024, there were no incidents of
non-compliance with quality requirements of
wastewater quality.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..…………………………………………………………………………..…
Scheme of Kernel’s water management cycle at oil extraction plants
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Waste management
Changes in the Ukrainian waste manage-
ment legislation
Over the reporting period, Kernel integrated
the changes in its waste management ap-
proaches and accounting to reflect the re-
quirements of the new Waste Management
Law, which came into force on 9 July 2023.
This law aims to align Ukraine's waste man-
agement system with European standards
and practices.
Key highlights of the new legislation include:
Extended Producer Responsibility
(EPR): Producers are now accountable for
the entire lifecycle of their products, partic-
ularly the waste they generate. This in-
cludes packaging, electrical and electronic
equipment, batteries, and other products.
Producers must finance the collection, recy-
cling, and disposal of their products' waste.
Waste Management Hierarchy: The law
emphasizes a waste management hierar-
chy that prioritizes waste prevention, fol-
lowed by preparation for reuse, recycling,
other recovery operations (e.g., energy re-
covery), and disposal as a last resort.
Municipal Waste Management: A munici-
pal household waste management system
is established and managed by an Adminis-
trator responsible for the effective collec-
tion, billing, and handling of claims related
to waste services.
E-Waste System: A unified state electronic
waste system (e-waste) will be introduced
to manage waste data and interactions
electronically, enhancing transparency and
accountability.
Hazardous Waste Management: Stricter
regulations for hazardous waste, including
the requirement for permits for collection,
transport, and treatment, as well as specific
requirements for waste incineration and
landfill operations.
Further reforms are expected to be imple-
mented by the end of 2024, focusing on inte-
grating more comprehensive environmental
and waste management practices as part of
Ukraine's broader effort to integrate European
Union environmental standards and improve
the sustainability of its waste management
practices. The implementation of these laws is
expected to foster a more efficient, transpar-
ent, and environmentally friendly waste man-
agement system in Ukraine.
Our management approach to waste gen-
eration and treatment
Minimization of waste, as well as its proper
treatment, is one of the key indicators of our
operational efficiency. We aim to identify and
implement measures towards the reduction of
the overall volume of waste through the mod-
ernization of technological processes, includ-
ing the reuse of waste across divisions, con-
tributing to the long-term sustainability of our
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..……………………………………………………………………………..
Key water management indicators
FY2023
FY2024
Total
Areas with water
stress
Total
Areas with water
stress
Water withdrawal, megaliters
4,739.6
847.7
6,398.0
833.2
by source
ground water
1,401.4
840.2
1,538.1
819,0
surface water
2,529.2
7.5
3,595.4
11,5
municipal suppliers (third-party water)
809.0
-
1,264.5
2,6
by business segment
Oilseed Processing
1,666.5
752.3
2,319.0
754,9
Infrastructure and Trading
29.8
1.87
76.0
3,8
Farming, incl.:
3,043.3
93.6
4,040.4
74,5
Irrigation
2,518.1
3,530.0
Animal husbandry
207.6
189.4
Water discharge, megaliters
870.5
207.6
1,135.7
217.3
by types of destination
surface water
98.1
98.1
105.3
105.3
municipal suppliers (third-party water)
772.4
109.5
1,030.4
112.0
by business segment
Oilseed Processing
860.7
207.6
1,127.6
217.3
Infrastructure and Trading
151.9
0.0
271.7
0.0
Discharge of substances, tons
dry residue (mineralization)
406.7
129.7
1,303.0
122.7
sulfates
96.4
57.3
313.1
57.1
chlorides
88.6
46.4
242.9
53.7
suspended particles
51.1
25.3
74.6
25.4
fats
10.8
8.7
10.5
8.2
other substances
240.3
110.6
251.2
114.0
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………
Key waste management indicators
in FY2024
tons
The volume of generated hazardous waste
349.3
including by management approach
Transferred for utilization
266.1
Sold to 3d parties
81.2
Landfilling
-
Volume of generated non-hazardous waste
45,914.8
including by management approach
Transferred for utilization
1,923.8
Sold to 3d parties
32,512.0
Landfilling
11,410.8
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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business, as well as through the establish-
ment of controls over waste generation, trans-
portation, and storage.
In FY2024, Kernel further optimized its waste
management approach, emphasizing reduc-
tion, reuse, and responsible disposal. These
practices are integrated into our Environmen-
tal Protection Policy and Code of Conduct.
Waste that cannot be reused within the pro-
duction chain is transferred to licensed dis-
posal or recycling providers, selected from an
official list maintained by the Ministry of Envi-
ronmental Protection of Ukraine. The Ministry
ensures compliance through regular verifica-
tion, and violations can result in license revo-
cation. We expect our contractors to adhere to
the same waste management standards, re-
quiring them to control waste generation and
prevent mixing different types of waste. Con-
tractors must also provide agreements with li-
censed disposal and recycling services as
proof of compliance.
Our waste management performance
In the Farming segment, the waste from op-
erational activities includes:
Crop residue that is normally left distrib-
uted on the field and might also be incorpo-
rated in soil or mulched. Part of the straw is
used for cattle management as bedding. No
crop residue is burned on the field, as it is
strictly forbidden.
Pesticide packaging is collected
separately, depending on the class of haz-
ard, and transferred to a licensed provider
of waste disposal services.
Manure is the main type of waste from ani-
mal husbandry. After manure is removed
from cowsheds with scrapper conveyors, it
is transported to embanked storage areas,
where it undergoes natural composting in
piles. All storage sites are located outside of
settlements, in leeward areas, and away
from water protection buffer zones to avoid
contamination. Manure is mainly applied in
fields as organic fertilizer, and part of it is
distributed among local communities for
gardening purposes. In FY2024, we applied
organic fertilizers, namely manure and di-
gestate, over an area of 1,738 ha.
Cows’ carcasses are disposed of in regis-
tered bio-thermal pits in compliance with the
requirements of the State Veterinary Com-
mittee.
Milk production does not generate packaging
waste, as final products are sold in bulk.
In the Infrastructure and Trading segment
generation of waste is associated mainly with
the grain purification process and includes:
Fraction of substandard grain and crop
residue, separated from main products and
mainly used as cattle fodder in our animal
husbandry business or sold to third parties.
In addition, we use crop residue as a fuel on
one of our drying installations for the gener-
ation of steam.
Our main product in this segment, grain, is
sold in bulk and does not generate additional
packaging waste.
In the Oilseed Processing segment, the main
source of waste is sunflower ash, produced
from combustion during power generation and
used as a raw material for fertilizer production.
Ash is valuable for its chemical composition,
namely its high potassium content and lack of
hazardous admixture. Applying ash in fields
allows us to return a part of harvested nutri-
ents back to the soil.
In the Oilseed Processing business, the
main final product is crude oil sold in bulk for
further processing by customers. The remain-
ing volume of produced oil is refined, bottled,
and packed. Waste generation from plastic
and cardboard packaging occurs downstream
among customers.
Other types of waste result from operational
household activities, such as machinery
maintenance, construction and engineering
works, and wastewater treatment.
By maintaining high standards in waste man-
agement, compliance, and continuous optimi-
zation, Kernel has set the benchmark in the
agricultural industry for environmental respon-
sibility and sustainability. The company's ef-
forts reflect a dedicated approach to manag-
ing waste efficiently, adhering to regulations,
and implementing innovative solutions for
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..……………………………………………………………………..……...
Scheme of Kernel’s waste management cycle
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waste reduction and reuse.
Biodiversity management
Our management approach to biodiversity
protection
Given the nature of Kernel’s business of oper-
ations, specifically farming activities, we are
strongly committed to both minimizing our
negative impact on biodiversity and undertak-
ing specific measures to conserve and boost
biodiversity. This approach is reflected in our
Environmental protection policy.
The key principle in delivering this commit-
ment is ensuring comprehensive and detailed
monitoring of our farming activities, which we
perform throughout our innovative DigitalAg-
ribusiness ecosystem. We apply IT, AI, and
Big Data solutions to accumulate information
on fields and technological operations. This al-
lows us to improve our practices of precise
farming, to strengthen our risk management
approaches, and to control interactions and
impact on natural ecosystems. We exploit
RTK-guided autopilot agriculture machinery
on all our fields; we collaborate with other
companies, sharing the RTK signal and in-
creasing the area coverage where precise
farming is applied. We also monitor our fields
through remote sensing technologies by
collecting data, such as NDVI
1
, from satellites,
helicopters, and on-site data collection facili-
ties, which are then synchronized in data-
bases and analyzed with GIS (Geographic In-
formation Systems) programs. Additionally,
these analytical tools are made accessible in
operational activities on the ground: in their
everyday work, our agronomists use tablets
with installed ‘Mobile Agronomist’ scouting
application, making the process of risk as-
sessment and decision-making more effec-
tive.
Furthermore, we undertake thorough due dili-
gence before the conclusion of the lease,
which includes evaluation of the physical con-
dition, such as quality of soil and existing veg-
etation, as well as the legal status of the land,
namely ownership rights, registered land use
limitations and legal suitability for farming,
which also includes proximity to conservation
areas. Therefore, we do not operate in the
areas with high biodiversity value, specifi-
cally in (1) protected natural zones as defined
by the national legislation and (2) wildlife and
natural habitats at the 377 Areas of Specified
Conservation Interest (ASCI) that are part of
the Ukrainian zone of the Emerald Network,
established by the Bern Convention.
In addition, our farming operations and our
1
Normalized Difference Vegetation Index quantifies vegetation by measuring the difference between near-infrared (which vegetation strongly reflects) and red light
(which vegetation absorbs). NDVI is a standardized way to measure healthy vegetation the higher the NDVI, the healthier vegetation.
2
Rotterdam Convention on the Prior Informed Consent Procedure for Certain Hazardous Chemicals and Pesticides in International Trade
suppliers of grain and oilseed are not associ-
ated with deforestation. In Ukraine, forestry
and agriculture land banks are governed by
different laws that prohibit the conversion of
forests into agricultural land. Furthermore,
Ukraine is historically known for its large terri-
tories of agricultural land (almost 70% of the
country’s territories), which have not been for-
ested over the last 50 years. Issues of illegal
deforestation in Ukraine are specific to the
lands of the forest fund and are not associated
with agricultural activities. In addition to such
legislative limitations, Kernel adopted a non-
deforestation commitment. We are also
committed to preventing the expansion of ara-
ble lands at the cost of natural habitats and
other territories not intended for farming, both
in our own operations and in supply chains.
Our biodiversity management perfor-
mance
Our practical approaches to minimizing the
adverse impacts of our farming operations on
biodiversity include the following:
Promotion of soil biodiversity. Kernel ac-
tively researches and tests applications of
biological fertilizers, including phosphorus-
and nitrogen-fixing bacteria. We are the first
agriculture company in Ukraine to establish
and run our own microbiological laboratory,
where we closely evaluate the benefits of
biological fertilizers on soil health. We also
use bio destructors, namely bacteria and
fungi, that contribute to maintaining the bio-
diversity of soil while also intensifying the
decomposition of organic crop residues
mulched and left in fields, leading to a sub-
sequent return of nutrients from residue
back to the soil. Bio destructors also have a
fungicidal effect, protecting crops from
harmful microorganisms. In FY2024, the to-
tal area of application of biological products
accounted for 484,695 ha.
We are closely researching agricultural
technologies that have a high potential for
reducing GHG emissions associated with
farming operations and have a positive im-
pact on biodiversity. Not only do the ap-
proaches such as reduced tillage, cover,
and perennial crops allow us to sequestrate
carbon, but also conserve ecosystems of
microorganisms in the soil, crop residue,
and plant biomass. In FY2024, Kernel
sowed around 35 thousand hectares of
cover crops.
Integrated pest management system.
When undertaking pest control actions to
reduce crop exposure to diseases, we com-
ply with applicable national and interna-
tional regulations. We only use authorized
plant protection products, listed in the State
registry of pesticides and agrochemicals al-
lowed to be used in Ukraine. Also, we do not
apply chemicals prohibited by the Stock-
holm Convention on Persistent Organic
pollutants and products, listed in Annex
3 of the Rotterdam Convention
2
. We con-
stantly improve our pest management ap-
proaches by adjusting them in line with leg-
islative changes on pesticides in other
countries. For example, since 2021, we
have been gradually reducing the use of ne-
onicotinoid products. In a few years, their
application will be limited to Thiacloprid and
Acetamiprid, which are used in certain EU
countries and have lower toxicity for bees
and wild insects. Before using a new
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Map of Kernel’s presence in areas with high biodiversity value in Ukraine
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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substance on the operational scale, we test
it on our R&D fields (more than 25 thousand
hectares).
Pesticides are applied by self-propelled
spraying machinery equipped with a posi-
tioning control system that deactivates
sprayers outside field boundaries, prevent-
ing overlapping and re-application. In addi-
tion, machines have automatic remote con-
trols for weather conditions, which account
for wind, allowing for minimized off-the-field
releases of pesticides.
Control of seed quality. For sowing cam-
paigns, Kernel only uses breeds and hy-
brids of seeds, listed in the State Registry of
Plant Species Eligible for Cultivation in
Ukraine, which excludes genetically modi-
fied seeds. All seeds, either produced inter-
nally or sourced from the market, undergo a
thorough examination in Kernel’s accred-
ited laboratory before sowing.
Monitoring soil nutrients. At least once
per crop rotation cycle, we analyze soil
quality at our agrochemical laboratory by
taking over 2,000 soil samples (from 25-30
centimeters depths). Based on the evalua-
tion results, we adjust our crop mix plans,
production technology, and fertilization
practices where required. A test-based ap-
proach to fertilizer application allows for
maintaining a deficit-free balance of nutri-
ents and thus prevents deterioration of soil
quality.
In FY2024, Kernel developed and adopted
comprehensive plans on biodiversity conver-
sation and soil health management for each
Farming cluster as part of the ISCC certifica-
tion process. In line with these plans, Kernel,
among other things, aims to integrate bioin-
secticides and biofungicides in the plant pro-
tection program, to further improve spraying
technology to minimize the contact of plant
protection chemicals with the ecosystem and
increase the application of destructors and soil
amelioration.
Biodiversity conservation in the times of
war
As a result of the Russian invasion of Ukraine,
up to 174 thousand square kilometers of
Ukrainian land have become potentially mined
or damaged with explosive objects, a signifi-
cant portion of which is agricultural land. Ac-
tive work on their restoration, decontamina-
tion, and ensuring maximum safety is neces-
sary to guarantee stable harvests.
In FY2024, Kernel’s Data Science department
joined the NASA Harvest initiative (NASA's
program for global food security and agricul-
ture) to assess the impact of hostilities on
Ukrainian agriculture and agricultural
1
Certification ISO 14001 covers key trading company Kernel-Trade, six oil crushing plants, two farming clusters, fifteen silos and one trading terminal
production in the occupied territorieswith
the support of the Ministry of Agrarian Policy
and Food of Ukraine. A pilot project focuses
on developing remote sensing-based ma-
chine-learning approaches to crop-type map-
ping. NASA Harvest maps were validated
based on Kernel data and obtained around
90% accuracy in 2022 and 2023 for winter ce-
reals, rapeseed, and sunflower. This ground-
work will contribute to the development of a re-
liable tool of reliable monitoring of agricultural
lands.
Monitoring of environmental impacts
and ecological compliance
Our management approach towards regula-
tion of the impacts of our operations on the en-
vironment is built on two pillars, namely (1)
continuous monitoring of key environmental
performance indicators to be aligned with per-
mit requirements and to successfully pass
environmental inspections, and (2) procedure
of environmental impact assessment (EIA)
and strategic environmental assessment
(SEA) in line with the national legislation for
planned activities that pose a high risk of sig-
nificant environmental impacts.
These priorities are reflected in our Code of
Conduct and in Environmental protection pol-
icy provisions which account for EBRD’s Per-
formance Requirements. We expect our sup-
pliers to uphold the same level of environmen-
tal responsibility, as stated in our Code of In-
teraction with Suppliers. Mechanisms of envi-
ronmental monitoring are practically imple-
mented through a group-wide environmental
management system (EMS), which is certified
with the ISO 140001 “Environmental man-
agement” standard
1
. Responsibility for per-
forming environmental monitoring and ensur-
ing compliance with relevant legislation lies on
the assets-based team of environmental spe-
cialists (11 full-time employees). Given the na-
ture of our business operations, we are
required to obtain permits for air emissions,
water withdrawal, and discharge of
wastewater to water bodies. The process of
obtaining permits is performed both by Ker-
nel’s team of environmental specialists and by
involving external contractors.
In FY2024, Kernel’s assets obtained a total of
27 new permits, including 11 air emission per-
mits, 15 water withdrawal permits, and 1 per-
mit for subsoil use. Moreover, over the report-
ing period, Kernel has been working on com-
pleting the environmental impact assessment
(EIA) process for seven projects.
In line with permit obligations, we have devel-
oped monitoring programs to control the envi-
ronmental quality of our operations. These in-
clude analyzing air, soil, and water quality and
assessing levels of noise and vibration pollu-
tion. The state environmental inspectorate did
not perform environmental compliance in-
spections on our assets in FY2024, since in-
spections are forbidden during martial law.
Importantly, we considered and successfully
resolved all four complaints regarding Kernel’s
operations from local citizens. In FY2024, we
spent a total of USD 199 thousand on
measures associated with mitigation of envi-
ronmental impacts and environmental protec-
tion.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Key environmental monitoring indicators in FY2024
Scope of monitoring
# of
checks
# of sites
monitored
# of samples
taken
Air quality
91
210
1,815
Conditions of emissions permit
15
95
1,143
Conditions of EIA
34
14
394
Areas at boarders with SPA
1
42
101
278
Water quality
34
86
192
Ground water
25
83
179
Surface water
9
3
13
Soil quality
23
101
102
Areas of waste storage
11
86
85
Areas at boarders with SPA
12
15
17
Noise pollution
91
210
1,815
Vibration pollution
15
95
1,143
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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TCFD disclosure
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Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Climate actions (TCFD disclo-
sure)
Governance
Board oversight of climate-related risks
and opportunities
Kernel’s Sustainability Committee of the
Board of Directors is the body responsible for
(1) identifying, prioritizing, and advising the
Board on the company’s strategic activities in
the areas of decarbonization, climate-related
business opportunities, development of envi-
ronmental, social and human capital, and sus-
tainability governance (hereinafter ‘ESG’)
and sustainable finance; (2) critically review-
ing and considering the ESG Strategy, which
will incorporate SBTi aligned climate targets
and decarbonization pathway; (3) ensuring
the implementation of the ESG Strategy
across business operations; (4) connecting
ESG and climate corporate agendas with Ker-
nel’s business strategy, business objectives
and capital allocation decision.
The Sustainability Committee consists of at
least three members, appointed by the Board
of Directors upon proposal of the Nomination
and Remuneration Committee; the Chair of
the Committee appoints a secretary, who is
normally a sustainability manager of the
Group. For that reason, the Sustainability
Board Committee acts as an effective link be-
tween the Board of Directors and the Execu-
tive Management Team.
The Sustainability Committee meets twice a fi-
nancial year. The purpose of such meetings is
the following:
update on priority business opportunities re-
lated to sustainability function and climate
change
when required, review of changes in rele-
vant policies and procedures
when required, review and approval of stra-
tegic targets, associated with decarboniza-
tion and sustainable development.
The Audit Committee critically reviews and
prioritizes physical and transition climate risks
as part of its responsibilities to assist the
Board of Directors in delivering its risk man-
agement responsibilities by providing a de-
scription of risks specific to Kernel, overseeing
the adequacy and effectiveness of Kernel’s
risk management system, and reviewing the
company’s policies on risk assessment and
risk management.
Management’s role in assessing and man-
aging climate-related risks and opportuni-
ties
Kernel seeks to integrate ESG and climate
corporate agendas in the company’s overall
business strategy and operations. For that
reason, the Executive Management Team is
actively engaged in the implementation of
ESG and climate action practices and initia-
tives within their respective functions, that are
considered as priority at a specific time. Kernel
plans and prioritizes such initiatives based on
its vision of the role of the company and agri-
cultural sector in general in delivering the
goals of the Paris Agreement and our place
within the international climate arena. We
develop our vision based on our understand-
ing of global dynamics in the areas of decar-
bonization and carbon markets, which is com-
plemented by our ongoing dialogue with our
key trade partners, and major global agricul-
ture commodity traders.
The Chief Executive Officer of Kernel plays
a key role in overseeing the integration of ESG
and climate corporate agendas in business
operations. The CEO provides a critical review
and feedback on the development of Kernel's
ESG and climate corporate strategy, including
GHG emission reduction targets, approaches
to the development of the sustainability and
climate corporate strategy across operations,
as well as on engagement in relevant busi-
ness opportunities related to decarbonization.
Throughout FY2024, Kernel’s executive
management was addressing the following
strategic targets, related to decarbonization
and sustainable development, namely:
1. Development of the framework for
systematic attraction of sustainable fi-
nance: Chief Financial Officer
2. Research and realization of business
opportunities associated with low-
carbon development: Heads of Trading
3. Integration of operational accounting
of GHG emissions from agriculture
operations: Director of Agribusiness, Di-
rector of IT, Chief Financial Officer
The HR Director provides overall support to
initiatives related to low-carbon development.
This includes the development of climate-re-
lated KPIs for the Executive Management
Team, which are then cascaded across each
corporate function. The head of the HR De-
partment is also responsible for communi-
cating the importance and benefits of sustain-
ability practices and climate actions within the
Group and supporting their implementation
from the behavioral perspective. Kernel’s
Head of Sustainability is in direct subordina-
tion to the Head of the HR department. The
Head of Sustainability is responsible for lead-
ing the development and improvement of Ker-
nel's sustainability and climate corporate func-
tion.
The Risk Committee of the Executive Man-
agement Team is responsible for the identifi-
cation, assessment, management, and control
of the key risks, including climate-related risks.
Strategy
In 2023, Kernel finalized the "Climate corpo-
rate governance and low-carbon pathway"
project in partnership with EBRD, which in-
volved the assessment of climate-related risks
and opportunities (in line with TCFD recom-
mendations), gap analysis of climate govern-
ance, feasibility analysis mitigation and adap-
tation measures.
Building on the results of this project, Kernel
developed a comprehensive action plan,
which includes actions of an organizational
and investment nature aiming to improve Ker-
nel’s climate corporate governance perfor-
mance. Such actions were developed across
material groups: agribusiness, production, en-
ergy, carbon offsets, production, supply chain,
GHG accounting, risk, strategy, governance,
and sustainable finance. The action plan was
reviewed by the Sustainability committee of
the Board of Directors, prioritizing actions and
reflecting them in respective KPIs for execu-
tive and operational managers. The action
plan will serve as the cornerstone of the
Group’s future climate transition strategy and
emission reduction targets aligned with the
SBTi FLAG guidance.
As a part of preparing and implementing such
an action plan, the Group is actively evaluating
options for corporate GHG emission reduction
targets by integrating a detailed operational
accounting system and addressing business
opportunities and risks associated with the ap-
plication of low-carbon farming practices.
Approach to climate risk identification and
management
Kernel's overall approach to managing risks,
including climate physical and transitional
risks, and to evaluating their impact on busi-
ness is governed by the company's Risk Man-
agement Policy and underlying procedures.
The policy reflects a comprehensive risk man-
agement framework developed by Kernel,
which includes a 5-steps risk identification and
mitigation system, namely:
Risk identification;
Risk assessment and prioritization;
Development and execution of risk mitiga-
tion plan;
Monitoring of plan execution;
Enhancement of risk management process.
The risk management framework operates in
five risk categories: strategic (business), oper-
ational, financial, regulatory, and sustainabil-
ity. In terms of climate-related risks, strategic
(business) and operational categories account
for physical climate long-term and short-term
risks, respectively. Transitional climate risks
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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TCFD disclosure continued
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Report
Corporate
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Financial
Statements
are covered by the regulatory category and
sustainability category, covering a broader
group of environmental and social risks.
For annual operational planning, the company
re-evaluates and updates the matrix of the top
10 risks, subsequently approved by the Board
of Directors. The risk of acute climate events
in the production cycle is embedded in the risk
category 'weak harvest in Ukraine'. The risk of
weak harvest is applied to each business seg-
ment of the company: (1) Kernel's own farm-
ing operations (direct impact); (2) capacity uti-
lization of Kernel's silos and export terminals
due to physical shortage of grain on the mar-
ket and oil crushing margins due to limited
supply of oilseeds (indirect impact); (3) export
value chain, because the majority of Kernel's
grain export volumes normally originates from
third-party suppliers.
The risk management process is implemented
on an ongoing basis by the Board of Directors,
executive management, and operational man-
agement. The board considers risks of sub-
stantial financial impact, and other risks are
dealt with at the executive management and
operational management levels. Indeed, the
Executive Management Team ensures that all
risks are systematically identified, quantified,
monitored, mitigated, and managed daily.
Within the 'Climate change strategy and low-
carbon pathway' project, Kernel works to inte-
grate a more articulated approach to the iden-
tification, evaluation, and management of cli-
mate physical and transition risks in line with
the TCFD recommendations. This includes an
assessment of the impacts of climate-re-
lated risks on the enterprise value.
With regards to climate physical risks, such an
approach involves the regular assessment of
climate change information provided by the
Regional Climate Models (specifically
CMIP6 Projections using SSP 2.6-4.5 sce-
nario also referred to as ‘Net Zero 2050’ and
SSP 8.5 scenario also referred to as ‘Nation-
ally Determined Contributions’ to inform man-
agement decisions) to understand the dynam-
ics of climate change impact across Kernel's
landbank in the long-term perspective. Rele-
vant parameters of these scenarios are used
for stress-testing Kernel's financial model,
allowing it to evaluate the Group's exposure to
long-term climate change impacts and their
monetary interpretation (i.e. impact on
EBITDA). Evaluation of transitional climate
risks is also to be reflected in the company's
financial model and accounts for implications
of both domestic and European carbon regu-
lations.
The interconnection between climate physical
and transitional risks is linked to the assump-
tion that SSP 2.6-4.5 scenarios would imply
that carbon regulations will be tightened sig-
nificantly. It will strongly affect the Company’s
performance, but the Company will be less ex-
posed to the physical risks. In contrast, the
SSP 8.5 scenario implies that carbon regula-
tions will be tightened moderately and softly
affect the company’s performance, but in turn,
the company will be more exposed to physical
risks.
Kernel's approaches to the identification, as-
sessment, and management of climate risks
are the following:
Climate physical risks are evaluated on
the operational level. Kernel's modeling and
monitoring team, which includes experts in
geographic information systems (GIS),
along with financial and business analysts,
continuously monitors key climate indica-
tors. This involves data collected from the
company’s meteorological stations and sat-
ellite data, such as NDVI (Normalized Dif-
ference Vegetation Index) indicators, which
reflect vegetation responses to weather
conditions and their interconnections with fi-
nancial and business performance. Further-
more, Kernel’s farming segment holds stra-
tegic sessions twice a year, before spring
and winter sowing campaigns, where Ker-
nel’s agricultural experts, building on this
analysis, undertake short-term business
planning, profound consultation, and deci-
sion-making on managing acute climate
risks and adaptation practices.
Monitoring of chronic climate risks is
based on the company's practical observa-
tions and analysis of available agrometeor-
ological research on changes in Ukraine's
climate zones and yield dynamics. To that
end, Kernel's business analysts undertake
a regular analysis of harvest results of both
Kernel and other agriculture companies in
Ukraine and compare these indicators be-
tween geographic regions. Such exercises
help to identify climate patterns and tenden-
cies across the company's land bank, which
are used to make informed long-term stra-
tegic decisions regarding the geographic lo-
cation of assets. Such decisions are made
at the level of the Executive Management
Team or the level of the Board of Directors
if the monetary implication of risk is higher
than the established substantial strategic
impact threshold.
Kernel's sustainability function undertakes
the identification of climate transitional risks
through the ongoing monitoring of develop-
ments in domestic and EU carbon regula-
tions. Material transitional risks are evalu-
ated in terms of their monetary impact to-
gether with financial and business analytics.
It is then brought up to the Executive Man-
agement Team or the Board of Directors' at-
tention if the impact of the risk is considered
significant. Evaluation of climate transitional
risks is based on analysis of NGFS (Net-
work for Greening the Financial System)
scenarios of carbon prices within EU ETS
and in Ukraine. Analysis of these scenarios
and financial implication of climate transi-
tional risks, as well as information on key
drivers of these risks (i.e. developments in
EU and domestic climate regulations), are
updated on an annual basis and approved
by the Audit Committee at the Board of Di-
rectors.
In FY2024, Kernel updated the list of material
climate transitional risks by removing the risk
of the inclusion of maritime transport in the EU
Emissions Trading Scheme (EU ETS) as it
had already materialized. Indeed, since Janu-
ary 2024, the EU ETS has been extended to
cover CO
2
emissions from all large ships en-
tering EU ports, regardless of the flag they fly.
This regulation is directly applied to Kernel’s
two own vessels.
Material climate-related risks
Chronic physical risks
For Kernel's operations, chronic physical cli-
mate risks are relevant both from the perspec-
tive of long-term strategic impact on the loca-
tion of assets, and impact on yields of key
crops. Analysis of the overall dynamic in the
climate system across the territory of Ukraine
demonstrates a gradual shift in the boundaries
of natural zones (woodlands, forest-steppe,
steppe) towards the northwest. The shift in cli-
mate zones leads to an extension of land that
falls under the category of risky farming and,
therefore, to the increased price of lease
agreements for agricultural land suitable for
growing grain and oilseeds (the so-called ‘corn
belt of Ukraine’).
Assessment and monitoring of dynamics in cli-
mate conditions on Kernel's landbank are on-
going and involve (1) analysis of meteorologi-
cal data obtained from Kernel's meteorological
stations (a total of 51 stations) and satellite cli-
mate change data obtained from GIS solu-
tions frameworks such as GEOSIS, under-
taken by the modeling and monitoring team,
and (2) retrospective analysis of harvest from
both Kernel's landbank and in Ukraine in gen-
eral, made by the team of financial and busi-
ness analysts.
Kernel has a subscription to the provider of
GIS (geographic information system) solu-
tions provided by GEOSIS Technologies for
the ongoing monitoring of changes in the veg-
etation and visualization of climate-related
data relevant to the regions of the company’s
operations and potential expansion,. These
solutions allow us to consolidate and analyze
climate-related data and relevant patterns ob-
tained from satellite images. The cost of the
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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response to climate chronic physical risks also
includes technical maintenance of Kernel's
own agrometeorological stations, IT support
and development of the company’s Digital Ag-
ribusiness program, and maintenance of the
company’s own drones that undertake remote
sensing of the landbank.
In FY2024, Kernel complemented its annual
chronic climate risk assessment with the pro-
jections of Global Agro-Ecological Zoning for
Ukraine, prepared by the Food and Agriculture
Organization (FAO)
1
.
Acute physical risks
The risk of acute climatic events resulting in
decreased yields is a basic risk for the agricul-
ture business. Within Kernel's risk manage-
ment framework, this risk is reflected in the
risk category 'Weak harvest in Ukraine', which
is normally included in the top 10 Company’s
risks list. Likewise, the Company's financial
modeling provides for conservative basic as-
sumptions of reduced yields due to impacts of
acute climate impacts. In addition, acute cli-
mate physical risks are also applicable to Ker-
nel's infrastructure since extreme weather
conditions would impact farming business
across the whole country (impact on Kernel's
supply chain and trading operations), leading
to decreased capacity operations of the com-
pany's silos and oil crushing plants.
We evaluate acute physical risks based on the
Regional Climate Model (RCM) of climate dy-
namics in the territory of Ukraine. RCM col-
lects data on single levels from numerous ex-
periments, models, domains, resolutions, en-
semble members, time frequencies, and peri-
ods computed over several regional domains
all over the World, particularly in the CMIP 6
of the Coordinated Regional Climate
Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX) frame-
work. The analysis showed that the frequency
of acute climate events (droughts) in northern
parts of Kernel's landbank would increase un-
der the SSP 8.5 scenario in a long-term per-
spective.
In FY2024, Kernel enhanced the analysis of
physical acute risks by evaluating the financial
consequences of extreme weather events,
particularly heatwaves and drought during the
pollination period, on the 2024 harvest, and
using it as a reference for future estimations.
Kernel aims to undertake a more profound
analysis of the historical dynamic of the
Group’s harvest and its correlation with ex-
treme weather conditions to tailor the analysis
to the actual on-the-ground data.
The company’s response to this risk includes
1
Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, GAEZ Data Portal, https://gaez.fao.org/pages/country-profiles
the organization of strategic sessions of the
Farming segment twice a year before the
spring and winter sowing campaigns. During
this meeting directors of Kernel’s farming clus-
ters (cluster is an organizational unit in Ker-
nel’s landbank and farming operations; there
are a total of 5 clusters), agricultural experts,
as well as business and financial analytics un-
dertake broad consultations on results of pre-
vious harvest seasons; identify areas for im-
provement in agriculture practices; analyze
available data and projections of weather con-
ditions during the next harvest season; under-
take short-term business planning, profound
consultation and decision-making on manage-
ment of climate acute risks and adaptation
practices.
The response also includes technical ex-
penses to support research and development
centers, which are specifically dedicated fields
where the company tests new farming prac-
tices, including resistant FAO hybrids, inhibi-
tors of nitrification, biological destructors, etc.
Transitional risk: emerging carbon regula-
tion in Ukraine
Regarding Ukraine's carbon tax, it increased
from 10 UAH to 30 UAH per ton of CO
2
in
2021. Although the rate remained unchanged
in FY2024, we anticipate that the rate of the
carbon tax will continue growing over the next
years to become aligned with an average price
of a ton of CO
2
in the EU (these expectations
are based on Ukraine's commitments under
EU Association Agreement and its candidacy
to EU, as well as Ukraine's possible response
to EU CBAM requirements). Kernel evaluates
the risk of the expected growth of carbon tax
in the following years based on the average
carbon tax value in EU member countries
(EUR 20-120/tCO
2
), which would lead to sig-
nificant annual expenditures.
Ukraine's carbon tax applies to Kernel's com-
bined heat and power plants that produce
electricity from sunflower seed husk (side
product to the oilseed crushing process, ap-
proved as a feedstock to provide advanced
biofuels as per Annex IX.A. of RED II Di-
rective). The nature of these risks lies in the
fact that such regulation contradicts Ukraine's
regulation on Monitoring, Verification, and Re-
porting (MRV) and the EU's position on the
combustion of biomass and production of ad-
vanced biofuels, GHG emissions of which are
considered to be zero.
Regarding Ukraine's national emission trading
scheme (ETS), the key risk for Kernel is the
significant increase in electricity price, when
ETS is finalized and launched. This
assumption is based on EU average whole-
sale electricity prices of EUR 110/MWh in
2022, compared to Ukraine's industry electric-
ity prices of approximately EUR 70/MWh in the
same year. Although Ukraine's ETS develop-
ment is in its early stages and not expected to
be finalized for at least seven years, we
closely monitor this risk. The potential financial
implications are evaluated according to the
NGFS (Network for Greening the Financial
System) climate modeling of the carbon price
dynamic in Ukraine.
As of FY2024, under the SSP 2.6-4.5 sce-
nario, the carbon price in Ukraine is projected
to increase up to EUR 177.94/tCO
2
, and under
the SSP 8.5, the price would reach EUR
5.10/tCO
2
by 2030. In the range of potential fi-
nancial impact, the minimum figure is the com-
bined impact of increased carbon tax and in-
creased price of electricity once the UA ETS is
implemented in 2030 under the SSP 8.5,
whereas the maximum figure under the SSP
2.6-4.5 scenario.
Kernel actively participates in business asso-
ciations, namely the European Business As-
sociation and American Chamber of Com-
merce in Ukraine, where we contribute to the
development of common business positions
on different matters (i.e. energy transition,
food-energy balance, as well as bioenergy
and biofuels as integral pillars of the REPow-
erEU initiative) and their communication to the
government. Tax on GHG emissions gener-
ated from biomass combustion is one of the
key issues where Kernel demonstrates a
strong position as the largest producer of elec-
tricity from biomass in Ukraine.
Transitional risk: emerging carbon regula-
tion in EU (increasing cost of fertilizers)
EU's ‘Fit for 55’ package (under which EU
seeks to cut its emissions by at least 55% be-
fore 2030) includes provisions on the ETS,
namely the target to reduce the emissions by
61% before 2030 and to reduce the number of
free allowances by 4.2% each year. GHG
emissions from the production of nitric acid,
ammonia, and hydrogen are covered by the
EU ETS. Considering that nitric acid, ammo-
nia, and hydrogen are intermediates in the
production of NPK fertilizers, it is expected
that the price of EU-sourced fertilizers will in-
crease following the implementation of Fit for
55 provisions. As of FY2024, if produced in the
EU, the price of fertilizers would reflect the
price of EU allowances on GHG emissions,
which are projected to increase up to EUR
263.21/tCO
2
under the SSP 2.6-4.5 scenario
and to EUR 129.04/tCO
2
under the SSP 8.5
scenario by 2030 (according to NGFS climate
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data projections). In the case of domestically
produced fertilizers, their price would account
for a projected carbon price in Ukraine: EUR
177.94/tCO
2
under SSP 2.6-4.5 scenario and
EUR 5.10/tCO
2
under SSP 8.5 scenario by
2030 (according to NGFS climate data projec-
tions). In the range of potential financial im-
pact, the minimum figure is the combined im-
pact of the increased price of carbon allow-
ances under the EU ETS and the UA ETS
once implemented in 2030 under the SSP 8.5,
whereas the maximum figure under the SSP
2.6-4.5 scenario.
In FY2024, in response to this risk, Kernel
continued engaging with current suppliers of
nitrogen fertilizers to collect data on the car-
bon footprint of their production and include it
in relevant Scope 3 calculations. The Group
also began exploring sustainable finance op-
portunities to support efficient collaboration
with fertilizer suppliers. In the long-term
perspective, this information would be applied
to optimize the suppliers' portfolio and to initi-
ate bilateral cooperation toward decreasing
purchased fertilizers' carbon footprint. We ex-
pect that access to carbon footprint data will
be simplified when fertilizer producers start
disclosing this information under the CBAM
regulations.
Metrics and targets
Kernel’s Scope 1, Scope 2, and Scope 3
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….…………………………………………………………………………...
Material climate-related opportunities
In FY2024, Kernel re-evaluated material categories of business opportunities, associated with
emerging decarbonization regulations in the EU,
development of new markets that aim to incentivize companies to reduce emissions and contribute to energy transition, as well
as partnerships to
support low-carbon development of agriculture sector globally.
#
Product group
Specification
1. Bioenergy
Kernel explores opportunities associated with the production of biofuels, namely biomethane produced from plant-
based feedstock such as silage corn or crop residue. This opportunity stems from the growing demand for energy
sources both in Ukraine and in th
e EU (REPowerEU initiative aimed to reduce dependency on Russian natural gas),
amid changes in regional energy geopolitics following Russian invasion of Ukraine.
This opportunity is also supported by developments in relevant domestic legislations, which allow injection of bio-
methane in the gas transportation system and provides for establishment of national registry of renewable gas guar-
antees of origin (RGGO) for biomethane producers.
2.
Diversification of fi-
nancial assets with
sustainability- and
climate-linked fi-
nance
We aim to effectively access markets of sustainability- and climate-linked finance, both in terms of receiving special-
ized interest rates on loans (linked to specific covenants) and project finance. It's understandable that there are yet
no unified rules
of such finance, particularly in agriculture sector in Ukraine, and standardized criteria for investing in
nature and social capital.
Therefore, the company started building focused dialogues with key investors, commercial banks and financial insti-
tutions to develop tailored approaches of attracting different types of sustainable- and climate finance in an evidence-
based manner. Kernel s
eeks to develop a comprehensive sustainable finance framework, building on the outcomes
of the 'Corporate climate governance and low-carbon pathway' project.
The purpose of such framework is to develop evidence-
based quantifiable criteria (covenants) of sustainability and
climate-
linked finance, tailored to different types of financial products and aligned with the company’s overarching
sustainability strategy; and to coordinate them with a pool of potential investors, IFIs, local commercial banks etc.
3.
Voluntary carbon
markets
This opportunity is associated with the access to voluntary carbon markets. The company is currently testing collab-
oration with an accelerator of agriculture-based carbon offsets. T
he main purpose of such pilot interaction is to better
understand different approaches of carbon marketplaces to calculate a baseline, changes in soil carbon stock due to
tillage, crop rotation and application of cover crops for each kind of crops, impact of inhibitors of nitrification on reduc-
tion potential and other technical nuances of GHG emissions accounting for agriculture sector.
Building on such observations the company seeks to align its operational accounting of carbon footprint and strategies
on realizing this opportunity with the rules of global carbon market mechanism (Article 6.2 and Article 6.4 of the Paris
Agreement). Exploration of carbon offsets markets, goes hand in hand with in-depth analysis of global market incen-
tives towards decarbonizing supply chain of agriculture commodities, building relevant dialogue with reputable inter-
national organizations and exchanging knowledge with key trading partners.
4.
Efficiency improve-
ment through car-
bon farming prac-
tices
The opportunity lies around the system of farming practices that promote accumulation of soil organic carbon, reduc-
tion of GHG emissions from tillage and nitrification, improving soil health and biodiversity. These practices are com-
monly referred to as reg
enerative, or carbon, farming which is one of the key pillars of the company’s corporate climate
strategy. We believe that this is a long-term direction of development, which would have a visible impact on capitali-
zation, and over the last several years th
is subject has moved from purely theoretical discussion toward practical
consideration during operational planning and testing.
The company is undertaking an ongoing screening of possible channels for comprehensive monetization of carbon
farming practices through its focused engagement with trade partners and other stakeholders (more details in C12.1d).
For now, the performance of carbon farming practices can be quantified through optimization of nutrition rates (includ-
ing through application of inhibitors of nitrification) and, therefore, operational expenses on nitrogen fertilizers. As of
now, the potential impact of such measures
can lead up to 20% lower application of N per hectare; this figure may
vary as the company scales up its regenerative farming practices.
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greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and
other air emissions
Kernel accounts for GHG emissions gener-
ated from operational activities in Ukraine, ad-
hering to the IPCC Guidelines for National
Greenhouse Gas Inventories and Green-
house Gas Protocol Guidance.
Scope 1 emissions include direct GHG emis-
sions associated with the company's opera-
tions of fossil fuel stationary and mobile
combustion, cattle farming, farmland culti-
vation (soil carbon stock change), and fer-
tilizer application. The company’s total bio-
genic GHG emissions generated from the
combustion of sunflower seed husk and
changes in organic carbon stocks are reported
as a separate figure. Emissions associated
with farming operations are reported in the fi-
nancial year, when the agricultural products
were harvested, using data on mineral and or-
ganic fertilizers applied during the growth pe-
riod in crops.
In FY2024, we developed a prototype opera-
tional accounting of GHG emissions from
farming operations across key crops (winter
wheat, corn, sunflower, winter rapeseed, and
soybean) and individual fields (Kernel’s whole
landbank combined of around 5 thousand
fields). The main purpose of such an approach
is to reflect that the landbank is not homoge-
neous in terms of soil characteristics, agrocli-
matic conditions, and, therefore, agriculture
technology and application rates. Therefore,
it’s correct to calculate the carbon footprint of
farming operations (kgCO
2
/t of yield and
kgCO
2
/ha) for each field rather than on aver-
age for the whole landbank. This approach
also enables the demonstration of annual car-
bon removals (shown as negative values) re-
sulting from changes in tillage practices, such
as shifting from conventional to reduced till-
age, sowing cover crops, and managing crop
residue.
Additionally, Kernel started working with the
consultancy, the Carbon Trust, to undertake
an independent gap analysis of the prototype
accounting system in preparation for its further
verification. The goal is to automatize such ac-
counting by integrating the methodology into
existing ERP systems and to ensure traceabil-
ity of the carbon footprint of each batch of
grain (originating from a particular field) across
the value chain. For these purposes we seek
to ensure minimization of data uncertainty:
calculations of changes in soil carbon due to
tillage are performed using "measure and
model" and "measure and re-measure" ap-
proaches (aligned with the Verified Carbon
Standard methodology, VM0042) that account
for availability of laboratory agrochemical data
on soil organic carbon.
This approach will allow us to monitor field re-
lated carbon footprint of its commodities (in
kgCO
2
e/t of yield) and operations (in
kgCO
2
e/ha) from the stage of sowing planning
until harvest, allowing the company to better
evaluate the overall potential for decarboniza-
tion of farming operations, allowing it to priori-
tize geographic location and intensity of low-
carbon practices and achieve reduction of
GHG emissions with higher monetary efficacy.
Scope 2 (location-based) emissions refer to
GHG emissions generated from energy (elec-
tricity and heating) the company consumes.
The average specific emission factor for elec-
tricity production in Ukraine is calculated as
the ratio of total emissions from electricity pro-
duction in Ukraine (source: National Inventory
Report to UNFCCC) to energy production it-
self (source from Ministry of Energy and Coal
Mining).
Scope 2 (market-based) emissions refer to
GHG emissions from energy (electricity and
heating) consumed. Carbon intensity of heat-
ing both location and market-based approach
is the same due to vertically integrated market
and heating monopoly supply. Market-based
carbon intensity of electricity supplied is higher
than the grid average (location-based) due to
a decreased share of low carbon capacities in
the electricity trade portfolio allocated for the
relevant supplying contract (data from Ker-
nel’s electricity supplier) a significant share
of nuclear and hydro capacities in Ukraine are
contracted for households by using special
purpose agreements.
