FORM 6-K

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

Report of Foreign Issuer
Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

For the month of May 2008

Commission File Number 001-15092


TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI A.S.
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

Turkcell Plaza
Mesrutiyet Caddesi No. 153
34430 Tepebasi
Istanbul, Turkey
(Address of principal executive offices)

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant files or will file annual reports under cover Form 20-F or Form 40-F

Form 20-F:   ý      Form 40-F:   o

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1):                

  Note:  Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(1) only permits the submission in paper of a Form 6-K if submitted solely to provide an attached annual report to security holders.

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is submitting the Form 6-K in paper as permitted by Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7):                

  Note: Regulation S-T Rule 101(b)(7) only permits the submission in paper of a Form 6-K if submitted to furnish a report or other document that the registrant foreign private issuer must furnish and make public under the laws of the jurisdiction in which the registrant is incorporated, domiciled or legally organized (the registrant’s “home country”), or under the rules of the home country exchange on which the registrant’s securities are traded, as long as the report or other document is not a press release, is not required to be and has not been distributed to the registrant’s security holders, and, if discussing a material event, has already been the subject of a Form 6-K submission or other Commission filing on EDGAR.

Indicate by check mark whether by furnishing the information contained in this Form, the registrant is also thereby furnishing the information to the Commission pursuant to rule 12g3-2(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Yes:  o      No:  ý

If “Yes” is marked, indicate below the file number assigned to the registrant in connection with Rule 12g3-2(b) 82 —          






EXHIBIT INDEX


  1   Press Release dated May 7, 2008

  2   Consolidated Financial Statements and Notes Thereto As at 31 March 2008




EXHIBIT 1





 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI A.S.

REPORTS RESULTS

FOR THE FIRST QUARTER OF 2008

 

Continued top-line growth and strong profitability in a challenging operating environment

 


Istanbul, Turkey, May 7, 2008 – Turkcell (NYSE:TKC, ISE:TCELL), the leading provider of mobile communications services in Turkey, today announced results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2008. All financial results in this press release are unaudited, prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and expressed in US$ unless otherwise stated.

 

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 


Please note that all financial data is consolidated and comprises Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S., (the “Company”, or “Turkcell”) and its subsidiaries and its associates (together referred to as the “Group”). All non-financial data is unconsolidated and comprises Turkcell only. The terms “we”, “us”, and “our” in this press release refer only to the Company, except in discussions of financial data, where such terms refer to the Group, and where context otherwise requires.

 

 

2





 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. Reports Results for the First Quarter 2008

Highlights for the First Quarter 2008

Revenue increased by 21.6% to US$1,574.4 million compared to Q1 2007 (US$1,294.8 million)

EBITDA* increased by 12.4% to US$577.0 million compared to Q1 2007 (US$513.3 million)

Net income increased by 78.9% to US$486.8 million compared to Q1 2007 (US$272.1 million)

Turkcell’s subscriber base grew by 9% to 35.1 million compared to Q1 2007 (32.2 million) as of March 31, 2008, although it decreased slightly from Q4 2007

Blended minutes of usage per subscriber (“MoU”) increased by 17.2% to 73.6 minutes compared to Q1 2007 (62.8 minutes)

Blended average revenue per user (“ARPU”) increased by 9.1% to US$13.2 compared to Q1 2007 (US$ 12.1)

Astelit’s revenues increased by 111% to US$90.2 million compared to Q1 2007 (US$42.8 million) and recorded positive EBITDA* for the third consecutive quarter

*EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. See pages 12-13 for the reconciliation of EBITDA to net cash from operating activities.

<> In this press release, a year on year comparison of our key indicators is provided and figures in parentheses following the operational and financial results for the first quarter 2008 refer to the same item in the first quarter of 2007. For further details, please refer to our consolidated financial statements and notes as at and for the quarter ended March 31, 2008 which can be accessed via our web site in the investor relations section (www.turkcell.com.tr).

 

Comments from the CEO, Sureyya Ciliv

 

“In the first quarter of 2008, our consolidated revenues increased by 21.6% to US$1,574 million from the corresponding period last year, while EBITDA increased to $577 million and net income grew to $487million.

 

The political uncertainty in Turkey coupled with the global economic volatility and a drop in consumer confidence has started to create a more challenging operating environment for us.

 

Furthermore, regulatory developments in October 2007 in the retail pricing area, which were unusual in nature and specifically aimed at Turkcell, limited our marketing campaigns until the end of February 2008, leading to a negative impact on our operations. However, continued growth in usage, the growing postpaid subscriber base and the contribution of our corporate business in Turkey were the main drivers for top line growth.

 

In Ukraine, revenues of our subsidiary Astelit grew by 111% and we continued to gain market share, reaching 17.2%. Fintur operations grew 35.7% in the quarter compared to last year.

 

Our achievements despite a challenging operating environment are due to the focus, agility and strong execution of our employees and partners. 2008 will be a tougher year but we are well positioned and excited about winning against the competition, driving customer satisfaction and continuing to grow our business.”

 

 

 

 

3






 

OVERVIEW OF THE QUARTER  

 

The first quarter of 2008 has been a challenging period for us. The global macro economic environment combined with the the economic and political developments in Turkey resulted in a further decline in the Turkish consumer confidence and all these factors combined to impact the market we operate in.

 

During the period, we have not been able to implement some of the commercial offers and actions that we had previously planned as a result of the Telecommunications Authority’s (“TA”) decision with regard to the retail pricing area. We have been impacted by these regulatory developments since October 2007, and since then have made certain adjustments in our pricing structure and believe we are now in line with the TA’s recent decisions. Despite the fact that uncertainties may still exist in our operating environment, since the end of February 2008 we believe we have regained our flexibility to an extent to introduce new campaigns and offers to be able to sustain our competitiveness going forward.

 

We believe the growth in the Turkish GSM market slowed down during the quarter due to the changing macro economic conditions. In light of the current trends, we expect the market growth this year to be at a slower pace than previously anticipated, and mobile line penetration should reach about 95% by the end of 2008. The pace of growth of our subscriber base may be at a slower rate compared to that of the market in 2008.

 

During the quarter, our competitors continued with their aggressive acquisition offers and community offers with a focus on the price perception of the subscribers, we continued to maintain our leading position in the market despite the increasing competition and regulatory pressure. We continued to underline our strong value propositions, in particular retained our premium and corporate customers, focused on growing our postpaid subscriber base, and further strengthened our sales channel. Our VAS revenues constituted 14% of our consolidated revenue in the first quarter of 2008 clearly underlining our technological leadership and our commitment to create best value added services for our individual and business customers.

 

Financial and Operational Review of First Quarter 2008

 

The following discussion focuses principally on the developments and trends in our business in the first quarter of 2008. Selected financial information for the first quarter of 2007, fourth quarter of 2007 and first quarter of 2008 is also included at the end of this press release.

 

Selected financial information in TRY prepared in line with the Capital Markets Board of Turkey’s standards is also included at the end of this press release.

 

 

4







 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Macro environment Information

 

 

Q1 2007

Q4

2007

Q1

2008

 

 

Q1 2008-

Q1 2007

% Chg

 

 

Q1 2008-

Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRY / US$ rate

 

 

 

 

 

Closing Rate

1.3801

1.1647

1.2765

(7.5%)

9.6%

Average Rate

1.4024

1.1851

1.1898

(15.2%)

0.4%

INFLATION

 

 

 

 

 

Consumer Price Index

2.4%

4.0%

3.1%

-

-

                

The Turkish financial markets have been negatively affected by the global economic concerns and rising local political tension during the last two quarters. The Turkish consumer confidence index further deteriorated during the period. Furthermore, the Central Bank of Turkey revised its 2008 YE inflation expectation upwards to 9.3%.

 

Our results of operations and business and financial performance are affected by the macro economic environment and its impact on Turkey along with developments in the political and regulatory environment. Although, we will carefully monitor the developments impacting our operating environment to strive for future growth of our business, we may not fully prevent potential negative impacts that may arise due to future macro economic, competitive or regulatory developments.

 

Financial Review

 

Profit & Loss Statement

(million US$)

 

 

Q1

2007

 

 

Q4

2007

 

 

Q1

2008

 

Q1 2008-Q1 2007

% Chg

 

Q1 2008-Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total revenue

1,294.8

1,807.6

1,574.4

21.6%

(12.9%)

Direct cost of revenue

(686.0)

(849.2)

(825.1)

20.3%

(2.8%)

Depreciation and amortization

(188.7)

(204.2)

(192.5)

2.0%

(5.7%)

Administrative expenses

(52.4)

(89.1)

(72.2)

37.8%

(19.0%)

Selling and marketing expenses

(231.7)

(328.0)

(292.7)

26.3%

(10.8%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

EBITDA

513.3

745.4

577.0

12.4%

(22.6%)

EBITDA Margin

40%

41%

37%

(3 p.p)

(4 p.p)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net finance income / (expense)

25.6

(10.8)

209.4

718.0%

(2,038.9%)

Finance expense

(51.1)

(105.7)

(15.9)

(68.9%)

(85.0%)

Finance income

76.7

94.9

225.3

193.7%

137.4%

Share of profit of equity

accounted investees

17.7

21.5

19.9

12.4%

(7.4%)

Income tax expense

(100.6)

(125.2)

(126.3)

25.6%

0.9%

Net income

272.1

403.2

486.8

78.9%

20.7%

 

 

5

 





 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Revenue: In the first quarter of 2008 our revenues increased by 21.6% to US$1,574.4 million compared to the same quarter of 2007 mainly due to a 15% appreciation of TRY against US$, a 9% increase in our subscriber base, increase in usage, as well as the contribution of our consolidated subsidiaries.

 

Our consolidated revenues decreased by 12.9% in first quarter of 2008 compared to Q4 2007 mainly due to increased usage incentives introduced by the end of February 2008 and increased subscriptions to our incentivised tariff options implemented in Q4 2007. Additionally, the one time positive impact of the reversal of Avea invoices amounting to US$46 million that was recorded in Q4 2007 had impacted us positively during the last quarter.

 

Direct cost of revenue:Our direct cost of revenues including depreciation and amortization increased by 20.3% to US$825.1 million in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same quarter of 2007 and the share of direct cost of revenues in total revenues slightly decreased to 52% from 53% a year ago. This was mainly due to lower depreciation and amortization expenses (2.4%), despite an increase in wages and salaries (1.5%) as a percent of revenues.

 

In the first quarter of 2008, direct cost of revenue including depreciation and amortization decreased by 2.8% compared to the fourth quarter of 2007. However, the share of direct cost of revenue in total revenues increased to 52% from 47% in the fourth quarter of 2007. This mainly resulted from a higher Treasury share expense in the first quarter of 2008 due to a one-time treasury share reduction in the fourth quarter of 2007, higher interconnect costs (1.4%), wages and salaries(0.9%), and higher depreciation and amortization expenses (0.9%) as a percent of revenues.

 

Selling and marketing expenses: Selling and marketing expenses in the first quarter of 2008 increased by 26.3% on an annual basis compared to the same quarter of 2007 to US$292.7 million. This was mainly due to a 15% appreciation of TRY against US$ and the increase in frequency usage fees due to higher prepaid subscriber base of 29.0 million as at the end of 2007 as opposed to 26.0 million as of end of 2006, as well as an increase in wages and salaries.

 

The proportion of selling and marketing expenses to revenue increased to 18.6% in the first quarter of 2008 from 17.9% in the first quarter of 2007.

 

Selling and marketing expenses decreased 10.8% in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the last quarter of 2007. This was mainly due to the slower campaign activities relative to Q4 2007 and decreasing selling expenses during the period. However, selling and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenues increased slightly from 18.1% to 18.6% due to slower revenue growth.

 

General and Administrative expenses: The year on year increase in general and administrative expenses was 37.8% in the first quarter of 2008 mainly due to an increase in wages and salaries as well as a 15% appreciation of TRY against US$ on average.

 

The share of general and administrative expenses in total revenues increased to 4.6% in the first quarter of 2008 from 4.0% in the first quarter of 2007.

 

General and administrative expenses in the first quarter of 2008 decreased 19.0% compared to the fourth quarter of 2007. This was mainly due to a decrease in wages and salaries due to an increase in bonuses paid to employees in Q4 2007. General and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues remained at similar levels of 5%.

 

6

 





 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

 

Share of profit of equity accounted investees: In the first quarter of 2008, our equity in net income of unconsolidated investees increased to US$19.9 million compared to US$17.7 million the first quarter of 2007 mainly due to continuing solid operations of Fintur.

 

Our 50% owned subsidiary A-Tel, impacted two items in our financial statements. A-Tel’s revenue that is generated from Turkcell amounting to US$11.0 million is netted from the selling and marketing expenses in our consolidated financial statements. The difference between the total net impact of A-Tel and the amount netted from selling and marketing expenses amounting to US$ 8.9 million is recorded in the share of profit of equity accounted investees line of our financial statements.

 

Net finance income/(expense): Financial income increased to US$225.3 million from US$76.7 million compared to the same quarter of 2007. We recorded a translation gain of US$125.8 million during the first quarter of 2008 as opposed to a translation loss of US$37.6 million in the first quarter of 2007 mainly due to 9.6% depreciation of TRY closing rate against US$ as we were in long position in hard currency. Our interest income also increased due to increase in our cash balance.

 

Overall, our net financing income increased to US$209.4 million in the first quarter of 2008.

 

Income Tax Expense: The total taxation charge in the first quarter of 2008 increased by 25.6% year on year to US$126.3 million mainly due to an increase in profit before tax.

 

Out of the total tax charge in Q1 of 2008, US$146.9 million was related to current tax charges in the first quarter of 2008 and deferred tax income of US$20.6 million was realized during the quarter.

 

In 2008, we are liable to pay 20% corporate tax and the payments will be made on quarterly basis.

 

 

Income tax expense

(million US$)

 

 

Q1 2007

 

 

Q4 2007

 

 

Q1

2008

 

Q1 2008-Q1 2007

% Chg

 

Q1 2008-Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Current Tax expense

 

(114.3)

(114.7)

(146.9)

28.5%

28.1%

Deferred Tax income /(expense)

13.7

(10.5)

20.6

50.4%

296.2%

Income Tax expense

(100.6)

(125.2)

(126.3)

25.6%

0.9%

 

 

EBITDA: EBITDA in the first quarter of 2008 increased 12.4% compared to first quarter of 2007. EBITDA margin decreased from 40% in the first quarter of 2007 to 37% in the first quarter of 2008 mainly due to an increase in our costs in line with our operational plans.

 

EBITDA in the first quarter of 2008 decreased 22.6% compared to the fourth quarter of 2007. EBITDA margin in first quarter of 2008 decreased to 37% from 41% in fourth quarter of 2007. This was mainly due to quarter on quarter decline in revenues as well as higher cost base as a percentage of revenue.

 

 

7

 





 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

As a result of recent developments including the increasing political tension in Turkey, volatility of the Turkish economy and global macro concerns, combined with regulatory and competitive challenges in our market, which we had not fully anticipated before, we are revising our YE 2008 EBITDA guidance to be about 38% as opposed to suggested few percentage point lower forecast from YE 2007 margin.

Net income: We recorded 78.9% year on year growth in our net income during the first quarter of 2008, with a net income of US$486.8 million, mainly due to an increase in translation gain. Net Income margin increased from 21.0% in Q1 2007 to 30.9% in first quarter of 2008.

The quarterly increase in net income of 20.8% in the first quarter of 2008 compared to the fourth quarter of 2007 was mainly due to an increase in translation gain despite an increasing cost base as a percentage of revenue. Net income margin increased from 22.3% in the last quarter of 2007 to 30.9% in first quarter of 2008.

 

Total Debt: Our consolidated debt amounted to US$646.1 million as of March 31, 2008. Of this total amount, US$532.9 million was related to our Ukraine operations.

 

 

Consolidated Cash Flow

(million US$)

Q1

2007

Q4

2007

Q1

2008

 

 

 

 

EBITDA

513.3

745.4

577.0

LESS:

 

 

 

Capex and License

(130.0)

(274.3)

(192.5)

Turkcell

(75.0)

(144.2)

(97.4)

Ukraine

(50.0)

(76.8)

(55.5)

Investment & Marketable Securities

17.2

-

(25.0)

Net Interest Income

63.3

67.2

83.6

Other

(141.7)

31.9

(456.5)

Net Change in Debt

(58.0)

10.6

7.5

Turkcell

(58.0)

-

-

Ukraine

-

-

-

Other

-

10.6

7.5

Cash Generated

264.1

580.8

(5.9)

Cash Balance

1,862.7

3,095.3

3,089.4

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash Flow Analysis: Capital expenditures in the first quarter of 2008 amounted to US$192.5 million of which US$55.5 million was related to our Ukrainian operations.

