UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM 6-K
REPORT OF FOREIGN PRIVATE ISSUER
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934
For the Month of May 2024
Commission File Number: 001-37668
FERROGLOBE PLC
(Name of Registrant)
13 Chesterfield Street,
London W1J 5JN, United Kingdom
(Address of Principal Executive Office)
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual
reports under cover of Form 20-F or Form 40-F.
Form 20-F x Form 40-F ¨
2024 Annual General Meeting of Ferroglobe PLC
On May 20, 2024, Ferroglobe PLC ("Ferroglobe" or the
"Company") released its Notice of 2024 Annual General Meeting ("2024 AGM") and Annual Report and Accounts for the
fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. The 2024 AGM will be held at 13:00 British Summer Time (BST) on Tuesday, June 18, 2023
at Ferroglobe PLC, 13 Chesterfield Street, London, W1J 5JN, United Kingdom.
Exhibits
Reference is made to the Exhibit Index included hereto.
EXHIBIT INDEX
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
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Date: May 21, 2024 |
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FERROGLOBE PLC |
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by |
/s/ Marco Levi |
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Name: Marco Levi |
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Title: Chief Executive Officer (Principal Executive
Officer) |
Exhibit 99.1
FERROGLOBE PLC
(a public limited company having its registered
office at 5 Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7RD,
United Kingdom and incorporated in England and
Wales with company number 9425113)
20 May 2024
2024 Annual General Meeting of Shareholders
of Ferroglobe Plc (“Ferroglobe” or the “Company”)
Dear Shareholder
I am pleased to invite you
to attend Ferroglobe’s annual general meeting of its shareholders (the “Annual General Meeting” or “AGM”),
to be held at 13:00 (British Summer Time) on Tuesday, 18 June 2024 at the Company’s offices at 13 Chesterfield Street, London,
W1J 5JN, United Kingdom. The accompanying notice of Annual General Meeting (“Notice”) describes the meeting, the
resolutions you will be asked to consider and vote upon and related matters.
Your vote is important, regardless
of the number of shares you own. Whether or not you intend to attend the Annual General Meeting, please vote as soon as possible to make
sure that your shares are represented. You may vote via the internet, by phone or by mail by signing, dating and returning your proxy
card in the envelope provided. To ensure your vote is counted, please ensure that your proxy vote is submitted through the relevant channels
by not later than 00:01 BST on Monday, 17 June 2024.
Recommendation
We consider all resolutions
proposed to shareholders at the Annual General Meeting to be standard business. You will find an explanation of each resolution within
the Explanatory Notes on pages 3 to 8 of this pack. The Company’s board of directors (the “Board”) considers
that all the resolutions to be put to the Annual General Meeting are in the best interests of the Company and its shareholders as a whole
and are most likely to promote the success of the Company. The Board unanimously recommends that you vote in favor of each of the proposed
resolutions, as the members of the Board intend to do in respect of their beneficial holdings.
Thank you for your continued support of Ferroglobe.
Yours sincerely,
Javier López Madrid
Executive Chairman
FERROGLOBE PLC
(a public limited company having its registered
office at 5 Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7RD,
United Kingdom and incorporated in England and
Wales with company number 9425113)
NOTICE OF 2024 ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF
SHAREHOLDERS
To
the holders of ordinary shares of Ferroglobe Plc (“Ferroglobe” or the “Company”):
Notice is hereby given that
Ferroglobe’s Annual General Meeting of shareholders will be held on Tuesday, 18 June 2024 at 13:00 (British Summer Time), at
the offices of the Company at 13 Chesterfield Street, London, W1J 5JN, United Kingdom (“U.K.”).
The business of the
Annual General Meeting will be to consider and, if thought fit, pass the resolutions below. All resolutions will be proposed as
ordinary resolutions. Explanations of the resolutions are given in the explanatory notes on pages 3 to 8 of this Annual General
Meeting notice and additional information on voting at the Annual General Meeting can be found on pages 8 to 10. All
resolutions will be put to vote on a poll, where each shareholder has one vote for each share held.
Certain of the resolutions
that shareholders of the Company will be asked to consider may not be familiar to them because, unlike many companies with shares traded
on the Nasdaq Capital Market (“Nasdaq”), the Company is incorporated under the laws of England and Wales and is therefore
subject to the U.K. Companies Act 2006 (the “Companies Act”). The Companies Act obliges the Company to propose certain
matters to shareholders for approval that would generally not be subject to periodic approval by shareholders of companies incorporated
in the United States but would be considered routine items for approval by shareholders of companies incorporated in England and Wales.
ORDINARY RESOLUTIONS:
U.K. Annual Report and Accounts 2023
| 1 | THAT the directors’ and auditor’s reports and the accounts of the Company for the financial
year ended 31 December 2023 (the “U.K. Annual Report and Accounts”) be received. |
Directors’ 2023 Remuneration Report
| 2 | THAT the directors’ annual report on remuneration for the year ended 31 December 2023
(excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, any part of the Directors’ remuneration report containing the directors’ remuneration
policy), as set out on pages 35 to 36 and 50 to 61 of the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts be approved. |
Authority for
certain donations and expenditure
| 3 | THAT, in accordance with Part 14 of the Companies Act and in substitution for any previous authorities
given to the Company (and its subsidiaries), the Company (and all companies that are subsidiary of the Company at any time during the
period for which this resolution has effect) be authorized to: (i) make political donations to political parties or independent election
candidates; (ii) make political donations to political organizations other than political parties, and (iii) incur political
expenditure, in each case, as such terms are defined in the Companies Act, provided that with respect to each of the foregoing categories,
any such donations or expenditure made by the Company, or a subsidiary of the Company, do not in the aggregate exceed £100,000.
Such authority shall expire at the conclusion of the Company’s next annual general meeting. For the purposes of this resolution,
the authorized sum may comprise sums in different currencies that shall be converted at such rate as the Board may in its absolute discretion
determine to be appropriate. |
Authority to Make Purchases of Own Shares Off-market
| 4 | THAT, for the purposes of section 694 of the Companies Act, the terms of the buyback contract to be
entered into between the Company and any or all of J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, BMO Capital Markets Corp. and Santander US Capital
Markets LLC, respectively (in the forms produced to this meeting and made available at the Company's registered office for not less
than 15 days ending with the date of this meeting) are approved and the Company be authorized to undertake off-market purchases
(within the meaning of section 693(2) of the Companies Act) of its ordinary shares of US $0.01 pursuant to such contracts,
provided that (i) the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares hereby authorized to be purchased is 37,776,463, representing
approximately 20% of the issued ordinary share capital, and (ii) additional restrictions under applicable U.S. securities
laws are substantially complied with, including (but not limited to) the pricing limitations under Rule 10b-18(b)(3) of
the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), the volume limitations under
Rules 10b-18(b)(4) and 10b-18(c)(2) of the Exchange Act, the timing limitations under
Rules 10b-18(b)(2) and 10b-18(c)(1) and the requirements with respect to the use of brokers or dealers under
Rule 10b-18(b)(1) of the Exchange Act. |
Such authority shall expire at the close
of business on the fifth anniversary of the passing of this resolution, but during this five year period the Company may agree to purchase
ordinary shares pursuant to any such approved contract, even if such purchase would, or might, be completed or executed wholly or partly
after the authority ends and the Company may purchase such ordinary shares pursuant to any such approved contract as if the authority
had not ended. This authority shall apply from the conclusion of the Annual General meeting until a date which is five years from the
date of the Annual General Meeting.
Directors’
Re-election
| 5 | THAT Javier López Madrid be re-elected as a director. |
| 6 | THAT Marco Levi be re-elected as a director. |
| 7 | THAT Marta de Amusategui y Vergara be re-elected as a director. |
| 8 | THAT Bruce L. Crockett be re-elected as a director. |
| 9 | THAT Stuart E. Eizenstat be re-elected as a director. |
| 10 | THAT Manuel Garrido y Ruano be re-elected as a director. |
| 11 | THAT Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes be re-elected as a director. |
| 12 | THAT Belen Villalonga Morenés be re-elected as a director. |
| 13 | THAT Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes be re-elected as a director. |
| 14 | THAT Nicolas De Santis be re-elected as a director. |
| 15 | THAT Rafael Barrilero Yarnoz be re-elected as a director. |
Re-appointment of Auditor
| 16 | THAT KPMG LLP be re-appointed as auditor of the Company to hold office from the conclusion of the Annual
General Meeting until the conclusion of the next general meeting at which accounts are laid before the Company. |
Remuneration of Auditor
| 17 | THAT the Audit Committee of the Board be authorized to determine the auditor’s remuneration. |
Thomas Wiesner
Company
Secretary
20 May 2024
Explanatory notes to the resolutions
Resolution 1 (U.K. Annual Report and Accounts
2023)
The Board is required to present
at the Annual General Meeting the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts for the financial year ended 31 December 2023, including the
Directors’ Report and the Auditor’s Report on the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts and on those parts of the Directors’
Remuneration Report which have been audited.
Resolution 1 is an advisory
vote and in accordance with its obligations under English law, the Company will provide shareholders at the Annual General Meeting with
the opportunity to receive the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts and ask any relevant and appropriate questions on the U.K. Annual Report
and Accounts of the Board and or auditors in attendance at the Annual General Meeting.
Resolution 2 (directors’ annual remuneration
report)
Resolution 2 is an advisory
vote to approve the directors’ annual remuneration report for the year ended 31 December 2023. The directors’ remuneration
report is set out on pages 35 to 36 and 50 to 61 of the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts. It provides information on the remuneration
of the directors for 2023 and that proposed for 2024; it includes a statement by the Chairman of the Compensation Committee but excludes
the Remuneration Policy which was approved by shareholders at the AGM in 2022.
Resolution 3 (authority for certain donations
and expenditure)
The Company is seeking authority
under this resolution to allow the Company and any of its subsidiaries to make political donations or incur political expenditure up to
a limit of £100,000 for each category of donation or expenditure set out in the resolution. It is not the Company’s policy
or intention to make political donations or expenditures, and no political donations were made in the year ended 31 December 2023.
However, it is possible that certain routine activities undertaken by the Company and its subsidiaries might unintentionally fall within
the scope of the provisions controlling political donations and expenditure, which are very broad and open to interpretation. Any political
donations or expenditure regulated by the Companies Act must be approved by shareholders at a general meeting and must be disclosed in
the annual report for the year ending 31 December 2024. Accordingly, in common with many other UK public companies, the directors
seek shareholders’ approval for political donations and expenditure to be made by the Company and its subsidiaries, to avoid inadvertently
contravening the Companies Act. The authority being sought will take effect from the end of the Annual General Meeting until the end of
next year’s annual general meeting (or, if earlier, 15 months from the date of the Annual General Meeting), until renewed, revoked
or varied by the Company in a general meeting.
Resolution 4 (authority to make purchases of
own shares off-market)
The Board considers that share
buybacks are an important means of returning value to shareholders, managing capital resources and maximizing sustainable long-term growth
in earnings per share.
As the Nasdaq is not a recognized
investment exchange for the purposes of section 693(2) of the Companies Act, any repurchases by Ferroglobe of its own shares on or
through Nasdaq would constitute “off-market” repurchases for the purposes of the Companies Act. Such repurchases may only
be made pursuant to a form of share repurchase contract, the terms of which have been approved by shareholders in accordance with section
694 of the Companies Act.
Ferroglobe is seeking
the approval by shareholders of off-market purchases in accordance with this resolution in order to enable share repurchases on or
through Nasdaq pursuant to section 694 of the Companies Act, provided that (i) the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares
hereby authorized to be purchased is 37,776,463, representing approximately 20% of the issued ordinary share capital), and
(ii) additional restrictions under applicable U.S. securities laws are substantially complied with, including (but not limited
to) the pricing limitations under Rule 10b-18(b)(3) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
“Exchange Act”), the volume limitations under Rules 10b-18(b)(4) and 10b-18(c)(2) of the Exchange Act,
the timing limitations under Rules 10b-18(b)(2) and 10b-18(c)(1) and the requirements with respect to the use of
brokers or dealers under Rule 10b-18(b)(1) of the Exchange Act.
This resolution specifies
the counterparties which may each enter into a separate repurchase contract with Ferroglobe, in each case in the form approved by the
shareholders. Repurchases may be undertaken following a specific, one-off instruction from the Company to the counterparty or pursuant
to a share trading plan under which the Company instructs the counterparty to purchase a set number of shares at a maximum and/or minimum
price over a set period of time.
The approval of the terms
of the form of share repurchase contract, if granted, will be valid until the fifth anniversary of the date of approval. However, if this
resolution is approved, the Company may agree to purchase ordinary shares pursuant to any such contract, even if such purchase would,
or might, be completed or executed wholly or partly after the authority ends and the Company may purchase such ordinary shares pursuant
to any such contract as if the authority had not ended.
It is common for English incorporated
public limited companies to have a standing authority that would permit the making of share repurchases should the Company be able and
decide to do so in the future. The Board considers that having the right to make such repurchases would be in the Company’s and
its shareholders’ best interests. A market announcement would be made if the Company did decide to commence repurchases in accordance
with this authority.
Under the Companies Act, ordinary shares bought back may be held in treasury or may be cancelled. Shares
held in treasury may be either sold for cash or transferred for the purposes of an employee shares scheme. Ferroglobe therefore has a
choice of either holding or cancelling any shares it may purchase. If Ferroglobe buys back any of its shares under this resolution, we
will decide at the time of purchase whether to cancel them immediately or to hold them in treasury. In relation to treasury shares, we
would also have regard to any investor guidelines regarding the purchase of shares intended to be held in treasury and their holding or
resale. In the event that (i) the Company repurchases the maximum number of shares possible pursuant to this authority, (ii) its
majority shareholder, Grupo Villar Mir S.A.U. (“GVM”), does not participate in the share purchase program and (iii) all
shares purchased are cancelled, the percentage holding of GVM in the Company may increase to a maximum of 50.1%.
Copies of the forms of contracts
which shareholders are being asked to approve will be made available for shareholders to inspect at Ferroglobe’s registered office
at 5 Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7RD for the period from 3 June 2024 until the date of the AGM. Copies of the forms of contracts will
also be available for inspection at the Annual General Meeting.
Resolutions 5 to 15 (directors seeking re-election)
In line with best practice
in corporate governance, all our directors retire annually and, if agreed with them that they will continue in office, they offer themselves
for re-election by the shareholders. Any director appointed by the Board since the last Annual General Meeting must stand for election
at the next Annual General Meeting.
The biographies of the directors
standing for re-election at the Annual General Meeting are set out below to enable shareholders to make an informed decision on their
re-election. The biographies give the date of appointment of each director to the Board or Committees of Ferroglobe.
Javier López
Madrid
Javier López Madrid
has been Executive Chairman of the Company since December 31, 2016 and was Chairman of our Nominations Committee from January 1,
2018 until May 26, 2023. He was first appointed to the Board on February 5, 2015 and was the Company’s Executive Vice-Chairman
from December 23, 2015 until December 31, 2016.
He has been Chief Executive
Officer of Grupo VM since 2008, is member of the Board of several non-profit organizations. He is the founder and largest shareholder
of Financiera Siacapital and founded Tressis, Spain’s largest independent private bank. Mr. López Madrid holds a Masters
in law and business from ICADE University.
Marco Levi
Marco Levi was appointed Chief
Executive Officer of the Company on January 10, 2020, and appointed to its board of directors on January 15, 2020. Dr Levi previously
served as President and CEO of Alhstrom-Munksjö Oyj, a global fiber materials company listed in Finland, where he led a successful
transformation of the business by refocusing its product portfolio towards value-added specialty products. Prior to that, Dr. Levi
was Senior Vice President and Business President of the $3 billion emulsion polymers division of chemicals manufacturer Styron, including
during the period in which Styron division was acquired by Bain Capital from Dow Chemical Company. Dr. Levi previously had spent
over twenty-two years at Dow in various departments and roles, ultimately serving as general manager of the emulsion polymers business.
Dr Levi is also a Non-Executive
Director of Mativ Holdings, Inc, the leading global performance materials company, listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Dr Levi
holds a doctorate in industrial chemistry from the Università degli Studi di Milano, Statale, in Italy.
Marta de
Amusategui y Vergara
Marta de Amusategui y Vergara
was appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on June 12, 2020. She has been a member of our Audit Committee from that date
and a member of the Compensation Committee since June 23, 2021.
Ms. Amusategui has substantial
experience in executive and non-executive roles, with a background in business strategy, banking and finance. She is founder and partner
of Abrego Capital S.L, providing strategic and financial advisory services, and co-founder of Observatorio Industria 4.0, the professional
forum leveraging knowledge and experience to assist businesses, specifically those in the secondary sector, in their digital transformation.
She began her career in management consulting and investment banking, serving as Country Executive Officer and General Manager with Bank
of America in Spain from 2003 to 2008.
Ms. Amusategui has been
a member of the Board of Eland Private Equity, S.G.E.I.C., S.A., a private equity management company specializing in renewable energies,
since 2009. Since 2020, she has been a member of the board of directors of Eccocar Sharing S.L. She has also held other Board positions
in the past, including that of Telvent GIT S.A. (Nasdaq TLVT), the global IT solutions and business information services provider, where
she became an independent director from early 2010 until its de-listing following acquisition in December 2011. She is currently
a member of the McKinsey Alumni Council in Spain.
Ms. Amusategui holds
an Industrial Engineering degree (MSc equivalent) from Universidad Pontificia de Comillas, Madrid, Spain, and an MBA from INSEAD, Fontainebleau,
France. She has held a number of academic appointments, lecturing in Financing at the Three Points Digital Business School, Grupo Planeta,
in Barcelona, in Managerial Competencies in CUNEF, in Madrid, and in Risk Management on the Non-Executive Directors Program at ICADE Business
School, also in Madrid.
Bruce L. Crockett
Bruce L. Crockett was appointed
to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on December 23, 2015. He has been a member of our Audit Committee from that date and was
Chair of the Audit Committee since June 4, 2020 and served on our Compensation Committee from January 1, 2018 until June 23,
2021. Mr. Crockett was appointed on May 13, 2021 as our Senior Independent Director and on June 23, 2021 as Chair of the
Corporate Governance Committee until May 26, 2023, on which date he was appointed as a member of the Nominations and Governance Committee.
Mr. Crockett holds a
number of other Board and governance roles. He has been Chairman of the Invesco Mutual Funds Group board of directors and a member of
its Audit, Investment and Governance Committees, serving on the board since 1991, as Chair since 2003 and on the Board of predecessor
companies from 1978. Since 2013, he has been a member of the Board and, since 2014, Chair of the Audit Committee and since 2021 member
of the Governance Committee of ALPS Property & Casualty Insurance Company. He has been Chairman of, and a private investor in,
Crockett Technologies Associates since 1996. He is a life trustee of the University of Rochester. In 2021, he was appointed as a member
of the Board of Advisors of the Western Colorado University Graduate Business School.
Mr. Crockett was a member
of the board of directors of Globe from April 2014 until the closing of the Business Combination, as well as a member of Globe’s
Audit Committee. He was formerly President and Chief Executive Officer of COMSAT Corporation from 1992 until 1996 and its President and
Chief Operating Officer from 1991 to 1992, holding a number of other operational and financial positions at COMSAT from 1980, including
that of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He was a member of the board of directors of Ace Limited from 1995 until 2012 and
of Captaris, Inc. from 2001 until its acquisition in 2008 and its Chairman from 2003 to 2008.
Mr. Crockett holds an
A.B. degree from the University of Rochester, B.S. degree from the University of Maryland, an MBA from Columbia University and an Honorary
Doctor of Law degree from the University of Maryland.
Stuart E. Eizenstat
Stuart E. Eizenstat was appointed
to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on December 23, 2015. He was a member of the Company’s Corporate Governance Committee
from January 1, 2018, until May 26, 2023, and served on our Nominations Committee from May 16, 2018, until May 26,
2023, on which date he was appointed as a member of the Compensation Committee.
Mr. Eizenstat has been
a Senior Counsel at Covington & Burling LLP in Washington, D.C. and headed its international practice for many years after joining
the firm in 2001. He has served as a member of the Advisory Boards of GML Ltd. since 2003 and of the Office of Cherifien de Phosphates
since 2010. He was a trustee of BlackRock Funds from
2001 until 2018.
Mr. Eizenstat was a member
of board of directors of Globe Specialty Metals from 2008 until the closing of the Business Combination and Chair of its Nominating Committee.
He was a member of the board of directors of Alcatel-Lucent from 2008 to 2016 and of United Parcel Service from 2005 to 2015. He has had
an illustrious political and advisory career, including serving as Special Adviser to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and then Secretary
of State John Kerry on Holocaust-Era Issues from 2009 to 2017, and Special Representative of the President and Secretary of State on Holocaust
Issues during the Clinton administration from 1993 to 2001. He was Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of the Treasury from
July 1999 to January 2001, Under Secretary of State for Economic, Business and Agricultural Affairs from 1997 to 1999, Under
Secretary of Commerce for International Trade from 1996 to 1997, U.S. Ambassador to the European Union from 1993 to 1996 and Chief Domestic
Policy Advisor in the White House to President Carter from 1977 to 1981. He served on the Defense Policy Board in the Obama administration
from 2014-2017. He currently serves as Special Adviser on Holocaust Issues to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and as Chairman of the
Council of United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, appointed by President Biden. He is the author of “Imperfect Justice: Looted
Assets, Slave Labor, and the Unfinished Business of World War II”; “The Future of the Jews: How Global Forces are Impacting
the Jewish People, Israel, and its Relationship with the United States”, “President Carter: The White House Years”,
and "The Art of Diplomacy: How American Negotiators Reached Historic Agreements that Changed the World".
Mr. Eizenstat holds a
B.A. in Political Science, cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a J.D. from Harvard Law
School and nine honorary doctorate degrees from colleges and universities, high honors from the United States, French (Legion of Honor),
German, Austrian, Belgian, and Israeli governments, and over 75 awards from various organizations.
Manuel Garrido
y Ruano
Manuel Garrido y Ruano was
appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on May 30, 2017. He was a member of our Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
from May 30, 2017 until December 31, 2017, and served on our Corporate Governance Committee from December 31, 2017 until
May 26, 2023.
Mr. Garrido y Ruano has
been Chief Financial Officer of Grupo Villar Mir since 2003 and he is currently member of the Board of its subsidiary in the energy sector,
and of its real estate subsidiary. In June 2021 he was appointed non-executive Chairman of Fertial SPA the Algerian fertilizers subsidiary
of the Group.
He has been Professor of Corporate
Finance of one Graduate Management Program at the Universidad de Navarra, and has also been Professor of Communication and Leadership
of the Graduate Management Program at CUNEF in Spain.
Mr. Garrido y Ruano was
a member of the steering committee of FerroAtlántica until 2015, having previously served as its Chief Financial Officer from 1996
to 2003. He worked with McKinsey & Company from 1991 to 1996, specializing in restructuring, business development and turnaround
and cost efficiency projects globally.
Mr. Garrido y Ruano holds
a Masters in Civil Engineering with honors from the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and an MBA from INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France.
Juan Villar-Mir
de Fuentes
Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes
was appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on December 23, 2015.
Mr. Villar-Mir de Fuentes
is currently Chairman of Inmobiliaria Espacio, S.A and Grupo Villar Mir, S.A.U. In both companies he served as Vice Chairman since 1996
and since 1999 respectively. He has served as Chairman and Vice Chairman of Obrascon Huarte Lain, S.A and has been serving as a member
of the board of directors since 1996, first as a member of the Audit Committee and, later, as a member of its Compensation Committee.
He was a Board Director and member of the Compensation Committee of Inmobiliaria Colonial, S.A from June 2014 to May 2017. He
also was a member of the board of directors and of the Compensation Committee of Abertis Infraestructuras, S.A. between 2013 and 2016.
Mr. Villar-Mir de Fuentes
is Patron and member of the Patronage Council of Fundación Nantik Lum and of Fundación Santa María del Camino.
Mr. Villar-Mir holds
a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Economics and Business Management from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid.
Belen Villalonga
Morenés
Belen Villalonga Morenés
was appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. She has been a member of the Audit Committee from that date
and served as a member of the Corporate Governance Committee from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023, on which date she was appointed
to the Nominations and Governance Committee.
Ms. Villalonga is a Professor
of Management and Organizations, a Yamaichi Faculty Fellow, and a Professor of Finance (by courtesy) at New York University’s Stern
School of Business. Between 2001 and 2012 she was a faculty member at the Harvard Business School. During 2018-2019 she was a Visiting
Professor at Oxford University’s Said Business School. Her teaching, research, and consulting activities are in the areas of corporate
governance, strategy, and finance, with a special focus on family-controlled companies. Her award-winning research has been cited over
18,000 times in scholarly articles and international media outlets.
Professor Villalonga is an
independent director at Banco Santander International (Santander group’s private banking subsidiary in the United States), as well
as at Mapfre USA (insurance). She was also an independent director for many years at three global companies publicly listed in Spain:
Acciona (renewable energy and infrastructure), Grifols (biopharma), and Talgo (high-speed trains).
Ms. Villalonga holds
a Ph.D. in Management and an M.A. in Economics from the University of California at Los Angeles, where she was a Fulbright Scholar. She
also holds a Ph.D. in Business Economics from the Complutense University of Madrid.
Silvia Villar-Mir
de Fuentes
Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes
was appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. She served as a member of the Compensation Committee from
June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023. Ms. Villar-Mir de Fuentes currently serves on the board of directors of Grupo Villar
Mir, a privately held Spanish group with investments across a broad range of diversified industries, which is the beneficial owner of
approximately 40% of the Company’s share capital.
Mrs. Villar-Mir de Fuentes
is a summa cum laude graduate in Economics and Business Studies, with concentration in finance and accounting, from The American College
in London, United Kingdom.
Nicolas De
Santis
Nicolas De Santis was appointed
to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. He has been a member of the Compensation Committee since June 23,
2021 and served as a member of the Nominations Committee from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023, on which date he was appointed
as Chair of the Nominations and Governance Committee. Mr. De Santis is a technology entrepreneur, strategist and author with substantial
experience in executive and non-executive roles. Mr. De Santis is currently the Chief Executive Officer of De Santis Corporate Vision
Strategists Ltd, a strategy and innovation consultancy and incubator. De Santis advises multinational corporations and start-ups on corporate
vision & strategy, disruptive innovation, global branding, business model innovation, sustainability and corporate culture transformation.
Previously Mr. De Santis
served on the board of publicly traded Lyris Technologies (acquired by AUREA Software in 2015). He began his management career at Landor
Associates (now WPP Group). As a technology entrepreneur, he co-founded several high-profile start-ups, including opodo.com, one of Europe’s
most successful start-ups, reaching $1.5 billion in gross sales.
Mr. De Santis is a regular
lecturer at business schools and universities on business strategy, global branding, business model innovation and culture transformation,
including IE Business School, Madrid and the University of Wyoming. He is the author of Megavision® Enterprise Futurising System -
A revolutionary method to develop long term strategic vision for corporations.
Rafael Barrilero
Yarnoz
Rafael Barrilero Yarnoz was
appointed to the Board as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. He was appointed Chair of the Compensation Committee and served
as a member of the Nominations Committee from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023.
Mr. Barrilero Yarnoz
is a senior advisor at Mercer Consulting. Mr. Barrilero Yarnoz has developed his career as a
partner of the firm and as a member
of the executive committee, leading the advisory talent and reward service for the boards of the main companies and multinationals. He
has also led the business throughout the EMEA. Previously, he led the Watson Wyatt consulting firm in Madrid. He began his career as a
lawyer at Ebro Agricolas focused on labour law, before serving as Ebro’s head of human resources. In January 2022 he joined
the board of directors of AltamarCAM and Grupo Hedima, as a permanent Senior Advisor. He collaborates with the HAZ foundation, whose mission
is to ensure transparency and good corporate governance.
Mr. Barrilero Yarnoz
has a law degree from Deusto and a Masters in Financial Economics from ICADE, as well as a masters in human resources by Euroforum-INSEAD.
Resolution 16 (re-appointment of auditor)
At each general meeting at
which accounts are laid before the shareholders, the Company is required to appoint an auditor to serve until the next such meeting. KPMG
LLP has served as the Company’s statutory auditor since 27 June 2023 and the Board proposes to re-appoint KPMG LLP.
If this resolution does not
receive the affirmative vote of a majority of the shares entitled to vote and represented by proxy or, where appropriate, present in person
at the Annual General Meeting, the Board may appoint an auditor to fill the vacancy.
Resolution 17 (remuneration of auditor)
Under the Companies Act, the
remuneration of the Company’s U.K. statutory auditor must be fixed in a general meeting or in such manner as may be determined in
a general meeting. The Company asks its shareholders to authorise the Audit Committee to determine the remuneration of KPMG LLP in its
capacity as the Company’s U.K. statutory auditor under the Companies Act.
Further notes:
| 1. | Some of the resolutions are items that are required to be approved by shareholders periodically under
the Companies Act and generally do not have an analogous requirement under United States laws and regulations. As such, while these resolutions
may be familiar and routine to shareholders accustomed to being shareholders of companies incorporated in England and Wales, other shareholders
may be less familiar with these routine resolutions and should review and consider each resolution carefully. |
| 2. | In accordance with the Articles, all resolutions will be taken on a poll. Voting on a poll will mean that
each Ordinary Share represented in person or by proxy will be counted in the vote. |
| 3. | All resolutions will be proposed as ordinary resolutions, which means that such resolutions must be passed
by a simple majority of the total voting rights of shareholders who vote on such resolutions, whether in person or by proxy. The results
of the shareholders’ vote on resolutions 1 and 2 regarding receipt of the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts and approval of the Directors’
Annual Remuneration Report will not require the Board or any committee thereof to take (or refrain from taking) any action. The Board
values the opinion of shareholders as expressed through such resolutions and will carefully consider the outcome of the votes on these
resolutions. |
| 4. | Shareholders of record are entitled to attend, speak and vote at the Annual General Meeting. “Shareholders
of record” are those persons registered in the register of members of the Company in respect of Ordinary Shares at 23:59 (British
Summer Time) on 21 May 2024. If, however, Ordinary Shares are held for you in a stock brokerage account or by a broker, bank or other
nominee, you are considered the “beneficial owner” of those Ordinary Shares. |
| 5. | Beneficial owners of Ordinary Shares as at 23:59 (British Summer Time) on 21 May 2024 have the right
to direct their broker or other agent on how to vote the Ordinary Shares in their account and are also invited to attend the Annual General
Meeting. However, as beneficial owners are not Shareholders of record of the relevant Ordinary Shares, they may not vote their Ordinary
Shares at the Annual General Meeting unless they request and obtain a legal proxy from their broker or agent. |
| 6. | If two or more shareholders jointly hold shares in the Company, each shareholder may attend, speak and
vote at the Annual General Meeting. However, if more than one joint holder votes, the only vote will count is the vote of the joint holder
whose name is listed first on the register of members of the Company. |
| 7. | Any Shareholder of record attending the Annual General Meeting has the right to speak and to ask questions. |
| 8. | In accordance with the provisions of the Companies Act, and in accordance with the Articles, a Shareholder
of record who is entitled to attend and vote at the Annual General Meeting is entitled to appoint another person as his or her proxy to
exercise all or any of his or her rights to attend and to speak and vote at the Annual General Meeting and to appoint more than one proxy
in relation to the Annual General Meeting (provided that each proxy is appointed to exercise the rights attached to different Ordinary
Shares). Such proxies need not be Shareholders of record, but must attend the Annual General Meeting and vote as the Shareholder of record
instructs. Further details regarding the process to appoint a proxy, voting and the deadlines therefor are set out in the “Voting
Process and Revocation of Proxies” section below. |
| 9. | Pursuant to section 527 of the Companies Act 2006, shareholders meeting the threshold requirements
set out in that section have the right to require the Company to publish on a website a statement setting out any matter relating to: |
| (a) | the audit of the Company’s accounts (including the auditor’s report and the conduct of the
audit) that are to be laid before the AGM; or |
| (b) | any circumstance connected with an auditor of the Company ceasing to hold office since the previous meeting
at which annual accounts and reports were laid in accordance with section 437 of the Companies Act 2006. |
The Company may not require the shareholders
requesting any such website publication to pay its expenses in complying with sections 527 or 528 of the Companies Act 2006. Where
the Company is required to place a statement on a website under section 527 of the Companies Act 2006, it must forward the statement
to the Company’s auditor no later than the time when it makes the statement available on the website. The business which may be
dealt with at the AGM includes any statement that the Company has been required under section 527 of the Companies Act 2006 to publish
on a website.
| 10. | The results of the polls taken on the resolutions at the Annual General Meeting and any other information
required by the Companies Act will be made available on the Company’s website as soon as reasonably practicable following the AGM
and for a period of two years thereafter. |
| 11. | A copy of this Annual General Meeting notice can be found at the Company’s website, www.ferroglobe.com. |
| 12. | Recipients of this notice and the accompanying materials may not use any electronic address provided in
this notice or such materials to communicate with the Company for any purposes other than those expressly stated. |
| 13. | To be admitted to the Annual General Meeting, please bring the Admission Ticket that you will have received
through the post. You will need to be able to provide your photo identification at the registration desk. |
| 14. | On arrival at the Annual General Meeting venue, all those entitled to vote will be required to register
and collect a poll card. In order to facilitate these arrangements, please arrive at the Annual General Meeting venue in good time. You
will be given instructions on how to complete your poll card at the Annual General Meeting. |
VOTING PROCESS AND REVOCATION OF PROXIES
If you are a Shareholder of
record, there are three ways to appoint and vote by proxy:
| ● | By Internet – You can vote over the Internet at www.envisionreports.com/GSM by following the
instructions at such web address. You will need to enter your control number, which is a 15-digit number located in a box on your proxy
card. We encourage you to vote by Internet even if you received this Annual General Meeting notice in the mail. |
| ● | By Telephone – You may vote and submit your proxy by calling toll-free 1-800-652-8683 in the
United States and providing your control number, which is a 15-digit number located in a box on your proxy card. |
| ● | By Mail – If you received this Annual General Meeting notice by mail or if you requested paper
copies of the Annual General Meeting notice, you can vote by mail by marking, dating, signing and returning the proxy card in the postage-paid
envelope. |
Appointing a proxy in this
way will ensure that your vote is recorded but will not prevent you from attending and voting at the meeting in person or electronically.
As set out below, the attendance of the Annual General Meeting in person will constitute a revocation of appointment of proxy.
Telephone and Internet voting
facilities for Shareholders of record will be available 24 hours a day and will close at 00:01 (British Summer Time) on Monday,
17 June 2024. Submitting your proxy by any of these methods will not affect your ability to attend the Annual General Meeting in-person
and vote at the Annual General Meeting.
If your shares are held in
“street name”, meaning you are a beneficial owner with your shares held through a bank or brokerage firm, you will receive
instructions from your bank or brokerage firm, which is the Shareholder of record of your shares. You must follow the instructions of
the Shareholder of record in order for your shares to be voted. Telephone and Internet voting may also be offered to shareholders owning
shares through certain banks and brokers, according to their individual policies.
The Company has retained Computershare
to receive and tabulate the proxies.
If you submit proxy voting
instructions and direct how your shares will be voted, the individuals named as proxies must vote your shares in the manner you indicate.
A shareholder who has given
a proxy may revoke it at any time before it is exercised at the Annual General Meeting by:
| ● | attending the Annual General Meeting and voting in person; |
| ● | voting again by Internet or Telephone (only the last vote cast by each Shareholder of record will be counted),
provided that the shareholder does so before 00:01 (British Summer Time) on Monday, 17 June 2024. |
| ● | delivering a written notice, at the address given below, bearing a date later than that indicated on the
proxy card or the date you voted by Internet or Telephone, but prior to the date of the Annual General Meeting, stating that the proxy
is revoked; or |
| ● | signing and delivering a subsequently dated proxy card prior to the vote at the Annual General Meeting. |
You should send any written
notice or new proxy card to Proxy Services, c/o Computershare Investor Services, PO Box 30202 College Station, TX 77842-9909, USA.
If you are a registered shareholder
you may request a new proxy card by calling Computershare at 1-866-490-6057 if calling from the United States, or +1-781-575-2780 from
outside the United States, or you may also send a request via email to web.queries@computershare.com.
ANY SHAREHOLDER OWNING
SHARES IN STREET NAME MAY CHANGE OR REVOKE PREVIOUSLY GIVEN VOTING INSTRUCTIONS BY CONTACTING THE BANK OR BROKERAGE FIRM HOLDING
THE SHARES OR BY OBTAINING A LEGAL PROXY FROM SUCH BANK OR BROKERAGE FIRM AND VOTING IN PERSON AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING. YOUR LAST
VOTE, PRIOR TO OR AT THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, IS THE VOTE THAT WILL BE COUNTED.
Location of Annual General Meeting:
DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION
Forms of appointment of the
Non-Executive Directors, as well as a memorandum setting out the terms of the Executive Director’s contracts, will be available
for inspection at the Company’s registered office during normal business hours and at the place of the Annual General Meeting from
at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the meeting until the end of the Annual General Meeting. Copies of the forms of buyback contracts
which shareholders are being asked to approve will be made available for shareholders to inspect at Ferroglobe’s registered office
at 5 Fleet Place, London, EC4M 7RD for the period from 3 June 2024 until the date of the Annual General Meeting. Copies of the forms
of contracts will also be available for inspection at the Annual General Meeting.
By order of the Board,
Thomas Wiesner
Company Secretary
20 May 2024
Exhibit 99.2
Ferroglobe PLC
Annual Report
and Accounts 2023
Company Registration
No. 09425113
Ferroglobe PLC
Annual Report
and Accounts
Year ended 31 December 2023
Ferroglobe PLC
Annual Report
and Accounts 2023
Contents |
Page No. |
|
|
Glossary
and definitions |
2 |
|
|
Officers
and professional advisers |
5 |
|
|
Introduction |
6 |
|
|
Chairman’s
letter to shareholders |
7 |
|
|
Strategic
report (including section 172 statement) |
9 |
|
|
Directors’
report |
24 |
|
|
The
Board of Directors |
29 |
|
|
Directors’
remuneration report |
35 |
|
|
Independent
auditor’s report to the members of Ferroglobe PLC |
62 |
|
|
Consolidated
financial statements |
70 |
|
|
Notes
to the consolidated financial statements |
76 |
|
|
Parent
company financial statements |
143 |
|
|
Notes
to the parent company financial statements |
146 |
|
|
Appendix 1 —
Non-IFRS financial metrics |
153 |
Ferroglobe PLC
GLOSSARY
AND DEFINITIONS
Unless
the context requires otherwise, the following definitions apply throughout this U.K. Annual Report and Accounts (including the Appendix,
save as set out below):
“2023” |
the
financial year ended 31 December 2023; |
|
|
“2022” |
the financial
year ended 31 December 2022; |
|
|
“2024
AGM” |
the Annual
General Meeting of the Company, to be held in 2024; |
|
|
“2023
Form 20-F” |
the Company’s
Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended 31 December 2023; |
|
|
“ABL
RCF” |
the Credit and Security Agreement
for a new $100 million North American asset-based revolving credit facility dated as of 30 June 2022, entered into between Globe
and QSIP Canada ULC, as borrowers, and Bank of Montreal., as lender; |
|
|
“ABL
Revolver” |
credit available under the ABL RCF; |
|
|
“Adjusted
EBITDA” |
earnings
before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation, adjusted in accordance with Company’s adjustments announced as part of its
earnings reports. Alternative Performance Measures are reconciled at Appendix 1; |
|
|
“Alternative
Performance Measures” |
the
non-IFRS financial metrics reconciled at Appendix 1; |
|
|
“Aon” |
Aon Plc; |
|
|
“ARA” |
this annual report and accounts for the financial year
ended 31 December 2023; |
|
|
“Articles” |
the Articles
of Association of the Company, from time to time; |
|
|
“Auditor” |
KPMG LLP.,
the Company’s independent U.K. statutory auditor; |
|
|
“Board” |
the Company’s
board of directors; |
|
|
“Business
Combination” |
the
business combination of Globe and FerroAtlántica as the Company’s wholly owned subsidiaries on 23 December 2015; |
|
|
“Business
Combination Agreement” |
the
definitive transaction agreement entered into on 23 February 2015 (as amended and restated on 5 May 2015) by, among
others, the Company, Grupo VM, FerroAtlántica and Globe; |
|
|
“Capital” |
net
debt plus total equity. Alternative Performance Measures are reconciled at Appendix 1; |
|
|
“CEO”,
“Chief Executive Officer” or “Chief Executive” |
the
Chief Executive Officer of the Company, or where the context requires, of the relevant company or organization; |
|
|
“Companies
Act” |
the U.K.
Companies Act 2006; |
“Company”
or “Ferroglobe” |
Ferroglobe PLC,
a company incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 09425113 and whose registered office is at 5 Fleet Place, London
EC4M 7RD, United Kingdom or, where the context requires, the Group; |
|
|
“Consolidated
Financial Statements” |
(save
in the supplemental attachment when it will have the meaning given below) these consolidated financial statements for the year ended
31 December 2023; |
|
|
“Compensation
Committee” |
the compensation
committee of the Company; |
|
|
“EBITDA” |
earnings
before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation; |
|
|
“EIP” |
the
Ferroglobe PLC Equity Incentive Plan, adopted by the Board on 29 May 2016 and approved by shareholders on 29 June 2016; |
|
|
“EU” |
the European
Union; |
|
|
“Exchange
Act” |
the U.S.
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (as amended); |
|
|
“Executive
Chairman” |
the executive
chairman of the Company; |
|
|
“Executive
Directors” or “Executives” |
the executive directors of the Company; |
|
|
“Ferroglobe
Spain Metals” or “Predecessor” |
Ferroglobe
Spain Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U.) a joint stock company organised under the laws of Spain, including (where
the context so requires), its subsidiaries and subsidiary undertakings; |
|
|
“Free
cash-flow” |
operating
cash-flow less property, plant and equipment cash flows. Alternative Performance Measures are reconciled at Appendix 1; |
|
|
“Ferroglobe
USA” or “Globe” or “GSM” |
Ferroglobe
USA (formerly Globe Specialty Metals, Inc.), a Delaware corporation, including (whether the context requires) its subsidiaries and
subsidiary undertakings; |
|
|
“Group” |
the Company
and its subsidiaries; |
|
|
“Grupo
VM” |
Grupo Villar
Mir, S.A.U.; |
|
|
“IASB” |
International
Accounting Standards Board; |
|
|
“IFRS” |
International
Financial Reporting Standards; |
|
|
“KPI” |
key performance
indicator; |
|
|
“NASDAQ” |
the NASDAQ
Global Select Market; |
|
|
“NASDAQ
Rules” |
the NASDAQ
Stock Market Rules; |
|
|
“Net
debt” |
bank
borrowings (excluding factoring programs), debt instruments, and other financial liabilities, less cash and cash equivalents.
Alternative Performance Measures are reconciled at Appendix 1; |
|
|
“Non-Executive
Directors” or “NEDs” |
the non-executive
directors of the Company; |
“Reinstated
Senior Notes” |
refer to the notes
issued in exchange of 98.588% of the 9.375% Senior Notes due 2022 issued by Ferroglobe Finance Company PLC and Globe due December 2025;
|
|
|
“Super
Senior Notes” |
refer
to the 9% senior secured notes due 2025 issued by Ferroglobe Finance Company, PLC and redeemed in July 2022; |
|
|
“Ordinary
Shares” |
the
ordinary shares of $0.01 each in the capital of the Company; |
|
|
“Policy” |
the
directors’ remuneration policy in force from time to time; |
|
|
“SHA” |
the
amended and restated shareholders agreement between Group VM and the Company dated 22 November 2017, as amended on 23 January 2018,
13 May 2021 and 29 July 2021; |
|
|
“SEC” |
the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission; |
|
|
“SOX” |
the U.S.
Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002; |
|
|
“Subactivity” |
incremental
cost incurred at the plants in special circumstances, such as unscheduled shutdowns due to an unexpected breakdown that needs to be repaired,
and idling facilities/mothball; |
|
|
“U.K.” |
the United
Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; |
|
|
“U.S.” |
the United
States of America; |
|
|
“Working
capital” |
inventories
and trade and other receivables, less trade and other payables. Alternative Performance Measures are reconciled at Appendix 1; |
|
|
“$” |
U.S. dollars. |
|
In
the separate attachment hereto only (and for the avoidance of doubt, not in the remainder of this U.K. Annual Report and Accounts), the
following phrase has the meaning given below: |
|
|
“Consolidated
Financial Statements” |
the
audited consolidated financial statements of Ferroglobe and its subsidiaries as of 31 December 2023, 2022 and 2021 and for
each of the years ended 31 December 2023, 2022 and 2021, including the related notes thereto, prepared in accordance with IFRS,
as filed on SEC Form 20-F. |
Ferroglobe PLC
U.K Annual Report
and Accounts 2023
Officers and
professional advisers
Directors |
|
Javier López
Madrid |
|
Marta Amusategui |
|
Rafael Barrilero
Yarnoz |
|
Bruce Crockett |
|
Stuart Eizenstat |
|
Marco Levi |
|
Nicolas de Santis
Manuel Garrido y Ruano |
|
Belén
Villalonga |
|
Juan Villar-Mir
de Fuentes |
|
Silvia Villar-Mir
de Fuentes |
|
|
|
Company
Secretary |
|
Thomas Wiesner |
|
|
|
Registered
Address |
|
5 Fleet Place |
|
London |
|
EC4M 7RD |
|
|
|
Auditor |
|
KPMG LLP |
|
Statutory
Auditor |
|
15 Canada Square
E14 5GL London |
|
Ferroglobe PLC
Introduction
Ferroglobe PLC
is a public limited company incorporated under the laws of England and Wales under Company Number: 09425113. Ferroglobe PLC and subsidiaries
(the “Company” or “Ferroglobe”) is among the world’s largest producers of silicon metal and silicon-based
alloys, important ingredients in a variety of industrial and consumer products. The Company’s customers include major silicone
chemical, aluminum and steel manufacturers, auto companies and their suppliers, ductile iron foundries, manufacturers of photovoltaic
solar cells and computer chips, and concrete producers. Additionally, the Company was operating hydroelectric plants (hereinafter “energy
business”) in Spain until 2019 and is still operating in France.
The
Company was incorporated in 2015 and its Ordinary Shares are listed for trading on the NASDAQ in U.S. dollars under the symbol “GSM”.
The
Company is subject to disclosure obligations in the U.S. and the U.K. While some of these disclosure requirements overlap or are otherwise
similar, some differ and require distinct disclosures. Pursuant to the requirements of the Companies Act, this document includes our
directors’ strategic report, directors’ report, remuneration report and required financial information (including our statutory
accounts and statutory auditor’s report for the reporting period commencing 1 January 2023 and ending 31 December 2023),
which together comprise our U.K. annual reports and accounts for the period ended 31 December 2023 (the “U.K. Annual
Report and Accounts”).
We
are also subject to the information and reporting requirements of the Exchange Act, regulations and other guidance issued by the SEC
and the NASDAQ listing standards applicable to foreign private issuers. In accordance with the Exchange Act, we are required to file
annual and periodic reports and other information with the SEC, including, without limitation, our 2023 Form 20-F. Certain other
announcements made by the Company are furnished to the SEC on Form 6-K. Our status as a foreign private issuer requires the Company
to comply with various corporate governance practices under SOX, as well as related rules implemented by the SEC. In addition, NASDAQ
Rules permit foreign private issuers to follow home country practice in lieu of the NASDAQ corporate governance standards, subject
to certain exemptions and except to the extent that such exemptions would be contrary to U.S. federal securities law.
We
have provided as a separate attachment to the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts extracts from the 2023 Form 20-F to assist shareholders
in assessing the Group’s performance and results. Investors may obtain the full 2023 Form 20-F, without charge, from the SEC
at the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or from our website at www.ferroglobe.com. Unless expressly stated otherwise, the information
on our website is not part of this U.K. Annual Report and is not incorporated by reference herein.
The
capitalized terms used throughout the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts are defined in the Glossary and Definitions section of this U.K.
Annual Report unless otherwise indicated. In the following text, the terms “we,” “our,” “the Company”,
“our Company” and “us” may refer, as the context requires, to Ferroglobe or collectively to Ferroglobe and its
subsidiaries. Throughout the U.K. Annual Report, rounding has been applied and numbers given and totals aggregated may differ in consequence.
Chairman’s Letter to
Shareholders
Dear
Fellow Shareholders,
First, I
want to thank our most valuable asset, the employees, for their strong commitment and contribution to Ferroglobe. Your dedication has
enabled the company to continue providing excellent service to our customers across the globe, and with your resilience, we have made
significant progress as a company. Together, we are building a stronger, more efficient, competitive and sustainable Ferroglobe. I would
be remiss if I didn’t also thank our partners, suppliers and shareholders who have continued to support our journey over the past
years.
Across the globe,
2023 was another year of significant uncertainties and challenges on multiple fronts, both geopolitical and economic. The war continued
in Ukraine, a new conflict erupted in the Middle East, and inflation led central banks to increase interest rates with many countries
experiencing slowing economic growth. In spite of these difficulties, we remain steadfast in our mission to drive innovation of critical
materials essential to a sustainable future..
2023 PERFORMANCE
After the record-breaking
performance in 2022, we had another successful year in 2023 despite declining prices throughout most of the year.
For the full year,
consolidated revenue decreased 36%, from $2,598 million in 2022 to $1,650 million in 2023, adjusted EBITDA fell from $860 million in
2022 to $315 million in 2023, and consolidated operating profit of $660 million in 2022 contracted to $197 million in 2023 due to soft
market conditions, which affected prices and volumes.
Even though our
profitability declined in 2023, we still posted a solid EBITDA and, more importantly, continued to deliver strong cash flow during the
year with an operating cash flow of $178 million and free cash flow of $95 million. These strong results were made possible by the strategy
we began executing in prior years to optimize our footprint, focus on continuous improvement, and embrace commercial excellence while
rightsizing our cost structure.
There are more
details on the Company’s key performance indicators on page 153.
STRENGTHENING OUR BALANCE SHEET
Ferroglobe strengthened
its financial position during the year by successfully executing its strategy to reduce debt. By redeeming $150 million of senior secured
notes in July, we ended the year with $252 million of adjusted gross debt, representing a debt reduction of $207 million during 2023.
In February 2024,
we reached a significant milestone by eliminating the remaining $148 million of these senior secured notes, reducing our adjusted gross
debt to less than $100 million, while maintaining a comfortable cash position. Continued strong cash flow generation also allowed us
to implement a quarterly dividend with an initial quarterly dividend of $0.013 per share, which was paid on March 2024.
Our liquidity is
further bolstered by our $100 million asset-based revolving credit facility with the Bank of Montreal. This covenant-light credit facility
is undrawn, providing the flexibility we need to execute our plan.
DELIVERING ON ESG
We are proud to announce that we published
our second Global ESG Report in 2023. We are making great strides in our environmental, social and governance disclosure as we continue
to enhance our approach and improve our reporting and tracking of key metrics. The report outlines our ESG strategy which is built upon
four fundamental pillars:
| · | Strengthening
our governance framework; |
| · | Promoting
solid and honest engagement with our people and the communities where we operate; |
| · | Reinforcing
the role of sustainability through our value chain; and |
| · | Improving
our environmental footprint to enable sustainable development. |
Our teams have
made great progress over the last years on various important ESG initiatives to reduce Ferroglobe’s greenhouse gas emissions and
increase our usage of electricity from renewable sources, which is a critical part of our mission to be a responsible, sustainable corporate
citizen. It is highly important in our value chain, from suppliers to our customers, to manage our carbon footprint to satisfy the needs
of all our constituents. We are proud of the progress we have made in a short period of time.
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
IMPROVEMENTS
On 26 May 2023,
the Board of Directors made important improvements to our corporate governance by eliminating the prior structure of the separate Nominations
and Corporate Governance Committees, replacing them with a new combined Nominations and Governance Committee. This new committee consists
of three independent directors: Nicolas De Santis (Chair), Belen Villalonga and Bruce Crockett. In addition, Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes
resigned from the Compensation Committee, with Stuart Eizenstat joining that committee. As a result of these changes, all three standing
committees of the Board are comprised exclusively of independent directors, reflecting best industry practices. We believe that these
changes will strengthen our corporate governance framework and contribute to the long-term success of our company-.
LOOKING AHEAD
The markets remain
challenging into 2024 with macroeconomic uncertainty still present. However, we have seen our customers restocking and some price recovery
in the early part of the year. It’s likely that some of the price recovery has been helped by supply disruptions due to a silicon
plant fire in Norway and interruptions in normal shipping routes through the Suez Canal. We believe the European markets for our products
reached the trough in September 2023 and have shown steady price improvement since that time. The US market was slower to recover
with its trough likely occurring in December 2023 with modest price appreciation in the first part of 2024.
We are in an excellent
position with our diversified footprint to take advantage of global demand growth in the coming years as an increasing number of countries
accelerate their green transition through solar energy or electric vehicle adoption utilizing advanced silicon composite or silicon-rich
battery technology. We believe this secular trend, with the support of governments' onshoring encouragement, will see significant long-term
growth.
On behalf of our
board of directors, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all our stakeholders for your continued support, dedication
and confidence in our company. We will remain agile and resilient, adjusting to the evolving market environment. Together, we will strive
to create more value for all our shareholders, partners and employees.
Javier López Madrid
Executive Chairman
Strategic report
This
strategic report for the financial year to 31 December 2023 has been prepared in compliance with Section 414C of the Companies
Act to provide an overview of the Group’s business and strategy. It contains certain forward-looking statements. These statements
are made by the directors in good faith based on the information available to them up to the time of their approval of this report and
such statements should be treated with caution due to the inherent uncertainties, including both economic and business risk factors,
underlying any such forward-looking information.
For
a supplementary description of our business (including our model, strategy and competitive strengths), risks associated with our business
and our results of operations, see the following sections of the 2023 Form 20-F: Part I, Item 3, Section D,
Risk factors; Item 4, Information on the Company; Item 5, Operating and Financial Review and Prospects; Item 7, Major
Shareholders and Related Party Transactions and Item 11, Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures About Market Risk. These sections
are set out in a separate attachment to this U.K. Annual Report.
Nature of the
business
Through
its operating subsidiaries, Ferroglobe is one of the world’s largest producers of silicon metal, silicon-based alloys and manganese-based
alloys. Additionally, Ferroglobe currently has quartz mining activities in Spain, the United States, Canada, and South Africa, low-ash
metallurgical quality coal mining activities in the United States, and interests in hydroelectric power in France. Ferroglobe controls
a meaningful portion of many of its raw materials and captures, recycles and sells most of the by-products generated in its production
processes.
We
sell our products to a diverse base of customers worldwide, in a varied range of industries. These industries include aluminum, silicone
compounds used in the chemical industry, ductile iron, automotive parts, renewable energy, photovoltaic (solar) cells, electronic semiconductors
and steel, all of which are key elements in the manufacturing of a wide range of industrial and consumer products.
We
are able to supply our customers with the broadest range of specialty metals and alloys in the industry from our production centers in
North America, Europe, South America, Africa and Asia. Our broad manufacturing platform and flexible capabilities allow us to optimize
production and focus on products most likely to enhance profitability, including the production of customized solutions and high purity
metals to meet specific customer requirements. We also benefit from low operating costs, resulting from our ownership of sources of critical
raw materials and the flexibility derived from our ability to alternate production at certain of our furnaces between silicon metal and
silicon-based alloy products.
Business model
and strategy
As
part of the strategy for delivering the objectives of the Company, the Group develops new products or new specifications on a continual
basis. As a consequence of these efforts, investments may be made in facilities that allow the production of new products, such as higher-grade
silicon metal, solar grade silicon metal or new foundry products.
In
2020 we conducted a deep and broad evaluation of our Company with the goal of designing a strategic plan focused on bolstering the long-term
competitiveness of the business and returning the Company to profitability by fundamentally changing the way we operate, both operationally
and financially. The multi-year turnaround plan we developed impacts all the functional areas of our Company as we seek to drive changes
that ensure competitiveness throughout the cycle. Since 2021, the Company has successfully been delivering on its strategic EBITDA improvement
projects, yielding positive EBITDA of $270,472 thousand, $742,106 thousand and $128,714 thousand, for the years ended December 31,
2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. These consecutive positive results reflect the Company’s turnaround and commitment to executing
on its strategic plan, which is driven by the following key areas:
| · | Footprint
optimization: One of the Company’s core advantages is our large and diverse
production platform. While our asset footprint provides flexibility, at times we are restricted
in our ability to quickly adapt to changing market conditions due to inherent constraints
in curtailing capacity, particularly for shorter durations. Prospectively, our goal is to
ensure that the operating platform is more flexible and modular so shifts in production,
based on needs and relative costs, are incorporated swiftly. Through this value creation
driver we aim to shift our capacity footprint by optimizing production to the most competitive
assets. |
| · | Continuous plant efficiency: We will
continue to build on the success of our existing key technical metrics (KTM) program, which consists of specific initiatives aimed
at enhancing our process, minimizing waste, and improving the overall efficiency to drive down costs. The Company maintains a
pipeline of initiatives developed through the sharing of best practices amongst our numerous sites and through new improvements
identified by our research and development team. Moreover, we have implemented developing tools to track our key performance
indicators in an ongoing effort to improve furnace level performance. |
| · | Commercial
excellence: We have implemented commercial best practices to maximize profitable
revenue, aiming at improving and reinforcing our pricing, account management, salesforce
effectiveness, and product portfolio and customer focus. We have strengthened our customer
relationships by developing a target portfolio prioritization, re-designing our commercial
coverage and operating model, and structuring our account planning, with the definition of
clear objectives for each of our customers and a sustained focus on long-term partnership
building. We have implemented a range of digitally-enabled tools and processes across the
entire commercial function, bringing our team’s performance to the next level. Through
our new customer relationship management tool, we have reinforced our account management
and front-line effectiveness, as well as our customer service and quality management. On
pricing, we have redesigned our governance process and introduced new tools to maximize profitability
and provide margin transparency for every sale. Furthermore, we have re-designed our product
management function, empowering this role to create customer value and act as a consistent
source of information and cross-functional coordination. |
| · | Centralized
procurement: Our centralized procurement process enhances the effectiveness of our
spending efforts, improves our ability to schedule purchases and enables us to benefit from
bulk purchases. Buying better is a supply-led effort that focuses on price and volume allocation,
negotiating prices and terms, managing price risks, pooling volumes and contracts, shifting
volumes to best-price suppliers and leveraging procurement networks. Spending better is an
operation-led effort to control demand, enforce compliance, reduce complexity, and perform
value engineering to foster efficient spending. In addition to cost reductions, our campaign
to spend better will reduce supply chain risk, supporting continuous quality and service
improvement, fostering better decision-making about suppliers and optimizing resource allocation. |
| · | Other
operating expenses reduction: During our corporate review, we identified significant
opportunities for further cost improvement through permanent cost cutting at our plants,
as well as the corporate centers. By tracking these costs vigorously and increasing accountability,
we aim to bolster the overall cost structure at various levels. Through this, we aim to create
a culture focused on cost control and discipline for deploying best practices to drive sound
spending decisions without compromising our overall performance. |
| · | Working
capital improvement: The Company continues to focus on and improve its net working
capital by establishing targets and improving our Supply Chain processes. This will allow
us to sustain competitive levels of working capital throughout the cycle. |
There
is more information on the Group’s business, risks, key financials and organizational structure in Part I, Item 3, Item
4, Item 5 Information on the Company of the 2023 Form 20-F (as set out in the separate attachment to this U.K. Annual Report
and not forming part of our financial statements). This, together with the information in this Strategic Report, and the Operating and
Financial Review and Prospects section of the 2023 Form 20-F included in the separate attachment provides a fair review of the Company’s
business and its development and performance during 2023.
Principal risks
and uncertainties
Key Risks
We operate
in a highly competitive industry.
The
silicon metal market and the silicon-based and manganese-based alloys markets are global, capital intensive and highly competitive. Our
competitors may have greater financial resources, as well as other strategic advantages, to maintain, improve and possibly expand their
facilities, and, as a result, they may be better positioned than we are to adapt to changes in the industry or the global economy. Advantages
that our competitors have over us from time to time, new entrants that increase competition in our industry, and increases in the use
of substitutes for certain of our products could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial
condition.
Our business
is particularly sensitive to increases in energy costs, which could materially increase our cost of production.
Electricity is
one of our largest production components in terms of cost as a percentage of sales. The price of electricity is determined in the applicable
domestic jurisdiction and is influenced both by supply and demand dynamics and by domestic regulations. Changes in local energy policy,
increased costs due to scarcity of energy supply, climate conditions, the termination or non-renewal of any of our power purchase contracts
and other factors may affect the price of electricity supplied to our plants and adversely affect our results of operations and financial
conditions.
Because
electricity is indispensable to our operations and accounts for a high percentage of our production costs, we are particularly vulnerable
to supply limitations and cost fluctuations in energy markets. For example, at certain plants, production must be modulated to reduce
consumption of energy in peak hours or in seasons with higher energy prices, in order for us to maintain profitability. In general, high
or volatile energy costs in the countries in which we operate could lead to erosion of margins and volumes, leading to a potential reduction
in market share.
Our business
benefits from antidumping and countervailing duty orders and laws that protect our products by imposing special duties on unfairly traded
imports from certain countries. If these duties or laws change, certain foreign competitors might be able to compete more effectively.
Ferroglobe
benefits from antidumping and countervailing duty orders and laws that protect its business and products by imposing special duties on
unfairly traded imports from certain countries. See “Item 4.B.—Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory
Matters—Trade” for additional information.
These
orders may be subject to revision, revocation or rescission at any time, including through periodic governmental reviews and proceedings.
Current antidumping and countervailing duty orders thus (i) may not remain in effect and continue to be enforced from year to year,
(ii) may change the covered products and countries under current orders, and (iii) may reassess duties.
Changes
in any of these factors could adversely affect our business and profitability. Finally, at times, in filing trade actions, we arguably
act against the interests of our customers. Certain of our customers may not continue to do business with us as a result.
Our business
operations may be impacted by various types of claims, lawsuits, and other contingent obligations.
We
are involved in various legal and regulatory proceedings including those that arise in the ordinary course of our business. We estimate
such potential claims and contingent liabilities and, where appropriate, record provisions to address these contingent liabilities. The
ultimate outcome of the legal matters currently pending against our Company is uncertain, and although such claims, lawsuits and other
legal matters are not expected individually to have a material adverse effect, such matters in the aggregate could have a material adverse
effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Furthermore, we could, in the future, be subject to judgments
or enter into settlements of lawsuits and claims that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations in any particular
period. While we maintain insurance coverage in respect of certain risks and liabilities, we may not be able to obtain such insurance
on acceptable terms in the future, if at all, and any such insurance may not provide adequate coverage against such claims.
Other risks
and uncertainties
In
addition to the key risks above, the Company is exposed to a number of risks which are monitored on an ongoing basis and which are summarized
in the supplementary attachment. There is more information on the Group’s, risks, in Part I, Item 3 Key Information
on the Company of the 2023 Form 20F (as set out in the separate attachment to this U.K. Annual Report).
Internal control
environment
We
did not maintain an effective control environment to enable the identification and mitigation of the risk of the existence of potential
material accounting errors. We have identified deficiencies in the principles associated with the control environment component of the
COSO framework. There is more information on the Group’s controls and procedures in Part I, Item 15 Controls and
Procedures of the 2023 Form 20F (as set out in the separate attachment to this U.K. Annual Report)
Key Performance
Indicators (“KPIs”)
The
Board considered that the most important KPIs during 2023 were those set out below. Certain of these KPIs will also be a core area of
focus during 2023.
At
the corporate level, the principal KPIs that we use for measuring the overall performance of our business are:
| · | Working
capital improvement |
| · | Net
Debt to Total Assets |
| · | Net
Debt to Capital; and |
Some of these measures
are also part of our compensation structure for the key executives, as follows:
| · | Adjusted
EBITDA: EBITDA, adjusted in accordance with Company’s adjustments announced as part
of its earnings reports. |
| · | Free
cash-flow, which represents net cash provided by operating activities less payments for property,
plant and equipment. |
The
following table sets out the Company’s performance in respect of these financial and non-IFRS measures in 2023. Refer to Appendix
1 for reconciliations of these non-IFRS measures.
Adjusted EBITDA | |
Adjusted EBITDA Margin | |
Working Capital | |
Free Cash- Flow |
($m) | |
| |
($m) | |
($m) |
315.2 | |
19.1% | |
510.7 | |
94.7 |
(2022: 860.0) | |
(2022: 33.1%) | |
(2022: 705.9) | |
(2022:352.9) |
Reported
EBITDA |
|
Net Income |
|
Adjusted Gross Debt |
|
Net Debt to Total Assets |
|
Net Debt to Capital |
($m) |
|
($m) |
|
($m) |
|
|
|
|
262.9 |
|
98.5 |
|
252.0 |
|
6.5% |
|
11.6% |
(2022: 732.1) |
|
(2022: 443.8) |
|
(2022: 459.0) |
|
(2022: 6.9%) |
|
(2022:15.2%) |
In
addition to these financial KPIs, there are a number of non-financial performance measures which the Company uses to gauge its success
such as customer attrition, inventory rotation /obsolescence, benchmark against competitors and others. Some of these are reflected in
the annual bonus and equity plan objectives for senior management and are reviewed each year to ensure their continued relevance. In
the financial year ended 31 December 2023, the annual bonus was subject to meeting certain financial conditions related to
net cash flow and EBITDA. Further information on performance in respect of these performance measures is in the Directors Remuneration
Report at page 35.
Details
of the Group’s anti-bribery and corruption and environmental policies are below and details of its employment policies and greenhouse
gas emissions are set out below and in the Directors’ Report.
Employees
As
of 31 December 2023, the Group had:
| · | 9
directors, of whom 6 are male and 3 are female; |
| · | 315
senior managers, of whom 240 are male and 75 are female; and |
| · | 3,184
employees, of whom 2,857 are male and 327 are female. |
Environment
and other social matters
Ferroglobe
is committed to conducting its business in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations in a manner that has the highest regard
for human rights, the environment and the health and safety and well-being of employees and the general public. During the year under
review the Group’s employees were each asked to re-confirm in writing their commitment to the Company’s Code of Conduct which
emphasizes the Group’s commitment to the highest standards of integrity, ethical behavior, transparency, safety and corporate citizenship.
The Code of Conduct incorporates the Group’s key policies on matters including whistleblowing, anti-bribery and corruption, environmental
impacts, health and safety and respect in the workplace and the conduct of national and international trade.
Section 172
(1) Statement
This
section of the U.K. Companies Act sets out a number of matters to which directors of a U.K. company must have regard in discharging their
duty to promote the success of the Company. The strategic report must include a statement which describes how the directors have had
regard to those matters when performing their duties. The Board welcomes this opportunity to throw more light on its governance structures
and on how input from its stakeholders has informed and shaped its decision-making. In 2023 the Board exercised all their duties with
regard to these and other factors as they reviewed and considered proposals from senior management and governed the Company through the
Board and its Committees.
The
factors which the directors must take account of can be summarised as:
| · | the
likely consequences of any decision in the long term |
| · | taking
account of the interests of the Company’s employees and fostering business relationships
with customers, suppliers and other relevant stakeholders, such as regulatory bodies, governments
and local authorities |
| · | the
impact of operations on the community and the environment |
| · | maintaining
a high standard of business conduct |
| · | acting
fairly between its members |
In
order to take account of these factors, the Board must be informed of them. This takes place directly and indirectly, through collaborative
working with management and direct and indirect feedback, as illustrated below. The Company’s internal control framework, including
the Company’s Sarbanes Oxley controls, and the work of the Internal Audit team assists in providing assurance to the Board on the
information made available to it.
The likely consequences
of any decision in the long-term
The
governance structures of the Company include delegation of certain responsibilities of the Board to its key Committees and delegation
of the Board’s authority for the executive management of the Company to its executive team, subject to clearly defined limits and
regular monitoring by the Board and subject also to the reservation to the Board of any matter not expressly delegated in this way.
The
management team bring their annual budget to the Board for approval each year. This includes forecasts, expected revenues, costs and
major expenditure and projects for the year ahead. Each year the Board typically also takes a day out of its board calendar to consider,
with the majority of the management team, the Company’s strategic plan. The Board held an extensive strategy day in June 2022
and subsequently approved the Company’s medium-term strategy in September 2022.
Throughout
the year, the Board has received a number of reports on the Company’s capital structure and financing arrangements. Reports were
made regularly to the Board by the management team members responsible for each function and region on their area of responsibility,
their performance, priorities and key decisions and risks for the immediate future and medium term, giving assurance that proper consideration
is made to the longer-term in decision making throughout the business.
Staying informed
on employee, customer, supplier, investor and other key stakeholders’ views
Our
relationships with those who work for the Company and with the Company are key to our success. The Board stays up to date with views
of our employees through a number of means: key members of the management team, usually attend the management presentation made at each
Board meeting when their input is regularly solicited. They are also consulted in less formal settings. Prior to the Covid-19 pandemic,
Directors had an annual schedule of visits to our facilities which enable them to spend time with our people on the ground and receive
their direct feedback. One output of these pre-Covid site visits led to an increased focus at Board level on the importance of driving
a unified brand and culture for Ferroglobe. There are other channels through which the Board or its Committees receives reports on employee
views; these include the Chief People & Culture Officer’s normal attendance at Compensation Committee meetings; and the
confidential whistleblowing hotline, reports to which are in turn reported to the Audit Committee at its scheduled meetings. In 2023
the CEO continued with town hall meetings, face to face and virtually, with employees across the Group to keep them updated on our financial
and operational performance; employees are encouraged to raise questions as part of those sessions.
We
build strong relationships with our customers and suppliers, including our partnerships, spending a lot of time with them to best understand
their goals and how to develop our business in our respective interests. The Board is aware that many of our relationships are long-term
and depend on mutual trust and collaboration. The Board gets feedback on customer and supplier issues on a regular basis: through the
input of the Chief Commercial Officer and Marketing and VP Supply Chain Management who normally attend management presentations in the
scheduled Board meetings and through presentations each has made to the Board on their areas of responsibility, priorities and challenges.
The
Board is aware that the Company relies on the support of its shareholders and their views are important to it. The Board’s interactions
with these stakeholders take place through a variety of channels. The Company’s major shareholder, Grupo VM, had during 2023 four
representative directors on the Board through whom views and input can be provided or sought. The Board receives feedback from other
shareholders and the investment community through the Company’s quarterly results presentations. The VP Investor Relations is a
regular attendee at Board meetings and shares themes or commentary made to the Executives and management by the Company’s investors
and certain other stakeholders. Shareholders typically have the opportunity to attend the general meetings of the Company, including
the AGM, and put questions to directors formally at the meeting and in a more relaxed environment before and afterwards. The Company
also maintains an investor relations email address on its corporate website, questions posed to which are directed to its VP Investor
Relations and, where relevant, would then be raised by them with the other management team members or the Board.
Engaging with
community and the environment
We
engage with communities, government and regulators in the areas and countries in which we operate through a range of industry consultations,
membership in several trade and industry associations, participation in conferences, forums and meetings. We have engaged with local
charities and community groups. We also routinely consult with the local, regional and central governments and their agencies on the
proposed changes in conditions of operations of our production facilities. These matters are reported to the Board, which is kept updated
on the status of these discussions and their progress.
We
identify and assess the potential impacts that our business has on the environment and work with relevant authorities and industry experts
to manage and minimise these impacts. The Audit Committee of the Board receives regular updates on any allegations of non-compliance
by the business with environmental laws and regulations. There is more on this in Note 25 of our financial statements.
Sustainability
has been identified by management as a top priority. First and foremost, we recognize the criticality of the company to take an active
role in leading and driving change for the betterment of society. Furthermore, given the growing focus on sustainability amongst our
stakeholders we need to create more transparency around our performance and the action plan to drive the changes required to meet our
goals. In 2022 we issued the first ESG report on the 2021 financial year as the commencement of our new approach to sustainability disclosure.
In
2022 we approved Ferroglobe’s ESG Strategy 2022-2026 which sets the roadmap that makes sustainability a strategic pillar for the
organization at the global level.
The
ESG Strategy is aimed at being progressively implemented from 2022 to 2026, and has been defined based on four Strategic lines:
| 1. | Strengthening
our governance framework |
| 2. | Promoting
a solid & honest engagement with our people and local communities where we operate |
| 3. | Reinforcing
the role of sustainability through our value chain |
| 4. | Improving
our environmental footprint to enable materials which are vital for sustainable development. |
A
specific ESG Committee has been designated to adopt and implement the ESG Strategy through 5 specific working groups to engage all business
and corporate leaders to adopt and implement the ESG responsibilities set forth in the strategy.
The
ESG Committee reports to the Management Team and The Board of Directors, which is ultimately responsible for the Company´s ESG
performance.
The ESG working
groups are responsible for monitoring and coordinating the development of the 40 measures that have been established within the strategy,
as well as establishing and tracking targets to measure the degree of implementation of each of them.
We have defined
our ESG Strategy 2022-2026 in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), identifying for each of the defined
measures the specific targets to which it contributes to. In this sense, we have determined 8 out of the 17 SDGs, which are the most
relevant in our activities and on which we shall focus our efforts.
The measures set
for each strategic line are summarized as follows:
| · | Strengthening
our governance framework: Measures aimed at integrating sustainability into the Group's strategy,
governance tools and organizational structure and also starting reporting through an annual
ESG report. |
| · | Promoting
a solid & honest engagement with our people and local communities where we operate:
Measures aimed at achieving a corporate culture by harmonizing procedures for people management,
guided by the fundamental values of collaboration, leading change, respect and ownership.
Focusing on Health & Safety as a top priority and guiding principle in all our operations
and promoting diversity, equality and inclusion as part of Ferroglobe´s core value
of respect by setting a “DEI Roadmap”. |
| · | Reinforcing
the role of sustainability throughout our value chain: Measures to promote the integration
of sustainability among Ferroglobe’s value chain, both upstream and downstream by assessing
our suppliers according to the ESG approach and coordinating the procedures to respond to
customer´s needs in terms of ESG performance. The environmental footprint of our products
will also be assessed developing specific Life Cycle Assessment studies. |
| · | Improving
our environmental footprint to enable materials which are vital for sustainable development:
Measures focused at reducing the environmental impacts of products and processes and integrate
the environmental risks management approach to strengthen our resiliency and sustainability.
Extending the environmental and energy management systems certification according to ISO
standards in our production sites. Boosting energy efficiency through technological and processes
improvement. Setting a Corporate Climate Change Framework and setting specific emission reduction
targets. Promoting circularity principles for waste and water management trough specific
programs in the plants to reduce the global environmental footprint. |
ESG Risk
Management Approach
Under
the Governance strategic line, ESG risks have been integrated in the Company´s risk management system, and we have started the
Climate Change Risks & Opportunities Assessment aligned with the TCFD recommendations.
Non-Financial and Sustainability Information
Statement
Ferroglobe Plc
(hereinafter referred to as Ferroglobe or the Company) is a leading global producer of advanced metallurgical products. The Company is
the largest merchant producer of silicon metal in the Western World, and a leading global producer of silicon-based alloys and manganese-based
alloys. The Company’s main activity is to transform minerals into advanced materials that are critical in modern society, and sell
those products worldwide, to a varied range of industries, including the manufacturing of steel, iron, aluminium and semiconductors and
silicone compounds, among others. Ferroglobe’s worldwide operations include assets in Argentina, Canada, China, France, Venezuela,
Norway, South Africa, Spain, and the United States. Production sites include 18 mining sites, 23 electrometallurgical plants, an electrode
production plant and two hydro stations, with corporate offices in London and Madrid.
Regarding the supply
chain, Ferroglobe’s operations depend on two main types of raw materials: carbon reductants, such as coal, wood, charcoal, metallurgical
coke, petroleum coke and anthracite; and minerals, such as quartz and manganese ore. At the Company’s mining sites, raw materials
such as metallurgical coal and quartz are extracted, partially covering production demand. When local mining production cannot fulfil
that demand, the Company relies on a network of qualified suppliers in each geographical region to ensure reliable access to high quality
and sustainable raw materials.
| a. | A
description of governance arrangements of the company in relation to assessing and managing
climate-related risks and opportunities |
In 2022, the ESG
Steering Committee was established with the mission of overseeing and managing the implementation of the Ferroglobe’s ESG strategy,
including the management of climate-related risks and opportunities within the purview of the Sustainability Area's management.
The Sustainability
Area, within the Technology and Innovation division, leads the identification and assessment of climate-related risks and opportunities.
Furthermore, the Finance division works in tandem with the Sustainability Area in coordinating the integration of climate change risks
results into the Company's Enterprise Risk Management (ERM), and presents them annually to the Audit Committee (AC) and to the Board
of Directors
| b. | A
description of how the company identifies, assesses, and manages climate-related risks and
opportunities. |
The methodology
considered for identifying and assessing climate-related risks and opportunities is semi-quantitative and aligned with IPCC technical
guidelines. It has been applied at the group level but has taken into consideration each of the Company’s production sites. This
analysis is required to be updated annually.
The first step
was to identify the current and potential risks and opportunities to which the Company may be exposed. This involved obtaining a preliminary
list of risks and opportunities through a review of standards and regulations, as well as a benchmarking process and professional expertise.
For physical climate risks, the EU Taxonomy (climate act) was taken as the key anchor. For transition risks and opportunities, the Task
Force for Climate-related Financial Disclosure (TCFD) was the main reference.
The second step
was to calculate the inherent and residual level of risk for physical and transition risks. For physical risks, the considered factors
have included the following variables: impact, exposure, vulnerability, and adaptation; and for transition risks, the considered variables
include impact, probability, and mitigation. In the case of opportunities, the factors considered were benefits and probability to determine
the level of success.
Finally, risks
have been prioritised according to the residual level obtained for physical and transition risks. In the case of opportunities, the prioritisation
was based on the level of success.
The results of
the analysis of climate-related risks and opportunities are expected to be overseen specifically by the ESG Steering Committee and included
in the annual reports presented to the Board. Additionally, they will be integrated into the Corporate Risk Matrix, in accordance with
the Company’s Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Framework.
| c. | A
description of how processes for identifying, assessing, and managing climate-related risks
are integrated into overall risk management process in the company |
Ferroglobe applies
a group-wide approach to managing risks through an ERM framework, which is largely based upon the ISO 31000 – Risk Management Standard.
The Company’s purpose is to continuously develop its risk management approach through a systematic framework geared towards the
most inherent risks. Taking this approach provides greater visibility and increased risk awareness, ensures the appropriate management
of risks, enables risks to be aggregated and allows the Company to take a portfolio approach to risk management.
Ferroglobe’s
ERM framework allows the Company to proactively identify, assess and manage risks related to its broad range of activities. The prioritised
risks are defined according to a specific ranking obtained through the assessment of each risk’s likelihood, expected impact and
the strength of current controls, based on specific thresholds and criteria. As a result, risk control/mitigation involves one of four
possible actions: tolerate, treat, transfer, or terminate the risk. Risk owners are responsible for the coordination of efforts to mitigate
and manage those risks, as well as providing updates and identifying new risks.
Regarding the climate-related
risks identified and assessed by the methodology described in the previous section (point b), the prioritised ones are then expected
to be included in the globalised risk matrix.
| i. | The
principal climate-related risks and opportunities arising in connection with the operations
of the company |
| ii. | The
time periods by reference to which those risks and opportunities are assessed |
Physical
risks: After screening the 28 climate-related hazards included in the Commission Delegated Regulation
(EU) 2021/2139, of 4 June 20211, a total of 14 physical hazards were identified as considered relevant to Ferroglobe’s
business (heat stress, temperature variability, heat waves, cold waves, wildfires, cyclones, storms, tornadoes, rainfall, sea level rise,
water stress, drought, heavy precipitation, and floods).
1 The
regulation establishes the technical screening criteria for determining the conditions under which an economic activity qualifies as
contributing substantially to climate change mitigation or climate change adaptation and for determining whether that economic activity
causes no significant harm to any of the other environmental objectives. The list of climate-related hazards included is non-exhaustive
and constitutes only an indicative list of most widespread hazards that are to be considered.
The physical hazards
were assessed using climatic variables and their evolution over time under various climate scenarios. The time periods were defined in
alignment with those considered by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in its studies and publications; short-term (2023-2040),
medium-term (2041-2060), and long-term (2081-2100). The analysed climate scenarios were SSP2 – 4.5 (“medium emissions”)
and SSP5 – 8.5 (“high emissions").
After applying
the methodology previously described, sea level rise in the long term and drought in the short term have been identified as the most
relevant physical risks. The former has been modelled using global projections of the extreme sea level rise. The latter has been modelled
using available public water stress levels and projections for future dry spells which could result in low water levels and have effects
in our operations such as reduced income due to water scarcity in operational processes, increased European coal prices, reduced the
cooling operation of nuclear reactors in France, increasing energy costs and reduced production of hydroelectric dams, increasing energy
costs in affected energy markets.
Nevertheless, in
the past, the Company has experienced non-material direct impacts as a result of weather-related incidents in recent years. For example,
heavy rains in Colombia occasionally create issues with transporting coal, an important raw material for our production. Flooding in
South Africa and the United States has occasionally delayed transportation of raw materials or finished goods. Similarly, snow events
have temporarily delayed transportation. Heat wave incidents have required the Company to adapt working conditions and operating hours.
Therefore, the
Company has not identified or experienced any material2 physical effects of climate change on its operations or results,
including, as a result of severe weather, weather-related damages to our property or operations, indirect weather-related impacts affecting
major customers or suppliers, or material weather-related impacts on the cost or availability of insurance.
Moreover, any weather-related
damages have been de minimis and represented substantially less than 1% of the other operating expense line item in each of the years
ended December 31, 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023, which reflect the immaterial nature of any such incidents. The Company has prepared
and reviewed an internal analysis of potential risk factors associated with climate. Although climate could present an impact in the
long-term, in the near future, we do not expect a material impact on our business.
Regarding adaptive
capacity, Ferroglobe assesses and manages the effects of natural disasters and extreme weather conditions through its integrated, company-wide
control and risk management process. Moreover, the Company conducts preparedness planning and implements measures designed to maintain
business continuity and mitigate the financial impacts of natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, which may include physical
climate-related risks. Specifically, Ferroglobe’s sites and operations have already organically developed adaptive measures such
as installation of pumps, or construction of protective infrastructure to manage flooding, air conditioning, increased stock capacity,
and implementation of transportation and logistic alternatives.
Transition
risks: After screening the 15 climate-related transition risks by the Task Force on Climate-Related
Financial Disclosures (TCFD), a total of 10 transition risks were identified as considered particularly relevant to Ferroglobe’s
business.
The
transition risks were assessed using the International Energy Agency´s (IEA) Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS)
and the Net Zero Scenario in the short term (2023-2030) and long term (2050). After applying the methodology described in point b, as
a result, the following 3 transition risks were prioritised, all of them related to increased cost or raw materials and market forces:
| ● | Reduced
income and increased costs of production due to rising electricity prices and their impact
in operations. |
| ● | Possible
increased cost of critical raw materials (as defined by the EU, the USA, Quebec): coking
coal and manganese ore. |
2 Material: Rule 405
under the Securities Act defined the term “material” as follows: “When used to qualify a requirement for the furnishing
of information as to any subject, [materiality] limits the information required to those matters to which an average prudent investor
ought reasonably to be informed before purchasing the security registered.”
| ● | Possible
increased costs associated with a worldwide rise in the demand for wood, which is a substitution
for biocarbon instead of coal as a carbon reductant. |
In terms of mitigative
capacities, Ferroglobe has developed the Decarbonization Plan (2024 – 2030)3, which is mainly based in substituting
the carbon needed in the electrometallurgical process from fossil (coal) to biological sources (bio reductants), improving and maintaining
the most efficient process performance, related to energy consumption, through the KTM (Key Technical Metrics) project, and increasing
the renewable and low carbon energy mix. These actions are also expected to reduce exposure to carbon pricing risks.
Opportunities:
After screening 21 climate-related opportunity categories by the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD), a total
of 4 opportunities were identified to be particularly relevant to Ferroglobe’s business.
The
opportunities were assessed using the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS) and the Net Zero Scenario
in the short term (2023-2030) and long term (2050) from the International Energy Agency (IEA). After applying the methodology described
in point b, as a result, the following 3 opportunities were prioritised:
| ● | Use
of lower-emission sources of energy: Reduction in costs due to the deployment of renewable
energy sources in operations. |
| ● | Development
of new products, markets and applications through R&D and innovation: Increased revenue
associated with development and deployment of lighter products for transport sector (battery
technology including use of high purity silicon anodes), facilitating the substitution of
steel and other carbon-intensive metals. |
| ● | Development
and/or expansion of low emission products: Increased revenue associated with the deployment
of silicon-based products for energy storage and other transition technologies. In addition,
given that Ferroglobe supplies silicon metal to manufacturers of photovoltaic products, increased
demand for generation and transmission of energy from solar energy tends to increase demand
for Ferroglobe’s silicon metal products. |
| e. | A
description of the actual and potential impacts of the principal climate-related risks and
opportunities on the business model and strategy of the company |
Based on historical
data on operations, Ferroglobe has identified that physical risks such as heavy rains, floods, snow, and heat waves are the most recurring.
They have impacted mainly production plants and mines, generating a loss of profit derived from ceasing operations and/or increasing
costs in repairments and capital expenditures.
These events have
encouraged Ferroglobe to develop and implement adaptive and migration measures to better respond to those risks. Therefore, the Company
has organically included climate-related issues as an input to its financial planning process through CapEx investments and funds for
specific use in climate adaptation and mitigation, prioritising adaptation plans to better adequate sites to previously occurring natural
phenomena.
In terms of resilience,
the Company's strategies may be confronted with disruptions in financial performance. Such disruptions include reduced revenue due to
halted operations or increased costs and expenses related to raw material and carbon prices, as well as changes in financial position
due to assets exposed to climate risks. Moreover, as already described, the Company has already conducted a climate change analysis and
has established an organisational area responsible for identifying, assessing, and managing climate-related risk and opportunities to
inform the Company when an alert would be necessary. Until now, the climate-related impacts have been short-term, and no operational
contingency plans have been needed to be employed, the effects of the incidents have not been tracked or analysed by the Company, and
Ferroglobe is unable to separately quantify any related costs.
| f. | An
analysis of the resilience of the business model and strategy of the company, taking into
account consideration of different climate-related scenarios |
To assess the risk
level for each climate-related risk, specific scenarios were used depending on whether they were physical or transition-related.
3 Details
about the Ferroglobe’s Decarbonization Plan are expected to be included in the Global ESG Report for the fiscal year 2023.
For
physical climate risks, IPCC scenarios SSP2-4.5 and SSP5-8.5 were followed. These correspond
to scenarios integrating socioeconomic (SSP4) and emission concentration pathways (RCP5), to evaluate the behaviour of different climatic
variables in the short term (2023-2040), medium term (2041-2060), and long term (2081-2100).
RCPs describe possible
concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and their impact on radiative forcing. In turn, SSPs have been built to model the
evolution of socioeconomic factors based on assumptions about demographic and socioeconomic development, technological evolution, energy
and land use, as well as emissions of greenhouse gases and air pollutants.
Specifically, data
for each scenario and timeframe was mainly obtained from IPCC and Copernicus, as key scientific public data. Furthermore, additional
data from other agencies, such as the Spanish and French ministries for Ecological Transition, the US Environmental Protection Agency,
and NASA’s Earth Observation Program, World Bank (Think Hazard) were also obtained. These data were used to model exposure of Ferroglobe’s
assets at their specific locations to climatic variables (temperature, precipitations, among multiple other variables). Following the
mentioned methodology (refer to point b), those exposure values were then integrated with the impact and vulnerability to calculate the
inherent risk level for each asset.
For
transition risks, the IEA World Energy Outlook (2023) Net Zero Emissions by 2050 Scenario and
the Stated Policies Scenario (STEPS) were used to model key legislative and economic variables in the short term (2024-2030), and long-term
(2050). These scenarios present relevant hypothetical, consistent, and plausible futures of the evolution of greenhouse gas emissions
and their main drivers, based on assumptions regarding policy, macroeconomics, and demographic studies. Based on the evolution of those
variables in each scenario, potential impact and probability levels were established to conduct a qualitative analysis, following the
methodology described in point b.
Under the above
described scenarios, once the inherent risk level was calculated for each risk, both physical and transitional, the Company’s adaptation
and mitigation actions were assessed in terms of availability and coverage to evaluate the possible reduction of the inherent risk level.
