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UNIBAIL-RODAMCO-WESTFIELD
UNIBAIL-RODAMCO-WESTFIELD N.V.
2022 ANNUAL REPORT
European single electronic reporting format (ESEF) and PDF version
This copy of the Annual Report is the PDF version of the Annual Report 2022 of Unibail-
Rodamco-Westfield N.V. This version has been prepared for ease of use and does not
contain ESEF information as specified in the Regulatory Technical Standards on ESEF
(Delegated Regulation (EU) 2019/815). The official ESEF reporting package is available on
our website at www.urw-nv.com.
2
Table of Content
MANAGEMENT BOARD REPORT 3
1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION 4
1.2 BUSINESS REVIEW AND 2022 RESULTS 4
1.3 FINANCIAL REVIEW 2022 RESULTS 8
1.4 DIVIDEND 13
1.5 NON-FINANCIAL INFORMATION 13
1.6 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS 15
1.7 POST-CLOSING EVENTS 15
1.8 OUTLOOK 16
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE AND REMUNERATION 17
2.1 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE 18
2.2 REPORT OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD 22
2.3 REMUNERATION REPORT 34
2.4 REMUNERATION PAID TO THE SB MEMBERS FOR 2022 FINANCIAL YEAR 38
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022 39
3.1 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 40
3.2 NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 45
3.3 COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022 92
3.4 NOTES TO THE COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 93
3.5 OTHER INFORMATION 102
RISK FACTORS 109
4.1 ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT (“ERM”) FRAMEWORK 110
4.2 MAIN RISK FACTORS 114
4.3 TRANSFERRING RISK TO INSURERS 123
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY, SHAREHOLDING AND THE SHARE CAPITAL 125
5.1 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY 126
5.2 SHARE CAPITAL AND OTHER SECURITIES GRANTING ACCESS TO THE SHARE CAPITAL 126
5.3 SHARE BUY-BACK PROGRAMME AND SHARE ISSUANCES 127
5.4 INFORMATION ON THE SHAREHOLDING 128
5.5 ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION OF THE COMPANY AND CHARTERS OF THE CORPORATE BODIES 130
5.6 BRANCHES 135
5.7 INVESTMENT BY THE COMPANY OUTSIDE THE GROUP 135
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION 136
6.1 STATEMENT OF THE PERSONS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ANNUAL REPORT 137
6.2 AUDITORS 137
6.3 INDEPENDENT APPRAISERS 137
6.4 DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC 138
6.5 GLOSSARY 138
3
MANAGEMENT BOARD
REPORT
4
The Management Board (“MB”) of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. (“URW NV” or “the Company”) hereby presents its management report and
the consolidated and company only financial statements of URW NV for the period ending December 31, 2022.
1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
URW NV is a public limited liability company under the laws of the Netherlands. The Company was incorporated as Unibail-Rodamco B.V., a
private company with limited liability on February 14, 2018 and converted its legal form to a public limited liability company on March 22, 2018.
On the same date, the Company changed its name to WFD Unibail-Rodamco N.V. At the Annual General Meeting held on June 9, 2020, the
shareholders adopted the name change to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.
On June 7, 2018, Unibail-Rodamco SE (now known as Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE, or “URW SE”) announced it had completed the acquisition
of Westfield Corporation (“Westfield”), to create Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (“URW Group”), the stapled group which, collectively, consists of
URW SE, URW NV and their respective controlled undertakings whose financial information is included in their respective consolidated financial
reporting, the premier global developer and operator of flagship destinations. The URW Group combines two of the strongest and most respected
names in the real estate industry to build on their legacies. The acquisition of Westfield was a natural extension of URW SE’s strategy of
concentration, differentiation, and innovation. Upon completion of the Westfield Transaction, URW SE and former Westfield securityholders held
stapled shares, each comprising one ordinary share in the capital of URW SE and one class A share in the capital of URW NV (“Stapled Shares” -
see 5.2.2 “authorised share capital – form of shares”). As at December 31, 2022the Stapled Shares are listed on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext
Paris. URW Group has also established a secondary listing on the Australian Securities Exchange to allow former Westfield securityholders to
trade Stapled Shares locally in the form of CHESS Depositary Interests (“CDIs”).
The main business objectives of the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as “the Group” or “URW NV”) are to invest in assets,
primarily through the direct or indirect acquisition of real estate and to enter into cash pooling arrangements with, to provide financing to, and
to furnish guarantees for the benefit of the URW Group and other affiliated bodies of the Company.
1.2 BUSINESS REVIEW AND 2022 RESULTS
This section provides an overview of the most significant business events for URW NV in 2022. The Company’s accounts reflect the financial
results for the period from January 1, 2022, until December 31, 2022. All references to operational results, such as tenant sales, rents and leases
signed, relate to the 12-month period ended December 31, 2022, unless indicated otherwise.
Certain amounts in the business review are recorded in USD to eliminate currency impact in comparisons with the previous year. These amounts
in case of leasing activity and Commercial Partnerships also reflect data for the full centre and do not consider the URW NV ownership % in case
of Joint Ventures.
1.2.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
The Group’s consolidated financial statements as at December 31, 2022, were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting
Standards (“IFRS”) as applicable in the European Union as at such date.
The Group also prepares financial information for internal management purposes in a proportionate format, in which the joint-controlled entities
are accounted for on a proportionate basis, instead of being accounted for using the equity method under IFRS. The business review and results
are presented based on the financial information on a proportionate basis unless otherwise indicated, with no impact on the net results. The
proportionate part of the underlying amount is based on the percentage of ownership in the respective companies jointly controlled, associates
are accounted for at the equity value.
Rent relief signed or expected to be signed, granted without any counterpart from the tenants is considered as a reduction of the receivables
and is charged to the income statement as a reduction of the GRI.
Certain amounts recorded in the consolidated financial statements reflect estimates and assumptions made by management in the current
context, including higher inflation, higher interest rates, increase of energy and raw material costs, supply chain disruption resulting from
uncertain geopolitical and economic environment, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and difficulties in assessing their impacts and future
prospects. In this context, management has taken into account these uncertainties on the basis of reliable information available at the date of
the preparation of the consolidated financial statements, particularly with regards to the fair value of investment properties and financial
instruments, the estimation of the credit loss allowance, as well as the impairment testing of goodwill and intangible assets.
Due to inherent uncertainties associated with estimates, the Group reviews those estimates based on regularly updated information. Actual
results might eventually differ from estimates made at the date of the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.
99% of URW NV’s property portfolio related to the Shopping Centres and Offices and intangible assets were valued by independent appraisers as
at December 31, 2022.
5
1.2.2 SCOPE OF CONSOLIDATION
The organisation chart as at December 31, 2022, is as follows:
The principal changes in the scope of consolidation since December 31, 2021, are:
• The disposal of the Promenade development parcel in March 2022;
• The disposal of Westfield Santa Anita in August 2022;
• The disposal of The Village at Topanga, Westfield Trumbull, Westfield South Shore and Kerkstraat Hilversum in the Netherlands in December
2022.
1.2.3 OPERATIONAL REPORTING
URW NV operates in 2 regions, the US and the Netherlands and in 2 segments, retail and offices. Since activities in the Netherlands are minor
compared to the US, they are reported under “other region”.
1.2.4 POST COVID-19 RECOVERY
The operations in URW NV’s shopping centres remained impacted by COVID-19 restrictions in the first few months of 2022. As from May 2022, no
restrictions were applicable anymore in the two regions in which the Group operates. Over the period, the economic situation has evolved rapidly
with the conflict in Ukraine, an increase in energy costs and higher inflation leading Central Banks to increase interest rates. Nevertheless,
despite all these challenges, the year 2022 showed a good resumption of activity in URW NV’s assets.
The Group uses 2019 in some cases as a comparable year to 2022 due to it being the last full year of trading without any COVID-19 restriction.
US FOOTFALL
1
In the US, 2022 footfall reached 94% of 2019 levels and 96% excluding the Central Business District (“CBD”)
2
in which footfall remains affected
by work from home policies and security issues in San Francisco. During the second half, footfall continued to improve, from 93% in H1-2022 to
95% in H2-2022.
In Q4-2022, footfall reached 94% of 2019 levels.
Compared to 2021, footfall was up +14%.
US TENANT SALES
In the US, tenant sales have consistently outperformed pre-COVID levels since H1-2021. Overall, 2022 sales came to 108% of 2019 levels, driven
by the Flagships at 117%, with the Regionals at 100% and partly offset by CBD assets at 74%. Sales at CBD assets continued to be affected by the
issues described earlier.
1
Footfall for all centres in operation, including extensions of existing assets, but excluding deliveries of new brownfield projects, newly acquired assets and assets under
heavy refurbishment (not in the US), and excluding in the US, the centres for which no comparable data of the previous year is available. In addition, footfall has been
restated from the disposals occurred during the year. H2 figures are based on the scope of assets in operation over the full year. H1 figures have been restated accordingly.
2
Westfield World Trade Center and Westfield San Francisco Centre.
6
The table below summarises the Group’s tenant sales growth during 2022:
US
Tenant Sales Levels (%)
H2-2022
Vs. H2-2019
FY-2022
Vs. FY-2019
FY-2022
Vs. FY-2021
US Flagships (excl. CBD)
119%
115%
117%
113%
US Regionals
100%
99%
100%
108%
US CBD
81%
69%
74%
125%
US Total
110%
107%
108%
112%
H2-2022, sales came to 107% of 2019 levels, with the Flagships at 115% and the Regionals at 99%, and in H1 to 110% of 2019 levels (119% for
Flagships and 100% for Regionals).
In Q4-2022, sales reached 102% of 2019 levels, with the Flagships at 111% and the Regionals at 95%.
The strong recovery in the US continued to be broad-based with almost all categories performing above 2019 levels, in particular Luxury (183%),
Home (137%), F&B (110%) and Fashion (103%). Entertainment remains the most affected at 82% but improved from 75% in H1 to 88% in H2.
Compared to 2021, sales are up by +12%, including +13% for Flagships, +8% for Regionals and +25% for CBD assets.
RENT RELIEF AND GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
As a reminder, throughout the COVID-19 crisis, URW NV recognised the issues its tenants faced due to administrative closures or trading
restrictions and the need to provide relief, generally limited to the period of closure and based on the principle of a fair sharing of the burden.
These negotiations were focused on providing a one-off rent relief, not on permanently changing lease terms or structures.
With all major restrictions being lifted, URW NV did not provide any COVID-19 rent relief in 2022 regarding 2022 for its shopping centre activity.
The 2022 P&L remained impacted by the straight lining of rent relief granted in 2020 and 2021 with a counterparty.
BANKRUPTCIES
The Group’s tenant insolvency procedures have affected 37 out of 3,506 stores in FY-2022 (vs. 58 out of 3,837 stores in FY-2021). The total
leasing revenues (including service charges of URW NV) which remain exposed to tenants currently in some form of bankruptcy procedure amount
to €2.0 Mn
3
over c. 7,987 sqm of retail space.
INFLATION
2022 saw a global increase in inflation with differences across countries.
In the US, leases are not tied to actual CPI figures; the Group benefitted from inflation through Sales Based Rents. 2022 inflation amounted to
+8.0% in the US; service charges in the US grow at a contractual pre-set level of usually +4% to +5% through pre-set CAM.
RENT COLLECTION
4
As at December 31, 2022, 96% of invoiced FY-2022 rents and service charges
had been collected in the US.
As at March 3, 2023, the FY-2022 rent collection rate had increased to 97%.
Overall rent collection by quarter in 2022 is shown below
5
:
Rent collection (%)
Q1-2022
Q2-2022
Q3-2022
Q4-2022
FY–2022
US Total
97%
97%
97%
96%
97%
As at December 31, 2022, the expected loss allowance in the Consolidated statement of financial position amounted to €57.1 Mn compared to
€75.5 Mn at the end of December 31, 2021. The expected credit loss for debtors recorded in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive
income amounted to a reversal of €11.5 Mn for the period ending December 31, 2022 compared to an expected credit loss of €18.6 Mn for the
year ended December 31, 2021.
3
Includes Edward Cinemas Bankrupt at Westfield Valencia Town Centre which accounts for €1.2 Mn and 6,390 sqm.
4
Retail only, assets at 100% MGR+CAM.
5
Based on cash collection as at February 2, 2023 and assets at 100%.
7
1.2.5 LEASING ACTIVITY
In 2022, 766 leases were signed on standing assets, representing 2,618,051 sq. ft. and $147.4 Mn of MGR up compared to $130.1 Mn of MGR signed
in 2021 on 955
6
leases, representing 4,057,299 sq. ft. illustrating the increase in total rents signed. As market conditions improved, the number
of long-term deals signed also increased from 332
7
to 375 year-on-year, representing 49% of the 2022 deals, compared to 35% in 2021. MGR signed
on leases above 3 years amounted to 62% vs. 47% in 2021.
The overall uplift on relettings and renewals was +7.8% for the US Shopping Centres and +24.6% for Flagships
8
. The Group continued to selectively
sign short-term leases including a higher SBR component, to speed up negotiations mainly on renewals, while focusing on long-term lettings and
relettings. Deals longer than 36 months have an MGR uplift of +36.0%, while for leases between 12 and 36 months, MGR uplifts were more affected
at -19.2%. On an annualized basis, the SBR is expected to compensate part of the MGR reduction on the US short-term deals signed in 2022, as it
was the case in 2021. SBR related to renewals, relettings and full SBR deals signed in 2021 amounted to $20.2 Mn (at 100%) in 2022, compared
to a negative $21.9 Mn
9
uplift of these 2021 deals.
In total, the Shopping Centres SBR increased from $20.6 Mn in 2019 (3.1% of NRI) to $59.3 Mn in 2021 (10.9% of NRI) and $81.8 Mn in 2022 (13.8%
of NRI).
The tenant mix continued to evolve with the introduction of new retailers (first Good American store in the US at Westfield Century City) and
DNVBs (Outdoor Voices at Westfield UTC and Warby Parket at Westfield Topanga).
The F&B offer has also been enriched by new concepts such as True Food Kitchen at Westfield Century City, Novo Restaurant & Brewery in
Westfield Mission Valley, and North Italia in Westfield Topanga.
The Luxury sector has also seen a strong growth with several important signings such as Cartier and Jimmy Choo in Westfield Topanga, Louis
Vuitton in Westfield Old Orchard, and Fendi in Westfield Valley Fair.
1.2.6 COMMERCIAL PARTNERSHIPS
Commercial Partnerships includes both the new Media, Brand & Data Partnerships division presented during the URW Group Investor Day in March
2022 and now called “Westfield Rise”, as well as kiosks, seasonal markets, pop-ups, and car park activations (“Specialty leasing & other income”).
The Group’s Commercial Partnerships revenue in 2022 amounted to $63.5 Mn, an increase of +$17.3 Mn (+37.5%) from 2021 and a decrease of
-$17.3 Mn (-21.4%) from 2019, mainly at Westfield World Trade Center.
Commercial Partnerships continued to perform strongly, after activity resumed last year. In 2022, several product launches were organized by
prime brands in the fashion and luxury sectors, including Swatch, IWC, Loewe and Saint Laurent Paris.
Media advertising revenue was very strong, up +35.0% vs. 2021. In H2-2022, URW NV launched creative campaigns with SKKN by Kim at Westfield
World Trade Center and with AMC at Westfield Topanga, Westfield Century City, Westfield Garden State Plaza and Westfield Southcenter.
1.2.7 NET RENTAL INCOME AND VACANCY
The total net change in NRI amounted to +$45.4 Mn and breaks down as follows:
• +$49.0 Mn related to shopping centres;
• -$3.6 Mn related to offices and residential.
The like-for-like shopping centre NRI increased by +$52.0 Mn, i.e. +12.0%. The performance was mainly driven by lower doubtful debtors due to
improved collection, higher SBR, parking income and Commercial Partnerships, partly offset by negative MGR uplifts in particular on short-term
deals. The like-for-like NRI growth was +10.4% excluding all COVID-19 rent reliefs.
US shopping centre NRI was also impacted by 2021 and 2022 disposals for -$9.6 Mn (Westfield Citrus Park, Westfield Countryside, Westfield
Sarasota, Westfield Broward, Westfield Palm Desert, Westfield Santa Anita, The Village at Topanga, Westfield Trumbull and Westfield South
Shore), partly offset by deliveries for +$6.5 Mn (restructuring of Westfield Annapolis, Westfield Garden State Plaza and Westfield Topanga).
As at December 31, 2022, the EPRA vacancy was 10.4% ($121.3 Mn), down by -60 bps from December 31, 2021. The decrease in vacancy was
driven by the proactive leasing approach of the Group. The vacancy decreased with -110 bps to 8.2% in the Flagships and increased with +100 bps
to 11.7% in the Regionals, along with the vacancy of the CBD assets that went up with +410 bps to 23.9%.
Occupancy on a GLA
10
basis was 92.4% as at December 31, 2022.
The OCR on a rolling 12 months basis stood at 10.5% as at December 31, 2022, compared to 11.8%
11
as at December 31, 2019, reflecting the
strong sales performance and rental adjustments, compensated by higher SBR.
6
Including deals from 2022 disposals and excluding 7 deals from 2021 foreclosures.
7
Including deals from 2022 disposals.
8
Excluding CBD centres.
9
Excluding sold and CBD assets.
10
GLA occupancy taking into account all areas, consistent with financial vacancy.
11
Based on all stores operating for more than 12 months (excluding atypical activities) and not only Specialty stores. Based on Specialty stores 2019 OCR was 12.6%.
8
1.3 FINANCIAL REVIEW 2022 RESULTS
The Group’s consolidated financial statements (based on IFRS basis) reflect the activities of URW America Inc, URW WEA LCC (“WEA”) and WFD
Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate B.V. The table below shows the result of the Group in recurring and non-recurring activities. This definition is
utilized by URW NV’s management to distinguish between operational (recurring) and other (non-recurring, including fair value valuations of
Investment Properties and loans) activities and does not intend to reflect IFRS nor EPRA definitions:
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Recurring
activities
Non-recurring
activities*
Result
Recurring
activities
Non-recurring
activities*
Result
United States
Gross rental income
379.2
-
379.2
340.0
-
340.0
Operating expenses & net service charges
(140.4)
-
(140.4)
(136.0)
-
(136.0)
Net rental income
238.9
-
238.9
204.0
-
204.0
Share of result of companies accounted for
using the equity method
257.1
(469.0)
(211.9)
208.6
(599.0)
(390.3)
Gains/losses on sale of properties
-
0.1
0.1
-
57.2
57.2
Valuation movements on assets
-
(395.6)
(395.6)
-
(496.1)
(496.1)
Result Shopping Centres United States
496.0
(864.5)
(368.5)
412.6
(1,037.8)
(625.2)
Other
Gross rental income
2.2
-
2.2
2.3
-
2.3
Operating expenses & net service charges
(0.3)
-
(0.3)
(0.9)
-
(0.9)
Net rental income
1.9
-
1.9
1.4
-
1.4
Gains/losses on sales of properties
-
(3.1)
(3.1)
-
-
-
Valuation movements on assets
-
(0.3)
(0.3)
-
(2.6)
(2.6)
Result Shopping Centres Other
1.9
(3.4)
(1.5)
1.4
(2.6)
(1.2)
TOTAL RESULT SHOPPING CENTRES
497.9
(867.9)
(370.0)
414.0
(1,040.3)
(626.3)
United States
Gross rental income
5.3
-
5.3
4.7
-
4.7
Operating expenses & net service charges
(2.9)
-
(2.9)
(2.9)
-
(2.9)
Net rental income
2.4
-
2.4
1.8
-
1.8
Share of result of companies accounted for
using the equity method
1.1
(12.7)
(11.6)
7.2
(8.2)
(1.0)
Valuation movements on assets
-
(2.2)
(2.2)
-
(14.3)
(14.3)
Result Offices United States
3.5
(14.8)
(11.3)
9.0
(22.5)
(13.5)
TOTAL RESULT OFFICES
3.5
(14.8)
(11.3)
9.0
(22.5)
(13.5)
Other property services net income
0.5
-
0.5
-
-
-
Corporate expenses
(20.7)
-
(20.7)
(42.4)
-
(42.4)
Acquisition and related costs
-
(5.9)
(5.9)
-
(1.4)
(1.4)
NET OPERATING RESULT
481.2
(888.6)
(407.4)
380.6
(1,064.3)
(683.7)
Financing result
(361.9)
523.8
162.0
(298.0)
11.4
(286.6)
RESULT BEFORE TAX
119.3
(364.8)
(245.4)
82.5
(1,052.8)
(970.3)
Tax income (expense)
(1.2)
12.9
11.7
(1.8)
76.0
74.2
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD
118.2
(351.8)
(233.7)
80.7
(976.8)
(896.1)
External non-controlling interests
3.7
(85.1)
(81.5)
(8.6)
(99.3)
(107.9)
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE OWNERS OF
URW N.V. SHARES
114.5
(266.8)
(152.2)
89.3
(877.5)
(788.2)
* Non-recurring activities include valuation movements, disposals, mark-to-market and termination costs of financial instruments, bond tender premiums, impairment of goodwill or recognition of
negative goodwill as well as costs directly incurred during a business combination and other non-recurring items.
FINANCIAL RESULTS
12
The Group reported negative net operating results of -€407.4 Mn (2021: -€683.7 Mn) for the period ended December 31, 2022. The recurring net
operating result increased to €481.2 Mn (2021: €380.6 Mn) mainly due to the relaxations of COVID-19 measures in 2022 and footfall being up to
almost pre COVID-19 levels, this resulted in less expected credit losses, higher net rental income and an increase in contributions of companies
accounted for using the equity method, which resulted in an increase of +€36.0 Mn in net rental income compared to 2021 and an increase of
+€42.4 Mn in contributions of companies accounted for using the equity method.
The negative net operating result of the non-recurring activities for the period ending December 31, 2022, decreased from -€1,064.3 Mn to
-€888.6 Mn. The result was mainly affected by the less negative contribution of companies accounted for using the equity method of -€481.7 Mn
(2021: -€607.2 Mn). This is mainly due to a decrease of the valuation result of the investment properties accounted for using the equity method
of -€443.0 Mn (2021: -€604.2 Mn), as well as the decrease in negative valuations on investment properties as part of the non-recurring activities
of -€398.1 Mn (2021: -€513.0 Mn).
The net result for the year 2022 is -€233.7 Mn (2021: -€896.1 Mn) of which -€152.2 Mn (2021: -€788.2 Mn) attributable to the shareholders of
URW NV with a net result per share (owners of URW NV shares) for the period of -€0.66 (-€3.40).
12
The figures are presented on IFRS basis.
9
Non-recurring financing result increased by +€512.4 Mn to +€523.8 Mn (2021: €11.4 Mn). This increase is predominantly caused by the positive
fair value adjustments of the interest rate derivatives due to a higher swap curve. The fair value movement of derivatives for the period ended
December 31, 2022, is €465.3 Mn (2021: €39.7 Mn).
The recurring net result for the period increased with +€37.5 Mn from €80.7 Mn as at December 31, 2021, to €118.2 Mn for the period ended
December 31, 2022. The increase in the net recurring result for the period ended December 31, 2022 can mainly be attributed to the increase in
the net rental income of +€36.0 Mn (see above for further explanation of this amount), an increase in contribution of companies accounted for
using the equity method of +€42.4 Mn due to relaxations of COVID-19 measures in 2022 and footfall returning to pre COVID-19 levels. The increase
is partly offset by the increase in financing result of -€63.9 Mn, this is due to higher interest rates in 2022 compared to 2021.
LIQUIDITY POSITION
URW NV has cross financial guarantees with URW SE and the liquidity needs are covered by the available undrawn credit lines at URW Group
level. As at December 31, 2022, the URW Group had €13.0 Bn of cash on hand and undrawn credit lines.
1.3.1 INVESTMENT AND DIVESTMENT
Unless otherwise indicated, the data presented in investment and divestment are on a proportionate basis as at December 31, 2022, and
comparisons are with values as at December 31, 2021.
INVESTMENTS
The Group acquired the Seritage box at Westfield Galleria Roseville in the year ended December 31, 2022.
In 2022, URW NV spent €110.3 Mn in capital expenditures in assets and on construction, extension, and refurbishment projects, compared to
€126.9 Mn in 2021. The total capital expenditures break down as follows:
(€Mn)
2022
2021
(1)
Shopping Centres
106.5
124.7
Offices
3.8
2.2
TOTAL CAPITAL EXPENDITURE
110.3
126.9
(1) The 2021 figures were restated to proportionate basis, the impact of the restatement was considered by URW NV and concluded that the impact of the restatement was not material. The 2021
figures previously disclosed are
€
146.9 Mn for Shopping Centres and
€
3.3 Mn for Offices.
DIVESTMENTS
The Group successfully continued to streamline its US portfolio in 2022 with the completion of the disposals of:
• the Promenade development parcel in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles for a sale price of $150 Mn (at 100%, URW NV’s share 55%);
• Westfield Santa Anita, a regional shopping centre for a sale price of $537.5 Mn (at 100%, URW NV’s share 49%);
• The Village, an outdoor lifestyle destination in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles for a sale price of $325 Mn (at 100%, URW NV’s share
55%); and
• Westfield Trumbull and Westfield South Shore for a combined sale price of $196 Mn.
In the Netherlands URW NV sold Kerkstraat in Hilversum for €7 Mn.
Disposal proceeds completed in 2022 amounted to $0.6
13
Bn ($0.7 Bn on a proportionate basis) and were completed at a discount of -0.5% to
2021 book value. Together with the disposal of the Palisade residential building and the ownership transfer of 5 other regional properties in 2021,
URW has made $1.3 Bn in total proceeds to date from the planned radical reduction of its financial exposure to the US.
In addition, in 2023 at the time of this publication, the Group sold Westfield North County for disposal proceeds of $31.4 Mn and Westfield
Valencia Town Center is expected to be sold or foreclosed leading to a potential debt reduction of -$97.5 Mn.
In 2023, the Group will continue to streamline its remaining regional asset portfolio. URW Group is committed to the radical reduction of its
financial exposure to the US, a process that is supported by strong operational performance of the assets and the URW Group’s liquidity position.
1.3.2 PROJECTS
URW NV did not have any share in URW Group’s projects pipeline for the year ended December 31, 2022.
PROJECTS DELIVERED IN 2022
In H1-2022 the Group delivered the following project:
13
IFRS Net debt reduction.
10
The 19,439 sqm
14
reconfiguration of the former Sears box at Westfield Topanga. The extension includes a premium AMC Cinema, offering all-
recliner seating, IMAX, Laser and Dolby technologies as well as other premium services, that opened in June 2022 and is performing extremely
well; Topanga Social, a vibrant food hall offering 20+ of the best restaurants and bars of the Los Angeles area which will open in 2023; and an
extension of the luxury retail offer with new brands such as Hermès, Rolex, Bulgari, Valentino and Dior.
DELIVERIES EXPECTED IN 2023
The Group has no ongoing project in the pipeline in the US.
1.3.3 PROPERTY PORTFOLIO AND NET ASSET VALUE AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
Unless otherwise indicated, the data presented in the property portfolio are on a proportionate
15
basis and as at December 31, 2022, and
comparisons are with values as at December 31, 2021.
PROPERTY PORTFOLIO
Investment market retail
US retail investment volumes saw a +4% year-on-year increase in 2022, with total transactions reported by Real Capital Analytics of $85.7 Bn.
For shopping centres, the increase in deal volume year-on-year was +29% at $59.8 Bn, including the sale of Westfield Santa Anita being the largest
asset disposal in the US in the last 4 years
16
.
Shopping Centre portfolio
The value of URW NV’s Shopping Centre portfolio is the addition of the value of each individual asset as determined by the Group’s appraisers
and the value of the Westfield trademark. In the information all respective assets are included, including investment property under construction.
99% of the value of URW NV’s portfolio was appraised by independent appraisers as at December 31, 2022.
The following table shows the breakdown for the US Shopping Centre portfolio which was significantly impacted by a positive currency impact of
€688 Mn:
Proportionate
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
(a)
US Shopping Centre portfolio
by category
Valuation incl.
transfer taxes
Valuation
excl. estimated
transfer taxes
(b)
Net Initial
Yield
(c)
Potential
Yield
(d)
Valuation
incl. transfer
taxes
Valuation
excl. estimated
transfer taxes
Net Initial
Yield
(a)
Potential
Yield
(b)
in € Mn
in € Mn
in € Mn
in € Mn
US Flagships
(e)
9,944
9,851
4.2%
4.7%
10,052
9,952
3.7%
4.6%
US Regionals
1,004
1,004
8.6%
9.5%
1,620
1,618
6.7%
8.0%
US SC TOTAL
10,947
10,854
4.6%
5.2%
11,673
11,570
4.2%
5.0%
Figures may not add up due to rounding.
(a) 2021 figures were restated to exclude Fulton Centre, URW NV considered the impact and concluded that the restatement was insignificant.
(b) The sum of the Gross Marked Value (“GMV”) for the assets fully consolidated, the ownership at share of the GMV of assets jointly controlled accounted for using the equity method and the equity
values for assets not controlled by URW. Valuation excluding estimated transfer taxes represents the GMV minus transfer taxes and transaction costs which are estimated after taking into account
the likely disposal scenario: sale of the asset or of the company that onws it.
(c) Annualized contracted rent (including indexation) and other incomes for the next 12 months, net of operating expenses, divided by the asset value net of estimated transfer taxes and transaction
costs. Shopping centres under development or not controlled by URW and the Westfield trademark are not included in the calculation of NIY.
(d) Annualized contracted rent (including indexation) and other incomes for the next 12 months, net of operating expenses + the ERV of vacant space, divided by the asset value net of estimated
transfer taxes and transaction costs. Shopping centres under development or not controlled by URW, and the Westfield trademark are not included in the calculation of Potential Yield.
(e) The Westfield trademark is included in the valuation of the US Flagships.
ADDITIONAL VALUATION PARAMETERS - IFRS 13
URW NV complies with the IFRS 13 fair value measurement and the position paper
17
on IFRS 13 established by EPRA, the representative body of
the publicly listed real estate industry in Europe. Considering the limited public data available, the complexity of real estate asset valuations,
as well as the fact that appraisers use in their valuations the non-public rent rolls of the Group’s assets, URW NV believes it is appropriate to
classify its assets under Level 3. In addition, unobservable inputs, including appraisers’ assumptions on growth rates and Exit Capitalization Rate
(“ECR”), are used by appraisers to determine the fair value of URW NV’s assets. In addition to the disclosures provided above, the following
tables provide a number of quantitative data in order to assess the fair valuation of the Group’s assets.
14
The GLA has increased from H1-2022 due to a remeasure of the food hall common areas.
15
The sum of the Gross Market Value (“GMV”) for the assets fully consolidated, the ownership at share of the GMV of assets jointly controlled accounted for using the
equity method and the equity values for assets not controlled by URW NV.
16
Source: Eastdil Secured.
17
EPRA Position Paper on IFRS 13 - Fair value measurement and illustrative disclosures, February 2013.
11
SHOPPING CENTRES
The below overviews including most significant input and output parameters of the external valuations of the investment properties and the
sensitivity overviews of the fair value of investment property are presented based on a proportional basis for the fully consolidated investment
property as well as the investment property included in the joint ventures accounted using the equity method. The total value of investment
property represents €10,741.8 Mn, this consist of the total €4,893.5 Mn presented investment property in the consolidated position excluding
investment property under contraction carried at cost and €5,848.3 Mn of the proportioned share of the investment property presented in the
joint venture and equity value for the associate overview in note 7.2.
The shopping centres are valued using the discounted cash-flow and/or yield methodologies using Compound Annual Growth rates (“CAGR”) as
determined by the appraisers.
Shopping Centres – December 31, 2022
Net Initial
Yield
Rent in €
per sqm
(a)
Discount
Rate
(b)
Exit
Capitalization
Rate
(c)
CAGR of
NRI
(d)
US
Max
9.6%
1,438 10.3%
9.0%
11.4%
Min
2.9%
321
6.5%
4.5%
0.6%
Weighted average
4.6%
700
7.1%
5.2%
4.6%
NIY, DR and ECR weighted by GMV. Vacant assets, assets considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in Min and Max calculation. Assets under development or
not controlled by URW NV and the Westfield trademark are not included in this table.
(a) Average annual rent (MGR + SBR) per asset per sqm.
(b) Rate used to calculate the net present value of future cash-flows.
(c) Rate used to capitalize the exit rent to determine the exit value of an asset.
(d) Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of NRI determined by the appraiser (10 years).
For the US, the split between Flagships and Regionals is as follows:
Shopping Centres – December 31, 2022
Net Initial
Yield
Rent in €
per sqm
(a)
Discount
Rate
(b)
Exit
Capitalization
Rate
(c)
CAGR of
NRI
(d)
US Flagships
Max
7.5%
1,438
9.0%
7.3%
11.4%
Min
2.9%
399
6.5%
4.5%
1.8%
Weighted average
4.2%
820
6.8%
4.9%
5.0%
US Regionals
Max
9.6%
607
10.3%
9.0%
6.3%
Min
6.4%
321
8.5%
7.0%
0.6%
Weighted average
8.6%
411
9.8%
8.0%
2.3%
NIY, DR and ECR weighted by GMV. Vacant assets, assets considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in Min and Max calculation. Assets under development or
not controlled by URW NV and the Westfield trademark and are not included in this table.
(a) Average annual rent (MGR + SBR) per asset per sqm.
(b) Rate used to calculate the net present value of future cash-flows.
(c) Rate used to capitalize the exit rent to determine the exit value of an asset.
(d) Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of NRI determined by the appraiser (10 years).
The ECR
18
used by appraisers in December 2022 valuations increased compared to the ones in December 2021 valuations:
• In the US from 4.9% to 5.2% (from 4.7% to 4.9% for the US Flagships and from 6.7% to 8.0% for the US Regionals).
The Discount Rate
18
used by appraisers in December 2022 valuations increased compared to the ones in December 2021 valuations:
• In the US from 6.6% to 7.1% (from 6.3% to 6.8% for the US Flagships and from 8.7% to 9.8% for the US Regionals).
The CAGR of NRI in above table is based on 2022 NRI. Compared to 2019, the CAGR of NRI are as follows:
CAGR of NRI determined
by the appraiser in the
DCF
CAGR of NRI – Starting from Dec.31, 2019
Shopping Centres
Valuations as at
Dec 31, 2022
Valuations as at
Dec 31, 2022
Valuations as at
Dec 31, 2021
Valuations as at
Dec 31, 2019
US Flagships
5.0%
2.7%
2.6%
4.2%
US Regionals
2.3%
0.6%
1.0%
3.6%
18
Restated from 2022 disposals.
12
OFFICES PORTFOLIO & OTHERS
Offices & Others portfolio includes offices and the residential projects. The value for the total US Office & Others portfolio saw a minor change
from 2021 at €163 Mn on December 31, 2022 (December 31, 2021: €165
19
Mn).
For occupied offices and based on an asset value excluding estimated transfer taxes and transaction costs, the Offices & Others division’s Net
Initial Yield (“NIY”) increased by +120 bps to 5.5%.
Proportionate
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
(c)
Valuation of US occupied office space
Valuation incl.
transfer
taxes
(a)
Valuation excl.
estimated
transfer taxes
(a)
Net Initial
Yield
(b)
Valuation incl.
transfer
taxes
(a)
Valuation excl.
estimated
transfer taxes
(a)
Net Initial
Yield
(b)
in € Mn
in € Mn
in € Mn
in € Mn
US Office
44
42
5.5%
44
43
4.3%
(a) Valuation of occupied office space based on the appraiser’s allocation of value between occupied and vacant spaces.
(b) Annualized contracted rent (including latest indexation) and other incomes for the next 12-months, net of operating expenses, divided by the value of occupied space net of estimated transfer
taxes and transaction costs. Assets under development are not included in this calculation.
(c) 2021 figures were restated to exclude Corbin Office and to align URW NV’s disclosure with the 2022 figures disclosed. The amounts previously disclosed were €66 Mn and €63 Mn respectively, the
Net Initial Yield was 3.8%. URW NV considered the impact of the restated figures and concluded that the restatement does not have a significant impact.
The value of URW NV’s Offices & Others portfolio, after accounting for the impact of works and capitalized financial and leasing expenses,
decreased by -€11 Mn (-7.9%) on a like-for-like basis, due to a yield impact of -29.2% and a rent impact of 21.3%.
1.3.4 FINANCIAL RESOURCES
URW NV has cross guarantees with URW SE and the liquidity needs are covered by the available undrawn credit lines at URW Group level.
In 2022, interest rates increased significantly on the macroeconomic backdrop of persistently high inflation, hawkish monetary policy (in
particular the ECB, the US Federal Reserve and the Bank of England) and heightened geopolitical tensions following the war in Ukraine.
Credit markets have been negatively impacted by the end of Central Banks’ support, the rates and volatility increase, as well as by fears of
recession. This backdrop led to a decrease in bond issuance volumes and an increase in the cost of funding for corporate issuers.
Market sentiment slightly improved towards year end, following the publication of Consumer Price Index (“CPI”) data showing inflation slowing
down in the US and the Eurozone.
During the period ended December 31, 2022, the URW Group raised €1,332 Mn (€1,682 Mn on a proportionate basis) of medium to long-term
funds in the mortgage and the bank markets (including credit facility renewals), further strengthening its liquidity position.
In addition, the URW Group updated on November 16, 2022 its Green Financing Framework (“Framework”) to support URW Group’s ambitions to
finance its standing assets and development projects with high sustainability standards.
As at December 31, 2022 at URW Group level:
• The Interest Coverage Ratio (“ICR”) was 4.2x (3.3 x);
• The Funds From Operations to Net Financial Debt Ratio (“FFO/NFD”) was 7.6% (5.0%);
• The Loan-to-Value (“LTV”) ratio
20
was 41.2%
21
(43.3%);
• The Net debt/EBITDA ratio
22
was 9.6x (13.7x).
The average cost of debt at URW Group level for the period was 3.8% for USD denominated debt.
DEBT STRUCTURE AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
URW NV’s financial debt as at December 31, 2022, amounted to €8,569.2 Mn (2021: €8,791.8 Mn). The total IFRS cash on-hand of URW NV came
to €76.0 Mn as at December 31, 2022 (2021: €50.5 Mn). The solvability ratio as at December 31, 2022 is 7.2% (2021: 5.6%).
19
2021 figures were restated from €186 Mn to exclude Corbin Office, Corbin Office does not form part of URW NV’s scope. URW NV considered the impact of the restated
figure and concluded that the restatement does not have a significant impact.
20
Net financial debt as shown on the URW Group’s balance sheet, after the impact of derivative instruments on debt raised in foreign currencies / total assets, including
transfer taxes (42.6% excluding transfer taxes).
21
Excluding €960 Mn of goodwill not justified by fee business as per the Group’s European bank debt leverage covenants (€1,021 Mn on a proportionate basis).
22
On last 12-months basis.
13
The financial debt breakdown and outstanding duration to maturity as at December 31, 2022, is disclosed on IFRS basis:
Outstanding duration to maturity (€Mn)
Current
Non-current
Total
December 31, 2021
Less than 1 year
1 year to 5 years
More than 5 years
Total
December 31, 2022
Bonds and notes
20.3
1,640.6
2,113.3
3,774.2
3,545.4
Bank borrowings
(6.0)
111.0
-
105.0
478.8
Other financial liabilities
738.0
3,364.7
543.7
4,646.4
4,710.6
Lease liabilities
6.9
17.6
19.1
43.6
57.1
TOTAL
759.2
5,133.9
2,676.1
8,569.2
8,791.8
An additional part (€250 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of €1,250 Mn, of which already €500 Mn has been converted earlier, has
been converted into a capital security with a 99-year maturity as per December 31, 2022. The remaining part of the loan is €543.7 Mn.
The converted part qualifies as equity with the exception of the amount due on this instrument, which is initially measured at fair value at
balance sheet date (€0.1 Mn at December 31, 2022) and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amendment
fee paid to URW SE of €5.4 Mn and the remaining amortised upfront fee of €0.3 Mn are recorded in 2022 under financial expenses.
Current other financial liabilities mainly consist of current account facilities with URW SE and will be extended in 2023.
1.4 DIVIDEND
Complying with the deleveraging commitments made in 2021, the URW Group will not pay a dividend for fiscal year 2022.
Given the statutory results of URW NV in 2022, the Group has no obligation to pay a dividend in 2023 for the fiscal year 2022 under the FII regime
it benefits from.
1.5 NON-FINANCIAL INFORMATION
1.5.1 BUSINESS MODEL
URW NV is part of the URW Group, the world’s premier developer and operator of Flagship destinations. URW NV owns a portfolio of prime
commercial properties, located in the largest and most prosperous cities across the United States.
URW NV’s strategy is to vertically integrate the entire chain of value creation in real estate. The combination of its three activities of i)
refurbishment and renovation, ii) investment and iii) management, provides URW NV with unique market knowledge and expertise. This
knowledge and expertise assist URW NV in dealing with markets that are cyclical in nature and its strategy is designed to allow URW NV to
continue its investment programs even during economic downturns.
Thanks to this portfolio of high-quality assets and talents including experts in the business of investment, refurbishment, leasing, management,
and divestment, URW NV has been able to face the pandemic and foresees a future generating strong growth.
Finally, URW NV is, by nature, a long-term player committed to sustainable construction and social responsibility across all of its activities.
Whether it be architecture, city planning, design, energy efficiency, social responsibility, the URW Group is recognized as a leader in the industry.
1.5.2 ENVIRONMENTAL, SOCIAL, AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE (“ESG”)
2022 marks another exceptional year in terms of ESG performance for the URW Group, with major achievements as part of the Better Places
2030 programme:
BETTER SPACES
• The URW Group is committed to reduce by 50% its carbon emissions by 2030 (2015 baseline), covering its entire value chain (construction,
operations including tenant energy and transport of visitors), and has already achieved a 41% reduction by 2022;
• In the context of the energy crisis, the URW Group set an additional target to reduce by 15% its energy consumption in 2022 compared to 2019
in Europe. A set of actions led the URW Group to outperform this target and reached -19.8%
23
, supporting both governments efforts and
mitigating costs impact for tenants;
• Scope 1&2 commitment has been raised during the year to -80% in absolute terms between 2015 and 2030 in an effort to continue pushing the
URW Group’s low carbon strategy to the highest performance. This is supported by the pipeline of solar PV projects in different countries,
including the Aupark project delivered during the year;
23
European scope (incl. UK), Jan. to Nov. 2022 vs. same period in 2019, in kWh/sqm on a like-for-like scope.
14
• Development projects also demonstrate the Group’s ability to support cities in their environmental transition as embodied by the recent
delivery of Les Ateliers Gaîté, which will generate a 40% reduction in energy used for heating, resulting in 880 tonnes of avoided CO2 emissions
each year;
• The URW Group also conducted an updated study on the physical risks associated with climate change in line with Task Force on Climate -
related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and EU Taxonomy regulations.
BETTER COMMUNITIES
• Throughout the year the URW Group pursued its strong involvement in the communities in which it operates, with a particular focus on
supporting those most affected by the war in Ukraine. The URW Group has been actively supporting initiatives to help refugees through
providing vacant spaces for NGO’s action and providing free services for refugees in shopping centres. The URW Group also financially supported
NGOs dedicated to the support of Ukrainian refugees on the ground;
• In 2022, the Group achieved €39.7 Mn of social value generated, demonstrating the high level of integration and support to the local
communities.
• New sustainable consumption experiences have added to the offer in the URW Group’s assets such as the opening of the omnichannel Circlow
concept in Spain, on circular economy in fashion.
BETTER TOGETHER
• As sustainability is more than ever placed at the heart of the URW Group’s strategy, cultural change and training becomes crucial to deliver
on the targets and seize related opportunities;
• Following the Climate Week in H1-2022, the URW Group dedicated its entire Leadership Working Session to sustainability. It included the
awareness raising workshop of the Climate Fresk for all top managers and intensive workshops on the sustainable future of the URW Group.
This experience has also been rolled-out in all countries of the URW Group during Q4 to onboard all employees and ensure shared awareness.
More than 1,500 employees have experienced the Climate Fresk session at the end of the year;
• In 2022, 99% of employees participated in sustainability training, including a new e-learning on the Group’s “Better Places 2030” sustainability
strategy, and sustainability training on specific topics including Construction Carbon Footprint.
• Further reinforcing the URW Group’s commitment to Diversity & Inclusion, the URW Group progressed in its trajectory to accomplish 40% or
more of senior management positions held by women by 2025. In addition, the URW Group advanced its global inclusion learning offer with
custom programming for both employees and managers and fostered meaningful employee engagement through Be You at URW networks;
• Community Days volunteering events took place across all regions; over 1,200 employees participated in a volunteer activity in 2022. Activities
centred on environmental actions, social inclusion, and providing targeted support to people and communities in need;
• The URW Group repeated its global Employee Pulse Survey, increasing employee engagement by 8 points from 2021, and leveraging employee
feedback to progress and enhance our working culture.
A strong sustainability-linked financing activity has been led by the URW Group with:
• 45% of undrawn credit lines are now sustainability linked; and
• A new Green Financing Framework has been released in November 2022.
The URW Group is on track to meet all Better Places 2030 targets, including cutting carbon emissions across its value chain by 50% between 2015
and 2030. The URW Group is committed to contribute to global carbon neutrality and will present a step-change update to its plan in 2023, with
a view to establishing new commitments.
This year again, the URW Group’s ambitious sustainability agenda was recognised by equity and debt investors as a value creation driver for its
stakeholders. In 2022, the URW Group ’s inclusion in the main ESG indices was confirmed and the Group’s Sustainability achievements were
registered in ratings and awards, including:
• CDP: the URW Group renewed its position in the A-list of organisations committed to tackling climate change for the 5th year in a row
24
;
• Sustainalytics: the URW Group ranks 2nd in the RE industry
25
worldwide with a “Negligible” risk rating;
• MSCI ESG: confirmed AAA rating, consistently since 2014;
• ISS ESG Corporate: retained B rating (prime status);
• GRESB: ‘5 Star’ GRESB rating (top 20%);
• EPRA sBPR Award: for the 11th time in a row, URW received the EPRA Gold Award in 2022 for completing its 2021 reporting in accordance with
the EPRA Sustainability BPR.
These recognitions are the proof of the URW Group’s leading performance on all sustainability topics within the industry and across sectors.
For more information on Better Places 2030 and detailed 2022 Sustainability performance including carbon, please refer to the URW SE 2022
Universal Registration Document.
For the full overview please refer to the URW Group Sustainability report: https://www.urw-nv.com/en/investors/financial-information.
24
cdn.urw.com (.pdf)
25
Ranking retrieved from sustainalytics.com, Last update Oct. 7th, 2021.
15
1.5.3 RISK MANAGEMENT AND CONTROL SYSTEM
URW NV conducts its business in 2 countries and drives its real-estate activity with a wide variety of actors and business partners. Due to business
activities and relationship with business partners, URW NV faces risks of failure in compliance with international and national anti-bribery,
corruption, money laundering & fraud law. The URW Group is also listed in various markets and must meet several requirements. For more
information regarding the various compliance policies, the implemented processes, the outcome of those policies and the principal risks related
to the policies and how these are managed, reference is made to chapter 4.2.2.5 category # 5: legal and regulatory risks.
In light of its values, mission and strategy, URW NV acknowledges the importance of good governance as an important basis for sound operational
management and meeting its corporate objectives, whilst ensuring an adequate system of governance to protect all interests of its management,
staff, shareholders and other relevant stakeholders.
In this respect, URW NV considers that good governance starts with good behaviour and attitude at the top and establishing awareness and
compliance regarding sound operations and ethical behaviour in URW NV’s business culture. To achieve this, URW NV has established its
Administrative Organisation and Internal Control (“AOIC”) based on the following objectives:
• to provide insight in the organizational set-up in a clear and unequivocal manner, including duties, obligations and division of roles and
responsibilities;
• to ensure ethical and sound management over the policies, control processes and operating risks of the organization;
• to facilitate proper guidance on the organization and its governance, policy house and processes to the staff of URW NV, its shareholders or
other external parties; and
• to comply with applicable statutory and regulatory obligations.
The main features of the risk management and control system of the Company including the risk appetite can be found in chapter 4 “Risk
Management and Internal Control” of this Annual Report.
1.5.4 PERSONNEL-RELATED INFORMATION
URW NV’s recruitment and career development policies are designed to attract and retain the best talent on the market. The Group is committed
to offering employees a working environment that fosters diversity and equal opportunities to enable each individual to acquire the experience
needed to build an exciting career that creates value for the Company.
Employees receive regular support and advice on career development. They meet with their managers once a year for year-end appraisals and
have the opportunity to provide and receive ongoing feedback through a specific process, which gives them the opportunity to discuss their
performance, objectives, career advancement and training needs.
1.6 RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
All transactions between the company and legal or natural persons who hold at least ten percent of the shares in the company, have been
disclosed in note “7.4. Transactions with related parties” of the Financial Statements and are compliant with best practice provision 2.7.5. of
the Dutch Corporate Governance Code.
1.7 POST-CLOSING EVENTS
In line with the Group’s efforts to deleverage in the US, URW NV (along with its JV partner) made the decision not to repay the $195 Mn ($97.5 Mn
on a proportionate basis) secured debt on Westfield Valencia Town Center, which matured on January 1, 2023. URW NV is engaged in discussions
to sell the asset (or its interest in it) and any potential purchaser would assume the relevant debt. If a sale is not finalized, the property will
likely be foreclosed. This debt is non-recourse and its non-repayment has no impact on the rest of the Group’s debt. The asset value in the
Group's consolidated account was $100.2 Mn as at December 31, 2022. Upon sale of the asset or foreclosure, the Group's debt will be reduced by
-$97.5 Mn (on a proportionate basis), corresponding to a net impact on the Group’s balance sheet of -$2.7 Mn (on a proportionate basis).
On February 1, 2023, the Group has completed the sale of its ground lease for Westfield North County located in Escondido, California, to Bridge
Group Investments and Steerpoint Capital, effectively transferring ownership and management of the asset. The sale price of $57 Mn (at 100%,
URW share 55% (on a proportionate basis)) for Westfield North County, which has 30 years left on its ground lease, reflects the property’s book
value as at December 31, 2022. The asset is a B-rated, 1.25 Mn square foot property, which is 89% leased.
The URW Group started discussions with Euronext in order to change its market of reference from Euronext Amsterdam to Euronext Paris as part
of an initiative to simplify its structure given limited trading activity on that market. As a part of this request, the URW Group intends to delist
of the URW Stapled Shares from Euronext Amsterdam, while maintaining a single listing on Euronext Paris. The delisting from Euronext Amsterdam
would not affect the liquidity of the shares nor have any impact on trading, URW’s organisation (including the Stapled Share principle) or the
ISIN code (FR0013326246) of the URW Group. Following the approval of the Euronext Listing Board, the change of the URW Group’s market of
reference from Euronext Amsterdam to Euronext Paris will be effective on April 14, 2023 and the last day of trading on Euronext Amsterdam will
be April 27, 2023.
On March 1, 2023, URW NV disposed of an asset in Waalwijk in the Netherlands, for a total of €950 k.
16
1.8 OUTLOOK
Thanks to the improvement in 2022 operating performance, higher indexation, the positioning on prime and well-located assets and retailers’
drive to store strategies, as well as the deleveraging progress, URW NV is well-positioned to continue to perform in what is expected to remain
an uncertain macro environment in 2023. The main drivers of these are:
• Consistent performance in retail operations versus 2022 with inflation protection through SBR;
• Full-year effect of 2022 disposals and the impact of US regional streamlining;
• Contribution of 2022 project deliveries;
• Stable cost of funding thanks to URW Group’s hedging programme; and
• FX impact with the strengthening of the Euro vs. USD.
This outlook does not include major disposals in the US in the context of the radical reduction of its financial exposure to the US.
The Group assumes no major energy-related restrictions, nor major deterioration to the macro-economic and geopolitical environment.
17
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
AND REMUNERATION
18
2.1 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
2.1.1 THE MANAGEMENT BOARD
The Company adopted a dual board structure: a Management Board (“MB”) and a Supervisory Board (“SB”). Such governance structure meets the
highest standards of corporate governance ensuring an efficient balance between management and supervision allowing a responsive and reactive
MB in the performance of its executive duties, in accordance with the non-executive prerogatives of the SB, whose balanced and diverse
composition guarantees independent oversight.
The MB is entitled to represent Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. (“URW NV”). Pursuant to the articles of association the power to represent URW
NV also vests in the Chief Operating Officer US (“COO US”) and any other MB Member acting jointly.
2.1.1.1 COMPOSITION OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD
As at December 31, 2022, the MB is composed of two members. The business address of the MB is the Company’s registered address, World Trade
Center Schiphol, Tower F, 7th Floor, Schiphol Boulevard 315, 1118 BJ Schiphol, the Netherlands.
MB Members
Nationality
Age
Main function
Starting date
Expiry date
of term of office
Mr Dominic Lowe
British
51
Chief Operating Officer US –
MB Member
November 19, 2020
AGM 2025
Mr Gerard Sieben
Dutch
52
Chief Financial Officer –
MB Member
March 8, 2018
AGM 2026
MANAGEMENT BOARD MEMBER INFORMATION AND MANDATES HELD AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
BORN ON:
October 30, 1971
NATIONALITY:
British
NUMBER OF STAPLED SHARES
HELD:
491
MR DOMINIC LOWE
MB MEMBER - CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER US
• Graduate of the University of West London (HND, Business and Economics)
• Dominic Lowe has also completed the Harvard Business School’s Executive Program and UCLA’s Anderson
School of Management’s Strategic Leadership Program.
• Prior to joining the Company, Dominic Lowe served in numerous senior executive roles for BAA plc (a holding
company for the world's largest organization of airports), focusing on UK and US business development as
well as pioneering the commercial transformation of the company’s flagship asset, Heathrow International
Airport in London. Earlier in his career, he was Operations Service Director for World Duty Free, where he
became a Founding Director of the Group’s inflight business in Europe and Africa.
• Dominic Lowe joined Westfield in November 2007 and served for more than a decade as Global Group Director
of Airports. Afterwards he became Executive Vice President and Director of the Division Design, Development
& Construction US.
• As of June 29, 2021, he is Chief Operating Officer US and MB member.
OTHER CURRENT FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
OUTSIDE OF THE GROUP
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS
• N/A
• Executive Vice President and Director of the Division
DD&C US
OTHER CURRENT INTRA-GROUP FUNCTIONS
AND MANDATES
Group Companies
• Director of Annapolis REIT 1 LLC; Annapolis TRS,
Inc.; Broward Mall LLC; Fashion Square Service TRS,
Inc.; GSP Service TRS, Inc.; Montgomery Service,
Inc.; Roseville Shoppingtown LLC; Santa Anita
Borrower LLC; Santa Anita GP LLC; URW America,
Inc.; Valencia Town Center Venture GP LLC; VF/UTC
Service, Inc.; WCL Holdings, Inc.; Westfield America
G.P. II LLC; Westfield Beneficiary 1, Inc.; Westfield
Beneficiary 2, Inc.; Westfield Paramus 1, Inc.;
Westfield Subsidiary REIT 1, Inc.; Westfield
Subsidiary REIT 2, Inc.; Westland Properties LLC;
Westland Realty Beneficiary, Inc.; Member of
Annapolis REIT 2 LLC; Annapolis REIT 3 LLC; Culver
City REIT 1 LLC; Culver City REIT 2 LLC; Culver City
REIT 3 LLC; Horton Plaza REIT 1 LLC; Horton Plaza
REIT 2 LLC; Horton Plaza REIT 3 LLC; Mission Valley
REIT 1 LLC; Mission Valley REIT 2 LLC; Mission Valley
REIT 3 LLC; North County REIT 1 LLC; North County
REIT 2 LLC; North County REIT 3 LLC; Oakridge REIT
19
1 LLC; Oakridge REIT 2 LLC; Oakridge REIT 3 LLC;
Plaza Bonita REIT 1 LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT 2 LLC;
Plaza Bonita REIT 3 LLC; Promenade REIT 1 LLC;
Promenade REIT 2 LLC; Promenade REIT 3 LLC; Santa
Anita REIT 1 LLC; Santa Anita REIT 2 LLC; Santa Anita
REIT 3 LLC; Southcenter REIT 1 LLC; Southcenter
REIT 2 LLC; Southcenter REIT 3 LLC; Topanga REIT 1
LLC; Topanga REIT 2 LLC; Topanga REIT 3 LLC; URW
WEA LLC; West-OC 2 REIT 1 LLC; West-OC 2 REIT 2
LLC; West-OC 2 REIT 3 LLC; West Valley REIT 1 LLC;
West Valley REIT 2 LLC; West Valley REIT 3 LLC;
Westfield, lnc; Westfield U.S. Holdings LLC; White
City Investments (no. 1) LLC.
BORN ON:
May 5, 1970
NATIONALITY:
Dutch
NUMBER OF STAPLED
SHARES HELD:
270
MR GERARD SIEBEN
MB MEMBER - CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
• Bachelor in economics of the HEAO. Mr. Sieben has held various interim positions within the URW Group since
2008, lastly as Finance Director Benelux.
• He started his financial career in 1999 as a financial controller and held several finance positions in different
companies, including at Procter & Gamble Professional Care NL for 4 years.
• Appointed to the MB effective March 8, 2018, and as Chief Financial Officer effective June 7, 2018, following
the Westfield Transaction.
OTHER CURRENT FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
OUTSIDE OF THE GROUP
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS
• Non-executive Board Member of Le Champion
(Netherlands)
• Owner of Sieben Consultancy
OTHER CURRENT INTRA-GROUP FUNCTIONS AND
MANDATES
• Director of WFD Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate B.V.