 

Other cash outflows in first quarter of 2008 are mainly composed of temporary corporate tax payments belonging to the last quarter of 2007 and prepaid frequency usage fee paid for the whole year of 2008.

 

Consequently, our cash position at the end of the first quarter of 2008 is US$3,089.4 million.

 

8

 





 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Operational Review

 

Summary of

Operational Data

Q1

2007

Q4

2007

Q1

2008

Q1 2008-Q1 2007 % Chg

Q1 2008-Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of total subscribers (million)

32.2

35.4

35.1

9.0%

(0.9%)

Number of postpaid subscribers

(million)

5.9

6.4

6.6

11.9%

3.1%

Number of prepaid subscribers

(million)

26.3

29.0

28.6

8.8%

(1.4%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

ARPU (Average Monthly Revenue per User), blended (US$)

12.1

15.5

13.2

9.1%

(14.8%)

ARPU, postpaid (US$)

32.2

40.3

37.4

16.2%

(7.2%)

ARPU, prepaid (US$)

7.6

10.0

7.8

2.6%

(22.0%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

ARPU, blended (TRY)

17.0

18.3

15.7

(7.7%)

(14.2%)

ARPU, postpaid (TRY)

45.2

47.7

44.5

(1.6%)

(6.7%)

ARPU, prepaid (TRY)

10.7

11.9

9.2

(14.0%)

(22.7%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Churn (%)

5.1

5.9

7.2

2.1pp

1.3pp

 

 

 

 

 

 

MOU (Average Monthly Minutes of usage per subscriber), blended

62.8

69.9

73.6

17.2%

5.3%

 

 

Subscribers:As of March 31, 2008, our total subscriber base totaled 35.1 million, representing a 9% increase compared to the first quarter of 2007. Gross acquisitions in the first quarter were strong with the highest level of net new postpaid subscriber acquisitions recorded in our history. On the other hand, due to the regulatory developments regarding the retail pricing and focus on maintaining high value generating subscribers, we have recorded less gross acquisitions and higher churn, as a consequence, recorded a net negative subscriber additions of approximately 220,000 during the quarter. Although currently it is difficult to assess the impact of the macro economic and political developments, it is fair to state that, so far, we have faced limited impact from these factors.

 

Churn Rate: Churn refers to disconnected subscribers, whether disconnected voluntarily or involuntarily. In the first quarter of 2008, our churn rate increased by 2.1 percentage points from 5.1% to 7.2% due to seasonally higher acquisitions in the previous quarters. As a consequence of the regulatory developments, there was a slow down in some of our churn prevention activities therefore involuntary churn of the low ARPU generating prepaid subscribers increased.

 

MoU: In the first quarter of 2008, our blended minutes of usage per subscriber (“MoU”) increased on an annual basis by 17.2% from 62.8 minutes to 73.6 minutes. This can be attributed mostly to the positive impact of our campaign that we revised and relaunched at the end of February to incentivize usage as well as further utilization of our simplified tariff options launched in October

 

9

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

2007. Despite the increase we have achieved in our MoU, we believe regulatory developments regarding retail pricing led to a slow down on our segmented campaigns and to some extent, the developments in the macro economic and political environment, also had an unfavourable impact our subscribers’ usage levels.

 

ARPU: Compared to the same quarter in 2007, our blended average revenue per user (“ARPU”) increased by 9.1% to US$13.2 in the first quarter of 2008. This was mainly due to the 15% appreciation of TRY against US$ as ARPU in TRY terms decreased by 7.7%. Regulatory developments regarding retail pricing led to slowdown in revenue triggering mass offers and thus lower ARPU levels.

 

Regulatory Environment

 

 

TA’s decision negatively affected our ability to design and launch new campaigns, offers and consequently had a negative impact on our business and continued to have a negative impact in our first quarter 2008 results. During the first quarter of 2008, until the end of February, as a consequence of this decision, we slowed down the implementation of some of the mass offers and churn prevention activities that we initially planned for the related period. By the end of February 2008, we designed and implemented an alternative call termination scheme with a new pricing model, which provides tiered pricing levels for call termination charges. Based on this model, currently, our lowest call termination charge per minute is TRY0,003 and the highest is TRY0.136 depending on call volume, peak and off peak hours. At present, through this new model, we believe we are in compliance with the regulator’s decision and we have regained our flexibility to introduce new campaigns and offers in line with our pricing and marketing strategies to our customers.

 

In addition, the TA revised Reference Call Termination rates for fixed and mobile operators during in April 2008. Based on the revision, our reference call termination charge of TRY0.136 has come down by 33% to TRY0.091 unless otherwise agreed between the operators. Although, we expect no major change on our interconnection revenues and costs on net basis as a percentage of revenue due to this downward revision, the impact of this revision is yet to be seen fully in the retail market. We believe that Turkey’s fixed call termination rates are quite in line with European counterparts, however, mobile termination rates are already significantly below the European counterpart averages. For this reason, we believe mobile termination rates should not be brought down further; however, there can be no assurance that Telecommunications Authority will not make future actions to revise rates downwards.

 

 

10

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Potential Investments

 

As part of our efforts to evaluate investment opportunities in the region, our Board of Directors decided to conduct necessary studies to submit a proposal in order to acquire a majority stake in Syriatel Mobile Telecom (“Syriatel”) in Syria.

 

Additionally, our Board of Directors also decided to conduct the necessary studies to submit a proposal directly, or through one of our subsidiaries, to the shareholders of the Belarusian

 

Telecommunication Network (“BeST”), based in the Republic of Belarus, to purchase the majority of its shares. We will inform the public when there are further developments on this front.

 

International Operations

 

Fintur

 

We hold a 41.45% stake in Fintur and through Fintur we hold interests in GSM operations in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Moldova, and Georgia.

 

FINTUR

as of March 31, 2008

Q1 2007

Subscriber

(million)

Q1 2008

Subscriber

(million)

Q1 2008 – Q1 2007

%Chg

Q1 2007

Revenue

(US$ million)

Q108

Revenue

(US$ million)

Q1 2008 – Q1 2007

%Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kazakhstan

3.9

6.5

66.7%

163.1

224.7

37.8%

Azerbaijan

2.5

3.2

28.0%

88.3

116.9

32.4%

Moldova

0.5

0.5

0%

11.4

14.4

26.3%

Georgia

1.1

1.4

27.3.%

34.9

48.0

37.5%

TOTAL

 

8.0

 

11.6

 

45.0%

 

297.7

404.0

35.7%

 

 

Fintur’s operations recorded growth in revenues during the first quarter of 2008 compared to the same quarter in 2007 and consolidated revenues of Fintur reached US$404.0 million as of March 31, 2008. Fintur added approximately 3.6 million net new subscribers in the first quarter of 2008.

 

We account for our investment in Fintur using the equity method. Fintur’s contribution to income was US$30.6 million (US$22.1 million) in the first quarter of 2008.

 

Astelit

 

Astelit, in which we hold a 55% stake through Euroasia, has operated in Ukraine since February 2005 under the brand “life:)”.

 

During the first quarter of 2008;

 

 

Astelit gained the largest market share in terms of net subscriber additions during the quarter

 

Astelit’s market share increased to 17.2% from 11.5% in the highly competitive Ukrainian market

 

Astelit grew its revenue by 111% to US$90.2 million compared to the first quarter of 2007

 

11

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

 

Astelit continued to build on its positive operational trends and recorded US$2.1 million EBITDA.

 

Astelit’s operational indicators remained strong with total subscriber base growing by 62% to 9.4 million as of end of the first quarter of 2008

 

Astelit’s 3 month active subscriber base in its total subscriber base grew to 62% from 58% as compared to the first quarter of 2007

 

The encouraging trends in Astelit’s financial and operational performance continued in the first quarter of 2008. We currently expect that this positive performance will continue in the coming quarters.

 

 

Summary Data for Astelit

Q1

2007

Q4

2007

 

Q1

2008

Q1 2008 – Q1 2007

%Chg

Q1 2008 – Q4 2007

%Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Number of subscribers (million)

 

 

 

 

 

Total

5.8

8.8

9.4

62.1%

6.8%

Active (3 months)[1]

3.5

5.4

5.8

65.7%

7.4%

 

 

 

 

 

 

Average Revenue per User

(ARPU) in US$

 

 

 

 

 

Total

2.5

3.3

3.3

32.0%

-

Active (3 months)

4.2

5.4

5.4

28.6%

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

42.8

82.3

90.2

110.8%

9.6%

EBITDA[1]

(16.5)

2.7

2.1

112.7%

(22.2%)

Net Loss

(44.9)

(34.8)

(32.4)

(27.8%)

(6.9%)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Capex

50.0

76.8

55.5

11.0%

(27.7)

 

_________________________

 (1) Active subscribers are those who in the past three months made a transaction which brought revenue to the Company.

 (2) EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure. See page 14 for the reconciliation of Euroasia’s EBITDA to net cash from operating activities. Eurasia holds 100% stake in Astelit.

 

 

12

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Reconciliation of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

 

We believe that EBITDA is a measure commonly used by companies, analysts and investors in the telecommunications industry, which enhances the understanding of our operating results and assists in the evaluation of our capacity to meet our financial obligations. We also use EBITDA as an internal measurement tool and, accordingly, we believe that the presentation of EBITDA provides useful and relevant information to analysts and investors.

 

Beginning from the 2006 fiscal year, we have revised the definition of EBITDA which we use and we report EBITDA using this new definition starting from the first quarter of 2006 results announcement to provide a new measure to reflect solely cash flow from operations.

 

The EBITDA definition used in our previous press releases and announcements had included Revenues, Direct Cost of Revenues excluding depreciation and amortization, Selling and Marketing expenses, Administrative expenses, translation gain/(loss), financial income, income on unconsolidated subsidiaries, gain on sale of investments, income/(loss) from related parties, minority interest and other income/(expense). Our new EBITDA definition includes Revenues, Direct Cost of Revenues excluding depreciation and amortization, Selling and Marketing expenses and Administrative expenses, but excludes translation gain/(loss), financial income, income on unconsolidated subsidiaries, gain on sale of investments, income/(loss) from related parties, minority interest and other income/(expense).

 

EBITDA is not a measure of financial performance under IFRS and should not be construed as a substitute for net earnings (loss) as a measure of performance or cash flow from operations as a measure of liquidity.

 

The following table provides a reconciliation of EBITDA, which is a non-GAAP financial measure, to net cash provided by operating activities, which we believe is the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with IFRS.

 

TURKCELL

US$ million

Q1

2007

Q4

2007

Q1

2008

Q1 2008-Q1 2007

% Chg

Q1 2008-Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

EBITDA

513.3

745.4

577.0

12.4%

(22.6%)

Income Tax Expense

(100.6)

(125.2)

(126.4)

25.7%

1.0%

Other operating income/(expense)

1.0

(17.4)

1.4

40.0%

108.1%

Financial income

5.3

0.1

3.2

(39.6%)

3100.0%

Financial expense

(0.4)

(18.4)

(2.4)

500.0%

(87.0%)

Net (decrease)/ıncrease in assets and liabilities

(75.1)

(27.1)

(292.9)

290.0%

980.8%

Net cash from operating activities

343.5

557.4

159.9

(53.5%)

(71.3%)

 

 

13

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

EUROASIA (Astelit)

US$ million

Q1

2007

Q4

2007

Q1

2008

Q1 2008-Q1 2007

% Chg

Q1 2008-Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

EBITDA

(16.5)

2.7

2.1

112.7%

(22.2%)

Other operating income/(expense)

0

0.2

0.1

N/A

(50.0%)

Financial income

0.3

1.2

0.8

166.7%

(33.3%)

Financial expense

(9.8)

(15.2)

(9.1)

(7.1%)

(40.1%)

Net increase/(decrease) in assets and liabilities

22.8

21.1

26.6

16.7%

26.1%

Net cash from operating activities

(3.2)

10.0

20.5

740.6%

105.0%

 

 

Turkcell Group Subscribers

 

We have approximately 47.6 million proportionate GSM subscribers as of March 31, 2008. This is calculated by taking the number of GSM subscribers in Turkcell and each of our subsidiaries and multiplying the number of unconsolidated investees by our percentage ownership interest in each subsidiary. This figure includes the proportionate rather than total number of Fintur’s GSM subscribers.However, it includes the total number of GSM subscribers in Astelit and in our operations in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (“Northern Cyprus”) because the financial statements of our subsidiaries in Ukraine and Northern Cyprus are consolidated with Turkcell’s financial statements.

 

Turkcell Group Subscribers

(million)

Q1

2007

Q4

2007

Q1

2008

Q1 2008-

Q1 2007

% Chg

Q1 2008-Q4 2007

% Chg

 

 

 

 

 

 

Turkcell

32.2

35.4

35.1

9.0%

(0.9%)

Ukraine

5.8

8.8

9.4

62.1%

6.8%

Fintur (pro rata)

1.9

2.6

2.8

47.4%

7.7%

Northern Cyprus 

0.3

0.3

0.3

-

-

TURKCELL GROUP

40.2

47.1

47.6

18.4%

1.1%

 

Forward-Looking Statements

This release includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Safe Harbor provisions of the US Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this press release, including, without limitation, certain statements regarding our operations, financial position and business strategy may constitute forward-looking statements. In addition, forward-looking statements generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as, among others, “may,” “will,” “expect,” “intend,” “plan,” “estimate,” “anticipate,” “believe” or “continue.”

 

14

 



 

First Quarter 2008 Results

 

 

Although Turkcell believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable at this time, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to be correct. Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by reference to these cautionary statements.

For a discussion of certain factors that may affect the outcome of such forward looking statements, see our Annual Report on Form 20-F for 2007 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and in particular the risk factor section therein.

www.turkcell.com.tr

 

ABOUT TURKCELL

 

Turkcell is the leading GSM operator in Turkey with 35.1 million postpaid and prepaid customers as of March 31, 2008 operating in a three player market with a market share of approximately 57% as of December 31, 2007 (Source: The Telecommunications Authority). In addition to high-quality wireless telephone services, Turkcell currently offers General Packet Radio Service (“GPRS”) countrywide and Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution (“EDGE”) in dense areas, which provide for both improved data and voice services. Turkcell provides roaming with 579 operators in 197 countries as of May 2, 2007. Serving a large subscriber base in Turkey with its high-quality wireless telephone network, Turkcell reported US$1,6 billion net revenues as of March 31, 2008 and US$6.3 billion net revenues as of December 31, 2007 as per IFRS financial statements. Turkcell has interests in international GSM operations in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Northern Cyprus and Ukraine. Turkcell has been listed on the NYSE (“New York Stock Exchange”) and the ISE (“Istanbul Stock Exchange”) since July 2000 and is the only NYSE listed company in Turkey. 51.00% of Turkcell’s share capital is held by Turkcell Holding, 4.22% by Cukurova Group, 13.07% by Sonera Holding, 2.32% by M.V. Group and 0.01% by others while the remaining 29.38% is free float.