The level of inherent risk was then attenuated using the resulting adaptive or mitigative capacity of each of the sites to obtain the
residual risk level, which in turn would be used to prioritise the risks. As mentioned in a previous section, all Ferroglobe sites contemplate
organically developed adaptive measures and in terms of mitigative capacities, Ferroglobe has developed and approved a Decarbonization
Plan (2024 – 2030).
| g. | A
description of the targets used by the company to manage climate-related risks and to realise
climate-related opportunities and of performance against those targets |
Ferroglobe’s
Decarbonization Plan is expected to be included in the Global ESG Report for the fiscal year 2023. Therefore, some targets related to
the different levers of the plan will be included: % of renewable or low carbon energy in operations, % of substitution of coal by bio
reductants, specific energy efficiency indicators and energy recovery.
With regard to
opportunities, the Technology and Innovation Division has invested in a variety of projects. In 2022, the Company invested $5.7M towards
cutting-edge research and $7.6 M for process improvement and innovation. Ferroglobe has joined several partnership and cooperation agreements
with recognised universities and research centres in Spain, France, and other countries worldwide. Furthermore, our efforts have received
support from European, national and regional public research programs. Notably, the European Commission recognised the strategic significance
of our Silicon for Batteries Project under the Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI) Program in 2021.
| h. | The
key performance indicators used to assess progress against targets used to manage climate-related
risks and realise climate-related opportunities and a description of the calculations on
which those key performance indicators are based |
The following Key
Performance Indicators (KPIs) are expected to be implemented, measured, and tracked in order to assess Company progress in relation to
climate-related risks and opportunities.
4 Shared Socio-economic Pathways
5 Representative Concentration
Pathways
Type |
Category |
KPIs |
Physical
climate risks |
Chronic
|
Historical
total financial impacts in the past rolling 3 years6 |
Acute |
Transition
climate
risks |
GHG
emissions |
Scope
1, 2 and 3 emissions (tons CO2e) |
Purchases
or sales of carbon credits or offsets |
Price
in the fiscal year (€/tCO2e) |
Cost
or availability of insurance |
Difference
between insurer’s earned premiums and expenses and claims. |
Changes
in raw material cost |
Wood,
manganese ore, and coking coal (%) |
Technology
developments |
CapEx
(M€) |
Climate
- related
opportunities |
Renewable
energy |
Electricity
consumption derived from renewable energy sources (%) |
New
products/services |
Increased
revenue associated with development and deployment of lighter products for the transport sector. |
Product
deployment towards use in transition technologies |
Increased
revenue associated with the deployment of silicon-based products for energy storage and other transition technologies. |
Maintaining
a high standard of business conduct
On
behalf of the Company, the Board has adopted a number of policies which articulate the Company and the Board’s commitment to the
highest standards of integrity, ethical behaviour, transparency, safety and corporate citizenship. These include, as their mainstay,
the Company’s code of conduct which sets out the Company’s policies on bribery and corruption, whistleblowing, conflicts
of interest and political and charitable contributions, as well as the importance of safeguarding the wellbeing of its employees and
protecting its resources. The Code of Conduct is supported by further policies on whistleblowing, data protection and statements on trade
compliance, tax and modern slavery. The Board has also adopted a corporate governance policy statement to protect the interests of minority
shareholders (on which there is more on “Acting fairly between members” sections that follows).
The
Code of Conduct is reviewed regularly and every employee of the Company and all of its Board members are asked to confirm their personal
commitment to the Code on joining the Company and to re-confirm it each year thereafter. Employees have the opportunity to report suspected
breaches of the Code, for which purpose a secure and confidential hotline has been established, administered by an independent third
party. Allegations of breaches of the Code are normally reported to the Audit Committee at each of its scheduled meetings and regular
updates on the status of follow-up actions and outcomes given.
6 Financial
impacts are defined as total economic impact including damages and losses due to a cease in operations.
Acting fairly
between members
A
significant number of the Company’s shares are held by Grupo VM, its major shareholder. The Company has a number of checks and
balances in place throughout the Company’s governance framework to ensure that the interests of the majority and the minority shareholders
are respected and the Board is very cognisant of its duties in this regard. These checks and balances include:
| · | the
Company’s shareholders agreement with Grupo VM which regulates Board appointments,
including those nominated by Grupo VM, Grupo VM’s rights to transfer and pledge its
shares, its pre-emption rights and standstill obligations and the confidentiality agreement
with Grupo VM which regulates the use, disclosure and security of confidential information
shared with Grupo VM or its representatives; |
| · | the
Company’s Articles of Association which, among other things, require the approval of
a majority of independent directors to any agreement or arrangement between the Company and
Grupo VM; |
| · | the
Board’s corporate governance policy first adopted in October 2017 under which
the Board commits to maintain a majority of independent directors on the Board. This policy
was most recently renewed in November 2021 for a period of 24 months; |
| · | the
workings and functions of the Board’s key fully independent Audit and majority independent
Compensation Committees; |
| · | the
Company’s related parties’ policy which stipulates how and in what way proposed
related party transactions are to be submitted for consideration and approval by the Audit
Committee of the Board and the Company’s register of related party transactions which
is submitted to each scheduled meeting of the Audit Committee; |
| · | the
presence of directors on the Board who were nominated by Grupo VM. |
The
Chief Legal Officer and Group Company Secretary has primary responsibility for advising the Board on its duties and on the Company’s
governance framework and normally attends all meetings of the Board and its Committees.
The
Strategic Report for the financial period ended 31 December 2023 has been reviewed and approved by the Board on 20 May 2024.
Javier Lopez Madrid
Director
Directors’
report
The
Directors present their report and the audited financial statements of the Group and Company for the year ended 31 December 2023.
The Directors do not need to comply with Corporate Governance requirements.
The
Directors’ Report comprises these pages (24 to 28) and the other sections and pages of the Annual Report cross-referred
below which are incorporated by reference.
The
financial statements have been prepared under the going concern basis of accounting, with additional details provided in note 3.1 of
the financial statements.
As
permitted by legislation, certain disclosures normally included in the Directors’ Report have instead been integrated into the
Strategic Report (pages 9 to 23). These disclosures include information relating to the Group’s principal risks and uncertainties.
Directors
The
directors of the Company, who held office at any time during the year to 31 December 2023, were as follows:
Javier
López Madrid |
Director
and Executive Chairman |
Marco Levi |
Director and
Chief Executive Officer |
Rafael Barrilero
Yarnoz |
Non-Executive
Director |
Bruce L. Crockett |
Non-Executive
Director |
Stuart E.
Eizenstat |
Non-Executive
Director |
Manuel Garrido
y Ruano |
Non-Executive
Director |
Nicolas de
Santis |
Non-Executive
Director |
Marta Amusategui
Vergara |
Non-Executive
Director |
Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes |
Non-Executive Director |
Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes |
Non-Executive Director |
Belén Villalonga Morenés |
Non-Executive Director |
The
biographies of our directors as at the date of this report are set out on pages 29 to 34. Details of the directors standing for
election or re-election at our 2024 AGM will be set out in the notice of that meeting.
Directors’
indemnities
As
required by the Articles, each director is indemnified in connection with his role as a director, to the extent permitted by law. As
permitted by the Articles, the Company has purchased and maintained throughout the year under review directors’ and officers’
liability insurance.
Share repurchases
During
2023 and 2022 the company did not perform any share repurchase.
Dividends
The
Company has not declared any dividends during the year under review.
Political donations
During
the year under review the Company has not made any political donations, incurred any political expenditure or made any contributions
to an EU or non-EU political party.
Employee policies
Ferroglobe
has a culture of continuous improvement through investment in people at all levels within the organisation. Its Code of Conduct (“Code”),
which applies to all directors and employees of the Group, sets out Ferroglobe’s commitment to protecting, respecting and supporting
its workforce. The Code was revised in 2017 to bring together Ferroglobe’s policies on key ethical, behavioral and compliance matters.
Its roll-out across the Group globally was initiated in 2017, supported by mandatory training for all employees. Subsequently and on
an annual basis, Group personnel have been requested to re-certify their knowledge of and continued compliance with the Code. The adoption
of and training provided on the Code is consistent with our evolution to an organization with an integrated approach to human relations
policies across the five continents in which the Group operates.
Those
key policies include:
| · | Health
and safety, where Ferroglobe places high value on the well-being of all personnel and is
committed to providing a healthy and safe working environment; |
| · | Respect
in the workplace, promoting equality and diversity, rejecting harassment and bullying and
supporting work-life balance; |
| · | Striving
to conduct operations in a way that respects the human rights of personnel, suppliers and
others with whom Ferroglobe works, including local communities; |
| · | Encouraging
the reporting of wrongdoing or of any suspicions or concerns as to wrongdoing, any of which
can be raised in confidence through the whistleblowing hotline which Ferroglobe has established
in all countries in which it operates where it is lawful to do so. |
Ferroglobe
is committed to providing equal opportunities for all Group personnel and to creating an inclusive workforce by promoting employment
equality. This includes pursuing equality and diversity in all its employment activities, including recruitment, training, career development
and promotion and ensuring there is no bias or discrimination in the treatment of people. Ferroglobe opposes all forms of unlawful or
unfair discrimination on the grounds of race, age, nationality, religion, ethnic or national origin, sexual orientation, gender or gender
reassignment, marital status or disability. Wherever possible, vacancies are filled from within Ferroglobe and efforts are made to create
opportunities for internal promotion.
Greenhouse gas
emissions
The
UK Companies Act 2006 (Strategic Report and Directors’ Reports) Regulations 2013 requires UK-based quoted companies to report global
greenhouse gas (“GHG”) emissions data in the Annual Report and Accounts. Comparison year data for 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021,
2022 and 2023 is included in Table 2 in this report. As in the period 2018-2022, the 2023 GHG inventory was prepared in accordance with
the Ferroglobe PLC Greenhouse Gas Inventory Management Plan (2017), prepared in consultation with ERM Group, Inc. and its UK affiliate
(the “IMP”).
The
Company has selected the Operational Control approach and criteria as the basis for reporting GHG emissions data, defining “Operational
Control” to encompass facilities the Group owns and operates, facilities it leases and operates, and partnerships facilities it
operates. All facilities within Ferroglobe’s Operational Control that are material to its Group-wide GHG emission inventory are
included in reported figures. This approach means that the operations for which emissions are reported are substantially coextensive
with operations comprised by Ferroglobe’s consolidated financial reporting. The Company does not have responsibility for any emission
sources that are not included in its financial reporting.
Table
1 sets forth the Company’s consolidated greenhouse gas emissions expressed in metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e).
The figures reported below include all material direct (Scope 1) and indirect (Scope 2) emission sources for facilities within the Company’s
Operational Control. Principal sources of Scope 1 emissions from operations at, or Scope 2 emissions imputed to, Ferroglobe-controlled
facilities include:
| · | Electricity
purchased or produced by Ferroglobe facilities |
| · | Fuels
purchased for consumption in stationary sources on-site at Ferroglobe facilities (e.g.,
natural gas, diesel, LPG) |
| · | Fuels
purchased for consumption in mobile sources owned and operated by Ferroglobe |
| · | Process
emissions associated with electric arc furnaces used for the production of silicon metal
and ferroalloys. |
Table 1. Company-wide Scope
1 and Scope 2 Emissions for 2023
Global
GHG emissions data for period 1 January 2023 to 31 December 2023
|
Emissions
From: |
Tonnes
of CO2e |
|
|
Combustion
of fuel and operation of facilities
|
1,705,504* |
Electricity,
heat, steam and cooling purchased for own use |
1,617,429 |
Company’s
chosen intensity measurement:
Emissions reported above
normalized to per tonne of product output |
5.10 |
*In line with DEFRA Guidance, 1.0
million tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
Table 2. Company-wide Scope
1 and Scope 2 Emissions Comparison for 2018-2023
Global
GHG emissions data for period 1 January to 31 December 2020-2023
|
Emissions
From: |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
2023 |
|
Tonnes
of CO2e |
Combustion
of fuel and operation of facilities
|
1,701,763
*** |
2,197,734
**** |
2,028,556
***** |
1,705,504
***** |
Electricity,
heat, steam and cooling purchased for own use |
1,282,333 |
1,228,600 |
1,184,366 |
1,617,429 |
Energy
Consumption (MWh) |
5,365,791 |
6,854,806 |
6,479,769 |
5,832,331 |
Company’s
chosen intensity measurement:
Emissions reported above normalized
to per tonne of product output |
4.92 |
4.42 |
4.50 |
5.10 |
The emissions
and energy consumption correspond to Ferroglobe´s plants and mining operations all outside the United Kingdom.
*In line with
DEFRA Guidance, 1.5 million tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
**In line with
DEFRA Guidance, 944,997 tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
*** In line
with DEFRA Guidance, 788,321 tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
**** In line
with DEFRA Guidance, 977,204 tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
***** In line
with DEFRA Guidance, 924,028 tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
**** In line with DEFRA Guidance,
1.0 million tonnes of CO2e are not included in the above table, due to being biogenic in nature.
Since 2020 the
company has launched a specific project on energy efficiency called the “KTM project”, focused on increasing both energy
efficiency and raw materials yields in our furnaces and operations. The implementation of the Key Technical Metrics methodology is based
on our technical know-how, expertise, comprehensive assessment of processes, operational rigor and continuous improvement, therefore
implementing both operational and organizational measures. It includes a detailed on-site performance monitoring plan, especially on
the energy specific consumption.
Methodology
In preparing the
IMP and this report, the Company has adhered to the World Resources Institute (WRI) and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development
(WBCSD) Greenhouse Gas Protocol: A Corporate Accounting and Reporting Standard – Revised Edition (2004) (the “GHG Protocol”)
and the UK DEFRA’s Environmental Reporting Guidelines: Including mandatory greenhouse gas emissions reporting guidance (June 2013)
(“DEFRA Guidance”). The Company reports material emissions of three out of the six Kyoto GHGs, viz. carbon dioxide (CO2),
methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O). A fourth, sulfur hexafluoride (SF6), is present in electrical breakers at some Company facilities,
but no emission of SF6 of have been observed. The two remaining Kyoto gases, perfluorocarbons (PFCs) and hydroflurocarbons (HFCs), are
not reported since Company facilities do not emit or use materials containing them.
Post
year-end events
Full redemption
of the Company’s remaining 9.375% Senior Secured Notes Due 2025
In February 2024,
the Company completed the full redemption of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued
interest. The issuers elected to redeem an aggregate principal amount of $147,624 thousand of the Notes, the entire amount outstanding
as of the redemption date, plus accrued and unpaid interest and call premium of $4,075 thousand. The Notes were fully redeemed from the
Company’s cash and cash equivalents.
Dividend payment
In March 2024,
the Company distributed dividends to its ordinary shareholders totaling $2,428 thousand.
Future developments
As
part of its strategy to serve customers better, the Group develops new products or new specifications on a continuous basis. As a consequence
of these efforts, investments have been made in facilities that allow the production of new products, such as higher-grade silicon metal,
solar grade silicon metal, electrodes for use in silicon metals furnaces, high-value powders for use in Li-on batteries or new foundry
products. Please see Part I, Item 4, Information on the Company of the 2023 Form 20-F by way of example of how
the Group has developed proprietary technologies and has pursued innovation in the development of new products.
Research and
development
Ferroglobe
focuses on developing new products, production processes and continuous improvement to create further value for our stakeholders and
to follow global megatrends, including the green energy transition. Ferroglobe has dedicated teams for R&D and continuous improvement,
but it also has cooperation agreements in place with various universities and research institutes in Spain, France and other countries
around the world.
Please
refer to Part I, Item 4, Information on the Company of the 2023 Form 20-F (as set out in the separate attachment
to this U.K. Annual Report) for information on Ferroglobe’s research and development activities and opportunities.
Overseas branches
The
Company has no overseas branches.
Share capital
structure and change of control provisions
The
Company’s share capital comprises ordinary shares of $0.01 each, all of which bear the same rights and obligations. The Company’s
issued share capital at 31 December 2023 is set out at Note 13 to the Consolidated Financial Statements.
The
rights attaching to the Ordinary Shares are set out in the Articles, a copy of which can be obtained from the Company Secretary on request.
Each Ordinary Share has one vote attaching to it for voting purposes and all holders of Ordinary Shares are entitled to receive notice
of and attend and vote at the Company’s general meetings. The Articles vest power in the directors to refuse to register transfers
of Ordinary Shares in certain circumstances including where the instrument of transfer is not stamped or is in favor of more than 4 transferees.
There are also restrictions in the Articles affecting the terms of tender offers and any scheme of arrangement, consolidation, merger
or business combination designed to protect minority shareholders while Grupo VM and its associates hold ten percent or more of the Ordinary
Shares.
Significant
agreements affected by a takeover
There
are no agreements between the Group and any of its employees or any director of the Company that provide for compensation to be paid
to the employee or director for termination of employment or for loss of office as a consequence of a takeover of the Company, other
than provisions that would apply on any termination of employment.
Statement of
disclosure to the Company’s U.K. statutory auditor
In
accordance with section 418 of the Companies Act, each director at the date of this Directors’ Report confirms that:
| · | so
far as he is aware, there is no relevant audit information of which the Auditor is unaware;
and |
| · | he
has taken all the steps he ought to have taken as a director to make himself aware of any
relevant audit information and to establish that the Auditor is aware of that information. |
This
confirmation is given and should be interpreted in accordance with the provisions of section 418 of the Companies Act 2006.
By order of
the Board on 20 May 2024
Javier Lopez
Madrid
Director
The Board of Directors
Details of the members of
the Board as at the date of this ARA are below.
Javier López Madrid
Javier López Madrid
has been Executive Chairman of the Company since December 31, 2016 and was Chairman of our Nominations Committee from January 1,
2018 until May 26, 2023. He was first appointed to the Board on February 5, 2015 and was the Company’s Executive Vice-Chairman
from December 23, 2015 until December 31, 2016.
He has been Chief Executive
Officer of Grupo VM since 2008, is member of the Board of several non-profit organizations. He is the founder and largest shareholder
of Financiera Siacapital and founded Tressis, Spain’s largest independent private bank. Mr. López Madrid holds a Masters
in law and business from ICADE University.
Marco Levi
Marco Levi was appointed
Chief Executive Officer of the Company on January 10, 2020, and appointed to its Board of Directors on January 15, 2020. Dr
Levi previously served as President and CEO of Alhstrom-Munksjö Oyj, a global fiber materials company listed in Finland, where he
led a successful transformation of the business by refocusing its product portfolio towards value-added specialty products. Prior to that,
Dr. Levi was Senior Vice President and Business President of the $3 billion emulsion polymers division of chemicals manufacturer
Styron, including during the period in which Styron division was acquired by Bain Capital from Dow Chemical Company. Dr. Levi previously
had spent over twenty-two years at Dow in various departments and roles, ultimately serving as general manager of the emulsion polymers
business.
Dr Levi is also a Non-Executive
Director of Mativ Holdings, Inc, the leading global performance materials company, listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Dr Levi
holds a doctorate in industrial chemistry from the Università degli Studi di Milano, Statale, in Italy.
Bruce L. Crockett
Bruce L. Crockett was appointed
to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on December 23, 2015. He has been a member of our Audit Committee from that
date and was Chair of the Audit Committee since June 4, 2020 and served on our Compensation Committee from January 1, 2018 until
June 23, 2021. Mr. Crockett was appointed on May 13, 2021 as our Senior Independent Director and on June 23, 2021
as Chair of the Corporate Governance Committee until May 26, 2023, on which date he was appointed as a member of the Nominations
and Governance Committee.
Mr. Crockett holds a
number of other Board and governance roles. He has been Chairman of the Invesco Mutual Funds Group Board of Directors and a member of
its Audit, Investment and Governance Committees, serving on the board since 1991, as Chair since 2003 and on the Board of predecessor
companies from 1978. Since 2013, he has been a member of the Board of Directors and, since 2014, Chair of the Audit Committee and since
2021 member of the Governance Committee of ALPS Property & Casualty Insurance Company. He has been Chairman of, and a private
investor in, Crockett Technologies Associates since 1996. He is a life trustee of the University of Rochester. In 2021, he was appointed
as a member of the Board of Advisors of the Western Colorado University Graduate Business School.
Mr. Crockett was a member
of the Board of Directors of Globe from April 2014 until the closing of the Business Combination, as well as a member of Globe’s
Audit Committee. He was formerly President and Chief Executive Officer of COMSAT Corporation from 1992 until 1996 and its President and
Chief Operating Officer from 1991 to 1992, holding a number of other operational and financial positions at COMSAT from 1980, including
that of Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He was a member of the Board of Directors of Ace Limited from 1995 until 2012 and
of Captaris, Inc. from 2001 until its acquisition in 2008 and its Chairman from 2003 to 2008.
Mr. Crockett holds an
A.B. degree from the University of Rochester, B.S. degree from the University of Maryland, an MBA from Columbia University and an Honorary
Doctor of Law degree from the University of Maryland.
Stuart E. Eizenstat
Stuart E. Eizenstat was appointed
to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on December 23, 2015. He was a member of the Company’s Corporate Governance
Committee from January 1, 2018, until May 26, 2023, and served on our Nominations Committee from May 16, 2018, until May 26,
2023, on which date he was appointed as a member of the Compensation Committee.
Mr. Eizenstat has been
a Senior Counsel at Covington & Burling LLP in Washington, D.C. and headed its international practice for many years after joining
the firm in 2001. He has served as a member of the Advisory Boards of GML Ltd. since 2003 and of the Office of Cherifien de Phosphates
since 2010. He was a trustee of BlackRock Funds from 2001 until 2018.
Mr. Eizenstat was a member
of Board of Directors of Globe Specialty Metals from 2008 until the closing of the Business Combination and Chair of its Nominating Committee.
He was a member of the Board of Directors of Alcatel-Lucent from 2008 to 2016 and of United Parcel Service from 2005 to 2015. He has had
an illustrious political and advisory career, including serving as Special Adviser to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and then Secretary
of State John Kerry on Holocaust-Era Issues from 2009 to 2017, and Special Representative of the President and Secretary of State on Holocaust
Issues during the Clinton administration from 1993 to 2001. He was Deputy Secretary of the United States Department of the Treasury from
July 1999 to January 2001, Under Secretary of State for Economic, Business and Agricultural Affairs from 1997 to 1999, Under
Secretary of Commerce for International Trade from 1996 to 1997, U.S. Ambassador to the European Union from 1993 to 1996 and Chief Domestic
Policy Advisor in the White House to President Carter from 1977 to 1981. He served on the Defense Policy Board in the Obama administration
from 2014-2017. He currently serves as Special Adviser on Holocaust Issues to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and as Chairman of the
Council of United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, appointed by President Biden. He is the author of “Imperfect Justice: Looted
Assets, Slave Labor, and the Unfinished Business of World War II”; “The Future of the Jews: How Global Forces are Impacting
the Jewish People, Israel, and its Relationship with the United States”, “President Carter: The White House Years”,
and "The Art of Diplomacy: How American Negotiators Reached Historic Agreements that Changed the World".
Mr. Eizenstat holds a
B.A. in Political Science, cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa, from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a J.D. from Harvard Law
School and nine honorary doctorate degrees from colleges and universities, high honors from the United States, French (Legion of
Honor), German, Austrian, Belgian, and Israeli governments, and over 75 awards from various organizations.
Manuel Garrido y Ruano
Manuel Garrido y Ruano was
appointed to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on May 30, 2017. He was a member of our Nominating and Corporate
Governance Committee from May 30, 2017 until December 31, 2017, and served on our Corporate Governance Committee from December 31,
2017 until May 26, 2023.
Mr. Garrido y Ruano has
been Chief Financial Officer of Grupo Villar Mir since 2003 and he is currently member of the Board of its subsidiary in the energy sector,
and of its real estate subsidiary. In June 2021 he was appointed non-executive Chairman of Fertial SPA the Algerian fertilizers subsidiary
of the Group.
He has been Professor of Corporate
Finance of one Graduate Management Program at the Universidad de Navarra, and has also been Professor of Communication and Leadership
of the Graduate Management Program at CUNEF in Spain.
Mr. Garrido y Ruano was
a member of the steering committee of FerroAtlántica until 2015, having previously served as its Chief Financial Officer from 1996
to 2003. He worked with McKinsey & Company from 1991 to 1996, specializing in restructuring, business development and turnaround
and cost efficiency projects globally.
Mr. Garrido y Ruano holds
a Masters in Civil Engineering with honors from the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid and an MBA from INSEAD, Fontainebleau, France.
Marta de Amusategui y Vergara
Marta de Amusategui y Vergara
was appointed to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on June 12, 2020. She has been a member of our Audit Committee
from that date and a member of the Compensation Committee since June 23, 2021.
Ms. Amusategui has substantial
experience in executive and non-executive roles, with a background in business strategy, banking and finance. She is founder and partner
of Abrego Capital S.L, providing strategic and financial advisory services, and co-founder of Observatorio Industria 4.0, the professional
forum leveraging knowledge and experience to assist businesses, specifically those in the secondary sector, in their digital transformation.
She began her career in management consulting and investment banking, serving as Country Executive Officer and General Manager with Bank
of America in Spain from 2003 to 2008.
Ms. Amusategui has been
a member of the Board of Eland Private Equity, S.G.E.I.C., S.A., a private equity management company specializing in renewable energies,
since 2009. Since 2020, she has been a member of the board of directors of Eccocar Sharing S.L. She has also held other Board positions
in the past, including that of Telvent GIT S.A. (Nasdaq TLVT), the global IT solutions and business information services provider, where
she became an independent director from early 2010 until its de-listing following acquisition in December 2011. She is currently
a member of the McKinsey Alumni Council in Spain.
Ms. Amusategui holds
an Industrial Engineering degree (MSc equivalent) from Universidad Pontificia de Comillas, Madrid, Spain, and an MBA from INSEAD, Fontainebleau,
France. She has held a number of academic appointments, lecturing in Financing at the Three Points Digital Business School, Grupo Planeta,
in Barcelona, in Managerial Competencies in CUNEF, in Madrid, and in Risk Management on the Non-Executive Directors Program at ICADE Business
School, also in Madrid.
Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes
Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes
was appointed to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on December 23, 2015.
Mr. Villar-Mir de Fuentes
is currently Chairman of Inmobiliaria Espacio, S.A and Grupo Villar Mir, S.A.U. In both companies he served as Vice Chairman since 1996
and since 1999 respectively. He has served as Chairman and Vice Chairman of Obrascon Huarte Lain, S.A and has been serving as a member
of the Board of Directors since 1996, first as a member of the Audit Committee and, later, as a member of its Compensation Committee.
He was a Board Director and member of the Compensation Committee of Inmobiliaria Colonial, S.A from June 2014 to May 2017. He
also was a member of the Board of Directors and of the Compensation Committee of Abertis Infraestructuras, S.A. between 2013 and 2016.
Mr. Villar-Mir de Fuentes
is Patron and member of the Patronage Council of Fundación Nantik Lum and of Fundación Santa María del Camino.
Mr. Villar-Mir holds
a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Economics and Business Management from the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid.
Belen
Villalonga Morenés
Belen Villalonga Morenés
was appointed to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. She has been a member of the Audit Committee
from that date and served as a member of the Corporate Governance Committee from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023, on which
date she was appointed to the Nominations and Governance Committee.
Ms. Villalonga is a Professor
of Management and Organizations, a Yamaichi Faculty Fellow, and a Professor of Finance (by courtesy) at New York University’s Stern
School of Business. Between 2001 and 2012 she was a faculty member at the Harvard Business School. During 2018-2019 she was a Visiting
Professor at Oxford University’s Said Business School. Her teaching, research, and consulting activities are in the areas of corporate
governance, strategy, and finance, with a special focus on family-controlled companies. Her award-winning research has been cited over
18,000 times in scholarly articles and international media outlets.
Professor Villalonga is an
independent director at Banco Santander International (Santander group’s private banking subsidiary in the United States), as well
as at Mapfre USA (insurance). She was also an independent director for many years at three global companies publicly listed in Spain:
Acciona (renewable energy and infrastructure), Grifols (biopharma), and Talgo (high-speed trains).
Ms. Villalonga holds
a Ph.D. in Management and an M.A. in Economics from the University of California at Los Angeles, where she was a Fulbright Scholar. She
also holds a Ph.D. in Business Economics from the Complutense University of Madrid.
Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes
Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes
was appointed to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. She served as a member of the Compensation Committee
from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023. Ms. Villar-Mir de Fuentes currently serves on the board of directors of Grupo Villar
Mir, a privately held Spanish group with investments across a broad range of diversified industries, which is the beneficial owner of
approximately 40% of the Company’s share capital.
Mrs. Villar-Mir de Fuentes
is a summa cum laude graduate in Economics and Business Studies, with concentration in finance and accounting, from The American College
in London, United Kingdom.
Nicolas De Santis
Nicolas De Santis was appointed
to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. He has been a member of the Compensation Committee since June 23,
2021 and served as a member of the Nominations Committee from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023, on which date he was appointed
as Chair of the Nominations and Governance Committee. Mr. De Santis is a technology entrepreneur, strategist and author with substantial
experience in executive and non-executive roles. Mr. De Santis is currently the Chief Executive Officer of De Santis Corporate Vision
Strategists Ltd, a strategy and innovation consultancy and incubator. De Santis advises multinational corporations and start-ups on corporate
vision & strategy, disruptive innovation, global branding, business model innovation, sustainability and corporate culture transformation.
Previously Mr. De Santis
served on the board of publicly traded Lyris Technologies (acquired by AUREA Software in 2015). He began his management career at Landor
Associates (now WPP Group). As a technology entrepreneur, he co-founded several high-profile start-ups, including opodo.com, one of Europe’s
most successful start-ups, reaching $1.5 billion in gross sales.
Mr. De Santis is a regular
lecturer at business schools and universities on business strategy, global branding, business model innovation and culture transformation,
including IE Business School, Madrid and the University of Wyoming. He is the author of Megavision® Enterprise Futurising System -
A revolutionary method to develop long term strategic vision for corporations.
Rafael Barrilero Yarnoz
Rafael Barrilero Yarnoz was
appointed to our Board of Directors as a Non-Executive Director on May 13, 2021. He was appointed Chair of the Compensation Committee
and served as a member of the Nominations Committee from June 23, 2021 until May 26, 2023.
Mr. Barrilero Yarnoz
is a senior advisor at Mercer Consulting. Mr. Barrilero Yarnoz has developed his career as a partner of the firm and as a member
of the executive committee, leading the advisory talent and reward service for the boards of the main companies and multinationals. He
has also led the business throughout the EMEA. Previously, he led the Watson Wyatt consulting firm in Madrid. He began his career as a
lawyer at Ebro Agricolas focused on labour law, before serving as Ebro’s head of human resources. In January 2022 he joined
the board of directors of AltamarCAM and Grupo Hedima, as a permanent Senior Advisor. He collaborates with the HAZ foundation, whose mission
is to ensure transparency and good corporate governance.
Mr. Barrilero Yarnoz
has a law degree from Deusto and a Masters in Financial Economics from ICADE, as well as a masters in human resources by Euroforum-INSEAD.
Directors’ responsibilities
The directors are responsible
for preparing the Annual Report and the Group and parent Company financial statements in accordance with applicable law and regulations.
Company law requires the directors
to prepare Group and parent Company financial statements for each financial year. Under current U.K. law, the directors have elected to
prepare the Group financial statements in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards and applicable law and they have
elected to prepare the parent Company financial statements in accordance with UK accounting standards and applicable law, including FRS
101 Reduced Disclosure Framework.
Under company law the directors
must not approve the financial statements unless they are satisfied that they give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the
Group and parent Company and of the Group’s profit or loss for that period. In preparing each of the Group and parent Company financial
statements, the directors are required to:
· select suitable
accounting policies and then apply them consistently;
· make judgements
and estimates that are reasonable, relevant and reliable, and, in respect of the parent Company financial statements only, prudent;
· for the Group financial
statements, state whether they have been prepared in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting standards;
· for the parent Company
financial statements, state whether applicable UK accounting standards have been followed, subject to any material departures disclosed
and explained in the financial statements;
· assess the Group
and parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern; and
· use the going concern
basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Group or the parent Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic
alternative but to do so.
The directors are responsible
for keeping adequate accounting records that are sufficient to show and explain the parent Company’s transactions and disclose with
reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the parent Company and enable them to ensure that its financial statements comply
with the Companies Act 2006. They are responsible for such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of
financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and have general responsibility for taking
such steps as are reasonably open to them to safeguard the assets of the Group and to prevent and detect fraud and other irregularities.
Under applicable law and regulations,
the directors are also responsible for preparing a Strategic Report and a Directors’ Report that complies with that law and those
regulations.
The directors are responsible for the maintenance and integrity of
the corporate and financial information included on the Company’s website. Legislation in the UK governing the preparation and dissemination
of financial statements may differ from legislation in other jurisdictions. The responsibility statement was approved by the Board and
signed on its behalf.
By order of the Board on 20 May 2024
Javier Lopez Madrid
Directors’ Remuneration Report
Introduction
Dear Shareholder
As Chairman of the Compensation
Committee (the Committee), and on behalf of the Board, I present the Directors’ Remuneration Report for the period ended
31 December 2023. It has been prepared in accordance with Schedule 8 of The Large and Medium-sized Companies and Groups (Accounts
and Reports) Regulations 2008, as amended.
This includes the following
three sections:
· This Annual Statement
which summarises the work of the Committee during the year;
· The Annual Report
on Remuneration (the ARR) which provides details of the remuneration earned by directors for the period ended 31 December 2023;
and
· The Directors’
Remuneration Policy approved at the 2022 AGM.
This report sets out
both the Company’s annual report on remuneration (the ARR) for 2022 and the directors’ remuneration policy (the 2022
Policy or the Policy), which was put to shareholders at the 2022 AGM on 30 June 2022 and approved by over 90% of the
shareholders who voted on it. Thank you for your support. The 2022 Policy is included on pages 37 to 49 for your information
and ease of reference.
The Companies Act 2006 requires
the auditors to report to the shareholders on certain parts of the Directors’ Remuneration Report and to state whether, in their
opinion, those parts of the report have been properly prepared in accordance with the Accounting Regulations. The parts of the annual
report on remuneration that are subject to audit are indicated in that report. The statement by the chair of the Compensation Committee
and the policy report are not subject to audit.
The Policy
Under English law, a directors’
remuneration policy requires shareholder approval not less than once in every three years. The Committee last concluded its review of
the policy in 2022 and determined that the then current remuneration framework achieved an appropriate balance of performance and reward,
and 2022 Policy was duly approved at the 2022 AGM.
Shareholder Engagement in 2023
During 2022, the Company consulted
extensively with a large number of shareholders and other stakeholders. During the year we held over 100 meetings with shareholders and
other stakeholders including labor unions representing our employees. In addition, we engaged with proxy advisors.
Short term incentive awards for 2023
The
annual short term incentive objectives for the Executive Chairman and CEO in 2023 were EBITDA in relation to 50% of the award, net cash
flow in relation to 50%. The Executive Directors achieved performance of (75.64%) of their target bonus opportunities. We believe
these outcomes are justified by the exceptional performance of the Company during a year that experienced deterioration in market conditions
for the Company’s products. Management took exceptional measures to promptly react to such market deterioration and preserve the
Company’s financial condition and results of operations. Moreover, in 2023 the Board took some exceptional decisions that impacted
net cash flow, one of the key financial performance indicators that had been set for the 2023 short term incentives. During 2023 the Company
repaid $232 million of its long-term debt, an exceptional accomplishment. For purposes of evaluating the 2023 short-term incentive performance
conditions, net cash flow was adjusted by $90 million to reflect excess debt repayment over the amount that had been previously budgeted,
as well as by $154 million related to the French energy rebate that was recognized in 2023 with cash received in January 2024. See
the ARR for more on the 2023 short term incentive outturn.
LTIPs vesting in 2023
No awards under the EIP vested
during the year ended 31 December 2023.
Awards granted to our Executive
Directors in 2021 under the EIP came to the end of their performance period on 31 December 2021 and vested in 1 January 2024.
The Committee assessed their performance at 100% of target, and the awards vested and became exercisable. As of December 31, 2023,
the awards to our Executive Chairman and our CEO have not been exercised.
Non-Executive Directors and their remuneration
No
changes to NED fees were proposed during 2023. In 2022, the Corporate Governance Committee reviewed the structure of NED fees and decided
to propose an additional payment for extraordinary meetings in the amount of £2,500 for in-person meetings and £1,250
for meetings held by video conference or telephonically. Such changes were approved by the Board. Other than these two changes, they chose
not to recommend any other adjustment to the level or principles underlying NED fees, which otherwise remain unchanged in quantum since
2016.
Looking forward to 2024
We care deeply about our workforce
and our role in and our local and global communities. Throughout the year the Committee has carefully considered the wider economic climate
and fairness of our remuneration policies. In order to promote the Company’s safety environment and broader ESG goals, we instituted
an ESG-related performance measure to the long term incentive plan grant for the first time in 2022 with a safety measure, and in 2023
we employed an ESG performance indicator tied to execution of the broader ESG strategy. For the 2024 grant under the EIP, which is expected
to be approved in the coming months, we will again include an ESG-related performance indicator.
The Committee faces certain
fundamental tensions in making remuneration determinations. In particular, we acknowledge that the Company’s practice is at times
not fully aligned with market standards in the United Kingdom, where we are incorporated. As a company incorporated in the UK, with significant
operations in both Europe and the United States, as well as listing on the Nasdaq stock market in the US, we must remain competitive in
order to retain top talent to deliver the best results for our shareholders. As such, at times we design our remuneration features more
in line with the US market, which tends to pay more than in the United Kingdom. Moreover, we note that the Policy tends to provide limits
significantly in excess of grants actually made. For example, while the Policy provides that short term incentive awards cannot be more
than 500% of salary, the Committee has consistently applied a maximum limit of 150% to awards to our Executive Directors in recent years.
In
2024, the Committee and the Board approved an increase in the base salary of the Executive Chairman, Javier Lopez Madrid, in the amount
of £18,000 (3%) annually, and an increase in the base salary of the CEO, Marco Levi, in the amount of €25,000 (3%) annually
effective as of 1 April 2024. In both cases, the increases were in line with increases for the general workforce and consistent with
market practice for the Company’s industry.
During 2023, the Company continued
to increase engagement with shareholders with increased participation in investor conferences and many more meetings with investors than
in prior years. This year, shareholders will continue to have an advisory vote on the Directors’ Remuneration Report. I hope we
will again receive your support for the resolutions relating to remuneration at the 2024 AGM.
Signed on behalf of the Board.
Chairman of the Compensation Committee
20 May 2024
The Policy
This section of the Directors’
Remuneration Report on pages 37 to 49 sets out the Directors’ Remuneration Policy which was put forward for shareholder
approval at the 2022 AGM on 30 June 2022. The approved Policy can be found in the Company’s U.K. Annual Report and Accounts
for the period ended 31 December 2021 and on the Company’s website. The Policy is set out below for information only.
Aim of the Policy
The overall aim of the Policy
is to provide appropriate incentives that reflect the Company’s high-performance culture and values to maximize returns for shareholders.
In summary, our aim as regards
Executive Directors is to provide remuneration which:
| · | attracts, retains and motivates high caliber, high performing employees; |
| · | encourages strong performance and engagement, both in the short and the long term, to enable the Company
to achieve its strategic objectives; |
| · | link a very significant proportion of pay to performance conditions measured over the short term and longer
term; |
| · | set fixed pay levels at or around market norms to allow for a greater proportion of total remuneration
opportunity to be in variable pay; and |
| · | create strong alignment between the interests of shareholders and executives through both the use of equity
in variable incentive plans and the setting of shareholding guidelines for Executive Directors. |
There are no material differences
in the Policy for Executive Directors compared to that of senior management other than in terms of quantum and levels of participation
in incentive plans reflecting the higher weighting to variable pay and ability to influence performance outcomes. For the wider employee
population, the Company aims to provide remuneration structures and levels that reflect market norms for the location at which they are
based.
Operation of the Policy
Throughout the Policy, reference
is made to the authority, powers and discretions vested in the Committee. It is the Committee’s practice that, in relation to any
significant decision in relation to the compensation of the Company’s Executive Directors or the second tier of executive management
below them, the Committee makes recommendations to the Board which determines the final decision of the Company on such matters.
The following table summarizes
the Policy as applied to Executive Director remuneration:
Components of remuneration for Executive Directors
|
Purpose and link
to strategy
|
Operation and maximum
opportunity |
Performance
framework and recovery |
Element |
|
|
|
Salary |
A fixed salary commensurate with the individual’s role, responsibilities and experience, having regard to broader market rates. |
Reviewed annually, taking account of Group performance, individual performance, changes in responsibility, levels of increase for the broader employee population and market salary levels. |
Not applicable. |
|
|
|
|
Pension and retirement benefits |
Attraction and retention of top talent; providing mechanism for the accumulation of retirement benefits. |
Executive Directors may be paid a cash allowance
in lieu of pension.
The maximum cash allowance is 20% of base salary.
This includes contributions to the U.S. tax-qualified defined contribution 401(k) plan. |
Not applicable. |
|
|
|
|
Benefits |
Attraction and retention of top talent. |
Benefits may include but are not limited to medical cover, life assurance and income protection insurance. |
Not applicable. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Relocation allowances may take into account a housing allowance, school fees, adviser fees for assistance with tax affairs and an expatriate allowance to cover additional expenditure incurred as a result of the relocation. Payment of such relocation allowances will be reviewed by the Committee on an annual basis |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits may include tax equalization provisions applicable if an Executive moves between jurisdictions with differing tax regimes at the Company’s request. If the Executive moves to an area of higher taxation, the Company may agree to make an annual or other regular payment in cash to compensate him or her for any additional tax burden. Where the Executive moves to a jurisdiction where his or her effective tax burden is lower than that to which he or she was subject prior to such move, the Executive’s compensation may be commensurately reduced to ensure that his or her net pay remains unaffected. |
|
|
Purpose and link
to strategy
|
Operation and maximum
opportunity |
Performance
framework and recovery |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits will be provided as the Committee deems necessary including to take into account perquisites or benefits received from a prior employer or as is customary in the country in which an executive resides or is relocated from. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Benefits provided by the Company are subject to market rates and therefore there is no prescribed monetary maximum. The Company and the Committee keep the cost of the benefits under review. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Company provides all Executive Directors with directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and will provide an indemnity to the fullest extent permitted by the Companies Act. |
|
|
|
|
|
Annual and other bonuses |
Short-term performance-based incentive to reward achievement of annual performance objectives. |
The annual bonus plan and all payments and awards
under it are at the discretion of the Committee. Subject as aforesaid, the Committee will determine an Executive Director’s actual
bonus amount, subject to the achievement of quantitative and qualitative performance criteria.
At least two-thirds of the bonus will be based
on financial metrics with any balance based on non-financial metrics.
The maximum annual bonus opportunity that may
be awarded to an Executive Director is normally 200% of salary. If the Committee provides higher annual bonus opportunities in any year
its rationale will be clearly explained in the Annual Report on Remuneration for the relevant year. In these and other exceptional circumstances
the limit will be 500% of salary.
No more than 25% of the maximum annual bonus payable
for each performance condition will be payable for threshold performance. |
The Committee will select the most appropriate
performance measures for the annual bonus for each performance period and will set appropriately demanding targets.
Normally any bonus earned in excess of the target
amount will be deferred for three years into shares in the Company. An Executive Director may be granted an additional long-term incentive
award as described below of equal value (at maximum) to the amount of annual bonus deferred.
Recovery and recoupment will apply to all bonus
awards for misstatement, error or gross misconduct. |
|
Purpose and link
to strategy
|
Operation and maximum
opportunity |
Performance
framework and recovery |
|
|
|
|
|
|
In addition or in place of an annual bonus, the
Company may pay a retention bonus where it considers it necessary to retain key Executives in situations where the relevant Executive
would otherwise leave the Company and his or her retention is critical to the Company’s performance and/or the achievement of strategic
goals or key projects. The grant, terms and payment of any retention bonus are at the discretion of the Committee.
|
|
|
|
A retention bonus may be payable in cash or in
shares and subject to such conditions as the Committee sees fit, including the Executive remaining with the Company for a defined period
of time and/or meeting set performance criteria. The Committee would normally count any retention bonus awarded towards the 500% of salary
limit.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Long-term incentive awards |
Focus Executive Directors’ efforts on sustainable strong long-term performance of the Company as a whole, and to aid in retention with multi-year vesting provision. Improves alignment of Executive Directors’ interests with those of the Company and shareholders. |
Executive Directors are eligible for awards to be granted as decided by the Committee under the Company’s long-term incentive plan. All awards are subject to performance targets as determined by the Committee for each grant, performance against which is normally measured over a three-year period. Awards usually vest three years from the date of their grant. |
The Committee will select the most appropriate
performance measures for long-term incentive awards for each performance period and will set appropriately demanding targets.
Recovery and recoupment will apply to all long-term
incentive awards for misstatement, error or gross misconduct. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The annual target award limit will not normally be higher than 300% of salary (based on the face value of shares at date of grant). |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Maximum vesting is normally 200% of target (based on the face value of shares at date of grant). |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
There is an exceptional annual target award limit
in recruitment, appointment and retention situations of 500% of salary.
|
|
|
Purpose and link
to strategy
|
Operation and maximum
opportunity |
Performance
framework and recovery |
|
|
|
|
Share ownership guidelines |
Increases alignment between the Executive Directors and shareholders. |
Executive Directors are strongly encouraged to hold a percentage of their salary in shares. This holding guideline could be achieved through the retention of shares on vesting/exercise of share awards and may also (but is not required to) be through the direct purchase of shares by the Executive Directors. |
Not applicable. |
Performance Criteria and Discretions
Selection of Criteria
The Committee annually assesses
at the beginning of the relevant performance period which corporate performance measures, or combination and weighting of performance
measures, are most appropriate for both annual bonus and long-term incentive awards to reflect the Company’s strategic initiatives
for the performance period. The Committee has the discretion to change the performance measures for awards granted in future years based
upon the strategic plans of the Company. The Committee sets demanding targets for variable pay in the context of the Company’s trading
environment and strategic objectives and taking into account the Company’s internal financial planning and market forecasts. Any
non-financial goals will be well defined and measurable.
Discretions retained by the Committee in operating
its incentive plans
The Committee operates the
Group’s various plans according to their respective rules. In administering these plans, the Committee may apply certain operational
discretions. These include the following:
| · | determine the extent of vesting based on the assessment of performance, including exercising its discretion
to reduce payout as and where appropriate; |
| · | determine “good leaver” status (as described below) and where relevant extent of vesting; |
| · | where relevant determine the extent of vesting in the case of share-based plans in the event of a change
of control in accordance with the rules of the various plans; and |
| · | make the appropriate adjustments required in certain circumstances (e.g. rights issues, corporate
restructuring events, variation of capital and special dividends). |
The Committee, acting fairly
and reasonably, and after consulting plan participants, may adjust the targets and/or set different measures and alter weightings for
the variable pay awards already granted (in a way that the alterations are intended to create an equivalent outcome for plan participants)
only if (i) an unexpected event (whether a corporate or outside event) occurs which causes the Committee to reasonably consider that
the performance conditions would not achieve their original purpose without alteration and (ii) the varied conditions are materially
no more or less difficult to satisfy than the original conditions. Any changes and the rationale for those changes will be set out clearly
in the Annual Report on Remuneration in respect of the year in which they are made.
Remuneration scenarios for the Executive Directors
The charts below show the
level of remuneration potentially payable to each of Javier López Madrid as Executive Chairman and Marco Levi as CEO under different
performance scenarios for the 2024 financial year.
In respect of the remuneration of the Executive Chairman:
In respect of the remuneration of the CEO:
Assumptions
| 1. | Fixed pay comprises base salary for 2023, benefits and a pension contribution of 20% of base salary for
each of Javier Lopez Madrid and Marco Levi. Benefits comprise private health, income protection and life insurance arrangements at an
estimated level of 6.3% of base salary for Javier Lopez Madrid and 4.7% of base salary for Marco Levi salary and an expatriate allowance
of 20% of base salary in the case of Javier López Madrid. |
| 2. | On-target performance comprises fixed pay plus annual bonus of 100% of base salary, and long-term incentives
of 133% of base salary, for the Executive Chairman and the CEO. |
| 3. | Maximum performance comprises fixed pay plus annual bonus of 150% of base salary, and long-term incentives
of 200% of base salary, for the Executive Chairman and the CEO. |
| 4. | Maximum performance plus share price growth comprises the maximum performance scenario described above
plus an assumed 50% share price growth over the performance period of the LTIP. |
| 5. | As described in the Policy, an additional long-term incentive award may be granted if part of the annual
bonus is deferred, with the maximum value of such award equal to the amount of bonus deferred. As at 31 December 2023 no such
awards have been made to the Executive Directors and none is to be made in respect of 2023. |
Approach to Recruitment Remuneration
The Committee expects any
new Executive Directors to be engaged on terms that are consistent with the Policy as set out above.
The Committee recognizes that
it cannot always predict accurately the circumstances in which any new directors may be recruited. The Committee may determine that it
is in the interests of the Company and shareholders to secure the services of a particular individual which may require the Committee
to take account of the terms of that individual’s existing employment and/or their personal circumstances. Examples of circumstances
in which the Committee expects it might need to do this are:
| · | where an existing employee is promoted to the Board, in which case the Company will honour all existing
contractual commitments including any outstanding annual bonus or long-term incentive awards or pension entitlements and will provide
other benefits consistent with those provided to senior leaders in that employee’s home country or place of residence prior to appointment
to the Board; |
| · | where an individual is relocating in order to take up the role, in which case the Company may provide
certain one-off benefits in addition to benefits set out in the policy table such as reasonable relocation expenses, assistance with visa
applications or other immigration issues and ongoing arrangements such as flights home and cost of education; and |
| · | where an individual would be forfeiting fixed or valuable variable remuneration in order to join the Company,
in which case the Committee may award appropriate additional compensation in addition to the limit set out in the policy table. The Committee
would look to replicate the arrangements being forfeited as closely as possibly taking into account the nature of the remuneration, performance
conditions, attributed expected value and the time over which any variable pay would have vested or been paid. |
In making any decision on
any aspect of the remuneration package for a new recruit, the Committee would balance shareholder expectations, current best practice
and the requirements of any new recruit and would strive not to pay more than is necessary to achieve the recruitment. The Committee would
give full details of the terms of the package of any new recruit in the next remuneration report. Award levels under the Company’s
variable incentive plans would not exceed those set out in the policy table, but their proportions can be altered for the first three
years of employment.
Executive Directors’ Service Contracts
and Policy on Cessation
In order to motivate and retain
the Executive Directors and other senior executives, most of whose backgrounds are in the United States and Europe, the Committee has
taken account of market practices in those countries in formulating the Policy, including (a) determining the treatment of annual
and retention bonuses and long-term incentive awards in case of termination of their employment by the Company without cause, (b) referencing
past annual bonuses in calculating the amount of payment in lieu of notice, (c) determining the extent of vesting of long-term incentive
awards in the event of a takeover or change of control and (d) determining that all long-term incentive awards granted to an executive
in any financial year will be subject to achievement of performance targets.
Service contracts
Subject to the Approach
to Recruitment Remuneration above, Executive Directors have rolling service contracts for an indefinite term but a fixed period of
notice of termination which would normally be 12 months. With respect to newly appointed directors, the Committee may, if it considers
it necessary, agree a notice period in excess of 12 months (but not exceeding 24 months), provided it reduces to 12 months
within a specified transition period of not exceeding 36 months. The service contract for Javier López Madrid is in accordance
with this policy and his fixed period of notice of termination is 12 months. See below for more on Marco Levi’s service contract.
The Executive Chairman’s
service contract may be terminated for cause without notice and without further payment or compensation, except for sums accrued to the
date of termination. In other circumstances, the Company may terminate his employment with immediate effect and make a payment in lieu
of notice in the amount equivalent to the aggregate of (i) base salary, (ii) the average of annual bonuses in the last three
years prior to termination, (iii) pension allowance plus (iv) cost of benefits, for the notice period (or if a notice has been
served, for the unserved notice period). He would be entitled to an equivalent payment in the event of his resignation for good reason
(as defined in the service contract). Similar provisions may apply in the event that he leaves following a change of control of the Company,
but no additional entitlements would be expected to be set out in the Executive Director’s service contract beyond those described
above. An Executive Director may also be entitled to certain amounts with respect to annual or retention bonuses and long-term incentive
awards, as described below.
Marco Levi is employed under
a service contract made under Spanish law (and in particular, the provisions of the Royal Decree 1382/1985 1st of August regarding
senior management (“Alta Dirección”)). Spanish employment law imposes a number of mandatory requirements, including
in relation to termination. The CEO’s service contract may be terminated for cause (as defined in the service contract by reference
to Spanish statutory law) without notice and without further payment or compensation, except for sums accrued to the date of termination.
If the dismissal is declared null or unfair by a definitive court or labour tribunal ruling, the CEO is entitled to receive a severance
payment equal to six months’ salary plus a payment equal to the Company’s costs in such six month period corresponding to
the insurance and pension benefits in force at the time of termination. This severance compensation includes and absorbs the compensation
and any statutory notice to which the Executive may otherwise be entitled by operation of law. In the event that the CEO is dismissed
without cause, the CEO will similarly be entitled to receive a severance payment equal to six months’ salary plus an amount equal
to the costs the Company would have incurred in providing pension, health insurance, income protection and life assurance benefits for
the period of notice, in lieu of any statutory notice to which the CEO would otherwise be entitled. In addition, in accordance with Spanish
law and as contemplated in the section Generally below, the CEO has enhanced post termination restrictive covenants. Under these
provisions, the Company may be required to make an additional payment to ensure the enforceability of certain post-employment restrictions
on competition for a period of six months from termination on terms which are customary in senior management employment relationships.
The amount payable is 30% of the CEO’s salary at the date of termination and is deemed discharged at the rate of 15% of salary per
annum throughout the employment relationship, such that on termination no further sums will be payable if an amount equal to 30% of salary
has already been paid. The total amount payable on termination of the CEO’s service contract other than for cause is therefore less
than 12 months’ salary and benefits.
Where an Executive Director’s
service contract is terminated for “without cause” or for “good reason” as defined in the relevant director’s
service contract, the provisions outlined below in relation to annual bonus awards and long-term incentive awards as described below will
apply. Executive Directors’ service contracts (or a memorandum of the terms where the contract is unwritten) are available for inspection
at the Group’s office at 13 Chesterfield Street, London, W1J 5JN during normal business hours and at the Annual General Meeting.
Generally
As circumstances may require,
the Committee may approve compensation payments in consideration of statutory entitlements, for a release of claims, enhanced post-termination
restrictive covenants (for example, as outlined above) or transitional assistance, such as outplacement services and payment of legal
fees in connection with termination, the costs of short term accommodation or leasing arrangements, home relocation expenses including
tax related expenses and other ancillary payments thereto.
Annual bonus awards (including retention awards)
In the event that an Executive
Director’s employment is terminated without cause, by resignation by the Executive Director for good reason, or by reason of death,
injury, disability or his employing company or the business for which he works being sold out of the Group, the Company will pay an annual
bonus amount in respect of the financial year in which termination occurs subject to performance conditions being met at the end of the
period and with pro-rating of the award determined on the basis of the period of time served in employment during the normal vesting period
but with the Committee retaining the discretion in exceptional circumstances to increase the level of vesting within the maximum annual
bonus amount as determined by the performance conditions. The Committee may, if it considers it appropriate in exceptional circumstances,
measure performance to the date of cessation. In other circumstances, payment will be at the Committee’s discretion. The Committee
will consider the period of the year worked and the performance of the Executive Director during that period when considering how to exercise
its discretion.
The terms of any retention
bonus agreed to be paid to an Executive Director may provide for such bonus to be payable on that Executive Director’s employment
being terminated without cause, by resignation by the Executive Director for good reason, or by reason of death, injury, disability or
his employing company or the business for which he works being sold out of the Group. In any such case, the retention bonus will become
payable in such circumstances.
Long-term incentive awards
As a general rule, any unvested
long-term incentive award (except deferred bonus awards see below) will lapse upon an Executive Director ceasing to be an employee
or director in the case of voluntary resignation or dismissal for cause. However, if the cessation is without cause, by resignation by
the Executive Director for good reason, or because of his death, injury, disability or his employing company or the business for which
he works being sold out of the Group or in other circumstances at the discretion of the Committee, and generally for any award granted
in 2022 and beyond, then the award will normally vest in full on the date when it would have ordinarily vested subject to the performance
conditions being met. Where an award vests at the discretion of the Committee that award may be pro-rated taking into account the period
of time served in employment during the normal vesting period of the award. The Committee can, for any cessation, measure performance
up to the date of cessation and permit awards to vest early in respect of which the same pro-ration principles noted above remain applicable.
For awards granted in 2022 and beyond, good leaver treatment in relation to cessation without cause and/or by resignation of an Executive
Director for good reason will be at the discretion of the Committee.
Deferred bonus awards vest
in full upon cessation, other than in case of voluntary resignation by an Executive Director without good reason or dismissal for cause.
Vested but unexercised awards held on cessation will remain capable of exercise for a limited period save in the case of dismissal for
cause.
In the event of a takeover
all awards will vest early to the extent that the performance conditions are determined as satisfied at that time on such basis as the
Committee considers appropriate. In respect of awards granted in 2022 and beyond, in the event of a takeover awards may also be pro-rated
at the discretion of the Committee.
External appointments
Executive Directors may retain
fees paid for external director appointments. These appointments are subject to disclosure to and approval by the Board and must be compatible
with their duties as Executive Directors.
Matters taken into consideration in determining
policy and differences in the remuneration policy of the Executive Directors and employees
It is not the Committee’s
practice to consult with employees on matters relating to executive pay. However, the Committee will consider pay structures, practices
and principles across the Group on a regular basis and take these into account in any review of the Executive Directors’ current
Policy or implementation thereof.
The Committee will consider
feedback from shareholders and take into account the results of both advisory and binding votes concerning executive pay at the Annual
General Meeting as well as ensuring it engages with shareholders on executive pay matters. The 2022 Policy has been formulated taking
into account the Company’s understanding of current shareholder views on the Company’s remuneration policy and practices.
Directors’ Remuneration Policy for Non-Executive
Directors
The following table summarizes
the 2022 Policy as applied to Non-Executive Director remuneration
|
Purpose and link
to strategy
|
Operation and maximum
opportunity |
Performance framework
and recovery |
|
|
|
|
Element |
|
|
|
Non-Executive Directors fees including any Non-Executive Chairman |
To appropriately remunerate the Non-Executive
Directors |
The Non-Executive Directors are paid a basic fee.
Supplemental fees may be paid for additional responsibilities and activities, such as for the committee chairmen and other members of
the main Board committees (e.g. audit, compensation, nominations and corporate governance) and the Senior Independent Director, to
reflect the additional responsibilities as well as travel fees to reflect additional time incurred in travelling to meetings. |
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
These fee levels are reviewed periodically, with reference to time commitment, knowledge, experience and responsibilities of the role as well as market levels in comparable companies both in terms of size and sector. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Company does not currently have a Non-Executive Chairman. If one were appointed his or her fee would be set at a level with reference to time commitment, knowledge, experience and responsibilities of the role as well as market levels in comparable companies both in terms of size and sector. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
There is no maximum fee level or prescribed annual increase. |
|
|
Purpose and link
to strategy
|
Operation and maximum
opportunity |
Performance framework
and recovery |
|
|
|
|
Element |
|
|
|
Payment of expenses and benefits |
To support the Non-Executive Directors in the
fulfilment of their duties |
Reasonable expenses incurred by the Non-Executive
Directors in carrying out their duties may be reimbursed by the Company including any personal tax payable by the Non-Executive Directors
as a result of reimbursement of those expenses. The Company may also pay an allowance in lieu of expenses and may arrange and pay for
the provision of advice or assistance in relation to personal taxes for which the Non-Executive Director may be liable in connection with
his or her appointment to the Board, if it deems this appropriate. |
Not applicable |
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Company provides Non-Executive Directors with directors’ and officers’ liability insurance and an indemnity to the fullest extent permitted by the Companies Act. |
|
Legacy Arrangements with Certain Non-Executive
Directors
Prior to the Business Combination,
in keeping with many other NASDAQ listed companies, Globe granted restricted stock units and share appreciation rights to its Non-Executive
directors. Outstanding awards as at 31 December 2023 held by the Non-Executive Directors, who were previously Globe’s
Non-Executive directors, are set out in the ARR.
It is noted that those Non-Executive
Directors with restricted stock units and share appreciation rights may be regarded as not being independent by U.K. based proxy voting
agencies although the Board considers them to be fully independent. It is a provision of this Policy that the Company may accelerate the
vesting of or repurchase of these awards based on an independent valuation, if it deems it to be appropriate.
Letters of Appointment with Non-Executive Directors
The Company does not enter
into service contracts with its Non-Executive Directors, rather the Company enters into letters of appointment for a rolling period of
12 months with each annual renewal being subject to re-election at each annual general meeting of the Company. No compensation for
loss of office is payable in the event a Non-Executive Director is not re-elected. The Company may request that Non-Executive Directors
resign with immediate effect in certain circumstances (including material breach of their obligations) in which case their appointment
would terminate without compensation to the Non-Executive Director for such termination but with accrued fees and expenses payable up
to the date of termination.
Appointment of Non-Executive Directors
For the appointment of a Non-Executive
Chairman or other Non-Executive Directors, the fee arrangement would be in accordance with the approved Directors’ Remuneration
Policy in place at that time.
Minor amendments
The Committee may make minor
changes to the Policy, which do not have a material advantage or disadvantage overall to directors, to aid in its operation or implementation
(including to take account of any change in legislative or regulatory requirements applicable to the Company) without seeking shareholder
approval for a revised version of the Policy.
Annual Report on Remuneration
Implementation of the Directors’ Remuneration
Policy for the year ending 31 December 2023
This section sets out how the Committee intends
to implement the Policy for the year ending 31 December 2023.
Base salary
Javier López Madrid
was appointed as Executive Chairman with effect from 31 December 2016. Javier López Madrid’s salary was reviewed in
2024 and was increased from £599,400 ($745,902) to £617,400 ($768,046) per annum effective 1st April 2024.
Marco Levi's base salary as
CEO was reviewed in 2024 and was increased from EUR816,000 ($882,341) per annum to EUR841,000 ($909,978) per annum effective April 1,
2024.
Neither Javier Lopez Madrid
nor Marco Levi received any additional fees or compensation for their respective roles on the Board. See “Looking forward to 2024”
in the Compensation Committee Chairman’s letter above for more information.
Pension and benefits
In accordance with the Policy,
both Executive Directors receive a pension contribution at the rate of 20% of base salary, payable as a cash allowance. In addition, they
receive health insurance, income protection and life assurance benefits to the value of approximately 6.3% of salary for the Executive
Chairman and 4.7% for the CEO.
The Company provides directors’
and officers’ liability insurance and an indemnity to the fullest extent permitted by the Companies Act.
Variable Remuneration
Short Term Incentives
The objectives for the 2024
annual short-term incentives were determined by the Compensation Committee and the Board on 22 February 2024. For each of the Executive
Directors, target is at 100% of base salary, with a maximum opportunity of 150% of base salary. As in past years and consistent with the
Committee’s approach to incentive awards, the maximum opportunity has been set significantly below limits in the Policy. The performance
indicators for the Executive Directors are 2024 adjusted EBITDA, accounting for 50% weighting, and 2024 adjusted free cash flow, accounting
for 50% weighting.
Long-term incentives
The 2024 long-term incentive
grant has not yet been approved by the Compensation Committee and the Board, which are expected to do so in the coming weeks or months.
The awards are expected to be structured as performance share awards with awards vesting three years from grant subject to continued service
and the achievement of performance conditions. The award levels are expected to be 100% of base salary as target and 200% of base salary
as maximum in the case of the Executive Directors. Performance conditions are expected to comprise long-term key financial indicators
and relative total shareholder return relative to a comparator group. All performance conditions are expected to be measured over the
January 1, 2024 to December 31, 2026 period. In addition, the grants are expected to be subject to a multiplier, which multiplier
can both reduce or increase the total amount of payouts.
Like in 2022 and 2023, the
relative TSR performance condition is expected to be based on a bespoke comparator group comprising Outokumpu, Imerys, Eramet, Jacquet
Metals, Evonik Industries, Wacker, Thyssenkrupp, SGL Carbon SE, Amg Advanced Metallurgical Group, Elkem, Acerinox, Materion Corp., Minerals
Technologies Inc., Schnitzer Steel Industries, Kaiser Aluminum, Ati Inc., Steel Dynamics Inc., Timkensteel, Century Aluminum Co. and Cleveland-Cliffs.
The inclusion of earnings
and cash flow measures in both the short term incentive and long term incentive grants for 2024 is designed by the Compensation Committee
and the Board to ensure strong support of the Board’s strategy for the Company. The short-term incentive measures will continue
to provide focus on in-year delivery, while the long term incentive measures will focus on cumulative and sustained performance over a
three-year period. In all cases, measures are stretch targets based on the consensus view as it was determined in early 2024.
Non-Executive Director share ownership guidelines
In 2018, the Non-Executive
Directors reviewed the guidelines under which they had voluntarily agreed to apply on a cumulative basis at least a quarter of their normal
annual gross fees to acquire shares under arrangements designed to ensure that shares can be purchased on a regular basis over a period
of eight years and agreed several points of clarification, including that:
| · | Where more or fewer shares are acquired in any year, the value of shares to be acquired in subsequent
years may be reduced or increased respectively such that on a cumulative basis the 25% test is satisfied; |
| · | Each Non-Executive Director agrees to retain his or her shares until the earlier of achieving a holding
equal to twice his or her annual base fees being achieved or that director leaving the Board; |
| · | Where a director holds outstanding and exercisable share-based or phantom restricted stock awards, the
shares or notional shares under award are to be taken into account in determining the relevant director’s holding and may be exercised
and disposed of at any time (with consequent effect on the director’s holding). |
Fees for the Non-Executive Directors
Fees are set and payable in
Pounds sterling. The fees for 2024 are the same as those for 2023, with the exception of the new Nominations and Governance Committee.
On 26 May 2023, Board of Directors canceled both the Nominations Committee and the Corporate Governance Committee, replacing them
with a new combined Nominations and Governance Committee and populating the new committee exclusively with independent Directors. Compensation
to Non-Executive Directors for service on such committee was set in line with fees for the Compensation Committee.
Non-Executive Director base fee |
£70,000 ($86,583) |
Senior Independent Director |
£35,000 ($43,291) |
Member of Audit Committee |
£17,500 ($21,645) |
Member of Compensation Committee |
£15,500 ($19,172) |
Member of Nominations and Governance Committee |
£15,500 ($19,172) |
Member of Corporate Governance Committee |
£12,000 ($14,843) |
Member of Nominations Committee1 |
£1,500 ($1,855 per meeting, subject to an annual cap of £10,000 ($12,369)) |
Committee Chairperson |
Two times committee membership fee |
|
|
Extraordinary meetings (per meeting) |
|
In person meetings |
£2,500 ($3,092) |
Meetings by videoconference/telephone |
£1,250 ($1,546) |
|
|
Travel fee (per meeting) |
|
Intercontinental travel |
£3,500 ($4,329) |
Continental travel |
£1,500 ($1,855) |
Notes:
| 1. | No fees were payable to the Chair of the Nominations Committee while the individual in that role was also
an Executive Director |
Remuneration paid in respect of the year to
31 December 2023
Single Figure of Remuneration for the period
– Audited
The table below shows the
aggregate emoluments earned by the Executive Directors of the Company who served at any time during either of the years ended 31 December 2023
and 31 December 2022. The emoluments shown for 2023 have been converted to USD at the Group’s average rate for year to 31 December 2023
of GBP1:USD1.244. Those for 2022 were converted at the rate of GBP1:USD1.2369 in accordance with the 2022 U.K. Annual Report. Numbers
given in Euros in any part of the Directors Remuneration Report are converted to USD at the Group’s rate of €1:USD1.0813 and
to GBP at the Group’s rate of €1:GBP0.86979.
| |
Salary1
(USD 000s) | | |
Benefits
2 (USD 000s) | | |
Pension3
(USD 000s) | | |
Short-term
incentives (USD 000s) | | |
Long-term
incentives4 (USD 000s) | | |
Total
(USD 000s) | |
Executive Director | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Javier López
Madrid | |
| 746 | | |
| 685 | | |
| 196 | | |
| 181 | | |
| 149 | | |
| 137 | | |
| 565 | | |
| 986 | | |
| 0 | | |
| 0 | | |
| 1,656 | | |
| 1,989 | |
Marco Levi | |
| 882 | | |
| 842 | | |
| 41 | | |
| 27 | | |
| 176 | | |
| 168 | | |
| 668 | | |
| 1,209 | | |
| 0 | | |
| 0 | | |
| 1,767 | | |
| 2,246 | |
| |
Total
Fixed Remuneration | | |
Total
Variable Remuneration | | |
Total
Remuneration | |
Executive
Director | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Javier López
Madrid | |
| 1,091 | | |
| 1,003 | | |
| 565 | | |
| 986 | | |
| 1,656 | | |
| 1,989 | |
Marco Levi | |
| 1,099 | | |
| 1,037 | | |
| 668 | | |
| 1,209 | | |
| 1,767 | | |
| 2,246 | |
| (1) | For Javier López Madrid, benefits include an expatriate allowance of 20% of salary (£119,180
($149,180 in 2023), and medical insurance and life assurance coverage as benefits. For Marco Levi, benefits include medical and life assurance
coverage as benefits. |
| (2) | For 2023 the pensions for Javier López Madrid and Marco Levi are 20% of base salary, paid as a
cash supplement. |
| (3) | No long-term incentive awards had performance
periods concluding in either 2023 or 2022. The performance period of the 2021 long-term incentive awards ended on 31 December 2021
and the awards vested on 1 January 2024 as to 100%. The performance period of the 2020 long-term incentive awards ended on
31 December 2020 and are expected to vest on 16 December 2024. The performance conditions of the 2020 awards were previously
assessed at 31.92%. |
The table below shows the
aggregate emoluments earned by the Non-Executive Directors of the Company who served at any time during the years ended 31 December 2023
and 31 December 2022.
| |
Fees ($’000) | | |
Benefits ($’000)1 | | |
Total ($’000) | |
Non-Executive Directors | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Bruce L Crockett | |
| 219 | | |
| 204 | | |
| 22 | | |
| 22 | | |
| 241 | | |
| 226 | |
Stuart E Eizenstat | |
| 113 | | |
| 107 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 122 | | |
| 115 | |
Manuel Garrido y Ruano | |
| 99 | | |
| 103 | | |
| 5 | | |
| 5 | | |
| 104 | | |
| 108 | |
Rafael Barrilero | |
| 135 | | |
| 128 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 144 | | |
| 137 | |
Nicolas de Santis | |
| 124 | | |
| 111 | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 124 | | |
| 111 | |
Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes | |
| 91 | | |
| 88 | | |
| 4 | | |
| 4 | | |
| 95 | | |
| 92 | |
Marta Amusategui | |
| 139 | | |
| 129 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 148 | | |
| 138 | |
Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes 2 | |
| 102 | | |
| 107 | | |
| 7 | | |
| 7 | | |
| 109 | | |
| 114 | |
Belén Villalonga Morenes | |
| 147 | | |
| 124 | | |
| 22 | | |
| 22 | | |
| 169 | | |
| 146 | |
| (1) | Benefits exclusively comprise travel allowances. |
Short-term incentives for the financial year
to 31 December 2023 for the Executive Directors – audited
The target annual bonus opportunity
for each of the Executive Directors was 100% of salary, with a maximum opportunity of 150%, and the performance measures for 2023 for
each are detailed in the tables below. Final bonuses were approved by the Compensation Committee and Board on 206 and 27th February 2024and
paid at 75,77%% of target for the Executive Chairman and CEO.
Performance targets and performance
for the Executive Directors in 2023 were as follows:
Measure | |
Weighting (target % of award) | | |
Threshold
performance (0% of target paid) | | |
Target performance (100% of target paid) | | |
Stretch performance (150% of target paid) | | |
Actual Performance | | |
Bonus outcome | |
Adjusted EBITDA | |
| 50 | % | |
$ | 159 million | | |
$ | 345 million | | |
$ | 495 million | | |
$ | 315 million | | |
| 91 | % |
Adjusted Net cash-flow1 | |
| 50 | % | |
$ | 91 million | | |
$ | 191 million | | |
$ | 300 million | | |
$ | 109 million | | |
| 57 | % |
| 1. | For purposes of evaluating the 2023 short-term incentive performance conditions, net cash flow was adjusted
by the Committee to reflect (1) $142 million excess debt repayment over budget expectations; and (2) $154 million French energy
rebate recognized in 2023 with cash received in January 2024. |
Long term incentive awards for the financial
year ended 31 December 2023 – Audited
Awards vesting/performance period ending in
financial year 2022
There were no long-term incentive
awards with performance periods ending in the year ended 31 December 2023 or that vested during 2023.
Awards granted in financial year 2023
On 30 May 2023 Javier
López Madrid and Marco Levi were granted long-term incentive awards as set out in the table below.
| |
Type
of award1 | |
Basis
of award (at max)2 | |
Share
value at grant3 | |
Number
of shares at target | |
Number
of shares at max | |
Face
value of shares at max4 | |
Vesting
date | |
Performance
period5 | |
Javier López
Madrid | |
Nil-cost option | |
200% of salary
of $745,902 | |
$ | 4.4515 | |
| 222,623 | |
| 333,935 | |
$ | 1,486,512 | |
30 May 2026 | |
1
January 2023 through 31 December 2025 | |
Marco Levi | |
Nil-cost option | |
200% of salary of $882,341 | |
$ | 4.4515 | |
| 261,521 | |
| 392,281 | |
$ | 1,746,240 | |
30 May 2026 | |
1
January 2023 through 31 December 2025 | |
| 2. | No price is normally payable on the exercise of the nil-cost option although the Company reserves the
right to require the payment of the nominal cost of the shares as a condition of exercise if required to enable the issue or transfer
of the shares. |
| 3. | Converted at GBP1:USD1.24 and EUR1:USD1.07, being the exchange rate on the date of grant. |
| 4. | The share value at grant was determined based on the average of the closing prices of the 20 trading days
prior to grant. |
| 5. | The value shown in this column has been calculated by multiplying the number of shares that would vest
at max by the share value at grant. |
| 6. | See below for details of the performance conditions applicable to the awards. |
The 2023 long term incentive
awards are structured as performance share awards with awards vesting three years from grant subject to continued service and the achievement
of performance conditions. The award levels are 100% of base salary at target and 200% of base salary at maximum in the case of the Executive
Directors. The performance conditions are as follows:
| - | EBIT accounts for 40% weighting, with performance measured over a straight-line sliding scale with $353 million representing minimum
and 60% payout, $588million representing target and 100% payout, and $822 million representing maximum and 150% payout. Results below
$353 million are below minimum and have no associated payout. |
| - | Operational cash flow accounts for 40% weighting, with performance measured over a straight-line sliding scale with $649 million representing
minimum and 60% payout, $1,082 million representing target and 100% payout, and $1,622 representing maximum and 150% payout. Results below
$649 million are below minimum and have no associated payout. |
| - | Relative TSR accounts for 20% weighting, with performance measured over a straight-line sliding scale with median (50th
percentile) representing minimum and target, and 100% payout, and 75th percentile or greater representing maximum and 150%
payout. Results below median are below minimum and have no associated payout. |
The relative TSR performance
condition is based on a bespoke comparator group comprising Outokumpu, Imerys, Eramet, Jacquet Metals, Evonik Industries, Wacker,
Thyssenkrupp, SGL Carbon SE, Amg Advanced Metallurgical Group, Elkem, Acerinox, Materion Corp., Minerals Technologies Inc., Schnitzer
Steel Industries, Kaiser Aluminum, Ati Inc., Steel Dynamics Inc., Timkensteel, Century Aluminum Co. and Cleveland-Cliffs.
In addition, the grants are
subject to a multiplier for successful completion of the Company’s ESG action plan 2023-2025 which can both reduce or increase the
total amount of payouts. If 60% or less of the ESG action plan is completed by the end of 2025, awards will be subject to a multiplier
of 90%. If 80% of the ESG action plan 2023-2025 is completed by the end of 2025, awards will be subject to a multiplier of 100%. If 100%
of the ESG action plan 2023-2025 is completed by the end of 2025, awards will be subject to a multiplier of 120%. Values falling between
such points will be measured on a straight line basis.
Directors’ shareholding
and share interests – Audited
The table below sets out the
number of shares held or potentially held by directors (including their connected persons where relevant) as at 31 December 2023.
The Company has share ownership guidelines in place under which it recommends that non-executive directors hold up to a number of shares
in the Company equivalent to 200% of base salary.
Director | |
Beneficially owned shares | | |
Number of
shares under long term incentive awards without
performance conditions1 | | |
Number of
shares under long term incentive awards with performance conditions2 | | |
Shareholding as a % of base salary | | |
Percentage of Executive Director’s salary held as shares as at 31 December 20233 | |
Javier López Madrid | |
| 278,538 | | |
| 802,288 | | |
| 523,366 | | |
| - | | |
| 245 | % |
Marco Levi | |
| 100,000 | | |
| 489,465 | | |
| 631,802 | | |
| - | | |
| 76 | % |
Bruce L. Crockett | |
| 46,000 | | |
| 2,527 | | |
| - | | |
| 372 | % | |
| | |
Stuart E. Eizenstat | |
| 61,845 | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 500 | % | |
| | |
Manuel Garrido y Ruano | |
| 870 | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 7 | % | |
| | |
Marta de Amusategui y Vergara | |
| 78,220 | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 633 | % | |
| | |
Juan Villar Mir de Fuentes | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % | |
| | |
Belen Villalonga | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % | |
| | |
Nicolas De Santis | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % | |
| | |
Silvia Villar Mir de Fuentes | |
| 49,400 | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 400 | % | |
| | |
Rafael Barrilero | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % | |
| | |
| 1. | Where performance conditions have already been tested by the Board, such amounts are reflected in the
“without performance conditions” column with their expected vesting values. |
| 2. | Refers to the maximum number of shares to potentially vest under the 2022 and 2023 LTIP grants. |
| 3. | Measured by reference to beneficially owned shares only and using the closing share price on 29 December 2023
of $6.51 and the annual salaries of the Executive Directors in USD as disclosed in this U.K. Annual Report and Accounts. |
The Directors’ outstanding share awards
as at 31 December 2023 were as detailed below:
Director |
|
Award
type |
|
Grant
date |
|
Outstanding1 |
|
|
Subject
to performance conditions2 |
|
Exercisable
as of 31 December 2023 |
|
Exercised
during the year to 31 December 2023 |
|
|
Future
vesting |
|
|
Vesting
date |
|
Javier López Madrid |
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
24.11.16 |
|
|
28,1173 |
|
|
Yes |
|
Yes |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
24.11.19 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
01.06.17 |
|
|
70,4643 |
|
|
Yes |
|
Yes |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
01.06.20 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
21.03.18 |
|
|
46,7773 |
|
|
Yes |
|
Yes |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
21.03.21 |
|
|
|
Deferred Bonus Award: Nil cost option |
|
14.06.18 |
|
|
23,0663 |
|
|
No |
|
Yes |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
14.06.21 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
13.03.19 |
|
|
110,1133 |
|
|
Yes |
|
Yes |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
28.04.22 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
16.12.20 |
|
|
138,1403 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
138,140 |
|
|
|
16.12.24 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
09.09.21 |
|
|
385,6114 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
385,611 |
|
|
|
01.01.24 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
21.09.22 |
|
|
189,4315 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
189,431 |
|
|
|
22.09.25 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
30.05.23 |
|
|
333,9355 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
333,935 |
|
|
|
30.05.26 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Marco Levi |
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
16.12.20 |
|
|
130,3604 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
130,360 |
|
|
|
16.12.24 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
09.09.21 |
|
|
359,1054 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
359,105 |
|
|
|
01.01.24 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
21.09.22 |
|
|
239,5215 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
239,521 |
|
|
|
22.09.25 |
|
|
|
LTIP Nil cost option |
|
30.05.23 |
|
|
392,2815 |
|
|
Yes |
|
No |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
392,281 |
|
|
|
30.05.26 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Bruce
L. Crockett3 |
|
RSU/C |
|
Various |
|
|
2,527 |
|
|
No |
|
Yes |
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
|
|
- |
|
| 1. | Deferred share bonus awards granted to the Executive Directors only. Vested awards are shown with dividend
equivalents. |
| 2. | Subject to performance conditions and continued employment in the case of awards to the Executive Directors.
See page 54 for performance conditions applicable to the awards granted in 2023. |
| 3. | Performance conditions and service conditions for these awards have been satisfied and the number of shares
which are vested but not exercised as at 31 December 2023 are reflected as “outstanding”. |
| 4. | Performance conditions for these share awards have been satisfied and the number of shares expected to
vest in the future are reflected in “outstanding” and “future vesting” columns. |
| 5. | These awards are subject to satisfaction of performance conditions and service conditions in the future
and are yet to be vested. |
Total pension entitlements – Audited
Details of the value of pension
contributions are provided in the Pensions column of the Single Figure of Remuneration table. Pension contributions are
by way of a cash allowance. There are therefore no specified retirement ages to disclose or consequences of early retirement.
Performance Graph
The graph below illustrates
the Company´s TSR performance relative to the constituents of the S&P 1200 Metals & Mining index from the start of
the first day of listing of Ferroglobe´s shares on 24th December 2015 to 31 December 2023. The graph shows
the performance of a hypothetical $ 100 invested and its performance over that period. The index has been chosen for this table as the
most appropriate comparator for the Company in this period as the Company is a constituent of this index and uses the constituents of
this index for one of the TSR comparator groups for the long-term incentive awards.
Payments for loss of office - Audited
There were no payments made
to any director for loss of office in the year ended December 31, 2023.
Payments made to past directors – Audited
There were no payments made to any
past directors in the year ended December 31, 2023.
Executive
Chairman remuneration table (in thousands)
| |
2023 | |
2022 | |
2021 | |
2020 |
| |
Javier López
Madrid1 | |
Javier López
Madrid2 | |
Javier López
Madrid3 | |
Javier López
Madrid4 |
Executive Chairman’s remuneration5 | |
$1,656 | |
$1,989 | |
$5,635 | |
$2,007 |
Annual variable pay (including as a % of maximum)6 | |
$565 (33%) | |
$989 (50%) | |
$4,518 (80%) | |
$972 (48%) |
LTIP awards with performance period ending in the relevant year7 | |
N/A | |
N/A | |
100% | |
31.92% |
1 | At the exchange rate of 1 GBP: 1.244 USD used in the FY23 Report |
2 | At the exchange rate of 1 GBP: 1.2369 USD used in the FY22 Report |
3 | At the exchange rate of 1 GBP: 1.3757 USD used in the FY21 Report |
4 | At the exchange rate of 1 GBP: 1.2838 USD used in the FY20 Report |
5 | Remuneration comprises total remuneration |
6 | Annual variable pay is the short term incentive amounts and the percentage of maximum award it represents.
Figures elsewhere in this report show bonus as a percentage of target. |
7 | The number of shares subject to long term incentive awards where final vesting is determined by reference
to performance ending in the year under review is shown as a percentage of maximum opportunity. |
Percentage increase or reduction in the remuneration
of the Executive Directors
The following table shows
the percentage change in remuneration of each director and European employees have been chosen as an appropriate group against to make
the comparison, from financial year 2021, 2022 and 2023.
2023 | |
Javier López Madrid | | |
Marco Levi | | |
José María Alapont (1) | | |
Bruce L Crockett | | |
Stuart E Eizenstat | | |
Manuel Garrido y Ruano | | |
Rafael Barrilero (2) | | |
Nicolas de Santis (2) | | |
Juan Villar Mir de Fuentes | | |
Marta Amusategui | | |
Silvia Villar- Mir de Fuentes | | |
Belén Villalonga Morenes | | |
Average employee pay | |
Salary and fees (USD 000s) | |
| 9 | % | |
| 5 | % | |
| - | | |
| 7 | % | |
| 6 | % | |
| -4 | % | |
| 5 | % | |
| 12 | % | |
| 3 | % | |
| 8 | % | |
| -5 | % | |
| 19 | % | |
| | |
All taxable benefits (USD 000s) | |
| 8 | % | |
| 11 | % | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % | |
| 0 | % | |
| 0 | % | |
| 0 | % | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % | |
| 0 | % | |
| 0 | % | |
| 0 | % | |
| | |
Annual bonuses | |
| -43 | % | |
| -45 | % | |
| - | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Total | |
| -17 | % | |
| -21 | % | |
| - | | |
| 7 | % | |
| 5 | % | |
| -4 | % | |
| 5 | % | |
| 12 | % | |
| 3 | % | |
| 7 | % | |
| -4 | % | |
| 16 | % | |
| -4,7 | % |
2022 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Salary and fees (USD 000s) | |
| -10 | % | |
| 19 | % | |
| - | | |
| 1 | % | |
| -10 | % | |
| -9 | % | |
| 49 | % | |
| 50 | % | |
| -8 | % | |
| -2 | % | |
| -6 | % | |
| 46 | % | |
| | |
All taxable benefits (USD 000s) | |
| -10 | % | |
| 4 | % | |
| - | | |
| 57 | % | |
| 100 | % | |
| 100 | % | |
| 125 | % | |
| | | |
| 100 | % | |
| 100 | % | |
| 58 | % | |
| 340 | % | |
| | |
Annual bonuses | |
| -12 | % | |
| 20 | % | |
| - | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Total | |
| -11 | % | |
| 18 | % | |
| - | | |
| 4 | % | |
| -3 | % | |
| -4 | % | |
| 52 | % | |
| 50 | % | |
| -4 | % | |
| 5 | % | |
| 58 | % | |
| 62 | % | |
| 61 | % |
2021 | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Salary and fees (USD 000s) | |
| 7 | % | |
| 6 | % | |
| -56 | % | |
| 39 | % | |
| -1 | % | |
| 7 | % | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 7 | % | |
| 112 | % | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| | |
All taxable benefits (USD 000s) | |
| 9 | % | |
| 14 | % | |
| -28 | % | |
| 220 | % | |
| -100 | % | |
| -100 | % | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| | |
Annual bonuses | |
| 258 | % | |
| 233 | % | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| | |
Total | |
| 66 | % | |
| 68 | % | |
| -55 | % | |
| 45 | % | |
| -4 | % | |
| 5 | % | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 7 | % | |
| 112 | % | |
| - | | |
| - | | |
| 0 | % |
|
1 | José María Alapont resigned from the Board on 30 April 2021. |
|
2 | Belen Villalonga, Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes, Nicolas De Santis, and Rafael Barrilero Yarnoz
joined the board of directors effective 13 May 2021. |
Relative importance of the spend on pay
The following table shows
the Company’s actual spend on pay for all employees compared to distributions to shareholders in the financial year. No share dividends
or buybacks have occurred in the referenced years.
| |
1 January 2023 to
31 December 2023 | | |
1 January 2022 to
31 December 2022 | | |
1 January 2021 to
31 December 2021 |
Employee costs | |
$ | 305,859,000 | | |
$ | 314,810,000 | | |
$ |
280,917,000 |
Average number of employees | |
| 3,539 | | |
| 3,470 | | |
3,294 |
External directorships during financial year
2023
Javier López Madrid
| · | Chief Executive Officer of Grupo VM. |
| · | Non-Executive Chairman and investor of Siacapital S.L. |
Marco Levi
| · | Non-executive director of Mativ Holdings Inc |
The Board was satisfied that
under these arrangements the Executive Chairman and CEO had the necessary time to carry out his duties effectively during 2023.
Under the Policy, Executive
Directors may retain fees paid for external director appointments. These appointments are subject to approval by the Board and must be
compatible with their duties as Executive Directors.
Membership of the Committee
From 1 January 2023 until
26 May 2023, our Compensation Committee consisted of four directors: Mses. Amusategui and Villar-Mir de Fuentes and Messrs. Barrilero
(Chair) and De Santis. Since 26 May 2023, our Compensation Committee has consisted of four directors: Ms. Amusategui and Messrs. Barrilero
(Chair), Eizenstat and De Santis.
The Executive Chairman, Chief
Executive Officer, Chief People & Culture Officer and other members of the management team may be invited to attend meetings
to assist the Committee. Other Non-Executive Directors are normally invited to attend meetings to assist the Committee in its deliberations
as appropriate. No Executive, however, is present during any decision making in relation to their own remuneration. In addition, neither
Ms Villar-Mir de Fuentes nor Mr. Villar-Mir de Fuentes participated in discussions, or votes, regarding the remuneration of Javier
López-Madrid
External advisors
Aon provides independent advice
to the Committee and was appointed by the Committee in early 2016. The Committee seeks advice relating to Executive remuneration and Non-Executive
Director remuneration and the wider senior management population from Aon. Aon also provided advice to management, to enable their support
of the Committee, primarily in relation to remuneration reporting and the operation of incentive plans but does not provide any other
services to the Company except for insurance broking services.