Scope 3. To calculate Scope 3 emissions,
Kernel applies methodology, provided by the
GHG Protocol Corporate Value Chain (Scope
3) Accounting and Reporting Standard. We
evaluated all 15 categories of Scope 3 emis-
sions, namely:
Purchased goods and services: This cate-
gory of emissions includes three material
types of purchased products: (1) purchased
grains and oilseeds, (2) purchased agricul-
ture machinery, and (3) purchased fertiliz-
ers. In case of emissions associated with
the purchased grains, the accounting ap-
proach lies in the application of carbon in-
tensity factors of Kernel's own crops to the
volumes of the purchased grains. As for the
emissions associated with purchased agri-
culture machinery, a spend-based method
was used, where emission factors were cal-
culated based on the carbon intensity of net
revenue of machinery producers (material
producers included CNH Industrial, John
Deere, MAN, and Palfinger). In case of the
emissions associated with the production of
nitrogen fertilizers purchased by Kernel, the
content of nitrogen was calculated, and a
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………
Key GHG emission indicators
1
thousand tCO2e
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Scope 1
255.6
279.6
194.5
by GHG
CO
2
88.4
135.2
44.1
CH
4
22.8
23.3
23.4
N
2
O
144.5
121.1
127.0
by business segment
Oilseed Processing
9.1
6.6
12.7
Infrastructure and Trading
81.3
62.2
30.0
Farming
164.1
210.2
150.9
Fuel use
71.7
91.7
90.0
Fertilizers application
136.0
100.6
116.9
Changes in stock of soil carbon
-69.1
-18.5
-82.3
Cattle methane from enteric fermentation
25.5
26.2
26.3
Other
1.2
0.7
1.0
Biogenic (combustion of sunflower husk)
348.9
509.8
690.5
Scope 2 (Location based)
79.3
83.4
91.5
Scope 2 (Market based)
84.1
136.7
150.1
Scope 3
1,699.5
1,475.3
2,314.6
Cat.1. Purchased goods and services
1,339.6
787.2
934.7
Cat.2. Capital goods
22.5
4.3
8.6
Cat.3. Fuel- and energy-related activities (not incl.in S.1-2)
52.4
69.2
56.1
Cat.4. Upstream transportation and distribution
16.8
23.7
17.4
Cat.5. Waste generated in operations
4.99
4.4
6.6
Cat.9. Downstream transportation and distribution
253.5
591.7
1,262.4
Cat.10. Processing of sold products
3.1
3.5
28.1
Cat.12. End-of-life treatment of sold products
0.1
0.8
0.7
Note 1: Any
discrepancies between data in this and previous reports (FY2022 and FY2023) are associated
with the new (prototyped) accounting approach across key crops, farming operations and individual fields.
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sector average emission factor was applied
(kg CO2e/kg N).
Capital goods: In this category, Kernel ac-
counted for the emissions associated with
the production of metal and concrete, used
for the construction of assets. The company
applied material use emission factors for
metal and concrete from the UK Depart-
ment of Environment, Food and Rural Af-
fairs (DEFRA).
Fuel-and-energy-related activities (not in-
cluded in Scope 1 or 2): To calculate this
category of emissions, Kernel used primary
data on energy consumption and applied
Well-to-tank indicators (Activity A) from
DEFRA; transmission and distribution
losses data for Ukraine (Activity C); as well
as average heat rate of local thermal power
plants (Activity B) to calculate emissions
across three types of activities: Activity A
(39,369.9 tons CO2e), Activity B (20,800.4
tons CO2e), Activity C (9,066.0 tons CO2e).
Upstream transportation and distribution:
This category includes emissions from the
transportation of purchased goods and in-
ternal logistics (i.e. transportation of grains
from fields to silos and from silos to termi-
nals). The company applied the Freighting
goods emission factors for vans and HGV
from DEFRA. In case of the spend-based
method of emission accounting, the emis-
sion factors were calculated based on the
carbon intensity of the net revenue of pro-
viders of logistics services.
Waste generation in services: For this cate-
gory, Kernel used primary data on waste
generation and approaches to waste utiliza-
tion, including treatment of wastewater dis-
charged to WWTPs. The company applied
the Waste disposal emission factors from
DEFRA.
Business travel: This category of emissions
is not material in comparison to the total vol-
ume of Scope 3 GHG emissions. We eval-
uated this category of emissions and con-
cluded that it remains immaterial for Kernel
operations (less than 1 tCO
2
e).
Employee commuting: This category of
emissions is not material in comparison to
the total volume of Scope 3 GHG emis-
sions. We evaluated this category of emis-
sions and concluded that it remains imma-
terial for Kernel operations (less than 1
tCO
2
e).
Upstream leased assets: Kernel does not
have leased assets within its operations.
Downstream transportation and distribution:
This category includes the emissions asso-
ciated with the marine freight of sold prod-
ucts (grain and oil) from the combustion of
fuel by ships, mostly Panamax class. Re-
spective emission factors from DEFRA for
the burning of marine fuel oil were applied
considering the shipping costs and average
fuel spent share.
Processing of sold products: This category
includes emissions associated with the
refining of sunflower oil. Unrefined sun-
flower oil purchased from Kernel typically
undergoes a refining process at the facilities
of a buyer. To calculate such emissions the
company used the average electricity effi-
ciency factor for its own refining process
and applied grid emission factors for each
country where sunflower oil was exported
(The IFI Dataset of Default Grid Factors).
Use of sold products: Kernel sells final prod-
ucts, including grains, sunflower oil, and an-
imal meal. In case the sold products are
used in the energy sector, the sunflower oil-
related biodiesel component of fuel is con-
sidered zero-carbon.
End-of-life treatment of sold products: this
category includes the emissions associated
with the treatment of the waste sold. Kernel
used primary data on the waste sold and to
its utilization approaches. The relevant
Waste disposal emission factors from
DEFRA were applied. However, this cate-
gory of emissions is not material in compar-
ison to the total volume of Scope 3 emis-
sions.
Downstream leased assets: This category
of emissions is not relevant to Kernel's busi-
ness, as the company does not provide
leased assets.
Franchises: This category of emissions is
not relevant to Kernel's business as the
company neither acts as an investor nor
does it have shares in emission-related
portfolios.
Investments: This category of emissions is
not relevant to Kernel's business as the
Company neither acts as an investor nor
does it have shares in emission-related
portfolios.
To reduce N
2
O emissions, Kernel applies dif-
ferentiated mineral fertilization that pre-
vents excessive volumes of nitrogen from end-
ing up in the atmosphere. Based on crop mon-
itoring data, this technique helps to reduce the
portion of fertilizer by 10-15%. The proper ap-
plication timing is equally important. For
corn, winter wheat, rapeseed, and sunflower
annual portion of nitrogen is applied in 2-3
phases.
We apply a stabilized liquid nitrogen ferti-
lizer (urea-ammonia mixture) in spring to en-
sure the minimum time between application
and crop undertaken. In autumn we use only
ammonia-based fertilizers after the average
daily soil temperature falls below 10°C.
Additionally, we apply nitrification inhibitors
and cultivate cover crops. To limit CO2
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Other significant air emissions
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Air pollutants, thousand tones
2.43
2.40
3.05
Carbon oxide
0.64
0.67
0.92
Sulfur dioxide
0.06
0.05
0.08
Nitrogen oxides
0.41
0.42
0.84
Solid substances
1.32
1.26
1.22
Ozone-depleting substances, tCO
2
e
1,364.2
1,364.2
1,228.4
R-407C
95.8
95.8
-
R-134A
72.9
72.9
32.9
R-507A
1,195.5
1,195.5
1,195.5
Hexane, tones
942.5
958.7
1,231.0
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………
Key GHG emissions intensity indicators (Scope 1&2)
1
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
GHG emissions per volume of harvested crop,
kg CO2e/ t of yields
Corn
203.6
201.9
57.4
Sunflower
330.1
336.2
93.3
Wheat
130.8
232.6
66.0
Rapeseed
331.7
335.1
381.5
Soybean
321.7
320.9
-110.7
GHG emissions per area of sowed crop,
kg CO2e/ ha
Corn
1,887.7
1,765.6
563.2
Sunflower
1,007.9
922.1
296.2
Wheat
803.7
1,224.5
377.0
Rapeseed
1,318.1
1,139.6
1,231.4
Soybean
650.9
913.2
-293.9
GHG emissions per sunflower seeds processed
*
,
kg CO2e/ t of seeds
32.1
28.2
27.0
Note 1: Any discrepancies between data in this and previous reports (FY2022 and FY2021) are associated
with clarifications of raw data, alignment of relevant conversion factors and other corrections in calculations.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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TCFD disclosure continued
Management
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Sustainability
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Corporate
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emissions, we reduce both specific fuel con-
sumption and mileage of the field machinery
through regular modernization of the fleet
and optimized routing, respectively.
Emission of other significant emissions, such
as air pollutants, are associated with the com-
bustion of sunflower husk at oil extraction
plants and are calculated by the sites' environ-
mental specialists for statutory reporting pur-
poses on a quarterly basis. Calculations are
based on the volumes of combusted husk and
established specific emission factors.
Hexane emissions, which are linked to its use
as a solvent in edible oil extraction, are care-
fully regulated and minimized during transpor-
tation, storage, and application to ensure both
resource efficiency and safety. All equipment
in contact with hexane at Kernel’s plants com-
plies with the EU ATEX Directive the EU
ATEX Directive (2014/34/EU ‘Equipment for
potentially explosive atmosphere’). The sol-
vent is reused through multiple extraction cy-
cles.
Emissions of ozone-depleting substances,
namely refrigerants, are associated with the
operation of industrial cooling equipment at
two oil extraction plants and in the animal hus-
bandry division.
To prevent dust emissions associated with
grain and oilseed handling, we apply sophisti-
cated design solutions and techniques that
minimize contact of material flows with the at-
mosphere. This includes closed-type grain
and oilseed unloading stations, conveyor
lines, and ship-loading machines with ad-
vanced dust control features. Where preven-
tion is not feasible, treatment equipment is ap-
plied.
Our oilseed processing plants operate six
electrostatic precipitators (ESP) for remov-
ing PM from boilers’ flue gases. These highly
efficient (95-98%) filtration devices use elec-
tric energy to generate an electrostatic charge
that captures fine particles. All grain handling
installations at silos and transshipment termi-
nals are equipped with cyclone filters.
In FY2024, Kernel paid a total of USD 487
thousand in environmental tax, of which USD
439 thousand for CO
2
emissions and USD 48
thousand for air-polluting emissions from sta-
tionary sources.
Emission reduction targets
In the Oilseed Processing segment, the com-
pany seeks to leverage its capacities of green
electricity production from biomass (sunflower
seed husk). In FY2024, Kernel’s Poltava Veg-
etable Oil Extraction Plant has committed to
the SBTi, becoming the first company in the
Ukrainian food industry to join this global initi-
ative. Kernel is exploring opportunities to fur-
ther decarbonize its processing activities, with
90% of the energy consumed by its plants al-
ready classified as low carbon. The remaining
energy consumption, related to Scope 2 elec-
tricity usage, could potentially be offset by al-
locating self-generated renewable electricity
for internal operations or sourcing external
low-carbon electricity through market instru-
ments such as Corporate Power Purchase
Agreements (PPAs). This approach aligns
with Kernel's commitment to achieving greater
sustainability and reducing its carbon foot-
print.
In Farming, Kernel aims to establish targets
of GHG emissions per ton of commodity in line
with SBTi FLAG guidelines. Setting up the op-
erational accounting of GHG emissions from
agriculture practices across fields and crops is
an important groundwork for the development
of ambitious and realistic emission reduction
targets.
Reduction of GHG emissions from agriculture
practices is achieved with carbon farming
practices, also known as regenerative agricul-
ture, namely reduced tillage, application of ni-
trification inhibitors, and introduction of cover
crops to crop rotations. According to prior es-
timations, such practices can potentially have
the following emission reduction capacity: (1)
nitrification inhibitors up to 10% reduction, (2)
cover crops up to 31% reduction and (3) re-
duced tillage up to 85% reduction.
The majority of Kernel’s landbank (more than
90%) is already cultivated with reduced tech-
nology. As of FY2024, the area under cover
crops accounted for around 35 thousand ha.
As per the methodological approach for set-
ting emission reduction targets, Kernel will rely
on the SBTi Forest, Land, and Agriculture
(FLAG) guidance. In line with this guidance,
Kernel would seek to set two categories of
emission reduction targets: an absolute target
and specific targets for each key crop. How-
ever, due to the uncertainty resulting from
Russia's invasion of Ukraine and ongoing mil-
itary actions, the company had to postpone
any decision-making on emission reduction
targets until the next two years. Nevertheless,
the company continues to work on research-
ing business opportunities related to the de-
carbonization of its operations and remains
committed to its climate ambition.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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Human capital
Management
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Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Human capital
General employment information
Our management approach to employment
and human resources
Kernel’s approach towards managing human
resources is defined by the Code of Conduct
and is built on four principles, namely (1) in-
volvement as internal entrepreneurship, (2)
partnership and unity of goals (3) mutual re-
spect and trust, and (4) development of hu-
man potential. Our practices are strictly
aligned with the Labor Code of Ukraine and
other relevant national legislatures as well as
the International Labor Organization’s
(ILO) Fundamental Conventions.
We expect the same level of responsibility re-
garding relations with employees throughout
our supply chain. Our counterparties are obli-
gated to comply with our Code of interaction
with suppliers, which requires them to ensure
fair and safe working conditions for their em-
ployees and compliance with labor legislation.
These requirements are reflected in the rele-
vant contractual provisions.
We are committed to providing our employees
with safe working conditions, strictly adhering
to the regulations of occupational health and
safety and the other relevant requirements; re-
spective working hours; competitive, transpar-
ent remuneration and benefits (including all
salary-related taxes and social contributions);
support with childbirth and proper parental
leave. Kernel has zero tolerance for any form
of forced or compulsory labor or child labor.
As a result of an effective human resources
management system, Kernel demonstrates
low employee turnover (13% in FY2024),
which indicates high levels of satisfaction, loy-
alty, and engagement among employees. Es-
pecially in terms of the Russian invasion of
Ukraine, Kernel’s main HR priority has been
scaling up the approach to retaining existing
staff and enhancing the competencies of en-
gaged employees.
Remuneration approach and benefits
In FY2024 Kernel’s total payroll accounted for
a total of USD 260 million; 487 employees
were receiving minimum wage (281 FTE ba-
sis). Overall, our remuneration is built on three
pillars, namely:
1. Base compensation and benefits. The
basic level of Kernel’s remuneration system
includes:
salaries and wage-based bonuses, that
match or exceed the benchmark of
other industries. It also includes addi-
tional payments and compensations,
depending on working conditions, as
well as fixed payments in case of retire-
ment and financial support in case of an
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Key human resources indicators
(as of 30 June)
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Total number of employees
10,223
10,733
10,904
including by geography:
Ukraine
10,180
10,691
10,851
Other countries
43
42
53
including by level:
Managers
870
885
879
Specialists
3,020
3,110
3,157
Workers
6,333
6,738
6,868
including by business segment:
Oilseed Processing
2,291
2,530
2,479
Infrastructure and Trading
2,679
2,741
2,894
Farming
4,366
4,508
4,527
Head office and other
887
954
965
including by age
less than 30 years old
1,464
1,585
1,548
up to 50 years old
6,271
2,992
6,110
more than 50 years old
2,488
6,156
3,246
including by employment contract, by region:
Permanent
9,647
10,077
10,259
Ukraine
9,604
10,035
10,206
Other countries
43
42
53
Seasonal and temporary
576
656
645
Ukraine
576
656
645
Other countries
0
0
0
including by employment contract, by gender:
Permanent
9,647
10,077
10,259
Male
6,876
7,347
7,469
Female
2,771
2,730
2,790
Seasonal and Temporary
576
656
645
Male
510
586
580
Female
66
70
65
including by employment type, by gender:
Full-time
7,296
10,647
10,817
Male
5,461
7,877
7,987
Female
1,835
2,770
2,830
Part-time
63
86
87
Male
33
56
62
Female
30
30
25
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……
Parental leave indicators in FY2024
223 60
40
68
135
25
Employees that were entitled to parental leave
Employees that took parental leave
Employees that returned to work in the
reporting period after parental leave ended
Employees due to return to work after taking
parental leave
Employees that were still employed 12 months
after their return to work
Male Female
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Corporate
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Financial
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employee’s difficult personal circum-
stances. When personnel optimization
takes place, resulting in a reduction in
the number of employees, the wage
fund is not reduced correspondingly but
is distributed among the rest of the
team.
healthcare services, including voluntary
medical insurance for full-time employ-
ees, life insurance for employees, who
cover insurance costs, and OHS insur-
ance.
rewards for improvements in produc-
tion, both monetary (such as one-time
monetary incentives for operational ac-
complishments) and non-financial
recognitions.
other benefits include sponsorship of
educational opportunities and sports
activities, provision of food at work-
places, free transportation to work, etc.
2. Reward for leadership. Each year, em-
ployees undergo an assessment of their
competencies, both self-assessment and
evaluation by a linear manager. Based on
the results, employees’ base salaries may
be reviewed (more information on annual
performance appraisal and career advance-
ment in the section Training and career ad-
vancement)
3. Incentive system. This system aims to en-
sure that the career goals of our employees,
business targets of business divisions, and
long-term strategic goals of the Company
are synchronized. Kernel annually estab-
lishes financial and operational quantitative
and qualitative goals, which are cascaded
down to specific KPIs of employees in rele-
vant business segments. Employees can
also establish their own KPIs. Annual per-
formance assessment quantifies the
achievement of KPIs and automatically
impacts the size of the annual performance
bonus. The system is fully transparent and
prevents any prejudice. We provide em-
ployees with all the tools to directly affect
KPIs and monitor the KPIs’ execution on a
close-to-online basis.
Support of employees during wartime
The safety and well-being of our employees
have been the utmost priority amid military ac-
tions in Ukraine resulting from Russia’s inva-
sion. In FY2024, Kernel continued providing
extensive support to its employees, especially
those who are defending the country or who
are internally displaced.
During FY2024, 143 of our employees were
enlisted in the Armed Forces of Ukraine,
whereas 73 employees were demobilized.
The total monetary support provided to en-
listed employees over FY2024 amounted to
USD 4,508 thousand. As of 30 June 2024, 776
of our employees are serving in the Armed
Forces of Ukraine.
Furthermore, in FY2024, Kernel provided
USD 682 thousand of financial support to em-
ployees who suffered disability as a result of
military actions and the families of employees
who were killed in action. In addition, employ-
ees who had a newborn child in FY2024 re-
ceived USD 3.1 thousand in material assis-
tance.
Kernel has also been assisting employees liv-
ing in regions close to the frontlines by trans-
ferring them to safer cities and employing
them at other production assets of the Group.
In FY2024, we transferred 40 workers from the
no longer operational Vovchansk and Pry-
kolotne oil extraction plants in the Kharkiv re-
gion.
Moreover, Kernel continued showing its com-
mitment to employees' mental health through
its comprehensive Mental Health program,
available across all regions. This program
aims to activate employees' internal resources
and provide additional support for enhancing
their mental, social, physical, and creative
well-being. It fosters a culture of self-care, par-
ticularly for those in small towns and rural ar-
eas, and addresses the stigma around seek-
ing psychological support. The program in-
cludes both theoretical components, such as
webinars, and practical activities, such as
sports, sessions with psychologists, and a
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……....
Key employment indicators in FY2024
Total number of new hires
2,464
by geography
Ukraine
2,456
Other countries
6
by gender
Male
1,745
Female
717
by age
less than 30 years old
735
up to 50 years old
1,320
more than 50 years old
407
Total number of employee turnover
1,4918
by gender
Male
1,073
Female
418
by age
less than 30 years old
320
up to 50 years old
411
more than 50 years old
760
Total number of employees that left Kernel due to retirement
77
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Key training and education indicators
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Average hours of training per employee
22.8
30.4
27.2
by gender:
Average hours of training per male
25.1
29.9
28.3
Average hours of training per female
18.4
31.4
27.8
by employee category:
Average hours of training per manager
35.8
39.1
34.8
Average hours of training per specialist
32.7
40.0
34.0
Average hours of training per worker
7.9
18.8
19.3
Total number of training hours
152,804
207,596
200,188
including by skill sets
Hard skills
111,309
161,037
128,298
Soft skills
41,495
46,559
71,890
including by learning formats
Full-time training
21,964
63,293
60,120
Distance Learning
130,840
144,303
140,067
including by frequency
Annual / regular training
67,507
95,758
41,508
One-time training
79,417
108,746
151,732
Modular development programs
5,880
3,092
6,948
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Corporate
Governance
Financial
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cinema club. It has successfully met all its key
performance indicators (KPIs): turnover rate
has decreased by 5%, over 70% of employees
participate in program events, the number of
requests for psychological support has tripled,
and the project's Net Promoter Score (NPS)
has reached 98.5.
Integration of veterans back into civilian
life
As the wartime context became closely inter-
linked with the company’s everyday life, last
year Kernel started an adaptation program for
veterans with the primary focus on the com-
pany’s employees who were demobilized and
going back to civilian life. The program seeks
to help veterans in their self-realization and
smooth integration into business processes. It
consists of three key components, namely: (1)
physical recovery, including compensation of
costs of medical treatment and prosthetics; (2)
mental recovery involving tailored work with
professional psychologists; (3) integration into
the workplace, which also implies specific
training on communication skills and ethics for
other employees. The latter might also include
alterations of a working place or machinery to
accommodate a person’s prosthetics. Upon
return to work, veterans may also change their
previous professional qualifications with spe-
cial support from the HR department. Kernel’s
veterans’ adaptation program was recognized
in Forbes Ukraine's Top-25 rating.
As of FY2024, Kernel Group employs 90 vet-
erans, with the integration program involving
over 400 participants, including HR managers,
top managers, and colleagues. The program
includes a mandatory protocol for managers
who supervise veterans, requiring regular
face-to-face meetings to review professional
performance, KPIs, personal needs, and,
most importantly, to provide care and mental
health support. Managers are responsible for
monitoring the well-being of veterans and of-
fering timely assistance. Additionally, Kernel
facilitates and supports gatherings for the cor-
porate veteran community, including a dedi-
cated networking channel for veterans on Tel-
egram and occasional offline events. For ex-
ample, at the end of FY2024, we organized a
fishing trip, and recently, veterans attended a
special therapeutic performance at the Kyiv
Theater as part of an experimental healing
practice. These interactions help us to receive
feedback, better understand needs, and pro-
pose effective solutions.
New incentive program “Synergy of
Change”
Last year, Kernel launched the “Synergy of
Change” incentive program, designed to max-
imize operational efficiency across business
segments. The program offers employees the
opportunity to submit their ideas and be re-
warded if their suggestions increase the com-
pany’s EBITDA. In FY2024, employees sub-
mitted over 100 ideas, many of which received
support from top management. These ideas
focused on enhancing supply chain efficiency,
improving oil extraction processes, and opti-
mizing reproduction costs. Several of these
ideas were successfully implemented, and the
employees contributing were awarded one-
time bonuses. Therefore, Kernel plans to con-
tinue this initiative, as management believes it
positively impacts corporate values.
Training and career advancement
Our management approach to training and
performance review
We manage the professional development of
our employees based on the Competency
Model. This model comprises eight key com-
petencies established in line with Kernel’s
business strategy, priorities, and targets to
maximize the Group’s long-term value. These
competencies were identified through com-
pany-wide research, focusing on the behav-
ioral traits that managers across various busi-
ness segments and operational levels value
and promote in their teams.
Kernel’s key professional competencies are
the following:
1. Strategic thinking
2. Performance management
3. Organization of a unit’s work
4. Responsibility
5. Readiness to change
6. Cooperation
7. Systematic thinking
8. Continuous improvement
Employees covered by the Competency
Model undertake an annual assessment, after
which they create an individual development
plan. The individual development plan con-
sists of three parts: (1) hard learning, which
provides for the attraction of internal or exter-
nal experts and the allocation of individual
learning budgets; (2) soft learning, which is
realized through Kernel’s Institute of Internal
Couches; and (3) distance learning, which em-
ployees can access through an online educa-
tional platform, Kernel Hub, which provides
more than 1,000 e-books, 155 e-courses, and
200 training videos.
Together, these learning activities form the
corporate minimum package, which includes
one professional course and at least three
general development courses. The compe-
tency model applies to both managers and
specialists, ensuring that all employees re-
ceive professional education tailored to their
development plans and job descriptions,
which outline standard skill requirements for
each position.
In FY2024, Kernel overhauled its annual per-
formance appraisal system to better support
employee competency development. The new
approach encourages employees to partici-
pate in investment projects that address key
business challenges across various areas,
fostering the formation of cross-functional
teams. Each employee received a “goal map”
outlining their specific objectives for the pro-
ject, while team leaders assigned clear, digital
tasks to each member. This structure not only
facilitates competency improvements but also
allows employees to earn bonuses based on
their contributions.
Starting next season, competency assess-
ments will involve four parties: employees, two
managers, and colleagues. Previously, col-
leagues did not participate in each other’s
evaluations. Additionally, in FY2024, Kernel
introduced a chatbot for competency assess-
ments, enabling employees without a Kernel
system account to complete evaluations
seamlessly. Feedback collection has also
been significantly enhanced, now occurring
twice annually in winter and summer to
provide more timely and actionable insights for
employee development.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….
Kernel’s annual performance appraisal system
Annual performance
appraisal
Competency
assessment
Competency assessment
Individual development
plan
Performance
assessment
KPI
assessment
KPI
setting
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During FY2024, 3,539 employees evaluated
their competencies and created individual de-
velopment plans. Throughout the year, 7,373
employees benefited from Kernel’s educa-
tional programs, spending 200,188 hours of
training (an average of 27.2 hours per em-
ployee), 64% of which were dedicated to im-
proving hard skills and 36% to improving soft
skills. Furthermore, 8,800 employees en-
gaged in at least one course on Kernel Hub,
our online educational platform.
Beyond competency assessments, employ-
ees undergo annual performance (KPI) evalu-
ations through a dedicated digital system.
Based on these evaluations, managers pro-
vide feedback and consultations on career de-
velopment and review KPIs for the next finan-
cial year. Both competency and performance
assessment mechanisms are key pillars in
Kernel’s annual performance appraisal sys-
tem.
Kernel’s overall expenditure on training and
education of its employees in FY2024 ac-
counted for USD 329 thousand.
Assistance with career growth and upgrad-
ing skills of our employees
Kernel has developed two programs to sup-
port employees’ professional growth and ca-
reer advancement, namely Kernel Growth and
Kernel Leadership. These programs are fun-
damental pillars of the ‘Talent Pool’ project,
which aims to create structured pathways for
personnel advancement to top-management
positions: (1) under Kernel Leadership heads
of departments who aspire to become top
managers, receive tailored training, mentor-
ship from acting top managers, and assis-
tance from coaches of personal development;
whereas (2) Kernel Growth covers middle-
level managers and specialists, who are moti-
vated to actively build their career at Kernel.
To participate in either program, employees
undergo several selection stages that include
analytical tests and business cases. In
FY2024, the second wave of the Kernel
Growth program was launched with 54 partic-
ipants, while the Kernel Leadership project is
currently mentoring 71 successors.
Additionally, in FY2024, Kernel initiated the
selection process for the Agronomist and En-
gineer programs within the agribusiness sec-
tor and launched a project to form a ‘Talent
Pool’ for agricultural services. The students of
these programs are intended to fill positions
such as Lead Agronomist, Chief Agronomist,
and Cluster Production Deputy. By the end of
the reporting year, we had 54 candidates for
1
Before entering our working sites, any visitor or worker is briefed with description of the OHS risk identification and management system; they are also required to
take an OHS e-course.
selection. Furthermore, Kernel Growth for Si-
los has successfully trained 32 employees,
who have now completed both their theoreti-
cal and practical components. The Talent Re-
serve Project aims to prepare candidates for
the roles of Senior engineer and Silo Manager
within the Storage Division. Currently, the pro-
ject involves 32 participants divided into two
groups. Each group has completed a series of
training modules - one group finishing 7 mod-
ules and the other 6, totaling 104 hours. Group
1 gained valuable hands-on experience
through practical training in production labora-
tories, applying their skills in real work condi-
tions. Both groups concluded their internships
as Senior Masters in June 2024.
Training to adapt to external challenges
We envision training and professional devel-
opment as integral components of our human
capital, empowering our ability to create long-
term value and strengthen our adaptability to
external risks and challenges. Amid wartime in
Ukraine, Kernel takes active steps to adapt to
new conditions. To ensure continuity of pro-
cessing during martial law and ongoing mobi-
lization to the Armed Forces, the company is
building up the personnel reserve by training
additional employees for the following two
groups of positions: (1) directors of silos and
(2) leading power engineers, mechanics and
head of laboratory. In addition, since the be-
ginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine,
Kernel has launched training on tactical medi-
cine accessible to all employees. The partici-
pants of this training learn how to provide first
aid in accordance with the Tactical Combat
Casualty Care protocol MARCH (the acronym
stands for the proper order of treatment,
namely massive hemorrhage, airway, respira-
tion, circulation, head injury/hypothermia). Our
employees have demonstrated significant
success in mastering the training, being able
to apply a tourniquet in 45 seconds. Moreover,
in FY2024 Kernel launched a project “At
height” together with the KRUK UAV operator
training center, which resulted in 473 trained
UAV operators, 10 of which are our employ-
ees.
Occupational health and safety
Our management approach to occupa-
tional health and safety
The cornerstone of our approach to managing
occupational health and safety (OHS) is the
aspiration to have no work-related injuries and
fatalities across all our working sites. We en-
sure that all employees are provided with ap-
propriate and safe working conditions in line
with Ukraine’s national labor legislation and
provisions of the International Labor Organi-
zation’s Fundamental Conventions. Our ap-
proach is enshrined in the Workplace health
and safety policy, which outlines the establish-
ment and continuous improvement of the oc-
cupational health and safety management
system (hereinafter OHSMS). We expect the
same level of responsibility and dedication to
ensure occupational health and safety from
our suppliers: our agreements include a provi-
sion on compliance with Kernel’s Code of in-
teraction with suppliers. This code requires
our suppliers to provide their employees with
a safe working environment and have proper
OHS practices implemented. Our OHSMS en-
compasses all employees and contractors, in-
cluding those working on our sites with whom
we have limited functional control. To mini-
mize risks of work-related injuries among our
contractors, we provide them with comprehen-
sive training on OHS practices and require-
ments
1
. Additionally, we have appointed a
dedicated OHS specialist responsible for
managing an independent system that moni-
tors the implementation of OHS practices and
inspects compliance with safety requirements
across our investment projects. Contractors
are evaluated and ranked based on their OHS
performance, and repeated violations result in
penalties. In FY2024, there were no instances
of work-related injuries or fatalities among
contractors.
Kernel’s OHSMS operates in line with the re-
quirements of national regulations and ISO
45001 standards and is led by an OHS corpo-
rate manager who annually reports to a man-
agement committee headed by the company’s
CEO. Within the OHSMS, the process of iden-
tifying and assessing work-related hazards
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….
Key employees’ career development indicators
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Total number of employees, receiving regular
performance and career development reviews
1,777
1,647
1,676
including by gender
Male
1,393
1,273
1,270
Female
384
374
406
including by employee category
Managers
664
621
756
Specialists
1,113
1,026
920
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and safety risks is exercised on a non-routine
and annual basis. A non-routine procedure of
risk identification takes place for new business
operations and assets, and results in a list of
hazards and risks. The risk identification on an
annual basis is reflected in the responsibilities
of managers, OHS professionals, and other
employees to update the list of hazards, bas-
ing their inputs on results of internal and exter-
nal labor safety audits, the outcomes of em-
ployees’ engagement process, and feedback,
conclusions drawn from incidents investiga-
tions, as well as results of OHS assessments
and incorporation of world best practices.
OHS assessments include self-assessments
and statutory inspections, information on
which is consolidated in a special database.
Once potential risks and hazards are identi-
fied, the OHSMS triggers the procedure of risk
management which is organized in line with
the ERIC/PD
1
hierarchy of hazard controls
and consists of the following steps, taken in
descending priority:
Fully eliminate a risk or a hazard
Reduce the potential impact of a risk or a
hazard
Isolate a risk or a hazard from employees
Control a risk or a hazard, by providing em-
ployees with personal protective equip-
ment, training, detailed instructions and in-
formation, means of first response, as well
as lockout/tagout devices.
In the event of work-related incidents, we
launch an investigation of each case, using
the Ishikawa, or ‘fishbone diagram’ approach
that aims: (1) to identify root causes of an in-
cident, (2) to map risks and hazards that ma-
terialized, (3) to determine corrective actions
in line with the ERIC/PD hierarchy of hazards
control, and (4) to integrate lessons learned
into required improvements of the OHSMS.
This information is diligently recorded in the
accident statistics, which also includes data on
the frequency of occupational accidents, sub-
sequent lost workdays, and the severity of in-
juries.
For every work-related accident, we create a
special investigation commission that might
also include representatives of relevant au-
thorities. As the result of an investigation the
commission issues a report detailing the cir-
cumstances of the incident and recommenda-
tions to improve the risk management ap-
proaches and to prevent the occurrence of
such incidents in the future. Such an approach
aims to ensure continuous improvement of the
OHS practices to achieve the central target of
zero work-related injuries and fatalities.
1
Acronym stands for Eliminate, Reduce, Isolate, Control, Personal Protective Equipment, Discipline.
2
These include key trading company Kernel-Trade, six oil extraction plants, two farming clusters, fifteen silos and one grain transshipment terminal.
As of FY2024, a total of 25 assets
2
were cer-
tified with ISO 45001 standards. In FY2024, all
covered employees were audited internally,
whereas 6,902 of them also underwent exter-
nal audit. The company’s dedication to occu-
pational health was evident in the extensive
audit activities carried out during the reporting
period. Internal audits, spanning 187 man-
days, were complemented by external audits
conducted by Bureau Veritas, which covered
an additional 20 man-days. In the reporting
year, Kernel introduced new safety protocols
in response to emerging risks identified
through internal and external audits. These
protocols included updated guidelines for han-
dling hazardous materials and emergency re-
sponse procedures.
The financial investment in occupational
health and safety was substantial, with ex-
penditures reaching USD 2.1 million. These
funds were allocated towards enhancing
safety infrastructure, training, and health ser-
vices for employees. Throughout the year,
Kernel conducted two state inspections, with
no fines being imposed, reflecting the com-
pany’s compliance with regulatory standards.
Regrettably, there was one fatality reported in
FY2024 among Kernel’s employees due to
non-compliance with safety measures. This
incident prompted a thorough review and en-
hancement of safety measures. In response,
Kernel has intensified training programs, par-
ticularly focusing on the importance of
compliance with safety procedures and has
strengthened its monitoring systems to pre-
vent future occurrences. Additionally, the
company has expanded its health resources
and support services to better cater to the
well-being of all employees.
Employee engagement and training on oc-
cupational health and safety
Training remained a cornerstone of the com-
pany’s safety strategy. In FY2024, 587 em-
ployees participated in offline occupational
health and safety (OH&S) training sessions,
accumulating a total of 9,648 hours of training.
Furthermore, 1,117 employees completed
online courses, broadening their knowledge
and skills in maintaining a safe working envi-
ronment. The company also conducted 1,069
emergency response drills, involving 2,427
personnel, to ensure readiness for any unfore-
seen incidents.
Employee involvement in safety management
was actively encouraged through various
channels. The Near Miss, Stop Card, and
Walk The Talkinitiatives provided platforms
for employees to report safety concerns, sug-
gest improvements, and participate in safety
projects. Information on occupational health
and safety was disseminated through multiple
mediums, including the safety department, di-
rect supervisors, emails, phone calls, and ded-
icated on-site monitors. These efforts ensured
that all employees were informed and
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………
Key occupational health and safety indicators
(as of 30 June)
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Recordable work-related injuries
4
9
15
Oilseed Processing
1
-
3
Infrastructure and Trading
2
6
6
Farming
1
3
6
High-consequence work-related injuries (ex. Fa-
talities)
3
1
5
Oilseed Processing
1
-
1
Infrastructure and Trading
1
1
1
Farming
1
-
3
Fatalities resulted from work-related injuries
1
-
1
Oilseed Processing
-
-
-
Infrastructure and Trading
-
-
1
Farming
1
-
-
Rate of recordable work-related injuries (LTIFR)
0.22
0.50
0.81
Rate of fatalities as a result of work-related in-
jury
0.06
-
0.11
Rate of high-consequence work-related injuries
(excluding fatalities)
0.17
0.06
0.27
Workers covered by OHS management system
10,180
10,676
10,606
Workers covered by OHS management system,
who were audited internally
10,180
10,676
10,606
Workers covered by OHS management system,
who were verified internally and externally
7,358
4,585
6,902
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Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
engaged in creating a safer workplace.
Our approach to employee engagement in im-
proving OHS practices is driven by behavioral
incentives and material nudges, motivating
staff to minimize and prevent hazardous situ-
ations. Such incentives include monitors in-
stalled at our production sites, which show a
current and record number of days without
work-related accidents, or monetary rewards
for the best ideas on labor safety improvement
and risk identification factors. In FY2024, Ker-
nel expanded its health and well-being pro-
grams, offering free health screenings and
mental health support services to employees
and their families, aiming to improve overall
employee well-being and reduce work-related
stress.
We employ proactive methods to engage our
employees in the development, implementa-
tion, and evaluation of the effectiveness of the
OHSMS, as well as to communicate OHS in-
formation, namely via corporate surveys, the
‘Gold Safety Rules’ initiative, and the ‘Walk the
Talk’ project
1
.
At Kernel, any employee can flag and report
occupational health and safety risks they ob-
serve and report about hazardous situations
on a worksite by reaching out to their supervi-
sor, field OHS specialist, or the company’s
corporate manager. Employees can also raise
any OHS issues by submitting a ‘Near Miss’
and ‘Stop Card’ letterforms or contacting the
corporate Hotmail. The reporting of 3,894 near
misses over FY2024 was a testament to the
effectiveness of the hazard identification pro-
cesses in place. 99% of these near misses
were resolved, demonstrating a strong com-
mitment to mitigating potential risks. Addition-
ally, 912 Walk the Talk sessions were held,
providing employees with the opportunity to
engage in discussions about safety improve-
ments. Workplace health and safety policy en-
sures the protection of whistleblowers from
any form of retaliation.
Kernel’s OHS training program allows our em-
ployees to deepen their understanding of key
principles in labor safety and OHSMS while
gaining specific skills to prevent, minimize,
and appropriately respond to hazardous situ-
ations on worksites. All employees are obli-
gated to take OHS e-learning courses (a gen-
eral course for all employees and specialized
courses tailored to different business opera-
tions and professions) followed by a test. Em-
ployees involved in high-risk work take man-
datory specialized training, followed by exams
and authorization to begin work. In addition,
1
‘Gold Safety Rules’ initiative recognizes best set of labor safety requirements, composed by employees themselves; ‘Walk the Talk’ projects was launched to allow
OHS specialists and manager explore gaps in OHSMS by interviewing employees and discussing their ideas on improvements.
2
Luxembourg Law of 23 July 2016 on disclosure of non-financial and diversity information, implementing the European Directive 2014/95/EU.
Kernel provides employees with training on
appropriate response actions in dangerous
situations, such as fire, that involve state res-
cue services and specialized equipment.
Human rights, diversity, and inclusion
Kernel has an unwavering commitment to hu-
man rights, which is a fundamental principle
employed at every corporate level and extrap-
olated to our suppliers and business partners.
Our position on internationally proclaimed hu-
man rights is defined in our Sustainability de-
velopment and corporate social responsibility
policy and aligned with the principles of the UN
Global Compact, which Kernel signed in
2020.
As a signatory, Kernel is dedicated to safe-
guarding human rights and equal opportuni-
ties for women, persons with disabilities, local
opportunities, smallholder farmers, and work-
ers, including those under temporary con-
tracts, sub-contractors, and migrant workers.
We are also committed to not undertaking any
activities that have a negative impact on the
human rights of children and indigenous peo-
ple. Indeed, there is no forced or child labor
involved in any of Kernel’s operations; the
company was not complicit and did not commit
violations of any other human rights in the re-
ported period. We annually report our perfor-
mance as part of the Communication on Pro-
gress on the UN Global Compact.
Our suppliers and business partners are
equally obligated to respect human rights as
part of their mandatory compliance with Ker-
nel’s Code of interaction with suppliers, a
mandatory compliance requirement included
in all agreements with counterparties. The
Code requires our counterparties to ensure
equal opportunities for their employees, diver-
sity, and a ban on forced and child labor in
their operations.
At Kernel, we believe in respect for diversity
among our employees as one of the funda-
mental human rights and freedoms, and its
empowerment is integral for ensuring our suc-
cess, market competitiveness, and long-term
value for our stakeholders. Our approach to
safeguarding equal opportunities and a non-
discriminatory working environment is guided
by the Luxembourg Law of 23 July 2016
2
and
our Anti-Discrimination and Diversity, Equality
and Inclusion (hereinafter DE&I policy) poli-
cies.
In line with DE&I policy, Kernel aspires to
reach at least 30% representation of each
gender within the company’s corporate bod-
ies, namely the Board of Directors and the Ex-
ecutive Management Team. We have desig-
nated individuals and teams responsible for
implementing the DE&I Policy at every corpo-
rate level, ensuring the adoption of diversity,
equality, and inclusion principles in all busi-
ness activities of Kernel. At the Board of Di-
rectors’ level, matters related to the integration
of diversity principles are overseen by the
……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………
Key diversity and equality indicators
(as of 30 June)
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Percentage distribution of individuals within the Board of Directors
by gender
Male
50%
62%
75%
Female
50%
38%
25%
by age
30-50 years old
75%
88%
88%
more than 50 years old
25%
13%
13%
Percentage distribution of individuals within the Executive Management Team
by gender
Male
67%
80%
80%
Female
33%
20%
20%
by age
30-50 years old
87%
87%
87%
more than 50 years old
13%
13%
13%
Percentage distribution of individuals among employees
by gender
Male
72%
74%
74%
Female
28%
26%
26%
by age
less than 30 years old
14%
15%
14%
up to 50 years old
61%
28%
56%
more than 50 years old
24%
57%
30%
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Nomination and Remuneration Committee,
whereas the Chief Executive Officer is respon-
sible for the implementation of the DE&I Policy
throughout the company Additionally, in
FY2024, Kernel surveyed gender equality
among workers. The results showed that 97%
of employees are confident that the Group is
committed to cultural diversity and equal op-
portunities and that their working environment
supports gender equality.
Under the Anti-discrimination policy, we are
committed to ensuring equal employment op-
portunities and a non-discriminatory working
environment for all categories of individuals. In
FY2024, the share of socially vulnerable em-
ployees was 8% out of the total number of em-
ployees, and 5% of all employees were indi-
viduals with disabilities.
Kernel has a grievance mechanism through
which the company’s employees and counter-
parties have an opportunity to submit com-
plaints related to human rights violations or
discriminatory actions, as well as to receive re-
dress if an investigation determines that such
violations took place
1
.
Freedom of association and collective
bargaining
At Kernel, we believe that every employee has
a right to be a part of associations and collec-
tive bargaining agreements. Our stance is de-
lineated in the Freedom of associations and
unions policy and aligned with the principle of
the UN Global Compact to uphold the free-
dom of associations and the effective
recognition of the right to collective bar-
gaining. As of the end of FY2024, 89% of our
employees were covered by collective bar-
gaining, and 6% of all employees were mem-
bers of the trade union.
1
Submissions to the grievance mechanism can be made via (1) a toll-free round-the-clock hotline, (2) form on Kernel’s website, (3) via email by writing to hotline@ker-
nel.lu or compliance@kernel.lu, (4) Telegram chatbot ‘KernelHotline’.
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Corporate
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Financial
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Social capital
Anti-corruption and compliance
Our management approach to anti-corrup-
tion
At Kernel, we have zero tolerance for any
fraudulent and corrupt activities, both among
our employees and counterparties. Our posi-
tion on anti-corruption and approach towards
ensuring ethical compliance is embodied in
Kernel’s Corporate Governance Charter,
Code of Conduct, Anti-corruption policy,
1
and
Code of Interaction with Suppliers. In addition,
all our agreements and tendering processes
include the Anti-corruption clause.
The requirements to adhere to our anti-corrup-
tion rules also apply to our partners in the
Open Agribusiness project (i.e. small farmers
cannot participate in our programs if their land
lease agreements are not properly registered,
their crop sales and business processes are
not formalized, also if they are found to be in-
volved in shadow operations or avoid paying
taxes); and students of Kernel’s Open Agro
University, who might be employed at the
company after graduation. Responsibility to
enforce provisions of these documents cen-
trally lies on Kernel’s compliance officer, who
reports directly to the CEO and the Audit Com-
mittee on the Board of Directors, whereas the
corporate culture of integrity and compliance
is driven by the «Tone at the Top» principle.
There are also regional compliance coordina-
tors, whose role is to implement anti-corrup-
tion and compliance standards, as well as en-
sure ongoing improvement of ethically correct
corporate culture on Kernel’s operational as-
sets. The compliance officer is also responsi-
ble for the provision of confidential advice on
compliance practices to Kernel’s employees
at their request. In FY2024, there were 49
such requests.
Kernel is also a member of several profes-
sional associations and international initia-
tives, under which the company made public
commitments to promote transparency and
zero tolerance for fraudulent activities. Kernel
is a member of the Ukrainian Network of In-
tegrity and Compliance (UNIC) and a signa-
tory to the UN Global Compact and the UN
Anti-corruption Collective Action Memo-
randum. Additionally, for Kernel, these plat-
forms are effective ways to exchange best cor-
ruption prevention practices between busi-
nesses and to drive the corporate culture of
integrity in the agriculture sector.
Identification and prevention of corruption
risks
1
Anti-corruption policy is aligned with requirements of national legislation, the US Foreign policy Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), the UK Bribery Act (UKBA), the Con-
vention on Combating Bribery of Foreign Public Officials in International Business Transactions, and reflects provisions of anti-corruption legislation of the countries
with Kernel’s presence
In FY2024, Kernel continued strengthening its
compliance framework and anti-corruption
measures, while also achieving significant
milestones across various initiatives. All our
operations are regularly screened against
risks of corruption. The company identified a
total of 19 risks; the most significant risks in-
clude: (1) obtaining undue benefits, that might
lead to financial losses and reputational dam-
ages; (2) conflict of interest; (3) work for other
companies and entrepreneurial activities.
Managers and specialists are obligated to un-
dergo annual conflict of interest declarations,
and all employees are trained to recognize
and mitigate potential conflicts. Screening for
corruption risks is also integral to Kernel's hir-
ing process, particularly for candidates with
governmental backgrounds.
Regarding the identification of corruption inci-
dents among counterparties, Kernel's security
department conducted 116 compliance KYC
(Know Your Customer) assessments for all
counterparties. This department also pro-
cessed all 960 signals received via the Hotline
according to established procedures involving
compliance officers for additional scrutiny in
cases of medium or high corruption risks, con-
flicts of interest, or concerns about interna-
tional sanctions (116 cases in FY2024). The
compliance manager verifies contracts, espe-
cially when amendments to the Anti-corruption
clause are proposed (98 cases in FY2024).
Dedicated channels, including anonymous re-
porting, allow stakeholders to raise concerns
about corruption risks, all managed by the
compliance officer with protection in place for
whistleblowers.