 

For further information please contact Turkcell

Corporate Affairs

Koray Öztürkler, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Tel: +90-212-313-1500

Email: koray.ozturkler@turkcell.com.tr

 

Investors:

Ferda Atabek, Investor Relations

Tel: + 90-212-313-1275  

Email: ferda.atabek@turkcell.com.tr

 

investor.relations@turkcell.com.tr

 

Media:

Filiz Karagul Tuzun, Corporate Communications

Tel: + 90-212-313-2304

Email: filiz.karagul@turkcell.com.tr

 

 

15

 




EXHIBIT 2


 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

 

CONSOLIDATED INTERIM BALANCE SHEET

As at 31 March 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of US Dollars unless otherwise indicated except share amounts)

 

 

 

 

Note

 

31 March

 

31 December

2008

2007

Assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property, plant and equipment

 

11

 

2,091,708

 

2,221,895

 

Intangible assets

 

12

 

1,248,583

 

1,375,403

 

Investments in equity accounted investees

 

13

 

662,473

 

664,385

 

Other investments

 

14

 

38,644

 

42,354

 

Due from related parties

 

31

 

62,927

 

68,871

 

Other non-current assets

 

15

 

44,732

 

44,171

 

Deferred tax assets

 

16

 

3,000

 

2,446

Total non-current assets

 

 

 

4,152,067

 

4,419,525

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inventories

 

 

 

18,299

 

23,424

 

Other investments

 

14

 

52,957

 

28,218

 

Due from related parties

 

31

 

48,823

 

52,482

 

Trade receivables and accrued income

 

17

 

489,865

 

558,563

 

Other current assets

 

18

 

346,946

 

291,534

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

19

 

3,089,440

 

3,095,300

Total current assets

 

 

 

4,046,330

 

4,049,521

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total assets

 

 

 

8,198,397

 

8,469,046

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Share capital

 

20

 

1,636,204

 

1,636,204

 

Share premium

 

20

 

434

 

434

 

Reserves

 

20

 

466,408

 

931,913

 

Retained earnings

 

20

 

3,704,083

 

3,224,526

Total equity attributable to equity holders of Turkcell Iletisim
Hizmetleri Anonim Sirketi

 

5,807,129

 

5,793,077

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minority interest

 

20

 

120,887

 

138,128

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total equity

 

 

 

5,928,016

 

5,931,205

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans and borrowings

 

22

 

142,755

 

140,404

 

Employee benefits

 

23

 

28,674

 

27,229

 

Other non-current liabilities

 

 

 

304

 

-

 

Deferred tax liabilities

 

16

 

101,645

 

132,388

Total non-current liabilities

 

 

 

273,378

 

300,021

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bank overdraft

 

19

 

6,299

 

2,125

 

Loans and borrowings

 

22

 

503,355

 

619,555

 

Income taxes payable

 

10

 

407,662

 

443,194

 

Trade and other payables

 

26

 

663,107

 

759,019

 

Due to related parties

 

31

 

58,572

 

17,978

 

Deferred income

 

24

 

324,251

 

324,815

 

Provisions

 

25

 

33,757

 

71,134

Total current liabilities

 

 

 

1,997,003

 

2,237,820

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

 

 

 

2,270,381

 

2,537,841

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total equity and liabilities

 

 

 

8,198,397

 

8,469,046

 

 

The notes on page 6 to 80 are an integral part of these consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 

1




 

 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES                

 

CONSOLIDATED INTERIM INCOME STATEMENT

For the three months ended 31 March 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of US Dollars unless otherwise indicated except share amounts)

 

 

 

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

Note

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Revenue

 

7

 

1,574,380

 

1,294,761

Direct cost of revenue

 

 

 

(825,102)

 

(685,995)

Gross profit

 

 

 

749,278

 

608,766

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Other income

 

 

 

2,250

 

3,110

Selling and marketing expenses

 

 

 

(292,638)

 

(231,695)

Administrative expenses

 

 

 

(72,208)

 

(52,432)

Other expenses

 

 

 

(868)

 

(2,016)

Results from operating activities

 

 

 

385,814

 

325,733

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finance income

 

9

 

225,349

 

76,770

Finance expense

 

9

 

(15,900)

 

(51,140)

Net finance expense

 

 

 

209,449

 

25,630

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

 

13

 

19,867

 

17,679

Profit before income tax

 

 

 

615,130

 

369,042

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax expense

 

10

 

(126,352)

 

(100,612)

Profit for the period

 

 

 

488,778

 

268,430

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Attributable to:

 

 

 

 

 

 

Equity holders of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri Anonim Sirketi

 

 

486,790

 

272,138

Minority interest

 

 

 

1,988

 

(3,708)

Profit for the period

 

 

 

488,778

 

268,430

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted earnings per share

 

21

 

0.221268

 

0.123699

(in full USD)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The notes on page 6 to 80 are an integral part of these consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 

2




 

 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES                

 

CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF RECOGNIZED INCOME AND EXPENSE

For the three months ended 31 March 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of US Dollars unless otherwise indicated except share amounts)

 

 

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign currency translation differences

 

(468,450)

 

76,955

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities

 

(723)

 

349

Income and expense recognized directly in equity

 

(469,173)

 

77,304

 

 

 

 

 

Profit for the period

 

488,778

 

268,430

 

 

 

 

 

Total recognized income for the period

 

19,605

 

345,734

 

 

 

 

 

Attributable to:

 

 

 

 

Equity holders of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri Anonim Sirketi

 

14,052

 

349,442

Minority interest

 

5,553

 

(3,708)

Total recognized income for the period

 

19,605

 

345,734

                                                                                                                                                        

 

The notes on page 6 to 80 are an integral part of these consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 

3




 

 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES                

 

CONSOLIDATED INTERIM STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the three months ended 31 March 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of US Dollars unless otherwise indicated except share amounts)

 

 

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

Cash flows from operating activities

 

 

 

 

Profit for the period

 

488,778

 

268,430

Adjustments for:

 

 

 

 

Depreciation

 

123,371

 

126,217

Amortization of intangibles

 

69,172

 

62,443

Foreign exchange loss, net

 

(127,130)

 

37,631

Net finance income

 

(81,493)

 

(58,410)

Provision for doubtful receivables

 

8,943

 

7,163

Income tax expense

 

126,352

 

100,612

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

 

(30,997)

 

(26,971)

Loss/(Gain) on sale of property, plant and equipment

 

1

 

(1,557)

Translation reserve

 

(42,338)

 

3,759

Net (gain)/loss on remeasurement of investments

 

(1,310)

 

(632)

Amortization of transaction costs of borrowings

 

-

 

2,176

Deferred income

 

27,885

 

(8,668)

 

 

561,234

 

512,193

Change in trade receivables

 

13,612

 

(31,795)

Change in due from related parties

 

15,415

 

11,720

Change in inventories

 

3,071

 

3,255

Change in other current assets

 

(208,265)

 

(129,564)

Change in other investments

 

-

 

(6,391)

Change in other non-current assets

 

(4,430)

 

(4,133)

Change in other non-current investments

 

-

 

(1,906)

Change in due to related parties

 

(6,603)

 

38,556

Change in trade and other payables

 

(10,849)

 

(39,036)

Change in other current liabilities

 

(30,248)

 

22,334

Change in other non-current liabilities

 

304

 

(8,713)

Change in employee benefits

 

3,830

 

3,348

Change in provisions

 

(31,147)

 

(13,710)

 

 

305,924

 

356,158

Interest paid

 

(11,252)

 

(17,894)

Income tax paid

 

(134,774)

 

(6,106)

Dividend received

 

-

 

11,306

Net cash from operating activities

 

159,898

 

343,464

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from investing activities

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from sale of property plant and equipment

 

1,725

 

1,556

Proceeds from currency option contracts

 

3,188

 

1,372

Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale financial assets

 

5,988

 

16,729

Proceeds from settlement of held-to-maturity investments

 

-

 

7,246

Interest received

 

97,868

 

69,923

Dividends received

 

-

 

15,828

Acquisition of property, plant and equipment

 

(140,371)

 

(126,802)

Acquisition of intangibles

 

(49,597)

 

(3,195)

Acquisition of minority interest

 

-

 

(93)

Payment of currency option contracts premium

 

(2,027)

 

-

Acquisition of available-for-sale financial assets

 

(30,900)

 

(119)

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(114,126)

 

(17,555)

 

 

 

 

 

Cash flows from financing activities

 

 

 

 

Payment of transaction costs

 

-

 

(203)

Proceeds from issuance of loans and borrowings

 

7,500

 

-

Repayment of borrowings

 

-

 

(58,000)

Change in minority interest

 

43,143

 

1,647

Net cash used in financing activities

 

50,643

 

(56,556)

 

 

 

 

 

Effects of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on balance sheet items

 

(233,579)

 

32,335

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase in cash and cash equivalents

 

(137,164)

 

301,688

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January

 

3,093,175

 

1,598,640

Effect of exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents

 

127,130

 

(37,631)

Cash and cash equivalents at 31 March

 

3,083,141

 

1,862,697

 

The notes on page 6 to 80 are an integral part of these consolidated interim financial statements.

 

 

4




 

 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES        

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of US Dollars unless otherwise indicated except share amounts)

 

Notes to the consolidated interim financial statements

 

Page

 

1. Reporting entity

6

 

2. Basis of preparation

7

 

3. Significant accounting policies

9

 

4. Determination of fair values

20

 

5. Financial risk management

21

 

6. Segment reporting

23

 

7. Revenue

27

 

8. Personnel expenses

27

 

9. Finance income and expenses

27

 

10. Income tax expense

28

 

11. Property, plant and equipment

30

 

12. Intangible assets

32

 

13. Equity accounted investees

34

 

14. Other investments

35

 

15. Other non-current assets

36

 

16. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

36

 

17. Trade receivables and accrued income

37

 

18. Other current assets

38

 

19. Cash and cash equivalents

38

 

20. Capital and reserves

39

 

21. Earnings per share

41

 

22. Loans and borrowings

42

 

23. Employee benefits

44

 

24. Deferred income

44

 

25. Provisions

44

 

26. Trade and other payables

45

 

27. Financial instruments

46

 

28. Operating leases

54

 

29. Capital commitments

54

 

30. Contingencies

55

 

31. Related parties

75

 

32. Group entities

80

 

33. Subsequent events

80

 

 

5




 

 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES                                          

 

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of US Dollars unless otherwise indicated except share amounts)

 

1.   Reporting entity

  Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri Anonim Sirketi (the “Company”) was incorporated in Turkey on 5 October 1993 and commenced its operations in 1994. The address of the Company’s registered office is Turkcell Plaza, Mesrutiyet caddesi No. 71, 34430 Tepebasi/Istanbul. It is engaged in establishing and operating a Global System for Mobile Communications (“GSM”) network in Turkey and regional states.

  In April 1998, the Company signed a license agreement (the “License”) with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications of Turkey (the “Turkish Ministry”), under which it was granted a 25 year GSM license in exchange for a license fee of $500,000. The License permits the Company to operate as a stand-alone GSM operator and releases it from some of the operating constraints in the Revenue Sharing Agreement, which was in effect prior to the License. Under the License, the Company collects all of the revenue generated from the operations of its GSM network and pays the Undersecretariat of Treasury (the “Turkish Treasury”) an ongoing license fee equal to 15% of its gross revenue from Turkish GSM operations. The Company continues to build and operate its GSM network and is authorized to, among other things, set its own tariffs within certain limits, charge peak and off-peak rates, offer a variety of service and pricing packages, issue invoices directly to subscribers, collect payments and deal directly with subscribers.

  On 25 June 2005, the Turkish government declared that GSM operators are required to pay 10% of their existing monthly ongoing license fee to the Turkish Ministry as a universal service fund contribution in accordance with Law No 5369. As a result, starting from 30 June 2005, the Company pays 90% of the ongoing license fee to the Turkish Treasury and 10% to the Turkish Ministry as universal service fund.

  In July 2000, the Company completed an initial public offering with the listing of its ordinary shares on the Istanbul Stock Exchange and American Depositary Shares, or ADSs, on the New York Stock Exchange.

  The consolidated interim financial statements of the Company as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008 comprise the Company and its nineteen subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”) and the Group’s interest in one associate and one joint venture. The Company’s and each of its subsidiaries’, associate’s and joint venture’s interim financial statements are prepared as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

 

 

6




 

 

2.   Basis of preparation

(a)   Statement of compliance

  The consolidated interim financial statements have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRSs”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).

  The Group’s consolidated interim financial statements were approved by the Board of Directors on 7 May 2008.

(b)   Basis of measurement

  The accompanying consolidated interim financial statements are based on the statutory records, with adjustments and reclassifications for the purpose of fair presentation in accordance with IFRSs as issued by the IASB. They are prepared on the historical cost basis adjusted for the effects of inflation during the hyperinflationary period lasted by 31 December 2005, except that the following assets and liabilities are stated at their fair value: derivative financial instruments and financial instruments classified as available-for-sale. The methods used to measure fair value are further discussed in note 4.

(c)   Functional and presentation currency

  The consolidated interim financial statements are presented in US Dollars (“USD”), rounded to the nearest thousand. Moreover, all financial information expressed in TRY, Euro (“EUR”) and Swedish Krona (“SEK”) have been rounded to the nearest thousand. The functional currency of the Company and its consolidated subsidiaries located in Turkey and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is TRY. The functional currency of Euroasia Telecommunications Holding BV (“Euroasia”) and Financell BV (“Financell”) is USD. The functional currency of East Asian Consortium BV (“Eastasia”) is EUR. The functional currency of LLC Astelit (“Astelit”) is Ukrainian Hryvnia.

(d)   Use of estimates and judgments

  The preparation of interim financial statements in conformity with IFRSs as issued by the IASB requires management to make judgments, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

  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.

  Information about estimates, uncertainty and critical judgements about the contingencies are described in note 30 and detailed analysis with respect to accounting estimates and judgements of bad debts, useful life or expected pattern of consumption of the future economic benefits embodied in depreciable assets is provided below:

  Key sources of estimation uncertainty

  In note 27, detailed analysis is provided for the foreign exchange exposure of the Company and risks in relation to foreign exchange movements.

 

 

7




 

 

2.   Basis of preparation (continued)

(d)   Use of estimates and judgments (continued)

  Critical accounting judgments in applying the Company’s accounting policies

  Certain critical accounting judgments in applying the Company’s accounting policies are described below:

  Allowance for doubtful receivables

  The impairment losses in trade and other receivables are based on management’s evaluation of the volume of the receivables outstanding, past experience and general economic conditions.

  Useful life of assets

  The useful economic lives of the Group’s assets are determined by management at the time the asset is acquired and regularly reviewed for appropriateness. The Group defines useful life of its assets in terms of the assets’ expected utility to the Group. This judgment is based on the experience of the Group with similar assets. In determining the useful life of an asset, the Group also follows technical and/or commercial obsolescence arising on changes or improvements from a change in the market. The useful life of the License is based on duration of the license agreement.

  Commission fees

  Commission fees relate to services performed in relation to betting games where the Group acts as an agent in the transaction rather than as a principal. In the absence of specific guidance under IFRSs on distinguishing between an agent and a principal, management considered the following factors:

      The Group does not take the responsibility for fulfilment of the games.

      The Group does not collect the proceeds from the final customer and it does not bear the credit risk.

      The Group earns a stated percentage of the total turnover.

  Revenue Recognition

  In arrangements which include multiple elements, the Company considers the elements to be separate units of accounting in the arrangement. Deliverables are accounted separately where a market for each deliverable exists and if the recognition criterion is met individually. The arrangement consideration is allocated to each deliverable in proportion to the fair value of the individual deliverables.

  Income taxes

  The calculation of tax charge involves a degree of estimation and judgment in respect of certain items whose tax treatment cannot be finally determined until resolution has been reached with the relevant tax authority or, as appropriate, through formal legal process.

  As part of the process of preparing the consolidated interim financial statements, the Group is required to estimate the income taxes in each of the jurisdictions and countries in which they operate. This process involves estimating the actual current tax exposure together with assessing temporary differences resulting from differing treatment of items, such as deferred revenue and reserves for tax and accounting purposes. The Company management assesses the likelihood that the deferred tax assets will be recovered from future taxable income, and to the extent the recovery is not considered probable the deferred asset is adjusted accordingly.

 

 

8




 

 

2.   Basis of preparation (continued)

(d)   Use of estimates and judgments (continued)

  Critical accounting judgments in applying the Company’s accounting policies

  Income taxes (continued)

  The recognition of deferred tax assets is based upon whether it is probable that future taxable profits will be available, against which the temporary differences can be utilized. Recognition, therefore, involves judgment regarding the future financial performance of the particular legal entity in which the deferred tax asset has been recognized.

3.   Significant accounting policies

  The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these consolidated interim financial statements, and have been applied consistently by Group entities.

(a)   Basis of consolidation

(i)   Subsidiaries

  Subsidiaries are entities controlled by the Group. Control exists when the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies of an entity so as to obtain benefits from its activities. In assessing control, potential voting rights that currently are exercisable or convertible are taken into account. The interim financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated interim financial statements from the date that control commences until the date that control ceases. The accounting policies of subsidiaries are changed as necessary to align them with the policies adopted by the Group.

(ii)   Acquisition from entities under common control

  Business combinations arising from transfers of interests in entities that are under the control of the shareholder that controls the Group are excluded from the scope of International Financial Reporting Standards No. 3 (“IFRS 3”) “Business Combinations”. The assets and liabilities acquired from entities under common control are recognised at the carrying amounts recognised previously in the Group’s controlling shareholder’s consolidated financial statements. The components of equity of the acquired entities are added to the same components within the Group equity.

(iii)   Associates and jointly controlled entities (equity accounted investees)

  Associates are those entities in which the Group has significant influence, but not control, over the financial and operating policies. Significant influence is presumed to exist when the Group holds between 20 and 50 percent of the voting power of another entity. Joint ventures are those entities over whose activities the Group has joint control, established by contractual agreement and requiring unanimous consent for strategic financial and operating decisions. Associates and jointly controlled entities (equity accounted investees) are accounted for using the equity method and are initially recognised at cost. The Group’s investment includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment loss. The consolidated interim financial statements include the Group’s share of the income and expenses and equity movements of equity accounted investees, after adjustments to align the accounting policies with those of the Group, from the date that significant influence or joint control commences until the date that significant influence or joint control ceases. When the Group’s share of losses exceeds its interest in an equity accounted investee, the carrying amount of that interest (including any long-term investments) is reduced to nil and recognition of further losses is discontinued except to the extent that the Group has an obligation or has made payments on behalf of the investee. The Group’s equity accounted investees as at 31 March 2008 are Fintur Holdings BV (“Fintur”) and A-Tel Pazarlama ve Servis Hizmetleri AS (“A-Tel”).