The Committee is satisfied
that the advice received from Aon in relation to executive remuneration matters is objective and independent. Aon is a member of the UK
Remuneration Consultants Group and abides by the Remuneration Consultants Group Code of Conduct, which requires its advice to be objective
and impartial. The fees paid to Aon for advice provided directly to the Committee in 2023 were £6,400($7,962) (excluding VAT), with
such fees paid on a per-service basis.
Statement of shareholder voting
The following table shows
the results of the advisory vote on the 2022 Remuneration Report at the Annual General Meeting of 27 June 2023.
| |
For | | |
% of votes cast | | |
Against | | |
% of votes cast | | |
Withheld | |
Remuneration Report | |
| 132,987,943 | | |
| 98.72 | | |
| 1,665,009 | | |
| 1.24 | | |
| 53,462 | |
Approval
This Directors’ Remuneration
Report, including both the Policy and Annual Report on Remuneration has been approved by the Board.
Signed on behalf of the Board.
Chairman of the Compensation
Committee
20 May 2024
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT TO
THE MEMBERS OF FERROGLOBE PLC
1 Our opinion is unmodified
We have audited the financial statements of Ferroglobe
PLC (“the Company” or “the Parent Company”) for the year ended 31 December 2023 which comprise the Consolidated
Statements of Financial Position, Consolidated Income Statements, Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss), Consolidated
Statements of Changes in Equity, Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows, Parent Company Balance Sheet, Parent Company Statement of Changes
in Equity, and the related notes, including the accounting policies in note 4 of the consolidated financial statements and in note 1 of
the Parent Company financial statements.
In our opinion:
| · | the financial statements give a true and fair view of the state of the Group’s
and of the Parent Company’s affairs as at 31 December 2023 and of the Group’s profit for the year then ended; |
| · | the Group financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance
with UK-adopted international accounting standards; |
| · | the Parent Company financial statements have been properly prepared in accordance
with UK accounting standards, including FRS 101 Reduced Disclosure Framework; and |
| · | the financial statements have been prepared in
accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006. |
Basis for opinion
We conducted our audit in accordance with International
Standards on Auditing (UK) (“ISAs (UK)”) and applicable law. Our responsibilities are described below. We have fulfilled our
ethical responsibilities under, and are independent of the Group in accordance with, UK ethical requirements including the FRC Ethical
Standard as applied to listed entities. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is a sufficient and appropriate basis for
our opinion.
2 Key audit matters: our assessment of risks
of material misstatement
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our
professional judgement, were of most significance in the audit of the financial statements and include the most significant assessed risks
of material misstatement (whether or not due to fraud) identified by us, including those which had the greatest effect on: the overall
audit strategy; the allocation of resources in the audit; and directing the efforts of the engagement team. These matters were addressed
in the context of our audit of the financial statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate
opinion on these matters. In arriving at our audit opinion above, the key audit matters, in decreasing order of audit significance, were
as follows:
Accounting treatment for Quebec Silicon
Limited Partnership (QSLP) and WVA Manufacturing, LLC (WVA)
Refer to page 81 (Critical accounting estimates,
assumptions and judgments), and pages 107 (financial disclosures).
The Risk – Accounting treatment
The Group entered into partnership agreements
in 2009 and 2012 in respect of QSLP and WVA, whereby 51% of the ownership interest in the entities is owned by the Group and 49% of the
ownership interest is held by Dow Corning Corporation (“Dow”).
Whilst the Group has the majority holding in each
entity, the assessment of whether the Group has control is judgemental in the context of the rights given to the respective partners within
the various legal agreements established between them and, in the case of rights given to Dow, assessing whether the rights are substantive
in nature or can be adjudged to be protective.
The Group has made the judgement that the Group
controls both QSLP and WVA and hence has consolidated the net assets and results of the entities and shown Dow’s interest as a non-controlling
interest.
There are factors that indicate both control and
joint control and therefore, as part of our first year audit, this has been an area of focus, with significant auditor judgement being
required to assess whether the Group’s judgement is acceptable.
Our response
We performed the tests below rather than seeking
to rely on any of the Group’s controls because the nature of the balances is such that we would expect to obtain audit evidence
primarily through the detailed procedures described.
Our procedures to address the risk included:
Accounting analysis:
| · | We inspected and assessed the Group’s accounting papers and evaluation
of the arrangements. |
| · | We critically assessed management’s conclusions by inspecting the shareholder
and partnership agreements and the output and supply agreements to obtain an understanding of both parties’ contractual rights,
including in relation to appointing key management personnel, and to inform our assessment of what the relevant activities of QSLP and
WVA were. |
| · | We also inspected board meeting minutes for both entities and assessed whether
these indicated that the Group had the ability to direct the relevant activities of QSLP and WVA; and |
| · | Having assessed that the Group's accounting analysis gave more weight to
arguments favouring control, we assessed the acceptability of these arguments based on our understanding of the contractual arrangements
and rights available to the both the parties. |
Assessing transparency: We assessed
whether the Group’s disclosures about the judgement involved and factors considered by the Group in reaching the judgement are adequate.
Carrying amount of property, plant and equipment
for the Polokwane and Puertollano cash-generating units
(Combined carrying value of the Polokwane
and the Puertollano CGUs $43.62 million)
Refer to page 84 (accounting policy), and
pages 100-101 (financial disclosures).
The Risk – Forecast-based assessment
and subjective valuation
The Group identified impairment indicators in
certain CGUs based on the financial performance in FY 2023. In particular, the Group has determined the recoverable amount for the Polokwane
CGU as the value in use, and for the Puertollano CGU as the fair value less costs of disposal. The recoverable amount of both CGUs is
subjective due to the inherent uncertainty in forecasting cash flows for Polokwane and in determining the fair value of specialised assets
for Puertollano.
Subjective auditor judgment was required to evaluate
whether the Group’s assumptions related to EBITDA projections, discount rate and terminal growth rate for the Polokwane CGU fall
within an acceptable range.
Subjective auditor judgment was also required
to evaluate the acceptability of the methodology and assumptions used to estimate the fair value of the Puertollano CGU due to the specialised
nature of certain of the assets.
The effect of these matters is that, as part of
our risk assessment, we determined that, in aggregate, the value in use of Polokwane CGU and fair value less cost of disposal of Puertollano
CGU have a high degree of estimation uncertainty, with a potential range of reasonable outcomes in aggregate greater than our materiality
for the financial statements as a whole. The financial statements (note 8) disclose the Group’s assessment of the sensitivity of
the carrying amounts of the two CGUs.
In addition, specialised skills and knowledge
were also required to assess the acceptability of the recoverable amount of both CGUs.
Our response
We performed the tests below rather than seeking
to rely on any of the Group’s controls because the nature of the balances is such that we would expect to obtain audit evidence
primarily through the detailed procedures described.
Our procedures to address the risk included:
For the Polokwane CGU:
Benchmarking Assumptions: We
evaluated the EBITDA projections by comparing them against the current and historical performance of other CGUs, the Group as a whole
and other companies in similar industries. In addition, we evaluated revenue projections, which form part of the EBITDA projections, against
third-party forecasted future market prices.
Our sector experience: We involved
corporate valuation professionals, with specialised skills and knowledge, who assisted us in:
| · | evaluating the Group’s discount rate by developing an independent estimate
using publicly available market data for comparable entities; and |
| · | evaluating the Group’s terminal growth rate by developing an independent
estimate using external market forecasts of relevant long-term growth rates. |
For the Puertollano CGU:
Our sector experience:
| · | We involved real estate valuation professionals with specialised skills and
knowledge who assisted us in evaluating the Group’s estimated fair value of certain real estate in the Puertollano CGU based on
comparable transactions. |
| · | We involved personal property valuation professionals with specialised skills
and knowledge who assisted us in evaluating the valuation methodology used by the Group with reference to market practice. We also, with
the assistance of these professionals, evaluated the Group’s estimated fair value of certain industrial equipment in the Puertollano
CGU based on comparable transactions and our knowledge of the industry. |
For both CGUs:
Assessing transparency: We assessed
the adequacy of the Group’s disclosure about the combined estimation uncertainty in relation to the impairment assessment for the
Polokwane and Puertollano CGUs.
Recoverability of cost of investment in
subsidiary
(Investments in subsidiaries: $645.09 million)
Refer to pages 146 (accounting policy) and
page 148 (financial disclosures).
The risk – Low risk, high value
The carrying amount of the Parent Company’s
investment in subsidiary represents 87% of the Parent Company’s total assets. Its recoverability is not at a high risk of significant
misstatement or subject to significant judgement. However, due to its materiality in the context of the Parent Company financial statements,
this is considered to be the area that had the greatest effect on our overall Parent Company audit.
Our response
We performed the tests below rather than seeking
to rely solely on any of the Parent Company’s controls because the nature of the balance is such that we would expect to obtain
audit evidence primarily through the detailed procedures below.
Our procedures included:
Tests of detail: Comparing the carrying
amount of the investment in subsidiary with the subsidiary’s draft balance sheet to identify whether its net assets, being an approximation
of its minimum recoverable amount, were in excess of its carrying amount.
As the Parent Company’s investment is in
a holding company, to assess the reasonableness of the recoverability assessment, we also compared the carrying amount of the Parent Company’s
investment with the aggregated net assets of the underlying trading groups as per their draft balance sheets to identify whether their
net assets were in excess of the Parent Company’s investment carrying amount.
Comparing valuations: assessing the reasonableness
of the recoverability assessment by comparing the carrying amount of the investment in the subsidiary to the Group’s market capitalisation,
being an approximation of the recoverable amount of the investment.
3 Our application of materiality and an overview
of the scope of our audit
Materiality for the Group financial statements
as a whole was set at $15,000,000, determined with reference to a benchmark of normalised Group revenue of $2,008 million, of which it
represents 0.75%. We normalised Group revenue by averaging over 3 years to account for cyclical fluctuations in the Group's performance.
We consider revenue to be a more appropriate benchmark than Group profit before tax as Group profit before tax is a less stable measure
year on year, having significantly fluctuated in recent years, including fluctuating between a profit and a loss.
Materiality for the Parent Company as a whole
was set at $6,000,000 determined with reference to a benchmark of the Parent Company total assets, of which it represents 0.81%.
In line with our audit methodology, our procedures
on individual account balances and disclosures were performed to a lower threshold, performance materiality, so as to reduce to an acceptable
level the risk that individually immaterial misstatements in individual account balances add up to a material amount across the financial
statements as a whole.
Performance materiality was set at 65% of materiality
for the financial statements as a whole, which equates to $9,750,000 for the Group and $3,900,000 for the Parent Company. We applied this
percentage in our determination of performance materiality based upon our understanding of the control environment obtained as part of
our first year audit.
We agreed to report to audit committee any corrected
or uncorrected identified misstatements exceeding $750,000 for the Group and $300,000 for the Parent Company, in addition to other identified
misstatements that warranted reporting on qualitative grounds.
We subjected three components to full scope audits
for Group purposes. We subjected two components to audits of account balances over Sales, Raw material and energy consumption for production,
property, plant and equipment, and inventory; for one of these components, we also performed an audit of cash and cash equivalents. We
subjected three components to specified risk-focussed audit procedures over Sales and Raw material and energy consumption for production;
for one of these components, we also performed specified risk-focused audit procedures over property, plant and equipment and inventory;
for another of these components, we also performed specified risk-focused audit procedures over cash and cash equivalents.
The components for which we performed work other
than full scope audits for Group reporting purposes were not individually significant but were included in the scope of our Group reporting
work in order to provide further coverage over the Group's results.
The components within the scope of our work accounted
for the percentages in the table below.
| |
Number of components | | |
Group Revenue | | |
Total Profits and Losses That Made Up Group Profit Before Tax | | |
Group Total Assets | |
Full scope audits | |
| 3 | | |
| 61 | % | |
| 49 | % | |
| 52 | % |
Audit of specific account balances | |
| 2 | | |
| 11 | % | |
| 10 | % | |
| 15 | % |
Specified risk focused audit procedures | |
| 3 | | |
| 17 | % | |
| 10 | % | |
| 8 | % |
Total | |
| 8 | | |
| 89 | % | |
| 69 | % | |
| 75 | % |
Additionally, the Group team performed procedures
over the Group’s impairment testing of property, plant and equipment centrally
The remaining 11% of total Group revenue, 31%
of total profits and losses that made up Group profit before tax and 25% of Group total assets is represented by a large number of reporting
components, none of which individually represented more than 7% of any of total Group revenue, total profits and losses that made up Group
profit before tax or total Group assets. For these residual components, we performed analysis at an aggregated Group level to re-examine
our assessment that there were no significant risks of material misstatement within these.
The Group team instructed component auditors as
to the significant areas to be covered, including the relevant risks detailed above and the information to be reported back.
The Group team approved the component materialities,
which ranged from $5,000,000 to $8,500,000, having regard to the mix of size and risk profile of the Group across the components. The
work on all in-scope components was performed by component auditors. The audit of the Parent Company was performed by the Group team.
The scope of the audit work performed was predominately
substantive as we placed limited reliance upon the Group’s internal control over financial reporting.
The Group team visited seven component locations
in Spain, Canada and USA to assess the audit risk and strategy. Video and telephone conference meetings were also held with all component
auditors. At these visits and meetings, the findings reported to the Group team were discussed in more detail, and any further work required
by the Group team was then performed by the component auditors.
The Group audit team also inspected component
auditors’ key work papers using remote technology capabilities to evaluate the quality of execution of the work performed on the
components, with a particular focus on significant risk areas.
4 Going concern
The directors have prepared the financial statements
on the going concern basis as they do not intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company or to cease their operations, and as they
have concluded that the Group’s and the Parent Company’s financial position means that this is realistic. They have also concluded
that there are no material uncertainties that could have cast significant doubt over their ability to continue as a going concern for
at least a year from the date of approval of the financial statements (“the going concern period”).
We used our knowledge of the Group, its industry,
and the general economic environment to identify the inherent risks to its business model and analysed how those risks might affect the
Group’s financial resources or ability to continue operations over the going concern period.
The risk that we considered most likely to adversely
affect the Group’s available financial resources over this period is an adverse impact on the Group’s trading, profitability
and liquidity as a consequence of a reduction in demand and price of the finished goods or increase in cost of production.
We considered whether this risk could plausibly
affect the liquidity or covenant compliance in the going concern period by assessing the directors’ sensitivities over the level
of available financial resources and covenant thresholds indicated by the Group’s financial forecasts taking account of severe,
but plausible adverse effects that could arise from this risk.
Our procedures also included:
| · | Critically assessing assumptions in the going concern forecasts and the impact
on forecast liquidity, particularly in relation to revenue projections, by comparing to third-party forecasted future market prices. We
also assessed the assumptions used against our knowledge of the Group and the sector in which it operates, overlaying our knowledge of
the Group’s plans based on approved budgets. |
| · | Obtaining confirmation letters for the cash balances as at 31 December 2023,
and inspecting the credit facilities agreement for committed financing facilities. |
| · | Considering whether the going concern disclosure in the note 3.1 of the consolidated
financial statements and note 1 of the Parent Company financial statements gives a full and accurate description of the directors’
assessment of going concern. |
Our conclusions based on this work:
| · | we consider that the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting
in the preparation of the financial statements is appropriate; |
| · | we have not identified, and concur with the directors’ assessment that
there is not, a material uncertainty related to events or conditions that, individually or collectively, may cast significant doubt on
the Group’s or Parent Company’s ability to continue as a going concern for the going concern period; and |
| · | we found the going concern disclosures in note 3.1 of the consolidated financial
statements and note 1 of the Parent Company financial statements to be acceptable. |
However, as we cannot predict all future events
or conditions and as subsequent events may result in outcomes that are inconsistent with judgements that were reasonable at the time they
were made, the above conclusions are not a guarantee that the Group or the Parent Company will continue in operation.
5 Fraud and breaches of laws and regulations
– ability to detect
Identifying and responding to risks of material
misstatement due to fraud
To identify risks of material misstatement due
to fraud (“fraud risks”) we assessed events or conditions that could indicate an incentive or pressure to commit fraud or
provide an opportunity to commit fraud. Our risk assessment procedures included:
| · | Enquiring of directors, the audit committee,
internal audit as to the Group’s high-level policies and procedures to prevent and detect fraud, including the internal audit function,
and the Group’s channel for “whistleblowing”, as well as whether they have knowledge of any actual, suspected or alleged
fraud. |
| · | Reading Board and audit committee minutes. |
| · | Considering remuneration incentive schemes and
performance targets for management and directors. |
| · | Using analytical procedures to identify any unusual
or unexpected relationships. |
| · | Involvement of forensic specialists to assist
us in identifying key fraud risks. This included attending the Risk Assessment and Planning Discussion, holding a discussion with the
engagement partner, engagement manager and engagement quality control reviewer, and assisting with designing relevant audit procedures
to respond to the identified fraud risks. |
We communicated identified fraud risks
throughout the audit team and remained alert to any indications of fraud throughout the audit. This included communication from the Group
audit team to component auditors of relevant fraud risks identified at the Group level and request to component auditors to report to
the Group audit team any instances of fraud that could give rise to a material misstatement at the Group level.
As required by auditing standards,
and taking into account possible pressures to meet profit targets and our overall knowledge of the control environment, we perform procedures
to address the risk of management override of controls and the risk of fraudulent revenue recognition, in particular the risk that Group
and component management may be in a position to make inappropriate accounting entries, the risk of bias in accounting estimates such
as impairment assessments related to property, plant and equipment, and the risk that revenue is overstated through recording revenues
in the wrong period. We did not identify any additional fraud risks.
We performed procedures including:
| · | Identifying journal entries and other adjustments to test for all full scope
components based on risk criteria and comparing the identified entries to supporting documentation. These included those posted to seldom
used accounts, entries created by seldom posters, entries posted to revenue accounts with an unusual account combination, and entries
created and posted by the same user. |
| · | Assessing whether the judgements made in making accounting estimates are
indicative of a potential bias. |
Identifying and responding to risks of material
misstatement related to compliance with laws and regulations
We identified areas of laws and regulations that
could reasonably be expected to have a material effect on the financial statements from our general commercial and sector experience,
through discussion with the directors and other management (as required by auditing standards), and from inspection of the Group’s
regulatory and legal correspondence and discussed with the directors and other management the policies and procedures regarding compliance
with laws and regulations.
We communicated identified laws and regulations
throughout our team and remained alert to any indications of non-compliance throughout the audit. This included communication from the
Group audit team to component auditors of relevant laws and regulations identified at the Group level, and a request for component auditors
to report to the Group audit team any instances of non-compliance with laws and regulations that could give rise to a material misstatement
at the Group level.
The potential effect of these laws and regulations
on the financial statements varies considerably.
Firstly, the Group is subject to laws and regulations
that directly affect the financial statements including financial reporting legislation (including related companies legislation), distributable
profits legislation and taxation legislation and we assessed the extent of compliance with these laws and regulations as part of our procedures
on the related financial statement items.
Secondly, the Group is subject to many other laws
and regulations where the consequences of non-compliance could have a material effect on amounts or disclosures in the financial statements,
for instance through the imposition of fines or litigation or loss of one of the Group’s licenses to operate. We identified the
following areas as those most likely to have such an effect: health and safety, data protection laws, anti-bribery, employment law, anti-money
laundering laws, environmental law, other taxation legislation, competition legislation and licenses relating to the mining and energy
generation recognising the nature of the Group’s activities and its legal form. Auditing standards limit the required audit procedures
to identify non-compliance with these laws and regulations to enquiry of the directors and other management and inspection of regulatory
and legal correspondence, if any. Therefore, if a breach of operational regulations is not disclosed to us or evident from relevant correspondence,
an audit will not detect that breach.
Context of the ability of the audit to detect
fraud or breaches of law or regulation
Owing to the inherent limitations of an audit,
there is an unavoidable risk that we may not have detected some material misstatements in the financial statements, even though we have
properly planned and performed our audit in accordance with auditing standards. For example, the further removed non-compliance with laws
and regulations is from the events and transactions reflected in the financial statements, the less likely the inherently limited procedures
required by auditing standards would identify it.
In addition, as with any audit, there remained
a higher risk of non-detection of fraud, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override
of internal controls. Our audit procedures are designed to detect material misstatement. We are not responsible for preventing non-compliance
or fraud and cannot be expected to detect non-compliance with all laws and regulations.
6 We have nothing to report on the other information
in the Annual Report
The directors are responsible for the other information
presented in the Annual Report together with the financial statements. Our opinion on the financial statements does not cover the other
information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or, except as explicitly stated below, any form of assurance conclusion
thereon.
Our responsibility is to read the other information
and, in doing so, consider whether, based on our financial statements audit work, the information therein is materially misstated or inconsistent
with the financial statements or our audit knowledge. Based solely on that work we have not identified material misstatements in the other
information.
Strategic report and directors’ report
Based solely on our work on the other information:
| · | we have not identified material misstatements in the strategic report and
the directors’ report; |
| · | in our opinion the information given in those reports for the financial year
is consistent with the financial statements; and |
| · | in our opinion those reports have been prepared in accordance with the Companies
Act 2006. |
Directors’ remuneration report
In our opinion the part of the Directors’
Remuneration Report to be audited has been properly prepared in accordance with the Companies Act 2006.
7 We have nothing to report on the other matters
on which we are required to report by exception
Under the Companies Act 2006, we are required
to report to you if, in our opinion:
| · | adequate accounting records have not been kept by the Parent Company, or
returns adequate for our audit have not been received from branches not visited by us; or |
| · | the Parent Company financial statements and the part of the Directors’
Remuneration Report to be audited are not in agreement with the accounting records and returns; or |
| · | certain disclosures of directors’ remuneration specified by law are
not made; or |
| · | we have not received all the information and explanations we require for
our audit. |
We have nothing to report in these respects.
8 Respective responsibilities
Directors’ responsibilities
As explained more fully in their statement set
out on page 33, the directors are responsible for: the preparation of the financial statements including being satisfied that they
give a true and fair view; such internal control as they determine is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that
are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; assessing the Group and Parent Company’s ability to continue
as a going concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern; and using the going concern basis of accounting unless
they either intend to liquidate the Group or the Parent Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.
Auditor’s responsibilities
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance
about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue our
opinion in an auditor’s report. Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but does not guarantee that an audit conducted
in accordance with ISAs (UK) will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and
are considered material if, individually or in aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users
taken on the basis of the financial statements.
A fuller description of our responsibilities is provided on the FRC’s
website at www.frc.org.uk/auditorsresponsibilities.
9 The purpose of our audit work and to whom
we owe our responsibilities
This report is made solely to the Company’s
members, as a body, in accordance with Chapter 3 of Part 16 of the Companies Act 2006. Our audit work has been undertaken so that
we might state to the Company’s members those matters we are required to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other
purpose. To the fullest extent permitted by law, we do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other than the Company and the Company’s
members, as a body, for our audit work, for this report, or for the opinions we have formed.
Lynton Richmond (Senior Statutory Auditor)
for and on behalf of KPMG LLP, Statutory Auditor
Chartered Accountants
15 Canada Square
London
E14 5GL
20 May 2024
FERROGLOBE PLC
AUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Consolidated
Financial Statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 and for each of the three years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021
Consolidated Statements of Financial Position as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 |
|
71 |
Consolidated Income Statements for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 |
|
72 |
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Income (Loss) for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 |
|
73 |
Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 |
|
74 |
Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 |
|
75 |
Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements |
|
76 |
FERROGLOBE PLC AND
SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
AS OF DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022
(In USD thousands)
| |
Notes | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
ASSETS | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Non-current assets | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Goodwill | |
| Note 6 | | |
| 29,702 | | |
| 29,702 | |
Intangible assets | |
| Note 7 | | |
| 138,345 | | |
| 111,797 | |
Property, plant and equipment | |
| Note 8 | | |
| 501,396 | | |
| 486,247 | |
Other financial assets | |
| Note 9 | | |
| 19,792 | | |
| 14,186 | |
Deferred tax assets | |
| Note 24 | | |
| 8,760 | | |
| 7,136 | |
Receivables from related parties | |
| Note 25 | | |
| 1,658 | | |
| 1,600 | |
Other non-current assets | |
| Note 11 | | |
| 22,156 | | |
| 18,218 | |
Restricted cash and cash equivalents | |
| Note 9 | | |
| — | | |
| 2,133 | |
Total non-current assets | |
| | | |
| 721,809 | | |
| 671,019 | |
Current assets | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Inventories | |
| Note 10 | | |
| 383,841 | | |
| 500,080 | |
Trade and other receivables | |
| Note 9 | | |
| 310,243 | | |
| 425,474 | |
Receivables from related parties | |
| Note 25 | | |
| 2,772 | | |
| 2,675 | |
Current income tax assets | |
| Note 24 | | |
| 15,977 | | |
| 6,104 | |
Other financial assets | |
| Note 9 | | |
| 2 | | |
| 3 | |
Other current assets | |
| Note 11 | | |
| 186,477 | | |
| 30,608 | |
Assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale | |
| | | |
| — | | |
| 1,067 | |
Restricted cash and cash equivalents | |
| Note 9 | | |
| 1,179 | | |
| 2,875 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | |
| Note 9 | | |
| 136,470 | | |
| 317,935 | |
Total current assets | |
| | | |
| 1,036,961 | | |
| 1,286,821 | |
Total assets | |
| | | |
| 1,758,770 | | |
| 1,957,840 | |
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Equity | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Share capital | |
| | | |
| 1,962 | | |
| 1,962 | |
Share Premium | |
| | | |
| 86,220 | | |
| 86,220 | |
Reserves | |
| | | |
| 800,662 | | |
| 353,454 | |
Translation differences | |
| | | |
| (231,799 | ) | |
| (242,623 | ) |
Valuation adjustments | |
| | | |
| 8,354 | | |
| 10,735 | |
Result attributable to the Parent | |
| | | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | |
Equity attributable to the Parent | |
| | | |
| 748,061 | | |
| 650,062 | |
Non-controlling interests | |
| | | |
| 121,825 | | |
| 106,751 | |
Total equity | |
| Note 12 | | |
| 869,886 | | |
| 756,813 | |
Non-current liabilities | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Deferred income | |
| Note 14 | | |
| 26,980 | | |
| 3,842 | |
Provisions | |
| Note 15 | | |
| 19,970 | | |
| 22,124 | |
Provisions for pensions | |
| Note 15.1 | | |
| 29,805 | | |
| 25,546 | |
Bank borrowings | |
| Note 16 | | |
| 14,913 | | |
| 15,774 | |
Lease liabilities | |
| Note 17 | | |
| 20,304 | | |
| 12,942 | |
Debt instruments | |
| Note 18 | | |
| 149,015 | | |
| 330,655 | |
Other financial liabilities | |
| Note 19 | | |
| 65,231 | | |
| 38,279 | |
Other obligations | |
| Note 22 | | |
| 35,883 | | |
| 37,502 | |
Other non-current liabilities | |
| Note 23 | | |
| 199 | | |
| 12 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | |
| Note 24 | | |
| 32,582 | | |
| 35,854 | |
Total non-current liabilities | |
| | | |
| 394,882 | | |
| 522,530 | |
Current liabilities | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Provisions | |
| Note 15 | | |
| 122,757 | | |
| 145,327 | |
Provisions for pensions | |
| Note 15.1 | | |
| 169 | | |
| 180 | |
Bank borrowings | |
| Note 16 | | |
| 31,635 | | |
| 62,059 | |
Lease liabilities | |
| Note 17 | | |
| 8,083 | | |
| 8,929 | |
Debt instruments | |
| Note 18 | | |
| 5,765 | | |
| 12,787 | |
Other financial liabilities | |
| Note 19 | | |
| 16,052 | | |
| 60,382 | |
Payables to related parties | |
| Note 25 | | |
| 2,429 | | |
| 1,790 | |
Trade and other payables | |
| Note 21 | | |
| 183,375 | | |
| 219,666 | |
Current income tax liabilities | |
| Note 24 | | |
| 8,351 | | |
| 53,234 | |
Other obligations | |
| Note 22 | | |
| 14,183 | | |
| 9,580 | |
Other current liabilities | |
| Note 23 | | |
| 101,203 | | |
| 104,563 | |
Total current liabilities | |
| | | |
| 494,002 | | |
| 678,497 | |
Total equity and liabilities | |
| | | |
| 1,758,770 | | |
| 1,957,840 | |
Notes 1 to 32 are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements
The financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors and authorized for issue on May 20, 2024
Signed on its behalf by:
Dr.
Marco Levi
Director
FERROGLOBE PLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENTS FOR THE YEARS
2023, 2022 AND 2021
(In USD thousands, except share and per share
data)
| |
Notes | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
Sales | |
| Note 27.1 | | |
| 1,650,034 | | |
| 2,597,916 | | |
| 1,778,908 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production1 | |
| Note 27.2 | | |
| (879,286 | ) | |
| (1,285,086 | ) | |
| (1,184,896 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| Note 27.3 | | |
| 100,992 | | |
| 147,356 | | |
| 110,085 | |
Staff costs | |
| Note 27.4 | | |
| (305,859 | ) | |
| (314,810 | ) | |
| (280,917 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| Note 27.5 | | |
| (270,090 | ) | |
| (346,252 | ) | |
| (296,809 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| Note 27.6 | | |
| (73,532 | ) | |
| (81,559 | ) | |
| (97,328 | ) |
Impairment (loss) gain | |
| Note 27.8 | | |
| (25,290 | ) | |
| (56,999 | ) | |
| 137 | |
Other (loss) gain | |
| | | |
| (29 | ) | |
| (19 | ) | |
| 2,206 | |
Operating profit | |
| | | |
| 196,940 | | |
| 660,547 | | |
| 31,386 | |
Finance income | |
| Note 27.7 | | |
| 5,422 | | |
| 2,274 | | |
| 253 | |
Finance costs | |
| Note 27.7 | | |
| (38,793 | ) | |
| (61,015 | ) | |
| (149,189 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| | | |
| (7,551 | ) | |
| (9,995 | ) | |
| (2,386 | ) |
Profit (Loss) before tax | |
| | | |
| 156,018 | | |
| 591,811 | | |
| (119,936 | ) |
Income tax (expense) benefit | |
| Note 24 | | |
| (57,540 | ) | |
| (147,983 | ) | |
| 4,562 | |
Total Profit (Loss) for the year | |
| | | |
| 98,478 | | |
| 443,828 | | |
| (115,374 | ) |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Profit (loss) attributable to the Parent | |
| | | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | | |
| (110,624 | ) |
Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests | |
| Note 12 | | |
| 15,816 | | |
| 3,514 | | |
| (4,750 | ) |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Earnings per share | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
| |
| | | |
| 2023 | | |
| 2022 | | |
| 2021 | |
Numerator: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Total Profit (Loss) attributable to the Parent (U.S.$'000) | |
| | | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | | |
| (110,624 | ) |
Denominator: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Weighted average number of basic shares outstanding | |
| | | |
| 187,872,191 | | |
| 187,815,672 | | |
| 176,508,144 | |
Weighted average number of dilutive shares outstanding | |
| | | |
| 190,289,808 | | |
| 189,625,195 | | |
| 176,508,144 | |
Basic earnings (loss) per ordinary share (U.S.$) | |
| Note 13 | | |
| 0.44 | | |
| 2.34 | | |
| (0.63 | ) |
Diluted earnings (loss) per ordinary share (U.S.$) | |
| Note 13 | | |
| 0.43 | | |
| 2.32 | | |
| (0.63 | ) |
Notes 1 to 32 are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements
1In
2023, includes a net energy credit of $28,651 as described further in Note 27.2
FERROGLOBE PLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
(LOSS) FOR 2023, 2022 AND 2021
(In USD thousands)
| |
Notes | |
2023 | |
2022 | |
2021 | |
Total Profit (Loss) for the year | |
| |
98,478 | |
443,828 | |
(115,374 | ) |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Items that will not be reclassified subsequently to income or loss: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Remeasurement (losses) gains on defined-benefit obligations | |
Note 15 | |
(5,620 | ) |
9,779 | |
2,566 | |
Tax effect | |
Note 24 | |
1,500 | |
(2,082 | ) |
139 | |
Total income and expense that will not be reclassified subsequently to income or loss | |
| |
(4,120 | ) |
7,697 | |
2,705 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Items that may be reclassified subsequently to income or loss: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Cash flow hedge accounting | |
| |
2,245 | |
— | |
— | |
Translation differences | |
| |
11,730 | |
(17,178 | ) |
(20,393 | ) |
Tax effect | |
Note 24 | |
(767 | ) |
— | |
— | |
Total income and expense that may be reclassified subsequently to income or loss | |
| |
13,208 | |
(17,178 | ) |
(20,393 | ) |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Items that have been reclassified to income or loss in the period: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Cash flow hedge accounting | |
| |
83 | |
— | |
(922 | ) |
Total items that have been reclassified to profit (loss) | |
| |
83 | |
— | |
(922 | ) |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Other comprehensive Profit (loss) for the year, net of income tax | |
| |
9,171 | |
(9,481 | ) |
(18,610 | ) |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Total comprehensive Profit (loss) for the year | |
| |
107,649 | |
434,347 | |
(133,984 | ) |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Total comprehensive Profit (loss) attributable to the Parent | |
| |
91,105 | |
430,219 | |
(131,413 | ) |
Total comprehensive Profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interests | |
| |
16,544 | |
4,128 | |
(2,571 | ) |
Notes 1 to 32 are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements
FERROGLOBE PLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
FOR 2023, 2022 AND 2021
(In USD thousands, except issued shares in thousands)
| |
| |
Total Amounts Attributable to Owners | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Issued | |
Share | |
Share | |
| |
Translation | |
Valuation | |
Result for | |
Non-controlling | |
| |
| |
Notes | |
Shares | |
Capital | |
Premium | |
Reserves | |
Differences | |
Adjustments | |
the Year | |
Interests | |
Total | |
| |
| |
(Thousands) | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, 2021 | |
| |
170,864 | |
1,784 | |
— | |
696,774 | |
(206,759 | ) |
5,755 | |
(246,339 | ) |
114,504 | |
365,719 | |
Comprehensive (loss) profit for the year 2021 | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(20,559 | ) |
(230 | ) |
(110,624 | ) |
(2,571 | ) |
(133,984 | ) |
Issue of share capital | |
| |
18,019 | |
178 | |
86,220 | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
| |
86,398 | |
Share-based compensation | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
3,627 | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
3,627 | |
Recording of 2020 (loss) in reserves | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(246,339 | ) |
— | |
— | |
246,339 | |
— | |
— | |
Dividends paid non-controlling interests | |
| |
— | |
— | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(5,880 | ) |
(5,880 | ) |
Other changes | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
4,151 | |
| |
| |
| |
— | |
4,151 | |
Balance at December 31, 2021 | |
| |
188,883 | |
1,962 | |
86,220 | |
458,213 | |
(227,318 | ) |
5,525 | |
(110,624 | ) |
106,053 | |
320,031 | |
Comprehensive profit (loss) for the year 2022 | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(15,305 | ) |
5,210 | |
440,314 | |
4,128 | |
434,347 | |
Share-based compensation | |
Note 27.4 | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
5,825 | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
5,825 | |
Recording of 2021 (loss) in reserves | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(110,624 | ) |
— | |
— | |
110,624 | |
— | |
— | |
Dividends paid non-controlling interests | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(3,430 | ) |
(3,430 | ) |
Other changes | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
40 | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
40 | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| |
188,883 | |
1,962 | |
86,220 | |
353,454 | |
(242,623 | ) |
10,735 | |
440,314 | |
106,751 | |
756,813 | |
Comprehensive profit (loss) for the year 2023 | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
10,824 | |
(2,381 | ) |
82,662 | |
16,544 | |
107,649 | |
Share-based compensation | |
Note 27.4 | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
7,244 | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
7,244 | |
Recording of 2022 profit in reserves | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
440,314 | |
— | |
— | |
(440,314 | ) |
— | |
— | |
Dividends paid non-controlling interests | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(1,470 | ) |
(1,470 | ) |
Other changes | |
| |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(350 | ) |
— | |
— | |
— | |
— | |
(350 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| |
188,883 | |
1,962 | |
86,220 | |
800,662 | |
(231,799 | ) |
8,354 | |
82,662 | |
121,825 | |
869,886 | |
Notes 1 to 32 are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements
FERROGLOBE PLC AND SUBSIDIARIES
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS FOR 2023,
2022 AND 2021
(In USD thousands)
| |
| |
2023 | |
2022 | |
2021 | |
| |
Notes | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Cash flows from operating activities: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Profit (Loss) for the year | |
| |
98,478 | |
443,828 | |
(115,374 | ) |
Adjustments to reconcile net profit (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Income tax expense (benefit) | |
Note 24 | |
57,540 | |
147,983 | |
(4,562 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| |
73,532 | |
81,559 | |
97,328 | |
Finance income | |
| |
(5,422 | ) |
(2,274 | ) |
(253 | ) |
Finance costs | |
| |
38,793 | |
61,015 | |
149,189 | |
Exchange differences | |
| |
7,551 | |
9,995 | |
2,386 | |
Impairment loss (gain) | |
| |
25,290 | |
56,999 | |
(137 | ) |
Share-based compensation | |
Note 27.4 | |
7,402 | |
5,836 | |
3,627 | |
Other loss (gain) | |
| |
29 | |
19 | |
(2,206 | ) |
Changes in operating assets and liabilities: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Decrease (increase) in inventories | |
| |
102,179 | |
(220,823 | ) |
(60,296 | ) |
Decrease (increase) in trade and other receivables | |
| |
126,458 | |
(72,558 | ) |
(161,434 | ) |
(Decrease) increase in trade and other payables | |
| |
(70,573 | ) |
30,640 | |
64,382 | |
Decrease (increase) in energy receivable | |
Note 11 | |
(159,807 | ) |
(21,684 | ) |
5,476 | |
Other changes in operating assets and liabilities | |
| |
(9,770 | ) |
(34,993 | ) |
24,327 | |
Income taxes (paid) received | |
Note 24 | |
(113,308 | ) |
(80,524 | ) |
(3,794 | ) |
Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities | |
| |
178,372 | |
405,018 | |
(1,341 | ) |
Cash flows from investing activities: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Interest and finance income received | |
| |
3,725 | |
1,520 | |
207 | |
Payments due to investments: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Intangible assets | |
Note 7 | |
(2,787 | ) |
(1,147 | ) |
— | |
Property, plant and equipment | |
Note 8 | |
(83,679 | ) |
(52,147 | ) |
(27,597 | ) |
Disposals: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Other non-current assets | |
| |
935 | |
— | |
3,542 | |
Net cash used in investing activities | |
| |
(81,806 | ) |
(51,774 | ) |
(23,848 | ) |
Cash flows from financing activities: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Payment for debt and equity issuance costs | |
| |
— | |
(853 | ) |
(43,755 | ) |
Proceeds from equity issuance | |
Note 12 | |
— | |
— | |
40,000 | |
Proceeds from debt issuance | |
Note 18 | |
— | |
— | |
60,000 | |
Repayment of debt instruments | |
Note 18 | |
(179,075 | ) |
(84,823 | ) |
— | |
Increase (decrease) in bank borrowings: | |
| |
| |
| |
| |
Borrowings | |
Note 16 | |
432,274 | |
898,586 | |
659,083 | |
Payments | |
Note 16 | |
(456,506 | ) |
(919,932 | ) |
(671,467 | ) |
Payments for lease liabilities | |
Note 17 | |
(14,967 | ) |
(11,590 | ) |
(11,232 | ) |
Proceeds from other financing liabilities | |
Note 19 | |
— | |
38,298 | |
— | |
Other (payments) receipts from financing activities | |
Note 19 | |
(21,666 | ) |
678 | |
— | |
Interest paid | |
| |
(42,207 | ) |
(60,822 | ) |
(22,177 | ) |
Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities | |
| |
(282,147 | ) |
(140,458 | ) |
10,452 | |
Total net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
(185,581 | ) |
212,786 | |
(14,737 | ) |
Beginning balance of cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
322,943 | |
116,663 | |
131,557 | |
Exchange differences on cash and cash equivalents in foreign currencies | |
| |
287 | |
(6,506 | ) |
(157 | ) |
Ending balance of cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
137,649 | |
322,943 | |
116,663 | |
Restricted cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
1,179 | |
5,008 | |
2,272 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
136,470 | |
317,935 | |
114,391 | |
Ending balance of cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
137,649 | |
322,943 | |
116,663 | |
Notes 1 to 32 are an integral part of the consolidated
financial statements
Ferroglobe PLC and Subsidiaries
Notes to the consolidated
financial statements for the years ended
December 31, 2023, 2022
and 2021
(USD in thousands, except
share and per share data)
1. General information
Ferroglobe PLC and its subsidiaries (collectively
the “Company”, “Ferroglobe”, “we”, “our”, “us”) is among the world’s
largest producers of silicon metal and silicon-based alloys, important ingredients in a variety of industrial and consumer products. The
Company’s customers include major silicone chemical producers, aluminum and steel manufacturers, auto companies and their suppliers,
ductile iron foundries, manufacturers of photovoltaic solar cells and computer chips, and concrete producers. Additionally, the Company
operates hydroelectric plants in France.
Ferroglobe PLC (the “Parent Company”
or “the Parent”) is a public limited company that was incorporated in the United Kingdom on February 5, 2015 (formerly
named ‘Velonewco Limited’). The Parent’s registered office is 5 Fleet Place, London EC4M 7RD (United Kingdom).
In 2015, Ferroglobe PLC consummated the acquisition
(“Business Combination”) of Ferroglobe U.S.A, Inc (formerly Globe Specialty Metals, Inc) and subsidiaries and Ferroglobe
Spain Metals, S.A.U. (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U.), forming Ferroglobe.
In 2023, the Company commenced
a rebranding of its subsidiary corporation names to align under a “one Ferroglobe” approach.
2. Organization
and Subsidiaries
Ferroglobe has a diversified production
base consisting of production facilities across North America, Europe, South America, South Africa and Asia.
The subsidiaries of Ferroglobe PLC
as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, classified by reporting segments, were as follows:
2023 Subsidiaries
| |
Percentage
of
Ownership | |
| |
|
| |
Direct | |
Total | |
Reporting
Segment | |
Registered |
ARL
Services, LLC | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North
America – Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Core Metals
Group Holdings, LLC | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Cuarzos
Industriales de Venezuela, S.A. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Venezuela |
Emix, S.A.S. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
France |
Ferroatlántica
de México, S.A. de C.V. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Nueva León
- Mexico |
Ferroatlántica
de Venezuela (FerroVen), S.A. | |
— | |
| 99.9 | |
Other segments | |
Venezuela |
Ferroatlántica
Deutschland, GmbH | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Germany |
Ferroatlántica
do Brasil Mineraçao Ltda. | |
— | |
| 70.0 | |
Other segments | |
Brazil |
Ferroglobe
Advanced Materials II, S.L. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Advanced Materials, S.L. (formerly Ferrosolar OPCO Group S.L. ) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Argentina, S.R.L (formerly Globe Metales S.R.L) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Argentina |
Ferroglobe
Canada ULC (formerly QSIP Canada ULC ) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Canada |
Ferroglobe
Corporate Services, S.L.U. (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica de Servicios, S.L.U.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Cuarzos Industriales Mining, S.A.U. (formerly Cuarzos Industriales, S.A.U.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
A Coruña
- Spain |
Ferroglobe
de Participaciones, S.L.U. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Finance Company, PLC | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
United Kingdom |
Ferroglobe
France SAS (formerly FerroPem, S.A.S.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
France |
Ferroglobe
Holding Company, LTD | |
100 | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
United Kingdom |
Ferroglobe
Innovation, S.L. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Mangan Norge A.S. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
Norway |
Ferroglobe
Manganese France S.A.S. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
France |
Ferroglobe
Monzón, S.L. (formerly Ferroatlántica del Cinca, S.L.) | |
— | |
| 99.9 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Netherlands, B.V. (formerly GSM Netherlands, B.V.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Netherlands |
Ferroglobe
RAMSA Mining, S.A. (formerly Rocas, Arcillas y Minerales, S.A.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
A Coruña
- Spain |
Ferroglobe
South Africa (Pty) Ltd (formerly Silicon Smelters (Pty.), Ltd.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Polokwane
- South Africa |
Ferroglobe
Spain Metals, S.A.U. (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese and Silicon Metal | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Alloys I, Inc (formerly GSM Alloys I, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A ARLR, LLC (formerly ARL Resources, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A BG, LLC (formerly Globe BG, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Bridgeport, LLC (formerly Tennessee Alloys Company, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A ECPI, Inc. (formerly ECPI, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Financial, Inc. (formerly GSM Financial, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A GBG Financial (formerly GBG Financial LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A LF Resources, Inc (formerly LF Resources, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A LFR, IN (formerly Laurel Ford Resources, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Metallurgical, Inc. (formerly Globe Metallurgical Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Metals, LLC. (formerly Core Metals Group, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Mining Sales, LLC (formerly Alden Sales Corporation, LLC ) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Mining Services, LLC (formerly Gatliff Services, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Mining, LLC (formerly Alden Resources, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A MPM, LLC (formerly Metallurgical Process Materials, LLC) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Quartz, Inc. (formerly Alabama Sand and Gravel, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A Sales, Inc. (formerly GSM Sales, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
U.S.A, Inc (formerly Globe Specialty Metals, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ferroglobe
USA Silica Fume Sales, Inc. (formerly Norchem, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Florida
- U.S.A |
FerroManganese
Mauritania S.A.R.L. | |
— | |
| 90.0 | |
Other segments | |
Mauritania |
Ferroquartz
Holdings, Ltd. (Hong Kong) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Hong Kong |
FerroQuartz
Mauritania S.A.R.L. | |
— | |
| 90.0 | |
Other segments | |
Mauritania |
Ferrosolar
R&D S.L. | |
— | |
| 50.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
FerroTambao,
S.A.R.L. | |
— | |
| 90.0 | |
Other segments | |
Burkina
Faso |
GBG Holdings,
LLC | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Globe Metals
Enterprises, Inc. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Alloys
II, Inc. (formerly Ferroglobe U.S.A Alloys II, Inc.) | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Enterprises
Holdings, Inc. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Enterprises,
LLC | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Kintuck
(France) S.A.S. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
France |
Kintuck
A.S. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
Norway |
Mangshi
FerroAtlántica Mining Industry Service Company Limited | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Mangshi,
Dehong -Yunnan -China |
Ningxia
Yonvey Coal Industrial Co., Ltd. | |
— | |
| 98.0 | |
Other segments | |
China |
Quebec Silicon
General Partner | |
— | |
| 51.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Canada |
Quebec Silicon
Limited Partnership | |
— | |
| 51.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Canada |
Rebone Mining
(Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
| 74.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Polokwane
- South Africa |
Silicon
Technology (Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
South Africa |
Solsil, Inc. | |
— | |
| 92.4 | |
Other segments | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Thaba Chueu
Mining (Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
| 74.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Polokwane
- South Africa |
Ultracore
Energy S.A. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Argentina |
West Virginia
Alloys, Inc. | |
— | |
| 100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
WVA Manufacturing,
LLC | |
— | |
| 51.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
2022 Subsidiaries
| |
Percentage
of
Ownership | |
| |
|
| |
Direct | |
Total | |
Reporting
Segment | |
Registered |
Alabama
Sand and Gravel, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North
America – Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Alden Resources,
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Alden Sales
Corporation, LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
ARL Resources,
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
ARL Services,
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Core Metals
Group Holdings, LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Core Metals
Group, LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
ECPI, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Gatliff
Services, LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Globe BG,
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GBG Financial
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GBG Holdings,
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Globe Metallurgical
Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Globe Metals
Enterprises, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Alloys
I, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Alloys
II, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Enterprises
Holdings, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Enterprises,
LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Sales, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Laurel Ford
Resources, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
LF Resources, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Metallurgical
Process Materials, LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Norchem, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Florida
- U.S.A |
QSIP Canada
ULC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Canada |
Quebec Silicon
General Partner | |
— | |
51.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Canada |
Quebec Silicon
Limited Partnership | |
— | |
51.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Canada |
Tennessee
Alloys Company, LLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
West Virginia
Alloys, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
WVA Manufacturing,
LLC | |
— | |
51.0 | |
North America
– Silicon Metal | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Cuarzos
Industriales, S.A.U. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
A Coruña
- Spain |
Ferroatlántica
del Cinca, S.L. | |
— | |
99.9 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Ferroglobe
Mangan Norge A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
Norway |
Ferroglobe
Manganese France S.A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
France |
FerroPem,
S.A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
France |
Grupo FerroAtlántica,
S.A.U. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese and Silicon Metal | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Grupo FerroAtlántica
de Servicios, S.L.U. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Madrid -
Spain |
Kintuck
(France) S.A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
France |
Kintuck
A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Manganese | |
Norway |
Rocas, Arcillas
y Minerales, S.A. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Europe –
Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
A Coruña
- Spain |
Rebone Mining
(Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
74.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Polokwane
- South Africa |
Silicon
Smelters (Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Polokwane
- South Africa |
Silicon
Technology (Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
South Africa |
Thaba Chueu
Mining (Pty.), Ltd. | |
— | |
74.0 | |
South Africa
– Silicon Metal and Alloys | |
Polokwane
- South Africa |
Cuarzos
Industriales de Venezuela, S.A. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Venezuela |
Emix, S.A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
France |
Ferroatlántica
de México, S.A. de C.V. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Nueva León
- Mexico |
Ferroatlántica
de Venezuela (FerroVen), S.A. | |
— | |
99.9 | |
Other segments | |
Venezuela |
Ferroatlántica
Deutschland, GmbH | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Germany |
Ferroatlántica
do Brasil Mineraçao Ltda. | |
— | |
70.0 | |
Other segments | |
Brazil |
Ferroglobe
Holding Company, LTD | |
100 | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
United Kingdom |
Ferroglobe
Finance Company, PLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
United Kingdom |
FerroManganese
Mauritania S.A.R.L. | |
— | |
90.0 | |
Other segments | |
Mauritania |
Ferroquartz
Holdings, Ltd. (Hong Kong) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Hong Kong |
FerroQuartz
Mauritania S.A.R.L. | |
— | |
90.0 | |
Other segments | |
Mauritania |
Ferrosolar
OPCO Group S.L. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
Ferrosolar
R&D S.L. | |
— | |
50.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
FerroTambao,
S.A.R.L. | |
— | |
90.0 | |
Other segments | |
Burkina
Faso |
Globe Metales
S.R.L. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Argentina |
Globe Specialty
Metals, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Financial, Inc. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
GSM Netherlands,
B.V. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Netherlands |
Hidroelectricité
de Saint Beron, S.A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
France |
Mangshi
FerroAtlántica Mining Industry Service Company Limited | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Mangshi,
Dehong -Yunnan -China |
Ningxia
Yonvey Coal Industrial Co., Ltd. | |
— | |
98.0 | |
Other segments | |
China |
Photosil
Industries, S.A.S. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
France |
Ferroglobe
Innovation, S.L.U | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Spain |
Solsil, Inc. | |
— | |
92.4 | |
Other segments | |
Delaware
- U.S.A |
Ultracore
Energy S.A. | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Other segments | |
Argentina |
Subsidiaries are all companies over which Ferroglobe
has control.
Control is achieved when the Company:
| · | has power over the investee; |
| · | is exposed, or has rights, to variable returns from its involvement with the investee; and |
| · | has the ability to use its power over the investee to affect the amount of the investor’s returns. |
The Company has power over the investee when the
voting rights are sufficient to give it the practical ability to direct the relevant activities of the investee unilaterally. The Company
considers all relevant facts and circumstances in assessing whether or not the Company’s voting rights in an investee are sufficient
to give it power, including:
| · | the total voting rights held by the Company relative to the size and dispersion of holdings of the other vote holders; |
| · | potential voting rights held by the Company, other vote holders or other parties; |
| · | rights arising from other contractual arrangements; and |
| · | any additional facts and circumstances that indicate that the Company has, or does not have, the current ability to direct the relevant
activities at the time these decisions need to be made, including voting patterns at previous shareholders’ meetings. |
Consolidation of a subsidiary begins when the
Company obtains control over the subsidiary and ceases when the Company loses control of the subsidiary.
The Company uses the acquisition method to account
for the acquisition of subsidiaries. According to this method, the consideration transferred for the acquisition of a subsidiary corresponds
to the fair value of the assets transferred, the liabilities incurred and the equity interests issued by the Company. The consideration
transferred also includes the fair value of any asset or liability resulting from a contingent consideration arrangement. Any contingent
consideration transferred by the Company is recognized at fair value at the date of acquisition. Subsequent changes in the fair value
of the contingent consideration classified as an asset or a liability are recognized in accordance with IFRS 9 in the consolidated income
statements. The costs related to the acquisition are recognized as expenses in the years incurred. The identifiable assets acquired
and the liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are initially recognized at their fair value at the date
of acquisition.
Non-controlling interests in the subsidiaries’
equity and results are shown separately in the consolidated statements of financial position, consolidated income statements, consolidated
statements of comprehensive income and consolidated statements of changes in equity. Additionally, the Company attributes total comprehensive
income (loss) to the Parent of the Company and to the non-controlling interests even if the profit or loss of the non-controlling interests
gives rise to a balance receivable.
Accounting policies of subsidiaries are consistent
with the policies adopted by the Company. Should differences arise, an adjustment is performed in the consolidation process. All assets
and liabilities, equity, income, expenses and cash flows relating to transactions between subsidiaries are eliminated in full in consolidation.
3. Basis of presentation
3.1 Basis of presentation |
Statement of compliance
The consolidated financial statements have been
prepared in accordance with UK-adopted International accounting Standards (IFRS). These consolidated financial statements were approved
for issue by the Board of Directors on May 20, 2024.
All accounting policies and measurement bases
with effect on the consolidated financial statements were applied in their preparation.
To support its assessment of the going concern
basis of accounting, management has prepared a cash-flow model which considers the revenues, expenditures, cash flows, net tax payments
and capital expenditures for a period of at least one year from the date of approval of these financial statements. The financial projections
to determine these future cash flows are modelled considering the principal variables that impact the cash flows at a Group level including
prices, volumes, costs, capital expenditures, net working capital and debt repayment as set out in Note 32. These projections are based
on the 2024 annual budget. Key assumptions include estimates on the Company’s EBITDA. Sensitivities have been run, including severe
but plausible downside scenario with reductions on the base case EBITDA for the going concern assessment period, to reflect the key risks
and uncertainties pertaining to the marker forecasts of pricing and volumes impacting the cash flow projections.
Ferroglobe’s primary short-term liquidity
needs are to fund its capital expenditure commitments, fund specific initiatives underlying the strategic plan, service its existing debt,
fund working capital and comply with other contractual obligations. Ferroglobe’s long-term liquidity needs primarily relate to debt
servicing and repayment. Ferroglobe’s core objective with respect to capital management is to maintain a balanced and sustainable
capital structure through the economic cycles, while keeping the cost of capital at competitive levels. We believe our working capital
along with the undrawn ABL facility amount of $100 million (see note 16) is sufficient for our present requirements, and we anticipate
generating sufficient cash from operations to satisfy our liquidity needs in the going concern assessment period.
Consequently, the directors are confident that
the Group and Company will have sufficient funds to continue to meet its liabilities as they fall due for at least 12 months from the
date of approval of the financial statements and therefore have prepared the financial statements on a going concern basis.
Basis of measurement
The consolidated financial statements were prepared
on a historical cost basis, with the exceptions disclosed in the notes to the consolidated financial statements, where applicable, and
in those situations where IFRS requires that financial assets and financial liabilities are valued at fair value.
3.2 Accounting policies, new standards, interpretations and amendments adopted by the Company |
There
are no new IFRS standards, amendments or interpretations that are mandatory as of January 1, 2023 that are materially relevant to
the Company. Additionally, the Company has not adopted any standard, interpretation or amendment that has been issued but
is not yet effective. Such standards are not currently expected to have a material impact on the entity in the current or future reporting
periods and on foreseeable future transactions.
3.3 Functional and reporting currency
Items included in the financial statements of
each of the Company’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which each entity operates
(“the functional currency”). The Company’s consolidated financial statements are presented in US Dollars, which is the
Parent Company’s functional currency and the Company’s reporting currency.
Foreign currency transactions are initially recorded
by each of the Company’s entities at their respective functional currency spot rates at the date the transaction is recognized.
Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation of monetary assets and liabilities
denominated in foreign currencies at the functional currency spot rates at the end of each reporting period are recognized in the consolidated
income statements. Non-monetary items that are measured at historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rates
at the dates of the initial transaction. Translation differences on assets and liabilities carried at fair value are reported as part
of the fair value gain or loss.
The results of operations and financial position
of the Company’s entities that have a functional currency different from the Company’s reporting currency are translated into
the reporting currency as follows:
| · | Assets and liabilities for each consolidated statement of financial position presented are translated at the closing rate at the date
of the consolidated statement of financial position; |
| · | Income and expenses for each income statement are translated at average exchange rates; and |
| · | All differences arising from the aforementioned translation are recognized in equity under “Translation differences.” |
The Parent Company changed its functional currency
from the Euro to USD on October 1, 2021. The change in functional currency coincided with management’s review of a growing
number of transactions denominated in USD instead of Euros.
The change in functional currency was implemented
prospectively starting October 1, 2021 in accordance with IAS 21 The effect of changes in foreign exchange rates.
Upon the disposal of a foreign operation, the
translation differences relating to that operation deferred as a separate component of consolidated equity are recognized in the consolidated
income statements when the gain or loss on disposal is recognized.
3.4 Critical accounting estimates, assumptions
and judgments
The preparation of the Company’s consolidated
financial statements in conformity with IFRS requires management to make estimates, assumptions and judgments that affect the application
of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income, expenses, and the accompanying disclosures at the date
of the consolidated financial statements. Critical estimates, assumptions and judgments, by definition, will seldom equal the actual results
and are continually evaluated to reflect changing expectations about future events. Management also needs to exercise judgment in applying
the Company’s accounting policies.
This note provides an overview of the areas that
involve a higher degree of judgment or complexity, and of items which are more likely to be materially adjusted due to estimates and assumptions
turning out to be wrong due to their uncertainty. Detailed information about each of these estimates, assumptions and judgments is included
in other notes together with information about the basis of calculation for each affected item in the financial statements.
Certain estimates, assumptions and judgments that
were made by management in the preparation of these consolidated financial statements, include:
| · | the impairment analysis on property, plant and equipment, including the assumptions used to determine estimated recoverable amount,
determined by value in use or by fair value less cost of disposal methods, see Note 8; |
| · | income taxes, including the recoverability of deferred tax assets; see Note 24; |
The Company based its estimates, assumptions and
judgments on historical experience, known or expected trends and other factors that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.
Actual results may differ materially from these estimates as we are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to
differ from estimated amounts, such as changes in prices. Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions
to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the estimates are revised and in any future periods affected.
There
may be circumstances when judgment is required, such as to determine when control of the goods or services passes to the customer
for revenue recognition, see Note 4.17. We have also applied judgment in our determination that we have control of our QSLP and
WVA partnerships. See Note 12.
As of the date of these consolidated financial
statements, no material events have occurred which impact the Company’s estimates, assumptions or judgements used in determining
our accounting considerations.
3.5 Basis of consolidation
The
annual closing date of the financial statements for each consolidated subsidiary is December 31. The Company fully consolidates subsidiaries
financial statements that it is deemed to control into these consolidated financial statements. All intercompany transactions have been
eliminated.
Non-controlling interests are presented in “Equity –
Non-controlling interests” in the consolidated statements of financial position, separately from the consolidated equity attributable
to the Parent. The share of non-controlling interests in the profit or loss for the year is presented under “Profit (loss)
attributable to non-controlling interests” in the consolidated income statements.
When necessary, adjustments are made to the financial
statements of subsidiaries to align the accounting policies used to the accounting policies of the Company.
4. Accounting policies
The principle IFRS accounting policies described
below were applied in preparing these consolidated financial statements.
4.1 Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of
acquisition over the Company’s interest in the fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities of a subsidiary at the date
of acquisition. Goodwill is not amortized.
When an operation to which goodwill relates is
disposed of, the part of the carrying amount of goodwill that has been allocated to the respective cash-generating unit is included in
calculating the gain or loss on disposal.
4.2 Intangible assets
Acquired and internally generated intangible assets
are recognized pursuant to IAS 38 Intangible Assets if a future economic benefit will flow to the entity from the use of the
asset and the cost of the asset can be reliably determined.
Intangible
assets with finite useful lives are carried at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Amortization
is recognized on a straight-line basis over an asset’s estimated useful life. The estimated useful life and amortization method
are reviewed at each balance sheet date, with the effect of any changes in estimate being accounted for on a prospective basis. Intangible
assets that are subject to amortization are reviewed for impairment at least annually or whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate
that the carrying amount may not be recoverable.
Intangible assets with indefinite useful
lives are not amortized but are tested for impairment annually or more frequently when circumstances indicate that the carrying value
may not be recoverable.
The
Company’s intangible assets with definite useful lives are as follows:
Development expenditures are capitalized if they
meet the requirements of identifiability, reliability in cost measurement and it is probable that the assets created will generate economic
benefits. Developmental expenditures are amortized on a straight-line basis over the useful lives of the assets, which are between four
and 10 years.
Expenditures on research activities are recognized
as expenses in the years in which they are incurred.
Power supply agreements at rates below market
acquired in business combinations are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term in which the agreement is effective.
Rights of use granted related to mining concessions
are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term in which the right of use was granted from the date it is considered that use commenced.
Rights of use are generally amortized over a period ranging from 10 to 20 years.
Computer software includes the costs incurred
in acquiring or developing computer software, including the related installation. Computer software is amortized on a straight-line basis
from two to five years.
Computer system maintenance costs are recognized
as expenses in the years in which they are incurred.
The Company’s other intangible assets with
indefinite useful lives are as follows:
Carbon dioxide emissions allowances
The Company’s
carbon dioxide emissions allowances (“rights held to emit greenhouse gasses”) are intangible assets that are expensed as
the allowance is used. Emissions allowances received from the Government are initially measured at fair value, which is determined based
on the market price of allowances traded on the platform at that date. Emissions allowances purchased on the trading platform are initially
measured at cost (see Note 4.21).
4.3 Property, plant
and equipment
Property, plant and
equipment are initially recognized at acquisition or production cost and are subsequently measured at acquisition or production cost
less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses.
The costs of expansion,
modernization or improvements leading to increased productivity, capacity or efficiency or to a lengthening of the useful lives of the
assets are capitalized. Repair, upkeep and maintenance expenses are recognized in the consolidated income statements for the years
in which they are incurred.
Mineral reserves are
recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition. Depletion of mineral reserves is computed using the units-of-production method utilizing
only proven and probable reserves (as adjusted for recoverability factors) in the depletion base.
Property, plant and
equipment in the course of construction are transferred to property, plant and equipment in use at the end of the related development
period.
The Company depreciates
property, plant and equipment using the straight-line method at annual rates based on the following years of estimated useful life:
| |
Years of | |
| |
Estimated | |
| |
Useful | |
| |
Life | |
Buildings | |
25-50 | |
Plant and machinery | |
8-20 | |
Tools | |
12.5-15 | |
Other fixtures and furniture | |
10-15 | |
Computer hardware | |
4-8 | |
Transport equipment | |
10-15 | |
Depreciation begins
when the asset is ready for its intended use.
Land included within
property, plant and equipment is considered to be an asset with an indefinite useful life and, as such, is not depreciated, but rather
it is tested for impairment annually. The Company reviews residual value, useful lives, and the depreciation method for property, plant
and equipment annually.
The costs arising
from the activities aimed at protecting and improving the environment are accounted for as an expense for the year in which they
are incurred. When they represent additions to property, plant and equipment aimed at minimizing the environmental impact and protecting
and enhancing the environment, they are capitalized to non-current assets.
4.4 Impairment of goodwill and long-lived assets (property, plant and equipment, intangible assets, right-of-use assets) |
The Company completes its impairment testing for
goodwill at least annually or as impairment indicators arise throughout the year. The Company completes its impairment testing for long-lived
assets as impairment indicators arise. When necessary, we record impairments of goodwill and long-lived assets for the amount by which
the recoverable amount is less than the carrying value of these assets.
Where the asset itself does not generate cash
flows that are independent from other assets, the Company estimates the recoverable amount of the cash-generating unit (CGU) to which
the asset belongs. Goodwill arising from a business combination is allocated to CGUs or groups of CGUs that are expected to benefit from
the synergies of the combination.
Recoverable amount is the higher of:
| · | Fair value less costs of disposal: the price that would be agreed upon by two independent parties, less estimated costs to sell; and |
| · | Value in use: the present value of the future cash flows that are expected to be derived from continuing use of the asset and from
its ultimate disposal at the end of its useful life, discounted at a rate which reflects the time value of money and the risks specific
to the business to which the asset belongs. |
If the recoverable amount of an asset (or cash-generating
unit) is less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount, and an impairment loss
is recognized as an expense under “Impairment (loss) gain” in the consolidated income statements.
Where an impairment loss subsequently reverses
(not permitted in the case of goodwill), the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount,
but so that the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been
recognized for the asset in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized as “Impairment (loss) gain” in
the consolidated income statements.
The basis for depreciation is the carrying amount
of the assets, deemed to be the acquisition cost less any accumulated impairment losses.
4.5 Financial instruments |
Financial assets and financial liabilities are
recognized in the Company’s consolidated statements of financial position when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions
of the instrument.
Financial assets and financial liabilities are
initially measured at fair value. Transaction costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition or issue of financial assets and
financial liabilities (other than financial assets and financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss) are added to or deducted
from the fair value of the financial assets or financial liabilities, on initial recognition. Transaction costs directly attributable
to the acquisition of financial assets or financial liabilities at fair value through profit or loss are recognized immediately in profit
or loss on the consolidated income statements.
The Company classifies its financial assets into
the following categories: (i) those measured subsequently at fair value through profit or loss or (ii) those to be measured
at amortized cost. The classification depends on the entity’s business model for managing the financial assets and the contractual
terms of the cash flows.
Financial assets measured at fair value through
profit or loss.
Financial assets are classified as measured at
fair value through profit or loss when the asset does not meet the criteria to be measured at amortized cost or at fair value through
other comprehensive income. Such assets are carried on the consolidated statements of financial position at fair value with gains or losses
recognized in the consolidated income statements.
Financial assets measured at amortized cost
Financial assets are classified as measured at
amortized cost when they are held in a business model whose objective is to collect contractual cash flows and the contractual terms of
the financial asset give rise on specific dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount
outstanding. Such assets are carried at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Gains and losses are recognized in profit
or loss when the assets are derecognized or impaired and when interest is recognized using the effective interest method. This category
of financial assets includes trade receivables, receivables from related parties and cash and cash equivalents.
Derecognition of financial assets
The Company derecognizes a financial asset when:
| - | the rights to receive cash flows from the asset have expired; or |
| - | the Company has transferred its rights to receive cash flows from the asset or has assumed an obligation
to pay the received cash flows in full without material delay to a third party under a ‘pass-through’ arrangement; and either
(a) the Company has transferred substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, or (b) the Company has neither transferred
nor retained substantially all the risks and rewards of the asset, but has transferred control of the asset. |
On derecognition of a financial asset in its entirety,
the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the sum of the consideration received and receivable is recognized in profit
or loss.
If the Company retains substantially all of the
risks and rewards of ownership of a transferred financial asset, the Company continues to recognize the financial asset and also recognizes
a collateralized borrowing for the proceeds received.
Impairment of financial assets
The expected credit loss model is applied for
recognition and measurement of impairments in financial assets measured at amortized cost and debt instruments held at fair value through
other comprehensive income. The loss allowance for the financial asset is measured at an amount equal to the 12-month expected credit
losses. If the credit risk on the financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition, the loss allowance for the financial
asset is measured at an amount equal to the lifetime expected credit losses. Changes in loss allowances are recognized in profit and loss.
For trade and other receivables, a simplified impairment approach is applied recognizing expected lifetime losses from initial recognition.
For this purpose, the Company has established a provision matrix that is based on its historical credit loss experience, adjusted for
forward-looking factors specific to the debtors and the economic environment.
The Company writes off a financial asset when
there is information indicating that the debtor is in severe financial difficulty and there is no realistic prospect of recovery, such
as when the debtor has been placed under liquidation or has entered into bankruptcy proceedings, or in the case of trade receivables,
when the amounts are over two years past due, whichever occurs sooner. Financial assets written off may still be subject to enforcement
activities under the Company’s recovery procedures, considering legal advice where appropriate. Any recoveries made are recognized
in profit or loss.
Accounts receivable factoring
As part of its regular operations and in case
of immediate cash needs, the Company can sell its trade receivables (i.e., invoices) to a third party (factor) at a discount. The Company
analyzes whether these transactions are with recourse or without recourse and applies the derecognition
criteria in IFRS 9 to assess whether the arrangement transfers substantially all risks and rewards to the factor. For arrangements with
recourse, where substantially all risks and rewards have not been transferred, the cash received from the factor is accounted
for as a secured borrowing. In the case of arrangements with recourse, the transferred assets are not derecognized.
For those recorded as with recourse, the borrowings
from the receivable factoring facility are short-term in nature and therefore their carrying amount is considered to approximate their
fair value. For those considered without recourse, the Company derecognizes the trade receivable and does not record a related borrowing.
Cash flows from factoring with recourse of accounts
receivable are classified as financing cash flows within the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Cash flows from factoring without recourse of
accounts receivable are classified as operating cash flows within the consolidated statements of cash flows.
Financial liabilities
The subsequent measurement of financial liabilities
depends on their classification, as described below:
Financial liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss |
Financial
liabilities measured at fair value through profit or loss are carried on the consolidated statements of financial position at fair value
with gains or losses recognized in the consolidated income statements. This category includes contingent consideration and derivatives,
other than those designated as hedging instruments in an effective hedge.
Financial liabilities
measured at amortized cost
This category comprises all other financial liabilities,
including bank borrowings, debt instruments, financial loans from government agencies, payables to related parties and trade and other
payables.
After initial recognition, other financial liabilities
are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Amortized cost is calculated by considering any issue
costs and any discount or premium on settlement.
Derecognition of financial liabilities
The Company derecognizes financial liabilities
when, and only when, the Company’s obligations are discharged, cancelled or have expired. The difference between the carrying amount
of the financial liability derecognized and the consideration paid and payable is recognized in profit or loss in the consolidated income
statements. When the Company exchanges with the existing lender one debt instrument with another one with substantially different terms,
such exchange is accounted for as an extinguishment of the original financial liability and the recognition of a new financial liability.
Similarly, the Company accounts for substantial modification of terms of an existing liability or part of it as an extinguishment of the
original financial liability and the recognition of a new liability. It is assumed that the terms are substantially different if the discounted
present value of the cash flows under the new terms, including any fees paid net of any fees received and discounted using the original
effective rate is at least 10 per cent different from the discounted present value of the remaining cash flows of the original financial
liability. If the modification is not substantial, the difference between the carrying amount of the liability before the modification
and the present value of the cash flows after modification are recognized in profit or loss as a modification gain or loss.
4.6 Derivative financial instruments and hedging
activities
In order to mitigate the economic effects of exchange
rate and interest rate fluctuations to which it is exposed as well as variability in the price of power, the Company uses derivative financial
instruments, such as cross currency swaps, interest rate swaps and power purchase agreements.
The Company’s derivative financial instruments
are detailed in Note 20 to these consolidated financial statements and the Company’s financial risk management policies are
detailed in Note 29.
Derivatives are initially recognized at fair value
at the date a derivative contract is entered into and are subsequently remeasured to their fair value at each balance sheet date. The
resulting gain or loss is recognized in the consolidated income statements immediately unless the derivative is designated and effective
as a hedging instrument, in which event the timing of the recognition of profit or loss depends on the nature of the hedge relationship.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company had no derivative instruments that were not classified as hedging instruments, respectively.
Derivatives are recorded as either “other
financial assets” or “other financial liabilities” depending on their respective fair value positions at each balance
sheet date. A derivative is presented as a non-current asset or non-current liability if the remaining maturity of the instrument is more
than 12 months from the date of the statements of financial position and it is not expected to be realized or settled within 12 months.
Hedge accounting
The Company designates certain derivatives as
cash flow hedges. For further details, see Note 20.
At the inception of the hedging relationship,
the Company documents the relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged item, along with its risk management objectives and
its strategy for undertaking the hedge transaction. Effectiveness of the hedging relationship needs to be assessed on an ongoing basis.
Effectiveness tests are performed prospectively at inception and at each reporting date. The Company reviews to ensure that:
| · | there is an economic relationship between the hedged item and the hedging instrument; |
| · | the effect of credit risk does not dominate the value changes that result from that economic relationship; and |
| · | the hedge ratio of the hedging relationship is the same as that resulting from the quantity of the hedged item that the Company actually
hedges and the quantity of the hedging instrument that the Company uses to hedge that quantity of hedged item. |
The effective portion of changes in the fair value
of derivatives that are designated and qualify as cash flow hedges is recognized in the consolidated statements of other comprehensive
income (loss). The gain or loss relating to any ineffective portion is recognized immediately in consolidated income statements and is
included in “Raw materials and energy consumption for production”.
Amounts previously recognized in other comprehensive
income and accumulated in equity in the valuation adjustments reserve are reclassified to the consolidated income statements in the periods
when the hedged item is recognized in profit or loss, in the same line of the income statement as the recognized hedged item.
Hedge accounting is discontinued when the hedging
instrument expires or is sold, terminated, or exercised, or no longer qualifies for hedge accounting. Any gain or loss recognized in other
comprehensive income at that time is accumulated in equity and is recognized when the forecast transaction is ultimately recognized in
the consolidated income statements. When a forecast transaction is no longer expected to occur, the gain or loss accumulated in equity
is recognized immediately in the consolidated income statements.
4.7 Fair value measurement |
Fair value is the price that would be received
to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date. The fair
value measurement is based on the presumption that the transaction to sell the asset or transfer the liability takes place either: (i) in
the principal market for the asset or liability or (ii) in the absence of a principal market, in the most advantageous market for
the asset or liability.
The fair value of an asset or a liability is measured
using the assumptions that market participants would use when pricing the asset or liability, assuming that market participants act in
their economic best interest.
The Company uses valuation techniques that are
appropriate in the circumstances and for which sufficient data are available to measure fair value, maximizing the use of relevant observable
inputs and minimizing the use of unobservable inputs.
All assets and liabilities for which fair value
is measured or disclosed in the financial statements are categorized within the fair value hierarchy, described as follows, based on the
lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement as a whole:
| · | Level 1 — Quoted (unadjusted) market prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. |
| · | Level 2 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is directly
or indirectly observable. |
| · | Level 3 — Valuation techniques for which the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement is unobservable. |
For those assets and liabilities measured at fair value at the balance
sheet date, further information on fair value measurement is provided in Note 30.
Inventories comprise assets (goods) which:
| · | Are held for sale in the ordinary course of business (finished goods); or |
| · | Are in the process of production for such sale (work in progress); or |
| · | Will be consumed in the production process or in the rendering of services (raw materials and spare parts). |
Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and
net realizable value. The cost of each inventory item is generally calculated as follows:
| · | Raw materials, spare parts and other consumables and replacement parts: the lower of weighted average acquisition cost and net realizable
value. |
| · | Work in progress, finished goods and semi-finished goods: the lower of production cost (which includes the cost of materials, labor
costs, direct and indirect manufacturing expenses) or net realizable value in the market. |
Obsolete, defective or slow-moving inventories
have been reduced to net realizable value.
Net realizable value is the estimated selling
price less all the estimated costs of selling and distribution.
The amount of any write-down of inventories (as
a result of damage, obsolescence or decrease in the selling price) to their net realizable value and all losses of inventories are recognized
as expenses in the year in which the write-down or loss occurs. Any subsequent reversals are recognized as income in the year
in which they arise.
The consumption of inventories is recognized as
an expense in “Raw Materials and energy consumption for production” in the consolidated income statements in the period in
which the revenue from their sale is recognized.
4.9 Raw materials and energy consumption for production |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production
comprise raw materials, energy, other direct costs, inventory write-downs and changes in inventory.
4.10 Cash and cash equivalents |
The Company classifies
under “Cash and cash equivalents” any liquid financial assets, such as for example cash on hand and at banks, deposits and
liquid investments, that can be converted into known amounts of cash within three months and are subject to an insignificant risk
of changes in value.
4.11 Restricted cash and cash equivalents |
The Company classifies
under “restricted cash and cash equivalents” any liquid financial assets, which meet the definition of cash and cash equivalents
but the use or withdrawal is restricted by financial agreements.
Restrictions may include
legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements and/or contracts entered into with
others; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not included in legally restricted deposits. In cases where
compensating balance arrangements exist but are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the consolidated
statements of financial position, those arrangements and the amount involved are disclosed in the notes. Compensating balances that are
maintained under an agreement to assure future credit availability are also disclosed in the notes.
As discussed in Note 31, certain of the
Company´s credit agreements restrict the transfer of assets in the form of loans or dividends to other affiliates. The amount
of cash and cash equivalents in subsidiaries subject to such restrictions amounted to $90,955 as of December 31, 2023 ($253,085
as of December 31, 2022) and is not presented as Restricted cash and equivalents in the balance sheet because it can be
withdrawn or used except for transfers to affiliates.
4.12 Provisions and contingencies |
When preparing the consolidated financial statements,
the Company distinguishes between:
| · | Provisions: present obligations, either legal, contractual, constructive or assumed by the Company, arising from past events, the
settlement of which is expected to give rise to an outflow of economic benefits the amount or timing of which are uncertain; and |
| · | Contingent liabilities: possible obligations that arise from past events and whose existence will be confirmed only by the occurrence
or non-occurrence of one or more future events not wholly within the control of the Company, or present obligations arising from past
events the amount of which cannot be estimated reliably or whose settlement is not likely to give rise to an outflow of economic benefits. |
Contingent assets are possible assets that arise from past events and
whose existence will be confirmed only by the occurrence or non-occurrence of one or more uncertain future events not wholly within the
control of the entity.
The consolidated financial statements include
all the material provisions with respect to which it is considered that it is probable that the obligation will have to be settled. Contingent
liabilities are not recognized in the consolidated financial statements, but rather are disclosed in accordance with IAS 37 (see Note 26).
Provisions are classified as current when there
is not an unconditional right to defer settlement for at least 12 months after the reporting date. They are recognized when
the liability or obligation giving rise to the indemnity or payment arises, to the extent that its amount can be estimated reliably.
“Provisions” include (i) the
provisions for pension and similar obligations assumed; (ii) provisions for contingencies and charges, such as for example those
of an environmental nature and those arising from litigation in progress or from outstanding indemnity payments or obligations, and collateral
and other similar guarantees provided by the Company; (iii) provisions for medium- and long-term employee incentives; and (iv) provisions
for taxes.
Contingent assets are not recognized, but are
disclosed where an inflow of economic benefits is probable. If it has become virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will
arise, the asset and the related income are recognized in the consolidated financial statements in the period in which the change occurs.
Defined contribution plans |
Certain employees have defined contribution plans
which are applicable to local regulations. The main features of these plans are as follows:
| · | They are mixed plans covering the benefits for retirement, disability and death of the participants. |
| · | The sponsor undertakes to make monthly contributions of certain percentages of current employees’ salaries to external
pension funds. |
The annual cost of these plans is recognized within
“Staff costs” on the consolidated income statements.
IAS
19 Employee Benefits requires defined benefit plans to be accounted for:
| · | Using actuarial techniques to make a reliable estimate of the amount of benefits that employees have earned in return for their service
in the current and prior periods; |
| · | Discounting those benefits in order to determine the present value of the obligation; |
| · | Determining the fair value of any plan assets; and |
| · | Determining the total amount of actuarial gains and losses and the amount of those actuarial gains and losses that must be recognized. |
The amount recognized as a benefit liability arising
from a defined benefit plan is the total net result of:
| · | The present value of the obligations. |
| · | Minus the fair value of plan assets (if any) out of which the obligations are to be settled directly. |
The Company recognizes provisions for these benefits
as the related rights vest and on the basis of actuarial studies. These amounts are recognized under “Provisions” in the consolidated
statements of financial position on the basis of their expected payment due dates.
Provisions for environmental obligations are estimated
by analyzing each case separately and observing the relevant legal provisions. The best possible estimate is made on the basis of the
information available and a provision is recognized provided that the aforementioned information suggests that it is probable that the
loss or expense will arise and it can be estimated in a sufficiently reliable manner.
The balance of provisions and disclosures disclosed
in Note 15 reflects management’s best estimation of the potential exposure as of the date of preparation of these consolidated
financial statements.
The Company assesses if a contract is or contains
a lease at inception of the contract. A contract is or contains a lease if the contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified
asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration.
The Company recognizes a right-of-use asset and
a lease liability at the commencement date.
The estimated lease term by right-of-use asset
categories are as follows:
| |
Years of | |
| |
Estimated | |
| |
Useful | |
| |
Life | |
Leased Land and Buildings | |
5-50 | |
Leased Plant and Machinery | |
1-37 | |
The lease liability is initially measured at the
present value of the minimum future lease payments, discounted using the interest rate implicit in the lease, or, if not readily determinable,
the incremental borrowing rate. Lease payments include fixed payments, variable payments that depend on an index or rate, as well as any
extension or purchase options, if the Company is reasonably certain to exercise these options. The lease liability is subsequently measured
at amortized cost using the effective interest method and remeasured with a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use asset
when there is a change in future lease payments.
The right-of-use asset comprises, at inception,
the initial lease liability, any initial direct costs and, when applicable, the obligations to refurbish the asset, less any incentives
granted by the lessors. The right-of-use asset is subsequently depreciated, on a straight-line basis, over the lease term or, if the lease
transfers the ownership of the underlying asset to the Company at the end of the lease term or, if the cost of the right-of-use asset
reflects that the lessee will exercise a purchase option, over the estimated useful life of the underlying asset. Right-of-use assets
are also subject to testing for impairment if there is an indicator for impairment.
Variable lease payments not included in the measurement
of the lease liabilities are expensed to the consolidated income statements in the period in which the events or conditions which trigger
those payments occur.
In the consolidated statements of financial position,
right-of-use assets and lease liabilities are classified, respectively, as part of property, plant and equipment and current and current
and non-current lease liabilities.
4.14 Current assets and liabilities |
In general, assets and liabilities that are expected
to be settled or fall due within 12 months from the end of the reporting period are classified as current items and those which fall
due or will be settled after more than 12 months are classified as non-current items.
Income tax expense represents the sum of current
tax and deferred tax. Income tax is recognized in the consolidated income statements except to the extent that it relates to items recognized
in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, in which case the related tax is recognized in other comprehensive income or directly
in equity.
The current income tax expense is based on domestic
and international statutory income tax rates in the tax jurisdictions where the Company operates related to taxable profit for the period.
The taxable profit differs from net profit as reported in the consolidated income statements because it is determined in accordance with
the rules established by the applicable tax authorities which includes temporary differences, permanent differences, and available
credits and incentives.
The Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities
are provided on temporary differences at the balance sheet date between financial reporting and the tax basis of assets and liabilities,
then applying enacted tax rates expected to be in effect for the year in which the differences are expected to reverse. Deferred
tax assets are recognized for deductible temporary differences, including carry-forward of unused tax credits and losses, to the extent
that it is probable, that taxable profit will be available against which the deductible temporary difference and carryforwards of unused
tax credits and losses can be utilized.
The deferred tax assets and liabilities that have
been recognized are reassessed at the end of each closing period in order to ascertain whether they still exist, and adjustments are made
on the basis of the findings of the analyses performed.
Income tax payable is the result of applying the
relevant tax rate in force to each tax-paying entity, in accordance with the tax laws in force in the country in which the entity is registered.
Additionally, tax deductions and credits are available to certain entities, primarily relating to inter-company trades and tax treaties
between various countries to prevent double taxation.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset
only when there is a legally enforceable right to set off current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred tax
assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority or either the same taxable entity or different taxable
entities where there is an intention to settle the current tax assets and liabilities on a net basis or to realize the assets and settle
the liabilities simultaneously.
4.16 Foreign currency transactions |
Foreign currency transactions are initially recognized
in the functional currency of the subsidiary by applying the exchange rates prevailing at the date of the transaction.
Subsequently, at each reporting date, assets and
liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are translated to dollars at the rates prevailing on that date.
Any exchange differences arising on settlement
or translation at the closing rates of monetary items are recognized in the consolidated income statements for the related years.
Note 4.6
details the Company’s accounting policies for derivative financial instruments. Also, Note 29 to these consolidated
financial statements details the Company’s financial risk policies.
The Company recognizes sales revenue related to
the transfer of promised goods or services when control of the goods or services passes to the customer. The amount of revenue recognized
reflects the consideration to which the Company is or expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services.
In the Company’s electrometallurgy business,
revenue is principally generated from the sale of goods, including silicon metal and silicon- and manganese-based specialty alloys. The
Company mainly satisfies its performance obligations at a point in time; the amounts of revenue recognized relating to performance obligations
satisfied over time are not significant. The point in time at which control is transferred to the buyer is determined based on the agreed
delivery terms, which follow Incoterms 2023 issued by International Chamber of Commerce.
In most instances, control passes and sales revenue
is recognized when the product is delivered to the vessel or vehicle on which it will be transported, the destination port or the customer’s
premises. There may be circumstances when judgment is required based on the five indicators of control below.
| · | The customer has the significant risks and rewards of ownership and has the ability to direct the use
of, and obtain substantially all of the remaining benefits from, the goods or service. |
| · | The customer has a present obligation to pay in accordance with the terms of the sales contract. |
| · | The customer has accepted the asset. Sales revenue may be subject to adjustment if the product specification
does not conform to the terms specified in the sales contract, but this does not impact the passing of control. Specification adjustments
have been immaterial historically. |
| · | The customer has legal title to the asset. The Company may retain legal title until payment is received
but this is for credit risk purposes only. |
| · | The customer has physical possession of the asset. This indicator may be less important as the customer
may obtain control of an asset prior to obtaining physical possession, which may be the case for goods in transit. |
Where the Company sells on ‘C’ terms
(e.g., Cost, Insurance and Freight or CIF, Carriage and Insurance Paid to or CIP, Cost and Freight or CFR and Carriage Paid to or
CPT), the Company is responsible (acts as principal) for providing shipping services and, in some instances, insurance after the date
at which control of goods passes to the customer at the loading point. The Company therefore has separate performance obligations for
freight and insurance services that are provided solely to facilitate sale of the commodities it produces. Revenue attributable to freight
and insurance services is not material.
Where the Company sells on ‘D’ terms
(e.g., Delivered Duty Paid or DDP, Delivered at Place or DAP and Delivered at Terminal or DAT), the Company arranges and pays for the
carriage and retains the risk of the goods until delivery at an agreed destination, where ownership and control is transferred.
Where the Company sells on ‘F’ terms
(e.g., Free Carrier or FCA and FOB or Free on Board), the customer arranges and pays for the main transportation. Risk and control are
transferred to the customer when the goods are handed to the carrier engaged by the customer.
The Company’s products are sold to customers
under contracts which vary in tenure and pricing mechanisms. The majority of pricing terms are either fixed or index-based for monthly,
quarterly or annual periods, with a smaller proportion of volumes being sold on the spot market.
Within each sales contract, each unit of product
shipped is a separate performance obligation. Revenue is generally recognized at the contracted price as this reflects the stand-alone
selling price. Sales revenue excludes any applicable sales taxes.
Expenses are recognized on an accrual basis, i.e.
when the actual flow of the related goods and services occurs, regardless of when the resulting monetary or financial flow arises.
An expense is recognized in the consolidated income
statements when there is a decrease in the future economic benefits related to a reduction of an asset, or an increase in a liability,
which can be measured reliably. This means that an expense is recognized simultaneously with the recognition of the increase in a liability
or the reduction of an asset. Additionally, an expense is recognized immediately in the consolidated income statements when a disbursement
does not give rise to future economic benefits or when the requirements for recognition as an asset are not met. Also, an expense is recognized
when a liability is incurred and no asset is recognized, as in the case of a liability relating to a guarantee.
The Company has received government grants from
time to time to support operations. Grants are recorded at their fair value in the consolidated income statements within “Other
operating income” when there is reasonable assurance that the Company will satisfy the underlying grant conditions and the grants
will be received. To the extent required, grants are deferred and recognized on a systematic basis over the periods in which the Company
expects to recognize the related expenses for which the grants are intended to compensate. When the grant relates to an asset, it is recognized
as income in equal amounts over the expected useful life of the related asset.
When the grant relates to compensations for the
indirect carbon dioxide emissions costs included in the energy bills, the income is recorded in “Raw Materials and energy consumption
for production” in the consolidated income statements.