The implementation of electronic conflict of in-
terest declarations, now available at any time,
was a significant improvement over the last re-
porting period. A webinar on conflict of interest
was conducted for all employees to enhance
awareness and understanding of the new pro-
cess. Conflict situations identified through an-
nual declarations were promptly addressed,
with 36 compliance checks conducted for job
candidates to mitigate conflicts of interest.
Furthermore, in FY2024, Kernel conducted an
ethics and compliance survey, revealing
100% awareness among workers, specialists,
and managers regarding Kernel's internal
standards, policies, and controls in compli-
ance, anti-corruption, and corporate ethics.
Our anticorruption practices and approaches
to enhancement of the culture of transparency
and integrity are demonstrating positive re-
sults. Over the last four years, the occurrence
of corruption has been steadily declining. In
FY2024, a total of 55 cases of corruption were
confirmed. Incidents of theft by employees
have decreased by 38% compared to the pre-
vious reporting period and accounted for 37
cases in FY2024.
In FY2024, all internal compliance documents
have been fully updated to adhere to the leg-
islative and regulatory standards. The thor-
ough updating of the Anti-corruption policy led
to practical improvements within the com-
pany’s corporate structure. Additionally, a
comprehensive Sanctions Policy was devel-
oped, implemented, and effectively communi-
cated to all employees. This policy plays a cru-
cial role in managing critical issues such as
exports to sanctioned countries. It provides
Kernel’s partners with a clear understanding of
the Group's position on sanctions regulations,
including those imposed as the result of the
Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Kernel’s leadership in compliance was further
demonstrated through the launch of the Part-
ner Compliance Program, featuring the
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………
Key anti
-corruption and compliance indicators in FY2024
(as of 30 June 2024)
Number of confirmed incidents of corruption
55
Number of employees dismissed for corruption
36
Number of public legal cases on corruption brought against Kernel
0
Number of confirmed incidents of contracts with business partners being termi-
nated due to corruption
0
Total number of submissions to Kernel’s channels of informing on misconduct
25
Total number of managers and specialists who completed the procedure on dec-
laration of conflicts of interest
2,854
Total number of employees who took anti-corruption trainings
123
by employee category
Managers
5
Specialists under high compliance risks
99
Workers
19
Total number of Open Agro University students who took anti-corruption trainings
82
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School of Integrity, accessible on Kernel’s
website. This initiative aims to promote a cul-
ture of compliance among partners and stake-
holders, enhancing transparency and ethical
practices throughout operations. The Group's
commitment to ethical standards and regula-
tory compliance is evident in its continuous ed-
ucation efforts and the seamless integration of
compliance measures into daily operational
activities.
Our actions on gender-based violence
Throughout FY2024, Kernel proactively pro-
moted gender equality and took steps to pre-
vent gender-based violence. We introduced
new posters around our offices highlighting is-
sues of gender and domestic violence, aiming
to raise awareness of available support and
protection services. Additionally, we partici-
pated in the international corporate flash mob
event ‘The 16 Days Against Violence,’ which
began on the International Day for the Elimi-
nation of Violence against Women (November
25th). As part of this initiative, employees wore
orange clothing, symbolizing the campaign,
and shared their support on social media us-
ing the hashtag #WeAreAgainstViolence. This
flash-mob aimed to spotlight the critical issue
of violence and emphasize that help is always
available.
Economic performance and impact
Economic performance is the most important
KPI managing the performance-based part of
compensation. As a diversified agro-industrial
business in Ukraine with leading positions
across all business segments, we generate a
significant direct economic impact on our
stakeholders in areas of all our operations. Di-
rect economic impact includes our purchasing
of goods from suppliers, dividends paid to
shareholders, wages and benefits paid to our
employees, financial expenses paid to credi-
tors, income taxes paid to the public sector,
and community investments. Additionally,
economic value is retained for reinvestment,
aimed at increasing the company's capitaliza-
tion and supporting future growth.
EU Taxonomy
Kernel reports its contribution to the European
Union’s environmental objectives of climate
change mitigation and climate change adapta-
tion in line with the guidelines laid down in the
EU Taxonomy regulations. In response to
these requirements, we have undertaken a
comprehensive analysis of our economic ac-
tivities, the revenue they generate as well as
our capital (CapEx) and operational (OpEx)
expenditures. Besides, we identified the share
of activities that meet the EU Taxonomy crite-
ria or, in other words, are considered
1
NACE code D35.11 in accordance with the statistical classification of economic activities, established by Regulation EC No 1893/2006
‘environmentally sustainable’.
The identified taxonomy-eligible economic ac-
tivity falls under the category ‘Electricity gen-
eration from bioenergy’
1
and refers to the
production of electricity from biomass, namely
sunflower seed husk, at our co-generation
heat and power (CHP) plants. This ‘green
CapEx’ investment project, launched in 2017
and completed in 2024, resulted in six CHP
units with a combined electricity generation
capacity of 84.4 MW.
Our taxonomy-eligible activity has the poten-
tial to save up to 700 thousand tCO2e of na-
tional emissions every year, contributing sig-
nificantly to Ukraine’s transition to a net-zero
emissions economy. As of FY2024 Kernel has
been operating five CHPs with the last plant to
be commissioned in FY2025.
Support of local communities and so-
ciety as a whole
Our management approach toward social
impact
At Kernel, we are driven to maximize our
positive social impact within the area of our
biggest expertise by sharing our knowledge
and experience with farmers and educating fu-
ture generations of specialists in agriculture
and food sectors. We strive to be a responsi-
ble neighbor and reputable partner to local
communities and support the Ukrainian soci-
ety overall. These priorities are reflected in our
Sustainable development and corporate so-
cial responsibility policy. The company’s ap-
proach towards effective interaction with dif-
ferent groups of stakeholders is guided by the
Stakeholder engagement policy aligned with
the IFC’s performance standard, which in-
cludes an extensive plan of our interactions
with key stakeholders like local communities.
Responsibility for identification and practical
interaction with stakeholders lies in a team of
assets-based public relations managers, who
act as Kernel’s representatives in regions,
communicating with landowners, local offi-
cials, and the media. They also reach out to
communities in rural regions, helping them
with employment on Kernel’s assets, as well
as coordinating our regional social projects
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……..
Taxonomy
-eligible share of Kernel’s economic activities
FY2023
FY2024
USD million
Amount
Share
Amount
Share
Revenue, including
3,455.0
100.00%
3,581.0
100.00%
taxonomy-eligible
28.8
0.83%
48.7
1.36%
taxonomy non-eligible
3,426.2
99.17%
3,532.3
98.64%
Capital expenditure
1
, including
101.2
100.00%
158.8
100.00%
taxonomy-eligible
5.4
5.32%
5.7
3.58%
taxonomy non-eligible
95.8
94.68%
153.1
96.42%
Operational expenditure, including
2,955.0
100.00%
3,176.0
100.00%
taxonomy-eligible
18.3
0.62%
24.0
0.76%
taxonomy non-eligible
2,936.7
99.38%
3,152.0
99.24%
Note 1: Additions in CIP and uninstalled equipment for the respective period (Note 15).
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Key economic performance indicators
USD million
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Direct economic value generated
5,409
3,394
3,642
Revenue
5,332
3,455
3,581
Net IAS 41 effect
13
(115)
(10)
Other operating income
64
54
71
Economic value distributed
Operating costs, of which
(5,317)
(2,955)
(3,366)
employee wages and benefits
(245)
(229)
(257)
Finance costs
(119)
(122)
(69)
Community investments
(26)
(12)
(25)
Other costs
9
63
29
Total charges
(5,453)
(3,026)
(3,431)
Income tax
3
(69)
(43)
Dividends paid
(34)
-
-
Total economic value distributed
(5,484)
(3,095)
(3,474)
Economic value retained
(75)
299
168
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and initiatives. Communication with represent-
atives of local communities and other stake-
holders is also performed via dedicated chan-
nels of information, and grievance mecha-
nisms, through which they can submit their in-
quiries and receive extensive feedback (in
FY2024 we received a total of 705 calls via a
toll-free hotline).
Support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
and the society in wartime
People have always been the main value for
Kernel and our mission to ensure their safety
and wellbeing have been of highest priority
amid wartime in Ukraine. From the beginning
of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ker-
nel has been taking a leadership position
among Ukrainian businesses in providing help
and support to the Ukrainian society and the
army during wartime. Our support has been
both financial, such as purchases of military
equipment, medicine, and cars, and non-mon-
etary, namely humanitarian aid directed to the
army and internally displaced people, such as
food supplies and provision of temporary shel-
ter for internally displaced people.
Social projects and charity spending
We direct our charity and social investments
towards the following categories of projects:
Infrastructure investments: maintenance
and repairs of roads, bridges, street lighting,
waterpipes, bus stops and others.
Education: maintenance and repairs of
schools, kindergartens, and playgrounds;
providing necessary equipment to educa-
tional institutions.
General charity: targeted support of land-
owners in need, orphanages, and nursing
homes, severely ill people, and cash dona-
tions to other charity organizations.
Sport and culture: building and repairs of
libraries, athletic fields, community cultural
centers, and sacral buildings; supplying
equipment for gyms; sponsorship of sports
and cultural events.
Healthcare: maintenance and renovation of
rural health posts and purchases of medical
equipment.
Educating the next generation of agricul-
ture specialists
In FY2024 Kernel continued its educational
project, Open Agro University, aimed to nur-
ture the next generation of agricultural profes-
sionals. This program focuses on seven key
agricultural, production, and technical profes-
sions, namely:
Agronomist;
Power engineer;
Mechanical engineer in farming;
Mechanical engineer in production;
Engineers of process automated control
systems;
Technology engineer in oil production;
Technology engineer in laboratories and si-
los.
By FY2024, 45 students have successfully
graduated from the program, and 100 more
are currently enrolled. Graduates and stu-
dents receive high-quality education and
hands-on experience, preparing them for suc-
cessful careers in the agricultural sector. The
team of experts includes more than 100 Ker-
nel’s in-house experts, professors from
Ukraine’s leading universities, global produc-
ers of agriculture machinery, fertilizers and
crop protection agents, and international ex-
perts. Having successfully completed the pro-
gram, project participants become employed
at Kernel. The process of selecting the pro-
gram’s participants is inclusive and diversity-
driven, providing equal opportunities for can-
didates of different genders from different
background.
Sharing our expertise with farmers
Launched in 2018, Kernel’s Open Agribusi-
ness project is designed to help farmers in
Ukraine sustainably increase their yields and
improve technological and business manage-
ment approaches to reduce cost, maximize in-
come, and build resilience to risks and volatil-
ities. We share our expertise and provide
practical assistance to Open Agribusiness
partners. In return, they supply a minimum of
80% of their yields to Kernel. As of the end of
FY2024, the Open Agribusiness has 42 part-
ners, which cover a total of 148 thousand hec-
tares of landbank. Even during the war, Kernel
continued to support these partners with agro-
nomic consulting, technological mapping, and
productivity improvements.
In addition, over FY2024 Kernel continued de-
veloping the market-wide practice of
establishing Water Use Organizations
(WUOs). The idea behind WUOs is to unite
small- and medium-sized farmers and to sim-
plify their irrigation resources. Yes, as part of
the support for Law 2079-IX "On Water User
Organizations and the Stimulation of Land Hy-
drotechnical Reclamation" the Prydniprovskyi
cluster of Kernel (PrJSC "Prydniprovskyi
Krai") initiated the creation of two WUOs
"Hradizka" in the Poltava region and
"Dmytrivska" in the Cherkasy region. The pro-
ject was supported by the public union "All-
Ukrainian Agrarian Council" and the European
Bank for Reconstruction and Development.
Interactions with suppliers
Quality interactions with suppliers are one of
the key aspects of Kernel’s ESG and climate
governance agenda. The main purpose is to
identify opportunities for cooperation, explore
ways to improve our climate-related perfor-
mance (reduction of Scope 3 GHG emis-
sions), and extrapolate our practices across
our supply chain, which includes suppliers of
grain and oilseed as well as our partners in the
Open Agribusiness program.
In FY2024 we continued to communicate with
our suppliers of nitrogen fertilizers to collect
data on carbon footprint for the purpose of
Scope 3 calculations. The purchase of fertiliz-
ers is one of the most material categories of
Kernel’s Scope 3 emissions and the purpose
of such interaction is to minimize the uncer-
tainty of calculations. In exchange, we are also
prepared to provide our data on GHG emis-
sions from the application of N-fertilizers and,
therefore, contribute to the advancement of
Scope 3 emissions accounting globally. We
believe that the collection of such data from
domestic producers of fertilizers will be simpli-
fied once companies begin reporting in line
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……….
Key social impact indicators in FY2024
(as of 30 June 2024)
Total amount of social spendings
USD thousand
25,129
Non-material support of the Armed Forces of Ukraine
psc
Military helmets
20
Military uniform sets
3,390
Means of communication
67
Thermal imagers
157
Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)
62
Quadcopters
2,345
Air defense systems
74
Humanitarian aid
Sunflower oil, liters
3,394
Machinery and other aid, psc
423
Medical aid
Medicine and medical equipment, psc
1,654
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with CBAM regulations (Carbon Border Ad-
justment Mechanism).
The purpose of this exercise, from the long-
term perspective, is also to identify ways to op-
timize the portfolio of suppliers to reduce the
carbon footprint of purchased fertilizers. This
would be an initial step in addressing one of
the climate transitional risks associated with
the target of the EU’s ‘Fit for 55’ package to
reduce emissions by 61% before 2030. Given
that the production of intermediates for nitro-
gen fertilizers, namely nitric acid, ammonia,
and hydrogen, is covered by the scope of the
EU Emission Trading Scheme, it is expected
that the cost of EU-originated fertilizers will in-
crease significantly in the following years.
Kernel’s process of supply chain management
consists of four stages:
Setting E&S standards. Our expectations
of suppliers’ environmental and social per-
formance are defined by relevant provisions
of the Code of interaction with suppliers and
the Anti-corruption Clause, which reflect
Kernel’s commitments to the principles of
the UN Global Compact and Sustainable
Development Goals. They include require-
ments on ethics, fair business practices, hu-
man rights, occupational health and safety,
and environmental protection.
Ensuring obligatory E&S compliance.
Before entering business relationships, all
counterparties are obligated to sign Ker-
nel’s Anti-corruption clause of a contract.
Kernel is entitled to verify compliance with
relevant provisions and terminate contracts
if non-compliance is identified.
Compliance verification. The procedure
for confirming suppliers’ compliance with
Kernel’s E&S requirements consists of two
levels. First, all potential counterparties un-
dergo initial screening by the corporate
Economic Security Service. Environmental
and social criteria are included in the scope
of initial screening, focusing on the analysis
of the location and nature of suppliers’ op-
erations, certification by relevant E&S
standards, such as ISCC, ISO14001, and
ISO18001, as well as the outcomes of envi-
ronmental inspections, etc. The second
level of verification is an audit that involves
visits to suppliers.
Production facilities, interviews with
management and personnel, and review
of relevant documentation. In the process
of verification, we provide feedback to sup-
pliers regarding possible ways to improve
their E&S performance, if required.
Application of business consequences.
Based on the results of audits, Kernel either
continues cooperation with counterparties
or suggests corrective measures if non-
compliance with our E&S requirements is
identified and monitors their implementa-
tion. Another possible consequence of sup-
pliers’ non-observance is the termination of
business relationships.
Onsite contractors also undergo compliance
checks for anti-corruption risks, OHS, and en-
vironmental performance at the stage of ten-
dering. According to the template provisions in
Kernel’s counterparty contracts, onsite con-
tractors are obligated to complete OHS drills
before entering the company’s facilities; pre-
pare the OHS management plans, which need
to be approved by Kernel; report on waste
management procedures, etc.
Our overall approach to managing OHS of on-
site contractors is implemented in line with the
ISO 45001:2018 standard.
Product quality and customer safety
Our management approach to product
quality and customer safety
Kernel's FY2024 performance in product qual-
ity demonstrates our unwavering commitment
to safety, compliance, and excellence in agri-
cultural production. Our adherence to rigorous
certification standards and proactive manage-
ment of health and safety impacts ensure that
our products meet the highest standards of
quality. By maintaining and improving these
practices, Kernel continues to set the bench-
mark in the industry, contributing to sustaina-
ble and safe agricultural production.
Our management approach towards ensuring
the highest quality of our goods is embodied
in Kernel’s Product Quality and Safety Man-
agement policy. The policy is aimed at estab-
lishing a unified system of managing issues
related to product quality and safety and cre-
ating conditions for its continuous develop-
ment in line with international standards (ISO,
GMP+, ISCC, IFS, BSCI, etc.) and Sustaina-
ble Development Goals. At the center of our
approach is the preventive food management
system, which seeks to mitigate potential risks
of biological, chemical, and physical hazards
before they become material.
We adhere to the highest standard of quality
in both the final goods and production pro-
cesses throughout the whole value chain. Our
oil-extraction plants are certified with ISO
9001 “Quality management system” and ISO
22000 “Food safety managementstandards,
which integrate the principles of the Hazard
Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)
system and application of procedures devel-
oped by the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
The ISO 9001 standard also covers our export
terminal. In addition, most of our assets are
certified with ISO 14001 “Environmental man-
agement” and ISO 45001 “Occupational
health and safety”, namely key trading com-
pany Kernel-Trade, six oil extraction plants,
two farming clusters, fifteen silos, and one
transshipment terminal.
Our approach and the overall system of food
safety and quality are managed by an internal
quality management team. Besides, they un-
dergo regular inspection and verification by in-
dependent third-party auditors. The scope of
the audit covers production, storage, distribu-
tion, and supply processes; 100% of signifi-
cant products are assessed regarding the im-
provement of health and safety impacts. In
FY2024, a total of
112 independent audits were successfully
passed, which were performed throughout
259
days.
The number of days spent on audit in FY2024
increased by 83 days compared to the previ-
ous year because verification under the new
ISCC certificates requires screening of the
supply chain.
There were no instances of incompliance with
regulations or voluntary codes, which would
have resulted in fines, penalties, or warnings.
Quality of sunflower oil
Kernel’s oil-crushing and bottling processes in
Poltava are certified under the BSCI standard
(grade A), reflecting our commitment to social
responsibility as an employer and maintaining
high standards of social performance. Our la-
boratory is also certified (ISO 17025 “General
requirements for the competence of testing
……………………………………………………………………..
Volumes of purchased grains and oilseeds
by types of suppliers in FY2024
70%
30%
Existing New
5,534
thousand tones
58%
15%
27%
Farmers 1st intermediary 2nd intermediary
5,534
thousand tones
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and calibration laboratories”), and conducts
regular sample analysis of sunflower oil, meal,
and grain to confirm their compliance with
quality standards. Our TransBulkTerminal is
certified for conducting fumigation activities in
accordance with Gafta standards.
Furthermore, our production assets are com-
pliant with Kosher, Kosher Passover, Badatz,
and Badatz Passover requirements of Jewish
dietary regulations, as well as the Muslim
Halal food standards. Four of our plants are
registered by the U.S. Food and Drug Admin-
istration (FDA), making our sunflower oil, in-
cluding high oleic sunflower oil, in bottles and
flexi-tanks suitable for the USA market. In ad-
dition, Poltava OEP is certified in accordance
with IFS, which allows us to sell bottled sun-
flower oil and sunflower oil in flexitanks to Eu-
ropean countries. Additionally, one of our
plants obtained a country-specific license to
sell sunflower oil to South Korea. We supply
bottled sunflower oil to reputable international
retail chains (Metro, Walmart, Maxima, etc.).
Five of our oil extraction plants, as well as our
trading entities, are certified in line with ISCC
EU standards, which makes the production of
sunflower oil and meal compliant with the legal
sustainability requirements of the EU Renew-
able Energy Directive (RED II) and Fuel Qual-
ity Directive.
Quality of meals
Our whole value chain of protein meal is certi-
fied with the applicable feed quality and safety
standard, namely GMP. All our oilseed pro-
cessing plants are certified with GMP+B1; our
export terminals, as well as trading entities,
Kernel-Trade and Inerco, are certified with
GMP+B3, ensuring feed safety in the collec-
tion, storage, transshipment, and trade of
meals. Finally, our Switzerland-based trading
entity, Inerco, is also compliant with GMP+B4,
which demonstrates feed safety in transporta-
tion and affreightment.
In addition, three of our oil extraction plants,
as well as two trading entities, Kernel-Trade
and Inerco, are certified in line with ISCC
PLUS, with regards to meal production. Our
sunflower meal is also suitable for export to
China as it complies with country-specific reg-
ulations.
Quality of crop production and storage
Within the whole landbank of Kernel, 363
thousand hectares are certified with ISCC EU
requirements, which ensures that crop pro-
duction is performed in environmentally and
socially sound ways. Under this certification
produced crops are considered compliant with
biofuel supply chain sustainability require-
ments outlined in the EU RED II. At all our
grain silos we build our food safety manage-
ment system on the HACCP principles (Haz-
ard Analysis Critical Control Point), namely:
(1) conduct a hazard analysis, (2) determine
critical control points (CCPs), (3) establish crit-
ical limits, (4) establish monitoring proce-
dures, (5) establish corrective actions, (6) es-
tablish verification procedures, and (7) estab-
lish record-keeping and documentation proce-
dures.
Implementation of these principles aims to
prevent and reduce the occurrence of food
safety risks through analysis and control of bi-
ological, chemical, and physical hazards
throughout the production chain.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…
Matrix of Kernel’s product quality certification
Standard
Oilseed processing plants
Terminals
Trading
Farming
Total
Bandurka
Kropyvnytskyi
Poltava
BSI
Prydniprovksyi
Starokostiantyniv
TransBulkTerminal
TransGrainTerminal
OilEx
portTerminal
Kernel
-Trade
Inerco
ISO 9001
7
ISO 22000
8
GMP+R 1.0
15
ICS
1
Kosher
5
Kosher Passover
1
Badatz Passover
1
Halal
5
FDA registration
3
ISCC EU
8
ISCC PLUS
6
BRCGS
1
IFS
1
Gafta
1
China (meal sunflower)
6
China (oil sunflower)
6
China (meal rapeseed)
4
China (oil rapeseed)
4
ISO 14001
1
ISO 45001
1
Total
11
8
14
9
12
11
3
2
1
5
3
6
85
certificates obtained in FY2024
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About the report
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
About the report
Disclosure of non-financial information as part
of Kernel’s Annual report is one of the key
channels of communicating our performance
to stakeholders in terms of sustainable devel-
opment and climate actions, as well as our
progress on creating long-term business value
by integrating ESG principles in our opera-
tions.
This report is prepared in line with the Global
Reporting Initiative (GRI) standard, Core op-
tion. When identifying the content of the report
we also ensure compliance with relevant reg-
ulations, including the Luxembourg Law of 23
July 2016 on disclosure of non-financial and
diversity information (the “Law of 23 July
2016”), implementing the European Directive
2014/95/EU.
Stakeholder engagement
Kernel identifies a total of 12 groups of stake-
holders that are subject to inter-influence and
ongoing interaction with the company. These
influences and stakeholders’ categorization
are identified in Kernel’s management vision,
as well as an analysis of the dynamics in
stakeholders’ feedback and media screening.
The company’s management regularly re-
views the list of stakeholder groups.
Our approaches towards interactions with
stakeholders are governed by the Stakeholder
Engagement Policy aligned with relevant IFC
Performance Standards.
Material topics and report content
Evaluation of topics’ materiality and content of
the ‘Sustainability’ section of this report is
based on the results of the stakeholder en-
gagement process, throughout which we iden-
tified interests and expectations of key stake-
holder groups, namely capital providers
(shareholder and debt providers), regulatory
authorities, employees, and environmen-
tal/social NGOs. This was complemented by
the management’s assessment of priorities
and the importance of different aspects of the
company’s sustainability, or ESG, agenda.
The materiality of such topics has been as-
sessed against two criteria: (1) influence on
stakeholder assessments and decisions; and
(2) significance of economic, environmental,
and social impacts. The topics with the highest
combination of scores for both criteria were
defined as material. Furthermore, Kernel’s ex-
ecutive management approved the list of top-
ics that are subject to disclosure in the ‘Sus-
tainability’ section of the report. Boundaries for
material topics include Kernel subsidiaries
where the company has operating control un-
less stated otherwise. All identified topics are
considered material both internally and exter-
nally. The content of this section of the report
also reflects our Communication on Progress
in implementing principles of the UN Global
Compact, namely:
Human rights and Labor (chapter ‘Human
capital’);
Environment (chapter ‘Environmental cap-
ital’);
Anti-corruption (chapter ‘Social capital’).
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………
Methods of engagement with key stakeholder groups
Stakeholder
groups
Engagement method
Employees
Learning and development programs
Internal communications
Corporate social media and the company’s website
Corporate hotline for submitting compliance related inquiries
HR Conference and Strategic sessions for each business division
Shareholders,
creditors,
bondholders
Annual reports, three quarterly reports; Annual General Meetings
Corporate social media and the company’s website
Online/offline one-to-one meetings
Online communication via email and investors’ questionnaires
Roadshows and site visits; Investment conferences
Local
communities
Environmental and social impact assessments
Online/offline one-to-one meetings
Dedicated channels of corporate social media and the company’s website
Hot line for submitting compliance related inquiries
Printed material distributed among communities
National and lo-
cal government
Online/offline one-to-one meetings
Corporate social media, the company’s website and the website of the chari-
table foundation “Together with Kernel”
Local and national media
Corporate hotline for submitting compliance related inquiries
Civil society or-
ganiza-
tions/NGOs
Online/offline one-to-one meetings
Corporate social media and the company’s website; Annual reports
Corporate hotline for submitting compliance related inquiries
Local and na-
tional media
Corporate social media and the company’s website
Online/offline one-to-one meetings
Email communications
Customers
Corporate social media; website of Company and company’s brand names
Brand exhibitions and specialized events; annual reports
Corporate hotline for submitting compliance related inquiries
Costumer research and brand health tracking
Partners
(Open Agribusi-
ness)
Online/offline one-to-one meetings
Online communication via email
Brand exhibitions and specialized events
Suppliers
Supply Chain Sustainability Program
Online/offline one-to-one meetings Corporate social media and the com-
pany’s website
Certification
bodies
Online/offline one-to-one meetings; site visits
Disclosure/application requirements for certification bodies
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………..
Matrix of Kernel’s material ESG topics
Category of impact
Material topic
Topic boundary
Social capital
Economic performance and impact
All business segments
Anti-corruption and compliance
All business segments
Support of local communities and society as a whole
All business segments
Product quality and customer safety
All business segments
Interactions with suppliers
All business segments
Environmental capital
Energy management
All business segments
Water and effluents management
All business segments
Waste management
All business segments
Biodiversity management
Farming
Climate actions
All business segments
Monitoring of environmental impacts and ecological compli-
ance
All business segments
Human capital
Employment
All business segments
Training and career advancement
All business segments
Human rights, diversity, and inclusion
All business segments
Freedom of associations and collective bargaining
All business segments
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GRI Content Index
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Material topic
Disclosure
number
Disclosure title References and comments
GRI 102: General Dis-
closures 2016. Or-
ganizational profile
102-1
Name of the organization
Kernel Holding S.A.
102-2 Activities, brands, products, and services
Our business model (p.6), Kernel’s corporate web-
site
102-3
Location of headquarters
Kyiv, Ukraine
102-4
Location of operations
Key Kernel’s assets located in Ukraine (p. 7)
102-5 Ownership and legal form
Group structure (p.97), Share capital and signifi-
cant shareholders (p.98)
102-6 Markets served
Geographic locations: sunflower oil sold in bulk
(p.14) bottled sunflower oil (p.14), grain export mar-
kets (p.14)
Sectors served: food and agriculture.
Types of customers and beneficiaries: global soft
commodity traders and processors of agricultural
commodities, feed compounders, retail chains, and
distributors
102-7 Scale of the organization
Total number of employees: (p.55)
Total number of operations: three business seg-
ments: Oilseed Processing, Infrastructure and
Trading, and Farming (p.6, 7, 105).
Net revenues: key highlights (p.2)
Total capitalization: market capitalization (for up-
dated figures please see Kernel profile on Warsaw
Stock Exchange website); credit metrics (p.10)
Quantity of products or services provided: Kernel a
Glance (p. 7)
102-8 Information on employees and other workers
General employment information (p.55)
Workers who are not employees perform an insig-
nificant portion of activities. Significant variations in
the numbers include only seasonal variations of
employees in the Kernel farming business, which
does not exceed 6% of the total headcount. Data
compiled by Kernel employee accounting system;
General employment information
102-9 Supply chain
Our Business Model (p.6), Interactions with suppli-
ers (p.64)
Types of suppliers: independent farmers-suppliers
of grain and oilseeds, suppliers of inputs to crop
production (seeds, fertilizers, crop protection
agents, fuel), suppliers of other inputs (natural gas,
energy)
102-10
Significant changes to the organization and its
supply chain
There were no significant changes to the Kernel
supply chain in FY2024.
102-11 Precautionary Principle or approach
The Group’s entities apply the Precautionary Prin-
ciple through maintaining compliance with the Law
of Ukraine on Environmental Impact Assessment
(p.47). The law requires a promoter to provide sci-
entific evidence of no threats of serious or irreversi-
ble environmental damage associated with the
planned development and activities. Unless such
evidence is presented, no statutory authorization
can be granted to the development and activities in
question.
The same principle works for environmental permit-
ting. No emission or water use permit can be
granted unless an applicant presents evidence of
impacts staying below established thresholds (en-
vironmental quality standards). Kernel’s subsidiar-
ies hold all applicable environmental permits (p.47)
102-12 External initiatives
Kernel endorses the following externally-developed
economic, environmental, and social charters,
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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GRI Content Index continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Material topic
Disclosure
number
Disclosure title References and comments
principles, and other initiatives:
International Labour Organization's Fundamental
Principles and Rights at Work;
United Nations Global Compact (UNGC);
United Nations Universal Declaration of Human
Rights;
Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP);
Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclo-
sures (TCFD);
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI).
102-13 Membership of associations
Kernel, through its subsidiaries, is a member of
several industry associations in Ukraine, including:
European Business Association
(incl. Logistics
Committee);
American Chamber of Commerce;
Ukrainian Grain Association;
Ukrainian Agrarian Association;
U.S.-Ukraine Business Council;
Federation of Oils, Seeds, and Fats Associations;
Grain and Feed Trade Association;
UkrOliyaProm;
Ukrainian Network of Integrity and Compliance;
UN Global Compact
Association “Ukrainian Agribusiness Club” (UCAB)
Bioenergy Association of Ukraine
GRI 102: General Dis-
closures 2016. Strat-
egy
102-14 Statement from senior decision-maker Chairman’s statement (p.3)
GRI 102: General Dis-
closures 2016. Ethics
and integrity
102-16
Values, principles, standards, and norms of
behavior
Business ethics and compliance section on Ker-
nel’s corporate website
Sustainability section on Kernel’s corporate web-
site
102-17
Mechanisms for advice and concerns about
ethics
Anti-corruption and compliance (p.62)
GRI 102: General Dis-
closures 2016. Gov-
ernance
102-18 Governance structure
The governance structure of the organization
(p.73)
In FY2022 the Company established a Sustainabil-
ity committee at the Board of Directors, responsible
for overseeing the development of the ESG and cli-
mate corporate governance agenda.
GRI 102: General Dis-
closures 2016. Stake-
holder engagement
102-40
List of stakeholder groups
Stakeholder engagement (p.67)
102-41 Collective bargaining agreements
Freedom of association and collective bargaining
(p. 61)
102-42
Identifying and selecting stakeholders
Stakeholder engagement (p.67)
102-43
Approach to stakeholder engagement
Stakeholder engagement (p.67)
102-44
Key topics and concerns raised
Stakeholder engagement (p.67)
GRI 102: General Dis-
closures 2016. Re-
porting practice
102-45
Entities included in the consolidated financial
statements
Notes 1 to the Consolidated Financial Statements
(p. 97)
102-46
Defining report content and topic Boundaries
Material topics and report content (p.67)
102-47
List of material topics
Material topics and report content (p.67)
102-48 Restatements of information
No restatements of information took place in
FY2024
102-49 Changes in reporting
There were no changes in the list of material topics
and topic boundaries
102-50 Reporting period
The financial year 2024 ended on 30 June 2024.
See also Note 1 to the Consolidated Financial
Statements
102-51 Date of most recent report
27 October 2023 is the date of the most recent pre-
vious report, as a sustainability section of the
FY2023 annual report
102-52
Reporting cycle
Annual
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GRI Content Index continued
Management
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Report
Corporate
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Financial
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Material topic
Disclosure
number
Disclosure title References and comments
102-53
Contact point for questions regarding the re-
port
sustainability@kernel.ua; ir@kernel.ua
102-54
Claims of reporting in accordance with the GRI
Standards
This report has been prepared in accordance with
the GRI Standards:
Core option
102-55 GRI content index
p.68-72
102-56 External assurance
The Company does not have a policy regarding ex-
ternal assurance. The FY2024 Sustainability report
was not externally assured.
GRI 201: Economic
Performance 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Economic performance and impact (p. 63)
Material topics and report content (p.67)
About the Report (p.67)
201-1
Direct economic value generated and distrib-
uted
Economic performance and impact (p. 63)
201-2
Financial implications and other risks and op-
portunities due to climate change
Approach to climate risk identification and manage-
ment (p.48)
Material climate-related risks (p.49)
201-4
Financial assistance received from the gov-
ernment
Economic performance and impact (p. 63)
GRI 203: Indirect
Economic
Impacts 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Support of local communities and society as a
whole (p.63)
About the Report (p.67)
203-1
Infrastructure investments and services sup-
ported
Social projects and charity spending (p.64)
203-2 Significant indirect economic impact
Support of local communities and society as a
whole (p.63)
GRI 205: Anti-corrup-
tion 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Anti-corruption and compliance (p.62)
About the Report (p.67)
205-1
Operations assessed for risks related to cor-
ruption
Anti-corruption and compliance (p.62)
205-2
Communication and training about anti-cor-
ruption policies and procedures
Anti-corruption and compliance (p.62). We do not
provide a breakdown of communication and train-
ing by region, as all such activities happen in
Ukraine
205-3
Confirmed incidents of corruption and actions
taken
Anti-corruption and compliance (p.62)
GRI 302: Energy 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Energy management (p.41)
About the Report (p.67)
302-1
Energy consumption within the organization
Energy management (p.41)
302-3
Energy intensity
Energy management (p.41)
GRI 303: Water and
Effluents 2018
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Water and effluents management (p. 42)
About the Report (p.67)
303-1 Interactions with water as a shared resource
Water and effluents management (p. 42), Environ-
mental Protection Policy
303-2
Management of water discharge-related im-
pacts
Water and effluents management (p. 42)
303-3
Water withdrawal
Water and effluents management (p. 42)
303-4
Water discharge
Water and effluents management (p. 42)
GRI 304: Biodiversity
2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Biodiversity management (p.45)
About the Report (p.67)
304-1
Operational sites owned, leased, managed in,
or adjacent to, protected areas and areas
Biodiversity management (p.45)
Reason for omission - Confidentiality constraints.
We omit disclosure of details of each separate site
falling within the territory of a national park, as all
such sites are lands, we lease from third parties,
and a detailed list of such sites constitutes commer-
cial information, as we compete for leasing land
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Management
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Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Material topic
Disclosure
number
Disclosure title References and comments
with other players in Ukraine.
GRI 305: Emissions
2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Climate actions (TCFD disclosure) (p.48)
About the Report (p.67)
305-1 Direct (Scope 1) GHG emissions
Kernel’s Scope 1, Scope 2, Scope 3 greenhouse
gas emissions and other air emissions (p.51)
305-2 Energy indirect (Scope 2) GHG emissions
Kernel’s Scope 1, Scope 2, Scope 3 greenhouse
gas emissions and other air emissions (p.51)
305-3 Other indirect (Scope 3) GHG emissions
Kernel’s Scope 1, Scope 2, Scope 3 greenhouse
gas emissions and other air emissions (p.51)
305-4 GHG emissions intensity
Kernel’s Scope 1, Scope 2, Scope 3 greenhouse
gas emissions and other air emissions (p.51)
305-7
Nitrogen oxides (NOX), sulfur oxides (SOX), and other significant air emissions
GRI 306: Waste 2020
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Waste management (p.43)
About the Report (p.67)
306-1
Waste generation and significant waste-re-
lated impacts
Waste management (p.43)
306-2
Management of significant waste-related im-
pacts
Waste management (p.43)
306-3
Waste generated
Waste management (p.43)
GRI 307: Environ-
mental compliance
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Monitoring of environmental impact and ecological
compliance (p.47)
About the Report (p.67)
307-1
Non-compliance with environmental laws and
regulations
Monitoring of environmental impact and ecological
compliance (p.47)
GRI 308: Supplier En-
vironmental
Assessment 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Interaction with suppliers (p.64)
About the Report (p.67)
308-2
Negative environmental impacts in the supply
chain and actions taken
Interaction with suppliers (p. 64)
GRI 401: Employ-
ment 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
General employment information (p.55)
About the Report (p.67)
401-1
New employee hires and employee turnover
General employment information (p.55)
401-2
Benefits provided to full-time employees that
are not provided to temporary or part-time em-
ployees
Remuneration approach and benefits (p.55)
401-3
Parental leave
General employment information (p.55)
GRI 403: Occupa-
tional Health and
Safety 2018
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Occupational health and safety (p.58)
About the Report (p.67)
403-1
Occupational health and safety management
system
Occupational health and safety (p.58)
403-2
Hazard identification, risk assessment, and in-
cident investigation
Occupational health and safety (p.58)
403-3
Occupational health services
Occupational health and safety (p.58)
403-4
Worker participation, consultation, and com-
munication on occupational health and safety
Occupational health and safety (p.58). The Com-
pany does not have a formal joint management
worker health and safety committee.
403-5
Worker training on occupational health and
safety
Occupational health and safety (p.58)
403-6 Promotion of worker health
Occupational health and safety (p.58), Remunera-
tion approach and benefits (p.55)
403-7
Prevention and mitigation of occupational
health and safety impacts directly linked by
business relationships
Occupational health and safety (p.58)
403-8
Workers covered by an occupational health
and safety management system
Occupational health and safety (p.58). No workers
have been excluded from this disclosure. OHSMS
covers all Group’s entities and, respectively, all
Group workers.
403-9 Work-related injuries
Occupational health and safety (p.58). The main
types of work-related injuries include slips, trips,
and falls. No workers have been excluded from
this disclosure.
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GRI Content Index continued
Management
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Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Material topic
Disclosure
number
Disclosure title References and comments
GRI 404: Training
and Education 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Training and career advancement (p.57)
About the Report (p.67)
404-1
Average hours of training per year per em-
ployee
Training and career advancement (p.57)
404-2
Programs for upgrading employee skills and
transition assistance programs
Training and career advancement (p.57).
We do not provide any specific transition assis-
tance programs to facilitate the management of ca-
reer endings resulting from retirement or termina-
tion of employment, apart from one-off severance
payment or retirement benefits.
404-3
Percentage of employees receiving regular
performance and career development reviews
Training and career advancement (p.57)
GRI 405: Diversity
and Equal
Opportunity 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Human rights, diversity and inclusion (p.60)
About the Report (p.67)
405-1
Diversity of governance bodies and employ-
ees
Human rights, diversity and inclusion (p.60)
GRI 407: Freedom of
Association and
Collective Bargaining
2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Freedom of association and collective bargaining
(p. 61)
About the Report (p.67)
407-1
Operations and suppliers in which the right to
freedom of association and collective bargain-
ing may be at risk
Freedom of association and collective bargaining
(p. 61).
We have no operations in which workers’ rights to
exercise freedom of association may be violated or
at significant risk. We have not identified suppliers
in which workers’ rights to exercise freedom of as-
sociation or collective bargaining may be violated.
GRI 412: Human
Rights Assessment
2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Human rights, diversity and inclusion (p.60)
About the Report (p.67)
412-2
Employee training on human rights policies or
procedures
Human rights, diversity and inclusion (p.60)
GRI 413: Local Com-
munities 2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Support of local communities and society as a
whole (p.63)
413-1
Operations with local community engagement,
impact assessments, and development pro-
grams
Support of local communities and society as a
whole (p.63)
100% of operations in our Farming segment are in-
volved in local community engagement, impact as-
sessments, and/or development programs
413-2
Operations with significant actual and potential
negative impacts on local communities
Kernel is not aware of any significant negative im-
pacts on local communities as a result of its activi-
ties.
GRI 414: Supplier So-
cial Assessment
2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Interaction with suppliers (p. 64)
About the Report (p.67)
414-2
Negative social impacts in the supply chain
and actions taken
Interaction with suppliers (p. 64)
GRI 416: Customer
Health and Safety
2016
GRI 103: Management Approach 2016
Product quality and customer safety (p.65)
About the Report (p.67)
416-1
Assessment of the health and safety impacts
of product and service categories
Product quality and customer safety (p.65)
We assess health and safety impacts for improve-
ment for all our significant products.
416-2
Incidents of non-compliance concerning the
health and safety impacts of products and ser-
vices
Product quality and customer safety (p.65)
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Corporate Governance
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Main characteristics of Kernel
Group structure
Kernel Holding S.A. (the “Company”) is a Lux-
embourg-based public limited liability com-
pany (RCS Luxembourg B109173) estab-
lished on June 15, 2005, with its registered of-
fice at 9 Rue de Bitbourg, L-1273 Luxem-
bourg. It serves as the holding entity for a
group of companies, collectively referred to as
the “Group” or “Kernel”.
The list of primary subsidiaries is disclosed on
page 97 of this report.
Listing on the WSE
The Company's shares have been listed on
the main market of the Warsaw Stock Ex-
change (the “WSE”) since November 2007.
On 13 April 2023, the Board of Directors de-
cided to delist the Company from the WSE,
and on 12 May 2023, the Company applied to
the Polish Financial Supervision Authority
(“PFSA”) for approval.
On 13 October 2023, the group of minority
shareholders of the Company initiated legal
proceedings to cancel the Board’s delisting
decision. Given that, in March 2024, the PFSA
informed the Company about the suspension
of the administrative proceedings on the
delisting of the Company from the Warsaw
Stock Exchange. The PFSA will not issue the
decision on granting permission to withdraw
the Company's shares from trading on the reg-
ulated market until the District Court in Luxem-
bourg has resolved the allegations raised by
minority shareholders. Consequently, the pro-
cess of the Kernel’s delisting from the WSE
was ongoing as of 30 June 2024.
Share capital and significant share-
holdings
The issued capital of the Company as of 30
June 2024 consisted of 293,429,230 fully paid
ordinary single-class shares without indication
of the nominal value. Ordinary shares have
equal voting rights and rights to receive divi-
dends.
According to notifications received by the
Company, one shareholder owned more than
5% of the Company’s voting shares as of 30
June 2024:
Namsen Limited (hereinafter “Namsen"), a
legal entity directly controlled by the
Chairman of the Board of Directors and
founder of the business, Mr. Andrii Ver-
evskyi, owns 94.4% of voting shares.
The Company is unaware of other sharehold-
ers except Namsen who hold more than 5% of
the share capital and total votes.
On 1 September 2023, the Company issued
216,000,000 new shares in the registered
form (see details in the section “Share capital
increase on 1 September 2023”).
Since February 2022, the Company held
6,602,000 shares as treasury stock, the Com-
pany’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Etrecom In-
vestments Limited following a series of share
buybacks conducted in FY2022. On 21 March
2024, the Extraordinary General Meeting of
shareholders approved the cancellation of
these treasury shares. As a result, the total
number of shares outstanding reduced from
300,031,230 to 293,429,230, and the Com-
pany held no treasury shares as of 30 June
………………………………………………………………………
Ownership structure as of 30 June 2024
Shares
owned
%-age
owned
Namsen Limited
276,914,889
94.4%
Other
16,514,341
5.6%
Total
293,429,230
100.0%
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...................
Governance structure
General meeting of shareholders
Board of Directors
Executive Management Team
Nomination and
Remuneration Committee
Sustainability Committee
Audit Committee
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….
Share capital increase on 1 September 2023
Following the request of the Board to have an emergency financing option in case the circum-
stances in Ukraine require it, the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders held on 23
September 2022 created the authorized share capital and granted authorization to the Board to
issue new shares on such terms as the Board sees fit.
In the summer of 2023, while negotiating the third restructuring of the Group’s loan portfolio
during wartime in Ukraine, the Group’s creditors demanded equity support from the Company’s
shareholders in order to proceed with the restructuring of the loan portfolio. Following several
rounds of negotiations, the Group managed to reduce the amount of the demanded equity con-
tribution and agreed to initiate the equity raise of USD 60 million. On 22 August 2023, the Com-
pany announced the share offering to qualified investors existing shareholders of the Com-
pany. As a part of the book-
building process, shareholders provided their subscription forms
which altogether determined (via the mechanism of a Dutch auction) the number of shares to
be issued and the issue price in such a way that the Company raised the necessary amount of
USD 60 million and completed the requirement of the creditors. Consequently, the Company
allotted 216,000,000 shares to several qualified investors (shareholders of the Company) at the
issue price of USD 0.2777 per share.
On 1 September 2023, the Board approved the results of the offering and the share capital
increase. These shares, all paid up in cash, were issued in the registered form and they will not
be admitted to trading on any securities exchange, given the Company’s pending delisting pro-
cess. Each share offers its holder a single voting right at the Company's general meeting of
shareholders. Additionally, each of these shares carries dividend rights congruent with the ex-
isting shares, except for the 6,602,000 shares owned by the Company’s subsidiary Etrecom
Investments Limited which does not have voting or dividend rights.
As a result of the share capital increase, the number of Company’s shares issued increased to
300,031,230 shares. These shares collectively represent 293,429,230 voting rights for the Com-
pany's General Meeting, factoring in the 6,602,000 shares held by Etrecom Investments Lim-
ited, which are devoid of voting rights due to their treasury share nature. The stake of Namsen
Limited increased to 91.61% of total shares issued, or 93.67% of shares with voting/dividend
rights.
A group of minority shareholders holding 0.4% of Company’s shares (same group opposing the
delisting of the Company and other corporate actions) initiated legal actions against the Com-
pany aimed at suspension and, subsequently, annulment of the share offering and share capital
increase. The respective litigations are currently pending.
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Corporate Governance continued
Management
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Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
2024.
As of 30 June 2024, there were no outstanding
options granting rights to acquire shares of the
Company to which the Company is a party.
