FULLTEXT DEL 1 AV 1
Kvartalsrapport Q3 2023
===== SIDA 1 =====
January – September 2023
Key financial ratios for the Group**
* The proforma numbers have been included for comparability and have no t been audited or reviewed.
** For more information see Financial Definitions and Note 6 for calculations of Alternative Performance Measures.
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 D% 2023 2022 D% 2022
Net sales 618.9 263.2 135.1% 1,840.4 745.2 147.0% 1,113.5
Organic growth, % 0.2% 13.2% 4.5% 8.8% 9.2%
EBITA 91.4 85.3 7.2% 283.9 225.1 26.1% 254.5
EBITA margin, % 14.8% 32.4% 15.4% 30.2% 22.9%
Adjusted EBITA 116.0 93.0 24.7% 365.7 271.2 34.8% 363.8
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 18.7% 35.3% 19.9% 36.4% 32.7%
Profit for the period 21.2 49.6 -57.3% 13.4 72.8 -81.6% 59.9
Adjusted cash flow from operating activities -23.0 25.6 -189.8% 247.0 162.5 52.0% 423.1
Q3 Jan-Sep
Financial highlights third quarter Financial highlights first nine months
➢ Organic growth (constant currency) was 0.2% in the quarter.
The organic growth was 7.6% adjusted for the one-off sales of
school publications of SEK 18 m in Region North in Q3 2022.
➢ The Group’s net sales increased by 135.1% to SEK 619 m
(actual 263 proforma* 567). Acquired growth contributed
with 129.7%. Currency effect was 5.2%.
➢ The Group’s adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 116 m (actual
93, proforma* 106) with adjusted EBITA margin of 18.7%
(actual 35.3%, proforma 18.7%).
➢ Net result amounted to SEK 21 m (50).
➢ Earnings per share before and after dilution amounted to SEK
0.20 (0.46).
➢ Adjusted operating cash flow amounted to SEK -23 m (26).
➢ Organic growth (constant currency) was 4.5% in the first nine months.
The organic growth was 7.1% adjusted for the one-off sales of school
publications of SEK 18 m in Region North in Q3 2022.
➢ The Group’s net sales increased by 147.0% to SEK 1,840 m
(actual 745, proforma* 1,686). Acquired growth contributed with
138.3%. Currency effect was 4.2%.
➢ The Group’s adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 366 m (actual 271,
proforma* 342) with adjusted EBITA margin of 19.9% (actual
36.4%, proforma 20.3%).
➢ Net result amounted to SEK 13 m (73).
➢ Earnings per share before and after dilution amounted to SEK
0.12 (0.68).
➢ Adjusted operating cash flow amounted to SEK 247 m (163).
Business highlights third quarter
➢ Organic growth in Q3 was 7.6% compared to proforma
figures, adjusted for the one-off sales of school publications
of SEK 18 m in Region North in Q3 2022. Sales growth was
driven by increased subscription-based online sales across
the Group.
➢ The integration progressed well in Region South during Q3,
with stable financial performance. At the end of Q3, cost
synergies of EUR 1 m on a run-rate basis were harvested.
➢ Karnov Group launched its first generative AI solution for
legal professionals, K+ Smart Chat. The solution will be
integrated on the legal information platform in Region South.
===== SIDA 2 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 2
In the third quarter, net sales grew with robust margins. We
achieved a revenue growth of 13% and the adjusted EBITA
margin was 19%. We saw strong growth in our subscription-
based online sales. The Region South integration progresses
well, and we are ahead of plan. During the quarter, we presented
our European growth strategy and updated financial targets.
Profitable growth with increasing recurring revenue
In the third quarter, the Group net sales grew by 13% compared to proforma figures, including
Region South, and adjusted for the significant one-off sales of school publications of SEK 18 m in
the comparing quarter the previous year. We have achieved strong growth in online sales, while
the market demand for printed material is declining as earlier described. We are confident in our
future growth opportunities and have updated our annual organic growth target to 4-6 percent in
the medium-term.
The organic growth in Region North was 8%, adjusted for the significant one-off mentioned
above. Growth is driven by strong performance within the public sector as well as our emerging
ventures in environmental, health and safety (EHS) and tax and accounting (T&A).
The net sales development in Region South is stable and in line with our expectations. Churn
has improved compared to the previous year, which is positive. Cross-selling in Spain is
progressing well, with six initiatives ongoing and a special focus on our commonly developed
whistleblower solution. We expect sales development in Region South to be flat in the near-term.
We are launching several product and sales initiatives to generate organic growth, similar to the
initiatives launched during our integration of Norstedts Juridik in Sweden in 2019.
. The Group adjusted EBITA margin reached 19% in the third quarter. Region North was above
the corresponding quarter the previous year despite to the significant one-off mentioned above.
Region South was above the proforma margin. By the end of the third quarter, we have harvested
cost-synergies of EUR 1 m on an annual run-rate basis in Region South. We have a strong focus
on costs across the Group and have updated our annual adjusted EBITA target to exceed 25
percent in the medium-term and exceed 30 percent in the long term.
Excel and grow – our strategic growth initiatives
We will capture the opportunities a growing market provides. Staying locally focused with premium
proprietary content is key to success. Our local content is our strongest asset, as it generates great
customer value. Local content is also an absolute prerequisite for trustworthy AI solutions.
Staying close to our customers is vital for future innovation and growth. Our industry reports
such as the “Future of the legal profession” in Scandinavia and our similar reports from Spain and
France are important tools for deep customer insights. They serve as material for our continuous
development of customer centric solutions.
We will acquire more businesses in Europe and integrate them using the Karnov recipe for
success: customer centricity, local content, common platforms and common culture. However,
for the time being, we are focusing on completing the integration of Region South and realising synergies.
Update on Region South integration
We progress well in line with the plan in the Region South integration. We are currently ahead of plan
in the Spanish merger, in terms of content migration as well as IT carve-out. Close to 40% of the
Aranzadi content is now migrated onto the common content platform. We are currently finalising the
migration to a common enterprise system. During the fourth quarter, we will consolidate offices in
Spain, which will have a positive impact on the EBITA margin from the first quarter 2024.
2023 Capital Markets Day
Clearing the path for justice while driving profitable growth was the theme of our Capital Markets
Day on 5 October 2023. We presented our European growth strategy and how to duplicate the
Karnov Group recipe for success in Europe, including our plan for harvesting synergies in Region
South. We also presented how to utilise AI for greater customer value and launched our
generative AI solution for legal professionals. A recording of the event is available here:
https://www.karnovgroup.com/en/capital-markets-day-2023/.
Karnov Group’s updated financial targets:
Net sales organic
annual growth of
4-6% in the
medium term.
Adjusted EBITA
margin in excess of
25 percent in the
medium term and in
excess of 30
percent in the long
term.
Ratio of Net debt to LTM
Adjusted EBITDA, excluding
leasing liabilities, of no more
than 3.0. This ratio may
temporarily be exceeded, for
example as a result of
acquisitions.
The objective is to
distribute 30–50% of the
annual net profit, after
considering indebtedness
and future growth
opportunities, including
acquisitions.
The integration in Region
South is ahead of plan.
By the end of Q3 we have
harvested cost-synergies
on an annual run-rate
basis of EUR 1 m.
Pontus Bodelsson
President and CEO
Growth
Profitability
Capital structure
Dividend policy
===== SIDA 3 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 3
Third quarter and first nine months
Net sales and growt h
For the three-month period, July-September 2023, net sales increased by SEK 356 m to SEK 619
m (actual 263, proforma 567). Organic growth on a constant currency basis was 0.2 percent and
currency effects had a positive impact on net sales of 5.2 percent. Acquired growth accounted for
129.7 percent and mainly relates to the acquisition of Region South, which was completed on 30
November 2022.
Net sales growth within the Group is driven by increased online sales, as we sell more licenses
and attract new customers. We experience no deviations in market demand for legal information
solutions due to macro-economic trends. Karnov Group provides mission-critical solutions to our
customers and the cost of our solutions represent a small percentage of the cost-base of our customers.
The organic growth in the third quarter was 0.2 percent. The corresponding quarter the
previous year includes a significant one-off sales of SEK 18 m of school publications. Adjusted for
this, organic growth would have been 7.6 percent. We continue to grow within the public sector,
mainly municipalities, as well as within EHS and T&A.
Region South delivered stable net sales in line with expectations, adjusted for currency effects.
Growth was driven by increased online sales, partly offset by declining offline sales.