STAPLED SHARES HELD BY THE MEMBERS OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD
As at December 31, 2022, the members of the MB held the following number of Stapled Shares:
Name
Total numbers of Stapled Shares held
Mr Dominic Lowe
Chief Operating Officer US
491
Mr Gerard Sieben
Chief Financial Officer
270
2.1.1.2 MANAGEMENT BOARD FUNCTIONING
ROLE OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD
The Management Board (“MB”) is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Company which includes, among other things, formulating
strategies and policies, and setting and achieving the Company’s objectives. The Supervisory Board (“SB”) supervises and advises the MB. Each
member of the MB and SB must act in the corporate interest of the Company and of the business with it and consider with due care the interest
of all stakeholders including the Company’s shareholders, creditors, employees and customers.
The MB defends the interests of the Group and takes into account the relevant interests of all of the Company’s stakeholders. It is held to account
for the manner in which it carries out its duties. It must act with independence, loyalty and professionalism. As provided for by the Dutch
Corporate Governance Code, the SB assesses the functioning of the MB on an annual basis.
The Chief Operating Officer US has overall competence except for those duties expressly assigned to the Chief Financial Officer.
The Chief Financial Officer is responsible for generating profits via the optimisation of the cost of capital. He is also responsible for tax matters.
As such, the Chief Financial Officer will have primary responsibility for the overall finance functions of the Company (financial control,
consolidation, (re)financing, tax, the Company’s consolidated annual budget and 5-year business plan, and coordination of Company asset
valuations).
Certain main statutory provisions of the Company’s articles of association (the “Articles”) and MB rules governing the organisation, decision-
making and other internal matters of the MB (the "MB Rules") are summarized in section 5.5.3 of this Annual Report.
MB ACTIVITIES
The MB met 11 times during the year ending December 31, 2022. Overall attendance by the MB Members was 100%.
20
The MB deliberated on the following subjects:
Principal responsibilities of the MB
Key areas addressed, managed and/or implemented in 2022
Group Strategy
• Refurbishment, investment, divestment and operations in 2022;
• Monitoring of the Deleveraging plan;
• Digital and Data strategy, tools and projects;
• Redesign of CSR Strategy “Better Places 2030” and Long Term Energy
Action Plan.
Financial Policy and Financial Performance and Reporting
• Review and closing of the 2021 consolidated full-year results and
statutory financial statements and reporting on the half-year accounts for
the 2022 financial year;
• Review and assessment of statutory auditor rotation, including hand-over
towards new statutory auditor;
• Group 5-year business plan and budget;
• Financial resources, balance sheet management and borrowing
requirements (EMTN, bonds, liquidity agreements);
• The Group’s dividend policy (as part of the dividend policy of the URW
Group) and annual allocation of results, notably regarding the COVID
pandemic;
• Closing of the forecast management documents and preparation of the
quarterly activity reports for the SB.
Internal risk management and control systems
• Internal audits, internal control system and compliance matters;
• Risk management and update of the risk mapping.
Governance and compliance with relevant laws and regulations
• Updates to the URW Group’s compliance programme (including the
Group's Anti-corruption Programme, Anti-Money Laundering and Sanctions
Lists) and completing the Group Compliance and Group Anti-Corruption
Programme trainings;
• Monitoring of the proposed updates to the Dutch Corporate Governance
Code
• Compliance with regulatory/legal requirements and changes, including
related party transactions (e.g. the Shareholder Rights Directive II, the
follow up of the Dutch Diversity Act).
Human Resources
• Talent development and management;
• Diversity and inclusion;
• Recruitment and retention of key positions.
Shareholder Outreach and Engagement
• Investor dialogue;
• AGM materials (agenda, resolutions, etc.);
• General meeting;
• Group communication;
• Annual Report 2021, and half-year accounts for the 2022 financial year.
MB EVALUATION PROCESS
An assessment of the MB is carried out annually. Over the year ending December 31, 2022, the MB conducted an annual assessment of the
performance and overall functioning of the MB and its members. Following the self-assessment, the MB is generally satisfied with the overall
functioning of the MB and its respective members, notably including the quality of the interaction with the SB and its committees and company
officers and quality of effectiveness and governance. The MB also took note of the focus on continuous sound communication and strategic
leadership meetings. Overall, over the year ending December 31, 2022, it was concluded the MB functioned well.
2.1.2 THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
The SB is in charge of the supervision of the policy of the MB and the general course of affairs of URW NV and of the business connected with it.
The SB shall provide the MB with advice. In performing their duties, the members of the SB (each an “SB Member”) shall be guided by the
interests of URW NV and of the business connected with it. The SB report is summarized in section 2.2. of this Annual Report.
2.1.3 ADHERENCE TO THE DUTCH CORPORATE GOVERNANCE CODE
The Dutch Corporate Governance Code (“Code”) contains principles and best practice provisions that regulate relations between the MB, SB and
the (general meeting of) shareholders. As of the listing of the Stapled Shares on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Paris, the Code became
applicable to URW NV. The text of the Code can be accessed at http://www.mccg.nl. The Code is based on a ‘comply-or-explain’ principle.
URW NV acknowledges the importance of good corporate governance and agrees with the general approach and with the provisions of the Code.
Considering inter alia the Stapled Share structure, current practices at Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE (URW SE), and the interests of the URW
Group and its stakeholders, URW NV deviates from the following best practice provisions of the Code:
• Best Practice Provision 2.1.7: URW NV does not comply with best practice provision 2.1.7 (iii), which provides that for each shareholder holding
more than 10% of the shares in URW NV, there is at most one SB Member who can be considered to be affiliated with such shareholder. URW
SE holds more than 10% of the shares in URW NV. As a URW Group company, and in direct relation with the Stapled Share structure and to
ensure consistency between the two companies, two SB Members are also members of the management board of URW SE and are as such
affiliated with URW SE.
21
• Best Practice Provision 2.1.8.: The Company applies this best practice provision. Accordingly, the chair of the Supervisory Board is considered
non-independent pursuant to best practice provision 2.1.8. i. that provides that a supervisory board member is not independent if they have
been an employee or member of the management board of the company in the five years prior to appointment.
• Best Practice Provision 2.1.9: Considering inter alia the Stapled Share structure, current practices at URW SE and URW NV, and the interest of
the URW Group and its stakeholders, the chair of the Supervisory Board is considered non-independent. A supervisory board member is not
independent if they have been an employee or member of the management board of the company in the five years prior to appointment.
• Best Practice Provision 2.3.2: Given the interrelatedness of nomination, assessment of MB performance and remuneration, URW NV has a
(combined) governance, nomination and remuneration committee rather than a separate remuneration committee and selection and
appointment committee as recommended in best practice provision 2.3.2.
• Best Practice Provision 3.1.2: URW NV supports the principle that the remuneration policy should focus on long-term value creation for URW
NV and its business. Rather than setting the shareholding requirement of MB Members to five years, the terms and conditions of the long-term
incentive plans in URW NV awarded to MB Members include a shareholding requirement for the duration of the MB Member’s mandate because
URW NV believes this better ensures continued alignment of interests throughout the mandate.
• Best Practice Provision 4.3.3: The Company’s MB Members and SB Members are appointed by the General Meeting upon a binding nomination
prepared in accordance with the Articles. The General Meeting may only overrule the binding nomination with a qualified majority that is
higher than what is recommended in this best practice provision. Consistent with the governance practice at many other listed Dutch companies
and because we believe that a decision to overrule a nomination must be widely supported by our shareholders, the Articles do not provide
for a lower voting standard to overrule such nomination than the voting standard provided for in section 2:133(2) Dutch Civil Code (“DCC”).
As of the financial year starting on or after January 1, 2023 the Code has been updated. It provides for updates in areas such as long-term value
creation, diversity and the role of shareholders. It also contains amended provisions of the Code due to changes in Book 2 of the DCC. Where
principles or best practice provisions in this revised Code, compared with the Code that became effective as of financial years starting in 2016,
require changes to URW NV’s internal rules, regulations, procedures or organization, URW NV will be deemed to be compliant with this updated
Code if such changes have been implemented no later than December 31, 2023. For the financial year 2022 URW NV reports over the Code that
became effective as of financial years starting in 2016.
2.1.4 CODE OF ETHICS AND OTHER CORPORATE GOVERNANCE PRACTICES
Ethics is one of the URW Group’s core values and the Group is committed to conducting business in an ethical and fair manner. The URW Group
has a “zero tolerance” principle against all forms of unethical practices, such as inappropriate, disrespectful or unlawful behaviour, corruption,
bribery, influence peddling and human rights violations. The URW Group’s compliance procedures are based on a precise allocation of duties and
responsibilities as well as promotion of compliance awareness through a “tone from the top” approach and active training programs to ensure
accountability and strict and effective compliance within the URW Group.
URW NV has adopted the Code of Ethics, which applies to the URW Group and which includes the values and principles that each employee,
manager and director of the URW Group must respect and comply with, by virtue of their office, at all times and in all circumstances when acting
within, or in the name of, the URW Group or any third party. These principles include: respect for human dignity and for employees’ work,
respect for the URW Group, respect for law and regulations, loyalty, integrity and avoiding conflicts of interests, and ethics in doing business. It
is the responsibility of each employee, manager and director of the URW Group to regularly review and refresh their knowledge and understanding
of the Code of Ethics of the URW Group, in addition to the required annual e-learning training for all employees. In addition, and as part of
successfully shaping the evolution of the URW culture, enhancing the work environment, and ensuring that we can provide an exceptional
employee experience, URW holds employee pulse surveys in the ongoing effort to understand how to enhance culture and work environment.
The text of this Code of Ethics can be accessed on the Company’s website under Related Documents at the Corporate Governance section.
We actively promote and we have reasonable assurance that our Code of Ethics is effective within the Company. We have, to the best of our
knowledge, no reason to believe that our Code of Ethics was not complied with during the financial year to which this report pertains, noting
that anyone can declare any (potential) breach through our URW Integrity line (https://urw.integrityline.org/) at any time.
URW NV does not voluntarily apply other formal codes of conduct or corporate governance practices.
22
2.2 REPORT OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
The Supervisory Board (“SB”) supervises and advises the Management Board (“MB”) on an ongoing basis and carries its duties in accordance with
the applicable law and regulations and the Articles. In performing its duties, the SB is guided by the interests of URW NV and of the business
connected with it.
2.2.1 COMPOSITION OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD, INDEPENDENCE, AND DIVERSITY
The SB consists of 5 members as at December 31, 2022. The SB composition reinforces the Group’s strategy through the members’ expertise in
real estate/asset management, retail, finance, legal and other areas. The range of skills and expertise is summarized in the biographies below.
Following the communications made in May 2022 appointments of Mr. Jean-Louis Laurens and Ms. Aline Taireh were renewed. Mr. Jean-Louis
Laurens and Ms. Aline Taireh were reappointed for a four-year term at the 2022 annual general meeting.
A Supervisory Board member is appointed for a period of four years and may be reappointed for another four-year period, followed by a
reappointment for two years which may be extended by at most two years. If a new appointment is made after the first eight years, this will be
explained in the annual report.
2.2.1.1 COMPOSITION OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD AS DECEMBER 31, 2022
Name
Role
Age
Gender
Nationality
Independence
Starting date
Expiry date
of term of office
Mr Jean-Marie Tritant
Chair
55
M
French
Non-independent
2021
AGM 2025
Mr Fabrice Mouchel
Vice-Chair
52
M
French
Independent
2021
AGM 2025
Mr Jean-Louis Laurens
Senior Independent Director
68
M
French
Independent
2018
AGM 2026
Ms Aline Taireh
Member
48
F
American
Independent
2018
AGM 2026
Ms Catherine Pourre
Member
66
F
French
Independent
2021
AGM 2025
23
SUPERVISORY BOARD MEMBER INFORMATION AND MANDATES HELD AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
BORN ON:
November 10, 1967
NATIONALITY:
French
NUMBER OF STAPLED
SHARES HELD:
43,274
26
MR JEAN-MARIE TRITANT
SB MEMBER – CHAIR
Non-independent
• Graduate of Burgundy – Business School (“BSB”) (previously ESC Dijon).
• Master’s Degree from Paris I-Sorbonne University in commercial real estate (a qualification recognized by the
Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors).
• Started his career at Arthur Andersen Paris.
• Joined Unibail in 1997. Appointed Managing Director of the Office Division in 2002 and Managing Director Retail
France in 2007.
• Appointed to the management board of Unibail-Rodamco SE, Chief Operating Officer effective April 25, 2013,
ended on June 7, 2018.
• Appointed to the MB as President US effective June 7, 2018, following the Westfield Transaction, ended on
November 18, 2020.
• Appointed as Chief Executive Officer of URW SE as of January 1, 2021.
OTHER FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES OUTSIDE OF
THE GROUP
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS
• Representative of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE as
Member of the French Fédération des Sociétés
Immobilières et Foncières (FSIF)
• Non-Executive Director of Pavillon de l’Arsenal
• Representative of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE
on the Board of Directors of Société Paris-Île- de-
France Capitale Économique
• Representative of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE on
the Executive Committee of the Palladio
Foundation
• Director of the European Public Real Estate
Association (EPRA)
i.
• Member of the management board of URW NV
• Director, Chairman and President of URW America, Inc.
• Director and President of Annapolis TRS, Inc.; Fashion
Square Service TRS, Inc.; GSP Service TRS, Inc.;
Montgomery Service, Inc.; VF/UTC Service, Inc.; WCL
Holdings, Inc.; Westfield Beneficiary 1, Inc.; Westfield
Beneficiary 2, Inc.; Westfield Subsidiary REIT 1, Inc.;
Westfield Subsidiary REIT 2, Inc.; Westland Properties,
Inc.; Westland Realty Beneficiary, Inc.
• Director of Broward Mall LLC; Roseville Shoppingtown
LLC; Santa Anita Borrower LLC; Santa Anita GP LLC;
Valencia Town Center Venture GP LLC; Westfield
Paramus 1, Inc.
• Manager and President of URW WEA LLC; West-OC 2
REIT 1 LLC; West-OC 2 REIT 2 LLC; West-OC 2 REIT 3
LLC; URW Airports LLC; Westfield LLC; Westfield
Concession Management II LLC; Westfield, Gift Card
Management LLC; Westfield Property Management LLC;
Westfield U.S. Holdings LLC; WestNant Investment LLC
• Manager of Annapolis REIT 1 LLC, Annapolis REIT 2 LLC;
Annapolis REIT 3 LLC; Broward Mall LLC; Culver City
REIT 1 LLC; Culver City REIT 2 LLC; Culver City REIT 3
LLC; Horton Plaza REIT 1 LLC; Horton Plaza REIT 2 LLC;
Horton Plaza REIT 3 LLC; Mission Valley REIT 1 LLC;
Mission Valley REIT 2 LLC; Mission Valley REIT 3 LLC;
North County REIT 1 LLC; North County REIT 2 LLC;
North County REIT 3 LLC; Oakridge REIT 1 LLC; Oakridge
REIT 2 LLC; Oakridge REIT 3 LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT 1
LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT 2 LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT 3 LLC;
Promenade REIT 1 LLC; Promenade REIT 2 LLC;
Promenade REIT 3 LLC; Santa Anita REIT 1 LLC; Santa
Anita REIT 2 LLC; Santa Anita REIT 3 LLC; Southcenter
REIT 1 LLC; Southcenter REIT 2 LLC; Southcenter REIT 3
LLC; Stratford City Offices (No.1) LLC; Stratford City
Offices (No.2) LLC; Stratford City Shopping Centre
(No.1) LLC; Stratford City Shopping Centre (No.3) LLC;
Topanga REIT 1 LLC; Topanga REIT 2 LLC; Topanga REIT
3 LLC; West Valley REIT 1 LLC; West Valley REIT 2 LLC;
West Valley REIT 3 LLC; White City Investments (No. 1)
LLC; White City Investments (No. 2) LLC
• Director of Descon Invest PTY LTD; Fidele PTY LTD;
Nauthiz PTY LTD; Westfield America Management
Limited; Westfield American Investments PTY LTD;
Westfield Capital Corporation Finance PTY LTD;
Westfield Queensland PTY LTD; WFA Finance (Aust) PTY
LTD; WFD Finance PTY LTD
OTHER INTRA-GROUP FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
• Chairman of the management board and Chief
Executive Officer of URW SE
• Chairman of Uni-Expos (SA)
26
Excluding 2553 Stapled Shares held via the URW SE company saving plan.
24
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE
YEARS (continued)
• (continued) Director and Chairman of Rodamco
Sverige AB
• Director and representative of Unibail-Rodamco
Nederland Winkels B.V.
• Director of U&R Management B.V.
• Director and Secretary of Unibail-Rodamco Spain,
SLU (formerly Unibail-Rodamco Inversiones, SLU);
Unibail-Rodamco Ocio, SLU; Unibail-Rodamco
Palma, SLU; Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate, SLU;
Unibail-Rodamco Retail Spain, SLU
Director and Chairman of Proyectos Inmobiliaros
New Visions, SLU; Essential Whites, SLU;
Promociones Inmobiliarias Gardiner SL; Unibail-
Rodamco Steam, SLU; Proyectos Inmobiliarios
Time Blue, SLU
• Director and President of WALP Service, Inc;
Westfield America, Inc.; Westfield DDC, Inc.;
Westfield Development, Inc.; Westfield Eco, Inc.;
Westfield USA Centres, Inc.; WHL (USA), Inc.; WHL
USA Acquisitions, Inc.
• Manager and President of URW Airports LLC;
Westfield Concession Management II LLC;
Westfield Gift Card Management LLC; Westfield
Property Management LLC; WestNant Investment
LLC
• Director, Chairman and President of URW America,
Inc.
• Director and President of Annapolis TRS, Inc.;
Fashion Square Service TRS, Inc.; GSP Service TRS,
Inc.; Montgomery Service, Inc.; VF/UTC Service,
Inc.; WCL Holdings, Inc.; Westfield Beneficiary 1,
Inc.; Westfield Beneficiary 2, Inc.; Westfield
Subsidiary REIT 1, Inc.; Westfield Subsidiary REIT
2, Inc.; Westland Properties, Inc.; Westland Realty
Beneficiary, Inc.
• Director of Broward Mall LLC; Roseville
Shoppingtown LLC; Santa Anita Borrower LLC;
Santa Anita GP LLC; Valencia Town Center Venture
GP LLC; Westfield Paramus 1, Inc.
• Manager and President of URW WEA LLC; West-OC
2 REIT 1 LLC; West-OC 2 REIT 2 LLC; West-OC 2
REIT 3 LLC; URW Airports LLC; Westfield LLC;
Westfield Concession Management II LLC;
Westfield, Gift Card Management LLC; Westfield
Property Management LLC; Westfield U.S. Holdings
LLC; WestNant Investment LLC
• SB Member of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield Germany
GmbH (formerly: mfi AG); REIT 2 LLC; Annapolis REIT 3
LLC; Broward Mall LLC; Culver City REIT 1 LLC; Culver
City REIT 2 LLC; Culver City REIT 3 LLC; Horton Plaza
REIT 1 LLC; Horton Plaza REIT 2 LLC; Horton Plaza REIT
3 LLC; Mission Valley REIT 1 LLC; Mission Valley REIT 2
LLC; Mission Valley REIT 3 LLC; North County REIT 1 LLC;
North County REIT 2 LLC; North County REIT 3 LLC;
Oakridge REIT 1 LLC; Oakridge REIT 2 LLC; Oakridge
REIT 3 LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT 1 LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT
2 LLC; Plaza Bonita REIT 3 LLC; Promenade REIT 1 LLC;
Promenade REIT 2 LLC; Promenade REIT 3 LLC; Santa
Anita REIT 1 LLC; Santa Anita REIT 2 LLC; Santa Anita
REIT 3 LLC; Southcenter REIT 1 LLC; Southcenter REIT 2
LLC; Southcenter REIT 3 LLC; Stratford City Offices
(No.1) LLC; Stratford City Offices (No.2) LLC; Stratford
City Shopping Centre (No.1) LLC; Stratford City
Shopping Centre (No.3) LLC; Topanga REIT 1 LLC;
Topanga REIT 2 LLC; Topanga REIT 3 LLC; West Valley
REIT 1 LLC; West Valley REIT 2 LLC; West Valley REIT 3
LLC; White City Investments (No. 1) LLC; White City
Investments (No. 2) LLC
• Director of Descon Invest PTY Limited; Fidele PTY
Limited; Nauthiz PTY LTD; Westfield America
Management Limited; Westfield American Investments
PTY Limited; Westfield Capital Corporation Finance Pty
LTD; Westfield Capital Corporation Finance PTY LTD;
Westfield Queensland PTY LTD; WFA Finance (Aust) PTY
Limited; WFD Finance PTY Limited
• Director of WFD Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate B.V.
Attendance 2022:
• SB 100%
• GNRC 100%
Mandate:
• First Mandate: June 29, 2021 (involved from January 1, 2021)
• Expiry date of term of office: AGM 2025
Further experience:
• Active executive and senior leadership experience
Strong leadership and management skills, having served as President US at URW NV. He has extensive operational experience after numerous
senior positions, including Managing Director Retail France and Chief Operating Officer at former Unibail-Rodamco SE.
• International experience and regional market exposure
Extensive international experience through various roles. He has a truly international perspective and in-depth knowledge of regional real
estate and retail in the US having lived and worked in the US as former President US at URW NV.
• Retail and consumer product experience
Significant expertise through various senior roles in asset management, including as Head of Asset Management and later Managing Director
Retail and Offices France at former Unibail-Rodamco SE.
• Risk oversight and corporate Governance Experience
Experience through various senior roles in the industry and as a management board member on a France and a Dutch listed company,
including experience on risk oversight and corporate governance practices.
25
BORN ON:
April 16, 1970
NATIONALITY:
French
NUMBER OF STAPLED
SHARES HELD:
26,505
27
MR FABRICE MOUCHEL
SB MEMBER – VICE-CHAIR
Independent
• Graduate of HEC Business School, master’s degree in law and bar diploma (CAPA: certificat d’aptitude à la
profession d’avocat).
• Lawyer in the Mergers & Acquisitions Department of Gide Loyrette & Nouel (1993-1996).
• Vice-President of Mergers and Acquisitions at ING-Barings (1997-2001).
• Joined Unibail in 2001 as Head of Corporate Development.
• Became Head of Financial Resources and Investor Relations Department in 2002.
• Deputy CFO from June 2007 to April 2013.
• Appointed to the Unibail-Rodamco SE MB as Deputy CFO in March 4, 2013 (effective on April 25, 2013) and as Group
Finance Director on June 7, 2018.
• Appointed as Chief Financial Officer of URW SE as of January 5, 2021.
OTHER FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES OUTSIDE OF
THE GROUP
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE
YEARS
• N/A
• SB Member of Rodamco Deutschland GmbH;
Rodamco Deutschland GmbH; Co Süd Liegenschafts
KG
• Managing Director of SCS Liegenschaftsverwertung
GmbH; SCS Motor City Errichtungs G.m.b.H. Austria
OTHER INTRA-GROUP FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
Group Companies
• Member of the management board and CFO of URW SE
• Director of Rodamco Nederland B.V.; Rodamco Nederland
Winkels B.V.; U&R Management B.V.; Dotterzwaan B.V.;
Cijferzwaan B.V.; Unibail-Rodamco Poland 5 B.V.; Rodamco
Project I B.V.; Rodamco Europe Finance B.V.; Unibail-
Rodamco Investments B.V.; Unibail-Rodamco Investments 2
B.V.; Real Estate Investments Poland Coöperatief UA;
Stichting Rodamco, Traffic UK B.V.; Old Tower Real Estate
B.V.; Broekzele Investments B.V.
• Member of the board of Rodamco Sverige AB
• Director of Westfield Corporation Limited; Descon Invest Pty
Limited; Westfield Investments Pty Limited; Westfield
American Investments Pty Limited; Westfield Capital
Corporation Finance Pty Ltd; Westfield Queensland Pty Ltd;
Nauthiz Pty Ltd; WCL Finance Pty Limited; WCL
Management Pty Limited; Westfield UK Investments Pty
Limited; Westfield UK 1 Pty Limited; Westfield UK 2 Pty
Limited; Westfield UK 3 Pty Limited; Westfield UK 4 Pty
Limited; Westfield UK 5 Pty Limited; Westfield UK 6 Pty
Limited; Westfield America Management Ltd; Fidele Pty Ltd
Westfield R.S.C.F. Management Pty Ltd; Westfield
Developments Pty Ltd; Cavemont Pty. Ltd
• Managing Director of DZ-Donauzentrum Besitz- und
Vermietungs-GmbH; Shopping Center Planungs- und
Entwicklungsgesellschaft m.b.H. & Co Werbeberatung KG;
Shopping Center Planungs- und Entwicklungsgesellschaft
mbH; Shopping City Süd Erweiterungsbau Gesellschaft
m.b.H. & Co Anlagenvermietung KG; Unibail-Rodamco
Austria Verwaltungs GmbH, URW Invest GmbH, Unibail-
Rodamco Invest GmbH
• Vice-President of the SB of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
Germany GmbH
• Director of Liffey River Financing ltd
• Director of Crossroads Property Investors s.a.
Attendance 2022:
• SB 100%
• AC 100%
• GNRC 100%
Mandate:
• First Mandate: June 29, 2021 (involved from February 4, 2021)
• Expiry date of term of office: AGM 2025
Further experience:
• Relevant active executive or senior leadership experience
Significant senior leadership experience as vice-president of mergers and acquisitions at ING-Barings and Head of Corporate Development at
Unibail-Rodamco SE.
27
Excluding 6406 Stapled Shares held via the URW SE company saving plan.
26
• Financial expertise
High level of financial and capital markets experience gained through various positions, including as vice-president of mergers and
acquisitions at ING-Barings and later as Head of Financial Resources and Investor Relations department at Unibail-Rodamco SE. In-dept
knowledge of the industry having served as Deputy Chief Financial Officer and Group Finance Director at Unibail-Rodamco SE.
• Risk oversight/compliance expertise
Seasoned executive with 20 years of expertise through senior roles in finance at Unibail-Rodamco SE.
• Real Estate Market Experience
Extensive experience in the European market through 20-year career in the industry having served as Deputy Chief Financial Officer and
Group Finance Director.
• Corporate Governance
Former member of the management board of Unibail-Rodamco SE.
BORN ON:
August 31, 1954
NATIONALITY:
French
NUMBER OF STAPLED
SHARES HELD:
363
MR JEAN-LOUIS LAURENS
SENIOR INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR & AC CHAIRMAN
Independent
• Graduate of HEC Business School.
• Doctorate in Economics and a Master’s in law.
• Former Executive Director of Morgan Stanley International.
• Former CEO of AXA Investment Managers France.
• Former CEO of Robeco France and former Global Head of Mainstream Investment of Robeco Group (until 2009).
OTHER FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS
Listed Company
• None
Other Company
• Chairman of Blulog, Sp.z. (Poland)
• Chairman of A4P Technologies SA (Luxembourg)
• Member of the supervisory board Andera Partners
(France)
• Member of the board of directors Crédit Mutuel
Investment Management (France)
• Member of the supervisory board of Vidi Capital
(France)
• Former supervisory board vice-chairman and audit
committee chairman of URW SE (until 2018)
• Non-executive chairman of the board of directors of
Unigestion Asset Management (France)
Attendance 2022:
• SB 100%
• AC 100%
Mandate:
• First Mandate: June 7, 2018
• Second Mandate: June 22, 2022
• Expiry date of term of office: AGM 2026
Further experience:
• Active executive and senior leadership experience
Extensive senior leadership experience as general partner and global head of asset management of Rothschild and Co Group, global Head of
mainstream investments at Robeco Group and CEO of AXA Investment Managers.
• Financial expertise
Extensive financial and capital markets expertise as a former chief executive of major asset management companies and numerous senior
positions in investment banks such as HSBC and Morgan Stanley.
• Risk oversight/compliance expertise
Extensive expertise through various senior roles in asset management and investment banking, including CEO of Banque Internationale de
Placement and CEO of Banque Robeco and gained important insights into governance, risk management and regulation.
• International Experience
Extensive international experience through various Global Head roles and work experience in Germany, the Netherlands and the US.
• Corporate Governance Experience
Former member of the Ethics and Governance Committee of MEDEF, the French employers association (10 year tenure). Co-author of the
AFEP-MEDEF code of governance.
27
BORN ON:
January 15, 1975
NATIONALITY:
American
NUMBER OF STAPLED
SHARES HELD:
806 (incl. 305 stapled
shares held through CDI’s)
MS ALINE TAIREH
SB MEMBER
Independent
• Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and Psychology from University of California Irvine.
• Juris Doctorate Degree from Brooklyn Law School, New York.
• Associate with O’Melveny & Myers LLP, Los Angeles, CA.
• Joined Westfield as Senior Corporate Counsel in January 2007 and was appointed Associate and General Counsel
in January 2008.
• Appointed Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of Westfield effective June 2012
• Appointed General Counsel US on June 7, 2018.
OTHER INTRA-GROUP FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS
• Various other current mandates within the Group
• None
Attendance 2022:
• SB 100%
Mandate:
• First Mandate: June 7, 2018
• Second Mandate: June 22, 2022
• Expiry date of term of office: AGM 2026
Further experience:
• Relevant active executive and senior leadership experience
Extensive operational and leadership experience as General Counsel of Westfield and various executive and director positions with all
aspects of the US business including shopping center operations, financings, joint venture relationships and development matters.
Significant focus on sustainability, diversity, talent and change management, in both executive and non-executive positions.
• International experience and regional market exposure
Significant experience in international operations as well as local market exposure in the US since joining Westfield in 2007 with in-depth
knowledge in the US real estate and retail market, which are increasingly important given the US portfolio of flagship destinations.
• Real estate and real estate asset management experience
Extensive strategy expertise in real estate development, investment, leasing, management, and divestment through her role as Senior
Corporate Counsel, Associate General Counsel, Deputy General Counsel and General Counsel of Westfield. US market expert through 20+-
year career with key leadership to drive change management to successfully adopt management practices in order to ensure organizational
success.
• Legal and Financial expertise
In-depth knowledge of operations that are international and complex, with financing transactions, group debt and refinancing in different
countries and currencies.
• Risk oversight and compliance
20+ years of experience in the US real estate and retail market has brought deep knowledge of the US market, including real estate
property acquisitions, secured and unsecured financing transactions, joint ventures, litigation and all other legal and process matters.
28
BORN ON:
February 2, 1957
NATIONALITY:
French
NUMBER OF STAPLED
SHARES HELD:
112,970
MS CATHERINE POURRE
SB MEMBER & AC MEMBER & GNRC CHAIR
Independent
• Graduate of ESSEC Business School
• Law degree from Université Catholique de Paris
• Graduate French Expertise Comptable (French CPA)
• Former Audit & Consulting Partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers (1989 – 1999).
• Former Consulting Partner at Ernst & Young and former Executive Director and Member of the Executive
Committee at Cap Gemini Ernst & Young (1999 – 2002).
• Former Deputy Managing Director and member of the Executive Committee of Unibail (2002 to 2007).
• Fomer Management Board member and Chief Resources Officer at Unibail-Rodamco SE (2007 to 2013).
• Designated as independent SB Member at URW N.V. in February 2021.
OTHER FUNCTIONS AND MANDATES
PREVIOUS MANDATES DURING THE LAST FIVE YEARS
Listed Company
• Member of the supervisory board of Crédit Agricole SA
(France); Chair of the Audit Committee; member of the
Risk Committee; member of the Strategy &
Sustainability Committee
• Member of the supervisory board of Bénéteau (France),
Chair of the Audit Committee, member of the
Remuneration Committee
Other Company
• Member of the supervisory board of Crédit Agricole
Corporate and Investment Band (France); Chair of the
Audit Committee; member of the Risk Committee;
member of the Remuneration Committee; member of
the Governance and Nomination Committee
• Member of the management board of CPO Services
(Luxembourg)
• Member of the supervisory board of Neopost SA
(France) (until 2019)
• Member of the supervisory board of SEB SA (France);
Chair of the Audit Committee Member of the Risk
Committee; Member of the Strategy & Sustainability
Committee (until May 2022)
Attendance 2022:
• SB 100%
• AC 100%
• GNRC 100%
Mandate:
• First Mandate: June 29, 2021 (involved from February 4, 2021)
• Expiry date of term of office: AGM 2025
Further experience:
• Active executive and senior leadership experience
Extensive senior leadership experience as Management Board member of Unibail-Rodamco Group and global Head of Consulting for High
Growth companies at Pricewaterhouse and then Cap Gemini Consulting.
• Financial expertise & real estate experience
Extensive financial expertise as a French CPA and a former Chief Financial Officer at Unibail as well as Chair or Member of numerous Audit
Committees of Boards of listed companies including a systemic financial institution.
Extensive experience in real estate development, investment, leasing, management, and divestment as a former Management Board member
of Unibail-Rodamco Group.
• Risk Oversight and Compliance expertise
Extensive Risk, internal Control and compliance expertise as a consulting partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers and Cap Gemini Consulting, as
well as former Chief Resources Offices at Unibail-Rodamco and as a member of Audit, Risks and Compliance Committees in various Boards
of listed companies including a systemic financial institution.
• International Experience
Extensive international experience through various senior roles and work experience in the US, the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg and
France.
• Corporate Governance Experience
Extensive corporate Governance experience through various senior roles as Management Board member and Supervisory Board member in
major listed companies.
29
INDEPENDENCE
Considering inter alia the Stapled Share structure, current practices at URW SE and URW NV, and the interest of the URW Group and its
stakeholders, the Chair of the Supervisory Board is considered non-independent. Even though the composition of the SB partly relates to the fact
that URW SE and URW NV together form the URW Group, after careful review it can be confirmed that as at December 31, 2022, the majority of
the SB members can be considered independent within the meaning of principle 2.1.8 of the DCGC.
DIVERSITY
URW NV has diversity policies with respect to the composition of the MB and the SB. URW NV is committed to supporting, valuing, and leveraging
the value of diversity, but also believes that there is a fine line between diversity and unintentional discrimination. For that reason, the
importance of diversity, in and of itself, should not set aside the overriding principle that someone should be recommended, nominated and
appointed for being “the right person for the job”. URW NV believes that it is important for the MB and the SB to represent a diverse mix of
backgrounds, experiences, qualifications, knowledge, abilities and viewpoints.
URW NV seeks to combine the skills and experience of long-standing members of the MB and/or the SB with the fresh perspectives, insights, skills
and experiences of new members. URW NV strives for gender diversity and a mix of ages in the composition of those bodies. In addition to age
and gender, the Company recognizes and welcomes the value of diversity with respect to race, ethnicity, nationality, sexual orientation and
other important cultural differences. URW NV is committed to seeking broad diversity in the composition of the MB and the SB and will consider
these attributes when evaluating new candidates in the best interests of the Company and its stakeholders. In terms of experience and expertise,
URW NV intends for the MB and the SB to be composed of individuals who are knowledgeable in one or more specific areas of strategic importance
to the Company.
New Dutch legislation is aimed at improving gender diversity in listed companies, among others by imposing a quota of at least one-third for both
women and men on the SB. We recognize the importance of diversity and inclusion; a diverse and inclusive workforce provides the necessary mix
of points of view required to continue to innovate and drive our Company’s business forward. URW NV believes that it is valuable that, and strives
to achieve a situation in which the experience and expertise as well as diversity and inclusion are embedded at all levels of the Company. URW
embodies an inclusive vision for its business as well as its employee community as laid down in the URW Diversity Charter. In 2022 the Company
set diversity targets for the SB, MB and senior management positions in adherence with the URW Diversity Charter and in line with Dutch law
applicable as per January 1, 2022, the SB shall pursue that at least one third of the SB seats shall be held by each gender. The MB shall pursue
that at least 40% of the total MB and senior management positions shall be held by women and no more than 60% by men by 2025.
The composition of the SB over the year 2022 is such, that URW NV’s diversity objectives have been achieved, including meeting the statutory
target of one third of the SB comprising female SB Members. The selection of SB members is based on the required profile and their backgrounds,
experiences, qualifications, knowledge, abilities, and viewpoints without positive or negative bias on gender.
The composition of the MB and senior management as a group, with a 61%/39% male/female gender balance in 2022, diverges from the diversity
target pursued by the MB. This is partly due to the limited size of the MB, with only two members, and because URW NV continues to appoint
and nominate, as applicable, the best candidates for these respective positions. More than for re-appointments, whereby experience and good
performance are weighing heavily on the decision, new appointments will offer opportunity to re-balance the composition in view of fair and
equal gender representation in due course. Targets set for (gender) diversity will be taken into consideration when there are vacancies in the
MB, and senior management positions to strive for a 60/40 gender balance by 2025 as outlined above.
Diversity and inclusion also forms a key part of the URW Better Places 2030 strategy. With a representation in 2 continents, we welcome
employees from different parts of the world, from diverse cultures and backgrounds to build successful and inclusive teams. URW commits to
ensuring full equal opportunities (e.g. gender, nationality, sexual orientation) in HR practices and processes Group - wide. The Group stands for
a fair overall outcome that rewards individual and collective performance and does not discriminate on race, gender, nationality or any other
personal criteria. The Be You at URW framework for example aims to fully embed the Group’s commitment to drive even greater diversity and
inclusion across the business and focuses on four key areas: leadership & commitment, inclusion policies & performance, employee development
& learning and culture & employee engagement. In 2022, webcasts for International Women’s Day, gender equality activities in all regions, and
LGBTQ+ Pride activities in the US, were held. Also, the URW employee pulse Survey was rolled out to all employees in 2022, including a focus on
diversity and inclusion. An employee survey is rolled out each year to check in with the global employee community and help shape effective
plans to create an even more inclusive working culture.
More information about our diverse workforce and inclusive way of working is available in the URW CSR Report.
2.2.2 SB MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES
The SB held 6 meetings in 2022 (including ad hoc meetings). Overall average member attendance at its meetings was 100%. In addition to the
matters within its statutory scope, the SB discussed all major actions carried out in 2022, both internally (e.g. organizational matters, risk
management, compliance and Anti-Corruption Program, 2022 half year results, internal audits) and externally (Group strategy, refurbishment
projects, operations, financial position, Dutch Corporate Governance Code requirements) with specific attention to the evolution of the
deleveraging strategies, including disposals and ways to ensure access to capital markets and the rotation of the statutory auditor. The Company’s
statutory auditor during H1-2022 attended 2 meetings, after rotation the Company’s statutory auditor in H2-2022 attended 2 meetings.
SB Members were also informed of the work and recommendations of its specialized committees and that of the Company’s statutory auditor.
The minutes and documents of all the meetings of URW NV’s Audit Committee (AC) and URW NV’s Governance, Nomination and Remuneration
Committee (GNRC) are systematically made available to all SB Members through a secure electronic platform.
The joint URW SB annual Strategy Retreat in 2022 was held in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. With focus on the deleveraging plan, sustainability
and energy action plan and digital and data strategy. In July 2022 a joint URW Group SB training session was held, with focus on sustainability
and regulations, compliance and governance.
30
Principal responsibilities of the SB
Key areas discussed, reviewed and/or approved in 2022
Group Strategy
• Strategic initiatives relating to the balance sheet, including
deleveraging and access to capital;
• Refurbishment, investment, divestment and operations;
• Regular updates: on share price evolution and business activities,
including updates on the conflict in Ukraine and related restrictions
(operations, finance, human resources, legal, CSR, development, IT
and data strategy, compliance and risk management, including
sanctions list, etc.);
• Redesigning of the CSR Strategy “Better Places 2030”;
Group Financial Policy and Financial Performance and Reporting
• Review and discussion of the deleveraging programme;
• 2022 Budget and 5-year Business Plan, financial resources and
borrowing requirements;
• Follow-up on NAV and EPRA performance measures;
• Financial commitments and guarantees;
• Provisions for risk and litigation;
• The Group’s dividend policy (as part of the dividend policy of the
URW Group) and annual allocation of results;
• Approval of 2021 consolidated full-year results, statutory financial
statements and half-year accounts for the 2022 financial year;
• Relationship with URW NV’s statutory auditor including auditor’s
reporting for the coming year;
• Review and assessment of statutory auditor rotation;
• Non-audit services provided by URW NV’s statutory auditor;
• Refurbishment pipeline in the context of overall balance sheet
planning and rating agencies;
• Liquidity forecasts and Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio;
• Regular tax updates.
Internal Audit, Risk Management and Control Systems
• Monitoring risk management, internal audit, compliance, and
insurance programmes;
• 2022 internal audit plan;
• Internal audits, internal control system and compliance matters;
• In-depth review of the Group’s risk management and update of the
risk mapping;
• Focused review of selected risk management topics (2022 focus
included: recruitment, retention & succession; IT systems & data;
terrorism & major security incidents; climate change & societal
risks).
Governance and Compliance with Relevant Laws and
Regulations
• Updates to the URW Group’s compliance programme (including the
URW Group’s Anti-corruption Programme and risk mapping, Anti-
Money Laundering and Sanctions list) and completing the Group
Compliance and Group Anti-Corruption Programme training;
• Compliance with the Dutch Corporate Governance Code (including
proposed update of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code);
• Review of the independence of SB Members;
• Regular updates on regulatory/legal changes, including the follow
up of the Dutch Diversity Act;
• Review and confirming absence of related party agreements.
Succession Planning
• Annual review of the SB and committee profile and composition and
rotation;
• Succession planning and overall composition of the SB and MB;
• SB Member selection/recruitment process.
Group Remuneration Policy and Performance Assessments
• 2022 MB Member remuneration and update MB remuneration policy
(including FI, level of attainment of annual STI and LTI targets);
• Annual evaluation of the functioning of the MB;
• Annual evaluation of the functioning of the SB (self-assessment
process).
Human Resources
• Talent management, including recruitment and mobility;
• Diversity and inclusion.
Shareholder Outreach and Engagement
• Shareholder and proxy advisor engagement and feedback (including
2022 AGM voting items and the proposed capital raise) and
corporate governance roadshow and communications;
• Updates on shareholder composition;
• AGM materials (agenda, resolutions, etc.);
• Annual Report 2021.
31
2.2.3 SB BOARD COMMITTEES
The SB has established three committees: the AC, the GNRC and the Investment Committee (“IC”).
2.2.3.1 AUDIT COMMITTEE (AC)
The AC assists and advises the SB on its audit duties and prepares its decisions in this regard. The duties of the AC include reviewing and discussing
the effectiveness of internal risk management and control systems and the financial information to be disclosed by URW NV. The AC also monitors
the MB with regard to URW NV’s compliance program with recommendations and observations of internal and external auditors, URW NV’s
compliance with applicable laws and regulations, the functioning of the internal audit department (if applicable), URW NV’s tax policy, URW NV’s
application of information and communication technology and URW NV’s financing. In addition, it maintains regular contact with and supervises
URW NV’s statutory auditor, including her independence, and it advises the SB regarding the external auditor's nomination for (re)appointment
by the General Meeting.
The roles and responsibilities of the AC as well as the composition and the manner in which it discharges its duties are set out in a committee
charter (each a “Committee Charter”) and, in part, in the SB rules governing the organisation, decision-making and other internal matters of the
SB (the "SB Rules"). Pursuant to a resolution to that effect, the SB may, with the approval of the URW SE Supervisory Directors, amend or
supplement the Committee Charter and allow temporary deviations.
AUDIT COMMITTEE COMPOSITION
As at December 31, 2022, the AC consists of three members:
• Mr Jean-Louis Laurens (Chair);
• Mrs Catherine Pourre; and
• Mr Fabrice Mouchel.
The members of the AC are appointed and dismissed by the SB on the basis of a binding recommendation by the GNRC. At least one member of
the AC must have competence in accounting and/or auditing. More than half of all the members of the AC, including the chair of the AC, must
be independent from URW NV (including within the meaning of the Dutch Corporate Governance Code). The chair of the AC shall not be the chair
of the SB or a former MB Member.
AUDIT COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES
The AC shall meet at least quarterly and otherwise as often as any of the SB Members deems necessary or appropriate. At least once a year, the
AC meets with the Company’s statutory auditor without any of the MB Members being present. During the financial year 2022, the AC met 7 times
in order to carry out its responsibilities. Overall attendance was 100%. The Company's statutory auditor attended 4 meetings.
AC members receive the meeting documents which include a detailed agenda and comprehensive papers timely before each meeting. To allow
for optimal preparation for the review of the accounts, the AC meets prior to the SB meeting at which the full-year and half-year financial
statements are reviewed. The SB is informed of the proceedings and recommendations of the AC at its meeting directly following that of the AC.
In addition to the matters within its statutory scope, the AC discussed the external auditor rotation pursuant to European Regulations and the
interest for the Company to assess the services it is paying for, including audit, are fit for purpose and provide value. Following an orientation
phase in light of the anticipated auditor rotation in December 2021 the AC appointed a Steering Committee, consisting of the AC Chair, the
URW NV CFO and the URW Group Director of Consolidation and Accounting, to lead a tender process.
During the intake phase the auditors were requested to demonstrate they establish adequate policies and procedures to ensure compliance with
regards to independence, internal quality of control systems, the supervision and training of employees and other persons involved in the statutory
audit activity within their organization.
The emphasis in the decision process included the adaptation of the proposal to URW Group’s worldwide organization and its evolution, to the
alignment with the challenges URW NV will face in the coming years, as well as the capability of the audit network to integrate the most up to
date and best performing digital tools and audit field work processes, in addition with the criteria of quality and independence. During its
evaluation the Steering Committee focused on both qualitative and financial criteria.
The Steering Committee, aligning their preferences on continuity of URW NV and the URW Group, presented two candidates to the AC noting the
preference to nominate Deloitte, based on both qualitative and financial criteria, as the external auditor for URW NV from the financial year
2022. Following the tender process, it was the AC’s responsibility to submit the recommendation to the SB for the appointment of the external
auditor. The AC recommendation included two possible choices for the audit engagement with a justified preference, resulting in the proposed
nomination of Deloitte Accountants B.V. at the 2022 annual general meeting.
Principal responsibilities of the AC
Key areas discussed, reviewed and/or recommended for approval to the SB
in 2022
Group Financial Policy
• Strategic initiatives to the balance sheet, including deleveraging, access to
capital;
• Extensive review and follow-up of financial, borrowing, accounting and tax
aspects;
• 2022 Group Budget;
• Follow-up on NAV and EPRA performance measures;
• The Group’s dividend policy (as part of the dividend policy of the URW
Group) and annual allocation of results,
• Relationship with the external auditor including auditor’s reporting for the
coming year;
• Review and assessment of external auditor rotation;
• Non-audit services provided by URW NV's external auditor.
32
Financial Performance and Reporting
• Review and discussion of the disposal programme;
• 2021 consolidated full-year results and statutory financial statement and
half-year accounts for the 2022 financial year;
• Financial commitments and guarantees;
• Provisions for risk and litigation;
• Regular tax updates;
• Regular updates on regulatory/legal changes including legal audit reform;
• Refurbishment pipeline in the context of overall balance sheet planning and
rating agencies;
• Liquidity forecasts and Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio.
Internal Audit, Risk Management and Control Systems
• Monitoring risk management, internal audit, compliance, and insurance
programmes;
• Updates on digital and IT strategy, tools and projects;
• 2022 internal audit plan;
• Internal audits, internal control system and compliance matters;
• In-depth review of risk management and update of the risk mapping;
• Focused review of selected risk management topics (2022 focus included:
recruitment, retention & succession; IT systems & data; terrorism & major
security incidents; climate change & societal risks).
AC Governance
• Annual evaluation of the functioning and efficiency of the AC (self-
assessment process).
2.2.3.2 THE GOVERNANCE, NOMINATIONS AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE (GNRC)
The GNRC assists and advises the SB on its duties regarding the nomination of MB Members and SB Members. It is charged with drawing up
selection criteria and appointment procedures for the MB Members and SB Members. Furthermore, it periodically assesses the size and
composition of the MB and the SB, and make proposals for the composition profile of the SB. In addition, the GNRC periodically assesses the
functioning of individual MB Members and SB Members, and reports on such review to the SB. It is also charged with making proposals for
(re)appointment or dismissal of MB Members and SB Members as well as for the election or dismissal of the Chair and Vice-Chair of the SB. The
GNRC supervises the policy of the MB regarding the selection criteria and appointment procedures for URW NV's senior management.
The GNRC further assists and advises the SB on its duties regarding the remuneration of the MB Members and the SB Members. The duties of the
GNRC include preparing proposals for the SB concerning the remuneration policy for the MB Members, the remuneration of the individual MB
Members within the framework of the remuneration policy as adopted by the General Meeting, and the remuneration of individual SB Members
subject to approval by the General Meeting.
In addition, the GNRC periodically reviews and assesses the adequacy of the corporate governance practices, policies and rules of URW NV and
its subsidiaries and makes recommendations to the SB on all matters of corporate governance (including on any remedial actions to be taken).
The roles and responsibilities of the GNRC as well as the composition and the manner in which it discharges its duties are set out in a committee
charter (each a “Committee Charter”) and, in part, in the SB Rules. Pursuant to a resolution to that effect, the SB may, with the approval of the
URW SE Supervisory Directors, amend or supplement the Committee Charter and allow temporary deviations.
GOVERNANCE, NOMINATION AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE COMPOSITION
As at December 31, 2022, the GNRC consists of three members, including two URW SE Supervisory Directors:
• Mrs Catherine Pourre (Chair);
• Mr Jean-Marie Tritant; and
• Mr Fabrice Mouchel.
The members of the GNRC are appointed and dismissed by the SB on the basis of a binding recommendation by the GNRC.
GOVERNANCE, NOMINATIONS AND REMUNERATION COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES
The GNRC held 3 meetings in 2022 (including ad hoc meetings). Overall attendance was 100%. The implementation of the updated remuneration
policy in line with the Shareholders Rights Directive-II, stock options and performance share plans were finalized in the first half year of 2022.
The GNRC furthermore reviewed and advised the SB on the updated remuneration policy on incentive restructuring and long-term incentive KPI’s,
the Management Board (MB) and Supervisory Board (SB) profiles and composition, and the selection and nomination process.
Principal responsibilities of the GNRC
Key areas discussed, reviewed and/or recommended for approval to the SB
in 2022
Company Remuneration Policy and performance assessments
• 2022 MB Member remuneration (including FI, level of attainment of
annual STI and LTI targets);
• 2022 LTI envelope.
Shareholder outreach and engagement
• Shareholder engagement and feedback (including as relates to
governance and remuneration);
• AGM materials (remuneration policy update and renewals/appointments).
GNRC Governance
• Evaluation of the functioning and efficiency of the MB;
• Review of the SB and committee profile and composition and rotation;
• Succession planning (selection and nomination process) and overall
composition of the SB and MB.
33
Governance and compliance with relevant laws and regulations
• Regular updates on regulatory/legal changes, including the follow up of
the Dutch Diversity Act and the proposed updates to the Dutch Corporate
Governance Code.
2.2.3.3 INVESTMENT COMMITTEE (IC)
The SB Members who are members of the IC are authorized to pass resolutions on behalf of the SB to approve resolutions of the MB concerning
certain transactions and actions by URW NV or its subsidiaries up to certain amounts, as listed in more detail in the SB rules.
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE COMPOSITION
As at December 31, 2022, the IC consists of three members, including two URW SE Supervisory Directors:
• Mr Jean-Marie Tritant (Chair);
• Mr Fabrice Mouchel; and
• Ms Aline Taireh.
The members of the IC are appointed and dismissed by the SB, upon the binding recommendation of the GNRC.
INVESTMENT COMMITTEE MEETINGS AND ACTIVITIES
The IC meets as often as any of its members deems necessary or appropriate.
2.2.4 EVALUATION OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
SUPERVISORY BOARD EVALUATION PROCESS
An assessment of the SB is carried out annually. Over the year ending December 31, 2022 an annual assessment of the performance and overall
functioning of the SB and its committees, and of the MB and its members was held. Following the assessment over the year ending December 31,
2022, the SB is generally satisfied with the overall functioning of the SB and its respective members, including the interaction with its committees
and with the MB. The SB also took note of Dutch specific regulatory, governance and accounting matters that were addressed as a key item for
the review performed on consolidated level. The quality of the coordination between the Company and URW SE and Committee Chairs is marked
as good, the continuous updates on local laws and regulations remain of interest. Overall, over the year ending December 31, 2022 it was
concluded the SB functioned well.
2.2.5 CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
NO CLOSE FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS
To the knowledge of the Company, there are no family ties between the SB Members or MB Members of the Company.
MANAGEMENT OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
To the knowledge of the Company, there are no conflicts of interest or potential conflicts of interest between the Company and the SB Members
and/or MB Members with respect to their personal interests or their other obligations. During the financial year 2022, there were no transactions
in respect of which there was a conflict of interests with any MB Member or SB Member that is of material significance to URW NV and/or to such
MB Member or SB Member. Where applicable, best practice provision 2.7.5 of the DCGC concerning related party transactions with significant
shareholders has been observed.
In order to ensure that each SB Member and MB Member acts with loyalty, independence and professionalism, each SB Member and MB Member
must immediately report any actual or potential conflicts of interest with the Company in a transaction that is of material interest to URW NV
and/or to such MB Member or SB Member to the Chairman of the SB and the other MB Members (in the case of an MB Member) or to the other SB
Members (in the case of an SB Member), respectively, providing all relevant information relating to such transaction. An SB Member or MB Member
with a conflict of interest must not participate in the deliberations and the decision-making of the SB or the MB, respectively, on a matter in
relation to which he/she has a conflict of interest.
Additionally, the MB Members must seek SB approval before accepting a position as managing, executive, supervisory or non-executive director
(other than at a group company of URW NV). SB Members must notify the SB in advance of any other managing, executive, supervisory or non-
executive position he/she wishes to pursue, and such other positions are discussed at an SB meeting at least annually.
The SB Members and the MB Members are also subject to the rules established in the URW Group’s Code of Ethics and Anti-Corruption Programme
applicable to all URW Group directors, managers and employees.
In July 2022 a URW Group SB training session was held in which the URW NV SB members participated, including on the URW’s Code of Ethics and
Anti-Corruption Programme.
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
Pursuant to sections 2:167 through 2:170 DCC, URW NV has adopted a related party transactions policy outlining the procedures to identify,
monitor, approve and disclose material transactions with related parties. The URW NV related party transactions policy applies from January 1,
2020.
34
NO CONVICTIONS OR OFFENCES
As at December 31, 2022, to the best of the Company’s knowledge and based on their individual declaration, none of the SB Members or MB
Members has, over the past five years:
• been convicted of fraud;
• been associated as an executive with a bankruptcy, receivership or liquidation;
• been found guilty of an offence and/or publicly and officially sanctioned by a statutory or regulatory authority.
2.3 REMUNERATION REPORT
2.3.1 INTRODUCTION
In accordance with the Articles and Dutch law, URW NV's Annual General Meeting ("AGM") determines URW NV’s remuneration policies for the MB
Members and the SB Members (the "MB Remuneration Policy" and the "SB Remuneration Policy", respectively). URW NV's current MB Remuneration
Policy (effective as of January 1, 2022) was adopted by the AGM on June 22, 2022 with 97,45% votes in favour. In 2022 there were no changes
introduced to URW NV’s current SB Remuneration Policy (effective as of January 1, 2021)
28
.
The MB Remuneration Policy is designed to:
• attract and retain MB Members with the leadership qualities, skills and experience needed to support and promote the growth and sustainable
success of URW NV and its business as well as the URW Group as a whole;
• motivate MB Members to achieve, and reward the achievement of, short and long-term performance targets (including with respect to CSR)
with the objective of increasing URW NV's equity value and contributing to URW NV's strategy for long-term value creation; and
• align the interests of the MB Members to those of URW NV and the URW Group as a whole, and their respective businesses and stakeholders.
The SB Remuneration Policy is intended to attract, motivate and retain high calibre individuals with an appropriate degree of expertise and
experience, which contributes to the strategy, long-term interests, sustainability, identity, mission and values of the Company and its business,
considering the interests of the URW Group.
URW NV believes that this approach and this philosophy benefit the realisation of URW NV's long-term objectives while managing URW NV's risk
profile.
The remuneration paid to the MB Members and SB Members in the 2022 financial year is consistent with the MB Remuneration Policy and the SB
Remuneration Policy, respectively. Therefore, the remuneration paid to our MB Members and SB Members in the 2022 financial year is consistent
with the intentions and design of our remuneration policy and thus contributes to the long-term performance of URW NV and the URW Group of
which it forms a part. Relevant scenario analyses have been considered in advance in determining the level and structure of the remuneration
of the MB Members in the 2022 financial year.
This remuneration report, which describes the remuneration of the MB Members and the SB Members for the financial year 2022, is subject to an
advisory vote at URW NV’s AGM in 2023. At the AGM held on June 22, 2022, 98,48% of votes were cast in favour of URW NV's remuneration report
2021. In light of this strong level of support and considering that no questions were raised at that General Meeting regarding remuneration, no
specifics needed to be addressed in this remuneration report.
The remuneration of the MB Members comprises a Fixed Income (“FI”), a Short-Term Incentive (“STI”) and a Long-Term Incentive (“LTI”) and
may furthermore include pension arrangements, severance pay and other benefits, as described below. The remuneration package of a MB
Member shall not include any welcome bonus, contractual non-compete indemnity, additional defined benefits pension scheme or intra-Group
board fees.
To support the Remuneration Policy’s objectives, the mix of remuneration includes pay-for-performance (STI and LTI). The chart below illustrates
the mix of Fixed Income vs pay-for-performance, assuming maximum STI pay-out and the theoretical maximum LTI grant size (IFRS) according to
the Management Board Remuneration Policy applicable in 2022.