 

9




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(a)   Basis of consolidation (continued)

(iv)   Transactions eliminated on consolidation

  Intragroup balances and transactions, and any unrealised income and expenses arising from intragroup transactions, are eliminated in preparing the consolidated interim financial statements. Unrealised gains arising from transactions with equity accounted investees are eliminated against the investment to the extent of the Group’s interest in the investee. Unrealised losses are eliminated in the same way as unrealised gains, but only to the extent that there is no evidence of impairment.

(b)   Foreign currency

(i)   Foreign currency transactions

  Transactions in foreign currencies are translated to the respective functional currencies of Group entities at exchange rates at the dates of the transactions. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the reporting date are retranslated to the functional currency at the exchange rate at that date. Foreign currency differences arising on translation of foreign currency transactions are recognised in the income statement. The foreign currency gain or loss on monetary items is the difference between amortised cost in the functional currency at the beginning of the period, adjusted for effective interest and payments during the period, and the amortised cost in foreign currency translated at the exchange rate at the end of the period. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are measured at fair value are retranslated to the functional currency at the exchange rate at the date that the fair value was determined. Foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognised in profit or loss, except for differences arising on the retranslation of available-for-sale equity instruments, which are recognised directly in equity.

(ii)   Foreign operations The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including fair value adjustments arising on acquisition, are translated to USD at foreign exchange rates ruling at the reporting date. The income and expenses of foreign operations are translated to USD at exchange rates approximating to the exchange rates at the dates of the transactions.

  Foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognized directly in a separate component of equity. Since 1 January 2005, the Group’s date of transition to IFRSs, such differences have been recognized in the foreign currency translation reserve. When a foreign operation is disposed of, in part or in full, the relevant amount in the foreign currency translation reserve is transferred to profit or loss.

  Foreign exchange gains and losses arising from a monetary item receivable from or payables to a foreign operation, the settlement of which is neither planned nor likely in the foreseeable future, are considered to form part of a net investment in a foreign operation and are recognised directly in equity in the foreign currency translation reserve.

(iii)   Translation from functional to presentation currency

  Items included in the financial statements of each entity are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entities operate, normally under their local currencies.

  The consolidated interim financial statements are presented in USD, which is the presentation currency of the Group. The Group uses USD as the presentation currency for the convenience of investor and analyst community.

 

10




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(b)   Foreign currency (continued)

(iii)   Translation from functional to presentation currency (continued)

  Assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented (including comparatives) are translated to USD at exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses for each income statement (including comparatives) are translated to USD at monthly average exchange rates.

  Foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognised directly in a separate component of equity.

(iv)   Net investment in foreign operations

  Foreign currency differences arising from the translation of the net investment in foreign operations are recognized in foreign currency translation reserve. They are transferred to the income statement upon disposal.

(c)   Financial instruments

(i)   Non-derivative financial instruments

  Non-derivative financial instruments comprise investments in equity and debt securities, trade and other receivables, cash and cash equivalents, loans and borrowings, and trade and other payables.

  Non-derivative financial instruments are recognised initially at fair value plus, for instruments not at fair value through profit or loss, any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, non-derivative financial instruments are measured as described below:

  Cash and cash equivalents comprise cash balances and call deposits. Bank overdrafts that are repayable on demand and form an integral part of the Group’s cash management are included as a component of cash and cash equivalents for the purpose of the statement of cash flows.

  Accounting for finance income and expenses is discussed in note 3(m).

    Held-to-maturity investments

  If  the Group has the positive intent and ability to hold debt securities to maturity, then they are classified as held-to-maturity. Held-to-maturity investments are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.

    Available-for-sale financial assets

  The  Group’s investments in equity securities and certain debt securities are classified as available-for-sale financial assets. Subsequent to initial recognition, they are measured at fair value and changes therein, other than impairment losses (see note 3(h)(i)), and foreign exchange gains and losses on available-for-sale monetary items (see note 3(b)(i)), are recognised directly in equity. When an investment is derecognised, the cumulative gain or loss in equity is transferred to profit or loss.

    Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss

  An instrument is classified as financial asset at fair value through profit or loss if it is held for trading or is designated as such upon initial recognition. Financial instruments are designated at fair value through profit or loss if the Group manages such investments and makes purchase and sale decisions based on their fair value in accordance with the Group’s risk management or investment strategy. Upon initial recognition, attributable transaction costs are recognised in profit or loss when incurred. Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are measured at fair value, and changes therein are recognised in profit or loss.

 

11




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(c)   Financial instruments (continued)

(i)   Non-derivative financial instruments (continued)

    Other

  Other non-derivative financial instruments are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.

(ii)   Derivative financial instruments

  The Group holds derivative financial instruments to hedge its foreign currency risk exposures arising from operational, financing and investing activities. In accordance with its treasury policy, the Group engages in forward and option contracts. However, these derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting and are accounted for as trading instruments.

  Embedded derivatives are separated from the host contract and accounted for separately if the economic characteristics and risks of the host contract and the embedded derivative are not closely related, a separate instrument with the same terms as the embedded derivative would meet the definition of a derivative, and the combined instrument is not measured at fair value through profit or loss.

  Derivatives are recognised initially at fair value; attributable transaction costs are recognised in profit or loss when incurred. Subsequent to initial recognition, derivatives are measured at fair value, and changes therein are recognized in profit or loss.

(iii)   Share capital

  Ordinary shares

  Ordinary shares are classified as equity. Incremental costs directly attributable to issue of ordinary shares are recognised as a deduction from equity, net of any tax effects.

(d)   Property, plant and equipment

(i)   Recognition and measurement 

  Items of property, plant and equipment are stated at cost adjusted for the effects of inflation during the hyperinflationary period lasted by 31 December 2005 less accumulated depreciation (see below) and accumulated impairment losses (see note 3(h)(ii)).

  Cost includes expenditure that is directly attributable to the acquisition of the asset. The cost of self-constructed assets includes the cost of materials and direct labor, any other costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to a working condition for its intended use, and the costs of dismantling and removing the items and restoring the site on which they are located, if any. Borrowing costs related to the acquisition or constructions of qualifying assets are recognized in profit or loss as incurred.

  When parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment.

  Gains/losses on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment are determined by comparing the proceeds from disposal with the carrying amount of property, plant and equipment and are recognized net within other income or other expenses in profit or loss.

 

 

12




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(d)   Property, plant and equipment (continued)

(ii)   Subsequent costs 

  The cost of replacing part of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognized in the carrying amount of the item if it is probable that the future economic benefits embodied within the part will flow to the Group and its cost can be measured reliably. The carrying amount of the replaced item is derecognised. The costs of the day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognised in profit or loss as incurred.

(iii)   Depreciation

  Depreciation is recognized in the profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment. Leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term and their useful lives unless it is reasonably certain that the Group will obtain ownership by the end of the lease term. Land is not depreciated.

  The estimated useful lives for the current and comparative periods are as follows:

 

Buildings

25 – 50 years

 

Network infrastructure

3 – 8 years

 

Equipment, fixtures and fittings

4 – 5 years

 

Motor vehicles

4 – 5 years

 

Central betting terminals

1 – 5 years

 

Leasehold improvements

5 years

 

  Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at each reporting date.

(e)   Intangible assets

  Intangible assets that are acquired by the Group which have finite useful lives are measured at cost adjusted for the effects of inflation during the hyperinflationary period lasted by 31 December 2005 less accumulated amortization (see below) and accumulated impairment losses (see note 3(h)).

(i)   Subsequent expenditure

  Subsequent expenditure is capitalised only when it increases the future economic benefits embodied in the specific asset (that is purchased from independent third parties) to which it relates. All other expenditure, including expenditure on internally generated goodwill and brands, is recognised in profit or loss as incurred. Capitalized costs generally relate to the application of development stage; any other costs incurred during the pre and post-implementation stages, such as repair, maintenance or training, are expensed as incurred. Subsequent expenditures of the Company do not relate to research and development activities.

(ii)   Amortization

  Amortization is recognized in the profit or loss on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets unless such lives are indefinite from the date that they are available for use. The estimated useful lives for the current and comparative periods are as follows:

 

Computer software

3 – 8 years

 

GSM and other telecommunications license

3 – 25 years

 

Transmission lines

10 years

 

Central betting system operating right

1 – 5 years

 

Customer base

2 years

 

 

13




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(f)   Leased assets

  Leases in terms of which the Group assumes substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership are classified as finance leases. Upon initial recognition, the leased asset is measured at an amount equal to the lower of its fair value and the present value of the minimum lease payments. Subsequent to initial recognition, the asset is accounted for in accordance with the accounting policy applicable to that asset.

  Other leases are operating leases and the leased assets are not recognized on the Group’s balance sheet.

(g)   Inventories

  Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less selling expenses. The cost of inventory is determined using the weighted average method and includes expenditure incurred in acquiring the inventories and bringing them to their existing location and condition. As at 31 March 2008, inventories consist of simcards, scratch cards and handsets.

(h)   Impairment 

(i)   Financial assets

  A financial asset is assessed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any objective evidence that it is impaired.

  A financial asset is considered to be impaired if objective evidence indicates that one or more events have had a negative effect on the estimated future cash flows of that asset.

  An impairment loss in respect of a financial asset measured at amortised cost is calculated as the difference between its carrying amount and the present value of the estimated future cash flows discounted at the original effective interest rate. An impairment loss in respect of an available-for-sale financial asset is calculated by reference to its fair value.

  Individually significant financial assets are tested for impairment on an individual basis. The remaining financial assets are assessed collectively in groups that share similar credit risk characteristics.

  All impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss. Any cumulative loss in respect of an available-for-sale financial asset recognised previously in equity is transferred to profit or loss.

  An impairment loss is reversed if the reversal can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognised. For financial assets measured at amortised cost and available-for-sale financial assets that are debt securities, the reversal is recognised in profit or loss. For available-for-sale financial assets that are equity securities, the reversal is recognised directly in equity.

(ii)   Non-financial assets

  The carrying amounts of the Group’s non-financial assets, other than inventories, and deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any indication of impairment. If any such indication exists, then the asset’s recoverable amount is estimated.

  The recoverable amount of an asset or cash-generating unit is the greater of its value in use and its fair value less costs to sell. In assessing value in use, the estimated future cash flows are discounted to their 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 the purpose of impairment testing, assets are grouped together into the smallest group of assets that generates cash inflows from continuing use that are largely independent of the cash inflows of other assets or group of assets (the “cash-generating unit”).

 

14




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(h)   Impairment (continued) 

(ii)   Non-financial assets (continued)

  An impairment loss is recognised if the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognised in profit or loss. Impairment losses recognised in respect of cash-generating units are allocated first to reduce the carrying amount of any goodwill allocated to the units and then to reduce the carrying amount of the other assets in the unit (group of units) on a pro rata basis.

  An impairment loss in respect of goodwill is not reversed. In respect of other assets, impairment losses recognised in prior periods are assessed at each reporting date for any indications that the loss has decreased or no longer exists. An impairment loss is reversed if there has been a change in the estimates used to determine the recoverable amount. An impairment loss is reversed only to the extent that the asset’s carrying amount does not exceed the carrying amount that would have been determined, net of depreciation or amortization, if no impairment loss had been recognised.

(i)   Employee benefits 

(i)   Retirement pay liability

  In accordance with existing labor law in Turkey, the Company and its subsidiaries in Turkey are required to make lump-sum payments to employees who have completed one year of service and whose employment is terminated without cause or who retire, are called up for military service or die. Such payments are calculated on the basis of 30 days’ pay maximum full TRY 2,088 as at 31 March 2008 (equivalent to full $1,636 as at 31 March 2008) (31 December 2007: full TRY 2,030 (equivalent to full $1,590 as at 31 March 2008)) per year of employment at the rate of pay applicable at the date of retirement or termination. Reserve for retirement pay is computed and reflected in the consolidated interim financial statements on a current basis. The reserve has been calculated by estimating the present value of future probable obligation of the Company and its subsidiaries in Turkey arising from the retirement of the employees. The calculation was based upon the retirement pay ceiling announced by the Government.

(ii)   >Defined contribution plans

  A defined contribution plan is a post-employment benefit plan under which an entity pays fixed contributions into a separate entity and will have no legal or constructive obligation to pay further amounts. Obligations for contributions to defined contribution plans are recognised as an employee benefit expense in profit or loss when they are due. The Company initiated a defined contribution retirement plan for all eligible employees during 2005. Besides, during 2006, Inteltek Internet Teknoloji Yatirim ve Danismanlik Ticaret AS (“Inteltek”) and Bilyoner Interaktif Hizmetler AS (“Bilyoner”), during 2007 Kule Hizmet ve Isletmecilik AS (“TurkKule”), Turkcell Teknoloji Arastirma ve Gelistirme AS (“Turkcell Teknoloji”) and Tellcom Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (“Tellcom”), other consolidated subsidiaries, initiated defined contribution plan for all eligible employees. The assets of the plan are held separately from the consolidated interim financial statements of the Group. The Company and other consolidated companies that initiated defined contribution retirement plan are required to contribute a specified percentage of payroll costs to the retirement benefit scheme to fund the benefits. The only obligation of the companies with respect to the retirement plan is to make the specified contributions.

 

15




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(j)   Provisions

  A provision is recognised if, as a result of a past event, the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation that can be estimated reliably, and it is probable that an outflow of economic benefits will be required to settle the obligation. Provisions are determined by discounting the expected future cash flows at a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and, where appropriate, the risks specific to the liability.

  Onerous contracts

  A provision for onerous contracts is recognized when the expected benefits to be derived by the Group from a contract are lower than the unavoidable cost of meeting its obligations under the contract. The provision is measured at the present value of the lower of the expected cost of terminating the contract and the expected net cost of continuing with the contract. Before a provision is established, the Group recognizes any impairment loss on the assets associated with that contract. The Company did not recognize any provision for onerous contracts as at 31 March 2008.

(k)   Revenue

  Communication fees include all types of postpaid revenues from incoming and outgoing calls, additional services and prepaid revenues. Communication fees are recognized at the time the services are rendered.

  With respect to prepaid revenues, the Group generally collects cash in advance by selling scratch cards to distributors. In such cases, the Group does not recognize revenue until the subscribers use the telecommunications services. Instead, deferred income is recorded under current liabilities.

  In connection with campaigns, both postpaid and prepaid services may be bundled with handset or other goods / services and these bundled services and products involve consideration in the form of fixed fee or a fixed fee coupled with continuing payment stream. Loyalty programs for both postpaid and prepaid services may be bundled with other services. Deliverables are accounted separately where a market for each deliverable exists and if the recognition criterion is met individually. Costs associated with each deliverable are recognized at the time of revenue recognized. The arrangement consideration is allocated to each deliverable in proportion to the fair value of the individual deliverables.

  Commission fees mainly comprised of net takings earned to a maximum of 7% of gross takings, as a head agent of fixed odds betting games starting from 15 March 2007 and 4.3% commission recognized based on the para-mutual and fixed odds betting games operated on Central Betting System. Prior to 15 March 2007, under the former head agency agreement, head agency commission fees were earned to a maximum of 12% of gross takings. Commission revenues are recognized at the time all the services related with the games are fully rendered. Under the head agency agreement, Inteltek is obliged to undertake any excess payout, which is presented on net basis with the commission fees.

  Monthly fixed fees represent a fixed amount charged to postpaid subscribers on a monthly basis without regard to the level of usage. Fixed fees are recognized on a monthly basis when billed.

  Simcard sales are recognized upfront upon delivery to subscribers, net of returns, discounts and rebates. Simcard costs are also recognized upfront upon sale of the simcard to the subscriber.

  Call center revenues are recognized at the time services are rendered.

 

16




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(l)   Lease payments

  Payments made under operating leases are recognized in profit or loss on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease. Lease incentives received are recognized as an integral part of the total lease expense, over the term of the lease.

  Minimum lease payments made under finance leases are apportioned between the finance expense and the reduction of the outstanding liability. The finance expense is allocated to each period during the lease term so as to produce a constant periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance of the liability.

(m)   Finance income and expenses

  Finance income comprises interest income on funds invested (including available-for sale financial assets), late payment interest income, gains on the disposal of available-for-sale financial assets, changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and gains on hedging instruments that are recognised in profit or loss. Interest income is recognised as it accrues, using the effective interest method.