For the first nine months, January-September 2023, net sales increased by SEK 1,095 m to
SEK 1,840 m (actual 745, proforma 1,686). Organic growth on a constant currency basis was 4.5
percent and currency effects had a positive impact on net sales of 4.2 percent. Acquired growth
accounted for 138.3 percent.
Operating profit (EBIT)
EBITA for the quarter amounted to SEK 91 m (actual 85, proforma 98) and EBITA margin
amounted to 14.8 percent (actual 32.4, proforma 17.4). The EBITA performance includes items
affecting comparability of SEK 25 m (8) mainly relating to integration work in Region South.
Adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 116 m (actual 93, proforma 106) and adjusted EBITA margin
amounted to 18.7 percent (actual 35.3, proforma 18.7).
The decrease in margin is related to the consolidation of Region South, which has diluted the
Group margin. Karnov Group’s updated financial target is to achieve an adjusted EBITA margin in
excess of 25 percent in the medium term and in excess of 30 percent in the long term.
Compared to proforma figures, the adjusted EBITA margin was flat. The cost for Group functions
has increased as well as the depreciations of capitalised development, both of which are offset by
the increased net sales.
Adjusted EBITA for Region North was SEK 115 m (108) and adjusted EBITA margin amounted to
41.4 percent (41.0).
Adjusted EBITA for Region South was SEK 21 m (proforma 13) and adjusted EBITA margin
amounted to 6.2 percent (proforma 4.3).
Operating profit (EBIT) was SEK 36 m (actual 43, proforma 56) for the quarter.
For the first nine months, EBITA amounted to SEK 284 m (actual 225, proforma 296) and
EBITA margin amounted to 15.4 percent (actual 30.2, proforma 17.6). Adjusted EBITA was SEK
366 m (actual 271, proforma 342) and adjusted EBITA margin amounted to 19.9 percent (actual
36.4, proforma 20.3). Operating profit (EBIT) was SEK 122 m (actual 100, proforma 171) for the
first nine months.
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 D% 2023 2022 D% 2022
Net sales 618.9 263.2 135.1% 1,840.4 745.2 147.0% 1,113.5
Organic growth, % 0.2% 13.2% 4.5% 8.8% 9.2%
EBITA 91.4 85.3 7.2% 283.9 225.1 26.1% 254.5
EBITA margin, % 14.8% 32.4% 15.4% 30.2% 22.9%
Adjusted EBITA 116.0 93.0 24.7% 365.7 271.2 34.8% 363.8
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 18.7% 35.3% 19.9% 36.4% 32.7%
EBIT 35.9 43.2 -16.9% 122.1 100.3 21.7% 78.8
EBIT, margin % 5.8% 16.4% 6.6% 13.5% 7.1%
Q3 Jan-Sep
Net sales by segment Q3 (%)
Net sales per quarter, MSEK
Adjusted EBITA, MSEK and margin, %
per quarter
45%
55%
Region
North
Region
South
263 254 278 259 279
114
336 349 340
-
200
400
600
Q3
2022
Q4
2022
Q1
2023
Q2
2023
Q3
2023
93
93
140
109 116
35%
25% 23% 18% 19%
0%
20%
40%
60%
-
60
120
180
Q3
2022
Q4
2022
Q1
2023
Q2
2023
Q3
2023
Organic growth YTD
Adjusted EBITA
margin YTD
===== SIDA 4 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 4
Net financial items
Net financial items for the quarter amounted to SEK -12 m (15). The increased financial costs are
mainly related to long-term borrowings for financing of the acquisition of Region South and partly
offset by currency effects. Currency effect for the quarter was SEK 17 m (-5), relating to long-term
loans in EUR. Net financial items for the first nine months amounted to SEK -107 m (0).
Share of profit in associated companies
Share of profit in associated companies amounted to SEK -1 m (0) in the quarter and SEK -4 m
(-8) for the first nine months.
Profit before and after tax, Earnings per share
Profit before tax for the quarter decreased by SEK -35 m to SEK 23 m (58). Profit after tax for the
quarter was SEK 21 m (50). Taxes amounted to SEK -1 m (-9).
Profit before tax for the first nine months was SEK 11 m (92). Profit after tax was SEK 13 m
(73). Taxes amounted to SEK 2 m (-19).
Earnings per share after dilution was SEK 0.20 (0.46) for the quarter and SEK 0.12 (0.68) for
the first nine months.
Cash flow and investments
Cash flow from operating activities amounted to SEK -42 m (12). The seasonality in cash flow
from operating activities has changed as a result of the Region South acquisition, mainly changes
in prepaid income and receivables. Moreover, the interest cost for long-term borrowings has
increased.
Total investments for the quarter amounted to SEK -38 m (-24) and SEK -177 m (-77) for the
first nine months. The investments during the quarter relate to capitalised development.
Total financing for the quarter amounted to SEK -12 m (-6), and SEK -316 m (-33) for the first
nine months. The latter is due to reduction of long-term borrowings.
The adjusted cash conversion rate for the quarter amounted to -15.0 percent (23.7) and 52.1
percent (52.1) for the first nine months.
Financial position
Net debt was SEK 1,959 m (271) at the end of the period. The net debt has increased by SEK 1,688 m
relating to long-term borrowings compared to the end of the corresponding quarter previous year.
The leverage at the end of the period, based on proforma adjusted EBITDA LTM excluding
leasing liabilities, was 3.2 (0.7) times and the equity/asset ratio was 34.3 percent (51.5) with an
equity of SEK 2,384 m (2,308).
The definition of net debt has been aligned with the updated leverage target in which total
borrowings exclude lease liabilities.
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period amounted to SEK 326 m (976) and the
Group had at the end of September 2023 unutilized credit lines of EUR 70 m.
Adjusted cash conversion Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2022
Adjusted EBITDA 153.5 108.0 474.3 311.8 422.0
Adjusted cash flow from operating
activities -23.0 25.6 247.0 162.5 423.1
Adjusted cash conversion, % -15.0% 23.7% 52.1% 52.1% 100.3%
Q3 Jan-Sep
Net Debt
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sept 2022 31 Dec 2022
Total borrowings 2,285.0 1,247.6 2,483.3
Cash and cash equivalents 326.4 976.5 671.2
Net debt 1,958.6 271.1 1,812.1
Leverage ratio 3.2 0.7 3.1
Net sales split online/offline per Q3, %
84%
16%
Online
Offline
Adjusted cash
conversion YTD
Leverage
===== SIDA 5 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 5
Third quarter
➢ The Nomination Committee for the 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) was appointed.
Events after the end of the period
➢ The Board of Directors resolved on updated financial targets:
o An annual organic net sales growth of 4-6 percent in the medium-term;
o An annual adjusted EBITA margin in excess of 25 percent in the medium-term and an
adjusted EBITA margin in excess of 30 percent in the long-term; and
o A net debt, excluding leasing liabilities, relative to the LTM adjusted EBITDA of not more
than 3.0x.
➢ Karnov Group hosted a Capital Markets Day where the company’s first generative AI legal
assistant was launched. The solution will be integrated on the legal information platform
in Region South and a similar solution is intended be launched in Region North. A
recording of the event can be viewed here: https://www.karnovgroup.com/en/capital-
markets-day-2023/.
➢ Karnov Group held an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM). At the EGM, Ted Keith was
appointed a new member of the Board of Directors of Karnov Group.
===== SIDA 6 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 6
Region North
Net sales and growth
Net sales for the quarter increased by 5.9 percent to SEK 279 m (263). The organic growth for the
quarter was 0.2 percent, acquired growth and currency effects had a positive impact of 0.5 and
5.2 percent respectively. Online sales accounted for 88 percent (78). The comparing figures for
Q3 2022 includes a significant one-off sale of SEK 18 m relating to school publications. Excluding
the one-off, organic growth in Region North would have been 7.6 percent.
Growth is driven by online sales, mainly within the legal research area. The main growth driver
is the public sector, where our municipality solution is harvesting success. During the third
quarter, we have optimised the product portfolio and divested the low-profit legal training
business in Sweden. The net financials from the divestment are not material.
Our EHS businesses continues to be successful in new sales, closing new contracts mainly
within the corporate segment. Our workflow business DIBkunnskap has good traction in Norway
and Sweden and will enter Denmark during 2024.