28
The MB Remuneration Policy and the SB Remuneration Policy are available on our website: https://www.urw-nv.com/en/corporate-governance/related-documents
35
2.3.2 REMUNERATION RATIO AND PERFORMANCE EVOLUTION
The Dutch Corporate Governance Code (“Code”) that applied during 2022 recommended the provision of a ratio comparing the remuneration of
the MB Members and that of a "representative reference group" determined by URW NV. We have chosen to compare as per December 31, 2022,
the full year average cash remuneration of the MB Members (i.e. excluding the value of equity incentive awards and other non-cash remuneration
components) to an equivalent of an average full-time employee
29
of URW NV (including its subsidiaries). We have used the aggregate cash
remuneration
30
from January 1, 2022 to December 31, 2022 as a reference amount
31
.
In setting the executive remuneration quantum, the SB and the GNRC use internal and external remuneration benchmarks but also take into
account the remuneration ratio. The remuneration ratio presented below helps ensuring that executive remuneration remains reasonable
compared to the company average and varies with company performance.
The table below sets out the history of this ratio since the financial year 2018, when URW NV was incorporated.
2.3.3 REMUNERATION OF THE MB MEMBERS FOR 2022 FINANCIAL YEAR
The MB Remuneration Policy that was approved by the AGM on June 22, 2022 was applied in 2022 with no deviation.
The remuneration of each MB Member as described in this section includes any such MB Member’s remuneration that was charged to any subsidiary
of URW NV and/or to any other company whose financial information is consolidated by URW NV.
2.3.3.1 ELEMENTS OF REMUNERATION DUE OR GRANTED FOR THE 2022 FINANCIAL YEAR TO
MR DOMINIC LOWE, COO US
Elements of
Remuneration
Amounts
Comments
Annual Fixed
Income – FI
(Paid in respect of
the 2022 year)
€711,654
Mr Lowe’s FI amounts to $750,000 (i.e. €711,654) per year.
Short-Term
Incentive – STI
(To be paid in 2023
in respect of the
2022 year)
€741,632
The maximum STI opportunity for 2022 was set at 100% of FI.
Performance measure
Weight
Unit
Threshold
(30% of max)
Target
(80% of max)
Stretch
(100% of max)
Achieved
Score
(% of max)
Payout
Net Operating Result US
20%
€Mn
386.25
441.42
463.49
470.00
125.0%
€177,913
Investments/Disposals
10%
Undisclosed*
125.0%
€88,957
Rent collection
5%
%
89.0
94.0
96.0
93.9
99.3%
€35,316
Leasing renewals
5%
€Mn
106.09
128.59
137.60
140.00
125.0%
€44,478
Effective rent
5%
Undisclosed*
125.0%
€44,478
Spot vacancy evolution
10%
%
10.3
8.2
7.4
10.4
0%
€0
New revenues growth
5%
Undisclosed*
125.0%
€44,478
Gross admin expenses
10%
Undisclosed*
125.0%
€88,957
GHG equivalent emissions
5%
tCO
2
75,427
67,046
63,694
48,200
125.0%
€44,478
Gender Parity Improvement
5%
%
40.0
54.3
60.0
68.4
125.0%
€44,478
Qualitative performance
20%
See details below
90.0%
€128,098
TOTAL
100%
104.2%
€741,632
* these objectives are commercially sensitive and therefore not disclosed.
29
Average full-time employee includes full-time employees and full-time equivalent of part-time employees. Both fixed term and permanent employees are included.
It however excludes MB Members and interns.
30
The cash remuneration includes base salary and annual (cash) bonus.
31
The remuneration of employees who worked at URW NV and its affiliates for less than a year as of December 31, 2022 is annualized. The exchange rate used for
compensation paid in USD is the average rate over the period as published by the European Central Bank.
32
For the period from incorporation to December 31, 2018.
33
The total remuneration paid or granted includes the FI, the STI due for the year (and paid during the following year), the LTI granted during the year and any other
additional benefits received during the year.
34
There is no longer any President US role since 2021.
35
As Mr. Lowe replaced Mr. Tritant as MB Member, they count for one unique person for the calculation of the average remuneration of the MB Members.
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
32
Total
remuneration
paid or
granted
(including
LTI)
33
Jean-Marie Tritant, President US
n/a
34
n/a
34
€2,238,368
€2,742,740
€1,265,600
Dominic Lowe, COO US
€2,287,377
€1,696,928
€647,518
n/a
n/a
Gerard Sieben, CFO
€358,704
€345,783
€307,953
€292,083
€127,667
Pay ratio
(excluding LTI)
Average cash MB remuneration
€839,429
€714,494
€645,310
35
€947,957
€603,841
Company average cash remuneration
€164,387
€138,933
€135,710
€138,441
€75,516
Multiple of the company average cash
remuneration
5.1
5.1
4.8
6.9
8.0
Company
performance
Net Operating Result (recurring) in Mn€
€481.2
€380.6
€310.4
€525.0
€259.4
36
Elements of
Remuneration
Amounts
Comments
The scores for Leasing Renewals, Third Party / JV fees and GHG equivalent emissions were subject to a GNRC and SB
assessment below what the direct calculations would have provided. These assessments took into account the overall
context and sustainability of the performance delivered.
The gross STI was determined by the SB on March 27, 2023, upon the recommendation of the GNRC, and
is before income tax and social security charges. The equivalent amount in USD is 781,594.
Among significant individual objectives achieved by Mr Lowe in 2022:
• Operational performance exceeded NRI, sales and gross administrative costs reduction targets, in a
market that is seeing strong recovery.
• Strong MGR recovery and sales-based rent levels growing, target exceeded.
• Successful reorganization of the US platform to facilitate future deleveraging. Successful disposals
of four major assets at attractive yields.
• Successfully delivered various extension projects including Westfield Topanga achieving LEED
Platinum, the highest standard in sustainable building in the US.
The STI paid in 2022 in respect of 2021 is was €593,589 (74.9% of maximum opportunity).
Long-Term
Incentive – LTI
Performance
Shares (PS) and
Performance
Stock Options (SO)
(Granted during
the 2022 year)
(Economic value at
the grant date
according to IFRS 2
requirements,
based on the
evaluation
conducted by
Willis Towers
Watson)
€791,865
The maximum LTI opportunity is 180% of FI.
The SB, upon the recommendation of the GNRC, granted a combination of PS and SO to Mr Lowe,
dated March 8, 2022, with the following characteristics:
Presence
condition
Performance
period
Performance
condition
Strike
price
Number of
units
Economic value
(IFRS)
2 years of
continuous
presence
before the
date of vesting
or exercise
3 years
80% financial
(35% Relative
TSR,
10% Absolute
TSR, 35% AREPS)
20% CSR
(10% Executive
gender parity,
10% Greenhouse
gas reduction)
n/a
32,961
€758,381
$826,029*
3 years
€66.68
(no
discount)
29,339
€33,484
$36,471*
€791,865 (i.e. $862,500so 115% of FI*)
*Based on exchange rate published by the European Central Bank at grant date
TSR is the total return obtained through ownership of a share over a given period. It includes
dividends (or any other distribution) paid and reinvested in the Stapled Shares, as well as any change
in the Stapled Shares share price over this period. TSR information is provided by an external third
party such as Bloomberg. The reference period runs from the grant date up until the last trading day
prior to the end of the vesting period and calculations are made on a 90 calendar-day averaging basis.
Mr. Lowe has received SO and PS as COO US on May 21, 2021 and March 8, 2022 only. As such he has
no Performance Shares vested nor Stock Options exercisable yet in this capacity.
The maximum LTI grant is 180 % of FI.
The SO and PS granted to Mr Lowe on March 8, 2022 will vest on March 10, 2025.
Pension
€17,364
Mr Lowe benefits from a defined contribution pension plan (401 K type) with a company matching done
under the same terms and conditions as the local employees.
Life and health
insurance
€24,862
Mr Lowe benefits from benefits applicable to all employees in his work country, including life and health
insurance and social security benefits.
Service agreement
Yes
The service agreement between URW NV and Mr Dominic Lowe is in force since June 29, 2021
TOTAL
€2,287,377
As a result to the above-mentioned figures, the fixed and variable remuneration components weigh 32.96% and 67.04% of total remuneration.
37
2.3.3.2 ELEMENTS OF REMUNERATION DUE OR GRANTED FOR THE 2022 FINANCIAL YEAR TO
MR GERARD SIEBEN, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
Elements of
Remuneration
Amounts
Comments
Annual Fixed Income –
FI (paid in respect of the
2022 year)
€177,896
The FI of the CFO benefits from the usual annual salary indexation applicable in the Netherlands under
the same terms and conditions.
Short-Term Incentive –
STI (to be paid in 2023 in
respect of the 2022 year)
€47,676
The target STI opportunity is 25% of FI.
Performance measure
Weigh
t
Unit
Threshold
(30% of max)
Target
(80% of max)
Stretch
(100% of max)
Achieved
Score
(% of max)
Payout
AREPS
35%
€
8.20
8.51
8.63
9.31
125.0%
20,362
Net Debt
15%
€Bn
22.25
21.54
21.25
22.10
51.3%
3,585
Rent Collection
10%
%
89
94
96
96.3
125%
5,818
Gross Admin expenses
10%
€Mn
523.91
509.62
503.91
518.80
59.8%
2,785
GHG equivalent emissions
5%
tCO
2
75,427
67,046
63,694
48,200
125%
2,909
Gender parity improvement
5%
%
40.0
54.3
60.0
68.4
125%
2,909
Qualitative performance
20%
See details below
100%
9,309
TOTAL
100%
102.4%
47,676
The score for GHG equivalent emissions was subject to a GNRC and SB assessment on target, below what the direct
calculation would have provided. This assessment took into account the overall context and sustainability of the
performance delivered.
The gross STI was determined by the SB on March 27, 2023, upon the recommendation of the GNRC,
and is before income tax and social security charges.
Among significant individual objectives achieved by Mr Sieben in 2022:
• Reporting process:
▪ Successfully facilitated the statutory audit rotation, including handover from EY to
Deloitte as statutory auditor in the US and the Netherlands;
▪ Further improvement in efficiency in collaboration between URW SE and URW NV teams
in the Netherlands and the US;
• Leverage: successful conversion of an interest-bearing loan into a capital security improving
URW NV’s Loan-to-Value;
• ESG: successful follow up of strengthening the impact of the community-oriented actions of
URW NV in the Netherlands.
• Corporate Governance: monitoring and compliance with 2022 update Dutch Corporate
Governance Code.
The total STI paid in 2022, in respect of 2021, was €29,304 (85% of maximum STI).
Long-Term Incentive –
LTI
Performance Shares
(PS) and Performance
Stock Options (SO)
(Granted during the
2022 financial year)
(Economic value at the
grant date according to
IFRS 2 requirements,
based on the
evaluation conducted
by Willis Towers
Watson)
€86,194
The maximum LTI opportunity is 180 % of FI.
The SB, upon the recommendation of the GNRC, granted a combination of PS and SO to Mr Sieben,
dated March 8, 2022, with the following characteristics:
Presence
condition
Performance
period
Performance
condition
Strike
price
Number of
units
Economic
value (IFRS)
PS
2 years of
continuous
presence
before the
date of vesting
or exercise
3 years
80% financial
(35% Relative
TSR, 10%
Absolute TSR,
35% AREPS)
20% CSR
(10% Executive
gender parity,
10%
Greenhouse gas
reduction)
n/a
3,486
€80,207
SO
3 years
€66.68
(no
discount)
5,246
€5,987
TOTAL
€86,194 (48% of FI)
TSR is the total return obtained through ownership of a share over a given period. It includes dividends
(or any other distribution) paid and reinvested in the Stapled Shares, as well as any change in the
Stapled Shares share price over this period. TSR information is provided by an external third party such
as Bloomberg. The reference period runs from the grant date up until the last trading day prior to the
end of the vesting period and calculations are made on a 90 calendar-day averaging basis.
Mr Sieben has received SO and PS grant since 2019. As such, according to the performance of the LTI
plan 2019 assessed at 38.35%, on March 21, 2022, he received 265 PS and 3,000 SO are exercisable until
March 19, 2027 subject to the retesting of the URW TSR KPI upon exercise.
The SO and PS granted to Mr Sieben on March 8, 2022 will vest on March 10, 2025.
Pension
€21,909
Mr Sieben benefits from a defined contribution pension plan.
Benefits in Kind
€25,028
Mr Sieben benefits from a company car.
Service agreement
Yes
The service agreement between URW NV and Mr Gerard Sieben is in force since June 7, 2018.
TOTAL
€358,704
As a result to the above-mentioned figures, the fixed and variable remuneration components weigh 62.68% and 37.32% of total remuneration,
respectively.
38
2.4 REMUNERATION PAID TO THE SB MEMBERS FOR 2022
FINANCIAL YEAR
The remuneration policy of the SB Members is intended to attract, motivate and retain high calibre individuals with an appropriate degree of
expertise and experience, which contributes to the long-term interests, sustainability, identity, mission and value of the Company and its
business, considering the interests of the URW Group of which it forms part.
The SB remuneration policy is determined by the AGM, at the proposal of the SB, upon the recommendation of the GNRC.
SB Members receive an annual fee. In an increasingly competitive international environment, all SB Members also receive an out of country
indemnity for time spent on their duties as SB Members outside their country of residence.
While attendance of SB and relevant committee meetings is of course expected from all SB Members, we also award attendance fees as outlined
below to compensate the SB Members adequately and proportionately for their efforts.
In order to ensure a high standard of supervision and monitoring of the Company strategy as well as to avoid any potential conflict of interest,
the SB Members do not receive any remuneration related to Company performance.
The remuneration policy for the SB Members remains unchanged in 2022. The current SB remuneration policy was approved by the AGM on June
29, 2021.
2.4.1 REMUNERATION PAID TO THE SB MEMBERS
In 2022 remuneration of the SB members amounted to €260,500. Mr. Jean-Marie Tritant, Mr. Fabrice Mouchel and Ms. Aline Taireh did not receive
any remuneration for their SB membership. URW NV has not awarded any options or shares to members of the SB as remuneration for their
services as SB members. No loans or guarantees were granted to members of the SB.
EVOLUTION OF REMUNERATION OF THE SB MEMBERS
SB Members
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
(1)
Mr. Jean-Marie Tritant
(2)
€0
€0
NA
NA
NA
Mr. Fabrice Mouchel
€0
€0
NA
NA
NA
Mr. Jean-Louis Laurens
€138,000
€130,000
€135,500
€135,000
€70,500
Mr. Alec Pelmore
(3)
€0
€0
€122,000
€120,000
€60,000
Mrs. Catherine Pourre
€122,500
€109,417
NA
NA
NA
Ms. Aline Taireh
(4)
€0
€0
€0
€0
€0
TOTAL
€260,500
€239,417
€257,500
€255,000
€130,500
(1) The 2018 remuneration was applied pro rata temporis.
(2) Mr. Jean-Marie Tritant has received in 2021 a tax equalization payment related to his former capacity as MB member in 2020. The amount is EUR 469,644. The Remuneration received
as MB member in 2018, 2019 and 2020 is disclosed in the corresponding Annual Report.
(3) On December 17, 2020 the Supervisory Board took note of the resignation of Mr. Alec Pelmore with effect January 4, 2021.
(4) Ms. Aline Taireh did not receive any compensation for her SB membership. Employee remuneration charged to a subsidiary of the Company is disclosed in footnote 12.3 of URW NV's
consolidated financial statements for the financial year ended December 31, 2021.
2.4.2 NUMBER OF STAPLED SHARES, SO AND PS HELD BY MB MEMBERS AND SB MEMBERS AS AT
DECEMBER 31,2022
MB and SB Members
Stapled Shares
Owned
Non-exercised
SO
PS subject to vesting
period
Mr. Dominic Lowe
491
67,316
46,630
Mr. Gerard Sieben
270
18,958
8,561
Mr. Jean-Marie Tritant
43,274*
249,500
84,360
Mr. Fabrice Mouchel
26,505**
179,775
60,617
Mr. Jean-Louis Laurens
363
0
0
Mrs. Catherine Pourre
112,970
0
0
Ms. Aline Taireh
806***
28,826
12,476
* Excluding 2553 Stapled Shares held via the URW SE Company Saving Plan
** Excluding 6406 Stapled Shares held via the URW SE Company Saving Plan.
*** Including 305 Stapled Shares held through CDI’s.
39
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS
AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
40
On March 27, 2023, the Supervisory Board approved the consolidated financial statements of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. for the year ended
December 31, 2022, and authorised their publication. These consolidated financial statements will be submitted to the approval of the Annual
General Meeting expected to be held on June 27, 2023.
3.1 CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The consolidated financial statements are presented in millions of euros, rounded to the nearest hundred thousand and, as a result, slight
differences between rounded figures may exist.
3.1.1 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(€Mn)
Notes
2022
2021
Restated
(1)
Gross rental income
5.3
386.8
346.9
Service charge income
47.4
45.0
Service charge expenses
(65.0)
(55.5)
Property operating expenses
(126.0)
(129.3)
Operating expenses and net service charges
(143.6)
(139.7)
Net rental income
243.2
207.2
Net property services and other activities income
0.5
-
Share of result of companies accounted for using the equity method
7.2
(223.5)
(391.3)
Corporate expenses
(15.8)
(36.1)
Depreciation of tangible assets
6.2.2
(4.8)
(6.3)
Administrative expenses
(20.7)
(42.4)
Acquisition and related costs
5.2.4
(5.9)
(1.4)
Result on disposal of investment properties and loss of control
2.1.2/2.2.2
(2.9)
57.2
Valuation gains on assets
41.8
25.6
Valuation losses on assets
(439.9)
(538.5)
Valuation movements on assets
6.4
(398.1)
(512.9)
NET OPERATING RESULT
(407.4)
(683.7)
Financial income
52.3
47.2
Financial expenses
(414.2)
(345.2)
Net financing costs
8.2.1
(361.9)
(298.0)
Fair value adjustments of derivatives, debt and currency effect
8.2.2
523.8
11.4
RESULT BEFORE TAX
(245.4)
(970.3)
Income tax benefit/(expenses)
9.2
11.7
74.2
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD
(233.7)
(896.1)
Net result for the period attributable to:
Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares
(152.2)
(788.2)
Non-controlling interests
(81.5)
(107.9)
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD
(233.7)
(896.1)
41
2022
2021
Restated
(1)
Average numbers of shares (undiluted)
14.2
231,965,297
231,793,341
Net result of the period (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.)
(152.2)
(788.2)
Net result for the period per share (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-
Westfield N.V.) (€)
(0.66)
(3.40)
Average numbers of shares (diluted)
14.2
232,698,629
233,437,334
Net result of the period (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.)
(152.2)
(788.2)
Diluted net result per share (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
N.V.) (€)
(2)
(0.66)
(3.40)
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Restated
(1)
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD
(233.7)
(896.1)
Foreign currency differences on translation of financial statements of subsidiaries
and net investments in these subsidiaries
(3)
133.6
183.3
Other comprehensive income that may be subsequently recycled to profit
and loss
133.6
183.3
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
133.6
183.3
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(100.0)
(712.8)
Total Comprehensive Income for the period attributable to:
Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares
(10.0)
(596.5)
External non-controlling interests
(90.0)
(116.4)
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(100.0)
(712.8)
(1) Figures for 2021 have been restated, see note 3.3 Correction of error in non-controlling interest.
(2) In case of a negative net result for the period, the diluted net result per share is equal to the net result for the period per share. For 2022 and 2021 the EPS are
antidilutive.
(3) The amount is presented net of related tax effects.
42
3.1.2 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
(€Mn)
Notes
December 31, 2022
December 31,
2021
Restated
(1)
December 31,
2020
Restated
(1)
Non-current assets
10,290.0
10,818.0
11,053.1
Investment properties
6.1
4,902.5
5,049.3
5,059.8
Investment properties at fair value
4,893.5
5,029.1
5,040.4
Investment properties at cost
9.0
20.2
19.4
Shares and investments in companies accounted for using the equity
method
7.2
4,901.7
5,284.9
5,430.9
Tangible assets
6.2
13.2
26.4
29.7
Intangible assets
6.3
211.2
263.5
295.9
Financial assets
8.3.1
118.2
116.7
116.4
Deferred tax assets
9.3
0.6
0.4
-
Derivatives at fair value
8.4
142.6
76.8
120.4
Current assets
277.2
207.8
406.6
Properties or shares held for sale
-
-
146.9
Inventories
34.3
20.2
19.8
Trade receivables from activity
8.3.1
86.3
88.3
109.3
Tax receivables
3.7
0.5
2.9
Other receivables
8.3.1
76.9
48.3
64.6
Cash and cash equivalents
8.3.6
76.0
50.5
63.1
Total assets
10,567.2
11,025.8
11,459.7
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY (OWNERS OF UNIBAIL-RODAMCO-
WESTFIELD N.V. SHARES)
1,017.2
777.2
874.0
Share capital
14.2
116.0
115.9
115.8
Additional paid-in capital
14.3
2,243.3
2,243.3
2,243.3
Consolidated reserves
3.1.4
(2,948.3)
(2,159.9)
34.7
Foreign currency translation reserves
257.0
114.8
(76.9)
Consolidated result
3.1.1
(152.2)
(788.2)
(2,194.5)
Capital securities
14.6
1,501.4
1,251.4
751.6
Equity attributable to the owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
N.V.
1,017.2
777.2
874.0
Non-controlling interests
15.4
(250.5)
(160.5)
(44.1)
Total shareholders' equity
766.5
616.7
829.8
NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES
8,557.6
8,091.2
8,989.2
Long-term commitment to non-controlling interests
8.3.7
460.4
491.4
460.5
Long-term bonds and borrowings
8.3.3
7,773.3
6,843.9
7,691.2
Long-term lease liabilities
8.3.3
36.7
50.4
52.7
Derivatives at fair value
8.4
45.4
445.5
529.1
Deferred tax liabilities
9.3
111.5
121.5
165.2
Non-current provisions
10
35.0
31.4
43.8
Guarantee deposits
5.2
6.2
7.3
Amounts due on investments
12
6.3
6.3
6.3
Other non-current liabilities
8.5.2
83.8
94.6
33.1
Current liabilities
1,243.1
2,318.0
1,640.7
Liabilities directly associated with properties or shares classified as
held for sale
-
-
203.5
Current commitment to non-controlling interests
8.3.7
91.5
64.4
39.9
Amounts due to suppliers and other creditors
154.3
126.1
159.2
Amounts due to suppliers
86.4
74.7
73.7
Amounts due on investments
12
38.0
43.4
39.3
Sundry creditors
29.9
8.0
46.2
Other current liabilities
11
236.7
228.0
253.1
Current borrowings and amounts due to credit institutions
8.3.3
752.3
1,890.8
976.1
Current lease liabilities
8.3.3
6.9
6.7
3.3
Current provisions
10
1.4
2.0
5.6
Total liabilities and equity
10,567.2
11,025.8
11,459.7
(1) Figures for 2020 and 2021 have been restated, see note 3.3 Correction of error in non-controlling interest.
43
3.1.3 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(€Mn)
Notes
2022
2021
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net result
(233.7)
(896.1)
Depreciation & provisions
(1)
(5.7)
(12.5)
Changes in value of property assets
6.4
398.1
512.9
Changes in fair value of derivatives, debt and currency effect
8.2.2
(523.8)
(11.4)
Result on disposal of investment properties and loss of control
(2)
2.9
(57.2)
Share of the result of companies accounted for using the equity method
223.5
391.3
Net financing costs
8.2.1
361.9
298.0
Income tax benefit/(expenses)
9.2
(11.7)
(74.2)
Dividend received from companies accounted for using the equity method or non-
consolidated
(4)
554.0
232.5
Income tax paid (received)
(1.3)
(2.2)
Change in working capital requirement
20.0
(4.0)
Total cash flow from operating activities
784.2
377.2
INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES
Property activities
(80.7)
(52.9)
Acquisition of subsidiaries, net of cash acquired
2.1.2
-
4.6
Amounts paid for works and acquisition of property assets
6.5
(61.4)
(26.3)
Repayment of property financing
0.2
-
Increase of property financing
(3)
(60.2)
(123.8)
Disposal of shares
2.1.2
-
100.9
Disposal of investment properties and loss of control
2.1.2
40.7
(8.3)
Financial activities
(0.2)
(0.3)
Acquisition of financial assets
(0.2)
(0.5)
Repayment of financial assets
-
0.2
Total cash flow from investment activities
(80.9)
(53.2)
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Increase in capital
0.1
-
New borrowings and financial liabilities
8.3.3
327.8
543.9
Repayment of borrowings and financial liabilities
8.3.3
(684.5)
(573.1)
Cash flows from derivatives
55.0
46.6
Interest paid
(378.8)
(358.0)
Total cash flow from financing activities
(680.4)
(340.6)
Change in cash and cash equivalents during the period
22.9
(16.6)
Net cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year
50.5
63.0
Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash held
2.6
4.1
Net Cash and cash equivalents at period-end
8.3.6
76.0
50.5
(1) Includes straight lining of key money and lease incentives.
(2) Includes capital gains/losses on property sales, disposals of held for sale investment properties and disposals of operating assets.
(3) Capital contributions from/to Joint Ventures.
(4) In 2022, includes €343.2 Mn of distributions made by US companies accounted for using the equity method, following the disposal of their assets.
44
3.1.4 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
(€Mn)
Share
capital
Additional
paid-in
capital
Consolida-
ted
reserves
Consolida-
ted net
result
Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
(1)
Capital
securities
Equity
attributable
to the
owners of
URW NV
shares
Non-
controlling
interests
Total
Shareholders'
equity
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT JANUARY 1,
2021
(2)
115.8
2,243.3
34.7
(2,194.5)
(76.9)
751.6
874.0
(44.1)
829.8
Net result of the period
-
-
-
(788.2)
-
-
(788.2)
(107.9)
(896.1)
Other comprehensive income
-
-
-
-
191.7
-
191.7
(8.5)
183.3
Net comprehensive income
-
-
-
(788.2)
191.7
-
(596.5)
(116.4)
(712.8)
Earnings appropriation
-
-
(2,194.5)
2,194.5
-
-
-
-
-
Increase in capital
0.1
-
-
-
-
-
0.1
-
0.1
Amendment related party liabilities
-
-
-
-
-
499.8
499.8
-
499.8
Other movements
-
-
(0.1)
-
-
-
(0.1)
-
(0.1)
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER
31, 2021
(2)
115.9
2,243.3
(2,159.9)
(788.2)
114.8
1,251.4
777.2
(160.5)
616.7
Net result of the period
-
-
-
(152.2)
-
-
(152.2)
(81.5)
(233.7)
Other comprehensive income
-
-
-
-
142.3
-
142.3
(8.6)
133.6
Net comprehensive income
-
-
-
(152.2)
142.3
-
(10.0)
(90.0)
(100.0)
Earnings appropriation
-
-
(788.2)
788.2
-
-
-
-
-
Increase in capital
0.1
-
-
-
-
-
0.1
-
0.1
Restatement of hybrid securities
-
-
(0.2)
-
-
-
(0.2)
-
(0.2)
Amendment related party liabilities
(3)
-
-
-
-
-
249.9
249.9
-
249.9
EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
116.0
2,243.3
(2,948.3)
(152.2)
257.0
1,501.4
1,017.2
(250.5)
766.5
(1) The foreign currency translation reserve is used to record exchange differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign subsidiaries.
(2) The figures for 2021 have been restated, see note 3.3 Correction of error in non-controlling interest.
(3) Reference is made to Note 2.1.3. and 2.2.4.
45
3.2 NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1NOTE 1 ● CORPORATE INFORMATION
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. (“URW NV” or “the Company”) is a public limited liability company under the laws in the Netherlands, whose
class A shares are publicly traded as Stapled Shares on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange and the Paris Stock Exchange, as well as in the form of
CHESS Depositary interests (CDIs) on the Australian Securities Exchange.
The Company was incorporated as Unibail-Rodamco B.V., a private company with limited liability under the laws of the Netherlands on February
14, 2018. On March 22, 2018, the Company changed its legal name to WFD Unibail-Rodamco N.V. and converted its legal form to a public limited
liability company pursuant to a notarial deed of amendment and conversion in accordance with a resolution of the General Meeting adopted on
March 15, 2018. In June 2020, the corporate name changed from WFD Unibail-Rodamco N.V. to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. The Company
has its corporate seat in Amsterdam and its registered office is located at Schiphol Boulevard 315, Schiphol, the Netherlands. The Chamber of
Commerce number is 70898618.
These consolidated financial statements as at December 31, 2022, comprise the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as “the
Group”).
The Group’s objectives are:
• to invest in assets, primarily through the direct or indirect acquisition of real estate, in such a manner that the ensuing risks are spread in
order to allow shareholders to share in the proceeds;
• to enter into cash pooling arrangements with, to provide financing to and to furnish guarantees for the benefit of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
(the “URW Group”) and other affiliated bodies of the Company whose assets, on a consolidated basis, nearly exclusively consist of real estate
and/or associated rights;
• to incorporate, to participate in, to hold any other interest in and to conduct the management or supervision of bodies whose objects and
actual activities are to invest in assets;
• to invest in the improvement or expansion of real estate;
• to acquire, to manage, to invest, to exploit, to encumber and to dispose of other assets and liabilities and to provide any other act or service;
and
• to do anything which, in the widest sense, is connected with or may be conducive to the objects described above,
in each case taking into account the restrictions applicable to the Group under the fiscal investment institution regime as laid down in section
28 of the Corporate Income Tax Act (“CITA”), or such statutory provision which replaces section 28 CITA.
As from June 7, 2018, after the completion of the Westfield acquisition by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE (“URW SE”, formerly Unibail-
Rodamco SE), URW NV is held for 60% directly by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield shareholders (Stapled Share principle) and 40% directly by URW SE.
Together with URW SE and its subsidiaries, the Group forms Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (“URW Group”).
2NOTE 2 ● SIGNIFICANT EVENTS OF THE YEAR
The activity of the Group is not significantly affected by seasonality.
2.1 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS OF 2022
2.1.1 Covid-19 pandemic
OVERVIEW OF RESTRICTIONS IN 2022
The operations in URW NV shopping centres remained impacted by restrictions in the first few months of 2022. In Q1, the Omicron wave, with a
record high number of COVID-19 cases, led to restrictions mainly in the Netherlands, including guidance to work from home, capacity restrictions,
reduced opening hours for F&B and leisure, restrictions for non-vaccinated persons and mask mandates, holding back the recovery. In the US
there were only mask mandates in certain states.
From May 2022 onwards, no restrictions were applicable anymore in any of the regions in which the Group operates.
RENT RELIEF AND GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, URW NV recognized the issues the Group’s tenants faced due to administrative closures or trading restrictions
and the need to provide relief, generally limited to the period of closure and based on the principle of a fair sharing of the burden. These
negotiations were focused on providing a one-off rent relief, not on permanently changing lease terms or structures.
With all major restrictions being lifted, URW NV did not provide any COVID-19 rent relief in 2022 regarding 2022 for its shopping centre activity.
The 2022 P&L remained impacted by the straight lining of rent relief granted in 2020 and 2021 with a counterparty.
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
The accounting principles used are the same as those applied for the preparation of the annual consolidated financial statements as at December
31, 2021.
As a reminder, for rent relief granted to tenants in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and where such relief qualifies as a lease modification
because the tenant agrees concessions (e.g. extension of a lease term or higher SBR), IFRS 16 applies. Under IFRS 16, the relief is treated as a
46
lease incentive which is straight-lined over the expected term of the lease as a reduction of the Gross Rental Income (“GRI”). Rent reliefs for
which a concession is expected and not yet signed are part of the receivables on which an expected credit loss is calculated. Waivers of past
rent on balance sheet date are accounted for as a derecognition loss.
In accordance with IFRS 16, rent relief without changes to the lease contract, imposed by laws in force before an event giving rise to the relief
or pursuant to a provision in the existing lease contract allowing for rent modification, is directly charged to the income statement as a reduction
of the Gross Rental Income.
The expected credit loss for debtors is recorded in the Net Rental Income as an “Operating expense” in the consolidated statement of
comprehensive income.
The 2022 Profit and Loss (“P&L”) remained impacted by the straight lining and updated assessment of rent relief granted in 2020 and 2021. The
2022 P&L impact of COVID-19 rent discount granted in 2020 and 2021 amounted to -€11.7 Mn for the Group’s shopping centre activities (2021:
-€13.4 Mn).
VALUATION OF INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
Over the year ended December 31, 2022, the valuation movement of the fully consolidated investment properties is -€319.2 Mn (2021:
-€479.0 Mn) and the valuation movement of the investment properties accounted for using the equity method is -€443.0 Mn (2021: -€604.2 Mn).
The negative valuation movements were mainly caused by an increase of discount rates used by appraisers.
IMPAIRMENT ON INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The Group performed a full impairment test of intangible fixed assets as at December 31, 2022, based on assumptions described in note 6.3. The
impairment of the trademark for Flagships in the US amounted to -€74.4 Mn (2021: -€48.4 Mn).
EXPECTED CREDIT LOSSES
The Group recognises an allowance for expected credit losses (ECLs) for all debt instruments not held at fair value through profit or loss and for
financial guarantee contracts issued. Reference to note 8.5.2 “Credit Risk”.
As at December 31, 2022, the expected loss allowance in the Consolidated statement of financial position amounted to €57.1 Mn compared to
€75.5 Mn at the end of December 31, 2021. The expected credit loss for debtors recorded in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive
income amounted to a reversal of €11.5 Mn for the period ending December 31, 2022 compared to an expected credit loss of €18.6 Mn for the
year ended December 31, 2021.
CONFLICT IN UKRAINE / MACRO ECONOMIC IMPACT
Over the period, the worldwide economic situation has evolved rapidly with the conflict in Ukraine. Credit markets have been impacted negatively
by the end of Central Banks’ support, the rates and volatility increase, as well as by fears of recession. Supply chain disruptions and labour
shortages as a consequence of the crisis in Ukraine and the lockdowns in China have significantly impacted the availability and prices of
construction materials and works. Additionally, inflation is likely to increase the Group’s operating costs and expenses as well as its financial
expenses. In addition, Central Bank interventions to combat inflation could have more negative effects than expected, URW NV will closely
monitor these effects. The effect on energy prices has less impact on URW NV’s results, since it mainly operates in the US.
2.1.2 Disposal and acquisitions
ACQUISITIONS
The Group acquired the Seritage box at Westfield Galleria Roseville in 2022.
DISPOSALS
Sale of the site of the former Promenade Mall
On March 15, 2022, URW announced the sale of the 34-acre site of the former Promenade Mall, located in the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles,
to a group of private investors for $150 Mn (at 100%, URW share 55%) reflecting a 60% premium to the latest appraisal.
As the company is accounted for using the equity method, the URW’s stake in the net disposal result of +€19.8 Mn is recorded within the share
of the result of companies accounted for using the equity method.
Disposal of Westfield Santa Anita
On August 25, 2022, the Group completed the sale of Westfield Santa Anita in Arcadia, California, to an established commercial real estate
investor who owns other retail assets in Southern California.
The sale price of $537.5 Mn (at 100%, URW share 49%), reflects a sub-6% net initial yield and a 10.7% discount to the latest unaffected appraisal
as of December 2021.
As the company is accounted for using the equity method, the URW’s stake in the net disposal result of -€32.4 Mn is recorded within the share
of the result of companies accounted for using the equity method.
Disposal of The Village in San Fernando Valley
On December 27, 2022, the Group announced it had completed the sale of The Village, an outdoor lifestyle destination in the San Fernando
Valley of Los Angeles, to the Kroenke Organization. The sale price of $325 Mn (at 100%, URW share 55%), reflects a 10.6% discount to the last
unaffected appraisal. The net disposal result amounted to -€20.9 Mn and was recorded in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
47
Disposal of Westfield Trumbull and Westfield South Shore Shopping Centres
On December 30, 2022, the Group announced that it has completed the sale of Westfield Trumbull located in Trumbull, Connecticut and Westfield
South Shore located in Bay Shore, New York to a commercial real estate investment firm. The combined gross sale price of these wholly owned
regional assets at $196 Mn is equal to their gross market value.
Disposal of Kerkstraat Hilversum
On December 2, 2022, the Group completed the sale of Kerkstraat in Hilversum, the Netherlands to an established real estate investor for
€7.0 Mn.
2.1.3 €250 Mn loan conversion
An additional part (€250 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of €1,250 Mn, of which already €500 Mn has been converted earlier, has
been converted into a capital security with a 99-year maturity as per December 31, 2022. The remaining part of the loan is €543.7 Mn.
The converted part qualifies as equity with the exception of the amount due on this instrument, which is initially measured at fair value at
balance sheet date (€0.1 Mn at December 31, 2022) and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amendment
fee paid to URW SE of €5.4 Mn and the remaining amortised upfront fee of €0.3 Mn are recorded in 2022 under financial expenses.
2.2 SIGNIFICANT EVENTS OF 2021
2.2.1 COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic continued to have a significant impact on URW NV’s business over the course of 2021.
OVERVIEW OF RESTRICTIONS IN 2021
The operations in URW NV’s shopping centres were particularly impacted by restrictions in the first half of 2021. URW NV’s business activities
are mainly in the US.
In the US, all of the centres were open throughout the year, however restrictions on sectors like Food & Beverage (“F&B”), entertainment and
fitness were only progressively eased during February and March. The Group was impacted by its weighting to California, Maryland, and New
York (“NY”) where restrictions were generally relaxed later than in many other parts of the country.
During H2-2021, the Group’s US centres and all retail sectors were generally allowed to trade including indoor dining and entertainment, albeit
with some remaining capacity limits or other sanitary requirements (such as a COVID-pass/proof of vaccination being required for dining or
entertainment in several markets).
As at December 31, 2021, all the Group’s US centres are able to trade normally and all capacity restraints have been removed.
There have been no changes in the operating restriction in the US after the reporting date. In California masking requirements are for everyone
in indoor spaces as public transport, health care, schools. The masking requirements are also for unvaccinated people in all other indoor spaces
such as retail, restaurants, theatres.
RENT RELIEF AND GOVERNMENT SUPPORT
From the start of the COVID-19 crisis, the Group first adopted a global policy of allowing temporary deferral of rents, before starting discussions
with tenants about the terms of any support, such as rent relief, offered by URW NV.
Once negotiations commenced, they were done on a case-by-case basis. URW NV recognized the issues the Group’s tenants faced due to
administrative closures or trading restrictions and the need to provide relief, are generally limited to the period of closure, and are based on
the principle of a fair sharing of the burden. In many cases they entail concessions by tenants in exchange for such relief.
Throughout the crisis, URW recognized the issues the Group’s tenants faced due to administrative closures or trading restrictions and the need
to provide relief, generally limited to the period of closure, and based on the principle of a fair sharing of the burden. These negotiations were
focused on providing a one-off rent relief, not on permanently changing lease terms or structures.
VALUATION OF INVESTMENT PROPERTIES
Over the year ended December 31, 2021, the valuation movement of the fully consolidated investment properties is -€479.0 Mn (2020: -€858.3 Mn)
and the valuation movement of the investment properties accounted for the equity method is -€604.2 Mn (2020: -€1,215.7 Mn). The negative
valuation movements resulted mainly from an increase of discount rates used by appraisers and from the estimated impacts on the future cash-
flows due to COVID-19.
IMPAIRMENT ON INTANGIBLE ASSETS
The Group performed a full impairment test of intangible fixed assets as at December 31, 2021, based on assumptions described in note 6.3. The
impairment of the trademark for Flagships in the US amounted to -€48.4 Mn.
EXPECTED CREDIT LOSSES
The Group recognizes an allowance for expected credit losses (ECLs) for all debt instruments not held at fair value through profit or loss and for
financial guarantee contracts issued. Reference to note 8.5.2 “Credit Risk”.
As at December 31, 2021, the allowance for expected credit losses amounted to €75.5 Mn compared to €73.7 Mn at the end of December 31,
2020. In 2021, the net expected credit loss for debtors amounted €40.0 Mn (2020: €63.3 Mn).
48
2.2.2 Disposal and acquisitions
ACQUISITIONS
The Group acquired the remaining 47.4% stake in Westfield Trumbull and Westfield Palm Desert in May 2021 for a total amount of €7.3 Mn, the
total consideration included cash of €4.6 Mn and forgiveness of a partner loan of €2.8 Mn. The associated entities previously in joint control are
fully consolidated from this date.
The fair value of the previously held interest at the date that control is obtained is deemed to be the cost for the purposes of accounting for the
acquisition of the subsidiary. The revaluation of the previously held investment amounts to €13.2 Mn ($16.0 Mn) and was booked in the “Valuation
movement on assets” in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
The acquisition in stages from joint venture to subsidiary is considered an asset acquisition rather than a business combination. The initial fair
value of the investment properties is €183.0 Mn and the initial fair value of the liabilities is €223.4 Mn at the transaction date which is higher
than fair value of the investment mainly as a result of financial guarantees provided on these loans with a total impact of €29.7 Mn. Reference
is made to note 8.5.2.
After the transaction the company owned 100% of Westfield Trumbull and Westfield Palm Desert. These properties and their related mortgage
debt were fully consolidated in URW NV accounts. On October 14, 2021 Westfield Palm Desert was transferred to the receiver, refer to
“Foreclosure of US assets”.
FORECLOSURE OF US ASSETS
With respect to several regional malls in the US, URW defaulted on the loans and asked the servicer of its loans for the appointment of a receiver.
During 2021, these assets were taken over by their respective mortgage lenders, the receiver was appointed by the relevant court which
transferred the management and control of each related asset and derecognized as of the date of the respective receivership.
Since the appointment dates, URW is no longer the owner of these assets, is not liable for the debt and does not recognise the revenues generated
by these assets. This includes Westfield Citrus Park and Westfield Countryside in Florida with an effective transfer on January 13, 2021, the
Westfield Sarasota in Florida with an effective transfer on February 23, 2021, Westfield Broward in Florida, with an effective transfer on June
23, 2021 and Westfield Palm Desert in California on October 14, 2021.
The carrying value of the transferred assets Westfield Citrus Park, Westfield Countryside, Westfield Sarasota, Westfield Broward and Westfield
Palm Desert was €297.7 Mn (see note 6.1.2). The carrying value of the derecognised liabilities amounted to €441.8 Mn and the working capital
adjustment amounted to €32.4 Mn. With respect to Westfield Citrus Park and Westfield Countryside, the special servicers agreed to release URW
NV from all obligations under the loans and any associated guarantees. The special servicers agreed to release URW from all obligations under
the Westfield Sarasota loan and any associated guarantees, in return for a payment of €9.2 Mn ($10.9 Mn).
However, for Westfield Palm Desert and Westfield Broward URW is still at risk for financial guarantees associated with the loans until final
foreclosure by the bank. Reference to note 8.5.2.
The loss of control led to a profit of €44.4 Mn ($52.5 Mn) recorded in the “Result on disposal of investment properties and loss of control” in the
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
DISPOSALS
The Group also continued efforts to streamline its US portfolio. In this context, URW completed the disposal of its 50% stake in the Palisade
residential building at Westfield UTC for a sale price €201.8 Mn ($238 Mn) (at 100%), which reflected a +15% premium to the latest appraisal.
URW NV’s 50% of the purchase price for the disposal of Palisade at Westfield UTC amounts to €100.9 Mn on the transaction date. Palisade at
Westfield UTC (“UTC Resi”) was accounted for using the equity method prior to the sale, as per December 31, 2021, URW NV has no more stake
in Palisade at Westfield UTC, please refer to 7.3 in Chapter 3. The disposal of Palisade at Westfield UTC resulted in a profit of €16.8 Mn which
were recorded in the “Result on disposal of investment properties and loss of control” in the Consolidated statement of comprehensive income.
2.2.3 €500 Mn loan conversion
A part (€500 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of €1,250 Mn, has been converted into a capital security with a 99-year maturity as
per June 30, 2021. The remaining part of the loan was €760.6 Mn.
The converted part qualifies as equity with the exception of the amount due on this instrument, which is initially measured at fair value at
balance sheet date (€0.2 Mn at June 30, 2021) and subsequently at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amendment fee paid
to URW SE of €10.8 Mn and the remaining amortised upfront fee of €1.6 Mn are recorded in 2021 under financial expenses.
3NOTE 3 ● ACCOUNTING POLICIES
In accordance with the regulation of the European Community (EC) no. 1606/2002 of July 19, 2002, on the application of international accounting
standards, URW NV has prepared its consolidated financial statements for the financial year ending December 31, 2022 under International
Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as adopted in the European Union and applicable at this date and with Section 2:362(9) of the Dutch Civil
Code.
The IFRS standards can be consulted on the website:
http://ec.europa.eu/finance/company-reporting/ifrs-financial statements/index_en.htm.
The Group’s financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for investment properties, non-listed equity investment,
derivative financial instruments, commitment to non-controlling interests which have been measured at fair value.
49
3.1 IFRS BASIS ADOPTED
The accounting principles and methods used are the same as those applied for the preparation of the annual consolidated financial statements
as at December 31, 2021, except for the application of the new obligatory standards and interpretations described below.
STANDARDS, AMENDMENTS AND INTERPRETATIONS EFFECTIVE AS OF JANUARY 1, 2022
• Amendments to IFRS 3 Business Combinations; IAS 16 Property, Plant and Equipment; IAS 37 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent
Assets; and
• Annual Improvements 2018-2020.
These standards, amendments and interpretations do not have a significant impact on the Group’s accounts as at December 31, 2022.
STANDARDS, AMENDMENTS AND INTERPRETATIONS NOT MANDATORILY APPLICABLE AS OF JANUARY 1, 2022
The following texts has been endorsed by the European Union as at December 31, 2022, but not applied in advance by the Group:
• IFRS 17 Insurance Contracts, including Amendments to IFRS 17;
• Amendments to:
▪ IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements and IFRS Practice Statement 2: Disclosure of Accounting policies;
▪ IAS 8 Accounting policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors: Definition of Accounting Estimates;
▪ IAS 12 Income Taxes: Deferred Tax related to Assets and Liabilities arising from a Single Transaction;
▪ IFRS 17 Insurance contracts: Initial Application of IFRS 17 and IFRS 9 – Comparative Information.
The following texts were published by the IASB but have not yet been endorsed by the European Union:
• Amendments to IAS 1: Presentation of Financial Statements:
▪ Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current;
▪ Classification of Liabilities as Current or Non-current – Deferral of Effective Date;
▪ Non-current Liabilities with Covenants.
• Amendments to IFRS 16 Leases: Lease Liability in a Sale and Leaseback.
The measurement of the potential impacts of these texts on the consolidated accounts of URW NV is on-going, no significant impacts are expected.
Following to the publication of IFRS IC, the Group performed a review of its SaaS contracts. These have no significant impact on the financial
statements.
3.2 SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING JUDGEMENTS, ESTIMATES AND ASSUMPTIONS
Certain amounts recorded in the consolidated financial statements reflect estimates and assumptions made by management in the current
context, including higher inflation, higher interest rates, increase of energy and raw material costs, supply chain disruption resulting from
uncertain geopolitical and economic environment, the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and difficulties in assessing their impacts and future
prospects. When making an estimate or assumption, management also uses its judgement. In addition, when “the Group reviews those estimates
based on regularly updated information”, it uses its judgment. In this context, management has taken into account these uncertainties on the
basis of reliable information available at the date of the preparation of the consolidated financial statements, particularly with regards to the
following:
VALUATION OF INVESTMENT PROPERTY
The property portfolio related to the Shopping Centres and Offices segments and intangible assets are valued by independent appraisers.
Appraisers make their independent assessments of current and forward-looking cash-flow profiles and usually reflect risk either in the cash-flow
forecasts (e.g. future rental levels, growth, investment requirements, void periods and incentives), in the applied required returns or discount
rates or in the yield applied to capitalise the exit rent to determine an exit value. Reference to note 6.1 “Investment properties”.
EXPECTED CREDIT LOSSES
In preparing the financial statements, estimates are made in assessing expected credit losses in rent receivable and financial guarantee contracts.
URW NV asses the likelihood of recovery of rent receivables for possible provisions on the basis of an estimated default rate based on a forward-
looking approach. Reference to 8.5.2 Credit risk.
ASSETS HELD FOR SALE
An asset is classified as held for sale if the sale of the asset is highly probable and actions required to complete the sale indicate that it is unlikely
that the plan will be significantly changed or withdrawn.
TAXATION
Management judgement is required to determine the amount of deferred taxes. For unused tax losses, a deferred tax asset is only recognised in
case there’s a level of certainty of taxable profit being available against which those losses can be utilized. With respect to the deferred tax
liability, a tax percentage has been used that is justified by the various (indirect) stakeholders at the level of URW NV.
50
EQUITY VS LIABILITY INSTRUMENTS
In preparing the financial statements of URW NV, management judgements are exercised in considering if a loan is classified as a liability
instrument or an equity instrument. While applying judgements, the terms set out in the contract are considered in accordance with IAS 32;
based on the criteria and terms of the contract it will be decided to disclose a loan as an equity instrument or a liability instrument. The Group
applied the judgement with respect to the amendments made to the loan agreements of €250 Mn and €500 Mn, reference to 2.1.3 and 2.2.3.
OTHER SIGNIFICANT JUDGEMENTS
Due to inherent uncertainties associated with estimates, the Group reviews those estimates based on regularly updated information. Actual
results might eventually differ from estimates made at the date of the preparation of the consolidated financial statements.
Other significant judgements and estimates are set out in the notes to the consolidated financial statements as at December 31, 2022: for
determining if an acquisition is an asset acquisition or business combination reference to note 4.1.3 “Business combinations”, for the financial
assets in note 8.3.1, for intangible assets in respectively in note 6.3, for the fair value of financial instruments in note 8.6 “Fair value of financial
instruments per category” and for fair value of investment properties held through equity accounted investments in note 7.2. Actual future
results or outcomes may differ from these estimates.
3.3 CORRECTION OF ERROR IN NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST
For the year ended December 31, 2022, URW NV discovered a mathematical error in the accounting of the allocation of non-controlling interest
indirectly held by URW SE in URW WEA LLC. This indirect investment in URW WEA LCC is held by URW SE in a direct investment in WHL USA
Acquisitions, Inc. Both URW NV and URW SE hold a percentage in Common and Preferred shares WHL USA Acquisitions Inc, who itself owns an
indirect holding in WEA Holdings LLC. From 2019 until 2021 the allocation of the result of WEA Holdings LLC related to the non-controlling interest
was accounted for at 1.958%, while the allocation of the results should have been accounted for at 9.047%. This resulted in a material
misstatement in the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2021. The misstatement has been corrected in this 2022 financial statements.
Reference is made to 15.4 Non-controlling interests in which the effects of the correction have been disclosed. The adjustment does not influence
the accounting of the share URW SE holds in the redeemable preference shares in WHL USA Acquisitions.
4NOTE 4 ● SCOPE OF CONSOLIDATION
4.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
4.1.1 Scope and methods of consolidation
The scope of consolidation includes all companies controlled by URW NV and all companies in which the Group exercises joint control or
significant influence.
According to IFRS 10, an investor controls an investee when it is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the
investee and has the ability to affect those returns through its power over the investee.
The Group considers all facts and circumstances when assessing whether it controls an investee. The control over an investee is reassessed if
facts and circumstances indicate that there are changes to one or more of the elements above mentioned.
The method of consolidation is determined by the type of control exercised:
• control: the companies are fully consolidated;
• joint control: it is the contractually agreed sharing of control of an arrangement, which exists only when decisions about the relevant
activities require the unanimous consent of the parties sharing control. The classification of a joint arrangement as a joint operation or a
joint venture depends upon the rights and obligations of the parties to the arrangement:
• joint operation is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have rights to the assets, and
obligations for the liabilities, relating to the arrangement. Each party shall account for the assets which it has rights to, liabilities
which it has obligations for, revenues and expenses relating to its interests in a joint operation,
• A joint venture is a joint arrangement whereby the parties that have joint control of the arrangement have rights to the net assets of
the arrangement. Joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method;
Following WAT’s acquisition in 2018, the Group has significant co-ownership interest in a number of properties, mainly in the US
through property partnerships or trusts. These joint ventures are accounted for using the equity method. The Group and its joint
ventures use consistent accounting policies.
• significant influence: accounted for using the equity method. Significant influence is the power to participate in the financial and
operating policy decisions of the investee, but it is not control or joint control of those policies. It is presumed where an entity holds 20%
or more of the voting power (directly or through subsidiaries) on an investee, unless it can be clearly demonstrated that this is not the
case.
Non-controlling interests are initially measured at their proportionate share of the acquiree’s identifiable net assets at the acquisition date.
4.1.2 Foreign currency translation
GROUP COMPANIES WITH A FUNCTIONAL CURRENCY DIFFERENT FROM THE PRESENTATION CURRENCY
The Group’s consolidated financial statements are presented in euros. The financial statements of each consolidated Group company are
prepared in its functional currency. The functional currency is the currency of the principal economic environment in which it operates.
The results and financial position of all the Group entities that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency, the euro,
are translated into the presentation currency as follows:
51
• the assets and liabilities, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on consolidation, are translated into euros at the foreign
exchange rates at the reporting date;
• income and expenses are translated into euros at rates approximating the foreign exchange rates at the dates of the transactions;
• all resulting exchange rate differences are recognised as a separate component of equity (foreign currency translation reserve);
• when a Group company is sold, exchange differences that were recorded in equity are recognised in the income statement as part of the
gain or loss on sale.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS
The Group’s entities can realise operations in a foreign currency which is not their own functional currency. WEA and URW America Inc.
functional currency is in USD. The transactions in foreign currencies are translated into euro at the spot exchange rate on the date of the
transaction. At the reporting date, monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currency are translated into functional currency at
the exchange rate on that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation or on settlement of these transactions are recognised in
the income statement account, with the exception of:
• unrealised translation results on net investments;
• unrealised translation results on intercompany loans that, in substance, form part of the net investment.
Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate on
the date of transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value are translated into
euros at exchange rates on the dates the fair value was determined and are reported as part of the fair value gain or loss.
4.1.3 Business combinations
To identify whether a transaction is a business combination the Group notably considers whether an integrated set of activities is acquired
besides the investment property. The criteria applied may include the number of property assets held by the target company and extent of the
acquired processes and, particularly, the auxiliary services provided by the acquired entity. Also, the optional concentration test is considered
to assess if a business combination is applicable. If the acquired assets are not a business, the transaction is recorded as an asset acquisition.
In a step asset acquisition, both the assets and liabilities are remeasured to their fair values at the acquisition date.
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. The acquisition is recognised at the aggregate of the consideration
transferred, measured at acquisition date fair value, and the amount of any non-controlling interest in the acquiree. For each business
combination, the acquirer measures the non-controlling interest in the acquiree either at fair value or at the proportionate share of the
acquiree’s identifiable net assets. Acquisition costs incurred are booked as expenses. For the companies accounted for using the equity method,
acquisition costs are capitalised in the value of the shares.
At the date of acquisition and in accordance with IFRS 3 Revised, identifiable assets, liabilities and contingent liabilities of the acquired
company are valued individually at their fair value regardless of their purpose based upon current best estimates at such date. It is possible
that further adjustments to initial evaluation may be recognised within twelve months of the acquisition in accordance with IFRS rules.
If the business combination is achieved in stages, the acquisition date fair value of the acquirer’s previously held equity interest in the acquiree
is re-measured to fair value at the acquisition date through the income statement.
Any contingent consideration to be transferred by the acquirer is recognised at fair value at the acquisition date. Subsequent changes to the
fair value of any contingent consideration classified as liability will be recognised in income statement.
Under IFRS 3, the acquisition of additional shares from non-controlling shareholders is regarded as an equity transaction and therefore no
additional goodwill is recognised.
Consequently, when non-controlling shareholders have an agreement to sell, non-controlling interests are reclassified as debt at the present
value of the exercise price. The difference between the latest value and the net carrying value of the non-controlling interests is recognised
as Equity attributable to the holders of the Stapled Shares. Any subsequent change in debt is also accounted for as Equity attributable to the
holders of the Stapled Shares. Income from non-controlling interests and dividends are booked in Equity attributable to the holders of the
Stapled Shares.
4.1.4 Cashflow statement
The Group uses the indirect method to prepare the consolidated statement of cash flows. Cash flow from derivatives [represent the interest
on derivatives] and interest paid is presented within financing cash flows. Acquisitions or divestments of subsidiaries are disclosed as cash flows
from investment activities and presented net of cash and cash equivalents acquired or disposed of, respectively. Cash includes cash on hand
and demand deposits. Cash equivalents are defined as short-term, highly liquid investments that are readily convertible to known amounts of
cash and which are subject to an insignificant risk of charges in value.
4.1.5 Going concern
For the year ended December 31, 2022, the company had a net current asset deficit of €965.9 Mn (December 31, 2021: €2,110.2 Mn) mainly
due to the maturing and reclassification of intercompany payable the current amount in current borrowings and amounts due to credit
institutions is €752.3 Mn (December 31, 2021: €1,890.8 Mn), refer to note 8.3.3. The company’s liquidity needs for the next 12 months are
covered by the available undrawn credit lines of €15.2 Mn and $31.4 Mn, cash on-hand as well as by the cross-guarantees granted within the
URW group. Based on that the company believes that it will be able to meet its commitments as and when they fall due, therefore it is
appropriate to prepare the financial statements on a going concern basis.
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5NOTE 5 ● SEGMENT REPORTING AND NET RECURRING RESULT
5.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
5.1.1 Segment reporting
Segment information is presented in respect of the Group’s divisions and geographical segments, based on the Group’s management operationg
decision making process and internal reporting structure and in accordance with IFRS 8.