4.20 Termination benefits |
Under current labor legislation, the Company is
required to pay termination benefits to employees whose employment relationship is terminated under certain conditions. The cost of providing
employee benefits is recognized in the period in which the benefit is earned by the employee, rather than when it is paid or payable.
4.21 Carbon dioxide emission allowances |
The Company recognizes emission rights (allowances)
received, whether allocated by government or purchased, as intangible assets. The intangible asset is initially measured and recognized
on the date of acquisition at fair value, being the consideration paid (if purchased on the open market) or the current market value (if
granted for less than fair value).
When allowances are granted for less than fair
value, the difference between the fair value and the nominal amount paid is recognized as a government grant. The grant is initially recognized
as deferred income in the consolidated statements of financial position and subsequently recognized as “other operating income”
on a systematic basis on the proportion of the carbon dioxide emitted over total carbon dioxide expected to be emitted for the compliance
period on the consolidated income statements. In the case that a better estimate of the expected carbon dioxide emissions for the compliance
period is available, the deferred income to be recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position is adjusted prospectively.
As the Company emits carbon dioxide, it recognizes
a provision for its obligation to deliver the carbon dioxide allowances at the end of the compliance period. The provision is remeasured
and recorded as an expense at the end of each reporting period at historical cost for the emission rights (allowances) received and at
acquisition cost for the carbon dioxide purchased and at fair value for the carbon dioxide pending to be purchased.
Intangible assets recognized for emissions allowances
are not amortized and remain valued at historical cost until either sold or surrendered in satisfaction of the Company’s obligation
to deliver the allowances to the relevant authority.
Sale of emission rights
When the Company has determined to sell its emission
rights, the emission rights sold would be derecognized from the consolidated statements of financial position against the cash received.
In those cases, where the price per emission right is different to the fair value per emission right at the time they were granted, a
gain or a loss on the disposal of assets will be recognized. The deferred income originally recognized for the free emission rights granted
at the beginning of the compliance period that still remain in the consolidated statements of financial position at the time of sale will
be derecognized.
4.22 Share-based compensation |
The Company operates a share-based compensation
plan with certain equity and cash-settlement options. The Company recognizes share-based compensation expense based on the estimated grant
date fair value of share-based awards using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. Prior to vesting, cumulative compensation cost equals
the proportionate amount of the award earned to date. The Company has elected to treat each award as a single award and recognize compensation
cost on a straight-line basis over the requisite service period of the entire award. If the terms of an award are modified in a manner
that affects both the fair value and vesting of the award, the total amount of remaining unrecognized compensation cost (based on the
grant-date fair value) and the incremental fair value of the modified award are recognized over the amended vesting period. The Company´s
liability for cash-settled awards is immaterial.
Interest income is recognized as the interest
accrues using the effective interest rate, the rate that exactly discounts estimated future cash receipts through the expected life of
the financial instrument to the net carrying amount of the financial asset.
Dividend income from investments is recognized
when the shareholders’ right to receive the payment is established.
4.24 Assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale, liabilities associated with assets held for sale and discontinued
operations |
Assets and disposal groups classified as held
for sale include the carrying amount of individual items, disposal groups or items forming part of a business unit earmarked for disposal
(discontinued operations), whose sale in their present condition is highly likely to be completed within one year from the reporting
date. Therefore, the carrying amount of these items, which may or may not be of a financial nature, will likely be recovered through the
proceeds from their disposal.
Liabilities associated with non-current assets
held for sale include the balances payable arising from the assets held for sale or disposal groups and from discontinued operations.
Assets and disposal groups classified as held
for sale are measured at the lower of fair value less costs to sell and their carrying amount at the date of classification in this category.
Non-Current assets held for sale are not depreciated as long as they remain in this category.
4.25 Consolidated statements of cash flows |
The following terms are used in the consolidated
statements of cash flows, prepared using the indirect method, with the meanings specified as follows:
| 1. | Cash flows: inflows and outflows of cash and cash equivalents, which are short-term, highly liquid investments that are subject to
an insignificant risk of changes in value. |
| 2. | Operating activities: activities constituting the object of the subsidiaries forming part of the consolidated Company and other activities
that are not investing or financing activities. |
| 3. | Investing activities: the acquisition and disposal of long-term assets and other investments not included in cash and cash equivalents. |
| 4. | Financing activities: activities that result in changes in the size and composition of the equity and borrowings of the Company that
are not operating or investing activities. Interest payments and principal payments are presented separately. |
5. Segment reporting
The Company’s Chief Executive Officer has
been identified as the chief operating decision maker (“CODM”) since the role encompasses authority over resource allocation
decisions and performance assessment, mainly analyzing performance from the production obtained in the operations. The Company has identified
10 operating segments:
| · | Europe – Manganese Alloys |
| · | South Africa – Silicon Metals |
| · | South Africa – Silicon Alloys; and |
The operating segments described above are those
components whose operating results are regularly reviewed by the entity’s CODM to make decisions about resources to be allocated
to the segment and assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available. This is due to the integrated
operations within each region and product family and the ability to reallocate production based on the individual capacity of each plant.
Additionally, economic factors that may impact our results of operations, such as currency fluctuations and energy costs, are also assessed
at a regional and product level.
The Company’s North America- Silicon Metal
and North America – Silicon Alloys reportable segments are the result of the aggregation of the operating segments of the United
States and Canada Silicon Metals and the operating segments of the United States and Canada Silicon Alloys. These operating segments have
been aggregated as they have similar long-term economic characteristics and there is similarity of competitive and operating risks and
the political environment in the United States and Canada. The Europe-Silicon Metals, the Europe-Silicon Alloys, the Europe -Manganese,
the South Africa – Silicon Metals and South Africa – Silicon Alloys reportable segments are equal to each related Operating
segment.
All other segments that do not meet the quantitative
threshold for separate reporting and are deemed to have similar economic characteristics have been grouped as “Other segments”,
which mainly includes holding entities in the United Kingdom and our Ferroglobe Advanced Material (formerly Ferrosolar OPCO) subsidiary
in Spain.
The consolidated
income statements as of December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively, by reportable segment, are as follows:
|
2023 | |
|
North America | |
North America | |
| |
Europe | |
Europe | |
South Africa | |
South Africa | |
| |
Adjustments/ | |
| |
|
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Europe
Manganese | |
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Other
segments | |
Eliminations
(*) | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Sales |
| 505,472 | |
| 283,180 | |
| 277,508 | |
| 307,230 | |
| 216,465 | |
| 50,071 | |
| 109,684 | |
| 54,921 | |
| (154,497 | ) |
| 1,650,034 | |
Raw
materials and energy consumption for production |
| (313,162 | ) |
| (165,193 | ) |
| (183,839 | ) |
| (103,304 | ) |
| (108,409 | ) |
| (44,003 | ) |
| (82,201 | ) |
| (35,280 | ) |
| 156,105 | |
| (879,286 | ) |
Other
operating income |
| 6,605 | |
| 3,896 | |
| 36,628 | |
| 40,321 | |
| 21,149 | |
| 594 | |
| (142 | ) |
| 50,655 | |
| (58,714 | ) |
| 100,992 | |
Staff
costs |
| (67,160 | ) |
| (37,744 | ) |
| (28,326 | ) |
| (79,114 | ) |
| (42,069 | ) |
| (5,007 | ) |
| (10,412 | ) |
| (36,027 | ) |
| — | |
| (305,859 | ) |
Other
operating expense |
| (44,304 | ) |
| (26,840 | ) |
| (69,897 | ) |
| (71,632 | ) |
| (44,132 | ) |
| (11,223 | ) |
| (10,718 | ) |
| (48,309 | ) |
| 56,965 | |
| (270,090 | ) |
Depreciation
and amortization charges |
| (32,313 | ) |
| (15,183 | ) |
| (7,835 | ) |
| (6,325 | ) |
| (3,005 | ) |
| (1,840 | ) |
| (4,056 | ) |
| (2,975 | ) |
| — | |
| (73,532 | ) |
Impairment
(loss) gain |
| (21,008 | ) |
| — | |
| (1,571 | ) |
| — | |
| (3,619 | ) |
| 478 | |
| — | |
| 430 | |
| — | |
| (25,290 | ) |
Other
(loss) gain |
| (71 | ) |
| (115 | ) |
| 1 | |
| 79 | |
| 47 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 30 | |
| — | |
| (29 | ) |
Operating
Profit |
| 34,059 | |
| 42,001 | |
| 22,669 | |
| 87,255 | |
| 36,427 | |
| (10,930 | ) |
| 2,155 | |
| (16,555 | ) |
| (141 | ) |
| 196,940 | |
(*) The amounts correspond to transactions
between segments that are eliminated in the consolidation process.
|
2022 | |
|
North America | |
North America | |
| |
Europe | |
Europe | |
South Africa | |
South Africa | |
| |
Adjustments/ | |
| |
|
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Europe
Manganese | |
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Other
segments | |
Eliminations
(*) | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Sales |
| 671,290 | |
| 339,414 | |
| 701,140 | |
| 536,753 | |
| 259,419 | |
| 17,337 | |
| 122,262 | |
| 81,560 | |
| (131,259 | ) |
| 2,597,916 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption
for production |
| (305,545 | ) |
| (68,490 | ) |
| (541,034 | ) |
| (241,936 | ) |
| (139,687 | ) |
| (9,270 | ) |
| (65,373 | ) |
| (46,759 | ) |
| 133,008 | |
| (1,285,086 | ) |
Other operating income |
| 6,464 | |
| 122 | |
| 42,882 | |
| 76,255 | |
| 23,622 | |
| 156 | |
| 66 | |
| 59,840 | |
| (62,051 | ) |
| 147,356 | |
Staff costs |
| (61,378 | ) |
| (41,923 | ) |
| (28,996 | ) |
| (81,175 | ) |
| (50,467 | ) |
| (1,736 | ) |
| (11,652 | ) |
| (37,483 | ) |
| — | |
| (314,810 | ) |
Other operating expense |
| (33,708 | ) |
| (37,859 | ) |
| (111,741 | ) |
| (99,513 | ) |
| (33,265 | ) |
| (2,649 | ) |
| (13,193 | ) |
| (74,626 | ) |
| 60,302 | |
| (346,252 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization
charges |
| (33,708 | ) |
| (15,135 | ) |
| (13,005 | ) |
| (4,605 | ) |
| (8,086 | ) |
| (748 | ) |
| (5,278 | ) |
| (994 | ) |
| — | |
| (81,559 | ) |
Impairment (loss) gain |
| — | |
| — | |
| (33,222 | ) |
| — | |
| (26,028 | ) |
| 5,357 | |
| 2,408 | |
| (5,514 | ) |
| — | |
| (56,999 | ) |
Other (loss)
gain |
| (522 | ) |
| (126 | ) |
| (178 | ) |
| 230 | |
| 82 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 495 | |
| — | |
| (19 | ) |
Operating (loss) profit |
| 242,893 | |
| 176,003 | |
| 15,846 | |
| 186,009 | |
| 25,590 | |
| 8,447 | |
| 29,240 | |
| (23,481 | ) |
| — | |
| 660,547 | |
(*) The amounts
correspond to transactions between segments that are eliminated in the consolidation process.
|
2021 | |
|
North America | |
North America | |
| |
Europe | |
Europe | |
South Africa | |
South Africa | |
| |
Adjustments/ | |
| |
|
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Europe
Manganese | |
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Silicon
Metal | |
Silicon
Alloys | |
Other
segments | |
Eliminations
(*) | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Sales |
| 370,109 | |
| 154,699 | |
| 476,287 | |
| 437,533 | |
| 227,804 | |
| 12,604 | |
| 104,591 | |
| 43,568 | |
| (48,287 | ) |
| 1,778,908 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption
for production |
| (265,653 | ) |
| (57,663 | ) |
| (326,257 | ) |
| (303,811 | ) |
| (170,073 | ) |
| (8,240 | ) |
| (68,377 | ) |
| (33,445 | ) |
| 48,623 | |
| (1,184,896 | ) |
Other operating income |
| 5,089 | |
| 296 | |
| 34,142 | |
| 48,828 | |
| 16,924 | |
| 278 | |
| 485 | |
| 49,901 | |
| (45,858 | ) |
| 110,085 | |
Staff costs |
| (51,163 | ) |
| (31,300 | ) |
| (33,696 | ) |
| (77,608 | ) |
| (42,679 | ) |
| (1,542 | ) |
| (11,726 | ) |
| (31,203 | ) |
| — | |
| (280,917 | ) |
Other operating expense |
| (22,222 | ) |
| (20,848 | ) |
| (105,290 | ) |
| (105,712 | ) |
| (23,043 | ) |
| (1,904 | ) |
| (11,352 | ) |
| (51,960 | ) |
| 45,522 | |
| (296,809 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization
charges |
| (40,489 | ) |
| (15,281 | ) |
| (18,634 | ) |
| (7,330 | ) |
| (9,522 | ) |
| (546 | ) |
| (4,535 | ) |
| (991 | ) |
| — | |
| (97,328 | ) |
Impairment (loss) gain |
| — | |
| — | |
| (376 | ) |
| 14 | |
| (455 | ) |
| 288 | |
| 2,396 | |
| (1,730 | ) |
| — | |
| 137 | |
Other (loss)
gain |
| (347 | ) |
| 741 | |
| — | |
| 733 | |
| 295 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 784 | |
| — | |
| 2,206 | |
Operating (loss) profit |
| (4,676 | ) |
| 30,644 | |
| 26,176 | |
| (7,353 | ) |
| (750 | ) |
| 938 | |
| 11,482 | |
| (25,013 | ) |
| — | |
| 31,386 | |
(*) The amounts
correspond to transactions between segments that are eliminated in the consolidation process.
Other disclosures
Sales by
product line
Sales by major
product line are as follows:
|
Year Ended December 31, | |
|
2023 | |
2022 | |
2021 | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Silicon metal |
| 722,226 | |
| 1,116,193 | |
| 637,695 | |
Manganese-based alloys |
| 259,197 | |
| 525,483 | |
| 469,138 | |
Ferrosilicon |
| 330,946 | |
| 561,539 | |
| 337,833 | |
Other silicon-based alloys |
| 159,441 | |
| 192,409 | |
| 161,750 | |
Silica fume |
| 33,804 | |
| 32,290 | |
| 32,409 | |
Other |
| 144,420 | |
| 170,002 | |
| 140,083 | |
Total |
| 1,650,034 | |
| 2,597,916 | |
| 1,778,908 | |
Information
about major customers
Total sales of
$840,705 thousand, $1,322,724 thousand, and $870,039 thousand were attributable to the Company’s top 10 customers in 2023, 2022,
and 2021 respectively. During 2023, 2022, and 2021 sales corresponding to Dow Silicones Corporation represented 17.0%, 16.8% and 12.2%,
respectively of the Company’s sales. Sales to Dow Silicones Corporation are included partially in the North America – Silicon
Metal segment and partially in the Europe - Silicon Metal segment. Accounts receivables from Dow Silicones Corporation as of December 31,
2023 and 2022 are $29,161 thousand and $10,612 thousand, respectively.
Non-current
assets by geographical area
The non-current
assets (as defined in IFRS 8) by geographical area are as follows:
|
Year ended December 31, | |
|
2023 | |
2022 | |
|
US$´000 | |
US$´000 | |
United Kingdom |
| 462 | |
| 946 | |
United States of America |
| 213,663 | |
| 231,565 | |
Europe |
| | |
| | |
Spain |
| 151,200 | |
| 109,759 | |
France |
| 151,880 | |
| 133,684 | |
Other European Countries |
| 57,739 | |
| 55,835 | |
Total non-current assets in Europe |
| 360,819 | |
| 299,278 | |
Rest of the World |
| 138,105 | |
| 132,094 | |
Total |
| 713,049 | |
| 663,883 | |
Changes in the
carrying amount of goodwill during the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, are as follows:
|
|
January 1, |
|
Impairment |
|
Exchange |
|
December 31, |
|
Impairment |
|
Exchange |
|
December 31, |
|
|
|
2022 |
|
(Note 27.8) |
|
differences |
|
2022 |
|
(Note 27.8) |
|
differences |
|
2023 |
|
|
|
US$'000 |
|
US$'000 |
|
US$'000 |
|
US$'000 |
|
US$'000 |
|
US$'000 |
|
US$'000 |
|
U.S.
Silicon Metal cash generating units |
|
17,230 |
|
— |
|
— |
|
17,230 |
|
— |
|
— |
|
17,230 |
|
U.S.
Silicon Based Alloys cash generating units |
|
12,472 |
|
— |
|
— |
|
12,472 |
|
— |
|
— |
|
12,472 |
|
Total |
|
29,702 |
|
— |
|
— |
|
29,702 |
|
— |
|
— |
|
29,702 |
|
The Company recorded
the excess of the cost of acquisition over the Company’s interest in the fair value of the identifiable assets and liabilities
assumed at the date of acquisition as goodwill.
For the years
ended December 31, 2023 and December 31, 2022, in connection with our annual goodwill impairment test, the Company did not
recognize an impairment charge.
Ferroglobe operates
in a cyclical market, and silicon and silicon-based alloy index pricing and foreign import pressure into the U.S. markets impact the
future projected cash flows used in our impairment analysis. Recoverable value was estimated based on discounted cash flows. Estimates
under the Company’s discounted income-based approach involve numerous variables including anticipated sales price and volumes,
cost structure, discount rates and long-term growth, and therefore could impact the recoverable values in the future.
Key assumptions
used in the determination of recoverable value
Goodwill is allocated
to its respective cash-generating units or groups of cash-generating units and tested annually for impairment. The Company has determined
that the lowest level within the Company that goodwill is monitored for internal management purposes comprises four individual US CGUs
aggregated into two groups of cash-generating units for review. In accordance with the requirements of IAS 36, an impairment loss
is recorded when the recoverable amount is below the carrying amount of the net assets of a cash-generating unit (including the goodwill
allocated to it). A CGU’s or group of CGU’s recoverable amount is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and
its value in use. As of the reporting year, the recoverable amount for all groups of cash-generating units to which goodwill has been
allocated is determined based on value in use.
Management makes
estimates, assumptions and judgements on uncertain matters. For each group of cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated,
the value in use is determined based on economic assumptions and forecasted operating conditions as follows:
|
|
2023 | |
|
2022 | |
|
2021 | |
|
|
U.S. | |
|
U.S. | |
|
U.S. | |
Discount rate |
| 14.1 | % |
| 14.6 | % |
| 13.2 | % |
Long-term growth rate |
| 2.3 | % |
| 2.0 | % |
| 2.3 | % |
Discount
rate
The
discount rate, applied to discount the related cash flows, is the weighted average cost of capital (WACC), determined by the weighted
average cost of equity and cost of debt according to the finance structure determined for each group of CGUs.
This
rate is calculated using the capital asset pricing model (CAPM), which considers the asset’s systemic risk, and the impact of those
risks not already considered on cash flows, such as country risk, business-specific credit risk, currency risk and price risk specific
to the financial asset, constantly monitoring the fluctuations of the financial markets.
The
main underlying data used in these calculations are obtained from independent and renowned external information sources.
Long-term growth rate
Cash flow projections from the sixth
year are calculated using an expected constant growth rate (g), considering projected CPI data collected from a variety of third party,
external sources.
These assumptions have been used in
the impairment test for each of the two groups of cash-generating units to which goodwill has been allocated.
Our approach in
determining the recoverable amount utilizes a discounted cash flow methodology, which necessarily involves making numerous estimates
and assumptions regarding, operating costs, appropriate discount rates and working capital requirements. The key assumptions used for
estimating cash flow projections in the Group’s impairment testing are those relating to discount rate, revenue, and EBITDA for
the subsequent five-year period (2024-2028) and perpetuity beyond this point. The average operating profit margin is 24.1% (Silicon Metal)
and 32.3% (Silicon-Based Alloys) and a Compound Annual Growth Rate of 6.0% (Silicon Metal) and 11.8% (Silicon-Based Alloys).
These estimates
will likely differ from future actual results of operations and cash flows, and it is possible that these differences could be material.
In addition, judgements are applied in determining the level of CGU groups identified for impairment testing and the criteria used to
determine which assets should be aggregated. Changes in our business activities or structure may also result in additional changes to
the level of testing in future periods. Further, future events could cause the Group to conclude that impairment indicators exist and
that the asset values associated with a given operation have become impaired.
Sensitivity
to changes in assumptions
Changing management’s
assumptions could significantly affect the evaluation of the value in use of our groups of cash-generating units and, therefore, the
impairment result. As of December 31, 2023 there is a $378,206 thousand headroom between the carrying value of our U.S. groups of
cash generating units including goodwill and their recoverable value.
The following changes
to the assumptions used in the impairment test lead to the following changes in recoverable value:
|
| |
Excess of | |
Sensitivity on | |
Sensitivity on | |
Sensitivity on | |
|
| |
recoverable | |
discount rate | |
long-term growth rate | |
EBITDA | |
|
| |
value over | |
Decrease | |
Increase | |
Decrease | |
Increase | |
Decrease | |
Increase | |
|
Goodwill | |
carrying vale | |
by 10% | |
by 10% | |
by 10% | |
by 10% | |
by 10% | |
by 10% | |
U.S. Silicon Metal cash generating unit |
| 17,230 | |
| 87,454 | |
| 57,487 | |
| (45,666 | ) |
| (3,749 | ) |
| 3,937 | |
| (75,506 | ) |
| 75,506 | |
U.S. Silicon Based Alloys cash generating unit |
| 12,472 | |
| 290,752 | |
| 85,147 | |
| (68,244 | ) |
| (7,283 | ) |
| 7,648 | |
| (102,254 | ) |
| 102,254 | |
|
| 29,702 | |
| 378,206 | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
The sensitivity
analysis revealed that no reasonable possible changes in any of the key assumptions would result in the carrying amount of either of
the CGU groups exceeding their recoverable amount as of December 31, 2023.
Changes in the
carrying amount of intangible assets during the years ended December 31 are as follows:
|
| |
| |
| |
| |
Greenhouse | |
Other | |
Accumulated | |
| |
| |
|
Development | |
Power Supply | |
| |
Computer | |
gasses | |
Intangible | |
Amortization | |
Impairment | |
| |
|
Expenditure | |
Agreements | |
Rights of Use | |
Software | |
(CO2) | |
Assets | |
(Note 27.6) | |
(Note 27.8) | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1,
2022 |
| 51,698 | |
| 37,836 | |
| 13,369 | |
| 5,090 | |
| 97,596 | |
| 8,120 | |
| (96,140 | ) |
| (16,927 | ) |
| 100,642 | |
Additions |
| 910 | |
| — | |
| 23 | |
| 522 | |
| 112,775 | |
| 384 | |
| (725 | ) |
| — | |
| 113,889 | |
Disposals |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| (20 | ) |
| (96,869 | ) |
| — | |
| 20 | |
| — | |
| (96,869 | ) |
Exchange differences |
| (2,914 | ) |
| — | |
| (153 | ) |
| (62 | ) |
| (5,732 | ) |
| (370 | ) |
| 2,536 | |
| 830 | |
| (5,865 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2022 |
| 49,694 | |
| 37,836 | |
| 13,239 | |
| 5,530 | |
| 107,770 | |
| 8,134 | |
| (94,309 | ) |
| (16,097 | ) |
| 111,797 | |
Additions |
| 1,210 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 3,273 | |
| 113,101 | |
| — | |
| (663 | ) |
| — | |
| 116,921 | |
Disposals |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| (96,451 | ) |
| — | |
| 82 | |
| — | |
| (96,369 | ) |
Transfers from/(to) other accounts |
| 825 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 1,489 | |
| | |
| (396 | ) |
| (26 | ) |
| 261 | |
| 2,153 | |
Exchange differences |
| 1,861 | |
| — | |
| 90 | |
| 104 | |
| 3,756 | |
| (358 | ) |
| (1,170 | ) |
| (440 | ) |
| 3,843 | |
Balance at December 31, 2023 |
| 53,590 | |
| 37,836 | |
| 13,329 | |
| 10,396 | |
| 128,176 | |
| 7,380 | |
| (96,086 | ) |
| (16,276 | ) |
| 138,345 | |
Development expenditures:
For the year ended, the Company invested $1,210 thousand in Research and Development (R&D) projects. As of December 31, 2023
the total development expenditures of $53,590 thousand have accumulated amortization of $36,185 thousand and accumulated impairment of
$13,990 thousand.
Power supply agreement:
In 2015, the Company acquired a power supply agreement which provides favorable below-market power rates to the Alloy, West Virginia
facility. The agreement terminates in 2025 but as of December 31, 2023 it is fully amortized.
Rights of use relate
to mining concessions and as of December 31, 2023 are fully amortized.
Computer software:
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company invested $3,273 thousand in the development of new IT systems and cybersecurity.
Greenhouse gas
rights: As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, this class of intangible assets primarily relates to the acquisition, use and expiration
of rights held to emit greenhouse gasses by certain Spanish, French, Norwegian and Canadian subsidiaries (see Note 4.21).
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company did not purchase or sell rights to emit greenhouse gasses (2022: $25,035 thousand
of purchases).
As of December 31,
2023 and 2022, the Company has certain intangible assets related to rights held to emit greenhouse gasses pledged as collateral for debt
instruments (see Note 18).
| 8. | Property,
plant and equipment |
Property, plant
and equipment, net of the related accumulated depreciation and impairment, as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
|
| |
| |
| |
Property, Plant | |
| |
Other Items of | |
Other Items | |
Other Items | |
| |
| |
| |
|
| |
| |
Other Fixtures, | |
and Equipment | |
| |
Property, | |
of Leased | |
of Leased | |
Accumulated | |
| |
| |
|
Land and | |
Plant and | |
Tools and | |
in the Course of | |
Mineral | |
Plant and | |
Land and | |
Plant and | |
Depreciation | |
Impairment | |
| |
|
Buildings | |
Machinery | |
Furniture | |
Construction | |
Reserves | |
Equipment | |
Buildings | |
machinery | |
(Note 27.6) | |
(Note 27.8) | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, 2022 |
| 197,214 | |
| 1,202,624 | |
| 7,479 | |
| 113,962 | |
| 59,019 | |
| 33,589 | |
| 17,156 | |
| 27,762 | |
| (962,078 | ) |
| (141,811 | ) |
| 554,914 | |
Additions |
| 3,170 | |
| 15,329 | |
| 2,883 | |
| 59,532 | |
| | |
| 131 | |
| 4,714 | |
| 4,624 | |
| (80,834 | ) |
| (56,999 | ) |
| (47,450 | ) |
Disposals and other |
| — | |
| (18,544 | ) |
| (122 | ) |
| (595 | ) |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 17,685 | |
| (90 | ) |
| (1,666 | ) |
Transfers from/(to) other accounts |
| 505 | |
| 28,295 | |
| (349 | ) |
| (33,485 | ) |
| — | |
| 1,212 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 3,822 | |
| — | |
| — | |
Exchange differences |
| (7,291 | ) |
| (48,278 | ) |
| (731 | ) |
| (6,021 | ) |
| (215 | ) |
| (725 | ) |
| (625 | ) |
| (1,028 | ) |
| 42,157 | |
| 4,273 | |
| (18,484 | ) |
Transfer
to assets and disposal groups classified as held for sale |
| (18,108 | ) |
| (56,571 | ) |
| (470 | ) |
| (320 | ) |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 56,297 | |
| 18,105 | |
| (1,067 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2022 |
| 175,490 | |
| 1,122,855 | |
| 8,690 | |
| 133,073 | |
| 58,804 | |
| 34,207 | |
| 21,245 | |
| 31,358 | |
| (922,951 | ) |
| (176,522 | ) |
| 486,247 | |
Additions |
| 2,886 | |
| 11,263 | |
| 118 | |
| 81,457 | |
| 8,550 | |
| — | |
| 4,660 | |
| 9,623 | |
| (72,869 | ) |
| (25,768 | ) |
| 19,920 | |
Disposals and other |
| (1,743 | ) |
| (19,621 | ) |
| (1,051 | ) |
| (128 | ) |
| — | |
| — | |
| (470 | ) |
| (766 | ) |
| 12,970 | |
| 4,969 | |
| (5,840 | ) |
Transfers from/(to) other accounts |
| 1,289 | |
| 69,560 | |
| (376 | ) |
| (73,312 | ) |
| — | |
| 61 | |
| 2 | |
| 767 | |
| — | |
| (144 | ) |
| (2,153 | ) |
Exchange differences |
| 3,115 | |
| 13,405 | |
| (176 | ) |
| 4,116 | |
| (263 | ) |
| (562 | ) |
| 634 | |
| 332 | |
| (14,276 | ) |
| (3,103 | ) |
| 3,222 | |
Balance at December 31, 2023 |
| 181,037 | |
| 1,197,462 | |
| 7,205 | |
| 145,206 | |
| 67,091 | |
| 33,706 | |
| 26,071 | |
| 41,314 | |
| (997,126 | ) |
| (200,568 | ) |
| 501,396 | |
For the years ended
December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company invested $118,642 thousand and $90,383 thousand in its property, plant equipment. This was
predominantly led by investments as follows:
Property, plant
and equipment in the course of construction: For the years ended December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company invested $81,457 thousand
and $59,532 thousand in capital expenditure focused on productivity and efficiency improvements.
Other additions:
The Company acquired a high purity quartz mine in October 2023. Of the $11,000 thousand purchase price, the Company allocated $2,700
thousand to land and buildings and $8,550 thousand to the mineral reserves acquisition. The Company determined that the acquisition of
the high purity quartz mine did not qualify as a business combination in accordance with IFRS 3 and therefore was accounted for as an
asset acquisition.
Impairment considerations:
The Company defines
its CGUs for impairment testing of its property, plant and equipment to be at the individual plant or mine level. The Company deems this
level to be the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are largely independent of the cash inflow from
other assets or groups of assets. As of December 31, 2023, all cash-generating units were assessed for indicators of potential impairment.
As of December 31,
2023, we identified indicators of potential impairment in our Puertollano, Sabon, Boo, Selma and Polokwane CGUs.
The recoverable
amount for the Puertollano CGU with a carrying value of $30,039 thousand was determined based on the estimated fair value less cost of
disposal of real estate based on recent comparable transactions and industrial products based on the replacement cost method considering
their current state. If the fair value were to fall by 10%, there would still remain sufficient headroom in the CGU. No reasonably possible
changes in individual assumptions used in the valuation would result in a material impairment during the next financial year. However,
it is reasonably possible that, in aggregate with the Polokwane CGU as discussed below, different outcomes within the next financial
year could result in a material decrease in the aggregate carrying amount of the CGUs.
The recoverable
amounts for the Sabon, Boo, Selma and Polokwane CGUs were determined based on their respective values in use. As of December 31,
2023, the Company’s Sabon and Boo CGU recoverable values were not sensitive to changes in the underlying assumptions. The Company’s
Selma plant has been idled for the foreseeable future and thus the carrying value of its associated assets has been fully impaired based
on a negative estimated recoverable amount. For the Polokwane CGU, the significant assumptions used to estimate its value in use were
as follows: (i) pre-tax discount rate of 23.1%; (ii) EBITDA margin (EBITDA divided by sales) throughout the forecast and long-term
growth periods of between 3% and 27%; and (iii) long-term growth rate of 2.3%.
Sensitivity
to changes in assumptions
Changing management’s
assumptions could affect the evaluation of the value in use of our Polokwane cash-generating unit and, therefore, the impairment result.
As of December 31, 2023 there is $9,213 thousand in headroom between the carrying value of our Polokwane cash generating unit and
its recoverable value.
The following reasonably
possible changes to the assumptions used in the impairment test lead to the following changes in recoverable value, noting that sensitivities
in EBITDA could indicate a reduction in carrying value. All other sensitivities retain sufficient headroom:
| |
| | |
Excess of | | |
Sensitivity on | | |
Sensitivity on | | |
Sensitivity on | |
| |
| | |
recoverable | | |
discount rate | | |
long-term growth rate | | |
EBITDA | |
| |
Carrying | | |
value over | | |
Decrease | | |
Increase | | |
Decrease | | |
Increase | | |
Decrease | | |
Increase | |
| |
Value | | |
carrying vale | | |
by 10% | | |
by 10% | | |
by 10% | | |
by 10% | | |
by 10% | | |
by 10% | |
Polokwane | |
| 13,582 | | |
| 9,213 | | |
| 8,955 | | |
| (7,135 | ) | |
| 822 | | |
| (850 | ) | |
| (15,022 | ) | |
| 15,022 | |
The Company’s
approach to the determination of its discount and long-term growth rates are discussed in Note 7. For EBITDA margin, the Company determines
its projected sales and cost of sales through a combination of analysis of prior year actuals and budgeted pricing and volumes. Where
applicable, the Company relies on third party sources to derive key inputs. Internally, the Company reviews contracted amounts as well
as forecasts. Finally, corporate overheads are allocated using an internal key based on projected volumes.
The below table
details the Company’s impairment write downs/(reversals) as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively:
|
2023 | |
|
2022 | |
|
US$'000 | |
|
US$'000 | |
Puertollano |
| — | |
|
| 5,515 | |
Boo |
| 1,570 | |
|
| 11,559 | |
Monzon |
| — | |
|
| 5,915 | |
Selma |
| 21,008 | |
|
| — | |
Moi Rana |
| — | |
|
| 15,749 | |
Polokwane |
| — | |
|
| (5,017 | ) |
Thaba |
| — | |
|
| (2,750 | ) |
Chateau Feuillet |
| — | |
|
| 5,994 | |
Cee-Dumbria |
| 3,619 | |
|
| 20,034 | |
Others |
| (429 | ) |
|
| — | |
Total |
| 25,768 | |
|
| 56,999 | |
As of December 31,
2023, the accumulated impairment balance primarily relates to full impairments recorded in our Venezuela, Cee-Dumbria, Selma, Moi Rana,
Monzon and Boo cash-generating units, as well as approximately $56.1 million recorded in recent years for the Puertollano CGU.
As of December 31,
2022, assets related to Chateau Feuillet facility in France were transferred to asset held for sale. The assets were measured at the
lower of carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell, and were presented separately as an asset held for sale in the current position
of the financial statements. As fair value was lower than the carrying amount, the company recognized an impairment of $5,994 thousand.
As of December 31,
2023 and 2022, the Company has property, plant and equipment ($284,012 thousand in 2023 and $278,796 thousand in 2022) pledged as security
for debt instruments in Canada, France, Norway, Spain and U.S.A (see Note 18).
Commitments
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company has capital expenditure commitments totaling $16,019 thousand and $16,607 thousand, respectively, primarily related to improvement works at plants.
| 9. | Financial
assets and other receivables |
The company’s
financial assets and their classification under IFRS 9 are as follows:
|
| |
2023 classification | |
|
| |
Amortized cost | |
Fair value through profit
or loss - mandatorily measured | |
Fair value through other comprehensive income - designated | |
Total | |
|
| Note | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Other financial assets |
| 9.1 | |
| 12,992 | |
| 1,080 | |
| 5,722 | |
| 19,794 | |
Receivables from related parties |
| 23 | |
| 4,430 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 4,430 | |
Trade and other receivables |
| 9.2 | |
| 310,243 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 310,243 | |
Restricted cash and cash equivalents |
| | |
| 1,179 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 1,179 | |
Cash and cash equivalents |
| | |
| 136,470 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 136,470 | |
Total financial assets |
| | |
| 465,314 | |
| 1,080 | |
| 5,722 | |
| 472,116 | |
|
| |
2022 classification | |
|
| |
Amortized cost | |
Fair value
through profit
or loss -
mandatorily
measured | |
Fair value
through other
comprehensive
income -
designated | |
Total | |
|
| Note | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Other financial assets |
| 9.1 | |
| 13,253 | |
| 936 | |
| — | |
| 14,189 | |
Receivables from related parties |
| 23 | |
| 4,275 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 4,275 | |
Trade and other receivables |
| 9.2 | |
| 425,474 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 425,474 | |
Restricted cash and cash equivalents |
| | |
| 5,008 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 5,008 | |
Cash and cash equivalents |
| | |
| 317,935 | |
| — | |
| — | |
| 317,935 | |
Total financial assets |
| | |
| 765,945 | |
| 936 | |
| — | |
| 766,881 | |
Restrictions on the use of group
assets
As of year ended
December 31, 2023 and 2022, Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash comprise the following:
|
2023 | |
|
2022 | |
|
US$'000 | |
|
US$'000 | |
Cash and cash equivalents |
| 136,470 | |
|
| 317,935 | |
Non-Current restricted cash presented as Cash |
| — | |
|
| 2,133 | |
Current restricted cash presented as Cash |
| 1,179 | |
|
| 2,875 | |
Total |
| 137,649 | |
|
| 322,943 | |
As of December 31,
2023, the Company holds $1,179 thousand in current restricted cash associated with cash held explicitly to fund our Selma plant as part
of the New Markets Tax Credit Program (NMTC Program). The NMTC helps economically distressed communities attract private capital. The
Company intends to use the remaining restricted cash in early 2024.
The Company also
has certain restrictions in the partnerships with Dow as of December 31, 2023 and 2022.
| 9.1 | Other financial assets |
As of December 31,
2023, other financial assets comprise the following:
|
2023 | |
|
Non-Current | |
Current | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Other financial assets held with third parties: |
| | |
| | |
| | |
Other financial assets at amortized cost |
| 12,992 | |
| — | |
| 12,992 | |
Equity securities |
| 1,078 | |
| 2 | |
| 1,080 | |
Derivative financial instruments (Note 20) |
| 5,722 | |
| — | |
| 5,722 | |
Total |
| 19,792 | |
| 2 | |
| 19,794 | |
As of December 31,
2022, other financial assets comprise the following:
|
2022 | |
|
Non-Current | |
Current | |
Total | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Other financial assets held with third parties: |
| | |
| | |
| | |
Other financial assets at amortized cost |
| 13,253 | |
| — | |
| 13,253 | |
Equity securities |
| 933 | |
| 3 | |
| 936 | |
Total |
| 14,186 | |
| 3 | |
| 14,189 | |
Other financial
assets at amortized cost
Other financial
assets at amortized cost comprise the investment fund of $9,909 thousand in Selma Globe Investment Fund, LLC as a result of the NMTC
Program. The reactivation of the plant in Selma, Alabama, in 2022 resulted in us being granted with a $13,230 thousand allocation by
the end of fiscal year 2022 under the NMTC Program (See Note 16). This allocation was subscribed by Ferroglobe U.S.A Metallurgical, Inc.
(also “FG USA Metallurgical”, formerly Globe Metallurgical, Inc.) as owner of the plant and United Bank as investor
and beneficiary of the tax credit resulting from this grant.
Other financial
assets at amortized cost also comprise deposits given to the French government by Ferroglobe France (formerly Ferropem) ($3,024 thousand
in 2023 and $2,770 thousand in 2022), a Ferroglobe subsidiary, in respect of effort de construction. The law in France requires
employers and companies of a certain size to invest a portion of their budgets in the construction or renovation of housing (including
through direct investment, providing mortgages, and other) every year. In this case, the mandatory contributions are made in the form
of a loan, to be returned by the French government in twenty years.
The carrying amount
of other financial assets at amortized cost is considered to approximate their fair value.
| 9.2 | Trade
and other receivables |
Trade and other
receivables comprise the following at December 31:
|
2023 | |
2022 | |
|
US$'000 | |
US$'000 | |
Trade receivables |
| 223,236 | |
| 295,678 | |
Less – allowance for doubtful debts |
| (2,906 | ) |
| (1,187 | ) |
|
| 220,330 | |
| 294,491 | |
Tax receivables |
| 26,779 | |
| 36,852 | |
Government grant receivables |
| 62,417 | |
| 88,092 | |
Other receivables |
| 717 | |
| 6,039 | |
Total trade and other receivables |
| 310,243 | |
| 425,474 | |
The trade and other
receivables disclosed above are short-term in nature and therefore their carrying amount is considered to approximate their fair value.
The changes in
the allowance for doubtful debts during 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
|
Allowance | |
|
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, 2022 |
| 1,006 | |
Impairment losses recognized |
| 361 | |
Collection of previously written off balances |
| (124 | ) |
Exchange differences |
| (56 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2022 |
| 1,187 | |
Impairment losses recognized |
| 1,970 | |
Collection of previously written off balances |
| (300 | ) |
Exchange differences |
| 49 | |
Balance at December 31, 2023 |
| 2,906 | |
Factoring
of trade receivables
In October 2020,
the Company signed a factoring agreement with a financial institution to anticipate the collection of receivables issued by the Company’s
European subsidiaries with the following main terms:
| · | maximum
cash consideration advanced is up to €60.0 million; |
| · | overcollateralization
of 10% of accounts receivable as guarantee provided to the Agent until payment has been satisfied; |
| · | a
0.18% to 0.25% fee charges on total invoices and credit notes sold to the Agent; and |
| · | a
financing commission set at IBOR plus 1% charged on the drawdowns; |
Other conditions
are set in relation to credit insurance policy which has been structured in an excess of loss policy where the first €5,000 thousand
of bad debt losses are not covered by the insurance provider. The Company has assumed the cash collateralization for the entire excess
of loss, as agreed in contractual terms.
For the year ended
December 31, 2023, the factoring agreement provided upfront cash consideration of $431,274 thousand ($895,264 thousand in 2022).
The Company has repaid $454,576 thousand ($918,070 thousand in 2022), recording as of December 31, 2023, an on-balance sheet bank
borrowing debt of $30,683 thousand (2022: $60,976 thousand). See Note 16.
As of December 31,
2023, the Company held $35,504 thousand of trade and other receivables recognized in the consolidated statements of financial position
in respect of factoring agreements ($80,112 thousand at December 31, 2022). Finance costs incurred during the year ended December 31,
2023, amounted to $2,568 thousand ($3,426 thousand at December 31, 2022) recognized in finance costs in the consolidated income
statements.
The Company has
assessed whether it has transferred substantially all risks and rewards, continuing to be exposed to the variable returns from its involvement
in the factoring agreement as it is exposed to credit risk, so the conclusion is that the derecognition criteria is not met and therefore,
the account receivables sold are not derecognized from the balance sheet and an obligation is recognized as bank borrowings for the amount
of cash advanced by the Leasing and Factoring Agent. The amount repayable under the factoring agreements is presented as on-balance sheet
factoring and the debt assigned to factoring is shown as bank borrowings.
Other agreements
In February 2022
the company signed a without recourse factoring agreement with Bankinter offers the possibility to sell the receivables corresponding
to 11 pre-approved customers by the bank and its credit insurer. Receivables are pre-financed at 100% of their face value.
The
main characteristics of this program are the following:
| ● | maximum
cash consideration advanced is up to €30,000 thousand; |
| ● | a
0.25% fee of the receivables face values; |
| ● | a
cost of financing at Euribor 12-month plus 1%; |
| ● | a
closing fee of 0.25% of the financing; and |
| ● | an
annual renewal fee of 0.25% of the financing. |
The
Company has concluded that we have not retained nor transferred substantially all of the risks and rewards but have transferred control
of the receivables, and therefore the derecognition criteria is met and the account receivables sold have been derecognized from the
balance sheet.
Government
grants receivables
The
Company has been awarded a compensation for the indirect carbon dioxide emissions costs included in its energy bills in France, Spain
and Norway.
For
the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized $84,047 thousand of income (2022: $72,251 thousand) related to these compensations.
The amount was deducted against the related expense in “Raw Materials and energy consumption for production” in the consolidated
income statements. The Company has no unfulfilled conditions in relation to government grants, but certain grants would be repayable
if the Company were to substantially curtail production or employment at certain plants.
Inventories
comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Finished
goods | |
| 162,962 | | |
| 169,956 | |
Raw
materials in progress and industrial supplies | |
| 182,612 | | |
| 266,348 | |
Other
inventories | |
| 38,267 | | |
| 44,257 | |
Advances
to suppliers | |
| — | | |
| 19,519 | |
Total | |
| 383,841 | | |
| 500,080 | |
For
the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized an expense for the write-down of inventory to net realizable value of $13,687
thousand ($29,865 thousand in 2022), of which $11,495 related to finished goods ($17,523 thousand in 2022) and $2,192 to raw material
($12,342 thousand in 2022). The Company records expense for the write-down of inventories to “Raw Materials and energy consumption
for production” in the consolidated income statements. See Note 4.8.
As
of December 31, 2023 and 2022, inventories in the Company’s subsidiaries in the United States, Canada, Norway, France and
Spain ($314,681 thousand in 2023 and $435,347 thousand in 2022) were pledged forming part of the collateral for debt instruments, see
Note 18.
Other
assets comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Non- | | |
| | |
| | |
Non- | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | |
Guarantees
and deposits | |
| 21,530 | | |
| 420 | | |
| 21,950 | | |
| 17,492 | | |
| 293 | | |
| 17,785 | |
Prepayments
and accrued income | |
| 11 | | |
| 5,694 | | |
| 5,705 | | |
| 37 | | |
| 5,925 | | |
| 5,962 | |
Advances
to suppliers | |
| — | | |
| 11,296 | | |
| 11,296 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Other
assets | |
| 615 | | |
| 169,067 | | |
| 169,682 | | |
| 689 | | |
| 24,390 | | |
| 25,079 | |
Total | |
| 22,156 | | |
| 186,477 | | |
| 208,633 | | |
| 18,218 | | |
| 30,608 | | |
| 48,826 | |
As
of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the amount within “Guarantees and deposits given” is mainly due to (i) a
deposit made during 2021 with TAC (Tennessee Valley Authority) which supplies power to Ferroglobe USA Metals, LLC. (formerly Core Metals
Group, LLC), (ii) the letter of credits related to the insurance company in “Global Specialty Metals, Inc” and
(iii) deposits linked to factoring agreements.
As
of December 31, 2023, the increase in “other assets” mainly relates to the Company’s benefit from the French
regulated access to historic nuclear energy program (ARENH) and the additional agreement with EDF in which we have agreed different electricity
prices throughout the year based on demand amounting to $164,259 thousand. The ARENH is a mechanism established which allows energy suppliers
to obtain energy under favorable conditions set by the public authorities. The Company received the $164,259 thousand in the first quarter
of 2024. The Company deducted this amount from its related expense in “Raw Materials and energy consumption for production”
in the consolidated income statements (See Note 27.2).
In
2022, a provision of $18,000 thousand was recognized at Ferroglobe U.S.A Metallurgical, Inc. (formerly Globe Metallurgical Inc.)
with respect to civil lawsuits arising out of a 2018 incident at its Selma, Alabama facility in which two employees were injured and
one of whom later died. See Note 15. At the time, Ferroglobe U.S.A Metallurgical, Inc. also recorded an expected reimbursement
from the Company’s insurer as “other assets” for the same amount. In Q1 2023, the Company settled these lawsuits fully.
Share
capital
Ordinary
shares are classified in equity in the consolidated statements of financial position. Each time a share premium is paid to the Company
for an issued share, the respective share premium is allocated to the share premium account.
The
Company has not distributed dividends to shareholders of the Parent nor engaged in a formal buyback program as of December 31, 2023.
One of the companies in partnership with a non-controlling interest, WVA Manufacturing, LLC, distributed earnings to the non-controlling
interest totaling $1,470 and $3,430 thousand, classified as cash flow from operating activities, for the years ended December 31,
2023 and 2022, respectively.
In
October 2021, the Company entered into an equity distribution agreement (the “Equity Distribution Agreement”) with B.
Riley Securities, Inc. and Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. relating to the Company’s ordinary shares, by which the Company
may offer and sell ordinary shares having an aggregate offering price of up to $100,000,000 from time to time through B. Riley Securities, Inc.
and Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. as our sales agents. The company has cumulatively sold 186,053 ordinary shares with net proceeds
of $1.4 million through December 31 2023).
As
of December 31, 2023, there were 188,882,316 ordinary shares in issue with a par value of $0.01, for a total issued share capital
of $1,962 thousand, (2022: 188,882,316 ordinary shares in issue with a par value of $0.01, for a total issued share capital of $1,962
thousand). The Company held 1,440,787 ordinary shares in treasury (2022: 1,448,773). In addition to the issued ordinary shares, the Company
has authorized but unissued shares of 17,425,391 as of December 31, 2023.
As
of December 31, 2023, the Company’s largest shareholders are as follows:
| |
Number of Shares | | |
Percentage of | |
Name | |
Beneficially Owned | | |
Outstanding Shares (*) | |
Grupo Villar Mir, S.A.U. | |
| 75,265,434 | | |
| 40.1 | % |
Cooper Creek Partners Management LLC | |
| 12,986,178 | | |
| 6.9 | % |
Wolf Hill Capital Management, L.P. | |
| 10,313,097 | | |
| 5.5 | % |
Others | |
| 90,317,607 | | |
| 47.5 | % |
Shares in Treasury | |
| (1,440,787 | ) | |
| | |
Total ordinary shares outstanding | |
| 187,441,529 | | |
| 100.0 | % |
(*) 187,441,529 ordinary shares were outstanding at 31 December 2023, comprising 188,882,316 shares in issue less 1,440,787 shares held in treasury
Valuation
adjustments
Valuation
adjustments comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Actuarial gains | |
| 5,292 | | |
| 12,817 | |
Hedging instruments | |
| 2,329 | | |
| — | |
Deferred tax income (loss) (See Note 24) | |
| 733 | | |
| (2,082 | ) |
Total | |
| 8,354 | | |
| 10,735 | |
Changes
in actuarial gain and losses are due to remeasurements of the net defined benefit liability, see Note 15.
Capital
management
The
Company’s primary objective is to maintain a balanced and sustainable capital structure through the industry’s economic cycles,
while keeping the cost of capital at competitive levels so as to fund the Company’s growth. The main sources of financing are as
follows:
| 1. | cash
flows from operations; |
| 2. | bank
borrowings, including asset-based lending facility; |
| 3. | debt
instruments, including the Reinstated Senior Notes due 2025; and |
| 4. | factoring
and forfaiting of receivables. |
Non-controlling
interests
The
changes in non-controlling interests in the consolidated statements of financial position as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 were
as follows:
| |
Balance | |
| |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, 2022 | |
| 106,053 | |
Profit for the year | |
| 3,514 | |
Dividends paid | |
| (3,430 | ) |
Translation differences | |
| (1,873 | ) |
Other | |
| 2,487 | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| 106,751 | |
Profit for the year | |
| 15,816 | |
Dividends paid | |
| (1,470 | ) |
Translation differences | |
| 906 | |
Other | |
| (178 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| 121,825 | |
WVA
Manufacturing, LLC (WVA) was formed on October 28, 2009 as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Globe. On November 5, 2009, Globe
sold a 49% membership interest in WVA to Dow Corning Corporation (Dow), an unrelated third party. As part of the sale, the companies
established an operating and output and supply agreement. The output and supply agreement states that of the silicon metal produced by
WVA, 49% will be sold to Dow and 51% to Ferroglobe USA (formerly Globe), which represents each member’s ownership interest, at
a price equal to WVA’s actual production cost plus $100 per metric ton. The agreement will automatically terminate upon the dissolution
or liquidation of WVA in accordance with the partnership agreement between Ferroglobe USA (Globe) and Dow. As of December 31, 2023
and 2022, the balance of non-controlling interest related to WVA was $68,020 thousand and $62,630 thousand, respectively.
Quebec
Silicon Limited Partnership (QSLP), formed under the laws of the Province of Québec on August 20, 2010, is managed by its
general partner, Quebec Silicon General Partner Inc., which is 51% property of Globe. QSLP owns and operates the silicon metal operations
in Bécancour, Québec. QSLP’s production output is subject to a supply agreement, which sells 51% of the production
output to Ferroglobe USA (Globe) and 49% to Dow. These sales align with each member’s ownership interest, at a price equal to QSLP’s
actual production cost plus 250 Canadian dollars per metric ton. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the balance of non-controlling
interest related to QSLP was $50,786 thousand and $39,023 thousand, respectively.
Despite
the fact that we have the majority holding in each entity, we have exercised judgement in assessing whether we control the entities.
The judgement is based on a detailed review of the shareholder and partnership agreements between us and Dow and the output and supply
agreements, the composition of the Boards and Operating Committees of the entities together with voting rights and protocols, how decisions
over the relevant activities are made in the context of the contractual arrangements and whether certain rights granted to Dow are substantive
or protective in nature. On balance, we have concluded that we have control of these entities. Consequently, we continue to consolidate
the results and net assets of these entities and show Dow’s interests as a non-controlling interest in the consolidated financial
statements.
The
following table summarizes the information relating to each of these subsidiaries, before any intra-group eliminations:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
WVA | | |
QSLP | | |
WVA | | |
QSLP | | |
WVA | | |
QSLP | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Statements of Financial Position | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Non-current assets | |
87,698 | | |
39,543 | | |
78,992 | | |
64,291 | | |
83,176 | | |
63,088 | |
Current assets | |
71,329 | | |
68,073 | | |
86,847 | | |
53,830 | | |
73,883 | | |
46,186 | |
Non-current liabilities | |
6,660 | | |
11,908 | | |
7,108 | | |
18,719 | | |
8,654 | | |
19,005 | |
Current liabilities | |
26,770 | | |
26,378 | | |
53,680 | | |
21,201 | | |
43,577 | | |
14,671 | |
Income Statements | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Sales | |
211,118 | | |
148,313 | | |
187,854 | | |
102,865 | | |
165,660 | | |
89,446 | |
Operating profit | |
13,513 | | |
22,151 | | |
8,306 | | |
2,897 | | |
(4,871 | ) | |
2,093 | |
Profit before taxes | |
13,513 | | |
21,561 | | |
8,155 | | |
2,195 | | |
(5,062 | ) | |
1,237 | |
Net (loss) income | |
5,466 | | |
10,679 | | |
3,075 | | |
1,015 | | |
(3,362 | ) | |
613 | |
Cash Flow Statements | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| | |
| |
Cash flows from operating activities | |
18,712 | | |
31,000 | | |
(5,934 | ) | |
(10,037 | ) | |
11,981 | | |
8,997 | |
Cash flows from investing activities | |
(13,107 | ) | |
(6,725 | ) | |
(8,304 | ) | |
(1,525 | ) | |
(3,893 | ) | |
(4,956 | ) |
Cash flows from financing activities | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
905 | | |
— | | |
— | |
Exchange differences on cash and cash equivalents in foreign currencies | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
10 | | |
— | | |
31 | |
Beginning balance of cash and cash equivalents | |
21,122 | | |
5,949 | | |
35,360 | | |
16,596 | | |
27,272 | | |
12,524 | |
Ending balance of cash and cash equivalents | |
26,727 | | |
30,224 | | |
21,122 | | |
5,949 | | |
35,360 | | |
16,596 | |
| 13. | Earnings
(loss) per ordinary share |
Basic
earnings (loss) per ordinary share are calculated by dividing the consolidated profit (loss) for the year attributable to the Parent
by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the year, excluding the average number of treasury shares held
in the year. Dilutive earnings (loss) per share assumes the exercise of stock options, provided that the effect is dilutive.
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
Basic profit (loss) per share (EPS) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Numerator: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Profit (Loss) for the year attributable to the Parent | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | | |
| (110,624 | ) |
Denominator: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding to equity holders | |
| 187,872,191 | | |
| 187,815,672 | | |
| 176,508,144 | |
Basic profit (loss) for the period attributable to equity holders | |
| 0.44 | | |
| 2.34 | | |
| (0.63 | ) |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Diluted profit (loss) per share (EPS) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Numerator: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Profit (Loss) for the year attributable to the Parent | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | | |
| (110,624 | ) |
Denominator: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding to equity holders | |
| 187,872,191 | | |
| 187,815,672 | | |
| 176,508,144 | |
Effect of dilutive securities from equity incentive plans | |
| 2,417,617 | | |
| 1,809,523 | | |
| — | |
Weighted-average number of shares outstanding - diluted to equity holders | |
| 190,289,808 | | |
| 189,625,195 | | |
| 176,508,144 | |
Diluted profit (loss) for the period attributable to equity holders | |
| 0.43 | | |
| 2.32 | | |
| (0.63 | ) |
In
periods for which we have a loss, basic net loss per share is the same as diluted net loss per share. We have excluded from our calculation
of diluted loss per share all potentially dilutive in-the-money equity awards, which would have been anti-dilutive. The weighted-average
number of potentially dilutive securities that were not included in the diluted per share calculations because they would be anti-dilutive
were as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
Equity based awards issued and outstanding (in-the-money) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 4,359,436 | |
No
potential ordinary shares were excluded from the calculation of diluted earnings (loss) per ordinary share because their effect would
be anti-dilutive in 2023 and 2022. Potential ordinary shares of 4,359,436 were excluded from the calculation in 2021 for this reason.
Deferred
income comprises the following as at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Carbon dioxide emissions allowances | |
| 24,965 | | |
| — | |
Government grants | |
| 2,015 | | |
| 3,842 | |
Total | |
| 26,980 | | |
| 3,842 | |
Carbon
dioxide emission allowances arise from the difference between the fair value of the allowances granted and the nominal amount paid. The
deferred income is recognized as “other operating income” on a systematic basis on the proportion of the carbon dioxide emitted
over total carbon dioxide expected to be emitted for the compliance period on the consolidated income statements (see Note 27.3).
As of December 2023, the deferred income related to Carbon dioxide emission allowances increased as actual emissions were lower
than the allowance received.
Government
grants are recognized on a systematic basis over the periods in which the Company expects to recognize the related expenses for which
the grants are intended to compensate.
Provisions
comprise the following as of December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Non- Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Non- Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Environmental provision | |
174 | | |
1,909 | | |
2,083 | | |
168 | | |
1,396 | | |
1,564 | |
Provisions for litigation | |
— | | |
7,913 | | |
7,913 | | |
— | | |
23,142 | | |
23,142 | |
Provisions for third-party liability | |
10,596 | | |
— | | |
10,596 | | |
5,960 | | |
— | | |
5,960 | |
Provisions for Carbon dioxide emissions allowances | |
— | | |
90,471 | | |
90,471 | | |
7,956 | | |
94,800 | | |
102,756 | |
Provision for restructuring cost | |
— | | |
15,243 | | |
15,243 | | |
— | | |
21,539 | | |
21,539 | |
Other provisions | |
9,200 | | |
7,221 | | |
16,421 | | |
8,040 | | |
4,450 | | |
12,490 | |
Total | |
19,970 | | |
122,757 | | |
142,727 | | |
22,124 | | |
145,327 | | |
167,451 | |
The
changes in the various line items of provisions in 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| |
| | |
Provisions for | | |
Provisions for | | |
Provisions for | | |
Provisions for | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Environmental | | |
Litigation | | |
Third | | |
Carbon
Dioxide Emissions | | |
Restructuring | | |
Other | | |
| |
| |
Provision | | |
in Progress | | |
Party Liability | | |
Allowances | | |
Cost | | |
Provisions | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at
January 1, 2022 | |
3,695 | | |
1,952 | | |
8,905 | | |
110,246 | | |
22,350 | | |
10,017 | | |
157,165 | |
Charges for the year | |
13 | | |
22,134 | | |
454 | | |
114,185 | | |
9,092 | | |
7,022 | | |
152,900 | |
Provisions reversed with a credit
to income | |
— | | |
(48 | ) | |
— | | |
(2,435 | ) | |
(591 | ) | |
(890 | ) | |
(3,964 | ) |
Amounts used | |
(345 | ) | |
(798 | ) | |
(2,863 | ) | |
(112,485 | ) | |
(8,012 | ) | |
(2,516 | ) | |
(127,019 | ) |
Transfers from/(to) other accounts | |
(1,510 | ) | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
(666 | ) | |
(2,176 | ) |
Exchange differences and others | |
(289 | ) | |
(98 | ) | |
(536 | ) | |
(6,755 | ) | |
(1,300 | ) | |
(477 | ) | |
(9,455 | ) |
Balance at December 31,
2022 | |
1,564 | | |
23,142 | | |
5,960 | | |
102,756 | | |
21,539 | | |
12,490 | | |
167,451 | |
Charges for the year | |
1,292 | | |
7,142 | | |
267 | | |
81,424 | | |
— | | |
6,914 | | |
97,039 | |
Provisions reversed with a credit
to income | |
— | | |
(487 | ) | |
— | | |
(3,036 | ) | |
— | | |
(2,850 | ) | |
(6,373 | ) |
Amounts used | |
(727 | ) | |
(22,029 | ) | |
(215 | ) | |
(93,471 | ) | |
(6,977 | ) | |
(118 | ) | |
(123,537 | ) |
Remeasurement through other comprehensive
income (loss) | |
— | | |
— | | |
4,367 | | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
4,367 | |
Exchange differences and others | |
(46 | ) | |
145 | | |
217 | | |
2,798 | | |
681 | | |
(15 | ) | |
3,780 | |
Balance at December 31,
2023 | |
2,083 | | |
7,913 | | |
10,596 | | |
90,471 | | |
15,243 | | |
16,421 | | |
142,727 | |
Environmental
provision
Environmental
provisions related to $174 thousand of non-current environmental rehabilitation obligations as of December 31, 2023 (2022: $168
thousand) and $1,909 thousand of current environmental rehabilitation obligations as of December 31, 2023 (2022: $1,396 thousand).
A majority of these provisions relates to residues disposal, such as the remediation costs required to comply with government regulations.
Provisions
for litigation in progress
The
timing and amounts potential liabilities arising from such exposures is uncertain. The provision reflects the Company’s best estimate
of the expenditure required to meet resulting obligations.
Certain
employees of Ferroglobe France (formerly FerroPem, SAS and then known as Pechiney Electrometallurgie, S.A), may have been exposed to
asbestos at its plants in France in the decades prior to our acquisition. The Company has recognized a provision of $611 thousand during
the year ended December 31, 2023 as part of the current portion of Provisions for litigation (2022: $955 thousand). See Note 26
for further information.
In
2022, Ferroglobe France sent dismissal letters to several employees of Château-Feuillet. As of December 31, 2023, numerous
claims have been received from the affected individuals challenging the terminations and seeking substantial financial compensation.
The Company has recorded a provision of $5,574 thousand for these claims.
In
2022, a provision of $18,000 thousand was recognized at Ferroglobe USA Metallurgical Inc (formerly Globe Metallurgical Inc.) with respect
to civil lawsuits arising out of a 2018 incident at its Selma, Alabama, facility in which two employees were injured and one of whom
later died. At the time, Ferroglobe USA Metallurgical Inc also recorded an expected reimbursement from the Company’s insurer as
other assets for the same amount (see Note 11). In the first quarter of 2023, the Company reached full and final settlements of
the lawsuits and all amounts were paid directly by the insurer.
Provisions
for third-party liability
Provisions
for third-party liability presented as non-current obligations of $10,596 thousand relate to health costs for retired employees (2022:
$5,960 thousand) in the Company’s subsidiary, Ferroglobe France.
Provisions
for carbon dioxide emissions allowances
As
of December 31, 2023 the provision for carbon dioxide emission allowances amounting to $90,471 thousand (2022: $102,756 thousand)
corresponds to the obligation to deliver the carbon dioxide allowances at the end of the compliance period.
Provisions
for restructuring costs
As
of December 31, 2023, the restructuring provision corresponds to the restructuring process in Château-Feuillet facility in
France amounting to $15,243 thousand (2022: $21,539 thousand).
Other
provisions
Included in other provisions are current obligations arising from past actions that involve a probable outflow
of resources that can be reliably estimated. Other provisions include taxes of $5,215 thousand (2022: $1,998 thousand) and $8,285 thousand
related to the accrued estimated costs of reclaiming the land after it has been mined for gravel or coal (2022: $7,551 thousand).
15.1
Provisions for pensions
France
The
Company maintains a pension plan covering employees of Ferroglobe France, which is accounted for as a defined benefit plan.
These
relate to various obligations assumed by our French subsidiaries with various groups of employees related to long-service benefits, medical
insurance supplements and retirement obligations, all of which are defined unfunded benefit obligations, whose changes in 2023, 2022
and 2021 were as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Obligations at the beginning of year | |
| 16,338 | | |
| 25,950 | | |
| 34,496 | |
Service cost | |
| 733 | | |
| (1,159 | ) | |
| 1,082 | |
Borrowing costs | |
| 596 | | |
| 310 | | |
| 212 | |
Actuarial differences | |
| 2,039 | | |
| (4,821 | ) | |
| (3,003 | ) |
Benefits paid | |
| (1,200 | ) | |
| (1,181 | ) | |
| (995 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| 616 | | |
| (1,253 | ) | |
| (2,412 | ) |
Others | |
| — | | |
| (1,508 | ) | |
| (3,430 | ) |
Obligations at the end of year | |
| 19,122 | | |
| 16,338 | | |
| 25,950 | |
At
December 31, 2023 and 2022 the effect of a 1% change in discount rate would have resulted in a change to the provision of $2,216
thousand and $1,695 thousand, respectively.
The
weighted average duration of defined benefit obligation as of December 31, 2023 is 14.2 years (14.9 years in 2022).
Canada
Defined
Benefit Retirement and Post-retirement Plans
Quebec
Silicon Limited partnership (“QSLP”) sponsors two defined benefit pension plans and postretirement benefit plans for certain
employees, based on length of service and remuneration. Post-retirement benefits consist of a group insurance plan covering plan members
for life insurance, hospital, medical, and dental benefits. The defined benefit pension plans were closed to new participants effective
October 1, 2010. Contributions from participants to the pension plan for union employees ceased on December 31, 2023, and pension
benefit accruals under that plan are calculated based on a reduced rate for service after that date. On December 27, 2013, the Communications,
Energy and Paper Workers Union of Canada (“CEP”) ratified a new collective bargaining agreement, which resulted in a curtailment
pertaining to the closure of the postretirement benefit plan for union employees retiring after January 31, 2016. The Company’s
funding policy has been to fund the pension plans in accordance with the minimum funding requirements of the applicable pension legislation
and professional actuarial standards.
The
net provision for the defined benefit plan is the present value of the defined benefit obligation at the balance sheet date minus the
fair value of plan assets. Estimates are used in determining the assumptions incorporated in the calculation of the pension obligations,
which is supported by input from independent actuaries. The defined benefit obligation is calculated annually with the assistance of
an independent actuary using the projected unit credit method, which reflects services rendered by employees to the date of valuation,
incorporates assumptions concerning employees’ projected salaries and pension increases as well as discount rates of high quality
corporate bonds that have terms to maturity approximating the terms of the related liability.
To
the extent that the fair value of the plan assets is greater than the present value of the defined benefit obligation as calculated by
our independent actuary, the Company accounts for the effect of the asset ceiling test under IAS 19.
Re-measurements
of the net defined benefit liability, which comprise actuarial gains and losses and the return on plan assets (excluding interest) are
recognized immediately in the consolidated statements of other comprehensive income (loss). Past service costs, including curtailment
gains or losses, are recognized immediately in our consolidated income statements within operating profit (loss). Settlement gains or
losses are recognized within operating (loss) profit in our consolidated income statements.
Benefit
Obligations and Funded Status – The following provides a reconciliation of the benefit obligations, plan assets and funded
status of the Canadian plans as of December 31, 2023 and 2022:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Canada | | |
Canada | |
| |
| | |
Post- | | |
| | |
| | |
Post- | | |
| |
| |
Pension | | |
retirement | | |
| | |
Pension | | |
retirement | | |
| |
| |
Plans | | |
Plans | | |
Total | | |
Plans | | |
Plans | | |
Total | |
| |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | | |
| US$'000 | |
Benefit obligation | |
| 20,196 | | |
| 5,742 | | |
| 25,938 | | |
| 18,266 | | |
| 5,497 | | |
| 23,763 | |
Fair value of plan assets | |
| (19,231 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (19,231 | ) | |
| (17,777 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (17,777 | ) |
Provision for pensions | |
| 965 | | |
| 5,742 | | |
| 6,707 | | |
| 489 | | |
| 5,497 | | |
| 5,986 | |
All
Canadian pension and post-retirement plans are underfunded. At December 31, 2023 and 2022, the accumulated benefit obligation was
$20,196 thousand and $18,266 thousand for the defined pension plan and $5,742 thousand and $5,497 thousand for the post-retirement plans,
respectively.
The
assumptions used to determine benefit obligations as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 for the Canadian plans are as follows:
| |
Canada - 2023 | |
Canada - 2022 |
| |
Pension | |
Postretirement | |
Pension | |
Postretirement |
| |
Plan | |
Plan | |
Plan | |
Plan |
Salary increase | |
2.75% - 3.00% | |
N/A | |
2.75% - 3.00% | |
N/A |
Discount rate | |
4.65% | |
4.65% | |
5.25% | |
5.25% |
Mortality | |
CPM2014-Private Scale CPM-B | |
CPM2014-Private Scale CPM-B | |
CPM2014-Private Scale CPM-B | |
CPM2014-Private Scale CPM-B |
Retirement age | |
58-60 | |
58-60 | |
58-60 | |
58-60 |
The
discount rate used in calculating the present value of our pension plan obligations is developed based on the BPS&M Pension Discount
Curve for 2023 and 2022 and the Mercer Proprietary Yield Curve for 2023 and 2022 for QSLP Pension and post-retirement benefit plans and
the expected cash flows of the benefit payments.
The Company expects
to make discretionary contributions of $601 thousand to the defined benefit pension and post-retirement plans for the year ending
December 31, 2024.
The pension plans
exposes the Company to the following risks:
| (i) | Investment
risk: The defined benefit obligation is calculated using a discount rate. If
the return on plan assets is below this rate, a plan deficit occurs. |
| (ii) | Interest
rate risk: Variation in bond rates will affect the value of the defined benefit obligation. |
| (iii) | Inflation
risk: The defined benefit obligation is calculated assuming a certain level of inflation.
An actual inflation higher than expected will have the effect of increasing the value of
the defined benefit obligation. |
The accumulated
non-pension post-retirement benefit obligation has been determined by application of the provisions of the Company’s health care
and life insurance plans including established maximums, relevant actuarial assumptions and health care cost trend rates projected at
5.0% for 2023 and decreasing to an ultimate rate of 4.0% in fiscal 2040. As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the effect of a 1% increase
on the health care cost trend rate on the non-pension post-retirement benefit obligation is $926 thousand and $848 thousand, respectively.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022 the effect of a 1% decrease in health care cost trend rate on the non-pension post-retirement benefit
obligation is ($747) thousand and ($689) thousand.
The weighted average
duration of defined benefit obligation as of December 31, 2023 is 12.46 years (12.42 years in 2022).
The changes to
these obligations in the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Canada | | |
Canada | |
| |
Pension | | |
Post-retirement | | |
| | |
Pension | | |
Post-retirement | | |
| |
| |
Plans | | |
Plans | | |
Total | | |
Plans | | |
Plans | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Obligations
at the beginning of year | |
| 18,266 | | |
| 5,497 | | |
| 23,763 | | |
| 25,349 | | |
| 8,569 | | |
| 33,918 | |
Service cost | |
| 110 | | |
| 205 | | |
| 315 | | |
| 162 | | |
| 301 | | |
| 463 | |
Borrowing cost | |
| 943 | | |
| 287 | | |
| 1,230 | | |
| 773 | | |
| 271 | | |
| 1,044 | |
Actuarial differences | |
| 1,449 | | |
| (185 | ) | |
| 1,264 | | |
| (5,774 | ) | |
| (3,040 | ) | |
| (8,814 | ) |
Benefits paid | |
| (985 | ) | |
| (183 | ) | |
| (1,168 | ) | |
| (870 | ) | |
| (162 | ) | |
| (1,032 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| 413 | | |
| 121 | | |
| 534 | | |
| (1,374 | ) | |
| (442 | ) | |
| (1,816 | ) |
Obligations
at the end of year | |
| 20,196 | | |
| 5,742 | | |
| 25,938 | | |
| 18,266 | | |
| 5,497 | | |
| 23,763 | |
The plan assets
of the defined benefit and retirement and post-retirement plans in Canada are comprised of assets that have quoted market prices in an
active market. The breakdown as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 of the assets by class are:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Cash | |
| — | % | |
| — | % |
Equity Mutual Funds | |
| 30 | % | |
| 31 | % |
Fixed Income Securities | |
| 17 | % | |
| 14 | % |
Assets
held by insurance company | |
| 53 | % | |
| 55 | % |
Total | |
| 100 | % | |
| 100 | % |
For the years ended
December 31, 2023 and 2022, the changes in plan assets were as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Fair value
of plan assets at the beginning of the year | |
| 17,777 | | |
| 22,417 | |
Interest income on assets | |
| 927 | | |
| 690 | |
Benefits paid | |
| (985 | ) | |
| (870 | ) |
Actuarial return on plan assets | |
| 803 | | |
| (3,496 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| 397 | | |
| (1,269 | ) |
Other | |
| 312 | | |
| 305 | |
Fair
value of plan assets at the end of the year | |
| 19,231 | | |
| 17,777 | |
South
Africa and Venezuela
The
Company also maintains defined benefit plans in South Africa and Venezuela which were not material to the Company for the years ended
December 31, 2023 and 2022, respectively.
16. Bank borrowings
Bank borrowings
comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | |
| |
| | |
Non-Current | | |
Current | | |
| |
| |
Limit | | |
Amount | | |
Amount | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Borrowings carried at amortized
cost: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Credit facilities | |
| 100,000 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Borrowings from receivable factoring
facility (Note 9) | |
| 66,300 | | |
| — | | |
| 30,683 | | |
| 30,683 | |
Other loans | |
| — | | |
| 14,913 | | |
| 952 | | |
| 15,865 | |
Total | |
| | | |
| 14,913 | | |
| 31,635 | | |
| 46,548 | |
| |
2022 | |
| |
| | |
Non-Current | | |
Current | | |
| |
| |
Limit | | |
Amount | | |
Amount | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Borrowings carried at amortized
cost: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Credit facilities | |
| 100,000 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Borrowings from receivable factoring
facility (Note 9) | |
| 95,994 | | |
| — | | |
| 60,976 | | |
| 60,976 | |
Other loans | |
| — | | |
| 15,774 | | |
| 1,083 | | |
| 16,857 | |
Total | |
| | | |
| 15,774 | | |
| 62,059 | | |
| 77,833 | |
In
June 2022, a Company subsidiary entered into a five-year, $100 million asset-based revolving
credit facility (the “ABL Revolver”), with the Bank of Montreal as lender and agent. The maximum amount available under the
ABL Revolver is subject to a borrowing base test comprising North American inventory and accounts receivable. The revolver bears interest
at SOFR plus a spread of between 150/175 basis points depending on levels of utilization.
As of December 31,
2023 and 2022, the ABL Revolver remains undrawn, respectively.
Under the ABL credit
agreement, the borrowers commit to respect usual affirmative covenants, among others communicating any default or event of default, a
change of control, the creation of acquisition of subsidiaries, a casualty or damage to any material used as collateral, maintenance
of insurance, compliance with ERISA and the Canadian Pension Laws, and compliance with environmental laws. The borrowers also commit
not to create or incur any indebtedness, capital leases in excess of $7.5 million, create liens, merge, dissolve, divide any borrowers,
change the nature of the business, pay dividends, repay indebtedness for the account of holder of Equity Interests of any Loan Party
or its affiliates, maintain a financial covenant consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio to be less than 1.00 to 1.00.
Borrowings from
receivable factoring facility
In 2020, the Company
signed a factoring agreement with a financial institution, to anticipate the collection of receivables issued by the Company’s
European entities. See Note 9 for further details.
Other Loans
French
Loan: In 2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with BNP Paribas to borrow
an aggregate principal amount, interest-free, of €4.3 million ($5.3 million), to finance Company’s activities in France. The
French government guaranteed the loan in line with special measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The loan is to be repaid
by 2026. The Company is liable for a fee of 0.5% based on the total borrowed capital. The balance as of December 31, 2023 is $2,635
thousand ($3,456 thousand as of December 31, 2022).
The fair value
of this loan as of December 31, 2023, based on discounted cash flows at a market interest rate (Level 2), amounts to $2,486 thousand.
New
Market Tax Credit Structure: In June 2022, the Company, through one of its subsidiaries,
and United Bank (“Investor”) invested through the New Markets Tax Credit (“NMTC”) program in the US to reactivate
the Company’s plant in Selma, Alabama. The reactivation of the plant in Selma, Alabama, in 2022 resulted in us being granted with
a $13,230 thousand allocation by the end of fiscal year 2022 under the NMTC Program.
Foreign currency
exposure of bank borrowings
The breakdown by
currency of bank borrowings consist of the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | |
| |
Non-Current | | |
Current | | |
| |
| |
Principal | | |
Principal | | |
| |
| |
Amount | | |
Amount | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Borrowings in USD | |
| 13,230 | | |
| — | | |
| 13,230 | |
Borrowings
in EUR | |
| 1,683 | | |
| 31,635 | | |
| 33,318 | |
Total | |
| 14,913 | | |
| 31,635 | | |
| 46,548 | |
| |
2022 | |
| |
Non-Current | | |
Current | | |
| |
| |
Principal | | |
Principal | | |
| |
| |
Amount | | |
Amount | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Borrowings in USD | |
| 13,230 | | |
| 170 | | |
| 13,400 | |
Borrowings
in EUR | |
| 2,544 | | |
| 61,889 | | |
| 64,433 | |
Total | |
| 15,774 | | |
| 62,059 | | |
| 77,833 | |
Contractual
maturity of bank borrowings
The contractual
maturity of bank borrowings at December 31, 2023, was as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
2024 | | |
2026 | | |
2029 | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Borrowings from
supplier factoring facility | |
| 30,683 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 30,683 | |
Other loans | |
| 952 | | |
| 1,683 | | |
| 13,230 | | |
| 15,865 | |
Total | |
| 31,635 | | |
| 1,683 | | |
| 13,230 | | |
| 46,548 | |
17. Leases
Lease obligations
Lease obligations
as at December 31 are as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Non- | | |
| | |
| | |
Non- | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Other
leases | |
| 20,304 | | |
| 8,083 | | |
| 28,387 | | |
| 12,942 | | |
| 8,929 | | |
| 21,871 | |
Total | |
| 20,304 | | |
| 8,083 | | |
| 28,387 | | |
| 12,942 | | |
| 8,929 | | |
| 21,871 | |
As of December 31,
2023 and 2022, Ferroglobe holds short-term leases and low-value leases for which it has elected to recognize right-of-use assets and
lease liabilities. Each lease is reflected in the statement of financial position as a right-of-use asset and a lease liability.
Except for the
tolling agreement liability discussed in Note 22, the Company has not recorded any expense relating to variable lease payments, for the
years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
The detail, by
maturity, of the future payment obligations under leases as of December 31, 2023 is as follows:
| |
Lease
payments | |
2024 | |
| 8,083 | |
2025 | |
| 5,226 | |
2026 | |
| 3,111 | |
2027 | |
| 2,563 | |
2028 | |
| 2,087 | |
2029 and
after | |
| 7,317 | |
Total | |
| 28,387 | |
A
rollforward of our lease obligations for the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, | |
| (21,871 | ) | |
| (18,358 | ) |
Additions | |
| (16,707 | ) | |
| (14,979 | ) |
Disposals and other | |
| 946 | | |
| 713 | |
Interest | |
| (1,715 | ) | |
| (1,587 | ) |
Lease payments | |
| 11,363 | | |
| 11,590 | |
Exchange
differences | |
| (403 | ) | |
| 750 | |
Balance at December 31, | |
| (28,387 | ) | |
| (21,871 | ) |
Lease
liabilities were discounted at the average incremental borrowing rate of 7.4%.
Leases are presented
as follows in the consolidated statements of financial position:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Non-current assets (Note
8) | |
| | | |
| | |
Leased land and
buildings | |
| 26,071 | | |
| 21,245 | |
Leased plant and machinery | |
| 41,314 | | |
| 31,358 | |
Accumulated depreciation | |
| (42,540 | ) | |
| (34,622 | ) |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Non-current liabilities | |
| | | |
| | |
Lease liabilities | |
| (20,304 | ) | |
| (12,942 | ) |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Current liabilities | |
| | | |
| | |
Lease liabilities | |
| (8,083 | ) | |
| (8,929 | ) |
Leases
are presented as follows in the consolidated income statement:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Depreciation and amortization
charges | |
| | | |
| | |
Depreciation of
right-of-use assets | |
| 7,918 | | |
| 4,767 | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Finance costs | |
| | | |
| | |
Interest expense on lease liabilities | |
| 1,715 | | |
| 1,587 | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Exchange differences | |
| | | |
| | |
Currency translation losses
on lease liabilities | |
| (403 | ) | |
| 750 | |
Currency translation gains on
right-of-use assets | |
| (69 | ) | |
| (812 | ) |
Leases are presented
as follows in the consolidated statements of cash flows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Payments for: | |
| | | |
| | |
Principal | |
| 9,648 | | |
| 10,003 | |
Interest | |
| 1,715 | | |
| 1,587 | |
The Company has
also identified an embedded lease with respect to its tolling agreement related to the Cee-Dumbría ferroalloys manufacturing plant
as described further in Note 22.
18. Debt instruments
Debt instruments
comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Notes
carried at amortized cost (financial liability) | |
| | | |
| | |
Secured
Reinstated Senior Notes | |
| 150,010 | | |
| 349,704 | |
Accrued
coupon interest | |
| 5,805 | | |
| 13,569 | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Notes
carried at amortized cost (financial asset) | |
| | | |
| | |
Secured
Reinstated Senior Notes | |
| 995 | | |
| 19,048 | |
Accrued
coupon interest | |
| 40 | | |
| 783 | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Total
net debt instruments | |
| 154,780 | | |
| 343,442 | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Amount
due for settlement within 12 months | |
| 5,765 | | |
| 12,787 | |
Amount
due for settlement after 12 months | |
| 149,015 | | |
| 330,655 | |
Total | |
| 154,780 | | |
| 343,442 | |
In 2017, the Company
issued $350,000 thousand of 9.375% senior unsecured notes due in March 2022 (the “Notes”). Interest was payable semi-annually.
In 2021, the Company effected a restructuring of these Notes, with the following terms:
| · | The
Company exchanged 98.6% of the Notes due in 2022 (the “Old Notes”) for total
consideration of $1,000 of principal amount, which is comprised of (i) $1,000 aggregate
principal amount of the new 9.375% senior secured notes due in 2025 (the “Reinstated
Senior Notes”) plus (ii) a fee amounting to $51,611 thousand, which the Company’s
Parent applied as cash consideration for a subscription of new ordinary shares of the Company. |
| · | The
Company issued $60,000 thousand in new 9% senior secured notes due in 2025 (“Super
Senior Notes”). |
In tandem with
this restructuring, the Company issued new ordinary shares for total gross proceeds of $40,000 thousand.
At the completion
of the comprehensive refinancing, we recognized a charge of $90,800 thousand. This related to all the advisory fees and expenses, including
equity granted to the noteholders, incurred during the refinancing of the prior 9.375% Notes due 2022, which were deemed to be extinguished
at closing and replaced with new 9.375% Reinstated Senior Notes due 2025.
For accounting
purposes the refinancing of the Notes was considered a debt extinguishment. As a consequence:
| (i) | The
Company recognized a finance expense amounting to $31,700 thousand related to the advisory
fees incurred in the exchange of the notes in 2021; |
| (ii) | Similarly
to the transaction fees, the shares issued to the bondholders and the work fee were recognized
as a one-off expense, amounting $51.6 million at market value.; and |
| (iii) | Outstanding
upfront fees that had been capitalized at the issuance of the original notes totaling $1,000
thousand were recorded in the consolidated income statements. Additionally, the gross carrying
amount of the amortized cost of the Reinstated Senior Notes was adjusted to reflect actual
and revised estimated contractual cash flows. The gross carrying amount of the Reinstated
Senior Notes was recalculated as the present value of the estimated future contractual cash
flows that are discounted at the effective interest rate of 9.096%. The adjustment recorded
was $6,462 thousand and it was recognized as a finance expense in the consolidated income
statements. After the exchange, the Notes were accounted under the amortized cost method. |
In June 2022,
the Company repurchased $19,048 thousand of the Reinstated Senior Notes and the corresponding accrued interest coupon amounting to $641
thousand as of the purchase date. The fair value of the Notes at the purchase date was $19,121 million and the purchase price was $1.01
per bond. As the Company has a legally enforceable right to offset the financial liability and the financial asset, and had the intention
to settle these financial instruments on a net basis, the Company elected to offset these financial instruments and presents the net
amount on the consolidated statements of financial position.
During
2023, the Company via its subsidiary issuers repurchased $27,390 thousand of Reinstated Senior notes with corresponding accrued interest
of $256 thousand as of the respective purchase dates. The purchase prices ranged from 1.015 to 1.025 throughout the year. In June 2023,
the Company settled the financial liability and the financial asset for the 9.375% Senior Notes owned by the Company for a total amount
of $46,438 thousand.
In July 2023,
the Company via its subsidiary issuers of the Reinstated Senior Secured Notes partially redeemed such Notes at 102.3475% of the principal
amount plus accrued interest. The issuers elect to redeem an aggregate principal amount of $150.0 million of the Notes plus accrued and
unpaid interest of $14.0 million.
In November 2023,
the Company repurchased an additional $2,000 thousand of Reinstated Senior Notes with corresponding accrued interest of $31 thousand
at a par value of 0.497 at a purchase price of 1.02.
The
fair value as of December 31, 2023, of the Reinstated Senior Notes maturing on December 31, 2025, determined by reference to
the closing market price on the last trading day of the year (Level 1), was $152,598 thousand.
Reinstated Senior
Notes
Pursuant to the
Exchange Offer, Ferroglobe PLC, the UK Issuer and Globe offered to eligible holders of the Old Notes the opportunity to exchange any
and all of the Old Notes for new 9.375% senior secured notes due 2025 issued by the UK Issuer and Globe.
The Reinstated
Notes are governed by an indenture (the “Reinstated Notes Indenture”) entered into by, among others, Ferroglobe Finance Company
PLC and Globe, as issuers, GLAS Trustees Limited, as trustee, Global Loan Agency Services Limited, as paying agent, GLAS Trust Corporation
Limited, as security agent, and the guarantors named therein. The Reinstated Notes are guaranteed on a senior basis by Ferroglobe and
each subsidiary of Ferroglobe that guarantees the UK Issuer’s obligations under the Super Senior Notes (other than Globe) (the
“Reinstated Notes Guarantors”). The Reinstated Notes mature on December 31, 2025 and are secured by the same collateral
that secures the Super Senior Notes.
The Reinstated
Notes, and the guarantees thereof, are general secured, senior obligations of Ferroglobe Finance Company PLC and Globe and the Reinstated
Notes Guarantors, as applicable, and will rank senior in right of payment to any and all of the existing and future indebtedness of Ferroglobe,
Globe and the Reinstated Notes Guarantors, as applicable, that is expressly subordinated in right of payment to the Reinstated Notes
and such guarantees, as applicable.
The Reinstated
Notes Indenture require us to offer to repurchase all or any part of each holder’s Reinstated Notes upon the occurrence of a change
of control, as defined in the Reinstated Notes Indenture, at a purchase price equal to 101% of the principal amount, plus accrued and
unpaid interest thereon, to the date of purchase.
The Reinstated
Notes Indenture restricts, among other things, the ability of Ferroglobe and its restricted subsidiaries to:
| · | borrow
or guarantee additional indebtedness; |
| · | pay
dividends, repurchase shares and make distributions of certain other payments; |
| · | make
certain investments; |
| · | merge
or consolidate with other entities; |
| · | enter
into certain transactions with affiliates; |
| · | sell,
lease or transfer certain assets, including shares of any restricted subsidiary of Ferroglobe;
and |
| · | guarantee
certain types of other indebtedness of Ferroglobe and its restricted subsidiaries without
also guaranteeing the Reinstated Notes. |
Compared to the
Old Notes Indenture (prior to certain amendments on July 29, 2021) the Reinstated Notes Indenture have generally more stringent
restrictive covenants. Some of these differences include, among others, the following:
| · | the
elimination of baskets or a reduction of basket sizes in the debt covenant, restricted payment
covenant, permitted investments, |
| · | permitted
liens and asset disposition; |
| · | the
addition of a net leverage test in the debt covenant and reduced flexibility in financial
calculations; |
| · | requirement
to apply certain excess proceeds to repay debt in accordance with the applicable intercreditor
agreement; |
| · | lower
event of default thresholds; and |
| · | a
90% guarantor coverage test. |
Super Senior
Notes
In May 2021,
Ferroglobe Finance Company, PLC (“UK issuer”) issued a tranche of Super Senior Notes, comprising an initial $40 million of
a maximum possible $60 million 9.0% senior secured notes due in 2025. Additional Super Senior Notes were issued in July 2021 such
that a total of $60 million in aggregate principal amount was outstanding on such date.
