
The group performs a reassessment of whether it controls or does not control an entity when facts and
circumstances indicate that there are changes in one or more of the control elements.
The acquisition method is used in accounting for business combinations, see note 15. Subsidiaries are
consolidated from the date the group obtains control and are deconsolidated when control ceases.
The result, as well as each component of other comprehensive income and expenses, is attributed to the
group and to non-controlling interests, even if this results in a loss for the non-controlling interests. If
necessary, the subsidiaries' financial statements are adjusted to comply with the group's accounting policies.
Intra-group transactions and balances, as well as gains and losses arising from transactions between the
companies, are eliminated. Non-controlling ownership interests are presented on a separate line within the
equity section of the consolidated balance sheet.
Change in ownership percentage without loss of control
Changes in ownership percentages in subsidiaries that do not result in loss of control are recognized as equity
transactions. The consideration is recognized at fair value, and the difference between the consideration and
the carrying value of non-controlling interests is recognized against the controlling owners' equity.
Loss of control
In the event of a change in ownership percentage that results in loss of control, the consideration is measured
at fair value. The carrying values of the assets (including goodwill) and liabilities in the subsidiary and non-
controlling interests are deducted at the time control is lost. The fair value of the consideration received, less
the carrying values of the liabilities in the subsidiary and non-controlling interests at the time control is lost, is
recognized. Any remaining ownership interest is measured at fair value, and any gain or loss is recognized in
the income statement at the time control ceases.
Business combinations
The acquisition method is used for accounting for business combinations.
Acquired assets and liabilities in connection with business combinations are measured at fair value at the
acquisition date. The company is consolidated from the point at which the group gains control and is excluded
from consolidation when control ceases. Costs related to acquisitions are expensed as they are incurred. Non-
controlling interests are calculated based on the non-controlling interests' share of identifiable assets and
liabilities or at fair value. The choice of method is made for each individual business combination.
Goodwill is calculated as the sum of the consideration and the accounting value of non-controlling interests
and the fair value of previously owned equity interests, less the net value of identifiable assets and liabilities
calculated at the time of acquisition. Goodwill is not amortized but is tested for impairment at least annually.
Goodwill is allocated to the cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the
acquisition synergies, regardless of whether other assets and liabilities in the acquisition are attributed to these
cash-generating units. If the fair value of the net assets in the business combination exceeds the consideration
(negative goodwill), the difference is recognized as income immediately at the acquisition date.
Use of estimates
The management has used estimates and assumptions that have affected assets, liabilities, revenues,
expenses, and disclosure of potential obligations. This applies in particular to depreciation of fixed assets,
impairment of goodwill, valuations related to acquisitions, and pension obligations. Future events may cause
the estimates to change. Estimates and their underlying assumptions are assessed on an ongoing basis and
are based on best judgment and historical experience. Changes in accounting estimates are recognized in the
period in which the changes occur. If the changes also relate to future periods, the effect is distributed over the
current and future periods.