Contributions of affiliates are also presented according to the Group’s divisions and geographical segments.
Since the joint-controlled entities represent a significant part of the Group’s operations in the US, the Group’s management and internal
reporting structure segment information is prepared in a proportionate format, in which the joint-controlled entities are accounted for on a
proportionate basis instead of being accounted for using the equity method under IFRS. The Group and its joint ventures use consistent
accounting policies.
BUSINESS SEGMENTS
The Group operates in two segments: Shopping Centres and Offices.
GEOGRAPHICAL SEGMENTS
Geographical segments are determined on the basis of the Group’s definition of a home region. A home region is defined as a region with more
than €1 Bn in property investment, a local organisation dedicated to all three business lines: the “owner function” (asset selection and
management including pipeline), Shopping Centres management, the finance function and a regional consolidated reporting.
The Group operates in the Netherlands and the United States. Based on specific operational and strategic factors, only the region United States
is considered a home region.
5.2 GROSS RENTAL INCOME
REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT OF INVESTMENT PROPERTY LEASES
Assets leased are recorded in the statement of financial position as investment property assets. Gross rental revenue is recorded on a straight-
line basis over the firm duration of the lease.
In case of an Investment Property Under Construction (IPUC), revenues are recognised once spaces are delivered to tenants.
For rent relief granted to tenants in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic and where such relief qualifies as a lease modification because the
tenant agrees concessions (e.g. extension of a lease term or higher Sales Based Rent), IFRS 16 applies, under which, the relief is treated as a
lease incentive which is straight-lined over the expected term of the lease as a reduction of the Gross Rental Income. Rent reliefs for which a
counterpart is expected and not yet signed are part of the receivables on which an expected credit loss is calculated.
In accordance with IFRS 16, rent relief without changes to the lease contract, imposed by laws in force before an event giving rise to the relief,
or pursuant to a provision in the existing lease contract allowing for rent modification, is directly charged to the income statement as a
reduction of the Gross Rental Income.
Rent reliefs signed or expected to be signed, granted without any counterpart from the tenants are considered as a reduction of the receivables
and are charged to the income statement as a reduction of the Gross Rental Income in 2022.
RENTS AND KEY MONEY
Gross rental income consists of rents and similar income (e.g. occupancy compensation, key money, parking revenues) invoiced for Shopping
Centres and Offices properties over the period.
Under IFRS 16, the effects of rent-free periods, step rents, other rents incentives and key monies are spread over the expected term of the
lease.
5.2.1 Operating expenses and net service charges
The operating and net service charges are composed of ground rents paid, net service charge expenses and property operating expenses.
GROUND RENTS PAID
GROUND LEASEHOLDS
Ground leaseholds are accounted for in accordance with IFRS 16 as described in note 6.1.1. Investment properties – Accounting principles.
Buildings constructed on land under a lease agreement are recognised in accordance with the accounting principles described in note 6.1.1.
Investment properties – Accounting principles. As at December 31, 2022, ground rents are not material for the Group.
SERVICE CHARGE INCOME AND SERVICE CHARGE EXPENSES
According to IFRS 15, the Group presented separately the service charge income and the service charge expenses.
These expenses are net of charges re-invoiced to tenants and relate mainly to vacant premises.
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PROPERTY OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses comprise service charges borne by the owner, works-related expenses, litigation expenses, charges relating to doubtful accounts
and expenses relating to property management.
5.2.2 Net property services and other activities income
The net property services and other activities income consist of on-site property services and other property services income.
Based on the analysis of existing contracts, the current recognition of revenues complies with IFRS 15.
Other property services net income is recognized when the services are provided.
Revenues from other activities mainly cover:
• fees invoiced for leasing activity. These fees are capitalized by the Group, owning the asset after elimination of the internal margins
generated;
• fees for property management and maintenance services provided to Offices and Shopping Centres. These fees are invoiced by property
service companies for their property management activities on behalf of owners outside the Group.
Other expenses comprise charges relating to property services and general costs.
5.2.3 Administrative expenses
This item comprises of personnel costs, head office and Group administrative expenses, expenses relating to refurbishment projects and not
capitalised and depreciation charges.
5.2.4 Acquisition and related costs
In 2022, acquisition and related costs amounted to €5.9 Mn (€1.4 Mn in 2021), this is an increase from 2021, the increase is mainly due to the
higher expense in 2022 was mainly due to the integration and severance costs of WAT.
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5.3 CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME BY SEGMENT
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Result
Result
United States
Gross rental income
(1)
379.3
340.0
Operating expenses & net service charges
(140.4)
(136.0)
Net rental income
238.9
204.0
Share of result of companies accounted for using the equity method
(211.9)
(390.3)
Gains/losses on sale of properties
0.1
57.2
Valuation movements on assets
(395.6)
(496.1)
Result Shopping Centres United States
(368.5)
(625.2)
Other
Gross rental income
(1)
2.2
2.3
Operating expenses & net service charges
(0.3)
(0.9)
Net rental income
1.9
1.4
Gains/losses on sales of properties
(3.1)
-
Valuation movements on assets
(0.3)
(2.6)
Result Shopping Centres Other
(1.5)
(1.2)
TOTAL RESULT SHOPPING CENTRES
(370.0)
(626.3)
United States
Gross rental income
(1)
5.3
4.7
Operating expenses & net service charges
(2.9)
(2.9)
Net rental income
2.4
1.8
Share of result of companies accounted for using the equity method
(11.6)
(1.0)
Valuation movements on assets
(2.2)
(14.3)
Result Offices United States
(11.3)
(13.5)
TOTAL RESULT OFFICES
(11.3)
(13.5)
Other property services net income
0.5
-
Corporate expenses
(20.7)
(42.4)
Acquisition and related costs
(5.9)
(1.4)
NET OPERATING RESULT
(407.4)
(683.7)
Financing result
162.0
(286.6)
RESULT BEFORE TAX
(245.4)
(970.3)
Tax income (expense)
11.7
74.2
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD
(233.7)
(896.1)
External non-controlling interests
(81.5)
(107.9)
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD ATTRIBUTABLE TO THE OWNERS OF URW N.V. SHARES
(152.2)
(788.2)
(1) There is no tenant which contracts for more than 10% of the Gross Rental Income and there are no material revenues from transactions with other operating segments of the same entity.
These segmentations are also applied in note 6.1.2 investment properties at fair value.
55
6NOTE 6 ● INVESTMENT PROPERTIES, TANGIBLE ASSETS, INTANGIBLE ASSETS AND
GOODWILL
6.1 INVESTMENT PROPERTIES (IAS 40 & IFRS 13)
6.1.1 Accounting principles
Under the accounting treatment by IAS 40, investment properties are shown at their fair value. According to IFRS 13, the fair value is defined
as 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 (i.e. an exit price). Expectations about future improvements or modifications to be made to the property interest to reflect
its highest and best use have to be considered in the appraisal, such as the renovation of or an extension to the property interest.
The Group complies with the IFRS 13 fair value measurement rule and the position paper
36
on IFRS 13 established by EPRA, the representative
body of the publicly listed real estate industry in Europe.
Transaction costs incurred for an asset deal are capitalised in the value of the investment property. Capitalised expenses include capital
expenditures, evictions costs, capitalised financial interests, letting fees and other internal costs related to development projects.
In accordance with IFRS 16 and IAS 40, the right-of-use assets arising from leased property which meet the definition of an investment property
are measured at fair value. At the moment this is not material for the Group.
Investment Properties Under Construction (IPUC) are covered by IAS 40 and are eligible to be measured at fair value. In accordance with the
Group’s investment properties valuation method, they are measured at fair value by an external appraiser twice a year. Projects for which the
fair value is not reliably determinable are measured at cost until such time that a fair value measurement becomes reliable.
According to the Group, a development project fair value measurement will be able to be determined once the following criteria are fulfilled:
• all administrative authorisations needed to complete the project are obtained;
• the construction has started and costs are committed toward the contractor; and
• substantial uncertainty in future rental income has been eliminated.
For properties measured at fair value, the fair value adopted by the Group is determined on the basis of appraisals by independent external
experts, who value the Group’s portfolio as at June 30 and December 31 of each year. The gross value is reduced by disposal costs and transfer
taxes
37
, depending on the country and on the tax situation of the property, in order to arrive at a net fair value.
For the Shopping Centres portfolios, the independent appraisers determine the fair value based on the results of two methods: the discounted
cash flow methodology as well as the yield methodology. Furthermore, the resulting valuations are cross-checked against the initial yield, value
per sqm and the fair values established through actual market transactions.
Appraisers have been given access to all information relevant for valuations, such as the Group’s confidential rent rolls, including information
on vacancy, break options, expiry dates and lease incentives, performance indicators (e.g., footfall and sales where available), letting evidence
and the Group’s cash flow forecasts from annually updated detailed asset business plans. Appraisers make their independent assessments of
current and forward-looking cash flow profiles and usually reflect risk either in the cash flow forecasts (e.g. future rental levels, growth,
investment requirements, void periods and incentives, rent relief and lower variable rents in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic) in the
applied required returns or discount rates and in the yield applied to capitalise the exit rent to determine an exit value.
The income statement for a given year (Y) records the change in value for each property, which is determined as follows:
fair value Y – [fair value Y-1 + amount of works and other costs capitalised in year Y].
Capital gains on disposals of investment properties are calculated by comparison with their latest fair value recorded in the closing statement
of financial position for the previous financial year.
Properties under construction carried at cost are subject to impairment tests, determined on the basis of the estimated recoverable value of
the project. The recoverable value of a project is assessed by the Development & Investment teams through a market exit capitalisation rate
and the targeted net rents at completion. When the fair value is lower than net book value, an impairment provision is booked.
Properties held for sale are identified separately in the statement of financial position and are valued at fair value. Properties held for sale
are identified separately when the asset is available for immediate sale, the sale is completed within one year from the date of classification,
the sale must be highly probable, and management is committed to a plan to sell the asset.
Once classified as held for sale, intangible assets and property, plant and equipment are no longer amortised or depreciated, and any equity-
accounted investee is no longer equity accounted.
36
EPRA position paper on IFRS 13 – Fair value measurement and illustrative disclosures, February 2013.
37
Transfer taxes are valued on the assumption that the property is sold directly, even though the cost of these taxes can, in certain cases, be reduced by selling the
property's holding company.
56
6.1.2 Investment properties at fair value
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Shopping Centres
4,841.1
4,978.6
United States
4,824.7
4,951.9
- Flagships centres
4,613.8
4,573.1
- Regionals centres
210.9
378.8
The Netherlands
16.4
26,7
Offices
52.3
50.4
United States
52.3
50.4
TOTAL
4,893.5
5,029.1
(€Mn)
Shopping Centres
Offices
Properties held for sale
Total investment
properties
December 31, 2020
5,128.1
59.2
(146.9)
(1)
5,040.4
Entry into scope of consolidation
183.0
-
-
183.0
Disposals/exits from the scope of consolidation
(297.6)
-
146.9
(1)
(150.7)
Reclassification and transfer of category
0.6
-
-
0.6
Capitalised expenses
21.5
1.1
-
22.6
Other movements
(0.4)
-
-
(0.4)
Valuation movements
(464.6)
(14.3)
-
(479.0)
Currency translation
408.1
4.4
-
412.5
December 31, 2021
4,978.6
50.4
-
5,029.1
Acquisition
22.3
-
-
22.3
Disposals/exits from the scope of consolidation
(190.1)
-
-
(190.1)
Reclassification and transfer of category
10.8
-
-
10.8
Capitalised expenses
24.4
0.9
-
25.4
Valuation movements
(317.1)
(2.2)
-
(319.2)
Currency translation
312.1
3.1
-
315.3
December 31, 2022
4,841.1
52.3
-
4,893.5
(1) Includes the reclassification into the category of properties held for sale of foreclosed assets (Westfield Citrus Park and Westfield Countryside). These assets were foreclosed in 2021 and subsequently
removed from the properties held for sale at December 31, 2021.
The disposals of €190.1 Mn mainly relates to Westfield Trumbull and Westfield South Shore. For the disposal of the above-described assets,
reference is made to note 2.1.2.
In 2022, valuation of investment properties at fair value decreased by -€319.2 Mn, mainly from an increase of discount rates used by appraisers
as well as an increase in the exit capitalization rate.
VALUATION ASSUMPTIONS AND SENSITIVITY
Considering the limited public data available, the complexity of real estate asset valuations, as well as the fact that appraisers use in their
valuations the non-public rent rolls of the Group’s assets, the Group believes it appropriate to classify its assets under Level 3 as per IFRS 13. In
addition, unobservable inputs, including appraisers’ assumption on growth rates and exit yields, are used by appraisers to determine the fair
values of the Group’s assets.
As at December 31, 2022, 99% of URW NV’s portfolio was appraised by independent appraisers. The fair value of the properties in the United
States are based on the valuations performed by Cushman & Wakefield and Kroll and in the Netherlands by Jones Lang LaSalle.
The following tables provide a number of quantitative elements used by the appraisers to assess the fair valuation of the Group’s assets. The
Dutch assets are not significant and therefore the below table shows only the US assets.
The below overviews including most significant input and output parameters of the external valuations of the investment properties and the
sensitivity overviews of the fair value of investment property are presented based on a proportional basis for the fully consolidated investment
property as well as the investment property included in the joint ventures accounted using the equity method. The total value of investment
property represents €10,741.8 Mn, this consist of the total €4,893.5 Mn presented investment property in the consolidated position excluding
investment property under contraction carried at cost and €5,848.3 Mn of the proportioned share of the investment property presented in the
joint venture and associate overview in note 7.2.
SHOPPING CENTRES
All Shopping Centres are valued using the discounted cash flow and/or yield methodologies.
Shopping Centres – December 31, 2022
Net initial
yield
Rent in €
per sqm
(1)
Discount
Rate
(2)
Exit yield
(3)
CAGR of
NRI
(4)
US
Max
9.6% 1,438 10.3% 9.0% 11.4%
Min
2.9% 321 6.5% 4.5% 0.6%
Weighted average
4.6% 700 7.1% 5.2% 4.6%
Net initial yield, discount rate and exit yield weighted by Gross Market Value (GMV). Vacant assets, assets considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in Min and Max
calculation. Assets under development or not controlled and the Westfield trademark are not included in this table. Assets fully consolidated and in joint control are included.
(1) Average annual rent (Minimum Guaranteed Rent + Sales Based Rent) per asset per sqm.
(2) Rate used to calculate the net present value of future cash flows.
(3) Rate used to capitalise the exit rent to determine the exit value of an asset.
(4) Compounded Annual Growth Rate of Net Rental Income determined by the appraiser (between 6 and 10 years depending on duration of DCF model used).
57
Shopping Centres – December 31, 2021
Net initial
yield
Rent in €
per sqm
(1)
Discount
Rate
(2)
Exit yield
(3)
CAGR of
NRI
(4)
US
Max
8.1%
1,736
9.5%
8.0%
13.1%
Min
3.1%
288
5.8%
4.3%
1.8%
Weighted average
4.2%
617
6.7%
5.0%
6.4%
Net initial yield, discount rate and exit yield weighted by Gross Market Value (GMV). Vacant assets, assets considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in Min and Max
calculation. Assets under development or not controlled and the Westfield trademark are not included in this table. Assets fully consolidated and in joint-control are included.
(1) Average annual rent (minimum guaranteed rent + sales based rent) per asset per sqm.
(2) Rate used to calculate the net present value of future cash flows.
(3) Rate used to capitalize the exit rent to determine the exit value of an asset.
(4) Compounded Annual Growth Rate of Net Rental Income determined by the appraiser (10 years).
For the US, the split between Flagship and Regional Shopping Centres is as follows:
Shopping Centres – December 31, 2022
Net initial
yield
Rent in €
per sqm
(1)
Discount
Rate
(2)
Exit yield
(3)
CAGR of
NRI
(4)
US Flagships
Max
7.5%
1,438
9.0%
7.3%
11.4%
Min
2.9%
399
6.5%
4.5%
1.8%
Weighted average
4.2%
820
6.8%
4.9%
5.0%
US Regionals
Max
9.6%
607
10.3%
9.0%
6.3%
Min
6.4%
321
8.5%
7.0%
0.6%
Weighted average
8.6%
411
9.8%
8.0%
2.3%
Net initial yield, discount rate and exit yield weighted by GMV. Vacant assets, assets considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in this table. Vacant assets, assets
considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in Min and Max calculation. Assets under development or not controlled and the Westfield trademark are not included in this
table. Assets fully consolidated and in joint-control are included.
(1) Average annual rent (Minimum Guaranteed Rent + Sales Based Rent) per asset per sqm.
(2) Rate used to calculate the net present value of future cash flows.
(3) Rate used to capitalise the exit rent to determine the exit value of an asset.
(4) Compounded Annual Growth Rate of NRI determined by the appraiser (10 years).
Shopping Centres – December 31, 2021
Net initial
yield
Rent in €
per sqm
(1)
Discount
Rate
(2)
Exit yield
(3)
CAGR of
NRI
(4)
US Flagships
Max
6.2%
1,736
8.0%
6.5%
13.1%
Min
3.1%
315
5.8%
4.3%
2.3%
Weighted average
3.7%
732
6.3%
4.7%
6.8%
US Regionals
Max
8.1%
636
9.5%
8.0%
10.3%
Min
5.0%
288
7.0%
5.8%
1.8%
Weighted average
6.7%
389
8.6%
6.7%
4.8%
Net initial yield, discount rate and exit yield weighted by GMV. Vacant assets, assets considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in this table. Vacant assets, assets
considered at bid value and assets under restructuring are not included in Min and Max calculation. Assets under development or not controlled and the Westfield trademark are not included in this
table. Assets fully consolidated and in joint-control are included.
(1) Average annual rent (minimum guaranteed rent) per asset per sqm
2
. The computation takes into account the areas allocated to company restaurants.
(2) Rate used to calculate the net present value of future cash flows.
(3) Rate used to capitalize the exit rent to determine the exit value of an asset.
(4) Compounded Annual Growth Rate of NRI determined by the appraiser (10 years).
The sensitivity is for assets fully consolidated or under joint control, excluding assets under development and the Westfield trademark.
Based on an asset value excluding estimated transfer taxes and transaction costs, the Shopping Centre division’s net initial yield is 4.6% as at
December 31, 2022 (December 31, 2021: 4.2%).
A change of +25 basis points in net initial yield, the main output of the appraisal models, would result in a downward adjustment of -€545 Mn (or
-5.1%) (December 31, 2021: -€629 Mn (or -5.7%)) of the Shopping Centre portfolio value, including transfer taxes.
A change of +25 bps in discount rate would have a negative impact of -€209 Mn or (-2.0%) (December 31, 2021: -€221 Mn or (-2.0%)) on the
Shopping Centre portfolio value, including transfer taxes.
A change of +10 bps in exit capitalization rate would have a negative impact of -€139 Mn (or -1.3%) (December 31, 2021: -€152 Mn (or -1.4%)) on
the Shopping Centre portfolio value, including transfer taxes.
A decrease of -5% in appraisers’ estimated rental value assumptions for the leases to be signed during the model period would have a negative
impact of -€299 Mn (or -2.8%) (December 31, 2021: -€478
38
Mn (or -4.3%)) on the Shopping Centre portfolio value, including transfer taxes.
38
This amount is restated as per December 31, 2021 from -€448 Mn. Restatement is performed in the current year after URW NV noticed a typo in the annual report for
the year ended December 31, 2021.
58
6.1.3 Investment properties under construction at cost
(€Mn)
Gross value
Impairment
Total investment
properties at cost
December 31, 2020
25.9
(6.5)
19.4
Disposals/exits from the scope of consolidation
(7.7)
6.7
(1.0)
Capitalised expenses
0.8
-
0.8
Other movements
(0.6)
-
(0.6)
Currency translation
1.8
(0.2)
1.6
December 31, 2021
20.2
-
20.2
Reclassification and transfer of category
(10.8)
-
(10.8)
Disposals/exits from the scope of consolidation
(1.1)
-
(1.1)
Capitalised expenses
3.8
-
3.8
Written off
(4.4)
-
(4.4)
Currency translation
1.4
-
1.4
December 31, 2022
9.0
-
9.0
6.2 TANGIBLE ASSETS
6.2.1 Accounting principles
Under the method proposed by IAS 16, operating assets are valued at their historic cost, less cumulative depreciation and any impairment.
Depreciation is calculated using the “component accounting” method, where each asset is broken down into major components based on their
useful life.
Items of other tangible assets are depreciated to a residual value of € 0 on a straight-line basis over their respective useful economic lives
according to the following table:
Item:
Depreciation period:
Office equipment
2 – 5 years
Furniture
3 – 5 years
6.2.2 Changes in tangible assets
Cost
(€Mn)
Furniture and
equipment
Right of use
Total tangible assets
December 31, 2020
54.2
30.1
84.2
Acquisitions
0.8
-
0.8
Currency translation
4.1
2.5
6.6
December 31, 2021
59.1
32.6
91.6
Acquisitions
0.3
1.3
1.6
Reclassification and other movement
(8.4)
4.5
(3.9)
Disposals/exists from the scope of consolidation
-
(23.4)
(23.4)
Currency translation
3.8
2.2
6.0
December 31, 2022
54.8
17.3
71.9
Accumulated depreciation
(€Mn)
Furniture and
equipment
Right of use
Total tangible assets
December 31, 2020
(49.8)
(4.8)
(54.7)
Depreciation
(1.3)
(5.0)
(6.3)
Currency translation
(3.7)
(0.6)
(4.3)
December 31, 2021
(54.8)
(10.5)
(65.3)
Depreciation
(1.4)
(3.5)
(4.8)
Disposals/exists from the scope of consolidation
-
9.0
9.0
Reclassification and other movement
6.5
-
6.5
Currency translation
(3.5)
(0.7)
(4.1)
December 31, 2022
(53.2)
(5.7)
(58.9)
59
Net book value
(€Mn)
Furniture and
equipment
Right of use
Total tangible assets
December 31, 2021
4.3
22.1
26.4
December 31, 2022
1.6
11.6
13.2
(1) See note 3.1 IFRS basis adopted.
6.3 INTANGIBLE ASSETS
6.3.1 Accounting principles
An intangible asset is recognised when it is identifiable and separable and can be sold, transferred, licensed, rented, or exchanged, either
individually or as part of a contract with an attached asset or a liability, or which arises from contractual or other legal rights regardless of
whether those rights are transferable or separable. After initial recognition, intangible assets are recognised at cost less any amortisation
charges and impairment losses.
Intangible assets with a finite life are amortised on a linear basis over the life of the asset. The useful life of an asset is reviewed each year
and an impairment test is carried out whenever there is an indication of impairment.
Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not amortised but their life span is reviewed each year. These assets are subject to impairment
tests annually or whenever there is an indication of impairment, which consists of comparing the book value with the recoverable amount of
the intangible assets. The recoverable amount of an asset or a cash-generating unit is the maximum between its fair value less disposal costs
and its value in use. It is assessed based on the present value of expected future cash flows from the continued use of the asset and its terminal
value. Impairment tests are carried out by grouping assets together into cash-generating units. In the case of reduction in value, a corresponding
impairment charge is recognised in the income statement.
The intangible assets arise from:
• The Westfield trademark for Flagships in the US;
• The acquired software.
The incremental value of the Westfield trademark corresponds to the portion of the trademark value that is not captured in the Shopping
Centre values.
Trademark intangible assets are valued by independent external appraisers using a 10 years Discounted Cash Flow methodology combined with
the Royalty Relief method. The value relies on incremental growth attributable to the Westfield trademark multiplied by the royalty rate. The
Relief from Royalty method estimates the value of the asset as the present value of future royalty payments over the life of the asset that are
saved (not paid) by virtue of owning the asset.
The useful life of the Westfield trademark is considered indefinite because the generating cash inflow from the trademark is considered to be
indefinitely as long as the business continue as a going concern. As a consequence, these assets are not amortised but tested for impairment.
The useful life of the acquired software is 3 years, acquired software is amortized to a residual value of €0 on a straight-line basis over their
respective useful economic lives.
6.3.2 Changes in intangible assets
Cost
(€Mn)
Software
Trademark Total intangible assets
December 31, 2020
91.3
293.0
384.3
Acquisitions
5.0
-
5.0
Disposals
(6.8)
-
(6.8)
Currency translation
7.5
24.4
32.0
December 31, 2021
97.0
317.4
414.4
Reclassification
14.3
-
14.3
Currency translation
5.8
19.6
25.5
December 31, 2022
117.2
337.1
454.2
60
Accumulated amortization and impairment
(€Mn)
Software
Trademark
Total intangible assets
December 31, 2020
(84.6)
(3.8)
(88.4)
Amortisation
(10.0)
(1)
-
(10.0)
Disposals
5.3
-
5.3
Impairment
-
(48.4)
(1)
(48.4)
Currency translation
(7.3)
(2.3)
(9.6)
December 31, 2021
(96.6)
(54.4)
(151.0)
Amortisation
(7.5)
-
(7.5)
Impairment
-
(74.4)
(1)
(74.4)
Reclassification
(1.8)
-
(1.8)
Currency translation
(5.9)
(2.4)
(8.3)
December 31, 2022
(111.7)
(131.3)
(243.0)
Net book value
(€Mn)
Software
Trademark
Total intangible assets
December 31, 2021
0.4
263.0
263.5
December 31, 2022
5.4
205.8
211.2
(1) The impairment of €74.4 Mn (December 31, 2021: €48.4 Mn) is recorded under valuation losses on assets in the consolidated interim statement of comprehensive income.
Intangible assets as at December 31, 2022 relates primarily to the trademark acquired as at June 7, 2018, the impairment test of the trademark
performed was based on an independent external appraisal and an impairment of €74.4 Mn was recognised as at December 31, 2022.
The Relief from Royalty method is used to value the trademark. The assumptions are based on macro-economic trends, industry standard ratios,
historical and business plan figured. Further given the current COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent financial and economic consequences, the
calculation reflects potential effects on the trademark by performing simulations on the discount rate. The impairment is mainly caused by a
decrease of the incremental growth rate expected on the US assets estimated by the external appraisers to 1.8% (December 31, 2021: 1.5%) and
an increase in the discount rate to 9.25% (December 31, 2021: 8.25%). A valuation at 1.8% of the incremental growth rate would have given a
€9.1 Mn higher recoverable amount for the trademark.
The main assumptions used to test the Trademark for impairment are the discount rate which is 9.25% (December 31, 2021: 8.25%), long term
growth rate which is 1.8% (December 31, 2021: 2.3%) and incremental growth rate which is 1.78% (December 31, 2021: 1.46%) based on US
parameters.
A change of +25 basis points on the discount rate of the Trademark as determined at December 31, 2022, would lead to an additional impairment
of -€15.6 Mn the intangible assets.
A change of -10 basis points in the long-term growth rate of the Trademark as determined at December 31, 2022, would lead to an additional
impairment of -€4.7 Mn the intangible assets.
6.4 VALUATION MOVEMENTS ON ASSETS
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Investment properties at fair value
(319.2)
(479.0)
Investment properties at cost
(4.4)
1.2
Impairment of intangible assets
(74.4)
(48.4)
Revaluation of the investments previously held
-
13.2
Net result
(398.1)
(512.9)
6.5 AMOUNTS PAID FOR WORKS AND ACQUISITION/DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY ASSETS
(CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS)
In 2022, amounts paid for works and acquisition of property assets amount to €61.4 Mn (December 31, 2021: €26.3 Mn). They comprise acquisitions
of assets, transaction capitalised costs, works and capitalised expenses and are adjusted for the changes on amounts due on investments of the
period.
61
7NOTE 7 ● SHARES AND INVESTMENTS IN COMPANIES ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE
EQUITY METHOD
7.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
The accounting principles are detailed in note 4.1.1 “Scope and methods of consolidation”. According to IFRS 11, joint ventures are those
entities in which the Group has joint control established by contractual agreement and rights to the net assets of the arrangement.
7.2 SHARES AND INVESTMENTS IN COMPANIES ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD
The Group has jointly controlled entities and associates in the United States. These shares and investments are accounted for using the equity
method. The details of the Group’s aggregated share of equity accounted entities’ assets and liabilities are set out below:
(€Mn)
December 31,
2022
JV’s at 100%
December 31,
2022
URW NV’s share
December 31,
2021
JV’s at 100%
December 31,
2021
URW NV’s share
Investment properties
11,381.2
5,848.3
12,311.1
6,358.6
Other non-current assets
44.5
24.2
86.0
62.8
Current assets
335.1
170.6
249.2
113.6
1
Cash and cash equivalents
62.4
32.4
82.3
42.4
1
Total assets
4
11,823.2
6,075.5
12,728.6
6,577.4
Long-term External borrowings
1,693.1
883.4
2,224.2
1,060.5
1
Short-term External borrowings
364.8
163.0
23.0
99.2
1
Other non-current liabilities
33.9
18.0
33.9
17.9
Current liabilities
220.4
109.4
248.7
114.7
1
Total liabilities
4
2,312.2
1,173.8
2,529.7
1,292.4
NET ASSETS
9,511.0
4,901.7
10,198.9
5,284.9
(€Mn)
2022
JV’s at 100%
2022
URW NV’s share
2021
JV’s at 100%
2021
URW NV’s share
Net rental income
615.6
316.9
502.4
260.9
Change in fair value of investment properties
4
(811.2)
(443.0)
(1,144.0)
(604.2)
Financial result
(76.6)
(37.8)
(67.2)
(33.0)
Net result
2 3 4
(392.3)
(223.5)
(733.4)
(391.3)
1) 2021 Figures have been restated due to reclassification of intercompany balances and also to align 2021 discloser with the updated in the 2022 figures, URW NV considered the impact and
concluded that the restatement did not have a significant impact on the disclosure for the year ended December 31, 2022. The effect on net assets is € 0.0 Mn.
2) URW NV did not receive any other comprehensive income from JV’s in 2021 or 2022.
3) URW NV’s tax on JV’s are insignificant and therefore not disclosed.
4) These amounts include a proportionate amount for associates of €68.5 Mn on total assets (2021: €108.4 Mn), €43.1 Mn on total liabilities (2021: €56.2 Mn); -€34.6 Mn on change in fair value of
investments (2021: -€16.0) and -€31.7 on net result (2021: -€12.1 Mn).
For two loans from financial institutions within joint ventures (amounting to approximately €353.0 Mn (2021: €595.9 Mn) based on the Group’s
interest in these joint ventures the joint venture was not in compliance with the debt service coverage ratio required under the loan agreement
as of December 31, 2022. Non-compliance with the ratio requirement is not an event of default but does trigger the funding of restricted reserve
accounts controlled by the lender to cover future property taxes, insurance and leasing capital. The total restricted cash reserves per balance
sheet date within those joint ventures amount to €3.1 Mn (2021: €2.6 Mn).
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES IN RESPECT OF ASSOCIATES AND JOINT VENTURES
The Group’s share in the capital commitments of the joint ventures themselves is set out in Note 15. Profits can be distributed without significant
restrictions other than regular consent of joint venture partners.
62
7.3 EQUITY ACCOUNTED ENTITIES’ ECONOMIC INTEREST
Set out below are the joint venture partners and associates of the Group as at December 31, 2022. All joint venture partners are incorporated in
the United States. None of these are individually material for the Group. There are changes in the economic interest compared to December 31,
2021, due to the sale of joint ventures mentioned in note 2.1.2.
Name of the investments⁽¹⁾
Type of equity
Economic interest
December 31, 2022
Economic interest
December 31, 2021
Annapolis
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Culver City
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Fashion Square
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Garden State Plaza
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Mission Valley
Partnership units
41.7%
41.7%
Montgomery
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
MV Macy’s Box/Parcel
Partnership units
41.7%
41.7%
North County
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Oakridge
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Owensmouth
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Plaza Bonita
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Promenade
(3)
Partnership units
-
55.0%
San Francisco Emporium
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Santa Anita
(4)
Partnership units
-
49.3%
Southcenter
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
Topanga
(2)
Partnership units
55.0%
55.0%
UTC
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Valencia Town Center
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Valley Fair
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Wheaton
(2)
Partnership units
52.6%
52.6%
UTC/VF Services
Membership units
50.0%
50.0%
West Valley
(2)
Partnership units
-
55.0%
Emporium Offices
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Wheaton North Office
(2)
Partnership units
52.6%
52.6%
Wheaton South Office
(2)
Partnership units
52.6%
52.6%
Montgomery Condo
Partnership units
50.0%
50.0%
Blum
Associates
20.0%
20.0%
Starwood
Associates
10.0%
10.0%
(1) All equity accounted property partnerships operate solely as retail property investors in the United States.
(2) Per the Co-ownership, Limited Partnership and Property Management Agreements with our joint venture partners, the Group is restricted from exercising control over
these interests even though the Group has more than 50% ownership interest and voting rights. Major decisions require the approval of both the Group and the joint
venture partners and operating and capital budgets must be approved by the Management Committee (both owners have equal representation on this Committee).
The Group therefore has joint control over the investments and is treating them as equity accounted interests.
(3) Promenade was sold in March 2022, refer to 2.1.2.
(4) Westfield Santa Anita was sold on August 25, 2022, refer to 2.1.2.
(5) West Valley was sold on December 27, 2022, refer to 2.1.2.
7.4 TRANSACTIONS WITH RELATED-PARTIES
The consolidated financial statements include all companies in the Group’s scope of consolidation (see note 16 “List of consolidated companies”).
The Group’s joint ventures are listed in note 7.3.
Together with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE (“URW SE”), the Group forms Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield (“URW Group”).
The main related party transactions refer to transactions with companies accounted for using the equity method, loans and foreign currency
contracts with URW SE and convertible redeemable preference shares/units held by URW SE as well as derivatives.
TRANSACTIONS WITH COMPANIES ACCOUNTED FOR USING THE EQUITY METHOD
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Current account in debit/(credit)
(13.6)
(8.7)
(1)
(1) The December 31, 2021, figures have been restated from
€
35.9Mn amount in debit to correctly reflect the balances due to joint ventures and associates, the fully consolidated entities balances
were incorrectly disclosed previously.
The impact of transactions with companies accounting for using the equity method on comprehensive income was insignificant for the year
ended December 31, 2022.
TRANSACTIONS WITH UNIBAIL-RODAMCO-WESTFIELD SE
All related party loans of the Group are from URW SE. For the interest amounts with URW SE refer to note 8.3.3.
LOANS TO URW NV
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan from URW SE. An additional part (€250 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of
€1,250 Mn has been converted into equity on December 31, 2022, reference is made to note 2.1.3. The remaining principal amount of the loan
is €543.7 Mn (December 31, 2021: €760.6 Mn) as at December 31, 2022. The interest rate of the loan is based on a fixed rate from and including
63
the issue date to, but excluding, October 25, 2023. After each 5 years the interest rate is reset at 5YR Mid-swaps plus relevant margin. Th e
maturity date of the loan is perpetual.
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan from URW SE. The principal amount of the loan is €35.8 Mn as at December 31, 202 2
(December 31, 2021: €35.8 Mn). The fixed interest rate is 1.44% and the maturity date is May 31, 2023.
During the period, URW NV had a EUR and USD current account facility with URW SE for €185.0 Mn and $100.0 Mn, respectively. As at Decembe r
31, 2022, the drawn down amount are €169.8 Mn and $68.6 Mn (€64.3 Mn) respectively. The interest rate is EURIBOR + 0.85% for the EUR facilit y
and LIBOR + 1.4% for the USD facility. The maturity date for both contracts is April 1, 2024. As at December 31, 2021, the drawn down amoun t
are €173.5 Mn and $34.6 Mn (€30.5 Mn) respectively. The interest rate is EURIBOR + 0.85% for the EUR facility and LIBOR + 1.4% for the US D
facility. The maturity date for both contracts is April 1, 2024.
During the period, URW NV has interest rate swaps and caps contracts with URW SE. The interest rate swaps contracts maturity date are in 202 8
and 2048. The non-current derivative assets and non-current derivatives liabilities related to the swaps and caps are €142.6 Mn (December 31 ,
2021: €76.8 Mn) and €45.4 Mn (December 31, 2021: €445.5 Mn) respectively as at December 31, 2022. Reference is made to note 8.4.
LOANS TO URW AMERICA INC.
During the period, URW America Inc. has an USD interest bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022, is
$52.4 Mn (€49.1 Mn) (December 31, 2021: €46.2 Mn). The interest rate is LIBOR + 0.600% margin. The maturity date of the loan is June 7, 2025.
During the period, URW America Inc. has an USD interest bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022, is
$1,202.9 Mn (€1,127.8 Mn) (December 31, 2021: €1,062.1 Mn). The interest rate is LIBOR + 1.225% margin. The maturity date of the loan is Jun e
7, 2024.
During the period, URW America Inc. has an USD interest-bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022, is $776. 3
Mn (€727.8 Mn) (December 31, 2021: €685.4 Mn). The interest rate is LIBOR + 1.120% margin. The maturity date of the loan is April 16, 2026.
LOANS TO WALP
During the period, WALP has an USD interest bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022, is $1,007.5 Mn
(€944.6 Mn). The interest rate is fixed at 5.895%. The maturity date of the loan is June 30, 2024. The loan was amended from interest rate a t
LIBOR + 1.2250% margin for the year ended December 31, 2021, due to Maturity date of December 15, 2022.
During the period, WALP has an USD interest bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022, is $250 Mn
(€234.4 Mn). The interest rate is fixed at 5.895%. The maturity date of the loan is June 30, 2023. The loan was amended from interest rate a t
LIBOR + 1.2250% margin for the year ended December 31, 2021, due to Maturity date of December 15, 2022.
During the period, WALP has an USD interest bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022, is $475.0 Mn
(€445.3) (December 31, 2021: €419.4 Mn). The interest rate is fixed at 3.3500%. The maturity date of the loan is June 27, 2023. The loan wa s
amended from interest rate at LIBOR + 0.775% margin for the year ended December 31, 2021, due to Maturity date of June 27, 2022.
During the period, WALP has an USD interest bearing loan from URW SE. The balance of the loan as at December 31, 2022 is $300 Mn
(€281.3 Mn) (December 31, 2021: €264.9 Mn). The interest rate is LIBOR + 1.3000% margin and is reset quarterly. The maturity date of the loa n
is September 4, 2025.
LOANS CLASSIFIED AS EQUITY INSTRUMENTS TO URW NV
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan with URW SE of €750 Mn as at December 31, 2022 (€750 Mn as at December 31, 2021 )
which is classified as an compound financial instrument. URW NV shall only be due interest in respect of a financial year, if it has made sufficien t
profit and/or its shareholders have decided that they shall pay a dividend with respect of the financial year. The maturity is 99 years fro m
December 29, 2020, and default opportunities are limited.
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan with URW SE of €500 Mn as at December 31, 2022 (€500 Mn as at December 31, 2021 )
which is classified as an compound financial instrument. URW NV shall only be due interest in respect of a financial year, if it has made sufficien t
profit and/or its shareholders have decided that they shall pay a dividend with respect of the financial year. The maturity is 99 years from Jun e
30, 2021 and default opportunities are limited. Reference is made to 2.2.3.
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan with URW SE of €250 Mn as at December 31, 2022 which is classified as an compoun d
financial instrument. URW NV shall only be due interest in respect of a financial year, if it has made sufficient profit and/or its shareholder s
have decided that they shall pay a dividend with respect of the financial year. The maturity is 99 years from December 31, 2022 and defaul t
opportunities are limited. Reference is made to 2.1.3.
REDEEMABLE PREFERENCE SHARES HELD BY URW SE
URW SE holds redeemable preference shares in WHL USA Acquisitions, Inc. with a stated redemption value of €414.0 Mn (December 31, 2021 :
€389.9 Mn) which are presented under the consolidated statement of the financial position under commitment to non-controlling interests.
URW SE has the right to redeem the shares for cash after April 3, 2029, and is entitled to annual dividends equal to 5.9% of the stated redemptio n
value. Any unpaid distribution on the shares is cumulative and must be paid prior to WHL USA Acquisitions, Inc. paying a common distribution.
All related party transactions are based on at arm’s length prices.
TRANSACTIONS WITH ASSOCIATES
Related party transaction also include a preferred interest in Starwood. See further 8.3.1" under table of "transactions with companies accounte d
for using the equity method”.
TRANSACTIONS WITH KEY MANAGEMENT PERSONNEL
Remuneration of key management personnel is disclosed in note 13.4.2.
64
8NOTE 8 ● FINANCING AND FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
8.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
8.1.1 Financial instruments (IAS 32/IFRS 7/IFRS 9/IFRS 13)
CLASSIFICATION AND MEASUREMENT OF NON-DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
FINANCIAL ASSETS
Under IFRS 9, on initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at: amortised cost; Fair Value through Other Comprehensive
Income (FVOCI) – debt instruments; FVOCI – equity instruments; or Fair Value Through Profit and Loss (FVTPL). The classification of financial
assets under IFRS 9 is generally based on the business model in which a financial asset is managed and its contractual cash flow characteristics.
The financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at FVTPL:
• it is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and
• its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount
outstanding.
A debt investment is measured at FVOCI if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at FVTPL:
• it is held within a business model whose objective is achieved by both collecting contractual cash flows and selling financial assets; and
• its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount
outstanding.
On initial recognition of an equity investment that is not held for trading, the Group may irrevocably elect to present subsequent changes in
the investment’s fair value in OCI. This election is made on an investment-by-investment basis.
All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or FVOCI as described above are measured at FVTPL. This includes derivative
financial assets.
A financial asset (unless it is a trade receivable without a significant financing component that is initially measured at the transaction price) is
initially measured at fair value plus, for an item not at FVTPL, transaction costs that are directly attributable to its acquisition.
The following accounting policies apply to the subsequent measurement of financial assets for the Group:
FINANCIAL ASSETS AT AMORTISED COST
These assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amortised cost is reduced by impairment
losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is
recognised in profit or loss.
FINANCIAL ASSETS AT FVTPL
These assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Net gains and losses, including any interest or dividend income, are recognised in profit
or loss.
EQUITY INSTRUMENTS AT FVOCI
These assets are subsequently measured at fair value though profit or loss except in the case of an irrevocable election to classify them at fair
value through other comprehensive income that cannot be reclassified.
Dividends are recognised as income in profit or loss unless the dividend clearly represents a recovery of part of the cost of the investment.
Other net gains and losses are recognised in OCI and are never reclassified to profit or loss.
FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Amounts to suppliers and interest-bearing financial liabilities are initially measured at fair value less transaction costs directly attributable to
the issue and after initial booking at amortised cost using the effective interest rate. Gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss when the
liabilities are derecognised as well as through the effective interest rate amortisation process.
Other non-derivatives financial liabilities are recognised at fair value through profit or loss.
FINANCIAL GUARANTEES
Financial guarantee contracts are recognised as a financial liability at the time the guarantee is issued. The liability is initially measured at
fair value and subsequently at the higher of:
• the amount determined in accordance with the expected credit loss model under IFRS 9 Financial Instruments and
• the amount initially recognised less, where appropriate, the cumulative amount of income recognised in accordance with the
principles of IFRS 15 Revenue from Contracts with Customers.
The fair value of financial guarantees is determined based on the present value of the difference in cash flows between the contractual
payments required under the debt instrument and the payments that would be required without the guarantee, or the estimated amount that
would be payable to a third party for assuming the obligations.
Where guarantees in relation to loans or other payables of associates are provided for no compensation, the fair values are accounted for as
contributions and recognised as part of the cost of the investment .
CLASSIFICATION AND MEASUREMENT OF FINANCIAL DERIVATIVES
The Group uses derivative financial instruments to hedge its exposure to movements in interest and currency exchange rates.
All financial derivatives are recorded as financial assets or liabilities at fair value on the statement of financial position. Fair value variations
of financial derivatives are recognised in the income statement for the period .
65
The Group has a macro-hedging strategy for its debt. No hedge accounting is applied. All such derivatives are therefore measured at their fair
value and any fair value variations are recorded in the income statement.
Changes in the fair value of forward exchange contracts that economically hedge monetary assets and liabilities in foreign currencies and for
which no hedge accounting is applied are recognised in the income statement.
Both the changes in fair value of the forward contracts and the foreign exchange gains and losses relating to the monetary items are recognised
as part of the “financing result” as these instruments are designated as hedging instruments.
HEDGING INSTRUMENTS
The Group, which holds a group of financial assets or financial liabilities, is exposed to market risks and credit risks of every single counterparty
as defined in IFRS 7. The Group applies the exception provided by IFRS 13 (§ 48) which permits to measure the fair value of a group of financial
assets or a group of financial liabilities on the basis of the price that would be received to sell or transfer a net position towards a particular
risk in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date under current market conditions.
To determine the net position, the Group takes into account existing arrangements to mitigate the credit risk exposure in the event of default
(e.g. a master netting agreement with the counterparty). The fair value measurement takes into consideration the likelihood that such an
arrangement would be legally enforceable in the event of default.
Valuation of derivatives has to take into account the Credit Valuation Adjustment (CVA) and the Debit Valuation Adjustment (DVA).
CVA, calculated for a given counterparty, is the product of:
• the total mark-to-market the Group has with this counterparty, in case it is positive;
• the probability of default of this counterparty over the average maturity, weighted by the nominal of the derivatives booked with them.
This probability of default is taken from the Bloomberg model, based on market data and derived from the Credit Default Swaps of the
banks; and
• the loss given default following market standard.
DVA based on URW NV’s credit risk corresponds to the loss that the Group’s counterparties may face in case of the Group’s default. It is the
product of:
• the total mark-to-market the Group has with a counterparty, in case it is negative;
• the probability of default of the Group over the average maturity, weighted by the nominal of the total portfolio of derivatives. The
Group’s probability of default is derived from the Credit Default Swaps of URW NV and taken from the Bloomberg model; and
• the loss given default following market standard.
The Group does not apply hedge accounting.
8.1.2 Discounting of deferred payments
Long-term liabilities and receivables are discounted when this has a significant impact:
• deferred payments on assets deals, share deals and acquisitions of lands have been discounted up to the payment date;
• provisions for material liabilities taken under IAS 37 are discounted over the estimated duration of the disputes they cover;
• guarantee deposits received from tenants have not been discounted given the negligible impact of discounting.
8.1.3 Borrowing costs generated by construction projects (IAS 23)
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition or construction of an asset are capitalised as part of the cost of the respective assets.
All other borrowing costs are expensed in the period in which they occur. Borrowing costs consist of interest and other costs that an entity
incurs in connection with the borrowing of funds.
The interest costs capitalised are calculated using the Group’s weighted average costs of borrowing applied to the average value of the work
completed during each quarter, unless specific financing exists for the project. In this case, the specific interest costs of the project are
capitalised.
Capitalisation of borrowing costs starts when the asset is qualified as an Investment Property Under Construction and/or as inventory and ends
when the project is transferred to standing investment property at the delivery date to the tenant earlier when the project is technically
completed or when an asset is available for sale.
66
8.2 FINANCING RESULT
8.2.1 Net financing costs
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Other financial interest
(1)
7.1
6.8
Amount due from derivatives
45.2
40.4
Subtotal financial income
52.3
47.2
Interest on bonds and EMTNs
(147.4)
(139.6)
Interest and expenses on borrowings
(152.8)
(91.0)
Interest expense on lease liabilities
(3.2)
(3.1)
Interest on preference shares
(37.1)
(28.0)
(2)
Other financial interest
(15.7)
(3)
(17.4)
(4)
Amount due on derivatives
(58.5)
(66.1)
Financial expenses before capitalisation of financial expenses
(414.7)
(345.2)
Capitalised financial expenses
0.5
-
Subtotal net financial expenses
(414.2)
(345.2)
TOTAL NET FINANCING COSTS
(361.9)
(298.0)
(1) The other financial interest income of €7.1 Mn (2021: €6.8 Mn) is calculated using the effective interest method.
(2) The interest on preference share in 2021 includes a reversal of distribution accrual of €9.3 Mn for a fully consolidated entity.
(3) The other financial interest expense includes the amendment fee of €5.4 Mn and the remaining amortised upfront fee of €0.3 Mn cost of €250Mn loan conversion, reference is made to note 2.1.3.
(4) The other financial interest expense includes the amendment fee of €10.8 Mn and the remaining amortised upfront fee of €1.6 Mn cost of €500 Mn loan conversion in 2021, reference is made to
note 2.2.3.
Cash flow from derivatives and interest paid from the consolidated statement of cash flows correspond to cash amounts of financial interest paid
and received during the period. They do not include any non-cash items such as accrued interest and amortisation of issuance costs.
8.2.2 Fair value adjustments of derivatives, debt and currency effect
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Amortisation of debt
(9.2)
(8.0)
Currency result
(2.5)
(1.7)
Fair value of derivatives
465.3
39.7
Fair value preference shares
64.2
18.6
(1)
Financial cost on early redemption
-
(7.0)
ECL on financial guarantee contracts
13.5
(23.3)
(2)
Fair value of preferred interest
(7.5)
(7.0)
TOTAL FINANCIAL RESULT
523.8
11.4
(1) The fair value of preference shares included a reversal of distribution accrual of €12.0 Mn for a fully consolidated entity.
(2) The amount represents financial guarantee of €11.3 Mn for Westfield Trumbull and €12 Mn for Louise Joliet.
67
8.3 FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
8.3.1 Financial assets
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Financial assets at fair value through profit and loss
256.8
191.3
Preferred interest Starwood and Rouse
114.2
114.5
Derivatives at fair value
(1)
142.6
76.8
Financial assets at amortised cost
236.8
185.0
Other financial assets
3.9
2.2
Trade receivables from activity
86.3
88.3
Other receivables
(1)(2)
70.6
44.0
Cash and cash equivalents
(1)
76.0
50.5
FINANCIAL ASSETS
493.6
376.3
Total current
232.9
182.8
Total non-current
260.7
193.5
(1) The figures as at December 31, 2021 were restated to include all financial assets.
(2) Other receivables mainly consist of other debtors and accrued interest on derivatives.
8.3.2 Main financing transactions
2022
BOND MARKET
There were no new issued bonds and notes in the financial year ended December 31, 2022.
TRANSACTION WITH URW SE
For the year ended December 31, 2022, the Group borrowed €324.8 Mn from URW SE and made repayments of €392.8 Mn to URW SE, these
transactions are also considered as main financing transactions.
2021
BOND MARKET
There were no new issued bonds and notes in the financial year ended December 31, 2021.
In H2-2021 the Group repaid $500 Mn (€422.7 Mn) of US 144a bonds which were originally scheduled to mature in April 2022.
MORTGAGE DEBT
Westfield Sarasota, Westfield Citrus Park, Westfield Broward and Westfield Countryside
Following the foreclosure of four US assets, the asset values and the related debt were deconsolidated as URW NV will not own nor be liable for
the nominal value of the debt of €347.5 Mn ($411 Mn) on these assets. URW NV is still liable for financial guarantee contracts related to Westfield
Broward. Refer to note 8.5.2.
Westfield Palm Desert and Westfield Trumbull
As at December 31, 2020, Westfield Palm Desert and Westfield Trumbull assets and non-recourse mortgage debts were not consolidated in URW
NV’s IFRS accounts and were accounted at 53% in URW NV’s using the equity method. In May 2021, URW NV acquired the remainder of the 47%
Joint Venture partner’s stake in these two US assets. From this date Westfield Palm Desert and Westfield Trumbull were fully consolidated in
URW NV’s IFRS accounts. On October 14, 2021 Westfield Palm Desert was foreclosed and management of the centre was transfer to the Receiver.
As at December 31, 2021, only Trumbull’s related non-recourse mortgage debt was fully consolidated in URW NV’s accounts, corresponding to a
total debt amount of €134.5 Mn ($152.3 Mn). URW NV is still liable for financial guarantee contracts related to Westfield Palm Desert. Refer to
note 8.5.2.
TRANSACTION WITH URW SE
For the year ended December 31, 2021, the Group borrowed €543.9 Mn from URW SE and made repayments of €141.2 Mn to URW SE, these
transactions are also considered as main financing transactions.
68
8.3.3 Financial debt breakdown and outstanding duration to maturity
Outstanding duration to maturity (€Mn)
Current
Non-current
Total
December 31,
2022
Total
December 31, 2021
Less than 1 year
1 year to 5 years
More than 5 years
Bonds and notes
20.3
1,640.6
2,113.3
3,774.2
3,545.4
Principal debt
(1)
-
1,640.7
2,109.5
3,750.2
3,531.7
Accrued interest
38.5
-
-
38.5
36.3
Issuance costs
(16.7)
-
-
(16.7)
(22.6)
Amortisation of debt
(1.5)
(0.1)
3.8
2.2
-
Bank borrowings
(6.0)
111.0
-
105.0
478.7
Principal debt
(1)
-
113.4
-
113.4
484.1
Accrued interest
0.3
-
-
0.3
2.3
Borrowings issue fees
(5.4)
-
-
(5.4)
-
Amortisation of debt
(0.9)
(2.4)
-
(3.3)
(7.7)
Other financial liabilities
738.0
3,364.7
543.7
4,646.4
4,710.6
Borrowing with URW SE
(2)
715.5
3,364.7
543.7
4,623.9
4,704.9
Accrued interests on borrowings with URW SE
(2)
23.1
-
-
23.1
7.7
Charges and premiums on issues of borrowings with URW SE
(2)
(0.6)
-
-
(0.6)
(1.9)
Lease liabilities
6.9
17.6
19.1
43.6
57.1
TOTAL
759.2
5,133.9
2,676.1
8,569.2
8,791.8
(1) These notes or instruments are subject to negative pledge arrangements which require the Group to comply with certain minimum financial requirements.
(2) Further information relating to loans with related parties is set out in note 7.4.
The amortisation of debt of bonds and notes refers to the fair value of the WEA debt at acquisition date, June 7, 2018.
An amount of €113.4 Mn of bank borrowings is secured. Secured liabilities are borrowings secured by mortgages over properties. The related
property is Westfield San Francisco Centre. The terms of the debt facilities preclude the properties from being used as security for other debt.
The debt facilities also require the properties to be insured.
The 2022 variation of financial debt by flows breaks down as follows:
December
31, 2021
Cash flows
(1)
Variation of accrued
interests
(3)
Non-cash flows
December 31, 2022
Increase
(2)
Decrease
Scope
movements
Currency
translation
Amortisation
impact
Others
Bonds and notes
3,545.4
-
-
-
-
219.3
2.0
7.5
3,774.2
Bank borrowings
478.7
(1.6)
(143.4)
(4)
35.0
7.2
(6.1)
105.0
Other financial liabilities
(6)
4,710.7
324.8
17.7
-
232.7
4,646.4
Lease liabilities
57.1
0.8
-
-
3.8
- (246.7)
(5)
- 4.5
43.6
TOTAL
8,791.9
325.6
-
(264.8)
(392.8)
(22.6)
(680.2)
16.1
(143.4)
490.8
9.2
(240.8)
8,569.2
(1) The cash flows differ from those in the Consolidated statement of cash flows mainly due to the variation of guarantee deposits received.
(2) Net of bonds and EMTNs issuance costs and bank borrowings issue fees.
(3) The variation of accrued interest is included in lines Financial income/Financial expenses of the Consolidated statement of cash flows.
(4) The variation of scope movements includes the deconsolidation of Westfield Trumbull, reference is made to note 2.1.2.
(5) The variation of Others includes conversion of the €250 Mn loan with URW SE to equity, reference is made to note 2.1.3.
(6) Other financial liabilities consist of borrowings and accrued interest on borrowings with URW SE.
69
The 2021 variation of financial debt by flows breaks down as follows:
December
31, 2020
Cash flows
(1)
Variation of accrued
interests
(3)
Non-cash flows
December 31, 2021
Increase
(2)
Decrease
Scope
movements
Currency
translation
Amortisation
impact
Others
Bonds and notes
3,677.2
- (422.7)
(1.6)
3.1
4.6
3,545.4
Bank borrowings
650.2
-
-
(19.3)
(228.1)
(4)
- 284.8
51.9
9.1
14.7
478.7
Other financial liabilities
4,543.4
540.1
(141.2)
(16.8)
- (492.8)
(5)
4,710.7
Lease liabilities
56.0
--
-
-
57.1
TOTAL
8,926.8
540.1
- (3.4)
(567.3)
(37.7)
(228.1)
- 278.2
- 4.5
619.4
12.2
(473.5)
8,791.9
(1) The cash flows differ from those in the Consolidated statement of cash flows mainly due to the variation of guarantee deposits received.
(2) Net of bonds and EMTNs issuance costs and bank borrowings issue fees.
(3) The variation of accrued interest is included in lines Financial income/Financial expenses of the Consolidated statement of cash flows.
(4) The variation of scope movements includes the consolidation of the O’Connor 2 portfolio following the acquisition of its JV partner’s shares (47.4%) in two US assets (Westfield Palm Desert and
Westfield Trumbull), the deconsolidation of O’Connor 1 portfolio (Westfield Broward, Westfield Citrus Park, Westfield Countryside and Westfield Sarasota) as well as Westfield Palm Desert, reference is
made to note 2.2.2.
(5) The variation of Others includes conversion of the €500 Mn loan with URW SE to equity, reference is made to note 2.2.3.