The Super Senior
Notes were governed by an indenture (the “Super Senior Notes Indenture”) entered into by, among others, the UK Issuer, GLAS
Trustees Limited, as trustee, Global Loan Agency Services Limited, as paying agent, GLAS Trust Corporation Limited, as security agent,
and the guarantors named therein (the “Super Senior Notes Guarantors”). The Super Senior Notes were to mature on June 30,
2025 and were secured by certain share pledges, bank account pledges, intercompany receivables pledges, inventory pledges and security
over certain mine concessions, real property, leases and other assets.
Amongst other conditions,
the Super Senior Notes Indenture restricted, among other things, the ability the Company to:
| · | borrow
or guarantee additional indebtedness; |
| · | pay
dividends, repurchase shares and make distributions of certain other payments; |
| · | make
certain investments; |
| · | merge
or consolidate with other entities; |
| · | enter
into certain transactions with affiliates; |
| · | sell,
lease or transfer certain assets, including shares of any restricted subsidiary of Ferroglobe;
and |
| · | guarantee
certain types of other indebtedness of Ferroglobe and its restricted subsidiaries without
also guaranteeing the Super Senior Notes. |
In July 2022,
the Super Senior Notes maturing on June 30, 2025 were redeemed at 100% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest. The
remaining unamortized issuance cost amounting to $6.0 million were recognized as a finance expense in the consolidated income statements.
Stub Notes
The Stub Notes
were senior unsecured obligations of the Issuers and were guaranteed on a senior basis by certain subsidiaries of Ferroglobe. The Company
fully settled these notes in Q1 2022.
19. Other
financial liabilities
Other financial
liabilities comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Non- | | |
| | |
| | |
Non- | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Financial loans from government
agencies: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Reindus
loan | |
| 23,630 | | |
| 10,797 | | |
| 34,427 | | |
| — | | |
| 58,651 | | |
| 58,651 | |
SEPI loan | |
| 36,147 | | |
| 1,899 | | |
| 38,046 | | |
| 33,657 | | |
| 1,018 | | |
| 34,675 | |
Other financial
liabilities | |
| 3,913 | | |
| 1,056 | | |
| 4,969 | | |
| 4,622 | | |
| 713 | | |
| 5,335 | |
Derivative
financial instruments (Note 20) | |
| 1,541 | | |
| 2,300 | | |
| 3,841 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Total | |
| 65,231 | | |
| 16,052 | | |
| 81,283 | | |
| 38,279 | | |
| 60,382 | | |
| 98,661 | |
Financial
loans from government agencies
Reindus Loan
In 2016, a Company
subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce (the “Ministry”), as
lender, under which the Ministry made available to the borrower a loan in aggregate principal amount of €44,999 thousand ($50,223
thousand) in connection with industrial development projects relating to a silicon purification project. The loan is contractually due
to be repaid in seven installments over a 10-year period with the first three years as a grace period. Interest on outstanding amounts
under the loan accrues at an annual rate of 3.75%. Default interests were calculated at an annual rate of 3.55% until December 31,
2022 and at 4.06% starting on January 1, 2023. In 2021, the Company received a decision from the Administration under which it was
agreed to extend the grace period until 2023 and the term of loan, and with completion by 2030.
The agreement governing
the loan contains the following limitations on the use of the proceeds of the outstanding loan:
| · | The
investment of the proceeds must occur between January 1, 2016 and February 24,
2019; |
| · | The
allocation of the proceeds must adhere to certain approved budget categories; |
| · | If
the final investment cost is lower than the budgeted amount, the borrower must reimburse
the Ministry proportionally; and |
| · | The
borrower must comply with certain statutory restrictions regarding related party transactions
and the procurement of goods and services. |
In January 25,
2022, the Ministry opened a procedure to accelerate the potential reimbursement of the loan. The company presented its defense on February 15,
2022. As a result, in January 2023, a new resolution was signed by the Ministry terminating the total reimbursement procedure initiated
in January 2022. Once that procedure was definitively closed, the company decided to proceed with the foreseen partial early repayment
of €16.3 million ($17.4 million) in February 2023, in addition to €3.6 million ($4.0 million) paid in December 2023
per the repayment schedule.
The Reindus loan
fair value as of December 31, 2023 and 2022, based on discounted cash flows at a market interest rate (Level 2), amounts to $25,490
thousand and $48,066 thousand respectively.
SEPI Loan
In
March, 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals, S.A.U. (also “FG Spain”, formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U.) and Ferroglobe
Corporate Services (also “FG Corporate”, formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica de Servicios) (together the “Beneficiaries”)
and the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (“SEPI”), a Spanish state-owned industrial holding company affiliated
with the Ministry of Finance and Administration, entered into a loan agreement of €34.5 million ($38.3 million). This loan is part
of the SEPI fund intended to provide assistance to non-financial companies operating in strategically important sectors within Spain
as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The
€34.5 million ($38.3 million) was funded using a dual-tranche loan, with €17.25 million ($19.15 million) maturing in February 2025
and the second €17.25 million ($19.15 million) maturing in June 2025. €16.9 million ($18.8 million) of the loan carries
a fixed interest rate of 2% per annum, and interest on the remaining €17.6 million ($19.5 million) is calculated as IBOR plus a
spread of 2.5% in the first year, 3.5% in the second and third years and 5.0% in the fourth year, plus an additional 1.0% payable if
the Company reports a positive result before income taxes. The loans are secured by corporate joint guarantees from Ferroglobe, Ferroglobe
Holding Company and Ferroglobe Finance Company and certain share pledges, bank account pledges, intercompany receivables pledges, inventory
pledges and security over certain real property, and other assets from Ferroglobe Spain Metals and certain of its subsidiaries.
These loans are granted at rates that are considered to be below-market rates. The company has calculated the fair value of the loans
liability, based on discounted cash flows at a market interest rate (Level 2), resulting in €30,693
thousand ($34,149 thousand) as of the grant date. The difference between the fair value and the proceeds received, amounting to €3,807
thousand ($4,236 thousand), was recorded as a government grant. As of December 31, 2023, the amortized cost of the SEPI loans was
$38,046 thousand.
Until the loans have been fully repaid, the Beneficiaries
are subject to several restrictions, including the following prohibited payments:
| · | payment
of management fee; |
| · | repayment
of intra-group loans; |
| · | payment
of intercompany net commercial balances as of June 30, 2021 (denominated “legacy”),
with the exception of $20.0 million of those balances (intercompany commercial balances generated
after Jun-21 are permitted); and |
| · | payment
of interest on intercompany loans corresponding to the years 2021 and 2022, respectively; |
If the Company fails to make the payments to
which it is obliged, FASEE shall have the option (but never the obligation) to convert all or part of the Participating Loan into share
capital of FG Spain.
The loan contains a change of control clause
stating that it will be considered change of control and therefore will suppose an early repayment event of the loan: with respect to
FG Spain, (i) if Ferroglobe Plc ceases to hold, directly or indirectly, an interest of at least 51% of the voting share capital
or, (ii) if Grupo Villar Mir, S.A.U. ceases to hold a stake of at least 35% of the voting share capital of Ferroglobe Plc, or loses
the rights to which it is entitled as holder of such stake or more by virtue of the shareholders’ agreement of Ferroglobe Plc or
(iii) if FG Spain ceases to be the holder, directly or indirectly, of one hundred percent (100%) shareholding in FG Corporate.
Finally, the loan contains a cross-default clause
meaning that (A) if any of FG Spain or FG Corporate: (i) defaults on any payment obligation arising from Indebtedness contracted
with any other entity for amounts exceeding, during a fiscal year, €2.5 million ($2.7 million) or (ii) defaults on due and
payable payment obligations of a commercial (non-financial) nature assumed with third parties for an individual or cumulative amount
exceeding €2.5 million ($2.7 million) unless such defaults are below the average of the customary commercial defaults that the Beneficiaries
or Guarantors have had between fiscal years 2016 to 2019 or (B) if any creditor that has granted Indebtedness to FG Spain or FG
Corporate for an amount equal to or greater than €5.0 million ($5.5 million), is entitled to declare it liquid, due and payable
before its ordinary maturity date.
20. Derivative
financial instruments
In August 2023, the Company entered into
four virtual Purchase Price Agreements (“aggregated PPA”) with Adelanta to hedge its energy pricing. These agreements will
become effective in the first half of 2024. The aggregated PPA includes two tranches, the first one from March 2024 to June 2025,
when energy will be supplied to the Sabón plant at a fixed price of 75 EUR/MWh on a pay as produced basis, and the second tranche
where energy will be supplied at a fixed price of 52 EUR/MWh on a pay as produced basis until June 2033. The fair value of the aggregated
PPA as of December 31, 2023 is positive at $7,413 thousand, which is offset by approximately $(3,109 thousand) related to the initial
fair value of the instrument which has been deferred and is being recognized over the life of the instrument.
In
October 2023, the Company entered into an additional virtual Purchase Price Agreement with Energya VM Gestión de Energía,
SLU (“Energya VM”), effective from November 2023 through June 2027. Energy will be supplied at a fixed price of
77 EUR/MWh on a pay as produced basis. The fair value of this PPA as of December 31, 2023 is negative at $699 thousand, and we have
also recorded approximately $(1,815 thousand) related to the initial fair value of the instrument that has been deferred and will be
recognized over the life of the instrument.
The
fair value of this net settled power purchase agreements as of December 31, 2023 was estimated based on the discounted cash flow
methodology. The fair value measurement is based on significant inputs that are directly or indirectly observable in the market, which
IFRS 13 refers to as Level 2 inputs. Key assumptions include discount rates, energy volumes and the market electricity price. See
Note 30 for further information.
The net value of the power purchase agreements
as of December 31, 2023 is presented in the consolidated statements of financial position as follows:
| |
Other financial assets (Note 9) | | |
Other financial liabilities (Note 19) | |
| |
Non- | | |
| | |
| | |
Non- | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
Derivative financial instruments: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
PPA Adelanta | |
| 5,722 | | |
| — | | |
| 5,722 | | |
| — | | |
| (1,418 | ) | |
| (1,418 | ) |
PPA EnergyaVM | |
| | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (1,541 | ) | |
| (882 | ) | |
| (2,423 | ) |
Total | |
| 5,722 | | |
| — | | |
| 5,722 | | |
| (1,541 | ) | |
| (2,300 | ) | |
| (3,841 | ) |
The Company deems its PPAs to qualify for hedge
accounting whereby we record the changes in the fair value of the instruments in “Arising from cash flow hedges” in the consolidated
statements of comprehensive income (loss).
The following tables summarize the unrealized
and realized gains (losses) related to the derivative instruments:
| |
Unrealized gain (loss) recognized in
Other comprehensive loss | | |
Realized gain (loss) reclassed
from Other comprehensive
loss to profit and loss | |
Derivative financial instruments: | |
| | |
| |
PPA Adelanta | |
4,582 | | |
— | |
PPA EnergyaVM | |
(2,337 | ) | |
83 | |
Total | |
2,245 | | |
83 | |
The
purchase commitments for each PPA, in MWh, as of December 31, 2023 is as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
Less than 1 year | | |
Between 1-2 years | | |
Between 2-5 years | | |
After 5 years | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
PPA Adelanta | |
| 54,857 | | |
| 92,913 | | |
| 361,000 | | |
| 557,056 | | |
| 1,065,826 | |
PPA Energya VM | |
| 30,750 | | |
| 30,000 | | |
| 45,000 | | |
| | | |
| 105,750 | |
21. Trade
and other payables
Trade and other payables comprise the following
at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Payable to suppliers | |
| 182,949 | | |
| 219,020 | |
Advances from customers | |
| 426 | | |
| 646 | |
Total | |
| 183,375 | | |
| 219,666 | |
22. Other
obligations
Other obligations comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Non- | | |
| | |
| | |
Non- | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Payable to non-current asset suppliers | |
| 336 | | |
| 9,791 | | |
| 10,127 | | |
| 183 | | |
| 4,149 | | |
| 4,332 | |
Guarantees and deposits | |
| 14 | | |
| 330 | | |
| 344 | | |
| 12 | | |
| 235 | | |
| 247 | |
Contingent consideration | |
| 1,353 | | |
| 379 | | |
| 1,732 | | |
| 3,893 | | |
| 1,945 | | |
| 5,838 | |
Tolling agreement liability | |
| 34,180 | | |
| 3,683 | | |
| 37,863 | | |
| 33,414 | | |
| 3,251 | | |
| 36,665 | |
Total | |
| 35,883 | | |
| 14,183 | | |
| 50,066 | | |
| 37,502 | | |
| 9,580 | | |
| 47,082 | |
Contingent consideration
On February 1, 2018, the Company acquired
100% of the outstanding ordinary shares of Kintuck (France) SAS and Kintuck AS from a wholly-owned subsidiary of Glencore International
AG (“Glencore”) and obtained control of both entities. The new subsidiaries were renamed as Ferroglobe Mangan Norge AS and
Ferroglobe Manganèse France SAS. The Company completed the acquisition through its wholly-owned subsidiary Ferroglobe Spain Metals
(formerly Ferroatlántica). Consideration included both cash and contingent consideration.
The contingent consideration arrangement requires
the Company to pay the former owners of Kintuck (France) SAS and Kintuck AS a sliding scale commission based on the silicomanganese and
ferromanganese sales spreads of Ferroglobe Mangan Norge (FMN) and Ferroglobe Manganèse France (FMF), up to a maximum amount of
$60,000 thousand (undiscounted). The contingent consideration applies to sales made up to eight and a half years from the date of acquisition
and if it applies, the payment is on annual basis. During 2023, the total payments made amounted to $4,823 thousand ($18,931 thousand
in 2022).
The potential undiscounted amount of the total
payments that the Company could be required to make under the contingent consideration arrangement is up to $60,000 thousand. The accumulated
payments as of December 31, 2023 amount to $27,278 thousand.
The fair value of the contingent consideration
arrangement as of December 31, 2023 of $1,732 thousand (2022: $5,838 thousand) was estimated by applying the income approach based
on a Monte Carlo simulation considering various scenarios of fluctuation of future manganese alloy spreads as well at the cyclicality
of manganese alloy pricing. The fair value measurement is based on significant inputs that are not observable in the market, which IFRS
13 refers to as Level 3 inputs.
Key assumptions include discount rates, volumes
and manganese spread. The liability has decreased primarily driven by a reduction in the manganese spread driven by higher manganese
ore costs and lower selling prices combined with higher operational costs and impact of foreign exchange rates and inflation forecasts.
Changes in the value of contingent consideration are presented in the consolidated income statements within “other operating expense”.
Tolling agreement
liability
In
August 2019, Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U). sold its 100% interest in the remainder
of FerroAtlántica, S.A.U. to Kehlen Industries Management, S.L.U., an affiliate of U.S.-based TPG Sixth Street Partners. The FerroAtlántica,
S.A.U. assets transferred by means of this transaction included ten hydroelectric power plants and the Cee-Dumbría ferroalloys
manufacturing plant, all located in the province of A Coruña, Spain. Under the terms of the transaction, the Group became exclusive
off taker of finished products produced at the smelting plant at Cee and supplier of key raw materials to that facility pursuant to a
tolling agreement expiring in 2060.
In
November 2020, the Tribunal Superior de Justicia de Galicia dismissed the request of separation of the Cee-Dumbria’s hydroelectric
plants and the ferroalloys plants. Ferroglobe Spain Metals appealed to the Supreme Court, but in 2021 the appeal was dismissed.
As of December 31, 2023, the liability recognized in relation to the tolling agreement amounts to $37,863 thousand ($36,665 thousand
as of December 2022).
As of January 1, 2023, the Company reclassified
its tolling agreement liability to a lease liability in accordance with IFRS 16.
A rollforward
of this lease obligation for the year ended December 31, 2023 is as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, | |
| 36,665 | |
Additions | |
| — | |
Disposals and other | |
| — | |
Interest | |
| 3,484 | |
Lease payments | |
| (3,604 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| 1,318 | |
Balance at December 31, | |
| 37,863 | |
The lease liability
was discounted at the incremental borrowing rate of 9.375%.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, Ferroglobe
has recorded an expense for variable lease payments of $55,574 thousand, related to the purchase of key raw materials, energy costs,
personnel expenses and other overhead costs assumed by the Company as per the tolling agreement. Future variable lease payments are currently
unknown as they depend on the actual production at the Cee-Dumbria plant in a given year as well as a variety of other factors including
energy prices and raw material prices in future years. Assuming production levels and other factors stay constant in future years, our
annual future variable lease payments are expected to remain approximately consistent.
Please refer to Note 29 for the detail, by maturity,
of the non-current payment obligations under this lease as of December 31, 2023.
23. Other
liabilities
Other liabilities comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Non- | | |
| | |
| | |
Non- | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Remuneration payable | |
| — | | |
| 63,091 | | |
| 63,091 | | |
| — | | |
| 55,791 | | |
| 55,791 | |
Tax payables | |
| — | | |
| 27,960 | | |
| 27,960 | | |
| — | | |
| 37,628 | | |
| 37,628 | |
Other liabilities | |
| 199 | | |
| 10,152 | | |
| 10,351 | | |
| 12 | | |
| 11,113 | | |
| 11,125 | |
Total | |
| 199 | | |
| 101,203 | | |
| 101,402 | | |
| 12 | | |
| 104,532 | | |
| 104,544 | |
Tax payables
Tax payables comprise the following at December 31:
| |
As of year ended December 31 | |
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
VAT | |
| 17,384 | | |
| 20,905 | |
Accrued social security taxes payable | |
| 6,444 | | |
| 6,195 | |
Personal income tax withholding payable | |
| 927 | | |
| 896 | |
Other | |
| 3,205 | | |
| 9,632 | |
Total | |
| 27,960 | | |
| 37,628 | |
24. Tax matters
The components of current and deferred income tax
expense (benefit) are as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Consolidated income statement | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Current income tax | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Current income tax charge | |
| 62,110 | | |
| 144,246 | | |
| 5,284 | |
Adjustments in current income tax in respect of prior years | |
| (1,533 | ) | |
| (5,681 | ) | |
| — | |
Total | |
| 60,577 | | |
| 138,565 | | |
| 5,284 | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Deferred tax | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Origination and reversal of temporary differences | |
| (3,216 | ) | |
| 15,032 | | |
| (9,954 | ) |
Impact of tax rate changes | |
| (555 | ) | |
| 460 | | |
| — | |
Write-down of deferred tax assets | |
| — | | |
| (1,448 | ) | |
| — | |
Adjustments in deferred tax in respect of prior years | |
| 734 | | |
| (4,626 | ) | |
| 108 | |
Total | |
| (3,037 | ) | |
| 9,418 | | |
| (9,846 | ) |
Income tax expense (benefit) | |
| 57,540 | | |
| 147,983 | | |
| (4,562 | ) |
As the Company has significant business operations
in Spain, France, South Africa and the United States, a weighted blended statutory tax rate is considered to be appropriate in estimating
the Company’s effective tax rate. The following is a reconciliation of tax expense based on a weighted blended statutory income
tax rate to our effective income tax expense for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Accounting profit/(loss) before income tax | |
| 160,667 | | |
| 602,660 | | |
| (119,936 | ) |
At weighted statutory tax rate of 31% (2022: 26% and 2021: 19%) | |
| 50,557 | | |
| 157,620 | | |
| (22,650 | ) |
Non-deductible income/ (expenses) | |
| 1,429 | | |
| (5,920 | ) | |
| (11,399 | ) |
Differing territorial tax rates | |
| (555 | ) | |
| 591 | | |
| 2,603 | |
Adjustments in respect of prior periods | |
| (799 | ) | |
| 1,368 | | |
| — | |
Other items | |
| 7,558 | | |
| 7,539 | | |
| 27,884 | |
Elimination of effect of interest in partnerships | |
| (1,451 | ) | |
| (913 | ) | |
| (782 | ) |
Other permanent differences | |
| 95 | | |
| 159 | | |
| (673 | ) |
Incentives and deductions | |
| 827 | | |
| (11,740 | ) | |
| 88 | |
U.S State taxes | |
| (121 | ) | |
| (721 | ) | |
| 367 | |
Income tax expense (benefit) | |
| 57,540 | | |
| 147,983 | | |
| (4,562 | ) |
Other items mainly comprise unrecognized temporary
differences.
Deferred tax assets and liabilities
For the year ended December 31, 2023:
| |
Opening | | |
Recognized in | | |
Write-down of
Deferred Tax | | |
Exchange | | |
Closing | |
| |
Balance | | |
P&L | | |
OCI | | |
Assets/Liabilities | | |
Differences | | |
Balance | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Intangible assets | |
| (13,978 | ) | |
| 884 | | |
| — | | |
| | | |
| (488 | ) | |
| (13,582 | ) |
Provisions | |
| 38,011 | | |
| (442 | ) | |
| 1,500 | | |
| (5,836 | ) | |
| 869 | | |
| 34,102 | |
Property, plant & equipment | |
| (54,730 | ) | |
| 3,195 | | |
| — | | |
| 5,836 | | |
| 294 | | |
| (45,405 | ) |
Inventories | |
| 1,186 | | |
| 232 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (2 | ) | |
| 1,416 | |
Hedging Instruments | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (767 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 200 | | |
| (567 | ) |
Tax losses | |
| 3,259 | | |
| (1,528 | ) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 1,731 | |
Incentives & credits | |
| 32 | | |
| (32 | ) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Other | |
| (2,498 | ) | |
| 728 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 253 | | |
| (1,517 | ) |
Total | |
| (28,718 | ) | |
| 3,037 | | |
| 733 | | |
| — | | |
| 1,126 | | |
| (23,822 | ) |
For the year ended December 31, 2022:
| |
Opening | | |
Recognized in | | |
Write-down of
Deferred Tax | | |
Exchange | | |
Closing | |
| |
Balance | | |
P&L | | |
OCI | | |
Assets/Liabilities | | |
Differences | | |
Balance | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Intangible assets | |
| (451 | ) | |
| (14,014 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 496 | | |
| (9 | ) | |
| (13,978 | ) |
Provisions | |
| 21,672 | | |
| 9,090 | | |
| (1,416 | ) | |
| 9,347 | | |
| (682 | ) | |
| 38,011 | |
Property, plant & equipment | |
| (52,231 | ) | |
| 3,920 | | |
| — | | |
| (8,089 | ) | |
| 1,670 | | |
| (54,730 | ) |
Inventories | |
| — | | |
| 480 | | |
| — | | |
| 708 | | |
| (2 | ) | |
| 1,186 | |
Tax losses | |
| 6,353 | | |
| (5,894 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 2,595 | | |
| 205 | | |
| 3,259 | |
Incentives & credits | |
| 9,333 | | |
| (254 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (8,542 | ) | |
| (505 | ) | |
| 32 | |
Partnership interest | |
| (8,514 | ) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 8,514 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Other | |
| 5,703 | | |
| (2,746 | ) | |
| (666 | ) | |
| (4,425 | ) | |
| (364 | ) | |
| (2,498 | ) |
Total | |
| (18,135 | ) | |
| (9,418 | ) | |
| (2,082 | ) | |
| 604 | | |
| 313 | | |
| (28,718 | ) |
Presented in the statement of financial position
as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Deferred tax assets | |
| 37,250 | | |
| 44,644 | |
Deferred tax liabilities | |
| (61,072 | ) | |
| (73,362 | ) |
Offset between deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities | |
| 28,490 | | |
| 37,508 | |
Total deferred tax assets due to temporary differences recognized in the statement of financial position | |
| 8,760 | | |
| 7,136 | |
Total deferred tax liabilities due to temporary differences recognized in the statement of financial position | |
| (32,582 | ) | |
| (35,854 | ) |
Unrecognized deductible temporary differences, unused tax losses
and unused tax credits
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
Spain | | |
USA | | |
UK | | |
Other | | |
Total | | |
Spain | | |
USA | | |
UK | | |
Other | | |
Total | |
Unused tax losses | |
201,476 | | |
235,296 | | |
143,750 | | |
56,055 | | |
636,577 | | |
183,225 | | |
252,848 | | |
102,800 | | |
48,622 | | |
587,495 | |
Unused tax credits | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
— | | |
6,761 | | |
— | | |
— | | |
6,761 | |
Unrecognized
deductible temporary differences | |
62,737 | | |
— | | |
44,837 | | |
9,166 | | |
116,741 | | |
75,093 | | |
21,433 | | |
44,837 | | |
66,648 | | |
208,011 | |
Total | |
264,213 | | |
235,296 | | |
188,587 | | |
65,221 | | |
753,318 | | |
258,318 | | |
281,042 | | |
147,637 | | |
115,270 | | |
802,267 | |
In general terms, neither the unused tax losses
nor the tax credits have an expiration date in the jurisdictions from which they derive.
Unused tax losses have increased in 2023 compared
to 2022 due to the losses in some jurisdictions, mainly in the UK and Spain. Management has decided to record the respective deferred
tax assets corresponding to the jurisdictions where taxable profit is expected to be generated in the short and medium-term. There is
uncertainty and estimation involved in future taxable profits in long-term, however no material changes expected in the next financial
year for the unrecognized unused tax losses.
Management of tax risks
The Company is committed to conducting its tax
affairs consistent with the following objectives:
| (i) | to comply with relevant laws, rules,
regulations, and reporting and disclosure requirements in whichever jurisdiction it operates; |
| (ii) | to maintain mutual trust, transparency,
and respect in its dealings with all tax authorities; and |
| (iii) | to adhere with best practice and comply
with the Company’s internal corporate governance procedures, including but not limited
to its Code of Conduct |
The Group’s tax department maintains a
tax risk register on a jurisdictional basis.
In the jurisdictions in which the Company operates,
tax returns cannot be deemed final until they have been audited by the tax authorities or until the statute-of-limitations has expired.
The number of open tax years subject to examination varies depending on the tax jurisdiction. In general, the Company has the last four
years open to review. The criteria that the tax authorities might adopt in relation to the years open for review could give rise to tax
liabilities which cannot be quantified. As of December 31, 2023 there are inspection procedures ongoing in Spain and France but
we do not expect a material impact resulting from both procedures.
On December 22, 2022, the EU approved the
Minimum Tax Directive (Pillar Two). The Directive requires Member States to transpose the rules into domestic law by December 31,
2023. The main rule of the Directive (so called Income Inclusion Rule or IIR) became effective on December 31, 2023 with
the backstop rule (so called Undertaxed Profits Rule or UTPR) becoming effective on or after December 31, 2024. The Directive
provides the option for Member States to implement a qualified domestic top-up tax (QDMTT) that operates to increase the domestic tax
liability of in-scope MNE groups within a jurisdiction to the minimum effective tax rate of 15% of profits. Spain and France have enacted
legislation implementing this Directive. On 20 June 2023, Finance (No.2) Act 2023 was substantively enacted in the UK, introducing
a global minimum effective tax rate of 15% in application of the GloBE rules from the OECD. The legislation implements a domestic
top-up tax and a multinational top-up tax, effective for accounting periods starting on or after December 31, 2023. There are transitional
safe harbors which can apply in certain circumstances which can remove the requirement to do the full detailed calculations for the first
3 years after the effective date.
Based on the UK transitional safe harbor analysis
we have performed using our 2022 financial statements and the Country-by-Country Reporting data, according to UK legislation, the Group
anticipates that it is not probable that Pillar Two will have a material impact on the group going forward. We are aware that there are
several jurisdictions that have substantively enacted a qualifying domestic minimum top up tax that may also include safe harbor rules that
may apply differently to the UK legislation. These have not been assessed but will be assessed and monitored by the company on a go-forward
basis.
25. Related
party transactions and balances
Balances with related parties at December 31
are as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
Receivables | | |
Payables | |
| |
Non-Current | | |
Current | | |
Non-Current | | |
Current | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Inmobiliaria Espacio, S.A. | |
| — | | |
| 2,772 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Enérgya VM Gestión de la Energía, S.L. | |
| 1,658 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 2,429 | |
Total | |
| 1,658 | | |
| 2,772 | | |
| — | | |
| 2,429 | |
| |
2022 | |
| |
Receivables | | |
Payables | |
| |
Non-Current | | |
Current | | |
Non-Current | | |
Current | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Inmobiliaria Espacio, S.A. | |
| — | | |
| 2,675 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Villar Mir Energía, S.L.U. | |
| 1,600 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (10 | ) |
Enérgya VM Gestión de la Energía, S.L. | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 1,800 | |
Total | |
| 1,600 | | |
| 2,675 | | |
| — | | |
| 1,790 | |
The loan granted to Inmobiliaria Espacio, S.A.
accrues a market interest (EURIBOR three-month rate plus 2.75%) and has a maturity in the short-term that is renewed tacitly upon maturity.
Unless the parties agree to the repayment, the loan is extended automatically for one year.
The balances with the other related parties arose
as a result of the commercial transactions performed with them (see explanation of main transactions below).
Transactions with related parties for the
years ended December 31 2023, 2022 and 2021 are as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
Raw materials | | |
Other | |
| |
and energy | | |
Operating | |
| |
consumption for production | | |
Expenses | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Villar Mir Energía, S.L.U. | |
| (18 | ) | |
| 1 | |
Enérgya VM Gestión de la Energía, S.L. | |
| 35,980 | | |
| 1,137 | |
Other related parties | |
| — | | |
| 55 | |
Total | |
| 35,962 | | |
| 1,193 | |
| |
2022 | |
| |
Raw materials | | |
Other | |
| |
and energy | | |
Operating | |
| |
consumption for production | | |
Expenses | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Villar Mir Energía, S.L.U. | |
| 128,211 | | |
| 1,612 | |
Espacio Information Technology, S.A.U. | |
| — | | |
| 1,008 | |
Enérgya VM Gestión de la Energía, S.L. | |
| 4,506 | | |
| 646 | |
Other related parties | |
| — | | |
| 101 | |
Total | |
| 132,717 | | |
| 3,367 | |
| |
2021 | |
| |
Raw materials | | |
Other | |
| |
and energy | | |
Operating | |
| |
consumption for production | | |
Expenses | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Villar Mir Energía, S.L.U. | |
| 132,566 | | |
| 1,365 | |
Espacio Information Technology, S.A.U. | |
| — | | |
| 3,266 | |
Enérgya VM Gestión de la Energía, S.L. | |
| — | | |
| 120 | |
Aurinka | |
| — | | |
| 111 | |
Other related parties | |
| — | | |
| 68 | |
Total | |
| 132,566 | | |
| 4,930 | |
“Raw
Materials and energy consumption for production” of the related parties from Energya VM Gestión de Energía,
SLU (“Energya VM”) relates to the purchase of energy from the latter by the Company’s Europe – Manganese Alloys
and Europe – Silicon Metals & Silicon Alloys segment. The agreement was assigned from Villar Mir Energía SLU to
Energya VM on October 15, 2022. The Company pays Energya VM a service charge in addition to paying for the cost of energy purchase
from the market. The contracts allow for the purchase of energy from the grid at market conditions without incurring costs normally associated
with operating in the complex wholesale power market, as well as to apply for fixed price arrangements in advance from Energya VM, based
on the energy markets for the power, period and profile applied for. The contracts have a term of one year, which can be extended by the
mutual consent of the parties to the contract. In January 2021, the contracts were renewed for two years with the possibility to
extend it for additional one-year periods unless terminated with thirty days’ notice.
In
December 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals and Energya VM entered into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this PPA, VM Energía
would supply to Sabón plant 65 GW on a pay as produced basis during 10 years from the commencement of operation of the Plants.
This PPA would cover 10% of the total power consumption of the Sabón plant. The agreement was cancelled in February 2023.
In
October 2023, the Company entered into an additional Purchase Price Agreement with Energya VM, effective on November 1,
2023 until June 30, 2027. Energy will be supplied at a fixed price of 77 EUR/MWh on a pay as produced basis (See Note 20).
“Other
operating expenses” corresponds to the payment to Energya VM that provides the energy needs of the mining facilities operated
by Ferroglobe RAMSA Mining and Ferroglobe Cuarzos Industriales mining in the wholesale power market.
Additionally,
in 2022, they also corresponded to the payment to Espacio Information Technology, S.A. (“Espacio I.T.”), who provided information
technology and data processing services to Ferroglobe PLC and certain of its direct and indirect subsidiaries pursuant to several contracts.
In April 2022, Grupo VM sold its interest in Espacio I.T. so those transactions do not involve a Grupo VM subsidiary and therefore
from that date forward should no longer be considered as related party transactions.
26. Guarantee commitments to
third parties and contingent liabilities
Guarantee commitments to third parties
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, the Company
has provided commitments to third parties amounting to $7,249 thousand and $7,905 thousand, respectively. The Company has estimated a
remote likelihood for potential loss allowance and has not recorded an associated provision.
Contingent liabilities
In the ordinary course of its business, Ferroglobe
is subject to lawsuits, investigations, claims and proceedings, including, but not limited to, contractual disputes and employment, environmental,
health and safety matters. Although we cannot predict with certainty the ultimate resolution of lawsuits, investigations, claims and proceedings
asserted against it, we do not believe any currently pending legal proceeding to which it is a party will have a material adverse effect
on its business, prospects, financial condition, cash flows, results of operations or liquidity.
Stamp Tax litigation procedure
In February 2021, the Central Economic-Administrative
Court ruled against the interest of Ferroglobe in a stamp duty litigation procedure initiated in 2015, where the taxpayer is Abanca. Ferroglobe
agreed with Abanca that it continues the litigation at the judiciary level by filing an appeal before the Audiencia Nacional. In January 2023,
Audiencia Nacional affirmed the stamp duty reassessment against Abanca but voided the proposed penalty of approximately €600 thousand
($663 thousand). Request for appeal for review of the stamp duty reassessment has been filed before the Spanish Supreme Court. As a result
of the continuation of this litigation process, with the appropriate granting of bank guarantee by the taxpayer (Abanca), the tax reassessment
of approximately €1.4 million ($1.6 million) plus delayed interest is not due at this stage of the process.
Asbestos-related claims
Certain employees of Ferroglobe France, SAS (formerly
known as Pechiney Electrometallurgie, S.A. and then known as FerroPem, SAS) may have been exposed to asbestos at its plants in France
(Le Giffre which closed in 1993 and Marginac which closed in 2003) in the decades prior to Ferroglobe Group’s purchase of that business
in December 2004. During the period in question, PEM was wholly-owned by Pechiney Bâtiments, S.A., which had certain indemnification
obligations to Ferroglobe pursuant to the 2004 Share Sale and Purchase Agreement under which Ferroglobe acquired PEM. As of December 31,
2022, approximately 100 such employees have “declared” asbestos-related injury to the French social security agencies. Approximately
three quarters of these cases now have been closed. Of the remaining cases, approximately half include assertions of “inexcusable
negligence” (“faute inexcusable”) which, if upheld, may lead to material liability in the aggregate on the part of Ferroglobe
France. Other employees may declare further asbestos-related injuries in the future, and may likewise assert inexcusable negligence. Litigation
against, and material liability on the part of, Ferroglobe France will not necessarily arise in each case, and to date a majority of such
declared injuries have been minor and have not led to significant liability on Ferroglobe France’s part. Whether liability for “inexcusable
negligence” will be found is determined case-by-case, often over a period of years, depending on the evolution of the claimant’s
asbestos-related condition, the possibility that the claimant was exposed while working for other employers and, where asserted, the claimant’s
ability to prove inexcusable negligence on PEM’s part. Because of these and other uncertainties, no reliable estimate can be made
of Ferroglobe France’s eventual liability in these matters, with exception of three grave cases that were litigated through the
appeal process and in which claimants’ assertions of inexcusable negligence were upheld against Ferroglobe France. As of December 31,
2023 and 2022, the Company has recorded $611 thousand and $955 thousand, respectively, in Provisions in the consolidated statements of
financial position.
Environmental matters
In August 2023, Ferroglobe Metallurgical
USA, Inc. (formerly known as Globe Metallurgical Inc.) entered into Consent Decree with the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (the “EPA”) to resolve two Notices of Violation/Findings of Violation (“NOV/FOV”)
that the EPA issued to the Beverly, Ohio, facility. The first NOV/FOV was issued on July 1, 2015 and alleged certain violations of
the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (“PSD”) and New Source Performance Standards provisions of the Clean Air Act associated
with a 2013 project performed at the Beverly facility. The second NOV/FOV was issued on December 6, 2016 and alleged opacity exceedances
at certain units, the failure to prevent the release of particulate emissions through the use of furnace hoods at a certain unit, and
the failure to install Reasonably Available Control Measures (as defined) at certain emission units at the Beverly facility. Pursuant
to the terms of the Consent Decree, the Company is required to install additional pollution control equipment, implement other measures
to reduce emissions from the facility, including limits on sulfur content in raw materials, as well as pay a civil penalty of $2,639 thousand.
The Court entered the Consent Decree on October 12, 2023, and the Company paid the civil penalty on November 6, 2023.
Other legal procedures
In the first quarter of 2023, Ferroglobe Metallurgical
USA, Inc. (formerly known as Globe Metallurgical Inc.) reached full and final settlements of civil lawsuits arising out of 2018 incident
at the Selma, Alabama, facility in which two employees were injured, one of whom later died. The Company’s insurer settled
those claims for $18,000 thousand and paid the amounts directly.
27. Income and expenses
27.1 Sales
Sales by geographical area of our customer locations
for the years ended December 31 are as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Spain | |
| 169,390 | | |
| 282,387 | | |
| 251,528 | |
Germany | |
| 276,333 | | |
| 442,331 | | |
| 292,774 | |
Other European Countries | |
| 199,789 | | |
| 423,002 | | |
| 383,578 | |
USA | |
| 670,854 | | |
| 966,161 | | |
| 515,095 | |
Rest of World | |
| 333,668 | | |
| 484,035 | | |
| 335,933 | |
Total | |
| 1,650,034 | | |
| 2,597,916 | | |
| 1,778,908 | |
27.2 Raw materials and energy consumption
for production
Raw materials and energy consumption for production
are comprised of the following for the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Purchases of raw materials, supplies and goods | |
| 732,661 | | |
| 793,014 | | |
| 581,991 | |
Changes in inventories | |
| 83,033 | | |
| (163,430 | ) | |
| (74,361 | ) |
Energy | |
| (28,651 | ) | |
| 324,218 | | |
| 351,083 | |
Others | |
| 78,556 | | |
| 301,419 | | |
| 325,088 | |
Write-down of raw materials | |
| 2,192 | | |
| 12,342 | | |
| — | |
Write-down of finished goods | |
| 11,495 | | |
| 17,523 | | |
| 1,095 | |
Total | |
| 879,286 | | |
| 1,285,086 | | |
| 1,184,896 | |
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the
energy cost has been reduced by the ARENH benefit and separate contract received from our French energy provider amounting to $186,211
thousand (See Note 12).
27.3 Other operating income
Other operating income is comprised of the following
for the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Energy | |
| — | | |
| 53,802 | | |
| — | |
Carbon dioxide emissions allowances | |
| 80,316 | | |
| 88,952 | | |
| 103,044 | |
Others | |
| 20,676 | | |
| 4,602 | | |
| 7,041 | |
Total | |
| 100,992 | | |
| 147,356 | | |
| 110,085 | |
Carbon dioxide emission allowances arise from
the difference between the fair value of the allowances granted and the nominal amount paid. The deferred income is recognized as “other
operating income” on a systematic basis on the proportion of the carbon dioxide emitted over total carbon dioxide expected to be
emitted for the compliance period on the consolidated income statements (see Note 14). During 2023, the Company has recorded an income
related to this totaling $80,316 thousand ($88,952 thousand in 2022 and $103,044 thousand in 2021).
As the Company emits carbon dioxide, it recognizes
a provision for its obligation to deliver the carbon dioxide emissions allowances at the end of the compliance period. The provision is
remeasured and recorded as an expense at the end of each reporting period at historical cost for the emission rights (allowances). Provision
for its obligation to deliver the carbon dioxide emissions is presented in the consolidated income statements.
During the year ended December 31, 2023,
the Company recognized an income of $10,164 thousand classified within others, related to a contingent consideration resulting from the
agreement entered with Kehlen Industries Management, S.L., for the sale of the hydro-electric assets in 2019.
Energy income in 2022 mainly related to the benefit
received from our French energy provider to stop production in Q4 2022.
27.4 Staff costs
The average monthly number of employees (including
Executive Directors) was:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Directors | |
| 9 | | |
| 9 | | |
| 8 | |
Senior Managers | |
| 316 | | |
| 288 | | |
| 289 | |
Employees | |
| 3,214 | | |
| 3,173 | | |
| 2,997 | |
Total | |
| 3,539 | | |
| 3,470 | | |
| 3,294 | |
Refer to the Directors’ Remuneration Report
on page 35 of these financial statements for additional information.
Staff costs are comprised of the following for
the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Wages, salaries and similar expenses | |
| 220,293 | | |
| 232,880 | | |
| 214,374 | |
Pension plan contributions | |
| 7,978 | | |
| 7,977 | | |
| 7,571 | |
Employee benefit costs | |
| 77,588 | | |
| 73,953 | | |
| 58,972 | |
Total | |
| 305,859 | | |
| 314,810 | | |
| 280,917 | |
Share-based compensation
Equity Incentive Plan
On
May 29, 2016, the board of Ferroglobe PLC adopted the Ferroglobe PLC Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”) and on June 29,
2016 the Plan was approved by the shareholders of the Company. The Plan is a discretionary benefit offered by Ferroglobe PLC for the benefit
of selected senior employees of Ferroglobe PLC and its subsidiaries. The Plan’s main purpose is to reward and foster performance
through share ownership. Awards under the plan may be structured either as conditional share awards or options with a $nil exercise price
(nil cost options) for awards granted prior to 2021, and with a strike of 0.01 for awards granted since 2021. The awards are subject
to a service condition of three years from the date of grant in the case of the options granted in 2017, 2018, 2019, 2022 and 2023, and
four years from the date of grant in the case of the options granted in 2020, in each case to the extent that performance conditions are
satisfied, and subject to continued service with the Company, remain exercisable until the tenth anniversary of their grant date. In the
case of the options granted in 2021 the options vest on January 1, 2024.
Details of the Plan awards during the current
and prior years are as follows:
| |
Number of
awards | |
Outstanding as of December 31, 2020 | |
| 3,411,974 | |
Granted during the period | |
| 1,307,934 | |
Exercised during the period | |
| (309,462 | ) |
Expired/forfeited during the period | |
| (51,010 | ) |
Outstanding as of December 31, 2021 | |
| 4,359,436 | |
Granted during the period | |
| 848,710 | |
Exercised during the period | |
| (208,076 | ) |
Expired/forfeited during the period | |
| (1,198,364 | ) |
Outstanding as of December 31, 2022 | |
| 3,801,706 | |
Granted during the period | |
| 1,044,449 | |
Exercised during the period | |
| (7,986 | ) |
Expired/forfeited during the period | |
| (277,576 | ) |
Outstanding as of December 31, 2023 | |
| 4,560,593 | |
| |
| | |
Exercisable as of December 31, 2023 | |
| 336,399 | |
The awards outstanding under the Plan at December 31,
2023 and December 31, 2022 were as follows:
| |
| |
| |
| | |
Fair Value at | | |
| | |
| |
Grant Date | |
Performance Period | |
Expiration Date | |
Exercise Price | | |
Grant Date | | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
May 30, 2023 | |
December 31, 2025 | |
May 30, 2033 | |
| 0.01 | | |
$ | 6.64 | | |
| 1,044,449 | | |
| — | |
September 22, 2022 | |
December 31, 2024 | |
September 22, 2032 | |
| 0.01 | | |
$ | 8.53 | | |
| 571,134 | | |
| 848,710 | |
September 9, 2021 | |
December 31, 2021 | |
September 9, 2031 | |
| 0.01 | | |
$ | 8.83 | | |
| 1,255,824 | | |
| 1,255,824 | |
December 16, 2020 | |
December 31, 2020 | |
December 16, 2030 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 1.23 | | |
| 1,352,788 | | |
| 1,352,788 | |
March 13, 2019 | |
December 31, 2021 | |
March 13, 2029 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 2.69 | | |
| 129,824 | | |
| 136,682 | |
June 14, 2018 | |
N/A | |
June 14, 2028 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 9.34 | | |
| 44,650 | | |
| 44,650 | |
March 21, 2018 | |
December 31, 2020 | |
March 21, 2028 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 22.56 | | |
| 51,690 | | |
| 52,819 | |
June 20, 2017 | |
December 31, 2019 | |
June 20, 2027 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 15.90 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
June 1, 2017 | |
N/A | |
June 1, 2027 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 10.96 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
June 1, 2017 | |
December 31, 2019 | |
June 1, 2027 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 16.77 | | |
| 77,712 | | |
| 77,712 | |
November 24, 2016 | |
December 31, 2018 | |
November 24, 2026 | |
| nil | | |
$ | 16.66 | | |
| 32,522 | | |
| 32,521 | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| 4,560,593 | | |
| 3,801,706 | |
The awards outstanding as of December 31,
2023 have a weighted average remaining contractual life of 8.52 years (8.33 years in 2022 and 8.37 years in 2021).
The weighted average share price at the date of exercise for
stock options exercised in the year ended December 31, 2023 was $4.92 ($6.46 in 2022 and $5.28 in 2021).
As of December 31, 2023, 4,515,944 of the
outstanding awards were subject to performance conditions (3,757,056 awards in 2022 and 4,287,828 awards in 2021). For those awards subject
to performance conditions, upon completion of the three-year service period, the recipient will receive a number of shares or nil cost
options of between 0% and 200% of the above award numbers, depending on the financial performance of the Company during the performance
period. The performance conditions for the shares granted in 2023 can be summarized as follows:
Vesting Conditions |
40% based cumulative earnings before interest and tax (EBIT) |
40% based on cumulative operational cash flow |
20% based on total shareholder return (TSR) relative to a comparator group |
There were no performance obligations
linked to 44,650 of the outstanding awards at December 31, 2023 (44,650 awards in 2022 and 71,608 awards in 2021). These awards
were issued as deferred bonus awards and vested subject to remaining in employment for three years.
Fair Value
The
weighted average fair value of the awards granted during the year ended December 31, 2023 was $6.64 ($8.53 and 8.83 in 2021).
The Company estimates the fair value of the awards using Stochastic and Black-Scholes option pricing models (Level 3). Where relevant,
the expected life used in the model has been adjusted for the remaining time from the date of valuation until options are expected to
be received, exercise restrictions (including the probability of meeting market conditions attached to the option), and performance considerations.
Expected volatility is calculated over the period commensurate with the remainder of the performance period immediately prior to the date
of grant.
The following assumptions were used to estimate
the fair value of the awards:
| |
Grant date | |
| |
May 30, 2023 | | |
September 22, 2022 | | |
September 9, 2021 | |
Grant date share price | |
$ | 4.50 | | |
$ | 5.76 | | |
$ | 8.57 |
|
Exercise price | |
| 0.01 | | |
| 0.01 | | |
| 0.01 |
|
Expected volatility | |
| 87.7 | % | |
| 94.28 | % | |
| 104,75 |
% |
Option life | |
| 3.00 years | | |
| 3.00 years | | |
| 2.31 years |
|
Dividend yield | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — |
|
Risk-free interest rate | |
| 4.13 | % | |
| 4.12 | % | |
| 0.28 |
% |
Remaining performance period at grant date (years) | |
| 3.00 | | |
| 3.00 | | |
| 2,31 |
|
Company TSR at grant date | |
| 0,64 | % | |
| (27.2 | )% | |
| N/A |
% |
Median comparator group TSR at grant date | |
| 10.5 | | |
| 10.5 | | |
| N/A |
|
The Company’s TSR relative to the median
comparator group TSR and median index TSR at grant date may impact the grant date fair value; starting from an advantaged position increases
the fair value and starting from a disadvantaged position decreases the fair value.
To model the impact of the TSR performance conditions,
we have calculated the volatility of the comparator group using the same method used to calculate the Company’s volatility, using
historical data, where available, which matches the length of the remaining performance period grant date.
The Company’s correlation with its comparator
group was assessed on the basis of all comparator group correlations, regardless of the degree of correlation, have been incorporated
into the valuation model.
For the year ended December 31, 2023,
share-based compensation expense related to all non-vested awards amounted to $7,402 thousand, which is recorded in staff costs ($5,836
thousand in 2022 and $3,627 thousand in 2021).
27.5 Other operating expenses
Other operating expenses are comprised of the
following for the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Carbon dioxide credit | |
| 81,870 | | |
| 100,220 | | |
| 129,267 | |
Services of independent professionals | |
| 40,687 | | |
| 74,552 | | |
| 40,891 | |
Freight cost | |
| 51,415 | | |
| 78,245 | | |
| 56,941 | |
Insurance premiums | |
| 15,506 | | |
| 14,963 | | |
| 11,019 | |
Tax | |
| 11,280 | | |
| 15,919 | | |
| 12,892 | |
Other operating expenses | |
| 69,332 | | |
| 62,353 | | |
| 45,799 | |
Total | |
| 270,090 | | |
| 346,252 | | |
| 296,809 | |
27.6 Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges are comprised
of the following for the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Amortization of intangible assets (Note 7) | |
| 663 | | |
| 725 | | |
| 7,241 | |
Depreciation of property, plant and equipment (Note 8) | |
| 72,869 | | |
| 80,834 | | |
| 90,087 | |
Total | |
| 73,532 | | |
| 81,559 | | |
| 97,328 | |
27.7 Finance income and finance costs
Finance income is comprised of the following for
the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Other finance income | |
| 5,422 | | |
| 2,274 | | |
| 253 | |
Total | |
| 5,422 | | |
| 2,274 | | |
| 253 | |
Other finance income as of December 31, 2023 is mainly due to
the Reinstated Notes repurchases by $1,413 thousand and $1,675 thousand from money market funds.
Finance costs are comprised of the following for
the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Interest on debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 24,414 | | |
| 40,913 | | |
| 42,579 | |
Interest on loans and bank borrowings (Note 16 and Note 19) | |
| 3,794 | | |
| 9,482 | | |
| 12,584 | |
Interest on leases (Note 17) | |
| 1,715 | | |
| 1,587 | | |
| 1,100 | |
Interest on note and bill discounting | |
| 127 | | |
| 125 | | |
| 88 | |
Other finance costs | |
| 8,743 | | |
| 8,908 | | |
| 92,838 | |
Total | |
| 38,793 | | |
| 61,015 | | |
| 149,189 | |
Interest on debt instruments has decreased as
of December 31, 2023 due to the partial redemption of the Reinstated Notes by $150.0 million in July 2023 (see Note 18).
At the completion of the comprehensive refinancing,
the Company recorded a finance cost of $90,800 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2021 (See Note 18).
27.8 Impairment loss (gain)
Impairment loss (gain) is comprised of the following
for the years ended December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Impairment of intangible assets (Note 7) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (1,153 | ) |
Impairment of property, plant and equipment (Note 8) | |
| (25,768 | ) | |
| (56,999 | ) | |
| 1,663 | |
Impairment of non-current financial assets | |
| 478 | | |
| — | | |
| (373 | ) |
Impairment loss (gain) | |
| (25,290 | ) | |
| (56,999 | ) | |
| 137 | |
28. Remuneration of key
management personnel
The remuneration of the key management personnel
(14, 14 and 12 employees for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 respectively), which comprises the Company’s
management committee, during the years ended December 31 is as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Fixed remuneration | |
| 5,894 | | |
| 5,404 | | |
| 5,244 | |
Variable remuneration | |
| 4,492 | | |
| 5,199 | | |
| 1,209 | |
Contributions to pension plans and insurance policies | |
| 299 | | |
| 315 | | |
| 373 | |
Share-based compensation | |
| 7,402 | | |
| 5,937 | | |
| 3,627 | |
Termination benefits | |
| 262 | | |
| 316 | | |
| 119 | |
Other remuneration | |
| 18 | | |
| 16 | | |
| 17 | |
Total | |
| 18,367 | | |
| 17,187 | | |
| 10,589 | |
During 2023, 2022 and 2021, no loans and advances
have been granted to key management personnel.
29. Financial risk management
Ferroglobe operates in an international and cyclical
industry which exposes it to a variety of financial risks such as currency risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and risks
relating to the price of finished goods, raw materials and power.
The Company’s management model aims to minimize
the potential adverse impact of such risks upon the Company’s financial performance. Risk is managed by the Company’s executive
management, supported by the Risk Management, Treasury and Finance functions. The risk management process includes identifying and evaluating
financial risks in conjunction with the Company’s operations and quantifying them by project, region and subsidiary. Management
provides written policies for global risk management, as well as for specific areas such as foreign currency risk, credit risk, interest
rate risk, liquidity risk, the use of hedging instruments and derivatives, and investment of surplus liquidity.
The financial risks to which the Company is exposed
in carrying out its business activities are as follows:
a) Market risk
Market risk is the risk that the Company’s
future cash flows or the fair value of its financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. The primary market
risks to which the Company is exposed comprise foreign currency risk, interest rate risk and risks related to power.
Foreign currency risk
Ferroglobe generates sales revenue and incurs
operating costs in various currencies. The prices of finished goods are to a large extent determined in international markets, primarily
in USD and Euros. Foreign currency risk is partly mitigated by the generation of sales revenue, the purchase of raw materials and other
operating costs being denominated in the same currencies. Although it has done so on occasions in the past, and may decide to do so in
the future, the Company does not generally enter into foreign currency derivatives in relation to its operating cash flows. As of December 31,
2023 and December 31, 2022, the Company was not party to any foreign currency forward contracts.
In
July 2021, the Company completed a restructuring of its $350,000 thousand of senior unsecured Notes due 2022. This included the issue
of additionally $60,000 thousand (which were fully repaid in June 2022) of super senior secured Notes due 2025 (see Note 18)
and the repayment of certain existing indebtedness denominated in a number of currencies across its subsidiaries. The Company is exposed
to foreign exchange risk as the interest and principal of the Notes is payable in USD, whereas its operations principally generate a combination
of USD and Euro cash flows. As of December 31, 2023 the debt balance related to the Reinstated Notes was $154,780 thousand,
which has been fully repaid in February 2024.
During the year ended December 31, 2023 and
2022 the Company did not enter into any cross currency swaps.
Foreign currency sensitivity analysis
The Company’s exposure to foreign currency risk arises
from the translation of the foreign currency exchange gains and losses on cash and cash equivalents, accounts receivable, accounts payable
and inventories that are denominated in foreign currency.
Depreciation or appreciation of the USD by 10%
against EUR, CAD and ZAR at December 31, 2023, while all other variables were remained constant, would have increased or (decreased)
the net profit before tax of $16,502 thousand ($62,764 thousand in 2022).
Interest rate risk
Ferroglobe is exposed to interest rate risk in
respect of its financial liabilities that bear interest at floating rates. These primarily comprise credit facilities (see Note 16)
and lease commitments (see Note 17).
During the years ended December 31, 2023
and 2022, the Company did not enter into any interest rate derivatives in relation to its interest bearing credit facilities.
Interest Rate Sensitivity analysis
At December 31, 2023, an increase of 1%
in interest rates would have given rise to additional borrowing costs of $604 thousand (2022: $812 thousand).
Power risk
Power generally constitutes one of the larger
expenses for most of Ferroglobe’s products. Ferroglobe focuses on minimizing energy prices and unit consumption throughout its
operations by concentrating its silicon and manganese-based alloy production during periods when energy prices are lower. In 2023, Ferroglobe’s
total power consumption was 5,834 gigawatt-hours (6,431 in 2022), with power contracts that vary across its operations.
In
2023, Ferroglobe has engaged discussions with energy companies to secure Purchasing Power Agreements (“PPAs”) based on Solar
and wind generation. Two wind PPAs were signed in 2023 with a total volume of 130 GWh at a fixed price between 77 and 50 EUR/MWh.
Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries have
their power needs covered by a three-year agreement ending in 2025. Regulation enacted in 2015 enables French subsidiaries of the Company
to benefit from reduced transmission tariffs, interruptibility compensation (an agreement whereby the companies agree to interrupt production
in response to surges in demand across the French electricity grid), as well as receiving compensation for indirect carbon dioxide costs
under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) regulation.
Power Risk Sensitivity analysis
At December 31, 2023 a 10% change in total
power consumption would yield a $22,333 thousand increase or (decrease) in our energy expenditures and resulting opposite impact to net
profit before tax.
Credit risk refers to the risk that a customer
or counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss. The Company’s main credit risk exposure
related to financial assets is set out in Note 9 and includes trade and other receivables and other financial assets.
Trade and other receivables consist of a large
number of customers, spread across diverse industries and geographical areas. The Company has established policies, procedures and controls
relating to customer credit risk management. Ongoing credit evaluation is performed on the financial condition of accounts receivable
and, where appropriate, the Company insures its trade receivables with reputable credit insurance companies.
Since
October 2020, the Company entered into a factoring program where the receivables of some of the Company’s French and
Spanish entities are prefinanced by a factor (see Note 9 and 16). In February 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo
FerroAtlántica, S.A.U) signed an additional factoring agreement with Bankinter.
The purpose of the Company’s liquidity
and financing policy is to ensure that the Company keeps sufficient funds available to meet its financial obligations as they fall due.
Changes in financial assets and liabilities are monitored on an ongoing basis.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, Ferroglobe
had restricted cash and cash and cash equivalents of $137,649 thousand and $322,943 thousand, respectively. As of December 31, 2023,
the Company’s total outstanding debt is $310,998 thousand, consisting of $61,535 thousand in short-term, including the current
portion of long-term debt and $249,463 in long-term debt.
The Company’s main sources of financing
are as follows:
| · | In
2021, the Company exchanged 98.6% of its 350 million 9.375% senior unsecured notes due in
March 2022 (“Old Notes") for total consideration of $1,000 of principal amount,
which is comprised of (i) $1,000 aggregate principal amount of the new 9.375% senior
secured notes due in 2025 (the “Reinstated Senior Notes”) plus (ii) cash
amount to $51.6 million, which the Company’s Parent applied as cash consideration for
a subscription of new ordinary shares of the Company. |
The
Company issued $60.0 million in new 9% senior secured notes due in 2025 (“Super Senior Notes”). In July 2022,
the Super Senior Notes were redeemed at 100% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest.
In
July 2023, the Company via its subsidiary issuers of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “Notes”) partially
redeemed such Notes at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. The issuers elected to redeem an aggregate principal
amount of $150.0 million of the Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest of $14.0 million.
| · | In
2016, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Industry,
Tourism and Commerce (the “Ministry”) to borrow an aggregate principal amount
of €44.9 million ($50.2 million) in connection with the industrial development
projects relation to a silicon purification project at an annual interest rate of 3.6%. The
Company is required to repay this loan in seven instalments commencing in 2023 and to be
completed by 2030. |
| · | In
October 2020, the Company signed a new factoring agreement with a financial institution
for anticipating the collection of receivables of the Company’s European subsidiaries.
During 2023, the factoring agreement provided upfront cash consideration of $431,274 thousand
($835,388 thousand in 2022). The Company has repaid $454,576 thousand ($863,192 thousand
in 2022), showing at December 31, 2023, an on-balance sheet bank borrowing debt of $30,683
thousand (2022: $$56,157 thousand), see Note 9 and 16. |
| · | In
June 2022, a Company subsidiary entered into a five-year, $100 million asset-based revolving
credit facility (the “ABL Revolver”), with the Bank of Montreal as lender and
agent. The maximum amount available under the ABL Revolver is subject to a borrowing base
test comprising North American inventory and accounts receivable. |
| · | In
2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with BNP Paribas to borrow an aggregate
principal amount, interest-free, of €4.5 million ($5.3 million), to finance Company’s
activities in France. The French government guaranteed the loan in line with special measures
taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The loan is to be repaid by 2026. The Company
is liable for a fee of 0.5% equal based on the total borrowed capital. |
| · | In
2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with Investissement Québec
to borrow an aggregate principal amount, interest-free, of $7.0 million to finance its capital
expenditures activities in Canada. The loan is to be repaid over a seven-year period, with
payments deferred for the first three years from inception of the loan. |
| | |
| · | In
March 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica) and Ferroglobe
Corporate Services (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica de Servicios) (together the “Beneficiaries”)
and the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (“SEPI”), a Spanish
state-owned industrial holding company affiliated with the Ministry of Finance and Administration,
entered into a loan agreement of €34.5 million ($38.3 million). This loan is part of
the SEPI fund intended to provide assistance to non-financial companies operating in strategically
important sectors within Spain as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. |
Quantitative information
At December 31, the Company’s interest-bearing financial
liabilities were as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
Fixed rate | | |
Floating rate | | |
Total | |
| |
U.S.$'000 | | |
U.S.$'000 | | |
U.S.$'000 | |
Bank borrowings (Note 16) | |
| 15,865 | | |
| 30,683 | | |
| 46,548 | |
Obligations under leases (Note 17) | |
| — | | |
| 28,387 | | |
| 28,387 | |
Tolling agreement lease liability (Note 22) | |
| 37,863 | | |
| — | | |
| 37,863 | |
Debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 154,780 | | |
| — | | |
| 154,780 | |
Other financial liabilities (Note 19) | |
| 57,218 | | |
| 20,224 | | |
| 77,442 | |
| |
| 265,726 | | |
| 79,294 | | |
| 345,020 | |
| |
2022 | |
| |
Fixed rate | | |
Floating rate | | |
Total | |
| |
U.S.$'000 | | |
U.S.$'000 | | |
U.S.$'000 | |
Bank borrowings (Note 16) | |
| 16,857 | | |
| 60,976 | | |
| 77,833 | |
Obligations under leases (Note 17) | |
| — | | |
| 21,871 | | |
| 21,871 | |
Debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 343,442 | | |
| — | | |
| 343,442 | |
Other financial liabilities (Note 19) | |
| 80,388 | | |
| 18,273 | | |
| 98,661 | |
| |
| 440,687 | | |
| 101,120 | | |
| 541,807 | |
The table below summarizes the Company’s
financial liabilities to be settled by the Company based on their maturity as of December 31, 2023, based on contractual undiscounted
payments. The table includes both interest and principal cash flows. The table below assumes that the principal will be paid at maturity
date.
| |
2023 | |
| |
Less than 1 year | | |
Between 1-2 years | | |
Between 2-5 years | | |
After 5 years | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Bank borrowings | |
| 31,635 | | |
| — | | |
| 1,683 | | |
| 13,230 | | |
| 46,548 | |
Leases | |
| 9,240 | | |
| 6,413 | | |
| 10,897 | | |
| 11,939 | | |
| 38,489 | |
Debt instruments | |
| 19,692 | | |
| 168,705 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 188,397 | |
Financial loans from government agencies | |
| 14,653 | | |
| 51,243 | | |
| 15,444 | | |
| 3,586 | | |
| 84,926 | |
Payables to related parties | |
| 2,198 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 2,198 | |
Payable to non-current asset suppliers | |
| 9,791 | | |
| 336 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 10,127 | |
Contingent consideration | |
| 400 | | |
| 983 | | |
| 677 | | |
| — | | |
| 2,060 | |
Tolling agreement liability | |
| 3,683 | | |
| 7,366 | | |
| 11,049 | | |
| 114,172 | | |
| 136,270 | |
Trade and other payables | |
| 183,375 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 183,375 | |
| |
| 274,667 | | |
| 235,045 | | |
| 39,750 | | |
| 142,927 | | |
| 692,389 | |
| |
2022 | |
| |
Less than 1 year | | |
Between 1-2 years | | |
Between 2-5 years | | |
After 5 years | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Bank borrowings | |
| 62,059 | | |
| — | | |
| 2,544 | | |
| 13,230 | | |
| 77,833 | |
Leases | |
| 8,928 | | |
| 7,349 | | |
| 6,888 | | |
| — | | |
| 23,166 | |
Debt instruments | |
| 32,439 | | |
| 423,235 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 455,674 | |
Financial loans from government agencies | |
| 61,796 | | |
| 4,336 | | |
| 41,239 | | |
| 2,792 | | |
| 110,163 | |
Payables to related parties | |
| 1,790 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 1,790 | |
Payable to non-current asset suppliers | |
| 4,149 | | |
| 183 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 4,332 | |
Contingent consideration | |
| 1,945 | | |
| 3,930 | | |
| 1,257 | | |
| — | | |
| 7,132 | |
Tolling agreement liability | |
| 3,555 | | |
| 7,110 | | |
| 10,665 | | |
| 113,759 | | |
| 135,089 | |
Trade and other payables | |
| 219,666 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 219,666 | |
| |
| 396,327 | | |
| 446,143 | | |
| 62,593 | | |
| 129,781 | | |
| 1,034,845 | |
Additionally,
as of December 31, 2023, the Company has long-term power purchase commitments amounting to $434,507 thousand ($526,841 thousand
in 2022), which represents minimum charges that are enforceable and legally binding, and do not represent total anticipated purchase.
Debt instruments for the Reinstated Notes, and
the Reindus and the SEPI loans classified as financial loans from government agencies have early redemption options.
Changes in liabilities arising from financing
activities
The changes in liabilities arising from financing
activities during the year ended December 31, 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| |
January 1, 2023 | | |
Changes from financing cash flows | | |
Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates | | |
Interest expenses | | |
Other changes | | |
December 31, 2023 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Bank borrowings (Note 16) | |
| 77,833 | | |
| (26,798 | ) | |
| 1,716 | | |
| 2,568 | | |
| (8,771 | ) | |
| 46,548 | |
Obligations under leases (Note 17) | |
| 21,871 | | |
| (11,363 | ) | |
| 403 | | |
| 1,715 | | |
| 15,761 | | |
| 28,387 | |
Debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 343,442 | | |
| (209,245 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 22,989 | | |
| (2,406 | ) | |
| 154,780 | |
Financial loans from government agencies (Note 19) | |
| 98,661 | | |
| (23,740 | ) | |
| 2,565 | | |
| 4,847 | | |
| (4,891 | ) | |
| 77,442 | |
Tolling agreement lease liability (Note 22) | |
| 36,665 | | |
| (3,604 | ) | |
| 1,318 | | |
| 3,484 | | |
| — | | |
| 37,863 | |
Total liabilities from financing activities | |
| 578,472 | | |
| (274,750 | ) | |
| 6,002 | | |
| 35,603 | | |
| (307 | ) | |
| 345,020 | |
Other amounts paid due to net financing activities | |
| | | |
| (7,397 | ) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Net cash (used) in financing activities | |
| | | |
| (282,147 | ) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
| |
January 1, 2022 | | |
Changes from financing cash flows | | |
Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates | | |
Changes in fair values | | |
Interest expenses | | |
Other changes | | |
December 31, 2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Bank borrowings (Note 16) | |
| 98,967 | | |
| (24,529 | ) | |
| (5,991 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 3,185 | | |
| 6,201 | | |
| 77,833 | |
Obligations under leases (Note 17) | |
| 18,358 | | |
| (11,590 | ) | |
| (750 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 1,587 | | |
| 14,266 | | |
| 21,871 | |
Debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 440,297 | | |
| (136,260 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 190 | | |
| 34,404 | | |
| 4,811 | | |
| 343,442 | |
Financial loans from government agencies (Note 19) | |
| 67,013 | | |
| 35,924 | | |
| (5,289 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 5,239 | | |
| (4,226 | ) | |
| 98,661 | |
Total liabilities from financing activities | |
| 624,635 | | |
| (136,455 | ) | |
| (12,030 | ) | |
| 190 | | |
| 44,415 | | |
| 21,052 | | |
| 541,807 | |
Other amounts paid due to net financing activities | |
| | | |
| (4,003 | ) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Net cash (used) in financing activities | |
| | | |
| (140,458 | ) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
30. Fair value measurement
Fair value of assets
and liabilities that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis
The following table provides the fair value measurement
hierarchy of the Company’s assets and liabilities that are carried at fair value in the statement of financial position:
| |
December 31, 2023 | |
| |
| | |
Quoted prices in active markets | | |
Significant observable inputs | | |
Significant unobservable inputs | |
| |
Total | | |
(Level 1) | | |
(Level 2) | | |
(Level 3) | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Other financial assets (Note 9): | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Listed equity securities | |
| 1,080 | | |
| 1,080 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Other financial liabilities (Note 20): | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Derivative financial assets - PPA | |
| 7,413 | | |
| — | | |
| 7,413 | | |
| — | |
Derivative financial liabilities - PPA | |
| (699 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (699 | ) | |
| — | |
Other obligations (Note 22): | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Contingent consideration in a business combination | |
| (1,732 | ) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (1,732 | ) |
| |
December 31, 2022 | |
| |
| | |
Quoted prices in active markets | | |
Significant observable inputs | | |
Significant unobservable inputs | |
| |
Total | | |
(Level 1) | | |
(Level 2) | | |
(Level 3) | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Other financial assets (Note 9): | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Listed equity securities | |
| 936 | | |
| 936 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Other obligations (Note 22): | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Contingent consideration in a business combination | |
| (5,838 | ) | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (5,838 | ) |
A reconciliation of the beginning and
ending balances of all liabilities at fair value on recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) for the year ended
December 31, 2023, presented as follows:
| |
Total | |
Fair value at December 31, 2020 | |
| (16,632 | ) |
Changes in fair value through profit or loss | |
| (13,168 | ) |
Payments | |
| 3,273 | |
Fair value at December 31, 2021 | |
| (26,527 | ) |
Changes in fair value through profit or loss | |
| 1,758 | |
Payments | |
| 18,931 | |
Fair value at December 31, 2022 | |
| (5,838 | ) |
Changes in fair value through profit or loss | |
| (717 | ) |
Payments | |
| 4,823 | |
Fair value at December 31, 2023 | |
| (1,732 | ) |
31. Other disclosures
Restricted Net Assets
Certain
of our entities are restricted from remitting certain funds to us in the form of cash dividends or loans by a variety of, contractual
requirements. These restrictions are related to standard covenant requirements included in our bank borrowings and debt instruments,
such as the SEPI loan and the ABL Revolver. Additionally, the Company has certain restrictions in its partnerships with Dow Silicones
Corporation. Consequently, net assets from Ferroglobe subsidiaries Ferroglobe USA Inc (formerly Globe Specialty Metals, Inc.), and
other subsidiaries in the U.S.A, Ferroglobe Canada (formerly QSIP Canada ULC), Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo Ferroatlántica)
and the partnerships with Dow are restricted. Please refer to Notes 9, 16 and 19 for further details of these restrictions.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022 the restricted
net assets of the Ferroglobe Group’s subsidiaries were $328,572 thousand and $496,983 thousand, respectively. The Company performed
a test on the restricted net assets of combined subsidiaries in accordance with Securities and Exchange Commission Regulation rule 5-04
(c) ‘what schedules are to be filed’ and concluded the restricted net assets exceed 25% of the consolidated net assets
of the Company at December 31, 2023 and 2022. Therefore the separate condensed financial statements, as per SEC rule S-X 12-04,
of Ferroglobe PLC are presented as Appendix I to these consolidated financial statements.
Additionally, the Super Senior Notes restricts
the ability of Ferroglobe PLC to pay dividends.
32. Events after
the reporting period
Management has evaluated subsequent events after
the balance sheet date, through the issuance of these consolidated financial statements, for appropriate accounting and disclosures.
Full redemption of the Company’s remaining
9.375% Senior Secured Notes Due 2025
In February 2024, the Company completed
the full redemption of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. The issuers
elected to redeem an aggregate principal amount of $147,624 thousand of the Notes, the entire amount outstanding as of the redemption
date, plus accrued and unpaid interest and call premium of $4,075 thousand. The Notes were fully redeemed from the Company’s cash
and cash equivalents.
Dividend payment
In March 2024, the Company distributed dividends
to its ordinary shareholders totaling $2,428 thousand.
PARENT
COMPANY BALANCE SHEET
AS OF DECEMBER
31, 2023 AND 2022
Thousands
of U.S. Dollars
| |
| |
December
31, 2023 | | |
December
31, 2022 (*) | |
| |
Notes | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
ASSETS | |
| |
| | |
| |
Non-current assets | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Investment in subsidiaries | |
3 | |
| 645,088 | | |
| 629,284 | |
Intangible assets | |
7 | |
| — | | |
| 522 | |
Property, plant and equipment | |
8 | |
| 462 | | |
| 449 | |
Loans receivable from subsidiaries | |
4 | |
| 54,959 | | |
| 143,265 | |
Trade and other receivables from subsidiaries | |
4 | |
| — | | |
| 8,150 | |
Total non-current assets | |
| |
| 700,509 | | |
| 781,670 | |
| |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Current assets | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Trade and other receivables | |
4 | |
| 1,443 | | |
| 797 | |
Trade and other receivables from subsidiaries | |
4 | |
| 37,932 | | |
| 99,003 | |
Other current assets | |
| |
| 390 | | |
| 435 | |
Cash and cash equivalents | |
| |
| 227 | | |
| 605 | |
Total current assets | |
| |
| 39,992 | | |
| 100,840 | |
Total assets | |
| |
| 740,501 | | |
| 882,510 | |
EQUITY AND LIABILITIES | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Equity | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Share capital | |
| |
| 1,964 | | |
| 1,964 | |
Share Premium | |
| |
| 75,073 | | |
| 75,073 | |
Other reserves | |
6 | |
| (226,815 | ) | |
| (234,031 | ) |
Retained earnings | |
| |
| 739,524 | | |
| 734,095 | |
Total equity | |
| |
| 589,746 | | |
| 577,101 | |
| |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Non-current liabilities | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Lease liabilities | |
9 | |
| 406 | | |
| 372 | |
Loans payable from subsidiaries | |
5 | |
| 37,999 | | |
| 179,111 | |
Other liabilities | |
| |
| 198 | | |
| 11 | |
Total non-current liabilities | |
| |
| 38,603 | | |
| 179,494 | |
| |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Current liabilities | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Lease liabilities | |
9 | |
| 126 | | |
| 550 | |
Trade and other payables | |
5 | |
| 2,365 | | |
| 10,634 | |
Loans payable from subsidiaries | |
5 | |
| 67,903 | | |
| 67,903 | |
Trade and other payables from subsidiaries | |
5 | |
| 41,652 | | |
| 46,610 | |
Current income tax liabilities | |
| |
| — | | |
| 115 | |
Other current liabilities | |
| |
| 106 | | |
| 103 | |
Total current liabilities | |
| |
| 112,152 | | |
| 125,915 | |
Total equity and liabilities | |
| |
| 740,501 | | |
| 882,510 | |
(*)
Restated – see note 4
Notes 1 to 11 are an integral part of these financial statements.
The Company reported a profit for the financial
year ended December 31, 2023, of $5,429 thousand (2022: loss of $40,436 thousand.)
The current year profit is after recognition
of:
| - | a credit of $8,217 thousand to correct
the accounting for share-based payment arrangements related to subsidiaries in previous years.
This amount was previously recognized as an expense whereas it should have been recognized
as an increase in the investments in subsidiary (see Note 3); and |
| - | recognition of previously unrecognized
interest income amounting to $19,428 thousand on a loan receivable from subsidiary for FY
2021 and FY 2022 – see note 4. |
The directors do not consider the effects of
these matters to be material to the Parent Company prior period financial statements of Ferroglobe PLC, and accordingly have been corrected
in the current year.
For the year ending 31 December 2023 the
following subsidiaries of Ferroglobe PLC were entitled to exemption from audit under s479A of the Companies Act 2006 relating to subsidiary
companies:
Subsidiary
Name |
Companies
House Registration Number |
Ferroglobe Finance Company PLC
Ferroglobe Holding Company Ltd |
13353128
13347942 |
Ferroglobe PLC has provided parental guarantee
for the debts and liabilities of the UK subsidiaries described above at the balance sheet date in accordance with section 479C of the
Companies Act 2006. The Company has assessed the probability of loss under these guarantees as remote.
The financial statements of Ferroglobe PLC with registration number
9425113 were approved by the Board and authorized for issue on May 20, 2024.
Signed on behalf of the Board.
Dr. Marco Levi
Director
PARENT
COMPANY STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR 2023 AND 2022
Thousands of U.S. Dollars
| |
Equity attributable to equity holders of the Company | | |
| |
| |
Share capital | | |
Share
Premium | | |
Other reserves | | |
Result for
the year | | |
Retained earnings | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at December 31, 2021 | |
| 1,964 | | |
| 75,073 | | |
| (239,855 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 774,531 | | |
| 611,712 | |
Share-based compensation | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 5,825 | | |
| | | |
| — | | |
| 5,825 | |
Comprehensive (loss) income for the year | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (40,436 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (40,436 | ) |
Transfer of the year loss | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| 40,436 | | |
| (40,436 | ) | |
| — | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| 1,964 | | |
| 75,073 | | |
| (234,031 | | |
| — | | |
| 734,095 | | |
| 577,101 | |
Share-based compensation | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 7,216 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 7,216 | |
Comprehensive (loss) income for the year | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 5,429 | | |
| — | | |
| 5,429 | |
Transfer of the year loss | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (5,429 | ) | |
| 5,429 | | |
| — | |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| 1,964 | | |
| 75,073 | | |
| (226,815 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 739,524 | | |
| 589,746 | |
Notes 1 to 11 are
an integral part of these financial statements.
NOTES TO THE
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2023 AND 2022
1. | Significant
accounting policies |
Ferroglobe PLC is a public limited
company incorporated in the United Kingdom on February 5, 2015. The Company’s registered office is 5 Fleet Place, London EC4M
7RD (United Kingdom).
Ferroglobe PLC
is the parent company of Ferroglobe group, which is among the world’s largest producers of silicon metal and silicon-based alloys,
important ingredients in a variety of industrial and consumer products. The Company’s customers include major silicone chemical,
aluminum and steel manufacturers, auto companies and their suppliers, ductile iron foundries, manufacturers of photovoltaic solar cells
and computer chips, and concrete producers.
The separate financial
statements of the Company are presented as required by the Companies Act 2006. The Company meets the definition of a qualifying entity
under FRS 100 (Financial Reporting Standard 100) issued by the Financial Reporting Council (the “FRC”). In the year ended
December 31, 2022 the Company prepared its financial statements in accordance with in accordance with UK-adopted international accounting
standards. . In the year ended December 31, 2023 the Company has elected to adopt FRS 101 as issued by the FRC. Accordingly, the
financial statements have therefore been prepared in accordance with FRS 101 (Financial Reporting Standard 101) Reduced Disclosure Framework
as issued by the FRC incorporating the Amendments to FRS 101 issued by the FRC in July 2015 and July 2016.
In the transition
to FRS 101, the Company has applied IFRS 1, as amended by FRS 101, whilst ensuring that its assets and liabilities are measured in compliance
with FRS 101. Accordingly, the Company has prepared financial statements that comply with FRS 101 applicable for the year ended December 31,
2023, together with the comparative period data for the year ended December 31, 2022. On transition to FRS 101 no GAAP differences
arose except for the reduced disclosures.
As permitted by
FRS 101, the Company has taken advantage of the disclosure exemptions available under that standard in relation to share-based payment,
financial instruments, capital management, presentation of comparative information in respect of certain assets, presentation of a cash
flow statement, certain related party transactions and the requirements of paragraphs 30 and 31 of IAS 8 ‘Accounting Policies,
Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors’ in relation to standards not yet effective. Where required, equivalent disclosures
are given in the consolidated financial statements. The Company also has taken exemption from presenting the Parent Company Profit &
Loss account in accordance with section 408 of Companies Act 2006.
The financial statements
have been prepared on the historical cost basis except for the re-measurement of certain financial instruments to fair value. The principal
accounting policies adopted are the same as those set out in Notes 3 and 4 to the consolidated financial statements except as noted below.
Investment in
subsidiaries and impairment
Investment in subsidiaries
is stated at cost less, where appropriate, provisions for impairment. At each balance sheet date, the Company reviews the carrying amount
of its investments to determine whether there is any indication that those assets have suffered an impairment loss. If any such indication
exists, the recoverable amount of the asset is estimated to determine the extent of the impairment loss (if any).
Recoverable amount
is the higher of the fair value less costs to sell and the value in use. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are
discounted to the present value using a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and
the risks specific to the asset for which the estimates of future cash flows have not been adjusted. If the recoverable amount of an
asset is estimated to be less than its carrying amount, the carrying amount of the asset is reduced to its recoverable amount. An impairment
loss is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Where an impairment
loss subsequently reverses, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised estimate of its recoverable amount, but so that
the increased carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined had no impairment loss been recognized
for the asset in prior years. A reversal of an impairment loss is recognized immediately in profit or loss.
Share-based compensation
The Company operates
a share-based compensation plan with certain equity and cash-settlement options for its subsidiaries. The subsidiary that receives the
services from the given employee who is granted share based options recognizes share-based compensation expense based on the estimated
grant date fair value of share-based awards using a Black-Scholes option pricing model. The Company recognizes an increase in equity
and the corresponding debit as a contribution to the subsidiary. If the terms of an award are modified in a manner that affects both
the fair value and vesting of the award, the total amount of remaining unrecognized compensation cost (based on the grant-date fair value)
and the incremental fair value of the modified award are recognized over the amended vesting period.
Impact of new International Financial
Reporting Standards
There are no new
or amended standards or interpretations adopted during the year that have a significant impact on the financial statements.
Currency
Ferroglobe PLC
functional currency is U.S. Dollars.
Going
concern
The financial statements
for the period ended December 31, 2023 have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern, which contemplates
the realization of assets and the discharge of liabilities in the normal course of business for the foreseeable future.
The Company is
supported by the Group, who has generated positive cash flows in fiscal year 2023 and anticipates generating sufficient cash from operations
to satisfy its short and long-term liquidity needs.
The directors note
that the Company’s going concern position is directly linked to that of the Group and those conclusions are set out within note
3.1 of the Group’s Consolidated Financial Statements on page 79. Considering the above, the directors have a reasonable expectation
that the Company will continue in operational existence for at least 12 months from the date of signing the financial statements. The
Company therefore continues to adopt the going concern basis in preparing its financial statements,
Critical accounting
judgements and key sources of estimation uncertainty
In the application
of the Company's accounting policies, the directors are required to make judgements, estimates and assumptions about the carrying amounts
of assets and liabilities that are not readily apparent from other sources. The estimates and associated assumptions are based on historical
experience and other factors that are considered to be relevant. Actual results may differ from these estimates.
The estimates and
underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognized in the period in which the
estimate is revised if the revision affects only that period, or in the period of the revision and future periods if the revision affects
both current and future periods.
In the current
year there are no critical accounting estimates or judgements that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying
amounts of the assets and liabilities within the next financial year.
3. Investment
in subsidiaries
The Company’s
investments at the balance sheet date in the share capital of its subsidiaries include the following:
Company | |
Country | |
Ownership | | |
Currency | |
Purpose |
Ferroglobe Holding Company, LTD | |
United Kingdom | |
| 100 | % | |
USD | |
Electrometallurgy |
Investments in
subsidiaries are stated at cost less provision for impairments and the Directors believe that the carrying value of the investments is
supported by their underlying net assets recoverable value.
The change in carrying
value of investments is as follows:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Cost: | |
| | |
| |
At January 1 | |
| 629,284 | | |
| 629,284 | |
Additions | |
| 15,804 | | |
| — | |
At December 31 | |
| 645,088 | | |
| 629,284 | |
Net book Value at December 31 | |
| 645,088 | | |
| 629,284 | |
Additions during
fiscal year 2023 relate to share-based awards granted by Ferroglobe PLC, as the parent company of the Ferroglobe PLC group, to the employees
of its subsidiaries. These awards are treated as a contribution to the subsidiary.
The following are the main trading subsidiaries
of the Company:
| |
Percentage of
ownership | |
| |
|
Name | |
Direct | |
Indirect | |
Country of incorporation | |
Nature of the
business |
Ferroglobe Spain Metals, S.A.U. (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U.) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Spain (1) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe France SAS (formerly FerroPem, S.A.S.) (*) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
France (2) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe South Africa (Pty) Ltd (formerly Silicon Smelters (Pty.), Ltd.) (*) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
South Africa (3) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe U.S.A, Inc (formerly Globe Specialty Metals, Inc.) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
United States of America (4) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe U.S.A Metallurgical, Inc. (formerly Globe Metallurgical Inc.) (**) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
United States of America (4) | |
Electrometallurgy |
WVA Manufacturing, LLC (**) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
United States of America (5) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Quebec Silicon LP (**) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Canada (6) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe Argentina, S.R.L (formerly Globe Metales S.R.L) (**) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Argentina (7) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe Mangan Norge AS (*) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Norway (8) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe Manganese France SAS (*) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
France (9) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe Monzón, S.L. (formerly Ferroatlántica del Cinca, S.L.) (*) | |
— | |
100.0 | |
Spain (1) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe Finance Company, PLC | |
— | |
100.0 | |
United Kingdom (10) | |
Electrometallurgy |
Ferroglobe Holding Company, LTD. | |
100.0 | |
— | |
United Kingdom (10) | |
Electrometallurgy |
(*) Investment held through Ferroglobe
Spain Metals
(**) Investment
held through Ferroglobe USA
Registered Offices:
| 1. | Pº
Castellana, Nº 259-D Planta 49ª, 28046, Madrid, Spain |
| 2. | 517,
Av. de la Boisse., Chambery, France |
| 3. | Beyersnek
Road Po Box 657, Polokwane, 0700 ZA, South Africa |
| 4. | 1595
Sparling Road, Waterford OH 45786, United States |
| 5. | Route
60 East, Alloy WV 25002, United States |
| 6. | 6500
Rue Yvon-Trudeau, Becancour Québec G9H 2V8, Canada |
| 7. | Pico
1641 - Floor 8th - Rooms A and C, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| 8. | Mo
Industripark, 8624 Mo-i-Rana, Norway |
| 9. | Route
De L’Ecluse de Mardyck, 59792, Grande Synthe, France |
| 10. | The
Scalpel, 18th Floor, 52 Lime Street, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 7AF |
Further information
about subsidiaries, including disclosures about non-controlling interests, is provided in Note 2 to the consolidated financial statements.
4. Trade
and other receivables
| |
2023 | | |
2022 (*) | |
| |
Non-current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Non-current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Loans receivable from subsidiaries | |
| 54,959 | | |
| — | | |
| 54,959 | | |
| 143,265 | | |
| — | | |
| 143,265 | |
Amounts receivable from subsidiaries | |
| — | | |
| 46,964 | | |
| 46,964 | | |
| 8,150 | | |
| 102,041 | | |
| 110,191 | |
Less – allowance for doubtful debts | |
| — | | |
| (9,032 | ) | |
| (9,032 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (3,038 | ) | |
| (3,038 | ) |
VAT recoverable | |
| — | | |
| 1,443 | | |
| 1,443 | | |
| — | | |
| 797 | | |
| 797 | |
Total | |
| 54,959 | | |
| 39,375 | | |
| 94,334 | | |
| 151,415 | | |
| 99,800 | | |
| 251,215 | |
(*)
Restated
Current amounts
due from subsidiaries are repayable on demand and are non-interest bearing.
Non-current loan
receivable from subsidiaries of $3,250 thousand bear interest at a rate of 9.32% per annum.
During the year,
the Company identified that an intercompany restructuring program in FY 2021 had not been accounted appropriately to reflect the novation
of the intercompany balances through a loan notes issued by a subsidiary. Accordingly, the Company has restated the following balances:
| - | at
1 January 2022 and December 2022 Amounts receivable from subsidiaries (non-current)
was overstated by $112 million and amounts receivable from subsidiaries (current) was overstated
by $19 million; |
| - | at
1 January 2022 a Trade and other payables from subsidiaries (current) was overstated
by $131 million and at December 2022 Trade and other payables from subsidiaries (non-current)
was overstated by $4.6 million and Trade and other receivables from subsidiaries (current)
was overstated by $126.4 million. |
The Company has restated the intercompany
balances as at 31 December 2022 as a result.
The loan note receivable
of $51.7 million has been presented within non-current assets as the directors do not expect to realize this balance within 12 months
from the balance sheet date.
Loans receivable
from subsidiaries (non-current) amounting to $143.3 million were reclassified in 2022 from non-current amounts receivable from subsidiaries
for better presentation.
The loan notes
bear interest at a rate of 9.38% per annum. It was also identified that this interest income had not been recognized in 2021 or 2022.
The previously unrecognized income totaling $19,428 thousand has been recognized in the current year profit and loss account as the directors
do not consider the effects of the interest income to be material to the prior period financial statements.
The contractual
maturity of loans receivables from subsidiaries at December 31, 2023, is as follows:
| |
Amount | |
| |
US$'000 | |
Due in 2025 | |
| 51,709 | |
Due in 2026 | |
| 3,250 | |
Total | |
| 54,959 | |
The changes in
the allowance for doubtful debts during 2023 and 2022 were as follows:
| |
Allowance | |
| |
US$'000 | |
Balance at January 1, 2022 | |
| 2,492 | |
Impairment losses recognized | |
| 546 | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| 3,038 | |
Impairment losses recognized | |
| 5,994 | |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| 9,032 | |
5. Trade
and other payables
| |
2023 | | |
2022 (*) | |
| |
Non-current | | |
Current | | |
Total | | |
Non-current | | |
Current | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Loans payable to subsidiaries | |
| 37,999 | | |
| 67,903 | | |
| 105,902 | | |
| 179,111 | | |
| 67,903 | | |
| 247,014 | |
Amounts payable to subsidiaries | |
| — | | |
| 41,652 | | |
| 41,652 | | |
| — | | |
| 46,610 | | |
| 46,610 | |
Trade payables | |
| — | | |
| 2,365 | | |
| 2,365 | | |
| — | | |
| 10,634 | | |
| 10,634 | |
Total | |
| 37,999 | | |
| 111,920 | | |
| 149,919 | | |
| 179,111 | | |
| 125,147 | | |
| 304,258 | |
(*)
Restated – refer note 4
Loans payable to
subsidiaries (current) amounting to $67,903 thousand in 2022 were reclassified from current amounts payable to subsidiaries for better
presentation.