Corporate governance framework
Kernel is committed to high standards of cor-
porate governance and is guided by the cor-
porate governance framework determined by:
the corporate law of the Grand Duchy of
Luxembourg as a place of incorporation (in-
cluding voluntary compliance with most of
the provisions of the X Principles of Corpo-
rate Governance of the Luxembourg Stock
Exchange); and
the corporate governance rules set out in
the Best Practice for WSE Listed Compa-
nies 2021 as a place of Company’s shares
listing. Paragraph 29 of the Warsaw Stock
Exchange Rules requires issuers to publish
a report indicating which rules the issuer
complies with and which rules the issuer
does not comply with permanently. The
Company published such a report on 12 Au-
gust 2021, available on the Company’s
website. The Company applied all the prin-
ciples except for detailed principles 1.4.,
1.4.1., 1.4.2., 1.5., 2.1., 2.11.3., 2.11.5.,
2.11.6., 3.6., 3.9., 6.2., 6.3., 6.4.
The key documents defining the Company’s
corporate governance principles include the
Articles of Association and the Corporate Gov-
ernance Charter. Additionally, Kernel has a
Remuneration Policy, which is approved and
periodically reviewed by the general meeting
of shareholders and applies to both the Board
of Directors and the Executive Management
Team. All these documents can be accessed
on the Company’s website.
Following a regular review of the Company’s
adherence to best corporate governance prac-
tices, the Board believes that the Company
has made its best efforts to comply with:
the applicable corporate governance princi-
ples;
disclosure obligations concerning compli-
ance with corporate governance principles
defined in the WSE Rules;
regulations on current and periodic reports
published by the Company as a securities
issuer, according to WSE Rules.
General Meeting of Sharehold-
ers
The General Meeting of Shareholders is the
Company's highest governance body, pos-
sessing the broadest power to order, carry out,
or ratify all acts relating to the Company's op-
erations. Detailed information regarding the
organization and functioning of the General
Meeting of Shareholders can be found in the
Articles of Association and the Corporate
Governance Charter, both of which are avail-
able on the Company’s website.
The annual general meeting held on 11 De-
cember 2023 (the “AGM 2023):
approved the management report of the
Board of Directors, the consolidated finan-
cial statements of the Group, and
standalone annual accounts of the Com-
pany, along with the report of the independ-
ent auditor for the year ended 30 June
2023;
granted discharge to the directors of the
Company for their mandates in FY2023;
acknowledged the resignation of Mrs.
Viktoriia Lukianenko as an executive direc-
tor of the Company, effective 12 December
2023, and granted her discharge for the ex-
ercise of her mandate;
appointed Mr. Sergiy Volkov as an execu-
tive director of the Company;
renewed the mandates of all directors and
approved the fees for executive and non-ex-
ecutive directors for the year ended 10 De-
cember 2024;
re-appointed PwC as the independent audi-
tor of the Company;
amended the management incentive plan
adopted by the extraordinary general meet-
ing of shareholders held on 30 August 2021
and amended the remuneration policy.
The extraordinary general meeting of
shareholders held on 21 March 2024 ap-
proved the reduction of the Company’s share
capital by USD 174,332.41 through the can-
cellation of 6,602,000 shares held by Etrecom
Investments Limited, a wholly-owned subsidi-
ary of the Company, and the subsequent
amendment of Article 5 of the Company’s Ar-
ticles of Association.
As shareholders representing approximately
0.4% of the Company’s share capital initiated
legal actions to, among other things, suspend
the effects of the minutes of the AGM 2023
and annul the decisions taken, there was a po-
tential risk that the previous votes might be in-
validated. Such frivolous litigations might have
had a negative impact on Kernel, including
disruption to the Company’s orderly opera-
tions, potentially complicating reporting and
auditing processes, and/or creating a vacuum
of corporate powers and some stage. As a
precautionary measure, shareholders were in-
vited to vote again on each agenda item. This
was to either maintain the effect of their vote
expressed at the AGM 2023 (if applicable) or
to cast a new vote on each agenda item (if no
vote was expressed at the AGM 2023 or they
wished to change their previous vote).
As a result, the extraordinary general meet-
ing of shareholders held on 12 August
2024 reapproved all the decisions made at the
AGM 2023 held on 11 December 2023.
The next annual general meeting of share-
holders is scheduled for 10 December 2024.
Except for the meeting on 12 August 2024, all
recent general meetings were conducted with-
out the physical presence of shareholders, as
those who chose to attend opted for direct
electronic voting or indirect voting via the inde-
pendent proxy.
All documents related to the general meetings
of shareholders and the resolutions adopted
are available on the Company’s website.
Board of Directors
The Company is managed by the Board of Di-
rectors (the “Board”), which is the ultimate de-
cision-making body, except for powers re-
served for the general meeting of sharehold-
ers as stipulated by law, the Articles of Asso-
ciation, and the Corporate Governance Char-
ter. The Board is vested with the broadest
powers to perform all acts of administration
and disposition in compliance with the Com-
pany’s corporate purpose. The Board resolves
to take its decisions objectively, in the best
corporate interest of the Company. The Board
is collectively responsible and accountable to
the shareholders for the proper conduct of the
business, the long-term success of the Com-
pany, the effectiveness of the reporting sys-
tem, and the corporate governance frame-
work.
The responsibilities of the Board include ap-
proval and review of strategies and policies,
governance of the Company, and manage-
ment supervision. More detailed responsibili-
ties are specified in the Company’s Corporate
Governance Charter.
All Directors are equally accountable for the
proper stewardship of the Company’s affairs.
The non-executive directors have a responsi-
bility to ensure that the business strategies
proposed are fully discussed and critically re-
viewed. This enables the Directors to promote
the success of the Company for the benefit of
its shareholders, while having regard to,
among other matters, the interest of employ-
ees, the fostering of business relationships
with customers, suppliers, and other stake-
holders, as well as promoting the impact of the
Company’s operations on the communities
and the environment in which the business op-
erates.
The Board approves every investment, divest-
ment, acquisition, disposal, and funding trans-
action exceeding in value 5% of the average
12 months trailing daily market capitalization
of the Company.
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………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………............................................................................................................................
Effective and experienced leadership
Kernel Holding S.A. is governed by the Board of Directors composing of eight members, including three non
-
executive directors, two of whom are
independent). Key information on Directors is as follows (with further details available on Company’s
website).
Andrii Verevskyi, 50
Chairman of the Board, Founder
Andrii Miski-
Oglu, 47
Independent non-executive director
Tenure: 17 years
Skills and experience:
Founded the Group’s business in 1995,
holding various executive positions
within the Group. Presently, he over-
sees the strategic development and
overall management of the Group.
Board Committee:
Nomination & Remuneration Commit-
tee
Tenure: 3 years
Skills and experience:
21 years’ experience in public account-
ing and audit in EY, involved in major
EY Global audit-related initiatives. An-
drii is Certified Public Accountant in the
US since 2011 and a member of The
American Institute of Certified Public
Accountants (AICPA).
Board Committee:
Chairman of the
Audit Committee, Nomination & Remu-
neration Committee
Daria Danilczuk, 37
Non-executive director
Mykhaylo Mishov, 42
Independent non-executive director
Tenure: 3 years
Skills and experience:
Agricultural commodity broker, special-
ized in Black Sea commodity markets,
experienced in international trade and
biofuels trade and regulatory frame-
work.
Board Committee:
Chairwoman of the Sustainability Com-
mittee, Audit Committee
Tenure: 3 years
Skills and experience:
Mr. Mishov has over 18 years’ experi-
ence in consulting, including Ernst &
Young, Deloitte and KPMG, leading nu-
merous strategy and performance im-
provement projects for agribusiness cli-
ents.
Board Committee:
Chairman of the Nomination & Remu-
neration Committee, Audit Committee,
Sustainability Committee
Sergiy Volkov, 44
Chief Financial Officer
Yevgen Osypov, 48
Chief Executive Officer
Tenure: 1 year
Skills and experience:
Mr. Volkov is responsible for the overall
financial management of Kernel. He
holds CPA certification.
Board Committee:
None
Tenure: 7 years
Skills and experience:
Mr. Osypov is responsible for the day-
to-day management of the
Company’s
subsidiaries, execution of strategy,
budgets, and Board decisions. He com-
pleted several educational programs in
Harvard Business School.
Board Committee:
Sustainability
Committee
Anastasiia Usachova, 53
Executive Director
Yuriy Kovalchuk, 43
Corporate Investment Director
Tenure: 17 years
Skills and experience:
Mrs. Usachova is responsible for the
overall financial oversight of Kernel.
She holds an MBA degree from IMD
(Switzerland).
Board Committee:
Sustainability Committee
Tenure: 13 years
Skills and experience:
Mr. Kovalchuk contributes to strategy
formulation and is responsible for the
execution of investment projects. Yuriy
has been a Fellow with Association of
Chartered Certified Accountants
(FCCA), since September 2013.
Board Committee: None
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Board composition
The Board is composed of eight directors, five
of which are executive (including a Chairman)
and three are non-executive directors. Two
non-executive directors fulfill the criteria of be-
ing independent. None of the three non-exec-
utive directors have material relations with any
shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total
vote in the company.
Several changes occurred in the Board’s
composition in FY2024:
At the general meeting on 11 December
2023, the resignation of Mrs. Viktoriia
Lukianenko as Executive Director was ac-
cepted, and she was granted full discharge
for the exercise of her mandate.
Mr. Sergiy Volkov was appointed as Execu-
tive Director at the same meeting.
Mr. Volkov, who also serves as the Group’s
Chief Financial Officer and a member of the
Executive Management Team (effective since
8 May 2023) brings new expertise to the
Board.
Our non-executive directors are highly experi-
enced and influential, with diverse back-
grounds across various industries and coun-
tries. They bring a strong blend of skills and
business acumen, significantly enhancing the
Board and its Committees' effectiveness.
The Chairman’s mandate expires at the an-
nual general meeting in December 2025, while
the mandates of all other directors expire in
December 2024.
The Nomination & Remuneration Committee
regularly reviews the Board’s composition to
ensure a diverse, balanced mix of competen-
cies, skills, experience, and knowledge of the
Company’s affairs. Key principles for the nom-
ination, appointment, and re-election of Direc-
tors are outlined in the Corporate Governance
Charter, available on Kernel’s website.
Board diversity
Diversity among Directors enhances the
Board's performance and efficiency, serving
the Company’s best interests. The Board's di-
versity is supported by Kernel’s Diversity,
Equality, and Inclusion Policy, adopted by
management in 2018 and approved by the
AGM on 10 December 2021. The policy is con-
sistently applied by the Nomination & Remu-
neration Committee and the Executive Man-
agement Team in employee and management
appointments.
The Company benefits from diversity in:
gender;
age and tenure;
professional experience (industry and op-
erations expertise, soft commodities trad-
ing, finance and audit, banking and invest-
ments, and sustainability);
nationality and culture (the Board in-
cludes a majority of Ukrainian Directors,
along with one Polish citizen, one U.S. citi-
zen, and one U.S. resident).
Directors consider diversity when evaluating
the Board's effectiveness. In the FY2024 an-
nual self-evaluation, all Directors acknowl-
edged the Board’s sufficient range of exper-
tise, attitudes, and external relationships.
Directors’ independence
Each independent director annually submits a
statement confirming compliance with the in-
dependence criteria outlined in Annex II of the
European Commission Recommendation of
15 February 2005. These statements are pub-
lished on the Company’s website.
According to statements received in 2024, two
of the three non-executive directors met the in-
dependence criteria.
Conflict of interest
A Corporate Governance Charter adopted in
May 2018 emphasized the disclosure of con-
flicts of interest among Directors. Any Director
having a direct or indirect conflict of interest
must inform the Board thereof and shall refrain
from deliberating or voting on the relevant item
of the agenda. Any conflict of interest should
be properly declared and documented.
Members of the Board shall refrain from pro-
fessional or other activities which might cause
a conflict of interest or adversely affect their
reputation as members of the governing bod-
ies of the Company, and where a conflict of
interest arises, immediately disclose it.
The following non-exhaustive list is an exam-
ple of the duties that shall be followed by the
Directors:
duty not to accept any benefits from third
parties, which may give rise to personal fi-
nancial interest and/or gain;
duty to disclose any interest in a proposed
transaction or arrangement with the Com-
pany and a separate and independent duty
to disclose any arrangement with the Com-
pany; and
duty to avoid conflicts of interest unless au-
thorized.
In FY2024, one conflict of interest was de-
clared by Directors: Mr. Yevgen Osypov de-
clared a conflict of interest regarding the
amendment of the management incentive plan
when discussing this matter during the Board
meeting held on 7 November 2023.
As of October 2024, non-executive directors
occupied the following positions in companies
outside Kernel:
Mrs. Daria Danilczuk is a commodities bro-
ker and trading expert at JDI Brokers, Swit-
zerland.
Mr. Mykhaylo Mishov is Supply Chain Strat-
egy Lead at SC Johnson, Chicago, United
States.
Mr. Andrii Miski-Oglu does not occupy posi-
tions in companies outside Kernel at the
date of publication of this report.
Board committees
The Board has established three committees:
Audit Committee;
Nomination & Remuneration Committee
(hereinafter “N&R Committee”);
Sustainability Committee.
This structure ensures efficient performance,
as specific matters are first discussed by spe-
cialized bodies with relevant expertise before
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………............................................................................................................................
Composition of the Board of Directors as of 27 October 2024
75%
25%
Male
Female
Gender
13%
75%
13%
<40
41-50
>50
Age
50%
13%
38%
<5 years
5-10 years
>10 years
Tenure
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being presented to the Board.
The Board regularly reviews the need for new
committees to adapt to changing business
needs. Following the annual review in July
2024, it was concluded that no new commit-
tees are needed at this time.
Board self-evaluation
In line with best corporate governance stand-
ards, the Board conducts a formal self-evalu-
ation of its performance, effectiveness, oper-
ating efficiency, composition, organizational
structure, compliance with governance rules,
and relationships with executive management
and stakeholders. The 2024 survey found no
major issues in these areas. The Board recog-
nized the quality and timeliness of information
provided, the effectiveness of its practices and
meetings, appropriate composition, clearly de-
fined roles, and well-established committee
practices.
Independent advice
All directors can consult the corporate secre-
tary for assistance with governance, corporate
administration, and legal matters. Directors
may also seek advice from independent pro-
fessional advisors on governance or business-
related issues pertinent to their duties, at the
Company’s expense.
Board activity report
The Board held twelve meetings in FY2024,
including one in-person meeting in Luxem-
bourg and eleven via teleconference. The av-
erage attendance rate for all directors was
98% during this period.
Typically, at each meeting, the Chairman of
the Board and other executive directors report
on the strategy implementation and recent de-
velopments, along with management ac-
counts. The Board’s work plan (minutes and
circular resolutions) for FY2024 included,
among others, the following items:
review of the impact of the Russia-Ukraine
war on operations;
review of the Company’s mid-term strategy
and budget approval;
review and approval of annual, semi-an-
nual, and quarterly accounts;
review of operations updates and manage-
ment accounts
convening annual and extraordinary gen-
eral meetings of shareholders;
approvals of the share capital increase and
cancellation of treasury shares;
review of corporate-governance-related
questions;
oversight of risk management: approval of
top risks for the Company and mitigation
plan, review of reports on top risks
mitigation activities; update on implement-
ing the risk management system; review of
risk limits; review of outstanding legal
cases;
updates from Audit Committee, N&R Com-
mittee, and Sustainability Committee;
review of the performance of the Group sus-
tainability function;
review and approvals of financing and in-
vestment transactions;
matters related to the delisting of the Com-
pany from the Warsaw Stock Exchange;
various ad-hoc items and other corporate
decisions.
Executive Management Team
The Executive Management Team is respon-
sible for the overall financial and operating re-
sults of the Company’s subsidiaries, heading
operating segments and providing support
functions on a daily basis. The Executive Man-
agement Team focuses on strategy imple-
mentation, financial and competitive perfor-
mance, commercial and technological devel-
opments, succession planning, and organiza-
tional development.
The Executive Management Team is headed
by the Chief Executive Officer (the “CEO”),
who is appointed and removed by the Board
and reports directly to it. The CEO is respon-
sible for the day-to-day management of the
Company’s subsidiaries, execution of strat-
egy, budgets, and Board decisions. The CEO
delegates his/her responsibilities to the other
members of the Executive Management
Team.
The Executive Management Team consists of
15 professionals including the CEO, benefit-
ting from the diversity among its members. All
the members of the Executive Management
Team other than the CEO are appointed and
removed, as applicable, by the Board upon
proposal by the N&R Committee after prior
consultation with the CEO, save where he is
subject to the procedure.
The full list of the members of the Executive
Management Team, including short biog-
raphies for each member is available on the
Company’s website.
Responsibilities of the Executive Management
Team are described in more detail in the Com-
pany’s Corporate Governance Charter, avail-
able on the Company’s website.
Various committees are operating on the Ex-
ecutive Management Team level, including
the Strategic Committee, the Investment Com-
mittee, the Trade Committee, and the Risk
Committee.
Remuneration report
This remuneration report is published in ac-
cordance with article 7ter of the same law, the
Luxembourg law of 24 May 2011 on the exer-
cise of certain rights of shareholders at gen-
eral meetings, as amended.
The compensation principles for the Board
and the Executive Management Team are
specified in the Remuneration Policy of the
Company. The Group pays remuneration to
the Board and the Executive Management
Team only in accordance with the Remunera-
tion Policy. The Remuneration Policy must be
submitted to a vote by the general meeting at
every material change and, in any case, at
least every four years.
The AGM held on 11 December 2023:
approved an amendment to the long-term
management incentive plan in the form of
share put option agreements; and
approved the Remuneration Policy, follow-
ing the requirements of Article 7bis of the
Luxembourg law of 24 May 2011 on the ex-
ercise of certain rights of shareholders at
general meetings, as amended.
Remuneration of the Board
Compensation of the Directors of the Com-
pany is comprised only of the fixed fees paid
for the services provided by the Directors in
their capacity as members of the Board of Di-
rectors of the Company. There is no perfor-
mance-based variable component, pension,
retirement, or similar benefits provided by the
Company. This ensures a certain degree of in-
dependence when it comes to fulfilling the
Board’s duties towards the Executive Man-
agement Team. On top of that, Directors are
reimbursed for certain travel, hotel, and other
expenses related to the exercise of their du-
ties. The fees paid to the independent direc-
tors and the fees paid to executive directors
are approved at the annual general sharehold-
ers’ meeting. See more details on the remu-
neration of the Board in the Remuneration Pol-
icy of the Company.
Three executive Directors in their capacity as
members of the Executive Management Team
also receive compensation for their services
provided to subsidiaries of the Company, with
such compensation being paid by the subsidi-
aries of the Company. One other executive Di-
rector not being a member of the Executive
Management Team also receives compensa-
tion as an employee of the Company.
Non-executive Directors are reimbursed for
educational expenses related to enhancing
the competencies necessary for their duties.
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Remuneration of the Executive Man-
agement Team
Compensation of the members of the Execu-
tive Management Team (15 people in total) is
based on a pay-for-performance principle, re-
warding sustainable growth and long-term
value creation for shareholders of the Com-
pany. A significant portion of the remuneration
comes from a variable part depending on the
Group’s consolidated financial performance.
For details, please see the figure below.
The principles of the remuneration of the Ex-
ecutive Management Team are specified in
the Remuneration Policy.
Members of the Executive Management Team
are not granted any pension, retirement, or
similar benefits provided by the Company,
apart from those required by the law.
The Company believes that the Remuneration
Policy strongly contributes to the long-term
shareholder value creation and the Com-
pany’s stability.
Nomination and Remuneration Com-
mittee
The Nomination and Remuneration
Committee is a continuously operating collec-
tive body of the Board. It is established from
among the members of the Board and con-
sists of three members, including a chairman
elected by the members of the N&R Commit-
tee amongst themselves. The majority of the
members of the N&R Committee (including
the chairman) are non-executive independent
Directors.
The role of the N&R Committee is to assist the
Board in fulfilling its responsibilities by review-
ing, advising, and making recommendations
to the Board, the Chairman, and the CEO on
the nomination to the Board and Executive
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...........................................................................................................................
Compensation structure of the Executive Management Team
Fixed
remuneration
Members of the Executive Management Team receive a base salary determined at the discretion of the Board, commensurate
with the respective position and the individual profile of the relevant members in terms of qualifications, skill set, and experi-
ence. All amounts are fixed and shall be paid monthly. In FY2024, the aggregated base salary for 15 members of the Exec-
utive Management Team amounted to USD 3,074 thousand paid by the subsidiaries of the Company.
Variable
remuneration
An annual variable monetary bonus (if applicable) is paid as well. Such bonus is determined by the formula approved by the
Board of Directors upon the recommendation of the N&R Committee. The bonus shall reward the members of the Executive
Management team for the financial performance of the Group, which derives from the financial performance of each of its
subsidiaries where each respective member of the Executive Management Team is employed or has contractual obligations.
The structure of the variable remuneration is as follows:
The bonus pool for 13 members of the Executive Management Team (the “Bonus Pool”) is expressed as a percentage of
the consolidated EBITDA of the Group less the consolidated financial costs of the Group normalized for the effect of certain
one-off and nonrecurring transactions (“EBITDA Less Finance Costs”), with a minimum threshold level of USD 123 million
required to activate the pay-out. The Bonus Pool as a percentage of EBITDA Less Finance Costs is gradually increasing
starting from 0.46% of EBITDA Less Finance Costs in case EBITDA Less Finance Costs exceeds USD 123 million and
reaching 3.66% of EBITDA Less Finance Costs in case EBITDA Less Finance Costs exceeds USD 443 million. The exact
allocation of the Bonus Pool between the relevant members of the Executive Management Team is determined by the
N&R Committee.
Two members of the Executive Management Team have different metrics determining their variable remuneration, includ-
ing the financial results of the business divisions they lead, the Group EBITDA and personal key performance indicators.
The variable remuneration is paid by the subsidiaries of the Company for duties and services provided by members of the
Executive Management Team to subsidiaries of the Company. In FY2024, the aggregated variable remuneration for 15 mem-
bers of the Executive Management Team amounted to USD 24,000 thousand to be paid by the subsidiaries of the Company.
Long-term
management
incentive
plan
Six members of the Executive Management Team are subject to the long-term management incentive plan which shall reward
such members of the Executive Management Team for accomplishing individual performance goals related to the duties and
services provided by such individuals to subsidiaries of the Company, altogether contributing to the better financial and non-
financial results of the group of companies to which the Company belongs over the long-term period and aligning the interests
of the Executive Management Team with those of the shareholders of the Company. The long-term management incentive
plan is duly reviewed by the N&R Committee and approved by the Board of Directors after the generic terms thereof having
been approved by the general meeting of shareholders. Six members of the Executive Management Team are granted with
put options providing the right but not the obligation to sell a fixed number of Company’s shares owned by management at
the moment at Put Price during the exercise period:
exercise period shall commence on 1 November 2024 and end on 31 December 2025 (or in certain cases 31 December
2026), if no put options are exercised during Exercise Period, then such put options shall lapse. Put option also provides
for acceleration events which dictate that the put options may be exercised before the commencement of the exercise
period if the following events occur: 1) the cessation of trading of Company's shares at the Warsaw Stock Exchange or
any other recognized stock exchange; or 2) a change of control event where the shareholding of Namsen Limited or its
ultimate beneficial owner in Kernel's total votes falls below twenty five percent (25%). In such cases, put options may be
exercised only after 12 months following the occurrence of the relevant events.
Put Price is determined as lower of (1) USD 23.80; or (2) operating profit before working capital changes minus interest
paid plus interest received minus interest tax paid, minus maintenance capital expenditures in the fixed amount of USD
155,000,000, where all amounts, except for the maintenance capital expenditures, are specified in USD in the relevant
paragraph of the consolidated statement of cash flows of the audited annual consolidated accounts of the Company and
its subsidiaries for the Financial Years 2022-2024, divided by 3 divided by 12% and divided by 84,031,230.
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Management Team and their remuneration.
The N&R Committee assists the Board in
nominating and assessing candidates for both
directorship and managerial positions, estab-
lishing and reviewing the compensation princi-
ples specified in the Remuneration Policy. The
N&R Committee ensures that only persons
with adequate competencies, experience, and
skills are appointed to the Board. The N&R
Committee also supports the Board in prepar-
ing the Board’s remuneration proposals for the
shareholders’ general meeting. A detailed list
of N&R Committee responsibilities is available
in the Corporate Governance Charter, pub-
lished on the Company’s website.
Nomination and Remuneration Com-
mittee’s activity report
The N&R Committee held three meetings dur-
ing the reporting period, discussing the nomi-
nation of the new Director, the performance of
the CEO and the Executive Management
Team, the remuneration of the executive man-
agement team, and amendments to the man-
agement incentive plans.
At the additional meeting held in October
2024, the N&R Committee settled on the Ex-
ecutive Management Team compensation for
FY2024 standing at USD 27,074 thousand (in-
cluding a bonus of USD 24,000 thousand) for
15 key executives, as compared to the total
compensation of USD 20,585 thousand (in-
cluding a bonus of USD 17,902) a year ago for
15 executives.
Accountability and audit
Going concern
The Group’s business activities, together with
the factors affecting its performance, position,
and future development are set out in the man-
agement report on pages 1-38.
The financials
of the Group, its liquidity position, borrowing
facilities, and applicable terms are described
in the financial statement’s accounts.
Current economic conditions have fostered
the development of several risks and uncer-
tainties for the Company, in particular, related
to the war in Ukraine (see details in the Risks
and Uncertainties section of this report).
The Directors have reviewed the current and
projected financial position of the Company,
making reasonable assumptions about the fu-
ture trading and production performance, as
well as the debt requirements. The results
show that the Company should be able to
operate within the levels of its available
capital. Therefore, the Board has a reasona-
ble expectation that the Company has ade-
quate resources to continue in operational ex-
istence for the foreseeable future. Accord-
ingly, the Board continues to adopt the going
concern basis in preparing the annual report
and accounts.
Takeover disclosure
The Company’s shares are in electronic form
(77,429,230 shares) and registered form
(216,000,000 shares) and are freely transfer-
able, subject only to the provisions of law and
the Company’s Articles of Association. There
are no agreements between the Company and
its employees or directors providing for com-
pensation for the loss of office or employment
(whether through resignation, purported re-
dundancy, or otherwise) that would occur be-
cause of a takeover bid. Put options granted
under management incentive plans incorpo-
rate accelerated vesting in the event of a take-
over.
The Company in the ordinary course of busi-
ness has entered into various agreements
with customers and suppliers around the
world. Some of the Company’s borrowing
agreements, which either by their nature or
value may represent significant agreements,
do provide for the right of termination upon a
change of control of the Company. The com-
mercial sensitivity of these agreements pre-
vents their details from being disclosed.
Except for the preceding disclosure, there are
no other significant agreements to which the
Company is a party that take effect, alter, or
terminate upon a change of control following a
takeover of the Company.
Audit Committee
The Audit Committee is a continuously operat-
ing collective body of the Board. It consists of
three members including a chairman, all of
whom are non-executive directors and two of
whom meet the independence criteria. The
members have competence in accounting and
audit, and competence relevant to the sector
in which the company is operating. The Audit
Committee is fully capable of overseeing the
affairs of the Company in the areas of
adequacy and effectiveness of the Kernel’s
system of financial reporting, corporate gov-
ernance, internal controls, and risk manage-
ment.
The functioning and key responsibilities of the
Audit Committee are described in the Articles
of Association and further specified in the Cor-
porate Governance Charter.
Audit Committee activity report
The Audit Committee had seven meetings in
FY2024, including one in-person in Luxem-
bourg and the rest via teleconference. The av-
erage attendance rate for all Directors was
100% for the reporting period.
The Chief Financial Officer was invited and at-
tended all the meetings of the Audit Commit-
tee. Additionally, the Audit Committee invited
the CEO, head of internal audit, compliance
officer, sustainability manager, and head of re-
porting and controls to its meetings. The rep-
resentatives of the external auditor (PwC)
were invited and attended three meetings of
the Audit Committee. During its meetings, the
Audit Committee had one closed session with
the external auditor and one session with the
internal auditor to communicate without the
presence of executives. Additionally, the deci-
sions of the Audit Committee were taken via
two circular resolutions signed throughout
FY2024.
To execute its key functions and discharge its
responsibilities as outlined in the Corporate
Governance Charter, the Audit Committee,
during FY2024:
assisted the Board in monitoring the relia-
bility and integrity of the financial infor-
mation provided. The committee reviewed
the consolidated quarterly, semi-annual,
and annual financial reports of the Group,
standalone annual accounts of the Com-
pany, Avere financial statements, reviewed
critical accounting policies and manage-
ment estimates, among other things;
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..............
Remuneration of the Board of Directors
USD thousands
FY2020
FY2021
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Chairman of the Board
200
200
200
200
200
Other executive Directors
40
40
40
40
40
Non-executive Directors
260
260
275
240
240
Total Board of Directors
500
500
515
480
480
Excluding reimbursement of travelling expenses incurred by Directors in performing their duties.
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..............
Remuneration of the Executive Management Team
USD thousands
FY2020
FY2021
FY2022
FY2023
FY2024
Total remuneration
8,834
29,334
8,492
20,585
27,074
Base salary
2,508
2,834
2,949
2,683
3,073
Short-term variable bonus
6,326
26,500
5,543
17,902
24,000
Number of executive managers
12
15
15
15
15
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conducted oversight over the perfor-
mance of the internal audit function, in-
cluding the review of the internal audit activ-
ities and action plans and reports. The Audit
Committee had one face-to-face discussion
with internal auditors in the absence of ex-
ecutives;
conducted oversight over the perfor-
mance of the external audit function in-
cluding review of the annual audit plan and
scope of semiannual accounts review and
areas of focus, review of auditor reports,
presentations and additional auditors’ re-
port, and management letter review. The
Audit Committee had one face-to-face dis-
cussion with the external auditors in the ab-
sence of executives. The Audit Committee
monitored the fee cap of non-audit services,
and reviewed the contract with auditors (in-
cluding a review of expected fees for the au-
dit and consulting services) and the inde-
pendence of the external auditor;
conducted oversight over the risk man-
agement function. The Audit Committee
assisted the Board in the discharge of its
risk management responsibilities, monitor-
ing and examining the effectiveness of the
Company’s internal control and risk moni-
toring system; reviewing top risks, risk miti-
gation plans, and results of risk mitigation
activities, overseeing group risk manage-
ment procedures; reviewing trade manage-
ment position risk mitigation activities; re-
view of climate physical and transitional
risks relevant to Kernel’s operations;
conducted oversight over the compliance
function, including implementation of the
Corporate Governance Charter provisions,
compliance with good corporate govern-
ance practices concerning the functioning of
the Audit Committee, and reviewing reports
from the Kernel Compliance Officer on the
progress achieved in the enhancement of
the Company’s compliance function;
discussed various ad-hoc items.
After each meeting, the chairman of the Audit
Committee reports to the Board on key mat-
ters discussed.
Throughout FY2024, the Audit Committee
conducted an annual self-evaluation proce-
dure, which indicated potential areas of Audit
Committee performance and activities im-
provement and resulted in a clear action plan
based on the results of the self-evaluation pro-
cedure.
Additionally, in 2024, the Audit Committee
conducted an assessment of the efficiency of
internal control, risk management and compli-
ance systems, and internal audit function. The
Audit Committee agreed that the overall as-
sessment of the internal control and risk man-
agement system is rather effective, the overall
assessment of the compliance system is
effective, and the overall assessment of the in-
ternal audit function is effective.
Internal audit
As an integral part of the system of internal
control, the Company has an internal audit de-
partment headed by an experienced profes-
sional reporting directly to the Board of Direc-
tors via the Audit Committee and to the CEO
of the Company as a chairman of the Risk
Committee within the Executive Management
Team, and working closely with the Board. In-
ternal audit is a separate independent unit in
the Group’s organizational structure.
Internal Audit provides independent and ob-
jective assurance and consulting services in
the areas of corporate governance, internal
controls, and risk management, aimed at im-
proving the operations and performance of the
Company and its subsidiaries. The efficient in-
ternal audit function is adequate to the size of
the Company and the type of and scale of the
Company’s activities.
The independence rules defined in generally
accepted international standards of the pro-
fessional internal audit practice apply to mem-
bers of the internal audit department.
The main responsibilities of the internal audit
are:
to maintain continuous support for the Di-
rectors on risk management, internal con-
trols, and mitigation activities by undertak-
ing regular or ad hoc reviews;
to provide an independent and objective
evaluation of the effectiveness and effi-
ciency of corporate governance, internal
control, and risk-management systems
within the operational framework of the
Company;
to assist personnel and management of the
Company in improving the effectiveness of
risk identification and internal control sys-
tems in operations; advise and consult them
regarding how to effectively execute their
responsibilities, including recommendations
on specific improvements in policies and
procedures; and
to assist in open and two-way communica-
tion among internal and external auditors,
management and personnel, the Audit
Committee, and the Board.
The Head of internal audit regularly presents
the results of its work to the Audit Committee,
including communication with the committee
members in the absence of executives.
External audit
PwC Société cooperative (“PwC”), with its reg-
istered office at 2, rue Gerhard Mercator B.P.
1443 L-1014 Luxembourg and register num-
ber B 65 477 with the Luxembourg Trade and
Companies Register, acts as an external au-
ditor of Kernel’s consolidated and standalone
accounts since FY2022.
PwC attended three meetings of the Audit
Committee in FY2024, presenting the review
of the semi-annual accounts, and audit plan
for FY2024, and presenting to the Audit Com-
mittee the approach to accounting and audit of
various business operations, among other
things. The Audit Committee reviews and
monitors the level of fees paid by the Com-
pany to the external auditor, preapproves per-
missible non-audit services, and monitors the
cap on non-audit fees.
Remuneration to auditors in FY2024
amounted to USD 804 thousand (including
USD 26 thousand non-audit services), as
compared to USD 781 thousand in FY2023.
Sustainable development
The sustainability function at Kernel is gov-
erned by the Board via a Sustainability Com-
mittee, which has the purpose of overseeing
the overall performance of the sustainability
corporate function of the Company and the
Group; ensuring the implementation of the en-
vironmental, social, and sustainability govern-
ance agendas across all business operations;
and connect these agendas with the Group’s
strategy, business objectives, and capital allo-
cation decisions.
The Sustainability Committee had two meet-
ings during the reporting period, discussing
the following:
business opportunities related to the sus-
tainability function and climate change;
the EY summary presentation related to the
project “Climate Corporate Governance and
Low-Carbon Pathway”;
reporting requirements in accordance with
the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Di-
rective;
registration of the Poltava Oil Extraction
plant as the first company in the Ukrainian
……………………………………………………………………..
External auditor’s fees
USD thousand
739
717
526
781
778
249
294
257
988
1,011
783
781
804
FY2020 FY2021 FY2022 FY2023 FY2024
Audit fees Non-audit services
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
81
www.ker
nel.ua
Corporate Governance continued
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
food sector committed to the Science Based
Targets initiative.
Business ethics and compli-
ance
Kernel has embedded strong ethical stand-
ards in the Company’s everyday operations,
as outlined in the Code of Conduct. Addition-
ally, the AGM held on 10 December 2021 ap-
proved the Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion
Policy of the Company and its subsidiaries.
In December 2016, Kernel initiated a Corpo-
rate Compliance Program (“CCP”) an ac-
tion plan to bring the Company’s compliance
system in accordance with the best interna-
tional standards. Progress on CCP implemen-
tation was monitored each quarter by Baker
Tilly, with the final report presented in the sum-
mer of 2019, after completion of the CCP in
June 2019. Baker Tilly recognized significant
progress achieved in the implementation of
Kernel’s Compliance Program due to the ac-
tual execution of both internal and external
control activities, also highlighting the aspects
for further continuous improvement.
Since 2017, the compliance function within
Kernel has been led by a dedicated compli-
ance officer, who reports directly to the CEO
and Board of Directors via the Audit Commit-
tee of the Board. The compliance officer at-
tends all Audit Committee meetings and pro-
vides compliance system and control updates
at least twice a year.
We prioritize strong relationships with counter-
parties, assessing their risks based on trust-
worthiness, corruption, and sanctions in line
with our risk appetite. Anti-corruption and anti-
sanctions clauses are included in all contracts
with counterparties. These clauses consider
both national and foreign legislation require-
ments in connection with the Russian war in-
vasion of Ukraine. We’ve updated our anti-cor-
ruption provisions to align with legislative
changes, strengthened controls, enhanced
due diligence processes, and revised contract
templates and clauses accordingly.
Since 2019 Kernel has been a member of the
Ukrainian Network of Integrity and Compli-
ance (UNIC) and a signatory of the UN Global
Compact and the Memorandum of UN Collec-
tive Action to Combat Corruption. These plat-
forms are effective for sharing best practices
in preventing corruption between companies
and promoting a corporate culture of integrity
in the agricultural sector.
In recent years, Kernel has made continuous
efforts to promote gender equality and inclu-
sion, actively creating and supporting favora-
ble workplaces. Gender diversity and equality
are core values, with dignity and honesty at
the foundation. Kernel remains committed to
addressing gender asymmetry across all ar-
eas of the company.
During 2023-2024, we strengthened our com-
pliance system and integrated additional con-
trols and instruments, including:
Prohibition of any cooperation with counter-
parties from Russia;
Implementation of an Anti-Sanctions Policy;
Launch of the Compliance School for Kernel
counterparties to share knowledge on com-
pliance and ethics;
annual conflict of interest declaration;
Introduction of the UN General Assembly’s
"Anti-corruption" video course for approxi-
mately 6,000 employees;
In-person compliance training for more than
100 employees.
Kernel’s compliance efforts focus on:
preventing fraud, corruption, and other
misconduct (see details in section Anti-cor-
ruption);
managing risks related to unreliable
counterparties and international sanc-
tions. Compliance officer and security de-
partment check business partners for com-
pliance risks: sanctions, corruption, money
laundering, terrorism financing;
ensuring the Company’s activities comply
with various external initiatives (GDPR;
United Nations Global Compact; equality,
diversity, and inclusion initiatives, etc.);
ensuring employee adherence to internal
policies, including the Code of Conduct,
Policy for managing conflicts of interest,
combating fraud and corruption, and other
internal documents on compliance. The
compliance officer oversees incident man-
agement for all stakeholders.
To enhance employee awareness of business
ethics, we offer an e-learning course on the
Code of Conduct. All new employees must
achieve a minimum 80% pass rate during
onboarding.
PricewaterhouseCoopers, Société coopérative, 2 rue Gerhard Mercator, B.P. 1443, L-1014 Luxembourg
T : +352 494848 1, F : +352 494848 2900, www.pwc.lu
Cabinet de révision agréé. Expert-comptable (autorisation gouvernementale n°10028256)
R.C.S. Luxembourg B 65 477 - TVA LU25482518
Audit report
To the Shareholders of
Kernel Holding S.A.
Report on the audit of the consolidated financial statements
Our qualified opinion
In our opinion, except for the possible effects of the matter described in the “Basis for qualified opinion”
section of our report, the accompanying consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of
the consolidated financial position of Kernel Holding S.A. (the “Company”) and its subsidiaries (the
“Group”), as at 30 June 2024, and of its consolidated financial performance and its consolidated cash
flows for the year then ended in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the
European Union.
Our opinion is consistent with our additional report to the Audit Committee or equivalent.
What we have audited
The Group’s consolidated financial statements comprise:
the consolidated statement of financial position as at 30 June 2024;
the consolidated statement of profit or loss for the year then ended;
the consolidated statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income for the year then ended;
the consolidated statement of changes in equity for the year then ended;
the consolidated statement of cash flows for the year then ended; and
the notes to the consolidated financial statements, including material accounting policy information
and other explanatory information.
Basis for qualified opinion
As disclosed in Note 17, the Group disposed of all of its crypto assets during the year ended
30 June 2023, recording a loss on transactions with crypto assets of USD 2,412 thousand, as disclosed
within the line Loss on impairment of assets in the consolidated statement of profit or loss (Note 30).
We have not obtained sufficient appropriate evidence to verify the opening balance of crypto assets as
at 30 June 2022 and transactions in crypto assets during the year ended 30 June 2023 due to the lack
of formalised controls around the authenticity of digital records. Consequently, we were unable to
determine whether any adjustments to the crypto asset balances as at 30 June 2022 or loss recorded
on transactions in crypto assets during the year ended 30 June 2023 were necessary. Our auditor’s
report for the year ended 30 June 2023 was qualified for this matter.
Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2024 is also qualified
because of the possible effect of this matter on the comparability of the current period’s figures and the
corresponding figures.
83
We conducted our audit in accordance with the EU Regulation No 537/2014, the Law of 23 July 2016
on the audit profession (Law of 23 July 2016) and with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) as
adopted for Luxembourg by the “Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier” (CSSF).
Our responsibilities under the EU Regulation No 537/2014, the Law of 23 July 2016 and ISAs as
adopted for Luxembourg by the CSSF are further described in the “Responsibilities of the “Réviseur
d’entreprises agréé” for the audit of the consolidated financial statements” section of our report.
We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for
our qualified opinion.
We are independent of the Group in accordance with the International Code of Ethics for Professional
Accountants, including International Independence Standards, issued by the International Ethics
Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA Code) as adopted for Luxembourg by the CSSF together with
the ethical requirements that are relevant to our audit of the consolidated financial statements. We have
fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities under those ethical requirements.
To the best of our knowledge and belief, we declare that we have not provided non-audit services that
are prohibited under Article 5(1) of the EU Regulation No 537/2014.
The non-audit services that we have provided to the Company and its controlled undertakings, if
applicable, for the year then ended, are disclosed in Note 29 to the consolidated financial statements.
Material uncertainty related to going concern
We draw attention to Note 4 in the consolidated financial statements, which highlights that since
24 February 2022 the Group's operations are significantly affected by the ongoing military invasion of
Ukraine and the magnitude of further developments or the timing of the cessation of these
circumstances, are uncertain. As stated in Note 4, these events or conditions, along with other matters
as set forth in Note 3, indicate that a material uncertainty exists that may cast significant doubt on the
Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. Our opinion is not modified in respect of this matter.
Key audit matters
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our
audit of the consolidated financial statements of the current period. These matters were addressed in
the context of our audit of the consolidated financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion
thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.
In addition to the matter described in the “Basis for qualified opinion” section and in the “Material
Uncertainty Related to Going Concern” section, we have determined the matters described below to be
key audit matters to be communicated in our report.
Key audit matter
How our audit addressed the key audit matter
Impairment of property, plant and
equipment in the oilseed processing
segment
As of 30 June 2024, the Group has
property, plant and equipment
Our audit procedures included the following:
- Analysing judgements made in determining the CGUs.
- Engaging our internal valuation experts to assess the
appropriateness of the methodology applied by the Group in
84
(“PP&E”) in the oilseed processing
segment with a carrying amount of
USD 506 million.
During the reporting period,
management identified impairment
indicators, and performed
impairment tests of property, plant
and equipment, as required by
IAS 36 Impairment of Assets.
Impairment was tested by
comparing the carrying amount of
the relevant Cash-generating unit
(“CGU”) with its recoverable
amount, which was determined for
each CGU as higher of value in use
and fair value less cost of disposal.
The assumptions with the most
significant impact on the
recoverable amount calculations
were sales prices of sunflower oil,
transportation costs, purchase price
of sunflower seeds, processing
volume and discount rates for the
oilseed processing segment .
Taking into account significant
management judgements and
magnitude of the amounts involved,
we considered this to be a key audit
matter.
Refer to Notes 5 and 15 to the
consolidated financial statements
for the related disclosures.
calculating the CGUs recoverable amounts and to assess
reasonableness of the discount rates used.
- Evaluating management's ability to reasonably estimate
cash flow forecasts by comparing actual results to
management's historical forecasts.
- Evaluating and challenging significant assumptions used by
management in CGUs recoverable amount calculations,
such as purchase price of sunflower seeds, sales prices of
sunflower oil, processing volume and transportation costs,
based on the internal and external data which supports these
assumptions.
- Checking the sensitivity analysis over significant
assumptions used.
- Verifying the mathematical accuracy and integrity of
calculations and the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures in
Notes 5 and 15 to the consolidated financial statements.
Impairment of goodwill in the
oilseed processing segment
In the year ended 30 June 2024, the
Group recognised a goodwill
impairment charge related to the
oilseed processing segment in the
amount of USD 58 million as the
result of the impairment test
required by IAS 36 Impairment of
Assets.
Our audit procedures included the following:
- Analysing judgements made in determining the CGUs.
- Engaging our internal valuation experts to assess the
appropriateness of the methodology applied by the Group in
calculating the CGUs recoverable amount and to assess the
reasonableness of the discount rates used.
- Evaluating management’s ability to reasonably estimate
cash flow forecasts by comparing actual results to
management’s historical forecasts.
85
For the purpose of an impairment
test, management calculated the
recoverable amount of each CGU to
which goodwill is allocated, as the
higher of value in use and fair value
less costs of disposal.
The assumptions with the most
significant impact on the cash flow
forecasts were sales prices of
sunflower oil, purchase price of
sunflower seeds, transportation
costs, processing volume and
discount rates for the oilseed
processing segment.
Taking into account significant
management judgements and
magnitude of the amounts involved,
we considered this to be a key audit
matter.
Refer to Notes 5 and 18 to the
consolidated financial statements
for the related disclosures.
- Evaluating and challenging significant assumptions used by
management in CGUs recoverable amount calculations,
such as the sales prices of sunflower oil, purchase price of
sunflower seeds and transportation costs and processing
volume based on the internal and external data which
supports these assumptions.
- Checking the sensitivity analysis over significant
assumptions used.
- Verifying the mathematical accuracy and integrity of
calculations and the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures in
Notes 5 and 18 to the consolidated financial statements.
Valuation of current biological
assets
The Group measures biological
assets at the fair value less costs to
sell in accordance with IAS 41
Agriculture and IFRS 13 Fair Value
Measurement. As of 30 June 2024,
the Group has current biological
assets comprising mainly winter and
spring crops of the 2023/24 season,
which were not yet harvested in the
amount of USD 188 million.
The Group calculates the fair value
less costs to sell on the basis of the
discounted cash flow forecasts,
applying the following significant
assumptions:
• crop yields;
Our audit procedures included the following:
- Gaining an understanding of management’s process for
development of significant assumptions used by
management in the valuation and assessing the
appropriateness of valuation methodology applied.
- Evaluating and challenging significant assumptions used in
the valuation, such as crop yields and grain sales prices net
of transportation costs, based on the internal and external
data which supports these assumptions.
- Checking the sensitivity analysis over significant
assumptions used.
- Verifying the mathematical accuracy and integrity of
calculations and the adequacy of the Group’s disclosures in
Note 5 and 13 to the consolidated financial statements.