For the first nine months, January-September 2023, net sales increased by SEK 70 m to SEK
815 m (745). Organic growth on a constant currency basis was 4.5 percent and currency effects
had a positive impact on net sales of 4.2 percent. Acquired growth accounted for 0.7 percent and
relates to the acquisition of Nørskov Miljø.
Adjusted EBITA
In the third quarter, adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 115 m (108) and adjusted EBITA margin
amounted to 41.4 percent (41.0). The margin improvement is due to increased net sales as well
as product mix from the increasing portion of online sales. The divestment of the legal training
business in Sweden has not significantly impacted the adjusted EBITA margin, as the divestment
was completed on 13 September 2023.
For the first nine months, adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 339 m (311) and EBITA margin
amounted to 41.5 percent (41.7).
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 D% 2023 2022 D% 2022
Net sales 278.8 263.2 5.9% 815.3 745.2 9.4% 999.3
Organic growth, % 0.2% 13.2% 4.5% 8.8% 9.2%
Adjusted EBITDA 132.3 123.0 7.6% 389.3 351.5 10.8% 463.1
Adjusted EBITDA margin, % 47.5% 46.7% 47.7% 47.2% 46.3%
Adjusted EBITA 115.3 108.0 6.8% 338.5 310.9 8.9% 408.1
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 41.4% 41.0% 41.5% 41.7% 40.8%
Q3 Jan-Sep
Region North is specialised in online
and offline legal solutions; the
environmental, health and safety
compliance; audit and accounting
solutions; and e-courses. The
segment provides online tools for the
broad legal services market,
including contract templates. The
segment includes Karnov Group
Denmark, Norstedts Juridik,
DIBkunnskap, Notisum, Echoline,
Nørskov Miljø, Forlaget Andersen,
Legal Cross Border, Ante and BELLA
Intelligence.
Net sales per quarter, MSEK
Adjusted EBITA, MSEK and margin,%
per quarter
263 254 278 259 279
-
100
200
300
Q3
2022
Q4
2022
Q1
2023
Q2
2023
Q3
2023
108 97
121
103 115
41% 38%
43% 40% 41%
0%
20%
40%
60%
-
40
80
120
Q3
2022
Q4
2022
Q1
2023
Q2
2023
Q3
2023
===== SIDA 7 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 7
Region South
Net sales and growth
Net sales for the quarter were SEK 340 m (proforma 304). The significant increase in net sales
compared to proforma is explained by currency effects of 9.4 percent. The underlying
performance of Region South is stable compared to the previous year. Online sales accounted for
80 percent in the third quarter.
We experience no deviations from our expectations in Region South. Sales development is
stable, with positive online sales development in the segment. Cross-selling is successful in
Spain. As an example, a large customer of LA LEY has bought a product combining Aranzadi
workflow and LA LEY content. We focus mainly on online sales as the business climate for
printed material is declining in line with the general market trend. In France, we achieved growth
within the e-learning area as well as sales of online licenses, offset by the declining print business.
For the first nine months, January-June 2023, net sales reached were SEK 1,025 m (proforma
941). Currency effects had a positive impact of 8.1 percent.
Adjusted EBITA
In the third quarter, adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 21 m (proforma 13) and adjusted EBITA
margin was 6.2 percent (proforma 4.3). By the end of the third quarter, we have harvested cost-
synergies on an annual run-rate basis of EUR 1 m.
The adjusted EBITA increase of SEK 8 m compared to proforma numbers is mainly due a
decreased cost-base from harvesting synergies. We assess that approximately 1 percent point of
the margin improvement is due to synergies. The higher net sales compared to the previous year,
as well as product mix also had a positive impact.
For the first nine months, adjusted EBITA amounted to SEK 84 m (proforma 71) and adjusted
EBITA margin was 8.2 percent (proforma 7.5).
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 D% 2023 2022 D% 2022
Net sales 340.1 1,025.1 114.2
Organic growth, % - - -
Adjusted EBITDA 41.6 141.7 13.8
Adjusted EBITDA margin, % 12.2% 13.8% 12.1%
Adjusted EBITA 21.2 84.0 10.1
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 6.2% 8.2% 8.9%
Q3 Jan-Sep
Region South offers a wide range of
online and offline solutions for legal
professionals, assisting them in
their research and providing
qualitative advisory services . The
segment provides online tools for the
broad legal services market,
including workflow solutions and AI-
based tools. Region South also
offers legal classroom training and
e-courses. The segment includes
Aranzadi LA LEY, Lamy Liaisons and
Jusnet.
Net sales per quarter, MSEK
Adjusted EBITA, MSEK and margin, %
per quarter
114
336 349 340
-
100
200
300
400
Q3
2022
Q4
2022
Q1
2023
Q2
2023
Q3
2023
10
38
25 21
9%
11% 7% 6%
0%
20%
40%
60%
-
20
40
60
Q3
2022
Q4
2022
Q1
2023
Q2
2023
Q3
2023
===== SIDA 8 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 8
Group functions
Adjusted EBITA
The Group functions cover the Group wide tasks such as Group Management (including
information security, compliance and HR), Investor Relations and Group Finance functions. In
2022 these functions were covered by the reporting segments Sweden/Norway and Denmark.
The increase in operating expenses in the third quarter is due to Group marketing costs (such as the
CMD), investments in enhancements of Group wide systems as well as investments in AI projects.
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 D% 2023 2022 D% 2022
Net sales
Adjusted EBITA -20.5 -15.0 -56.8 -39.7 -43.1% -54.4
Adjusted EBITA margin, %
Q3 Jan-Sep
Group functions is the corporate
segment including costs for
functions within Karnov Group that
either steer or provide support to
the Group. The segment also
includes costs for future business
opportunities as well as items
affecting comparability .
===== SIDA 9 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 9
Risks and uncertainties
Through its operations Karnov Group is exposed to different risks,
which can give rise to fluctuations in earnings and cash flow. Material
risks and uncertainties include sector and market-related risks,
business-related risks and financial risks.
The invasion of Ukraine and expanded conflict between Israel and
Palestine pose risks for further impact on the world economy, with
increasing cost inflation and disruptions to supply chains. Karnov is
not directly impacted by the invasion and has no direct exposure
towards any of the involved countries.
Karnov’s significant risks and risk management are described on
page 56-57 of the 2022 Annual report, available at the Company’s
website www.karnovgroup.com.
Seasonal variations
Typically, a significant proportion of Karnov Group’s online contracts
in Region North are renewed and invoiced during the fourth quarter,
impacting cash flow during the fourth and first quarters. Online
contracts in Region South are renewed and invoiced predominantly in
the first quarter, impacting cash flow during the first and second
quarters. Online net sales are accrued according to the terms of the
agreement and therefore are not exposed to any seasonality. Offline
net sales are exposed to seasonality where the first quarter is
significantly stronger, driven by a higher share of book sales early in
the year.
Employees
Average number of Full-Time Employees (FTEs) in the third quarter
amounted to 1,244 (304). The increase is mainly due to the
acquisition of Region South. On average during the third quarter, 42%
(53%) of the workforce were males and 58% (47%) females.
Shares, share capital and shareholders
Karnov Group’s share was listed on Nasdaq Stockholm on 11 April
2019, Mid Cap segment, under the ticker KAR.
On 30 September 2023, the total number of shares and votes in
Karnov Group AB (publ) amounts to 108,102,047 shares and
107,898,735.2 votes. Each share has a quotient value of
approximately SEK 0.015385. The total number of shares consists of
107,876,145 ordinary shares, which carry one vote per share, and
225,902 shares of series C, which carry one-tenth of a vote per share.
A detailed description of changes in the share capital is available on
the Company’s website, www.karnovgroup.com/en/share-capital-
development/.
On 30 September 2023, the Company had 1,318 known
shareholders. The five largest shareholders in Karnov Group AB (publ)
were Long Path Partners, Invesco, Swedbank Robur Funds, Carnegie
Funds and Didner & Gerge Funds.
Incentive program s
Karnov Group currently has one long-term incentive program, LTIP
2023, which is a share saving program. The purpose of the program
is to encourage ownership amongst the Company’s employees, retain
competent employees, facilitate recruitment, increase the alignment
of interest between the employees and the Company’s shareholders
and increase motivation to reach or exceed the Company’s financial
targets.
The employees participating in the program have allocated
acquired or already held ordinary shares to the program (so-called
savings shares).