Loans payable to
subsidiaries include fixed rate interest of 9.32% per annum bearing loans of $105,902 thousand (2022: $247,014 thousand).
The contractual
maturity of loans payables to subsidiaries at December 31, 2023, is as follows:
| |
Amount | |
| |
US$'000 | |
Due in 2024 | |
| 67,903 | |
Due in 2025 | |
| 10,304 | |
Due in 2026 | |
| 27,695 | |
Total | |
| 105,902 | |
6. Shareholders’
funds
The change in other
reserves is as follows:
| |
Other reserves | |
| |
Merger reserve | | |
Share-based payment | | |
Own shares | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at December 31, 2020 | |
| (280,023 | ) | |
| 11,499 | | |
| (11,932 | ) | |
| (280,456 | ) |
Issued share capital | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Share-based compensation | |
| — | | |
| 3,625 | | |
| — | | |
| 3,625 | |
Effect of change in functional currency | |
| 37,403 | | |
| (2,020 | ) | |
| 1,593 | | |
| 36,975 | |
Balance at December 31, 2021 | |
| (242,620 | ) | |
| 13,104 | | |
| (10,339 | ) | |
| (239,856 | ) |
Share-based compensation | |
| — | | |
| 5,825 | | |
| — | | |
| 5,825 | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| (242,620 | ) | |
| 18,929 | | |
| (10,339 | ) | |
| (234,031 | ) |
Share-based compensation | |
| — | | |
| 7,216 | | |
| — | | |
| 7,216 | |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| (242,620 | ) | |
| 26,145 | | |
| (10,339 | ) | |
| (226,815 | ) |
7. Intangible
assets
The detail of intangible
assets, net of the related accumulated depreciation and impairment in 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
| |
| | |
Accumulated | | |
| | |
| |
| |
Software | | |
Depreciation | | |
Impairment | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at December 31, 2021 | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Additions | |
| 522 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 522 | |
Disposals | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Depreciation charge for the year | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| 522 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 522 | |
Disposals | |
| (522 | ) | |
| | | |
| | | |
| (522 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
The additions in
2022 related to the development of a cybersecurity software. In 2023 the asset was transferred to another group subsidiary.
8. Property,
plant and equipment
The detail of property,
plant and equipment, net of the related accumulated depreciation and impairment in 2023 and 2022 is as follows:
| |
Leased Land | | |
Leased Plant | | |
| | |
| | |
| |
| |
and
Buildings | | |
and
Machinery | | |
Accumulated
Depreciation | | |
Impairment | | |
Total | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance at December 31, 2021 | |
| 2,192 | | |
| 4 | | |
| (824 | ) | |
| (1,267 | ) | |
| 105 | |
Additions | |
| 334 | | |
| — | | |
| (104 | ) | |
| — | | |
| 230 | |
Disposals | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 94 | | |
| — | | |
| 94 | |
Impairment | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Exchange differences | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 9 | | |
| 11 | | |
| 20 | |
Balance at December 31, 2022 | |
| 2,526 | | |
| 4 | | |
| (825 | ) | |
| (1,256 | ) | |
| 449 | |
Additions | |
| 164 | | |
| — | | |
| (123 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (41 | ) |
Disposals | |
| (425 | ) | |
| (4 | ) | |
| (26 | ) | |
| 429 | | |
| (26 | ) |
Transfers | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Impairment | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Exchange differences | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| (2 | ) | |
| — | | |
| (2 | ) |
Balance at December 31, 2023 | |
| 2,265 | | |
| — | | |
| (976 | ) | |
| (827 | ) | |
| 462 | |
During 2023
the Company recognized an addition of $164 thousand in relation to a modification of the lease rent for the London office.
During 2022 the
Company recognized an addition of $334 thousand in relation to the new lease for the London office.
9. Leases
Lease obligations
comprise the following at December 31:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Balance as at January, 1 | |
| 922 | | |
| 524 | |
Additions | |
| 164 | | |
| 334 | |
Disposals | |
| (403 | ) | |
| — | |
Interest | |
| 51 | | |
| 4 | |
Lease payments | |
| (149 | ) | |
| (123 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| (53 | ) | |
| 183 | |
Balance as at December, 31 | |
| 532 | | |
| 922 | |
| |
| | | |
| | |
Analysed as: | |
| | | |
| | |
Current | |
| 126 | | |
| 550 | |
Non-current | |
| 406 | | |
| 372 | |
10. Auditor’s
remuneration
Fee’s payable
to the Company’s auditor for the audit of the Parent Company’s annual financial statements was £350,000 (2022: £403,956).
The following table
shows the fees for audit and other services provided by Company’s Statutory auditors and its associates for the years ended 31
December 2023 and 2022 (in US$ '000):
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Group audit fees | |
| 4,372 | | |
| 5,277 | |
Audit of subsidiaries | |
| 1,397 | | |
| 1,458 | |
Audit Fees | |
| 5,769 | | |
| 6,735 | |
Audit-Related Fees | |
| — | | |
| 59 | |
Tax Fees | |
| — | | |
| 34 | |
All Other Fees | |
| — | | |
| 4 | |
Total Fees | |
| 5,769 | | |
| 6,832 | |
11. Events
after the reporting period
Management
has evaluated subsequent events after the balance sheet date, through the issuance of these Parent Company financial statements, for
appropriate accounting and disclosures.
Full redemption
of the Group’s remaining 9.375% Senior Secured Notes Due 2025
In February 2024,
the group completed the full redemption of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued
interest. The issuers elected to redeem an aggregate principal amount of $147,624 thousand of the Notes, the entire amount outstanding
as of the redemption date, plus accrued and unpaid interest and call premium of $4,075 thousand. The Notes were fully redeemed from the
Group’s cash and cash equivalents.
Dividend payment
In March 2024,
the Company distributed dividends to its ordinary shareholders totaling $2,428 thousand.
Appendix
1 - Non-IFRS financial metrics (unaudited)
Adjusted EBITDA,
Adjusted EBITDA margin, Working Capital, Free Cash Flow, Net Debt, Net Debt to total assets and Net Debt to Capital are non-IFRS financial
metrics that Ferroglobe utilizes to measure its success. The Company has included these financial metrics to provide supplemental measures
of its performance. We believe these metrics are important because they eliminate items that have less bearing on the Company’s
current and future operating performance and highlight trends in its core business that may not otherwise be apparent when relying solely
on IFRS financial measures.
Adjusted EBITDA
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Profit attributable to the parent | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | |
Profit attributable to non-controlling interest | |
| 15,816 | | |
| 3,514 | |
Income tax (benefit) expense | |
| 57,540 | | |
| 147,983 | |
Net finance expense | |
| 33,371 | | |
| 58,741 | |
Depreciation and amortization charges, operating allowances and write-downs | |
| 73,532 | | |
| 81,559 | |
EBITDA | |
| 262,921 | | |
| 732,111 | |
Exchange differences | |
| 7,551 | | |
| 9,995 | |
Impairment loss | |
| 25,290 | | |
| 56,999 | |
Restructuring and termination costs | |
| 5,535 | | |
| 9,315 | |
New strategy implementation | |
| 973 | | |
| 29,032 | |
Subactivity | |
| 12,589 | | |
| 9,449 | |
PPA Energy | |
| 339 | | |
| — | |
Prior period (loss) | |
| — | | |
| 13,105 | |
Adjusted EBITDA | |
| 315,198 | | |
| 860,006 | |
Adjusted EBITDA
Margin
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Adjusted EBITDA | |
| 315,198 | | |
| 860,006 | |
Sales | |
| 1,650,034 | | |
| 2,597,916 | |
Adjusted
EBITDA Margin | |
| 19.1 | % | |
| 33.1 | % |
Working Capital
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Inventories | |
| 383,841 | | |
| 500,080 | |
Trade and other receivables | |
| 310,243 | | |
| 425,474 | |
Trade and other payables | |
| (183,375 | ) | |
| (219,666 | ) |
Working Capital | |
| 510,709 | | |
| 705,888 | |
Free Cash Flow
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Net cash provided by operating activities | |
| 178,372 | | |
| 405,018 | |
Payments for property, plant and equipment | |
| (83,679 | ) | |
| (52,147 | ) |
Free Cash Flow | |
| 94,693 | | |
| 352,871 | |
Adjusted
Gross Debt(*)
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Bank borrowings | |
| 15,865 | | |
| 16,857 | |
Debt instruments | |
| 154,780 | | |
| 343,442 | |
Other financial liabilities | |
| 81,283 | | |
| 98,661 | |
Adjusted Gross Debt | |
| 251,928 | | |
| 458,960 | |
(*)
Adjusted gross debt excludes bank borrowings on factoring program and impact of leasing standard
IFRS16
Net Debt
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Bank borrowings(1) | |
| 15,865 | | |
| 16,857 | |
Debt instruments | |
| 154,780 | | |
| 343,442 | |
Other financial liabilities | |
| 81,283 | | |
| 98,661 | |
Non-current restricted cash and cash equivalents | |
| — | | |
| (2,133 | ) |
Current restricted cash and cash equivalents | |
| (1,179 | ) | |
| (2,875 | ) |
Cash and cash equivalents | |
| (136,470 | ) | |
| (317,935 | ) |
Net Debt | |
| 114,279 | | |
| 136,017 | |
(1) Bank
borrowings exclude factoring programs
Capital
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
| |
US$'000 | | |
US$'000 | |
Net Debt | |
| 114,279 | | |
| 136,017 | |
Equity | |
| 869,886 | | |
| 756,813 | |
Capital | |
| 984,165 | | |
| 892,830 | |
Exhibit 99.3
Ferroglobe PLC
Extracts from
the 2023 Form 20-F
To accompany
the PLC Annual Report and Accounts 2023
|
|
Page |
ITEM 3. |
KEY INFORMATION |
1 |
|
D. Risk Factors |
1 |
ITEM 4. |
INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY |
28 |
|
A. History
and Deveelpment of the Company |
28 |
|
B. Business
Overview |
30 |
|
C. Organisational
Structure |
53 |
|
D. Property,
Plant and Equipment |
53 |
|
|
|
ITEM 5. |
OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS |
54 |
|
A. Operating
Results |
54 |
|
B. Liquidity
and Capital Resources |
67 |
|
C. Research
and Development, Patents and Licenses etc |
72 |
|
D. Trend
of Information |
72 |
|
E. Critical
Accounting Estimates |
72 |
|
|
|
ITEM 7. |
MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS |
73 |
|
B. Related party Transactions |
73 |
|
|
|
ITEM 11. |
QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET
RISK |
76 |
ITEM 3. KEY INFORMATION
D. Risk factors.
You should carefully consider the risks and uncertainties
described below and the other information in this Annual Report before making an investment in our ordinary shares. Our business, financial
condition or results of operations could be materially and adversely affected if any of these risks occurs, and as a result, the market
price of our ordinary shares could decline and you could lose all or part of your investment. This Annual Report also contains forward-looking
statements that involve risks and uncertainties. See “Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.” Our actual
results could differ materially and adversely from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors.
Risks Related to Our Business and Industry
Our operations depend on industries including
the steel, aluminum, polysilicon, silicone and photovoltaic/solar industries, which, in turn, rely on several end-markets. A downturn
or change in these industries or end-markets could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Because
we primarily sell silicon metal, silicon-based alloys, manganese- based alloys and other specialty alloys, we produce to manufacturers
of steel, aluminum, polysilicon, silicones, and photovoltaic products. Therefore, our results are significantly affected by the economic
trends in the steel, aluminum, polysilicon, silicone and photovoltaic industries. Primary end users that drive demand for steel and aluminum
include construction companies, shipbuilders, electric appliances, car manufacturers and companies operating in the rail and maritime
industries. The primary end users that drive demand for polysilicon and silicones include the automotive, chemical, photovoltaic, pharmaceutical,
construction and consumer products industries. Demand for steel, aluminum, polysilicon and silicone from such companies can be strongly
correlated with changes in gross domestic product and is affected by global economic conditions. Fluctuations in steel and aluminum prices
may occur due to sustained price shifts reflecting underlying global economic and geopolitical factors, changes in industry supply-demand
balances, the substitution of one product for another in times of scarcity, and changes in national tariffs. Lower demand for steel and
aluminum can yield a substantial build-up of steel and aluminum stocks, resulting in a decline in demand for silicon metal, silicon-based
alloys, manganese-based alloys, and other specialty alloys. Polysilicon and silicone producers are subject to fluctuations in crude oil,
platinum, methanol and natural gas prices, which could adversely affect their businesses. Changes in power regulations in different countries,
fluctuations in the relative costs of different sources of energy, and supply-demand balances in the different parts of the value chain,
among other factors, may significantly affect the growth prospects of the photovoltaic industry. A significant and prolonged downturn
in the end markets for steel, aluminum, polysilicon, silicone and photovoltaic products, could adversely affect these industries and,
in turn, our business, results of operations and financial condition.
The metals industry is cyclical and has
been subject in the past to swings in market price and demand which could lead to volatility in our revenues.
Our business has historically been subject to
fluctuations in the price and market demand for our products, caused by general and regional economic cycles, raw material and energy
price fluctuations, competition and other factors. The timing, magnitude and duration of these cycles and the resulting price fluctuations
are difficult to predict. For example, we experienced a significant increase in silicon metal prices from the end of 2021 throughout the
first half of 2022. However, commencing in the second half of 2022 and throughout 2023, we have experienced a sharp decrease in pricing
as well as reductions in volumes. Such variances adversely affect our results.
Such
conditions, and any future decline in the global silicon metal, manganese-based alloys and silicon-based alloys industries could have
a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. Moreover, our business is directly related to
the production levels of our customers, whose businesses are dependent on highly cyclical markets, such as the automotive, residential
and non-residential construction, consumer durables, polysilicon, steel, and chemical industries. In response to unfavourable market conditions,
customers may request delays in contract shipment dates or other contract modifications. If we grant modifications, these could adversely
affect our anticipated revenues and results of operations. Also, many of our products are traded internationally at prices that are significantly
affected by worldwide supply and demand. Consequently, our financial performance will fluctuate with the general economic cycle, which
could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Our business is particularly sensitive to
increases in energy costs, which could materially increase our cost of production.
Electricity is generally one of our largest production
components in terms of cost as a percentage of sales. The price of electricity is determined in the applicable domestic jurisdiction and
is influenced both by supply and demand dynamics and by domestic regulations. Changes in local energy policy, increased costs due to scarcity
of energy supply, climate conditions, the termination or non-renewal of any of our power purchase contracts and other factors may affect
the price of electricity supplied to our plants and adversely affect our results of operations and financial conditions.
Because electricity is indispensable to our operations
and accounts for a high percentage of our production costs, we are particularly vulnerable to supply limitations and cost fluctuations
in energy markets. For example, at certain plants, production must be modulated to reduce consumption of energy in peak hours or in seasons
with higher energy prices, in order for us to maintain profitability. In general, high or volatile energy costs in the countries in which
we operate could lead to erosion of margins and volumes, leading to a potential reduction in market share.
Generation of electricity in France by our own
hydroelectric power operations partially mitigates our exposure to price increases in that market. However, in the past we have pursued
possibilities of disposing of those operations, and may do so in the future. Such a divestiture, if completed, may result in a greater
exposure to increases in electricity prices.
Additionally, in France, the Company benefited
from a program for the regulated access to historic nuclear energy program (ARENH). ARENH is a mechanism established which allows alternative
suppliers to obtain energy under favorable conditions set by the public authorities.
In
addition, we have an additional agreement with EDF in which we have agreed different electricity prices throughout the year based on demand.
When demand is highest, our agreed price is generally lowest and is even negative during certain time periods. Our current benefit
with EDF began in 2023 and is expected to continue through 2025 with potential uncertainty regarding future availability or participation
in such schemes.
Furthermore,
in 2023, we recorded a net benefit of approximately $186,211 thousand in relation to these programs. Future benefits recorded under this
program in 2024 and 2025 will be significantly less if not a net expense for each respective year.
The electrical power for our U.S. and Canadian
facilities is supplied mostly by American Electric Power Co., Alabama Power Co., Brookfield Renewable Partners L.P. and Hydro-Québec,
and the Tennessee Valley Authority through dedicated lines. Our Alloy, West Virginia facility obtains approximately 50% of its power needs
under a fixed price power purchase agreement with a nearby hydroelectric facility owned by a Brookfield affiliate. This facility is more
than 70 years old and any breakdown could result in the Alloy facility having to purchase more grid power at higher rates.
Energy supply to our facilities in South Africa
is provided by Eskom (State-owned power utility) through rates that are approved annually by the national power regulator (NERSA). These
rates have been volatile, due to the instability of available supply and are likely to continue increasing. Also, NERSA applies certain
revisions to rates based on cost variances for Eskom that are not within our control.
In Spain, power is purchased in a competitive
wholesale market. Our facilities are obligated to pay access tariffs to the national grid and receive a credit for our efforts to act
as electro-intensive consumers. The volatile nature of the wholesale market in Spain results in price uncertainty that can only be partially
offset by long-term power purchase agreements. Additionally, the credits that we receive for the services provided to the grid are a major
component of our power supply arrangements in Spain. However, these regulations previously have been altered to reduce the value of such
credits to us, and future changes could further reduce the economic benefits associated with our services to the Spanish electricity grid.
Such reductions would affect our production costs and impact our results from operations.
Losses caused by disruptions in the supply of power would reduce
our profitability.
Large amounts of electricity are used to produce
silicon metal, manganese and silicon-based alloys and other specialty alloys, and our operations are heavily dependent upon a reliable
supply of electrical power. We may incur losses due to a temporary or prolonged interruption of the supply of electrical power to our
facilities, which can be caused by
unusually high demand, blackouts, equipment failure, natural disasters
or other catastrophic events, including failure of the hydroelectric facilities that currently provide power under contract to our West
Virginia, Québec and Argentina facilities. Additionally, on occasion, we have been instructed to suspend operations for several
hours by the sole energy supplier in South Africa due to a general power shortage in the country. It is possible that this supplier may
instruct us to suspend our operations for a similar or longer period in the future. Such interruptions or reductions in the supply of
electrical power adversely affect production levels and may result in reduced profitability. Our insurance coverage does not cover all
interruption events and may not be sufficient to cover losses incurred as a result.
In addition, investments in Argentina’s
electricity generation and transmission systems have been lower than the increase in demand in recent years. If this trend is not reversed,
there could be electricity supply shortages as the result of inadequate generation and transmission capacity. Given the heavy dependence
on electricity of our manufacturing operations, any electricity shortages could adversely affect our financial results.
Government regulations of electricity in Argentina
give the priority to use hydroelectric power to residential users and subject violators of these restrictions to significant penalties.
This preference is particularly acute during Argentina’s winter months due to a lack of natural gas. We have previously successfully
petitioned the government to exempt us from these restrictions given the demands of our business for continuous supply of electric power.
If we are unsuccessful in our petitions or in any action we take to ensure a stable supply of electricity, our production levels may be
adversely affected and our profitability reduced.
Any decrease in the availability, or increase
in the cost, of raw materials or transportation could materially increase our costs.
Principal components in the production of silicon
metal, silicon-based alloys and manganese-based alloys include coal, charcoal, graphite and carbon electrodes, manganese ore, quartzite,
wood chips, steel scrap, and other metals. While we own certain sources of raw materials, we also buy raw materials on a spot or contracted
basis. The availability of these raw materials and the prices at which we purchase them from third party suppliers depend on market supply
and demand and may be volatile such as due to the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Our ability to obtain these materials in a cost efficient and
timely manner is dependent on certain suppliers, their labor union relationships, mining and lumbering regulations and output, geopolitical
and general local economic conditions.
Over the previous years, certain raw materials
(particularly graphite electrodes, coal, manganese ore, and other electrode components) have experienced significant price increases and
quick price moves in relatively short periods of time, and the recent conflict in Ukraine and resulting sanctions on Russia have led to
supply limitations and interruptions. In some cases, this has been combined with certain shortages in the availability of such raw materials.
While we try to anticipate potential shortages in the supply of critical raw materials with longer term contracts and other purchasing
strategies, these price swings and supply shortages may affect our cost of production or even cause interruptions in our operations, which
may have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We make extensive use of shipping by sea, rail
and truck to obtain the raw materials used in our production and deliver our products to customers, depending on the geographic region
and product or input. Raw materials and products often must be transported over long distances between mines and other production sites
and the plants where raw materials are consumed, and between those sites and our customers. Any severe delay, interruption or other disruption
in such transportation, any material damage to raw materials utilized by us or to our products while being transported, or a sharp rise
in transportation prices, either relating to events such as the Ukraine-Russia conflict, the recent conflict in the Middle East or otherwise,
could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, because we may not be
able to obtain adequate supplies of raw materials from alternative sources on terms as favorable as our current arrangements, or at all,
any disruption or shortfall in the production and delivery of raw materials could result in higher raw materials costs and likewise materially
adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Cost increases in raw material inputs may
not be passed on to our customers, which could negatively impact our profitability.
The prices of our raw material inputs are determined
by supply and demand, which may be influenced by, inter alia, economic growth and recession, changes in world politics, unstable governments
in exporting nations, and inflation, among other factors. The market prices of raw material inputs will thus fluctuate over time, and
we may not be able
to pass significant price increases on to our customers. If we do try to pass them on, we may lose sales and thereby
revenue, in addition to having the higher costs. Additionally, decreases in the market prices of our products will not necessarily enable
us to obtain lower prices from our suppliers.
Metallurgical manufacturing and mining are
inherently dangerous activities and any accident resulting in injury or death of personnel or prolonged production shutdowns could adversely
affect our business and operations.
Metallurgical manufacturing generally, and smelting
in particular, is inherently dangerous and subject to risks of fire, explosion and sudden major equipment failure. Quartz and coal mining
are also inherently dangerous and subject to numerous hazards, including collisions, equipment failure, accidents arising from the operation
of large mining and rock transportation equipment, dust inhalation, flooding, collapse, blasting operations and operating in extreme climatic
conditions. These hazards have led to accidents resulting in the serious injury and death of production personnel, governmental investigations
and sanctions, and prolonged production shutdowns in the past. We may experience fatal accidents or equipment malfunctions in the future,
which could have a material adverse effect on our business and operations.
We are heavily dependent on our mining operations,
which are subject to certain risks that are beyond our control and which could result in materially increased expenses and decreased production
levels.
We mine quartz and quartzite at open pit mining
operations and coal at underground and surface mining operations. We are heavily dependent on these mining operations for our quartz and
coal supplies. Certain risks beyond our control could disrupt our mining operations, adversely affect production and shipments, and increase
our operating costs, such as: (i) a major incident at a mining site that causes all or part of the operations of the mine to cease
for some period of time; (ii) mining, processing and plant equipment failures and unexpected maintenance problems; (iii) disruptions
in the supply of fuel, power and/or water at the mine site; (iv) adverse changes in reclamation costs; (v) the inability to
renew mining concessions upon their expiration; (vi) the expropriation of territory subject to a valid concession without sufficient
compensation; and (vii) adverse weather and natural disasters, such as heavy rains or snow, flooding and other natural events affecting
operations, transportation or customers.
Regulatory agencies have the authority under certain
circumstances following significant health and safety violations or incidents to order a mine to be temporarily or even permanently closed.
If this occurs, we may be required to incur significant legal, operational and capital expenditures to re-open the affected mine. In addition,
environmental regulations and enforcement could impose unexpected costs on our mining operations, and future regulations could increase
those costs or limit our ability to produce quartz and sell coal. A failure to obtain and renew permits necessary for our mining operations
could limit our production and negatively affect our business. It is also possible that we have extracted or may in the future extract
quartz from territory beyond the boundary of our mining concession or mining right, which could result in penalties or other regulatory
action or liabilities.
We are subject to environmental, health
and safety regulations, including laws that impose substantial costs and the risk of material liabilities.
Our operations are subject to extensive foreign,
federal, national, state, provincial and local environmental, health and safety laws and regulations governing, among other things, the
generation, discharge, emission, storage, handling, transportation, use, treatment and disposal of hazardous substances; land use, reclamation
and remediation; waste management and pollution prevention measures; greenhouse gas emissions; and the health and safety of our employees.
We are also required to obtain permits from governmental authorities for certain operations, and to comply with related laws and regulations.
We may not have been and may not always be in full compliance with such permits and related laws and regulations. If we violate or fail
to comply with these permits and related laws and regulations, we could be subject to penalties, restrictions on operations or other sanctions,
obligations to install or upgrade pollution control equipment and legal claims, including for alleged personal injury or property or environmental
damages. Such liability could adversely affect our reputation, business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, in
the context of an investigation, the government may impose obligations to make technology upgrades to our facilities that could result
in our incurring material capital expenses. For example, in August 2023, the Company resolved two Notices of Violation/Findings of
Violation (“NOV/FOV”) from the U.S. federal government that alleged numerous violations of the Clean Air Act relating to the
Company’s Beverly, Ohio facility. See “Item 8.A.—Financial Information—Consolidated Financial Statements and Other
Financial Information—Legal proceedings” for additional information. The Beverly facility also is located in an area currently
designated as Non-Attainment for the one hour SO2 National Ambient Air Quality Standards (“NAAQS”). The Company has entered
into a state Director’s Final
Findings & Order (“DFFOs”) with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (“OEPA”)
to accept facility-wide SO2 emission limits to ensure that the facility is not causing exceedances of the SO2 NAAQS. In May 2023,
OEPA submitted an attainment demonstration to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”), demonstrating that
the DFFOs ensured compliance with the SO2 NAAQS. In September 2023, EPA issued a final rule approving OEPA’s attainment
demonstration. Under this final rule and the DFFOs, the Company must perform additional flow testing at the Beverly facility to verify
certain inputs to the NAAQS modeling used to demonstrate attainment with the SO2 NAAQS. The Company is working with OEPA and USEPA to
perform the additional testing, which is expected to occur in mid-2024.
The metals and mining industry is generally subject
to risks and hazards, including fire, explosion, toxic gas leaks, releases of other hazardous materials, rockfalls, and incidents involving
mobile equipment, vehicles or machinery. These could occur by accident or by breach of operating and maintenance standards, and could
result in personal injury, illness or death of employees or contractors, or in environmental damage, delays in production, monetary losses
and possible legal liability.
Under certain environmental laws, we could be
required to remediate or be held responsible for the costs relating to contamination of our or our antecessors’ past or present
facilities and at third party waste disposal sites. We could also be held liable under these environmental laws for sending or arranging
for hazardous substances to be sent to third party disposal or treatment facilities if such facilities are found to be contaminated. Under
these laws we could be held liable even if we did not know of, or did not cause, such contamination, or even if we never owned or operated
the contaminated disposal or treatment facility.
There are a variety of laws and regulations in
place or being considered at the international, federal, regional, state and local levels of government that restrict or propose to restrict
and impose costs on emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. These legislative and regulatory developments may cause us
to incur material costs if we are required to reduce or offset greenhouse gas emissions, or to purchase emission credits or allowances,
and may result in a material increase in our energy costs due to additional regulation of power generators. Environmental laws are complex,
change frequently and are likely to become more stringent in the future. Because environmental laws and regulations are becoming more
stringent and new environmental laws and regulations are continuously being enacted or proposed, such as those relating to greenhouse
gas emissions and climate change, the level of expenditures required for environmental matters could increase in the future. Future legislative
action and regulatory initiatives could result in changes to operating permits, additional remedial actions, material changes in operations,
increased capital expenditures and operating costs, increased costs of the goods we sell, and decreased demand for our products that cannot
be assessed with certainty at this time.
Therefore, our costs of complying with current
and future environmental laws, and our liabilities arising from past or future releases of, or exposure to, hazardous substances may adversely
affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Compliance with existing and proposed climate
change laws and regulations could adversely affect our performance.
Under current European Union legislation, all
industrial sites are subject to cap-and-trade programs, by which every facility with carbon emissions is required to purchase in the market
emission rights for volumes of emission that exceed a certain allocated level. Until 2021, the allocated level of emissions had been practically
sufficient for our business, limiting the impact on our business of emissions rights purchases. Recent changes to regulations have and
could continue to reduce the allocation of free allowances requiring us to make significant purchases of emissions rights in the market.
Also, certain Canadian provinces have implemented cap-and-trade programs. As a result, our facilities in Canada may be required to purchase
emission credits in the future. The requirement to purchase emissions rights in the market could result in material costs to the Company,
in addition to increased compliance costs, additional operating restrictions for our business, and an increase in the cost of the products
we produce, which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations, and liquidity.
In the United States, the current administration
has placed a greater emphasis on regulating greenhouse gas emissions, although no proposed regulations have been enacted to date. However,
carbon taxes, clean energy standards, carbon offsets, and/or the requirement to participate in a cap-and-trade program are periodically
explored by the U.S. government. Although it is impossible to predict what form such action will take, any action may result in material
increased compliance costs additional operating restrictions for our business, and an increase in the cost of the products we produce,
which could have a material adverse effect on our financial position, results of operations and liquidity.
Natural disasters and climate change could affect our suppliers
or customers, negatively impacting our operations.
Natural disasters and climate change could significantly
damage our mining and production facilities and infrastructure both directly and indirectly. Such natural disasters and climate change
effects may cause a contraction in sales to countries adversely affected due to, among other factors, droughts, floods, heat waves and
wildfires which may cause damages in industrial facilities and infrastructure. Such weather events could adversely affect our operations
directly and may cause indirect disruptions in our supply chain and logistic routes. The Company continuously monitors climate and natural
events which could impact our facilities and supply chain to maintain and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
As a measure of control and monitoring of the
risks associated with climate change, both physical and transitional, an annual assessment is conducted. This assessment includes, at
the facility level, all physical risks that may impact our operations. Different scenarios and climatic variables are considered, as well
as the time periods in which these risks are expected to materialize and the existing control and mitigation measures that allow for attenuating
and controlling such risks.
Although climate change has not historically had
a material impact, its future impacts on our business remains uncertain. We are likely to experience changes in rainfall patterns, increased
temperatures, water shortages (and potential issues with water availability), rising sea and river levels, lower water levels in rivers
due to natural or operational conditions, increased storm frequency and intensity as a result of climate change, which may adversely affect
our operations. The Company maintains insurance covering damages caused by natural disasters; however, extensive damage to our facilities
and staff casualties due to natural disasters may not be covered by our insurer and/or could materially adversely affect our ability to
conduct our operations and, as a result, reduce our future operating results.
In
addition, the potential physical impact of climate change on our operations is highly uncertain and would be particular to the geographic
circumstances of our facilities and operations. It may include changes in rainfall patterns, water shortages, rising sea and river levels,
changing storm patterns and intensities and changing temperatures. These effects may materially adversely impact the cost, production
and financial performance of our operations.
Climate change, sustainability regulations and Company initiatives,
including our environmental commitments associated with our decarbonization plan, could place additional burden on us and our operations.
We may face increased climate related regulation
and as well as expectations from our stakeholders to take actions beyond regulatory requirements to minimize our impact on the environment
and mitigate climate change related effects. The mining and metals sector contributes directly to greenhouse gas emissions and continues
to be subject to increasing regulations. In order to address such regulations, we may be required to adapt our production processes or
purchase additional equipment or carbon offsets, leading to increased costs. In 2023, the Company articulated certain decarbonization
actions, which are focused on reducing our Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 2030, and will be published in our 2023 Global ESG Report later
in 2024.
To meet these additional requirements, we will
need to continue to deploy additional equipment, introduce process changes, utilize alternative suppliers and materials, and take other
similar actions, some or all of which may require us to incur additional costs which could result in a material adverse effect on our
results of operations and our financial position. In addition, if we fail to meet these expectations, we may experience reputational
risk which could impact our ability to attract and retain employees, investors and customers.
Further, our operating sites, as well as those
of our partners along the supply chain, may be exposed to changing and/or increasing physical risks resulting from climate change that
are either chronic (induced by longer-term shifts in climate patterns, such as sea level rise, or changing temperature, wind or precipitation
patterns) or acute (event-drive such as cyclones, hurricanes or heat waves). In the context of efforts to transition to a lower-carbon
economy, we will likely be exposed to further policy, legal, technology, and market transition risks. If we do not respond to these risks
effectively or if our efforts are lower than our peers, we may suffer reputational risks which may lead to financial repercussions such
as a decrease in share price.
We
make a significant portion of our sales to a limited number of customers, and the loss of a portion of the sales to these customers could
have a material adverse effect on our revenues and profits.
For the year ended December 31, 2023,
our ten largest customers accounted for 51.0% of Ferroglobe’s consolidated sales. We expect that we will continue to derive a significant
portion of our business from sales to these customers.
Some contracts with our customers do not entail
commitments from the customer to purchase specified or minimum volumes of products over time. Accordingly, we face a risk of unexpected
reduced demand for our products from such customers as a result of, for instance, downturns in the industries in which they operate or
any other factor affecting their business, which could have a material adverse effect on our revenues and profits.
If we were to experience a significant reduction
in the amount of sales we make to some or all of such customers and could not replace these sales with sales to other customers, this
could have a material adverse effect on our revenues and profits.
Products we manufacture may be subject to
unfair import competition that may affect our profitability.
A number of the products we manufacture, including
silicon metal and ferrosilicon, are globally-traded commodities that are sold primarily on the basis of price. As a result, our sales
volumes and prices may be adversely affected by influxes of imports of these products that are dumped or are subsidized by foreign governments.
Our silicon metal and ferrosilicon operations have been injured by such unfair import competition in the past. Applicable antidumping
and countervailing duty laws and regulations may provide a remedy for unfairly traded imports in the form of special duties imposed to
offset the unfairly low pricing or subsidization. However, the process for obtaining such relief is complex and uncertain. As a result,
while we have sought and obtained such relief in the past, in some cases we have not been successful. Thus, there is no assurance that
such relief will be obtained, and if it is not, unfair import competition could have a material adverse effect on our business, results
of operations and financial condition.
Our business benefits from antidumping and
countervailing duty orders and laws that protect our products by imposing special duties on unfairly traded imports from certain countries.
If these duties or laws change, certain foreign competitors might be able to compete more effectively.
Ferroglobe benefits from antidumping and countervailing
duty orders and laws that protect its business and products by imposing special duties on unfairly traded imports from certain countries.
See “Item 4.B.—Information on the Company—Business Overview—Regulatory Matters—Trade” for additional
information.
These orders may be subject to revision, revocation
or rescission at any time, including through periodic governmental reviews and proceedings. Current antidumping and countervailing duty
orders thus (i) may not remain in effect and continue to be enforced from year to year, (ii) may change the covered products
and countries under current orders, and (iii) may reassess duties.
Changes in any of these factors could adversely
affect our business and profitability. Finally, at times, in filing trade actions, we arguably act against the interests of our customers.
Certain of our customers may not continue to do business with us as a result.
We operate in a highly competitive industry.
The silicon metal market and the silicon-based
and manganese-based alloys markets are global, capital intensive and highly competitive. Our competitors may have greater financial resources,
as well as other strategic advantages, to maintain, improve and possibly expand their facilities, and, as a result, they may be better
positioned than we are to adapt to changes in the industry or the global economy. Advantages that our competitors have over us from time
to time, new entrants that increase competition in our industry, and increases in the use of substitutes for certain of our products could
have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Competitive pressure from Chinese steel,
aluminum, polysilicon and silicone producers may adversely affect the business of our customers, reducing demand for our products. Our
customers may relocate to China, where they may not continue purchasing from us.
China’s aluminum, polysilicon and steel
producing capacity exceeds local demand and has made China a significant net exporter of aluminum and steel. The Chinese silicone manufacturing
industry is also growing rapidly. Chinese aluminum, polysilicon, steel and silicone producers — who are unlikely to purchase silicon
metal, manganese and silicon based alloys and other specialty metals from our subsidiaries outside of China due to the ample availability
of domestic Chinese production — may gain global market share at the expense of our customers. An increase in Chinese aluminum,
steel, polysilicon and silicone industry market share could adversely affect the production volumes, revenue and profits of our customers,
resulting in reduced purchases of our products.
Moreover, our customers might seek to relocate
or refocus their operations to China or other countries with lower labor costs and higher growth rates. Any that do so might thereafter
choose to purchase from other suppliers of silicon metal, silicon- and manganese-based alloys and other specialty metals which in turn
could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We are subject to the risk of union disputes
and work stoppages at our facilities, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
A majority of our employees are members of labor
unions. We experience protracted negotiations with labor unions, strikes, work stoppages or other industrial actions from time to
time. Strikes called by employees or unions have in the past, and could in the future, materially disrupt our operations, including productions
schedules and delivery times. We have experienced strikes by our employees at several of our facilities from time to time and a certain
number of these strikes have been protracted and have resulted in significant production disruptions. Any such work stoppage could
have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
New labor contracts have to be negotiated to replace
expiring contracts from time to time. It is possible that future collective bargaining agreements will contain terms less favorable than
the current agreements. Any failure to negotiate renewals of labor contracts on terms acceptable to us, with or without work stoppages,
could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Many of our key customers or suppliers are similarly
subject to union disputes and work stoppages, which may reduce their demand for our products or interrupt the supply of critical raw materials
and impede their ability to fulfil their commitments under existing contracts, which could have a material adverse effect on our business,
results of operations and financial condition.
We are dependent on key personnel.
Our success depends in part upon the retention
of key employees. Competition for qualified personnel can be intense. Current and prospective employees may experience uncertainty about
our business or industry, which may impair our ability to attract, retain and motivate key management, sales, technical and other personnel.
If key employees depart our overall business may
be harmed. We also may have to incur significant costs in identifying, hiring and retaining replacements for departing employees, may
lose significant expertise and talent relating to our business and our ability to further realize the anticipated benefits of the Business
Combination may be adversely affected. In addition, the departure of key employees could cause disruption or distractions for management
and other personnel. Furthermore, we cannot be certain that we will be able to attract and retain replacements of a similar caliber as
departing key employees.
The long-term success of our operations depends
to a significant degree on the continued employment of our core senior management team. In particular, we are dependent on the skills,
knowledge and experience of Javier López Madrid, our Executive Chairman, Marco Levi, our Chief Executive Officer, and Beatriz García-Cos,
our Chief Financial Officer. If these employees are unable to continue in their respective roles, or if we are unable to attract and retain
other skilled employees, our business, results of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. We currently have employment
agreements with Mr. López Madrid, Dr. Levi and Ms. García-Cos. These agreements contain certain non-compete
provisions, which may not be fully enforceable by us. Additionally, we are substantially
dependent upon key personnel among our legal,
financial and information technology staff, who enable us to meet our regulatory, contractual and financial reporting obligations, including
reporting requirements under our credit facilities.
Shortages of skilled labor could adversely affect our operations.
We depend on skilled labor for the operation of
our submerged arc furnaces and other facilities. Some of our facilities are located in areas where demand for skilled personnel often
exceeds supply. Shortages of skilled furnace technicians and other skilled workers, including as a result of deaths, work stoppages or
other events, could restrict our ability to maintain or increase production rates, lead to production inefficiencies and increase our
labor costs.
In certain circumstances, the members of
our Board may have interests that may conflict with yours as a holder of ordinary shares.
Our directors have no duty to us with respect
to any information such directors may obtain (i) otherwise than as our directors and (ii) in respect of which directors owe
a duty of confidentiality to another person, provided that where a director’s relationship with such other person gives rise to
a conflict, such conflict has been authorized by our Board in accordance with our articles of association (“Articles”). Our
Articles provide that a director shall not be in breach of the general duties directors owe to us pursuant to the UK Companies Act 2006
because such director:
| ● | fails to disclose any such information to our Board, directors or officers; or |
| ● | fails to use or apply any such information in performing such director’s duties as a director. |
In such circumstances, certain interests of the
members of our Board may not be aligned with your interests as a holder of ordinary shares and the members of our Board may engage in
certain business and other transactions without any accountability or obligation to us.
We may not realize the cost savings and other benefits that we
expect to achieve.
We are continuously looking for opportunities
to improve our operations through changes in processes, technology, information systems, and management of best practices. These initiatives
are complex and require skilled management and the support of our workforce to implement them.
In our efforts to improve our business fully and
successfully, we may encounter material unanticipated problems, expenses, liabilities, competitive responses, loss of client relationships,
and a resulting diversion of management’s attention. The challenges include, among others:
| ● | managing change throughout the company; |
| ● | coordinating geographically separate organizations; |
| ● | potential diversion of management focus and resources from ordinary operational matters and future strategic
opportunities; |
| ● | retaining existing customers and attracting new customers; |
| ● | maintaining employee morale and retaining key management and other employees; |
| ● | integrating two unique business cultures that are not necessarily compatible; |
| ● | issues in achieving anticipated operating efficiencies, business opportunities and growth prospects; |
| ● | issues in integrating information technology, communications and other systems; |
| ● | changes in applicable laws and regulations; |
| ● | changes in tax laws (including under applicable tax treaties) and regulations or to the interpretation
of such tax laws or regulations by the governmental authorities; and |
| ● | managing tax costs or inefficiencies associated with integrating our operations. |
Many of these factors are outside of our control
and any one of them could result in increased costs, decreased revenues and diversion of management’s time and energy, which could
materially impact our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Any failure to integrate acquired businesses
successfully or to complete future acquisitions successfully could be disruptive of our business and limit our future growth.
From time to time, we have pursued acquisitions
in support of our strategic goals. In connection with any such acquisition, we could face significant challenges in managing and integrating
our expanded or combined operations, including acquired assets, operations and personnel. For example, we have faced challenges in integrating
Globe and Ferroatlantica following the merger in 2015, and with the acquisitions of the Mo i Rana and Dunkirk plants. There can be no
assurance that acquisition opportunities will be available on acceptable terms or at all or that we will be able to obtain necessary financing
or regulatory approvals to complete potential acquisitions. Our ability to succeed in implementing our strategy will depend to some degree
upon the ability of our management to identify, complete and successfully integrate commercially viable acquisitions. Acquisitions may
further disrupt our ongoing business and distract management from other responsibilities.
We engage in related party transactions with affiliates of Grupo
VM, our principal shareholder.
Conflicts of interest may arise between our principal
shareholder and your interests as a shareholder. Our principal shareholder has, and will continue to have, directly or indirectly, the
power, among other things, to affect our day-to-day operations, including the pursuit of related party transactions. We have entered,
and may in the future enter, into agreements with companies who are affiliates of Grupo VM, our principal shareholder. Such agreements
have been approved by, or would be subject to the approval of, the Board or the Audit Committee, as its delegate. The terms of such agreements
may present material risks to our business and results of operations. For example, we have entered into multiple agreements with affiliates
of Grupo VM with respect to, among other things, the provision of information technology and data processing services and energy-related
services. See “Item 7.B.—Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions.”
We are exposed to significant risks in relation
to compliance with anti-bribery and corruption laws, anti-money laundering laws and regulations, and economic sanctions programs.
Operating globally requires us to comply with
the laws and regulations of various jurisdictions. In particular, our international operations are subject to anti-corruption laws, most
notably the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act of 1977 (“FCPA”) and the UK Bribery Act of 2010 (the “Bribery Act”),
international trade sanctions programs, most notably those administered by the U.N., U.S. and European Union, anti-money laundering laws
and regulations, and laws against human trafficking and slavery, most notably the UK Modern Slavery Act 2015 (“Modern Slavery Act”).
The FCPA and Bribery Act prohibit offering or
providing anything of value to foreign officials for the purposes of obtaining or retaining business or securing any improper business
advantage. We may deal from time to time with both governments and state-owned business enterprises, the employees of which are considered
foreign officials for purposes of these laws. International trade sanctions programs restrict our business dealings with or relating to
certain sanctioned countries and certain sanctioned entities and persons no matter where located.
As a result of doing business internationally,
we are exposed to a risk of violating applicable anti-bribery and corruption (“ABC”) laws, international trade sanctions,
and anti-money laundering (“AML”) laws and regulations. Some of our operations are in developing countries that lack well-functioning
legal systems and have high levels of corruption. Our worldwide operations and any expansion, including in developing countries, our development
of joint venture relationships worldwide, and the engagement of local agents in the countries in which we operate tend to increase the
risk of violations of such laws and regulations. Violations of ABC laws, AML laws and regulations, and trade sanctions are punishable
by civil penalties, including fines, denial of export privileges, injunctions, asset seizures, debarment from government contracts (and
termination of existing contracts) and revocations or restrictions of licenses, as well as criminal penalties including possible imprisonment.
Moreover, any major violations could have a significant impact on our reputation and consequently on our ability to win future business.
For its part, the Modern Slavery Act requires
any commercial organization that carries on a business or part of a business in the United Kingdom (“U.K”) which (i) supplies
goods or services and (ii) has an annual global turnover of £36 million to prepare a slavery and human trafficking statement
for each financial year ending on or after March 31, 2016. In this statement, the commercial organization must set out the steps
it has taken to ensure there is no modern slavery in its own business and its supply chain, or provide an appropriate negative statement.
The UK Secretary of State may enforce this duty by means of civil proceedings. The nature of our operations and the regions in which we
operate may make it difficult or impossible for us to detect all incidents of modern slavery in certain of our supply chains. Any failure
in this regard would not violate the Modern Slavery Act per se, but could have a significant impact on our reputation and consequently
on our ability to win future business.
We seek to build and continuously improve our
systems of internal controls and to remedy any weaknesses identified. As part of our efforts to comply with all applicable law and regulation,
we have introduced a global ethics and compliance program based around our Code of Conduct. However, we cannot be certain that our policies
and procedures will be followed at all times or that we will prevent or timely detect violations of applicable laws, regulations or policies
by our personnel, partners or suppliers. Any actual or alleged failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations could lead to material
liabilities not covered by insurance or other significant losses, which in turn could have a material adverse effect on our business,
results of operations, and financial condition.
Although we are not currently operating
at full capacity, we have previously operated at near the maximum capacity of our operating facilities. Because the cost of increasing
capacity may be prohibitively expensive, we may have difficulty increasing our production and profits.
Our facilities can manufacture, collectively,
approximately 329,000 tons of silicon metal, 302,000 tons of silicon-based alloys and 562,000 tons of manganese-based alloys on an annual
basis. Our ability to increase production and revenues will depend on expanding existing facilities, acquiring facilities or building
new ones.
We may not have sufficient funds or time to expand
existing facilities, acquire new facilities, or open new ones and may be required to incur significant debt to do so, which could have
a material adverse effect on our business and financial condition.
Planned investments in the expansion and
improvement of existing facilities and in the construction of new facilities may not be successful.
We may engage in significant capital improvements
to our existing facilities to upgrade and add capacity to those facilities. We also may engage in the development and construction of
new facilities. Should any such efforts not be completed in a timely manner and within budget, or be unsuccessful otherwise, we may incur
additional costs or impairments which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Our insurance costs may increase materially,
and insurance coverages may not be adequate to protect us against all risks and potential losses to which we may be subject.
We maintain various forms of insurance covering
a number of specified and consequential risks and losses arising from insured events under the policies, including securities claims,
certain business interruptions and claims for damage and loss caused by certain natural disasters, such as earthquakes, floods and windstorms.
Our existing property and liability insurance coverage contains various exclusions and limitations on coverage. In some previous insurance
policy renewals, we have acceded to larger premiums, self-insured retentions and deductibles. For example, as a result of an explosion
at our facility in Chateau Feuillet, France in 2016, the applicable property insurance premium increased. We may also be subject to additional
exclusions and limitations on coverage in future insurance policy renewals. There can be no assurance that the insurance policies we have
in place are or will be sufficient to cover all potential losses we may incur. In addition, due to changes in our circumstances and in
the global insurance market, insurance coverage may not continue to be available to us on terms we consider commercially reasonable or
be sufficient to cover multiple large claims.
We have operations and assets in the United
States, Spain, France, Canada, China, South Africa, Norway, Venezuela, Argentina and may expand our operations and assets into other countries
in the future. Our international operations and assets may be subject to various economic, social and governmental risks.
Our international operations and sales may expose
us to risks that are more significant in developing markets than in developed markets and which could negatively impact future revenue
and profitability. Operations in developing countries may not operate or develop in the same way or at the same rate as might be expected
in a country with an economy, government and legal system similar to western countries. The additional risks that we may be exposed to
in such cases include, but are not limited to:
| ● | tariffs and trade barriers; |
| ● | sanctions and other restrictions in our ability to conduct business with certain countries, companies
or individuals; |
| ● | recessionary trends, inflation or instability of financial markets; |
| ● | regulations related to customs and import/export matters; |
| ● | tax issues, such as tax law changes, changes in tax treaties and variations in tax laws; |
| ● | absence of a reliable legal or court system; |
| ● | changes in regulations that affect our business, such as new or more stringent environmental requirements
or sudden and unexpected raises in power rates; |
| ● | limited access to qualified staff; |
| ● | inadequate infrastructure; |
| ● | cultural and language differences; |
| ● | inadequate banking systems; |
| ● | restrictions on the repatriation of profits or payment of dividends; |
| ● | crime, strikes, riots, civil disturbances, terrorist attacks or wars; |
| ● | nationalization or expropriation of property; |
| ● | less access to urgent medical care for employees and key personnel in the case of severe illness; |
| ● | law enforcement authorities and courts that are weak or inexperienced in commercial matters; and |
| ● | deterioration of political relations among countries. |
In addition to the foregoing, exchange controls
and restrictions on transfers abroad and capital inflow restrictions have limited, and can be expected to continue to limit, the availability
of international credit.
The critical social, political and economic
conditions in Venezuela have adversely affected, and may continue to adversely affect, our results of operations.
Among other policies in recent years, the Venezuelan
government has continuously devalued the Bolívar. The resulting inflation has devastated the country, which is experiencing all
manner of shortages of basic materials and other goods and difficulties in importing raw materials. In 2016, we idled our Venezuelan operations
and sought to determine the recoverable value of the long lived assets there. We concluded that the costs to dispose of the facility exceeded
the fair value of the assets, primarily due to political and financial instability in Venezuela. Accordingly, we wrote down the full value
of our Venezuelan facilities. However, our inability to generate cash in that market may cause us to default on some of our obligations
there in the future, which may result in administrative intervention or other consequences. In addition, in the recent past the Venezuelan
government has threatened to nationalize certain businesses and industries, which could result in a loss of our Venezuelan facilities
for no consideration. If the social, political and economic conditions in Venezuela continue as they are, or worsen, our business, results
of operations and financial condition could be adversely affected. Venezuela net assets value were immaterial as of December 31,
2023 and 2022, respectively. Sales were immaterial for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
We are exposed to foreign currency exchange
risk and our business and results of operations may be negatively affected by the fluctuation of different currencies.
We transact business in numerous countries around
the world and a significant portion of our business entails cross border purchasing and sales. Our sales made in a particular currency
do not exactly match the amount of our purchases in such currency. We prepare our consolidated financial statements in USD, while the
financial statements of each of our subsidiaries are prepared in the respective entity’s functional currency. Accordingly, our revenues
and earnings are continuously affected by fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates. For example, in instances when our sales made
in USD exceed the amount of our purchases made in USD, the appreciation of certain currencies (like the Euro or the South African Rand)
against the USD would tend to have an adverse effect on our costs. Such adverse movements in relevant exchange rates could have a material
adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We depend on a limited number of suppliers
for certain key raw materials. The loss of one of these suppliers or the failure of one of any of them to meet contractual obligations
to us could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Colombia and the United States are among the preferred
sources for the coal consumed in the production of silicon metal and silicon-based alloys, and the vast majority of producers source coal
from these two countries. In the year ended December 31, 2023, approximately 59% of our coal was purchased from third parties. Of
our third-party purchases, approximately 84% came from Colombia.
Additionally, nearly all of the manganese ore
we purchase comes from suppliers located in South Africa and Gabon. We do not control these third-party suppliers and must rely on them
to perform in accordance with the terms of their contracts. If these suppliers fail to provide us with the required raw materials in a
timely manner, or at all, or if the quantity or quality of the materials they provide is lower than that contractually agreed, we may
not be able to procure adequate supplies of raw materials from alternative sources on comparable terms, or at all, which could have a
material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition. In addition, since many suppliers of these raw
materials are located in the same region, if a natural disaster or event affected one of these regions it is likely alternative sources
would also be similarly affected.
We are impacted by the ongoing military
conflict between Russia and Ukraine. Our business may be materially adversely affected by any negative impact on the global economy and
capital markets resulting from the conflict in Ukraine or any other geopolitical tensions.
Global markets are experiencing volatility and
disruption following the escalation of geopolitical tensions and the start of the military conflict between Russia and Ukraine. On February 24,
2022, a full-scale military invasion of Ukraine by Russian troops was reported. Although the length and impact of the ongoing military
conflict is highly unpredictable, the conflict in Ukraine could lead to market disruptions, including significant volatility in commodity
prices, credit and capital markets, as well as supply chain interruptions.
Russia and Ukraine are meaningful producers of
silicon metal, silicon alloys and manganese based alloys, and are also significant suppliers of raw materials for our business and industry. The
inability of Russian and Ukrainian producers to meet their customer obligations could potentially create tightness in the market. Likewise,
we rely on a number of inputs from Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States region, including metallurgical coke, anthracite
and carbon and graphite electrodes. Our inability to procure these materials can adversely impact our operations.
Additionally, Russia’s prior annexation
of Crimea, recent recognition of two separatist republics in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions of Ukraine and subsequent military interventions
in Ukraine have led to sanctions and other penalties being levied by the United States, European Union and other countries against Russia,
Belarus, the Crimea Region of Ukraine, the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic, and the so-called Luhansk People’s Republic,
including agreement to remove certain Russian financial institutions from the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication
(“SWIFT”) payment system, expansive ban on imports and exports of products to and from Russia and ban on exportation of U.S
denominated banknotes to Russia or persons located there. Additional potential sanctions and penalties have also been proposed and/or
threatened. Russian military actions and the resulting sanctions could adversely affect the global economy and financial markets and lead
to instability and lack of liquidity in capital markets, potentially making it more difficult for us to obtain additional funds. The extent
and duration of the military action, sanctions and resulting market disruptions are impossible to predict, but could be substantial.
Management continually tracks developments in
the conflict in Ukraine and is committed to actively managing our response to potential distributions to the business, but can provide
no assurance that the conflict in Ukraine or other ongoing headwinds will not have a material adverse effect on our business, operations
and financial results.
Any delay or failure to procure, renew or
maintain necessary governmental permits, including environmental permits and concessions to operate our hydropower plants would adversely
affect our results of operations.
The operation of our hydropower plants is highly
regulated, requires various governmental permits, including environmental permits and concessions, and may be subject to the imposition
of conditions by government authorities. We cannot predict whether the conditions prescribed in such permits and concessions will be achievable.
The denial of a permit essential to a hydropower plant or the imposition of impractical conditions would impair our ability to operate
the plant. If we fail to satisfy the conditions or comply with the restrictions imposed by governmental permits or concessions, or restrictions
imposed by other applicable statutory or regulatory requirements, we may face enforcement action and be subject to fines, penalties or
additional costs or revocation of such permits or concessions. Any failure to procure, renew or abide by necessary permits and concessions
would adversely affect the operation of our hydropower plants.
Equipment failures may lead to production
curtailments or shutdowns and repairing any failure could require us to incur capital expenditures and other costs.
Many of our business activities are characterized
by substantial investments in complex production facilities and manufacturing equipment. Because of the complex nature of our production
facilities, any interruption in manufacturing resulting from fire, explosion, industrial accidents, natural disaster, equipment failures
or otherwise could cause significant losses in operational capacity and could materially and adversely affect our business, results of
operations and financial condition.
Other equipment may not continue to perform as
they have in the past or as they are expected. A major equipment failure due to wear and tear, latent defect, design error or operator
error, early obsolescence, natural disaster or other force majeure event could cause significant losses in operational capacity. Repairs
following such failures could require us to incur capital expenditures and other costs. Such major failures also could result in damage
to the
environment or damages and harm to third parties or the public, which could expose us to significant liability. Such costs and
liabilities could adversely affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We depend on proprietary manufacturing processes
and software. These processes may not yield the cost savings that we anticipate and our proprietary technology may be challenged.
We rely on proprietary technologies and technical
capabilities in order to compete effectively and produce high quality silicon metal and silicon-based alloys, including:
| ● | computerized technology that monitors and controls production furnaces; |
| ● | electrode technology and operational know-how; |
| ● | metallurgical processes for the production of solar-grade silicon metal; |
| ● | production software that monitors the introduction of additives to alloys, allowing the precise formulation
of the chemical composition of products; and |
| ● | flowcaster equipment, which maintains certain characteristics of silicon-based alloys as they are cast. |
We are subject to a risk that:
| ● | we may not have sufficient funds to develop new technology and to implement effectively our technologies
as competitors improve their processes; |
| ● | if implemented, our technologies may not work as planned; and |
| ● | our proprietary technologies may be challenged and we may not be able to protect our rights to these technologies. |
Patent or other intellectual property infringement
claims may be asserted against us by a competitor or others. Our intellectual property rights may not be enforceable and may not enable
us to prevent others from developing and marketing competitive products or methods. An infringement action against us may require the
diversion of substantial funds from our operations and may require management to expend efforts that might otherwise be devoted to operations.
A successful challenge to the validity of any of our patents may subject us to a significant award of damages, and may oblige us to secure
licenses of others’ intellectual property, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and
financial condition.
We also rely on trade secrets, know-how and continuing
technological advancement to maintain our competitive position. We may not be able to effectively protect our rights to unpatented trade
secrets and know-how.
Ferroglobe PLC is a holding company whose
principal source of revenue is the income received from its subsidiaries.
Ferroglobe PLC is dependent on the income generated
by its subsidiaries in order to earn distributable profits and pay dividends to shareholders. The amounts of distributions and dividends,
if any, to be paid to us by any operating subsidiary will depend on many factors, including such subsidiary’s results of operations
and financial condition, limits on dividends under applicable law, its constitutional documents, documents governing any indebtedness,
applicability of tax treaties and other factors which may be outside our control. If our operating subsidiaries do not generate sufficient
cash flow, we may be unable to earn distributable profits and pay dividends on our shares.
Our business operations may be impacted
by various types of claims, lawsuits, and other contingent obligations.
We are involved in various legal and regulatory
proceedings including those that arise in the ordinary course of our business. We estimate such potential claims and contingent liabilities
and, where appropriate, record provisions to address these contingent liabilities. The ultimate outcome of the legal matters currently
pending against our Company is uncertain, and although such claims, lawsuits and other legal matters are not expected individually to
have a material adverse effect, such matters in the aggregate could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations
and financial condition. Furthermore, we could, in the future, be subject to judgments or enter into settlements of lawsuits and claims
that could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations in any particular period. While we maintain insurance coverage
in respect of certain risks and liabilities, we may not be able to obtain such insurance on acceptable terms in the future, if at all,
and any such insurance may not provide adequate coverage against such claims. See “Item 8.A.—Financial Information—Consolidated
Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal proceedings” for additional information regarding legal proceedings to which
we are party.
We are exposed to changes in economic and
political conditions where we operate and globally that are beyond our control.
Our industry is affected by changing economic
conditions, including changes in national, regional and local unemployment levels, changes in national, regional and local economic development
plans and budgets, shifts in business investment and consumer spending patterns, credit availability, and business and consumer confidence.
Disruptions in national economies and volatility in the financial markets may and often will reduce consumer confidence, negatively affecting
business investment and consumer spending. The outlook for the global economy in the near term is negative due to several factors, including
geopolitical risks, inflation and concerns about global growth and stability.
We are not able to predict the timing or duration
of periods of economic growth in the countries where we operate or sell products, nor are we able to predict the timing or duration of
any economic downturn or recession that may occur in the future.
Cybersecurity breaches and threats could
disrupt our business operations and result in the loss of critical and confidential information.
We rely on the effective functioning and availability
of our information technology and communication systems and the security of such systems for the secure processing, storage and transmission
of confidential information. The sophistication and magnitude of cybersecurity incidents are increasing and include, among other things,
unauthorized access, computer viruses, deceptive communications and malware. We have experienced minor incidents in the past, and information
technology security processes may not effectively detect or prevent cybersecurity breaches or threats and the measures we have taken to
protect against such incidents may not be sufficient to anticipate or prevent rapidly evolving types of cyber-attacks. Breaches of the
security of our information technology and communication systems could result in destruction or corruption of data, the misappropriation,
corruption or loss of critical or confidential information, business disruption, reputational damage, litigation and remediation costs.
Changes in laws,
rules or regulations relating to data privacy and security, or any actual or perceived failure by us to comply with such laws, rules,
regulations and standards, or contractual or other obligations relating to data privacy and security, could result in claims, changes
to our business practices, penalties, increased cost of operations and could have a material adverse effect on our reputation, results
of operations, financial condition and cash flows.
We are, and may increasingly
become, subject to various laws, rules, regulations, treaties, decisions and standards, as well as contractual obligations, relating to
data privacy and security in the jurisdictions in which we operate. The regulatory environment related to data privacy and security is
increasingly rigorous, with new and constantly changing requirements applicable to our business, and enforcement practices are likely
to remain uncertain for the foreseeable future. These laws, rules, regulations, treaties, decisions and standards may be interpreted and
applied differently over time and from jurisdiction to jurisdiction and in a manner that is inconsistent with our data practices and that
could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations, financial condition and cash flows. New laws, amendments to or reinterpretations
of existing laws, rules, regulations, treaties, decisions, standards and other obligations may require us to incur additional costs and
restrict our business operations, and may require us to change how we use, collect, store, transfer or otherwise process certain types
of personal information and to implement new processes to comply with those laws.
Internationally, laws,
regulations and standards in many jurisdictions apply broadly to the collection, use, retention, security, disclosure, transfer and other
processing of personal information. For example, the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), which became effective in May 2018,
greatly increased the European Commission’s jurisdictional reach of its laws and adds a broad array of requirements for handling
personal data. EU Member States are tasked under the GDPR to enact, and to have enacted, certain implementing legislation that adds to
and/or further
interprets the GDPR requirements and potentially extends our obligations and potential liability for failing to meet such
obligations. The GDPR, together with national legislation, regulations and guidelines of the EU Member States and Switzerland (via its
Federal Data Protection Act) governing the processing of personal data, impose strict obligations and restrictions on the ability to collect,
use, retain, protect, disclose, transfer and otherwise process personal data. In particular, the GDPR includes obligations and restrictions
concerning the consent and rights of individuals to whom the personal data relates (and the obligations of sponsors of clinical trials
acting as data controllers), the transfer of personal data out of the European Economic Area (EEA), the notification of security breaches
and the security and confidentiality of personal data. The GDPR authorizes fines for certain violations of up to 4% of global annual revenue
or EUR 20 million, whichever is greater. The GDPR also applies to our key business partners, CROs and service providers, whether or not
they are located in Europe, with which we share personal data subject to the GDPR. Additionally, we also are subject to the UK General
Data Protection Regulation (UK GDPR) (i.e., a version of the GDPR as implemented into UK law), exposing us to two parallel regimes with
potentially divergent interpretations and enforcement actions for certain violations. While the European Commission issued an adequacy
decision intended to last for at least four years in respect of the UK’s data protection framework, enabling data transfers
from EU Member States to the UK to continue without requiring organizations to put in place contractual or other measures in order to
lawfully transfer personal data between the territories, the relationship between the UK and the EU in relation to certain aspects of
data privacy and security law remains unclear. Although we do not have material operations in the UK, we cannot rule out potential
disruptions in relation to the clinical regulatory framework applicable to our clinical studies in the UK, and to data privacy and security
rules with respect to personal data sharing with vendors and clinical investigators in the UK, and we cannot predict future implications.
All of these evolving compliance and operational
requirements impose significant costs, which are likely to increase over time.
Possible new tariffs and duties that might
be imposed by certain governments, including the United States, the European Union and others, could have a material adverse effect on
our results of operations.
In March 2018, the United States imposed
import tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminum. Exemptions from these tariffs were allowed for steel from Argentina,
Australia, Brazil, Canada, Mexico, and South Korea, and aluminum from Argentina, Australia, Canada, and Mexico. These tariffs were expanded
to apply to steel and aluminum derivatives from most countries. China, the EU, and other countries imposed retaliatory duties on products
from the United States.
In January 2022, the tariffs on steel and
aluminum from the EU were replaced by “tariff-rate quotas”, which allow a certain volume of imports to enter without the additional
tariffs, but impose a 25% tariff on steel imports and a 10% tariff on aluminum imports exceeding the quota amount. Similar arrangements
to replace the steel and aluminum tariffs with tariff-rate quotas were implemented for Japan and the UK in April and June 2022,
respectively.
Beginning in July 2018, the United States
also imposed 25 percent tariffs on a wide array of Chinese products, including products produced and consumed by Ferroglobe, and 7.5 percent
on a smaller range of products. In January 2020, the United States and China entered an initial “Phase 1” agreement to
resolve the trade dispute between the two countries. The agreement resulted in the suspension of Chinese retaliatory duties on certain
U.S. products and the commitment by China to purchase products from the United States. It is unclear whether and, if so, when the two
countries will reach a Phase 2 agreement that would resolve the dispute more broadly. Currently a Phase 2 agreement appears unlikely in
the foreseeable future.
There are indications that China has not fully
complied with its Phase 1 commitments. If China were found to be in noncompliance, the United States could reimpose tariffs on Chinese
products that are currently suspended or increase the existing tariffs.
Any broader “trade war” resulting
from the imposition of tariffs could have a significant adverse effect on world trade and the world economy. To date, tariffs have not
affected our business to a material degree.
Our suppliers, customers, agents or business
partners may be subject to or affected by export controls or trade sanctions imposed by government authorities from time to time, which
may restrict our ability to conduct business with them and potentially disrupt our production or our sales.
The United States, European Union, United Nations
and other authorities have variously imposed export controls and trade sanctions on certain countries, companies, individuals and products,
restricting our ability to trade normally with or in them. At present, compliance with such trade regulation is not affecting our business
to a material degree. However, new trade regulations may be imposed at any time that target or otherwise affect our customers, suppliers,
agents or business partners or their products. In particular, trade sanctions could be imposed that restrict our ability to do business
with one or more critical suppliers and require special licenses to do so. Such events could potentially disrupt our production or sales
and have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We make significant investments in the development
of new technologies and new products. The success of such technologies or products is inherently uncertain and the investments made may
fail to render the desired increase in profitability.
In order to improve our processes and increase
margins, we have consistently invested significant amounts in the development of new technologies and in the development of new value
added products. However, these developments are inherently uncertain, since they may fail to render the desired results when implemented
at an industrial scale.
Specifically, we have invested in the construction
of a factory to produce high purity silicon metal through a technology developed and patented by the Company. We believe the technology
presents several advantages when compared to competitor’s processes. This high purity silicon could be used for several applications,
including advanced ceramics, fillers for semiconductors, special alloys or li-ion batteries. The most promising market is the silicon
for the anode of batteries, whose development depends on the validation of the Si/C composites in the new generation of battery cells
for EVs. This is a long process and silicon might not deliver the expected results in terms of capacity, cyclability, fast-charging
or safety. There could also be new emerging technologies such as solid-state batteries with lithium metal anode that could phase
out the use of silicon in the anode.
Risks Related to Our Capital Structure
We are subject to restrictive covenants
under our credit facilities and other financing agreements. These covenants could significantly affect the way in which we conduct our
business. Our failure to comply with these covenants could lead to an acceleration of our debt.
Our ability to comply with applicable debt covenants
may be affected by events beyond our control, potentially leading to future breaches. The breach of any of the covenants contained in
our credit facilities, unless waived, could constitute an event of default, in turn permitting the lenders to terminate their commitments
to extend credit under, and accelerate the maturity of, the credit facilities in question. In addition, certain of our financing facilities
contain cross default provisions pursuant to which a default under one financing agreement could permit lenders under other financing
agreements to accelerate such debt. If in such circumstances we were unable to repay our creditors, or obtain waivers from them on acceptable
terms or at all, our creditors could foreclose upon the collateral securing the credit facilities and exercise other rights. Such events,
should they occur, could have a material adverse effect on our business, results of operations and financial condition.
Moreover, the restrictions contained in our financing
agreements affect our ability to operate our business and may limit our ability to react to market conditions or take advantage of potential
business opportunities as they arise. For example, collateral requirements and other restrictions could adversely affect our ability to
finance our operations, make strategic acquisitions, investments or alliances, restructure our organization or finance our capital needs.
Additionally, our ability to comply with these covenants and restrictions may be affected by events beyond our control. These include
prevailing economic, financial and industry conditions.
Our leverage may make it difficult for us to service our debt
and operate our business.
Although the Company completed a partial redemption
of its Senior Secured Notes totaling $150.0 million in 2023, as of December 31, 2023, the Company has a net debt balance and material
debt service requirements. Our leverage has and in the future could have important consequences, including:
| ● | making it more difficult for us to satisfy our obligations to all creditors; |
| ● | requiring us to dedicate a substantial portion of our cash flow from operations to payments on our indebtedness,
thus reducing the availability of our cash flow to fund internal growth through working capital and capital expenditures and for other
general corporate purposes; |
| ● | increasing our vulnerability to a downturn in our business or economic or industry conditions; |
| ● | placing us at a competitive disadvantage compared to our competitors that have less indebtedness in relation
to cash flow; |
| ● | limiting our flexibility in planning for or reacting to changes in our business and our industry; |
| ● | restricting us from investing in growing our business, pursuing strategic acquisitions and exploiting
certain business opportunities; and |
| ● | limiting, among other things, our and our subsidiaries’ ability to incur additional indebtedness,
including refinancing, or raise equity capital in the future and increasing the costs of such additional financings. |
Our ability to service our indebtedness will depend
on our future performance, including continued positive results and liquidity, which will be affected by prevailing economic conditions
and financial, business, regulatory and other factors, including the military conflict in Ukraine and the Middle East. Many of these factors
are beyond our control. We may not be able to generate enough cash flow from operations or obtain enough capital to service our indebtedness
or fund our planned capital expenditures. If we cannot service our indebtedness and meet our other obligations and commitments, we might
be required to refinance our indebtedness, obtain additional financing, delay planned capital expenditures or to dispose of assets to
obtain funds for such purpose. We cannot assure you that any refinancing or asset dispositions could be effected on a timely basis or
on satisfactory terms, if at all, or would be permitted by the terms of our outstanding debt instruments.
In February 2024, the Company completed the
full redemption of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest.
We have experienced past losses and cannot
assure you that we will be profitable in the future.
Our business has historically been subject to
fluctuations in the prices of our products and the market demand for them, caused by general and regional economic cycles, raw material
and energy price fluctuations, competition and other factors. The Company reported positive net results for the years ended December 31,
2023 and 2022, respectively, following multiple consecutive years of losses. Because of the numerous uncertainties and risks inherent
in our industry, we are unable to ensure that such profitability will continue into the future.
To service our indebtedness, we require
a significant amount of cash, and our ability to generate cash will depend on many factors beyond our control.
Our ability to make payments on and to refinance
our indebtedness as well as fund capital expenditures depends in part on our ability to continue to generate cash in the future. This
depends on the success of our business strategy and on general economic, financial, competitive, legislative, regulatory and other factors,
many of which are beyond our control.
There
can be no assurance that we will:
| ● | generate sufficient cash flow from operations; |
| ● | realize operating improvements on schedule; or |
| ● | have future borrowings available to us in an amount sufficient to enable us to service and repay our indebtedness
or to fund our other liquidity needs. |
Furthermore, applicable law and future contractual
arrangements may impose restrictions on certain of our subsidiaries’ ability to make payments to Ferroglobe and other entities within
the Group, which could impact our ability to service and pay our obligations as they mature or to fund our liquidity needs.
There can be no assurance that we will have the
available liquidity or the ability to raise financing in order to repay our debt instruments at or ahead of their maturity.
If we are unable to further satisfy our debt obligations,
we may have to undertake alternative financing plans, such as refinancing or further restructuring our indebtedness, selling assets, reducing
or delaying capital investments or seeking to raise additional capital. There can be no assurance that any refinancing or debt restructuring
would be possible, or if possible, that it would be on similar terms to those of our debt instruments existing at that time, that any
assets could be sold or that, if sold, the timing of the sales and the amount of proceeds realized from those sales would be favorable
to us or that additional financing could be obtained on acceptable terms. As the Reinstated Notes will be secured by a significant portion
of our assets that can be granted as collateral, our ability to refinance our existing debt or raise new debt may be limited to unsecured
or lesser-secured debt. Disruptions in the capital and credit markets, as have been seen in recent years, could adversely affect our ability
to meet our liquidity needs or to refinance our indebtedness.
In February 2024, the Company completed the
full redemption of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest.
Risks Related to Our Ordinary Shares
Grupo VM, our principal shareholder, has
significant voting power with respect to corporate matters considered by our shareholders.
Our principal shareholder, Grupo VM, has, and
will continue to have, directly or indirectly, the power, among other things, to affect our legal and capital structure and our day-to-day
operations, as well as the ability to elect and change our management and to approve other changes to our operations. Grupo VM owns shares
representing 40.1% of the aggregate voting power of our capital stock. So long as Grupo VM’s retains its voting power, as well as
its representation on the Board, Grupo VM will have significant influence over the outcome of any corporate transaction or other matters
submitted to our shareholders for approval. Grupo VM is likely to be able to block any such matter, including ordinary resolutions, which,
under English law, require approval by a majority of outstanding shares cast in the vote. Grupo VM will also be able to block special
resolutions, which, under English law, require approval by the holders of at least 75% of the outstanding shares entitled to vote and
voting on the resolution, such as an amendment of the Articles or the exclusion of preemptive rights.
Grupo VM has pledged most of its shares in our company to secure
a loan from Tyrus Capital (“Tyrus”).
Grupo VM has guaranteed its obligations pursuant
to a credit agreement (the “GVM Credit Agreement”) with respect to a loan granted to GVM by Tyrus Capital (“GVM Loan”).
In addition, Grupo VM has entered into a security and pledge agreement (the “GVM Pledge Agreement”), with Tyrus pursuant to
which Grupo VM agreed to pledge most of its shares to Tyrus to secure the outstanding GVM Loan.
In the event Grupo VM defaults under the GVM Credit
Agreement, Tyrus may foreclose on the shares subject to the pledge.
The market price of our ordinary shares
may be volatile and may fluctuate due to factors beyond our control.
Our ordinary shares are admitted for trading
on the Nasdaq Capital Market under the symbol “GSM”. The market price of our ordinary shares is subject to wide fluctuations
in response to numerous factors, some of which are beyond our control. These factors include, among other things, actual or anticipated
variations in our costs of doing business,
operating results and cash flow, the nature and content of our earnings releases and our competitors’
earnings releases, changes in financial estimates by securities analysts, business conditions in our markets and the general state of
the securities markets and the market for other financial stocks, changes in capital markets that affect the perceived availability of
capital to companies in our industry, and governmental legislation or regulation, as well as general economic and market conditions, such
as downturns in our economy and recessions.
Broad
market and industry factors may materially affect the market price of companies’ stock, including ours, regardless of actual operating
performance. Similarly, the market price of our ordinary shares may fluctuate significantly based upon factors unrelated or
disproportionate to our operating performance.
These market fluctuations, as well as general
economic, political and market conditions, such as recessions, interest rates or international currency fluctuations may adversely affect
the market price of our ordinary shares.
Significant sales of our ordinary shares,
or the perception that significant sales thereof may occur in the future, could adversely affect the market price for our ordinary shares.
The sale of substantial amounts of our ordinary
shares could adversely affect the price of these securities. Sales of substantial amounts of our ordinary shares in the public market,
and the availability of shares for future sale could adversely affect the prevailing market price of our ordinary shares and could cause
the market price of our ordinary shares to remain low for a substantial amount of time.
The Company may be restricted or unable
to pay cash dividends in the future.
When
and if the Company is not subject to financial covenants that restrict the payment of dividends or the repurchase of shares, the Company
may pay dividends from time to time. The payment of future dividends, if any, is subject to then-applicable financial covenants that could
in the future restrict the payment of dividends or the repurchase of our shares. The payment of dividends, if any, depends at all times
on, among other matters, our results of operations and financial condition and on such other factors as our Board of Directors may, in
their discretion, consider relevant.
If securities or industry analysts do not
publish or cease publishing research reports about us, if they adversely change their recommendations regarding our ordinary shares, or
if our operating results do not meet their expectations, the price of our ordinary shares could decline.
The trading market for our ordinary shares may
be influenced by the research and reports that industry or securities analysts may publish about us, our business, our market or our competitors.
If there is limited or no securities or industry analyst coverage of us, the market price and trading volume of our ordinary shares would
likely be negatively impacted. Moreover, if any of the analysts who may cover us downgrade our ordinary shares or provide relatively more
favorable recommendations concerning our competitors, or, if our operating results or prospects do not meet their expectations, the market
price of our ordinary shares could decline. If any of the analysts who may cover us were to cease coverage or fail regularly to publish
reports about our Company, we could lose visibility in the financial markets, which, in turn, could cause our share price or trading volume
to decline.
As a foreign private issuer within the meaning
of the rules of Nasdaq, we are subject to different U.S. securities laws and Nasdaq governance standards than domestic U.S. issuers
of securities. These may afford relatively less protection to holders of our ordinary shares, who may not receive all corporate and company
information and disclosures they are accustomed to receiving or in a manner to which they are accustomed.
As a foreign private issuer, the rules governing
the information that we are required to disclose differ from those governing U.S. corporations pursuant to the U.S. Exchange Act. Although
we intend to report periodic financial results and certain material events, we are not required to file quarterly reports on Form 10-Q
or provide current reports on Form 8-K disclosing significant events within four days of their occurrence. In addition, we are exempt
from the SEC’s proxy rules, and proxy statements that we distribute will not be subject to review by the SEC. Our exemption from
Section 16 rules requiring the reporting of beneficial ownership and sales of shares by insiders means that you will have less
data in this regard than shareholders of U.S. companies that are subject to this part of the U.S. Exchange Act and that our insiders are
not subject to short-swing profit rules. As a result, in deciding whether to purchase our shares, you may not have all the data that you
are accustomed to having when making investment decisions with respect to domestic U.S. public companies.
Furthermore, Nasdaq Rule 5615(a)(3) provides
that a foreign private issuer, such as our Company, may rely on home country corporate governance practices in lieu of certain of the
rules in the Nasdaq Rule 5600 Series and Rule 5250(d), provided that we nevertheless comply with Nasdaq’s Notification
of Noncompliance requirement (Rule 5625), the Voting Rights requirement (Rule 5640) and that we have an audit committee that
satisfies Rule 5605(c)(3), consisting of committee members that meet the independence requirements of Rule 5605(c)(2)(A)(ii).
We are permitted to follow certain corporate governance rules that conform to U.K. requirements in lieu of many of the Nasdaq corporate
governance rules, and we intend to comply with the Nasdaq corporate governance rules applicable to foreign private issuers. Accordingly,
our shareholders will not have the same protections afforded to stockholders of U.S. companies that are subject to all of the corporate
governance requirements of Nasdaq.
We
may lose our foreign private issuer status,
which would then require us to comply with the Exchange Act’s domestic reporting regime and cause us to incur significant legal,
accounting and other expenses.
We are a
foreign private issuer and therefore we are not required to comply with all of the periodic disclosure and current reporting requirements
of the Exchange Act applicable to U.S. domestic issuers. We may no longer be a foreign private issuer as of June 30, 2024 (or the
end of our second fiscal quarter in any subsequent fiscal year), which would require us to comply with all of the periodic disclosure
and current reporting requirements of the Exchange Act applicable to U.S. domestic issuers as of January 1, 2025 (or the first day
of the fiscal year immediately succeeding the end of such second quarter). In order to maintain our current status as a foreign private
issuer, either (a) a majority of our ordinary shares must be either directly or indirectly owned of record by non-residents of the
U.S. or (b) (i) a majority of our executive officers or directors may not be U.S. citizens or residents, (ii) more than
50 percent of our assets cannot be located in the U.S. and (iii) our business must be administered principally outside the U.S..
If we lost this status, we would be required to comply with the Exchange Act reporting and other requirements applicable to U.S. domestic
issuers, which are more detailed and extensive than the requirements for foreign private issuers. We may also be required to make changes
in our corporate governance practices in accordance with various SEC and Nasdaq rules. The regulatory and compliance costs to us under
U.S. securities laws if we are required to comply with the reporting requirements applicable to a U.S. domestic issuer may be significantly
higher than the cost we would incur as a foreign private issuer. As a result, we expect that a loss of foreign private issuer status would
increase our legal and financial compliance costs and would make some activities highly time-consuming and costly. We also expect that
if we were required to comply with the rules and regulations applicable to U.S. domestic issuers, it would make it more difficult
and expensive for us to obtain director and officer liability insurance, and we may be required to accept reduced coverage or incur substantially
higher costs to obtain coverage. These rules and regulations could also make it more difficult for us to attract and retain qualified
members of our board of directors.
If we fail to maintain
an effective system of internal control over financial reporting, we may not be able to accurately report our financial results or prevent
fraud. As a result, shareholders could lose confidence in our financial and other public reporting, which would harm our business and
the trading price of our ordinary shares.
Our management is responsible
for establishing and maintaining adequate internal controls over financial reporting. Effective internal controls over financial reporting
are necessary for us to provide reliable financial reports and, together with adequate disclosure controls and procedures, are designed
to prevent fraud, among other objectives. Any failure to implement any required new or improved controls, or difficulties encountered
in their implementation could cause us to fail to meet our reporting obligations. In connection with the audit of our consolidated financial
statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2020, we identified material weaknesses in our internal control over financial
reporting, which were not fully remediated as of December 31, 2023. In addition, any testing by us conducted in connection with Section 404
of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, or any testing by our independent registered public accounting firm, may reveal deficiencies in our
internal controls over financial reporting, which are deemed to be material weaknesses or that may require prospective or retroactive
changes to our consolidated financial statements or identify other areas for further attention or improvement.
Moreover,
if we are not able to comply with the requirements of Section 404 applicable to us in a timely manner, or if we or our independent
registered public accounting firm identifies deficiencies in our internal control over financial reporting that are deemed to be material
weaknesses, the market price of our ordinary shares could decline, and we could be subject to sanctions or investigations by the SEC
or other regulatory authorities, which would require additional financial and management
resources. Furthermore, investor perceptions of our company may suffer if deficiencies are found, and this could cause a decline in the
market price of our ordinary shares. Irrespective of compliance with Section 404, any failure of our internal control over financial
reporting could have a material adverse effect on our stated operating results and harm our reputation. If we are unable to implement
these requirements
effectively or efficiently, it could harm our operations, financial reporting, or financial results and could result in an adverse opinion
on our internal control over financial reporting from our independent registered public accounting firm.
We are taking measures and plan to continue to
take measures to remediate this material weakness. However, the implementation of these measures may not fully address this material weakness
in our internal control over financial reporting, and therefore we would not be able to conclude that it has been fully remedied. Our
failure to correct this material weakness or our failure to discover and address any other control deficiencies could result in inaccuracies
in our financial statements and could also impair our ability to comply with applicable financial reporting requirements and make related
regulatory filings on a timely basis. As a result, our business, financial condition, results of operations and prospects, as well as
the trading price of our shares, may be materially and adversely affected.
As
an English public limited company, we may be required to obtain shareholder approval for certain capital structure decisions. Such approvals
may limit our flexibility to manage our capital structure.
English law provides that a board of directors
may only allot shares (or rights or convertible into shares) with the prior authorization of shareholders, such authorization being up
to the aggregate nominal amount of shares and for a maximum period of five years, each as specified in the Articles of Association
or relevant shareholder resolution. The Articles authorize the allotment of additional shares for a period of five years from October 26,
2017 (being the date of the adoption of the Articles), which authorization will need to be renewed upon expiration (i.e., at least
every five years) but may be sought more frequently for additional five-year terms (or any shorter period). This authorization was
renewed by the 2022 Annual General Meeting (AGM) for an additional five years.
English law also generally provides shareholders
with preemptive rights when new shares are issued for cash. However, it is possible for the articles of association, or for shareholders
acting in a general meeting, to exclude preemptive rights. Such an exclusion of preemptive rights may be for a maximum period of up to
five years from the date of adoption of the articles of association, if the exclusion is contained in the articles of association,
or from the date of the shareholder resolution, if the exclusion is by shareholder resolution. In either case, this exclusion would need
to be renewed by our shareholders upon its expiration (i.e., at least every five years). The Articles exclude preemptive rights
for a period of five years from October 26, 2017, which exclusion will need to be renewed upon expiration (i.e., at least
every five years) to remain effective, but may be sought more frequently for additional five-year terms (or any shorter period).
This exclusion was renewed by the 2022 AGM for an additional five years.
English law also generally prohibits a public
company from repurchasing its own shares without the prior approval of shareholders by ordinary resolution, such being a resolution passed
by a simple majority of votes cast, and other formalities. As an English company listed on Nasdaq, we may not purchase our shares except
where our shareholders have approved our doing so by ordinary resolution (and with a maximum duration of such approval of five years)
and with the prior consent of our shareholders by ordinary resolution to the proposed contract for the purchase of our shares.
English law requires that we meet certain
financial requirements before we declare dividends or repurchases.
Under English law, we may only declare dividends,
make distributions or repurchase shares out of distributable reserves of the Company or distributable profits. “Distributable profits”
are a company’s accumulated, realized profits, so far as not previously utilized by distribution or capitalization, less its accumulated,
realized losses, so far as not previously written off in a reduction or reorganization of capital duly made, as reported to the Companies
House. In addition, as a public company, we may only make a distribution if the amount of our net assets is not less than the aggregate
amount of our called-up share capital and undistributable reserves and if, and to the extent that, the distribution does not reduce the
amount of those assets to less than that aggregate amount. The directors may also decide to pay interim dividends if it appears to them
that the profits available for distribution justify the payment. When declaring the payment of a dividend, the directors will be required
under English law to comply with their duties, including considering our future financial requirements.
The enforcement of shareholder judgments
against us or certain of our directors may be more difficult.
Because we are a public limited company incorporated
under English law, and because most of our directors and executive officers are non-residents of the United States and substantially all
of the assets of such directors and executive officers are located outside of the United States, our shareholders could experience more
difficulty enforcing
judgments obtained against our Company or our directors in U.S. courts than would currently be the case for U.S.
judgments obtained against a U.S. public company or U.S. resident directors. In addition, it may be more difficult (or impossible) to
assert some types of claims against our Company or its directors in courts in England, or against certain of our directors in courts in
Spain, than it would be to bring similar claims against a U.S. company or its directors in a U.S. court.
The United States is not currently bound by a
treaty with Spain or the United Kingdom providing for reciprocal recognition and enforcement of judgments rendered in civil and commercial
matters with Spain or the United Kingdom, other than arbitral awards. There is, therefore, doubt as to the enforceability of civil liabilities
based upon U.S. federal securities laws in an action to enforce a U.S. judgment in Spain or the United Kingdom. In addition, the enforcement
in Spain or the United Kingdom of any judgment obtained in a U.S. court based on civil liabilities, whether or not predicated solely upon
U.S. federal securities laws, will be subject to certain conditions. There is also doubt that a court in Spain or the United Kingdom would
have the requisite power or authority to grant remedies in an original action brought in Spain or the United Kingdom on the basis of U.S.
federal securities laws violations.
Risks Related to Tax Matters
The application of Section 7874 of
the Code, including under IRS guidance, and changes in law could affect our status as a foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax
purposes.
We believe that, under current law, we should
be treated as a foreign corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”)
may assert that we should be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes pursuant to Section 7874 of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”). Under Section 7874 of the Code, we would be treated as a U.S. corporation
for U.S. federal income tax purposes if, after the Business Combination, (i) at least 80% of our ordinary shares (by vote or value)
were considered to be held by former holders of common stock of Globe by reason of holding such common stock, as calculated for Section 7874
purposes, and (ii) our expanded affiliated group did not have substantial business activities in the United Kingdom (the “80%
Test”). The percentage (by vote and value) of our ordinary shares considered to be held by former holders of common stock of
Globe immediately after the Business Combination by reason of their holding common stock of Globe is referred to in this disclosure as
the “Section 7874 Percentage.”