  Finance expenses comprise interest expense on borrowings, unwinding of the discount on provisions, net foreign exchange loss, changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss and impairment losses recognised on financial assets. All borrowing costs are recognised in profit or loss using the effective interest method.

  Foreign currency gains and losses are reported on a net basis.

(n)   Transactions with related parties

  A related party is essentially any party that controls or can significantly influence the financial or operating decisions of the Group to the extent that the Group may be prevented from fully pursuing its own interests. For reporting purposes, investee companies and their shareholders, key management personnel, shareholders of the Group and the companies that the shareholders have a relationship with are considered to be related parties.

(o)   Income tax

  Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax expense is recognised in profit or loss except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in equity, in which case it is recognised in equity.

  Current tax is the expected tax payable on the taxable income for the year, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date, and any adjustment to tax payable in respect of previous years.

  Deferred tax is recognised using the balance sheet method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes. Deferred tax is not recognised for the following temporary differences: the initial recognition of assets or liabilities in a transaction that is not a business combination and that affects neither accounting nor taxable profit, and differences relating to investments in subsidiaries and jointly controlled entities to the extent that they probably will not reverse in the foreseeable future. Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to be applied to the temporary differences when they reverse, based on the laws that have been enacted or substantively enacted by the reporting date. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are offset if there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax liabilities and assets, and they relate to income taxes levied by the same tax authority on the same taxable entity, or on different tax entities, but they intend to settle current tax liabilities and assets on a net basis or their tax assets and liabilities will be realised simultaneously.

 

17




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(o)   Income tax (continued)

  A deferred tax asset is recognised to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which temporary difference can be utilised. Deferred tax assets are reviewed at each reporting date and are reduced to the extent that it is no longer probable that the related tax benefit will be realised.

(p)   Earnings per share

  The Group presents basic earnings per share (“EPS”) data for its ordinary shares. Basic EPS is calculated by dividing the profit or loss attributable to ordinary shareholders of the Company by the weighted average number of ordinary shares outstanding during the period. Diluted EPS is equal to basic EPS because the Group does not have any convertible notes or share options granted to employees.

(q)   Segment reporting

  A segment is a distinguishable component of the Group that is engaged either in providing related products or services (business segment) or in providing products or services within a particular economic environment (geographical segment), which is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of other segments. Segment information is presented in respect of the Group’s business and geographical segments. The Group’s primary format for segment reporting is based on geographical segment and secondary segment reporting is based on business segments.

  Inter-segment pricing is determined on an arm’s length basis.

  Segment results, assets and liabilities include items directly attributable to a segment as well as those that can be allocated on a reasonable basis. Unallocated items comprise mainly investments and related revenue, loans and borrowings and related expenses and income tax assets and liabilities.

  Segment capital expenditure is the total cost incurred during the period to acquire property, plant and equipment, and intangible assets other than goodwill.

(r)   New standards and interpretations not yet adopted

  A number of new standards, amendments to standards and interpretations are not yet effective at 31 March 2008, and have not been applied in preparing these consolidated interim financial statements:

 

IFRS 8 Operating Segments introduces the “management approach” to segment reporting. IFRS 8, which becomes mandatory for the Group’s 2009 consolidated financial statements, will require the disclosure of segment information based on the internal reports regularly reviewed by the Group’s Chief Operating Decision Maker in order to assess each segment’s performance and to allocate resources to them. Currently, the Group presents segment information in respect of its business and geographical segments (see note 6). It is not expected to have any impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

Revised IAS 23 Borrowing Costs removes the option to expense borrowing costs and requires that an entity capitalize borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of a qualifying asset as a part of the cost of that asset. The revised IAS 23 will become mandatory for the Group’s 2009 consolidated financial statements and will not constitute a change in accounting policy for the Group.

 

 

18




 

 

3.   Significant accounting policies (continued)

(r)   New standards and interpretations not yet adopted (continued)

 

IFRIC 13 Customer Loyalty Programmes addresses the accounting by entities that operate, or otherwise participate in, customer loyalty programmes for their customers. It relates to customer loyalty programmes under which the customer can redeem credits for awards such as free or discounted goods or services. IFRIC 13, which becomes mandatory for the Group’s 2009 consolidated financial statements, is not expected to have any impact on the consolidated financial statements.

 

Revised IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements does not change the recognition measurement or disclosure of transactions and events that are required by other IFRSs. The revised standard introduces as a financial statement the “statement of comprehensive income”. The revised standard is effective for annual financial periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009, with early adoption permitted.

 

Revised IFRS 3 Business Combinations made changes to the scope of IFRS 3, revised the definition of business, made some revisions at recognition principles of acquired assets and enhanced the disclosure requirements. The revised standard is effective for annual financial periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009, with early adoption permitted for annual periods beginning on or after 30 June 2007 providing that the entity also applies IAS 27 in the same period.

 

Revised IAS 27 Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements mainly changes the accounting for non-controlling interest and the loss of control of a subsidiary. The revised standard is effective for annual financial periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009, with early adoption permitted providing that the entity also applies IAS 27 in the same period.

 

Amendments to IFRS 2 Share-based Payment – Vesting Conditions and Cancellations clarifies the definition of vesting conditions, introduces the concept of “nonvesting conditions”, requires non-vesting conditions to be reflected in grant date fair value and provides the accounting treatment for non-vesting conditions and cancellations. The amendments to IFRS 2 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009, with early adoption permitted and is not expected to have any effect on the consolidated financial statements.

 

Amendments to “IAS 32 Financial Instruments:Presentation and IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements-Puttable Financial Instruments and Obligations Arising on Liquidation” improve the accounting for particular types of financial instruments that have characteristics similar to ordinary shares but are at present classified as financial liabilities. The amendments will apply for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2009, with earlier application is permitted and is not expected to have any effect on the consolidated financial statements

 

 

19




 

 

4.   Determination of fair values

  A number of the Group’s accounting policies and disclosures require the determination of fair value, for both financial and non-financial assets and liabilities. Fair values have been determined for measurement and/or disclosure purposes based on the following methods. When applicable, further information about the assumptions made in determining fair values is disclosed in the notes specific to that asset or liability.

(i)   Property, plant and equipment

  The fair value of property, plant and equipment recognised as a result of a business combination is based on market values. The market value of property is the estimated amount for which a property could be exchanged on the date of valuation between a willing buyer and a willing seller in an arm’s length transaction after proper marketing wherein the parties had each acted knowledgeably, prudently and without compulsion. The market value of items of plant, equipment, fixtures and fittings is based on the quoted market prices for similar items.

(ii)   Intangible assets

  The fair value of intangible assets is based on the discounted cash flows expected to be derived from the use and eventual sale of the assets.

(iii)   Investments in equity and debt securities

  The fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or loss, held-to-maturity investments and available-for-sale financial assets is determined by reference to their quoted bid price or over the counter market price at the reporting date. The fair value of held-to-maturity investments is determined for disclosure purposes only.

(iv)   Trade and other receivables

  The fair value of trade and other receivables is estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date.

(v)   Derivatives

  The fair value of forward exchange contracts and option contracts is based on their listed market price, if available. If a listed market price is not available, then fair value is estimated by discounting the difference between the contractual forward price and the current forward price for the residual maturity of the contract using a risk-free interest rate (based on government bonds) or option pricing models.

(vi)   Non-derivative financial liabilities

  Fair value, which is determined for disclosure purposes, is calculated based on the present value of future principal and interest cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date. For finance leases, the market rate of interest is determined by reference to similar lease agreements.

 

20




 

 

5.   Financial risk management

  The Group has exposure to the following risks from its use of financial instruments:

    Credit risks

    Liquidity risks

    Market risk

  This note presents information about the Group’s exposure to each of the above risks, the Group’s objectives, policies and processes for measuring and managing risk, and the Group’s management of capital.

  The Company management has overall responsibility for the establishment and oversight of the Group’s risk management framework.

  The Group’s risk management policies are established to identify and analyse the risks faced by the Group, to set appropriate risk limits and controls, and to monitor risks and adherence to limits. Risk management policies and systems are reviewed regularly to reflect changes in market conditions and the Group’s activities.

  Credit risk

  Credit risk is the risk of financial loss to the group if a customer or counterparty to a financial instrument fails to meet its contractual obligations, and arises principally from the Group’s receivables from customers and investment securities.

  Management has a credit policy in place and the exposure to credit risk is monitored on an ongoing basis. The Group may require collateral in respect of financial assets. Also, the Group may demand letters of guarantee from third parties related to certain projects or contracts. The Group may also demand certain pledges from counterparties if necessary in return for the credit support it gives related to certain financings.

  In monitoring customer credit risk, customers are grouped according to whether they are an individual or legal entity, ageing profile, maturity and existence of previous financial difficulties. Trade receivables and accrued service income are mainly related to the Group’s subscribers. The Group exposure to credit risk on trade receivables is influenced mainly by the individual payment characteristics of post-paid subscribers.

  Investments are allowed only in liquid securities and mostly with counterparties that have a credit rating equal or better than the Group. Some of the collection banks have credit ratings that are lower than the Group’s, or they may not be rated at all, however, policies are in place to review the paid-in capital and capital adequacy ratios periodically to ensure credit worthiness.

  Transactions involving derivatives are with counterparties with whom the Group has signed agreements and which have sound credit ratings. The Group does not expect any counterparty fail to meet its obligations.

  At the reporting date, there were no significant concentrations of credit risk. The maximum exposure to credit risk is represented by the carrying amount of each financial asset in the balance sheet.

  The Group establishes an allowance for doubtful receivables that represents its estimate of incurred losses in respect of receivables from subscribers. This allowance includes the specific loss component that relates to individual subscribers exposures, and adjusted for a general provision which is determined based on historical data of payment statistics. Impairment loss as a percentage of revenues represented 0.6% of revenues for the three months ended 31 March 2008. If impairment loss as a percentage of revenues increased to 1.5% of revenues, the impairment loss would have been increased by $14,059, negatively impacting profit for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

 

21




 

 

5.   Financial risk management (continued)

  Liquidity risk

  Liquidity risk is the risk that the Group will not be able to meet its financial obligations as they fall due. The Group’s approach to managing liquidity is to ensure, as far as possible, that it will always have sufficient liquidity to meet its liabilities when due, under both normal and stressed conditions, without incurring unacceptable losses or risking damage to the Group’s reputation. Typically, the Group ensures that it has sufficient cash and cash equivalents to meet expected operational expenses, including financial obligations.

  Market risk

  Market risk is the risk that changes in market prices, such as foreign exchange rates, interest rates and equity prices will affect the Group’s income or the value of its holdings of financial instruments. The objective of market risk management is to manage and control market risk exposures within acceptable parameters, while optimising the return on risk.

  Currency risk

  The Group is exposed to currency risk on certain revenues such as roaming revenues, purchases and certain operating costs such as roaming expenses and network related costs and resulting receivables and payables and borrowings that are denominated in a currency other than the respective functional currencies of Group entities, primarily TRY for operations conducted in Turkey. The currencies in which these transactions are primarily denominated are EUR, USD and SEK.

  Derivative financial instruments such as forward contracts and options are used to hedge exposure to fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The Group uses forward exchange contracts to hedge its currency risk. When necessary, forward exchange contracts are rolled over at maturity.

  The Group’s investments in its equity accounted investee Fintur and its subsidiary in Ukraine are not hedged with respect to the currency risk arising from the net assets as those currency positions are considered to be long-term in nature.

  The Group has not entered into any type of derivative instrument in order to hedge foreign currency risk as at 31 March 2008.

  Interest rate risk

  The Group has not entered into any type of derivative instrument in order to hedge interest rate risk as at 31 March 2008.

  The Board’s policy is to maintain a strong capital base as to maintain investor, creditor and market confidence and to sustain future development of the business.

 

22




 

 

6.   Segment reporting

  Geographical segments:

  The primary format, geographical segments, is based on the dominant source and nature of the Group’s risk and returns as well as the Group’s internal reporting structure.

  In presenting information on the basis of geographical segments, segment revenue is based on the geographical location of the entities. Segment assets are based on the geographical location of the assets.

  The Group comprises the following main geographical segments: Turkey, Ukraine, Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

  Business segments:

  In presenting information on the basis of business segments, segment revenue is based on the operational activity of the entities. Segment assets are based on the intended use of the assets.

  The Group comprises the following main business segments: Telecommunications and betting businesses.

 

23






6.   Segment reporting (continued)

Three months ended 31 March
 
Turkey Ukraine Turkish
Republic of
Northern Cyprus
Other Eliminations Consolidated
 





        2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008   2007       2008     2007     2008     2007  
 











Total external revenues       1,463,455     1,233,030     90,167     42,778     20,758     18,953                     1,574,380     1,294,761  
Inter-segment revenue       786     720     254         1,633     1,117             (2,673 )   (1,837 )        
 











Total segment revenue       1,464,241     1,233,750     90,421     42,778     22,391     20,070             (2,673 )   (1,837 )   1,574,380     1,294,761  
 











Segment result       401,289     357,956     (23,639 )   (35,097 )   6,035     1,674             747     106     384,432     324,639  
Unallocated income/(expense), net                                               1,382     1,094  
                     

Results from operating activities                                               385,814     325,733  
                     

Net finance costs                                               209,449     25,630  
Share of profit/(loss) of equity    
accounted investees       (10,726 )   (4,441 )                   30,593   22,120               19,867     17,679  
Income tax expense                                               (126,352 )   (100,612 )
                     

Profit for the period                                               488,778     268,430  
                     



24




6.   Segment reporting (continued)

  As at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007
 
  Turkey Ukraine Turkish Republic of
Northern Cyprus
Other Consolidated
 




        2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007  
 









Segment assets       3,541,521     3,730,627     734,812     708,005     73,785     70,570     50     125,066     4,350,168     4,634,268  
Investment in equity accounted investees       126,680     149,306                     535,793     515,079     662,473     664,385  
Unallocated assets                                       3,185,756     3,170,393  
                     

Total assets                                       8,198,397     8,469,046  
                     

Segment liabilities       997,457     1,096,780     103,532     91,561     7,638     12,694     37     48     1,108,664     1,201,083  
Unallocated liabilities                                       1,161,717     1,336,758  
                     

Total liabilities                                       2,270,381     2,537,841  
                     



  Three months ended 31 March
 
  Turkey Ukraine Turkish Republic of
Northern Cyprus
Other Consolidated
 




        2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007  
 









Capital expenditure       127,140     78,793     55,482     49,971     9,883     1,233             192,505     129,997  
Depreciation       106,247     115,007     16,125     9,560     999     1,650             123,371     126,217  
Amortization of intangible assets       58,936     53,099     9,364     9,054     872     290             69,172     62,443  


25




6.   Segment reporting (continued)

  Busines segments

Three months ended 31 March
 
Telecommunications Betting Other operations Consolidated
 



        2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007  
 







Total external revenue       1,515,922     1,232,842     52,863     58,156     5,595     3,763     1,574,380     1,294,761  
Capital expenditure       188,440     128,874     220     637     3,845     486     192,505     129,997  


 

As at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007
 
Telecommunications Betting Other operations Consolidated
 



        2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007     2008     2007  
 







Segment assets       4,285,503     4,439,037     17,379     20,660     47,286     174,571     4,350,168     4,634,268  


26




 

 

7.   Revenue

 

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

Communication fees

 

1,485,369

 

1,193,339

Commission fees on betting business

 

52,863

 

58,156

Monthly fixed fees

 

16,759

 

12,595

Simcard sales

 

5,155

 

6,873

Call center revenues

 

4,222

 

3,050

Other revenues

 

10,012

 

20,748

 

 

1,574,380

 

1,294,761


8.   Personnel Expenses

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

Wages and salaries (*)

 

130,557

 

76,215

Increase in liability for long-service leave

 

4,620

 

3,950

Contributions to defined contribution plans

 

1,523

 

260

 

 

136,700

 

80,425

 

* Wages and salaries include compulsory social security contributions.

 

9.   Finance income and expenses

 

  Recognised in profit or loss:

 

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

Interest income on bank deposits

 

81,347

 

64,546

Late payment interest income

 

10,502

 

7,174

Premium income on option contracts

 

3,188

 

1,692

Interest income on unimpaired held-to-maturity investments

 

-

 

705

Net gain on disposal of available-for-sale financial assets transferred from equity

 

1,500

 

-

Interest income on available-for-sale financial assets

 

368

 

980

Net foreign exchange gain

 

125,759

 

-

Other interest income

 

2,685

 

1,673

Finance income

 

225,349

 

76,770

 

 

 

 

 

Discount interest expense on financial liabilities measured at amortised cost

 

(11,517)

 

(11,411)

Net foreign exchange loss

 

-

 

(37,631)

Option premium expense

 

(2,027)

 

-

Other

 

(2,356)

 

(2,098)

Finance expense

 

(15,900)

 

(51,140)

Net finance costs

 

209,449

 

25,630

 

  Late payment interest income is interest received from subscribers who pay monthly invoices after due date specified on the invoices.