19 employees participate in LTIP 2023. The participants have
allocated a total of 96,845 savings shares to the program. Full
allotment would mean that the total number of shares under the
program will amount to no more than 366,007 ordinary shares,
corresponding approximately 0.3 per cent of the total number of
shares outstanding in the Company. For more information see
www.karnovgroup.com/en/incentive-program/
Related-party transactions
Karnov Group did not undertake any significant transactions with
related parties in the third quarter 2023 except from compensation
and benefits to the Board members and managing director received
as a result of their membership of the Board, employment with
Karnov Group or shareholdings in Karnov Group AB (publ).
Parent Company
The operating profit (EBIT) for the quarter amounted to SEK 1 m
(-20).
===== SIDA 10 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 10
Outlook
Karnov Group does not provide financial forecasts. The report may
contain forward-looking information based on Management’s
current expectations. Although Management believes the
expectations expressed in such forward-looking information are
reasonable, there are no assurances that these expectations will be
correct. Consequently, future outcomes may vary considerably
compared to the forward-looking information due to, among other
things, changed market conditions for Karnov Group’s offerings and
more general changes to economic, market and competitive
conditions, changes to regulatory requirements or other policy
measures and exchange rate fluctuations.
Review
This interim report has been subject to a review by the Company’s
auditors. Please see report on page 11.
Disclosure
This interim report contains inside information that Karnov Group
AB (publ) is required to make public pursuant to the EU Market
Abuse Regulation (MAR). The information was submitted for
publication by the contact person below on 8 November 2023 at
07.45 AM CET.
Karnov Group AB (publ)
Stockholm, 8 November 2023
Pontus Bodelsson
President and CEO
For further information,
please contact:
Q3 presentation
webcast
Financial calendar
2024
Pontus Bodelsson, President and CEO
+46 709 957 002
pontus.bodelsson@karnovgroup.com
Magnus Hansson, CFO
+46 708 555 540
magnus.hansson@karnovgroup.com
Erik Berggren, Head of Investor Relations
+46 707 597 668
erik.berggren@karnovgroup.com
Karnov Group will present the third quarter
for analysts and investors via a webcast
teleconference on 8 November at 9 AM CET.
To participate, use the following link:
https://ir.financialhearings.com/karnov-
group-q3-2023
or register here for dial-in numbers:
https://conference.financialhearings.com/tel
econference/?id=5003515.
The presentation will also be available
on www.financialhearings.com
Year-end report January-December 2023
14 February 2024
Annual Report 2023
22 March 2024
Interim report January-March 2024
7 May 2024
Annual General Meeting 2024
8 May 2024
Half-year report January-June 2024
21 August 2024
Interim report January-September 2024
6 November 2024
===== SIDA 11 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 11
(Translation from Swedish original. In case of discrepancies, the Swedish version shall prevail.)
Karnov Group AB (publ) corp. identity no . 559016-9016
Introduction
We have reviewed the condensed interim financial information (interim report) of Karnov Group AB (publ) as of 30 September 2023 and the nine-
month period then ended. The board of directors and the CEO are responsible for the preparation and presentation of the interim financial
information in accordance with IAS 34 and the Swedish Annual Accounts Act. Our responsibility is to express a conclusion on this interim report
based on our review.
Scope of Review
We conducted our review in accordance with the International Standard on Review Engagements ISRE 2410, Review of Interim Report Performed
by the Independent Auditor of the Entity. A review consists of making inquiries, primarily of persons responsible for financial and accounting
matters, and applying analytical and other review procedures. A review is substantially less in scope than an audit conducted in accordance with
International Standards on Auditing, ISA, and other generally accepted auditing standards in Sweden. The procedures performed in a review do not
enable us to obtain assurance that we would become aware of all significant matters that might be identified in an audit. Accordingly, we do not
express an audit opinion.
Conclusion
Based on our review, nothing has come to our attention that causes us to believe that the interim report is not prepared, in all material respects, in
accordance with IAS 34 and the Swedish Annual Accounts Act, regarding the Group, and with the Swedish Annual Accounts Act, regarding the
Parent Company.
Stockholm, 8 November 2023
PricewaterhouseCoopers AB
Martin Johansson Patrik Larsson
Authorized Public Accountant Authorized Public Accountant
Auditor in charge
===== SIDA 12 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 12
Jan-Dec
MSEK Note 2023 2022 2023 2022 2022
Net sales 3 618.9 263.2 1,840.4 745.2 1,113.5
Total revenue 618.9 263.2 1,840.4 745.2 1,113.5
Costs of goods sold -89.8 -40.0 -274.0 -108.3 -157.9
Employee benefit expenses -284.7 -85.7 -814.7 -239.1 -400.5
Depreciations and amortisations -97.6 -57.1 -275.0 -165.4 -233.8
Other operating income and expenses -110.9 -37.2 -354.6 -132.1 -242.5
Operating profit (EBIT) 35.9 43.2 122.1 100.3 78.8
Share of Profit in associated companies -1.0 -0.3 -3.9 -8.3 -11.7
Financial income 8.2 22.9 11.7 23.0 23.2
Financial expenses -20.6 -7.6 -118.9 -22.7 -40.3
Profit before tax 22.5 58.2 11.0 92.3 50.0
Tax on profit for the period -1.3 -8.6 2.4 -19.5 9.9
Profit for the period 21.2 49.6 13.4 72.8 59.9
Other comprehensive income:
Items that may be reclassified to the income statement:
Exchange differences on translation of foreign operations -63.6 27.7 48.4 79.0 111.0
Actuarial gains/losses on defined benefit plans - - - - 0.2
Other comprehensive income for the period -63.6 27.7 48.4 79.0 111.2
Total comprehensive income for the period -42.4 77.3 61.8 151.8 171.1
Profit for the period is attributable to:
Owners of Karnov Group AB (publ) 21.0 49.6 13.2 72.8 59.9
Non-controlling interests 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0
Profit for the period 21.2 49.6 13.4 72.8 59.9
Total comprehensive income for the period is
attributable to:
Owners of Karnov Group AB (publ) -42.6 77.3 61.6 151.8 171.1
Non-controlling interests 0.2 0.0 0.2 0.0 0.0
Total comprehensive income -42.4 77.3 61.8 151.8 171.1
Earnings per share, basic, SEK 0.20 0.46 0.12 0.68 0.56
Earnings per share, after dilution, SEK 0.20 0.46 0.12 0.68 0.56
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (thousands) 107,876 107,735 107,876 107,715 107,847
Effect of performance shares (thousands) 226 367 226 387 255
Weighted average number of ordinary shares adjusted for
the effect of dilution (thousands) 108,102 108,102 108,102 108,102 108,102
Jan-SepQ3
===== SIDA 13 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 13
* Comparison numbers have been adjusted in accordance with IFRS 15 section 12. Please also refer to Note 1.
MSEK Note 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
ASSETS:
Goodwill 3,338.7 1,995.6 3,249.6
Other intangible assets 2,324.2 1,194.4 2,391.0
Right-of-use assets 237.2 101.9 236.7
Property, plant and equipment 43.9 5.4 45.4
Investments in associated companies 50.7 57.4 54.3
Other financial investments 13.0 - -
Loans to associated companies 25.8 25.0 25.7
Deposits 9.5 3.8 12.4
Deferred tax assets 177.0 40.4 122.5
Total non-current assets 6,220.0 3,423.9 6,137.5
Inventories 19.1 13.4 20.5
Trade receivables* 5 313.5 57.9 405.2
Prepaid expenses 56.7 5.4 46.2
Other receivables 20.7 0.9 6.3
Tax receivables 0.2 - 39.4
Cash and cash equivalents 5 326.4 976.5 671.2
Total current assets 736.6 1,054.1 1,188.8
TOTAL ASSETS 6,956.6 4,478.0 7,326.3
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES:
Share capital 1.7 1.7 1.7
Share premium 2,654.0 2,654.0 2,654.0
Treasury shares -0.0 0.0 0.0
Reserves -178.4 -259.1 -226.8
Retained earnings including net profit for the period -93.3 -95.5 -109.0
Total equity attributable to the parent company’s
shareholders 2,384.0 2,301.1 2,319.9
Non-controlling interests -0.1 6.5 6.5
Total equity 2,383.9 2,307.6 2,326.4
Borrowing from credit institutions 5 2,198.8 1,247.6 2,483.3
Lease liabilities 214.0 89.5 214.4
Deferred tax liabilities 395.5 181.7 413.1
Provisions 68.0 8.3 60.6
Other non-current liabilites 74.3 54.0 88.2
Total non-current liabilities 2,950.6 1,581.1 3,259.6
Borrowing from credit institutions 5 86.2 - -
Trade payables 5 86.9 15.6 137.6
Current tax liabilities 22.9 23.3 20.5
Accrued expenses 487.6 159.6 498.7
Prepaid income* 825.3 322.8 902.6
Lease liabilities 62.3 15.3 52.5
Other current liabilities 5 50.9 52.7 128.4
Total current liabilities 1,622.1 589.3 1,740.3
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 6,956.6 4,478.0 7,326.3
===== SIDA 14 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 14
* The decrease in share premium is explained by extra costs related to the issue of shares made in 2021.