86
• grain sales prices net of
transportation costs.
Taking into account significant
management judgements and
magnitude of the amounts involved,
we considered this to be a key audit
matter.
Refer to Note 5 and 13 to the
consolidated financial statements
for the related disclosure.
Other information
The Board of Directors is responsible for the other information. The other information comprises the
information stated in the annual report including the Directors' report and the Corporate Governance
Statement but does not include the consolidated financial statements and our audit report thereon.
Our opinion on the consolidated financial statements does not cover the other information and we do
not express any form of assurance conclusion thereon.
In connection with our audit of the consolidated financial statements, our responsibility is to read the
other information identified above and, in doing so, consider whether the other information is materially
inconsistent with the consolidated financial statements or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or
otherwise appears to be materially misstated. If, based on the work we have performed, we conclude
that there is a material misstatement of this other information, we are required to report that fact.
As described in the “Basis for qualified opinion” section above, we were unable to obtain sufficient
appropriate audit evidence to verify the opening balance of crypto assets as at 30 June 2022 and
transactions in crypto assets during the year ended 30 June 2023. Accordingly, we are unable to
conclude whether or not the other information is materially misstated with respect to this matter.
Responsibilities of the Board of Directors for the consolidated financial statements
The Board of Directors is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the consolidated
financial statements in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the European Union,
and for such internal control as the Board of Directors determines is necessary to enable the preparation
of consolidated financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or
error.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Board of Directors is responsible for assessing
the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going
concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Board of Directors either intends
to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
The Board of Directors is responsible for presenting and marking up the consolidated financial
statements in compliance with the requirements set out in the Delegated Regulation 2019/815 on
European Single Electronic Format (“ESEF Regulation”).
87
Responsibilities of the “Réviseur d’entreprises agréé” for the audit of the consolidated financial
statements
The objectives of our audit are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial
statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue
an audit report that includes our opinion. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not
a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the EU Regulation No 537/2014, the Law of
23 July 2016 and with ISAs as adopted for Luxembourg by the CSSF will always detect a material
misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if,
individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions
of users taken on the basis of these consolidated financial statements.
As part of an audit in accordance with the EU Regulation No 537/2014, the Law of 23 July 2016 and
with ISAs as adopted for Luxembourg by the CSSF, we exercise professional judgment and maintain
professional scepticism throughout the audit. We also:
identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the consolidated financial statements,
whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and
obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of
not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error,
as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of
internal control;
obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures
that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the
effectiveness of the Group’s internal control;
evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting
estimates and related disclosures made by the Board of Directors;
conclude on the appropriateness of the Board of Directors’ use of the going concern basis of
accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related
to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Group’s ability to continue as a going
concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our
audit report to the related disclosures in the consolidated financial statements or, if such disclosures
are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up
to the date of our audit report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Group to cease
to continue as a going concern;
evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the consolidated financial statements,
including the disclosures, and whether the consolidated financial statements represent the underlying
transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation;
obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities and
business activities within the Group to express an opinion on the consolidated financial statements.
We are responsible for the direction, supervision and performance of the Group audit. We remain
solely responsible for our audit opinion.
88
We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned
scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in
internal control that we identify during our audit.
We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant
ethical requirements regarding independence, and communicate to them all relationships and other
matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable, actions
taken to eliminate threats or safeguards applied.
From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that
were of most significance in the audit of the consolidated financial statements of the current period and
are therefore the key audit matters. We describe these matters in our audit report unless law or
regulation precludes public disclosure about the matter.
We assess whether the consolidated financial statements have been prepared, in all material respects,
in compliance with the requirements laid down in the ESEF Regulation.
Report on other legal and regulatory requirements
The Directors' report is consistent with the consolidated financial statements and has been prepared in
accordance with applicable legal requirements.
The Corporate Governance Statement is included in the Directors' report. The information required by
Article 68ter Paragraph (1) Letters c) and d) of the Law of 19 December 2002 on the commercial and
companies register and on the accounting records and annual accounts of undertakings, as amended,
is consistent with the consolidated financial statements and has been prepared in accordance with
applicable legal requirements.
We have been appointed as “Réviseur d’Entreprises Agréé” by the General Meeting of the Shareholders
on 11 December 2023 and the duration of our uninterrupted engagement, including previous renewals
and reappointments, is 3 years.
We have checked the compliance of the consolidated financial statements of the Group as at
30 June 2024 with relevant statutory requirements set out in the ESEF Regulation that are applicable to
consolidated financial statements.
For the Group it relates to the requirement that:
the consolidated financial statements are prepared in a valid XHTML format;
the XBRL markup of the consolidated financial statements uses the core taxonomy and the common
rules on markups specified in the ESEF Regulation.
89
In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements of the Group as at 30 June 2024 have been
prepared, in all material respects, in compliance with the requirements laid down in the ESEF
Regulation.
PricewaterhouseCoopers, Société coopérative
Represented by
@esig
@esig
Andrei Chizhov
Luxembourg, 28 October 2024
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
90
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Statement of the Board of Directors’ Responsibilities for the
Preparation and Approval of the Consolidated Financial
Statements
for the year ended 30 June 2024
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
The Board of Directors is responsible for the preparation, publishing and fair presentation of the consolidated financial statements in accordance
with Luxembourg legal and regulatory requirements relating to the preparation and presentation of the consolidated financial statements, and for
such internal control as the Board of Directors determines is necessary to enable the preparation of consolidated financial statements that are free
from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
In preparing the consolidated financial statements, the Board of Directors is responsible for assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going
concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless the Board of Directors
either intends to liquidate the Group or to cease operations, or has no realistic alternative but to do so.
We confirm that to the best of our knowledge and belief:
The consolidated financial statements of Kernel Holding S.A. (the ‘Company’) presented in this Annual Report and established in conformity with
International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union give a true and fair view of the consolidated statements of
comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows for the year that ended, and notes to the consolidated financial statements, including
a summary of significant accounting policies; and
The Management Report includes a fair review of the development and performance of the business and position of the Company and the
undertakings included within the consolidation taken as a whole, together with a description of the principal risks and uncertainties it faces.
28 October 2024
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Andrii Verevskyi Sergiy Volkov
Chairman of the Board of Directors Director, Chief Financial Officer
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
91
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Selected Financial Data
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
USD
1
PLN
EUR
30 June
2024
30 June
2023
30 June
2024
30 June
2023
30 June
2024
30 June
2023
I.
Revenue
3,581,462
3,455,121
14,534,289
15,483,636
3,312,136
3,306,205
II.
Profit from operating activities
276,428
439,460
1,121,800
1,969,378
255,641
420,519
III.
Profit before income tax
211,052
367,824
856,491
1,648,351
195,181
351,971
IV.
Profit for the period
167,628
298,774
680,268
1,338,913
155,022
285,897
V.
Net cash generated by operating activities
472,136
716,132
1,916,022
3,209,245
436,631
685,267
VI.
Net cash (used in)/generated by investing activities
(112,548)
9,576
(456,742)
42,913
(104,084)
9,163
VII.
Net cash used in financing activities
(504,102)
(219,181)
(2,045,747)
(982,229)
(466,194)
(209,734)
VIII.
Total net cash flow
(144,514)
506,527
(586,467)
2,269,929
(133,647)
484,696
IX.
Total assets
3,396,911
3,885,169
13,696,345
15,954,835
3,175,432
3,585,234
X.
Current liabilities
1,367,062
1,898,804
5,511,994
7,797,629
1,277,929
1,752,216
XI.
Non-current liabilities
163,555
242,370
659,454
995,316
152,891
223,659
XII.
Issued capital
7,749
2,219
31,244
9,113
7,244
2,048
XIII.
Total equity
1,866,294
1,743,995
7,524,897
7,161,890
1,744,612
1,609,359
XIV.
Weighted average number of shares
256,839,066
77,429,230
256,839,066
77,429,230
256,839,066
77,429,230
XV.
Profit per ordinary share (in USD/PLN/EUR)
0.65
3.86
2.65
17.32
0.60
3.70
XVI.
Diluted number of shares
256,839,066
77,429,230
256,839,066
77,429,230
256,839,066
77,429,230
XVII.
Diluted profit per ordinary share (in USD/PLN/EUR)
0.65
3.86
2.65
17.32
0.60
3.70
XVIII.
Book value per share (in USD/PLN/EUR)
6.35
22.50
25.60
92.40
5.94
20.76
XIX.
Diluted book value per share (in USD/PLN/EUR)
6.35
22.50
25.60
92.40
5.94
20.76
1
Please see Note 3 for the exchange rates used for conversion.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Financial Position
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Notes
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Assets
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
9, 37
809,584
954,103
Trade accounts receivable
10, 34, 37
305,246
321,579
Prepayments to suppliers
34
120,870
135,044
Corporate income tax prepaid
227
3,595
Taxes recoverable and prepaid
11
114,127
162,280
Inventory
12
277,660
341,543
Biological assets
13
187,712
147,895
Other financial assets
14, 34, 37
339,929
376,063
Total current assets
2,155,355
2,442,102
Non-current assets
Property, plant and equipment
15
944,104
1,020,411
Right-of-use assets
16
172,931
205,644
Intangible assets
17
36,394
36,334
Goodwill
18
13,196
71,632
Deferred tax assets
25
35,626
21,353
Non-current financial assets
34
23,307
25,524
Other non-current assets
19
15,998
62,169
Total non-current assets
1,241,556
1,443,067
Total assets
3,396,911
3,885,169
Liabilities and equity
Current liabilities
Trade accounts payable
34, 37
109,672
158,567
Advances from customers and other current liabilities
20, 34
177,179
153,770
Corporate income tax liabilities
31,433
12,943
Short-term borrowings
22
315,166
869,933
Current portion of lease liabilities
23
27,206
31,160
Current bonds issued
24
597,580
596,211
Interest on bonds issued
24, 37
7,612
7,612
Other financial liabilities
21, 37
101,214
68,608
Total current liabilities
1,367,062
1,898,804
Non-current liabilities
Lease liabilities
23
142,534
166,735
Deferred tax liabilities
25
20,035
20,557
Other non-current liabilities
37
986
55,078
Total non-current liabilities
163,555
242,370
Equity attributable to Kernel Holding S.A. equity holders
Issued capital
2
7,749
2,219
Share premium reserve
2
457,935
500,378
Additional paid-in capital
2
39,944
39,944
Treasury shares
2
(96,897)
Revaluation reserve
96,178
104,303
Translation reserve
(1,029,114)
(932,089)
Retained earnings
2,291,951
2,123,999
Total equity attributable to Kernel Holding S.A. equity holders
1,864,643
1,741,857
Non-controlling interests
1,651
2,138
Total equity
1,866,294
1,743,995
Total liabilities and equity
3,396,911
3,885,169
Book value
1,864,643
1,741,857
Number of shares
2, 38
293,429,230
77,429,230
Book value per share (in USD)
6.35
22.50
Diluted number of shares
38
293,429,230
77,429,230
Diluted book value per share (in USD)
6.35
22.50
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Andrii Verevskyi Sergiy Volkov
Chairman of the Board of Directors Director, Chief Financial Officer
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Andrii Verevskyi Sergiy Volkov
Chairman of the Board of Directors Director, Chief Financial Officer
Notes
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Revenue
26, 34
3,581,462
3,455,121
Net change in fair value of biological assets and agricultural produce
13
(10,447)
(114,705)
Cost of sales
27, 34
(2,888,959)
(2,704,014)
Gross profit
682,056
636,402
Other operating income
28
71,071
53,547
Other operating expenses
28
(22,883)
(34,867)
General, administrative and selling expenses
29, 34
(213,373)
(205,019)
Net (impairment)/reversal of impairment losses on financial assets
10
(11,217)
4,130
Loss on impairment of assets
30
(229,226)
(14,733)
Profit from operating activities
276,428
439,460
Finance costs
31
(119,079)
(153,249)
Finance income
31, 34
49,819
30,792
Foreign exchange gain, net
32
32,972
62,650
Other expenses, net
33, 34
(29,088)
(11,829)
Profit before income tax
211,052
367,824
Income tax expenses
25
(43,424)
(69,050)
Profit for the period
167,628
298,774
Profit for the period attributable to:
Equity holders of Kernel Holding S.A.
167,952
299,192
Non-controlling interests
(324)
(418)
Earnings per share
Weighted average number of shares
38
256,839,066
77,429,230
Profit per ordinary share (in USD)
0.65
3.86
Diluted number of shares
38
256,839,066
77,429,230
Diluted profit per ordinary share (in USD)
0.65
3.86
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss and
Other Comprehensive Income
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Notes
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Profit for the period
167,628
298,774
Other comprehensive income/(loss)
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Loss on revaluation of property, plant and equipment
(9,909)
Income tax related to components of other comprehensive income
1,784
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to profit or loss:
Exchange differences on translating foreign operations
1
(97,188)
(241,000)
Other comprehensive loss
(105,313)
(241,000)
Total comprehensive income for the period
62,315
57,774
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Equity holders of Kernel Holding S.A.
62,802
58,669
Non-controlling interests
(487)
(895)
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Andrii Verevskyi Sergiy Volkov
Chairman of the Board of Directors Director, Chief Financial Officer
1
Exchange differences on translating foreign operations increased mostly as a result of foreign exchange rate change.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Andrii Verevskyi Sergiy Volkov
Chairman of the Board of Directors Director, Chief Financial Officer
Attributable to Kernel Holding S.A. shareholders
Issued
capital
Share
premium
reserve
Additional
paid-in
capital
Treasury
shares
Revalua-
tion
reserve
Translation
reserve
Retained
Earnings
Total
Non-
controlling
interests
Total
equity
Balance as of 30 June 2022
2,219
500,378
39,944
(96,897)
104,303
(816,490)
1,949,731
1,683,188
3,033
1,686,221
Profit for the period
299,192
299,192
(418)
298,774
Other comprehensive loss
(115,599)
(124,924)
(240,523)
(477)
(241,000)
Total comprehensive income for
the period
(115,599)
174,268
58,669
(895)
57,774
Balance as of 30 June 2023
2,219
500,378
39,944
(96,897)
104,303
(932,089)
2,123,999
1,741,857
2,138
1,743,995
Profit for the period
167,952
167,952
(324)
167,628
Other comprehensive loss
(8,125)
(97,025)
(105,150)
(163)
(105,313)
Total comprehensive income for
the period
(8,125)
(97,025)
167,952
62,802
(487)
62,315
Increase of share capital (Note 2)
5,704
54,280
59,984
59,984
Cancellation of treasury shares
(Note 2)
(174)
(96,723)
96,897
Balance as of 30 June 2024
7,749
457,935
39,944
96,178
(1,029,114)
2,291,951
1,864,643
1,651
1,866,294
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Notes
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Operating activities:
Profit before income tax
211,052
367,824
Adjustments for:
Amortization and depreciation
104,723
104,786
Finance costs
31
119,079
153,249
Finance income
31
(49,819)
(30,792)
Net impairment/(reversal) losses on financial assets
10
11,217
(4,130)
Loss/(Gain) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
33
530
(621)
Net foreign exchange gain
32
(32,717)
(61,201)
Loss on impairment of assets
30
229,226
14,733
Write-downs of inventories to net realisable value
12
2,783
65,690
Net change in fair value of biological assets and agricultural produce
13
10,447
114,705
Net (gain)/loss arising on financial instruments
(16,540)
29,656
Other accruals
14,021
(1,089)
Operating profit before working capital changes
604,002
752,810
Changes in working capital:
Change in trade receivable
10,425
(177,380)
Change in other financial assets
(19,228)
(265,846)
Change in prepayments and other current assets
30,859
(70,235)
Change in restricted cash balance
58
Change in taxes recoverable and prepaid
36,391
2,733
Change in biological assets
(17,181)
73,662
Change in inventories
(16,899)
508,182
Change in trade accounts payable
(45,292)
1,063
Change in advances from customers and other current liabilities
(397)
55,396
Cash generated from operations
582,680
880,443
Interest paid
(110,878)
(148,436)
Interest received
32,777
28,128
Income tax paid
(32,443)
(44,003)
Net cash generated by operating activities
472,136
716,132
Investing activities:
Purchase of property, plant and equipment
(142,578)
(77,093)
Proceeds from disposal of property, plant and equipment
10,175
2,720
Payment for lease agreements
(1,426)
(1,825)
Purchase of intangible and other non-current assets
(2,489)
(10,223)
Proceeds from disposal of intangible and other non-current assets
123,436
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired
8
(24,745)
(12,031)
Disposal of subsidiaries
8
92,452
89,705
Placement of pledge deposits
14
(122,703)
Pledge deposits withdrawal
14
121,400
(Payment to acquire)/Proceeds from disposal of financial assets
(165,337)
17,590
Net cash (used in)/generated by investing activities
(112,548)
9,576
Financing activities:
Proceeds from borrowings
245,019
54,905
Repayment of borrowings
(790,455)
(247,717)
Financing for farmers
193
Repayment of lease liabilities
(20,046)
(23,179)
Proceeds from share premium reserve increase
54,280
Issued capital
5,704
Net cash used in financing activities
(505,498)
(215,798)
Effects of exchange rate changes on the balance of cash held in foreign currencies
1,396
(3,383)
Net (decrease)/increase in cash and cash equivalents
(144,514)
506,527
Cash and cash equivalents, at the beginning of the year
9
954,093
447,566
Cash and cash equivalents, at the end of the year
9
809,579
954,093
For non-cash financing activities please see Note 9.
On behalf of the Board of Directors
Andrii Verevskyi Sergiy Volkov
Chairman of the Board of Directors Director, Chief Financial Officer
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
1. Corporate Information
Kernel Holding S.A. (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Holding’ or the ‘Company’) incorporated under the legislation of Luxembourg on 15 June 2005
(number B 109,173 in the Luxembourg Register of Companies) is the holding company for a group of entities (hereinafter referred to as the
‘Subsidiaries’), which together form Kernel Group (hereinafter referred to as the ‘Group’ or the ‘Kernel Group’).
Kernel Holding S.A. has been a publicly traded company since 2007. Kernel Holding S.A. made an announcement on 13 April 2023, indicating
that their Board of Directors had decided to withdraw the company's shares from trading on the Warsaw Stock Exchange's regulated market.
However, as of 30 June 2024, and as of the date of these consolidated financial statements issue the delisting process has not been completed.
The Group’s principal business activity is the production and subsequent export of sunflower oil and meal in bulk, the production and sale of bottled
sunflower oil, the wholesale trade of grain (mainly corn, soybean, wheat, and barley), farming, and the provision of logistics and transshipment
services. The majority of the Group’s manufacturing facilities are primarily based in Ukraine. As of 30 June 2024, the Group employed 10,904
people (10,733 people as of 30 June 2023).
The Group’s financial year runs from 1 July to 30 June.
The principal place of business of the Group is Ukraine. The principal operating office of the Group is located at 3 Tarasa Shevchenka Lane, Kyiv,
01001, Ukraine.
As of 30 June, the primary Subsidiaries of the Group and principal activities of the Subsidiaries consolidated by the Holding were as follows:
Group’s effective ownership
interest and voting rights as of
Subsidiary
Principal activity
Country of incorporation
30 June 2024
30 June 2023
Inerco Trade S.A.
Trading in sunflower oil,
meal and grain.
Switzerland
100.0%
100.0%
Kernel-Trade LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Avere Commodities SA
Switzerland
100.0%
100.0%
Poltava OEP PJSC
Oilseed crushing plants. Production
of sunflower oil and meal.
Ukraine
99.7%
99.7%
Bandurka OEP LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Kropyvnytskyi OEP PJSC
Ukraine
99.2%
99.2%
BSI LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Prydniprovskyi OEP LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Starokostiantynivskyi OEZ LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Estron Corporation Ltd
Provision of grain, oil, and meal
handling and transshipment services
Cyprus
100.0%
100.0%
Transbulkterminal LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Transgrainterminal LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Oilexportterminal LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Poltava HPP PJSC
Grain elevators. Provision of grain
and oilseed cleaning, drying, and
storage services.
Ukraine
94.1%
94.1%
Kononivsky Elevator LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Agro Logistics Ukraine LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Bilovodskyi KHP PJSC
Ukraine
91.12%
91.12%
Hliborob LLC
Agricultural farms. Cultivation of ag-
ricultural products: corn, wheat, soy-
bean, sunflower seed, rapeseed, for-
age, pea and barley.
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Prydniprovskyi Kray ALLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Druzhba-Nova ALLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Druzhba 6 PE
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
AF Semerenky LLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
Hovtva ALLC
Ukraine
100.0%
100.0%
These consolidated financial statements were authorized for release by the board of directors of Kernel Holding S.A. on 28 October 2024.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
2. Change in Issued Capital
Since 15 June 2005, the parent company of the Group is Kernel Holding S.A. (Luxembourg). The issued capital of the Holding as of 30 June 2024,
consisted of 293,429,230 ordinary electronic shares without indication of the nominal value (30 June 2023: 84,031,230). Ordinary shares have
equal voting rights and rights to receive dividends (except for own shares purchased).
The shares were distributed as follows:
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Equity holders
Shares allotted
and fully paid
Share
owned
Shares allotted
and fully paid
Share
Owned
Namsen Limited registered under the legislation of Cyprus
276,914,889
94.37%
62,222,460
74.05%
Free float
16,514,341
5.63%
15,206,770
18.10%
Own shares purchased
6,602,000
7.85%
Total
293,429,230
100.00%
84,031,230
100.00%
As of 30 June 2024 and 30 June 2023, the Company’s immediate majority shareholder was Namsen Limited (‘Namsen Ltd') and the Company was
ultimately controlled by Mr. Andrii Verevskyi. As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, 100% of the beneficial interest in Namsen Ltd was held by Mr. An-
drii Verevskyi.
As of 1 September 2023, the Company increased its share capital by USD 5,704 thousand, through the issuance of 216,000,000 new Ordinary
Shares, each without indication of a nominal value. The total offering of USD 59,984 thousand was raised from qualified investors, with USD 54,280
thousand allocated to share premium.
On 21 March 2024, the Group decreased its share capital by USD 174 thousand through the cancellation of 6,602,000 shares held in treasury by
its wholly owned subsidiary with USD 96,723 thousand decrease allocated to share premium.
Luxembourg companies are required to allocate to a legal reserve a minimum of 5% of the annual net income until this reserve equals 10% of the
subscribed issued capital. This reserve, in the amount of USD 221 thousand as of 30 June 2024 and 2023, may not be distributed as dividends.
3. Operating Environment
On 24 February 2022, Russia launched a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine. As a response, Ukraine declared martial law which is still in place
as of the date of signing of these consolidated financial statements as the military actions are still ongoing in the Eastern and Southern parts of
Ukraine along the frontline, some towns and cities in these regions remain temporarily occupied while Russia conducts sporadic bombardments
throughout the whole Ukrainian territory.
The Ukrainian economy has features inherent in emerging markets, and its development is heavily influenced by the fiscal and monetary policies
adopted by the Ukrainian government, together with developments in the legal, regulatory, and political environment which changes rapidly.
According to the National Bank of Ukraine’s (‘NBU’) forecast, during the second half of the 2024 calendar year, the inflation will pick up to 8.5%,
but ease to 6.6% next year and go back to 5% target in the 2026 calendar year. Although the economic recovery will continue, its pace will slow to
3.7% this year, primarily due to significant damage to the energy system. In the next two years, real GDP growth will accelerate to 4% 5%.
During August 2024, approximately USD 8.4 billion in external financing was received into the general fund of Ukraine's State Budget. Of this
amount, USD 5.5 billion were grants, and USD 2.9 billion were concessional loans. Thus, over 65% of the funds raised were received on a non-
repayable basis. Overall, in 2024, external financing reached USD 24.5 billion (including USD 6.6 billion in grants). The total assistance since the
beginning of the full-scale war amounts to USD 98 billion.
The ‘grain agreement’ between Ukraine, Turkey, and the United Nations was effective until 17 July 2023, when Russia has officially withdrawn
from the deal. In August 2023, a temporary sea corridor began to operate via Ukraine. In 2023, a total of 56.3 million tons of goods were exported
through Ukrainian ports (2022: 47.8 million tons). Starting from 17 July 2023, up until today, 2,300 ships have entered Ukraine's Black Sea ports
during the corresponding period of operation of the Black Sea maritime corridor, with a total cargo turnover of more than 64 million tons. Of this,
nearly 44 million tons of grain were exported from Ukraine via this corridor. This enabled Ukrainian exporters to increase the physical volume of
their sales by 35% in the first half of 2024 and to reach pre-war export levels.
As of 1 October 2024, Ukraine had USD 38,899 million in international reserves, early data show. In September 2024, they declined by 8.1%. Such
dynamics were driven by the NBU’s FX interventions to compensate for the structural deficit of foreign currency and smooth out exchange rate
fluctuations, as well as by Ukraine’s FX debt repayments. These transactions were partially offset by proceeds from the placement of FX domestic
government debt securities and inflows of international assistance in September, which were one of the smallest since the beginning of the year,
following the large inflows in August.
In accordance with the July 2024 NBU Inflation Report, external financing will enable Ukraine to maintain a sufficient level of international reserves.
By the end of 2024, they will have come close to USD 41 billion. Going forward, as international support expectedly declines, reserves will gradually
diminish to USD 37 billion in 2025 and USD 32 billion in 2026. However, they will be sufficient to preserve the sustainability of the FX market and
ensure moderate two-way fluctuations in the exchange rate as market conditions change.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Starting from 14 June 2024, the Board of the National Bank of Ukraine has decided to cut the key policy rate from 13.5% to 13.0%. Considering
the still moderate rate of inflation, ongoing improvement in inflation expectations, and the balance of risks for further inflation dynamics, the NBU
continues the cycle of interest rate policy easing in order to support economic recovery. Beginning on 19 September 2024, NBU has decided to
keep its key policy rate at 13% per annum.
In 2023 - 2024, Ukraine witnessed massive power outages for the population and businesses due to significant damage to power grids caused by
missile attacks and shelling from the Russian Federation, which also caused problems with water and heat supply. The Government introduced a
range of emergency measures to resolve those challenges and stabilize the economy. Effective from February 2023, the situation in the energy
system of Ukraine improved and stabilized. However, in May-September 2024 missile attacks on the Ukrainian energy system resumed which has
led to new outages.
As of October 2024, the war between Ukraine and the Russian Federation is ongoing, resulting in the significant destruction of property and assets
in Ukraine and other serious consequences. The consequences of the war are changing daily, and the long-term implications are unclear. Further
impact on the Ukrainian economy depends upon the way the Russian military invasion in Ukraine is resolved and upon the success of the Ukrainian
Government in the realization of new reforms, recovery strategy after the invasion is stopped, and the transformation of the state to acquire the
European Union membership, as well as cooperation with the international funds.
4. Summary of Material Accounting Policies
Basis of Preparation and Accounting
The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared in accordance with IFRS Accounting Standards as adopted by the Euro-
pean Union.
The consolidated financial statements have been prepared under the historical cost convention, as modified by the revaluation of property, plant
and equipment for the oilseeds processing segment, biological assets, agricultural produce and certain financial assets and liabilities measured at
fair value. The consolidated financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.
The Group’s Subsidiaries maintain their accounting records in local currencies in accordance with the accounting and reporting regulations of the
countries of their incorporation. Local statutory accounting principles and procedures may differ from those generally accepted under IFRS Ac-
counting Standards. Accordingly, the consolidated financial statements, which have been prepared from the Group’s Subsidiaries’ accounts under
local accounting regulations, reflect adjustments necessary for such financial statements to be presented in accordance with IFRS Accounting
Standards.
Going concern
The Group`s operations continued to be significantly affected by the Russian full-scale military invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022, causing
widespread disruption within Ukraine and triggering economic, humanitarian, and environmental crises. Kernel Group's business activities have
been adjusted, focusing on continuity and safeguarding operations. The Group has assessed the war`s impact on its business, as follows:
In 2024, Ukraine's grain exports underwent significant changes. Following the termination of the UN-brokered Black Sea Grain Initiative on
17 July 2023, Russia revoked its security guarantees for vessels navigating to Ukraine's deep-sea ports and commenced regular attacks target-
ing port and agricultural infrastructure, further destabilizing the region's ability to sustain export operations. In August 2023, the Ukrainian Navy
established a temporary corridor for commercial navigation; however, normal ship traffic did not fully resume until mid-October. Russian attacks
on civilian grain vessels continue to jeopardize Ukraine’s export capabilities, placing immense pressure on companies relying on Black Sea
routes. However, the temporary corridor has enabled a continuation of grain shipments throughout the 2024 financial year.
Several of the Group's facilities, including 7 silos and 3 export terminals, have sustained significant damage from missile and drone attacks.
These assaults caused substantial harm to storage facilities, intake capacities, and loading equipment, with a net book value of lost property,
plant and equipment amounting to USD 11.2 million. Port railway infrastructure was attacked several times, causing logistics disruptions. The
Vovchansk oil extraction plant in the Kharkiv region previously operated by the Group is fully destroyed because of heavy battles in the town.
The Prykolotne oil extraction plant in the Kharkiv region also suffered severe damages as a result of the bombing and is currently inaccessible.
The Group faces mobilization of employees to Ukraine`s military forces. Since the invasion, 1,764 employees have joined Ukraine’s military
forces or territorial defense, of which approximately 826 have been demobilized. Most personnel have returned to their pre-war positions.
As of 2024, the war in Ukraine has displaced millions of its citizens both internally and across Europe. Approximately 6.8 million Ukrainians have
sought refuge in various European countries, with significant numbers being hosted in Poland, Germany, and the Czech Republic. Meanwhile,
within Ukraine, around 8 million people have been displaced from their homes, fleeing conflict zones for safer regions, particularly in the west of
the country. This mass displacement has created serious workforce shortages both inside and outside of Ukraine. As millions have left the
country, businesses, particularly in key sectors such as agriculture, logistics, and manufacturing, have faced challenges in finding personnel to
maintain normal operations. Skilled labor shortages are particularly acute, as many professionals and tradespeople were among those displaced
or are now serving in the military. The active conscription poses additional human capital risks for the Group.
As of 30 June 2024, the Group classified its bank borrowings with long-term initial contractual maturity in the amount of USD 130,594 thousand
as short-term as the Group had waivers for technical and financial covenants for the period less than the final 12 months since the reporting
date.
The Group is seeking alternative sources of financing, such as loans from European and Ukrainian banks that have committed to providing
financial support to businesses in Ukraine.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The management has undertaken a restructuring of the business processes in response to the impacts of the war:
The Group achieved a total crushing volume of 3.2 million tons of oilseeds for the 2024 financial year, including 130 thousand tons of rapeseed.
This includes 188 thousand tons processed for third parties under tolling agreements. This represents a 24% year-over-year increase, primarily
driven by the additional crushing capacity introduced in February 2024 with the commissioning of a greenfield oil extraction plant in western
Ukraine. The performance in FY2025 will be supported by stable export operations through Black Sea ports. However, the Group anticipates the
largest-ever deficit of seeds in the country, which will intensify competition for feedstock and put downward pressure on margins
The Group successfully increased product exports by 36% through the Black Sea ports and alternative routes, including Danube ports, rail, and
trucks, thanks to additional investments in logistics assets and the dedicated efforts of the team. The Group acquired a 50,000-ton capacity bulk
vessel, marking the third in Kernel's fleet. This addition enhanced the Group's logistics and export capacity.
Grain procurement increased to 2.8 million tons on the back of stable export operations via Black Sea export routes for most of the year.
As of 30 June 2024, the Group managed a land bank of 358 thousand hectares, with 95% of the land successfully planted. The Group has
completed the harvesting of all crops, except for corn, which is now in the final phase of harvesting.
To ensure uninterrupted operations the Group continues to invest in power generators and during the year ended 30 June 2024 USD 2.4 million
were invested to support the electricity system (for the year ended 30 June 2023: USD 3.1 million).
Since 2017, Kernel has been developing a biomass-based "green" energy project, achieving a combined turbine actual capacity of approximately
84.4 MW. In the context of the ongoing war, investing in this initiative has provided the Group with a reliable alternative energy source, reducing
its dependency on external supplies and enhancing resilience against disruptions caused by the conflict.
As of 30 June 2024, the Group has outstanding loans totaling USD 315,166 thousand. During the 2024 financial year, short-term borrowings of
USD 790,455 thousand were repaid. Additionally, starting from December 2023, the Group resumed its regular repayment schedule with Euro-
pean banks, having fully repaid the previously outstanding principal to restore normal terms.
After the reporting date the Group repaid USD 300,000,000 bonds (Note 24, 39) which were due 17 October 2024.
The Group signed the new PXF agreement for financing of sunflower seeds purchase for USD 150,000 thousand which was arranged by Euro-
pean banks.
Despite the disruptions caused by the war in Ukraine, as of 30 June 2024 the Group’s current assets exceeded current liabilities by USD 788,293
thousand, and the Group generated profit for the period of USD 167,628 thousand and operating cash flow of USD 472,136 thousand.
Considering the above, management has assessed the going concern assumption based on which the consolidated financial statements have
been prepared.
Management prepared cash flow forecasts for the next 12 months since the consolidated financial statements issue date. The following key as-
sumptions were made by management:
No significant further advancement of Russian troops into the territory of Ukraine and no further escalation of military actions that could severely
impact the Group’s assets;
Deep water ports in Ukraine will remain open and operational during the next financial year, enabling the Group to continue exports.
Deferral of non-essential capital expenditures that are not contractually committed or critical to operations;
The settlement of the 2024 bonds occurred in October 2024;
The Group will be able to settle the bank borrowings and bonds until their initial maturity date;
The Group expects to utilize available credit lines or secure new financing within the 2025 financial year.
Management acknowledges that the future development of military actions, and their duration represent a material uncertainty that may cast
significant doubt about the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern and, therefore, the Group may be unable to realize its assets and
discharge its liabilities in the normal course of business. Despite the material uncertainty relating to the war in Ukraine, management is continuing
to take actions to minimize the impact on the Group and thus believes that the application of the going concern assumption for the preparation of
these consolidated financial statements is appropriate.
Adoption of New and Revised Standards
The Group has adopted all new and revised IFRS Accounting Standards that became effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July
2023. The changes are as follows:
Amendments to IFRS 9, IFRS 17, IAS 1, IAS 8, IAS 12
IFRS 17 requires insurance liabilities to be measured at a current fulfillment value and provides a more uniform measurement and presentation
approach for all insurance contracts. These requirements are designed to achieve the goal of consistent, principle-based accounting for insurance
contracts.
Amendments to IFRS 17 addressed concerns and implementation challenges that were identified after IFRS 17 Insurance contracts were pub-
lished.
Classification of liabilities as current or non-current (Amendments to IAS 1): The amendments aim to promote consistency in applying the require-
ments by helping companies determine whether, in the statement of financial position, debt and other liabilities with an uncertain settlement date
should be classified as current (due on potentially due to be settled within one year) or non-current.
Disclosure of Accounting policies (Amendments to IAS 1): The amendments require that an entity discloses its material accounting policies instead
of its significant accounting policies.
Definition of accounting estimates (Amendments to IAS 8): The amendments replace the definition of a change in accounting estimates and clarify
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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for entities distinguishing changes in accounting estimates from accounting policies.
Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction (Amendments to IAS 12): The amendments clarify that the initial
recognition exemption does not apply to transactions in which equal amounts of deductible and taxable temporary differences arise on initial
recognition.
Standards and Interpretations Issued but not Effective
At the date of authorization of these consolidated financial statements, the following standards, and interpretations, as well as amendments to the
standards had been issued but were not yet effective:
Standards and Interpretations
Effective for the annual period
beginning on or after
Lease liability in Sale and Leaseback (Amendments to IFRS 16)
1 January 2024
Supplier Finance Arrangements (Amendments to IAS 7 and IFRS 7)
1 January 2024
Non-current Liabilities with Covenants (Amendments to IAS 1)
1 January 2024
Lack of Foreign Currency Exchangeability (Amendments to IAS 21)
1 January 2025
Presentation and Disclosure in Financial Statements (Amendments to IFRS 18)
1 January 2027
Subsidiaries without Public Accountability: Disclosure (Amendments to IFRS 19)
1 January 2027
Management anticipates that the adoption of these standards and interpretations will not have a material effect on the consolidated financial
statements of the Group in future periods.
Functional and Presentation Currency
The Group’s presentation currency is the United States dollar (‘USD’). The functional currency of the majority of the Group’s foreign Subsidiaries
is their local currency, except for businesses engaged in the production and sale of sunflower oil and export terminals, for which USD was deter-
mined as the functional currency.
Foreign Currencies
Transactions in currencies other than the functional currencies of the Group`s companies are initially recorded at the rates of exchange prevailing
on the dates of the transactions. Subsequently, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in such currencies are translated at the rates prevailing
on the reporting date. Non-monetary items carried at fair value that are denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rates prevailing
at the date when the fair value was determined. Non-monetary items that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are not
retranslated.
On consolidation, the assets and liabilities of the Subsidiaries are translated at exchange rates prevailing on the reporting date. Income and expense
items are translated at the average exchange rates for the period, unless the exchange rates fluctuate significantly during that period, in which
case the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions are used. Exchange differences arising, if any, are recognized in Consolidated Statement
of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income accumulated in ‘Translation reserve’.
The exchange rates during the period of the financial statements were as follows:
Currency
Closing rate as of
30 June 2024
Average rate for the
year ended 30 June 2024
Closing rate as of
30 June 2023
Average rate for the
year ended 30 June 2023
USD/UAH
40.5374
37.7892
36.5686
36.1678
USD/EUR
0.9348
0.9248
0.9228
0.9569
USD/PLN
4.0320
4.0582
4.1066
4.4814
Rates established by NBU might differ from the commercial rates. Therefore, these rates might not be the ones at which the assets could be
realized, or liabilities could be settled. Additionally, certain NBU restrictions on transactions with foreign currency continued in 2024 financial year
and until the date of these consolidated financial statements issue, although they were gradually eased during this period.
The average exchange rates for each period are calculated as the arithmetic mean of the exchange rates for all trading days during this period.
The sources of exchange rates are the official rates set by the National Bank of Ukraine for USD/UAH and by the National Bank of Poland for
USD/EUR and USD/PLN.
All foreign exchange gain or loss that occurs on revaluation of monetary balances, presented in foreign currencies, is allocated as a separate line
in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss.
Basis of Consolidation
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the consolidated financial statements of the Holding and companies controlled by the Holding
(‘Subsidiaries’) as of 30 June 2024.
The consolidated financial statements incorporate the financial statements of the Company and entities (including structured entities) controlled by
the Company and its Subsidiaries. Control is achieved when the Company:
has the power over the investee;
is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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has the ability to use its power to affect its returns.
The Company reassesses whether or not it controls an investee if facts and circumstances indicate that there are changes to one or more of the
three elements of control listed above.
When the Company has less than a majority of the voting rights of an investee, it has power over the investee when the voting rights are sufficient
to give it the practical ability to direct the relevant activities of the investee unilaterally. The Company considers all relevant facts and circumstances
in assessing whether or not the Company’s voting rights in an investee are sufficient to give it power, including:
the size of the Company’s holding of voting rights relative to the size and dispersion of holdings of the other vote holders;
potential voting rights held by the Company, other vote holders, or other parties;
rights arising from other contractual arrangements;
any additional facts and circumstances that indicate that the Company has, or does not have, the current ability to direct the relevant activities
at the time that decisions need to be made, including voting patterns at previous shareholders’ meetings.
Consolidation of a Subsidiary begins when the Company obtains control over the Subsidiary and ceases when the Company loses control of the
Subsidiary. Specifically, income and expenses of a Subsidiary acquired or disposed of during the year are included in the Consolidated Statement
of Profit or Loss and Other Comprehensive Income from the date the Company gains control until the date when the Company ceases to control
the over Subsidiary.
All inter-company transactions and balances between the Group’s enterprises are eliminated for consolidation purposes. Unrealized gains and
losses resulting from inter-company transactions are also eliminated, except for unrealized losses that cannot be recovered.
Non-controlling interests in Subsidiaries are identified separately from the Group’s equity therein. Non-controlling interests as of the reporting date
represent the non-controlling equity holders’ portion of the fair values of the identifiable assets and liabilities of the Subsidiary at the acquisition
date and the non-controlling equity holders’ portion of movements in equity since the date of acquisition. Profit or loss and each component of the
other comprehensive income are attributed to the owners of the Company and to the non-controlling interests. The total comprehensive income of
Subsidiaries is attributed to the equity holders of the Company and to non-controlling interests even if this results in the non-controlling interests
having a deficit balance.
Business Combinations
Acquisitions of businesses are accounted for using the acquisition method. The consideration transferred in a business combination is measured
at fair value, which is calculated as the sum of the acquisition-date fair values of the assets transferred by the Group, liabilities incurred by the
Group to the former owners of the acquire and equity interests issued by the Group in exchange for control of the acquire. Acquisition costs are
expensed when incurred and included in general, administrative and selling expenses.
At the acquisition date, identifiable assets acquired, and liabilities assumed are recognized at their fair value, except that:
Deferred tax assets or liabilities and liabilities or assets related to employee benefit arrangements are recognized and measured in accordance
with IAS 12 Income Taxes and IAS 19 Employee Benefits, respectively;
The Group shall recognize right-of-use assets and lease liabilities for leases identified in accordance with IFRS 16 in which the acquiree is the
lessee. The Group shall measure the lease liability at the present value of the remaining lease payments (as defined in IFRS 16) as if the
acquired lease were a new lease at the acquisition date. The Group shall measure the right-of-use asset at the same amount as the lease
liability, adjusted to reflect favorable or unfavorable terms of the lease when compared with the market;
The acquirer shall measure the value of a reacquired right recognized as an intangible asset based on the remaining contractual term of the
related contract regardless of whether market participants would consider potential contractual renewals when measuring its fair value;
Liabilities or equity instruments related to share-based payment arrangements of the acquire or share-based payment arrangements of the
Group entered into to replace share-based payment arrangements of the acquire are measured in accordance with IFRS 2 Share-based Payment
at the acquisition date; and
Assets and liabilities that are classified as held for sale in accordance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations
are measured in accordance with that standard.
For each business combination, the Group measures the non-controlling interests in the acquiree either at fair value or at a proportionate share of
the acquirer’s identifiable net assets. If the initial accounting for a business combination cannot be completed by the end of the reporting period in
which the combination occurs, only provisional amounts are reported, which can be adjusted during a measurement period of 12 months after the
acquisition date.
Changes in the Group’s ownership interests in Subsidiaries that do not result in the Group losing control over the Subsidiaries are accounted for
as equity transactions. The carrying amounts of the Group’s interests and non-controlling interests are adjusted to reflect changes in their relative
interests in Subsidiaries. Any difference between the amount by which the non-controlling interests are adjusted and the fair value of the consider-
ation paid or received is recognized directly in equity and attributed to the equity holders of the Holding.
Goodwill
Goodwill arising from a business combination is recognized as an asset at the date that control is acquired (acquisition date). Goodwill is measured
as the excess of the sum of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree, and the fair value of the
acquirer’s previously held equity interest (if any) in the entity net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and the liabilities
assumed.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Goodwill is not amortized but it is tested for impairment annually, or more frequently if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it might be
impaired and is carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of
goodwill relating to the entity sold. If, after reassessment, the net of the acquisition date amounts of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities
assumed exceeds the sum of the consideration transferred, the amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree and the fair value of the
acquirer’s previously held interest in the acquire (if any), the excess is recognized immediately in profit or loss as a bargain purchase gain.
For impairment testing, goodwill is allocated to each of the Group’s cash-generating units (or groups of cash-generating units) (‘CGU’) that are
expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination. The cash-generated units or groups of units are identified at the lowest level at which
goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes, being the legal entity, which represents a production site of the Group, except for the
Farming segment where the whole segment is determined as one CGU and two grain export terminals which represent a single CGU.
Non-current assets held for sale and Discontinued Operations
In compliance with IFRS 5 Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations, non-current assets and disposal groups are classified
as held for sale if their carrying amounts will be recovered principally through a sale transaction rather than through continuing use.
This condition is regarded as met only when the sale is highly probable within one year, and the asset or disposal group is available for immediate
sale in its present condition. Non-current assets are measured at the lower of the previous carrying amount or the fair value less costs to sell.
Events or circumstances may extend the period to complete the sale beyond one year. An extension of the period required to complete a sale does
not preclude an asset from being classified as held for sale if the delay is caused by events or circumstances beyond the Group’s control, and there
is sufficient evidence that the Group remains committed to its plan to sell the asset. In such circumstances, the asset is measured at its fair value
less costs to sell at each reporting date. Any impairment loss arising subsequent to reclassification as held for sale is recognized in the Consolidated
Statement of Profit or Loss. Non-current assets and liabilities of a disposal group classified as held for sale are presented separately from the other
assets and liabilities in the balance sheet.
Non-current assets are not depreciated or amortized while they are classified as held for sale.
If the criteria for classification of the asset as held for sale are no longer met at the reporting date, the Group ceases to classify the asset as held
for sale.
A discontinued operation is a component of the Group 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 coordinated 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.
The result from discontinued operations is presented in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss as a separate item after the profit from
continuing operations. If the criteria for classification of the disposal group held for sale are met after the reporting date, the disposal group is not
presented as held for sale in those consolidated financial statements when issued. However, when those criteria are met after the reporting date
but before the authorization of the consolidated financial statements for issue, the Group discloses the relevant information in the notes to the
consolidated financial statements.
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 most advantageous market must be accessible to the Group.
The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured using the assumptions market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming
that market participants act in their economic best interest.
A fair value measurement of a non-financial asset takes into account a market participant’s ability to generate economic benefits by using the asset
in its highest and best use or by selling it to another market participant that would use the asset in its highest and best use. The Group uses
valuation techniques that are appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data is available to measure fair value, maximizing the use
of relevant observable inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs.
All assets and liabilities for which fair value is measured or disclosed in the consolidated financial statements are categorized 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 recognized in the consolidated financial statements on a recurring basis, the Group determines whether transfers
have occurred between levels in the hierarchy by reassessing categorization (based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value
measurement as a whole) at the end of each reporting period.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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For the transactions and activities in financial instruments, the Group could conclude enforceable master netting or similar arrangements, each
agreement between the Group and the counterparty allows for net settlement of the relevant financial assets and liabilities when both elect to settle
on a net basis (Note 37). In the absence of such an election, financial assets and liabilities may be settled on a gross basis, however, each party
to the master netting or similar agreement will have the option to settle all such amounts on a net basis in the event of default of the other party.