  Interest expense on borrowings capitalized on fixed assets amounts to $2,537 and $1,947 for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007, respectively.

27




 

 

10.   Income tax expense

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

Current tax expense

 

 

 

 

Current period

 

(146,945)

 

(114,266)

 

 

(146,945)

 

(114,266)

Deferred tax benefit/(expense)

 

 

 

 

Origination and reversal of temporary differences

 

19,317

 

13,431

Benefit of investment incentive recognized

 

1,276

 

223

 

 

20,593

 

13,654

Total income tax expense

 

(126,352)

 

(100,612)


  Reconciliation of effective tax rate

  The reported income tax expense for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 are different than the amounts computed by applying the statutory tax rate to profit before income tax of the Company, as shown in the following reconciliation:

 

 

2008

 

2007

Profit for the period

 

488,778

 

268,430

Total income tax expense

 

126,352

 

100,612

Profit excluding income tax

 

615,130

 

369,042

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax using the Company’s domestic tax rate

20%

(123,026)

20%

(73,808)

Effect of tax rates in foreign jurisdictions

-

1,478

(1)%

1,994

Tax exempt income

(1)%

7,962

(1)%

5,311

Non deductible expenses

-

(2,894)

2%

(6,165)

Tax incentives

-

1,276

-

223

Effect of gradual tax rate

-

-

5%

(18,736)

Unrecognized deferred tax assets

3%

(18,108)

3%

(10,762)

Other

(1)%

6,960

-

1,331

Total income tax expense

 

(126,352)

 

(100,612)


  The income taxes payable of $407,662 as at 31 March 2008 represents the amount of current income tax provision amounting to $138,341 in respect of related estimated taxable profit for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and income taxes payable amounting to $269,321 belonging to year 2007 netted off with advance tax payment made as at 31 March 2008.

  The Turkish entities within the Group are subject to corporate tax at the rate of 20%. In Turkey, there is no procedure for a final and definitive agreement on tax assessments. Companies file their tax returns until the end of April following the close of the accounting year to which they relate. Tax authorities may, however, examine such returns and the underlying accounting records and may revise assessments within five years. Advance tax returns are filed on a quarterly basis.

  Corporate tax is applied on taxable corporate income, which is calculated from the statutory accounting profit by adding back non-deductible expenses, and by deducting tax exempt income.

28




 

 

10.   Income tax expense (continued)

  Reconciliation of effective tax rate (continued)

  In Turkey, the transfer pricing provisions have been stated under the Article 13 of Corporate Tax Law with the heading of “disguised profit distribution via transfer pricing”. The General Communiqué on disguised profit distribution via Transfer Pricing, dated 18 November 2007 sets details about implementation.

  If a taxpayer enters into transactions regarding sale or purchase of goods and services with related parties, where the prices are not set in accordance with arm’s length principle, then related profits are considered to be distributed in a disguised manner through transfer pricing. Such disguised profit distributions through transfer pricing are not accepted as tax deductible for corporate income tax purposes.


29






11.   Property, plant and equipment

Cost or deemed cost

Balance at
1 January 2007
Additions Disposals Transfers Effect of
movements in
exchange rates
Balance at
31 December 2007
 





Network infrastructure (All Operational)       4,476,792     77,393     (394,103 )   460,982     862,675     5,483,739  
Land and buildings       253,708     29,474     (124 )       45,214     328,272  
Equipment, fixtures and fittings       292,483     14,870     (8,609 )   2,651     55,903     357,298  
Motor vehicles       17,818     819     (5,033 )       3,648     17,252  
Leasehold improvements       131,830     1,304     (188 )       21,016     153,962  
Construction in progress       267,187     452,268         (463,633 )   52,947     308,769  
 





Total       5,439,818     576,128     (408,057 )       1,041,403     6,649,292  
 





Accumulated Depreciation    
Network infrastructure (All Operational)       3,063,148     501,390     (385,685 )       663,137     3,841,990  
Land and buildings       67,443     11,785     (42 )       14,842     94,028  
Equipment, fixtures and fittings       253,266     17,747     (8,522 )       64,223     326,714  
Motor vehicles       15,601     1,286     (4,866 )       3,377     15,398  
Leasehold improvements       123,369     707     (122 )       25,313     149,267  
 





Total       3,522,827     532,915     (399,237 )       770,892     4,427,397  
 





Total property, plant and equipment       1,916,991     43,213     (8,820 )       270,511     2,221,895  
 







30






Cost or deemed cost

Balance at
1 January 2007
Additions Disposals Transfers Effect of
movements in
exchange rates
Balance at
31 December 2007
 





Network infrastructure (All Operational)       5,483,739     26,252     (4,060 )   100,297     (443,355 )   5,162,873  
Land and buildings       328,272     3,182     (719 )   95     (27,568 )   303,262  
Equipment, fixtures and fittings       357,298     2,680     (527 )   2,250     (29,159 )   332,542  
Motor vehicles       17,252     278     (889 )       (1,509 )   15,132  
Leasehold improvements       153,962     37     (1 )   358     (13,270 )   141,086  
Construction in progress       308,769     110,479         (103,000 )   (16,788 )   299,460  
 





Total       6,649,292     142,908     (6,196 )       (531,649 )   6,254,355  
 





Accumulated Depreciation    
Network infrastructure (All Operational)       3,841,990     114,706     (3,302 )       (333,130 )   3,620,264  
Land and buildings       94,028     3,271     (1 )       (8,215 )   89,083  
Equipment, fixtures and fittings       326,714     4,577     (354 )       (27,910 )   303,027  
Motor vehicles       15,398     304     (812 )       (1,369 )   13,521  
Leasehold improvements       149,267     513     (1 )       (13,027 )   136,752  
 





Total       4,427,397     123,371     (4,470 )       (383,651 )   4,162,647  
 





Total property, plant and equipment       2,221,895     19,537     (1,726 )       (147,998 )   2,091,708  
 






  Depreciation expenses for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 are $123,371 and $126,217, respectively.

31




 

 

11.   Property, plant and equipment (continued)

  Leased assets

  The Group leases equipments under a number of finance lease agreements. At the end of each of the lease period, the Group has the option to purchase the equipment at a beneficial price. As at 31 March 2008, net carrying amount of fixed assets acquired under finance leases amounted to $84,138 (31 December 2007: $95,751).

  Property, plant and equipment under construction

  Construction in progress consisted of expenditures in GSM network of the Company, Astelit and Kibris Mobile Telekomunikasyon Limited Sirketi (“Kibris Telekom”) and non-operational items as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007.

  As at 31 March 2008, a mortgage is placed on Izmir and Davutpasa buildings amounting to $1,175 and $392, respectively (31 December 2007: $1,288 and $429, respectively).

12.   Intangible assets

  In April 1998, the Company signed the License with the Turkish Ministry, under which it was granted a GSM license, which is amortized in 25 years with a carrying amount of $540,333 as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: $602,070). The amortization period of the licence will end in 2023.

 

Cost

 

Balance at 1 January 2007

 

Additions

 

Disposals

 

Transfers

 

Effects of movements in exchange rates

 

Balance at

31 December

2007

GSM and other telecommunication operating licences

902,427

 

29,972

 

-

 

16,636

 

168,520

 

1,117,555

Computer Software

1,565,334

 

13,391

 

(3,472)

 

188,137

 

309,381

 

2,072,771

Transmission Lines

31,286

 

1,917

 

-

 

-

 

6,471

 

39,674

Central Betting System Operating Right

4,038

 

55

 

-

 

-

 

835

 

4,928

Customer Base

1,255

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

260

 

1,515

Other

 

84

 

245

 

-

 

20

 

(254)

 

95

Construction in progress

 

47,565

 

161,405

 

-

 

(204,793)

 

-

 

4,177

Total

 

2,551,989

 

206,985

 

(3,472)

 

-

 

485,213

 

3,240,715

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated Amortization

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GSM and other telecommunication operating licences

327,829

 

50,341

 

-

 

-

 

63,411

 

441,581

Computer Software

966,513

 

205,052

 

(766)

 

-

 

219,992

 

1,390,791

Transmission Lines

18,986

 

3,467

 

-

 

-

 

4,332

 

26,785

Central Betting System Operating Right

2,711

 

1,173

 

-

 

-

 

692

 

4,576

Customer Base

1,255

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

260

 

1,515

Other

 

27

 

29

 

-

 

-

 

8

 

64

Total

 

1,317,321

 

260,062

 

(766)

 

-

 

288,695

 

1,865,312

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total intangible assets

 

1,234,668

 

(53,077)

 

(2,706)

 

-

 

196,518

 

1,375,403

 

32




 

 

12.   Intangible assets (continued)

 

Cost

 

Balance at 1 January 2008

 

Additions

 

Disposals

 

Transfers

 

Effects of movements in exchange rates

 

Balance at

31 March

2008

GSM and other telecommunication operating licences

1,117,555

 

8,405

 

-

 

-

 

(88,746)

 

1,037,214

Computer Software

2,072,771

 

1,315

 

(10)

 

43,200

 

(175,080)

 

1,942,196

Transmission Lines

39,674

 

480

 

-

 

-

 

(3,476)

 

36,678

Central Betting System Operating Right

4,928

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

(432)

 

4,496

Customer Base

1,515

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

(133)

 

1,382

Other

 

95

 

6

 

(4)

 

-

 

110

 

207

Construction in progress

 

4,177

 

39,391

 

-

 

(43,200)

 

(366)

 

2

Total

 

3,240,715

 

49,597

 

(14)

 

-

 

(268,123)

 

3,022,175

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated Amortization

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GSM and other telecommunication operating licences

441,581

 

15,698

 

-

 

-

 

(34,808)

 

422,471

Computer Software

1,390,791

 

52,162

 

(10)

 

-

 

(123,227)

 

1,319,716

Transmission Lines

26,785

 

957

 

-

 

-

 

(2,411)

 

25,331

Central Betting System Operating Right

4,576

 

333

 

-

 

-

 

(413)

 

4,496

Customer Base

1,515

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

(133)

 

1,382

Other

 

64

 

22

 

(4)

 

-

 

114

 

196

Total

 

1,865,312

 

69,172

 

(14)

 

-

 

(160,878)

 

1,773,592

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total intangible assets

 

1,375,403

 

(19,575)

 

-

 

-

 

(107,245)

 

1,248,583

 

 

Amortization expenses for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 are $69,172 and $62,443, respectively.

 

33




 

 

13.   Equity accounted investees

  The Group’s share of profit in its equity accounted investees for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 are $19,867 and $17,679, respectively. Summary financial information for equity accounted investees, not adjusted for the percentage ownership held by the Group is as follows:

Ownership Current
Assets
Non-cnrrent
Assets
Total
Assets
Current
Liabilities
Non-current
Liabilities
Total
Liabilities
   





31 March 2008                                
Fintur (associate)       41.45 %   432,995     1,508,137     1,941,132     229,145     43,211     272,356  
A-Tel (joint venture)       50.00 %   82,832     258,543     341,375     35,233     51,867     87,100  
   





            515,827     1,766,680     2,282,507     264,378     95,078     359,456  
   





31 December 2007      
Fintur (associate)       41.45 %   418,485     1,390,361     1,808,846     235,264     31,355     266,619  
A-Tel (joint venture)       50.00 %   85,473     287,790     373,263     15,939     57,707     73,646  
   





            503,958     1,678,151     2,182,109     251,203     89,062     340,265  
   








Three months ended 31 March
 
Revenue Direct cost of
revenue
Profit for the
period
 


 2008              
Fintur (associate)       403,959     (169,143 )   73,808  
A-Tel (joint venture)       22,134     (24,022 )   792  
 


        426,093     (193,165 )   74,600  
 


 2007      
Fintur (associate)       297,731     (122,084 )   53,416  
A-Tel (joint venture)       18,137     (10,324 )   9,490  
 


        315,868     (132,408 )   62,906  
 
























34




 

 

13.   Equity accounted investees (continued)

  The Company’s investment in Fintur and A-Tel amounts to $535,793 and $126,680 respectively as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: $515,079 and $149,306).

  During March 2008 and February 2007, at the General Assembly meeting of A-Tel, it has been decided to distribute dividends and accordingly the Company reduced the carrying value of its investment in A-Tel by the dividends declared of TRY 12,543 (equivalent to $9,826 as at 31 March 2008) and TRY 37,448 (equivalent to $29,337 as at 31 March 2008) as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007, respectively.

14.   Other investments

  Non-current investments:

 

 

 

 

31 March 2008

 

31 December 2007

 

 

Country of incorporation

 

Ownership
(%)

Carrying
Amount

 

Ownership
(%)

Carrying
Amount

Aks Televizyon Reklamcilik ve Filmcilik Sanayi
ve Ticaret AS (“Aks TV”)

 

Turkey

 

6.24

26,530

 

6.24

29,077

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

T Medya Yatirim Sanayi ve Ticaret AS (“T-Medya”)

 

Turkey

 

9.23

12,114

 

9.23

13,277

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

38,644

 

 

42,354


  In 2003, the Group acquired a 6.24% interest in Aks TV and a 8.23% interest in T-Medya, media companies owned by Cukurova Group. On 27 June 2007, T-Medya took over Asli Gazetecilik ve Matbaacilik AS and, as a result of this restructuring, interest of the Group in T-Medya increased from 8.23% to 9.23%.

  Investment in Aks TV and T-Medya is classified as available-for-sale financial assets. However, there is not active market available for these equity instruments, and application of valuation techniques is impracticable. Accordingly, the Company measured these investments at cost.

  Current investments:

 

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

 

2008

 

2007

Available-for-sale financial assets

 

 

 

 

 

Government bonds, treasury bills

 

32,287

 

1,738

 

Foreign investment equity funds

 

20,670

 

26,480

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

52,957

 

28,218


  Interest bearing available-for-sale TRY denominated, USD denominated and EUR denominated government bonds and treasury bills with a carrying amount of $22,974, $1,433 and $324, respectively as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: USD denominated $1,440 and EUR denominated $298) have stated interest rates of 14%, Libor+1.0%-Libor+1.6% (31 December 2007: Libor+1.0% -Libor+1.6%) and Euribor+1.8% (31 December 2007: Euribor+1.8%), respectively and mature in 1 to 4 years (31 December 2007: 2 to 3 years). The Company has TRY denominated discounted government bond with a carrying amount of $7,556 as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: nil).

  Foreign investment equity funds are denominated in USD with a carrying amount of $20,670 as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: $26,480).

  The Group’s exposure to credit, currency and interest rate risks related to other investments is disclosed in Note 27.

35




 

 

15.   Other non-current assets

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

2008

 

2007

Prepaid expenses

 

23,045

 

28,365

Prepayment for subscriber acquisition cost

 

7,338

 

6,347

Deposits and guarantees given

 

5,503

 

5,621

Others

 

8,846

 

3,838

 

 

44,732

 

44,171


  Subscriber acquisition costs are subsidies to the subscribers for the handsets, under which Astelit can enforce the minimum customer contract period and can determine revenues that can be linked to individual contracts.

16.   Deferred tax assets and liabilities

  Unrecognised deferred tax assets

  Deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of the following items:

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

2008

 

2007

Deductible temporary differences

 

6,900

 

457

Tax losses

 

57,624

 

48,604

Total unrecognised deferred tax assets

 

64,524

 

49,061


  The deductible temporary differences do not expire under current tax legislation. Turkish tax legislation does not allow companies to file tax returns on a consolidated basis. Therefore, deferred tax assets have not been recognised in respect of these items resulting from certain consolidated subsidiaries because it is not probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the Group can utilise the benefits therefrom.