Equity attributable to the parent company's shareholders
MSEK Share capital
Share
premium
Treasury
shares Reserves
Retained
earnings
Equity attributable to
the parent company’s
shareholders
Non-
controlling
interests Total equity
Balance at January 1, 2023 1.7 2,654.0 0.0 -226.8 -109.0 2,319.9 6.5 2,326.4
Profit for the period - - - - 13.2 13.2 0.2 13.4
Other comprehensive income for the
period - - - 48.4 - 48.4 - 48.4
Total comprehensive income/loss - - - 48.4 13.2 61.6 0.2 61.8
Transaction with shareholders in their
capacity as owners:
Sharebased payment - - 0.0 - 2.5 2.5 - 2.5
Divestment -6.8 -6.8
Total transaction with shareholders - - 0.0 - 2.5 2.5 -6.8 -4.3
Closing balance at September 30, 2023 1.7 2,654.0 0.0 -178.4 -93.3 2,384.0 -0.1 2,383.9
Equity attributable to the parent company's shareholders
MSEK Share capital
Share
premium
Treasury
shares Reserves
Retained
earnings
Equity attributable to
the parent company’s
shareholders
Non-
controlling
interests Total equity
Balance at January 1, 2022 1.7 2,654.8 0.0 -338.0 -171.0 2,147.5 6.5 2,154.0
Profit for the period - - - - 72.8 72.8 -0.0 72.8
Other comprehensive income for the
period - - - 79.0 - 79.0 0.0 79.0
Total comprehensive income/loss - - - 79.0 72.8 151.8 -0.0 151.8
Transaction with shareholders in their
capacity as owners:
Issue of ordinary shares* -0.8 -0.8 -0.8
Sharebased payment - - - - 2.6 2.6 - 2.6
Total transaction with shareholders - -0.8 - - 2.6 1.8 - 1.8
Closing balance at September 30, 2022 1.7 2,654.0 0.0 -259.0 -95.6 2,301.1 6.5 2,307.6
===== SIDA 15 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 15
* Comparison numbers have been adjusted in accordance with IFRS 15 section 12. Please also refer to Note 1.
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2022
Operating profit (EBIT) 35.9 43.2 122.1 100.3 78.8
Non-cash items 122.4 55.6 300.8 165.0 242.9
Effect of changes in working capital:
Change in inventories 1.5 1.1 1.6 -1.7 -2.5
Change in receivables* 53.4 -16.5 72.0 - -30.1
Change in trade payables and other payables -5.1 20.9 -128.4 -54.8 -14.9
Provisions paid - - -3.2 - -
Change in prepaid income* -198.0 -78.3 -87.8 -58.7 94.8
Net financial items, paid -31.3 -10.1 -94.0 -18.8 -24.0
Corporate tax paid -21.2 -4.3 -40.9 -25.1 -69.1
Net effect of changes in working capital -200.7 -87.2 -280.7 -159.1 -45.8
Cash flow from operating activities -42.4 11.6 142.2 106.2 275.9
Acquisition of subsidiaries 4.2 -0.4 -58.7 -0.4 -1,635.1
Acquisition of participations in associated companies - -2.9 - -2.9 -2.9
Other financial investments -3.0 -3.0
Loan to associated companies - -2.9 - -8.6 -8.6
Acquisition of intangible assets -38.2 -18.0 -107.3 -63.9 -89.2
Acquisition of property, plant and equipment -0.8 -0.1 -8.0 -1.1 -3.9
Cash flow from investing activities -37.8 -24.3 -177.0 -76.9 -1,739.7
Repayment long-term debt - - -2,587.9 - -
Proceeds long-term debt -0.9 - 2,330.6 - 1,192.7
Payment of lease liabilities -10.8 -6.0 -38.2 -23.3 -32.8
Change in long-term receivables -0.7 0.1 -3.3 -0.9 1.3
Proceeds from share issues - - - -0.8 -0.8
Payment of contingent considirations - - -17.1 -8.1 -8.1
Cash flow from financing activities -12.4 -5.9 -315.9 -33.1 1,152.3
Cash flow for the period -92.6 -18.6 -350.7 -3.8 -311.5
Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period 455.9 981.1 671.2 951.5 951.5
Exchange-rate differences in cash and cash equivalents -36.9 14.0 5.9 28.8 31.2
Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the period 326.4 976.5 326.4 976.5 671.2
Jan-SepQ3
===== SIDA 16 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 16
Note 1. Accounting policies
The consolidated interim financial statements for Karnov Group have been prepared in accordance with IAS 34, Interim Financial Reporting, as
adopted by the EU, RFR 1 Supplementary Accounting Regulations for Groups and the Swedish Annual Accounts Act. The accounting policies used
for this interim report 2023 are the same as the accounting policies used for the annual report 2022 to which we refer for a full description.
However, Trade receivables and Prepaid income have been adjusted in accordance with IFRS 15 section 12 according to which unperformed
contract receivables are netted against prepaid income. The adjustment is neutral to the consolidated statement of comprehensive income as well
as to the consolidated equity. The adjustment has been worked into the comparison numbers of this interim financial statements. Below table
shows the impact of the change to current period numbers and to comparative numbers. The interim financial statements for the parent company
have been prepared in accordance with RFR 2, Accounting for Legal Entities, and the Swedish Annual Accounts Act.
Note 2. Critical estimates and judgements
Preparation of financial statements requires the company management to make assessments and estimates along with assumptions that affect
the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, income, and expenses. The actual outcome may differ
from these estimates. The critical assessments and sources of uncertainty in the estimates are the same as in the most recent annual report. See
the Annual report 2022 Note 4, page 75, for further details regarding critical estimates and judgements.
Impact from full implementation of IFRS 15 section 12 in Karnov Group on Consolidated balance sheet
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Jun 2023 31 Mar 2023 31 Dec 2022 30 Sep 2022
Change of Trade receivables -42.3 -38.5 -49.1 -125.4 -40.6
Change of Prepaid income 42.3 38.5 49.1 125.4 40.6
(and derivative impact on subsequent totals and KPI's)
Impact from full implementation of IFRS 15 section 12 in Karnov Group on Consolidated statement of cash flows
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2022
Impact on cash flow from Changes in receivables 3.8 -3.8 -83.1 -99.2 -140.4
Impact on cash flow from Changes in prepaid income -3.8 3.8 83.1 99.2 140.4
Impact on Cash flow from operating activities - - - - -
Q3 Jan-Sep
===== SIDA 17 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 17
Note 3. Segment reporting
Karnov Group has as a consequence of the 2022-acquisition of companies in France, Spain and Portugal adjusted its operating segments from
"Denmark" and "Sweden/Norway" to "North", "South" and "Group Functions". This segmentation has also been applied for the comparison numbers
and is consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. The Group CEO has been identified as the chief
operating decision maker and assesses the financial performance and position of the Group and makes strategic decisions. Segment profits are
monitored to Adjusted EBITA. Income statement items below Adjusted EBITA, balance sheet and cash flows are entirely monitored on Group level.
Karnov Group’s business operations are in general independent of differences in products and channels and the Group therefore monitors the
overall net sales distribution trend between online and offline products at Group level.