Per the terms of each agreement, an event of default includes failure by a party to make payment when due, failure by a party to perform any
obligation required by the agreement (other than payment) if such failure is not remedied within periods of 30 to 60 days after notice of such failure
is given to the party or bankruptcy.
Inventories
Inventories are stated at a lower cost or net realizable value. Cost comprises direct materials and, where applicable, direct labor costs and those
overheads that have been incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. Cost is calculated using the first-in, first-out
(FIFO) method. Net realizable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business less the estimated costs of completion and the
estimated costs necessary to make the sale.
Biological Assets and Agricultural Produce
The Group classifies crops in fields and cattle as biological assets.
Biological assets are stated at fair value less estimated costs to sell at both initial recognition and as of the reporting date, with any resulting gain
or loss recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss. Costs of selling include all costs that would be necessary to sell the assets,
including costs necessary to get the assets to market.
Agricultural produce harvested from biological assets is measured at its fair value less costs to sell estimated at the point of harvest. A gain or loss
arising from the initial recognition of agricultural produce at fair value less costs to sell is included in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss.
The Group presents gain/(loss) on revaluation attributable to the agricultural produce sold during the year in the line Net change in fair value of
biological assets and agricultural produce.
Biological assets for which quoted market prices are not available are measured using the present value of expected net cash flows from the sale
of an asset discounted at a current market-determined rate. The objective of a calculation of the present value of expected net cash flows is to
determine the fair value of a biological asset in its present location and condition.
Cost of agricultural preparation of fields before seeding is recorded as work-in-progress in inventories. After seeding, the cost of field preparation
is recognized as biological assets held at fair value less costs to sell.
The Group classifies biological assets as current or non-current depending upon the average useful life of the group of biological assets. All of the
Group’s biological assets except non-current cattle were classified as current, as their average useful life is less than one year.
Property, Plant, and Equipment
Buildings, constructions, production machinery and equipment (Oilseed Processing segment) are accounted for at revalued amounts, being the
fair value, which is determined using external professional expert evaluation. Revaluations are performed with sufficient regularity such that the
carrying amount does not differ materially from that which would be determined using fair values at the reporting date. Any accumulated deprecia-
tion at the date of revaluation is eliminated against the gross carrying amount of the asset, and the net amount is restated to the revalued amount
of the asset.
If the asset’s carrying amount is increased as a result of a revaluation, the increase is credited directly to other comprehensive income and accu-
mulated in the revaluation reserve in equity. However, such an increase is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss to the extent
that it reverses an impairment of the same asset previously recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss. If the asset’s carrying
amount is decreased as a result of a revaluation, the decrease is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss. However, such a
decrease is debited directly to the Other Comprehensive Income or Loss to the extent of any credit balance existing in the revaluation surplus with
respect to that asset.
Depreciation on revalued assets is charged to the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss. On the subsequent sale or retirement of revalued
assets, the revaluation surplus remaining in the revaluation reserve is transferred directly to retained earnings. No transfer is made from the
revaluation reserve to retained earnings except when an asset is derecognized. Property, plant and equipment are depreciated over the estimated
useful economic lives of assets under the straight-line method.
Useful lives of property, plant, and equipment are as follows:
Buildings and constructions
20 - 50 years
Production machinery and equipment
10 - 20 years
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
5 - 30 years
Other fixed assets
5 - 20 years
Construction in progress (CIP) and uninstalled equipment
not depreciated
Except for land, building and constructions and production machinery and equipment of the Oilseed Processing segment, all other property, plant
and equipment is stated at historical cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment losses. Land is carried at cost less accumu-
lated impairment losses and is not depreciated.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Capitalized costs include major expenditures for improvements and replacements that extend the useful lives of assets or increase their revenue-
generating capacity. Repairs and maintenance expenditures that do not meet the foregoing criteria for capitalization are presented in the Consoli-
dated Statement of Profit or Loss as incurred.
Construction in progress consists of costs directly related to the construction of property, plant and equipment including an appropriate allocation
of directly attributable variable overhead incurred during construction. Depreciation of these assets commences when the assets are put into
operation.
An item of property, plant and equipment is derecognized upon disposal or when no future economic benefits are expected to arise from the
continued use of the asset. Any gain or loss arising from the disposal or retirement of an item of property, plant and equipment is determined as
the difference between the sales proceeds and the carrying amount of the asset and is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss.
Leases
The Group assesses whether a contract is, or contains, a lease at the inception of the contract. The Group recognizes right-of-use assets and
corresponding lease liabilities with respect to all lease arrangements in which it is the lessee, except for short-term leases (defined as leases with
a lease term of 12 months or less).
For the short-term leases, the Group recognizes the lease payments as an operating expense on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease
unless another systematic basis is more representative of the time pattern in which economic benefits from the leased assets are consumed.
The lease liability is initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted by using
the incremental borrowing rate. The incremental borrowing rate is determined as reference interest rates which were derived from the yields of
corporate bonds in the currency similar to the lease contracts, for a period of up to 10 years.
Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise:
Fixed lease payments (including in-substance fixed payments), less any lease incentives receivable:
Variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate, initially measured using the index or rate at the commencement date;
The amount expected to be payable by the lessee under residual value guarantees.
The exercise price of purchase options, if the lessee is reasonably certain to exercise the options; and
Payments of penalties for terminating the lease, if the lease term reflects the exercise of an option to terminate the lease.
The lease payments are discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease. If that rate cannot be readily determined, which is generally the
case for leases of the Group, the Group’s incremental borrowing rate is used, being the rate that the Group would have to pay to borrow the
funds necessary to obtain an asset of similar value to the right-of-use asset in a similar economic environment with similar terms, collateral, and
conditions.
To determine the incremental borrowing rate, the Group:
where possible, uses recent third-party financing received by the Group as a starting point, adjusted to reflect changes in financing conditions
since third party financing was received,
uses a build-up approach that starts with a risk-free interest rate adjusted for credit risk, and
adjusts specific to the lease, e.g., term, country, currency, and collateral
The Group remeasures the lease liability (and makes a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use asset) whenever:
The lease term has changed or there is a significant event or change in circumstances resulting in a change in the assessment of exercise of a
purchase option, in which case the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate.
The lease payments change due to changes in an index or rate or a change in expected payment under a guaranteed residual value, in which
cases the lease liability is remeasured by discounting the revised lease payments using an unchanged discount rate (unless the lease payments
change is due to a change in a floating interest rate, in which case a revised discount rate is used).
A lease contract is modified, and the lease modification is not accounted for as a separate lease, in which case the lease liability is remeasured
based on the lease term of the modified lease by discounting the revised lease payments using a revised discount rate at the effective date of
the modification.
The right-of-use assets comprise the initial measurement of the corresponding lease liability, lease payments made at or before the commencement
day, any lease incentives received, and any initial direct costs. Right-of-use assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis from the commencement
date of the lease.
The commencement date is the date on which a lessor makes an underlying asset available for use by a lessee.
The right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are presented as separate lines in the consolidated statement of financial position.
Finance costs, which represent the difference between the total lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability and the initial
amount of the lease liability, are charged to profit or loss over the term of the relevant lease so as to produce a constant periodic rate of charge on
the remaining balance of the obligations for each accounting period.
Intangible Assets
Intangible assets with finite useful lives that are acquired separately are carried at cost less accumulated depreciation and accumulated impairment
losses. Amortization is primarily recognized within “Cost of Sales” on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. The amortization method
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Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
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and estimated useful life are reviewed annually with the effect of any changes in estimate being accounted for on a prospective basis. Intangible
assets with indefinite useful lives that are acquired separately shall not be amortized and are carried at cost less accumulated impairment loss.
Trademarks
The ‘Schedry Dar’, Stozhar’, ‘Zolota’ and ‘Domashnya’ are separately acquired trademarks that have indefinite useful lives and are not amortized
but tested for impairment by comparing their recoverable amount with their carrying amount annually on 30 June and whenever there is an indication
that the trademarks may be impaired.
Crypto Assets
The following inherent characteristics are considered to classify crypto assets as intangible assets:
Assets are identifiable;
Assets have a lack of physical substance;
Group has control over the resource; and
Future economic benefits exist.
The crypto assets are carried initially at a cost comprised of purchase price and transaction costs. The Group considers that the crypto assets do
not have a foreseeable limit to the period over which it is expected to generate net cash inflows for the Group, as a result, no amortization is
required. The Group applies the cost model: crypto assets are measured at cost on initial recognition and are subsequently measured at cost less
impairment losses, if any.
Impairment of tangible and intangible assets, except Goodwill
On each reporting date, the Group reviews the carrying amounts of the Group’s non-current assets to determine whether there is any indication
that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication exists, the recoverable amount of the assets is estimated in order to
determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any). Where it is not possible to estimate the recoverable amount of an individual asset, the Group
estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit to which the asset belongs.
The recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs to sell and value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows
are discounted to their present value using a discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks
specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted.
If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating unit) is estimated to be less than it is carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset
(or cash-generating unit) is reduced to its recoverable amount. The cash generating unit represents the lowest level within the Group at which the
goodwill is monitored by management and which is not larger than a segment. An impairment loss is recognized immediately in the Consolidated
Statement of Profit or Loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation
decrease.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset (or a cash-generating unit) is increased to the revised estimate
of its recoverable amount to the extent that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined
had no impairment loss been recognized for the asset (or cash-generating unit) in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized
immediately in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss, unless the relevant asset is carried at a revalued amount, in which case the reversal
of the impairment loss is treated as a revaluation increase.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents include cash in hand, and deposits held with banks with original maturities of three months or less. Cash and cash
equivalents are carried at amortized cost because: (i) they are held for collection of contractual cash flows and those cash flows represent SPPI,
and (ii) they are not designated at FVTPL. Restricted balances are excluded from cash and cash equivalents for the consolidated statement of
cash flows.
Financial Instruments
Financial assets and financial liability are recognized in the Group’s Consolidated Statement of Financial Position when, and only when, the Group
entity becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.
Financial assets are classified into the following categories financial assets at amortized cost, at fair value through other comprehensive income
(FVTOCI) or at fair value through profit or loss (FVTPL). The classification depends on the business model and contractual cash flow characteristics
of the financial assets or financial liabilities and is determined at the time of initial recognition.
The Group measures derivative instruments and investments made in debt instruments at FVTPL, all other financial instruments are measured at
amortized cost.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value, except for trade receivables and trade payables that do not have a
significant financing component which are measured at transaction price. All recognized financial assets are measured subsequently in their entirety
at either amortized cost or fair value, depending on the classification of the financial assets. All financial liabilities are measured subsequently at
amortized cost using the effective interest method or at FVTPL. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial
assets and financial liabilities (other than financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) are added to or deducted from
the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, as appropriate, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable to the
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
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acquisition of financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Amortized cost and effective interest method
The Group measures financial assets at amortized cost if both of the following conditions are met:
The financial asset is held within a business model with the objective to hold financial assets in order to collect contractual cash flows; and
The contractual terms of the financial asset give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the
principal amount outstanding.
Financial assets at amortized cost are subsequently measured using the effective interest method and are subject to impairment. Gains and losses
are recognized in profit or loss when the asset is derecognized, modified or impaired.
The effective interest method calculates the amortized cost of a debt instrument and allocates interest income over the relevant period. The effective
interest rate is the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts (including all fees and points paid or received that form an integral part
of the effective interest rate, transaction costs and other premiums or discounts) through the expected life of the debt instrument, or, where appro-
priate, a shorter period, to the net carrying amount on initial recognition.
Interest income is recognized on an effective interest basis for debt instruments other than those financial assets classified as at fair value through
profit or loss. The effect of initial recognition of financial assets and liabilities obtained/incurred at terms below the market is recognized net of the
tax effect as an income or expense, except for financial assets and liabilities with shareholders or entities under control of the Beneficial Owner,
whereby the effect is recognized through equity.
Financial assets at FVTPL
Financial assets that do not meet the criteria for being measured at amortized cost or FVTOCI are measured at FVTPL. Specifically:
Investments in equity instruments are classified as at FVTPL, unless the Group designates an equity investment that is neither held for trading
nor a contingent consideration arising from a business combination as at FVTOCI on initial recognition;
Debt instruments that do not meet the amortized cost criteria or the FVTOCI criteria are classified as at FVTPL. In addition, debt instruments
that meet either the amortized cost criteria or the FVTOCI criteria may be designated as at FVTPL upon initial recognition if such designation
eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency (so called ‘accounting mismatch’) that would arise from measuring
assets or liabilities or recognizing the gains and losses on them on different bases. The Group has not designated any debt instruments as at
FVTPL. Financial assets at FVTPL are measured at fair value at the end of each reporting period, with any fair value gains or losses recognized
in profit or loss to the extent they are not part of a designated hedging relationship. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss includes any
dividend or interest earned on the financial asset.
Derecognition of financial assets
The Group derecognizes a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the asset expire, or when it transfers the financial
asset and all the risks and rewards to another entity. If the Group neither transfers nor retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership
and continues to control the transferred asset, the Group recognizes its retained interest in the asset and associated liability for amounts it may
have to pay. If the Group retains substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred financial asset, the Group continues to
recognize the financial asset and also recognizes collateralized borrowing for the proceeds received.
On derecognition of a financial asset other than in its entirety (e.g. when the Group retains an option to repurchase part of a transferred asset or
retains a residual interest that does not result in the retention of substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership and the Group retains control),
the Group allocates the previous carrying amount of the financial asset between the part it continues to recognize under continuing involvement,
and the part it no longer recognizes based on of the relative fair values of those parts on the date of the transfer. The difference between the
carrying amount allocated to the part that is no longer recognized and the sum of the consideration received for the part no longer recognized and
any cumulative gain or loss allocated to it that had been recognized in other comprehensive income is recognized in the Consolidated Statement
of Profit or Loss. A cumulative gain or loss that had been recognized in other comprehensive income is allocated between the part that continues
to be recognized and the part that is no longer recognized based on the relative fair values of those parts.
Impairment of financial assets
The Group recognizes a loss allowance for expected credit losses (ECL) on a financial asset, other than those at FVTPL, at the end of each
reporting period. The amount of ECL and other current assets is updated at each reporting date to reflect changes in credit risk since the initial
recognition of the respective financial instrument.
The Group applies a simplified approach permitted by IFRS Accounting Standards to measuring ECL which uses a lifetime expected loss allowance
for trade receivables. The ECL on trade receivables and other current assets is estimated using a provision matrix, based on historical credit loss
experience and credit rating of customers, adjusted on observable and reasonable information.
Lifetime ECL represents the expected credit losses that will result from all possible default events over the expected life of a financial instrument.
In contrast, 12-month ECL represents the portion of lifetime ECL that is expected to result from default events on a financial instrument that are
possible within 12-months after the reporting date.
The Group writes off a financial asset when there is information indicating that the debtor is in severe financial difficulty and there is no realistic
prospect of recovery, e.g. when the debtor has been placed under liquidation or has entered bankruptcy proceedings, or in the case of trade
accounts receivable, when the amounts are over three years past due, whichever occurs sooner. Financial assets written off may still be subject
to enforcement activities under the Group’s recovery procedures, considering legal advice where appropriate. Any recoveries made are recognized
in profit or loss.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
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Definition of default
The Group considers the following as constituting an event of default for internal credit risk management purposes as historical experience indicates
that financial assets that meet either of the following criteria are generally not recoverable:
when there is a breach of financial covenants by the debtor; or
information developed internally or obtained from external sources indicates that the debtor is unlikely to pay its creditors, including the Group,
in full (without taking into account any collateral held by the Group).
Irrespective of the above analysis, the Group considers that default has occurred when a financial asset is more than 90 days past due unless the
Group has reasonable and supportable information to demonstrate that a more lagging default criterion is more appropriate.
Financial liabilities measured subsequently at amortized cost
Financial liabilities that are not (i) contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination, (ii) heldfortrading, or (iii) designated as at
FVTPL, are measured subsequently at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
Financial liabilities at FVTPL
Financial liabilities are classified as at FVTPL when the financial liability is (i) contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination, (ii)
held for trading or (iii) it is designated as at FVTPL.
A financial liability is classified as held for trading if:
it has been acquired principally for the purpose of repurchasing it in the near term; or
on initial recognition it is part of a portfolio of identified financial instruments that the Group manages together and has a recent actual pattern of
shortterm profittaking; or
it is a derivative, except for a derivative that is a financial guarantee contract or a designated and effective hedging instrument.
A financial liability other than a financial liability held for trading or contingent consideration of an acquirer in a business combination may be
designated as at FVTPL upon initial recognition if:
such designation eliminates or significantly reduces a measurement or recognition inconsistency that would otherwise arise; or
the financial liability forms part of a group of financial assets or financial liabilities or both, which is managed, and its performance is evaluated
on a fair value basis, in accordance with the Group’s documented risk management or investment strategy, and information about the grouping
is provided internally on that basis; or
it forms part of a contract containing one or more embedded derivatives, and IFRS 9 permits the entire combined contract to be designated as
at FVTPL.
Financial liabilities at FVTPL are measured at fair value, with any gains or losses arising on changes in fair value recognized in profit or loss to the
extent that they are not part of a designated hedging relationship. The net gain or loss recognized in profit or loss incorporates any interest paid on
financial liability.
However, for financial liabilities that are designated as at FVTPL, the amount of change in the fair value of the financial liability that is attributable
to changes in the credit risk of that liability is recognized in other comprehensive income, unless the recognition of the effects of changes in the
liability’s credit risk in other comprehensive income would create or enlarge an accounting mismatch in profit or loss. The remaining amount of
change in the fair value of liability is recognized in profit or loss. Changes in fair value attributable to a financial liability’s credit risk that is recognized
in other comprehensive income are not subsequently reclassified to profit or loss; instead, they are transferred to retained earnings upon derecog-
nition of the financial liability.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
The Group derecognizes financial liabilities when, and only when, the Group’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. The difference
between the carrying amount of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable is recognized in profit or loss.
When the Group exchanges with the existing lender one debt instrument into another one with the substantially different terms, such exchange is
accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability. Similarly, the Group accounts for
substantial modification of terms of an existing liability or part of it as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new
liability. It is assumed that the terms are substantially different if the discounted present value of the cash flows under the new terms, including any
fees paid net of any fees received and discounted using the original effective rate is at least 10 per cent different from the discounted present value
of the remaining cash flows of the original financial liability. If the modification is not substantial, the difference between:
1. the carrying amount of the liability before the modification; and
2. the present value of the cash flows after modification should be recognized in the statement profit or loss as the modification gain or loss within
other operating income and expenses.
Derivatives and hedging activities
The Group enters a variety of derivative financial instruments including futures, options, and physical contracts to buy or sell commodities, that do
not meet the own use exemption. Derivatives are initially recognized at fair value on the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subse-
quently remeasured at their fair value at each reporting period. The resulting gain or loss is recognized immediately in the profit or loss within Cost
of sales (for the derivative purchase contracts) or Revenue (for settled forward sales contracts) unless the derivative is designated and effective
hedging instrument, in which case the timing of the recognition in profit or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship. Fair values are
determined using quoted market prices, broker quotations, or using models and other valuation techniques. Derivatives expected to be settled
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Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
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within a year after the end of the reporting period are classified as current liabilities or current assets.
The Group utilizes derivatives to hedge market risk exposures related to commodity price movements in relation to its sales. Those derivatives
qualifying and designated as cash flow hedge of the exposure to variability in cash flows that is attributable to a risk or a highly probable forecast
sale transaction. The gains and losses, the effective portion of changes in the fair value of derivatives are recognized in the cash flow hedging
reserve within equity, limited to the cumulative change in fair value of the hedged item on a present value basis from the inception of the hedge
and recycled to profit or loss as the hedged transaction occurs. Amounts deferred in equity are transferred to the statement of profit or loss and
classified as income or expense in the same periods during which the cash flows, such as hedged highly probable sales, affect the statement of
profit or loss. Derivatives that do not qualify for hedge accounting have a gain or loss recognized in the income statement at the time of the
transaction.
Hedge effectiveness is determined at the inception of the hedge relationship, and through periodic prospective effectiveness assessments to ensure
that an economic relationship exists between the hedged item and hedging instrument. The effective portion of changes in the fair value of deriva-
tives and other qualifying hedging instruments that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges are recognized in other comprehensive income
and accumulated under the heading of cash flow hedging reserve, limited to the cumulative change in fair value of the hedged item from inception
of the hedge. The gain or loss relating to the ineffective portion is recognized immediately in profit or loss and is included in the Revenue line.
When a hedging instrument expires, or is sold or terminated, or when a hedge no longer meets the criteria for hedge accounting, any cumulative
deferred gain or loss and deferred costs of hedging in equity at that time remains in equity until the forecast transaction occurs. When the forecast
transaction is no longer expected to occur, the cumulative gain or loss and deferred costs of hedging that were reported in equity are immediately
reclassified to profit or loss.
Share-based payments
Equity-settled share-based payments with employees are measured by reference to the fair value at the grant date and are recognized as an
expense over the vesting period, which ends on the date the relevant employees become fully entitled to the award.
Fair value is calculated using the Monte Carlo Simulation model. No expense is recognized for awards that do not ultimately vest.
At each reporting date before vesting, the cumulative expense is calculated representing the extent to which the vesting period has expired and
management’s best estimate of the achievement or otherwise of non-market conditions and of the number of equity instruments that will ultimately
vest. The movement in cumulative expense from the previous reporting date is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss, with a
corresponding entry in equity.
For cash-settled share-based payments, a liability is recognized for the goods or services acquired, measured initially at the fair value of the liability.
At each reporting date until the liability is settled, and at the date of settlement, the fair value of the liability is remeasured, with any changes in fair
value recognized in profit or loss for the year.
Treasury shares
Own equity instruments held by the Group (‘Treasury shares') shall be deducted from equity. No gain or loss shall be recognized in profit or loss
on the purchase, sale, issue, or cancellation of the Group’s own equity instruments. These treasury shares may be acquired and held by the entity
or by other members of the Group. Any difference between the carrying amount and the consideration, if reissued, will be recognized in the share
premium reserve.
Provisions
A provision is recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position when the Group has a legal or constructive obligation because of a
past event, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation, and a reliable estimate of the obligation
amount can be made. The amount recognized as a provision is the best estimate of the consideration required to settle the present obligation at
the reporting date, considering the risks and uncertainties surrounding the obligation.
Revenue recognition
Revenue is derived principally from the sale of goods and finished products, farming and rendering services. Revenue from contracts with custom-
ers is recognized when control of the goods or services is transferred to the customer at an amount that reflects the consideration to which the
Group expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.
The point of revenue recognition for sale of commodity goods is dependent upon contract sales terms (Incoterms). When goods are sold on a Cost
and freight (CFR) or Cost, insurance, and freight (CIF) basis, the Group is responsible for providing services such as carriage and freight to the
customer. The Group recognizes revenue from each separate performance obligation and allocates part of the transaction price to carriage and
freight services incorporated in some contracts that the Group undertakes to perform. The Group allocates the transaction price based on the
relative stand-alone selling prices of the commodities and supporting services. The revenue from these carriage and fright services is recognized
over time.
A receivable is recognized by the Group when the control over goods is transferred to the wholesaler as this represents the point of time at which
the right to consideration becomes unconditional, as only the passage of time is required before payment is due. The timing of billing is generally
close to the timing of performance obligation satisfaction, respectively, the amount of contract assets and contract liabilities is not material. When
the Group obtains a contract from a customer, the Group enters into a contract with one of those service providers, directing the service provider
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
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to render freight and other services for the customer. The Group is obliged to pay the service provider even if the customer fails to pay.
Rendering of Services
Revenue is recognized over time for services provided by the Group. The main type of services provided by the Group a crop cleaning, drying and
storage services by the Group’s silos. Revenue from grain cleaning, drying and storage services is recognized on an accrual basis, based on the
fees for the specific service, volumes of crops under service and days of storage.
Employee benefits
Wages, salaries, contributions to the pension and social insurance funds, paid annual leave and sick leave, bonuses, and non-monetary benefits
are accrued in the year in which the associated services are rendered by the employees of the Group. The Group recognizes a liability and an
expense for short-term bonuses and other short-term profit-sharing arrangements when the reporting entity has a present legal or constructive
obligation to make payments as a result of past events and a reliable estimate can be made of the amount payable.
Share-based options
The Group recognizes a compound financial instrument if an entity has granted the counterparty the right to choose whether a share-based payment
transaction is settled in cash or by issuing equity instruments, which includes a debt component (i.e. the counterparty’s right to demand payment
in cash) and an equity component (i.e. the counterparty’s right to demand settlement in equity instruments rather than in cash). The Group measures
the debt component of the compound financial instrument first and then measures the fair value of the equity componentconsidering that the
counterparty must forfeit the right to receive cash in order to receive the equity instrument. The fair value of the compound financial instrument is
determined as the sum of the fair values of the two components.
Borrowing Costs
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take a
substantial period of time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until the assets are substantially ready
for their intended use or sale.
All other borrowing costs are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss in the period in which they are incurred.
Taxation
Income taxes have been provided for in the consolidated financial statements in accordance with legislation currently enacted in the legal jurisdic-
tions where the operating entities are located. Income tax expense represents the sum of the tax currently payable and deferred tax expense.
Current and deferred tax for the year
Current and deferred tax are recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss, except when they relate to items that are recognized in
other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case, the current and deferred tax are also recognized in other comprehensive income
or directly in equity, respectively. Where current tax or deferred tax arises from the initial accounting for a business combination, the tax effect is
included in the accounting for the business combination.
Current tax
The current income tax charge is the amount expected to be paid to, or recovered from, taxation authorities with respect to taxable profit or losses
for the current or previous periods. It is calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the reporting date in the
countries where the Holding and its Subsidiaries operate and generate taxable income. Taxable profit differs from ‘profit before tax’ because of
items of income or expense that are taxable or deductible in other years and items that are never taxable or deductible taxes other than income
tax are recorded within operating expenses. Some of the Group’s companies that are involved in agricultural production are exempt from income
taxes and pay the Unified Agricultural Tax instead.
Deferred tax
Deferred income tax is recognized on temporary differences arising between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the financial statements
and their corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable profit. Deferred tax balances are measured at tax rates enacted or substan-
tively enacted at the end of the reporting period that are expected to apply to the period when the temporary differences will reverse, or the tax loss
carried forward will be utilized. Deferred tax assets for deductible temporary differences and tax losses carried forward are recorded only to the
extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the deductions can be utilized.
The carrying amount of deferred tax assets is reviewed at the end of each reporting period and reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable
that sufficient taxable profits will be available to allow all or part of the assets to be recovered.
Deferred tax liabilities for taxable temporary differences associated with investments in Subsidiaries and joint ventures are recognized, except
when the Group is able to control the reversal of the temporary difference, and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the
foreseeable future. In addition, a deferred tax liability is not recognized if the temporary difference arises from the initial recognition of goodwill.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset when:
The Group has a legally enforceable right to set off the recognized amounts of current tax assets and current tax liabilities;
The Group has the intention to settle on a net basis, or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously;
The deferred tax assets and the deferred tax liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority in each future period in which
significant amounts of deferred tax liabilities and assets are expected to be settled or recovered.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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5. Critical Accounting Judgments and Key Sources of Estimation Uncertainty
The application of IFRS Accounting Standards requires management to make reasonable judgments, assumptions and estimates. These estimates
and assumptions affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the
consolidated financial statements. The estimates are based on the information available as of the reporting date. Actual results could differ from
these estimates.
The estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in
which the estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects both
current and future periods.
Critical Judgments in Applying Accounting Policies
The following are the critical judgments, apart from those involving estimations (see below), that management has made in the process of applying
the Group’s accounting policies and that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements.
Revaluation of Property, Plant and Equipment
The Group recognizes the buildings, constructions, production machinery, and equipment used in the Oilseed Processing segment at the fair value,
and assesses the carrying amount of items of property, plant, and equipment through the revaluation model to determine whether the carrying
amount differs materially from fair value. All other classes of property, plant and equipment are recognized at historical cost less depreciation and
impairment, if any.
The most recent valuation of the Group’s buildings, constructions, production machinery and equipment used in the Oilseed Processing segment
was performed as of 30 June 2022 by an independent appraiser following International Valuation Standards. Some machinery and equipment were
valued using the market approach, which is within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Other items of buildings, constructions, machinery, and
equipment were valued using the depreciated replacement cost approach, which is within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. The results of the
depreciated replacement cost and market approach were then compared with the results of the income approach (Level 3 of unobservable inputs)
for corresponding assets to test whether impairment exists.
As of 30 June 2024, the Group analyzed whether the fair value of categories of property, plant, and equipment accounted for at fair value may
differ from their carrying amounts and involved an external independent appraiser to conclude that the fair value of these fixed assets will not be
significantly different from their book values other than those, for which impairment loss was recognized, as disclosed in Note 15.
Key sources of estimation uncertainty
The following are the key assumptions concerning the future, and other key sources of estimating uncertainty at the end of the reporting period,
that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next financial year.
Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment
The Group performs impairment testing of non-financial assets whenever there is an indicator those assets might be impaired.
When there is an indication of impairment or a potential reversal of impairment concerning the Group’s non-current assets, management conducts
a thorough impairment review.
Management makes significant assumptions about factors which influenced due to the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine caused the following
events which might indicate impairment:
temporary breakouts of the operations;
breaches of supply/purchase contracts;
limitation of a market for product delivery;
limitation of export routes;
decline in profitability and physical damage as a result of the invasion; and
commodity prices, considering future price and trends, where the typical deviation in 5-10 % is common in the industry.
As a result of the adverse events, the Group tested non-current assets for recoverability by comparing the net carrying value of the assets and their
recoverable amount (higher in their value in use or fair value less cost to sell).
The Group performed the impairment test at the CGU level, for all CGUs of all segments, covering property, plant and equipment, intangible assets,
right-of-use assets and goodwill. The recoverable amount of each CGU was determined based on the higher amount of value-in-use and fair value
less costs to sell. In the case of impairment, the Group firstly allocates impairment to goodwill, then proportionally other intangible assets, property,
plant and equipment and rights of use the assets.
In assessing for impairment, assets that do not generate independent cash flows are allocated to the appropriate cash-generating unit.
The Group determines the recoverable amount to be value in use that is based on estimated future cash flows that are discounted to their present
value by applying the appropriate discount rate. Estimated future cash flows require management to make several assumptions that are disclosed
in Note 15. Cash flow forecasts used in the value-in-use approach were based on financial budgets approved by management covering five years
and extrapolated using the estimated growth rates for periods over 5 years.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The discount rate reflects the specific risks relating to the relevant segments and their functional currency and the country in which they operate.
The discount rate and key assumptions used in the discounted cash flow forecasts and their sensitivities are disclosed in Note 15.
For assets or cash-generating units (CGUs) that were previously impaired, if their recoverable amount now exceeds their carrying amount, an
impairment reversal is recognized in the consolidated statement of profit or loss.
Impairment of Right of Use Assets
The Group allocated the right of use assets to a cash generating unit, for impairment test within the respective CGU. The majority of the Group’s
right-of-use assets relate to leasehold land for agricultural purposes, being part of the Farming segment.
Details of the management assumptions used to assess the recoverable amount of cash-generating units in which right of use assets were allocated
are provided in Note 5 under the Impairment of Property, Plant and Equipment section and Note 15.
Impairment Testing of Goodwill and Intangible Assets with Indefinite Useful Lives
The Group assesses CGU for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of assets or CGU may
be impaired. Individual assets are grouped into CGUs to represent the lowest level within the entity at which the goodwill is monitored by manage-
ment.
Determining whether goodwill is impaired requires an estimation of the value in use or fair value less costs to sell of the cash-generating units to
which goodwill has been allocated. Where the carrying amount of a CGU exceeds its recoverable amount, the CGU is considered impaired and is
written down to its recoverable amount. The calculation of value in use requires management to estimate the future cash flows expected to arise
from the cash-generating unit and a suitable discount rate to calculate their present value.
Details of the management assumptions used to assess the recoverable amount of cash-generating units for which goodwill and intangible assets
with indefinite useful lives have been allocated are provided in Note 5 under Impairment of Property, Plant, and Equipment section and Notes 15,
17 and 18.
Functional currencies of different entities of the Group
Different entities within the Group have different functional currencies, based on the underlying economic conditions of their operations. This
determination of what the specific underlying economic conditions require judgment. In making this judgment, the Group evaluates among other
factors, the location of activities, the sources of revenue and risks associated with activities, denomination of currencies of operations of different
entities and degree of independence of subsidiaries’ business model. Specifically, in determination of the functional currencies of Kernel Trade
LLC, the Group based its judgement on the fact that the company operates internationally on the markets mainly influenced by the US Dollar (not
Ukrainian Hryvnia) and its major activities include the sale of goods to foreign customers. Moreover, most of its operations are denominated in US
Dollars and also, the US Dollar is the currency in which its business risks and exposures are managed, and the performance of their business is
measured. In determining the functional currency of the oil-processing plants and transshipment terminals, the Group based its judgement on the
degree of independence of those companies’ business model of Kernel Trade LLC.
Fair Value of Biological Assets and Agricultural Produce
Biological assets are recorded at fair value less costs to sell. The fair value of growing crops is determined using a discounted cash flow model
based on the expected crops’ yield by sowing area size, the market price for respective crops, and after allowing for harvesting costs, contributory
asset charges for the land and sowing areas and other costs yet to be incurred in getting the harvest to maturity.
The Group estimates the fair values of biological assets and agricultural produce based on the following assumptions:
Expected crop yields (for crops in fields);
Average weight and quality of animals;
Productive life of one milk cow;
Estimated future sales prices;
Projected production costs and costs to sell; and
Discount rate.
Although some of these assumptions are obtained from published market data, a majority of these assumptions are estimated based on the Group’s
historical and projected results (Note 13).
Fair value measurements
Derivative instruments are reported at their fair value, and the Group assesses the reliability and quality of the assumptions and data used for fair
value measurement following the three hierarchy levels as outlined in IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement. Fair values are determined through the
following methods: firstly, they are externally verified by comparing them to quoted market prices in active markets (Level 1); secondly, they are
calculated using models that rely on externally verifiable inputs (Level 2); or thirdly, they are established using alternative procedures, such as
comparing them to similar instruments and/or utilizing models that involve unobservable market inputs, which necessitate the Group to make
assumptions based on market conditions (Level 3). It's worth noting that Level 3 inputs involve the highest degree of estimation uncertainty. Further
details regarding the management's estimates can be found in Note 36 of these consolidated financial statements.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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6. Operating Segments
Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting as provided to the chief operating decision-makers to allocate
resources to the segment and to assess its performance. The executive management who are members of the Board of Directors of the Company
are identified as chief operating decision makers.
Segments in the consolidated financial statements are defined in accordance with the type of activity, products sold, or services provided. Seg-
mentation presented in these consolidated financial statements is consistent with the structure of financial information regularly reviewed by the
Group’s executive management, including the Chief Executive Officer. The operating segments’ performance is assessed based on a measure of
EBITDA.
The Group is presenting its segment results within three operating segments: Oilseed Processing, Infrastructure and Trading, and Farming.
In the Oilseed Processing segment, the Group combines oilseed origination, edible oil production and sales of bottled sunflower oil. Sunflower oil
in bulk is mostly sold further to the Infrastructure and Trading segment for global marketing.
In the Infrastructure and Trading segment, the Group combines results of grain trading, silo services and export terminals operations. These parts
of the business form an integrated supply chain which is managed jointly. Under the current framework, the management considers export terminals
and grain storage facilities as production assets which serve grain merchandizing business and consequently uses a combined throughput margin
to evaluate performance of Infrastructure and Trading business. The results of the Infrastructure and Trading segment incorporate savings achieved
by acquiring and employing the Group’s own railcar park. Also, the Infrastructure and Trading segment includes the results of the Avere Commod-
ities S.A. and its subsidiaries (hereinafter, Avere).
In the Farming segment, the Group reports result of its crop production business, which includes growing corn, wheat, soybean, sunflower seed,
and rapeseed on the leasehold land, as well as some minor crops and small cattle farming operations.
Presentation of the operating segments’ activities is as follows:
Operating segments
Activities
Oilseed Processing
Sunflower seed origination and sunflower oil production. Sales of bottled and bulk sunflower oil, Sales of sunflower
meal and Sales of electricity produced from sunflower husk.
Infrastructure and Trading
Sourcing and merchandising of wholesale edible oils, grain, provision of silo services, operating the fleet of logistics
assets for inland transportation and vessels, grain and sunflower oil handling and transshipment services.
Farming
Agricultural farming. Production of corn, wheat, soybean, sunflower seed, and rapeseed.
Income and expenses unallocated to any segment, which are related to the administration of the Group, were included in the ‘Other’ column.
The measures of profit and loss, and assets and liabilities are based on the Group accounting policies, which comply with IFRS Accounting Stand-
ards, as adopted by the European Union.
Reconciliation eliminates intersegment items. The segment data is calculated as follows:
Intersegment sales reflect intergroup transactions effected on an arm’s length basis.
Capital expenditures, amortization and depreciation related to property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets are allocated to segments
when possible.
The ‘Other’ column reflects income and expenses not allocated to segments.
Since the financial management of the Group’s companies is carried out centrally, borrowings, bonds, deferred taxes, and some other assets and
liabilities are not allocated directly to the respective operating segments and are presented in the ‘Other’ column. Consequently, the assets and
liabilities shown for individual segments do not include borrowings, bonds, deferred taxes, and some other assets and liabilities.
Seasonality of operations
The Oilseed Processing segment normally has seasonally lower sales in the first quarter of the financial year, which corresponds to the end of the
crushing season and lower production levels. The operations of the Farming segment reflect seasonality in the context of seeding and harvesting
campaigns, which are conducted mainly in November-May and June-November, respectively. The Infrastructure and Trading segment usually
experiences somewhat higher volumes in the several months after the commencement of the harvesting campaign (July for early grains and
September for crops harvested in autumn). In addition, the farming segment usually reflects a higher effect from the IAS 41 valuation of biological
assets in the last quarter of the financial year when more acreage is revalued to fair value less costs to sell and a higher effect from the IAS 41
valuation of agricultural produce in the first half of the financial year due to the completion of the harvesting campaign.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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7. Key Data by Operating Segment
Key data by operating segment for the year ended 30 June 2024:
Key data by operating segment for the year ended 30 June 2023:
Oilseed
Processing
Infrastruc-
ture and
Trading
Farming
Other
Reconcilia-
tion
Total
Revenue (external)
1,675,616
1,836,730
69,116
3,581,462
Intersegment sales
188,182
174,408
412,243
(774,833)
Total revenue
1,863,798
2,011,138
481,359
(774,833)
3,581,462
Net change in fair value of biological assets and agricul-
tural produce
(10,447)
(10,447)
Cost of sales
(1,652,609)
(1,678,238)
(332,945)
774,833
(2,888,959)
Other operating income
50,461
11,227
6,090
3,293
71,071
Other operating expenses
(19,038)
(2,024)
(83)
(1,738)
(22,883)
General, administrative and selling expenses
(18,154)
(99,078)
(20,370)
(75,771)
(213,373)
Net impairment losses on financial assets
(2,492)
(6,770)
(1,955)
(11,217)
(Loss)/reversal of impairment losses on assets
(172,324)
(60,719)
8,362
(4,545)
(229,226)
Profit/(loss) from operating activities
49,642
175,536
131,966
(80,716)
276,428
Amortization and depreciation
33,734
28,255
38,836
3,898
104,723
EBITDA
83,376
203,791
170,802
(76,818)
381,151
Reconciliation:
Finance costs
(119,079)
Finance income
49,819
Foreign exchange gain, net
32,972
Other expenses, net
(29,088)
Income tax expense
(43,424)
Profit for the period
167,628
Total assets
1,324,217
1,297,675
685,423
89,596
3,396,911
Capital expenditures
45,349
88,095
24,811
2,881
161,136
Liabilities
86,828
200,274
193,454
1,050,061
1,530,617
Oilseed
Processing
Infrastruc-
ture and
Trading
Farming
Other
Reconcilia-
tion
Total
Revenue (external)
966,517
2,445,638
42,966
3,455,121
Intersegment sales
941,164
156,209
652,189
(1,749,562)
Total revenue
1,907,681
2,601,847
695,155
(1,749,562)
3,455,121
Net change in fair value of biological assets and agricul-
tural produce
(114,705)
(114,705)
Cost of sales
(1,674,132)
(2,412,481)
(366,963)
1,749,562
(2,704,014)
Other operating income
19,801
17,211
12,326
4,209
53,547
Other operating expenses
(23,481)
(28)
(11,358)
(34,867)
General, administrative and selling expenses
(11,656)
(70,226)
(25,234)
(97,903)
(205,019)
Net reversal of impairment losses/(impairment) on finan-
cial assets
557
941
(465)
3,097
4,130
Reversal of impairment losses/(loss) on assets
21,923
(8,143)
(26,027)
(2,486)
(14,733)
Profit/(loss) from operating activities
240,693
129,149
174,059
(104,441)
439,460
Amortization and depreciation
29,651
24,608
47,068
3,459
104,786
EBITDA
270,344
153,757
221,127
(100,982)
544,246
Reconciliation:
Finance costs
(153,249)
Finance income
30,792
Foreign exchange gain, net
62,650
Other expenses, net
(11,829)
Income tax expense
(69,050)
Profit for the period
298,774
Total assets
1,859,659
1,207,011
585,219
233,280
3,885,169
Capital expenditures
45,523
52,100
4,436
1,566
103,625
Liabilities
113,473
188,527
239,979
1,599,195
2,141,174
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Revenue from sales of goods and services allocated by the operating segment for the year ended 30 June under requirements of IFRS 15 was as
follows:
For the year ended 30 June 2024
For the year ended 30 June 2023
Oilseed
Processing
frastructure and
Trading
Farming
Total
Oilseed
Processing
Infrastructure
and Trading
Farming
Total
Revenue from sales of com-
modities
1,466,990
1,639,867
69,116
3,175,973
813,095
2,282,563
42,966
3,138,624
Freight and other services
208,626
196,863
405,489
153,422
163,075
316,497
Total external revenue from
contracts with customers
1,675,616
1,836,730
69,116
3,581,462
966,517
2,445,638
42,966
3,455,121
During the year ended 30 June 2024, revenues of approximately USD 206,668 thousand (2023: USD 228,327 thousand) were derived from a
single external customer. These revenues are attributed to Oilseeds processing and Infrastructure and Trading segments. Also, during that period,
export sales amounted to 93.5% of total external sales (2023: 91.9%).
During the year ended 30 June 2024, revenue from the Group’s top five customers accounted for approximately 24.3% of total revenue (for the
year ended 30 June 2023: 22.1%).
The Group’s revenue from external customers (based on the country of incorporation of the sales counterparty) and information about its segment
assets (noncurrent assets excluding non-current financial assets and deferred tax assets) by geographical location are detailed below:
Revenue from external customers
Non-current assets
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Asia
1,828,406
1,731,439
Ukraine
1,166,255
1,366,659
of which India
669,655
586,894
Other locations
16,368
29,531
Hong Kong
422,405
270,103
China
270,837
275,451
Singapore
249,884
262,818
Europe
1,641,656
1,512,780
of which Switzerland
517,401
418,794
Netherland
239,699
203,975
Ukraine
228,796
292,560
Spain
222,434
56,247
Other locations
111,400
210,902
Total
3,581,462
3,455,121
Total
1,182,623
1,396,190
None of the other locations represented more than 5% of total revenue or non-current assets individually.
8. Acquisition and Disposal of Subsidiaries
In September 2023, the Group divested one of its grain elevators located in the Kharkiv region. The net assets of the disposed entity as of the
disposal date were valued at USD 178 thousand and the cash consideration received was USD 1,067 thousand (of which USD 711 thousand was
received during this reporting period). The gain on disposal was USD 889 thousand.
On 22 December 2023, the Group completed the acquisition of 100% of the shares in an oil terminal, which constituted a business acquisition.
This acquisition significantly enhanced the Group’s sunflower oil export capacity via the Danube River. As of the acquisition date, the acquired net
assets were valued at USD 25,125 thousand. These assets included property, plant, and equipment worth USD 1,449 thousand, and intangible
assets valued at USD 23,692 thousand, according to a valuation provided by an independent appraiser. The total consideration amounted to USD
24,750 thousand and was fully settled during the financial year.
In June 2024, the Group divested two-grain storage facilities located in the Poltava region. The net assets of the disposed entities as of the date of
disposal were equal to USD 182 thousand and the cash consideration received was USD 1,741 thousand (fully settled). The gain on disposal was
USD 1,559 thousand.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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9. Cash and Cash Equivalents
The balances of cash and cash equivalents were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Cash in banks in USD
634,531
906,676
Cash in banks in UAH
150,527
39,560
Cash in banks in other currencies
24,522
7,863
Cash on hand
4
4
Total
809,584
954,103
Less bank overdrafts (Note 22)
(5)
(10)
Cash for the purposes of cash flow statement
809,579
954,093
In accordance with the international rating agency of Fitch, credit ratings of the banks with which the Group had the accounts opened as of
30 June were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
International bank with F1+ rating
182,512
175,465
International bank with F1 rating
227,899
306,435
International bank with F2 rating
10,026
8,617
Banks with lower medium grade
193,172
160,047
Banks without international ratings
195,975
303,539
Total
809,584
954,103
As of 30 June 2024, the majority of balances held in banks without international ratings were bank accounts maintained in Ukrainian subsidiaries
of international banks, totaling USD 195,974 thousand (as of June 30, 2023: USD 299,414 thousand), where international banks were primarily
rated F2 or above by Fitch or similar rating agencies.
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, the identified expected credit loss on cash and cash equivalents was immaterial.
The reconciliation in the table below presents changes in the Group’s liabilities arising from financing activities by incorporating cash flows and
non-cash changes over the reporting period.