MATURITY OF CURRENT PRINCIPAL DEBT
(€Mn)
Current
Total
December 31, 2022
Less than 1 month
1 month to 3
months
More than 3
months
Bonds and notes
21.8
-
(1.5)
20.3
Bank borrowings
(5.1)
-
(0.9)
(6.0)
Borrowing with URW SE
22.5
-
715.5
738.0
Financial leases
-
-
6.9
6.9
TOTAL
39.2
-
720.0
759.2
8.3.4 Characteristics of bonds and notes
The bonds and notes are related to WEA and have the following characteristics:
Issue date
Rate
Currency
Amount as at
December 31, 2022
(€Mn)
Amount as at December 31,
2021
(€Mn)n
Maturity
September 2014
Fixed rate 3.75%
USD
937.6
882.9
September 2024
September 2014
Fixed rate 4.75%
USD
468.8
441.5
September 2044
September 2018
Fixed rate 4.125%
USD
468.8
441.5
September 2028
September 2018
Fixed rate 4.625%
USD
468.8
441.5
September 2048
June 2019
Fixed rate 3.50%
USD
703.2
662.2
June 2029
October 2019
Fixed rate 2.875%
USD
703.2
662.2
January 2027
TOTAL
3,750.2
3,531.7
70
8.3.5 Covenants
There are no financial covenants (such as loan to value or ICR) with regard to the loans with URW SE.
The US credit facility and 144A and Regulation S bonds in the US contain financial covenants based on URW Group’s financial statements. As at
December 31, 2022, the URW Group’s ratios show sufficient headroom vis-à-vis the following covenants:
US Credit facility
covenants level
Rule 144A and Reg S bonds
covenants level
Loan to Value
39
< 65%
< 65%
ICR
> 1.5x
> 1.5x
FFO/NFD
40
na.
na.
Secured debt ratio
41
< 50%
< 45%
Unencumbered leverage ratio
42
> 1.5x
> 1.25x
These covenants are tested twice a year based on the URW Group‘s IFRS financial statements.
8.3.6 Net financial debt
The net financial debt of URW NV only includes debt as disclosed in the consolidated balance sheet under long-term borrowings as well as current
borrowings and amounts due to credit institutions, the net financial debt do not include lease liabilities. Net financial debt is determined as
below:
NET FINANCIAL DEBT
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Amounts accounted for in B/S
Long-term bonds and borrowings
7,773.3
6,843.9
Current borrowings and amounts due to credit institutions
752.3
1,890.9
Total financial liabilities
8,525.6
8,734.7
Adjustments
Amortisation of debt
1.1
7.7
Accrued interests/issuance fees
(39.2)
(21.7)
Total financial liabilities (nominal value)
8,487.5
8,720.7
Cash & cash equivalents
(76.0)
(50.5)
NET FINANCIAL DEBT
8,411.5
8,670.1
NET CASH AT PERIOD-END
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Cash
(1)
76.0
50.5
Total asset
76.0
50.5
Bank overdrafts & current accounts to balance out cash flow
-
-
Total liabilities
-
-
NET CASH AT PERIOD-END
76.0
50.5
(1) There is no restriction on cash for the year ended December 31, 2022.
39
Ratio calculated based on European bank debt covenant.
40
Funds From Operations: on an annualized basis, the recurring EBITDA minus (i) recurring net financial expenses and (ii) tax on recurring operating result.
41
Secured debt/Total assets.
42
Unencumbered assets/unsecured debt.
71
8.3.7 Commitment to non-controlling interests
(€Mn)
December 31, 2021
Addition
Decrease
Fair value
movements
in P&L
Currency
translation
December 31, 2022
Financial liabilities at amortised cost
453.6
27.2
-
-
24.2
505.0
Commitment to non-controlling interests held by URW SE (a)
453.6
27.2
-
-
24.2
505.0
Financial liabilities at fair value
102.2
-
-
(64.2)
8.9
46.9
Commitment to non-controlling interests (b)
35.8
-
-
(2.6)
1.5
34.7
Other commitments to non-controlling interests (c)
66.4
-
-
(61.6)
7.4
12.2
Total commitment to non-controlling interests
555.8
27.2
-
(64.2)
32.9
551.9
Total non-current
491.4
-
-
(64.2)
33.2
460.4
Total current
64.4
27.2
-
-
(0.1)
91.5
Commitment to non-controlling interests for the amount of €46.9 Mn relates to external parties and are measured at fair value level 3. For the
fair value method use, refer to note 8.6.
A) INTERESTS HELD BY URW SE
URW SE holds redeemable preference shares/units in WHL USA Acquisitions, Inc. for an amount of €414.0 Mn. The holders have the right to
redemption in cash after April 3, 2029. These redeemable preference shares are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
The remaining amount is the interest accrued. The amount presented in the table above is the initial amount including accrued preferred
dividend.
i) The holders of Series A preferred shares are entitled to receive an annual dividend equal to 5.9% of the value of the preference shares.
B) INTERESTS HELD BY EXTERNAL PARTIES
i) As at December 31, 2022, the Jacobs Group holds 1,141,553 (December 31, 2021: 1,265,431) Series G units in the operating partnership. The
RFC LLC / R. Fred Coffin redeemed 123,878 shares in full in September 2022. The holders have the right that requires WEA to purchase up to 10%
of the shares redeemed for cash.
ii) As at December 31, 2022, the previous owners of the Sunrise Mall hold 1,401,426 (December 31, 2021: 1,401,426) Series I units. At any time,
the holder (or the Holder’s Estate) has the right to require the operating partnership to redeem its Series I units at the Group’s discretion either
for: (i) cash; (ii) shares in WEA (with the holder having the right to exchange such WEA shares for stapled securities); or (iii) a combination of
both.
iii) As at December 31, 2022, 1,538,481 (December 31, 2021: 1,538,481) Series J units are outstanding. At the holder’s discretion, such holder
has the right to require the operating partnership to redeem its Series J units, at the Group’s discretion, either for: (i) cash; (ii) shares in WEA
(with the holder having the right to exchange such WEA shares for URW stapled securities); or (iii) a combination of both.
iv) The investor unit rights in the operating and property partnerships have a fixed life and are able to be redeemed either for: (i) cash, (ii)
shares in WEA; or (iii) a combination of both, at the Group’s discretion. At any time, after 19 May 2014, such holders have the right to require
WEA to redeem their WEA common shares, at the Group’s discretion, either for (i) cash; (ii) stapled securities; or (iii) a combination of both.
C) OTHER COMMITMENT TO NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS
The other redeemable preference shares/units comprise: (i) Series H-2 Partnership Preferred Units (Series H-2 units); and (ii) Series A Partnership
Preferred Units (Series A units).
i) The former partners in the San Francisco Centre hold 360,000 (Series H-2 Units in the operating partnership) as December 31, 2022 (December
31, 2021: 360,000). Each Series H-2 unit will be entitled to receive quarterly distributions equal to $0.125 for the first four calendar quarters
after the Series H-2 units are issued (the Base Year) and for each calendar quarter thereafter, $0.125 multiplied by a growth factor. The growth
factor is an amount equal to one plus or minus, 25% of the percentage increase or decrease in the distributions payable with respect to a
partnership common unit of the operating partnership for such calendar quarter relative to 25% of the aggregate distributions payable with
respect to a partnership common unit for the Base Year.
ii) In connection with the completion of the San Francisco Emporium development, 1,000 Westfield Growth, LP Series A units were issued to
Forest City Enterprise, Inc as December 31, 2022 (December 31, 2021: 1,000). Redemption of these units by the holder can only be made at the
time that the San Francisco Centre (which includes San Francisco Emporium) is sold or otherwise divested. Should this occur, the redemption of
these units is required to be made in cash but only out of funds legally available from Westfield Growth, LP.
72
8.4 DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS
CHANGE IN DERIVATIVES 2022
(€Mn)
Amounts recognised in the
Statement of Comprehensive
Income
December 31, 2021
Fair value adjustments of
derivatives
Currency translation
December 31, 2022
Assets
Derivatives at fair value Non-Current
76.8
65.2
0.6
142.6
• Fair value
76.8
65.2
0.6
142.6
Liabilities
Derivatives at fair value
(445.5)
400.1
-
(45.4)
• Fair value
(445.5)
400.1
-
(45.4)
NET
(368.7)
465.3
0.6
97.2
The fair value of interest rate swaps (assets/liabilities) increased in value mainly due to a higher swap rate curve.
There was no settlement in 2022.
The notional amount of the IRS contract is $3,000.0 Mn (€2,812.7 Mn).
CHANGE IN DERIVATIVES 2021
(€Mn)
Amounts recognised in the
Statement of Comprehensive
Income
December 31, 2020
Fair value adjustments of
derivatives
Currency translation
December 31, 2021
Assets
Derivatives at fair value Non-Current
120.4
(43.9)
0.3
76.8
• Fair value
120.4
(43.9)
0.3
76.8
Liabilities
Derivatives at fair value
(529.1)
83.6
-
(445.5)
• Fair value
(529.1)
83.6
-
(445.5)
NET
(408.7)
39.7
0.3
(368.7)
The fair value of interest rate swaps (assets/liabilities) decreased in value mainly due to a higher swap rate curve.
There was no settlement in 2021.
The notional amount of the IRS contract is $3,000.0 Mn (€2,648.8 Mn).
8.5 RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
The Group’s principal financial instruments comprise cash, receivables, payable, interest-bearing liabilities, other financial liabilities, other
investments and derivative financial instruments. The Group manages its exposure to key financial risks in accordance with the Group treasury
risk management policies.
The Group utilises derivative financial instruments, including forward exchange contracts, currency and interest rate options, currency and
interest rate swaps to manage the risks associated with foreign currency and interest rate fluctuations. Such derivative financial instruments are
recognised at fair value.
The Group has set defined policies and implemented a comprehensive hedging program to manage interest and exchange rate risks.
Derivative instruments are transacted to achieve the economic outcomes in line with the Group’s treasury policy and hedging program.
Derivative instruments are not transacted for speculative purposes. Accounting standards however require compliance with documentation,
designation and effectiveness parameters before a derivative financial instrument is deemed to qualify for hedge accounting treatment. These
documentation, designation and effectiveness requirements cannot be met in all circumstances. As a result, derivative instruments, other than
cross currency swaps that hedge net investments in foreign operations, are deemed not to qualify for hedge accounting and are recorded at fair
value. Gains or losses arising from the movement in fair values are recorded in the income statement.
The fair value of derivatives has been determined with reference to market observable inputs for contracts with similar maturity profiles. The
valuation is a present value calculation which incorporates interest rate curves, foreign exchange spot and forward rates, option volatilities and
the credit quality of all counterparties.
73
8.5.1 Market risk
Market risks can generate losses resulting from fluctuations in interest rates, exchange rates, raw material prices and share prices. URW NV’s
risk mainly relates to interest rate fluctuations on the debt it has taken out to finance its investments and maintain the cash position it requires
and exchange rate fluctuations due to the Group’s activities in countries outside the Eurozone, in particular in the US.
The Group, through its activities, may be exposed to market risks which can generate losses as a result of fluctuations in stock markets. The
Group is either: (i) directly exposed to fluctuations in stock prices due to the ownership of shares or financial instruments, or (ii) indirectly
exposed to fluctuations in stock prices, due to the ownership of funds, investment instruments or share based derivatives which are directly
correlated with the price of the asset underlying such derivatives.
COUNTERPARTY RISK
Due to its use of derivatives to minimise its interest and exchange rate risk, the Group is exposed to potential counterparty defaults. The
counterparty risk is the risk of replacing the derivative transactions at current market rates in the case of default. To limit counterparty risk,
the Group relies on cross guarantees within the URW Group for its hedging operations.
In case of derivative termination, netting can apply as a result of existing agreements between the Group and its counterparties. The related
amounts of derivative instruments, excluding accrued interest would be €142.6 Mn (December 31, 2021: €76.8 Mn) for assets and €45.4 Mn
(December 31, 2021: €445.5 Mn) for liabilities as at December 31, 2022.
INTEREST RATE RISK
The Group is exposed to interest rate fluctuations on its existing or future variable rate borrowings. The Group’s strategy regarding interest rate
risk is to minimise the impact that changes in rates could have on earnings and cash flow and optimise the overall cost of financing in the medium-
term. In order to implement this strategy, the Group uses notably derivatives (mainly caps and swaps) to hedge its interest rate exposure. The
Group’s market transactions are confined exclusively to those interest hedging activities.
The Group interest rate swaps and caps do not meet the accounting requirements to qualify for hedge accounting treatment. Changes in fair
value have been reflected in the income statement.
Interest benchmark reform one of the reforms mandated by the Financial Stability Board following the financial crisis was to push for benchmark
Inter Bank Offered Rates (IBORs), such as LIBOR and EONIA, to be replaced by new benchmark rates, known as alternative Risk Free Rates (RFRs).
Although new originations of floating rate borrowings in the US use the risk-free SOFR rate as a benchmark, USD LIBOR is still published and
utilized for existing agreements through June 30, 2023. The USD $3,200.0 Mn (€3,000.2 Mn) credit facility continues to allow for borrowings in
USD LIBOR, and since it has zero LIBOR based funding currently outstanding and matures at the end of June 2023, it has not been amended to
replace USD LIBOR with USD SOFR.
The exposures impacted by the IBOR reform as from 31 December 2022 relate to USD LIBOR instruments and amount to $5,600.2 Mn (€5,250.4
Mn, 2021: €6,543.5 Mn) of non-derivative financial liabilities (carrying amounts) and $3,000.0 Mn (€2,812.7 Mn) of derivatives (notional amounts).
The Company analysed the impact. The transition of the IBOR will not have a material impact on the valuation of financial instruments or hedging
relationships and thereby have no material impact on the Company’s total equity and net income as per December 31, 2022.
MEASURING INTEREST RATE RISK
As at December 31, 2022, the measuring interest risk is as follows:
(€Mn)
Financial liabilities
Fixed rate
Variable rate*
Less than 1 year
715.5
-
1 year to 2 years
1,882.1
234.1
2 years to 3 years
3 years to 4 years
113.4
- 1,458.2
727.8
4 years to 5 years
703.2
-
More than 5 years
2,653.2
-
Total
6,067.5
2,420.1
74
As at December 31, 2021, the measuring interest risk is as follows:
(€Mn)
Financial liabilities
Fixed rate
Variable rate*
Less than 1 year
242.8
1,629.0
1 year to 2 years
35.8
0.0
2 years to 3 years
882.9
204.0
3 years to 4 years
134.5
1,373.2
4 years to 5 years
106.8
685.4
More than 5 years
3,425.7
0.0
Total
4,828.5
3,891.6
The Group does not have a micro-hedging strategy, except when both currency exchange risk and interest rate risk are hedged, which enables it
not to correlate its liquidity risk and interest rate risk management. Consequently, the maturities of the debts and hedging instruments can b e
dissociated, and the outstanding derivatives instruments can hedge a part of the fixed rate debt maturing in the following years.
The interest cost of outstanding debt was hedged at 83% as at December 31, 2022 (December 31, 2021: 65%), through both:
• Debt kept at a fixed rate;
• Hedging in place as part of the Group’s macro hedging policy.
The hedging balance as at December 31, 2022, and December 31, 2021 respectively breaks down as follows:
(€Mn)
Outstanding total as at December 31, 2022
Outstanding total as at December 31, 2021
Fixed rate
Variable rate
(1)
Fixed rate
Variable rate
(1
)
Financial liabilities
(6,067.5)
(2,420.1)
(4,828.5)
(3,891.6)
Financial assets
76.0
-
50.5
(4)
-
Financial liabilities before hedging program
(5,991.5)
(2,420.1)
(4,778.0)
(3,891.6)
Micro-hedging
937.6
(937.6)
882.9
(882.9)
Net financial liabilities after micro-hedging
(2)
(5,053.9)
(3,357.7)
(3,895.1)
(4,774.5)
Swap rate hedging
(3)
-
1,875.1
-
1,765.8
Net debt not covered by swaps
-
(1,482.6)
-
(3,008.7)
Cap and floor hedging
-
-
-
-
HEDGING BALANCE
-
(1,482.6)
-
(3,008.7)
(1) Including index-linked debt.
(2) Partners’ current accounts are not included in variable-rate debt.
(3) Forward hedging instruments are not accounted for in this table.
(4) 2021 was restated to include financial assets, URW NV considered the impact and concluded that the restatement did not have any significant impact on the year ended December 31, 2022.
Based on the estimated average debt position of URW NV in 2022, if interest rates (Libor, Euribor) were to rise by an average of +50 bps
43
during
2022, the estimated impact on financial expenses would be -€7.4 Mn:
• Dollar financial expenses would increase by -$7.0 Mn (-€6.5 Mn);
• Euro financial expenses would increase by -€0.8 Mn.
In total, a +100 bps increase in interest rates during 2022 would have a net negative impact on financial expenses of -€14.7 Mn:
• Dollar financial expenses would increase by -$14.0 Mn (-€13.0 Mn);
• Euro financial expenses would increase by -€1.7 Mn.
A -50 bps drop in interest rates would reduce the financial expenses by +€7.4 Mn:
• Dollar financial expenses would decrease by +$7.0 Mn (€6.5 Mn);
• Euro financial expenses would decrease by +€0.8 Mn.
FOREIGN EXCHANGE RATE RISK
Regarding exchange rate risk, the Group aims to limit its net exposure to an acceptable level by taking up debt in the same currency, by usin g
derivatives and by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot or forward rates.
43
The impact on exchange rates due to this theoretical increase of +50 bps in interest rates is not taken into account. The theoretical impact of a rise or decrease i n
interest rates is calculated relative to the applicable rates as at December 31, 2021: 3m Euribor (-0.5%) and 3m USD Libor (0.25%).
75
MEASURING CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE EXPOSURE
The Group has activities and investments in US. When converted into euros, the income and value of the Group’s net investment may be
influenced by fluctuations in exchange rates against the euro. The Group’s policy objective is to apply a broadly consistent LTV by currency
allowing it to match part of the foreign currency asset value and income with debt and financial expenses in the same currency, thus reducing
the exchange rate effects on net asset value and earnings. Foreign exchange risk can be hedged by either matching investments in a specific
currency with debt in the same currency or using derivatives to achieve the same risk management goal.
Currency risk during the building period of pipeline investments is covered as early as possible after signing of the actual building contract.
Other monetary assets and liabilities held in currencies other than the euro are managed by ensuring that net exposure is kept to an acceptable
level by buying or selling foreign currencies at spot or forward rates where necessary to address short term balances.
MEASURE OF THE EXPOSURE TO OTHER RISKS AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022 (€Mn)
Currency
Assets
Liabilities
Net Exposure
Hedging
instruments
Exposure net of
hedges
USD
10,176
(8,856)
1,320
-
1,320
TOTAL
10,176
(8,856)
1,320
-
1,320
MEASURE OF THE EXPOSURE TO OTHER RISKS AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2021 (€MN)
Currency
Assets
Liabilities
Net Exposure
Hedging
instruments
Exposure net of
hedges
USD
10,789
(8,841)
1,949
-
1,949
TOTAL
10,789
(8,841)
1,949
-
1,949
EXPOSURE SENSITIVITY TO CURRENCY EXCHANGE RATE
The main exposure kept is in USD (i.e. a 10% increase of EUR against the USD) would have an impact on shareholders’ equity and the recurring
result as follows:
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Recurring
result
Gain/(Loss)
Equity
Gain/(Loss)
Recurring
result
Gain/(Loss)
Equity
Gain/(Loss)
Impact of an increase of +10% in the EUR/USD exchange
(7.9)
(120.0)
(9.0)
(177.1)
MANAGEMENT OF OTHER RISKS
The Group, through its activities, may be exposed to market risks which can generate losses as a result of fluctuations in stock markets. The
Group is either (i) directly exposed to fluctuations in stock prices due to the ownership of participations or financial instruments, or, (ii) indirectly
exposed to fluctuations in stock prices, due to the ownership of funds, investment instruments or share based derivatives which are directly
correlated with the price of the asset underlying such derivatives.
The Group may also be exposed to concentration risks on its revenues as well as liquidity. Such risks could generate losses due to bankruptcy of
tenants or banks. This exposure however is limited by a diversified tenant base on the revenue side and a pool of banks utilized for its cash and
cash equivalents.
8.5.2 Credit risk
Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents as well as credit exposures with respect to rental customers. Credit risk is managed on a group
level. The Group structures the level of credit risk it accepts by placing limits on its exposure to a single counterparty, or groups of counterparties,
and to geographical and industry segments. Such risks are subject to at least an annual review, and often more frequently. The Group has policies
in place to ensure that rental contracts or renewals are made with customers with sufficient creditworthiness or in case of renewal an appropriate
credit history with the entity. The Group’s tenants may be impacted by COVID-19 depending on the restrictions in place, government support
and their industry.
In the Shopping Centres segment, the risk of insolvency is spread widely across a large number of tenants.
When tenants sign their lease agreements, they are required to provide financial guarantees, such as a deposit, first-demand guarantee or a
surety bond amounting to between three and six months’ rent.
Late payment reminders are automatically issued in respect of late payments and penalties are applied. Such late payments are monitored by a
special “default” Committee in each business segment which decides on the pre-litigation or litigation action to be taken.
76
The table below includes the gross carrying amounts of financial assets subject to credit risk and the maximum exposure to credit risk of
financial guarantee contracts.
(1) The 2021 amount has been restated to reconcile with the amount included in the statement of financial position, URW NV assess the restated figure and concluded that the restatement did not
have any significant impact due to the fact that the table only represents gross carrying values. The amount previously disclosed in €163.9 Mn.
(2) The amount of €309.3 Mn comprises of €160,5 Mn in stage 3 and 189,8Mn in stage 2.
(3) The amount comprises of stage 3 assets.
For trade receivables the group applies the simplified model in calculating ECLs. Therefore, the Group does not track changes in credit risk, bu t
instead recognises a loss allowance based on lifetime ECLs at each reporting date. For other financial assets subject to credit risk and financia l
guarantee contracts the group applies the general model in calculating ECLs, therefore calculating ECLs over 12 months unless there is a
significant increase in credit risk (in which case the lifetime ECL is calculated).
URW NV ECL policy meets the simplified model of IFRS 9:
• The estimated losses are calculated on tenant’s risk rating, including adjustment to increase the actual YTD bankruptcy rate of the receivables ;
• The rate of estimated loss reflects the best estimation of the expected future losses, on the considered client segment: URW NV respects th e
notion of back testing (comparison is performed with historical rates of losses) and if needed, the rates are adjusted to take into account an y
new trigger event;
• Historical data are reviewed to reflect better the actual situation and integrate the best estimates for the near future.
The Group applies the following rules to calculate the provision for ECL as December 31, 2022:
• Receivables from tenants under bankruptcies proceedings were fully written-off;
• ECL provisions are defined on the basis of an estimated default rate based on a forward-looking approach. This percentage of default may b e
refined by the tenant segment and position of the Shopping Centre in its catchment area. Ultimately, this default is rationalized based on
recent events like tenants bankruptcies in 2022 and also evolution of shop closures in the past quarters;
• This percentage was applied on the amount of receivables from which security deposit and deferred amounts not yet due were deducted.
The table below explains the movements in the loss allowance for trade receivables from activity during the period:
(€Mn)
2022
2021
TRADE RECEIVABLE
Opening loss allowance at 1 January
75.5
73.7
(Reversal)/Addition in loan loss allowance recognised in
profit or loss during the year
(11.5)
18.6
(1)
Receivables written off during the year as uncollectible
(10.7)
(23.0)
(1)
Changes due to FX differences
3.7
6.3
Closing loss allowance at 31 December
(1
)
57.1
75.5
(1) The 2021 figures were restated, URW NV changed the table for disclosure purposes in 2022. URW NV also noted that some accounts were taken into account in the previous year that should hav e
been excluded from the disclosure table. This resulted in a non-material restatement for the current year, the movement in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income disclosed previousl y
was € 40.0 Mn and the amount disclosed as written of during the year was €44.2 Mn.
(2) The gross carrying amount of the trade receivables from activity and the related allowance are presented on a net basis in the balance sheet.
Trade receivables are provided for where there is no reasonable expectation of recovery. Indicators that there is no reasonable expectation o f
recovery include, amongst others, the failure of a debtor to engage in a repayment plan with the group, and a failure to make contractua l
payments for a period of greater than 90 days past due. Impairment losses on trade receivables are presented as net impairment losses within
operating profit. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against the same line item.
URW NV’s provision policy for the general model:
• No material expected credit losses are recognized in relation to Other receivables, Receivables from joint ventures and associates, and cas h
and cash equivalents, nor in relation to financial guarantee contracts for which there is no significant increase in credit risk.
• The expected credit loss for the financial guarantee contract for which there is a significant increase in credit risk, is based on the differenc e
between the guaranteed amount and the Group’s estimate of disposal proceeds for the related investment property in the event of foreclosure .
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Assets subject to
12 month ECL
Assets subject to
Lifetime ECL
Assets subject to
12 month ECL
Assets subject to
Lifetime ECL
Trade receivable from activity
-
86.3
-
88.3
(1)
Other receivables
76.9
-
48.3
-
Cash and cash equivalents
76.0
-
50.5
-
Financial guarantee contracts
379.1
113.1
(3)
417.2
309.3
(2
)
Gross amount at 31 December
532.0
199.4
516.0
397.6
77
The table below explains the movements in the loss allowance for financial guarantee contracts from activity during the period:
(€Mn)
2022
2021
FINANCIAL GUARANTEE CONTRACTS
Opening loss allowance at 1 January
111.2
92.1
Additions recognized in profit or loss during the period
(1)
11.7
71.2
Used
(2)
-
(9.2)
Provision released during the year
(75.9)
(4)
(51.1)
(3)
Changes due to FX differences
6.7
8.2
Closing loss allowance at 31 December
(5)
53.8
111.2
(1) The full amount is included under fair value adjustments of derivatives, debts and currency effects (December 31, 2021: -€23.3Mn). There is no amount included in the valuation movements on
assets (December 31, 2021: €47.9Mn).
(2) Represent the amount used by Westfield Sarasota, reference to 2.2.2.
(3) This amount is included under the Result on disposal of investment properties and loss of control.
(4) This amount is included under Result on disposal of investment properties.
(5) Part of the amount is included under other non-current liabilities € 53.8 Mn (2021: €70.2 Mn), the remainder of the balance is included under the borrowings.
8.5.3 Liquidity risk
The Group undertakes active liquidity and funding risk management to enable it to have sufficient funds available. To meet its financial
obligations, working capital and expected committed capital expenditure requirements are periodically and carefully monitored. During the
COVID-19 crisis, the URW Group took immediate steps to preserve its strong liquidity position in light of the uncertain impact of the pandemic.
The Group prepares and monitors rolling forecasts of liquidity requirements on the basis of expected cash flow. URW NV has cross guarantees
with URW SE and the liquidity needs are covered by the available undrawn credit lines at URW Group level. Interest bearing liabilities, and
funding facilities and their maturity profiles, are set out in note 8.3.3.
The following table shows the Group’s contractually agreed interest payments and repayments of the non-derivative financial liabilities,
commitment to non-controlling interests held by URW SE and the derivatives with positive and negative fair values (excluding lease liabilities
and certain current financial liabilities like trade creditors). The commitment to non-controlling interests at fair value of €102.2 Mn is not
included in the below table as the holder has the right to exchange into cash and/or URW stapled shares at any time (see note 8.3.7). Amounts
in foreign currency were translated at the closing rate at the reporting date. The payments of the floating-rate interests have been calculated
on the basis of the last interest rates published on December 31, 2021. Credit lines drawn as at December 31, 2021, are considered as drawn
until maturity.
(€Mn)
Carrying
amount
(1)
Less than 1 year
1 year to 5 years
More than 5 years
December 31,
2022
Interest
Redemption
Interest
Redemption
Interest
Redemption
BONDS, BORROWINGS AND AMOUNTS DUE
TO CREDIT INSTITUTIONS
Bonds and EMTNs
(3,750.2)
(142.2)
-
(443.9)
(1,640.7)
(883.1)
(2,109.5)
Bank borrowings and other financial
liabilities
(2)
(4,737.4)
(233.2)
(715.5)
(360.4)
(3,478.1)
(1,009.6)
(543.7)
FINANCIAL DERIVATIVES
Derivative financial liabilities
Derivatives without a hedging relationship
(45.4)
(16.9)
-
(68.0)
-
(2.6)
-
Derivative financial assets
Derivatives without a hedging relationship
142.6
27.8
-
131.3
-
662.9
-
COMMITMENT TO NON-CONTROLLING
INTEREST
Commitment to non-controlling interest held
by URW SE
(414.0)
(24.4)
-
(97.7)
- (30.7)
(414.0)
(1) Corresponds to the amount of principal debt (see note 8.3.3 “Financial debt breakdown and outstanding duration to maturity”). This is excluding lease liabilities for the year ended
December 31, 2022.
(2) Excludes current accounts with non-controlling interests.
8.6 FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS PER CATEGORY
FAAC: Financial Asset at Amortised Cost
FAFVOCI: Financial Asset at Fair Value through Other Income
FAFVTPL: Financial Asset at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss
FLAC: Financial Liabilities at Amortised Cost
FLFVTPL: Financial Liabilities at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss
78
December 31, 2022 (€Mn)
Categories in accordance
with IFRS 9
Amounts recognised in statement of
financial position according to IFRS 9
Fair value
Carrying
Amount
December
31, 2022
Amortised
Cost
Fair value
recognised in
OCI
Fair value
recognised in
profit or loss
ASSETS
Financial assets
FAAC/FAFVTPL
118.2
4.0
-
114.2
118.2
Derivatives at fair value
FAFVTPL
142.6
-
-
142.6
142.6
Trade receivables from activity
FAAC
86.3
86.3
-
-
86.3
Other receivables
(1)
FAAC
70.6
70.6
-
-
70.6
Cash and cash equivalents
FAAC
76.0
76.0
-
-
76.0
493.7
236.9
- 256.8
493.7
LIABILITIES
Commitment to non-controlling interests
FLAC/FLFVTPL
551.9
505.0
-
46.9
533.5
Financial debts
FLAC
8,569.2
8,569.2
-
-
7,844.8
Derivatives at fair value
FLFVTPL
45.4
-
-
45.4
45.4
Non-current amounts due on investments
FLAC
6.3
6.3
-
-
6.3
Other non-current liabilities
(2)
FLAC
31.4
31.4
-
-
31.4
Amounts due to suppliers and other current debt
(3)
FLAC
168.5
168.5
-
-
168.5
9,372.7
9,280.4
- 92.3 8,629. 8
(1) Excluding prepaid expenses, service charges due and tax receivables.
(2) Expected credit loss provisions for financial guarantees are excluded.
(3) Excluding deferred income, service charges billed and tax liabilities.
December 31, 2021 (€Mn)
Categories in accordance
with IFRS 9
Amounts recognised in statement of
financial position according to IFRS 9
Fair value
Carrying
Amount
December
31, 2021
Amortised
Cost
Fair value
recognised in
OCI
Fair value
recognised in
profit or loss
ASSETS
Financial assets
FAAC/FAFVTPL
116.7
2.2
-
114.5
116.7
Derivatives at fair value
FAFVTPL
76.8
-
-
76.8
76.8
Trade receivables from activity
FAAC
88.3
88.3
-
-
88.3
Other receivables
(1)
FAAC
44.0
44.0
-
-
44.0
Cash and cash equivalents
FAAC
50.5
50.5
-
-
50.5
376.3
185.0
- 191.3
376.3
LIABILITIES
Commitment to non-controlling interests
FLAC/FLFVTPL
555.8
453.6
- 102.2
599.1
(4)
Financial debts
FLAC
8,791.8
8,791.8
-
- 8,806. 9
Derivatives at fair value
FLFVTPL
445.5
-
-
445.5
445.5
Non-current amounts due on investments
FLAC
6.3
6.3
-
-
6.3
Other non-current liabilities
(2)
FLAC
32.6
32.6
-
-
32.6
Amounts due to suppliers and other current debt
(3)
FLAC
156.8
156.8
-
-
156.8
9,988.8
9,441.1
- 547.7 10,047. 2
(1) Excluding prepaid expenses, service charges due and tax receivables.
(2) Expected credit loss provisions for financial guarantees are excluded.
(3) Excluding deferred income, service charges billed and tax liabilities.
(4) The amount was restated in 2021 from € 615.5 Mn, URW NV considered the impact and concluded that the restatement did not have any significant impact.
79
“Trade receivables from activity”, “Other receivables”, “Cash and cash equivalents” and “Amounts due to suppliers and other current debt”
mainly have short-term maturity. Consequently, their carrying amounts at the reporting date approximate the fair value. The fair value of the
financial assets approximates the carrying value, because the carrying value takes into account the expected credit loss. The fair value of the
non-current amounts due on investments and other non-current liabilities approximates the carrying value.
The fair value of financial assets is determined based on relevant market yields to underlying expected future cash flows. A main assumption
applied is the market yield of 10.7% (2021: 6.0%) applied for discounting expected future cash flows. A change of 50 basis points to this market
yield would not result in a significant change in the fair value.
The fair value of the Company’s financial debt is determined using a discounted cash flow (DCF) method. Under the DCF method, fair value is
estimated using assumptions regarding projections of cash flows and appropriate market-derived interest rate to discount future cash flows at
the end of the reporting rate (categorized within level 2 of the fair value hierarchy).
The fair value of commitments to non-controlling interest is determined by applying relevant earnings yield to the underlying net income of the
relevant securities (categorized within level 3 of the fair value hierarchy).
The commitment to non-controlling interests as at December 31, 2022, relate to the preference shares in USA Acquisitions Inc. which is valued
at amortised cost. The fair value of these preference shares is €486.6 Mn.
A part (€250.0 Mn) of the interest-bearing loan of €793.7 Mn with URW SE previously included in financial debt was converted on December 31,
2022, into a capital security with a maturity in 99 years and limited default opportunities. After conversion, it qualifies as equity with the
exception of the amount due on this instrument, which is initially measured at fair value (€0.3 Mn as at December 31, 2022), and subsequently
at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
8.6.1 Fair value hierarchy of financial assets and liabilities
IFRS 13 establishes a hierarchy of valuation techniques for financial instruments. The following categories are identified:
• level 1: financial instruments quoted in an active market;
• level 2: financial instruments whose fair value is evidenced by comparison with other observable current market transactions in the same
instrument (i.e. without modification or repackaging) or based on a valuation technique whose variables include only data from observable
markets. Inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e. as prices)
or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices);
• level 3: financial instruments whose fair value is determined in whole or in part using a valuation technique based on assumptions that are
not supported by prices from observable current market transactions in the same instrument (i.e. without modification or repackaging) and
not based on available observable market data.
The COVID-19 pandemic has no impact on the methodology applied.
The chart below presents the fair value breakdown among the three hierarchical levels defined by IFRS 13.
(€Mn)
Fair value measurement as at December 31, 2022
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
ASSETS
Fair value through profit or loss
Derivatives
142.6
-
142.6
-
Financial assets
114.2
-
-
114.2
TOTAL
256.8
-
142.6
114.2
LIABILITIES
Fair value through profit or loss
Commitment to non-controlling interests
46.9
-
-
46.9
Derivatives
45.4
45.4
-
TOTAL
92.4
-
45.4
46.9
80
(€Mn)
Fair value measurement as at December 31, 2021
Total
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
ASSETS
Fair value through profit or loss
Derivatives
76.8
-
76.8
-
Financial assets
114.5
-
-
114.5
TOTAL
191.3
-
76.8
114.5
LIABILITIES
Fair value through profit or loss
Commitment to non-controlling interests
102.2
-
-
102.2
Derivatives
445.5
-
445.5
-
TOTAL
547.7
-
445.5
102.2
The Group enters into derivative financial instruments with URW SE in 2022, with investment grade credit ratings. Interest rate swaps and foreign
exchange forward contracts are valued using valuation techniques, which employ the use of market observable inputs. The most frequently
applied valuation techniques include forward pricing and swap models using present value calculations. The models incorporate various inputs
including the credit quality of counterparties, foreign exchange spot and forward rates, yield curves of the respective currencies, currency basis
spreads between the respective currencies, interest rate curves and forward rate curves of the underlying commodity. As at December 31, 2022,
the marked-to-market value of other derivative asset positions is net of a credit valuation adjustment attributable to derivative counterparty
default risk.
RECONCILIATION OF FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENT OF LEVEL 3 FINANCIAL ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
(€Mn)
Financial assets
Commitment to
non-controlling interest
December 31, 2020
0.1
101.0
Fair value movements in P&L
114.5
(6.8)
Currency translation
-
8.1
December 31, 2021
114.6
102.2
Fair value movements in P&L
(7.5)
(64.2)
Currency translation
7.1
8.9
December 31, 2022
114.2
46.9
As at December 31, 2022, an increment of 1% to the respective quoted market price or the gross market value of the asset would result in an
increase in fair value or additional loss by €0.9 Mn in non-controlling interest. Similarly, a decrement of 1% would result in a decrease in fair
value or additional gain by €0.9 Mn in non-controlling interest.
9NOTE 9 ● TAXES
9.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
9.1.1 Income tax expenses
The Group companies are taxable according to the tax rules of their country. In both countries in which the group operates, special tax regimes
for (public) real estate companies exist. For many companies of the Group, eligible for such regimes, it has been opted for to use those specific
regimes.
Calculation of income tax expenses is based on local rules and rates.
9.1.2 Deferred tax
Deferred taxes are recognised in respect of all temporary differences between the carrying amount and tax base of assets and liabilities at
each financial year-end.
Deferred tax assets or liabilities are calculated based on total temporary differences and on tax losses carried forward, using the local tax rate
that will apply on the expected reversal date of the concerned differences, if this rate has been set. Otherwise, they are calculated using the
81
applicable tax rate in effect at the financial year-end date. Within a given fiscal entity or group and for a given tax rate, debit balances are
booked to assets for the amount expected to be recoverable over a foreseeable period. A deferred tax asset is recognised only to the extent
that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which the temporary difference can be used.
Deferred tax liabilities on properties refer to:
• for companies not using special tax regimes for real estate companies: all temporary differences between the carrying amount and tax
base of assets and liabilities at each financial year-end.
• for companies using special tax regimes for real estate companies: tax amounts to be paid in case of capital gains on property sales, based
on the structure of URW NV in its current form and under current legislation.
9.1.3 Tax regime US – US REIT
The Group has elected to apply the REIT regime for the main part of its US portfolio. Like in other REIT regimes, there’s an asset test (75%) along
with various securities ownership limits, and in addition there is a combined income test: at least 75% of the gross income must be derived from
real estate property rental or from interest on mortgages on real estate property, whereas at least 95% of the gross income must come from a
combination of real estate related sources and passive sources, such as dividends and interest. US law requires the REIT to annually distribute at
least 90% of its ordinary taxable income.
9.2 INCOME TAX EXPENSES
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Recurring deferred and current tax on:
• Other recurring results
(1.2)
(1.8)
Total recurring tax
(1.2)
(1.8)
Non-recurring deferred and current tax on:
• Change in fair value of investment properties and impairment of intangible assets
17.7
55.0
• Other non-recurring results
(4.8)
21.0
Total non-recurring tax
12.9
76.0
TOTAL TAX INCOME/(EXPENSE)
11.7
74.2
As a result of a change in the percentage to be used further to the shareholders’ base of the Group, as well as the impairment of the Westfield
trademark, the total The total tax amount was positively impacted by the impairment of the Westfield trademark, partly off-set by taxes due
on activities which do not qualify for the exemption from taxes based on a REIT-regime. Also refer to note 9.3.
(€Mn)
2022
2021
Current tax
(6.2)
18.8
Deferred tax
17.9
55.4
TOTAL TAX
11.7
74.2
In the reconciliation of the effective tax rate, starting point is the expected tax based on the weighted average in line with the composition of
the total result (US and the Netherlands respectively). Due to a change in that composition, the average tax rate used will change from year to
year.
(€Mn)
%
2022
%
2021
Reconciliation of effective tax rate
Result before tax
(245.4)
(970.3)
Income tax using the average tax rate
26.3%
64.6
26.0%
252.0
Tax exempt profits (REIT- regimes)
36.7%
90.1
(0.3%)
(2.5)
Non-deductible costs
(0.0%)
(0.1)
(0.4%)
(4.0)
Effect of non-recognized tax losses
(33.7%)
(82.7)
(7.2%)
(69.6)
Share of result of companies accounted for using the
equity method
(23.7%)
(58.1)
(10.4%)
(100.8)
Effect of tax provisions
(0.8%)
(2.1)
-
-
Other
-
-
(0.1%)
(0.9)
TOTAL TAX
4.8%
11.7
7.6%
74.2
82
The Company qualifies as a FII (Fiscal Investment Institution, in Dutch: Fiscale Beleggings Instelling) for the corporate income tax in the
Netherlands in accordance with section 28 of the Dutch ‘Wet op de vennootschapsbelasting 1969’. The corporate tax rate of a FII is 0% in the
Netherlands.
9.3 DEFERRED TAXES
2022 CHANGE
(€Mn)
December 31,
2021
Decrease/Increase
Reclassification
Currency translation
December 31, 2022
Deferred tax on investment properties
(53.2)
(1.6)
-
(3.3)
(58.1)
Deferred tax on intangible assets
(68.3)
19.4
-
(4.5)
(53.4)
TOTAL DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES
(121.5)
17.7
-
(7.7)
(111.5)
Other deferred tax assets
0.4
0.2
-
-
0.6
TOTAL DEFERRED TAX ASSETS
0.4
0.2
-
-
0.6
2021 CHANGE
(€Mn)
December 31,
2020
Decrease/Increase
Reclassification
Currency translation
December 31, 2021
Deferred tax on investment properties
(90.0)
42.5
-
(5.6)
(53.2)
Deferred tax on intangible assets
(75.2)
12.6
-
(5.8)
(68.3)
TOTAL DEFERRED TAX LIABILITIES
(165.2)
55.1
-
(11.4)
(121.5)
Other deferred tax assets
0.0
0.4
-
-
0.4
TOTAL DEFERRED TAX ASSETS
0.0
0.4
-
-
0.4
UNRECOGNIZED DEFERRED TAX ASSETS
The table below presents the tax basis on which no deferred tax assets were recognized:
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Tax loss carry-forwards not recognized
927.5
454.2
TOTAL UNRECOGNIZED TAX- BASIS
927.5
454.2
DETAIL OF UNRECOGNIZED TAX LOSSES AT THE END OF 2022 INTO FINAL YEAR OF USE
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
2023
-
-
2024
8.1
7.6
2025
-
-
2026
-
-
2027
-
-
Unlimited
919.5
446.6
TOTAL
927.5
454.2
Deferred tax assets have not been recognized in respect of these items because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be available to
be offset against these assets.
83
10NOTE 10 ● PROVISIONS
The determination of the number of provisions for liabilities and charges requires the use of estimates, assumptions and judgment of the
management based on information available or situations prevalent at the date of preparation of the accounts, information and situation which
may vary from subsequent actual events, as well as on the basis of estimated conditions at a given date.
(€Mn)
December 31, 2021
Allocations
Reversals used
Reversals not used
Currency translation
December 31, 2022
Non-current provisions
31.4
1.7
-
-
1.9
35.0
Current provisions
2.0
-
(0.7)
-
0.1
1.4
Total
33.4
1.7
(0.7)
-
2.0
36.4
As at December 31, 2022, the non-current provisions amounted €35.0 Mn (December 31, 2021: €31.7 Mn) and mainly relate to an estimate for
potential payments due to third parties in case of future sale of investment properties.
11NOTE 11 ● OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
Other current liabilities breakdown as follows:
(€Mn)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Tax and social liabilities
(1)
196.5
174.7
Other liabilities
(2)
40.1
53.3
TOTAL OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES
236.7
228.0
(1) Within the tax and social liabilities, an amount of €157.8 Mn (December 31, 2021: 141.2 Mn) relates to the current tax liability.
(2) Other liabilities mainly include prepaid income and other liabilities.
As at December 31, 2022, the Tax and social liabilities mainly relate to the expected value of several additional payments still to be done in
relation to past activities.
12NOTE 12 ● AMOUNTS DUE ON INVESTMENTS
As at December 31, 2022, the non-current amounts due on investments are €6.3 Mn (December 31, 2021: €6.3 Mn) and the current amounts due
on investments are €38.0 Mn (December 31, 2021: €43.4 Mn). The current amounts due on investments relates to payables on projects of Westfield
World Trade Centre €10.1 Mn (December 31, 2021: €19.3 Mn) and Westfield Century City €12.5 Mn (December 31, 2021: €6.0 Mn). Remaining
amounts relate to several projects.
13NOTE 13 ● EMPLOYEE REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS
13.1 ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
Under IAS 19, a company must recognise all commitments made to its employees (i.e. current or future, formal or informal, cash payments or
payments in kind). The cost of employee benefits must be recorded during the vesting period.
POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS
Pension schemes may be defined contribution or defined benefit schemes. The Group only has defined contribution plans.
Under defined contribution schemes, the employer only pays a contribution, with no commitment from the Group regarding the level of benefits
to be provided. The contributions paid are booked as expenses for the year.
SHARE BASED PAYMENTS
Under IFRS 2, all transactions relating to share-based payments must be recognized in the income statement. This is the case for the Group
Stock Option Plan and Performance Shares Plan.
Stock options granted to employees are stated at their fair value on the date of allocation. As the transactions are equity-settled share-based
payments, this value remains unchanged, even if the options are never exercised. The value applied to the number of options finally exercised
at the end of the vesting period (estimation of the turnover) is booked as an expense, with a corresponding increase in equity which is spread
over the vesting period (i.e. the period during which employees must work for the Company before they can exercise the options granted to
them).
The stock options and performance shares, all subject to performance condition, have been valued using a Monte Carlo model.
The additional expenses incurred by the Stock Option Plans and Performance Shares Plans are classified under personnel expenses.
84
13.2 HEADCOUNT
The average number of employees of the Group’s companies breaks down as follows:
Regions
2022
2021
United States
533
638
The Netherlands
5
5
TOTAL
538
643
13.3 PERSONNEL COSTS
(€Mn)
2022
2021
(1)
Fixed income
68.1
63.2
Short-Term Incentive
18.9
16.0
Long-Term incentive
3.2
3.2
Other benefits
8.8
10.2
TOTAL
99.0
92.6
1) URW NV restated the 2021 figures from a total amount of €156.4 Mn disclosed under Head and regional office personnel cost to a breakdown in the current year. Additionally, after URW NV performed
the restatement, we noticed that the amount disclosed last year included more account than just personnel cost. Therefore, URW NV reconsidered the amounts to be disclosed in 2022 and align the
2021 figures. The net effect on the consolidated income statement and consolidated equity statement is zero, therefore URW NV considered this as a non-significant adjustment.
13.4 EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
13.4.1 Share-based payments
STOCK OPTION PLANS
There is currently one plan for Stock Options (“SO”) granted to corporate officers and employees of the Group SO may be exercised at any time,
in one or more instalments, as from the 3
rd
anniversary of the date of their allocation.
The stock option plan has an external performance condition (TSR) based on the Group’s share price performance, a Corporate Social
Responsibility (ESG) condition (external and internal) and an Adjusted Recurring Earnings per Share (AREPS).
The weight of the performance conditions for the SO plan granted in May 2022 is 45% for TSR (35% relative and 10% absolute), 35% for AREPS,
10% for executive gender parity and 10% for greenhouse gas reduction (20% CSR in total).
Stock options are accounted for in accordance with IFRS 2. The performance-related stock-options allocated in May 2022 were valued at €1,35
for those with a relative TSR condition, at €1.26 for those with an absolute TSR condition and at €1.51 for those with non-market performance
conditions (i.e. AREPS and CSR), using a Monte Carlo model. This valuation is based on an initial exercise price of €66.68, the share price at the
date of allocation of €52.68, a vesting period of three years, an estimated duration of 3.7 years, a market volatility of 23.99%, a dividend
assumption for 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026, a risk-free interest rate of -0.20 % and a volatility of the reference composite index of 14.61% with a
correlation reference composite index/URW of 75.23%.
195,398 (2021: 187,583) SO have been allocated to employees of URW NV in March 2022. The expense recorded in the consolidated statement of
comprehensive income (corporate expenses) in relation to stock options is €206k (2021: €600k).
The table below shows URW NV allocated SO which were not exercised on December 31, 2022:
Plan
Exercise period
(1)
Adjusted
subscription
price (€)
(2)
Number of
options
granted
Adjustments
in number of
options
(2)
Number of
options
cancelled
Number of
options
exercised
Potential
additional
number of
shares
(3)
2022 plan
From 10/03/2025 to
08/03/2030
66.68
195,398
-
6,711
-
188,687
2021 plan
From 18/05/2024 to
19/05/2029
69.41
187,583
-
34,060
-
153,523
2020 plan
From 22/03/2023 to
21/03/2028
92.03
182,146
-
46,956
-
135,190
2019 plan
From 20/03/2022 to
19/03/2027
144.55
145,338
-
38,145
-
107,193
TOTAL
710,465
- 125,872
-
584,593
(1) Under assumption that the performance and presence conditions are satisfied. If the first day of the exercise period is a non-business day, the retained date will be the next business day. If the
end of the exercise period is a non-business day, the retained date will be the first preceding business day.
(2) Adjustments reflect distribution paid from retained earnings.
(3) All the options are subject to performance condition.
85
The table below shows the number and weighted average exercise prices of stock options:
2022
2021
Number
Weighted average
price (€)
Number
Weighted average
price (€)
Outstanding at the beginning of the period
426,725
96.31
255,605
116.90
Allocated over the period
195,398
66.68
187,583
69.41
Cancelled over the period
(37,530)
78.68
(16,463)
110.00
Exercised over the period
-
n/a
-
n/a
Average share price on date of exercise
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
Outstanding at the end of the period
584,593
87.54
426,725
96.31
Of which exercisable at the end of the period
(1)
(107,193)
-
-
n/a
(1) The right to exercise is subject to meeting the following performance condition: the overall market performance of URW NV must be higher in percentage terms than the performance of the EPRA
reference index over the reference period.
PERFORMANCE SHARE PLAN
Performance shares are vesting on the 3rd anniversary of the grant.
They are also subject to external and internal performance conditions. The weight of the performance conditions for the PS plan granted in
March 2022 is also 45% for TSR (35% relative and 10% absolute), 35% for AREPS, 10% executive gender parity and 10% for greenhouse gas reduction
(20% CSR in total).
Performance shares are accounted for in accordance with IFRS 2. The awards allocated in March 2022 were valued at €16.05 for those with a
relative TSR condition, at €9.67 for those with an absolute TSR condition and at €41.16 for those with non-market conditions (i.e. AREPS and CSR),
using a Monte Carlo model.
This valuation is based on the share price at the date of allocation of €52.68, a vesting period of three years, a market volatility of 26.03%, a
volatility of the reference composite index of 15.29% with a correlation reference composite index/URW of 77.18%, a dividend assumption for
2023, 2024 and 2025, and a risk-free interest rate of -0.28%.
143,298 (2021:73,393) PS have been allocated to employees of URW NV in March 2022. The expense recorded in the consolidated statement of
comprehensive income (corporate expenses) in relation to performance shares is €3.1 Mn (2021: 2.5Mn).
Starting date of the vesting period
(1)
Number of performance
shares allocated
Number of performance
shares cancelled
Number of performance
shares acquired
Potential additional
number of shares
(2)
March 8, 2022
143,298
4,459
-
138,839
May 18, 2021
73,393
13,324
-
60,069
March 21, 2020
100,698
25,961
-
74,737
March 19, 2019
33,422
24,947
8,475
-
TOTAL
350,811
68,691
8,475
273,645
(1) Vesting period is three years – no mandatory holding period is applied after vesting date.
(2) The acquisition of the shares is subject to performance condition.
13.4.2 Remuneration of Key Management and the Supervisory Board
REMUNERATION OF KEY MANAGEMENT
(K€) Paid in:
2022
2021
Fixed Income
3,467
3,102
Short-Term Incentive
2,634
2,823
Pension
(1)
168
140
Other benefits
(2)
602
1,054
Share-based payment
1,513
1,138
(3)
TOTAL
8,384
8,258
(1) include Supplementary Contribution Scheme.
(2) relate to Group life and health insurance, cost of living and car allowances.
(3) 2021 was restated to include share-based payments in the overview of the remuneration of key management.
Starting 2021, key management of URW NV can be identified as the US Leadership Team (“USLT”) which consists of 7 persons (including MB
member Dominic Lowe) together with the Management Board.
The main difference in remuneration of Key Management between 2021 and 2022 is caused by the end of Mr. Jean-Marie Tritant’s tax equalization
with the US in 2022.
86
In 2022, the Management Board members and USLT were awarded a total of 73,219 stock options, all of which were subject to performance
condition, along with 62,116 Performance Shares representing €1.513 Mn.
For the remuneration of the individual members of the Management Board see section 2.3.3 of the Annual Report.
REMUNERATION OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
The remuneration of the Supervisory Board amounts to €260,500 (2021: €239,417) for the 2022 financial year. For the remuneration of the
individual members of the Supervisory Board see section 2.2.1 of the Annual Report.
LOANS OR GUARANTEES GRANTED TO DIRECTORS
None.
TRANSACTIONS INVOLVING DIRECTORS
None.
14NOTE 14 ● SHARE CAPITAL AND DIVIDENDS
14.1 CAPITAL MANAGEMENT
The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital.
Under the supervision of the CFO, the capital management goals are managed in line with the URW Group perspective also meet all tax
requirements applicable throughout the Group.
In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may issue new debt or buy back existing outstanding debt, comply with capital
requirements of relevant regulatory authorities, adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders (subject to FII requirements in the
Netherlands), return capital to shareholders or sell assets to reduce debt.
14.2 NUMBER OF SHARES
ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES
The Class A shares of URW NV are stapled with the shares in URW SE (Stapled shares). As a consequence of the Stapled structure the exercise
of the convertible bonds (ORNANE and ORA) and stock options plans, performance shares of URW SE, will also have a dilutive impact on the
shares of URW NV (with a share issuance at that time).
The Earnings Per Share indicator is calculated by dividing net result for the period attributable to the shareholders of URW NV by the weighted
average number of ordinary shares in circulation over the period.
To calculate diluted Earnings Per Share, the average number of shares in circulation is adjusted to take into account the conversion of all
potentially dilutive ordinary shares, in particular stock options and performance shares during the vesting period, as well as the bonds
redeemable for shares (ORA) and the net share settled bonds convertible into new and/or existing shares (ORNANE) initially issued by URW SE.
The dilutive impact is determined using the treasury stock method, which assumes that proceeds from the exercise of options are used to
repurchase Company shares at their market value. The market value corresponds to the average monthly share price weighted by trading
volumes. The theoretical number of shares that may be purchased at the market value is deducted from the total number of shares resulting
from the exercise of rights. This number is then added to the average number of shares in circulation and hence constitutes the denominator.
CHANGE IN SHARE CAPITAL
Total number of issued and
paid shares
As at December 31, 2020
231,720,700
Capital increase Class A shares
47,976
Capital increase reserved for URW Group Savings Plan
74,055
As at December 31, 2021
231,842,731
Capital increase Class A shares
66,931
Capital increase reserved for URW Group Savings Plan
105,741
As at December 31, 2022
232,015,403
87
The authorised share capital as at December 31, 2022, amounts to €550 Mn divided over 660 million ordinary class A shares and 440 million class
B shares of €0.5 per share.
The issued and paid-up share capital amounts to €116.0 Mn, formed by 138,767,088 ordinary A shares and 93,248,315 ordinary B shares as at
December 31, 2022. All class B shares are held by URW SE. Class A and B shares are shares carrying one vote per share and ordinary dividend
rights.
The Class A shares are stapled with the shares in URW SE (stapled shares). As a consequence of the Stapled structure the exercise of the
convertible bonds (ORNANE and ORA financial instruments issued by URW SE) and stock options plans, performance shares of URW SE will also
have a dilutive impact on the shares of URW NV (with a share issuance at that time).
AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES DILUTED AND UNDILUTED
2022
2021
Average number of shares (undiluted)
231,965,297
231,793,341
Dilutive impact
Attributed performance shares (unvested)
(1)
733,332
418,750
Potential shares via ORNANE
-
1,225,243
AVERAGE NUMBER OF SHARES (DILUTED)
232,698,629
233,437,334
(1) Correspond only to shares or stock options and attributed performance shares which are in the money and for which the performance conditions are fulfilled.
U NIBAIL-RODAMCO-WESTFIELD SE STOCK OPTIONS AND PERFORMANCE NOT EXERCISED AT THE PERIOD-END
The URW SE stock options and performance shares not exercised at the period-end have a dilutive impact on the Class A shares due to the stapling
of the shares of URW SE and URW NV. The table below shows the URW SE allocated stock options and performance shares not exercised at the
period-end:
The table below shows URW SE allocated stock options not exercised at the period-end:
Plan
Exercise period
(1)
Adjusted
subscription
price (€)
(2)
Number of
options granted
Adjustments
in number of
options
(2)
Number of
options
cancelled
Number of
options
exercised
Potential
additional
number of
shares
(3)
2015
From 04/03/2019 to
03/03/2022
256.81
615,860
- 615.860
-
-
2015
from 05/09/2019 to
04/09/2022
238.33
7,225
- 7,225
-
-
2015 plan (n°8)
2016
from 09/03/2020 to
08/03/2023
227.24
611,608
- 207,201 1,913
402,494
2017
from 08/03/2021 to
07/03/2024
218.47
611,611
- 179,791 - 431,820
2018 plan (n°9)
2018
From 06/03/2022 to
05/03/2025
190.09
630,135
- 171,972 - 458,163
2019 plan (n°10)
2019
From 20/03/2022 to
19/03/2026
144.55
748,372
- 195,872 - 552,500
2020 plan (n°11)
2020
From 22/03/2023 to
21/03/2027
92.03
885,291
- 231,793 - 653,498
2021 plan (n°12)
2021
From 19/05/2024 to
18/05/2029
69.41
950,295
- 136,628 - 813,667
2022 plan (n°13)
2022
From 09/03/2025 to
08/03/2030
66,68
1,217,386
TOTAL
6,277,783
- 105,581
- 1,851,923
1,913
- 1,111,80 5
4,423,94 7
(1) Under assumption that the performance and presence conditions are satisfied. If the first day of the exercise period is a non-business day, the retained date will be the next business day. If the
end of the exercise period is a non-business day, the retained date will be the first preceding business day.