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022
Net sales specified on product categories:
Online 246.2 205.6 272.8 - - - 519.0 205.6
Offline 32.6 57.6 67.3 - - - 99.9 57.6
Net sales 278.8 263.2 340.1 - - - 618.9 263.2
Adjusted EBITDA 132.3 123.0 41.6 - -20.4 -15.0 153.5 108.0
Depreciations and amortisations -17.0 -15.0 -20.4 - -0.1 - -37.5 -15.0
Adjusted EBITA 115.3 108.0 21.2 - -20.5 -15.0 116.0 93.0
Amortisations from acquisitions -52.8 -42.1
Items affecting comparability -27.3 -7.7
Operating profit (EBIT) 35.9 43.2
Share of profit in associated companies -1.0 -0.3
Net financial items -12.4 15.3
Profit before tax 22.5 58.2
Tax on profit for the period -1.3 -8.6
Profit for the period 21.2 49.6
North South Group Functions Total
Q3 Q3 Q3 Q3
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022
Net sales specified on product categories:
Online 711.6 603.1 800.8 - - - 1,512.4 603.1
Offline 103.7 142.1 224.3 - - - 328.0 142.1
Net sales 815.3 745.2 1,025.1 - - - 1,840.4 745.2
Adjusted EBITDA 389.3 351.5 141.7 - -56.7 -39.7 474.3 311.8
Depreciations and amortisations -50.8 -40.6 -57.7 - -0.1 - -108.6 -40.6
Adjusted EBITA 338.5 310.9 84.0 - -56.8 -39.7 365.7 271.2
Amortisations from acquisitions -159.1 -124.8
Items affecting comparability -84.5 -46.1
Operating profit (EBIT) 122.1 100.3
Share of profit in associated companies -3.9 -8.3
Net financial items -107.2 0.3
Profit before tax 11.0 92.3
Tax on profit for the period 2.4 -19.5
Profit for the period 13.4 72.8
North South Group Functions Total
Jan-Sep Jan-Sep Jan-Sep Jan-Sep
===== SIDA 18 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 18
Note 4. Business combinations and similar transactions
Nørskov Miljø ApS
On 3rd January 2023, Karnov Group acquired Nørskov Miljø ApS for a cash consideration of SEK 8.7 m. The purchase price allocation is currently
being prepared. Per end of September 2023 is the entire excess value of SEK 5.9 m allocated to goodwill.
Region South
On 30 November 2022, Karnov Group completed the acquisition of carved out legal information-based businesses of both Thomson Reuters in
Spain and Wolters Kluwer in Spain, France and Portugal (together “Region South”) and assumed full ownership of the local entities. Revenue,
income as well as assets and liabilities belonging to the acquired entities are fully consolidated from 30 November 2022 in the Group’s financial
statements.
In June 2023 Karnov Group concluded the closing settlement with Wolters Kluwer and paid additional SEK 50.2 m (EUR 4.6 m) related to the
businesses in Lamy Liaisons (France) and La Ley (Spain). Similarly, but in July 2023, was the closing settlement with Thomson Reuters concluded
with a repayment of SEK 4.0 m (EUR 0.36 m) related to the business in Aranzadi (Spain). In addition to the settlement adjustments have minor
corrections to the acquired net assets been identified and adjusted for, as well as minor updates to the purchase price allocation have been
adjusted for. The net-zero reclassifications are consequential to the finalization of the purchase price allocation.
LexNordics AB – discontinued business
Karnov Group exited its 60% shareholding of LexNordics AB to LEX247 Cloud Service AB per 9 August 2023 against a shareholding in LEX247
Cloud Service AB of 19.9% valued at SEK 13.0 m. The derecognition of the fully consolidated balance sheet of LexNordics AB has reduced Other
intangible assets by SEK 12.7 m, other net assets by SEK 5.9 m and non-controlling interests by SEK 6.8 m. A profit from the transaction of SEK
1.2 m has been recognised in other income.
Purchase price, MSEK
Original
30 Nov 2022 Reclassifications
Changes to
opening balance
Adjusted
30 Nov 2022
Cash paid on closing date 1,769.6 1,769.6
Final settlement paid - 46.2 46.2
Cash acquired -134.9 0.4 -134.5
Total purchase price 1,634.7 46.6 1,681.3
Reported amounts, TSEK
Intangible assets: Customer relations 225.1 -6.7 218.4
Intangible assets: Technology 314.2 -157.3 14.9 171.8
Intangible assets: Content 661.6 44.2 -2.3 703.5
Intangible assets: Trademarks - 113.1 1.1 114.2
Tangible assets 177.6 -0.5 177.1
Inventories 6.6 6.6
Trade receivables and other receivables 370.8 -15.5 355.3
Loans and borowings -3.3 -3.3
Trade payables and other liabilities -364.0 -2.1 -366.1
Accrued expenses and prepaid income -782.6 29.1 -753.5
Deferred tax -178.7 13.9 -164.9
Total identified net assets 427.3 31.8 459.1
Goodwill 1,207.4 14.8 1,222.2
Total 1,634.7 - 46.6 1,681.3
===== SIDA 19 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 19
Note 5. Fair value of financial instruments
Trade receivables
Due to the short-term nature of trade receivables, their carrying
amount is considered to be the same as their fair value.
Cash and cash e quivalents
Cash and cash equivalents are unsecured with a short credit period
and are therefore considered to have a fair value equal to the carrying
amount. These are classified at level 2 in the fair value hierarchy.
Contingent consideration
The carrying amounts of contingent considerations are presented as
the fair value. The fair value of the contingent considerations is
estimated by calculating the present value of the future expected
cash flows. The estimates are based on a discount rate at 1.2
percent. These are classified at level 3 in the fair value hierarchy.
Trade payables
Trade payables are unsecured and are usually paid within 30 days of
recognition. Due to the short-term nature of trade payables, their
carrying amounts are considered to be the same as their fair value.
Borrowing from credit institutions
The carrying amount of borrowings is considered to be the same as
their fair values, since interest payable on those borrowings is close
to current market rates. These are classified at level 2 in the fair value
hierarchy.
Other
There have been no significant new items compared to December 31,
2022. No transfers between the levels of fair value hierarchies have
taken place in 2023
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
FINANCIAL ASSETS
Financial assets at amortised cost
Trade receivables 313.5 57.9 405.2 313.5 57.9 405.2
Cash and cash equivalents 326.4 976.5 671.2 326.4 976.5 671.2
Total financial assets 639.9 1,034.4 1,076.4 639.9 1,034.4 1,076.4
FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
Financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL)
Contingent considerations 6.7 30.8 29.9 6.7 30.8 29.9
Liabilities at amortised cost
Trade payables 86.9 15.6 137.6 86.9 15.6 137.6
Borrowing from credit institutions 2,285.0 1,247.6 2,483.3 2,285.0 1,247.6 2,483.3
Total financial liabilities 2,378.6 1,294.0 2,650.8 2,378.6 1,294.0 2,650.8
Carrying Amount Fair value
===== SIDA 20 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 20
Note 6. Alternative performance measures
Karnov’s financial statements include alternative performance measures, which complement the measures that are defined or specified in applicable
rules for financial reporting. Alternative performance measures are presented since, in their context, they provide clearer or more in-depth information
than the measures defined in applicable rules for financial reporting. The alternative performance measures are derived from the Group’s consolidated
financial reporting and are not measured in accordance with IFRS. Karnov’s definition of these measures, which are not described under IFRS, is
provided in the section Financial Definitions. Reconciliations of the alternative performance measures are presented below.
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022
Organic business 263.8 251.8 - - - - 263.8 251.8
Acquired business 1.5 5.1 340.1 - - - 341.6 5.1
Currency 13.5 6.3 - - - - 13.5 6.3
Net sales 278.8 263.2 340.1 - - - 618.9 263.2
Total net sales split, %
Organic growth, % 0.2% 13.2% - - - - 0.2% 13.2%
Acquired business, % 0.5% 2.4% 100.0% - - - 129.7% 2.4%
Currency effect, % 5.2% 2.8% - - - - 5.2% 2.8%
Total growth, % 5.9% 18.4% 100.0% - - - 135.1% 18.4%
EBITDA 136.5 123.0 22.9 - -25.9 -22.7 133.5 100.3
EBITDA margin, % 49.0% 46.7% 6.7% - - - 21.6% 38.1%
Depreciations and amortisations -21.6 -15.0 -20.4 - -0.1 - -42.1 -15.0
EBITA 114.9 108.0 2.5 - -26.0 -22.7 91.4 85.3
EBITA margin, % 41.2% 41.0% 0.7% - - - 14.8% 32.4%
Items affecting comparability -3.1 - -18.7 - -5.5 -7.7 -27.3 -7.7
Adjusted EBITDA 132.3 123.0 41.6 - -20.4 -15.0 153.5 108.0
Adjusted EBITDA margin, % 47.5% 46.7% 12.2% - - - 24.8% 41.0%
Adjusted EBITA 115.3 108.0 21.2 - -20.5 -15.0 116.0 93.0
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 41.4% 41.0% 6.2% - - - 18.7% 35.3%
Items affecting comparability
Acquisition and post-closing integration cost - - -18.7 - -5.5 -7.7 -24.2 -7.7
Restructuring costs -3.1 - - - - - -3.1 -
Total -3.1 - -18.7 - -5.5 -7.7 -27.3 -7.7
Items affecting comparability classification
Operating costs 4.2 - -18.7 - -5.5 -7.7 -20.0 -7.7
Depreciations and amortisations -4.6 - - - - - -4.6 -
Amortisations from acquisitions -2.7 - - - - - -2.7 -
North South Group Functions Total
Q3 Q3 Q3 Q3
===== SIDA 21 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 21
Note 6. Alternative performance measures (cont.)