  As at 31 March 2008, expiration of tax losses is as follows:

Year Originated

 

Amount

Expiration Date

2003

 

37

2008

2004

 

1,300

2009

2005

 

1,290

2010

2006

 

4,965

2011

2007

 

14,989

2012

2008

 

19,323

2013 thereafter

 

  As at 31 March 2008, net operating loss carry forwards which will be carried indefinitely are as follows:

Year Originated

Amount

2006

114,375

2007

44,576

2008

39,142

 

 

36




 

 

16.   Deferred tax assets and liabilities (continued)

  Recognised deferred tax assets and liabilities

  Deferred tax assets and liabilities as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 are attributable to the following:

 

 

 

Assets

 

Liabilities

 

Net

 

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

Property, plant & equipment and intangible assets

 

1,054

 

872

 

(166,884)

 

(201,602)

 

(165,830)

 

(200,730)

Investment

 

-

 

-

 

(10,423)

 

(7,816)

 

(10,423)

 

(7,816)

Provisions

 

6,958

 

12,813

 

-

 

-

 

6,958

 

12,813

Trade and other payables

 

64,328

 

54,749

 

-

 

-

 

64,328

 

54,749

Other items

 

5,750

 

11,436

 

(335)

 

(917)

 

5,415

 

10,519

Tax credit carry forwards

 

907

 

523

 

-

 

-

 

907

 

523

Tax assets / (liabilities)

 

78,997

 

80,393

 

(177,642)

 

(210,335)

 

(98,645)

 

(129,942)

Set off of tax

 

(75,997)

 

(77,947)

 

75,997

 

77,947

 

-

 

-

Net tax assets / (liabilities)

 

3,000

 

2,446

 

(101,645)

 

(132,388)

 

(98,645)

 

(129,942)

 

  All temporary differences are recognized in profit or loss except for the deferred tax effects of change in fair value of available-for-sale financial assets amounting to nil and $1,331 as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007, respectively.

17.   Trade receivables and accrued income

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

2008

 

2007

Receivables from subscribers

 

243,705

 

277,519

Accrued service income

 

149,354

 

167,194

Accounts and checks receivable

 

76,444

 

87,538

Receivables from Turk Telekomunikasyon AS (“Turk Telekom”)

 

20,362

 

26,312

 

 

489,865

 

558,563

 

  Trade receivables are shown net of allowance for doubtful debts amounting to $174,771 as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: $181,746). The impairment loss recognized for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 are $9,556 and $7,345, respectively.

  The accrued service income represents revenues accrued for subscriber calls (air-time), which have not been billed. Due to the volume of subscribers, there are different billing cycles; accordingly, an accrual is made at each period end to accrue revenues for rendered but not yet billed.

  Receivables from Turk Telekom as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 represent net amounts that are due from Turk Telekom under the Interconnection Agreement. The Interconnection Agreement provides that Turk Telekom will pay to the Company for Turk Telekom’s fixed-line subscribers’ calls to GSM subscribers.

  Letters of guarantee received with respect to the accounts and checks receivable are amounted to $150,287 and $109,322 as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007, respectively.

  The Group’s exposure to credit and currency risks and impairment losses related to trade receivables are disclosed in Note 27.


37




 

 

18.   Other current assets

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

2008

 

2007

Prepaid expenses

 

255,372

 

61,056

Value added tax (“VAT”) receivable

 

23,967

 

27,688

Interest income accruals

 

20,777

 

36,338

Prepayment for subscriber acquisition cost

 

17,203

 

14,704

Advances to suppliers

 

16,109

 

14,196

Restricted cash

 

-

 

125,304

Other

 

13,518

 

12,248

 

 

346,946

 

291,534


 

  Prepaid expenses mainly consists of prepaid frequency usage fees amounting to $182,437 as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: nil).

  Subscriber acquisition costs are subsidies to the subscribers for the handsets, under which Astelit can enforce the minimum customer contract period and can determine revenues that can be linked to individual contracts.

  As at 31 December 2007, restricted cash represents amounts deposited at banks as guarantees in connection with the loans used by the Group, which was released on 24 January 2008.

19.   Cash and cash equivalents

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

2008

 

2007

Cash in hand

 

297

 

205

Cheques received

 

735

 

999

Banks

 

3,086,092

 

3,093,906

-Demand deposits

 

233,787

 

185,551

-Time deposits

 

2,852,305

 

2,908,355

Bonds and bills

 

2,316

 

190

Cash and cash equivalents

 

3,089,440

 

3,095,300

Bank overdrafts

 

(6,299)

 

(2,125)

Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows

 

3,083,141

 

3,093,175


  As at 31 March 2008, cash and cash equivalents amounting to $120,000 (31 December 2007: $60,000) were deposited in banks, that are owned and/or controlled by Cukurova Group, a significant shareholder of the Company.

  The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk and a sensitivity analysis for financial assets and liabilities are disclosed in Note 27.


38




 

 

20.   Capital and reserves

  Reconciliation of movement in capital and reserves

Attributable to equity holders of the Company
Share
Capital
Share
Premium
Legal
Reserves
Fair
Value
Reserve
Translation
Reserve
Retained
Earnings
Total Minority
Interest
Total
Equity

Balance at 1 January 2007       1,636,204     434     148,273     2,815     (155,972 )   2,394,838     4,026,592     91,375     4,117,967  
Transfer to legal reserves               108,561             (108,561 )            
Total recognized income and expense                   2,666     825,570     1,350,162     2,178,398     (45,182 )   2,133,216  
Dividends paid                           (411,913 )   (411,913 )   (45,712 )   (457,625 )
Change in minority interest                                   137,647     137,647  

Balance at 31 December 2007       1,636,204     434     256,834     5,481     669,598     3,224,526     5,793,077     138,128     5,931,205  

Balance at 1 January 2008       1,636,204     434     256,834     5,481     669,598     3,224,526     5,793,077     138,128     5,931,205  
Transfer to legal reserves               7,233             (7,233 )            
Total recognized income and expense                   (723 )   (472,015 )   486,790     14,052     5,553     19,605  
Dividends declared                                   (54,639 )   (54,639 )
Change in minority interest                                   31,845     31,845  

Balance at 31 March 2008       1,636,204     434     264,067     4,758     197,583     3,704,083     5,807,129     120,887     5,928,016  


























39




 

 

20.   Capital and reserves (continued)

  Share capital

  As at 31 March 2008, common stock represented 2,200,000,000 (31 December 2007: 2,200,000,000) authorized, issued and fully paid shares with a par value of TRY 1 each. In accordance with the Law No. 5083 with respect to TRY, on 9 May 2005, par value of each share is registered to be one TRY.

  In connection with the redenomination of the Turkish Lira and as per the related amendments of Turkish Commercial Code, in order to increase the nominal value of the shares to TRY 1, 1,000 units of shares, each having a nominal value of TRY 0.001 shall be merged and each unit of share having a nominal value of TRY 1 shall be issued to represent such shares. The Company is still in the process of merging 1,000 existing ordinary shares, each having a nominal value of TRY 0.001 to one ordinary share having a nominal value of TRY 1 each. After the share merger which appears as a provisional article in the Articles of Association to convert the value of each share with a nominal value of TRY 0.001 to TRY 1, all shares will have a value of TRY 1. Although the merger process has not been finalized, the practical application is to state each share having a nominal value of TRY 1 which is consented by Capital Markets Board of Turkey (“CMB”). Accordingly, number of shares data is adjusted for the effect of this merger.

  The holders of shares are entitled to receive dividends as declared and are entitled to one vote per share at meetings of the Company.

  Translation reserve

  The translation reserve comprises all foreign currency differences arising from the translation of the financial statements of foreign and domestic operations from their functional currencies to presentation currency of USD.

  Fair value reserve

  The fair value reserve comprises the cumulative net change in the fair value of available-for-sale financial assets until the investments are derecognized or the asset is impaired.

  Legal reserve

  Under the Turkish Commercial Code, Turkish companies are required to set aside first and second level legal reserves out of their profits. First level legal reserves are set aside 5% of the distributable income per statutory accounts each year. The ceiling on the first legal reserves is 20% of the paid-up capital. The reserve requirement ends when the 20% of paid-up capital level has been reached. Second legal reserves correspond to 10% of profits actually distributed after the deduction of the first legal reserves and the minimum obligatory dividend pay-out (5% of the paid-up capital). There is no ceiling for second legal reserves and they are accumulated every year.

  Dividends

  The Company has adopted a dividend policy, which is set out in its corporate governance guidance. As adopted, the Company’s general dividend policy is to pay dividends to shareholders with due regard to trends in the Company’s operating performance, financial condition and other factors.

  The Board of Directors intends to distribute cash dividends in an amount of not less than 50% of the Company’s lower of distributable profit based on the financial statements prepared in accordance with the accounting principles accepted by the CMB or statutory records, for each fiscal year starting with profits for fiscal year 2004. However, the payment of dividends will still be subject to cash flow requirements of the Company, compliance with Turkish law and the approval of and amendment by the Board of Directors and the General Assembly of Shareholders.

40




 

 

20.   Capital and reserves (continued)

  Dividends (continued)

  On 27 February 2008, Board of Directors of the Company decided to distribute dividends amounting to TRY 648,714 (equivalent to $508,197 and $502,334 as at 31 March 2008 and 25 April 2008, respectively), which represented 50% of distributable income. This represents a net cash dividend of full TRY 0.294870 (equivalent to full $0.230999 in full as at 31 March 2008). Dividend distribution was approved at ordinary General Assembly meeting dated 25 April 2008.

 

 

2008

 

2007

TRY

 

USD*

 

TRY

 

USD*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cash dividends

 

648,714

 

502,334

 

567,040

 

411,913

 

 

648,714

 

502,334

 

567,040

 

411,913


  *USD equivalents of dividends are computed by using the Central Bank of Turkey’s TRY/USD exchange rate on 25 April 2008 and 23 March 2007, which are the dates that the General Assembly of Shareholders approved the dividend distribution.

  On 3 March 2008, Board of Directors of Inteltek decided to distribute dividends amounting to TRY 152,733 (equivalent to $119,650 and $121,419 as at 31 March 2008 and 28 March 2008, respectively). Dividend distribution was approved at ordinary General Assembly meeting dated 28 March 2008 and dividend distribution was started on 15 April 2008.

21.   Earnings per share

  The calculation of basic and diluted earnings per share as at 31 March 2008 were based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 of $486,790 and 272,138 respectively and a weighted average number of shares outstanding during the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 of 2,200,000,000 calculated as follows:

 

 

Three months ended 31 March

 

 

2008

 

2007

Numerator:

 

 

 

 

Net profit for the period

 

486,790

 

272,138

 

 

 

 

 

Denominator:

 

 

 

 

Weighted average number of shares

 

2,200,000,000

 

2,200,000,000

 

 

 

 

 

Basic and diluted earnings per share

 

0.221268

 

0.123699

 


41




 

 

22.   Loans and borrowings

  This note provides information about the contractual terms of the Group’s interest-bearing loans and borrowings, which are measured at amortized cost. For more information about the Group’s exposure to interest rate, foreign currency and liquidity risk and payment schedule for interest bearing loans, see note 27.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

Non-current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Unsecured bank loans

 

142,755

 

140,404

 

 

 

142,755

 

140,404

Current liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

Unsecured bank facility

 

503,320

 

494,098

 

Current portion of secured bank loans

 

-

 

125,388

 

Current portion of finance lease liabilities

 

35

 

69

 

 

 

503,355

 

619,555


  Significant portion of the loans are borrowed by Financell. In accordance with the financing agreements with HSBC Bank Plc, the Group shall not cease its control on Financell and there shall not be a change of control within the Company. In the event of any case, the creditor reserves the right to terminate the facility.

  The Company has $26,000 unutilized borrowing with respect to its $85,000 credit line in Akbank as at 31 March 2008.

  The loan amounting to EUR denominated $126,320 borrowed from West LB A.G., whose maturity was June 2008, was paid before its maturity on 24 January 2008.

  As at 31 March 2008, the Group is not subject to any financial covenants or ratios with respect to its borrowings.

42




 

 

22.   Loans and borrowings (continued)

  Terms and conditions of outstanding loans are as follows:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31 March 2008

 

31 December 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Currency

 

Year of maturity

 

Interest rate type

 

Nominal interest rate

 

Face value

 

Carrying amount

 

Nominal interest rate

 

Face value

 

Carrying amount

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unsecured bank loans

 

USD

 

2008

 

Floating

 

Libor+0.6%

 

20,500

 

20,667

 

Libor+0.6%

 

20,500

 

20,686

Unsecured bank loans

 

USD

 

2008

 

Floating

 

Libor+0.6%-0.8%

 

449,000

 

449,411

 

Libor+0.6%-0.8%

 

449,000

 

449,423

Unsecured bank loans

 

USD

 

2012

 

Floating

 

Libor+2.3%

 

145,698

 

142,737

 

Libor+2.3%

 

140,226

 

140,365

Unsecured bank loans

 

USD

 

2009

 

Floating

 

Libor+0.6%

 

7,500

 

7,520

 

-

 

-

 

-

Unsecured bank loans

 

EUR

 

2008

 

Floating

 

Euribor+0.7%

 

25,264

 

25,391

 

Euribor+0.7%

 

23,494

 

23,571

Secured bank loans*

 

EUR

 

2008

 

Floating

 

--

 

--

 

--

 

Euribor+0.8%

 

117,469

 

125,388

Other unsecured bank loans

 

--

 

--

 

--

 

--

 

--

 

349

 

--

 

--

 

457

Finance lease liabilities

 

USD

 

2008

 

Fixed

 

8.0%

 

23

 

35

 

8.0%

 

58

 

69

 

 

 

 

 

 

647,985

 

646,110

 

 

750,747

 

759,959

 

*

Guarantee of the bank loan is restricted cash deposited at banks amounted to $125,304, which was released on 24 January 2008 due to loan repayment before the maturity.

 

 

43




 

 

23.   Employee benefits

  International Accounting Standard No. 19 (“IAS 19”) “Employee Benefits” requires actuarial valuation methods to be developed to estimate the enterprise’s obligation under defined benefit plans. The liability for this retirement pay obligation is recorded in the accompanying consolidated interim financial statements at its present value using a discount rate of 5.7%.

  Movement in the reserve for employee termination benefits as at 31 March 2008 is as follows:

 

 

2008

Balance at 1 January 2008

 

27,229

Provision set during the period

 

3,274

Payments made during the period

 

(748)

Unwind of discount

 

1,592

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

 

(2,673)

Balance at 31 March 2008

 

28,674


  Obligations for contributions to defined contribution plans are recognized as an expense in the consolidated interim income statement as incurred. The Group incurred $1,523 and $260 in relation to defined contribution retirement plan for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007, respectively.

24.   Deferred income

  Deferred income is mainly consists of counters sold but not used by prepaid subscribers and it is classified as current as of the reporting date. The amount of deferred income is $324,251 as at 31 March 2008 and $324,815 as at 31 December 2007, respectively.

25.   Provisions

 

 

Legal

 

Bonus

 

Total

Balance at 1 January 2008

 

25,894

 

45,240

 

71,134

Provision made during the period

 

-

 

11,371

 

11,371

Provisions used during the period

 

-

 

(44,299)

 

(44,299)

Unwind of discount

 

-

 

(467)

 

(467)

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

 

(2,268)

 

(1,714)

 

(3,982)

Balance at 31 March 2008

 

23,626

 

10,131

 

33,757

 

  In note 30, under legal proceedings section, detailed explanations are given with respect to legal provisions in the captions under “Disputes on Turk Telekom Transmission Lines Leases” and “Dispute on Special Communication Taxation Regarding Prepaid Card Sales”.

  The bonus provision totalling to $10,131 comprises only the provision for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and is planned to be paid in March 2009.

44




 

 

26.   Trade and other payables

  The breakdown of trade and other payables as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 is as follows:

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

2008

 

2007

Taxes and withholdings payable

 

196,498

 

258,566

Payables to other suppliers

 

165,607

 

195,624

Payables to Ericsson companies

 

81,070

 

85,689

Selling and marketing expense accrual

 

55,944

 

48,705

License fee accrual

 

40,484

 

41,196

Roaming expense accrual

 

30,905

 

39,637

Telecommunications Authority share accrual

 

24,061

 

21,979

Interconnection payables

 

12,338

 

7,284

Transmission fee accrual

 

9,618

 

9,875

Deposits and guarantees taken from agents

 

8,480

 

8,295

Interconnection accrual

 

7,579

 

8,256

Payables to Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus Tax Office

 

-

 

3,000

Other

 

30,523

 

30,913

 

 

663,107

 

759,019


  Taxes and withholdings include VAT payable, special communications tax, frequency usage fees payable to Telecommunications Authority and personnel income taxes.

  Balances due to other suppliers are arising in the ordinary course of business.

  Payables to Ericsson companies comprise due to Ericsson Turkey, Ericsson Sweden and Ericsson AB arising from fixed asset purchases, site preparation and other services.

  Selling and marketing expense accruals are mainly resulted from services received from third parties related to marketing activities of the Company which are not yet invoiced.

  In accordance with the license agreement, Turkcell pays 90% of the ongoing license fee, which equals to the 15% of its gross revenue, to the Turkish Treasury and 10% as universal service fund to the Turkish Ministry.

  Payables to interconnection suppliers arise from voice and SMS termination services rendered by other GSM operators.

  The Group’s exposure to currency and liquidity risk related to trade and other payables is disclosed in Note 27.