Determining the Section 7874 Percentage
is complex and, with respect to the Business Combination, subject to legal uncertainties. In that regard, the IRS and U.S. Department
of the Treasury (“U.S. Treasury”) issued temporary Regulations in April 2016 and finalized Regulations in July 2018
(collectively, the “Section 7874 Regulations”), which include a rule that applies to certain transactions in which
the Section 7874 Percentage is at least 60% and the parent company is organized in a jurisdiction different from that of the
foreign target corporation (the “Third Country Rule”). This rule applies to transactions occurring on or after November 19,
2015, which date is prior to the closing of the Business Combination. If the Third Country Rule were to apply to the Business Combination,
the 80% Test would be deemed met and we would be treated as a U.S. corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. While we believe
the Section 7874 Percentage is less than 60% such that the Third Country Rule does not apply to us, we cannot assure you
that the IRS will agree with this position and would not successfully challenge our status as a foreign corporation. If the IRS successfully
challenged our status as a foreign corporation, significant adverse tax consequences would result for us and could apply to our shareholders.
In addition, changes to Section 7874 of the
Code, the U.S. Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder, or to other relevant tax laws (including under applicable tax treaties) could
adversely affect our status or treatment as a foreign corporation, and the tax consequences to our affiliates, for U.S. federal income
tax purposes, and any such changes could have prospective or retroactive application. Recent legislative proposals have aimed to expand
the scope of U.S. corporate tax residence, including by potentially causing us to be treated as a U.S. corporation if the management and
control of us and our affiliates were determined to be located primarily in the United States, or by reducing the Section 7874 Percentage
at or above which we would be treated as a U.S. corporation such that it would be lower than the threshold imposed under the 80% Test.
IRS guidance and changes in law could affect
our ability to engage in certain acquisition strategies and certain internal restructurings.
Even if we are treated as a foreign corporation
for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the Section 7874 Regulations materially changed the manner in which the Section 7874 Percentage
will be calculated in certain future acquisitions
of U.S. businesses in exchange for our equity,
which may affect the tax efficiencies that otherwise might be achieved in transactions with third parties. For example, the Section 7874
Regulations would impact certain acquisitions of U.S. companies for our Ordinary Shares (or other stock) in the 36-month period beginning
December 23, 2015, by excluding from the Section 7874 Percentage the portion of Ordinary Shares that are allocable to
former holders of common stock of Globe. This rule would generally have the effect of increasing the otherwise applicable Section 7874 Percentage
with respect to our future acquisition of a U.S. business. The Section 7874 Regulations also may more generally limit the ability
to restructure the non-U.S. members of our Company to achieve tax efficiencies, unless an exception applies. However, no such acquisition
of a U.S. business was made during the 36 months period.
IRS proposed regulations and changes in
laws or treaties could affect the expected financial synergies of the Business Combination.
The IRS and the U.S. Treasury also issued rules that
provide that certain intercompany debt instruments issued on or after April 5, 2016, will be treated as equity for U.S. federal income
tax purposes, therefore limiting U.S. tax benefits and resulting in possible U.S. withholding taxes. As a result of these rules, we may
not be able to realize a portion of the financial synergies that were anticipated in connection with the Business Combination, and such
rules may materially affect our future effective tax rate. While these new rules are not retroactive, they could impact our
ability to engage in future restructurings if such transactions cause an existing debt instrument to be treated as reissued. Furthermore,
under certain circumstances, recent treaty proposals by the U.S. Treasury, if ultimately adopted by the United States and relevant foreign
jurisdictions, could reduce the potential tax benefits for us and our affiliates by imposing U.S. withholding taxes on certain payments
from our U.S. affiliates to related and unrelated foreign persons.
We are subject to tax laws of numerous jurisdictions
and our interpretation of those laws is subject to challenge by the relevant governmental authorities.
We and our subsidiaries are subject to tax laws
and regulations in the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Spain, South Africa and the other jurisdictions in which we operate.
These laws and regulations are inherently complex, and we and our subsidiaries are (and have been) obligated to make judgments and interpretations
about the application of these laws and regulations to us and our subsidiaries and their operations and businesses. The interpretation
and application of these laws and regulations could be challenged by the relevant governmental authority, which could result in administrative
or judicial procedures, actions or sanctions, which could materially affect our effective tax rate.
We intend to operate so as to be treated
exclusively as a resident of the United Kingdom for tax purposes, but the relevant tax authorities may treat us as also being a resident
of another jurisdiction for tax purposes.
We are a company incorporated in the United Kingdom.
Current U.K. tax law provides that we will be regarded as being a U.K. resident for tax purposes from incorporation and shall remain so
unless (i) we were concurrently resident of another jurisdiction (applying the tax residence rules of that jurisdiction) that
has a double tax treaty with the United Kingdom and (ii) there is a tiebreaker provision in that tax treaty which allocates exclusive
residence to that other jurisdiction.
Based upon our management and organizational structure,
we believe that we should be regarded solely as resident in the United Kingdom from our incorporation for tax purposes. However, because
this analysis is highly factual and may depend on changes in our management and organizational structure, there can be no assurance regarding
the final determination of our tax residence. Should we be treated as resident in a country or jurisdiction other than the United Kingdom,
we could be subject to taxation in that country or jurisdiction on our worldwide income and may be required to comply with a number of
material and formal tax obligations, including withholding tax and reporting obligations provided under the relevant tax law, which could
result in additional costs and expenses and an increase of our effective tax rate.
We may not qualify for benefits under the
tax treaties entered into between the United Kingdom and other countries.
We intend to operate in a manner such that, when
relevant, we are eligible for benefits under tax treaties entered into between the United Kingdom and other countries. However, our ability
to qualify and continue to qualify for such benefits will depend upon the requirements contained within each treaty and the applicable
domestic laws, as the case may be, on the facts and circumstances surrounding our operations and management, and on the relevant interpretation
of the tax authorities and courts.
Our or our subsidiaries’ failure to qualify
for benefits under the tax treaties could result in adverse tax consequences to us and our subsidiaries and could result in certain tax
consequences of owning or disposing of our ordinary shares differing from those discussed below.
Future changes to domestic or international
tax laws or to the interpretation of these laws by the governmental authorities could adversely affect us and our subsidiaries.
The U.S. Congress, the U.K. Government, the European
Union and the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development and other government agencies in jurisdictions where we and our affiliates
do business have had an extended focus on issues related to the taxation of multinational corporations. One example is in the area of
“base erosion and profit shifting” (or “BEPS”), in which payments are made between affiliates from a jurisdiction
with high tax rates to a jurisdiction with lower tax rates. Thus, the tax laws in the United States, the United Kingdom, the European
Union or other countries in which we and our affiliates do business are changing and any such changes could adversely affect us, mostly
those related to interest limitation rules. Furthermore, the interpretation and application of domestic or international tax laws made
by us and our subsidiaries could differ from that of the relevant governmental authority, which could result in administrative or judicial
procedures, actions or sanctions, which could be material. On July 1, 2018, OECD’s so-called “Multi-Lateral Instrument”
entered into force covering 87 jurisdictions and impacting over 1,200 double tax treaties. The adoption and transposition into domestic
legislations of the Anti-Tax Avoidance Directives (known as “ATAD 1 and 2”) by the European Union is another key development
that is impacting us, mostly when it comes to interest deduction limitation. On December 2021, the European Commission published
a proposal for a Directive “laying down rules to prevent the misuse of shell entities for improper tax purposes and amending
Directive 2011/16/EU.” This Directive is also referred to as the ATAD 3 Directive. The implementation of this directive could affect
us.
Further developments are to be seen in areas such
as the “making tax digital - initiatives” allowing authorities to monitor multinationals’ tax position on a more real
time basis and the contemplated introduction of new taxes, such as revenue-based digital services taxes aimed at technology companies,
but which may impact traditional businesses as well in the sense of allocating a portion of the profitability of the given company to
jurisdictions where it has significant sales even though it is not physically present. The latest developments by the OECD in this field
are the so-called Pillar One and Pillar Two rules. Under Pillar One, the OECD intends to set up the foundations for allocating to the
market jurisdiction (i) non-routine profit; (ii) a fixed remuneration based on the Arm´s length Principle for baseline
distribution and marketing functions; and (iii) an additional profit where in-country functions exceed the base-line activity already
compensated. In principle, our business is not in scope of this measure as it refers to raw materials and commodities and this kind of
business is excluded under the current drafting of the paper. Additionally, the measure would apply to multinational entities with revenues
exceeding EUR20 billion and a profitability greater than 10%, which would exclude our company from its application. Then, Pillar Two rules,
also called the GloBE (Global Anti-Base Erosion proposal) rules consist of setting a minimum rate of taxation, giving the countries
the right to apply a “top up” tax where jurisdictional profit is taxed at a rate below the minimum 15% rate. This top up tax
is to be collected through several avenues: (i) domestic minimum taxes in local jurisdictions; (ii) the income inclusion rule,
charging top up tax in the ultimate parent jurisdiction (or in some cases, in the jurisdiction of an intermediary holding company); (iii) an
undertaxed profit rule charging tup up tax on profits which are not within the scope of any territory’s income inclusion or
domestic minimum tax rules; (iv) switch over rule in the double tax treaties to allow the jurisdiction of residence to switch
from exemption to credit method when the profit of a permanent establishment is taxed below the minimum rate; and (v) a subject to
tax rule to allow withholding tax or other taxation or adjust eligibility to treaty benefits on payments not subject to the minimum
rate. On December 22, 2022, the EU approved the Minimum Tax Directive (Pillar Two). The Directive requires Member States to transpose
the rules into domestic law by 31 December 2023. The main rule of the Directive (so called Income Inclusion Rule or
IIR) became effective on 31 December 2023 with the backstop rule (so called Undertaxed Profits Rule or UTPR) becoming effective
on or after 31 December 2024. The Directive provides the option for Member States to implement a qualified domestic top-up tax (QDMTT)
that operates to increase the domestic tax liability of in-scope MNE groups within a jurisdiction to the minimum effective tax rate of
15% of profits. Spain and France have enacted legislation implementing this Directive. On 20 June 2023, Finance (No.2) Act 2023 was
substantively enacted in the UK, introducing a global minimum effective tax rate of 15% in application of the GloBE rules from the
OECD. The legislation implements a domestic top-up tax and a multinational top-up tax, effective for accounting periods starting on or
after 31 December 2023. There are transitional safe harbours which can apply in certain circumstances which can remove the requirement
to do the full detailed calculations for the first 3 years after the effective date.
Based on the UK transitional safe harbour analysis
we have performed using our 2022 financial statements and the Country-by-Country Reporting data, according to UK legislation, the Group
anticipates that it is not probable that Pillar Two will have a material impact on the group going forward. We are aware that there are
several jurisdictions that have substantively enacted a qualifying domestic minimum top up tax that may also include safe harbour rules that
may apply differently to the UK legislation. These have not been assessed but will be assessed and monitored by the company on a go forward
basis.
We may become subject to income or other
taxes in jurisdictions which would adversely affect our financial results.
We and our subsidiaries are subject to the income
tax laws of the United Kingdom, the United States, France, Spain, South Africa and the other jurisdictions in which we operate. Our effective
tax rate in any period is impacted by the source and the amount of earnings among our different tax jurisdictions. A change in the division
of our earnings among our tax jurisdictions could have a material impact on our effective tax rate and our financial results. In addition,
we or our subsidiaries may be subject to additional income or other taxes in these and other jurisdictions by reason of the management
and control of our subsidiaries, our activities and operations, where our production facilities are located or changes in tax laws, regulations
or accounting principles. Changes in tax treaties, the introduction of new legislation, updates to existing legislation, or changes to
regulatory interpretations of existing legislation as a result of these or similar proposals could impose additional taxes on businesses
and increase the complexity, burden and cost of tax compliance in countries where we operate.
Although we have adopted guidelines and operating
procedures to ensure our subsidiaries are appropriately managed and controlled, we may be subject to such taxes in the future and such
taxes may be substantial. The imposition of such taxes could have a material adverse effect on our financial results.
We may incur current tax liabilities in
our primary operating jurisdictions in the future.
We expect to make current tax payments in some
of the jurisdictions where we do business in the normal course of our operations. Our ability to defer the payment of some level of income
taxes to future periods is dependent upon the continued benefit of accelerated tax depreciation on our plant and equipment in some jurisdictions,
the continued deductibility of external and intercompany financing arrangements, the application of tax losses prior to their expiration
in certain tax jurisdictions and the application of tax credits including R&D credits, among other factors. The level of current tax
payments we make in any of our primary operating jurisdictions could adversely affect our cash flows and have a material adverse effect
on our financial results.
Changes in tax laws may result in additional
taxes for us.
We cannot assure you that tax laws in the jurisdictions
in which we reside or in which we conduct activities or operations will not be changed in the future. Such changes in tax law could result
in additional taxes for us. As mentioned above, changes in tax treaties, the introduction of new legislation, updates to existing legislation,
or changes to regulatory interpretations of existing legislation as a result of future tax law changes could impose additional taxes on
businesses and increase the complexity, burden and cost of tax compliance in countries where we operate.
U.S. federal income tax reform could adversely
affect us.
Legislation commonly known as the Tax Cuts and
Jobs Act (the “TCJA”) was enacted on December 22, 2017 in the United States. The TCJA made significant changes to the
U.S. federal tax code, including a reduction in the U.S. federal corporate statutory tax rate from 35% to 21% as well as the introduction
of a base erosion minimum tax (BEAT). The TCJA also made changes to the U.S. federal taxation of foreign earnings and to the timing of
recognition of certain revenue and expenses and the deductibility of certain business expenses. We examined the impact the TCJA may have
on our business in detail since enactment. Although further guidance continues to be released by the IRS, so far we have concluded that
tax reform should not have a material adverse impact on the taxation of our U.S. business, as of December 31, 2023. This Annual Report
does not discuss in detail the TCJA or the manner in which it might affect us or our stockholders. We urge you to consult with your own
legal and tax advisors with respect to the Tax Reform Act and the potential tax consequences of investing in our shares.
Our transfer pricing policies are open to
challenge from taxation authorities internationally.
Tax authorities have become increasingly focused
on transfer pricing in recent years. Due to our international operations and an increasing number of inter-company cross-border transactions,
we are open to challenge from tax authorities with regards to the pricing of such transactions. A successful challenge by tax authorities
may lead to a reallocation of taxable income to a different tax jurisdiction and may potentially lead to an increase of our effective
tax rate.
ITEM 4. INFORMATION
ON THE COMPANY
A. History and Development
of the Company
Ferroglobe PLC
Ferroglobe PLC, initially named VeloNewco Limited,
was incorporated under the U.K. Companies Act 2006 as a private limited liability company in the United Kingdom on February 5, 2015.
The Company was a wholly-owned subsidiary of Grupo VM. On October 16, 2015, VeloNewco Limited re-registered as a public limited company.
As a result of the Business Combination, which was completed on December 23, 2015, FerroAtlántica and Globe merged through
corporate transactions to create Ferroglobe PLC, one of the largest producers worldwide of silicon metal and silicon and manganese-based
alloys. To effect the Business Combination, Ferroglobe acquired from Grupo VM all of the issued and outstanding ordinary shares, par value
€1,000 per share, of Grupo FerroAtlántica, SAU in exchange for 98,078,161 newly issued Class A Ordinary Shares, nominal
value $7.50 per share, of Ferroglobe, after which FerroAtlántica became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferroglobe. Immediately thereafter,
Gordon Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Ferroglobe, merged with and into Globe Specialty Metals, Inc., and each
outstanding share of common stock, par value $0.0001 per share, was converted into the right to receive one newly-issued ordinary share,
nominal value $7.50 per share, of Ferroglobe. After these steps, Ferroglobe issued, in total, 171,838,153 shares, out of which 98,078,161
shares were issued to Grupo VM and 73,759,992 were issued to the former Globe shareholders. Our ordinary shares are currently traded on
the Nasdaq under the symbol “GSM.”
On June 22, 2016, we completed a reduction
of our share capital, as a result of which the nominal value of each share was reduced from $7.50 to $0.01, with the amount of the capital
reduction being credited to distributable reserves.
On August 21, 2018, we announced a share
repurchase program, which provided authorization to purchase up to $20,000 thousand of our ordinary shares in the period ending December 31,
2018. On November 7, 2018, we completed the repurchase program, resulting in the acquisition of a total of 2,894,049 ordinary shares
for total consideration of $20,100 thousand, including applicable stamp duty. The average price paid per share was $6.89. The share repurchase
program resulted in 1,152,958 ordinary shares purchased and cancelled and 1,741,091 ordinary shares purchased into treasury, all of which
remained held in treasury at December 31, 2018. See “Item 16.E.— Purchases of Equity Securities by the Issuer and
Affiliated Purchasers.”
On July 29, 2021, upon the closing of the
Refinancing, the company issued 8,918,618 new ordinary shares to Rubric Capital Management LP on behalf of certain managed or sub-managed
funds and accounts and Grupo Villar Mir, S.A.U for a total issued share capital of $40,000 thousand, 1,900,000 shares as a work fee and
7,013,872 shares to bondholder’s related to the financing transactions.
On October 6, 2021, the Company entered into
an equity distribution agreement (the “Equity Distribution Agreement”) with B. Riley Securities, Inc. and Cantor Fitzgerald &
Co. relating to the ordinary shares of Ferroglobe PLC. The Company may offer and sell ordinary shares having an aggregate offering price
of up to $100,000,000 from time to time through B. Riley Securities, Inc. and Cantor Fitzgerald & Co. as our sales agents.
In 2021 the Company sold 186,053 ordinary shares under the Equity Distribution Agreement, for net proceeds of $1,400 thousand. The Company
has not sold any other securities under this agreement. Effectiveness of the related registration statement, and ability to sell additional
ordinary shares under the Equity Distribution Agreement, expires on June 15, 2024.
During 2023, a small number of the ordinary shares
held in treasury have been used to satisfy share awards made by the Company to its management team under the Ferroglobe PLC Equity Incentive
Plan 2016. The number of ordinary shares held as treasury shares as of December 31, 2023 was 1,440,785. See Note 12 Equity to our
consolidated financial statements.
Significant milestones in our history are as follows:
| ● | 1996: acquisition of the Spanish company Hidro Nitro Española, S.A. (“Hidro Nitro
Española”), operating in the ferroalloys and hydroelectric power businesses, and start of the quartz mining operations through
the acquisition of Cuarzos Industriales S.A. from Portuguese cement manufacturer Cimpor; |
| ● | 1998: expansion of our manganese- and silicon-based alloy operations through the acquisition of
80% of the share capital of FerroAtlántica de Venezuela (currently FerroVen, S.A.) from the Government of Venezuela in a public
auction; |
| ● | 2000: acquisition of 67% of the share capital of quartz mining company Rocas, Arcillas y Minerales, S.A.
from Elkem, a Norwegian silicon metal and manganese- and silicon-based alloy producer; |
| ● | 2005: acquisition of Pechiney Electrométallurgie, S.A., now renamed FerroPem, S.A.S., a
silicon metal and silicon-based alloys producer with operations in France, along with its affiliate Silicon Smelters (Pty) Ltd. in South
Africa; |
| ● | 2005: acquisition of the metallurgical manufacturing plant in Alloy, West Virginia, and Alabama
Sand and Gravel, Inc. in Billingsly, Alabama, both in the U.S.; |
| ● | 2006: acquisition of Globe Metallurgical Inc., the largest merchant manufacturer of silicon
metal in North America and largest specialty ferroalloy manufacturer in the United States; |
| ● | 2006: acquisition of Stein Ferroaleaciones S.A., an Argentine producer of silicon-based specialty
alloys, and its Polish affiliate, Ultracore Polska; |
| ● | 2007: creation of Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U., the holding company of our FerroAtlántica
Group; |
| ● | 2007: acquisition of Camargo Correa Metais S.A., a major Brazilian silicon metal manufacturer; |
| ● | 2008: acquisition of Rand Carbide PLC, a ferrosilicon plant in South Africa, from South African
mining and steel company Evraz Highveld Steel and Vanadium Limited, and creation of Silicio FerroSolar, S.L., which conducts research
and development activities in the solar grade silicon sector; |
| ● | 2008: acquisition of 81% of Solsil, Inc., a producer of high-purity silicon for use in photovoltaic
solar cells; |
| ● | 2008: acquisition of a majority stake in Ningxia Yonvey Coal Industry Co., Ltd., a producer
of carbon electrodes (the remaining stake subsequently purchased in 2012); |
| ● | 2009: creation of French company Photosil Industries, S.A.S., which conducts research and development
activities in the solar grade silicon sector; |
| ● | 2009: sale of interest in Camargo Correa Metais S.A. in Brazil to Dow Corning Corporation and formation
of a partnership with Dow Corning at the Alloy, West Virginia facility; |
| ● | 2010: acquisition of Core Metals Group LLC, one of North America’s largest and most efficient
producers and marketers of high-purity ferrosilicon and other specialty metals; |
| ● | 2010: acquisition of Chinese silicon metal producer Mangshi Sinice Silicon Industry Company Limited; |
| ● | 2011: acquisition of Alden Resources LLC, North America’s leading miner, processor and supplier
of specialty metallurgical coal to the silicon and silicon-based alloy industries; |
| ● | 2012: acquisition of SamQuarz (Pty) Ltd, a South African producer of silica, with quartz mining
operations; |
| ● | 2012: acquisition of a majority stake (51%) in Bécancour Silicon, Inc., a silicon metal
producer in Canada, operated as a partnership with Dow Corning as the holder of the minority stake of 49%; |
| ● | 2014: acquisition of Silicon Technology (Pty) Ltd. (“Siltech”), a ferrosilicon producer
in South Africa; |
| ● | 2015: Business Combination of Globe and FerroAtlántica as wholly-owned subsidiaries of Ferroglobe
PLC |
| ● | 2018: acquisition from a subsidiary of Glencore PLC of a 100% interest in manganese alloys plants
in Mo i Rana, Norway and Dunkirk, France, through newly-formed subsidiaries Ferroglobe Mangan Norge AS and Ferroglobe Manganèse
France, SAS; |
| ● | 2018: sale of the majority interest in Hidro Nitro Española to an entity sponsored by a
Spanish renewable energies fund; |
| ● | 2019: sale of 100% interest in FerroAtlántica, S.A.U. (“FAU”), to investment
vehicles affiliated with TPG Sixth Street Partners; |
| ● | 2019: sale of 100% interest in Ultra Core Polska, z.o.o, to Cedie, S.A; |
| ● | 2021: Sale of Niagara Falls silicon metal facility; |
| ● | 2023: Sale of Chateau Feuillet silicon-alloy facility. |
Corporate and Other Information
Our
registered office is located at 5 Fleet Place, London EC4M 7RD, our Board of Directors is based at our London Office at 13
Chesterfield Street, London W1J 5JN, United Kingdom and our management is based in London and also at Torre Emperador Castellana, Paseo
de la Castellana, 259-D, P49, 28046 Madrid, Spain. The telephone number of our Spanish Office is +34 915 903 219. Our Internet address
is https://www.ferroglobe.com. The information on our website is not a part of this document. The SEC maintains an Internet site that
contains reports, proxy and information statements, and other information regarding issuers that file electronically with the SEC at https://www.sec.gov.
Corporate Developments and Capital Expenditures
For
a further description of important corporate developments since January 1, 2021, see “Item 18. Financial Statements.”
For information regarding the Company’s material commitments for capital expenditures, see “Item 4.B.—Information
on the Company—Business Overview.”
B. Business Overview
Through its operating subsidiaries, Ferroglobe
is one of the world’s largest producers of silicon metal, silicon-based alloys and manganese-based alloys. Additionally, Ferroglobe
currently has (i) quartz mining activities in Spain, the United States, Canada, and South Africa, (ii) low-ash metallurgical
quality coal mining activities in the United States, and (iii) interests in hydroelectric power in France. Ferroglobe controls a
meaningful portion of most of its raw materials and captures, recycles and sells most of the by-products generated in its production processes.
We sell our products to a diverse base of customers
worldwide, in a varied range of industries. These industries include aluminum, silicone compounds used in the chemical industry, ductile
iron, automotive parts, renewable energy, photovoltaic (solar) cells, electronic semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries and steel,
all of which are key elements in the manufacturing of a wide range of industrial and consumer products.
We are able to supply our customers with the broadest
range of specialty metals and alloys in the industry from our production centers in North America, Europe, South America, Africa and Asia.
Our broad manufacturing platform and flexible capabilities allow us to optimize production and focus on high value-added products most
likely to enhance profitability, including the production of customized solutions and high purity metals to meet specific customer requirements.
We also benefit from low operating costs, resulting from our ownership of sources of critical raw materials and the flexibility derived
from our ability to alternate production at certain of our furnaces between silicon metal and silicon-based alloy products.
Industry and Market Data
The statements and other information contained
below regarding Ferroglobe’s competitive position and market share are based on the reports periodically published by leading metals
industry consultants and leading metals industry publications and information centers, as well as on the estimates of Ferroglobe’s
management.
Ferroglobe’s Competitive Strengths and
Strategy
Competitive Strengths
Leading market positions in silicon metal, silicon-based alloys
and manganese-based alloys
We are a leading global producer in our core products
based on merchant production capacity and maintain the leading market share in certain of our products. The Company has global production
capacity for silicon metal of approximately 328,000 metric tons (including 51% of our attributable partnership capacity). We have 66%
of the production capacity market share in North America and approximately 25% of the global market share (all of the world excluding
China), according to management estimates for our industry. In the case of manganese-based alloys, following the acquisition of the Dunkirk,
France and Mo i Rana, Norway plants in 2018, our market share is approximately 15% in Europe. We are among the three largest global producers
of manganese alloys excluding those located in China.
Our scale and global presence across five continents
allows us to offer a wide range of products to serve a variety of end-markets, including those which we consider to be dynamic, such as
the solar, automotive, consumer electronic products, semiconductors, electric vehicle batteries, construction and energy industries. As
a result of our market leadership and breadth of products, we possess critical insight into market demand allowing for more efficient
use of our resources and operating capacity. Our ability to supply source critical, high-quality raw materials from within our Company
group promotes operational and financial stability and reduces the need for us to compete with our competitors for supply. We believe
our vertical integration also provides a competitive advantage, allowing us to deliver an enhanced product offering with consistent quality
on a cost-efficient basis to our customers.
Global production footprint and reach
Our diversified production base consists of production
facilities across North America, Europe, South America, South Africa and Asia. We have the capability to produce our core products at
multiple facilities, providing a competitive advantage when reacting to changing global demand trends and customer requirements. Furthermore,
this broad base ensures reliability to our customers who value timely delivery and consistent product quality. Our diverse production
base also enables us to optimize our production plans and shift production to the lowest cost facilities. Most of our production facilities
are located close to sources of principal raw materials, key customers or major transport hubs to facilitate delivery of raw materials
and distribution of finished products. This enables us to service our customers globally, while optimizing our working capital, as well
as enabling our customers to optimize their inventory levels.
Diverse base of high-quality customers across growing industries
We sell our products to customers in more than
40 countries, with our largest customer concentration in North America and in Europe. Our products are used in end products spanning a
broad range of industries, including solar, personal care and healthcare products, automobile parts, carbon and stainless steel, water
pipe, solar, semiconductor, electric vehicle batteries, oil and gas, infrastructure and construction. Although some of these end-markets
have growth drivers similar to our own, others are less correlated and offer the benefits of diversification, especially in the areas
with secular growth, such solar and EV battery markets. This diversity of products, customers and end-markets provides stability to our
business.
Many of our customers, we believe, are leaders
in their end-markets and fields. We have built long-lasting relationships with customers based on the breadth and quality of our product
offerings and our ability to produce products that meet specific customer requirements. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022
and 2021, Ferroglobe’s ten largest customers accounted for 50.5%, 50.1% and 48.1% of our consolidated sales, respectively. Our customer
relationships provide us with stability and visibility into our future volumes and earnings, though we are not reliant on any individual
customer or end-market. Our customer relationships, together with our diversified product portfolio, provide us with
opportunities to
cross sell new products; for example, by offering silicon-based or manganese-based alloys to existing steelmaking customers.
Flexible and low-cost structure
We believe we have an efficient cost structure,
enhanced over time by vertical integration through strategic acquisitions. The largest components of our cost base are raw materials and
power. Our relatively low operating costs are primarily a result of our ownership of, and proximity to, sources of raw materials, our
access to attractively priced power supplies and skilled labor and our efficient production processes.
We believe our vertically integrated business
model and ownership of sources of raw materials provides us with a cost advantage over our competitors. Moreover, such ownership and the
fact that we are not reliant on any single supplier for the remainder of our raw material needs generally ensures stable, long term supply
of raw materials for our production processes, thereby enhancing operational and financial stability. Transportation costs can be significant
in our business; our proximity to sources of raw materials and customers improves logistics and represents another cost advantage. The
proximity of our facilities to our customers also enhances our delivery times.
We capture, recycle and sell most of the by-products
generated in our production processes, which further reduces our costs.
We operate with a largely variable cost of production
and our diversified production base allows us to shift our production and distribution between facilities and products in response to
changes in market conditions over time. Additionally, the diversity of our currency and commodity exposures provides, to a degree, a natural
hedge against foreign exchange and raw materials pricing volatility. Our production costs are mostly dependent on local factors while
our product prices are influenced more by global factors. Depreciation of local, functional currencies relative to the USD, when it occurs,
reduces the costs of our operations, offering an increased competitive edge in the international market.
We believe our scale, flexibility and global presence
enables us to sustain our operations throughout periods of economic downturn, volatile commodity prices and demand fluctuations.
Stable supply of critical, high quality raw materials
In order to ensure reliable supplies of high-quality
raw materials for the production of our metallurgical products, we have invested in strategic acquisitions of sources that supply a meaningful
portion of the inputs our manufacturing operations consume. Specifically, we own and operate specialty, low ash, metallurgical quality
coal mines in the United States, high purity quartz quarries in the United States, Spain and South Africa, charcoal production units in
South Africa, and our Yonvey production facility for carbon electrodes in Ningxia, China. For raw materials needs our subsidiaries cannot
meet, we have multiple qualified suppliers in each operating region for each raw material, ensuring reliable access to high quality raw
materials.
Efficient and environmentally friendly by-product usage
We utilize or sell most of the by-products of
our manufacturing process, which reduces cost and the environmental impact of our operations. We have developed markets for the by-products
generated by our production processes and have transformed our manufacturing operations so that little solid waste disposal is required.
By-products not recycled in the manufacturing process are generally sold to companies, which process them for use in a variety of other
applications. These materials include: silica fume (also known as microsilica), used as a concrete additive, refractory material and oil
well conditioner; fines - the fine material resulting from crushing lumps; and dross, which results from the purification process during
smelting.
Pioneer in innovation with focus on technological advances and development
of next generation products
Our talented workforce has historically developed
proprietary technological capabilities and next generation products in-house, which we believe give us a competitive advantage. In addition
to a dedicated R&D division, we have
cooperation agreements in place with various universities and research institutes in Spain, France
and other countries around the world. Our R&D achievements include:
| ● | ELSA electrode — Ferroglobe has internally developed a patented technology for electrodes used in
silicon metal furnaces, which it has been able to sell to several major silicon producers globally. This technology, known as the ELSA
electrode, improves the energy efficiency in the production process of silicon metal and eliminates contamination from iron. Ferroglobe
has granted these producers the right to use the ELSA electrode against payment to Ferroglobe of royalties. Continuous improvements are
made to keep this invention state of the art. |
| ● | High purity Silicon — Ferroglobe has sought to produce solar grade silicon metal with a purity above
99.9999% through a new, potentially cost effective, electrometallurgical process. Due to the market environment for solar grade silicon
(or polysilicon) worldwide, at the end of 2018 the Company suspended the investment in the project while preserving the technology and
know-how in order to rationalize it and adapt it towards the industrial production of high purity silicon (99.9-99.99%Si). High purity
silicon demand is increasing thanks to niche markets in advanced applications and Li-ion batteries. |
| ● | Silicon for Advanced Technologies — Ferroglobe has launched the Silicon for Advanced Technologies
project, which aims at producing silicon-based, tailor-made products for high end applications. In this project we leveraged the purification
technologies developed for the Solar Grade silicon project and which are patented. These technologies are industrial, cost effective and
with low carbon footprint. Concurrently, new know-how linked to specific milling technologies has been developed in the last years. Combined,
these capabilities place Ferroglobe in position to potentially succeed in this new market. Among the various targeted applications, a
specific project of Silicon for Li-ion batteries was launched. Currently, we have the first demonstration milling unit in our Innovation
Centre in Sabón (Spain) and we have several industrial purification units in Montricher (France) and Puertollano (Spain). |
| ● | Li-ion batteries — The capacity of the anode in Li-ion batteries can be enhanced by adding silicon.
This is a particularly attractive market because silicon can increase capacity of the Li-ion batteries and reduce costs, lower carbon
footprint, accelerate charging times and improve performance in very cold conditions. All these benefits will help to develop new mobility
solutions. In this specific field, Ferroglobe has established several technical partnerships and collaborations in order to expedite the
research and development required for competitive success. |
In addition to the above, the Ferroglobe
Innovation team continues to research new, innovative projects to create the next generation of batteries.
Experienced management team in the metals and mining industry
We have an experienced management team with extensive
knowledge of the global metals, mining and materials industry and a proven track record of developing and managing large-scale operations.
Our management team is committed to responding quickly and effectively to macroeconomic and industry developments, to identifying and
delivering growth opportunities and to improving our performance via continuous focus on operational cost control and a disciplined, value-based
approach to capital allocation. Our management team is complemented by a skilled operating team with solid technical knowledge of production
processes and strong relationships with key customers.
Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Strategy
In 2022, we continued to develop our ESG Strategy
2022-2026, a roadmap that will enable us to benchmark and assess ourselves on ESG matters, in alignment with the demands of our stakeholders
and our industry trends. The ESG Strategy brings us closer to our goal of becoming a relevant player in the development of a sustainable
future.
Our strategy is defined by the following four
key pillars:
| (i) | Strengthening our governance framework; |
| (ii) | Promoting engagement with our people and local communities in which we operate; |
| (iii) | Reinforcing the role of sustainability through our value chain; and |
| (iv) | Improving our environmental footprint to enable materials which are vital for sustainable development. |
We will continue to disclose our ESG progress
annually in our revised Global ESG Reports. Our 2023 Global ESG Report will be published in 2024.
Business Strategy
In 2020, we conducted a deep and broad evaluation
of our Company with the goal of designing a strategic plan focused on bolstering the long-term competitiveness of the business and returning
the Company to profitability by fundamentally changing the way we operate, both operationally and financially. The multi-year turnaround
plan we developed impacts all the functional areas of our Company as we seek to drive changes that ensure competitiveness throughout the
cycle. Since 2021, the Company has successfully been delivering on its previously disclosed strategic EBITDA improvement projects, yielding
positive EBITDA for each of the past three years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021. These consecutive positive results reflect
the Company’s turnaround and commitment to executing on its strategic plan, which is driven by the following key areas:
| ● | Footprint optimization: One of the Company’s core advantages is our large and diverse production
platform. While our asset footprint provides flexibility, at times we are restricted in our ability to quickly adapt to changing market
conditions due to inherent constraints in curtailing capacity, particularly for shorter durations. Prospectively, our goal is to ensure
that the operating platform is more flexible and modular so shifts in production, based on needs and relative costs, are incorporated
swiftly. Through this value creation driver we aim to shift our capacity footprint by optimizing production to the most competitive assets. |
| ● | Continuous plant efficiency: We will continue to build on the success of our existing key technical metrics
(KTM) program, which consists of specific initiatives aimed at enhancing our process, minimizing waste, and improving the overall efficiency
to drive down costs. The Company maintains a pipeline of initiatives developed through the sharing of best practices amongst our numerous
sites and through new improvements identified by our research and development team. Moreover, we have implemented developing tools to
track our key performance indicators in an ongoing effort to improve furnace level performance. |
| ● | Commercial excellence: We have implemented commercial best practices to maximize profitable revenue, aiming
at improving and reinforcing our pricing, account management, salesforce effectiveness, and product portfolio and customer focus. We have
strengthened our customer relationships by developing a target portfolio prioritization, re-designing our commercial coverage and operating
model, and structuring our account planning, with the definition of clear objectives for each of our customers and a sustained focus on
long-term partnership building. We have implemented a range of digitally-enabled tools and processes across the entire commercial function,
bringing our team’s performance to the next level. Through our new customer relationship management tool, we have reinforced our
account management and front-line effectiveness, as well as our customer service and quality management. On pricing, we have redesigned
our governance process and introduced new tools to maximize profitability and provide margin transparency for every sale. Furthermore,
we have re-designed our product management function, empowering this role to create customer value and act as a consistent source of information
and cross-functional coordination. |
| ● | Centralized procurement: Our centralized procurement process enhances the effectiveness of our spending
efforts, improves our ability to schedule purchases and enables us to benefit from bulk purchases. Buying better is a supply-led effort
that focuses on price and volume allocation, negotiating prices and terms, managing price risks, pooling volumes and contracts, shifting
volumes to best-price suppliers and leveraging procurement networks. Spending better is an operation-led effort to control demand, enforce
compliance, reduce complexity, and perform value engineering to foster efficient spending. In addition to cost reductions, our campaign
to spend better will reduce supply chain risk, supporting continuous quality and service improvement, fostering better decision-making
about suppliers and optimizing resource allocation. |
| ● | Other operating expenses reduction: During our corporate review, we identified significant opportunities
for further cost improvement through permanent cost cutting at our plants, as well as the corporate centers. By tracking these costs vigorously
and increasing accountability, we aim to bolster the overall cost structure at various levels. Through this, we aim to create a culture
focused on cost control and discipline for deploying best practices to drive sound spending decisions without compromising our overall
performance. |
| ● | Working capital improvement: The Company continues to focus on and improve its net working capital by
establishing targets and improving our Supply Chain processes. This will allow us to sustain competitive levels of working capital throughout
the cycle. |
With our strategic
plan we aim to:
Maintain and leverage our industry leading position in core businesses
and pursue long-term growth
We intend to maintain and leverage our position
as a leading global producer of silicon metal and one of the leading global producers of ferroalloys based on production capacity. We
believe we will achieve our goals through the execution of our current strategic plan, which focuses on optimizing our asset footprint
in the regions that present attractive opportunities and focusing on continuous improvements to increase competitiveness of our assets.
These efforts include continuing to secure competitive and clean sources of energy and extending our existing sources of Quartz, all while
continuing our ESG journey.
We also plan to achieve organic growth by developing
new products, such as silicon-based anodic materials for Li-ion batteries, to further diversify our portfolio and expand our customer
base. We intend to focus our production and sales efforts on high-margin products and end-markets that we consider having the highest
potential for profitability and growth. We will continue to capitalize on our global reach and the diversity of our production base to
adapt to changes in market demands, shifting our production and distribution across facilities and between different products as necessary
in order to remain competitive and maximize profitability. We aim to obtain further direct control of key raw materials to secure our
long-term access to scarce reserves, which we believe will allow us to continue delivering enhanced products while maintaining our low-cost
position. Additionally, we will continue regularly to review our customer contracts in an effort to improve their terms and to optimize
the balance between selling under long-term agreements and retaining some exposure to spot markets. We intend to maintain pricing that
appropriately reflects the value of our products and our level of customer service and, in light of commodity prices and demand fluctuations,
may decide to change the weighting of our mix of contracts that are set at fixed prices versus index-based prices, to capitalize on market
opportunities and to ensure a profit throughout the cycles.
Maintain low cost position while controlling inputs
We believe we have an efficient cost structure
and, going forward, we will seek to further reduce costs and improve operational efficiency through a number of initiatives. We plan to
focus on controlling the cost of our raw materials through our captive sources and long-term supply contracts and on lowering our fixed
costs in order to reduce the unit costs of our silicon metal and ferroalloy production. We aim to improve our internal processes and further
integrate our global footprint, such as benefits from value chain optimization, including enhancements in raw materials procurement and
materials management; adoption of best practices and technical and operational know-how across our platform; reduced freight costs from
improved logistics as well as savings through the standardization of monitoring and reporting procedures, technology, systems and controls.
We intend to enhance our production process through R&D and targeted capital expenditure and leverage our geographic footprint to
shift production to the most cost effective and appropriate facilities and regions for such products. We will continue to regularly review
our power supply contracts with a view towards improving their terms and introducing more competitive tariff structures. In addition,
we will seek to maximize the value derived from the utilization and sale of by-products generated in our production processes and continue
to focus on innovation to develop next generation products.
We believe we differentiate ourselves from our
competitors on the basis of our technical expertise and innovation, which allow us to deliver new high-quality products to meet our customers’
needs. We intend to keep using these capabilities in the future to retain existing customers and cultivate new business. We plan to leverage
the expertise of our dedicated team of specialists to advance and to develop next generation products and technologies that fuel organic
growth. In particular, we intend to develop high value powders for high-end applications, including silicon-based anodic materials for
Li-ion batteries. We also aim to continue the development of EV Battery Cathode high purity manganese-based precursors.
Maintain financial discipline to facilitate ongoing operations and
support growth
We believe maintaining financial discipline will
provide us with the ability to manage the volatility in our business resulting from changes in commodity prices and demand fluctuations.
Our financing and liquidity strategy focuses on maintaining a strong and conservative financial position, with sufficient liquidity and
financial flexibility to facilitate
all of our ongoing operations, support organic and strategic growth and finance prudent capital expenditure
programs aimed at placing us in a better position to generate increased revenues and cash flows. We plan to become even more efficient
in our working capital management through various initiatives aimed at optimizing inventory levels and accounts receivable. We also seek
to repay indebtedness from free cash flow and retain low leverage for maximum free cash flow generation.
Pursue strategic opportunities
We have consistently and successfully acquired
and integrated complementary businesses, and divested operations as part of our strategy execution. Our acquisitions have extended the
vertical integration of our activities, allowing us to deliver an enhanced product offering on a cost-efficient basis. We regularly consider
and evaluate strategic opportunities for our business and will continue to do so in the future with the objective of expanding our capabilities
and leveraging our products and operations. In particular, we intend to pursue complementary acquisitions and other investments at appropriate
valuations for the purpose of increasing our capacity, increasing our access to raw materials and other inputs, further refining existing
products, broadening our product portfolio and entering new markets. We will consider such strategic opportunities in a disciplined fashion
while maintaining a conservative leverage position and strong balance sheet.
We will also seek to evaluate our core business
strategy on an ongoing basis and may divest certain non-core and lower margin businesses to improve our financial and operational results.
Facilities and Production Capacity
As of December 31, 2023, the location of
our assets and our production capacity, including 51% of the capacity of our partnerships (of which we own 51%), by geography, of silicon,
silicon-based alloys and manganese-based alloys is detailed below in Figure 1. It is important to note that certain facilities may and
do switch from time to time among different families of products (for instance, from silicon metal to silicon-based alloys and vice-versa)
or among different products within the same family (for instance from ferromanganese to silicomanganese). Such switches change the production
capacity at each plant.
Our production facilities are strategically located
throughout the world. We operate quartz mines located in Spain, South Africa, Canada, and the United States, and charcoal production in
South Africa. Additionally, we operate low-ash, metallurgical grade coal mines in the United States.
As of December 31, 2023, certain production
facilities in the United States, Spain and Venezuela were partially or fully idled due to current market conditions, while certain production
facilities in Europe were partially or fully idled to optimize energy and operating costs. Ferroglobe subsidiaries own a total of 18.9
megawatts of hydro production capacity in France.
Products
For the years ended December 31, 2023,
2022 and 2021, the Company’s consolidated sales, shipments in metric tons and average selling price by product were as follows:
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
Silicon metal | |
| 722,226 | | |
| 1,116,193 | | |
| 637,695 | |
Manganese-based alloys | |
| 259,197 | | |
| 525,483 | | |
| 469,138 | |
Ferrosilicon | |
| 330,946 | | |
| 561,539 | | |
| 337,833 | |
Other silicon-based alloys | |
| 159,441 | | |
| 192,409 | | |
| 161,750 | |
Silica fume | |
| 33,804 | | |
| 32,290 | | |
| 32,409 | |
Other | |
| 144,419 | | |
| 170,002 | | |
| 140,083 | |
Total Sales | |
| 1,650,033 | | |
| 2,597,916 | | |
| 1,778,908 | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Shipments in metric tons: | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Silicon metal | |
| 194,385 | | |
| 209,342 | | |
| 253,991 | |
Manganese-based alloys | |
| 227,243 | | |
| 295,589 | | |
| 314,439 | |
Ferrosilicon | |
| 147,874 | | |
| 154,972 | | |
| 166,268 | |
Other silicon-based alloys | |
| 43,557 | | |
| 49,105 | | |
| 76,498 | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Average Selling price ($/MT): | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Silicon metal | |
| 3,715 | | |
| 5,332 | | |
| 2,511 | |
Manganese-based alloys | |
| 1,141 | | |
| 1,778 | | |
| 1,492 | |
Ferrosilicon | |
| 2,238 | | |
| 3,623 | | |
| 2,032 | |
Other silicon-based alloys | |
| 3,661 | | |
| 3,918 | | |
| 2,114 | |
Silicon metal
Ferroglobe is a leading global silicon metal producer
with a total production capacity of approximately 384,000 tons (including our 51% share of Ferroglobe’s partnership capacity). Ferroglobe’s
silicon metal production is spread across
facilities located in the United States, France, South Africa, Canada and Spain. For the years
ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, Silicon metal sales accounted for 43.8%, 43.0% and 35.8% of Ferroglobe’s total consolidated
revenues, respectively.
Silicon metal is used by primary and secondary
aluminum producers, who require silicon metal with specific properties to produce aluminum alloys. The addition of silicon metal during
production helps to reduce shrinkage and the hot cracking tendencies of cast aluminum and improves the castability, hardness, corrosion
resistance, tensile strength, wear resistance and weldability of the aluminum end products. Aluminum is used to manufacture a variety
of automotive components, including engine pistons, housings, and cast aluminum wheels and trim, as well as high tension electrical wire,
aircraft parts, beverage containers and other products which require aluminum properties. For the year ended December 31, 2023, sales
to aluminum producers represented 30% of silicon metal revenues (29% for the year ended December 31, 2022, and 45% for the year ended
December 31, 2021).
Silicon metal is also used by several major silicone
chemical producers across a broad range of applications, including personal care items, construction-related products, healthcare and
electronics. In construction and equipment applications, silicone chemicals promote adhesion, act as a sealer and provide insulating properties.
In personal care and health care products, silicone chemicals add a smooth texture that protects against ultraviolet rays and provide
moisturizing and cleansing properties. Silicon metal is an essential component in the production of silicone chemicals, accounting for
20% of the cost of production. For the year ended December 31, 2023 sales to chemical producers represented 47% of silicon metal
revenues (66% for the year ended December 31, 2022, and 43% for the year ended December 31, 2021).
In addition, silicon metal is the primary ingredient
in the production of polysilicon, which is most widely used to manufacture solar cells and semiconductors. Producers of polysilicon employ
processes to further purify silicon metal and grow ingots from which wafers are cut. These wafers are the base material to produce solar
cells, which convert sunlight into electricity. Individual solar cells are soldered together to make solar modules. For the year ended
December 31, 2023 sales to polysilicon producers represented 19% of silicon metal revenues (5% for the year ended December 31,
2022, and 10% for the year ended December 31, 2021).
Manganese-based alloys
Ferroglobe is among the leading global manganese-based
alloys producers based on production capacity. As of December 31, 2023, Ferroglobe maintained approximately 289,500 tons of annual
silicomanganese production capacity and approximately 272,000 tons of annual ferromanganese production capacity across our factories in
Spain, Norway and France. During the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 Ferroglobe sold 227,423 tons, 295,590 tons and
314,439 tons of manganese-based alloys, respectively. For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, Ferroglobe’s revenues
generated by manganese-based alloys sales accounted for 15.7%, 20.2% and 26.4% of Ferroglobe’s total consolidated revenues, respectively.
More than 90% of global manganese-based alloys production is used in steel production, and all steelmakers use manganese and manganese
alloys in their production processes.
Silicomanganese is used as a deoxidizing agent
in the steel manufacturing process. Silicomanganese is also produced in the form of refined silicomanganese, or silicomanganese AF, super-refined
silicomanganese, and silicomanganese Low Carbon.
Ferromanganese is used as a deoxidizing, desulphurizing
and degassing agent in steel to remove nitrogen and other harmful elements that are present in steel in the initial smelting process,
and to improve the mechanical properties, hardenability and resistance to abrasion of steel. The three types of ferromanganese produced
by Ferroglobe are:
| ● | high-carbon ferromanganese used to improve the durability of steel; |
| ● | medium-carbon ferromanganese used to manufacture flat and other steel products; and |
| ● | low-carbon ferromanganese used in the production of stainless steel, low-carbon steel, rolled steel plates
and pipes utilized by the oil industry. |
Silicon-based alloys
Ferrosilicon
Ferroglobe is among the leading global ferrosilicon
producers based on production output in recent years. During the year ended December 31, 2023, Ferroglobe sold 147,874 tons of ferrosilicon
(147,725 tons during the year ended December 31, 2022, and 166,268 tons during the year ended December 31, 2021). For the years
ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, Ferroglobe’s revenues generated by ferrosilicon sales accounted for 20.1%, 21.6% and
19.0%, of Ferroglobe’s total consolidated revenues, respectively.
Ferrosilicon is an alloy of iron and silicon (normally
75% silicon). Ferrosilicon products are used to produce stainless steel, carbon steel, and various other steel alloys and to manufacture
electrodes and, to a lesser extent, in the production of aluminum. More than 95% of ferrosilicon produced is used in steel production
(including stainless steel).
Ferrosilicon is generally used to remove oxygen
from the steel and as alloying element to improve the quality and strength of iron and steel products. Silicon increases steel’s
strength and wear resistance, elasticity and scale resistance, and lowers the electrical conductivity and magnetostriction of steel.
Other silicon-based alloys
During the year ended December 31, 2023,
Ferroglobe sold 43,557 tons of silicon-based alloys (excluding ferrosilicon) (56,630 tons during the year ended December 31, 2022,
and 76,498 tons during the year ended December 31, 2021). For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, Ferroglobe’s
revenues generated by silicon-based alloys (excluding ferrosilicon) accounted for 9.7%, 7.4% and 9.1% of Ferroglobe’s total consolidated
revenues, respectively.
Ferroglobe produces various different silicon-based
alloys, including calcium silicon and foundry products, which comprise inoculants and nodularizers. Ferroglobe produces more than 20 specialized
varieties of foundry products, several of which are custom made for its customers. Demand for these specialty metals is increasing and,
as such, they are becoming more important components of Ferroglobe’s product offering.
The primary use for calcium silicon is the deoxidation
and desulfurization of liquid steel. In addition, calcium silicon is used to control the shape, size and distribution of oxide and sulfide
inclusions, improving fluidity, ductility, and the transverse mechanical and impact properties of the final product. Calcium silicon is
also used in the production of coatings for cast iron pipes, in the welding process of powder metal and in pyrotechnics.
The foundry products that Ferroglobe manufactures
include nodularizers and inoculants, which are used in the production of iron to improve its tensile strength, ductility and impact properties,
and to refine the homogeneity of the cast iron structure.
Silica fume
For the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022
and 2021, Ferroglobe’s revenues generated by silica fume sales accounted for 2.0%, 1.2% and 1.8%, respectively of Ferroglobe’s
total consolidated sales.
Silica fume is a by-product of the electrometallurgical
process of silicon metal and ferrosilicon. This dust-like material, collected through Ferroglobe factories’ air filtration systems,
is mainly used in the production of high-performance concrete and mortar. The controlled addition of silica fume to these products results
in increased durability, improving their impermeability from external agents, such as water. These types of concrete and mortar are used
in large-scale projects such as bridges, viaducts, ports, skyscrapers and offshore platforms.
Raw Materials, Logistics and Power Supply
The primary raw materials used by Ferroglobe are
carbon reductants (primarily coal, but also charcoal, metallurgical and petroleum coke, anthracite and wood) as well as minerals (manganese
ore and quartz). Other raw materials used include electrodes (consisting of graphite and carbon electrodes and electrode paste), slags
and limestone, as well as certain specialty additive metals. Ferroglobe procures coal, manganese ore, quartz, petroleum and metallurgical
coke, electrodes and most additive metals centrally under the responsibility of the corporate purchasing department. Some locally sourced
raw materials are purchased at a decentralized level (country specific purchasers) by delegation from the corporate purchasing department.
Manganese ore
The global supply of manganese ore comprises standard
to high-grade manganese ore, with a 35% to 56% manganese content, and low-grade manganese ore, with lower manganese content. Manganese
ore production comes mainly from a limited number of countries including South Africa, Australia, China, Gabon, Brazil, Ukraine, India
and Ghana. However, the production of high-grade manganese ore is concentrated in Australia, Gabon, South Africa and Brazil.
The majority of the manganese ore Ferroglobe purchased
in 2023 and 2022 came from suppliers located in South Africa and Gabon. Global manganese ore prices are mainly driven by manganese demand
from China and to a lower extent from India. Potential disruption of supply from South Africa, Australia, Brazil or Gabon due to logistical,
labor or other reasons may have an impact on the availability and the pricing of manganese ore.
Coal
Coal is the major carbon reductant in silicon
and silicon alloy production. Only washed and screened coal with ash content below 10% and with specific physical and chemical properties
is used for production of silicon alloys. Colombia and the United States are the best sources for the required types of coal in the silicon
alloys industry, and Ferroglobe is dependent on supply from these two countries.
The majority of externally purchased coal in 2023
and 2022 was sourced from a single mining site in Colombia, while the remainder originated primarily from the United States, and to a
lesser extent from Kazakhstan and South Africa. Ferroglobe has a long-standing relationship with the coal washing plants which price coal
using spot, quarterly, semi-annual or annual contracts, based on market outlook. European coal prices, which are denominated in USD, are
mainly related to API 2, the benchmark price reference for coal imported into northwest Europe.
Ferroglobe also owns Ferroglobe USA Mining, LLC.
(formerly Alden Resources LLC) in the United States. Ferroglobe USA Mining provides a stable and long-term supply of low ash metallurgical
grade coal by fulfilling a substantial portion of our requirements to our North American operations.
See “—Mining Operations” below
for further information.
Quartz
Quartz, also known as quartzite, is a key raw
material in the manufacture silicon metal and silicon-based alloys.
Ferroglobe has secured access to quartz from its
quartz mines in Spain, South Africa, the United States and Canada (see “—Mining Operations”). For the year ended December 31,
2023 and 2022, more than 60% of Ferroglobe’s total consumption of quartz was self-supplied. Ferroglobe also purchases quartz from
third-party suppliers on the basis of annual contractual agreements. Ferroglobe’s quartz suppliers typically have operations in
the same countries where Ferroglobe factories are located, or in close proximity, which minimizes logistical costs.
Ferroglobe controls quartzite mining operations
located in Alabama and a concession to mine quartzite in Saint-Urbain, Québec (operated by a third-party miner). These mines supply
our North American operations with a substantial portion of their requirements for quartz. In 2023, Ferroglobe expanded its supply through
the acquisition of a property in South Carolina, USA. We aim to commence mining activities in 2024.
Other raw materials
Wood is needed for the production of silicon metal
and silicon-based alloys. It is used directly in furnaces as woodchips or cut to produce charcoal, which is the major source of carbon
reductant for Ferroglobe’s plants in South Africa. In South Africa, charcoal is a less expensive substitute for imported coal and
provides desirable qualities to the silicon-based alloys it is used to produce. In the other countries where Ferroglobe operates, Ferroglobe
purchases wood chips locally or logs for on-site wood chipping operations from a variety of suppliers.
In 2023, the sourcing of metallurgical coke was
predominantly from Poland, China and Colombia.
Petroleum coke, electrode related products, slag,
limestone and additive metals are other relevant raw materials that Ferroglobe utilizes to manufacture its electrometallurgy products.
Procurement of these raw materials is either managed centrally or with each country’s raw materials procurement manager or plant
manager and the materials purchased at spot prices or under contracts for one year or less.
In 2023, the sourcing of graphite electrodes came
from European countries, India and China with a combination of spot and long-term agreements. Carbon electrodes supplies originated
in Poland and China, including from Ferroglobe´s own carbon electrode factory in Ningxia Province in China.
Logistics
Logistical operations are managed centrally. Sea-freight
operations are centralized at corporate level, while rail logistic is managed at a country level. Road transportation is managed at plant
level with centralized coordination in multi-site countries. Contractual commitments in respect of transportation and logistics match,
to the extent possible, Ferroglobe’s contracts for raw materials and customer contracts.
Power
In Spain, energy is purchased through a supply
contract with trading companies. The final energy price is subject to daily market volatility. In 2023, while spot Spanish power prices
declined significantly, they remained at levels impacting energy price competitiveness. In 2023, the Company maintained the low level
of production that was initiated in the country starting in the second half of 2022. The Company produced on a limited capacity due to
an extreme modulation practice at certain hours of the day. Ferroglobe has also progressed during the year in engaging discussions with
energy companies to secure Purchasing Power Agreements (“PPAs”) based on solar and wind generation. Two PPAs were signed in
2023 for a total volume of 130 GWh. See also “Major Shareholders and Related Party Transactions—Related Party Transactions.”
In France, Ferroglobe entities have their power
needs covered by a three-year agreement ending in 2025. The Regulation enacted in 2015 enables French subsidiaries of the Company to benefit
from reduced transmission tariffs, interruptibility compensation (an agreement whereby the companies agree to interrupt production in
response to surges in demand across the French electricity grid), as well as receiving compensation for indirect carbon dioxide costs
under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) regulation. These arrangements not only allow French plants to operate competitively over a
12-month basis, but also to concentrate production during periods when energy prices are lower or even negative, as and when required.
In 2023, Ferroglobe did not operate during the first quarter and most of December to optimize its contractual commitments.
The ARENH benefit allows all alternative suppliers
to obtain electricity from EDF during certain time periods under conditions set by the public authorities. The price is currently established
at EUR 42/megawatt hour. As such, when market prices are high, the ARENH system is an attractive solution.
In addition, we have an additional agreement with
EDF in which we have agreed different electricity prices throughout the year based on demand. When demand is highest, our agreed price
is generally lowest and is even negative during certain time periods.
As noted above, the Company did not operate during
the first quarter and most of December as the benefits mentioned above are primarily in effect from April through October.
For the year ended December 31, 2023, the
Company recorded $186,211 thousand as an offset to expense recorded within “raw materials and energy consumption for production”
associated with these benefits. However, such benefits are expected to be reduced significantly if not a net expense in future periods
due to changes in energy prices and contractually agreed prices that reduce the overall benefit.
Ferroglobe’s production of energy in France
through its hydroelectric power plants provides some mitigation to its exposure to volatility in energy price.
In the United States, we prefer long term electric
supply contracts that provide the ability to interrupt load and achieve reasonable rates. Our power supply contracts have, in the past,
resulted in stable price structures. In West Virginia, we have a contract with Brookfield Renewable Partners, LP to provide, approximately
50% of our power needs, from a dedicated hydroelectric facility, through December 2025 at a fixed rate. Our needs for non-hydroelectric
power in West Virginia and Alabama are primarily sourced through special contracts that provide competitive rates. In Ohio, electricity
is sourced at market-based rates.
In South Africa, we have an “evergreen”
supply agreement with Eskom, the local electricity supplier, for our Polokwane, eMalahleni, Newcastle (Siltech) and Thaba Chueu mining
facilities. Eskom’s energy prices are regulated by the National Energy Regulator (NERSA) and price changes are publicly announced
in advance and implemented on the 1st of April every year. Operational smelters in South Africa were operating on normal tariffs
for the year 2023, with eMalahleni participating in a curtailment program for the full year. The Polokwane smelter was restarted and operated
by the end of the year at 65% capacity and also started participating in the curtailment program as from Q4. The Newcastle smelter remained
in Care and Maintenance for the full year and the Notified Maximum Demand was reduced during the year to reduce fixed costs. The interruptibility
program of Eskom that is applicable to eMalahleni and Polokwane, requires power curtailments when the grid is under supply pressure, but
compensated on an hourly basis. This has a positive effect on the overall price paid for electricity. As a result, we look to ensure production
during the summer months when power is cheaper. Conversely, we look to reduce our output during the winter months (June, July and
August), when power is more expensive. Occurrences of Loadshedding was important during 2023, but had minimal impact on the smelters
due to the interruptability program, while in the Delmas mine, this was partially countered through diesel generators, where a portion
of the costs are compensated by our customers to ensure contracted volumes. Load shedding is expected to continue up to 2028.
Independent power production from private power
producers increased during 2022 and helped to improve supply within the country, this is expected to continue to grow over in the coming
years and will help alleviate the amount of Load Shedding Events undertaken by Eskom. We are currently engaging with green energy
producers to diversify our power supply from 2024. These are anticipated to be on a power wheeling basis through Eskom’s grid,
allowing consumption at any of our plants.
In Norway, we have a long-term contract with Statkraft
to provide 75% of our energy needs at a fixed price. Our operations there benefit from a reduction of the distribution tariff, while also
receiving compensation for indirect carbon dioxide costs under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) regulation, allowing it to produce
very competitively.
The level of power consumption of our submerged
electric arc furnaces is highly dependent on which products are being produced and typically fall in the following ranges: (i) manganese
based alloys require between 1.5 and 5.5 megawatt hours to produce one ton of product, (ii) silicon based alloys require between
7 and 8 megawatt hours to produce one ton of product and (iii) silicon metal requires approximately 12 megawatt hours to produce
one ton of product. As a result, consistent access to low cost, reliable sources of electricity is essential to our business.
Mining Operations
Reserves
The
Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) amendments to its disclosure rules modernizing the mineral property disclosure
requirements for mining registrants became effective on January 1, 2021. The amendments include the adoption of S-K 1300, which governs
disclosure for mining registrants (the “SEC Mining Modernization Rules”). The SEC Mining Modernization Rules replaced
the historical property disclosure requirements for mining registrants that were included in the SEC’s Industry Guide 7 and better
align disclosure with international industry and regulatory practices.
A mineral reserve is defined by S-K 1300 as an
estimate of tonnage and grade or quality of indicated and measured mineral resources that, in the opinion of the qualified person, can
be the basis of an economically viable project. More specifically, it is the economically mineable part of a measured or indicated mineral
resource, which includes diluting materials and allowances for losses that may occur when the material is mined or extracted. A proven
mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of a measured mineral resource and can only result from conversion of a measured
mineral resource. A probable mineral reserve is the economically mineable part of an indicated and, in some cases, a measured
mineral resource. Reserve estimates were made by independent third party consultants (qualified person), based primarily on dimensions
revealed in outcrops, trenches, detailed sampling and drilling studies performed. For a probable mineral reserve, the qualified person’s
confidence in the results obtained from the application of the modifying factors and in the estimates of tonnage and grade or quality
is lower than what is sufficient for a classification as a proven mineral reserve, but is still sufficient to demonstrate that, at the
time of reporting, extraction of the mineral reserve is economically viable under reasonable investment and market assumptions. For a
proven mineral reserve, the qualified person has a high degree of confidence in the results obtained from the application of the modifying
factors and in the estimates of tonnage and grade or quality. These estimates are reviewed and reassessed from time to time. Reserve estimates
are based on various assumptions, and any material changes in these assumptions could have a material impact on the accuracy of Ferroglobe’s
reserve estimates.
The following table sets forth summary information
on Ferroglobe’s mines as of December 31, 2023.
| |
| |
| |
Annual | | |
Production | | |
Production | | |
Production | | |
Mining | |
Mine | |
Location | |
Mineral | |
capacity kt | | |
in 2023 kt | | |
in 2022 kt | | |
in 2021 kt | | |
Recovery | |
Sonia | |
Spain (Mañón) | |
Quartz | |
| 150 | | |
| 119 | | |
| 141 | | |
| 125 | | |
| 0.4 | |
Esmeralda | |
Spain (Val do Dubra) | |
Quartz | |
| 50 | | |
| 10 | | |
| 22 | | |
| 25 | | |
| 0.4 | |
Serrabal. | |
Spain (Vedra & Boqueixón) | |
Quartz | |
| 330 | | |
| 201 | | |
| 288 | | |
| 300 | | |
| 0.2 | |
Coto Minero Conchitina(5) | |
Spain (O Vicedo) | |
Quartz | |
| 150 | | |
| 14 | | |
| 25 | | |
| 20 | | |
| 0.4 | |
Thaba Chueu Mining | |
South Africa (Delmas) | |
Quartzite | |
| 1,000 | | |
| 592 | | |
| 553 | | |
| 601 | | |
| 0.7 | |
Mahale | |
South Africa (Limpopo) | |
Quartz | |
| 80 | | |
| 32 | | |
| 23 | | |
| 24 | | |
| 0.5 | |
Roodepoort | |
South Africa (Limpopo) | |
Quartz | |
| 50 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 0.5 | |
Fort Klipdam | |
South Africa (Limpopo) | |
Quartz | |
| 75 | | |
| 75 | | |
| 43 | | |
| 30 | | |
| 0.8 | |
AS&G Meadows Pit | |
United States (Alabama) | |
Quartzite | |
| 300 | | |
| 140.5 | | |
| 115 | | |
| 242 | | |
| 0.4 | |
South Carolina Pit | |
United States (South Carolina) | |
Quartzite | |
| 300 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 0.3 | |
| |
| |
| |
| 2,485 | | |
| 1,184 | | |
| 1,210 | | |
| 1,366 | | |
| | |
| |
| |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Mosely Gap/Eatin Fk. | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (active) | |
| 400 | | |
| 348.6 | | |
| 379.5 | | |
| — | | |
| 0.7 | |
Davis Creek | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (inactive) | |
| 240 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 0.7 | |
Log Cabin No. 5 | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (active) | |
| 168 | | |
| 289.6 | | |
| 170.2 | | |
| 156 | | |
| 0.6 | |
Hubbs Hollow | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (active) | |
| 200 | | |
| 163 | | |
| 84 | | |
| — | | |
| 0.7 | |
Kimberly | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (inactive) | |
| 100 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 0.6 | |
Bennett's Branch | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (inactive) | |
| 100 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 0.7 | |
Bain Branch No. 3 | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (inactive) | |
| 60 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| 0.5 | |
Harpes Creek 4A | |
United States (Kentucky) | |
Coal (active) | |
| 100 | | |
| 42.3 | | |
| 32.7 | | |
| — | | |
| 0.6 | |
| |
| |
| |
| 1,368 | | |
| 843.20 | | |
| 666.40 | | |
| 156 | | |
| | |
| |
Proven | | |
Probable | | |
| | |
| |
| | |
| | |
| |
| |
reserves | | |
reserves | | |
Mining | | |
| |
Btus per | | |
| | |
Expiry | |
Mine | |
Mt(1) | | |
Mt(1) | | |
Method | | |
Reserve grade | |
lb. | | |
Life(2) | | |
date(3) | |
Sonia | |
| 1.46 | | |
| 0.8 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 15 | | |
| 2069 | |
Esmeralda | |
| 0.02 | | |
| 0.12 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 6 | | |
| 2029 | |
Serrabal. | |
| 2.91 | | |
| 1.6 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 15 | | |
| 2038 | |
Coto Minero Conchitina(5) | |
| — | | |
| 0.8 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 12 | | |
| 2036 | |
Thaba Chueu Mining | |
| 7.03 | | |
| 19.5 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical & Glass | |
| N/A | | |
| 30 | | |
| 2039 | |
Mahale | |
| — | | |
| 3.0 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 20 | | |
| 2035 | |
Roodepoort | |
| — | | |
| 0.50 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 5 | | |
| 2028 | |
Fort Klipdam | |
| — | | |
| 0.50 | | |
| Open-pit | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 5 | | |
| Expired (4) | |
AS&G Meadows Pit | |
| 2.50 | | |
| — | | |
| Surface | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 8 | | |
| 2031 | |
South Carolina Pit | |
| 2.65 | | |
| | | |
| Surface | | |
Metallurgical | |
| N/A | | |
| 11 | | |
| 2035 | |
| |
| 16.57 | | |
| 26.77 | | |
| | | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Mosely Gap | |
| 1.20 | | |
| — | | |
| Surface | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 3 | | |
| 2026 | |
Hubbs Hollow | |
| 2.00 | | |
| — | | |
| Surface | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 4 | | |
| 2027 | |
Log Cabin No. 5 | |
| 0.12 | | |
| — | | |
| Underground | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 1 | | |
| 2024 | |
Buffalo Creek | |
| 0.50 | | |
| — | | |
| Surface | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 2 | | |
| 2027 | |
Kimberly | |
| 0.50 | | |
| — | | |
| Surface | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 5 | | |
| 2026 | |
Bennett's Branch | |
| 1.70 | | |
| — | | |
| Underground | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 15 | | |
| 2036 | |
Bain Branch No. 3 | |
| 3.60 | | |
| 2.9 | | |
| Underground | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 25 | | |
| 2042 | |
Harpes Creek 4A | |
| 1.20 | | |
| 1.3 | | |
| Underground | | |
Metallurgical | |
| 14,000 | | |
| 10 | | |
| 2032 | |
| |
| 10.82 | | |
| 4.20 | | |
| | | |
| |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
| (1) | The estimated recoverable proven and probable reserves represent the tons of product that can be used
internally or sold to metallurgical or glass grade customers. The mining recovery is based on historical yields at each |
| particular site.
We estimate our permitted mining life based on the number of years we can sustain average production rates under current circumstances. |
(2) | Current estimated mine life in years. |
| (3) | Expiry date of Ferroglobe’s mining concession. |
| (4) | The mining permit expired at the end of 2022. The application for a new mining permit was submitted in
2023 and is awaiting approval from the mining authorities. Stock is sufficient to supply the smelters into Q2 2024. |
| (5) | Ferroglobe considers its Conchitina mining concessions as a single mining project legally supported by
the formation of Coto Minero, formally approved by the Mining Authority in March 2018. In addition, Ferroglobe currently holds all
necessary permits to start production at its Conchitina mines. Although Ferroglobe has not received formal approval from the Spanish
Mining Authority over its 2024 Annual Mining Plan, we are not legally prevented from commencing mining operations in the area based on
the fully-authorized 2023 Annual Mining Plan. |
Spanish mining concessions
Conchitina
Ferroglobe
purchased Cuarzos Industriales S.A.U and various of its mining rights in 1996 including Conchitina and Sonia.
Cuarzos Industriales, S.A.U. has requested the
renewal of Conchitina while also requesting the competent authority to consolidate the concession with that of Conchitina Segunda. The
Conchitina Segunda mining concession was granted to Cuarzos Industriales S.A.U. in 2006 for a 30-year term after the necessary mining
research had been conducted and the mining potential of the area had been demonstrated. Legal support for the consolidation request was
that both mining rights apply over a unique quartz deposit. Coto Minero approval was formally granted in March 2018. Cuarzos Industriales S.A.U.
is the owner of the properties currently mined at Conchitina. The surface area covered by Conchitina concessions is 497 hectares.
Sonia
Ferroglobe acquired Cuarzos Industriales S.A.U.,
which is the owner of the properties currently mined at Sonia, along with the Sonia mining concession, in 1996 from the Portuguese cement
manufacturer Cimpor. The surface area covered by the Sonia mining concession is 387 hectares. The concession is due to expire in
2069.
Esmeralda
The original Esmeralda mining concession was granted
in 1999 to Cuarzos Industriales, S.A.U., the owner of the properties currently mined at Esmeralda, after proper mining research had
been conducted and the mining potential of the area had been demonstrated to the relevant public authority. The surface area covered by
the Esmeralda mining concession is 84 hectares. The concession is due to expire in 2029.
Serrabal
The Serrabal mining concession was originally
granted in 1978 to Rocas, Arcillas y Minerales S.A. (“RAMSA”) Ferroglobe acquired RAMSA, which is the owner of the properties
currently mined at Serrabal, along with the Serrabal mining concession, in 2000. Rocas, Arcillas y Minerales, S.A. applied for the
renewal of the concession which was formally granted in October 2023 and the concession will expire in 2038. The surface area covered
by Serrabal mining concession is 387 hectares.
Cabanetas
The mining right granting process and tax regulations
applicable to the Cabanetas limestone quarry differ from those applicable to other Ferroglobe mines in Spain due to Cabanetas’ classification
as a quarry, as opposed to a mine. Ferroglobe is currently operating the Cabanetas quarry pursuant to a permit resolution, that authorized
the extension of the original mining concession issued in 2013 by the competent mining authority. The extension will expire in 2043. Limestone
extracted from the Cabanetas quarry was intended to be used by the FerroAtlántica del Cinca S.L. Monzón electrometallurgy
plant. However, because new metallurgical techniques require low consumption of this product,
most of the Cabanetas limestone is generally
sold to the civil engineering and construction industries. The production level of the Cabanetas quarry has fallen considerably in recent years,
mainly due to difficulties in the local construction industry.
The land on which the mining property is located
is owned by Mancomunidad de Propietarios de Fincas Las Sierras and the plot containing the mining property is leased to FerroAtlantica
del Cinca S.L. pursuant to a lease agreement entered into in 1950, which was subsequently extended until 2050. To retain the lease, FerroAtlantica
del Cinca S.L. pays an annual fee currently equal to €0.15 per ton of limestone quarried out of the mine. The quarry covers a surface
area of 180 hectares. The area affected by the planned exploitation during the current extension of the concession area is 6.9 hectares.
For further information regarding Spanish regulations
applicable to mining concessions, as well as environmental and other regulations, see “Item 4.B—Laws and regulations applicable
to Ferroglobe’s mining operations—Spain”.
South African concessions
Thaba Chueu Mining Delmas Operation
The SamQuarz mining rights were transferred from
the original owners, Glass South Africa Holdings (Pty) Ltd. and Samancor Limited, to SamQuarz (Pty) Ltd. (“SamQuarz”)
in 1997. In 2009, the Minister of Mineral Resources converted the then existing SamQuarz mining rights into new order mining rights due
to expire after 30 years in 2039. In 2012, FerroAtlántica acquired control of SamQuarz along with the mining rights. At the
end of 2014, SamQuarz mining rights were transferred from SamQuarz to its sole shareholder, Thaba Chueu Mining (Pty) Ltd (“TCM”).
In 2017, ownership of the properties currently mined in Delmas were transferred from SamQuarz to TCM. The total surface area covered by
TCM Delmas mine is 118.1 hectares. The mine supplies some of its material to Ferroglobe’s eMalahleni smelter, but the majority of
its production, mainly Flint Sand, is sold to South African Glass Manufacturing Industry and other local metallurgical customers.
Mahale
Mahale is state-owned land, lawfully occupied
by the Mahale community. Thaba Chueu Mining currently leases the land pursuant to an agreement with the Majeje Traditional Authority and
runs mining operations on the area with mining rights owned by Thaba Chueu Mining and licensed to it. The latest mining right license
was granted by the Department of Mineral Resources in 2014 and registered at the mining titles deeds office in 2016. The license is for
a 20-year period and will expire in 2035. The total surface area covered by Mahale mine is 329.7 hectares. The lease agreement between
Thaba Chueu Mining and the Majeje Traditional Authority will be in force for the entire duration of the mining right or as long as it
is economically viable for the lessee to mine. Under the lease agreement, a monthly rent of ZAR 11 per ton is paid to the lessor in the
form of a Royalty. Mining volumes increased significantly with the reopening of the Polokwane smelter at the end of 2022, but the mine
also continues to supply the eMalahleni smelter with low alkaline quartz. Options are also under investigation to target export High Purity
Quartz to the EU in order to act as a counter measure to local mining costs to improve production costs at the smelters going forward.
First block quartz trials are envisaged during 2024 at the Polokwane smelter.
Roodepoort
The Roodepoort mining right is held by Ferroglobe’s
subsidiary, Silicon Smelters (Pty.), Ltd. (“Silicon Smelters”), and will expire in 2028. In 2009, Silicon Smelters applied
for a conversion of the mining right into a new mining right under the South African Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act (the
“MPRDA”), which came into force in 2004. The new mining right was granted and is valid for the continuation of our mining
activities at the Roodepoort mine until 2028. Silicon Smelters is currently in the process of transferring this mining right to its mining
subsidiary, Thaba Chueu Mining, in order that all licenses and permits in South Africa are held under this entity.
The total surface area covered by Roodepoort mine
is 17.6 hectares. The mining area covers the cobble and block areas. The land in which Roodepoort mine is located is owned by Alpha Sand.
A new agreement is in process of drafting to pay Alpha Sand a royalty when mining is expected to resume in 2024. Mining activities were
suspended in July 2019 when a decision was taken to stop production at the Polokwane smelter and agreement was reached with the authorities
to suspend activities legally until such time when the silicon metal market recovers significantly in
order to allow the restart of the
Polokwane smelter. With the restart of the Polokwane smelter in November 2022, it is expected that operations at this mine could
be restored during 2024.
Fort Klipdam
The land on which Fort Klipdam is located is owned
by Silicon Smelters. The mining rights application filed by Silicon Smelters was rejected. Mining operations have been limited to mining
permits that were approved for quartz mining, which includes block mine areas. As substantial block reserves have been established, a
new application was launched in 2021 for a mining right and the current mining permit was extended to December 2023. An important
quantity of block material was mined during Q4 of 2023 in order to secure a minimum of 12 months’ supply to the Polokwane smelter.
This was done in anticipation of the expiry of the current mining permit. An agreement was reached with a mining partner that was granted
a Prospecting Right, to apply for Mining Permits under Rixhaka mining until the reserve is depleted. This follows an extensive drilling
campaign that was performed in 2023.
For further information regarding South African
regulations applicable to mining concessions, as well as environmental and other regulations, see “Item 4.B—Laws and regulations
applicable to Ferroglobe’s mining operations—South Africa.”
French mining concessions
Soleyron
Ferroglobe France (formerly FerroPem, SAS), a
subsidiary of Ferroglobe, previously owned 12.2 hectares of the overall Soleyron quartz mine area. The Saint-Hippolyte de Montaigu
Municipality owns the remaining part. Rehabilitation of the site was performed in Q1 2022 and the French administration validated the
realized rehabilitation in Q2 2022. With this approval, the Company sold the 12.2 hectares of land to the Saint-Hippolyte de Montaigu
Municipality in May 2022.
United States and Canadian concessions
Coal
As of December 31, 2023, we have three active
coal mines (two surface mines and one underground mine) located in Knox County, and Whitley County, Kentucky. We also have five inactive
permitted coal mines available for extraction located in Kentucky and Alabama. All of our coal mines are leased and the remaining term
of the leases range from 2 to 40 years. The majority of the coal production is consumed by the Company’s facilities in the
production of silicon metal and silicon-based alloys. As of December 31, 2023, we estimate our proven and probable reserves to be
10,820,000 tons with an average permitted life of 34 years at present operating levels. Present operating levels are determined based
on a three-year annual average production rate. Reserve estimates were made by our geologists, engineers and third parties based primarily
on drilling studies performed. These estimates are reviewed and reassessed from time to time. Reserve estimates are based on various assumptions,
and any material changes in these assumptions could have a material impact on the accuracy of our reserve estimates.
We currently have two coal processing facilities
in Kentucky, one of which is inactive. The active facility processes 500,000 tons of coal annually, with a capacity of 2,500,000 tons.
The average coal processing recovery rate is 65%.
Quartzite
We have an open-pit quartz mining operation in
Lowndesboro, Alabama, with accompanying wash facilities. We also have a concession to mine quartzite in Saint-Urbain, Québec (operated
by a third party miner). These mines supply our North American operations with a substantial portion of their requirements for quartzite.
Laws and regulations applicable to Ferroglobe’s
mining operations
Spain
In Spain, mining concessions have an average term
of 30 years and are extendable for additional 30-year terms, up to a maximum of 90 years. In order to extend the concession
term, the concessionaire must file an application with the competent public authority. The application, which must be filed three years
prior to the expiration of the concession term, must be accompanied by a detailed report demonstrating the continuity of mineral deposits
and the technical ability to extract such deposits, as well as reserve estimates, an overall mining plan for the term of the concession
and a detailed description of extraction and treatment techniques. The renewal process is straightforward for a mining company that has
been mining the concession regularly. The main impediments to renewal are a lack of mining activity and legal conflicts. Each January,
in order to maintain the validity of the mining concession, we are required to submit an annual mining plan detailing the projected development
work in the upcoming year to the competent public authority.
Regarding the environmental requirements applicable
to Ferroglobe’s mining operations in Spain, each of Conchitina and Conchitina Segunda, Sonia, Esmeralda and Serrabal is subject
to an “environmental impact statement” (or “EIS”), issued by the relevant environmental authority and specifically
tailored to the environmental features of the relevant mine. The EIS requires compliance with high environmental standards and is based
on the environmental impact study performed by the mining concession applicant in connection with each mining project. It is the result
of a consultation process involving several public administrations, including cultural, archaeology, landscape, urbanistic, health, agriculture,
water and industrial administrations. The EIS sets forth all conditions to be fulfilled by the applicant, which includes the protection
of air, water, soil, flora and fauna, landscape, cultural heritage, restoration and the interaction of such elements. The relevant authority
verifies compliance with our EIS, which covers mining activities, auxiliary facilities and heaps carried out in a determined perimeter
of each mine. The EIS also includes a program of surveillance and environmental monitoring.
All mines, with the exception of Cabanetas, also
need to obtain from the relevant public administration an authorization for the discharge of the water used at the mine. This authorization
is subject to certain conditions, including analyzing the water before any such discharge is made. In addition, when presenting to the
competent mining authorities its annual mining plans, Ferroglobe must include an environmental report describing all environmental actions
carried out during the year. Authorities are able to oversee such actions upon their annual inspections. Because Cabanetas is classified
as a quarry and not as a mine, environmental requirements are generally less stringent and an environmental report is not required. The
environmental license for Cabanetas is included in the mining permit and is formalized in the annual work plan and the annual restoration
plan approved by the mining authority.
The main recurring payment obligation in connection
with Ferroglobe’s mines in Spain relates to a tax payable annually, calculated on the basis of the budget included in the relevant
annual mining plan provided to the authority. In addition, with the exception of Cabanetas, a small surface tax is paid annually to the
administration on the basis of the mine property extension. A levy also applies to water consumption at each mine property, which is paid
at irregular intervals whenever the relevant public administration requires it.
South Africa
In South Africa, mining rights are valid for a
maximum of 30 years and are extendable for one additional 30-year period. Prior to granting and renewing a mining right, the competent
authority must be satisfied with the technical and financial capacity of the intended mining operator and the mining work program according
to which the operator intends to mine. In addition, a species rescue, relocation and re-introduction plan must be developed and implemented
by a qualified person prior to the commencement of excavation, a detailed vegetation and habitat and rehabilitation plan must be developed
by a qualified person and a permit must be obtained from the South African Heritage Resource Agency prior to the commencement of excavations.
The mining right holder must also compile a labor and social plan for its mining operations and comply with certain additional regulatory
requirements relating to, among other things, human resource development, employment equity, housing and living conditions and health
and safety of employees, and the usage of water, which must be licensed.
It is a condition of the mining right that the
holder disposes of all minerals and products derived from exploitation of the mineral at competitive market prices, which means, in all
cases, non-discriminatory prices or non-export parity prices. If the minerals are sold to any entity which is an affiliate or non-affiliate
agent or subsidy of the mining right
holder, or is directly or indirectly controlled by the holder, such purchaser must unconditionally
undertake in writing to dispose of the minerals and any products from the minerals and any products produced from the minerals, at competitive
market prices. The mining right, a shareholding, an equity, an interest or participation in the right or joint venture, or a controlling
interest in a company, close corporation or joint venture, may not be encumbered, ceded, transferred, mortgaged, let, sublet, assigned,
alienated or otherwise disposed of without the written consent of the Minister of Mineral Resources, except in the case of a change of
controlling interest in listed companies.
Environmental requirements applicable to mining
operations in South Africa are mostly set out in the MPRDA. Pursuant to the MPRDA, in order to obtain reconnaissance permissions as well
as actual mining rights, applicants must have in place an approved environmental management plan, pursuant to which, among other things,
all boreholes, excavations and openings sunk or made during the duration of the mining right must be sealed, closed, fenced and made safe
by the mining operator. Further environmental requirements apply in connection with health and safety matters, waste management and water
usage. The MPRDA further requires mining right applicants to conduct an environmental impact assessment on the area of interest and submit
an environmental management program setting forth, among other things, baseline information concerning the affected environment to determine
protection, remedial measures and environmental management objectives, and describing the manner in which the applicant intends to modify,
remedy, control or stop any action, activity or process which causes pollution or environmental degradation, contain or remedy the cause
of pollution or degradation and migration of pollutants and comply with any prescribed waste standard or management standards or practices.
In addition, applicants must provide sufficient insurance, bank guarantees, trust funds or cash to ensure the availability of sufficient
funds to undertake the agreed work programs and for the rehabilitation, management and remediation of any negative environmental impact
on the interested areas. Holders of a mining right must conduct continuous monitoring of the environmental management plan, conduct performance
assessments of the plan and compile and submit a performance assessment report to the competent authority, the frequency of which must
be as approved in the environmental management program, or every two years or as otherwise agreed by the authority in writing. Mine
closure costs are evaluated and reported on an annual basis, but are typically only incurred at mine closure, but guarantees are increased
based on the extent of completed mining activity.
The mining right holder must also be in compliance
with the Black Economic Empowerment (“BEE”) regulation, a program launched by the South African government to redress certain
racial inequalities. In order for a mining right to be granted, a mining company must agree on certain BEE-related conditions with the
Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources. Such conditions relate to, among other things, the company’s ownership and employment
equity and require the submission of a social and labor plan. Failure to comply with any of these BEE conditions may have an impact on,
among other things, the ability of the mining company to retain the mining right or obtain its renewal upon expiry. In addition, companies
subject to BEE must conduct, on an annual basis, a BEE rating audit on several aspects of the business, including black ownership, management
control, employment equity, skills development, preferential procurement, enterprise development and socio-economic development. Poor
performance on the BEE rating audit may have a negative impact on the company’s ability to do business with other companies, to
the extent that a company’s low rating is likely to reduce the rating of its business partners.
Mining rights are subject to payments of royalties
to the tax authority, the South African Revenue Services. Such payments are generally made by June 30 and December 31 each year
and upon the approval of the concessionaire’s annual financial statements.
France
In France, mining rights are subject to a prefectural
authorization. The authorization provides details of all requirements, including environmental requirements, which the mining operator
and its subcontractors must comply with to operate the mine. Such requirements mainly concern archaeology, water protection, air pollution,
control of noise, visual impact and safety matters. The authorization also contains the requirements relating to the remediation of the
land after the end of the mining operations, including the provision of adequate financial guarantees by the mining operator. Mines are
regularly inspected by the administration and local environmental commissions, comprising representatives of the relevant municipality,
administration, several associations and the mining operator, which must meet at least once a year.
United States
The Coal Mine Health and Safety Act of 1969 and
the Federal Mine Safety and Health Act of 1977 impose stringent safety and health standards on all aspects of mining operations. Certain
states in which we operate underground and surface coal mines have state mine safety and health regulations. The Mine Safety and Health
Administration (the “MSHA”) inspects mine sites and enforces safety regulations and the Company must comply with ongoing regulatory
reporting to the MSHA. Numerous governmental permits, licenses or approvals are required for mining operations. In order to obtain mining
permits and approvals from state regulatory authorities, we must submit a reclamation plan for restoring, upon the completion of mining
operations, the mined property to its prior or better condition, productive use or other permitted condition. We are also required to
establish performance bonds, consistent with state requirements, to secure our financial obligations for reclamation, including removal
of mining structures and ponds, backfilling and regrading and revegetation.
Customers and Markets
The following table details the breakdown of Ferroglobe’s
revenues by geographic end market for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively.
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
United States of America | |
| 670,854 | | |
| 966,161 | | |
| 515,095 | |
Europe | |
| | | |
| | | |
| | |
Spain | |
| 169,390 | | |
| 282,387 | | |
| 251,528 | |
Germany | |
| 276,333 | | |
| 442,331 | | |
| 292,774 | |
Other European Countries | |
| 199,789 | | |
| 423,002 | | |
| 383,578 | |
Total revenues in Europe | |
| 645,512 | | |
| 1,147,720 | | |
| 927,880 | |
Rest of the World | |
| 333,668 | | |
| 484,035 | | |
| 335,933 | |
Total | |
| 1,650,034 | | |
| 2,597,916 | | |
| 1,778,908 | |
Customer base
We have a diversified customer base across our
key product categories. Throughout our history, we have built long-lasting relationships with our customers based on the breadth and quality
of our product offerings, as well as our ability to frequently offer lower-cost and more reliable supply options than our competitors
who do not have production facilities located near the customers’ facilities or production capabilities to meet specific customer
requirements. We sell our products to customers in more than 40 countries across six continents, though our largest customer concentration
is in the United States and Europe. The average length of our relationships with our top 30 customers exceeds 10 years and, in some cases,
such relationships are for as long as 30 years.