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022 2023 2022
Organic business 779.0 714.8 - - - - 779.0 714.8
Acquired business 5.0 14.4 1,025.1 - - - 1,030.1 14.4
Currency 31.3 16.0 - - - - 31.3 16.0
Net sales 815.3 745.2 1,025.1 - - - 1,840.4 745.2
Total net sales split, %
Organic growth, % 4.5% 8.8% - - - - 4.5% 8.8%
Acquired business, % 0.7% 2.2% 100.0% - - - 138.3% 2.2%
Currency effect, % 4.2% 2.4% - - - - 4.2% 2.4%
Total growth, % 9.4% 13.4% 100.0% - - - 147.0% 13.4%
EBITDA 393.5 351.5 73.3 - -69.7 -85.8 397.1 265.7
EBITDA margin, % 48.3% 47.2% 7.2% - - - 21.6% 35.7%
Depreciations and amortisations -55.4 -40.6 -57.7 - -0.1 - -113.2 -40.6
EBITA 338.1 310.9 15.6 - -69.8 -85.8 283.9 225.1
EBITA margin, % 41.5% 41.7% 1.5% - - - 15.4% 30.2%
Items affecting comparability -3.1 - -68.4 - -13.0 -46.1 -84.5 -46.1
Adjusted EBITDA 389.3 351.5 141.7 - -56.7 -39.7 474.3 311.8
Adjusted EBITDA margin, % 47.7% 47.2% 13.8% - - - 25.8% 41.8%
Adjusted EBITA 338.5 310.9 84.0 - -56.8 -39.7 365.7 271.2
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 41.5% 41.7% 8.2% - - - 19.9% 36.4%
Items affecting comparability
Acquisition and post-closing integration cost - - -68.4 - -13.0 -46.1 -81.4 -46.1
Restructuring costs -3.1 - - - - - -3.1 -
Total -3.1 - -68.4 - -13.0 -46.1 -84.5 -46.1
Items affecting comparability classification
Operating costs 4.2 - -68.4 - -13.0 -46.1 -77.2 -46.1
Depreciations and amortisations -4.6 - - - - - -4.6 -
Amortisations from acquisitions -2.7 - - - - - -2.7 -
North South Group Functions Total
Jan-Sep Jan-Sep Jan-Sep Jan-Sep
===== SIDA 22 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 22
Note 6. Alternative performance measures (cont.)
Adjusted cash conversion
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2022
Adjusted EBITDA 153.5 108.0 474.3 311.8 422.0
Cash flow from operating activities -42.4 11.6 142.2 106.2 275.9
Interest paid 31.3 10.1 94.0 18.8 24.1
Income tax paid 21.2 4.3 40.9 25.1 69.1
Cash effect adjustment related to items affecting
comparability 20.0 8.9 77.2 50.5 109.3
Capex related to product development and enhancements -53.1 -9.3 -107.3 -38.1 -55.3
Adjusted cash flow from operating activities -23.0 25.6 247.0 162.5 423.1
Adjusted cash conversion, % -15.0% 23.7% 52.1% 52.1% 100.3%
Jan-SepQ3
Net debt
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
Borrowing from credit institutions, long term 2,198.8 1,247.6 2,483.3
Borrowing from credit institutions, short term 86.2 - -
Cash and cash equivalents -326.4 -976.5 -671.2
Net debt 1,958.6 271.1 1,812.1
Leverage ratio
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
Adjusted EBITDA LTM (proforma) 621.3 396.2 582.0
Net debt 1,958.6 271.1 1,812.1
Leverage ratio 3.2 0.7 3.1
===== SIDA 23 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 23
Q3 Q2 Q1 Q4 Q3
MSEK 2023 2023 2023 2022 2022
Income statement
Net sales 618.9 607.8 613.7 368.3 263.2
EBITDA 133.5 118.9 144.7 46.9 100.3
EBITDA margin, % 21.6% 19.6% 23.6% 12.7% 38.1%
EBITA 91.4 80.7 111.8 29.3 85.3
EBITA margin, % 14.8% 13.3% 18.2% 8.0% 32.4%
Adjusted EBITA 116.0 109.3 140.4 92.6 93.0
Adjusted EBITA margin, % 18.7% 18.0% 22.9% 25.1% 35.3%
Operating profit (EBIT) 35.9 28.9 57.3 -21.5 43.2
EBIT, margin % 5.8% 4.8% 9.3% -5.8% 16.4%
Net financial items -12.4 -61.5 -33.3 -17.4 15.3
Profit for the period 21.2 -26.2 18.4 -12.9 49.6
Balance sheet
Non-current assets 6,220.0 6,407.3 6,174.7 6,137.5 3,423.9
Current assets 736.6 966.9 1,327.8 1,188.8 1,054.1
Cash and cash equivalents 326.4 455.9 770.1 671.2 976.5
Equity 2,383.9 2,432.0 2,367.5 2,326.4 2,307.6
Non-current liabilities 2,950.6 3,039.0 3,285.0 3,259.6 1,581.1
Current liabilities 1,622.1 1,903.2 1,850.0 1,740.3 589.3
Total assets 6,956.6 7,374.2 7,502.5 7,326.3 4,478.0
Cash flow
Cash flow from operating activities -42.4 17.4 167.2 169.8 11.6
Cash flow from Investing activities -37.8 -94.9 -44.3 -1,662.8 -24.3
Cash flow from financing activities -12.4 -278.4 -25.1 1,185.3 -5.9
Cash flow for the period -92.6 -355.9 97.8 -307.7 -18.6
Adjusted cash flow from operating activities -23.0 60.0 210.0 260.6 25.6
Key ratios
Net working capital -885.5 -936.3 -522.2 -551.6 464.7
Equity/asset ratio, % 34.3% 33.0% 31.6% 31.8% 51.5%
Adjusted cash conversion, % -15.0% 40.7% 121.2% 236.4% 23.7%
Net debt 1,958.6 1,889.6 1,733.8 1,812.1 271.0
Share data:
Weighted average number of ordinary shares (thousands) 107,876 107,861 107,847 107,847 107,847
Earnings per share, basic, SEK 0.20 -0.24 0.17 -0.12 0.46
Earnings per share, after dilution, SEK 0.20 -0.24 0.17 -0.12 0.46
===== SIDA 24 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 24
Jan-Dec
MSEK 2023 2022 2023 2022 2022
Employee benefit expenses -1.1 -1.6 -3.5 -6.3 -7.3
Depreciations and amortisations -0.1 -0.0 -0.1 -0.0 -0.0
Other operating income and expenses 2.4 -18.5 -5.8 -75.9 0.1
Operating profit (EBIT) 1.2 -20.1 -9.4 -82.2 -7.3
Financial income 32.1 6.4 53.4 18.6 25.9
Financial expenses -18.2 -0.5 -18.7 -1.5 -2.5
Dividend received - - 45.0 - -
Net financial items 13.9 5.9 79.7 17.1 23.4
Group contributions - - - - 9.2
Profit before tax 15.1 -14.2 70.3 -65.1 25.3
Tax on profit for the period -4.0 2.2 -5.2 10.6 -2.2
Profit for the period 11.1 -12.0 65.1 -54.5 23.1
Total comprehensive income 11.1 -12.0 65.1 -54.5 23.1
Jan-SepQ3
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
ASSETS:
Receivables from group companies 2,346.1 1,212.7 1,181.9
Investments in group companies 1,160.5 1,158.6 1,158.1
Right-of-use assets 0.1 0.2 0.2
Deferred tax assets - 10.6 -
Total non-current assets 3,506.7 2,382.1 2,340.2
Receivables from group enterprises 73.4 1.2 156.5
Other receivables 1.3 0.9 0.5
Current tax receivable - 0.2 1.4
Cash and cash equivalents 47.5 56.0 11.5
Total current assets 122.2 58.3 169.9
TOTAL ASSETS 3,628.9 2,440.4 2,510.1
MSEK 30 Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES:
Restricted equity
Share capital 1.7 1.7 1.7
Non-restricted equity
Share premium 2,654.0 2,654.0 2,654.0
Retained earnings including net profit for the year -110.1 -254.7 -177.6
Total equity 2,545.6 2,401.0 2,478.1
Lease liabilities 0.0 0.1 -
Borrowing from credit institutions 931.1 - -
Total non-current liabilities 931.1 0.1 -
Borrowing from credit institutions 86.2 - -
Trade payables 0.6 2.7 4.6
Trade payables from group companies 60.2 1.6 14.5
Current tax liabilities 1.3 - -
Accrued expenses 3.7 34.8 6.6
Other current liabilities 0.2 0.2 6.3
Total current liabilities 152.2 39.3 32.0
TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 3,628.9 2,440.4 2,510.1
===== SIDA 25 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023 25
This interim report contains references to a number of performance measures. Some of these measures are defined in IFRS standards, while
others are alternative measures, which are not reported in accordance with applicable financial reporting frameworks or other legislation. These
measures are used by Karnov to help both investors and management to analyse the Group’s operations. The measures used in this interim report
are described below, together with definitions and the reason for their use.