(2) Adjustments reflect distribution paid from retained earnings.
(3) All the options are subject to performance condition.
The table below shows URW SE allocated performance shares not exercised at the period-end:
Starting date of the vesting period
(1)
Number of performance
shares allocated
Number of performance
shares cancelled
Number of performance
shares acquired
Potential additional
number of shares
(2)
March 2020
489,440
127,896
-
361,544
May 2021
371,846
53,693
-
318,153
March 2022
808,872
56,635
-
752,237
TOTAL
1,670,158
238,224
-
1,431,934
(1) For French tax residents: a minimum vesting period of three years, and a minimum holding period of two years once vested; for non-French tax residents: a minimum vesting period of four years
without any requirement to hold the shares.
(2) The acquisition of the shares is subject to performance condition.
14.3 SHARE PREMIUM
Share premium is paid up share capital in excess of nominal value. The amount of share premium is €2,243.3 Mn as at December 31, 2022
(December 31, 2021: €2,243.3 Mn).
88
14.4 DIVIDENDS
No dividends were declared or paid during the reporting period.
14.5 CAPITAL SECURITIES
The amount of capital securities is €1,501.3 Mn as at December 31, 2022 (December 31, 2021: €1,251.4 Mn).
15NOTE 15 ● OFF-BALANCE SHEET COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
All significant commitments are shown below. The Group does not have any complex commitments.
15.1 COMMITMENTS GIVEN
Commitments given (€Mn)
Description
Maturities
December 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
1a) Commitments related to Group financing – Commitments given by fully consolidated entities
428.1
842.7
Financial guarantees given
• Mortgages and first lien lenders
2026
113.4
484.1
Financial guarantees given
• Guarantees relating to entities under equity method
or not consolidated⁽¹⁾
2025
314.7
358.6
1b) Commitments related to Group financing – Commitments given by entity under equity method
995.1
1,062.7
Non - Financial guarantees given
• Mortgages and first lien lenders⁽
2
⁾
2023 to 2026
995.1
1,062.7
2a) Commitments related to Group operational activities – Fully consolidated
1.6
10.5
• Residual commitments for works contracts and
forward purchase agreements
-
0.3
• Rental of premises and equipment (lease payable)
2023+
1.6
10.2
2b) Commitments related to Group operational activities – Entity under equity method
18.9
27.2
• Residual commitments for works contracts and
forward purchase agreements
2023+
17.8
26.1
• Rental of premises and equipment (lease payable)
2023+
1.1
1.1
TOTAL COMMITMENTS GIVEN
1,443.8
1,943.1
(1) Corresponds to guarantees provided by the Group in the US relating to associates under equity method or entities under foreclosure.
(2) The outstanding balances at the reporting date of the debts and drawn credit lines which are secured by mortgages.
For the expected credit loss on financial guarantees recognized in 2022, reference is made to note 8.5.2.
COMMITMENTS RELATING TO GROUP FINANCING
Westfield America Limited Partnership, Urban Shopping Centres and Westfield Growth have guaranteed loans entered into by joint-ventures for
a portion of the principal amount of the loans greater than their stake in the joint-ventures. The Group as one of the General Partners of Urban
Shopping Centers has committed to maintain and allocate to Urban’s minority limited partners a certain amount of qualified non-recourse debt.
In 2000, Westfield America Limited Partnership, Urban Shopping Centres L.P and Westfield Growth LP have guaranteed loans entered into by
joint ventures for a portion of the principal amount of the loans greater than their stake in the joint ventures.
The Group as one of the General Partners of Head Acquisition, LP (the general partner of Urban Shopping Centers, L.P.) has committed to
maintain and allocate to Urban’s minority limited partners a certain amount of qualified non-recourse mortgage debt.
As a result of such debt maintenance obligations, which are subject to indemnification, certain subsidiaries of the Group may be required to
incur non-recourse financing on some of the assets that are held by Urban Shopping Centers, L.P., irrespective of the Group’s liquidity needs or
alternative sources of funding.
89
15.2 COMMITMENTS RECEIVED
Commitments received (€Mn)
Description
Maturities
December 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
1) Commitments related to Group financing
Financial guarantees received
• Refinancing agreements obtained but not used
2023+
2,988.3
2,813.3
2a) Commitments related to Group operational activities – Fully consolidated
Other contractual commitments received related to operations
• Future minimal rents
2023+
1,027.9
1,165.1
2a) Commitments related to Group operational activities – Entity under equity method
Other contractual commitments received related to operations
• Future minimal rents
2023+
1,167.9
1,235.8
TOTAL COMMITMENTS RECEIVED
5,184.2
5,214.3
15.3 CONTINGENT LIABILITIES
The Group's obligation with respect to performance guarantees amounted €15.8 Mn (December 31, 2021: €16.9 Mn) which include both
consolidated and equity accounted contingent liabilities and may be called on at any time dependent upon the performance or non-performance
of certain third parties.
Since June 28, 2018, URW SE and URW NV have implemented cross guarantees. The Company, as part of the “Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
Guarantors” has jointly and severally agreed to guarantee the payment of all sums payable from time to time under the outstanding guaranteed
senior notes issued by certain subsidiaries of the former Westfield Corporation (WEA Finance LLC, Westfield UK & Europe Finance PLC and WFD
Trust).
The expected credit loss on the financial guarantees is insignificant.
15.4 NON-CONTROLLING INTERESTS
The net comprehensive income for the period attributable to external non-controlling interests is -€90.0 Mn (2021: -€116.4
(1)
Mn). The non-
controlling interests amounted to -€250.5 Mn as per December 31, 2022, (December 31, 2021: -€160.5
(1)
Mn) of which 9.046%
(1)
is held by the
related party entity URW SE and 0.2% by third parties. The 9.046% is split between common shares and redeemable preference shares/units
disclosed in note 7.4.
1) This amount was restated due to the error on the calculation of non-controlling interest, refer to correction of error below.
CORRECTION OF ERROR:
For the year ended December 31, 2022, URW NV discovered a mathematical error in the accounting of the allocation of non-controlling interest
indirectly held by URW SE in URW WEA LLC. This indirect investment in URW WEA LCC is held by URW SE in a direct investment in WHL USA
Acquisitions, Inc. Both URW NV and URW SE hold a percentage in Common and Preferred shares WHL USA Acquisitions Inc, who itself owns an
indirect holding in WEA Holdings LLC. From 2019 until June 30, 2022 the allocation of the result of WEA Holdings LLC related to the non-controlling
interest was accounted for at 1.958%, while the allocation of the results should have been accounted for at 9.047%. This resulted in a material
misstatement in the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2021. The adjustment does not influence the accounting of the share URW
SE holds in the redeemable preference shares in WHL USA Acquisitions.
The figures for the year ended December 31, 2021, and the opening balance of 2021 are restated and the effects of 2020 and earlier are included
as an opening balance adjustment in 2021. The error has been corrected by restating each of the affected financial statement line items for the
prior periods as follows:
Balance sheet (€Mn)
December 31,
2021
Increase/
(Decrease)
December 31,
2021
Restated
December
31, 2020
Increase/
(Decrease)
January 1,
2021
Restated
Shareholders' equity (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
N.V. shares)
593.2
184.1
777.2
791.6
82.4
874.0
Consolidated reserves
(2,242.6)
82.7
(2,159.9)
126.6
(91.9)
34.7
Foreign currency translation reserves
104.0
10.8
114.8
(76.6)
0.3
(76.9)
Consolidated result
(878.8)
90.6
(788.2)
(2,369.1)
174.6
(2,194.5)
Equity attributable to the owners of Unibail-Rodamco-
Westfield N.V.
593.2
184.1
777.2
791.6
82.4
874.0
Non-controlling interests
23.6
(184.1)
(160.5)
38.2
(82.4)
(44.1)
90
Consolidated statement of comprehensive income (€Mn)
2021
Published
Profit increase/
(decrease)
2021
Restated
Net result for the period attributable to:
Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares
(878.8)
90.6
(788.2)
Non-controlling interests
(17.3)
(90.6)
(107.9)
NET RESULT FOR THE PERIOD
(896.1)
(896.1)
Average numbers of shares (undiluted)
231,793,341
-
231,793,341
Net result of the period
(Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.)
(878.8)
90.6
(788.2)
Net result for the period per share
(Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.) (€)
(3.79)
0.39
(3.40)
Average numbers of shares (diluted)
233,437,334
-
233,437,334
Net result of the period
(Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.)
(878.8)
90.6
(788.2)
Diluted net result per share
(Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.) (€)
(1)
(3.79)
0.39
(3.40)
Total Comprehensive Income for the period attributable to:
Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares
(698.1)
101.7
(596.5)
External non-controlling interests
(14.7)
(101.7)
(116.4)
TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(712.8)
(712.8)
1) In case of a negative net result for the period, the diluted net result per share is equal to the net result for the period per share. For 2021 and 2020 the EPS are antidilutive
Basic and diluted earnings per share for the prior year have also been restated. The amount of the correction for both basic and diluted earnings
per share was an increase of € 0.39 cents per share.
(€Mn)
Share
capital
Additional
paid-in
capital
Consoli-
dated
reserves
Consoli-
dated
net result
Foreign
currency
translation
reserve
(1)
Capital
securities
Equity
attributable
to the
owners of
URW NV
shares
Non-
controlling
interests
Total
Shareholders'
equity
PUBLISHED EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER
31, 2020
115.8
2,243.3
126.6
(2,369.1)
(76.6)
751.6
791.6
38.2
829.8
Adjustment due to error on opening
balances
-
-
(91.9)
174.6
(0.3)
-
82.4
(82.4)
-
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT JANUARY 1,
2021
115.8
2,243.3
34.7
(2,194.5)
(76.9)
751.6
874.0
(44.1)
829.8
Net result of the period
-
-
-
(788.2)
-
-
(788.2)
(107.9)
(896.1)
Other comprehensive income
-
-
-
-
191.7
-
191.7
(8.5)
183.3
Net comprehensive income
-
-
-
(788.2)
191.7
-
(596.5)
(116.4)
(712.8)
Earnings appropriation
-
-
(2,194.5)
2,194.5
-
-
-
-
-
Increase in capital
0.1
-
-
-
-
-
0.1
-
0.1
Amendment related party liabilities
-
-
-
-
-
499.8
499.8
-
499.8
Other movements
-
-
(0.1)
-
-
-
(0.1)
-
(0.1)
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER
31, 2021
115.9
2,243.3
(2,159.9)
(788.2)
114.8
1,251.4
777.2
(160.5)
616.7
Non-controlling interest for the prior year was increase by -€101.7 Mn due to the increase in the non-controlling interest from 1.958% to 9.047%.
EFFECT ON HALF YEAR REPORTS
In reference to above, the same mathematical error occurred in the Half Year Reports for the years 2020 until 2022. The effects on the presented
Shareholders' equity (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares), NCI, Net result for the period attributable to Owners of Unibail-
Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares and Net result for the period attributable to: Non-controlling interests, will be corrected in the 2023 Half Year
Report.
91
The amounts shown in the respective head schedules of the 2022 Half Year Report, can be quantified as follows:
Line items effected (€Mn)
HY-2022
Increase/
(Decrease)
HY-2022
Restated
HY-2021
Increase/
(Decrease)
HY-2021
Restated
Shareholders' equity (Owners of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
N.V. shares)
801.9
232.3
1,034.2
1,164.2
122.9
1,287.1
Non-controlling interest
21.4
(232.3)
(210.9)
34.3
(122.9)
(88.6)
Net result for the period attributable to Owners of Unibail-
Rodamco-Westfield N.V. shares
43.6
29.9
73.5
(209.4)
34.4
(175.0)
Net result for the period attributable to: Non-controlling
interests
(4.3)
(29.9)
(34.2)
(5.2)
(34.4)
(39.5)
16NOTE 16 ● LIST OF THE MAIN CONSOLIDATED COMPANIES
List of the main consolidated companies
Country
Method
(1)
% interest
December 31,
2022
% control
December
31, 2022
% interest
December 31,
2021
% control
December 31,
2021
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.
the Netherlands
FC
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
WFD Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate B.V.
the Netherlands
FC
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
URW America Inc.
United States
FC
100.00
100.00
100.00
100.00
URW WEA LLC
United States
FC
92.40
92.40
92.40
92.40
(1) FC: full consolidation method
17NOTE 17 ● SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
In line with the Group’s efforts to deleverage in the US, URW NV (along with its JV partner) made the decision not to repay the $195 Mn ($97.5
Mn on a proportionate basis) secured debt on Westfield Valencia Town Center, which matured on January 1, 2023. URW NV is engaged in
discussions to sell the asset (or its interest in it) and any potential purchaser would assume the relevant debt. If a sale is not finalised, the
property will likely be foreclosed. This debt is non-recourse and its non-repayment has no impact on the rest of the Group’s debt. The asset
value in the Group's consolidated account was $100.2 Mn as at December 31, 2022. Upon sale of the asset or foreclosure, the Group's debt will
be reduced by -$97.5 Mn (on a proportionate basis), corresponding to a net impact on the Group’s balance sheet of -$2.7 Mn (on a proportionate
basis).
On February 1, 2023 the Group has completed the sale of its ground lease for Westfield North County located in Escondido, California, to Bridge
Group Investments and Steerpoint Capital, effectively transferring ownership and management of the asset. The sale price of $57 Mn (at 100%,
URW share 55% (on a proportionate basis)) for Westfield North County, which has 30 years left on its ground lease, reflects the property’s book
value as at December 31, 2022. The asset is a B-rated, 1.25 Mn square foot property, which is 89% leased.
The URW Group started discussions with Euronext in order to change its market of reference from Euronext Amsterdam to Euronext Paris as part
of an initiative to simplify its structure given limited trading activity on that market. As a part of this request, the URW Group intends to delist
of the URW Stapled Shares from Euronext Amsterdam, while maintaining a single listing on Euronext Paris. The delisting from Euronext Amsterdam
would not affect the liquidity of the shares nor have any impact on trading, URW’s organisation (including the Stapled Share principle) or the
ISIN code (FR0013326246) of the URW Group. Following the approval of the Euronext Listing Board, the change of the URW Group’s market of
reference from Euronext Amsterdam to Euronext Paris will be effective on April 14, 2023 and the last day of trading on Euronext Amsterdam will
be April 27, 2023.
On March 1, 2023 URW NV disposed of an asset in Waalwijk in the Netherlands, for a total of €950 k.
92
3.3 COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AS AT
DECEMBER 31, 2022
3.3.1 COMPANY BALANCE SHEET AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
(before profit appropriation)
(€ thousands)
Notes
December 31,
2022
December 31,
2021
Restated
December 31,
2020
Restated
ASSETS
Property, plant and equipment
27
36
54
Investments in subsidiaries
4
1,742,824
2,172,530
2,743,104
Derivatives
9
142,648
76,845
120,436
Total non-current assets
1,885,499
2,249,411
2,863,594
Receivables
5
12,122
18,312
18,883
Cash and cash equivalents
6
908
1,388
1,843
Total current assets
13,030
19,700
20,726
TOTAL ASSETS
1,898,529
2,269,110
2,884,320
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Shareholders’ equity
7
Share capital
116,021
115,921
115,860
Additional paid-in capital
2,243,252
2,243,252
2,243,347
Foreign currency translation reserve
257,093
114,793
(76,907)
Revaluation reserve
335,690
237,063
233,605
Retained earnings
(3,284,047)
(2,397,020)
(198,957)
Capital securities
1,501,277
1,251,377
751,632
Result for the period
(152,300)
(788.200)
(2,194,505)
Total equity
1,017,240
777,186
874,075
Borrowings and financial liabilities
8
777,224
1,015,259
1,408,962
Derivatives
9
45,394
445,502
529,138
Total non-current liabilities
822,618
1,460,761
1,938,100
Amounts due to suppliers
-
9
14
Other liabilities
10
58,925
31,154
72,131
Total current liabilities
58,925
31,163
72,145
Total liabilities
881,543
1,491,924
2,010,245
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES
1,898,783
2,269,110
2,884,320
3.3.2 COMPANY INCOME STATEMENT FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022
(€ thousands)
Notes
2022
2021 Restated
Other income
2,272
1,877
1 – TOTAL OPERATING INCOME
(2,272)
1,877
Administrative expenses
11
(3,951)
(2,191)
2 – TOTAL OPERATING EXPENSES
(3,951)
(2,191)
Financial income
575,476
128,284
Financial expenses
(154,089)
(153,996)
3 – FINANCIAL RESULT
12
421,387
(25,712)
4 –RESULT BEFORE TAX
419,706
(26,026)
Income tax
13
-
-
Result from subsidiaries
14
(572,006)
(762,174)
5 – NET RESULT AFTER TAX
(152,300)
(788,200)
93
3.4 NOTES TO THE COMPANY ONLY FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
18NOTE 1 ● GENERAL
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. (“URW NV” or the “Company”) is a public limited liability company and domiciled in the Netherlands. Its shares
are publicly traded on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange and the Paris Stock Exchange, as well as in the form of CDIs on the Australian Securities
Exchange. The Company was incorporated as Unibail-Rodamco B.V., a private company with limited liability under the laws of the Netherlands
on February 14, 2018. On March 22, 2018, the Company changed its legal name to WFD Unibail-Rodamco N.V. and converted its legal form to a
public limited liability company pursuant to a notarial deed of amendment and conversion in accordance with a resolution of the General Meeting
adopted on March 15, 2018. In June 2020, the corporate name changed from WFD Unibail-Rodamco N.V. to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. The
Company has its corporate seat in Amsterdam and its registered office is located at Schiphol Boulevard 315 Schiphol in the Netherlands. The
chamber of commerce number is 70898618.
19NOTE 2 ● ACCOUNTING POLICIES
BASIS OF PREPARATION
The Company only financial statements are part of the 2022 consolidated financial statements of URW NV.
The Company only financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Title 9, Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code. For setting the principles
for the recognition and measurement of assets and liabilities and determination of the result for its company financial statements, the Company
makes use of the option provided in section 2:362(8) of the Dutch Civil Code. This means that the principles for the recognition and measurement
of assets and liabilities and determination of the result (hereinafter referred to as principles for recognition and measurement) of the company
only financial statements are the same as those applied for the consolidated EU-IFRS financial statements. Reference is made to the notes to the
consolidated financial statements.
The comparatives figures are from the period January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2021.
INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES
Investments in subsidiaries and other entities in the Company financial statements are accounted for using the equity method. Goodwill paid
upon acquisition of investments in group companies or associates is included in the net equity value of the investments and is not shown separately
on the face of the balance sheet.
AMOUNTS DUE FROM GROUP COMPANIES
Amounts due from group companies are stated initially at fair value and subsequently at amortised cost. Amortised cost is determined using the
effective interest rate. The company recognise a credit loss for financial assets (such as a loan) based on an expected credit loss (ECL) which
will occur in the coming twelve months or — after a significant decrease in credit quality or when the simplified model can be used — based on
the entire remaining loan term. For intercompany receivables the ECL would be applicable as well, however this could cause differences between
equity in the consolidated and separate financial statements. For this reason, the company elected to eliminate these differences through the
respective receivable account in the separate financial statements.
RESULTS FROM SUBSIDIARIES
The result of subsidiaries consists of the share of the Company in the result of these subsidiaries. Results on transactions involving the transfer
of assets and liabilities between the Company and its subsidiaries and mutually between subsidiaries themselves, are eliminated to the extent
that they can be considered as not realised.
20NOTE 3 ● SIGNIFICANT EVENTS OF THE YEAR
Please refer to Note 2.1 of the consolidated financial statements.
21NOTE 4 ● INVESTMENTS IN SUBSIDIARIES
2022 CHANGE
(€ thousands)
December 31, 2021
Direct equity
movement
Exchange
difference
Dividends
Investments
Result from
subsidiaries after tax
December 31, 2022
Group subsidiary investments
2,172,530
-
142,300
-
-
(572,006)
1,742,824
TOTAL
2,172,530
-
142,300
-
-
(572,006)
1,742,824
94
2021 CHANGE
(€ thousands)
December 31, 2020
Direct equity
movement
Exchange
difference
Dividends
Investments
Result from
subsidiaries after tax
December 31, 2021
Group subsidiary investments
2,743,104
-
191,400
-
-
(762,174)
2,172,530
TOTAL
2,743,104
-
191,400
-
-
(762,174)
2,172,530
Investments in subsidiaries and other entities in which the Company either exercises voting control or effective management responsibility are
valued at equity method.
During the period, the Company has a EUR current account facility with WFD Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate B.V. for €10.0 Mn (December 31, 2021:
€10.0 Mn).
SUBSIDIARIES AND INVESTMENTS
The Company is the holding company and has the following direct and indirect significant financial interests:
Company
Country
Capital held %
December 31, 2022
Capital held %
December 31, 2021
WFD Unibail-Rodamco Real Estate B.V.
the Netherlands
100.00
100.00
URW America Inc.
United States
100.00
100.00
URW WEA LLC
United States
92.40
92.40
22NOTE 5 ● RECEIVABLES
(€ thousands)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Receivable from URW SE
9,682
11,457
Receivable from group companies
-
6,677
VAT receivables
222
120
Other receivables
2,217
58
TOTAL
12,122
18,312
The receivable from URW SE relates to the interest receivable on the swaps and there is no significant ECL allowance as at December 31, 2022
(December 31, 2021: no significant ECL allowance).
23NOTE 6 ● CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS
Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash at hand and are held with banks. Cash and cash equivalents are freely available. The Company considers
that its cash and cash equivalents have a low credit risk based on the external credit ratings of the banks.
95
24NOTE 7 ● SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
(€ thousands)
Share
capital
Additional
paid-in capital
Foreign
currency
translation
reserves
Revaluation
reserve
Retained
earnings
Result for
the period
Capital
securities
Total
Shareholders’
equity
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT
DECEMBER 31, 2020
115,860
2,243,347
(76,907)
233,605
(198,957)
(2,194,505)
751,632
874,075
Net result
-
-
-
-
(788,200)
-
(788,200)
Other comprehensive income
-
-
191,700
-
-
-
-
191,700
Increase in capital
61
-
-
-
-
-
-
61
Appropriation of result
-
-
-
-
(2,194,505)
2,194,505
-
-
Amendment related party
liabilities
-
-
-
-
-
-
499,745
499,745
Other movements
-
(95)
-
3,458
(3,458)
-
-
(95)
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT
DECEMBER 31, 2021
115,921
2,243,252
114,793
237,063
(2,397,020)
(788,200)
1,251,377
777,186
Net result
-
-
-
-
-
(152,300)
-
(152,300)
Other comprehensive income
-
-
142,300
-
-
-
-
142,300
Increase in capital
100
-
-
-
-
-
-
100
Appropriation of result
-
-
-
-
(788,200)
788,200
-
-
Restatement of hybrid securities
-
-
-
-
(200)
-
-
(200)
Amendment related party
liabilities
-
-
-
-
-
-
249,900
249,900
Other movements
-
-
-
98,627
(98,627)
-
-
EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER 31,
2022
116,021
2,243,252
257,093
335,690
(3,284,047)
(152,300)
1,501,277
1,017,240
If URW NV revalue an asset, it recognises a revaluation reserve in equity unless this upward revaluation is a reversal of a prior downward
revaluation. In that case, the upward revaluation is taken to the income statement.
Any downward revaluations, including permanent diminutions in value, are deducted from the revaluation reserve, subject to maintaining the
revaluation reserve at the statutory minimum. The statutory minimum requires that the reserve is at least equal to the sum of the upward
revaluations above cost (taking into account any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses), relating to the assets still held at the balance
sheet date. Any downward revaluations which would take the reserve below zero must be taken to the income statement.
CORRECTION OF ERROR IN NON-CONTROLLING INTEREST
For the year ended December 31, 2022, URW NV discovered a mathematical error in the accounting of the allocation of non-controlling interest
indirectly held by URW SE in URW WEA LLC. This indirect investment in URW WEA LCC is held by URW SE in a direct investment in WHL ASA
Acquisitions, Inc. Both URW NV and URW SE hold a percentage in Common and Preferred shares WHL USA Acquisitions Inc, who itself owns an
indirect holding in WEA Holdings LLC. From 2019 until 2021 the allocation of the result of WEA Holdings LLC related to the non-controlling interest
was accounted for at 1.958%, while the allocation of the results should have been accounted for at 9.047%. This resulted in a material
misstatement in the annual report for the year ended December 31, 2021. The adjustment does not influence the accounting of the share URW
SE holds in the redeemable preference shares in WHL USA Acquisitions.
The figures for the year ended December 31, 2021, and the opening balance of 2021 are restated and the effects of 2020 and earlier are included
as an opening balance adjustment in 2021. The error has been corrected by restating each of the affected financial statement for URW NV
company only line items for the prior periods as follows:
96
Balance sheet (€ thousands)
December 31,
2021
Increase/
(Decrease)
December 31,
2021
Restated
December
31, 2020
Increase/
(Decrease)
January 1,
2021
Restated
ASSETS
Investments in subsidiaries
1,988,544
183,985
2,172,530
2,660,694
82,410
2,743,104
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Foreign currency translation reserve
104,030
10,762
114,793
(76,607)
(300)
(76,907)
Retained earnings
(2,479,631)
82,610
(2,397,020)
(107,057)
(91,900)
(198,957)
Result for the period
(878,812)
90,612
(788,200)
(2,369,115)
174,610
(2,194,505)
Total equity
593,201
183,985
777,186
791,665
82,410
874,075
(€ thousands)
Share capital
Additional
paid-in
capital
Foreign
currency
translation
reserves
Revaluation
reserve
Retained
earnings
Result for
the period
Capital
securities
Total
Shareholders'
equity
EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER 31,
2020
115,860
2,243,347
(76,607)
233,605
(107,057)
(2,369,115)
751,632
791,665
Adjustment due to error on
opening balances
-
-
(300)
-
(91,900)
174,610
-
82,410
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT
DECEMBER 31, 2020
115,860
2,243,347
(76,907)
233,605
(198,957)
(2,194,505)
751,632
874,075
Net result
-
-
-
-
-
(788,200)
-
(788,200)
Other comprehensive income
-
-
191,700
-
-
-
-
191,700
Increase in capital
61
-
-
-
-
-
-
61
Appropriation of result
-
-
-
-
(2,194,505)
2,194,505
-
-
Amendment related party liabilities
-
-
-
-
-
-
499,745
499,745
Other movements
-
(95)
-
3,458
(3,458)
-
-
(95)
RESTATED EQUITY AS AT DECEMBER
31, 2021
115,921
2,243,252
114,793
237,063
(2,397,020)
(788,200)
1,251,377
777,186
(€ thousands)
2021
Increase/
(decrease)
2021 Restated
Result from subsidiaries
(852,786)
90,612
(762,174)
5 – NET RESULT AFTER TAX
(878,812)
90,612
(788,200)
Investment in subsidiaries for the prior year was increase by € 184.0 Mn due to the increase in the non-controlling interest from 1.958% to 9.047%.
CHANGES IN THE NUMBER OF SHARES COMPRISING THE SHARE CAPITAL
Number of shares
As at December 31, 2020
231,720,700
Capital increase Class A shares
47,976
Capital increase reserved for URW Company Savings Plan
74.055
As at December 31, 2021
231,842,731
Capital increase Class A shares
66,931
Capital increase reserved for URW Company Savings Plan
105,741
As at December 31, 2022
232,015,403
The authorised share capital of the Company as at December 31, 2022, amounts to €550 Mn divided over 660 million ordinary class A shares and
440 million class B shares of €0.50 per share.
97
The issued and paid-up share capital amounts to €116.0 Mn, formed by 138,767,088 ordinary A shares and 93,248,315 ordinary B shares as at
December 31, 2022. Class B shares are shares carrying one vote per share and ordinary dividend rights. All class B shares are held by URW SE.
The Class A shares of the Company are stapled with the shares in URW SE (Stapled shares). As a consequence of the Stapled structure the exercise
of the convertible bonds (ORNANE and ORA – financial instruments issued by URW SE) and stock options plans, performance shares of URW SE will
have also a dilutive impact on the shares of the Company (with a share issuance at that time).
SHARE PREMIUM
Share premium is paid up share capital in excess of nominal value. The amount of share premium is €2,243.3 Mn as at December 31, 2022
(December 31, 2021: €2,243.3 Mn).
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION RESERVE
The foreign currency translation reserve comprises all foreign currency differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of
foreign operations.
CAPITAL SECURITIES
The €2 Mn hybrid securities, as included in the capital security line is a perpetual, deeply subordinated instrument without voting rights. The
capital instrument is issued for €2.0 Mn cash in 2018 and is accounted for in equity, mainly because the company has the discretion not to pay
interest or the principal. The amount remains unchanged in 2022.
As per December 31, 2022, an additional part of the intra-group loan of €250 Mn with URW SE has been reclassed into equity, reference is made
to note 2.1.3.
2021
On June 30, 2021, part of the intra-group loan of €500 Mn with URW SE has been reclassed into equity, reference is made to note 2.2.3.
DIVIDENDS
No dividends were declared or paid by the Company during the period of this financial year.
REVALUATION RESERVE
The revaluation reserve comprises of the reserve for the fair value gain on investment properties and derivatives. The addition to the revaluation
reserve is €163.5 Mn (December 31, 2021 was € 3.5 Mn).
UNAPPROPRIATED RESULT
The Board of Management proposes, with consent of the Supervisory Board, to the General Meeting to appropriate the result after tax for 2022
as follows: to add the remaining loss amount of -€222,6 Mn (December 2021: -€878.8 Mn) to the retained earnings.
25NOTE 8 ● BORROWINGS AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
(€ thousands)
December 31,
2021
Additional
loans
Loans
decrease
Reclass
Amortisation
December 31,
2022
Debt to URW SE
1,017,245
90,724
(294,333)
(35,800)
-
777,836
Charges and premiums on issues of borrowing with URW SE
(1,986)
-
(1,374)
-
-
(612)
TOTAL
1,015,259
90,724
(295,707)
(35,800)
-
777,224
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan from URW SE. An additional part (€250 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of
€1,250 Mn has been converted into equity on December 31, 2022, reference is made to note 2.1.3. The remaining principal amount of the loan
is €543.7 Mn (December 31, 2021: €776.9 Mn) as at December 31, 2022. The interest rate of the loan is based on a fixed rate from and including
the issue date to, but excluding, October 25, 2023. After each 5 years the interest rate is reset at 5YR Mid-swaps plus relevant margin. The
maturity date of the loan is perpetual.
During the period, URW NV has an interest-bearing loan from URW SE. The principal amount of the loan is €35.8 Mn as at December 31, 2022
(December 31, 2021: €35.8 Mn). The fixed interest rate is 1.44% and the maturity date is May 31, 2023. The loan was reclassified to other
liabilities due to meeting the criteria of short-term loan.
During the period, URW NV had a EUR and USD current account facility with URW SE for €185.0 Mn and $100.0 Mn, respectively. As at December
31, 2022, the drawn down amount are €169.8 Mn and $68.6 Mn (€64.3 Mn) respectively. The interest rate is EURIBOR + 0.85% for the EUR facility
and LIBOR + 1.4% for the USD facility. The maturity date for both contracts is April 1, 2024. As at December 31, 2021, the drawn down amount
are €173.5 Mn and $34.6 Mn (€30.5 Mn) respectively. The interest rate is EURIBOR + 0.85% for the EUR facility and LIBOR + 1.4% for the USD
facility. The maturity date for both contracts is April 1, 2024.
Total charges and premiums on issues of borrowings with URW SE amounts €1.4 Mn as at December 31, 2022 (December 31, 2021: €2.0 Mn).
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FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The Group has exposure to the following risks from its use of financial instruments:
• Credit risk
• Liquidity risk
• Market risk
In the notes 8.5 and 14.1 of the consolidated financial statements, information is included about the Group’s exposure to each of the above
risks, the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for measuring and managing risk, and the Group’s management of capital.
These risks, objectives, policies and processes for measuring and managing risk, and the management of capital apply also to the company only
financial statements of URW NV. Further quantitative disclosures are included below:
FAIR VALUE
The fair values of most of the financial instruments recognised on the statement of financial position, including cash at bank and in hand and
current liabilities, is approximately equal to their carrying amounts.
The carrying amount and fair value of fixed interest rate borrowings and financial liabilities are as follows:
(€ thousands)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Carrying value
Fair value
Carrying value
Fair value
€543.7 Mn debt to URW SE
543,677
514,032
776,937
764,410
€750 Mn debt to URW SE
(1)
429
429
398
398
€500 Mn debt to URW SE
(2)
276
276
255
(4)
255
(4)
€250 Mn debt to URW SE
(3)
128
128
-
-
€35.8 Mn debt to URW SE
35,800
35,406
35,800
36,318
TOTAL
580,310
550,271
813,390
801.381
(1) The interest-bearing loan of €750.0 Mn with URW SE was converted on December 29, 2020, into a capital security with a maturity in 99 years and limited default opportunities.
(2) A part (€500.0 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of €1,250 Mn, has been converted into a capital security with a 99-year maturity as per June 30, 2021 with limited default
opportunities. Reference to 2.2.3.
(3) An additional part (€250 Mn) of the loan with an original nominal value of €1,250 Mn, of which already €500 Mn has been converted earlier, has been converted into a capital security with a 99-
year maturity as per December 31, 2022 with limited default opportunities. Reference to 2.1.3.
(4) The 2021 disclosure is restated to include the carrying amount and fair value of a loan at €255k, URW NV considered this restatement and concluded that it is immaterial.
The fair value of the Company’s interest bearings loans is estimated by discounting future cash flows using rates that approximate the Company’s
borrowing rate at the balance sheet date, for debt with similar maturity, credit risk and terms.
26NOTE 9 ● DERIVATIVES
(€ thousands)
December 31, 2021
Fair value adjustments of
derivatives
(1)
December 31, 2022
Assets
Derivatives at fair value non-current
76,845
65,803
142,648
• Fair value hedge
76,845
65,803
142,648
Liabilities
Derivatives at fair value non-current
(445,502)
400,108
(45,394)
• Fair value hedge
(445,502)
400,108
(45,394)
NET
(368,657)
465,911
97,254
(1) This amount includes the currency translation of €600k, reference to note 8.4 Derivative instruments.
In the year ended December 31, 2022, URW NV has interest rate swaps and caps contracts with URW SE to minimize the interest risk on the Group
debt. URW SE has these contracts with third parties and these contracts are mirrored to URW NV with the same nominal amount, interest rate
and duration. The maturity date of the swaps are September 2028 and July 2048.
27NOTE 10 ● OTHER LIABILITIES
(€ thousands)
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
Penalty on loan conversion
5,386
-
Payable due to URW SE
50,748
(1)
30,789
Payable due to group companies
1,343
-
Tax and social security liabilities
164
160
Other liabilities
817
-
Accruals
467
205
TOTAL
58,925
31,154
(1) This amount includes the loan of
€
35.8 Mn reclassified in the year ended December 31, 2022, from long term debt from URW SE. Reference to note 8 of company only.
99
28NOTE 11 ● ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES
(€ thousands)
2022
2021
Wages and salaries
504
480
Social security charges
127
133
Pension charges
42
39
Audit and advisory fees
729
691
Office costs
109
108
Other general costs
624
721
Depreciation charge
9
19
Abortive purchase cost
1,807
-
TOTAL
3,951
2,191
During the 2022 financial year, the average number of staff employed by the Company amounted to 5 (2021: 5). None were employed outside
the Netherlands.
29NOTE 12 ● FINANCIAL RESULT
FINANCIAL INCOME
(€ thousands)
2022
2021
Interest income on caps and swaps
(1)
45,195
40,391
USD foreign exchange gain
-
-
Fair value of derivatives
530,281
87,893
TOTAL
575,476
128,284
FINANCIAL EXPENSES
(€ thousands)
2022
2021
Interest expense on caps and swaps
(1)
(58,432)
(66,130)
Interest on borrowings
(27,143)
(34,895)
Expenses on borrowings
(1,093)
(3,096)
USD foreign exchange loss
(2,488)
(1,722)
Fair value of derivatives
(64,933)
(48,153)
TOTAL
(154,089)
(153,996)
(1) 2021 figures are restated to disclose the accrued interest and accrued expense on swaps separately as well as the fair value on derivatives, URW NV considered the impact and concluded that the
net effect is zero for the year ended December 31, 2021.
30NOTE 13 ● INCOME TAX
The Company qualifies as a FII (Fiscal Investment Institution (in Dutch: Fiscale Beleggings Instelling)) for the corporate income tax in the
Netherlands in accordance with section 28 of the Dutch “Wet op de vennootschapsbelasting 1969”. The corporate tax rate of an FII is 0% in the
Netherlands, presuming all relevant conditions are met. Based on the FII regime, the Company is obliged to distribute dividends to its
shareholders, which dividends are, broadly said, based on its Dutch fiscal income.
31NOTE 14 ● RESULT FROM SUBSIDIARIES
The result from subsidiaries after tax is -€642.3 Mn (December 31, 2021: -€852.8 Mn) which relates mainly to the result of the subsidiary URW
WEA LLC (formerly WFD America Inc.)
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32NOTE 15 ● AUDIT FEES
Fees charged by Ernst and Young Accountants LLP (Netherlands) and its member firms to the Company as well as Deloitte (Netherlands), its
subsidiaries and other consolidated companies for the 2022 services are specified as follows:
2022
(€ thousands)
Deloitte
Netherlands
Ernst & Young
accountants LLP
(Netherlands)
Other Deloitte
Network
Other EY
network
2022
Audit or limited review of the consolidated financial statements
(1)
448
191
2,061
167
2,867
Other assurance services
(2)
-
23
-
-
23
Non- audit services
(3)
-
-
-
1,151
1,151
TOTAL
448
214
2,061
1,318
4,041
(1) The controlled companies correspond to the fully consolidated companies as well as the jointly controlled companies.
(2) The amounts correspond to comfort – and consent letters issued in connection with bond issuances of the Group.
(3) The amounts correspond to tax related procedures in the US.
2021
(€ thousands)
Ernst & Young
accountants LLP
(Netherlands)
Other EY network
2021
Audit or limited review of the consolidated financial statements
(1)
585
1,762
2,347
Other assurance services
(2)
58
-
58
Non- audit services
(3)
-
1,505
1,505
TOTAL
643
3,267
3,910
(1) The controlled companies correspond to the fully consolidated companies as well as the jointly controlled companies.
(2) The amounts correspond to comfort – and consent letters issued in connection with bond issuances of the Group.
(3) The amounts correspond to tax related procedures in the US.
33NOTE 16 ● REMUNERATION OF THE MANAGEMENT BOARD AND THE
SUPERVISORY BOARD
The total remuneration of the members of the Board of Management over 2022 was € 2,646,081 and for more details reference is made to chapter
2.3 of this annual report. The Supervisory Board received a total remuneration of € 260,500 (paid to 2 out of 5 members) and for more details
reference is made to chapter 2.4 of this annual report. This remuneration as defined in Art 2:383 of the Dutch Civil Code, is paid by URW NV or
one of its subsidiaries.
34NOTE 17 ● RELATED PARTIES
The Company is affiliated to URW SE, together they form URW. All Group entities are treated as related parties. Reference is made to note 7.4
in the consolidated financial statements.
35NOTE 18 ● OFF BALANCE SHEET COMMITMENTS
General guarantees as defined in Art. 403, Book 2 of the Dutch civil code have been given by the Company to the subsidiary WFD UR RE BV. For
intercompany financial guarantees issued by the Company, there is no expected default and therefore the financial guarantees are not
recognised.
Together with the Dutch subsidiary WFD UR RE BV, the Company forms a fiscal unity for the value-added tax.
As from June 28, 2018, URW SE and the Company have implemented cross guarantees. The Company as part of the “Unibail-Rodamco Guarantors”
has jointly and severally agreed to guarantee the payment of all sums payable from time to time under the outstanding guaranteed senior notes
issued by certain subsidiaries of the former Westfield Corporation (WEA Finance LLC, Westfield UK & Europe Finance PLC and WFD Trust).
The Company has no significant off balance sheet commitments as at December 31, 2022.
101
36NOTE 19 ● SUBSEQUENT EVENTS
Please refer to note 17 of the consolidated financial statements.
Schiphol, March 27, 2023
Board of Management Supervisory Board
D. Lowe J.M. Tritant
G. Sieben C. Pourre
J. Taireh
F. Mouchel
J.L. Laurens
102
3.5 OTHER INFORMATION
3.5.1 PROPOSED PROFIT APPROPRIATION
Under article 38.1 of the Company’s Articles of Association, the Management Board, with the approval of the Supervisory Board, shall determine
which part of the loss shall be added to the Company’s reserves, taking into account the fiscal rules and regulations applicable to the Company
from time to time. The remaining profits shall be at the disposal of the General Meeting.
3.5.2 STATUTORY AUDITORS’ REPORT ON THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
TO: THE SHAREHOLDERS AND SUPERVISORY BOARD OF UNIBAIL-RODAMCO-WESTFIELD N.V.
REPORT ON THE AUDIT OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 2021 INCLUDED IN THE ANNUAL REPORT
OUR OPINION
We have audited the financial statements 2022 of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V., based in Amsterdam.
The financial statements comprise the consolidated financial statements and the company financial statements.
In our opinion:
• The accompanying consolidated financial statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. as
at 31 December 2022, and of its result and its cash flows for 2022 in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as adopted
by the European Union (EU- IFRS) and with Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code.
• The accompanying company financial statements give a true and fair view of the financial position of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. as at
31 December 2022, and of its result for 2022 in accordance with Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code.
The consolidated financial statements comprise:
• The consolidated statement of financial position as at December 31, 2022
• The following statements for 2022: the consolidated statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows.
• The notes comprising material policy information.
The company only financial statements comprise:
• The company balance sheet as at December 31, 2022
• The company income statement for 2022
• The notes comprising a summary of the accounting policies and other explanatory information.
BASIS FOR OUR OPINION
We conducted our audit in accordance with Dutch law, including the Dutch Standards on Auditing. Our responsibilities under those standards are
further described in the ‘Our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements’ section of our report.
We are independent of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. in accordance with the EU Regulation on specific requirements regarding statutory audit
of public-interest entities, the Wet toezicht accountantsorganisaties (Wta, Audit firms supervision act), the Verordening inzake de
onafhankelijkheid van accountants bij assurance-opdrachten (ViO, Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants, a regulation with respect to
independence) and other relevant independence regulations in the Netherlands. Furthermore, we have complied with the Verordening gedrags-
en beroepsregels accountants (VGBA, Dutch Code of Ethics).
We believe the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.
INFORMATION IN SUPPORT OF OUR OPINION
We designed our audit procedures in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole and in forming our opinion thereon. The
following information in support of our opinion was addressed in this context, and we do not provide a separate opinion or conclusion on these
matters.
MATERIALITY
Based on our professional judgement we determined the materiality for the financial statements as a whole at € 50 million. The materiality is
based on 0.5 % of total assets. We have also taken into account misstatements and/or possible misstatements that in our opinion are material
for the users of the financial statements for qualitative reasons.
We agreed with the supervisory board that misstatements in excess of € 2.5 million, which are identified during the audit, would be reported to
them, as well as smaller misstatements that in our view must be reported on qualitative grounds.
SCOPE OF THE GROUP AUDIT
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. is at the head of a group of entities. The financial information of this group is included in the consolidated
financial statements of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.
Our group audit mainly focused on the significant group entity URW America Inc. and its subsidiaries’, which make up 98% of both total assets
and rental income.
In establishing the overall group audit strategy and plan, we determined the type of work that needed to be performed at the components by
the group engagement team and by component auditors from other Deloitte Network firms.
103
Where the work was performed by component auditors, we determined the level of involvement we needed to have in the audit work at these
components so as to be able to conclude whether sufficient appropriate audit evidence had been obtained as a basis for our opinion on the group
financial statements as a whole. For each component we determined whether we required an audit of their complete financial information or
whether other procedures would be sufficient.
The group engagement team directed the planning, reviewed the work performed by component auditors and assessed and discussed the results
and findings with component auditors.
The group consolidation, financial statements and disclosures are audited directly by the group engagement team in addition to the other
procedures where the group engagement team is responsible for.
By performing the procedures mentioned above at group entities, together with additional procedures at group level, we have been able to
obtain sufficient and appropriate audit evidence about the group’s financial information to provide an opinion on the consolidated financial
statements.
AUDIT APPROACH FRAUD RISK
We identified and assessed the risks of material misstatements of the financial statements due to fraud. During our audit we obtained an
understanding of the entity and its environment and the components of the system of internal control, including the risk assessment process and
management’s process for responding to the risks of fraud and monitoring the system of internal control and how the supervisory board exercises
oversight, as well as the outcomes. We refer to the enterprise risk framework and respective risk chapter 4 of the annual report in which the
general risk framework and risk assessment of the entity is described. In respect to fraud risks to section 4.2.2.5 B of the annual report for
management’s corruption, money laundering & fraud risk assessment.
We evaluated the design and relevant aspects of the system of internal control and in particular the fraud risk assessment, as well as among
others the code of conduct and whistle blower procedures. We evaluated the design and the implementation of internal controls designed to
mitigate fraud risks.
As part of our process of identifying fraud risks, we evaluated fraud risk factors with respect to financial reporting fraud, misappropriation of
assets and bribery and corruption from time to time in close co-operation with our forensic specialists. We evaluated whether these factors
indicate that a risk of material misstatement due fraud is present.
We did not identify fraud risk factors with respect to revenue recognition. We have assessed the accuracy of gross rental income based on a test
of detail and analytical procedures on the tenancy schedule and linked the completeness to the property portfolio. Given the occupancy rate,
we were able to complete an assessment of the recorded gross rental income based on the substantive procedures performed using the tenancy
schedules and property portfolio.
We identified the following fraud risks and performed the following specific procedures:
Fraud risk
How the fraud risk was addressed in the audit
Management override of controls
We presume a risk of material misstatement due to fraud related to
management override of controls.
Management is in a unique position to perpetrate fraud because of
management’s ability to manipulate accounting records and prepare
fraudulent financial statements by overriding controls that otherwise
appear to be operating effectively.
Our audit procedures included, among others, the following:
We incorporated elements of unpredictability in our audit.
Elements could be, amongst others, additional samples on specific
accountant balances (for example investment property). We also
added specific searches on new key words in our manual journal
entry testing.
We also considered the outcome of our other audit procedures and
evaluated whether any findings were indicative of fraud or non-
compliance.
We tested the appropriateness of journal entries recorded in the
general ledger and other adjustments made in the preparation of
the financial statements.
We considered available information and made enquiries of
relevant executives, directors (including, legal, compliance and
regional management) and the supervisory board.
We evaluated whether the selection and application of accounting
policies by the Company, particularly those related to subjective
measurements and complex transactions, may be indicative of
fraudulent financial reporting. For significant transactions we have
evaluated whether the business rationale of the transactions
suggests that they may have been entered into to engage in
fraudulent financial reporting or to conceal misappropriation of
assets. As part of our audit procedures, we verified whether the
significant transactions should be considered related-party
transactions.
We evaluated whether the judgments and decisions made by
management in making the accounting estimates included in the
financial statements indicate a possible bias that may represent a
risk of material misstatement due to fraud.
Management insights, estimates and assumptions that might have a
major impact on the financial statements are disclosed in note 3.2
104
Fraud risk
How the fraud risk was addressed in the audit
of the financial statements. We performed a retrospective review
of management judgments and assumptions related to significant
accounting estimates reflected in prior year financial statements.
Valuation of investment property (including investment property as
included in the investments in companies accounted for using the
equity method) is a significant area to our audit as the valuation is
inherently judgmental in nature, due to the use of assumptions that
are highly sensitive, any change in assumptions may have a
significant effect on the outcome given the relative size of the
investment property balance.
Reference is made to the section ‘Our key audit matters’.
We audited all the top-side journal entries through inspection of
supporting documentation.
We determined the completeness of the top-side journal entries by
comparing these to the entries recorded in the previous year and
considered if other information gathered during the audit indicated
incompleteness of topside entries.
This did not lead to indications for fraud potentially resulting in material misstatements.
AUDIT APPROACH COMPLIANCE WITH LAWS AND REGULATIONS
We assessed the laws and regulations relevant to the Company through discussion with the management board, reading minutes and reports of
internal audit.
We involved our forensic specialists in this evaluation.
As a result of our risk assessment procedures, and while realizing that the effects from non-compliance could considerably vary, we considered
the following laws and regulations: adherence to (corporate) tax law and financial reporting regulations, the requirements under the International
Financial Reporting Standards as adopted by the European Union (EU-IFRS) and Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code with a direct effect on
the financial statements as an integrated part of our audit procedures, to the extent material for the related financial statements.
We obtained sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding provisions of those laws and regulations generally recognized to have a direct effect
on the financial statements.
Apart from these, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. is subject to other laws and regulations where the consequences of non-compliance could
have a material effect on amounts and/or disclosures in the financial statements, for instance, through imposing fines or litigation.
Given the nature and complexity of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.’s business we consider the risk of non – compliance in the areas of retail
rental contracts, data protection, tax and respective regulations, there is a risk of non-compliance with the requirements of such laws and
regulations. In addition, we considered major laws and regulations applicable to listed companies.
Our procedures are more limited with respect to these laws and regulations that do not have a direct effect on the determination of the amounts
and disclosures in the financial statements. Compliance with these laws and regulations may be fundamental to the operating aspects of the
business, to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.’s ability to continue its business, or to avoid material penalties (e.g., compliance with the terms of
operating licenses and permits or compliance with environmental regulations) and therefore non-compliance with such laws and regulations may
have a material effect on the financial statements. Our responsibility is limited to undertaking specified audit procedures to help identify non-
compliance with those laws and regulations that may have a material effect on the financial statements. Our procedures are limited to (i) inquiry
of management, the Supervisory Board, and others within Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.’s as to whether the Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.
is in compliance with such laws and regulations and (ii) inspecting correspondence, if any, with the relevant licensing or regulatory authorities
to help identify non- compliance with those laws and regulations that may have a material effect on the financial statements.
Naturally, we remained alert to indications of (suspected) non-compliance throughout the audit.
Finally, we obtained written representations that all known instances of (suspected) fraud or non-compliance with laws and regulations have
been disclosed to us.
AUDIT APPROACH GOING CONCERN
The financial statements of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. have been prepared on the basis of the going concern assumption. As indicated in
the responsibilities of management below, management is responsible for assessing the company’s ability to continue as a going concern. We
refer to the section ‘Going concern’ in Note 4.1.5 to the consolidated financial statements, which discloses that the Company’s liquidity needs
for the next 12 months are covered by the available undrawn credit lines and cash on-hand as well as by the cross-guarantees granted within the
URW Group.
Our evaluation of management’s assessment of the company’s ability to continue as a going concern for the next 12 months included the following
procedures:
• We inquired the management regarding any knowledge of events or conditions beyond the period of the management’s assessment
• Sensitivity analyses of the client indicate that material breaches of covenants are unlikely to result in an early repayment obligation based on
current market circumstances and head room in the respective covenants. For two loans from financial institutions within joint ventures, the
joint venture was not in compliance with the debt service coverage ratio required under the loan agreement. Non-compliance with the ratio
requirement is not an event of default but does trigger the funding of restricted reserve accounts controlled by the lender to cover future
property taxes. We evaluated the sensitivity analyses and the impact on the going concern assumption.
• We have evaluated whether cash positions, undrawn credit lines and cash flows are expected to be sufficient to meet future obligations.
105
• We have evaluated whether the tenant mix leads to concerns over dependency on a single tenant or limited group of tenants in respect to the
rental income and respective cash flows.
• In our evaluation of management’s assessment, we have considered all relevant information of which we are aware as a result of the audit.
Our audit work did not result in contradictory information about management’s assessment of the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern.
OUR KEY AUDIT MATTERS
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgement, were of most significance in our audit of the financial statements. We
have communicated the key audit matters to the supervisory board. The key audit matters are not a comprehensive reflection of all matters
discussed.
Key audit matter
How the key audit matter was addressed in the audit
Valuation of investment property (under construction), including investment property (under construction) as included in the
investments in the companies accounted for using the equity method.
Refer to note 6.1.2 and note 7.2 to the consolidated financial
statements.
As at 31 December 2022, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. held a direct
portfolio of investment property with a fair value of EUR 4,893.5
million (31 December 2021 EUR 5,029.1 million) and an indirect real
estate portfolio with a fair value of EUR 5,848.3 million based on
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.’s share (31 December 2021 EUR
6,358.6 million) as included in the investments in the companies
accounted for using the equity method.
The portfolio mainly consists of Shopping Centres.
At the end of each reporting period, Management determines the fair
value of its investment property portfolio in accordance with the
requirements of IAS 40 and IFRS 13.
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. uses external valuation reports issued
by external independent professionally qualified valuers to determine
the fair value of the investment property.
As the valuation of investment property is inherently judgmental in
nature, due to the use of assumptions that are highly sensitive, any
change in assumptions may have a significant effect on the outcome
given the relative size of the investment property balances.
The most significant assumptions and parameters involved, given the
sensitivity and impact on the outcome, are the capitalization rate and
market rent levels.
IFRS 13 seeks to increase consistency and comparability in fair value
measurements and related disclosures through a 'fair value hierarchy'.
The hierarchy categorizes the inputs used in valuation techniques into
three levels. The hierarchy gives the highest priority to (unadjusted)
quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities and
the lowest priority to unobservable inputs. (Unobservable) inputs are
used to measure fair value to the extent that relevant observable
inputs are not available, thereby allowing for situations in which there
is little, if any, market activity for the asset at the measurement date.
Fair value measurements categorized within Level 3 have the lowest
priority as the valuation is predominantly based on unobservable
inputs and those measurements have a greater degree of uncertainty
and subjectivity. This means that a valuation at Level 3 has a fairly
large measure of estimation uncertainty and as a result a fairly large
bandwidth of valuation uncertainty in which a valuation can been seen
reasonable in the light of IFRS 13.
Our audit procedures included, among others, the following:
We have gained understanding of the valuation process and tested
design and implementation of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.’s
relevant controls with respect to the data used in the valuation of
the property portfolio.
We noted that management involved established international
parties to assist with the valuation of the investment properties.
We evaluated the competence of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V.’s
external appraiser, which included consideration of their
qualification and expertise.
In relation to the significant assumptions in the valuation of
investment property (under construction), we have:
• Determined that the valuation methods as applied by
Management, as included in the valuation reports, are
appropriate and consistent.
• We have challenged the significant assumptions used (such as
capitalization rate, market rental income, market-derived
discount rate) against relevant market data. We have involved
our internal real estate valuation experts in these assessments.
• We assessed the sensitivity analysis on the key input data and
assumptions to understand the impact of reasonable changes in
assumptions on the valuation and other key performance
indicators.
• We have assessed the appropriateness of the disclosures relating
to the assumptions used in the valuations and sensitivity analysis
in the notes to the consolidated Financial Statements.
Observation
We found that, with the (significant) assumptions used in the
valuation reports, the valuation of the investment property is
valued within a reasonable range in the light of the valuation
uncertainty for level 3 valuations.
Valuation (including impairment testing) of acquired intangible assets
Refer to note 6.3 to the consolidated financial statements.
As at 31 December 2022, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. held a total
of EUR 211,2 million intangible assets (31 December 2021 EUR 263,5
million) of which EUR 205,8 million relates to the Westfield Trademark
for flagship centres (31 December 2021 EUR 263 million).
The subsequent measurement of acquired intangible assets with an
indefinite useful life requires annual impairment testing which is
complex and subject to estimation uncertainty. During 2022, the
intangible assets have been impaired by EUR 74,4 million.
Trademark intangible assets are valued by independent external
appraisers using a 10 years Discounted Cash Flow methodology
combined with the Royalty Relief method. The value relies on
incremental growth attributable to the Westfield trademark
Our audit procedures included, among others, the following:
• We obtained an understanding of and evaluated the design of
controls over the Company’s impairment testing process with
regard to intangible assets with an indefinite useful life,
including controls over management’s review of the significant
assumptions.
• We noted that management involved established international
parties to assist with the valuation of the trademark.
• We evaluated the competence of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
N.V.’s external appraiser, which included consideration of their
qualification and expertise.
106
Key audit matter
How the key audit matter was addressed in the audit
multiplied by the royalty rate. The Relief from Royalty method
estimates the value of the asset as the present value of future royalty
payments over the life of the asset that are saved (not paid) by virtue
of owning the asset.
Under IAS 36 an asset is impaired when it carrying amount exceeds its
recoverable amount. The recoverable amount of an asset or a cash-
generating unit is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and
its value in use. For the assessment of both recoverable amount and
fair value a large level of valuation uncertainty is included. Beside
uncertainty inherent in the asset both assessments include uncertainty
on timing of cashflows, the height of the cashflows, discount rates,
etc.
Furthermore, it is uncertain whether the assumptions of the market or
the enterprise are more likely to be true. As perfect markets do not
exist for many of the assets within the scope of IAS 36 and it is unlikely
that predictions of the future will be entirely accurate, regardless of
who makes them. This means that the outcome of the assessment has
a fairly large measure of estimation uncertainty and as a result a fairly
large bandwidth of valuation uncertainty in which a valuation can been
seen reasonable in the light of IAS 36 and IFRS 13 (Level 3).
Therefore, combined with the significance of the balances to the
financial statements as a whole, the valuation (including impairment
testing) of acquired intangible assets is a key audit matter.