Bank borrowings
(Note 22)
Lease liabilities
(Note 23)
Bonds Issued
(Note 24)
Total
As of 30 June 2022
1,093,087
239,552
602,650
1,935,289
Repayments net of proceeds
(269,391)
(48,579)
(39,750)
(357,720)
Non-cash movements
Additions and change of terms of lease liabilities
38,904
38,904
Disposals of lease liabilities
(9,386)
(9,386)
Non-cash settlement of lease liabilities
(2,366)
(2,366)
Amortization of one-off and transaction costs
1,173
1,173
Interest expense accrued (Note 31)
75,605
27,294
39,750
142,649
Interest expense capitalized (Note 15)
5,504
5,504
Foreign exchange movements
(29,443)
(2,189)
(31,632)
Other changes
(5,429)
(5,429)
Translation difference
(45,335)
(45,335)
As of 30 June 2023
869,933
197,895
603,823
1,671,651
Repayments net of proceeds
(597,031)
(43,804)
(39,750)
(680,585)
Non-cash movements
Additions and change of terms of lease liabilities
17,333
17,333
Disposals of lease liabilities
(7,270)
(7,270)
Non-cash settlement of lease liabilities
(1,888)
(1,888)
Amortization of one-off and transaction cost
1,369
1,369
Interest expense accrued (Note 31)
45,667
25,243
39,750
110,660
Interest expense capitalized (Note 15)
4,245
4,245
Foreign exchange movements
1,007
(642)
365
Other changes
(8,655)
(8,655)
Translation difference
(17,127)
(17,127)
As of 30 June 2024
315,166
169,740
605,192
1,090,098
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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10. Trade Accounts Receivable
The balances of trade accounts receivable were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Trade accounts receivable
321,742
335,493
Allowance for expected credit losses
(16,496)
(13,914)
Total
305,246
321,579
The average credit period on sales of goods is 33 days (2023: 26 days). The carrying value of trade receivables approximates the fair value.
As of 30 June 2024, a receivable balance of USD 285,734 thousand was due from international customers and the remaining USD 19,512 thousand
was receivable from Ukrainian buyers (30 June 2023: USD 271,465 thousand and USD 50,114 thousand accordingly).
The changes in expected credit loss provisions are recognized in the line Net reversal/(impairment) losses on financial assets. For the year ended
30 June 2024, an increase in loss allowance was USD 5,706 thousand (for the period ended 30 June 2023: decrease of USD 5,264 thousand).
Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the same line item.
On this basis, the loss allowance as of 30 June was determined for trade accounts receivables as follows:
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Current
Less than
90 days
past due
More than
90 days
past due
Total
Current
Less than 90
days past
due
More than
90 days past
due
Total
Expected loss rate
1
0.3%
0.3%
99%
0.1%
1.1%
94.6%
Gross carrying amount
262,717
43,215
15,810
321,742
288,747
32,625
14,121
335,493
Loss allowance
(708)
(141)
(15,647)
(16,496)
(185)
(374)
(13,355)
(13,914)
Total
262,009
43,074
163
305,246
288,562
32,251
766
321,579
The movement in allowance for credit loss relating to trade accounts receivables as of 30 June is presented below:
Trade accounts receivables
Lifetime ECL
Individually as-
sessed
Total
Loss allowance as of 30 June 2022
13,713
5,968
19,681
Decrease in loss allowance recognized in profit or loss during the year
(3,854)
(1,410)
(5,264)
Trade receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
(503)
(503)
Loss allowance as of 30 June 2023
9,859
4,055
13,914
Increase in loss allowance recognized in profit or loss during the year
3,442
2,264
5,706
Trade receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
(388)
(388)
Unused amount reversed
(2,736)
(2,736)
Loss allowance as of 30 June 2024
12,913
3,583
16,496
Trade receivables are written off when it is unlikely that they will be recovered, based on indicators such as a debtor's failure to make payments or
other evidence demonstrating an inability to settle the outstanding amount.
11. Taxes Recoverable and Prepaid
The balances of taxes recoverable and prepaid were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Value-added tax recoverable and prepaid
113,900
161,967
Other taxes recoverable and prepaid
227
313
Total
114,127
162,280
Value-added tax recoverable and prepaid mainly represents value-added tax (‘VAT’) credits in relation to purchases of agricultural products on the
domestic market in Ukraine. Management expects that these balances will be recovered in full within 12 months after the reporting date through
cash collection or set-off with respective VAT liabilities. For the year ended 30 June 2024, the amount of VAT refunded by the government in cash
was USD 272,150 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 124,152 thousand).
1
Differences in expected loss rate are possible due to rounding
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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12. Inventory
The balances of inventories were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Raw materials
96,452
46,496
Goods for resale
72,699
76,249
Finished products
71,209
105,323
Products of agriculture
15,377
87,502
Fuel
8,331
10,338
Work in progress
2,179
4,372
Packaging materials
1,509
1,617
Other inventories
9,904
9,646
Total
277,660
341,543
As of 30 June 2024, no inventories were pledged as security for short-term borrowings (Note 22) (30 June 2023: USD 191,186 thousand).
As of 30 June 2024, write-downs of inventories to the net realizable value amounted to USD 2,783 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 65,690 thousand)
recognized within the Cost of Sales.
The Group reversed an inventory impairment of USD 4,136 thousand (2023: USD 29,528 thousand), as the Group managed to sell them after
restoration. Inventories recognized as an expense during the year ended 30 June 2024 amounted to USD 2,791 thousand (2023: USD 5,760
thousand) which were damaged as the result of the war and are recognized in the line Loss on impairment of assets (Note 30).
13. Biological Assets
The balances of biological assets were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Non-current assets
Non-current cattle
6,521
5,924
Total
6,521
5,924
Current assets
Crops in fields
186,051
146,239
Current cattle
1,661
1,656
Total
187,712
147,895
For the year ended 30 June 2024, the Group incurred a net loss of USD 10,447 thousand due to the revaluation of the biological assets and
agricultural produce to the fair value (2023: loss of USD 114,705 thousand). For the year ended 30 June 2024, the Group incurred a revaluation
loss of USD 51,838 thousand on agricultural products at the point of harvest (2023: loss of USD 86,769 thousand) and a revaluation gain of USD
41,872 thousand on crop-bearing fields (2023: loss of USD 26,763 thousand) and a revaluation loss of USD 481 thousand on livestock. The
changes in the fair value of biological assets were primarily driven by fluctuation in market prices at the time of valuation, along with reduced
expected yields due to unfavorable weather conditions.
The balances of crops in fields were as follows:
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Hectares
Value
Hectares
Value
Wheat
93,112
62,009
61,009
35,471
Sunflower seed
66,946
45,031
119,589
38,144
Corn
86,486
42,020
83,685
34,588
Soybean
72,286
28,466
64,996
33,970
Rapeseed
13,720
8,332
10,151
3,980
Other
1,777
193
1,880
86
Total
334,327
186,051
341,310
146,239
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The following table represents the changes in the carrying amounts of crops in fields during the years ended 30 June 2024 and 2023:
Capitalized
expenditures
Effect of
biological
transformation
Fair value of
biological
assets
As of 30 June 2022
156,268
3,890
160,158
Expenditures capitalized in biological assets (harvest 2022)
89,784
89,784
Decrease due to harvest (harvest 2022)
(246,052)
(3,890)
(249,942)
Expenditures capitalized in biological assets (harvest 2023)
174,609
174,609
Loss arising from changes in fair value of biological assets (sowing under harvest 2023)
(26,763)
(26,763)
Translation difference
(1,900)
293
(1,607)
As of 30 June 2023
172,709
(26,470)
146,239
Expenditures capitalized in biological assets (harvest 2023)
100,871
100,871
Decrease due to harvest (harvest 2023)
(273,580)
26,470
(247,110)
Expenditures capitalized in biological assets (harvest 2024)
155,027
155,027
Gain arising from changes in fair value of biological assets (sowing under harvest 2024)
44,916
44,916
Translation difference
(10,848)
(3,044)
(13,892)
As of 30 June 2024
144,179
41,872
186,051
The fair value of agricultural produce at the date of harvest was estimated based on the prices obtained from the active markets and has been
classified within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Crops in fields and non-current cattle of the Group are measured using the discounted cash flow
technique, prices are quoted for the relevant region, and other metrics relevant to the groups of assets. These biological assets are included within
level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Current cattle are measured based on market prices of livestock of similar age, breed, and genetic merit, which
is within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. The change in the balances of livestock is represented by an increase in heads of milk cows within
regular transfer from young calves to mature herd and the variation in prices and exchange rates between reporting dates.
In the table below biological assets are classified into the levels prescribed under the accounting standards:
(Levels in thousands of USD)
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Measure
Quantity
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Quantity
Level 2
Level 3
Total
Livestock
Mature Milk cows
Heads
4,772
6,521
6,521
5,052
5,922
5,922
Immature Milk cows
Heads
2,186
988
988
2,480
998
998
Immature Calves
Heads
2,062
654
654
2,469
623
623
Other
Heads/Hives
318
19
19
1,106
37
37
Crops in fields
Hectares
334,327
186,051
186,051
341,310
146,239
146,239
Total
1,661
192,572
194,233
1,658
152,161
153,819
There have been no changes in the valuation technique and transfers between levels during the year.
This table summarizes the quantitative information about the significant unobservable inputs used in the fair value measurements of the crops in
field and milk cows.
Fair value
Range of unobservable inputs (average)
Descrip-
tion
Valuation
techniques
As of
30 June
2024
As of
30 June
2023
Unobservable
Inputs
As of
30 June
2024
As of
30 June
2023
Relationship of
unobservable inputs to
fair value
Crops in
field
Discounted
cash flows
186,051
146,239
Crop yields
2.00 7.34 (4.68)
tons per hectare
2.34 8.82 (4.78)
tons per hectare
The higher the crop yield, the
higher the fair value
Grain sales
prices net of
transportation
costs
153 411 (306) USD
per ton
144 446 (273) USD
per ton
The higher the market price,
the higher the fair value
Discount rate
25.00% (in UAH)
24.40% (in UAH)
The higher the discount rate,
the lower the fair value
Milk cows
Discounted
cash flows
6,521
5,922
Milk yield liter
per cow
18.42 22.18 (20.94)
liters per cow per day
19.22 22.21 (21.22)
liters per cow per day
The higher the milk yield, the
higher the fair value
Weight of 1 calf
29 32 (31) kg
29 32 (31) kg
The higher the weight, the
higher the fair value
Average yield of
calves from 100
cows per year
26 64 (56) calves
55 64 (59) calves
The higher the yield, the higher
the fair value
Discount rate, %
25.00% (in UAH)
24.40% (in UAH)
The higher the discount rate,
the lower the fair value
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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If the above-mentioned inputs of the valuation model were 5 percent higher/lower while all other variables were held constant, as of 30 June 2024,
the carrying amount of the current and non-current biological assets would increase/decrease by USD 20,524 thousand and USD 39,721 thousand,
respectively (30 June 2023: by USD 31,014 thousand and USD 29,653 thousand, respectively).
14. Other Financial Assets
The balances of other financial assets were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Government bonds
185,310
16,058
Margin account with brokers (Note 37)
82,215
65,993
Derivative financial instruments (Note 37)
25,288
13,842
Loans granted
22,306
41,092
Short-term bank deposits
12,747
7,127
Pledge deposits
1,303
122,703
Receivable from the disposal of subsidiaries (Note 8, 34)
90,000
Other financial assets
10,760
19,248
Total
339,929
376,063
As of 30 June 2024, no other financial assets were pledged as security for short-term borrowings (30 June 2023: USD 130,702 thousand) (Note
22).
The Group's exposure to credit risks associated with other financial assets is disclosed in Note 36.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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15. Property, Plant and Equipment
The following table represents movements in property, plant and equipment for the year ended 30 June 2024:
Oilseed
Processing
Infrastructure
and Trading
Farming
Other
Total
Net Book Value as of 30 June 2023
616,627
340,999
41,559
21,226
1,020,411
Land
266
1,035
30
1,048
2,379
Buildings and Constructions
272,068
139,352
12,767
16,947
441,134
Production machinery and equipment
132,714
77,337
1,348
964
212,363
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
6,541
104,034
25,843
1,276
137,694
Other fixed assets
1,906
1,557
675
988
5,126
CIP and uninstalled equipment
203,132
17,684
896
3
221,715
Additions in CIP and uninstalled equipment
44,973
87,804
24,218
1,654
158,649
Reclassification
(93)
87
8
(2)
Land
1
(13)
(12)
Buildings and Constructions
611
13
31
655
Production machinery and equipment
(657)
77
(4)
(584)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(1)
(2)
(41)
(44)
Other fixed assets
(2)
(2)
(6)
2
(8)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(44)
37
(7)
Additions from acquisition of subsidiaries
1,449
1,449
Buildings and Constructions
1,367
1,367
Production machinery and equipment
13
13
Other fixed assets
7
7
CIP and uninstalled equipment
62
62
Transfers
Land
2,809
14
2,823
Buildings and Constructions
78,699
40,396
904
66
120,065
Production machinery and equipment
132,856
5,656
106
1
138,619
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
3,430
28,792
21,350
469
54,041
Other fixed assets
2,087
727
1,843
374
5,031
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(217,072)
(78,380)
(24,217)
(910)
(320,579)
Disposals (at NBV)
(1,091)
(8,456)
(423)
(735)
(10,705)
Land
(94)
(4)
(98)
Buildings and Constructions
(126)
(114)
(139)
(379)
Production machinery and equipment
(43)
(158)
(19)
(3)
(223)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(25)
(7,980)
(230)
(8,235)
Other fixed assets
(158)
(28)
(5)
(191)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(645)
(204)
(3)
(727)
(1,579)
Disposal of Subsidiaries (at NBV)
(280)
(280)
Buildings and Constructions
(215)
(215)
Production machinery and equipment
(63)
(63)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(1)
(1)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(1)
(1)
Depreciation expense
(33,047)
(27,027)
(12,173)
(1,731)
(73,978)
Buildings and Constructions
(13,639)
(6,081)
(1,258)
(587)
(21,565)
Production machinery and equipment
(17,028)
(6,817)
(291)
(435)
(24,571)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(1,508)
(13,418)
(10,125)
(468)
(25,519)
Other fixed assets
(872)
(711)
(499)
(241)
(2,323)
Impairment and reversal of property, plant and equipment
(121,075)
(17,647)
746
(137,976)
Land
(252)
(252)
Buildings and Constructions
(48,112)
(9,480)
(57,592)
Production machinery and equipment
(62,746)
(7,369)
(70,115)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(84)
(84)
Other fixed assets
746
746
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(10,217)
(462)
(10,679)
Translation difference
(683)
(8,049)
(4,656)
(78)
(13,466)
Land
(97)
(4)
(101)
Buildings and Constructions
(1)
(5,714)
(1,226)
(21)
(6,962)
Production machinery and equipment
(1,609)
(112)
(1,721)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(624)
(86)
(3,040)
(5)
(3,755)
Other fixed assets
(6)
(67)
(107)
(47)
(227)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(52)
(476)
(167)
(5)
(700)
Net Book Value as of 30 June 2024
505,611
368,880
49,279
20,334
944,104
Land
172
3,497
23
1,048
4,740
Buildings and Constructions
289,500
159,524
11,079
16,405
476,508
Production machinery and equipment
185,096
67,067
1,032
523
253,718
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
7,813
111,255
33,757
1,272
154,097
Other fixed assets
2,955
1,511
2,624
1,071
8,161
CIP and uninstalled equipment
20,075
26,026
764
15
46,880
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The following table represents movements in property, plant and equipment for the year ended 30 June 2023:
Oilseed
Processing
Infrastructure
and Trading
Farming
Other
Total
Net Book Value as of 30 June 2022
603,677
327,502
63,665
23,229
1,018,073
Land
266
502
45
1,048
1,861
Buildings and Constructions
281,955
152,231
15,187
17,540
466,913
Production machinery and equipment
141,285
83,424
1,378
1,588
227,675
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
4,745
70,774
44,222
1,702
121,443
Other fixed assets
2,125
1,596
647
4,368
CIP and uninstalled equipment
173,301
18,975
2,833
704
195,813
Additions in CIP and uninstalled equipment
44,946
51,796
3,819
591
101,152
Reclassification
24
(310)
656
(370)
Buildings and Constructions
375
(315)
370
430
Production machinery and equipment
(104)
(373)
270
(40)
(247)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(10)
10
(30)
(1)
(31)
Other fixed assets
(17)
6
46
66
101
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(220)
362
(395)
(253)
Additions from acquisition of subsidiaries
8,507
8,507
Land
632
632
Buildings and Constructions
6,387
6,387
Production machinery and equipment
915
915
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
29
29
Other fixed assets
28
28
CIP and uninstalled equipment
516
516
Transfers
Land
2
2
Buildings and Constructions
2,263
3,026
1,823
39
7,151
Production machinery and equipment
6,077
4,684
308
33
11,102
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
3,999
44,439
1,795
100
50,333
Other fixed assets
525
815
995
446
2,781
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(12,864)
(52,966)
(4,921)
(618)
(71,369)
Disposals (at NBV)
(1,042)
(348)
(416)
(17)
(1,823)
Land
(5)
(5)
Buildings and Constructions
(275)
(275)
Production machinery and equipment
(69)
(34)
(3)
(3)
(109)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(30)
(45)
(58)
(11)
(144)
Other fixed assets
(6)
(8)
(43)
(3)
(60)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(937)
(261)
(32)
(1,230)
Disposal of Subsidiaries (at NBV)
(276)
(276)
Buildings and Constructions
(173)
(173)
Production machinery and equipment
(80)
(80)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(15)
(15)
Other fixed assets
(8)
(8)
Transfers from Right-of-Use Assets
703
703
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
703
703
Transfers to Assets classified as held for sale (at NBV)
(1,052)
(1,052)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(1,052)
(1,052)
Depreciation expense
(29,056)
(23,708)
(14,194)
(1,851)
(68,809)
Buildings and Constructions
(12,525)
(6,254)
(1,297)
(583)
(20,659)
Production machinery and equipment
(14,475)
(7,288)
(329)
(614)
(22,706)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(1,347)
(9,497)
(12,256)
(486)
(23,586)
Other fixed assets
(709)
(669)
(312)
(168)
(1,858)
Impairment of assets
(1,439)
(1,439)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(1,439)
(1,439)
Translation difference
(870)
(20,725)
(12,674)
(356)
(34,625)
Land
(101)
(10)
(111)
Buildings and Constructions
(15,550)
(3,041)
(49)
(18,640)
Production machinery and equipment
(3,912)
(276)
(4,188)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
(816)
(222)
(8,533)
(28)
(9,599)
Other fixed assets
(12)
(202)
(11)
(225)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
(42)
(738)
(803)
(279)
(1,862)
Net Book Value as of 30 June 2023
616,627
340,999
41,559
21,226
1,020,411
Land
266
1,035
30
1,048
2,379
Buildings and Constructions
272,068
139,352
12,767
16,947
441,134
Production machinery and equipment
132,714
77,337
1,348
964
212,363
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
6,541
104,034
25,843
1,276
137,694
Other fixed assets
1,906
1,557
675
988
5,126
CIP and uninstalled equipment
203,132
17,684
896
3
221,715
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
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The total cost of property, plant and equipment and total accumulated depreciation as of 30 June 2024 and 2023 were as follows:
Cost as of
30 June 2024
Accumulated
depreciation and
impairment losses
as of 30 June 2024
Cost as of
30 June 2023
Accumulated
depreciation as of
30 June 2023
Land
4,991
(251)
2,379
Buildings and constructions
605,857
(129,349)
500,724
(59,590)
Production machinery and equipment
395,871
(142,153)
283,782
(71,419)
Agricultural equipment and vehicles
312,571
(158,474)
289,229
(151,535)
Other fixed assets
26,457
(18,296)
23,161
(18,035)
CIP and uninstalled equipment
46,880
221,715
Total
1,392,627
(448,523)
1,320,990
(300,579)
Had the Group’s buildings and constructions and production machinery and equipment (Oilseed Processing segment) been measured on a histor-
ical cost basis, their carrying amount would have been as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Buildings and constructions
233,892
210,976
Production machinery and equipment
173,948
122,655
Total
407,840
333,631
In 2024, the Group completed the construction of Ukraine's largest oilseed processing plant (Starokostiantynivskyi OEZ LLC) and transferred it
from CIP and uninstalled equipment to the respective classes of property, plant, and equipment. Transfers from CIP also included port infrastructure
assets and vessels.
During the financial year 2024, due to damage caused by shelling from the Russian missiles, there was a write-off of port infrastructure assets in
the amount of USD 9,795 thousand and elevator blocks due to shelling and emergencies in the amount of USD 1,367 thousand.
For the year ended 30 June 2024, interest was capitalized in the amount of USD 4,245 thousand (2023: USD 5,504 thousand) (Note 9). For the
year ended 30 June 2024, there were no borrowing costs eligible for capitalization apart from project-specific borrowings.
As of 30 June 2024, prepayments for property, plant and equipment were in the amount of USD 9,467 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 21,268
thousand).
As of 30 June 2024, property, plant and equipment with a carrying amount of USD 437,930 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 406,731 thousand) were
pledged by the Group as collateral against short-term and long-term bank borrowings (Note 22).
In 2023, the evaluation of value in use was based on probability-weighted discounted cash flow scenarios, which better reflected the recoverable
amount of the asset or cash-generating unit, considering the increased risks and uncertainties caused by the war. The Group applied three prob-
ability-weighted scenarios, dependent on the timeline for Ukrainian Black Sea ports to resume full operations. This timeline significantly impacted
key assumptions in the value-in-use calculation, such as product prices, transportation costs, and working capital. Should the Group exclude risk
and uncertainties caused by at the war, from the assumptions the discount rate would have been 24.4% for UAH-denominated cash flows and
17.1% for USD-denominated cash flows. In 2024, in response to the ongoing military invasion of Ukraine, the Group reorganized its business
processes to address current challenges and ensure governance continuity. As a result, the 2024 evaluation of the recoverable amount of assets
or cash-generating units was based on a single model. Risks and uncertainties caused by the war are incorporated into the discount rate calculation,
while cash flow forecasts are free from those risks and uncertainties.
As a result of impairment testing performed as of 30 June 2024 impairment losses on property, plant and equipment were recognized for the
Starokostiantynivskyi OEZ LLC, Prydniprovskyi OEP LLC, Kropyvnytskyi OEP PJSC, Poltava-Zerno LLC, Danube Prom Agro LLC, Poltava HPP
PJSC CGUs in the amount of USD 103,933 thousand, USD 5,862 thousand, USD 1,576 thousand, USD 4,731 thousand, USD 616 thousand, USD
1,156 thousand respectively and reversed the previously recognized revaluation surplus of USD 9,909 thousand. The reversal amount of impair-
ment on property, plant, and equipment for farming, in the amount of USD 759 thousand, was recognized in the consolidated statement of profit
and loss.
The recoverable amount of each CGU where impairment was identified was determined based on discounted cash flow projections based on
reliable estimates of future cash flow calculations. Management determined the budgeted gross margin based on expectations of market develop-
ments. The weighted average growth rate used was consistent with forecasts included in industry reports. The discount rates used were pre-tax
and reflected specific risks relating to the relevant segments.
The results of the impairment test indicate that the recoverable amount of cash-generating units (CGUs) in the oil processing segment has signifi-
cantly changed. This is primarily due to a decrease in selling prices for oil products and an increase in the purchase prices of oilseeds, which has
led to a substantial decline in profit margins.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Oilseed Processing segment
The key assumptions used in the value-in-use and income approach calculations by the Group of CGUs in the Oilseed Processing segment are
as follows:
Oilseed processing
Processing volume, thou-
sand ton
Sales price of sunflower oil,
USD per ton
Transportation costs,
USD per ton
Purchase price of sunflower
seeds, USD per ton
As of 30 June 2024
3,285
901 - 950
9 - 36
420 - 441
As of 30 June 2023
2,979
813 - 1,050
15 - 108
335 - 517
As of 30 June 2024, the discount rate 18.5% was used for five-year period and 15.5% for terminal period (30 June 2023 10.6% and 10.6%
respectively).
As of 30 June 2024, the growth rate, used for extrapolating of the cash flows for periods over 5 years was set at the level of 2.21% (30 June 2023
2.1%).
As of 30 June 2024, the sensitivity analysis to the mentioned above key assumptions of the CGUs in the Oilseeds Processing segment are disclosed
in the table below.
CGU
Inputs
Change in input by:
Poltava OEP PJSC
Sales price of sunflower oil, USD per ton
Decrease by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 31,064 required
Purchase price of sunflower seeds, USD per ton
Increase by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 32,788 required
Discount rates
Increase by 10.00%
Impairment of USD 12,173 required
Processing volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 15.00%
Impairment of USD 12,632 required
Transportation costs, USD per ton
Increase by 17.4
USD per ton
Impairment of USD 19,390 required
Bandurka OEP LLC
Sales price of sunflower oil, USD per ton
Decrease by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 36,739 required
Purchase price of sunflower seeds, USD per ton
Increase by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 38,822 required
Discount rates
Increase by 10.00%
Impairment of USD 13,159 required
Processing volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 15.00%
Impairment of USD 16,064 required
Transportation costs, USD per ton
Increase by 16.9
USD per ton
Impairment of USD 22,606 required
BSI LLC
Sales price of sunflower oil, USD per ton
Decrease by 1.33%
Recoverable amount equals carrying amount
Decrease by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 22,528 required
Purchase price of sunflower seeds, USD per ton
Increase by 1.26%
Recoverable amount equals carrying amount
Increase by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 24,850 required
Discount rates
Increase by 9.33%
Recoverable amount equals carrying amount
Increase by 10.00%
Impairment of USD 1,152 required
Processing volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 10.48%
Recoverable amount equals carrying amount
Decrease by 15.00%
Impairment of USD 7,718 required
Kropyvnytskyi
Sales price of sunflower oil, USD per ton
Decrease by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 25,963 required
OEP PJSC
Purchase price of sunflower seeds, USD per ton
Increase by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 27,407 required
Discount rates
Increase by 10.00%
Impairment of USD 7,494 required
Processing volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 15.00%
Impairment of USD 9,251 required
Transportation costs, USD per ton
Increase by 16.9
USD per ton
Impairment of USD 15,930 required
Prydniprovskyi
Sales price of sunflower oil, USD per ton
Decrease by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 55,331 required
OEP LLC
Purchase price of sunflower seeds, USD per ton
Increase by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 58,437 required
Discount rates
Increase by 10.00%
Impairment of USD 18,729 required
Processing volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 15.00%
Impairment of USD 21,123 required
Transportation costs, USD per ton
Increase by 16.9
USD per ton
Impairment of USD 33,970 required
Starokostiantynivskyi
Sales price of sunflower oil, USD per ton
Decrease by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 59,299 required
OEZ LLC
Purchase price of sunflower seeds, USD per ton
Increase by 3.00%
Impairment of USD 62,599 required
Discount rates
Increase by 10.00%
Impairment of USD 19,545 required
Processing volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 15.00%
Impairment of USD 25,213 required
Transportation costs, USD per ton
Increase by 16.9
USD per ton
Impairment of USD 36,058 required
As of 30 June 2024, the sensitivity analysis did not identify the recoverable amount as being sensitive to the reasonably possible changes of
assumptions other than disclosed above.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Farming segment
As of 30 June 2024, the market selling prices of agricultural commodities have been taken into consideration while determining the assumptions
for Farming CGU. The key assumptions used in the value-in-use and income approach calculations by segment are as follows:
Farming
Crop yields,
tons per hectare
Sales price of crops,
USD per ton
Transportation cost,
USD per ton
As of 30 June 2024
2 - 13.3
194 - 472
8 - 29
As of 30 June 2023
2 - 9
213 - 552
28 - 108
As of 30 June 2024, the discount rate 25.0% was used for five-year period and 17.0% for terminal period (30 June 2023 17.5% and 17.5%
respectively).
As of 30 June 2024, the growth rate, used for extrapolating of the cash flows for periods over 5 years was set at the level of 4.03% (30 June 2023
– 5.1%)
If the sales price of the crop used in the value-in-use calculation for the Farming CGU had been 5% lower than management’s estimates, the Group
would have had to recognize an impairment against the carrying amount of property, plant, and equipment of USD 77,231 thousand.
As of 30 June 2024, the sensitivity analysis did not identify the recoverable amount of Farming CGU as being sensitive to the reasonably possible
changes of assumptions other than those disclosed above.
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, as the result of the test, the recoverable amount of assets within the Farming segment was significantly low in their
carrying value. Hence, the Group determined a recoverable amount based on the fair value less cost-to-sell method, using the adjusted market
approach (level 2 of the fair value hierarchy).
Infrastructure and Trading segment
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, the Infrastructure and Trading segment’s CGU assumptions rely on transshipment rates and suggested proceeded
volumes. The key assumptions used in the value-in-use and income approach calculations by Group of CGU in the Infrastructure and Trading
segment are as follows:
Infrastructure and Trading
Transshipment rate,
USD per ton
Transshipment volume,
thousand ton
As of 30 June 2024
8 - 14
0 - 6,800
As of 30 June 2023
9 - 15
0 - 9,840
As of 30 June 2024, the discount rate 18,5% was used for five-year period and 15.5% for terminal period (30 June 2023 10.6% and 10.6%
respectively).
As of 30 June 2024, the growth rate, used for extrapolating of the cash flows for periods over 5 years was set at the level of 2.21% (30 June 2023
2.1%).
CGU
Inputs
Change in input by:
Transbulkterminal and
Transgrainterminal
Transshipment rate, USD per ton
Decrease by 26.3%
Recoverable amount equals carrying amount
Decrease by 30.0%
Impairment of USD 15,762 required
Transshipment volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 2,0 thousand ton
Recoverable amount equals carrying amount
Decrease by 2.7 thousand ton
Impairment of USD 36,435 required
Poltava-Zerno LLC
Transshipment rate, USD per ton
Decrease by 30.0%
Impairment of USD 19,698 required
Transshipment volume, thousand ton
Decrease by 490 ton
Impairment of USD 21,291 required
As of 30 June 2023, the impairment test did not identify the CGUs in the Infrastructure and Trading segments as being sensitive to reasonably
possible changes in key assumptions.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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16. Right-of-Use Assets
The following table represents movements in right-of-use assets for the year ended 30 June 2024:
Land
Agricultural equip-
ment and vehicles
Buildings
Total
Cost as of 30 June 2023
263,789
7,521
7,514
278,824
Additions and modifications
17,248
531
17,779
Disposals
(16,848)
(800)
(98)
(17,746)
Translation difference
(23,760)
(1,238)
(55)
(25,053)
Cost as of 30 June 2024
240,429
5,483
7,892
253,804
Accumulated depreciation and impairment as of 30
June 2023
(66,033)
(5,393)
(1,754)
(73,180)
Depreciation
(23,075)
(1,367)
(522)
(24,964)
Disposals
9,790
252
(25)
10,017
Impairment loss on right-of-use assets (Note 30)
(72)
(72)
Translation difference
5,926
1,336
64
7,326
Accumulated depreciation and impairment as of 30
June 2024
(73,464)
(5,172)
(2,237)
(80,873)
Net book value as of 30 June 2024
166,965
311
5,655
172,931
The following table represents movements in right-of-use assets for the year ended 30 June 2023:
Land
Agricultural equip-
ment and vehicles
Buildings
Total
Cost as of 30 June 2022
299,661
10,726
8,056
318,443
Additions and modifications
37,923
3,169
128
41,220
Transfer of assets to Property, Plant and Equipment
(3,995)
(3,995)
Disposals
(15,165)
(861)
(570)
(16,596)
Translation difference
(58,630)
(1,518)
(100)
(60,248)
Cost as of 30 June 2023
263,789
7,521
7,514
278,824
Accumulated depreciation as of 30 June 2022
(61,041)
(8,144)
(1,518)
(70,703)
Depreciation
(23,103)
(2,398)
(523)
(26,024)
Disposals
5,758
861
236
6,855
Transfer of assets to Property, Plant and Equipment
3,292
3,292
Translation difference
12,353
996
51
13,400
Accumulated depreciation as of 30 June 2023
(66,033)
(5,393)
(1,754)
(73,180)
Net book value as of 30 June 2023
197,756
2,128
5,760
205,644
The impairment testing of right-of-use assets, along with the property, plant, and equipment of the Farming segment, was conducted by internal
specialists. The recoverable amount of the assets was determined using the value-in-use method, which is based on estimated future cash flows
discounted to their present value using an appropriate discount rate. The cash flow forecasts applied in the value-in-use approach were derived
from financial budgets approved by management, covering five years, and were extrapolated using estimated growth rates for periods beyond
five years. The calculation of the discount rate is based on assumptions specific to the Group and the operating segments to which they apply.
For the year ended 30 June 2024 because of impairment testing, the Group recognized losses of USD 72 thousand. The impairment model level
of sensitivity disclosed in Note 15 was not identified as being sensitive to reasonably possible changes in key assumptions.
17. Intangible Assets
The following table represents movements in intangible assets for the year ended 30 June 2024:
Trademarks
Land
lease rights
Other
intangible assets
Total
Cost as of 1 July 2023
22,036
80,771
24,812
127,619
Additions
2,487
2,487
Additions from the acquisition of subsidiaries (Note 8)
23,692
23,692
Disposals
(185)
(185)
Translation difference
(7,268)
(201)
(7,469)
Cost as of 30 June 2024
22,036
73,503
50,605
146,144
Accumulated amortization and impairment losses as of 1 July 2023
(8,851)
(76,817)
(5,617)
(91,285)
Amortization charge
(222)
(1,958)
(2,180)
Disposals
187
187
Impairment and reversal of impairment of intangible assets
5,281
(29,138)
(23,857)
Translation difference
7,269
116
7,385
Accumulated amortization and impairment losses as of 30 June 2024
(8,851)
(64,489)
(36,410)
(109,750)
Net book value as of 30 June 2024
13,185
9,014
14,195
36,394
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
Management
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The following table represents movements in intangible assets for the year ended 30 June 2023:
Trademarks
Land lease
rights
Crypto
assets
Other
intangible
assets
Total
Cost as of 1 July 2022
22,036
94,486
100,195
17,254
233,971
Additions
7,750
2,473
10,223
Additions from acquisition of subsidiaries
11,631
11,631
Disposals
(125,745)
(720)
(126,465)
Transfer from current assets
17,800
17,800
Translation difference
(13,715)
(5,826)
(19,541)
Cost as of 30 June 2023
22,036
80,771
24,812
127,619
Accumulated amortization and impairment losses as of 1 July 2022
(8,769)
(92,256)
(8,748)
(109,773)
Amortization charge
(225)
(1,168)
(1,393)
Disposals
2,412
617
3,029
Impairment of intangible assets
(82)
(2,412)
(2,494)
Translation difference
15,664
3,682
19,346
Accumulated amortization and impairment losses as of 30 June 2023
(8,851)
(76,817)
(5,617)
(91,285)
Net book value as of 30 June 2023
13,185
3,954
19,195
36,334
Included in the intangible assets of Subsidiaries are the ‘Schedry Dar’, ‘Stozhar’, ‘Zolota’ and ‘Domashnya’ trademarks with net book values of
USD 4,567 thousand, USD 5,459 thousand, USD 2,980 thousand, and USD 179 thousand, respectively, in 2024 (USD 4,567 thousand, USD 5,459
thousand, USD 2,980 thousand and USD 179 thousand, respectively, in 2023). These trademarks are used by the Group for the sale of bottled
sunflower oil mostly in the Ukrainian market.
The trademarks that belong to the Group are considered to have an indefinite useful life and thus are not amortized but tested for impairment by
comparing their recoverable amount with their carrying amount annually on 30 June and whenever there is an indication that the trademarks may
be impaired.
As a result of impairment testing performed as of 30 June 2024, no impairment loss was recognized for trademarks. In comparison, as of 30 June
2023, impairment losses were recognized for the 'Stozhar' and 'Zolota' trademarks, amounting to USD 94 thousand and USD 9 thousand, respec-
tively. Additionally, the impairment loss previously recognized for the 'Schedry Dar' trademark was reversed by USD 21 thousand.
The recoverable amount of the trademarks was based on the fair value less costs to sell method using the royalty approach of valuation and is
classified within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. This calculation uses cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management
and covering five years. The total amount of the trademarks was allocated to the Oilseed Processing segment (as one cash-generating unit).
The impairment testing of the value of intangible assets including trademarks, as of 30 June 2024 was based on the same assumptions as the
impairment test for property, plant and equipment (Note 15).
18. Goodwill
The following table represents movements in goodwill for the year:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended 30
June 2023
Cost at the beginning of the year
132,293
132,281
Additions
12
Cost at the end of the year
132,293
132,293
Accumulated impairment losses at the beginning of the year
(60,661)
(60,661)
Impairment losses recognized in the year
(58,436)
Accumulated impairment losses at the end of the year
(119,097)
(60,661)
Balance at the end of the year
13,196
71,632
A summary of goodwill allocated to individual entities or groups of entities as separate CGU, was aggregated at the segment level and presented
below:
Goodwill carrying value
Segment
CGU
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Oilseed Processing
Kropyvnytskyi OEP PJSC
28,978
Prydniprovskyi OEP LLC
29,446
Infrastructure and Trading
Transbulkterminal and Transgrainterminal
9,594
9,594
RTK-Ukraine
3,602
3,602
Oilexportterminal
12
Total
13,196
71,632
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The Group tests whether goodwill has suffered on impairment at the level of the CGU on an annual basis. The recoverable amount of a CGU was
determined based on the higher value from value-in-use or fair value less cost of disposal. The impairment test of goodwill was based on the same
assumptions as the impairment test for property, plant and equipment (Note 15). Sensitivity to the mentioned above key assumptions, as of 30
June 2024, is described in Note 15.
As of 30 June 2024, the Group recognized an impairment charge against goodwill in the amount of USD 58,436 thousand (as of 30 June 2023: nil)
attributable to the Oilseed Processing and included within the line Loss on impairment of assets (Note 30).
19. Other non-current assets
The balances of other non-current assets were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Prepayments for property, plant and equipment
9,467
21,268
Non-current biological assets
6,521
5,924
Other non-current assets
10
19
Value-added tax recoverable and prepaid
34,958
Total
15,998
62,169
As of 30 June 2024, the portion of VAT recoverable and prepaid presented under Other non-current assets was nil, as the planned utilization period
for this amount is less than 12 months (30 June 2023: USD 34,958 thousand). The reversal of VAT allowance, amounting to USD 5,538 thousand,
was recognized under Loss on impairment of assets (30 June 2023: expenses for USD 8,530) (Note 30).
20. Advances from Customers and Other Current Liabilities
The balances of advances from customers and other current liabilities were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Accrued payroll, payroll-related taxes, and bonuses
118,747
87,773
Contract liabilities
38,059
49,042
Provision for unused vacations and other provisions
9,161
7,274
Taxes payable and provision for tax liabilities
6,938
4,284
Other current liabilities
4,274
5,397
Total
177,179
153,770
During the year ended 30 June 2024, the Group recognized USD 49,042 thousand of revenue related to the contract liabilities as of 30 June 2023
(2023: USD 11,528 thousand), which related to advances.
21. Other Financial Liabilities
The balances of other financial liabilities were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Share-based options (Note 34)
66,241
Payable for legal claims (Note 35, 37)
16,502
40,558
Derivative financial instruments (Note 37)
10,446
18,327
Accounts payable for property, plant and equipment
5,896
5,587
Other current liabilities
2,129
4,136
Total
101,214
68,608
22. Borrowings
The balances of borrowings were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Short-term borrowings
163,979
211,261
Bank credit lines
147,529
652,273
Interest accrued on short-term borrowings
3,653
6,389
Bank overdrafts (Note 9)
5
10
Total
315,166
869,933
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The balances of bank credit lines in details by tranches were as follows:
Interest rate in range
Currency
Amount due
30 June 2024
Amount due
30 June 2023
Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank
7.75%
USD
35,000
Ukrainian bank
4.35% plus UIRD
UAH
23,348
Ukrainian bank
7.25%
USD
22,000
Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank
6.00%
USD
20,000
European bank
2.10% plus COF
USD
17,108
European bank
2.50% plus COF
USD
12,578
Ukrainian bank
7.00%
USD
10,000
Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank
6.75%
USD
4,500
Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank
6.50%
USD
3,000
European bank
from 2.30% to 3.50% plus LIBOR
USD
194,952
Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank
from 1.90% to 10.00%
USD
151,781
European bank
from 2.90% to 4.00% plus SOFR
USD
123,870
European bank
from 3.50% to 4.00% plus LIBOR
USD
63,063
Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank
from 13.50% to 22.00%
UAH
32,182
European bank
from 2.50% to 4.00% plus COF
USD
25,721
Ukrainian bank
7.00%
USD
19,142
Ukrainian bank
6.00% plus UIRD
UAH
18,230
Ukrainian bank
from 17.00% to 23.73%
UAH
16,435
European bank
from 2.20% to 2.97%
USD
6,907
Total
147,534
652,283
As of 30 June 2024, the Group classified its bank borrowings with long-term initial contractual maturity in the amount of USD 130,594 thousand as
short-term as the Group had waivers for technical and financial covenants for the period less than 12 months since reporting date. In addition, as
of 30 June 2024, the Group was not able to meet certain technical conditions specified in the loan agreements with two banks. They were duly
waived after the reporting date.
The balance of the borrowings with an initial contractual maturity of more than 12 months of 30 June 2024 is disclosed in the table below by
tranches:
Initial contractual
maturity
Interest rate in range
Currency
Amount due
30 June 2024
Amount due
30 June 2023
European bank
2030
from 3.03% to 3.10% plus SOFR
USD
71,137
European bank
2029
from 3.03% to 3.10% plus SOFR
USD
65,962
European bank
2027
4.50% plus SOFR
USD
23,040
European bank
2027
1.00%
USD
3,840
5,793
European bank
2030
from 2.77% to 2.84% plus LIBOR
USD
85,871
European bank
2029
from 2.77% to 2.84% plus LIBOR
USD
84,846
European bank
2027
4.50% plus LIBOR
USD
34,751
Total
163,979
211,261
As of 30 June 2024, the undrawn amount of bank borrowings amounted to USD 205,731 thousand including available facility amounts upon bank
credit lines and long-term financing (30 June 2023: USD 130,620 thousand).
As of 30 June, bank borrowings were secured as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Property, plant and equipment (Note 15)
437,930
406,731
Inventory (Note 12)
191,186
Pledge deposits (Note 14)
122,703
Future sales receipts
49,165
Cash deposit (Note 14)
6,907
Ukrainian government bonds (Note 14)
1,092
Total
437,930
777,784
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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23. Lease liabilities
The following is the maturity analysis of lease payments under the lease agreements as of 30 June:
Maturity
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Payable within one year
29,811
33,594
Payable in the second to fifth years
147,871
163,332
Payable after five years
215,448
247,574
Total
393,130
444,500
less
Future finance charges
(223,390)
(246,605)
Present value of lease obligations
169,740
197,895
less
Current portion
(27,206)
(31,160)
Lease obligations, long-term portion
142,534
166,735
24. Bonds issued
The balances of bonds issued were as follows:
Maturity
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
US 300,000 thousand 6.75% coupon bonds (issued October 2020)
October 2027
298,087
297,660
US 300,000 thousand 6.50% coupon bonds (issued October 2019)
October 2024
299,493
298,551
Total
597,580
596,211
As of 30 June 2024, the bonds are rated CC by both S&P and Fitch (30 June 2023: CCC), in line with the rating of the Ukrainian sovereign.
All the notes are unsecured, ranking equally with all existing and future senior unsecured indebtedness of the Company, and have been uncondi-
tionally and irrevocably guaranteed by designated Group subsidiaries on the joint and several basis to the maximum extent permitted by law.
All the bonds contain certain restrictive covenants that limit the ability of the Company and, where applicable, its restricted subsidiaries to create
or incur certain liens, make restricted payments, engage in amalgamations, mergers or consolidations, or combination with other entities; make
certain disposals and transfers of assets; and enter into transactions with affiliates.
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, the Group did not have an unconditional right (within the meaning of paragraph 69 d) of IAS 1 Presentation of
Financial Statement) to defer settlement of its bonds for 12 months or longer as the effective bank waivers related to its loans covered period until
31 March 2025 and other factors (Note 22). Consequently, the Group therefore classified its long-term bonds as short-term. Nevertheless, man-
agement notes that, given the effective waivers from banks in place as of 30 June 2024, no cross-acceleration events of default under the bonds
were triggered as of that date, and the Group remained otherwise in full compliance with the terms of its bonds.
As of 30 June 2024, accrued interest on bonds issued was USD 7,612 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 7,612 thousand).
25. Income Tax
The Group operates globally and is subject to the tax laws and regulations of numerous tax jurisdictions and authorities as well as tax agreements
and treaties among these jurisdictions. The corporate income tax rate in Ukraine, where the main operations of the Group are located, was 18%
as of 30 June 2024 and 2023.
The majority of the Group’s companies involved in agricultural production pay the Unified Agricultural Tax (UAT) by the Tax Code of Ukraine. The
UAT is calculated by local authorities and is based on the area and valuation of the land used.
The components of income tax (expenses)/benefit were as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Current income tax charge
(56,502)
(49,626)
Deferred tax benefit/(expenses) relating to the origination and reversal of temporary differ-
ences
13,078
(19,424)
Total income tax expenses recognized in the reporting period
(43,424)
(69,050)
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The income tax expenses is reconciled to the profit before income tax per the Consolidated Statement of Profit or Loss as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Profit before income tax
211,052
367,824
Tax expenses at the Ukrainian statutory tax rate of 18%
(37,989)
(66,208)
Effect of income that is exempt from taxation (farming)
27,197
(18,225)
Effect of different tax rates of Subsidiaries operating in other jurisdictions
(13,973)
(18,459)
Effect of unused tax losses and tax offsets not recognized as deferred tax assets
2,356
(4,900)
Other expenditures not allowable for income tax purposes and non-taxable income, net
(21,015)
38,742
Income tax expenses
(43,424)
(69,050)
For the year ended 30 June 2024, deferred tax recognized in other comprehensive income was USD 1,784 thousand (for the year ended 30 June
2023: nil).
The primary components of the deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities were as follows:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Tax losses carried forward
20,304
17,112
Valuation of property, plant, and equipment
11,913
2,390
Valuation of inventories
2,367
10,257
Others
8,495
1,757
Deferred tax assets
43,079
31,516
Valuation of property, plant and equipment
(26,019)
(26,032)
Valuation of intangible assets
(1,209)
(1,525)
Others
(260)
(3,163)
Deferred tax liabilities
(27,488)
(30,720)
Net deferred tax assets
15,591
796
As of 30 June 2024, deferred tax assets in the amount of USD 31,166 thousand are expected to be recovered or settled within twelve months after
the reporting period (30 June 2023: USD 29,126 thousand).
As of 30 June 2024, based upon projections for future taxable income over the periods in which the taxable temporary differences are anticipated
to reverse, management believes it is probable that the Group will realize the benefits of deferred tax assets of USD 20,304 thousand (2023:
USD 17,112 thousand) recognized concerning tax losses carried forward by the subsidiaries. The amount of future taxable income required to be
generated by the Subsidiaries to utilize the tax benefits associated with the tax loss carried forward is approximately USD 112,800 thousand (2023:
USD 95,067 thousand). However, the amount of the deferred tax asset considered realizable could be adjusted in the future if estimates of taxable
income are revised.