For
the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021, Ferroglobe’s ten largest customers accounted for 50.5%, 50.9% and 48.1% of
the Company’s consolidated revenues, respectively.
Customer contracts
Our contracting strategy seeks to ensure significant
revenue while remaining flexible to benefit from movement in market pricing and operating efficiencies. Our silicon metal, manganese-based
ferroalloys and silicon-based ferroalloys are typically sold under annual and quarterly contracts. Historically, we have targeted to contract
50-65% of our silicon metal, manganese-based ferroalloys production and silicon-based ferroalloy production in the fourth quarter for
the following calendar year. In 2023, the majority of our contracts were indexed to market related benchmarks.
The remaining balance of our silicon metal, manganese-based
ferroalloys production and our silicon-based ferroalloy production are sold under quarterly contracts or on a spot basis. By selling on
a spot basis, we are able to take advantage of premiums for prompt delivery. We believe that our diversified contract portfolio allows
us to secure a significant amount of revenues while also allowing us to remain flexible and benefit from unexpected price and demand upticks.
Sales and Marketing Activities
Ferroglobe generally sells the majority of its
silicon products under annual or longer-term contracts for silicone producers, and mainly between one month to three months for aluminum
producing customers. All contracts generally include a volume framework and price formula based on the spot market price and other elements,
such as expected production costs and premiums. Ferroglobe also makes spot sales to customers with whom it does not have a contract as
well as through quarterly agreements at prices that generally reflect market spot prices. In addition, Ferroglobe sells certain high-value-added
products at prices that are not directly correlated with the market prices for the metals or alloys from which they are composed.
With the exception of the manganese-based business,
the majority of Ferroglobe’s products are sold in Europe and the United States directly by our own sales forces located in Spain,
France, Germany and the United States whereas sales in other regions are generally handled by agents. For the manganese-based business,
Glencore and Ferroglobe operate under exclusive agency agreements for the marketing of Ferroglobe’s manganese alloys products worldwide,
and for the procurement of manganese ores to supply Ferrogloble’s plants.
Competition
Price represents the most significant differentiating
and competitive factor in our core industries. Other important factors include the consistency of the chemical and physical specifications,
as well as the reliability of supply.
The silicon metal, manganese and silicon-based
alloys and specialty metals markets are highly competitive, global markets, in which suppliers are able to reach customers across different
geographies, and in which local presence is generally a minor advantage. In the silicon metal market, Ferroglobe’s primary competitors
include Chinese producers, which have production capacity that exceeds total worldwide demand. Aside from Chinese producers, Ferroglobe’s
competitors include, but are not limited to: (i) Elkem, a Norwegian manufacturer of silicon metal, ferrosilicon, foundry products,
silica fumes, carbon products and energy; (ii) Dow Inc., an American company specializing, in silicone and silicon-based technology;
(iii) Rima, a Brazilian silicon metal and ferrosilicon producer; (iv) Liasa and Minas Ligas, Brazilian producers of silicon;
(v) Wacker, a German chemical business which manufactures silicon in Norway; (vi) Simcoa, in Australia which belongs to the
Japanese chemical company Shin-Etsu, a consumer of silicon, as well as several other smaller producers in Bosnia Herzegovina, Iceland,
Germany, Malaysia, Russia and Thailand.
In the manganese and silicon alloys market, Ferroglobe’s
competitors include Privat Group, a Ukrainian company with operations in Australia, Ghana and Ukraine, Eramet, a French mining and metallurgical
group, CHEMK Industrial Group, a Russian conglomerate which is one of the largest silicon-based alloy producers in the world, South 32
(formerly BHP Billiton), a global mining company with operations in Australia and South Africa and Vale, a mining and metals group headquartered
in Brazil, Asia Minerals and OM Holdings in Malaysia and Elkem in Norway.
In the silica fumes market, Ferroglobe’s
main competitor is Elkem.
Ferroglobe strives to be a highly efficient, low-cost
producer, offering competitive pricing and engaging in manufacturing processes that capture most of its production of by-products for
reuse or resale. Additionally, through the vertical integration of its quartz mines in Spain, the United States, Canada and South Africa
and its metallurgical coal mines in the United States, Ferroglobe has ensured access to high quality raw materials that are essential
in silicon metal, manganese- and silicon-based alloys and specialty metals production processes and has been able to gain a competitive
advantage against our competition by reducing our costs.
Research and Development (R&D)
Ferroglobe is committed to advancing novel products,
cutting-edge technologies, and innovative production processes to enhance value for our stakeholders and align with worldwide megatrends,
particularly the transition towards green energy. We maintain specialized teams dedicated to R&D and technology, while also fostering
collaborative partnerships through agreements with universities and research institutes in Spain, France, and other global locations.
The ensuing section provides an overview of Ferroglobe's noteworthy and continuous research and development initiatives.
ELSA electrode
Ferroglobe has pioneered a patented technology
for electrodes employed in silicon metal furnaces, successfully marketing it to numerous prominent silicon producers worldwide. Recognized
as the ELSA electrode, this technology plays a pivotal role in enhancing energy efficiency during the silicon metal production process
while eradicating iron contamination. Ferroglobe has extended the privilege to utilize the ELSA electrode to these producers, subject
to the payment of royalties to Ferroglobe. The company remains dedicated to ongoing investments in ELSA to uphold its innovativeness and
ensure continual advancement in the process.
Silicon for advanced technologies– Li-ion batteries
Ferroglobe initiated the Silicon for Advanced
Technologies project, with the objective of manufacturing customized, silicon-based products tailored for high-end applications. Among
the diverse applications being targeted, the most promising market is that of anodic materials for Li-ion batteries. In this specific
domain, Ferroglobe has developed high-purity silicon powder, available in various purities and sizes, intended for use as raw material
in the production of anodic active materials such as silicon/carbon composites (Si/C) or silicon monoxide (SiOx). These materials, Si/C
and SiOx, are incorporated in small proportions in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries.
Ferroglobe is actively engaged in advancing the
next-generation technology involving pure silicon anodes. In this endeavor, we are in the process of formulating specialized grades of
micro and submicrometric silicon, designed for direct application in the anode with specific treatments. To facilitate the treatments
and conduct electrochemical testing, Ferroglobe has established collaborative agreements with select companies and research institutes.
In this project, we have harnessed the purification
technologies pioneered for the solar grade silicon initiative, all of which are protected by patents. These technologies, boasting industrial
viability, cost-effectiveness, and a minimal carbon footprint, position Ferroglobe as a frontrunner in this emerging market. Our Innovation
Centre in Sabón, Spain, houses the inaugural demonstration milling unit, while multiple industrial purification units are operational
in Montricher, France, and Puertollano, Spain.
High purity manganese sulphate – Battery grade
Manganese emerges as an upcoming cathodic material,
given its abundance, cost-effectiveness in contrast to cobalt and nickel, potential for higher voltages, and increased energy density.
Several years ago, Ferroglobe secured a patent for a process to generate electrolytic manganese metal, starting from off-specification
materials derived from manganese alloy production. Building upon this process and leveraging our expertise, Ferroglobe Innovation is currently
in the process of developing supplementary purification steps to achieve battery grade manganese sulphate monohydrate.
Proprietary Rights and Licensing
The majority of Ferroglobe’s intellectual
property consists of proprietary know-how and trade secrets. Ferroglobe’s intellectual property strategy is focused on developing
and protecting proprietary know-how and trade secrets, which are maintained through employee and third-party confidentiality agreements
and physical security measures. Although Ferroglobe owns some patented technology, we believe that the Company’s businesses and
profitability do not rely fundamentally upon patented technology and that the publication implicit in the patenting process may in certain
instances be detrimental to Ferroglobe’s ability to protect its proprietary information.
Regulatory Matters
Environmental and health and safety
Ferroglobe operates facilities worldwide, which
are subject to foreign, national, regional, provincial and local environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including, among
others, those requirements governing the discharge of materials into the environment, the generation, use, storage and disposal of hazardous
substances, the extraction and use of water, land use, reclamation and remediation and the health and safety of Ferroglobe’s employees.
These laws and regulations require Ferroglobe to obtain permits from governmental authorities to conduct its regulated activities. Such
permits may be subject to modification or revocation by such authorities.
Ferroglobe may not always be in full compliance
with such laws, regulations and permits, although Ferroglobe is not aware of any material past or current noncompliance. Failure to comply
with these laws, regulations and permits may result in the assessment of administrative, civil and criminal penalties or other sanctions
by regulators, the imposition of obligations to conduct remediation or upgrade or install pollution or dust control equipment, the issuance
of injunctions limiting or preventing Ferroglobe’s activities, legal claims for personal injury or property damages, and other liabilities.
Under these laws, regulations and permits, Ferroglobe
could also be held liable for any consequences arising out of an industrial incident, human exposure to hazardous substances or environmental
damage that relates to Ferroglobe’s current or former operations or properties. Environmental, health and safety laws are likely
to become more stringent in the future. Ferroglobe purchases insurance to cover these potential liabilities, but the costs of complying
with current and future environmental, health and safety laws, and its liabilities arising from past or future releases of, or exposure
to, hazardous substances, may exceed insured, budgeted or reserved amounts and adversely affect Ferroglobe’s business, results of
operations and financial condition. Several corporate standards and procedures are being deployed to ensure a proactive approach in the
compliance management.
Some environmental laws assess liability on current
or previous owners or operators of real property for the cost of removal or remediation of hazardous substances. In addition to cleanup,
cost recovery or compensatory actions brought by foreign, national, regional, provincial and local agencies, neighbors, employees or other
third parties could make personal injury, property damage or other private claims relating to the presence or release of hazardous substances.
Environmental laws often impose liability even if the owner or operator did not know of, or did not cause, the release of hazardous substances.
Persons who arrange for the disposal or treatment of hazardous substances also may be responsible for the cost of removal or remediation
of these substances. Such persons can be responsible for removal and remediation costs even if they never owned or operated the disposal
or treatment facility. In addition, such owners or operators of real property and persons who arrange for the disposal or treatment of
hazardous substances can be held responsible for damages to natural resources.
There are a variety of laws and regulations in
place or being considered at the international, national, regional, provincial and local levels of government that restrict or are reasonably
likely to result in limitations on, or additional costs related to, emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. These legislative
and regulatory developments may cause Ferroglobe to incur material costs to reduce the greenhouse gas emissions from its operations (through
additional environmental control equipment or retiring and replacing existing equipment) or to obtain emission allowance or credits, or
result in the incurrence of material taxes, fees or other governmental impositions on account of such emissions. In addition, such developments
may have indirect impacts on Ferroglobe’s operations, which could be material. For example, they may impose significant additional
costs or limitations on electricity generators, which could result in a material increase in energy costs. Restrictions in water usage
are also expected in the near future, with water reduction programs becoming mandatory for certain of our plants. Open cooling systems
will be less tolerated by the regulators.
For a summary of regulatory matters applicable
to Ferroglobe’s mining operations, see “Item 4.B—Laws and regulations applicable to Ferroglobe’s mining operations.”
Energy and electricity generation
Ferroglobe operates hydroelectric plants in France
under a concession system, which are subject to energy, environmental, health and safety laws and regulations, including those governing
the generation of electricity and the use of water and river basins. These laws and regulations require Ferroglobe to obtain from the
French State a Prefectural decree granting the operation to Ferroglobe according to the specifications of the concession.
Trade
Ferroglobe benefits from antidumping and countervailing
duty orders and laws that protect its products by imposing special duties on unfairly traded imports from certain countries. These orders
may be subject to revision, revocation or rescission as a result of periodic and five-year reviews.
In the United States, antidumping or countervailing
duty orders are in effect covering silicon metal imports from China, Russia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland, Kazakhstan, and Malaysia.
In June 2020, Ferroglobe USA, Inc. (formerly
Globe Specialty Metals, Inc.) (“Ferroglobe USA”) petitioned the U.S. Department of Commerce (“Commerce”)
and the U.S. International Trade Commission (“ITC”) to stop silicon metal producers in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iceland,
Malaysia and Kazakhstan from selling unfairly priced and subsidized silicon metal imports into the United States. These cases were successful,
and in April 2021, Commerce issued formal antidumping orders on all imports from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Iceland, and a formal
countervailing duty order on all imports from Kazakhstan. A formal antidumping duty order was issued with respect to all imports from
Malaysia in August 2021. These orders will remain in place for at least five years. Currently, an appeal of the 2021 Kazakhstan determination
remains pending before the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Additionally, periodic reviews are underway at Commerce
concerning imports from Malaysia.
In June 2020, the Russia silicon metal antidumping
duty order was renewed for another five years after Commerce and the ITC determined that revocation of the order would lead to continued
or recurrent dumping and injury to the U.S. industry. Similarly, in November 2023, the China antidumping duty order was renewed for
another five years after the ITC and Commerce determined that revocation of the order on Chinese silicon metal imports would lead to continued
or recurrent dumping and injury to the U.S. industry.
In September 2023, a bipartisan bill was
introduced in the U.S. Senate and subsequently in the House of Representatives to enact a 35% tariff on imports of Russian and Belarusian
ferrosilicon. The legislation remains under consideration in both chambers.
In March 2024, Ferroglobe USA petitioned
Commerce and the ITC to stop ferrosilicon producers in Brazil, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and Russia from selling unfairly priced and subsidized
ferrosilicon imports into the United States. These proceedings are ongoing and are subject to specific statutory deadlines. The ITC’s
preliminary determination will be rendered in May 2024. Commerce’s preliminary countervailing duty (subsidies) determinations
may be rendered as early as June 2024, and its preliminary antidumping duty determinations may be rendered as early as September 2024.
Formal countervailing duty and antidumping duty orders could be issued as early as October 2024 and January 2025, respectively.
These deadlines may be extended by operation of law.
In Canada, antidumping and countervailing duties
covering silicon metal imports from China are in effect. A five-year expiry review of the Canadian antidumping/countervailing duty order
covering silicon metal imports from China will begin in the first half of 2024.
In the European Union, antidumping duties are
in place covering silicon metal and calcium silicon imports from China, and ferrosilicon imports from China and Russia. In June 2020,
the European Commission renewed the antidumping orders on ferrosilicon from China and Russia for five years. In August 2022,
following an expiry review the European Commission extended the antidumping duties on silicon metal imports from China for another five-year
period. On March 23, 2022, the European Commission imposed definitive antidumping duties on calcium silicon imports from China
for a five-year period.
Seasonality
Electrometallurgy
Due to the cyclicality of energy prices and the
energy-intensive nature of the production processes for silicon metal, manganese- and silicon-based alloys and specialty metals, in certain
instances Ferroglobe does not operate its electrometallurgy plants during certain periods when energy prices are at their peak. Demand
for Ferroglobe’s manganese- and silicon-based alloy and specialty metals products is lower during these same periods as its customers
also tend to suspend their energy-intensive production processes involving Ferroglobe’s products. As a result, sales within particular
geographic regions are subject to seasonality.
C. Organizational structure.
For a list of subsidiaries and ownership structure
see “Note 2. Organization and Subsidiaries” to our consolidated financial statements.
D. Property, Plant and
Equipment.
See “Item 4. Information on the Company—B.
Business Overview.”
ITEM 4A. UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS
Not applicable.
ITEM 5. OPERATING AND FINANCIAL
REVIEW AND PROSPECTS
A. Operating Results
Introduction
You should
read the following management’s discussion and analysis of our financial condition and results of operations together with our consolidated
financial statements, including the notes thereto, included in this Annual Report. The following discussion is based on our financial
information prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB, which might differ in material respects from generally accepted accounting
principles in other jurisdictions. The following discussion includes forward-looking statements that involve risks, uncertainties and
assumptions. Our actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of many factors,
including but not limited to those described under “Item 3. Key information—D. Risk factors” and elsewhere in this
Annual Report.
Principal Factors Affecting Our Results of
Operations
Sale prices
Ferroglobe’s
operating performance is highly correlated to the demand for our products, market prices and costs to serve in a globally competitive
environment. Ferroglobe follows a pricing policy aimed at maintaining balance between exposure to termed contracts, based on formula pricing,
and to the spot market. This approach allows Ferroglobe to remain flexible in adjusting its production and sales footprint depending on
changing market conditions, which traditionally have been volatile.
During 2023,
demand across our segments was impacted by the ongoing decline in market price, which had peaked in the prior years due to the re-filling
of value chains after the COVID-19 pandemic. The end market demand concerns were exacerbated by the higher interest and inflation rate
environment. Additionally, lower market demand continued into the second half of 2023.
Silicon
metal pricing declined during the year in line with demand across global value chains such as the chemical, aluminum, and other commodity
sectors. Pricing across Europe and Asia has converged while the US still carries a premium. The drop in demand has forced producers to
adjust their production, in an effort to attenuate the downward trend in silicon prices that began in mid-2022. The Company has further
noticed a trend reversal commencing in Q4 2023. Ferroalloy prices followed a similar trend, recovering in Q4 2023 as a result of improved
steel production in the EU and supply chain disruptions.
Since 2020,
the manganese-based alloy pricing spreads, over ore, recovered through mid-2022 and have since returned to near historical levels in late
2023 due to weaker demand of steel across Europe.
Our ferrosilicon
business pricing declined in 2023 in line with the weakening demand in steel going into the construction and automotive sectors. Further
investments were limited by the higher interest and inflation rate environment.
Cost of raw materials
The main
raw materials sourced by Ferroglobe are quartz, manganese ore, coal, metallurgical coke, wood and charcoal. Manganese ore is the largest
component of the cost base for manganese-based alloys. In 2023, more than 35% of Ferroglobe’s total $112.6 million in expenses with
respect to manganese ore fell under an annual commitment (33% of $187.8 million in 2022 and 27% of $133.48 million in 2021), while the
remaining was purchased on a spot basis.
In 2023,
coal represented a $191.3 million expense for Ferroglobe ($179.5 million in 2022 and %137.4 million in 2021). Metallurgical coke, used
for manganese alloys production, represented a total purchase volume of $41.5
million in 2023 ($72.9 million in 2022 and $47.5
million in 2021). Wood is both an important element for both the production of silicon alloys and the production of charcoal, which is
used as a carbon reductant at Ferroglobe’s South African operations. Ferroglobe’s wood expense amounted to $40.7 million,
$37.8 million and $36.8 million in 2023, 2022 and 2021, respectively. Ferroglobe sourced the majority of our quartz needs globally from
its own mines in Spain, South Africa, the Unites States and Canada. Total quartz consumption in 2023, 2022 and 2021 represented an expense
of $76.7 million, $90.4 million and $87.8 million, respectively.
Power
Power generally constitutes one of the largest
expenses for most of Ferroglobe’s products. Ferroglobe focuses on minimizing energy prices and unit consumption throughout its operations
through active management of our energy procurement and by concentrating its silicon and manganese-based alloy production during periods
when energy prices are lower. In 2023, Ferroglobe’s total power consumption was 5,834 gigawatt-hours (6,431 in 2022), with power
contracts that vary across its operations and geographies.
Energy pricing gradually improved in 2023 after
process peaked in 2022 due to the turmoil created by the conflict in Ukraine. With improved production in European countries, especially
nuclear power production in France, together with reduced consumption in most countries, prices declined throughout the year in Europe.
Other geographies remain relatively stable in both availability and prices except in South Africa where load shedding has been more common
than in previous years.
Foreign currency fluctuation
Ferroglobe has a diversified production base consisting
of production facilities across the United States, Europe, South America, South Africa and Asia. Ferroglobe production costs are mostly
dependent on local factors, with the exception of the cost of manganese ore and coal, which are dependent on global commodity prices.
The relative strength of the functional currencies of Ferroglobe’s subsidiaries influences its competitiveness in the international
market, most notably in the case of Ferroglobe’s South African operations, which have historically exported a majority of their
production to the U.S. and the European Union. For additional information see “Item 11.—Quantitative and Qualitative
Disclosures About Market Risk—Foreign Exchange Rate Risk.”
Regulatory changes
See “Item 4.B.—Business Overview—Regulatory
Matters.”
Comparison of the years ended December 31,
2023 and 2022
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 1,650,034 | | |
| 2,597,916 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (879,286 | ) | |
| (1,285,086 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 100,992 | | |
| 147,356 | |
Staff costs | |
| (305,859 | ) | |
| (314,810 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (270,090 | ) | |
| (346,252 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (73,532 | ) | |
| (81,559 | ) |
Impairment (loss) | |
| (25,290 | ) | |
| (56,999 | ) |
Other (loss) | |
| (29 | ) | |
| (19 | ) |
Operating profit | |
| 196,940 | | |
| 660,547 | |
Finance income | |
| 5,422 | | |
| 2,274 | |
Finance costs | |
| (38,793 | ) | |
| (61,015 | ) |
Exchange differences | |
| (7,551 | ) | |
| (9,995 | ) |
Profit before tax | |
| 156,018 | | |
| 591,811 | |
Income tax (expense) | |
| (57,540 | ) | |
| (147,983 | ) |
Profit for the year | |
| 98,478 | | |
| 443,828 | |
Profit attributable to non-controlling interests | |
| 15,816 | | |
| 3,514 | |
Profit attributable to the Parent | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | |
Sales
Sales decreased $947,882 thousand, or 36.5%, from
$2,597,916 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $1,650,034 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The decrease in our sales results is primarily attributable to lower volumes across our product portfolio and lower pricing of our main
products.
Sales revenue decreased across all major products
in 2023. Silicon metal sales revenue decreased $394,053 thousand, or 35.3%, and average selling prices of silicon metal decreased by 30.3%
to $3,715/MT in 2023 from $5,332/MT in 2022. Total shipments of silicon metal decreased by 7.1% due to weak demand in chemicals and aluminum
in Europe.
Silicon-Based Alloys sales revenue decreased $263,502
thousand, or 35%, and average selling prices decreased by 30.6% to $2,562/MT in 2023 from $3,694/MT in 2022. Total shipments decreased
by 6.2% driven by weak demand from steel manufacturers.
Manganese-Based
Alloys sales revenue decreased $266,199 thousand, or 50.7%, and average selling prices decreased by 35.8% to $1,141/MT in 2023, compared
to $1,778/MT in 2022. Total shipments decreased by 23.1% due to production adjustments in Spain as a result of high energy prices, and
lower-cost imports introducing higher pressure from Asia.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw materials and energy consumption for production
decreased $405,800 thousand, or 31.6%, from $1,285,086 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $879,286 thousand for
the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to the reduction in sales and our agreement with EDF regarding the electricity
pricing mechanism as well as the ARENH benefit of $186,211 thousand, which has been recorded as an offset to “raw materials and
energy consumption for production.” As mentioned earlier, this benefit was primarily based on favorable electricity pricing, even
negative, that we had agreed with EDF during time periods when demand for electricity was highest. We had not agreed a similar pricing
mechanism for 2022. During 2023, raw materials and energy consumption for production as a percentage of sales was 53%, compared to 49%
in 2022. The increase was driven by lower sales pricing.
Other operating income
Other operating income decreased $46,364 thousand,
or 31.5%, from $147,356 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $100,992 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, mainly due to the benefit received from our French energy provider to stop production in Q4 2022 amounting to $42,219 thousand and
lower income recognized in 2023 related to the carbon dioxide emission allowances amounting to $8,635 thousand.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $8,951 thousand, or 2.8%,
from $314,810 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $305,859 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. This
decrease is primarily due to a lower variable remuneration driven by the lower results in 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense decreased $76,182 thousand,
or 22.0%, from $346,252 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $270,090 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, driven by a decrease in distribution costs amounting to $26,831 thousand, a result of lower sales volumes, a reduction of services
of independent professionals amounting to $33,865 thousand and lower carbon dioxide cost for a total of $18,351 thousand.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges decreased
$8,027 thousand or 9.8%, from $81,559 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $73,532 thousand for the year ended
December 31, 2023. The decrease in depreciation is driven by the impairments of assets recognized in 2022, amounting to $56,999 thousand.
Impairment (loss) gain
Impairment losses decreased $31,709, from a loss
of $56,999 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $25,290 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
During the year ended December 31, 2023 the
Company recognized an impairment of $21,008 thousand in relation to our Selma facility in the U.S, an impairment of $1,570 thousand relating
to our Boo facility in Spain and an impairment of $3,619 thousand relating to our Cee-Dumbria facility in Spain.
During the year ended December 31, 2022 the
Company recognized an impairment of $56,999 thousand in relation to an impairment of $5,994 thousand relating to our Château Feuillet
facility in France, an impairment of $11,559 thousand relating to our Boo facility in Spain, an impairment of $5,915 thousand relating
to our Cinca facility in Spain, an impairment of $20,034 thousand relating to our Cee facility in Spain, an impairment of $15,749 thousand
relating to our Mo I Rana facility in Norway, impairment amounting to $5,514 thousand relating to our asset in Puertollano, Spain, an
impairment reversal of $2,750 thousand relating to our mining business in South Africa alongside, and an impairment reversal of
$5,017 thousand relating to our Polokwane facility also located in South Africa.
Finance income
Finance
income increased $3,148 thousand, or 138.4%, from $2,274 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $5,422 thousand for the
year ended December 31, 2023. The increase is driven by the interest received on money market funds.
Finance costs
Finance
costs decreased $26,871 thousand, or 44.0%, from $61,015 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $34,144 thousand for
the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease is primarily due to the partial redemption of the Reinstated Notes by
$150.0 million in July 2023 and the early partial repayment of $17.4 million of Reindus loan in February 2023.
Exchange differences
Exchange differences decreased $2,444 thousand,
or 24.5% from $9,995 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $7,551 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023,
primarily due to the EUR-USD exchange rate.
Income tax (expense) benefit
Income tax expense decreased $90,443 thousand,
from an income tax expense of $147,983 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to an income tax expense of $57,540 thousand
for the year ended December 31, 2023. The variance is primarily due to a lower income tax recorded in 2023, mainly in the United
States by $7,825 thousand recorded in 2023 compared to $68,104 thousand in 2022 and in Canada by $6,226 thousand recorded in 2023 compared
to $27,209 thousand in 2022, both driven by higher profit before tax in 2022.
Segment operations
Operating segments are based upon the Company’s
management reporting structure. As such, we report our results in accordance with the following segments:
| · | North America – Silicon Metals |
| · | North America – Silicon Alloys |
| · | South Africa – Silicon Metals |
| · | South Africa – Silicon Alloys |
North America – Silicon Metals
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 505,472 | | |
| 671,290 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (313,162 | ) | |
| (305,545 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 6,605 | | |
| 6,464 | |
Staff costs | |
| (67,160 | ) | |
| (61,378 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (44,304 | ) | |
| (33,708 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (32,313 | ) | |
| (33,708 | ) |
Impairment (loss) | |
| (21,008 | ) | |
| — | |
Other (loss) | |
| (71 | ) | |
| (522 | ) |
Operating (loss) profit | |
| 34,059 | | |
| 242,893 | |
Sales
Sales decreased $165,818 thousand, or 24.7%, from
$671,290 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $505,472 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023 and average
selling prices decreased by 30.4% to $3,968/MT in 2023 from $5,700/MT in 2022. Total shipments of silicon metal remain stable in 2023
compared to 2022.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw materials and energy consumption increased
$7,617 thousand, or 2.5%, from $305,545 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $313,162 thousand for the year
ended December 31, 2023. The increase in our raw materials and energy consumption for production is due to higher raw material costs.
Other operating income
Other operating income increased $141 thousand,
or 2.2%, from $6,464 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $6,605 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Staff costs
Staff costs increased $5,782 thousand, or 9.4%,
from $61,378 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $67,160 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The increase is primarily due to a higher number of employees in 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense increased $10,596 thousand,
or 31.4%, from $33,708 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $44,304 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily due to the agreement in its partnerships with Dow Corning.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges decreased
$1,395 thousand, or 4.1%, from $33,708 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $32,313 thousand for the year ended
December 31, 2023.
Impairment (loss)
The Company recorded an impairment loss of $21,008
thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023 associated with the idling of our Selma facility in the U.S.
North America – Silicon Alloys
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 283,180 | | |
| 339,414 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (165,193 | ) | |
| (68,490 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 3,896 | | |
| 122 | |
Staff costs | |
| (37,744 | ) | |
| (41,923 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (26,840 | ) | |
| (37,859 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (15,183 | ) | |
| (15,135 | ) |
Other (loss) | |
| (115 | ) | |
| (126 | ) |
Operating profit | |
| 42,001 | | |
| 176,003 | |
Sales
Sales
decreased $56,234 thousand, or 16.6%, from $339,414 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $283,180 thousand for the year
ended December 31, 2023 and average selling prices decreased by 38.2% to $2,936/MT in 2023 from $4,747/MT in 2022. Total shipments
increased by 16%.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw
materials and energy consumption increased $96,703 thousand, or 141.2%, from $68,490 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2022 to $165,193 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. The increase in our raw materials and energy consumption for
production is mainly due to higher raw material prices and the increase in overall shipments.
Other operating income
Other operating income increased $3,774 thousand,
or 3093.4%, from $122 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $3,896 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
This income relates primarily to the commissions charged to other group companies that are eliminated during the consolidation process.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $4,179 thousand, or 10.0%,
from $41,923 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $37,744 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The decrease is primarily due to lower variable remuneration driven by our lower results in 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense decreased $11,019 thousand,
or 29.1%, from $37,859 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $26,840 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023. The decrease is primarily due to litigation provisions recorded in 2022 that were settled during 2023.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges increased
$48 thousand, or 0.3%, from $15,135 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $15,183 thousand for the year ended
December 31, 2023.
Europe - Manganese
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 277,508 | | |
| 701,140 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (183,839 | ) | |
| (541,034 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 36,628 | | |
| 42,882 | |
Staff costs | |
| (28,326 | ) | |
| (28,996 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (69,897 | ) | |
| (111,741 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (7,835 | ) | |
| (13,005 | ) |
Impairment (loss) | |
| (1,571 | ) | |
| (33,222 | ) |
Other gain (loss) | |
| 1 | | |
| (178 | ) |
Operating profit | |
| 22,669 | | |
| 15,846 | |
Sales
Sales decreased $423,632 thousand or 60.4%, from
$701,140 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $277,508 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023,
driven by a decrease in average selling prices by 35.8% to $1,141/MT in 2023 from $1,778/MT in 2022. Total shipments decreased by 23.1%.
Additionally, sales of other products decreased in 2023 in both volumes and average sales prices.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw
materials and energy consumption decreased $357,195 thousand, or 66.0%, from $541,034 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2022 to $183,839 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023, mainly due to the French energy agreement benefit as discussed
above and recorded in 2023 amounting to $54,380 thousand and the decrease in overall shipments.
Other operating income
Other operating income decreased $6,254 thousand,
or 14.6%, from $42,882 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $36,628 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily driven by the energy compensation received in France in 2022.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $670 thousand or 2.3%, from
$28,996 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $28,326 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense decreased $41,844 thousand,
or 37.4%, from $111,741 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $69,897 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily driven by a decrease in distribution costs linked to lower volumes in 2023 compared to 2022.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges decreased
$5,170 thousand, or 39.8%, from $13,005 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $7,835 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily due to the impairments recorded in 2022 in our facilities in Boo, Monzón and Mo I Rana.
Impairment (loss)
Impairment losses decreased by $31,651 thousand,
from a loss of $33,222 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to a loss of $1,571 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023. During 2023, the Company recorded an impairment in our facility in Boo (Spain), of $1,570 thousand, while in 2022 we recorded an
impairment of $11,559 thousand, and an impairment in our facilities in Monzón (Spain), and Mo I Rana (Norway) of $5,915 thousand
and $15,749 thousand, respectively.
Europe – Silicon Metals
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 307,230 | | |
| 536,753 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (103,304 | ) | |
| (241,936 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 40,321 | | |
| 76,255 | |
Staff costs | |
| (79,114 | ) | |
| (81,175 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (71,632 | ) | |
| (99,513 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (6,325 | ) | |
| (4,605 | ) |
Other gain | |
| 79 | | |
| 230 | |
Operating (loss) profit | |
| 87,255 | | |
| 186,009 | |
Sales
Sales
decreased $229,523 thousand or 42.8%, from $536,753 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $307,230 thousand for the year
ended December 31, 2023 and average selling prices decreased by 31.2% to $3,422/MT in 2023 from $4,978/MT in 2022. Total shipments
decreased by 24%.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw
materials and energy consumption decreased $138,632 thousand, or 57.3%, from $241,936 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2022 to $307,230 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. Raw materials and energy consumption decreased driven by the
French energy agreement benefit recorded in 2023 amounting to $96,816 thousand and the decrease in overall shipments.
Other operating income
Other operating income decreased $35,934 thousand,
or 47.1%, from $76,255 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $40,321 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily due to energy compensation received in France in 2023 and lower income related to the carbon dioxide emission allowances
recognized in 2023.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $2,061 thousand or 2.5%,
from $81,175 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $79,114 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The decrease is primarily due to a lower variable remuneration driven by our lower results during 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense decreased $27,881 thousand,
or 28.0%, from $99,513 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $71,632 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily driven by a decrease in distribution costs due to lower product volumes in 2023 compared to 2022.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation
and amortization charges increased $1,720 thousand, or 37.4%, from $4,605 thousand for the year ended December 31,2022 to $6,325
thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to property, plant and equipment additions.
Europe – Silicon Alloys
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 216,465 | | |
| 259,419 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (108,409 | ) | |
| (139,687 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 21,149 | | |
| 23,622 | |
Staff costs | |
| (42,069 | ) | |
| (50,467 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (44,132 | ) | |
| (33,265 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (3,005 | ) | |
| (8,086 | ) |
Impairment (loss) | |
| (3,619 | ) | |
| (26,028 | ) |
Other gain | |
| 47 | | |
| 82 | |
Operating (loss) profit | |
| 36,427 | | |
| 25,590 | |
Sales
Sales decreased $42,954 thousand or 16.6%, from
$259,419 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $216,465 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023, and average
selling prices decreased by 14,6% to $2,766/MT in 2023 from $3,240/MT in 2022. Total shipments decrease by 4.3%.
Raw Materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw
Materials and energy consumption decreased $31,278 thousand, or 22.4%, from $139,687 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2022 to $108,409 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. Raw materials and energy consumption decreased driven by the
French energy agreement benefit recorded in 2023 amounting to $35,001 thousand.
Other operating income
Other operating income decreased $2,473 thousand,
or 10.5%, from $23,622 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $21,149 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily due to energy compensation received in France in 2022.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $8,398 thousand or 16.6%,
from $50,467 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $42,069 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The decrease is due to lower variable remuneration driven by the lower results in 2023.
Other operating expense
Other
operating expense increased $10,867 thousand, or 32.7%, from $33,265 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $44,132
thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily attributable to restructuring and legal provisions associated with
the disposal of our Chateau Feuillet facility.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges decreased
$5,081 thousand, or 62.8%, from $8,086 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $3,005 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023.
Impairment (loss)
Impairment loss decreased by $22,409 thousand,
from a loss of $26,028 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to a loss of $3,619 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company recognized an impairment of $3,619 thousand in relation to our tolling
agreement with the plant in Cee, Spain, while in 2022 we recorded an impairment of $20,034 thousand. Additionally in 2022 we also recorded
an impairment of $5,994 thousand at the Château Feuillet facility in France.
South Africa – Silicon Metals
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 50,071 | | |
| 17,337 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (44,003 | ) | |
| (9,270 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 594 | | |
| 156 | |
Staff costs | |
| (5,007 | ) | |
| (1,736 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (11,223 | ) | |
| (2,649 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (1,840 | ) | |
| (748 | ) |
Impairment gain | |
| 478 | | |
| 5,357 | |
Operating profit | |
| (10,930 | ) | |
| 8,447 | |
Sales
Sales increased $32,734 thousand, or 188.8%, from
$17,337 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $50,071 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023, mainly
due to the restarting of the Polokwane facility.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw materials and energy consumption increased
$34,733 thousand, or 374.7%, from $9,270 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $44,003 thousand for the year
ended December 31, 2023, driven by the increase in product volumes sold during 2023 due to incremental cost associated with the ramping
up and restarting of the Polokwane facility.
Other operating income
Other operating income increased $438 thousand,
or 280.8%, from $156 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $594 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023.
Staff costs
Staff costs increased $3,271 thousand, or 188.4%,
from $1,736 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $5,007 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
The increase in mainly due to the restarting of the Polokwane facility.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense increased $8,574 thousand,
or 323.7%, from $2,649 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $11,223 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023. The increase in mainly due to the higher commercial expenses associated with higher volumes sold during 2023.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges increased
$1,092 thousand, or 146.0%, from $748 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $1,840 thousand for the year ended
December 31, 2023.
Impairment gain
Impairment gain decreased $4,879 thousand, from
$5,357 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $478 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. This variance is
mainly due to the partial reversal of the Polokwane impairment of $5,017 thousand recorded in 2022.
South Africa – Silicon Alloys
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 109,684 | | |
| 122,262 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (82,201 | ) | |
| (65,373 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| (142 | ) | |
| 66 | |
Staff costs | |
| (10,412 | ) | |
| (11,652 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (10,718 | ) | |
| (13,193 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (4,056 | ) | |
| (5,278 | ) |
Impairment gain | |
| — | | |
| 2,408 | |
Operating profit | |
| 2,155 | | |
| 29,240 | |
Sales
Sales decreased $12,578 thousand, or 10.3%, from
$122,262 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $109,684 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Average selling prices decreased by 23.9% to $2,087/MT in 2023 from $2,740/MT in 2022. Total shipments of silicon metal remain stable
in 2023 compared to 2022.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw materials and energy consumption for production
increased $16,828 thousand, or 25.8%, from $65,373 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $82,201 thousand for the year
ended December 31, 2023. The increase is attributed to the higher energy cost.
Other operating income
Other operating income decreased $208 thousand,
or 315.5%, from $66 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $142 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $1,240 thousand, from $11,652
or 10.7% thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $10,412 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense decreased $2,475 thousand,
or 18.8%, from $13,193 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $10,718 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges decreased
$1,222 thousand, or 23.1%, from $5,278 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $4,056 thousand for the year ended
December 31, 2023.
Impairment gain
Impairment gain decreased $2,408 thousand, or
100%, from $2,408 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to nil for the year ended December 31, 2023. This variance is
primarily due to the reversal of the Thaba Chueu Mining, Ltd impairment recorded in 2022.
Other segments
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Sales | |
| 54,921 | | |
| 81,560 | |
Raw materials and energy consumption for production | |
| (35,280 | ) | |
| (46,759 | ) |
Other operating income | |
| 50,655 | | |
| 59,840 | |
Staff costs | |
| (36,027 | ) | |
| (37,483 | ) |
Other operating expense | |
| (48,309 | ) | |
| (74,626 | ) |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| (2,975 | ) | |
| (994 | ) |
Impairment gain (loss) | |
| 430 | | |
| (5,514 | ) |
Other gain | |
| 30 | | |
| 495 | |
Operating (loss) | |
| (16,555 | ) | |
| (23,481 | ) |
Sales
Sales decreased $26,639 thousand, or 32.7%, from
$81,560 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $54,921 for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily due
to a decrease in selling prices for our products.
Raw materials and energy consumption for
production
Raw materials and energy consumption for production
decreased $11,479 thousand, or 24.5%, from $46,759 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $35,280 thousand for the year
ended December 31, 2023, primarily due to lower costs as consequence of the lower production volumes.
Other operating income
Other operating income decreased $9,185 thousand,
or 15.3%, from $59,840 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $50,655 thousand for the year ended December 31,
2023, primarily due to an increase in the allocation of management fee charges that are eliminated during the consolidation process.
Staff costs
Staff costs decreased $1,456 thousand, or 3.9%,
from $37,483 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $36,027 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Other operating expense
Other operating expense decreased $26,317 thousand,
or 35.3%, from $74,626 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to $48,309 for the year ended December 31, 2023, primarily
due to a reduction of professional services costs.
Depreciation and amortization charges
Depreciation and amortization charges were $994
thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 and $2,975 thousand for the year ended December 31,2023.
Impairment gain (loss)
Impairment losses decreased $5,944 or 107.8%,
from a loss of $5,514 thousand for the year ended 31 December 2022 to a gain of $430 thousand for the year ended 31 December 2023,
primarily due to the impairment recorded in 2022 in our solar-grade silicon metal project in Puertollano, Spain, amounting to $5,514 thousand.
Comparison of the years ended December 31,
2022 and 2021
For a discussion of the financial results and
condition for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2021, please refer to “Item 5. Operating and financial review and
prospects—A. Operating results—Comparison of the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021” of our Annual Report
on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2022 filed on May 1, 2023.
Non-IFRS measures and reconciliation
In addition to our operating results, as calculated
in accordance with IFRS as adopted by the IASB, the Company uses non-IFRS measures such as EBITDA, working capital and net debt for internal
planning and performance measurement purposes. We believe these measures provide useful information about the financial performance of
our operations that facilitates period-to-period comparisons on a consistent basis. Management uses EBITDA internally to evaluate our
underlying operating performance for the reporting periods presented and to assist with the planning and forecasting of future operating
results. Management believes that EBITDA is a useful measure of our performance because it reflects our cash generation potential from
our operational activities excluding depreciation and amortization and miscellaneous adjustments, if any, for the period. These measures
should not be considered individually or as a substitute for net income or operating income, as indicators of operating performance, or
as alternatives to cash flow as measures of liquidity. Additionally, our calculation of EBITDA and other non-IFRS measures may be different
from the calculation used by other companies, including our competitors in the mining industry, so our measures may not be comparable
to those of other companies.
In this Annual Report, we present EBITDA, which
we define as net profit (loss) attributable to the parent, adjusted by (i) profit (loss) attributable to non-controlling interest;
(ii) income tax (benefit) expense; (iii) net finance expense; and (iv) depreciation and amortization charges; and we present
FX Adjusted EBITDA, which we define as EBITDA adjusted by exchange differences. In addition, management may adjust the effect of certain
types of transactions that in its judgment are not indicative of the Company´s normal operating activities, or do not necessarily
occur on a regular basis.
A reconciliation of EBITDA and FX Adjusted EBITDA
to our net income (loss) for the years indicated is presented below:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | | |
2021 | |
Profit (loss) attributable to the parent | |
| 82,662 | | |
| 440,314 | | |
| (110,624 | ) |
Profit (Loss) attributable to non-controlling interest | |
| 15,816 | | |
| 3,514 | | |
| (4,750 | ) |
Income tax (benefit) expense | |
| 57,540 | | |
| 147,983 | | |
| (4,562 | ) |
Net finance expense | |
| 33,371 | | |
| 58,741 | | |
| 148,936 | |
Depreciation and amortization charges | |
| 73,532 | | |
| 81,559 | | |
| 97,328 | |
EBITDA | |
| 262,921 | | |
| 732,111 | | |
| 126,328 | |
Exchange differences | |
| 7,551 | | |
| 9,995 | | |
| 2,386 | |
FX Adjusted EBITDA | |
| 270,472 | | |
| 742,106 | | |
| 128,714 | |
We calculate working capital as (i) inventories, plus (ii) trade
and other receivables, less (iii) trade and other payables. The Company believes that working capital is an important figure
as it provides a relevant metric for the efficiency and liquidity of our operating activities.
The calculation of our working capital derived
from our consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented below:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Inventories | |
| 383,841 | | |
| 500,080 | |
Trade and other receivables | |
| 310,243 | | |
| 420,484 | |
Trade and other payables | |
| (183,375 | ) | |
| (219,666 | ) |
Working Capital | |
| 510,709 | | |
| 700,898 | |
We
calculate net debt as the summation of (i) bank borrowings excluding factoring agreements; (ii) debt instruments; and
(iii) other financial liabilities; less (v) non-current restricted cash; (vi) current restricted cash; and (vii) cash
and cash equivalents.
The calculation of our net debt derived from our
consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2023 and 2022 is presented below:
| |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Bank borrowings(1) | |
| 15,865 | | |
| 16,857 | |
Debt instruments | |
| 154,780 | | |
| 343,442 | |
Other financial liabilities | |
| 81,283 | | |
| 98,661 | |
Non-current restricted cash | |
| — | | |
| (2,133 | ) |
Current restricted cash | |
| (1,179 | ) | |
| (2,875 | ) |
Cash and cash equivalents | |
| (136,470 | ) | |
| (317,935 | ) |
Net Debt | |
| 114,279 | | |
| 136,017 | |
(1) Bank
borrowings exclude factoring programs
B. Liquidity and Capital
Resources
Overview
The
Company’s financial resources are managed conservatively to fund our working capital requirements, capital expenditures, service
our indebtedness and fund key initiatives underlying our strategic plan, including our ESG-related initiatives. Ferroglobe’s
core objective with respect to capital management is to maintain a balanced and sustainable capital structure through the economic cycles
of the industries in which it participates, while keeping the cost of capital at competitive levels. The Company has historically managed
these efforts through its cash flows from operations, long-term debt and share issuances, revolving lines of credit, funding from the
Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (“SEPI”) and its factoring arrangements
with third parties.
In
July 2023, in coordination with the management of our liabilities and strengthened cash and cash equivalents position, the Company
via its subsidiary issuers of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 (the “Notes”) partially redeemed such Notes
at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. The issuers elected to redeem an aggregate principal amount of $150.0 million
of the Notes plus accrued and unpaid interest of $14,000 thousand. In February 2024, the Company completed the full redemption of
the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025 at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. The issuers elected to redeem an
aggregate principal amount of $147,624 thousand of the Notes, the entire amount outstanding as of the redemption date, plus accrued and
unpaid interest and call premium of $4,075 thousand. The Notes were fully redeemed from the Company’s cash and cash equivalents.
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, Ferroglobe
had cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents of $137,649 thousand (of which $1,179 thousand is restricted cash) and $322,943 thousand
(of which $5,008 thousand is restricted cash), respectively. Cash and cash equivalents are primarily held in USD and EUR.
In addition to these resources, the
Company believes that our working capital is sufficient for our present requirements, and we anticipate generating
sufficient cash to satisfy our short and long-term liquidity needs.
Capital Expenditures
The Company’s capital expenditures for the years
ended December 31, 2023, 2022 and 2021 were $83,679 thousand, $52,153 thousand and $27,597 thousand, respectively. These investments
targeted expansion and productivity improvements, as well as, capitalizable repairs and maintenance.
Debt
Debt comprises bank borrowings, obligations under
leases, debt instruments, and other financial liabilities. As of December 31, 2023, the Company’s total outstanding debt was
$310,998 thousand, consisting of $61,535 thousand in short-term, including the current portion of long-term debt, and $249,463 in long-term
debt.
Our USD denominated debt as of December 31,
2023 was $171,566 thousand (or 55% of our total debt), our EUR denominated indebtedness was $131,429 million (or 42% of our total debt)
and other denominated debt was $8,003 thousand (or 3% of our total debt).
As of December 31, 2023, $79,294 thousand
(23% of total debt) bears interest at floating rates and $275,726 thousand (77% of total debt) bears interest at fixed rates.
Long-term debt
The following
discussion briefly describes our long-term debt arrangements as of December 31, 2023. For additional information, see the Notes
to our consolidated financial statements.
Reinstated
and Super Senior Notes: In 2017, the Company issued $350,000 thousand of 9.375% senior
unsecured notes due in March 2022 (the “Notes”). Interest was payable semi-annually. In 2021, the Company effected a
restructuring of these Notes, with the following terms:
| · | The Company exchanged 98.6% of the Notes due in 2022 (the “Old Notes”) for total consideration
of $1,000 of principal amount, which is comprised of (i) $1,000 aggregate principal amount of the new 9.375% senior secured notes
due in 2025 (the “Reinstated Senior Notes”) plus (ii) cash amount to $51.6 million, which the Company’s Parent
applied as cash consideration for a subscription of new ordinary shares of the Company. |
| · | The Company issued $60.0 million in new 9% senior secured notes due in 2025 (“Super Senior Notes”). |
In tandem with this restructuring, the Company
issued new ordinary shares for total gross proceeds of $40.0 million.
In March and July 2022, the Company
fully redeemed both its Old Notes and its Super Senior Notes, respectively.
In
July 2023, the Company partially redeemed the Reinstated Senior Notes, for an aggregate principal amount of $150.0 million
of the Notes plus accrued. In February 2024, the Company completed the full redemption of the 9.375% Senior Secured Notes due 2025
at 102.34375% of the principal amount plus accrued interest.
REINDUS
Loan: In 2016, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism and Commerce
(the “Ministry”) to borrow an aggregate principal amount of €44,999 thousand ($50,223 thousand) in connection with
the industrial development projects related to a silicon project in Spain, at an annual interest rate of 3.6%. The Company is required
to repay this loan in seven instalments commencing in 2023 and to be completed by 2030.
The Company commenced repayment of the loan, making
a €16.3 million ($17.4 million) payment in February 2023. See “Item 4.B.—Information on the Company—Business
Overview—Research and Development (R&D)—Solar grade silicon” as well as Note 18 Other financial liabilities to our
consolidated financial statements.
Québec
Loan: In 2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with Investissement Québec to borrow an aggregate
principal amount, interest-free, of CAD 7.0 million to finance its capital expenditures activities in Canada. The loan is to be repaid
over a seven-year period, with payments deferred for the first three years from inception of the loan.
French
Loan: In 2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with BNP Paribas to borrow an aggregate principal amount,
interest-free, of €4,300 thousand ($4,752 thousand), to finance the Company’s activities in France. The French government guaranteed
the loan in line with special measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The loan is to be repaid by 2026. The Company is liable
for a fee of 0.5% based on the total borrowed capital.
SEPI
loan: In March 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals, S.A.U. (also “FG Spain”, formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica,
S.A.U.) and Ferroglobe Corporate Services (also “FG Corporate”, formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica de Servicios) (together
the “Beneficiaries”) and the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (“SEPI”), a Spanish state-owned
industrial holding company affiliated with the Ministry of Finance and Administration, entered into a loan agreement for €34.5 million.
This loan is part of the SEPI fund intended to provide assistance to non-financial companies operating in strategically important sectors
within Spain of the experienced hardships related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The €34.5 million was funded using a dual-tranche
loan, with the first €17.25 million maturing in February 2025 and the second €17.3 million maturing in June 2025.
€16.9 million of the loan carries a fixed interest rate of 2% per annum, and interest on the remaining €17.6 million is calculated
as IBOR plus a spread of 2.5% in the first year, 3.5% in the second and third years and 5.0% in the fourth year, plus an additional 1.0%
payable if the borrower reports a positive result before income taxes. The loans are secured by corporate joint guarantees from Ferroglobe,
Ferroglobe Holding Company and Ferroglobe Finance Company and certain share pledges, bank account pledges, intercompany receivables pledges,
inventory pledges and security over certain real property, and other assets from FG Spain and certain of its subsidiaries.
Until the loans have been fully repaid, the Beneficiaries
are subject to several restrictions, including: on the (i) payment of dividends; (ii) payment of management fee; (iii) repayment
of intra-group loans; (iv) payment of intercompany net commercial balances that were outstanding as of June 30, 2021 (denominated
“legacy”), with an exception of $20.0 million of those balances. (Intercompany commercial balances generated after June 2021
are permitted); and (v) payment of interest on intercompany loans corresponding to the years 2022 and 2021, respectively.
North American revolving line of credit
In
June 2022, a Company subsidiary entered into a five-year, $100 million asset-based revolving credit facility (the “ABL Revolver”),
with the Bank of Montreal as lender and agent. The maximum amount available under the ABL Revolver at any given moment is subject
to a borrowing base test comprising North American inventory and accounts receivable. The revolver bears interest at SOFR plus a spread
of between 150/175 basis points depending on levels of utilization. During the year ended December 31, 2023, the Company drew down
$1,000 thousand, which was fully repaid, yielding no balance as of the end of the year.
Under the ABL credit agreement, the borrowers
commit not to, without lender consent, create or incur any indebtedness, capital leases in excess of a $7.5 million, create liens, merge,
dissolve, divide any borrowers, change the nature of the business, pay dividends, repay indebtedness for the account of holder of equity
interests of any loan party or its affiliates, and maintain a financial covenant consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio to be less than
1.00 to 1.00.
Factoring arrangements
In
October 2020, the Company signed a factoring agreement with a financial institution to anticipate the collection of receivables issued
by the Company’s European subsidiaries with the following main terms:
| · | maximum cash consideration advanced is up to €60.0 million; |
| · | overcollateralization of 10% of accounts receivable as a guarantee provided to the Agent until the payment
has been satisfied; |
| · | a 0.18% to 0.25% fee charges on total invoices and credit notes sold to the Agent; and |
| · | a financing commission set at IBOR plus 1% charged on drawdowns; |
Other conditions are set in relation to credit
insurance policy which has been structured in an excess of loss policy where the first €5,000 thousand of bad debt losses are not
covered by the insurance provider. The Company has assumed the cash collateralization for the entire excess of loss, as agreed in contractual
terms.
In
February 2022 the company signed a without recourse factoring agreement with Bankinter that offers the possibility
to sell the receivables corresponding to 11 pre-approved customers by the bank and its credit insurer. Receivables are pre-financed at
100% of their face value.
The main characteristics of this program are the
following:
| · | maximum cash consideration advanced is up to €30,000 thousand; |
| · | a 0.25% fee of the receivables face values; |
| · | a cost of financing at Euribor 12-month plus 1%; |
| · | a closing fee of 0.25% of the financing; and |
| · | an annual renewal fee of 0.25% of the financing. |
Availability of funds
As of December 31, 2023 and 2022, we had
cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and other restricted funds amounting to $137,649 thousand and $322,943 thousand, respectively.
Please see Note 9 Financial assets and other receivables to our consolidated financial statements.
The Company also has certain restrictions in the
partnerships with Dow as of December 31, 2023.
Ferroglobe PLC is the parent company of Ferroglobe
Group and receives funding from its subsidiaries in the form of intercompany loans. Consequently, certain restrictions on the ability
of the Group’s subsidiaries to transfer funds to Ferroglobe PLC negatively affect our liquidity and thus our business.
Ferroglobe Spain Metals also has restrictions
coming from the SEPI loans. Until the loans have been fully repaid, the company is subject to several restrictions, including the following
prohibited payments: (1) payment of dividends; (2) payment of management fee; (3) repayment of intra-group loans; (4) payment
of intercompany net commercial balances as of June 30, 2021 (denominated “legacy”), with an exception of $20M of those
balances (intercompany commercial balances generated after Jun-21 are permitted); and (5) payment of interest on intercompany loans
corresponding to the years 2021 and 2022 (see Note 19).
Under the ABL credit agreement, the borrowers
commit to respect usual affirmative covenants, among others communicating any default or event of default, a change of control, the creation
of acquisition of subsidiaries, a casualty or damage to any material used as a collateral, maintenance of the insurance, the compliance
with ERISA and the Canadian Pension Laws, the compliance with environmental laws. The borrowers also commit not to create or incur any
indebtedness, capital leases in excess of a $7.5m, create liens, merge, dissolve, divide any borrowers, change the nature of the business,
pay dividends, repay indebtedness for the account of holder of Equity Interests of any Loan Party or its affiliates, maintain a financial
covenant consolidated fixed charge coverage ratio to be less than 1.00 to 1.00.
Contractual Obligations
The following table sets forth Ferroglobe’s
contractual obligations and commercial commitments with definitive payment terms that will require significant cash outlays in the future,
as of December 31, 2023.
| |
| | |
Payments Due by Period | |
| |
| | |
Less than | | |
| | |
| | |
More than | |
($ thousands) | |
| Total | | |
| 1 year | | |
| 1 - 3 years | | |
| 3 - 5 years | | |
| 5 years | |
Non-current and current debt obligations | |
| 188,397 | | |
| 19,692 | | |
| 168,705 | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Government loans | |
| 84,926 | | |
| 14,653 | | |
| 51,243 | | |
| 15,444 | | |
| 3,586 | |
Bank borrowings | |
| 46,548 | | |
| 31,635 | | |
| — | | |
| 1,683 | | |
| 13,230 | |
Capital expenditures | |
| 16,019 | | |
| 16,019 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Leases | |
| 38,489 | | |
| 9,240 | | |
| 6,413 | | |
| 10,897 | | |
| 11,939 | |
Power purchase commitments (1) | |
| 434,507 | | |
| 154,622 | | |
| 200,678 | | |
| 64,289 | | |
| 14,918 | |
Purchase obligations (2) | |
| 16,714 | | |
| 16,714 | | |
| — | | |
| — | | |
| — | |
Other non-current liabilities (3) | |
| 138,329 | | |
| 4,083 | | |
| 8,348 | | |
| 11,726 | | |
| 114,172 | |
Total | |
| 963,929 | | |
| 266,658 | | |
| 435,387 | | |
| 104,039 | | |
| 157,845 | |
| (1) | Represents minimum charges that are enforceable and legally binding, and do not represent total anticipated
purchases. Minimum charges requirements expire after providing one year notice of contract cancellation. |
| (2) | The Company has outstanding purchase obligations with suppliers for raw materials in the normal course
of business. The disclosed purchase obligation amount represents commitments to suppliers that are enforceable and legally binding and
do not represent total anticipated purchases of raw materials in the future. |
| (3) | Included tolling agreement with Cee-Dumbria facility and contingent consideration with Glencore. |
The table above also excludes certain other obligations
reflected in our consolidated statements of financial position, including estimated funding for pension obligations, for which the timing
of payments may vary based on changes in the fair value of pension plan assets and actuarial assumptions. We expect to contribute $601
thousand to our pension plans for the year ended December 31, 2024.
Further information regarding Ferrogloble’s
contractual obligations and commercial commitments as of December 31, 2023, is set forth in Note 29 Financial risk management to
the consolidated financial statements.
Cash Flows
Comparison of the years ended December 31,
2023 and 2022
The following table summarizes our cash flows
for the periods indicated:
| |
Year ended December 31, | |
($ thousands) | |
2023 | | |
2022 | |
Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period | |
| 322,943 | | |
| 116,663 | |
Cash flows from operating activities | |
| 178,372 | | |
| 405,018 | |
Cash flows from investing activities | |
| (81,806 | ) | |
| (51,774 | ) |
Cash flows from financing activities | |
| (282,147 | ) | |
| (140,458 | ) |
Exchange differences on cash and cash equivalents in foreign currencies | |
| 287 | | |
| (6,506 | ) |
Cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents at end of period | |
| 137,649 | | |
| 322,943 | |
Cash, restricted cash and cash equivalents at end of period from statement of financial position | |
| 137,649 | | |
| 322,943 | |
Cash flows from operating activities
Cash flows from operating activities decreased
$226,646 thousand, from a positive cash generated of $405,018 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022, to a positive $178,372
thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. The change in cash flows from operating activities for the year ended December 31,
2023 was mainly due to (i)
a decrease of $345.3 million in the profit for the year, from a net profit of $443.8 million for the year
ended December 31, 2022 compared with a net profit of $98.5 million for the same period in 2023, (ii) a decrease of $156.4 million
in non-cash adjustments, predominantly driven by a decrease of $90.4 million in income tax expense, and (iii) a decrease in other
changes in operating assets and liabilities by $112.9 million; mainly related to the energy receivable.
Cash flows from investing activities
Cash flows from investing activities increased
$30,032 thousand from an outflow of $51,774 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022, to an outflow of $81,806 thousand
for the year ended December 31, 2023. Capital expenditures increased during the year ended December 31, 2023 to $83,679
thousand from $52,153 thousand during the year ended December 31, 2022.
Cash flows from financing activities
Cash flows from financing activities decreased
$141,689 thousand, from a net outflow of $140,458 thousand for the year ended December 31, 2022 to a net outflow of $282,147
thousand for the year ended December 31, 2023. The decrease is mainly due to the partial redemption of the Reinstated Notes
by $150.0 million in July 2023, the repurchase of $29 million of Reinstated Notes and the early partial repayment of $17.4 million
of Reindus loan in February 2023. In 2022, the Company repaid the principal of the Super Senior Notes amounting to $60 million and
the Old Notes amounting $4.9 million, and repurchased $19.05 million of the Reinstated Notes.
C. Research and Development,
Patents and Licenses, etc.
For additional information see “Item 4.B.—Information
on the Company—Business Overview—Research and Development (R&D).”
D. Trend Information
We discuss in Item 5.A. above and elsewhere
in this Annual Report, trends, uncertainties, demands, commitments or events for the year ended December 31, 2023 that we believe
are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on our revenues, income, profitability, liquidity or capital resources or to cause
the disclosed financial information not to be necessarily indicative of future operating results or financial conditions.
E. Critical Accounting
Estimates
Not applicable.
ITEM 7. MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS
AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
B. Related Party Transactions
The following includes a summary of material transactions
with any: (i) enterprises that directly or indirectly through one or more intermediaries, control or are controlled by, or are under
common control with us, (ii) associates, (iii) individuals owning, directly or indirectly, an interest in the voting power of
the Company, that gives them significant influence over us, and close members of any such individual’s family, (iv) key management
personnel, including directors and senior management of such companies and close members of such individuals’ families or (v) enterprises
in which a substantial interest in the voting power is owned, directly or indirectly, by any person described in (iii) or (iv) or
over which such person is able to exercise significant influence.
Grupo VM shareholder agreement
On
November 21, 2017, we entered into an amended and restated shareholder agreement with Grupo VM (the “Grupo VM Shareholder Agreement”),
as amended on January 13, 2021, and July 29, 2021 that contains various rights and obligations with respect to Grupo VM’s
Ordinary Shares, including in relation to the appointment of directors and dealings in the Company’s shares. It sets out a maximum
number of directors (the “Maximum Number”) designated by Grupo VM (each, a “Grupo VM Director”) dependent on the
percentage of share capital in the Company held by Grupo VM. The Maximum Number is three, if Grupo VM’s percentage of the Company’s
shares is greater than 25%; two if the percentage is greater than 15% but less than 25%; and one if the percentage is greater than 10%
but less than 15%. As at the date of this Annual Report, the Board of Directors of the Company has three Grupo VM Directors pursuant to
the Grupo VM Shareholder Agreement: Javier Lopez Madrid, Juan Villar-Mir de Fuentes and Manuel Garrido y Ruano. Additionally, Silvia Villar-Mir
de Fuentes is affiliated with Grupo VM.
Under the Grupo VM Shareholder Agreement, Grupo
VM has the right to submit the names of one or more director candidates (a “Grupo VM Nominee”) to the Nominations Committee
for consideration to be nominated or appointed as a director as long as it holds 10% or more of Company’s shares. If the Nominations
Committee does not recommend a Grupo VM Nominee for nomination or appointment or if the requisite approval of the Board of Directors is
not obtained in accordance with the Articles, Grupo VM shall, in good faith, and as promptly as possible but in all cases within thirty
days, submit the names of one or more additional (but not the same) Grupo VM Nominees for approval. Grupo VM shall continue to submit
the names of additional (but not the same) Grupo VM Nominees until such time as the favorable recommendation of the Nominations Committee
and requisite approval of the Board of Directors are obtained. On December 23, 2015, Grupo VM designated Javier López Madrid
to serve as the Executive Vice-Chairman of the Board in connection with the closing of the Business Combination. Upon the resignation
of Alan Kestenbaum as Executive Chairman of the Board, Mr. López Madrid was appointed as Executive Chairman of the Board effective
December 31, 2016. Mr. López Madrid was Chairman of the Nominations Committee until it was replaced by the Nominations
and Governance Committee on May 26, 2023.
The Board of Directors are prohibited from filling
a vacancy created by the death, resignation, removal or failure to win re-election (a “Casual Vacancy”) of a Grupo VM Director
other than with a Grupo VM Nominee. Grupo VM shall have the right to submit a Grupo VM Nominee for appointment to fill a Casual Vacancy
only if the Casual Vacancy was created by the death, resignation, removal or failure to win re-election of a Grupo VM Director. Grupo
VM does not have the right to submit a Grupo VM Nominee for appointment to fill a Casual Vacancy if the number of Grupo VM Directors equals
or exceeds the Maximum Number. In connection with any meeting of shareholders to elect directors, the number of Grupo VM Nominees in the
slate of nominees recommended by the Board of Directors must not exceed the Maximum Number.
Subject to certain exceptions, Grupo VM has preemptive
rights to subscribe for up to its proportionate share of any shares issued in connection with any primary offerings. The Grupo VM Shareholder
Agreement (i) also restricts the ability of Grupo VM and its affiliates to acquire additional shares and (ii) contains a standstill
provision that limits certain proposals and other actions that can be taken by Grupo VM or its affiliates with respect to the Company,
in each case, subject to certain exceptions, including prior Board approval. The Grupo VM Shareholder Agreement also restricts the manner
by which, and persons to whom, Grupo VM or its affiliates may transfer shares. On February 3, 2016, during an in person meeting of
our Board, the Board approved the purchase of up to 1% of the shares by Javier López Madrid in the open market pursuant to Section 5.01(b)(vi) of
the Grupo VM Shareholder Agreement.
The Grupo VM Shareholder Agreement will terminate
on the first date on which Grupo VM and its affiliates hold less than 10% of the outstanding Shares.
Agreements with executive officers and key
employees
We have entered into agreements with our executive
officers and key employees. See “Item 6.A.—Directors, Senior Management and Employees—Directors, Senior Management and
Employees.”
VM Energía and Energya VM
Under contracts entered into with FerroAtlántica
S.A.U., (“FAU”) on June 22, 2010 and December 29, 2010 (assigned to FerroAtlántica de Boo, S.L.U. (“FAU
Boo”) and to FerroAtlántica de Sabón, S.L.U. (“FAU Sabón”) in August 2019 in anticipation
of the FAU Disposal), and with Hidro Nitro Española on December 27, 2012 (assigned to Ferroglobe Monzón (formerly FerroAtlántica
del Cinca) when Hidro Nitro Española was sold in December 2018), VM Energía supplies the energy needs of the Boo, Sabón
and Monzón electrometallurgy facilities, as a broker for FAU (FAU Boo or FAU Sabon, as appropriate) and Hidro Nitro Española
(now Ferroglobe Monzón) in the wholesale power market. The contracts allow FAU (FAU Boo or FAU Sabon, as appropriate) and Hidro
Nitro Española (now Ferroglobe Monzón) to buy energy from the grid at market conditions without incurring costs normally
associated with operating in the complex wholesale power market, as well as to apply for fixed price arrangements in advance from VM Energía,
based on the energy markets for the power, period and profile applied for. The contracts have a term of one year, which can be extended
by the mutual consent of the parties to the contract. The contracts were renewed in January 2019 and again renewed in January 2020.
In January 2021, the contracts were renewed for two years with the possibility to extend it for additional one-year periods unless
terminated with thirty days’ notice. On September 30, 2021 Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U)
absorbed its subsidiaries FAU Boo and FAU Sabón assuming all the rights and obligations derived from those contracts. Those contracts
were assigned from Villar Mir Energía SLU to Energya VM Gestión de Energía, SLU (“Energya VM”) on October 15,
2022. The contracts were renewed in January 25, 2023 and amended in September 14, and November 29, 2023. On December 19,
2023, the agreements were renewed for an additional year. The relevant contracting party within the Ferroglobe group pays VM Energía
a service charge in addition to paying for the cost of energy purchase from the market. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023,
Ferroglobe Spain Metals and Ferroglobe Monzón’s obligations to make payments to VM Energía or Energya VM under their
respective agreements for the purchase of energy plus the service charge amounted to $24,635 thousand and $10,691 thousand, respectively
($95,401 thousand and $37,317 thousand, respectively, in 2022 and $102,065 thousand, $30,501 thousand, respectively, in 2021). These contracts
are similar to contracts Ferroglobe Spain Metals signs with other third-party brokers.
Under contracts entered into with Ferroglobe Ramsa
Mining (formerly Rocas, Arcillas y Minerales SA) (“RAMSA”) on December 3, 2010 and with Ferrroglobe Cuarzos Industriales
Mining S.A (formerly Cuarzos Industriales SA) (“CISA”) on April 27, 2012, VM Energía supplied the energy needs
of the mining facilities operated by those companies, as a broker for RAMSA and CISA in the wholesale power market. RAMSA and CISA are
both subsidiaries of the Company operating in the mining sector. These agreements were superseded in 2019 by agreements entered into as
of 15 March 2019 between VM Energía and each of RAMSA and CISA pursuant to which VM Energía provides equivalent intermediary
services for term of one year, renewing annually. Those contracts were assigned from Villar Mir Energía SLU to Energya VM Gestión
de Energía, SLU (“Energya VM”) on September 27, 2022. The contracts were renewed in February 26, 2023 and
again extended on December 19, 2023 for an additional year. For the fiscal year ended December 31,
2023, RAMSA and CISA’s obligations to make payments to VM Energía or Energya VM under their respective agreements amounted
to $779 thousand and $359 thousand respectively ($1,152 thousand and $460 thousand, respectively, in 2022, and $1,012 thousand and $353
thousand, respectively, in 2021).
Additionally, for the fiscal year ended December 31,
2023, 2022 and 2021, Enérgya VM invoiced other subsidiaries of Ferroglobe Spain Metals for a total amount of $636 thousand, $647
thousand and $120 thousand, respectively.
In June 2020, Ferroglobe Monzón and
VM Energía entered into a collaboration agreement by virtue of which VM Energía is allowed to use Monzón’s
grid connection point and high voltage electrical assets for a PV installation project, electricity from which will be supplied to Ferroglobe
Monzón.
In February 2021, FerroAtlántica de
Sabón and VM Energía entered into a collaboration agreement by virtue of which VM Energía is allowed to use Sabón’s
grid connection point and high voltage electrical assets for a PV installation project, electricity from which will be supplied to FerroAtlántica
de Sabón. On September 30, 2021 Ferroglobe Spain
Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.U) absorbed its subsidiary
FAU Sabón assuming all the rights and obligations derived from this contract.
In November 2021 Ferroglobe Spain Metals
entered into an agreement with VM Energía and Parque Eólico A Picota, S.L.U. (a VM Energía subsidiary) for a free
assignment of 10% of the Guarantees of Origin of the total energy consumed by Ferroglobe Spain Metals for five (5) years when the
wind farms start to produce (in 2023 according to the estimation). In January 2023, VME was denied authorization to construct the
plants, so this agreement was amicably terminated.
In December 2021, Ferroglobe Spain Metals
entered into an agreement with VM Energía to assist in the identification of counterparties and intermediation for the closing
of long-term power purchase agreements. The agreement extended for a new three-months period and automatic renewals with a thirty day
prior notice for its termination.
In December 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals
and VM Energía entered into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this PPA, VM Energía will supply to Sabón plant
65 GW on a pay as produced basis during 10 years from the commencement of operation of the Plants. This PPA will cover 10% of the
total power consumption of the Sabón plant. In January 2023, VME was denied authorization to construct the plants, so the
PPA was amicably terminated.
From March 1 to May 31, 2023, Ferroglobe
Spain Metals entered into eleven swap contracts with Energya VM, its current power supplier, to pay a fix cost for the energy supplied
to Sabón during those months. As of December 31, 2023, Ferroglobe Spain Metals obligations to make payments to Energya VM
under this agreement amounted to $1,239 thousand.
On September 14, 2023, Ferroglobe Spain Metals
and Ferroglobe Monzón entered into voltage control center agreements for the three plants, Boo, Sabón and Monzón,
necessary for the participation in the Active Response Demand system that will be effective in January 2024.
On October 31, 2023, Ferroglobe Spain Metals
and Energya VM entered into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Under this PPA, Energya VM will supply 30,000 Mwh/year from November 1st,
2023, to June 30, 2027.
On December 27, 2023, Ferroglobe Spain Metals
and VM Energía entered into three Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). Under those PPAs, VM Energía, or a VM Energía
subsidiary, will supply to Sabón 368 GWh/year on a pay as produced basis during 10 years from the commencement of operation of
the plants which is expected in 2028.
Other agreements with other related parties
Under the terms of a loan agreement entered into
on 24 July 2015 between FerroAtlántica and Inmobiliaria Espacio, S.A. (“IESA”), the ultimate parent of Grupo VM,
FerroAtlántica extended to IESA a credit line for treasury purposes of up to $20 million, of which $3.1 million (the “Loan”)
remains outstanding. The credit line runs year on year for a maximum period of 10 years and amounts outstanding under it (including the
Loan) bear interest annually at the rate equal to the EURIBOR three month rate plus 2.75 percentage points. The availability of the credit
line may be cancelled at the end of any year or at any time by IESA.
Additionally, as a result of a tax audit of the
IESA tax group, a reassessment of its net operating losses (NOLs) was made within the members of the tax group with respect to fiscal
years 2008 through 2012. In particular, additional NOLs were attributed to Grupo Ferroatlántica, S.A.U. (GFAT) and Ferroatlántica,
S.A.U. (FAT). GFAT, as top parent company of a tax group to which FAT belonged to until fiscal year 2019, filed an amending corporate
income tax (CIT) return of fiscal years 2016 and 2017. By way of this amending returns, the reassigned NOLs of FAT have been partially
applied and consequently partial refund of the CIT paid in such fiscal years has been in the amount of $592,378. To the extent that the
negative results obtained by GFAT and FAT when forming part of the IESA tax group were duly paid each year, this refund corresponds to
IESA. GFAT has granted to IESA a loan in the amount of the CIT refund requested (the CIT loan). Therefore, upon receiving the CIT refund,
the CIT loan will be canceled under an assignment and offsetting agreement between GFAT and IESA. The CIT loan bears interest annually
at 5.25% fix rate for one-year loan under Ferroglobe transfer pricing policy.
Calatrava RE, a Luxembourg affiliate of Grupo
VM, is a reinsurer of the Company’s global marine and property insurance programs. The property and marine cargo insurances are
placed with Mapfre Global Risks S.A. with whom
the Company contracts for the provision of this insurance. There are no contracts directly
in place between the Company and Calatrava RE.
C. Interests of Experts
and Counsel
Not applicable.
ITEM 11. QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE
DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK.
Ferroglobe operates in an international and cyclical
industry which exposes it to a variety of financial risks such as currency risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and risks
relating to the price of finished goods, raw materials and power.
The Company’s management model aims to minimize
the potential adverse impact of such risks upon the Company’s financial performance. Risk is managed by the Company’s executive
management, supported by the Risk Management, Treasury and Finance functions. The risk management process includes identifying and evaluating
financial risks in conjunction with the Company’s operations and quantifying them by project, region and subsidiary. Management
provides written policies for global risk management, as well as for specific areas such as foreign currency risk, credit risk, interest
rate risk, liquidity risk, the use of hedging instruments and derivatives, and investment of surplus liquidity.
Market risk
Market risk is the risk that the Company’s
future cash flows or the fair value of its financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. The primary market
risks to which the Company is exposed are foreign currency risk, interest rate risk and risks related to prices of finished goods, raw
materials (principally coal and manganese ore) and power.
Foreign exchange rate risk
Ferroglobe generates sales revenue and incurs
operating costs in various currencies. The prices of finished goods are to a large extent determined in international markets, primarily
in USD and Euros. Foreign currency risk is partly mitigated by the generation of sales revenue, the purchase of raw materials and other
operating costs being denominated in the same currencies. Although it has done so on occasions in the past, and may decide to do so in
the future, the Company does not generally enter into foreign currency derivatives in relation to its operating cash flows.
In 2021, due to an occurrence of events and conditions
that reduce the number of transactions in Euros, management conducted a review of the functional currency of the Parent Company and they
concluded that there has been a change in its functional currency from Euro to USD, effective since October 1, 2021 (see Note
3.3 Basis of presentation - Functional and reporting currency to our consolidated financial statements).
Interest rate risk
Ferroglobe is exposed to interest rate risk in
respect of its financial liabilities that bear interest at floating rates. These primarily comprise credit facilities and leases commitments
for lease agreements under IFRS 16.
As of December 31, the Company’s interest-bearing
financial liabilities were as follows:
| |
2023 | |
| |
Fixed rate | | |
Floating rate | | |
Total | |
| |
| U.S.$'000 | | |
| U.S.$'000 | | |
| U.S.$'000 | |
Bank borrowings (Note 16) | |
| 15,865 | | |
| 30,683 | | |
| 46,548 | |
Obligations under leases (Note 17) | |
| — | | |
| 28,387 | | |
| 28,387 | |
Tolling agreement lease liability (Note 22) | |
| 37,863 | | |
| — | | |
| 37,863 | |
Debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 154,780 | | |
| — | | |
| 154,780 | |
Other financial liabilities (Note 19) | |
| 57,218 | | |
| 20,224 | | |
| 77,442 | |
| |
| 265,726 | | |
| 79,294 | | |
| 345,020 | |
(*) Other financial liabilities comprise loans from government
agencies (see Note 19 Other Financial Liabilities of the consolidated financial statements).
| |
2022 | |
| |
Fixed rate | | |
Floating rate | | |
Total | |
| |
U.S.$'000 | | |
U.S.$'000 | | |
U.S.$'000 | |
Bank borrowings (Note 16) | |
| 16,857 | | |
| 60,976 | | |
| 77,833 | |
Obligations under leases (Note 17) | |
| — | | |
| 21,871 | | |
| 21,871 | |
Debt instruments (Note 18) | |
| 343,442 | | |
| — | | |
| 343,442 | |
Other financial liabilities (Note 19) | |
| 80,388 | | |
| 18,273 | | |
| 98,661 | |
| |
| 440,687 | | |
| 101,120 | | |
| 541,807 | |
(*) Other financial liabilities comprise loans from government
agencies (see Note 19 Other Financial Liabilities of the consolidated financial statements).
Power risk
Power
generally constitutes one of the larger expenses for most of Ferroglobe’s products. Ferroglobe focuses on minimizing energy prices
and unit consumption throughout its operations by concentrating its silicon and manganese-based alloy production during periods when energy
prices are lower. In 2023, Ferroglobe’s total power consumption was 5,834 gigawatt-hours (6,431 in 2022), with power contracts
that vary across its operations.
In
2023, Ferroglobe has engaged discussions with energy companies to secure Purchasing Power Agreements (“PPAs”) based on Solar
and wind generation. Two wind PPAs were signed in 2023 with a total volume of 130 GWh at a fixed price between 77 and 50 EUR/MWh.
Certain of the Company’s subsidiaries have
their power needs covered by a three-year agreement ending in 2025. Regulation enacted in 2015 enables French subsidiaries of the Company
to benefit from reduced transmission tariffs, interruptibility compensation (an agreement whereby the companies agree to interrupt production
in response to surges in demand across the French electricity grid), as well as receiving compensation for indirect carbon dioxide costs
under the EU Emission Trading System (ETS) regulation.
Credit risk
Credit risk refers to the risk that a customer
or counterparty will default on its contractual obligations resulting in financial loss. The Company’s main credit risk exposure
related to financial assets is trade and other receivables.
Trade receivables consist of a large number of
customers, spread across diverse industries and geographical areas. The Company has established policies, procedures and controls relating
to customer credit risk management. Ongoing credit evaluation is performed on the financial condition of accounts receivable and, where
appropriate, the Company insures its trade receivables with reputable credit insurance companies.
Since October 2020, the Company entered into
a factoring program where the receivables of some of the Company’s French and Spanish entities are advanced pursuant to a factoring
arrangement. in February 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A) signed a without recourse factoring
agreement with Bankinter.
Liquidity risk
The purpose of the Company’s liquidity and
financing policy is to ensure that the Company keeps sufficient funds available to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The
Company’s main sources of financing are as follows:
| · | In 2021, the Company exchanged 98.6% of its 350 million 9.375% senior unsecured notes due in March 2022
(“Old Notes”) for total consideration of $1,000 of principal amount, which is comprised of (i) $1,000 aggregate principal
amount of the new 9.375% senior secured notes due in 2025 (the “Reinstated Senior Notes”) plus (ii) cash amount to $51.6
million, which the Company’s Parent applied as cash consideration for a subscription of new ordinary shares of the Company. |
In
2021, the Company issued $60.0 million in new 9% senior secured notes due in 2025 (“Super Senior Notes”). In July 2022,
the Super Senior Notes were redeemed at 100% of the principal amount thereof plus accrued interest.
| · | In 2016, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with the Spanish Ministry of Industry, Tourism
and Commerce (the “Ministry”) to borrow an aggregate principal amount of €44.9 million ($50.2 million) in connection
with the industrial development projects relation to a silicon purification project at an annual interest rate of 3.6%. The Company is
required to repay this loan in seven instalments commencing in 2023 and to be completed by 2030. |
| · | In October 2020, the Company signed a new factoring agreement with a financial institution for anticipating
the collection of receivables of the Company’s European subsidiaries. During 2023, the factoring agreement provided upfront cash
consideration of $431,274 thousand ($835,388 thousand in 2022). The Company has repaid $454,576 thousand ($863,192 thousand in 2022),
showing at December 31, 2023, an on-balance sheet bank borrowing debt of $30,683 thousand (2022: $$56,157 thousand), (see Note 9
and 16 to our consolidated financial statements.) |
| · | In February 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals (formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica, S.A.) signed an
additional factoring agreement with Bankinter. This program offers the possibility to sell the receivables corresponding to ten customers
pre-approved by the bank and its credit insurer. |
| · | In June 2022, a Company subsidiary entered into a five-year, $100 million asset-based revolving credit
facility (the “ABL Revolver”), with the Bank of Montreal as lender and agent. The maximum amount available under the ABL Revolver
is subject to a borrowing base test comprising North American inventory and accounts receivable. |
| · | In 2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with BNP Paribas to borrow an aggregate principal
amount, interest-free, of €4.5 million ($5.3 million), to finance Company’s activities in France. The French government guaranteed
the loan in line with special measures taken in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The loan is to be repaid by 2026. The Company is liable
for a fee of 0.5% equal based on the total borrowed capital. |
| · | In 2020, a Company subsidiary entered into a loan agreement with Investissement Québec to borrow
an aggregate principal amount, interest-free, of $7.0 million to finance its capital expenditures activities in Canada. The loan is to
be repaid over a seven-year period, with payments deferred for the first three years from inception of the loan. |
| · | On March 3, 2022, Ferroglobe Spain Metals, S.A.U. (also “FG Spain”, formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica,
S.A.U.) and Ferroglobe Corporate Services (also “FG Corporate”, formerly Grupo FerroAtlántica de Servicios) (together
the “Beneficiaries”) and the Sociedad Estatal de Participaciones Industriales (“SEPI”), a Spanish state-owned
industrial holding company affiliated with the Ministry of Finance and Administration, entered into a loan agreement of €34,500 thousand.
This loan is part of the SEPI fund intended to provide assistance to non-financial companies operating in strategically important sectors
within Spain in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. |
Safe Harbor
This Annual Report contains forward-looking statements within the meaning
of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act and Section 21E of the U.S. Exchange Act and as defined in the Private Securities
Litigation Reform Act of 1995. See “Cautionary Statements Regarding Forward-Looking Statements.”
| 1UPX
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Ferroglobe PLC
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Annual Meeting Proxy Card
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Exhibit 99.4 |
| Proxy Solicited by Board of Directors for Annual Meeting – June 18, 2024
The undersigned hereby appoints the Company’s Executive Chairman or Company Secretary, each individually and each with powers of substitution, as proxies
for the undersigned to vote all of the Ordinary Shares the undersigned may be entitled to vote at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders of Ferroglobe
PLC called to be held at 13:00 (British Summer Time) on Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 13 Chesterfield Street, London, W1J 5JN, UK, or any adjournment or
postponement thereof in the manner indicated on the reverse side of this proxy, and upon such other business as may lawfully come before the meeting or any
adjournment or postponement thereof. The undersigned acknowledges receipt of the Notice of Annual General Meeting of Ferroglobe PLC. The undersigned
revokes any proxy or proxies previously given for such shares. The undersigned ratifies and confirms any actions that the persons holding the undersigned’s
proxy, or their substitutes, by virtue of this executed card take in accordance with the proxy granted hereunder. IF NO DIRECTION AS TO THE MANNER OF VOTING
THE PROXY IS MADE, THE PROXY WILL BE VOTED “FOR” THE RESOLUTIONS IN PROPOSALS 1 THROUGH 17 AS INDICATED ON THE REVERSE SIDE HEREOF.
You are encouraged to specify your choices by marking the appropriate boxes (SEE REVERSE SIDE) but you need not mark any boxes if you wish to vote in
accordance with the Board of Directors’ recommendations. This proxy, when properly executed, will be voted in the manner directed herein. The Board of
Directors recommends a vote “FOR” Proposals 1 – 17.
(Items to be voted appear on reverse side.)
Proxy — Ferroglobe PLC
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Mark box to the right if
you plan to attend the
Annual Meeting.
U.K. Annual Report and Accounts 2023
1. THAT the directors’ and auditor’s reports and the accounts of the Company for the financial
year ended 31 December 2023 (the “U.K. Annual Report and Accounts”) be received.
Directors’ 2023 Remuneration Report
2. THAT the directors’ annual report on remuneration for the year ended 31 December 2023
(excluding, for the avoidance of doubt, any part of the Directors’ remuneration report
containing the directors’ remuneration policy), as set out on pages 35 to 36 and 50 to 61 of
the U.K. Annual Report and Accounts be approved.
Authority for certain donations and expenditure
3. THAT, in accordance with Part 14 of the Companies Act and in substitution for any previous
authorities given to the Company (and its subsidiaries), the Company (and all companies that
are subsidiary of the Company at any time during the period for which this resolution has
effect) be authorized to: (i) make political donations to political parties or independent
election candidates; (ii) make political donations to political organizations other than political
parties, and (iii) incur political expenditure, in each case, as such terms are defined in the
Companies Act, provided that with respect to each of the foregoing categories, any such
donations or expenditure made by the Company, or a subsidiary of the Company, do not in the
aggregate exceed £100,000. Such authority shall expire at the conclusion of the Company’s
next annual general meeting. For the purposes of this resolution, the authorized sum may
comprise sums in different currencies that shall be converted at such rate as the Board may
in its absolute discretion determine to be appropriate.
Authority to Make Purchases of Own Shares Off-market
4. THAT, for the purposes of section 694 of the Companies Act, the terms of the buyback contract
to be entered into between the Company and any or all of J.P. Morgan Securities LLC, BMO
Capital Markets Corp. and Santander US Capital Markets LLC, respectively (in the forms
produced to this meeting and made available at the Company’s registered office for not less
than 15 days ending with the date of this meeting) are approved and the Company be
authorized to undertake off-market purchases (within the meaning of section 693(2) of the
Companies Act) of its ordinary shares of US $0.01 pursuant to such contracts, provided that (i)
the maximum aggregate number of ordinary shares hereby authorized to be purchased is
37,776,463, representing approximately 20% of the issued ordinary share capital, and (ii)
additional restrictions under applicable U.S. securities laws are substantially complied with,
including (but not limited to) the pricing limitations under Rule 10b-18(b)(3) of the U.S.
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), the volume limitations
under Rules 10b-18(b)(4) and 10b-18(c)(2) of the Exchange Act, the timing limitations under
Rules 10b-18(b)(2) and 10b-18(c)(1) and the requirements with respect to the use of brokers or
dealers under Rule 10b-18(b)(1) of the Exchange Act.
Such authority shall expire at the close of business on the fifth anniversary of the passing of
this resolution, but during this five year period the Company may agree to purchase ordinary
shares pursuant to any such approved contract, even if such purchase would, or might, be
completed or executed wholly or partly after the authority ends and the Company may
purchase such ordinary shares pursuant to any such approved contract as if the authority had
not ended. This authority shall apply from the conclusion of the Annual General meeting until
a date which is five years from the date of the Annual General Meeting.
Directors’ Re election
5. THAT Javier López Madrid be re elected as a director.
6. THAT Marco Levi be re elected as a director.
7. THAT Marta de Amusategui y Vergara be re-elected as a director.
8. THAT Bruce L. Crockett be re elected as a director.
9. THAT Stuart E. Eizenstat be re elected as a director.
10. THAT Manuel Garrido y Ruano be re elected as a director.
11. THAT Juan Villar Mir de Fuentes be re elected as a director.
12. THAT Belen Villalonga Morenés be re elected as a director.
13. THAT Silvia Villar-Mir de Fuentes be re elected as a director.
14. THAT Nicolas De Santis be re elected as a director.
15. THAT Rafael Barrilero Yarnoz be re elected as a director.
Re-appointment of Auditor
16. THAT KPMG LLP be re-appointed as auditor of the Company to hold office from the conclusion
of the Annual General Meeting until the conclusion of the next general meeting at which
accounts are laid before the Company.
Remuneration of Auditor
17. THAT the Audit Committee of the Board be authorized to determine the auditor’s
remuneration.
2024 Annual Meeting Admission Ticket
2024 Annual Meeting of Ferroglobe PLC Shareholders
The 2024 Annual Meeting of Shareholders of Ferroglobe PLC will be held on
Tuesday, June 18, 2024 at 13:00 (British Summer Time)
at 13 Chesterfield Street, London W1J 5JN, UK
Upon arrival, please present this admission ticket and photo identification at the registration desk. |
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