• We inspected the documentation regarding the impairment
analysis that the Company prepared with the assistance of an
external appraiser.
• With the assistance of our valuation specialists, we assessed
the valuation of the intangible assets. We reviewed
management’s key assumptions used in the valuation such as
long- term growth rate, incremental growth rate, discount
rate, as well as the sensitivity analysis resulting from variations
of these assumptions.
• We assessed the used business assumptions with historical data.
• We have assessed the appropriateness of the disclosures relating
to the assumptions used in the notes to the consolidated
financial statements.
Observation
We found that, with the (significant) assumptions used in the
valuation, the valuation of the intangible assets is valued within a
reasonable range in the light of the valuation uncertainty under IAS
36 and IFRS 13.
Accounting for financial liabilities including derivatives
As at December 31, 2022, Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. had total
liabilities of € 9,800.7 million, including bonds, notes, bank
borrowings, other financial liabilities and financial leases and
commitments to non-controlling interests.
The preference shares held by URW SE amount to € 505.0 million and
are valued at amortized costs. Other commitments to non-controlling
interests are valued at fair value. Financial covenants are applicable
to issued bonds (€ 3,774.2 million).
The Company uses interest rate swaps to hedge its exposure to interest
rate risk. These derivatives, for which no hedge accounting is applied,
are carried at fair value through profit or loss and have a carrying
amount at the balance sheet of respectively € 142.6 million (asset) and
€ 45.4 million (liability).
The fair value adjustments of derivatives and financial liabilities
carried at fair value through profit or loss plus currency effect amount
to € 465.3 million positives.
The valuation of these financial instruments is dependent on estimates
and assumptions and requires judgment by management.
Furthermore, the Company amended a part (€ 250 million) of the €
1,250 million loan agreement with Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE,
which triggered an assessment of the classification of the modified
loan as either equity or long-term borrowings.
Considering the estimation uncertainty regarding the valuation of
financial instruments at fair value, the importance and relative size of
external financing, compliance with covenants, and the complex
accounting related to the amended part (€ 250 million) of the € 1,250
million intragroup loan, the accounting for financial liabilities
including derivatives is an important area of emphasis in our audit.
Please refer to note 2.1.3 and note 8 of the consolidated financial
statements.
Our audit procedures included, among others, the following:
• We assessed management’s controls over the accounting for
financial liabilities including derivatives.
• We obtained and analysed loan contracts and loan amendments
including the amended € 250 million intragroup loan, on a sample
basis to understand the terms and conditions and verified that
those characteristics were correctly reflected in the financial
statements in accordance with the accounting policies applied
by the Company based on IAS 32 Financial Instruments
Presentation and IFRS 9 Financial Instruments.
• We performed analytical procedures on the financial expenses.
• We confirmed the amount of the principal debt with third parties
on a sample basis.
• We confirmed a selection of derivatives directly with counter-
parties and performed procedures to ensure completeness of
them.
• For a sample of financial instruments, we reviewed the valuation
of derivatives (including the DVA/CVA calculation) and we
involved our internal specialists who performed independent
valuations.
• Where debt covenants were identified, we assessed
management's calculations to verify compliance with these
covenants.
• Additionally, we considered the appropriateness of the IFRS 7
disclosures in the financial statements in respect of financial
liabilities including derivatives.
Observation
Applying the materiality, we have audited the accounting for
financial liabilities including derivatives as well as the related
disclosure in Notes 8.3.3, 8.3.7 and 8.4 and have no reportable
findings.
REPORT ON THE OTHER INFORMATION INCLUDED IN THE ANNUAL REPORT
The annual report contains other information, in addition to the financial statements and our auditor's report thereon.
The other information consists of:
• Management Board's Report.
• Other Information as required by Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code.
• Corporate governance and remuneration report.
• Risk factors.
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• Information on the Company, shareholding and the share capital.
Based on the following procedures performed, we conclude that the other information:
• Is consistent with the financial statements and does not contain material misstatements.
• Contains all the information regarding the management report and the other information as required by Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil
Code.
We have read the other information. Based on our knowledge and understanding obtained through our audit of the financial statements or
otherwise, we have considered whether the other information contains material misstatements.
By performing these procedures, we comply with the requirements of Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code and the Dutch Standard 720. The
scope of the procedures performed is substantially less than the scope of those performed in our audit of the financial statements.
Management is responsible for the preparation of the other information, including the Management Board's Report in accordance with Part 9 of
Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code, and the other information as required by Part 9 of Book 2 of the Dutch Civil Code.
REPORT ON OTHER LEGAL AND REGULATORY REQUIREMENTS AND ESEF
Engagement
We were engaged by the supervisory board as auditor of Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. on June 22, 2022, as of the audit for the year 2022 and
have operated as statutory auditor ever since that financial year.
No prohibited non-audit services
We have not provided prohibited non-audit services as referred to in Article 5(1) of the EU Regulation on specific requirements regarding statutory
audit of public-interest entities.
European Single Electronic Format (ESEF)
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. has prepared its annual report in ESEF. The requirements for this are set out in the Commission Delegated
Regulation (EU) 2019/815 with regard to regulatory technical standards on the specification of a single electronic reporting format (hereinafter:
the RTS on ESEF).
In our opinion, the annual report, prepared in XHTML format, including the (partly) marked-up consolidated financial statements, as included in
the reporting package by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. complies in all material respects with the RTS on ESEF.
Management is responsible for preparing the annual report including the financial statements in accordance with the RTS on ESEF, whereby
management combines the various components into a single reporting package.
Our responsibility is to obtain reasonable assurance for our opinion whether the annual report in this reporting package complies with the RTS
on ESEF.
We performed our examination in accordance with Dutch law, including Dutch Standard 3950N ‘Assurance- opdrachten inzake het voldoen aan
de criteria voor het opstellen van een digitaal verantwoordingsdocument’ (assurance engagements relating to compliance with criteria for digital
reporting).
Our examination included amongst others:
• Obtaining an understanding of the company's financial reporting process, including the preparation of the reporting package.
• Identifying and assessing the risks that the annual report does not comply in all material respects with the RTS on ESEF and designing and
performing further assurance procedures responsive to those risks to provide a basis for our opinion, including:
o obtaining the reporting package and performing validations to determine whether the reporting package containing the Inline XBRL
instance and the XBRL extension taxonomy files has been prepared in accordance with the technical specifications as included in the
RTS on ESEF;
o examining the information related to the consolidated financial statements in the reporting package to determine whether all required
mark-ups have been applied and whether these are in accordance with the RTS on ESEF.
DESCRIPTION OF RESPONSIBILITIES REGARDING THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Responsibilities of management and the supervisory board for the financial statements
Management is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in accordance with EU-IFRS and Part 9 of Book
2 of the Dutch Civil Code. Furthermore, management is responsible for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable
the preparation of the financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.
As part of the preparation of the financial statements, management is responsible for assessing the company's ability to continue as a going
concern. Based on the financial reporting frameworks mentioned, management should prepare the financial statements using the going concern
basis of accounting unless management either intends to liquidate the company or to cease operations or has no realistic alternative but to do
so.
Management should disclose events and circumstances that may cast significant doubt on the company's ability to continue as a going concern in
the financial statements.
The supervisory board is responsible for overseeing the company's financial reporting process.
Our responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements
Our objective is to plan and perform the audit assignment in a manner that allows us to obtain sufficient and appropriate audit evidence for our
opinion.
Our audit has been performed with a high, but not absolute, level of assurance, which means we may not detect all material errors and fraud
during our audit.
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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 based on these financial statements. The materiality affects the nature, timing and extent of
our audit procedures and the evaluation of the effect of identified misstatements on our opinion.
We have exercised professional judgement and have maintained professional scepticism throughout the audit, in accordance with Dutch Standards
on Auditing, ethical requirements and independence requirements.
Our audit included among others:
• Identifying and assessing the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, designing and
performing audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtaining 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.
• Obtaining 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 company's internal control.
• Evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by
management.
• Concluding on the appropriateness of management's 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 company's ability to continue as
a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our auditor's report to the related
disclosures in the 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 auditor's report. However, future events or conditions may cause the company to cease to continue
as a going concern.
• Evaluating the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures.
• Evaluating whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.
Because we are ultimately responsible for the opinion, we are also responsible for directing, supervising and performing the group audit. In this
respect we have determined the nature and extent of the audit procedures to be carried out for group entities. Decisive were the size and/or
the risk profile of the group entities or operations. On this basis, we selected group entities for which an audit or review had to be carried out
on the complete set of financial information or specific items.
We communicate with the supervisory board regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit
findings, including any significant findings in internal control that we identified during our audit. In this respect we also submit an additional
report to the audit committee in accordance with Article 11 of the EU Regulation on specific requirements regarding statutory audit of public-
interest entities. The information included in this additional report is consistent with our audit opinion in this auditor's report.
We provide the supervisory board with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements regarding independence, and to
communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to bear on our independence, and where applicable,
related safeguards.
From the matters communicated with the supervisory board, we determine the key audit matters: those matters that were of most significance
in the audit of the financial statements. We describe these matters in our auditor's report unless law or regulation precludes public disclosure
about the matter or when, in extremely rare circumstances, not communicating the matter is in the public interest.
Amsterdam, March 27, 2023
Deloitte Accountants B.V.
Singed by J. Holland
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RISK FACTORS
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4.1 ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGEMENT (“ERM”) FRAMEWORK
4.1.1 POLICY & ORGANIZATION
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. (“URW NV”) and its subsidiaries are together referred to as “the Group”. URW NV and its controlled subsidiaries
are affiliated to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield SE (“URW SE”). Together they form the URW Group. Unless stated otherwise, the ERM framework of
URW NV is aligned with that of the URW Group.
URW NV’s Risk Management Policy is designed to:
• Identify and analyse the main potential threats in order to anticipate risks proactively;
• Set up and implement appropriate mitigating measures in order to monitor and/or reduce the identified risks;
• Secure decision-making and Group processes to achieve business objectives;
• Create and preserve the Group’s value, assets, brand and reputation;
• Ensure consistency of decisions with the Group’s values and strategy; and
• Bring the Group’s staff together behind a shared vision of risk management.
The organisation of the Group can be defined as a matrix organisation within the Netherlands and the United States and a Corporate Centre
organised around four main functions i.e. Owner, Operator, Resourcer, and Financer. The decision-making process is accomplished through
committees and collegial decision-making. The segregation of duties within the Group is based on the separation between execution and control.
The Group does not outsource core activities, except for some parts of its IT system and facility management. The Group’s main activities are
Investment and divestment, Asset management, Operating management (including leasing and property management) and Refurbishments, which
are briefly described below. The organisational structure is also based on a set of delegations that define the responsibilities and level of authority
of managers. Moreover, the Group utilizes internal committees, where decisions are based on a risk analysis approach.
INVESTMENT/DIVESTMENT
Investment is one of the major processes at URW NV as it is one of the first steps in the value creation process. It starts with deal sourcing (the
search for market opportunities), which is based on brokers, off- market relationships, and connections with local communities. Once an
investment opportunity is identified it undergoes a strict review and approval procedure with multiple steps through compliance and demanding
internal decision-making processes, in alignment with URW NV’s investment strategy.
Under the supervision of the Chief Operating Officer US (“COO US”), the Investment/Divestment (“I/D”) Department is responsible for the value
creation process and is in charge of evaluating and advising periodically on the basis of the aforementioned information whether the property
needs to be disposed of or not.
For divestments, a highly structured process is in place to provide the most complete and accurate information (data room) to maximise the
selling price and minimise the guarantees and representations, as well as the potential liabilities.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
The Asset Management Department is responsible for creating value across the asset portfolio by focusing on Net Operating Income (“NOI”),
internal rate of return, and property valuation growth. With contributions from all internal departments, the Asset Management Team delivers
a 5-Year Business Plan for each asset and strives to achieve the portfolio’s target value. In coordination with the onsite management team and
Tenant Administration (rent, tenant allowances, etc.), they manage rent collection, rent relief, and expenditures for their assigned asset.
Investment /
Divestment
Asset
Management
Operating
Management
Construction /
Refurbishment
Finance
Risk Management
Legal & Compliance
Information Technologies System
Human Resources
Sustainability
Internal
Audit
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OPERATING MANAGEMENT
Operating Management mainly focuses on property leasing, implementation/monitoring of the five-year business plan and property management,
including security and technical maintenance (facility management).
CONSTRUCTION/REFURBISHMENT
Construction and refurbishment consist of the following activities:
• Control of construction costs and management of construction contracts;
• Definition of the Group Corporate Social Responsibility (“CSR”) development policy;
• Selection and monitoring construction and refurbishment companies; and
• Supervision of construction until grand opening.
The URW NV ERM framework has three lines of defense as follows
44
:
(*) NV included in URW Group
Consolidated Risk Report
(**) URW Group Risk Committee consolidates NV risk report
44
Overview of the lines of defence comports with COSO (Committee of Sponsoring Organizations) ERM standards.
1
st
line of defence
Local Risk
Owners
2
nd
line of defence
3
rd
line of defence
URW N.V. Supervisory Board
URW N.V. Risk Committee
Executive committee
URW N.V.
Management Board
URW N.V.
Audit Committee
Internal audit
Group or support functions
(Communication, Redevelopment,
Finance, Resources etc.)
Risk Management and
Compliance
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4.1.2 OVERVIEW OF NV RISK COMMITTEE’S RESPONSIBILITIES
Central to the URW NV ERM Framework is the URW NV Risk Management Committee (“URW NV Risk Committee”). Composed primarily of senior
executives from the Netherlands and the US, it oversees management of fifteen key risks across the portfolio (“Risk Inventory”).
The Risk Inventory is organized into the following five categories:
(1) Business Sector and Operational Risks,
(2) Financial and Tax Risks,
(3) Environmental and Social Responsibility Risks (CSR) –emphasis on Sustainability,
(4) Security and Health & Safety, and
(5) Legal and Regulatory.
The current members of the URW NV RIsk Committee are:
• Chief Operating Officer US (“COO US”) as the Chair;
• Chief Financial Officer URW NV (“CFO URW NV”);
• Chief Financial Officer US (“CFO US”);
• General Counsel US;
• EVP of Internal Audit US;
• EVP Center Operations & Construction Management US;
• URW Group Director of Security, Risk & Crisis Management;
• Senior Litigation Counsel US (as moderator);
• Head of Risk Management Europe (as a guest if requested); and
• Others Local Risk Owners if requested.
The URW NV Risk Committee liaises with the Local Risk Owners to accomplish the ERM goals. The Local Risk Owners are department heads
assigned to manage and monitor one or more risks from the Risk Inventory. They rate the risks in terms of Impact, Likelihood, and Level of
Control pursuant to a Risk Assessment Criteria biannually.
The URW NV Risk Committee reviews the Local Risk Owners’ assessment and action plans for each risk in the Risk Inventory and collaborates with
them to embed ERM in all of URW NV’s activities. Examples include:
• Designing and implementing action plans to exercise commercially reasonable levels of control over the risks (proactive mitigation, response
plan, and monitoring);
• Confirming that all Local Risk Owners have identified, assessed, and established a risk management plan for their risks and that they are
routinely performing risk assessments and gap analysis to maintain awareness of all risks;
• Validating the level of control over each risk and alignment of such validation with the URW NV’s Risk Management Policy;
• Ensuring clearly defined division of risk-related responsibilities for each Local Risk Owner;
• Fostering a culture of risk management and awareness within URW NV by promoting open discussion regarding key risks; and
• Providing guidance regarding the URW NV’s risk appetite and tolerance to Local Risk Owners; and
• Reviewing various risk initiatives against the Compliance Book for alignment and training prioritization.
Risk Mapping (risk profile) – At the end of the year, the URW NV Risk Committee meets to engage in Risk Mapping. This process involves discussing
and either approving or modifying the Local Risk Owners’ application of the Risk Assessment Criteria to their assigned risks. Each risk from the
Risk Inventory is charted on a “map” with arrows and shading, either intensified or diluted, to indicate any changes from the prior year’s
assessment. Depending on the level of materiality of any particular risk for the entire URW Group, other internal committees and/or corporate
bodies within URW NV may be associated with or participate in the risk assessment and/or the decision-making.
At a minimum annually, the URW NV Risk Committee presents its assessment and action plans to the Audit Committee (“AC”) and Management
Board (“MB”), and the AC elevates to the Supervisory Board (“SB”). Such presentation may involve identification of any merging and developing
risks. Conversely, the AC or the SB may recommend demoting or removing previously identified risks from the Risk Inventory.
In 2022, three AC and two SB meetings related to ERM occurred, focusing on six key risks: (i) Retail Market Evolution, (ii) Sustainability Risks
(CSR), (iii) Leasing & Commercial Partnership, (iv) Investment & Divestment, (v) Recruitment, Retention & Succession, and (vi) Terrorism &
Security Incidents.
Below is an illustration of key ERM responsibilities.
OVERVIEW OF ERM KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
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4.1.3 URW NV RISK APPETITE
URW NV’s risk appetite is embedded within its overall strategy and risk management framework. In general, URW NV has a conservative approach
to managing risk. For each risk category – (i) Business Sector & Operational, (ii) Financial & Tax, (iii) Environmental and Social Responsibility,
(iv) Security, Health & Safety, and (v) Legal & Regulatory – we continuously assess the adequacy of and seek to improve mitigating measures. We
also monitor and identify new, emerging, evolving risks. In turn, we implement additional measures to control those risks as appropriate.
BUSINESS SECTOR AND OPERATIONAL RISKS
The ongoing retail market evolution is a significant challenge to URW NV. To become an industry leader in such a disruptive environment, URW
NV has devised a strategy that focuses on the concept of creating landmark destinations. Leasing and operations are partnering with the most
sought-after brands and operators to offer experiences that transcend traditional retail shopping malls. Because significant risks are inherent in
taking steps toward adaptation and innovation, URW NV has put special emphasis on due diligence and risk analysis in its decision-making process.
Other key components of the strategy are divestment of underperforming assets and leveraging data analytics. With respect to the divestment
activity, URW NV’s approach is disciplined and designed to maximize the value of the transactions to URW NV. Regarding data analystics and
related information technology services, URW NV’s approach is proactive and robust to comply with the regulations and limit the threat of data
breaches and other cyber-related incidents.
FINANCIAL AND TAX RISKS
As a REIT (real estate investment trust), URW NV is subject to a complex regime of prescriptive and challenging tax rules. To maximize compliance
and minimize adverse financial and tax results, URW NV has a very conservative fiscal policy. This is also consistent with the capital-intensive
nature of the business and the importance of maintaining a good financial credit rating for access to funds at competitive interst rates.
SUSTAINABILITY RISKS
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URW NV faces a number of environmental and social risks, clearly identified and matched with an action. Climate Change related risks (physical
and transitional) are covered by the Better Places 2030 strategy with a strong commitment to reduce GHG emissions and the integration of
climate adaptation measures. Better Places 2030 addresses the main challenges of URW NV’s operational activities across the portfolio, as well
as at the corporate offices. Risk factors and mitigation measures are embedded within such strategy. All of URW NV’s operations strive to comply
with all government environmental regulations.
Recruitment, Retention, and Succession are also part of this risk category. Following the post-pandemic wave of the Great Resignation globally,
the talent market remains competitive, but URW NV seen improvement in the second half of 2022. By streamlining core business processes, URW
NV endeavors to reduce inefficient open roles and increase employe productivity and engagement. For the full overview on risks and action plans
plesae refer to the Group Sustainabillity report.
SECURITY AND HEALTH & SAFETY
With hundreds of millions of customers visiting URW NV’s centres annually, URW NV is keenly aware of the importance in providing a safe and
healthy shopping environment. URW NV is also keenly aware of the threat of terrorist events. URW NV dedicates significant resources to both
health & safety and security. However, even with the most strenuous loss prevention and crisis management programs, the risk of loss from these
exposures will always be present. To protect URW NV from the potential negative financial impact associated with a significant terrorism or life
safety event a public liability insurance program has been taken out in amounts sufficient to cover its exposure to this risk.
LEGAL AND REGULATORY
URW NV has a “zero tolerance” policy towards any bribery or corruption and requires full compliance with all applicable regulations and laws in
the jurisdictions in which it operates. Significant efforts are devoted to develop procedures for reporting, ongoing training, and compliance
programs to minimize any exposure associated with this risk.
4.1.4 INTERNAL CONTROL SYSTEM
URW NV’s internal control system covers every aspect of its activities across all of the regions. It aims to provide reasonable assurance that the
following objectives are met:
• Effective and optimized execution of transactions;
• Protection of property assets;
• Reliable financial information; and
• Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and internal policies.
URW NV follows the general principles of the Dutch Financial Supervision Act (“Wet op het Financieel Toezicht”) and that of the Internal Control
System reference framework drafted in July 2010 by the AMF (French Financial Market Authority)
46
. Below are the fundamental principles:
• Standardized procedures;
• Accountability of managers in charge of the business, finance, and control;
• Committee-led decision-making process for Investment/Divestment and Refurbishment/Development; and
• Segregation of duties between the execution and control.
45
Previous terminology was Climate Change & Societal, now both covered under “Sustainability”.
46
The AMF is also a reference for URW Group.
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As detailed in the Compliance Book for Governance, Organization & Corporate Rules (“Compliance Book”), URW NV’s control environment consists
of:
• a matrix organization with a double reporting line at corporate and regional levels;
• the governance organization for URW NV and its subsidiaries;
• a framework of core processes and internal rules covering Investment & Divestment, Construction/Refurbishment, leasing activities, and
support functions, notably treasury and human resources;
• a Code of Ethics with emphasis on conflicts of interests, confidentiality of information, and transactions involving the Stapled Shares;
• and a Anti-Corruption Program (e.g., “Know Your Partner” due diligence process before entering into business relationships).
In addition to the Compliance Book, the Group’s control environment comprises:
• job descriptions and an appraisal system based on performance targets;
• set of delegation of authority and responsibility rules and limits that span all the Group’s activities and which should be finalised in the US;
• specific procedures applicable at the corporate level and in the different regions where the Group is present; and
• fewer formal instructions and recommendations that nevertheless form an integral part of the internal control system.
The URW Group Internal Audit Department, composed of 6 (2021:8) full-time employees in France and in the United States, assesses the internal
control system by conducting regular audits of all of the business units in line with the annual audit plan approved by the MB and the SB. In
addition, the URW Group CEO or the Chair of the AC can also ask the URW Group Internal Audit Department to carry out “flash” assignments in
order to provide a rapid response to urgent issues and/or the treatment of new risks or problems. Final audit reports are addressed to the MB
and to each department that has been involved in the audit. A summary of audit findings is provided to the AC on a quarterly basis.
The Group’s Internal Audit Charter sets out the different missions of the audit function. To ensure it remains genuinely independent, the URW
Group Internal Audit Department reports to the URW Group CEO and to the Chair of the AC.
4.2 MAIN RISK FACTORS
In accordance with European Directive No. 2017/828 of May 17, 2017, the risks factors presented herein are limited to those risks specific and
material to URW NV. The inventory of the risk factors may be expanded or decreased upon identification of new, emerging, or developing risks
or diminished relevance or upon determination that the net impact and net likelihood of a previously assessed risk have become de minimis.
The NV Risk Mapping is reviewed and updated if any on a recurring basis in coordination with the URW Group Risk Committee. The NV Risk
Mapping is also reviewed and discussed by the AC and the SB.
Given the ongoing developments of the Ukraine conflict adding to the impactful legacy of the COVID-19 global lockdowns (with continued
resurgence in regions such as China), and the threat of recession looming, URW NV continues to monitor and anticipate the evolving impacts to
the business, particularly concerning the energy crisis, inflation, supply chain issues and its effects on consumption and financing, and high
volatility of financial markets and forecasts. The risk mapping and/or the assessment by the URW NV Risk Committee are likely to undergo change
linked to what is commonly reference as the ‘perfect storm’ of negative geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions which could have a significant
effect on our business operations, budgetary and earnings forecasts, as well as on our stated strategy.
4.2.1 RATINGS OF THE MAIN SPECIFIC RISK FACTORS
The risk inventory for URW NV is composed of 15 risks, which are organized into 5 general categories. They are presented below on a descending order of
materiality, first ones being the most material (impact and likelihood).
The parameters of the risk rating are:
• Net impact: the potential net impact (financial/legal/reputational) impact after implementation of the applicable risk management and
mitigation measures, and
• Net likelihood – the potential net likelihood of the risk event after implementation of the applicable risk management and mitigation measures.
The risk rating criteria for Net impact and Net likelihood are regularly reviewed by both the URW NV Risk Committee and the URW Group Risk
Committee and presented to the AC and SB in line with NV’s evolving risk appetite.
The ratings assigned are the result of Risk Mapping and other assessments performed through the ERM Framework described in section 4.1.2
“Overview of the URW NV Risk Committee’s Responsibilities.”
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4.2.2 DETAILED MAIN RISK FACTORS
4.2.2.1 CATEGORY # 1: BUSINESS SECTOR AND OPERATIONAL RISKS
A. Retail Market Evolution/Disruption
As of December 31, 2022, URW NV’s portfolio of 21 Shopping Centres in the US, including 13 Flagships, was valued at €10,947 Mn (2021: €11,673
Mn)
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. Given the breadth of its real estate profile, any mid- to long-term changes in market conditions would have a significant impact on URW
NV’s activities, asset valuation, financial performance, and strategies for investment/divestment and refurbishment/development.
The pandemic and its aftermath seem to have accelerated many retail sector evolutionary trends over the last 2-3 years. For example, people
live, work, and spend their money differently. Some trends are likely to result in a permanent shift in consumers’ habits and expectations. Such
changes, combined with an economic downturn, geopolitical instability, potential resurgence of health crisis, reduction in available savings, and
stricter regulations, present significant challenges for the industry across the board.
E-commerce appears to be a trend that will stay in place. Revenue from retail e-commerce in the United States was estimated at roughly 905
billion U.S. dollars in 2022
48
This is approximately a 5% increase from 2021. The Statista Digital Market Outlook forecasts that by 2027, online
shopping revenue in the U.S. will exceed 1.7 trillion dollars.
47
valuation incl. transfer taxes and the Westfield Trademark.
48
Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/272391/us-retail-e-commerce-sales-forecast, February 9, 2023.
Rating
Net impact
High net impact
Medium net impact
Low net impact
Net likelihood
Likely
Possible
Unlikely
Risk Factors categories
Risk Factors
Rating after risk management
measures
Section
Net impact
Net Likelihood
Category #1: Business Sector and
Operational risks
Retail Market Evolution/Disruption
4.2.2.1.A
Investment and Divestment
4.2.2.1.B
Refurbishment/Construction
4.2.2.1.C
Leasing & Commercial Partnerships
4.2.2.1.D
IT System & Data: Continuity and integrity
4.2.2.1.E
Category #2: Financial and Tax risks
Access to Capital & Financial Market disruption
4.2.2.2.A
REIT Status & Regime (Tax)
4.2.2.2.B
Category #3: Environmental and
Social Responsibility risks
Recruitment, Retention, and Succession
4.2.2.3.A
Sustainability risks
4.2.2.3.B
Category #4: Security, Health and
Safety risks
Terrorism & Major Security
4.2.2.4.A
Health and Safety
4.2.2.4.B
Category #6: Legal, Regulatory risks
Legal and regulatory
4.2.2.6.A
Corruption, Money Laundering & Fraud
4.2.2.6.B
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At the same time, however, e-commerce has not translated into the demise of brick-and-mortar retail. Rather, the emerging retail trend is
“omnichannel”. Omnichannel retail is a fully integrated shopping experience that allows consumers to shop seamlessly from all points of contact,
i.e., the channels – web, mobile-app, social media, and brick and mortar. Therefore, savvy retailers, including digital-native brands, are opening
physical stores to offer their customers an omnichannel experience
49
According to an ICSC (International Council of Shopping Centers) study,
when a digital-native brand opens a physical store, it benefits from what is called a “halo effect”; the retailer’s web traffic increases by as much
as 45% from before opening the physical store. These brands utilize their physical stores to emphasize experience and exploration over sales
transactions, which are expected to flow and increase organically from consumer confidence and satisfaction.
Related to e-commerce and “omnichannel” retail is the Gen-Z sector, referring to people born between 1995 and 2000 and the first “digitally-
native” generation. They constitute approximately 26% of the global population (21% in the US). Therefore, their values, preferences, and buying
habits warrant our attention. According to recent surveys, three-quarters of Gen-Z consumers state that sustainability is more important to them
than brand names to the point of changing their buying habits to favor environmentally-conscious products.
50
Another unique aspect of Gen-Z
consumption is that consume by having access to goods and services, not necessarily owning them, e.g., Uber and streaming music versus having
a car and buying CDs.
These trends, as well as post-pandemic lifestyle changes such as hybrid working arrangements and the perceived obsolescence of traditional
centres, all present challenges and opportunities for URW NV to adapt so as to stay relevant and get ahead of competitors.
The potential net impact of failure to adapt is very high because the fair market value of URW NV’s real estate assets is sensitive to variations
in the appraisers’ principal assumptions (yield, rental value, occupancy rates), which ultimately depend on footfall and sales. URW NV recognizes
the need to develop and implement a business model that adapts to the disruption while remaining grounded through a rigorous ERM framework.
Our risk management strategy focuses on continuing to invest in our flagship centres to create destinations where people live, work, shop, and
play, sourcing sustainable retail concepts, angled towards sustainable consumption, and continuing to monitor consumer trends.
In the US, 2022 footfall reached 94% of 2019 levels and 96% excluding the Central Business District (“CBD”)
51
which footfall remains affected by
work from home policies and security issues. During the second half, footfall continued to improve, from 93% in H1-2022 to 95% in H2-2022.
In Q4-2022, footfall reached 94% of 2019 levels.
Compared to 2021, footfall was up +14%.
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Competition from e-commerce;
• Evolving demographic and cultural changes (e.g., lifestyle, preferences,
values that affect consumption habits and patterns);
• Changing retail and real estate market conditions (e.g., store closures by
anchor stores modifying their brick-and-mortar strategy);
• Competition with other participants in the commercial and retail real
estate industry.
• Invest in flagship assets with a focus on creating people-centric
destinations to drive foot-traffic and sales;
• Perform annual research in each geography to understand and
anticipate shifts in retail, demographic and cultural changes;
• Explore and initiate densification and mixed-use development, expand
leasing to new types of tenants, including entertainment, health &
wellness, increased food & beverage, digital native-vertical brands, and
luxury, event spaces, and pop-ups;
• Incorporate sustainability into core business model;
• Implement a new customer-centric approach, including enhanced digital
strategy and IT infrastructure to support data collection;
• Assess merchandising and positioning for each flagship asset to future
proof the strategy of the asset and adapt the retail mix to new needs;
• Collaborate closely with retailers to understand and align with their
strategy;
• Divest non-core assets according to the divestment program.
B. Investment And Divestment
Value creation through the investment and divestment of assets is part of URW NV’s main activities. The profitability of these transactions
depends on the accuracy of initial financial assumptions, market conditions (including available funding and investors’ appetite), tax
environment, quality and attractiveness of assets, and legal & regulatory considerations.
Currently there are no plans for acquisitions. With respect to URW NV’s plan to streamline its US portfolio by disposing non-core assets, the
market for retail shopping centres remains challenging due to an overabundance of retail shopping space. Combined with a slowdown of the
investment market as well as the potential for a prolonged global recession, our ability to sell assets without discount on book values may be
negatively impacted. The availability of capital may further challenge URW NV’s ability to implement its divestment/disposal efforts. The
execution of the disposal program may be subject to the satisfaction or waiver of JV partners approval. There is no certainty that these conditions
will be satisfied or waived in the necessary timeframe, and therefore, disposal may be delayed or not complete.
Nevertheless, URW NV successfully closed several dispositions in 2022 and completed at a discount of -0.5% to 2021 book value.
In 2023, URW NV will continue to streamline its remaining regional asset portfolio. As described in greater detail below, URW NV is continuously
monitoring and finetuning mitigation measures to optimize the disposition plan.
49
Source: Why Digital-Native Luxury Brands Are Opening Physical Stores (luxe.digital)
50
Source: How Millennials and Gen Z Are Driving Growth Behind ESG | Nasdaq
51
Westfield World Trade Center and Westfield San Francisco Centre.
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Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Misalignment with URW Group strategy and incorrect underwriting
(asset valuation and forecast);
• Information leakage and market rumours; and
• Failure to execute the announced disposal plan and the US strategic
portfolio reduction program.
• Develop framework and processes that analyse the current financial
performance of each asset, assess its potential to perform at a flagship
level, and then develop a formal plan to divest non-core assets;
• Transparency and open communication with retailers and JV partners;
• Utilize electronic data rooms to track and administer all pertinent data
provided to potential buyer;
• Prequalify each potential buyer to assess whether transaction are worth
pursuing;
• Due diligence with the assistance of external advisors;
• Prioritize local/strategic buyers with high net worth or significant
balance sheet liquidity;
• Continue to monitor macro conditions and comparable equity and debt
market transactions;
• Financing strategy in place to mitigate the level of pressure on
deleveraging and preserve access to refinancing market; and
• Recurring strategic review between MB and SB to ensure full alignment
on URW Group strategy.
C. Refurbishment
As owner and operator of shopping centre and other real estate assets, with a focus on continued differentiation and innovation, URW NV has a
pipeline of expansion, improvement, and refurbishment projects, focusing on mixed-use and densification. While it represents a huge opportunity
to capture or protect market share in the industry, it also implies significant cost and potential risk of failing to deliver in accordance with the
business plan with resulting adverse impact on the business.
There are risks inherent in obtaining timely external authorizations (such as building permits and inspections), securing adequate funding (through
joint venture partners or other), managing the budget, and navigating through potential shortage of labor and materials. Such risks may result
in delay, postponement, cancellation of projects, or exceeding their accounted budgets, which could lead to subsequent loss of rental income.
In addition, with the URW Group’s sustainability ambitions now core to the business, there is heavy focus on regeneration, refitting, recycling
etc. of centres and generally meeting its high sustainability targets.
URW NV continues to manage these risks with major potential impacts on project delivery.
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Ineffective refurbishment strategy, investment decision and approval
process;
• Failure to obtain required external authorisations;
• Not reaching post-refurbishment leasing and revenue targets;
• Failure to comply with the construction quality, costs and delivery date;
and
• Inability to secure adequate funding for a project (through joint
• venture partner or other).
• Quarterly review of project status, its budget, and returns and annual 5-
year business plans by the Management Board;
• Accelerate plans to move towards more mixed-use projects;
• Engage third-party specialist advisors and consultants throughout the
pre-refurbishment phase to assist in identifying potential hurdles with
external stakeholders and successfully navigate any issues;
• Employ construction and design experts in-house to ensure compliance
with sustainability objectives;
• Implement robust third parties claim management and insurance
processes;
• Coordinate with JV partners to secure and expedite funding;
• Partner with third-party investors to reduce financial exposure,
capitalize on additional know-how (e.g., residential construction), and
capture part of the refurbishment margin;
• Improve procurement process to secure cross-border supply chain; and
• Standardization and industrialization of construction methods to
manage cost and schedule.
D. Leasing & Commercial Partnerships
Leasing and rent collection are part and parcel of URW NV as a REIT. In an ever more complex and globalized environment, our ability to achieve
leasing targets (rental rate, deadlines, prospective tenants) at the expected level and collect rent depends on multiple variables, including the
solvency of our tenants (mainly retailers).
Prolonged inflation, particularly energy prices, has adversely impacted consumer spending and increased the likelihood of tenant failures and
related requests for rent relief while decreasing tenants’ appetite for new activations. Rent collection has been an ongoing challenge due to
local ordinances in the US that mandated rent deferrals for small and medium retailers affected by the pandemic. In Los Angeles County, the
jurisdiction with the highest concentration of URW NV’s assets, the grace period for paying back all of the rent that was deferred pursuant to
the ordinance did not expire until February 2023.
While recovery level after reopening differs from one geographic region of the US to another, and depending on the retail segment, we continued
to actively negotiate with our tenants to address these challenges and share part of the financial impact of the crisis (primarily small and medium
size retailers) through a combination of rent relief and rent deferral. In 2022, URW NV has completed 134 rent relief documents in the US. In
2022, six stores were impacted by 4 bankruptcies in the US. This is a marked improvement from 2021, when 58 stores were impacted by 11
bankruptcies, and from 2020, when 229 stores were impacted by 43 bankruptcies. The US team continues to closely monitor distressed tenants
in an effort to mitigate potential revenue loss.
Mitigating measures to identify and limit the above-mentioned risks are to have a constant review and monitoring of rent discount and deferral
requests, vacancies, tenants in distress, new deals, and lease expiration schedules. Revised leasing targets are defined within each region and
approved by the Executive Committee. Major leases in terms of value and/or special terms and conditions must be internally approved in advance
by Leasing executives as well as through an additional executive committee review process.
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Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Improper management of rent relief, store closings, and tenant
• allowances;
• Tenant financial insolvency/default and store closings; and
• Failure to achieve synergies in terms of leasing and commercial
partnerships targets.
• Leasing targets (e.g. prices, deadlines and prospective tenants) are
defined within each region of the URW Group and approved by the URW
Group Executive Committee. Major leases in terms of value and/or
special terms and conditions must be internally approved in advance by
Leasing Directors and the COO US;
• Regular meeting with leasing team and finance team members to review
deals to ensure efficiency and strong internal control processes to
approve allowances for tenants as well as levels of rent;
• Local frameworks to monitor solvency of new tenants and regular
checks of existing tenant solvency;
• Financial guarantees as a prerequisite to the standard lease agreements
(deposit, guarantee, letters of credit);
• Third-party debt collection agency to reduce cost of litigation;
• Constant review of the tenancy report (vacancies, tenants in distress,
new deals, and lease expiration schedule over next 3 years);
• Monthly meetings with directors of construction, leasing and operating
management to monitor the progress of project completion and to
adjust tenant space delivery schedules accordingly;
• Creative negotiations with troubled tenants to maximize buy-out lease
rents in order to provide time to backfill the space with another tenant;
• Monitor virtual vacancies and assigned priority levels to lease space;
• Track pre-lease rates to limit vacancy and loss of rental income;
• Monthly Accounts Receivable meeting with Shopping Center and
Operating Management to monitor troubled retailers and initiate
actions timely.
E. Information Technology Systems & Data – Continuity and Integrity
To support its business & digital objectives, URW NV’s IT Department partners with all business units to provide and maintain the technology to
suit business needs. There are over 900 users (including contractors) between two platforms in the Netherlands and in the US, and over 200
applications.
Therefore, the IT Systems must be reliable in Data Confidentiality (protection of sensitive data), System Continuity (availability of the systems
and data needed by the businesses to carry out their operations), and Data Integrity (comprehensive and accurate data). In the event of
cyberattacks or data leakage, there could be partial or complete disruption of business process and activities, loss of productivity, and/or legal
or regulatory impacts (e.g., class actions for breach of personal data).
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Cyber attack;
• Disruption or malfunctioning of critical IT systems;
• Data corruption;
• Data breach (confidential business information or personal).
• Strong governance involving IT, risk management, legal, internal audit,
and business stakeholders and management to review IT activities and
investment, including a dedicated committee to also monitor cyber-risks
on daily operations;
• Information Systems Security strategy and technology designed and
rolled out to prevent cyber-risks, detect security incidents, and respond
quickly to remediate cybersecurity incidents;
• Integration of cybersecurity aspects in all IT projects and contractual
commitments with IT vendors;
• A URW Group Cyber Crisis framework is in place, with specific response
procedures in case of a major IT security event/crisis, and are linked to
the General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”)/CCPA Data Breach
notification process;
• Regular IT audits to test our protective and detective measures; and
• IT Disaster Recovery Plan implemented.
4.2.2.2 CATEGORY # 2: FINANCIAL AND TAX RISKS
A. Access To Capital & Financial Market Disruption
URW NV is part of the URW Group and as such covered by Group cross-guarantees. As a REIT with significant financial indebtedness associated
with the 2018 Westfield Transaction (as of December 31 2022, €24,025 Mn at URW Group level) URW faces recurring needs for (re)financing for
its corporate purpose, including funding for the refurbishment pipeline and construction activities, large-scale capital improvement and
maintenance projects for standing assets, and other potential operational financing needs. Therefore, URW is exposed to the risks associated
with volatility in credit markets, fluctuations in interest rates and foreign exchange (FX), and other market conditions that could limit access to
necessary funding, which could negatively impact operations and financial results of the Group.
In addition, some financing contracts are subject to financial covenants that require the Group to respect certain financial ratio levels (including
Loan to Value (“LTV”), Interest Coverage Ratio (“ICR”), Fund From Operations (“FFO”)/net debt and/or debt yield ratios among others) which
may be affected by the occurrence of the Group’s performance deterioration, adverse market movements, or other material adverse changes.
Failure to comply with any of Group’s financial covenants could result in an event of default, which, if not cured or waived, could accelerate
the related debt and in some cases trigger a cross default, which could have a material adverse effect on the Group’s debt, including potential
default on URW’s debt. See Note 8.3.5. on covenants in chapter 3 of this annual report.
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Another risk factor is a potential default by counterparties. Many major international financial institutions are counterparties to the interest rate
and/or foreign exchange rate and deposits contracted by URW NV. In case of the default by a counterparty, URW NV could lose all or part of its
deposits and lose the benefit from hedges signed with such counterparties. The result would be a significant increase in exposure to risks
associated with interest and currency exchange rates, with cascading effects on URW NV’s financial position.
The current macro-economic climate, together with hawkish monetary policies from central banks, has led to: (1) higher volatility and execution
risk in the debt and investment markets with more cautious investor sentiment and (2) higher cost of funding with higher margins and base rates.
This situation increases pressure on the current rating and therefore would further impact access to financial markets, its liquidity, and cost of
debt.
URW Group has taken precautionary measures needed to ensure its access to liquidity. As at December 31, 2022, the URW Group had €13.0 Bn
of cash on hand and undrawn credit lines (subject to covenants).
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Rising cost of access to funds due to:
o Increase in spreads,
o Diminished credit rating,
o Dramatic increase in interest rates,
o Adverse currency exchange rate movements,
o Disruption and volatility of capital markets.
• Diminished ability to service debt and comply with performance
covenants;
• Market risks which can generate losses as a result of fluctuations in
stock markets. The Group is either:
o Directly exposed to fluctuations in stock prices due to the
ownership of shares or financial instruments; or
o Indirectly exposed to fluctuations in stock prices, due to the
ownership of funds, investment instruments or share-based
derivatives that are directly correlated with the price of the asset
underlying such derivatives.
• Disruption in real estate market or investor appetite for property
companies;
• Deterioration of URW NV’s financial result, decrease in EBITDA and
operating cash flows;
• Default of counterparties.
• ;
• The Group Asset & Liability Management (ALM) Committee discuss
regularly on an ad-hoc bases;
• URW Group Financing and Treasury Department regularly provides a
comprehensive report on key financial indicators, liquidity projections,
compliance with bank loans and facilities covenants, availability under
the committed credit lines. It also proposes (re)financing or hedging
operations (if applicable), and details of any (re)financing operations or
transactions (hedging operations, share buy-backs, etc.);
• Internal policies and procedures maintain a conservative approach and
segregate duties between execution of market trading and control
functions of such transactions;
• The group has an interest rate macro hedging policy (through the use of
derivatives) aiming to limit the impact of interest rate fluctuations on
the cost of debt over the next years, in view of its current disposal and
investment plans, its existing hedging programme and debt as well as
the debt the Group expects to raise in the coming years;
• The Group maintains regular dialogue with rating agencies with a
proactive monitoring of credit metrics;
• Control of Capex spending in line with the Group’s deleveraging plan
announced in 2021;
• Active reduction of non-staff expense and deferring of non-essential
capital expenditure; and
• Diversification of sources/counterparties and monitor their credit and
minimum financial ratings thresholds as condition of continued
transactions.
B. REIT Status & Regime (Tax)
As a REIT, URW NV enjoys the benefits of a lower tax burden. To retain its REIT status, URW NV must comply with the respective local requirements
of the tax regime, which differ per country. Due to the expanded tax structuring complexity, combined with the stapling principle in place
between URW SE and URW NV, the potential risk of noncompliance with the tax requirements is ever present. Disagreements with or challenges
or investigations from the governmental agencies or authorities in the applicable jurisdiction related to tax law interpretation could result in
severe consequences, ranging from additional tax penalties and fines to loss of a REIT status.
Unlike some European countries, in which the repeal of a REIT regime is a potential risk, the US views REITs favourably, and the focus is more
on whether the REIT is properly classifying its income. With URW NV’s increased exploration of revenue sources, there could be a heightened
risk of improper classification of income and invite challenges.
More generally, the high levels of debt that governments have incurred as a result of various public subsidy programs in dealing with the COVID-
19 crisis has resulted in significant budgetary deficits. As governments look to recover from these fiscal challenges there is a risk of an increase
in taxes generally, thus also affecting URW NV.
Although REITs are generally required to distribute most of its income to shareholders, the absence of dividends this year would be in compliance
with the REIT rules based on the financial impact of the pandemic, from which most industries are still recovering, and URW Group’s commitment
to deleverage.
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Loss of REIT status or other tax benefits due to external factors;
• Improper interpretation and/or application of tax law and REIT
requirements;
• Improper classification of income;
• Exceeding allowable non-qualifying income;
• Failure on tax determination, reporting, tax remittance other than
theoretical disagreement.
• Highly trained and experienced tax employees, who also train colleagues
in other departments regarding potential adverse tax consequences of
ongoing operations and activations;
• Continuous risk assessment of potential loss caused by changes in tax
regulation;
• Proactive legal teams monitoring and anticipation of changes in REIT
regime and tax regulations/laws generally;
• External advisory firms and auditors to verify accuracy of tax
calculations;
• Membership EPRA (in the EU) and NAREIT (in the US), which promote
modern and predictable REIT regimes;
• Review tax prerequisites for deals to go to the Investment Committee
and explore potential to add formal sign-off processes (potentially
including the Investment process) to the Compliance Book.
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4.2.2.3 CATEGORY # 3: SUSTAINABILITY RISKS
A. Recruitment, Retention & Succession
Considering the very competitive talent market (including the very low unemployment rates in some local markets) as well as the need to retain
talent and knowledge, URW NV faces important risks related to recruitment, retention and succession of talents. Insufficient and inadequate
human resources or inability to attract or retain talent could prevent reaching URW NV’s objectives as the asset and property businesses require
highly specialized skills.
URW NV continues to actively listen to employees with regular engagement surveys, reinforce the strong cultural elements, make critical pivots
to employee engagement, and promote the International Graduate Program (IGP). URW NV is adapting the level of resources to the
reprioritization of projects and streamlining of processes.
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Failure to recruit appropriate talent to maintain strategic capabilities;
• Failure to retain key employees; and
• Failure to set up and secure a formal succession plan.
• Develop and support “employer brand” with an increased presence on
social media;
• Implement ‘Levelling’ system to better support career evolution and
ensure fair compensation for every role;
• Enhance long-term incentive program;
• Maintain and expand IGP;
• Monitor continued attractiveness of compensation and benefits
packages;
• Partner with the best head-hunting firms to regularly map best external
talent;
• Develop a strong co-optation program;
• Conduct regular engagement surveys;
• Design and implement ambitious people-oriented policies on flexible
working, wellbeing, diversity & inclusion and sustainability;
• Provide permanent learning and career development opportunities (e.g.
international mobility, cross-functional mobility, URW Academy);
• Effectuate global talent review in place, including systematic 360°
feedback for all employees;
• Global Succession Planning to identify potential successors for all
positions reporting to a MB member, all positions reporting to the Chief
Operating Officer, all heads of key functions, and other selected key
positions.
B. Sustainability Risks
As owner and operator of retail assets, URW NV is potentially impacted by climate change and societal risks and opportunities. Indeed, each of
its real estate assets is exposed to potential damages caused by climate change including natural disasters. Therefore, URW NV is placing climate
change (physical and transitional) and societal risks at the heart of its strategy with an integrated commitment to reduce its carbon footprint by
reducing GHC emissions and to make sustainability a core part of its business by integration of climate adaptation measures. In alignment with
the URW Group’s global sustainability strategy based on environmental best practices, social fairness and transparent governance, our “Better
Places 2030” aims to emphasize sustainability across all of the operational activities, including the corporate headquarters. For more details on
natural disasters, please refer to Section 4.2.2.4, Subsection B and Section 4.3, Transferring Risk to Insurers. For the full overview on risks and
action plans please refer to the URW Group Sustainability report on https://www.urw-nv.com/en/investors/financial-information.
4.2.2.4 CATEGORY # 4: SECURITY, HEALTH AND SAFETY RISKS
A. Terrorism & Major Security Incidents
The core business of URW NV is based on assets open to the public with a significant footfall. As such, it is important that we maintain an
appropriate safety and security program to welcome customers. Since rolling out the “Westfield” brand in Europe for global recognition and the
iconic status of some assets, there may be increased levels of threats to those assets.
While the threats of a terrorist attack are highest in Continental Europe, the risk of an active shooter incident is most likely in the US. In addition,
the current economic climate and cost of living crisis could give rise to local societal risks such as increased violence, protests, riots or industrial
action at URW NV’s assets, causing a potential reduction in footfall and impacts on operations. Despite crisis management programs and training
in place and close cooperation with local law enforcement agencies, the potential threats of terrorism and active shooter situations can never
be eliminated. Should a serious security, safety, or terrorism event occur that results in casualties or even property damage, URW NV could
experience a negative impact on its operations, its financial results, and its brand and reputation.
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Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Failure to develop and implement a security program that: (i) Remains
aware of terrorist threats or other major security concerns – including
active shooter; and (ii) Mitigates the impact of a major security incident
including terrorist attack/active shooter event; and
• Failure to develop and implement an effective crisis management
framework.
• Dedicated organization for security and crisis management;
• Security governance and guidelines (including refurbishment projects),
security policies and procedures implemented at all locations with
appropriate physical security measures and access control;
• Annual security action plan program to identify action plans and include
OPEX and CAPEX requirements in the 5-year business plan;
• External and internal audits of centre security measures;
• Routine interaction with counter-terrorism, national intelligence
services, and local law enforcement to remain aware of emerging
terrorist threats or other security concerns;
• Shopping centres conduct terrorist attack/active shooter crisis response
exercises with external experts;
• Global incident notification/escalation process; and
• Crisis management policy and framework including annual crisis training
and exercise campaigns.
B. Health And Safety (Natural disasters)
As real estate owners, we have responsibility towards ensuring the safety and wellbeing of shoppers, retailers, vendors, and employees alike.
The Group has a significant footfall. This also includes maintaining proper building and equipment maintenance protocols to minimize the risk of
injury or illness, protect the environment, and mitigate the impact of unexpected events on the building and on business continuity.
Each country where URW NV operates has a specific set of health and safety laws, and regulations. Developing and implementing an effective
compliance framework, monitoring and complying with new or evolving Health, Safety and Environment (“HSE”) laws and regulations, and
ensuring compliance with the URW Group’s internal HSE policies is of critical importance in managing this risk. This is primarily accomplished
with internal teams with expertise in health and safety in the US.
Certain regions in which URW NV operates have significant exposure to natural disasters – e.g. earthquakes and wildfires in California, hurricanes
in Florida and flooding in the Netherlands, and climate change related natural events exposure. For assets potentially exposed to natural
disasters, emergency response plans are defined by the local management team with support by regional and corporate teams.
As the URW NV’s operational assets are places open to the public in significant numbers, there is significant risk of exposure to operational
disruption in the event of a pandemic outbreak. As seen with COVID-19 in 2020 and 2021, this can result in government-imposed closure of our
centres. During periods of trading throughout pandemics (and emerging variants), the URW Group implemented appropriate sanitary and
management measures for the safety of employees, retailers and guests in our operational assets and corporate offices. Non-compliance with
the applicable health and safety regulations could lead to claims, reputational damage, regulatory fines and imposed lockdowns of the shopping
centres, which could result in severe negative financial consequences for URW NV.
For more details on natural disasters, please refer to Section 4.3, Transferring Risk to Insurers.
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Failure to implement effective strategies that seek to minimize, prevent,
and mitigate life safety incidents;
• Failure to implement processes that may mitigate and manage the
impact of any natural disaster (earthquake, flooding, climate change
related significant natural events, and uninsured risk);
• Injury or loss of life due to failure to comply with sanitary, health and
safety regulations; and
• Insufficient response to pandemic outbreak.
For US portfolio
• Verification that contractors’ health and safety procedures are
appropriate and that their staff have the proper licenses, equipment and
training;
• External Audit by Bureau Veritas (third-party vendor) with the assistance
of epidemiologists based on latest recommendations of health
authorities;
• Centre management conducts routine property tours and identifies
hazardous conditions and implements corrective actions;
• Maintenance and inspection conducted by third-party contractors of all
relevant equipment subject to regulation;
• Internal documentation processes to justify the compliance with
sanitary protocols;
• Fire safety systems are routinely inspected as required by local fire
regulations; Corporate and Construction Health and Safety policies
incorporate regulations and are based on industry-accepted best
practices in the absence of a specific governing regulation; and
• Global Pandemic response plan.
Natural disaster
52
• Periodic assessment of European and US assets most exposed to natural
disasters (coastal flooding, flash floods, heatwaves, storms and
earthquakes) to validate response plans;
• Each centre in a natural catastrophe zone conducts emergency
preparedness drills each year.
52
For more information, please see Section 4.3 Transferring Risk to Insurers.
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4.2.2.5 CATEGORY # 5: LEGAL AND REGULATORY RISKS
A. Legal & Regulatory
URW NV operates in 2 highly regulated continents. Our operations also require us to comply with a myriad of laws and regulations related to our
activities in areas such as leasing, asset and property management, various licensing and permits, construction and maintenance, health & safety,
personal data privacy, financials and securities markets, and anti-trust regulations to name a few, as well as with some extraterritorial
regulations. As such, the risk of failing to comply with applicable laws and regulation may result in regulatory investigation, negative reputational
impact or could result in fines and penalties, damages, the loss of license, and/or any potential legal action. The US in particular is a highly
litigious country. The US is exposed to the risk of major litigations, including class actions.
In the course of its activities, URW NV collects and processes diverse personal data from customers, employees, business partners and service
providers. Such activities are subject to data protection laws such as the GDPR (EU), the California Consumer Protection Act (CCPA), and the
California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA). Noncompliance could result in fines and penalties as well as negatively impacting the Group’s reputation.
URW NV endeavours to participate in discussions involving potential new laws and regulations that impact the real estate sector and our business
so as to defeat adverse legislation or modify them to the extent possible.
Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Non-compliance with laws and regulations at governmental, federal,
state, province, local country or sector level;
• Failure to detect and anticipate new or amended regulation with
potential impact;
• Failure to comply with various stock market/exchange regulations and
requirements with respect to full and proper disclosure and
transparency to provide clear, real and objective information.
• Internal legal policy, procedures, and standard forms to state reduce
litigation and optimize compliance with applicable laws;
• Legal training on complex or new regulations to raise awareness and
develop learning curve from pending litigation;
• External advisors and law firms provide constant updates on both
emerging legislation and recent case law on specific matters;
• Experienced in-house lawyers with expertise;
• Membership in national professional organizations;
• Employ an expert on Government and Public Affairs to interact with
other stakeholders, public authorities and professional organizations;
and
• URW Insider Trading Rules procedure.
• Failure to protect this personal data of consumers, employees, business
partners, and other confidential information.
• Implement a robust and effective Data Privacy Protection program to
comply with GDPR (EU) and the California Consumer Protection Act
(“CCPA”) and California Privacy Rights Act (CPRA) (US);
• Organizational and technical processes: retention period policy, data
breach notification process, update of the employee privacy policy. IT
Security Department included in the framework; and
• Signature of data processing agreement with major IT contracts service
providers;
• Failure to prevent or mitigate material negative impact of any regulatory
investigations and/or litigation: in the normal course of URW NV’s
business activities, the Group could be subject to legal, administrative,
arbitral and/or regulatory proceedings.
• Establish an escalation process;
• Internal alert process to inform the URW Group General Counsel,
recurring reporting on (potential) material litigations and escalation
process for litigation strategy;
• Claim management process;
• Set of preventive internal programs to comply with the main applicable
regulations and effectiveness review on a recurring basis; and
• “Dawn raid” policy for any unexpected on-site investigation.
B. Corruption, Money Laundering & Fraud
URW NV conducts its core business in two countries and drives its real-estate activity with a wide variety of stakeholders, business partners, and
other intermediaries and government authorities. Therefore, it faces numerous stringent international and national anti-bribery, corruption,
money laundering & fraud laws and regulations, such the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (“FCPA”) (US). Failure to comply with these anti-corruption
regulations and lack of transparency can lead to material reputational damages, financial, administrative or disciplinary sanctions. This may have
a negative impact on investors’ trust.
Another increasing risk in this category exists mainly from an IT and crime perspective due to increased fraudulent email exchanges and other
attempts at social engineering crime. While we have seen an increase in phishing schemes and other attempts, none have been successful in
defrauding URW NV of any monies, data, or any personally identifiable information.