The Group does not recognize a deferred tax liability for all taxable temporary differences associated with investments in subsidiaries as it can
control the timing of the reversal of such temporary differences and it is probable that they will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
The Group has unrecognized deferred tax assets in respect of a significant accumulated amount of unused tax loss carried forward. The tax loss
carried forward expires in the period 2025-2041.
Certain deferred tax assets and liabilities have been offset following the Group’s accounting policy. The following is an analysis of the deferred tax
balances (after offset) as they are presented in the Consolidated Statement of Financial Position:
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Deferred tax assets
35,626
21,353
Deferred tax liabilities
(20,035)
(20,557)
Net deferred tax assets
15,591
796
26. Revenue
The Group’s revenue was as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Revenue from edible oils sold in bulk, and meal
1,962,251
1,891,335
Revenue from agriculture commodities merchandising
1,412,005
1,347,681
Revenue from bottled sunflower oil
105,040
139,652
Revenue from transshipment services
48,917
34,904
Revenue from farming
42,054
35,074
Revenue from grain silo services
11,195
6,475
Total
3,581,462
3,455,121
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Revenue is obtained principally from the sale of commodities, recognized once the control of the goods has transferred from the Group to the
customer. Revenue derived from freight, storage, and other services, presented in the line Revenue from edible oils sold in bulk, and meal, is
recognized over time as the service is rendered. Disaggregated revenue for each reportable segment is presented in Note 7.
For the year ended 30 June 2024, the revenue from selling electricity, included within Revenue from edible oils sold in bulk, and meal used line,
amounted to USD 39,866 thousand (2023: USD 21,894 thousand).
The transaction price allocated to outstanding performance obligations as of 30 June 2024 is USD 10,046 thousand (30 June 2023:
USD 17,554 thousand). This amount represents revenue from carriage, freight, and insurance services under CIF/CFR Incoterms contracts which
are to be executed in July 2024, when the goods are delivered to the point of destination and under which the Group has already recognized
revenue from the sale of goods at a point in time as of 30 June 2024.
27. Cost of Sales
The cost of sales was as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Cost of goods for resale and raw materials used
2,069,486
1,941,524
Shipping and handling costs
639,819
596,855
Amortization and depreciation
98,863
100,378
Payroll and payroll-related costs
80,791
65,257
Total
2,888,959
2,704,014
For the year ended 30 June 2024 result on operations with commodity futures, options and unrealized forwards, included within the Cost of goods
for resale and raw materials used line, decreased Cost of sales in the amount of USD 137,656 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 65,095 thousand
decrease).
28. Other Operating Income and Expenses
Other operating income and expenses were as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Other operating income
Insurance reimbursement
33,539
13,982
Gain on operations with securities
9,120
4,190
Stock-take
8,428
9,224
Gain on sale of foreign currency
7,796
15,884
Contracts wash-out (price difference settlement)
5,142
5,791
Other operating income
7,046
4,476
Total
71,071
53,547
Other operating expenses
Other dispatch fees and fines
(17,418)
(24,185)
Loss on operations with derivatives
(5,465)
(10,682)
Total
(22,883)
(34,867)
In October 2023, the Group received a one-off insurance payment for property damage and business interruption due to the war in a total amount
of USD 32,579 thousand.
The Group enters wash-out contracts to reduce administrative time and costs, these contracts can be offset based on a mutual agreement with the
same partners who sold or purchased commodities.
29. General, administrative and selling expenses
General, administrative and selling expenses were as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Payroll and payroll related costs
176,151
163,417
Audit, legal and other professional fees
10,317
12,096
Repairs and material costs
6,120
7,271
Amortization and depreciation
5,841
4,409
Business trip expenses
3,362
3,957
Taxes other than income tax
3,042
2,319
Other expenses
8,540
11,550
Total
213,373
205,019
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Audit, legal and other professional fees for the year ended 30 June 2024 included the auditor’s remuneration in the amount of USD 778 thousand
and remuneration for non-audit services was USD 26 thousand (for the year ended 30 June 2023: USD 781 thousand and nil thousand, respec-
tively). No consultancy services were provided by the auditors for the years ended 30 June 2024 and 2023.
30. Loss on Impairment of Assets
Loss on impairment of assets were as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Impairment and reversal of property, plant and equipment (Note 15)
117,115
Impairment loss of goodwill (Note 18)
58,436
Impairment of prepayments to suppliers and other current assets
25,596
Impairment of intangible assets (Note 17)
23,728
82
Write-offs of property, plant and equipment (Note 15)
11,162
1,438
Allowance and write-offs of inventories (Note 12)
2,791
5,760
Impairment loss on right-of-use assets (Note 16)
72
Impairment loss on crypto assets
2,412
Impairment of assets classified as held for sale
26,039
Reversal of loss on impairment of inventories
(4,136)
(29,528)
(Reversal of impairment)/write-off of VAT allowance (Note 20)
(5,538)
8,530
Total
229,226
14,733
31. Finance Costs and Income
Finance costs and income were as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Finance costs expensed
Interest expense on bank loans (Note 9)
(45,667)
(75,605)
Interest on corporate bonds (Note 9)
(39,750)
(39,750)
Interest on lease liabilities (Note 9)
(25,243)
(35,180)
Other finance costs
(8,419)
(2,714)
Total
(119,079)
(153,249)
Finance income
Interest received on financial assets held for cash management
42,553
28,128
Gain on modification of loan terms
6,436
Other financial income
830
2,664
Total
49,819
30,792
32. Foreign exchange gain, net
For the year ending 30 June 2024, the net foreign exchange gain amounted to USD 32,972 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 62,650 thousand). This
result is primarily attributed to the fluctuations in exchange rates, impacting the revaluation of balances denominated in currencies other than the
functional currency. These balances include trade balances, VAT, and borrowings (including intra-group balances where the Company's subsidi-
aries operate with different functional currencies and engage in intercompany financing, which, upon revaluation, can result in foreign exchange
gains or losses for one of the Company's subsidiaries if they use different functional currencies).
33. Other Expenses, net
Other expenses, net was as follows:
For the year ended
30 June 2024
For the year ended
30 June 2023
Social spending
(25,129)
(12,279)
Fines and penalties
(5,746)
(3,020)
Gain/(loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment
530
(621)
Gain on disposal of Subsidiaries (Note 8)
2,448
4,091
Other expenses
(1,191)
Total
(29,088)
(11,829)
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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34. Transactions with Related Parties
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, the Group is controlled by the Namsen Ltd (Note 2).
The Group had the following balances outstanding with related parties from sales or purchases of goods and services:
Related party
Statement of Financial Position line
Related party balances
as of 30 June 2024
Related party balances
as of 30 June 2023
Entities under Common
control
Trade accounts receivable, net
23,303
13,776
Prepayments to suppliers and other current assets
47,112
41,798
Other financial assets
2,327
104,319
Non-current financial assets
12,961
Trade accounts payable
1,968
26,922
Advances from customers and other current liabilities
18,177
Key management
Other financial assets
4,997
3,546
Non-current financial assets
1,430
124
Advances from customers and other current liabilities
11,166
20,345
Other financial liabilities
66,279
Other non-current liabilities
54,278
Entities under Key
Management control
Other financial assets
115
18,250
Non-current financial assets
1,984
Other related parties
Trade accounts receivable, net
80
39,563
Prepayments to suppliers and other current assets
944
747
Other financial assets
12,086
4,419
Non-current financial assets
2,032
8,563
Trade accounts payable
18,746
In July 2023, the Group received the remaining consideration of USD 90,000 thousand from a related party for the disposal of farming entities,
completed as of 3 March 2023 presented within the line Other financial assets and it is due from the Entities under Common control as of
30 June 2023 (Note 8, 14).
As of 30 June 2024, the fair value of liability recognized in terms of share options amounted to USD 66,241 thousand presented within Other
financial liabilities (30 June 2023: USD 54,278 thousand presented within Other non-current liabilities). The option exercise period is set for a period
commencing on 1 November 2024 and expiring on 31 December 2026. During the year ended 30 June 2022, a new management incentive plan
was introduced, according to which the Company granted management the option to sell to the Company 2,792,435 of its ordinary shares. The
consideration for each share will be a minimum of (i) USD 23.80 and (ii) operating profit before working capital changes minus interest paid plus
interest received minus interest tax paid minus maintenance capital expenditures in the fixed amount of USD 155,000 thousand, where all amounts,
except for the maintenance capital expenditures, are specified in USD as appropriately classified and disclosed in the consolidated statement of
cash flows of the audited annual consolidated accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries for the Financial Years 2022-2024, divided by three
divided by 12% and divided by 84,031,230. The option exercise period is set for a period commencing on 1 November 2024 and expiring on 31
December 2026.
Transactions with related parties are performed on terms equivalent to those that prevail in arm’s length transactions. The amount of outstanding
balances is unsecured and will be settled in cash. There have been no guarantees provided or received for any related party receivables or
payables. Loans are provided at rates comparable to the average commercial rate of interest.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Transactions with related parties were as follows:
Related party
Statement of Profit and Loss line
Related party transac-
tion for the year ended
30 June 2024
Related party transac-
tion for the year ended
30 June 2023
Entities under common
control
Revenue
50,889
7,010
Purchases of various goods and services
(228,982)
(35,977)
Cost of sales
(17,184)
Other operating expenses
(2,839)
Net impairment losses on financial assets
(7,595)
Entities under Beneficial
Owner control
Revenue
16,161
Purchases of various goods and services
(56,694)
Cost of sales
(10,356)
Key management
General, administrative and selling expenses
(39,630)
(40,151)
Financial costs
(1,638)
Entities under Key Man-
agement control
General, administrative and selling expenses
(20)
(820)
Finance costs
(3,100)
Other related parties
Revenue
20,883
72,300
Cost of sales
(40)
(611)
Purchases of various goods and services
(3,333)
(3,621)
Other operating income
8,045
General, administrative and selling expenses
(7)
(1,639)
Finance income
1,621
1,687
Net impairment losses on financial assets
(994)
Remeasurement of liability related to options provided to key management as of 30 June 2024 resulted in a loss recognized in General, adminis-
trative, and selling expenses in the amount of USD 11,963 thousand (30 June 2023: a loss of USD 18,158 thousand recognized as a decrease in
General, administrative and selling expenses).
During the year ended 30 June 2024, the Group sold goods to third parties in transactions involving a related party, being entity under common
control, recognizing respective sales at market terms amounting to USD 88,950 thousand (2023: nil).
The Group's key management personnel are the members of the Board of Directors and management team. The remuneration of Directors and
other members of key management personnel recognized in the Consolidated Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income
including salaries and other current employee benefits amounted to USD 27,554 thousand (for the year ended 30 June 2023: USD 21,065 thou-
sand).
35. Commitments and Contingencies
Retirement and Other Benefit Obligations
Employees of the Group receive pension benefits from the government under the laws and regulations of Ukraine. The Group’s contributions to
the State Pension Fund for the year ended 30 June 2024 were USD 20,976 thousand (2023: USD 15,395 thousand).
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, the Group was not liable for any significant supplementary pensions, post-retirement health care, insurance benefits,
or retirement indemnities to its current or former employees.
Capital Commitments
As of 30 June 2024, the Group had commitments under contracts with a group of suppliers for a total amount of USD 17,833 thousand, mostly for
the construction of the oil-crushing plant (30 June 2023: USD 21,749 thousand, mostly for the construction of the oil-crushing plant).
Contractual Commitments on Sales
As of 30 June 2024, the Group had entered into commercial contracts for the export of 672,500 tons of grain, 186,243 tons of sunflower oil, and
40,440 tons of sunflower meal and other related products, corresponding to an amount of USD 166,595 thousand, USD 184,097 thousand and
USD 10,924 thousand, respectively, in contract prices as of the reporting date.
As of 30 June 2023, the Group had entered into commercial contracts for the export of 103,000 tons of grain, 157,545 tons of sunflower oil, and
129,373 tons of sunflower meal and other related products, corresponding to an amount of USD 25,751 thousand, USD 149,280 thousand and
USD 43,838 thousand, respectively, in contract prices as of the reporting date.
Taxation and Legal Issues
The international tax environment is becoming more complex in terms of tax administration, which could increase tax pressure on taxpayers. In
particular, a key part of the OECD/G20 BEPS Project is addressing the tax challenges arising from the digitalization of the economy. The Global
Anti-Base Erosion Rules (GloBE) are a key component of this plan and ensure large multinational enterprises pay a minimum level of tax on the
income arising in each of the jurisdictions where they operate. More specifically, the GloBE Rules provide for a coordinated system of taxation that
imposes a top-up tax on profits arising in a jurisdiction whenever the effective tax rate, determined on a jurisdictional basis, is below the minimum
rate. Kernel Holding S.A. belongs to the Kernel Group which is within the scope of the OECD Pillar Two Model Rules. Pillar Two legislation was
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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enacted in Luxembourg, the jurisdiction in which Kernel Holding S.A. is incorporated, which has come into effect for fiscal years starting on or after
31 December 2023. However, it was determined in terms of Pillar 2 rules that Namsen Limited residing in Cyprus should be considered as the
Ultimate Parent Entity of the Kernel Group and should therefore have the obligation to apply the Income Inclusion Rule and be charged with the
top-up tax (TUT) due on any low-taxed profits of itself and its low-taxed subsidiaries. Cyprus has not yet transposed the rules into the domestic
legislation but is expected to do so in the course of 2024 with retroactive effect as of 31 December 2023, in line with the requirements of the EU
Directive, and will therefore be effective for the Kernel Group from 1 July 2024. Since the Pillar Two legislation will not be effective at the closing
date of the financial year, Kernel Group will not have related current tax exposure. Due to the complexities in applying the legislation and calculating
GloBE income, the quantitative impact of the enacted legislation cannot yet be reasonably estimated. Kernel Group is currently engaged with
advisors to confirm the modalities of the application of the legislation.
Tax risk management is embedded in overall Group risk management. As of 30 June 2024, companies of the Group had ongoing litigations with
the tax authorities concerning tax issues for USD 20,441 thousand (as of 30 June 2023: USD 65,803 thousand). Management believes that based
on the past history of court resolutions of similar lawsuits by the Group, it is unlikely that a significant settlement will arise out of such lawsuits and
no respective provision is required in the Group’s financial statements as of the reporting date.
Ukraine’s tax environment is characterized by complexity in tax administration and arbitrary interpretation by tax authorities of tax laws and regu-
lations that could increase fiscal pressure on taxpayers. Inconsistent application, interpretation, and enforcement of tax laws can lead to lawsuits
resulting in the imposition of additional taxes, penalties, and penalty interest.
The transfer pricing legislation provides for the possibility of additional tax assessment for controlled transactions (transactions between related
parties and certain transactions between unrelated parties) if such transactions are not on an arm’s-length basis. The management has imple-
mented internal controls to comply with current transfer pricing legislation. Tax liabilities arising from controlled transactions are determined based
on their actual transaction prices. Potentially, with the evolution of the interpretation of transfer pricing rules, such prices could be challenged.
However, the impact of any such challenge is uncertain and cannot be reliably estimated.
Key aspects of the Ukrainian tax system are the following:
Ukraine operates a classic corporate income tax system, under which taxable profit of companies (i.e., financial profit adjusted by tax differences)
is subject to 18% corporate income tax (CIT).
Transfer pricing rules apply to transactions with related non-residents and “low tax” non-residents (i.e., non-residents, taxed domestically at a
significantly lower corporate income tax rate than the Ukrainian tax rate of 18%), subject to a company’s minimum income threshold of UAH 150
million and turnover threshold with each separate non-resident of UAH 10 million.
Domestic supply of goods and services, as well as the import of goods and certain services, are subject to value-added tax at the standard rate
of 20%. A reduced tax rate of 0% applies to the export of goods from Ukraine. Starting from March 2021, also 14% tax rate applies to the
domestic supply and import of certain agricultural commodities.
Payment of passive income (i.e., interest, royalties, dividends, etc.) to non-residents is subject to withholding tax at a standard 15% rate unless
double tax treaties or the Tax Code of Ukraine provide another tax rate.
Agricultural producers of raw materials are allowed to apply a simplified tax system, given that at least 75% of their income is attributable to sales
of agricultural raw materials produced by such company. Under the simplified tax system, companies are subject to a fixed tax, which depends
on the type, location, and monetary value of farmland used by such companies.
In March 2022 significant changes to the Tax Code of Ukraine have been introduced as a result of the war and adoption of Marital Law in Ukraine.
Amongst others, these changes released the taxpayers from financial liability for any tax and other violations of legislation, the compliance with
which is monitored by the customs and tax authorities, if such violations occur as a result of the force majeure circumstances (the war following
the military aggression of the Russian Federation). At the same time, such obligations must be fulfilled immediately after the termination of the
force majeure circumstances. The Law has also temporarily suspended certain types of tax audits, including transfer pricing audits. Since August
2023, other laws have been enacted that restore the obligations of taxpayers and the right of tax authorities to initiate tax audits with the right to
review the list of taxpayers that are subject to tax audits monthly.
The Diia City regime providing special tax benefits for IT companies was adopted in Ukraine. Among other novelties, this regime introduces
certain protection from excessive interference from state bodies and control over IT business, simplification of formalities with hiring IT specialists
(including special “gig contracts”), and reduced income tax and payroll tax rates for qualifying IT businesses.
The Company is currently a party to five legal cases in the District Court in Luxembourg, all initiated by eight shareholders who together held
1,210,430 shares as of February 2024, amounting to 0.4% of the Company's total issued shares:
merits proceedings initiated on 13 October 2023 with the objective: 1) To establish that the Company's directors acted against the Company's
interests, were conflicted, and lacked the necessary authority at the Board of Directors' meeting on 13 April 2023; 2) To invalidate all decisions
made during the aforementioned Board meeting, including the resolution to delist the Company from the Warsaw Stock Exchange; 3) Alterna-
tively, to appoint an expert to assess (i) the fairness of the public tender offer price announced by Namsen Limited on March 30, 2023, compared
to the real value of the Company, and (ii) the economic impact of the Board of Directors' decisions, including the delisting, on the Company's
corporate interests.
summary proceedings initiated on 20 February 2024 related to the temporary suspension of decisions made by the Company's Board of Directors
on 21 August 2023 (regarding the initiation of a share offering), and on 1 September 2023 (pertaining to the issuance of 216,000,000 new shares
in the context of the increase in share capital following subscriptions received by certain shareholders in response to the share offering). Addi-
tionally, the claimants seek to suspend all actions taken by Namsen Limited, the Company's largest shareholder, following the capital increase,
including the suspension of its voting rights related to the shares acquired thereafter.
merits proceedings initiated on 20 February 2024 related mainly to the annulment of the Board of Directors' decisions made on 21 August and
1 September 2023, as mentioned above. Alternatively, the claimants seek compensation for damages from Namsen Limited.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Statements
summary proceedings initiated on 3 April 2024 related mainly to the suspension of the decisions taken at the AGM held on 11 December 2023.
merits proceedings initiated on 26 April 2024 related mainly to the annulment of the decisions taken at the AGM held on 11 December 2023.
It is an early stage of the proceedings, and the outcome of the litigation cannot be assessed at the moment. However, the management of the
Group believes there was no non-compliance with laws and regulations with regard to the facts appealed by the claimants.
36. Financial risk management
Capital Risk Management
The Group manages its capital, which is attributable to equity holders to ensure that entities in the Group will be able to continue as a going concern
so that they can continue to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce
the cost of capital. Management considers the cost of capital and risks associated with each class of capital. The Group balances its overall capital
structure through the payment of dividends, new share issues, repurchase of own shares as well as the issue of new debt or the redemption of
existing debt. The Group monitors capital based on the carrying amount of equity, borrowings less cash and cash equivalents as presented in the
statement of financial position.
The Group is not subject to any externally imposed capital requirements, except for bank borrowing and bonds covenants imposed by external
lenders.
Gearing Ratio
The Group measures its capital by calculating a gearing ratio, defined as net debt divided by total capital. Net debt represents the obligation under
financial lease, bonds and borrowings less cash and cash equivalents, while total capital includes equity from the consolidated balance sheet and
net debt. The Group has not yet settled on an optimal gearing ratio. Presently, most of the debt is due within 2-5 years, and the Group is proactively
looking to extend these credit terms in line with its long-term strategy.
As of
30 June 2024
As of
30 June 2023
Debt liabilities
1
(Notes 22, 23, 24)
1,090,098
1,671,651
Less cash and cash equivalents (Note 9)
(809,584)
(954,103)
Net debt
280,514
717,548
Equity
2
1,864,643
1,741,857
Total capital
2,145,157
2,459,405
Net debt liabilities to capital
15.0%
41.2%
Financial Risk
The Group is exposed to financial risk as the result of the normal course of business and includes the following risks:
Credit risk
Liquidity risk
Market risk
Risk management policies have been established to identify, assess, and analyze the risks faced by the Group, to manage and continuously
improve an effective risk management and monitoring system, spreading the culture of decision-making in terms of risks, their valuation and
likelihood of occurrence. The Group coordinates roles and participants through training, management standards, and procedures.
Credit Risk
Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the Group if counterparties may not be able to settle their contractual obligations due to the Group within
their agreed payment terms.
The Group’s exposure to credit risk is influenced mainly by the individual characteristics of each customer. The characteristics of the Group’s
customer base, including the default risk of the industry and country in which the major customers operate, have less of an influence on credit risk.
The management of the Group has established a credit policy under which each new customer is analyzed individually for creditworthiness before
the Group’s standard payment and delivery terms and conditions are offered. The Group’s review includes an assessment of the credit quality of
the customer, considering its financial position, payment history, transaction volume, and other factors. Sales limits are established for each cus-
tomer, which represent the maximum open amount without requiring approval from the management of the Group. These limits are reviewed
annually. Customers who fail to meet the Group’s benchmark for creditworthiness may only conduct transactions on a prepaid basis and are subject
to an additional level of agreement approval. To reduce non-payment risk in international markets, the Group presents title documents via banking
channels and uses payment instruments such as letters of credit, insurance arrangements, and bank guarantees. The Group holds collateral
against loans provided to farmers, consisting of future harvests, encumbrances on movable property, and immovable property. The collateral is
secured in quantities sufficient to cover the loans, based on the current market price. The Group’s applied policy about expected credit losses is
disclosed in Note 10 for all trade receivables. Other financial assets at amortized cost include loans to related parties, key management personnel,
and other receivables that have a low credit risk.
1
Debt includes short-term and long-term borrowings, obligations under finance leases, bonds issued and accrued interest. Debt liabilities do not include the liabilities associated with assets held for sale.
2
Equity includes issued capital, share-premium reserve, additional paid-in capital, revaluation reserve, equity-settled employee benefits reserve, retained earnings, other reserve and translation reserve
attributable to Kernel Holding S.A. shareholders.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The Group’s most significant customer is an international customer, who accounted for USD 31,643 thousand out of total trade accounts receivable
as of 30 June 2024 (30 June 2023: one international customer accounted for USD 39,440 thousand).
The entity is also exposed to credit risk to debt investments in government bonds that are measured at fair value through profit or loss. Government
bonds are represented by bonds issued by the Ukrainian government and the credit rating of Ukraine has been downgraded since the beginning
of the war.
As of 30 June 2024, 59% (30 June 2023: 81%) of margin accounts with brokers and derivative financial instruments balances are conducted with
the financial institutions rated at F1-B by Fitch (or analog). Short-term bank deposits and pledge deposits are held by the Group in the international
banks and Ukrainian subsidiaries of international banks with high ratings (F1+ - F by Fitch). The Group’s exposure to credit risk for derivative
financial instruments and margin accounts with brokers is significantly reduced by placing them with financial institutions that hold a strong Fitch
credit rating of 'B' or above, reflecting a high level of creditworthiness.
Liquidity Risk
Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group manages liquidity risk by
maintaining adequate cash and cash equivalents, as well as the availability of funding through the adequacy of the banking facilities by continuously
monitoring forecasted and actual cash flows and by matching the maturity profiles of financial assets and liabilities. Management diversifies funding
sources to ensure that sufficient liquidity is maintained to meet liquidity requirements.
As of 30 June 2024, the carrying amount of the Group’s maximum exposure to financial obligations (including lease liabilities) was
USD 1,301,970 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 1,953,904 thousand).
The following table details the Group’s remaining contractual maturity for its non-derivative financial liabilities with agreed repayment periods as of
30 June 2024 and 2023. The table has been drawn up based on the undiscounted cash flows of financial liabilities based on the earliest date on
which the Group can be required to pay. The tables include both interest and principal cash flows.
Carrying
amount
Contractual
cash flows
Less than 1
year
1–2 years
2–5 years
More than 5
years
30 June 2024
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Trade accounts payable
109,672
(109,672)
(109,672)
Borrowings (Note 22)
315,166
(315,166)
(315,166)
Bonds issued (Note 24)
605,192
(605,192)
(605,192)
Other financial liabilities (Note 21)
90,768
(90,768)
(90,768)
Other non-current liabilities
986
(986)
(493)
(493)
Total
1,121,784
(1,121,784)
(1,120,798)
(493)
(493)
Derivatives
Derivative financial instruments (Note 21)
10,446
(10,446)
(10,446)
Total
10,446
(10,446)
(10,446)
30 June 2023
Non-derivative financial liabilities
Trade accounts payable
158,567
(158,567)
(158,567)
Borrowings (Note 22)
869,933
(869,933)
(869,933)
Bonds issued (Note 24)
603,823
(603,823)
(603,823)
Other financial liabilities (Note 21)
50,281
(50,281)
(50,281)
Other non-current liabilities
55,078
(55,078)
(54,678)
(400)
Total
1,737,682
(1,737,682)
(1,682,604)
(54,678)
(400)
Derivatives
Derivative financial instruments (Note 21)
18,327
(18,327)
(18,327)
Total
18,327
(18,327)
(18,327)
The concentration of liquidity risk is limited due to different repayment terms of financial liabilities and sources of borrowing facilities.
Market Risk
The Group`s activities expose it primarily to market risk which is mainly presented as the risk of loss in the value of any financial instrument due to
an adverse fluctuation in market prices, interest rates, and foreign exchange rates, whether arising out of factors affecting specific instruments or
the market in general. The goal of market risk management is to control and manage market risk exposures within acceptable limits while maxim-
izing the return on those risks.
Currency Risk
The functional currency of the majority of the Group’s Subsidiaries is their local currency, except for businesses engaged in the production and
sale of sunflower oil and transshipment services, for which USD was selected as the functional currency.
Currency risk is a risk of financial impact due to exchange rate fluctuations related to transactions and balances in currencies other than functional
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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currency. The Group enters into such transactions denominated in other currencies, which include capital expenditures, operating expenses, certain
sales of goods, and recognized assets and liabilities denominated in a currency that is not the functional currency of the entity. Exposure of currency
risk is managed by utilizing currency forward contracts and fulfilling comparative analysis between subsidiaries.
Management of the Group mitigates the influence of currency risk in Ukrainian hryvnia through export sales expressed in USD and EUR: for the
year ended 30 June 2024, out of total sales denominated in USD sales in the amount of USD 3,250,287 thousand, and denominated in EUR sales
were in the amount of USD 64,367 thousand (2023: USD 3,070,642 thousand and USD 87,156 thousand, respectively).
The Group makes use of currency swaps, which are financial derivative contracts where two parties agree to exchange principal and interest
payments in different currencies. These swaps serve a dual purpose: primarily, they help manage exposure to foreign exchange risk by mitigating
potential losses from currency fluctuations. Additionally, they enable the Group to secure more favorable borrowing rates compared to what might
be available in their domestic markets. The risk related to currencies other than the functional currency, arising from the Group’s non-US dollar-
denominated debts, was settled through the US dollar payment leg of these swaps.
Interest and principal on borrowings are denominated in currencies that match the cash flows generated by the underlying operations of the Group,
primarily in USD. This provides the Group with a natural hedge against currency risk and no derivatives are required to cover such risk.
The table below covers UAH and USD-denominated assets and liabilities carried by Subsidiaries having balances in currencies other than functional
currencies.
The Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk, including the balances outstanding between the Group’s companies as of 30 June 2024 and 2023
was as follows:
30 June 2024
30 June 2023
UAH
USD
UAH
USD
Cash and cash equivalents
132,254
163,471
36,175
37,353
Trade accounts receivable
50,856
94,427
75,764
61,198
Other financial assets
177,655
14,966
Trade accounts payable
(69,585)
(1,320)
(64,049)
(519)
Other financial liabilities
(277,303)
(642)
(323,763)
Current portion of lease liabilities (Note 23)
(644)
(739)
(121)
Other non-current liabilities
(3,081)
(368)
Borrowings from Ukrainian subsidiary of European bank (Note 22)
(27,654)
Borrowings from Ukrainian bank (Note 22)
(16,760)
Borrowings European Bank (Note 22)
(12,628)
(15,720)
Lease liabilities (Note 23)
(6,855)
(7,333)
Net exposure
3,297
243,308
(313,761)
82,191
The following table details the Group’s sensitivity to a 10 % change of the UAH against the USD would prompt a fluctuation in the equity and profit
and loss account by the amounts shown below. This sensitivity analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain con-
stant. The sensitivity analysis includes only outstanding monetary items denominated in a currency other than the functional currency.
A strengthening/depreciation of the UAH against USD on 30 June would have affected the measurement of financial instruments denominated in
a foreign currency and affected profit or loss before income tax by the amounts shown below:
30 June 2024
30 June 2023
Strengthening
Depreciation
Strengthening
Depreciation
UAH (10% movement)
(21,789)
26,705
(38,848)
40,508
Interest Rate Risk
The Group’s main interest rate risk arises from bank borrowings and lease liabilities with variable rates, which expose the group to cash flow interest
rate risk.
The sensitivity analysis in the table below has been determined based on exposure to interest rates for financial liabilities at the end of the reporting
period. For floating rate liabilities, the analysis was prepared assuming the amount of liability outstanding at the end of the reporting period was
outstanding for the whole year. A 100-basis point ('bp') increase, or decrease, was used when reporting interest rate risk internally to key manage-
ment personnel and represents management’s assessment of reasonably possible changes in interest rates.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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The interest rate profile of the Group’s interest-bearing financial instruments and its sensitivity to increase or decrease of variable interest rate was
as follows:
Carrying
amount
as of
30 June 2024
Gain/(loss) on profit for the year (be-
fore income tax) due to change of
variable rate
Carrying
amount as of
30 June 2023
Gain/(loss) on profit for the year (be-
fore income tax) due to change of
variable rate
100 bp higher
100 bp lower
100 bp higher
100 bp lower
Fixed rate
873,561
1,034,904
Variable rate
216,538
(2,166)
2,166
636,752
(6,369)
6,369
SOFR
162,157
(1,622)
1,622
124,074
(1,241)
1,241
COF
29,686
(297)
297
26,558
(266)
266
UIRD
23,738
(237)
237
18,666
(187)
187
LIBOR
957
(10)
10
467,454
(4,675)
4,675
Total
1,090,099
(2,166)
2,166
1,671,656
(6,369)
6,369
As of 30 June 2024, the Group completed its transition to new interest rate benchmarks following the global phase-out of LIBOR. Specifically, all
USD LIBOR-based contracts were transitioned to the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) upon the LIBOR cessation date. The transition
was carried out smoothly, ensuring minimal disruption to existing financial agreements and maintaining alignment with market standards. This
change reflects the Group’s commitment to adhering to regulatory requirements and adopting more robust and transparent benchmark rates,
thereby reducing exposure to potential volatility in legacy rates.
The Group does not use any derivatives to manage interest rate risk exposure. The Group manages its interest rate risk by having a balanced
portfolio of fixed and variable-rate loans and borrowings.
Commodity Price Risk
The Group is exposed to fluctuations in commodity prices for inventories and the product of production which are not held to meet forward priced
contracts.
In the marketing year 2024, the Group withstood a period of volatile markets and relatively low prices across main agricultural commodities,
remaining exposed to war-induced limitations but to a lesser extent compared to the previous year. During Q1 (JulySeptember 2023), we tested
the limits of river barge logistics by ramping up export flows and optimizing both throughput and costs. This resulted in increased efficiency and
cost savings, giving us confidence in our capability to maintain a sufficient pace of exports of oilseed crush products matching the Group’s pro-
cessing capacity. To a certain extent, this also applied to grains and oilseeds we farm, in case of temporary unavailability of deep-water Black Sea
port navigation.
The opening and acceleration of shipments via the Black Sea later in the season and for the prevailing part thereof allowed for better predictability,
planning of trading books, and market risk management. As exports from Ukraine normalized, there was higher confidence in Ukrainian-origin
supply chains from the main regions of consumption.
A gradual decrease in freight premiums for Ukrainian Black Sea ports vis-à-vis the ports of Constanta and Varna, along with a similar trend in
insurance premiums, contributed to the Group’s bottom line and made our trade flows more agile and responsive to dynamic market changes.
From Q2 onwards, trading of vegetable oils was fine-tuned to changing parities between EU and Asian destinations. The Group's activities, primarily
in the markets of India and the European Union - almost equally distributed between the Mediterranean and Northern EU - allowed us to manage
exposure from both price environment and freight standpoints in a balanced manner. We became self-sufficient in vegetable oils throughput by
utilizing two vegetable oil port terminals under our ownership, keeping operational risks under control while minimizing costs related to vessel
demurrage. This also enhanced our trading book by introducing another layer of optimization through rhythmic shipments and port stock manage-
ment. Carefully crafted trading of all the main products we manage allowed for moderate positions with a focus on cost reduction, book optimization,
and arbitrage between destinations.
The Group measures and limits market risk exposure using a Value at Risk computation for commodity price risk related to its physical marketing
activities.
Value at Risk (VaR) is used by management as a tool for the estimation of potential loss in value of risk positions over a given time period under
normal market conditions. The Group calculates VaR over a one-day time horizon with a 95 percent confidence level. Limitations that may result
in the information not fully reflecting the fair value of the assets and liabilities involved: The Group uses a Parametric VaR model based on a Log-
Normal assumption of Returns. Parameters are estimated using an Exponentially Weighted Moving Average over a 75-day period with a 0.94
weight. The VaR model does not capture the liquidity of different risk positions and therefore does not estimate potential losses if the Group
liquidates large positions over a short period of time. The VaR is based on statistical analysis of historical market data which might not reflect
futures market prices. As of 30 June 2024, the Group`s marker risk VaR amounted to USD 6,100 thousand (30 June 2023: USD 5,063 thousand).
The Group’s VaR should be interpreted in light of the limitations of the methodologies used. These limitations include the following:
The VaR model does not capture the liquidity of different risk positions and therefore does not estimate potential losses if the company liquidates
large positions over a short period.
VaR is based on historical data that may not provide the best estimate of the joint distribution of risk factor changes in the future and may fail to
capture the risk of possible extreme adverse market movements that have not occurred in the historical window used in the calculations.
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Model Risk: VaR’s accuracy depends on the method and assumptions used for calculation. For instance, the parametric method assumes a
normal distribution, which may not hold in real markets
37. Financial Instruments
The following tables give information on the carrying and fair values of the financial instruments. 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. In the absence of market
values, fair values have been estimated by discounting expected cash flows at prevailing market interest and exchange rates. These estimated fair
values have been determined using market information and appropriate valuation methodologies but may not necessarily reflect the amounts that
the company could realize in the normal course of business.
As of 30 June 2024 and 2023, the financial assets and liabilities are presented by class in the tables below at their carrying values:
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Amortized
cost
FVTPL
1
Total
Amortized
cost
FVTPL
1
Total
Assets
Cash and cash equivalents (Note 9)
809,584
809,584
954,103
954,103
Trade accounts receivable (Note 10)
305,246
305,246
321,579
321,579
Other financial assets (Note 14) of which
Margin account with brokers
82,215
82,215
65,993
65,993
Loans granted
22,306
22,306
41,092
41,092
Short-term bank deposits
12,747
12,747
7,127
7,127
Other financial assets
10,760
10,760
19,248
19,248
Pledge deposits
1,303
1,303
122,703
122,703
Receivables from disposal of subsidiary
90,000
90,000
Other financial assets (Note 14) of which
Government bonds
185,310
185,310
16,058
16,058
Derivative financial instruments
25,288
25,288
13,842
13,842
Non-current financial assets
23,307
23,307
25,524
25,524
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Amortized
cost
FVTPL
1
Total
Amortized
cost
FVTPL
1
Total
Liabilities
Trade accounts payable
109,672
109,672
158,567
158,567
Borrowings (Note 22)
315,166
315,166
869,933
869,933
Bonds issued and interest accrued (Note 24)
605,192
605,192
603,823
603,823
Other financial liabilities (Note 21) of which
Payable for legal claims
16,502
16,502
40,558
40,558
Accounts payable for property, plant and equipmen
5,896
5,896
5,587
5,587
Other current liabilities
2,129
2,129
4,136
4,136
Other financial liabilities (Note 21) of which
Share-based options
66,241
66,241
Derivative financial instruments
10,446
10,446
18,327
18,327
Other non-current liabilities
986
986
800
54,278
55,078
The following table below represents a comparison of carrying amounts and fair value of the financial instruments for which they differ:
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Financial liabilities
2
Carrying amount
Fair value
Carrying amount
Fair value
Bonds issued (Note 24)
605,192
484,290
603,823
365,250
Due to the defined short-term nature of the borrowings, as of 30 June 2024, their carrying amount is considered to be approximately the same as
their fair value. The fair value was calculated based on cash flows discounted using a current lending rate that is within level 2 of the fair value
hierarchy.
The fair value of Bonds issued was estimated based on directly observable quotations within Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
Derivative instruments are carried at fair value for which the Group evaluates the quality and reliability of the assumptions and data used to measure
fair value in the two hierarchy levels, Level 1 and 2, as prescribed by IFRS 13 Fair Value Measurement. Fair values are determined in the following
ways: externally verified via comparison to quoted market prices in active markets (Level 1) or by observable quoted prices sourced from exchanges
or brokers in active markets for identical assets or liabilities (Level 2).
1
FVTPL Fair value through profit and loss.
2
Including accrued interests
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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Valuation of the Group’s commodity physical forward contracts categorized within level 2 is based on observable quoted prices sourced from
exchanges or traded reference indices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and broker markups derived from observable quotations
representing differentials, as required, including geographic location and local supply and demand.
The following table below represents the fair values of the derivative financial instruments including trade-related financial and physical forward
purchase as of 30 June 2024 and 2023:
As of 30 June 2024
As of 30 June 2023
Level 1
Level 2
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Total
Other financial assets
Forwards
9,964
9,964
10,994
10,994
Futures/Options
15,324
15,324
2,848
2,848
Other financial liabilities
Forwards
9,224
9,224
13,302
13,302
Futures/Options
1,222
1,222
5,025
5,025
The major part of other financial liabilities has contractual maturity due within 6 months.
Cash and cash equivalents and short-term borrowings and government bonds are classified as level 2 fair values in the fair value hierarchy due to
the inclusion of directly and indirectly observable inputs. Trade receivables, other current assets and trade accounts payable, other current liabilities
are classified as level 3 fair values in the fair value hierarchy due to the inclusion of unobservable inputs including counterparty credit risk.
For the year ended 30 June 2024 and 30 June 2023, the fair value of other non-current assets recognized at amortized cost was estimated by
discounting the expected future cash outflows by a market rate of interest for bank borrowings of 5-10% that is within level 3 in the fair value
hierarchy due to the inclusion of unobservable inputs including counterparty credit risk.
There were no transfers between levels of the fair value hierarchy.
There were no changes in the valuation technique since the previous year.
Offsetting of financial assets and liabilities
Financial assets and liabilities are offset, and the net amount is presented in the statement of financial position when the Group has a legally
enforceable right to offset the recognized amounts and intends to either settle on a net basis or realize the asset and settle the liability simultane-
ously.
As of 30 June 2024, other financial assets include collaterals for derivatives in the amount of USD 76,049 thousand (30 June 2023:
USD 49,693 thousand). The cash collateral does not meet the offsetting criteria in IAS 32, but it can be set off against the net amount of the
derivative asset and derivative liability in the case of default and in accordance with associated collateral arrangements.
The financial assets and liabilities, which meet the criteria of offsetting as of 30 June 2024 were as follows:
Amounts set off in the statement of
financial position
Amounts not set off in the
statement of financial position
Total as presented
in the consolidated
statements of finan-
cial position
Gross amount
of financial
assets
Gross amount
of financial
liabilities
Net amount
Margin
account with
brokers
Not under master
netting
agreements
Derivative assets (Note 14)
89,652
(74,328)
15,324
9,964
25,288
Derivative liabilities (Note 21)
250,988
(252,300)
(1,312)
(9,224)
(10,536)
Margin account with brokers
(Note 14)
82,215
82,215
Total
340,640
(326,628)
14,012
82,215
740
96,967
The financial assets and liabilities, which meet the criteria of offsetting as of 30 June 2023 were as follows:
Amounts set off in the statement of
financial position
Amounts not set off in the
statement of financial position
Total as presented in
the consolidated
statements of finan-
cial position
Gross amount
of financial
assets
Gross amount
of financial
liabilities
Net amount
Margin
account with
brokers
Not under master
netting
agreements
Derivative assets (Note 14)
66,633
(63,785)
2,848
10,994
13,842
Derivative liabilities (Note 21)
7,281
(12,306)
(5,025)
(13,302)
(18,327)
Margin account with brokers
(Note 14)
65,993
65,993
Total
73,914
(76,091)
(2,177)
65,993
(2,308)
61,508
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The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Notes to the Consolidated Statements continued
for the year ended 30 June 2024 (in thousands of US dollars, unless otherwise stated)
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38. Earnings per Share
Basic earnings per share are computed by dividing net income from continuing and discontinued operations available to ordinary shareholders by
the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding (as of 30 June 2024 and 2023, 293,429,230 and 77,429,230 shares, respectively,
and the weighted average number of ordinary shares in the number of 256,839,066 and 77,429,230 shares for the periods then ended, respec-
tively), excluding any dilutive effects of stock options. Diluted earnings per share are computed in the same way as basic earnings per share,
except that the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding is increased to include additional shares from the assumed exercise of
stock options. The number of additional shares is calculated by assuming that outstanding stock options, except those that are not dilutive, were
exercised and that the proceeds from such an exercise were used to acquire ordinary shares at the average market price during the reporting
period. For calculating diluted earnings per share, as of 30 June 2024, an average number of 256,839,066 ordinary shares is considered
(30 June 2023: 77,429,230).
39. Subsequent Events
In August 2024, Russian drones attacked and damaged the largest oilseed processing plant in western Ukraine, launched in February 2024. The
attack caused an estimated USD 341 thousand damage to storage facilities and plant systems. An expert assessment will determine the exact
losses. The production capacity was unaffected, and the plant continues to operate at normal capacity.
In October 2024, the Company`s assets at the port of Chornomorsk were damaged due to a Russian drone attack on Ukraine's port infrastructure.
Fortunately, there were no casualties, and transshipment operations were not suspended.
As of 16 October 2024, the Group entered into a pre-export credit facility with a syndicate of European banks. The Facility provides a total available
limit of up to USD 150 million and matures on 1 August 2025, with the possibility of further extension.
In October Kernel Holding S.A. completed the scheduled redemption of its USD 300 million 6.5% coupon bonds due in 2024 (the ‘2024 Eurobonds’).
The Company has fully settled the principal amount along with accrued coupon payment in accordance with the terms specified in the 2024
Eurobonds prospectus. This action effectively discharges all of the Company's obligations toward the holders of 2024 Eurobonds.
Kernel Holding S.A. Annual Report and Accounts for the year ended 30 June 2024 |
144
www.ker
nel.ua
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
Corporate information
Management
Report
Sustainability
Report
Corporate
Governance
Financial
Statements
Headquarters
3 Tarasa Shevchenka Lane,
Kyiv, Ukraine, 01001
Tel.: +38044 4618801
Fax: +38044 4618864
Registered office
Kernel Holding S.A.
9, rue de Bitbourg
L-1273 Luxembourg
Registered number
B109173
Auditors
PwC Société cooperative,
2, rue Gerhard Mercator B.P.
L-1014 Luxembourg
Investor relations
Mr. Yuriy Kovalchuk,
Corporate Investments Director
Mr. Michael Iavorskyi,
Investor Relations Manager
Ms. Anastasiia Nesterenko,
Investor Relations Specialist
ir@kernel.ua
3 Tarasa Shevchenka Lane,
Kyiv, Ukraine, 01001
Tel.: +38044 4618801, ext. 72-75
Kernel Holding S.A. Investor Calendar
Q1 FY2025 Operations Update
28 October 2024
Annual general shareholders’ meeting
10 December 2024
Q1 FY2025 Financial Report
13 December 2024
Q2 FY2025 Operations Update
20 January 2025
H1 FY2025 Financial Report
28 February 2025
Q3 FY2025 Operations Update
21 April 2025
Q3 FY2025 Financial Report
30 May 2025
Q4 FY2025 Operations Update
21 July 2025
FY2025 Financial Report
27 October 2025
Stock information
Exchange
Warsaw Stock Exchange
Stock quote currency
PLN
Shares issued as of 30 June 2024
293,429,230
Bloomberg
KER PW
Refinitiv Eikon ticker
KER.WA
ISIN code
LU0327357389
Cautionary statement
Certain statements in this document are for-
ward-looking statements. By their nature, for-
ward-looking statements involve a number of
risks, uncertainties, or assumptions that could
cause actual results or events to differ materi-
ally from those expressed or implied by the for-
ward-looking statements. These risks, uncer-
tainties, or assumptions could adversely affect
the outcome and financial effects of the plans
and events described herein. Forward-looking
statements contained in this document regard-
ing past trends or activities should not be
taken as a representation that such trends or
activities will continue in the future. You should
not place undue reliance on forward-looking
statements, which speak only as of the date of
this announcement. Except as required by
law, the Company is under no obligation to up-
date or keep current the forward-looking state-
ments contained in this document or to correct
any inaccuracies that may become apparent
in such forward-looking statements.
This document does not constitute or form part
of any offer or invitation to sell or purchase, or
any solicitation of any offer to sell or purchase
any shares or securities. It is not intended to
form the basis upon which any investment de-
cision or any decision to purchase any interest
in Kernel Holding S.A. is made. Information in
this document relating to the price at which in-
vestments have been bought or sold in the
past or the yield on investments cannot be re-
lied upon as a guide to future performance.
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