Key ratio Definition Reason for use
Acquired growth Change in net sales during the current period
attributable to acquired units, excluding
currency effects, in relation to net sales for the
corresponding period of the preceding year. Net
sales of acquired units are defined as acquired
growth during a period of 12 months
commencing the respective acquisition date.
The measure is used as a complement to organic
growth and provides an improved understanding
for Karnov’s growth.
Adjusted EBITA EBITA adjusted for the impact of items affecting
comparability.
The measure shows the profitability from the
business, adjusted for the impact of items
affecting comparability and amortisation of
capital expenditures related to acquisitions.
Adjusted EBITA margin Adjusted EBITA as a percentage of net sales. The measure shows the underlying profitability
generated from the current operations over time,
adjusted for items affecting comparability.
Adjusted EBITDA EBITDA adjusted for the impact of items
affecting comparability.
The measure is used since it facilitates the
understanding of the operating profit, excluding
items affecting comparability, financing,
depreciation and amortisation.
Adjusted EBITDA margin Adjusted EBITDA as a percentage of net sales. The measure shows operational profitability over
time, excluding items affecting comparability,
financing, depreciation and amortisation.
Adjusted cash flow from operating
activities
Cash flow from operating activities adjusted for
cash effect of interests, taxes and items
affecting comparability less capital expenditure
related to new product development and
enhancement of existing products and business
systems.
The measure is used to calculate one component
in the cash conversion.
Average number of full-time employees
(FTEs)
Average number of full-time employees during
the reporting period.
Non-financial key ratio.
Adjusted Cash conversion (%)
Adjusted cash flow from operating activities as
a percentage of Adjusted EBITDA.
The measure is used since it shows how
efficiently adjusted cash flow from operating
activities is translated into a concrete
contribution to Karnov’s financing.
Earnings per share Earnings per share for the period in SEK
attributable to the parent company’s
shareholders, in relation to weighted average
number of outstanding shares before and after
dilution.
IFRS key ratio.
EBITA Earnings before financial items and taxes,
excluding acquisition related purchase price
allocation (PPA) amortisation.
The measure shows the profitability from the
business, adjusted for acquisition related
purchase price allocation (PPA) amortisation.
EBITA margin EBITA as a percentage of net sales. The measure shows the profitability over time for
the underlying business (i.e., excluding PPA
amortisation) in relation to net sales.
===== SIDA 26 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023
Interim Report, January – September 2023 26
Key ratio Definition Reason for use
EBITDA Earnings before depreciation and amortisation,
financial items, and taxes.
The measure shows the operating profitability
before depreciation and amortisation.
EBITDA margin EBITDA as a percentage of net sales. The measure shows operational profitability over
time, regardless of financing, depreciation and
amortisation.
Equity/asset ratio (%) Equity divided by total assets. The measure can be used to assess Karnov’s
financial stability.
Items affecting comparability Items affecting comparability includes items of
a significant character that distort comparisons
over time.
The measure is used for understanding the
financial performance over time.
Leverage ratio (Net debt/adjusted EBITDA
LTM excluding leasing liabilities)
Net debt on the balance sheet date divided by
adjusted EBITDA for the last twelve months
(LTM), excluding leasing liabilities.
Relevant to analyse to ensure that Karnov has an
appropriate financing structure.
Net debt Total net borrowings including capitalised bank
costs less cash and cash equivalents.
The measure is used since it allows for an
assessment of whether Karnov has an
appropriate financing structure.
Net sales (online) Net sales from online products. The measure is used since it facilitates the
understanding of total net sales and the
breakdown of net sales.
Net sales (offline) Net sales from printed products and training. The measure is used since it facilitates the
understanding of total net sales and the
breakdown of net sales.
Operating profit (EBIT) Profit for the period before financial items and
taxes.
The measure is used since it enables
comparisons of the profitability regardless of the
capital structure or tax situation.
Organic growth Change in net sales during the current period,
excluding acquisitions and currency effects, in
relation to net sales for the corresponding
period of the preceding year. Acquisitions are
included in organic net sales after a period of 12
months.
The measure is used since it shows Karnov’s
ability to generate growth through increases of,
among other things, volume and price in its
existing business.
CURRENCY RATES
OTHER
Amounts in tables and combined amounts have been rounded off on an individual basis. Minor differences due to this rounding off may, therefore,
appear in the totals. Figures commented in the text are presented in million SEK unless otherwise stated. Comparative figures from previous
period are presented in brackets. The interim report is published in Swedish and English. In case of any differences between the English version
and the Swedish original text, the Swedish version shall prevail.
Closing rate Average rate Closing rate Average rate Closing rate Average rate
30 Sep 2023 Jan-Sep 2023 30 Sep 2022 Jan-Sep 2022 31 Dec 2022 Jan-Dec 2022
1 DKK is equivalent to SEK 1.5412 1.5402 1.4681 1.4145 1.4965 1.4285
1 NOK is equivalent to SEK 1.0202 1.0118 1.0430 1.0519 1.0572 1.0518
1 EUR is equivalent to SEK 11.4923 11.4722 10.9177 10.5248 11.1283 10.6274
===== SIDA 27 =====
Interim Report, January – September 2023
Karnov Group clears the path to justice, providing mission critical knowledge and workflow solutions to
European professionals in the areas of legal, tax and accounting, and environmental, health and safety. Karnov
was founded on one man’s belief that access to the law is the foundation of every great society and our legacy
dates back to 1823. Over time, the Karnov Group has evolved from a traditional publishing company to a digital
information provider.
Our mission is to be an indispensable partner for all legal, tax and accounting professionals and enable our
users to make better decisions, faster by delivering the highest quality of content within a state-of-the-art user
experience to support their workflow efficiency.
Our solutions are largely digital, and we offer subscription-based online solutions for law firms, tax and
accounting firms, corporates and the public sector including courts, universities, public authorities and
municipalities. Karnov also publishes and sells books and journals and hosts legal training courses.
With strong brands such as Karnov, Norstedts Juridik, Aranzadi LA LEY, Lamy Liaisons, Jusnet, Notisum,
Echoline, Nørskov Miljø, DIBkunnskap, Legal Cross Border, Forlaget Andersen, Ante, BELLA Intelligence, Karnov
Group delivers knowledge and insights to more than 400,000 users.
Karnov’s is organised into two geographical financial reporting segments and the product offering, subject to a
few variations, is similar in all countries.
Denmark: Legal, tax and accounting online and offline products and solutions and EHS compliance solutions
Sweden: Legal, tax and accounting online and offline products and solutions and EHS compliance solutions
Norway: Tax and accounting online workflow tools
France: Legal online and offline products and solutions, EHS compliance solutions and legal training
Spain and Portugal: Legal online and offline products and solutions and legal training
With offices in Sweden, Denmark, Norway, France, Spain and Portugal, Karnov Group employs around 1,300 people.
The Karnov share is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm, Mid Cap segment, under the ticker “KAR”.
Find what you need, trust what you find and do it quickly.
Karnov Group AB (publ) Corp. Id. 559016-9016 Registered office: Stockholms län
Head office: Warfvinges väg 39, 112 51 Stockholm, Sweden
Tel: +46 8 587 670 00 www.karnovgroup.com
Users
Employees
Specialists