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Main Risk Factors
Main Risk Management Measures
• Non-compliance with international/national anti-corruption and
influence peddling regulations and anti-money laundering laws;
• Failure to prevent and detect fraud against URW NV: the Group could
• be exposed to attempted fraud (identity theft for example);
• Embezzlement
Supplementary to the general mitigation measures in the overall Risk and
Control framework, the following measures are specific for the Corruption,
Money Laundering & Fraud risks:
• A rigorous ‘zero tolerance’ principle based on an effective Anti-
Corruption Program (“ACP”), which incorporates provisions of
international conventions and national laws and regulations applicable
to URW NV’s business activities;
• An alert system (whistleblowing procedure) supported by an external
and confidential platform (also available for contractors);
• “Know Your Partner” procedure to evaluate third parties’ exposure to
the corruption and influence peddling risks;
• Dedicated classroom training for most exposed departments and an e-
learning module mandatory for all URW Group staff describing the
general principles related to business ethics and the prevention of
corruption, bribery and influence peddling;
• Secure payments procedure and has formalized the rules for opening,
changing and closing bank accounts;
• The URW Group Compliance Officer systematically shares the
information via email with all concerned employees, including a
reminder of preventive procedures.
4.3 TRANSFERRING RISK TO INSURERS
URW NV is covered by insurance programs, which are underwritten by leading insurance companies located in Europe and the US.
These programs are actively monitored by the URW Group Insurance Department in liaison with local teams and insurance brokers in continental
Europe and in the United States.
Under the property damage and terrorism programs, all property assets are insured for their reconstruction value, as well as for business
interruptions and loss of rent subject to limitations of coverage with respect to natural catastrophe risks due to limited insurance market
capacities. All assets are regularly assessed by internal or external property insurance valuers.
In accordance with insurance market practices, URW NV's property damage insurance program requires physical damages to trigger a coverage
of financial loss or business interruption. The current legal and insurance market do not recognize any claim arising from or related to the
pandemic as a covered loss.
Assets are insured against terrorism under a dedicated program that includes a limit per claim based on the asset that has the highest insured
value with respect to rebuilding cost and loss of rent.
URW NV has also taken out general liability insurance policies that cover financial damages resulting from third-party claims.
Type of insurance
Coverage and main limits based on 2022 insurance program
Property damage, loss
of rent/business
interruption
Coverage: “all risks” basis (subject to named exclusions) and terrorism.
Basis of compensation:
• Reconstruction costs for building, replacement cost for equipment;
• Loss of rent or business interruption with a compensation period of between 12 and 60 months depending on the
asset.
Limits of compensation:
• The Netherlands:
€1 Bn per occurrence subject to the following sub-limits:
o Earthquake: €200 Mn in the annual aggregate;
o Flood: €25 Mn in the annual aggregate (per market practice, dike failure is excluded); and
o Terrorism: €900 Mn per occurrence.
• The US:
$1.35 Bn per occurrence including terrorism events subject to the following sub-limits
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:
o Earthquake: $500 Mn per occurrence and annual aggregate further subject to additional regional sub-limits:
- California – $400 Mn; a retention per location of 5% of total insured values;
- Pacific Northwest –$250 Mn (Westfield Southcenter in Tukwila, Washington); a retention per location of 3%
of total insured values;
o Windstorm/hurricane: $1.35 Bn in the annual aggregate; deductible of $50,000/location, except in Florida
where a retention per location is 5% of the total insured values; and
o Flood: $500 Mn in the aggregate with $500,000 deductible per location for properties in designated flood zones.
In the US and in the Netherlands, the combination of the concentration of many assets in the same area with a high
exposure to natural catastrophe risks and the limited capacity available from insurers to cover these risks exposes URW
NV and its controlled subsidiaries to retain a significant share of these risks as uninsured.
53
The Group insurance brokers complete a detailed loss estimate analysis on natural catastrophe exposures. This information is used in determine the amount of
insurance against earthquake and windstorm/hurricane to purchase.
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General civil liability
Coverage: “all risks” basis (subject to named exclusions) for damage caused to third parties.
The program includes sub-limits, for example, to cover liability claims following a terrorist attack.
General environmental
liability
Coverage for damage caused to third parties by accidental pollution and for gradual pollution.
Main construction projects and renovation works on properties are covered by contractors’ All Risks policies for their total construction cost.
Defects affecting the works are covered by contractors’ warranties.
The 2022 premium for URW NV amounted to €29.2 Mn ($30.7 Mn
54
). Most of these premiums were invoiced to third parties (e.g., co-owners,
tenants). URW NV did not incur any major uninsured losses in 2022.
At the end of 2022, in a hardening market context, the URW NV’s insurance program was successfully renegotiated covering the portfolio with
placement both in the European and US insurance markets with effect from January 1, 2023.
54
Only for Insurances directly managed by URW NV, excluding premiums reinvoiced from third parties.
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INFORMATION ON THE
COMPANY, SHAREHOLDING
AND THE SHARE CAPITAL
126
5.1 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY
5.1.1 GENERAL INFORMATION
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. (“URW NV” or the “Company”) has its corporate seat (statutaire zetel) in Amsterdam, the Netherlands and its
registered address at Schiphol Boulevard 315, World Trade Center Schiphol - Tower F, 1118 BJ Schiphol (Haarlemmermeer), the Netherlands.
URW NV is registered with the Commercial Register of the Dutch Chamber of Commerce (handelsregister van de Kamer van Koophandel) under
number 70898618. The LEI code of the Company is 7245002R31EKBDW59H93 and its telephone number: (+31) 020-6582533.
Its financial year runs from January 1 to December 31.
Information about the Company is available on its website: www.urw-nv.com.
5.1.2 LEGAL FORM AND APPLICABLE LAW
On February 14, 2018, URW NV was incorporated as Unibail-Rodamco B.V., a private company with limited liability (besloten vennootschap met
beperkte aansprakelijkheid) under the laws of the Netherlands. On March 22, 2018, Unibail-Rodamco B.V. changed its legal name to WFD Unibail-
Rodamco N.V. and converted its legal form to a public limited liability company (naamloze vennootschap) pursuant to a notarial deed of
amendment and conversion in accordance with a resolution of its general meeting adopted on March 15, 2018. On June 9, 2020, WFD Unibail-
Rodamco N.V. changed its name to Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield N.V. pursuant to a notarial deed of amendment in accordance with a resolution
of the General Meeting. The current laws and regulations of the Netherlands are applicable to the Company.
5.2 SHARE CAPITAL AND OTHER SECURITIES GRANTING ACCESS
TO THE SHARE CAPITAL
5.2.1 AUTHORISED SHARE CAPITAL – FORM OF SHARES
The authorised share capital of the Company amounts to €550 million and is divided into 660 million class A shares and 440 million class B shares,
with a nominal value of €0.50 each.
As at December 31, 2022, the Company’s share capital is €116,007,701.50 and divided into 138,767,088 class A shares and 93,248,315 class B
shares with a nominal value of €0.50 each, representing 59.81% and 40.19%, respectively, of the Company’s issued share capital.
In June 2018, the class A shares of the Company were individually stapled with the ordinary shares of URW SE, a public limited liability company
under the laws of France, with its registered office located in Paris and Companies Register under number 682 024 096, to form Stapled Shares.
The “URW Group” is composed of the Company, URW SE and all the controlled entities whose financial information is included in the consolidated
accounts of the Company and/or of URW SE.
As at December 31, 2022 the Stapled Shares are admitted to trading on Euronext Amsterdam and Euronext Paris, under ISIN code FR0013326246
and trading symbols AMS: URW (Euronext Amsterdam) and EPA: URW (Euronext Paris). Any holder of Stapled Shares will have all the rights and
be under all the obligations of both a shareholder of URW SE (with respect to the URW SE shares that are part of his Stapled Shares) and a
shareholder of URW NV (with respect to the class A shares that are part of his Stapled Shares). Reference to 5.2.2.1 for CDI’s.
5.2.2 SECURITIES GRANTING ACCESS TO THE SHARE CAPITAL
Securities granting access to the capital of URW NV are described below.
5.2.2.1 CDIS (CHESS DEPOSITARY INTERESTS)
The term “CDI” designates Australian CHESS (clearing house electronic subregister system) depositary interests that represent beneficial
ownership in Stapled Shares registered in the name of or on behalf of CDN (CHESS Depositary Nominees Pty Limited, a subsidiary of the Australian
Securities Exchange). CDIs are admitted for trading on the Australian regulated market ("ASX").
Twenty CDIs collectively represent a beneficial interest in one Stapled Share. CDN enables holders of CDIs to exercise
55
the voting rights attached
to the Stapled Shares. The CDI can be converted into Stapled Share at any time, and inversely.
As at December 31, 2022, 178,547,220 CDIs (corresponding to 8,927,361 Stapled Shares) were outstanding, representing 3.85% of share capital.
5.2.2.2 PERFORMANCE SHARES AND PERFORMANCE STOCK OPTIONS
The long-term remuneration plan of the Group combines two remuneration elements in Stapled Shares: the majority are granted as Performance
Shares (PS), while a small portion are Performance Stock Options (SO). This is intended to strengthen the engagement of beneficiaries in their
contribution to the Group’s performance.
55
Holders of CDIs can either (i) ask CDN to vote in a given way, or (ii) request that CDN grant the holder with the power to vote at the General Meeting.
127
As at December 31, 2022, the number of potential Stapled Shares to be theoretically issued after taking into account cancellation (assuming the
required performance and presence conditions are attained and excluding any cancellations that may occur during the course of the plan)
represents 0.60% of URW NV's fully-diluted share capital with regard to the outstanding PS and 1.86 % of URW NV's fully-diluted share capital with
regard to the outstanding SO.
5.2.2.3 ORNANE (BONDS REDEEMABLE IN CASH AND/OR IN NEW AND/OR EXISTING SHARES)
On June 25, 2014, the URW SE issued 1,735,749 ORNANE (“2014 ORNANE”) at a nominal value per unit of €288.06, representing a nominal amount
of €500 Mn.
All bonds convertible in cash and/or in new and/or existing shares were redeemed in cash on July 1, 2021.
As at December 31, 2022, no 2014 ORNANE was outstanding.
On April 15, 2015, the URW SE issued 1,441,462 ORNANE (“2015 ORNANE”) at a nominal value per unit of €346.87, representing a nominal amount
of €500 Mn.
All bonds convertible in cash and/or in new and/or existing shares were redeemed in cash on January 1, 2022.
As at December 31, 2022, no 2015 ORNANE was outstanding.
5.2.3 OTHER SECURITIES GRANTING ACCESS TO THE SHARE CAPITAL
None.
5.2.4 CHANGES IN URW NV'S SHARE CAPITAL AS OF ITS INCORPORATION
Since the incorporation of URW NV, URW NV’s share capital has changed as follows:
Date
Movements in the share capital
Number of shares
issued
Number of shares
Total share capital
Premium resulting
from transaction
07/06/2018
231,531,282
€115,765,641
30/09/2018
Reimbursement of ORA
63
231,531,345
€115,765,673
€640
2018
30/09/2018
Exercise of SO (2012-2014 tranche)
3,596
231,534,941
€115,767,471
€39,265
30/09/2018
Reimbursement of ORA
50
231,534,991
€115,767,496
€404
31/12/2018
Exercise of SO (2012 tranche)
1,925
231,536,916
€115,768,458
€14,380
31/03/2020
Creation of PS (2015 tranche)
8,340
231,545,256
€115,772,628
€0
31/03/2019
Exercise of SO (2012 tranche)
8,713
231,553,969
€115,776,985
€72,549
30/04/2019
Creation of PS (2016 tranche)
18,432
231,572,401
€115,786,201
€0
2019
30/04/2019
Increased of share capital reserved
for URW SE employees
47,337
231,616,738
€115,809,869
€312,309
08/07/2019
Reimbursement of ORA
131
231,616,869
€115,809,935
€1,181
08/07/2019
Reimbursement of ORA
7,051
231,626,920
€115,813,460
€63,485
31/03/2020
Creation of PS (2017 tranche)
14,235
231,641,155
€115,820,578
€0
2020
04/06/2020
Creation of PS (2016 tranche)
10,395
231,651,550
€115,825,775
€0
04/06/2020
Increased of share capital reserved
for URW SE employees
69,150
231,720,700
€115,860,350
€154,690
2021
31/03/2021
Creation of PS (2017-2018 tranches)
23,990
231,746,876
€115,873,438
€0
24/06/2021
Creation of PS (LTI SI* tranche)
23,986
231,768,676
€115,884,338
€0
24/06/2021
Increased of share capital reserved
for URW SE employees
74,055
231,842,731
€115,921,366
€0
2022
29/04/2022
Creation of PS (LTI Plan 2018)
9,410
231,852,141
€115,926,071
€0
29/04/2022
Creation of PS (LTI Plan 2019)
50,092
231,902,233
€115,951,117
€0
29/04/2022
Increase of share capital reserved
for employees
105,741
232,007,974
€116,003,987
€0
25/05/2022
Creation of PS (LTI SI* Plan 2018)
7,429
232,015,403
€116,007,702
€0
Note: increases in the share capital associated with the exercise of Performance Stock Options (SO) and creation of Performance Shares (PS), cancellation of shares and reimbursements of bonds
redeemable in shares (ORA) and bonds redeemable in cash and/or in new and/or existing shares (ORNANE), are stated by a statement of the URW SE Management Board.
* LTISI: Additional Performance Shares granted in 2018 related to the successful integration of Westfield.
5.3 SHARE BUY-BACK PROGRAMME AND SHARE ISSUANCES
5.3.1 AUTHORISATION TO BUY BACK SHARES
At the General Meeting held June 22, 2022, the Management Board (“MB”) has been authorized (for 18 months following the General Meeting)
to resolve for the Company to purchase and acquire, with the approval of the Supervisory Board (“SB”), on a stock exchange or otherwise, up to
10% of the class A shares in the Company's capital in issue from time to time (separate or as part of Stapled Shares) and up to 100% of the class
B shares in the Company's capital in issue from time to time, in each case at a price per share between the nominal value of the share concerned
and 110% of the average market price of the Stapled Shares on Euronext Amsterdam (such average being calculated by reference to the closing
prices on each of the five consecutive trading days preceding the date the purchase or acquisition is agreed upon by the Company). Any shares
in the Company's capital held by the Company on the date of the General Meeting or that may be purchased and acquired by the Company during
128
the period of 18 months following the General Meeting shall be cancelled in one or more tranches, provided that the implementation of any such
cancellation (whether or not in a tranche) shall be subject to the determination by the Management Board of the exact number of shares to be
cancelled (in the relevant tranche, as relevant) and the exact timing thereof.
The MB is authorized to i) acquire one or more class A shares in the Company's capital (separate or as part of Stapled Shares) from Unibail-
Rodamco-Westfield SE (“URW SE”), ii) acquire one or more class A shares in the Company's capital from anyone other than URW SE (including by
means of a share buy-back programme), provided that such acquisition is made (a) pursuant to and in accordance with a joint share buy-back
programme approved by or on behalf of (the relevant corporate bodies of) the Company and URW SE or (b) jointly and in connection with (but
not necessarily concurrently with) an acquisition of ordinary shares in the capital of URW SE by URW SE; and/or iii) acquire one or more class B
shares in the Company's capital from URW SE, in each case (x) subject to the MB being authorised by the General Meeting to acquire such shares
in the capital of the Company and (y) with due observance of Dutch law, the Articles and the relevant limitations set out in the shareholders'
authorisation as applicable from time to time.
5.3.2 REVIEW OF THE USE OF THE AUTHORISATION TO ACQUIRE SHARES AND INFORMATION ON
THE TRANSACTIONS CARRIED OUT DURING THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31,
2022
During the 2022 financial year, the Company did not acquire any shares in its capital.
The Company has not used any derivative products in respect of shares in its capital and has currently not entered into any market-making and/or
liquidity agreement in respect of shares in its capital.
5.3.3 AUTHORISATION TO ISSUE SHARES
With effect from June 7, 2018, the closing date of the Westfield Transaction (and for a period of 5 years from such date), the Management Board
(“MB”) has been authorized, subject to the approval of the Supervisory Board (“SB”) and the Stapled Share Principle, (i) to resolve to issue shares
in the capital of the Company and to grant rights to subscribe for such shares up to the maximum authorized share capital as this may be from
time to time and (ii) to resolve to limit and/or exclude pre-emption rights in relation thereto.
5.3.4 SITUATION AS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
As at December 31, 2022, the URW NV shares held or cancelled by the Company is as follows:
% of URW NV shares held directly or indirectly by URW NV ("treasury shares") as at December 31, 2022
0%
Number of cancelled URW NV shares during the last 24 months
0
Number of treasury shares as at the December 31, 2022
0
5.4 INFORMATION ON THE SHAREHOLDING
5.4.1 OWNERSHIP OF CAPITAL AND VOTING RIGHTS
The Company’s share capital as at December 31, 2022, comprises 138,767,088 class A shares and 93,248,315 class B shares with a nominal value
of €0.50 each and is fully paid-up. The class A shares form part of Stapled Shares together with ordinary URW SE shares. All class B shares are
owned by URW SE; pursuant to the Articles, class B shares can only be held by (i) any entity of the URW Group or (ii) any other party, with the
approval of the MB and the SB.
One single voting right is attached to each URW NV share in accordance with the “one share, one vote” principle.
As at December 31, 2022, 59.81% of the Company's share capital was held by others than URW SE and MB Members.
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The Company’s shareholding structure was as follows during the last three financial years
(1)
:
Shareholder
Year-end 2020
Year-end 2021
Year-end 2022
Total number of
shares
% of share capital
% of voting rights
Total number
of shares
% of share capital
% of voting rights
Total number of
shares
% of share capital
% of voting rights
Free float (class A)
130,959,567
56.52
56.52
118,299,741
51.03
51.03
118,479,905
51.07
51.07
URW SE (class B)
93,248,315
40.24
40.24
93,248,315
40.22
40.22
93,248,315
40.19
40.19
Companies
controlled by Mr
Xavier Niel (Rock
Investment and NJJ
Holdings)
(2)
7,512,813
3.24
3.24
20,294,670
8.75
8.75
20,286,422
8.74
8.74
Treasury shares
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Executive officers
(3)
5
0
0
5
0
0
761
0
0
Total
231,720,700
231,842,731
232,015,403
Figures may not add up due to rounding.
(1) Table updated for disclosure purposes.
(2) Based on Mr. Niel’s statement.
(3) Executive officers comprise the MB Members. The numbers do not take into account any units in the URW SE Company Savings Plan held by the executive officers. As at December 31, 2022 the MB
consist of two members.
5.4.2 INFORMATION REGARDING OWNERSHIP THRESHOLD DISCLOSURES
Substantial holding notifications made to the AFM can, once published, be viewed on the website of the Dutch Authority for the Financial Markets
(“AFM”) and threshold disclosures notified to URW SE as required under the Articles of Association are available at the registered office of URW
SE.
To the best of the Company’s knowledge and based on the substantial holding notifications published on the website of the AFM and the threshold
crossings notified to URW SE, the following persons (other than URW SE) have, as at the filing date of this Annual Report, a notifiable interest in
URW NV's share capital.
The AFM register shows the following notifications of substantial share capital and/or voting rights above the 3% threshold: X. Niel: substantial
share capital of 16.20% and 16.20% of the voting rights (May 20, 2022), BlackRock, Inc.: substantial share capital of 3.59% and 4.33% of the voting
rights (February 24, 2023).
5.4.3 SHAREHOLDERS’ AGREEMENT
To the best of the Company’s knowledge there is no shareholders’ agreement.
5.4.4 URW SE'S SHAREHOLDING IN URW NV
URW SE holds approximately 40% of URW NV's issued and outstanding share capital.
PARTICIPATION MAINTENANCE SUBSCRIPTION RIGHT
URW SE wishes to maintain its capital interest and voting rights in URW NV at or slightly above 40%. In connection therewith URW NV granted
URW SE the "Participation Maintenance Subscription Right".
The Participation Maintenance Subscription Right allows URW SE to subscribe, in one or more tranches, on a continuous and revolving basis for
new URW NV class B shares, each time up to the lesser of (i) such maximum number of URW NV class B shares that, as the result of a subscription
to such number of URW NV class B shares by URW SE pursuant to an exercise of the Participation Maintenance Subscription Right, the aggregate
nominal amount of URW NV shares held by URW SE and its subsidiaries is equal to 40.22% of URW NV's issued and outstanding share capital, and
(ii) the maximum number of URW NV's class B shares that may be issued under the authorized share capital of URW NV under its Articles at that
time.
Certain terms and conditions of the Participation Maintenance Subscription Right are set out in a Participation Maintenance Subscription Right
Agreement entered into between URW SE and URW NV on June 4, 2018.
The subscription price for any URW NV class B shares subscribed for by URW SE pursuant to the exercise of the Participation Maintenance
Subscription Right is equal to the par value of such shares or such other price as may be agreed between URW SE and URW NV from time to time.
At least one-fourth of the par value is to be paid up upon subscription and the remaining three-fourths will be payable by URW SE upon URW NV
calling for it, subject to applicable law. Solely at URW NV's option and subject to the Articles and applicable law, all or part of such payment
obligation for the subscribed-for URW NV class B shares may be charged against URW NV's profits and/or reserves.
At the request of the holder, any URW NV class B shares held by URW SE or any of its subsidiaries shall be converted into URW NV class A shares
of equal nominal value in accordance with the Articles and subject to the nominal value of the to-be converted URW NV class B shares having
been fully paid up.
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URW SE may assign the Participation Maintenance Subscription Right Agreement, with simultaneous assignment of the Participation Maintenance
Subscription Right, to any wholly-owned URW SE subsidiary.
The Participation Maintenance Subscription Right Agreement is entered into and the Participation Maintenance Subscription Right is granted for
an indefinite period of time, but may be terminated at any time by URW SE.
EQUITY PLAN SATISFACTION SUBSCRIPTION RIGHT
Pursuant to any equity incentive plan, stock option plan, equity saving plan, performance share plan or other plan, as applicable from time to
time, URW SE or any of its subsidiary may award Stapled Shares, or rights to acquire Stapled Shares (including rights to concurrently acquire URW
NV class A shares and URW SE ordinary shares thereby forming Stapled Shares), to (current or former) employees, officers and/or directors of
the URW Group. URW SE or the relevant URW SE subsidiary would need to be able to deliver, transfer or otherwise provide URW NV class A shares
(for as long as the Stapled Share Principle applies, as part of Stapled Shares) pursuant to awards made under such equity plans. In connection
therewith URW NV granted URW SE the "Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right".
The Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right allows URW SE to subscribe, in one or more tranches, on a continuous and revolving basis for new
URW NV class A shares, each time up to the lesser of (i) the number of URW NV class A shares that are required or reserved to satisfy any
obligations to issue, transfer, deliver or otherwise provide URW NV class A shares pursuant to awards made under any relevant equity plan, and
(ii) the maximum number of URW NV class A shares that may be issued under the authorized share capital of URW NV under its Articles at that
time.
Certain terms and conditions of the Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right are set out in an Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right
Agreement entered into between URW SE and URW NV on June 4, 2018.
The subscription price for any URW NV class A shares subscribed for by URW SE pursuant to the exercise of the Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription
Right is equal to the par value of such shares or such higher price as provided for in the relevant equity plan (if any). At subscription, URW SE
shall pay the aggregate nominal value in full. At the request of URW SE, URW NV shall - subject to the approval of the SB and to the extent
permitted under applicable law - charge all or part of such payment obligation against URW NV's profits and/or reserves, in particular in respect
of those equity plans in which shares are provided to the participants without payment of any consideration.
URW SE may assign part of the Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right to any URW SE subsidiary, provided that such URW SE subsidiary has
committed itself towards URW NV to be bound by the Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right Agreement in respect of such assigned part.
Furthermore, URW SE may assign the Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right in respect of such number of URW NV class A shares that are the
subject of an award under an equity plan to the relevant participant to whom such award is or has been made, under the conditions that an
exercise of such assigned Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right by such participant may only be made in compliance with all terms and
conditions (including vesting conditions) of the relevant equity plan and award, and that an issue of URW NV class A shares to such participant
can only be made simultaneously with an issue or transfer of an equal number of URW SE ordinary shares to such participant and URW SE having
confirmed to URW NV that such simultaneous issue or transfer will occur.
The Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right Agreement further provides that in situations in which URW SE or a URW SE subsidiary is making
an award to any employee, officer or director of the URW Group with respect to a number of URW SE ordinary shares under an equity plan of
URW SE or any URW SE subsidiary, URW SE may request that URW NV simultaneously grant a right to such employee, officer or director with
respect to an equal number of URW NV class A shares. URW NV shall in such cases - to the extent legally permissible - make such a grant, under
the condition that an issue of URW NV class A shares to such employee, officer or director can only be made simultaneously with an issue or
transfer of an equal number of URW SE ordinary shares to such employee, officer or director and URW SE having confirmed to URW NV that such
simultaneous issue or transfer will occur.
The Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right Agreement is entered into and the Equity Plan Satisfaction Subscription Right is granted for an
indefinite period of time, but may be terminated at any time by URW SE and will terminate upon the Articles being amended such that there are
no longer Stapled Shares. Upon termination, the agreement and subscription right will survive to the extent necessary to settle existing
outstanding awards under any relevant equity plans.
5.5 ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION OF THE COMPANY AND CHARTERS
OF THE CORPORATE BODIES
The main statutory provisions are given hereafter. Furthermore, the Management Board (the “MB”), Supervisory Board (the “SB”), Audit
Committee (the “AC”), the Investment Committee (the “IC”) and the Governance, Nomination and Remuneration Committee (the “GNRC”) each
have their own internal charters. The Articles of Association (the “Articles”) and internal charters of these committees are available on the
Company’s website or at its registered office.
The Articles were last updated on June 30, 2021.
5.5.1 CORPORATE PURPOSE
(ARTICLE 3 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)
The corporate purpose of the Company is in the Netherlands and abroad:
• to invest in assets, primarily through the direct or indirect acquisition of real estate, in such a manner that the ensuing risks are spread in
order to allow shareholders to share in the proceeds;
• to enter into cash pooling arrangements with, to provide financing to and to furnish guarantees for the benefit of URW SE and other affiliated
bodies of the Company whose assets, on a consolidated basis, generally at least nearly exclusively consist of real estate and/or associated
rights;
• to incorporate, to participate in, to hold any other interest in and to conduct the management or supervision of bodies whose objects and
actual activities are to invest in assets;
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• to incorporate, to participate in and to conduct management of bodies whose objects and actual activities, besides possibly investing assets,
are to develop real estate for the benefit of itself or certain bodies;
• to invest in the improvement or expansion of real estate;
• to acquire, to manage, to invest, to exploit, to encumber and to dispose of other assets and liabilities and to provide any other act or service;
and
• to do anything which, in the widest sense, is connected with or may be conducive to the objects described above,
in each case taking into account the restrictions applicable to the Group under the fiscal investment institution regime as laid down in section
28 of the Corporate Income Tax Act (CITA), or such statutory provision which replaces section 28 CITA.
5.5.2 STAPLED SHARE PRINCIPLE
(ARTICLE 6 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)
The shares in URW NV are in registered form. The shares have been, or will be, created under Dutch law and must be paid up in full upon issuance
(without prejudice to section 2:80(2) Dutch Civil Code (the “DCC”)). However, it may be stipulated that up to 75% of the nominal value of a class
B share need not be paid up until URW NV has called for payment.
The class A shares may be included in a giro deposit (“girodepot”) or a collective deposit (“verzameldepot”) in accordance with the provisions
of the Dutch Giro Securities Act or any other collection of securities which are transferable by means of book-entry, in each case with due
observance of the Stapled Share principle set out in the Articles.
Each class B share can be converted into one class A share. By means of a written request addressed to the MB, the holder of one or more class
B shares may request the conversion of all or part of his class B shares into an equal number of class A shares. Such request must indicate the
number of class B shares to be converted. Upon receipt of such request, the MB, with the approval of the SB, shall resolve to convert the number
of class B shares specified in the request into an equal number of class A shares. Neither the MB nor URW NV are required to effect a conversion
of class B shares if the request does not include the number of class B shares to be converted or if the MB reasonably believes that the information
included in such request is untrue or incorrect or that the holder concerned is not a party meeting the quality requirement described below.
Under the Articles, in order to achieve a situation where holders of class A shares, other than any entity of the URW Group, hold an interest in
both URW NV and URW SE, as if they held an interest in a single (combined) company:
• no class A share can be (i) issued to, or subscribed for by, others than any entity of the URW Group, (ii) transferred to or, subject to applicable
law, pledged or otherwise encumbered by others than any entity of the URW Group, or (iii) released from any encumbrance by others than
any entity of the URW Group, in each case except together with a UR Share in the form of a Stapled Share;
• no right to subscribe for one or more class A shares can be (i) granted to or exercised by others than any entity of the URW Group, (ii)
terminated by others than any entity of the URW Group, (iii) transferred to or, subject to applicable law, pledged or otherwise encumbered
by others than any entity of the URW Group, or (iv) released from any encumbrance by others than any entity of the URW Group, in each case
except together with a corresponding right to subscribe for an equal number of URW SE Shares in the form of an equal number of Stapled
Shares;
• all shareholders, other than any entity of the Stapled Group, must refrain from (i) acquiring any class A share, (ii) acquiring, exercising or
terminating any right to subscribe for one or more class A shares, or (iii) creating or acquiring a usufruct, pledge or other encumbrance over
any class A share or any right to subscribe for one or more class A shares, in each case except (if it concerns a class A share) together with a
URW SE share in the form of a Stapled Share or (if it concerns a right to subscribe for one or more class A shares) together with a corresponding
right to subscribe for an equal number of URW SE shares in the form of an equal number of Stapled Shares; and
• subject to applicable law, the MB and the SB shall take all necessary actions to ensure that, at all times, the number of class A shares issued
and held by others than any entity of the URW Group is equal to the number of URW SE shares issued and held by others than any entity of
the URW Group.
The Stapled Share principle can only be terminated by virtue of a resolution passed by the General Meeting to amend the Articles. A resolution
by the General Meeting to effect such an amendment shall only become effective after the MB, with the approval of the SB, has confirmed that
the General Meeting or shareholders or URW SE has passed a resolution to terminate the Stapled Share principle as included in the Articles of
URW SE.
In addition, under the Articles, class B shares can only be held by any entity of the URW Group or any other party, with the prior approval of the
MB and the SB. If one or more class B shares are not, or no longer, held by a party which meets the quality requirements described in the previous
sentence:
• the holder of such class B shares must immediately notify the MB thereof, consistent with the arrangements described in the Articles;
• such Shareholder's voting rights, meeting rights and rights to receive distributions attached to its class B shares shall be suspended; and
• such Shareholder must immediately offer and transfer its class B shares to URW NV (or to a party designated in writing by URW NV) in
accordance with the provisions in the Articles.
• the MB, with the approval of the SB, may grant dispensation from the quality requirement described above.
Except as set forth above or as described elsewhere in this report, as at December 31, 2022, URW NV imposed no limitation, under its Articles
or by contract, on the transfer of shares (or depository receipts for shares issued with URW NV's cooperation), the exercise of voting rights on
shares, periods for exercising such voting rights or the issuance of depository receipts for Shares with URW NV's cooperation.
All shareholders of the Company must comply with the Stapled Share principle described above. If a shareholder, other than any entity of the
URW Group, would hold one or more "Unstapled Shares" (i.e., class A shares held by a shareholder, other than any entity of the URW Group, if
such shareholder does not also hold the corresponding ordinary shares in UR in the form of Stapled Shares) for whatever reason:
• such shareholder must immediately notify the MB of such breach, consistent with the arrangements described in the Articles;
• such shareholder must immediately offer and transfer its Unstapled Shares to URW SE (or any other entity of the URW Group designated in
writing by URW SE);
• if such shareholder has not, within a reasonable period of no more than fourteen (14) days after having become obliged to offer and transfer
its Unstapled Shares, complied with such obligation, URW NV shall be irrevocably authorised to offer and transfer the Unstapled Shares
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concerned to URW SE (or any other entity of the URW Group designated in writing by URW SE) on behalf of such shareholder in accordance
with the provisions in the Articles; and
• such shareholder's voting rights, meeting rights and rights to receive distributions attached to its Unstapled Shares shall be suspended for as
long as such shareholder (or URW NV on such shareholder's behalf) has not complied with the obligation of such Shareholder to offer and
transfer such Unstapled Shares as described above.
If the holder of a Stapled Share must notify URW SE in respect of its shares in the capital of URW SE pursuant to the articles of association of
URW SE and/or applicable French law, such shareholder must also immediately notify URW SE in accordance with the arrangements described in
the Articles. If the MB becomes aware that a shareholder has failed to comply with that obligation, the MB, with the approval of the SB, may
demand that such shareholder comply with such obligation within a reasonable period of no more than 14 days, as stipulated in such notice. For
as long as the shareholder concerned has not complied with such obligation after the expiration of the period stipulated in said notice, such
Shareholder's voting rights, meeting rights and rights to receive distributions attached to its class A shares shall be suspended.
Furthermore, under Dutch law, various protective measures are possible and permissible within the boundaries set by Dutch law, including Dutch
case law. In this respect, certain provisions of the Articles may make it more difficult for a third party to acquire control of the Company or
effect a change in the MB and/or SB. These include:
• the Stapled Share principle described in paragraph 5.5.2;
• a provision that the General Meeting can only appoint MB Members and SB Members on the basis of a nomination by (i) the SB pursuant to
• and in accordance with a binding recommendation by the GNRC, (ii) the Chairman, (iii) a Controlling Shareholder or (iv) the Class B Meeting,
in each case provided that the names of those candidates are stated for that purpose in the agenda of that General Meeting or the explanatory
notes thereto; and
• a requirement that certain matters, including an amendment of the Articles, may only be brought to the General Meeting for a vote upon a
proposal by the MB, with the approval of the SB.
5.5.3 CORPORATE GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE
(ARTICLES 16 TO 26 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)
The Company is managed by a Management Board (“MB”) and a Supervisory Board (“SB”). Details of the composition and the functioning of the
MB and the SB are set out in Section 2.1 of this Annual Report.
5.5.3.1 THE MANAGEMENT BOARD
(ARTICLES 16 TO 21 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION AND MANAGEMENT BOARD RULES)
The MB is the collegial decision-making body of URW NV. Pursuant to the Articles, the MB shall be composed of individuals or entities and the SB
shall determine the number of MB Members. The SB Chair shall, with due observance of the MB Rules, designate one MB Member as Chief Operating
Officer US (“COO US”), and may revoke such designation from time to time. The MB consisted of two members as at December 31, 2022.
The MB is charged with management of the Company, subject to the restrictions contained in the Articles. The MB is required to provide the SB
with the information necessary for the performance of its tasks in a timely fashion. At least once a year, the MB shall inform the SB in writing of
the main features of the strategic policy, the general and financial risks and the administration and control system of URW NV. The MB’s mission
consists in developing and executing the Company’s strategy, effectively structuring and staffing the Company to ensure its efficient functioning,
achieving the projected financial results and communicating these results in the best manner. In performing their duties, MB members shall be
guided by interests of the Company and of the business connected with it.
The MB is responsible for the day-to-day management of the Company which includes, among other things, formulating strategies and policies,
and setting and achieving the Company's objectives. The SB supervises and advises the MB. In performing their duties, MB and SB members shall
be guided by the interests of the Company and of the business connected with it.
The General Meeting shall appoint the MB Members and can only appoint a MB Member upon a nomination by (i) the SB pursuant to and in
accordance with a binding recommendation by the GNRC, (ii) the Chair, (iii) a Controlling Shareholder or (iv) the class B Meeting, in each case
provided that the names of those candidates are stated for that purpose in the agenda of that General Meeting or the explanatory notes thereto.
A MB Member is appointed or reappointed for a term which shall expire immediately following the end of the annual General Meeting held in any
of the first four years following his appointment or reappointment (as relevant).
The General Meeting may at any time suspend or dismiss any MB Member. In addition, the SB may at any time suspend a MB Member. The SB shall
not make any proposal, or approve any proposal made by the MB, for the suspension or dismissal of a MB Member and shall not resolve upon the
suspension of a MB Member, other than pursuant to and in accordance with a binding recommendation either by the SB Chair or by the GNRC. A
suspension by the SB can at any time be lifted by the General Meeting. If a MB Member is suspended and the General Meeting does not resolve
to dismiss him within three months from the date of such suspension, the suspension shall lapse.
5.5.3.2 THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
(ARTICLES 22 TO 26 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION AND THE SUPERVISORY BOARD RULES)
The SB exercises permanent oversight and control over the MB and the general affairs of the Company as provided by law, the Articles and its SB
Rules. The SB has 5 members appointed for a term of four years. The SB must comprise of two URW SE Supervisory Directors. “URW SE Supervisory
Directors” refers to an SB member who is also a member of the management board, a member of the supervisory board or an employee of (x)
URW SE (or any of the legal successors) or (y) any controlled undertaking whose financial information is included in the consolidated financial
reporting of URW SE (excluding the Company and its subsidiaries within the meaning of section 2:24a of the Dutch Civil Code).
The SB is charged with the supervision of the policy of the MB and the general course of affairs of URW NV and of the business connected with
it. The SB shall provide the MB with advice. In performing their duties, SB Members shall be guided by the interests of URW NV and of the business
connected with it.
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The SB consists of at least two, but no more than seven, SB Members. The SB shall be composed of individuals. The SB shall determine the number
of SB Members. The SB must comprise such number of URW SE Supervisory Directors as equals the highest integer that is less than 50% of all SB
Members in office. This requirement can be set aside by the General Meeting with a majority of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the votes cast
representing more than half of URW NV's issued share capital.
The SB shall elect an URW SE Supervisory Director to be the Chair and another URW SE Supervisory Director to be the vice-Chair, in each case
pursuant to and in accordance with a recommendation by the GNRC. The SB may dismiss the SB Chair or the vice-Chair pursuant to and in
accordance with a recommendation by the GNRC, provided that the URW SE Supervisory Director so dismissed shall subsequently continue his
term of office as a URW SE Supervisory Director without having the title of Chair or vice-Chair, as the case may be.
The General Meeting can only appoint a SB Member upon a nomination by (i) the SB pursuant to and in accordance with a binding recommendation
by the GNRC, (ii) the Chair, (iii) a Controlling Shareholder or (iv) the class B Meeting, in each case provided that the names of those candidates
are stated for that purpose in the agenda of that General Meeting or the explanatory notes thereto and taking into account the requirement with
respect to the requisite number of URW SE Supervisory Directors. A SB Member may be appointed or reappointed for a term which shall expire
immediately following the end of the annual General Meeting held in any of the first four years following his appointment or reappointment (as
relevant). The General Meeting may at any time suspend or dismiss any SB Member. The SB shall not make any proposal, or approve any proposal
made by the MB, for the suspension or dismissal of a SB Member, other than pursuant to and in accordance with a binding recommendation either
by the SB Chair or by the GNRC. If a SB Member is suspended and the General Meeting does not resolve to dismiss him within three months from
the date of such suspension, the suspension shall lapse.
The SB has three committees; the AC, the GNRC and IC.
THE SPECIALISED COMMITTEES OF THE SUPERVISORY BOARD
Three specialised committees are responsible for assisting the Board to carry out its duties: the Audit Committee, the Governance, Nomination
and Remuneration Committee and Investment Committee. All SB Members participate in one of these committees. The committees function
under separate internal charters.
Details of the composition, missions and diligences of the committees are set out in Section 2.2.3 of this Annual Report.
5.5.4 GENERAL MEETINGS
(ARTICLES 28 TO 32 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)
General meetings must be held in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam or Schiphol (Haarlemmermeer). Certain resolutions can only be passed by
the General Meeting at the proposal of the MB, with the approval of the SB.
5.5.4.1 FUNCTIONING OF THE GENERAL MEETING
General meetings must be held in Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam or Schiphol (Haarlemmermeer). The annual General Meeting must be held
at least once a year, no later than in June. Within three months after the MB has considered it to be likely that URW NV's equity has decreased
to an amount equal to or lower than half of its paid up and called up capital, a General Meeting will be held in order to discuss the measures to
be taken if so required. Extraordinary General Meetings shall further be held whenever the MB, the SB or the Chairman so decides, provided in
each case that any item proposed by the Chairman for discussion or voting at any General Meeting shall be included as such on the agenda for
such General Meeting.
In addition, one or more Shareholders and other Persons with Meeting Rights, who solely or jointly represent at least ten percent (10%) of URW
NV's issued capital, may request the MB and the SB that a General Meeting be convened. The request must set out in detail the matters to be
discussed. If neither the MB nor the SB has taken the steps necessary to hold a General Meeting within 8 weeks after such request, the requesting
person(s) may be authorized by the court in preliminary relief proceedings to convene a General Meeting. If the requesting person(s) include(s)
at least one holder of one or more class B shares, he/they may convene a General Meeting after such 8 weeks period without such prior
authorization by the court.
Notice of a General Meeting must be given by at least such number of days prior to the day of the meeting as required by Dutch law, which is
currently 42 days. The convocation of the General Meeting must be published through an announcement by electronic means. The notice must
include the items for discussion and voting, the time and place of the meeting, the record date, the manner in which Persons with Meeting Rights
may register and exercise their rights, the cut-off time for registration for the meeting, and such other matters as required by applicable law
(also depending on the nature of the agenda items for the meeting concerned). In addition, Shareholders may be convened for the General
Meeting by means of letters sent to their addresses as set out in URW NV's shareholders register (if and to the extent they are registered directly
in such register).
The convening notice shall also include such items as one or more Shareholders and other Persons with Meeting Rights, representing - individually
or collectively - at least such part of URW NV's issued share capital as prescribed by Dutch law (currently 3%), have requested URW NV by a
motivated request (or, if it concerns a matter which falls within the powers of the General Meeting, a proposal for a resolution) to include in the
agenda, at least 60 days before the day of the General Meeting. No resolutions may be adopted on items other than those which have been
included in the agenda.
The General Meeting shall be chaired by one of the following individuals, taking into account the following order of priority (i) by the Chair, if
there is a Chair and he is present at the General Meeting, (ii) by another SB Member who is chosen by the SB Members present at the General
Meeting from their midst, (iii) by an MB Member who is chosen by the MB Members present at the General Meeting from their midst, or (iv) by
another person appointed by the General Meeting. The person who should chair the General Meeting set out in the preceding sentence may
appoint another person to chair the General Meeting.
Each Shareholder and other Person with Meeting Rights may attend the General Meeting, address the General Meeting and exercise voting rights
pro rata to his shareholding, either in person or by proxy, provided that his meeting, and - if relevant - voting, rights have not been suspended.
Shareholders and other Person with Meeting Rights may exercise these rights, if they are the holder of such right on the record date as required
by Dutch law, which is currently the 28th day prior to the day of the General Meeting, and they or their proxy have notified URW NV of their
identity and their intention to attend the General Meeting in writing at the address and by the seventh day prior to the General Meeting or such
other date specified in the notice of the General Meeting.
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MB Members and SB Members may attend a General Meeting. In these General Meetings, they have an advisory vote. The chairman of the General
Meeting may decide at his discretion to admit other persons to the General Meeting.
5.5.4.2 POWERS OF THE GENERAL MEETING
All powers that do not vest in the MB or the SB pursuant to applicable law, the Articles or otherwise, vest in the General Meeting. The main
powers of the General Meeting include, subject in each case to the applicable provisions in the Articles:
• the appointment, suspension and dismissal of Managing Directors and Supervisory Directors;
• the approval of certain resolutions of the MB concerning a material change to the identity or the character of URW NV or its business;
• the reduction of URW NV's issued share capital through a decrease of the nominal value, or cancellation, of shares;
• the adoption of URW NV's statutory annual accounts;
• the appointment of the Dutch independent auditor to examine URW NV's statutory annual accounts;
• amendments to the Articles;
• approving a merger or demerger by URW NV, without prejudice to the authority of the MB to resolve on certain types of mergers and demergers
if certain requirements are met; and
• the dissolution of URW NV.
In addition, the General Meeting has the right, and the MB and the SB must provide, any information reasonably requested by the General
Meeting, unless this would be contrary to an overriding interest of URW NV.
5.5.4.3 SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS
Each share confers the right to cast one vote in the General Meeting. Pursuant to Dutch law, no votes may be cast at a General Meeting, inter
alia, in respect of shares that are held by URW NV or a subsidiary of URW NV.
Resolutions of the General Meeting are passed by simple majority of the votes cast, except where Dutch law or the Articles provide for a larger
majority. Resolutions of the General Meeting can only be adopted if at least 20% of URW NV's issued share capital is represented at the General
Meeting, except where Dutch law provides for a higher quorum. A second meeting as referred to in section 2:120(3) DCC cannot be convened.
Shareholders, irrespective of whether or not they have voting rights, have meeting rights under Dutch law (including the right to attend and
address the General Meeting, subject to the concept of a record date and the requirement to register for General Meeting as described in chapter
5.4.4.1).
Furthermore, each share carries an entitlement to dividends and other distributions as set forth in the Articles. Pursuant to the Articles, any
such dividend or other distribution shall be payable on such date and, if it concerns a distribution in cash, such currency or currencies as
determined by the MB with the approval of the SB. Any dividends that are paid to Shareholders through Euroclear France will be automatically
credited to the relevant Shareholders' accounts without the need for such Shareholders to present documentation proving their ownership of the
shares. Payment of dividends on the shares in registered form (not held through Euroclear France, but directly) will be made directly to the
relevant Shareholder using the information contained in URW NV's Shareholders' register and records. At the proposal of the MB with the approval
of the SB, the General Meeting may resolve that a distribution, instead of being made in cash, shall be made in the form of Shares or in the form
of URW NV's assets.
5.5.4.4 CLASS MEETINGS
A Class Meeting shall be held whenever a resolution of that Class Meeting is required by Dutch law or under the Articles and otherwise whenever
the MB, the SB or the Chair so decides. With respect to Class A Meetings, the above descriptions in respect of convening of, drawing up of the
agenda for, holding of and decision-making by the General Meeting apply equally.
5.5.5 REQUIREMENTS PERTAINING TO THE DISTRIBUTION OF PROFITS
(ARTICLE 38 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)
Pursuant to the Articles, the profits shown in URW NV's annual accounts in respect of a financial year shall be appropriated as follows, and in the
following order of priority:
• the MB, with the approval of the SB, shall determine which part of the profits shall be added to URW NV's reserves, taking into account the
fiscal rules and regulations applicable to URW NV from time to time; and
• the remaining profits shall be at the disposal of the General Meeting.
A distribution of profits shall be made by URW NV after the adoption of the annual accounts that show that such distribution is allowed.
The MB, with the approval of the SB, may resolve to make interim distributions, provided and to the extent that it appears from interim accounts
to be prepared in accordance with section 2:105(4) DCC that URW NV's equity exceeds the amount of the paid up and called up part of its capital
plus the reserves which must be maintained by law.
At the proposal of the MB, with the approval of the SB, the General Meeting is authorized to resolve to make a distribution from URW NV's
reserves.
5.5.6 SHARES CARRYING LIMITED ECONOMIC ENTITLEMENT
(ARTICLE 36 OF THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION)
Under the Articles, distributions shall be made in proportion to the aggregate number of shares held. There are no shares which, pursuant to the
Articles, carry a limited entitlement to the profits or reserves in URW NV.
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5.5.7 AMENDMENTS TO THE ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
At the proposal of the MB with the approval of the SB, the General Meeting may resolve to amend the Articles. A proposal to amend the Articles
must be included in the agenda of the General Meeting. A copy of the proposal, containing the verbatim text of the proposed amendment, must
be deposited with URW NV for the inspection (free of charge) by any shareholder from the date on which notice of the meeting is given until the
end of the General Meeting. Furthermore, a copy of the proposal will be made available free of charge to shareholders and other Persons with
Meeting Rights from the day it was deposited until the day of the meeting.
A resolution of the General Meeting to amend the Articles requires a majority of at least two-thirds (2/3rd) of the votes cast (subject to the 20%
quorum requirement described in section 5.5.4.3). In addition, amendments to provisions in the Articles referencing the Stapled Share principle,
require the prior approval of the class meeting formed by holders, and others with meeting rights with respect to, class B shares. A resolution to
amend the Articles to effect the termination of such Stapled Share principle shall only become effective after the MB, with the approval of the
SB, has confirmed that the General Meeting of shareholders of URW SE has passed a resolution to terminate such Stapled Share principle as
included in the articles of association of URW SE.
5.6 BRANCHES
URW NV has no branch offices.
5.7 INVESTMENT BY THE COMPANY OUTSIDE THE GROUP
The Company has not made any significant investment outside the Group during the financial year ending December 31, 2022.
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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6.1 STATEMENT OF THE PERSONS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE
ANNUAL REPORT
In accordance with Article 5.25c(2)(c) of the Dutch financial markets supervision act (Wet op het Financieel Toezicht) and the Dutch Corporate
Governance Code section 1.4.3 the members of the Management Board of URW NV confirm that to the best of their knowledge that:
• The 2022 financial statements included in this Annual Report are prepared in accordance with IFRS as adopted for use in the European Union
and give a true and fair view of the assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries
taken as a whole;
• The management report included in this Annual Report gives a fair view of the development and performance of the business, the results and
of the financial situation of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries taken as a whole and describes the main risks and uncertainties to
which they are exposed;
• This report provides sufficient insight into any failings in the effectiveness of the risk management and control systems;
• The management and control systems provide reasonable assurance that the financial reporting does not contain material inaccuracies;
• Based on current state of affairs as at the date of this report, it is justified that the financial reporting is prepared on a going concern basis;
• This report states those material risks and uncertainties that are relevant to the expectation of the Company's continuity for a period of twelve
months after the date of this report.
Schiphol, March 27, 2023
On behalf of the Management Board
Dominic Lowe Gerard Sieben
Chief Operating Officer US Chief Financial Officer
6.2 AUDITORS
The Statutory Auditor of the Company is:
Deloitte Accountants B.V.
Gustav Mahlerlaan 29700
1081 LA Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Mr Jef Holland
Commencement date of the first term: June 22, 2022
Previous Statutory Auditor of the Company:
Ernst & Young Accountants LLP (Netherlands)
Euclideslaan 1
3584 BL Utrecht, the Netherlands
Mr Wim Kerst
Commencement date of the first term: June 1, 2018.
Commencement date of the second term: June 11, 2020.
Commencement date of the third term: June 9, 2020.
Commencement date of the fourth term: June 29, 2021.
6.3 INDEPENDENT APPRAISERS
URW NV's portfolio was valued by the below-mentioned independent appraisers.
Jones Lang LaSalle B.V.
Valuation Advisory
P.O. Box 75208
1070 AE Amsterdam
The Netherlands
Cushman & Wakefield, Inc.
1290 Avenue of the Americas
New York, NY 10104
United States
Kroll, LLC
311 South Wacker Drive, Suite 4200
Chicago Il 60045
USA
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6.4 DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE TO THE PUBLIC
This Annual Report may be obtained, free of charge, at URW NV at Schiphol Boulevard 315 Tower F, 1118 BJ Schiphol (Haarlemmermeer), the
Netherlands, and, where appropriate, on the website of URW NV (https://www.urw-nv.com/en/investors).
6.5 GLOSSARY
Articles: refer to the articles of association of URW NV.
Average cost of debt: recurring financial expenses (excluding the ones on financial leases and the ones related to partners’ current accounts) +
capitalised financial expenses (excluding non-recurring financial expenses such as mark-to-market and termination costs of financial instruments
including bonds repurchased, currency impact) / average net debt over the period.
Average revenue per visit: Revenue generated by Westfield Rise divided by the footfall of the same period.
Buyer’s Net Initial Yield: annualised contracted rent (including indexation) and other incomes for the next 12 months, net of operating expenses,
divided by the TAC.
CAM: Common Area Maintenance.
Committed projects: projects for which the Group owns the land or building rights and has obtained all necessary administrative authorisations
and permits, approvals of joint venture partners (if applicable), approvals of the Group’s internal governing bodies to start superstructure
construction works and on which such works have started.
Controlled projects: projects in an advanced stage of studies, for which URW controls the land or building rights, and all required administrative
authorisations have been filed or are expected to be filed shortly. There can be no assurance these will become “Committed” projects, as this
will be subject to having obtained all required administrative approvals, as well as those of JV partners (if applicable), and of URW’s internal
governing bodies to start superstructure works.
Debt Yield: Ratio of the net operating income to the outstanding loan amount, net of certain cash as defined in the relevant mortgage loan
documentation.
Discount Rate (DR): the Discount Rate is the rate used in a Discounted Cash Flow model to calculate the present value of future cash flows
(positive or negative) that is to say converting such future cash-flows in today’s monetary value.
EBITDA: Recurring Net Operating result before depreciation and impairment of assets.
EPRA vacancy rate: Estimated Rental Value (ERV) of vacant spaces divided by ERV of total space (let + vacant).
Exit Cap Rate (ECR): the rate used to estimate the resale value of a property at the end of the holding period. The expected Net Rental Income
(NRI) per year is divided by the ECR (expressed as a percentage) to get the terminal value.
Financial statements under IFRS: the Group’s consolidated financial statements are prepared in accordance with International Financial
Reporting Standards (IFRS) as applicable in the European Union as at closing date.
Financial statements on a proportionate basis: they are prepared based on the financial statements under IFRS, except for the joint-controlled
entities, which are consolidated on a proportionate basis, instead of being accounted for using the equity method (as applicable under IFRS).
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield believes that these financial statements on a proportionate basis give to stakeholders a better understanding of the
underlying operations of URW and the joint-controlled entities, as they represent a significant part of the Group’s operations in the US.
Flagships: assets of a certain size and / or with footfall in excess of 10 million per year, substantial growth potential for the Group based on
their appeal to both retailers and visitors, iconic architecture or design and a strong footprint in their area.
Foreclosure: the action of a lender seeking to take the collateral on a loan when loan payments are not made, leading to a transfer of the asset
and the extinction of the corresponding mortgage debt.
Funds From Operations (FFO): on an annualized basis, the recurring EBITDA minus (i) recurring net financial expenses and (ii) tax on recurring
operating result.
Group Share: the part that is attributable to the Group after deduction of the parts attributable to the minority interests.
Interest Cover Ratio (ICR): Recurring EBITDA / Recurring Net Financial Expenses (including capitalized interest); Recurring EBITDA is calculated
as total recurring operating results and other income less general expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization.
Like-for-like Net Rental Income (Lfl NRI): Net Rental Income excluding acquisitions, divestments, transfers to and from pipeline (extensions,
brownfields or redevelopment of an asset when operations are stopped to enable works), all other changes resulting in any change to the square
meters and currency exchange rate differences in the periods analysed.
Loan-to-Value (LTV): net financial debt, excluding current accounts with non-controlling interests / total assets (whether under IFRS or on a
proportionate basis), including or excluding transfer taxes and excluding goodwill not justified by fee business.
Minimum Guaranteed Rent uplift (MGR uplift): difference between new MGR and indexed old MGR. Indicator calculated on renewals and
relettings only.
Net Disposal Price (NDP): Total Acquisition Cost incurred by the acquirer minus all transfer taxes and transaction costs.
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Net Initial Yield (NIY): annualized contracted rent (including indexation) and other incomes for the next 12 months, net of operating expenses,
divided by the asset value net of estimated transfer taxes and transaction costs. Shopping centers under refurbishment or not controlled by the
Group and the Westfield trademark are not included in the calculation of NIY.
Net Initial Yield on occupied space: annualised contracted rent (including latest indexation) and other incomes for the next 12 months, net of
operating expenses, divided by the value of occupied space net of estimated transfer taxes and transaction costs. Assets under development are
not included in this calculation.
Non-recurring activities: non-recurring activities include valuation movements, disposals, mark-to-market and termination costs of financial
instruments, bond tender premiums, impairment of goodwill or recognition of negative goodwill, amortization of fair value of assets and liabilities
recorded for the purpose of purchase price allocation, as well as costs directly incurred during a business combination and other non-recurring
items.
Occupancy Cost Ratio (OCR): (rental charges + service charges including marketing costs for tenants, all including VAT) / (tenants’ sales,
including VAT). As tenant turnover is not known for all tenants for the Netherlands, no reliable OCR can be calculated for this country. Primark
sales are estimates.
ORNANE (Obligations Convertibles ou Echangeables en Actions Nouvelles ou Existantes): the net share settled bonds convertible into new
and/or existing Stapled Shares.
Potential Yield: annualized contracted rent (including indexation) and other incomes for the next 12 months, net of operating expenses + the
ERV of vacant space, divided by the asset value net of estimated transfer taxes and transaction costs. Shopping centres under refurbishment or
not controlled by the Group and the Westfield trademark are not included in the calculation of NIY.
SBR: Sales Based Rent.
Secured debt ratio: Secured debt / Total assets.
Tenant sales: performance in the Group’s shopping centres (excluding the Netherlands) in operation, including extensions of existing assets, and
excluding deliveries of new brownfield projects, acquisition of new assets and assets under heavy refurbishment.
Total Acquisition Cost (TAC): the total amount a buyer shall pay to acquire an asset or a company. TAC equals the price agreed between the
seller and the buyer plus all transfer taxes and transaction costs.
Total Investment Cost (TIC): Total Investment Cost equals the sum of: (i) all capital expenditures from the start of the project to the completion
date and includes: land costs, construction costs, study costs, design costs, technical fees, tenant fitting-out costs paid for by
the Group, letting fees and related costs, eviction costs and vacancy costs for renovations or redevelopments of standing assets; and (ii)
opening marketing expenses. It excludes: (i) step rents and rent-free periods; (ii) capitalised financial interests; (iii) overhead costs; (iv) early
or lost Net Rental Income; and (v) IFRS adjustments.
Unencumbered leverage ratio: unencumbered assets/ unsecured debt.
Valuation of occupied office space: valuation based on the appraiser’s allocation of value between occupied and vacant spaces.
Yield impact: the change in potential yields (to neutralize changes in vacancy rates and taking into account key money.
Yield on cost: URW share of the expected stabilised Net Rental Income divided by the URW Total Investment Cost increased by rent incentives
(step rents and rent-free periods), and for redevelopment project only, the Gross Market Value of the standing asset at the launch of the project.