45




 

 

27.   Financial instruments

  Credit risk

  Exposure to credit risk:

  The carrying amount of financial assets represents the maximum credit exposure. The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date was:

 

 

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

 

Note

 

2008

 

2007

Due from related parties-long term

 

31

 

62,927

 

68,871

Other non-current assets

 

15

 

7,903

 

7,671

Available-for-sale financial assets

 

14

 

52,957

 

28,218

Due from related parties-short term

 

31

 

48,823

 

52,482

Trade receivables and accrued income

 

17

 

489,865

 

558,563

Other current assets

 

18

 

28,752

 

169,378

Cash and cash equivalents

 

19

 

3,089,143

 

3,095,095

 

 

 

 

3,780,370

 

3,980,278


  The maximum exposure to credit risk for trade receivables arising from sales transactions including those classified as due from related parties at the reporting date by type of customer is:

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

2008

 

2007

Receivable from subscribers

393,059

 

443,705

Receivables from distributors and other operators

106,375

 

137,363

Other

11,303

 

10,577

 

510,737

 

591,645

 

46




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Credit risk (continued)

  Exposure to credit risk: (continued)

  Impairment losses

  The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 is as follows:

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

Opening balance

181,746

 

133,615

Impairment loss recognised

9,556

 

35,142

Write-off

-

 

(16,876)

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

(16,531)

 

29,865

Closing balance

174,771

 

181,746


 

  The impairment loss recognised of $9,556 for the three months ended 31 March 2008 relates to its estimate of incurred losses in respect of receivables from subscribers.

  The allowance accounts in respect of trade receivables is used to record impairment losses unless the Group is satisfied that no recovery of the amount owing is possible; at that point the amount considered irrecoverable is written off against the trade receivable directly.

47




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Liquidity risk

  The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including estimated interest payments and excluding the impact of netting agreements:

 

 

 

31 March 2008

 

31 December 2007

 

 

Carrying

 

Contractual

 

6 months

 

6-12

 

1-2

 

2-5

 

More than

 

Carrying

 

Contractual

 

6 months

 

6-12

 

1-2

 

2-5

 

More than

 

 

amount

 

cash flows

 

or less

 

months

 

years

 

years

 

5 years

 

amount

 

cash flows

 

or less

 

months

 

years

 

years

 

5 years

Non-derivative financial

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Secured bank loans

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

125,388

 

(127,950)

 

(127,950)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

Unsecured bank loans

 

646,075

 

(702,296)

 

(485,622)

 

(31,571)

 

(11,027)

 

(174,076)

 

-

 

634,502

 

(710,339)

 

(479,020)

 

(40,620)

 

(11,065)

 

(179,634)

 

-

Finance lease liabilities

 

35

 

(35)

 

(35)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

69

 

(69)

 

(69)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

Trade and other payables

 

662,302

 

(671,190)

 

(671,190)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

758,223

 

(767,125)

 

(767,125)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

Bank overdraft

 

6,299

 

(6,299)

 

(6,299)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

2,125

 

(2,125)

 

(2,125)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

Due to related parties

 

58,572

 

(59,075)

 

(59,075)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

17,978

 

(18,362)

 

(18,362)

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

-

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL

 

1,373,283

 

(1,438,895)

 

(1,222,221)

 

(31,571)

 

(11,027)

 

(174,076)

 

-

 

1,538,285

 

(1,625,970)

 

(1,394,651)

 

(40,620)

 

(11,065)

 

(179,634)

 

-

 

 

Current cash debt coverage ratio as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 is as follows:

 

 

31 March

 

31 December

 

2008

 

2007

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

3,089,440

 

3,095,300

Current liabilities

1,997,003

 

2,237,820

Current cash debt coverage ratio

155%

 

138%

 

 

48




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Exposure to currency risk

  The Group’s exposure to foreign currency risk based on notional amounts is as follows:

 

 

31 December 2007

 

 

USD

 

EUR

 

SEK

Foreign currency denominated assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Due from related parties-long term

 

68,871

 

770

 

-

Other non-current assets

 

5

 

2,136

 

-

Other investments

 

27,920

 

203

 

-

Due from related parties-short term

 

6,681

 

97

 

-

Trade receivables and accrued income

 

31,710

 

2,839

 

10

Other current assets

 

4,595

 

949

 

3

Cash and cash equivalents

 

1,806,527

 

88,416

 

5,901

 

 

1,946,309

 

95,410

 

5,914

Foreign currency denominated liabilities

 

 

 

 

Loans and borrowings-long term

 

(140,226)

 

-

 

-

Loans and borrowings-short term

 

(79,500)

 

(96,000)

 

-

Trade and other payables

 

(74,706)

 

(43,799)

 

(198,919)

Due to related parties

 

(546)

 

(700)

 

-

 

 

(294,978)

 

(140,499)

 

(198,919)

Net exposure

 

1,651,331

 

(45,089)

 

(193,005)

 

 

 

 

 

31 March 2008

 

 

USD

 

EUR

 

SEK

Foreign currency denominated assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

Due from related parties-long term

 

62,927

 

-

 

-

Other investments

 

22,103

 

205

 

-

Due from related parties-short term

 

9,430

 

93

 

-

Trade receivables and accrued income

 

24,088

 

6,622

 

11

Other current assets

 

3,059

 

114

 

-

Cash and cash equivalents

 

1,320,956

 

14,836

 

5,535

 

 

1,442,563

 

21,870

 

5,546

Foreign currency denominated liabilities

 

 

 

 

Loans and borrowings-long term

 

(145,698)

 

-

 

-

Loans and borrowings-short term

 

(87,000)

 

(16,000)

 

-

Trade and other payables

 

(107,352)

 

(33,661)

 

(18,187)

Due to related parties

 

(1,130)

 

(1,094)

 

-

 

 

(341,180)

 

(50,755)

 

(18,187)

Net exposure

 

1,101,383

 

(28,885)

 

(12,641)

 

49




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Exposure to currency risk (continued)

  The following significant exchange rates are applied during the period:

 

 

Average Rate

 

Reporting Date Closing Rate

 

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USD

 

1.1898

 

1.3031

 

1.2765

 

1.1647

EUR

 

1.7913

 

1.7827

 

2.0156

 

1.7102

SEK

 

0.1893

 

0.1918

 

0.2137

 

0.1798


  Sensitivity analysis

  The basis for the sensitivity analysis to measure foreign exchange risk is an aggregate corporate-level currency exposure. The aggregate foreign exchange exposure is composed of all assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies, both short-term and long-term purchase contracts. The analysis excludes net foreign currency investments. Changes in the fair values of forward contracts and currency options are also included in the sensitivity analysis if any; however, offsetting changes in the valuation of the underlying transaction are not included.

  10% strengthening of the Turkish Lira against the following currencies as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 would have increased/ (decreased) profit or loss by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain constant.

 

 

Profit or loss

 

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

 

 

 

 

 

USD

 

(110,138)

 

(165,133)

EUR

 

4,561

 

6,621

SEK

 

212

 

2,980


  10% weakening of the Turkish Lira against the following currencies as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 would have increased/ (decreased) profit or loss by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain constant.

 

 

Profit or loss

 

 

31 March

2008

 

31 December

2007

 

 

 

 

 

USD

 

110,138

 

165,133

EUR

 

(4,561)

 

(6,621)

SEK

 

(212)

 

(2,980)

 

50




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Sensitivity Analysis (continued)

  Interest rate risk

  Effective interest rates and repricing analysis:

  In respect of income-earning financial assets and interest-bearing financial liabilities, the following table indicates their average effective interest rates as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 in which they mature or, if earlier, reprice.

 

 

 

31 March 2008

 

31 December 2007

 

 

 

Effective

 

Carrying

 

Effective

 

Carrying

interest

 

interest

 

Note

 

Rate

 

amount

 

rate

 

amount

Fixed rate instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time deposits

19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USD

 

 

4.2%

 

1,245,262

 

5.7%

 

1,788,951

EUR

 

 

4.2%

 

147,380

 

5.8%

 

132,758

TRY

 

 

18.8%

 

1,458,781

 

19.5%

 

985,766

Other

 

 

-

 

882

 

-

 

880

Restricted cash

18

 

-

 

-

 

4.3%

 

125,304

Available-for-sale securities

14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gov. bonds, treasury bills

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TRY

 

 

18.0%

 

30,530

 

-

 

-

Finance lease obligations

22

 

8.3%

 

(35)

 

8.3%

 

(69)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable rate instruments

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Available-for-sale securities

14

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign inv. equity funds

 

 

*

 

20,670

 

*

 

26,480

Gov. bonds, treasury bills

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USD

 

 

6.8%

 

1,433

 

6.5%

 

1,440

EUR

 

 

5.1%

 

324

 

4.7%

 

298

Secured bank loans

22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EUR floating rate loans**

 

 

-

 

-

 

4.4%

 

(125,388)

Unsecured bank loans

22

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USD floating rate loans

 

 

6.6%

 

(620,335)

 

6.7%

 

(610,474)

EUR floating rate loans

 

 

5.5%

 

(25,391)

 

5.3%

 

(23,571)

Other

 

 

-

 

(349)

 

-

 

(457)

 

*   Effective interest rate is not calculated for foreign investment equity funds since they have no coupon payments.
**   Loan agreement was closed on floating rate basis. However, interest rate is fixed since there is only one interest payment till maturity.

51




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Sensitivity Analysis (continued)

  Interest rate risk (continued)

  Fair value sensitivity analysis for fixed rate instruments:

  The Group does not account for any fixed rate assets and liabilities at fair value through profit or loss and equity.

  Cash flow sensitivity analysis for variable rate instruments:

  A change of 1% in interest rates as at 31 March 2008 would have increased/ (decreased) equity and profit or loss by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular foreign exchange rates, remain constant. The analysis is performed on the same basis as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007.

 

 

Profit or loss

 

Equity

 

 

1% increase

 

1% decrease

 

1% increase

 

1% decrease

31 March 2008

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable rate instruments

 

(4,253)

 

4,253

 

17

 

(17)

Cash flow sensitivity (net)

 

(4,253)

 

4,253

 

17

 

(17)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

31 December 2007

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable rate instruments

 

(4,898)

 

4,898

 

32

 

(32)

Cash flow sensitivity (net)

 

(4,898)

 

4,898

 

32

 

(32)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

52




 

 

27.   Financial instruments (continued)

  Fair values

  The fair values of financial assets and liabilities together with the carrying amounts shown in the balance sheet are as follows:

 

 

 

 

31 March 2008

 

31 December 2007

 

 

 

 

Carrying

Fair

 

Carrying

Fair

 

Note

 

Amount

Value

Amount

Value

Financial assets

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Due from related parties-long term

 

31

 

62,927

62,927

 

68,871

68,871

Other non-current assets*

 

15

 

7,903

7,903

 

7,671

7,671

Available-for-sale securities

 

14

 

52,957

52,957

 

28,218

28,218

Due from related parties-short term

 

31

 

48,823

48,823

 

52,482

52,482

Trade receivables and accrued income

 

17

 

489,865

489,865

 

558,563

558,563

Other current assets*

 

18

 

28,752

28,752

 

169,378

169,378

Cash and cash equivalents

 

19

 

3,089,440

3,089,440

 

3,095,300

3,095,300

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Financial liabilities

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Loans and borrowings–long term

 

22

 

(142,755)

(142,755)

 

(140,404)

(140,404)

Bank overdrafts

 

19

 

(6,299)

(6,299)

 

(2,125)

(2,125)

Loans and borrowings–short term

 

22

 

(503,355)

(503,355)

 

(619,555)

(619,555)

Trade and other payables

 

26

 

(663,107)

(663,107)

 

(759,019)

(759,019)

Due to related parties

 

31

 

(58,572)

(58,572)

 

(17,978)

(17,978)

 

 

 

 

2,406,579

2,406,579

 

2,441,402

2,441,402

Unrecognized gain

 

 

 

 

-

 

 

-


*   Non-financial instruments such as prepaid expenses and advances given are excluded from other current assets and other non-current assets.

  The methods used in determining the fair values of financial instruments are discussed in note 4.

53




 

 

28.   Operating leases

  The Company entered into various operating lease agreements. For the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007, total rent expenses for operating leases are $55,032 and $41,415, respectively.

29.   Capital commitments

  As at 31 March 2008, outstanding capital commitments that the Group entered into with respect to purchase of property, plant and equipment amounted to $86,995 (31 December 2007: $66,502).

  Purchase Obligations

  According to the “Sponsorship and Advertising Agreements” signed in the context and as an integral part of the “Restructuring Framework Agreement”, the Group committed to purchase sponsorship and advertisement from Digital Platform Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (“Digital Platform”). Outstanding purchase obligation with respect to these agreements as at 31 March 2008 amounted to $58,538 (31 December 2007: $63,785) excluding VAT.

  Turkcell Teknoloji is engaged with a construction company for construction of a building in Gebze Teknokent for a consideration of $9,596. The construction is expected to be completed during 2008. Turkcell Teknoloji paid $1,672 to this company within the scope of this agreement as at 31 March 2008 (31 December 2007: $343).

  Guarantees

  As at 31 March 2008, the Group is contingently liable in respect of bank letters of guarantee obtained from banks given to customs authorities, private companies and other public organizations amounting to TRY 170,952 (equivalent to $133,923 as at 31 March 2008) (31 December 2007: $208,867).

54




 

 

30.   Contingencies

  License Agreements

  Turkcell:

  On 27 April 1998, the Company signed the License Agreement with the Turkish Ministry. In accordance with the License Agreement, the Company was granted a 25 year GSM license for a license fee of $500,000. The License Agreement permits the Company to operate as a stand-alone GSM operator. Under the License, the Company collects all of the revenue generated from the operations of its GSM network and pays the Turkish Treasury and Turkish Ministry an ongoing license fee and universal service fund, respectively, equal to 15% of its gross revenues in total. The Company is authorized to, among other things, set its own tariffs within certain limits, charge peak and off-peak rates, offer a variety of service and pricing packages, issue invoices directly to subscribers, collect payments and deal directly with subscribers.

  In February 2002, the Company renewed its License with the Telecommunications Authority, and became subject to a number of new requirements, including those regarding the build-out, operation, quality and coverage of the Company’s GSM network, prohibitions on anti-competitive behavior and compliance with national and international GSM standards. Failure to meet any requirement in the renewed License, or the occurrence of extraordinary unforeseen circumstances, can also result in revocation of the renewed License, including the surrender of the GSM network without compensation, or limitation of the Company’s rights thereunder, or could otherwise adversely affect the Company’s regulatory status. Certain conditions of the renewed License Agreement include the following:

  Coverage: The Company had to attain geographical coverage of 50% and 90% of the population of Turkey with certain exceptions within three years and five years, respectively, of the License’s effective date. The Company has completed its related liabilities with respect to coverage as at 31 March 2008.

  Service offerings: The Company must provide certain services in addition to general GSM services, including free emergency calls and technical assistance for subscribers, free call forwarding to police and other public emergency services, receiver-optional short messages, video text access, fax capability, calling and connected number identification and restrictions, call forwarding, call waiting, call hold, multi-party and third-party conference calls, billing information and barring of a range of outgoing and incoming calls. The Company has completed its related liabilities with respect to service offering as at 31 March 2008.

  Service quality: In general, the Company must meet all the technical standards determined and updated by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute and Secretariat of the GSM MoU. Service quality requirements include that call blockage cannot exceed 5% and unsuccessful calls cannot exceed 2%. The Company fulfilled the required service quality standards as at 31 March 2008.

  Tariffs: Telecommunications Authority sets the initial maximum tariffs in TRY and USD. Thereafter, the revised License provides that the Telecommunications Authority will adjust the maximum tariffs at most every six months or, if necessary, more frequently. The Company is free to set its own tariffs up to the maximum tariffs.

  Rights of the Telecommunications Authority, Suspension and Termination:

  The revised License is not transferable without the approval of the Telecommunications Authority. In addition, the License Agreement gives the Telecommunications Authority certain monitoring rights and access to the Company’s technical and financial information and allows for inspection rights, and gives certain rights to suspend operations under certain circumstances. Also, the Company is obliged to submit financial statements, contracts and investment plans to the Telecommunications Authority.

55




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Rights of the Telecommunications Authority, Suspension and Termination: (continued)

  The Telecommunications Authority may suspend the Company’s operations for a limited or an unlimited period if necessary for the purpose of public security and national defense. During period of suspension, the Telecommunications Authority may operate the Company’s GSM network.

  The Company is entitled to any revenues collected during such period and the Licensee’s term will be extended by the period of any suspension. The revised License may also be terminated upon a bankruptcy ruling against the Company or for other license violations, such as operating outside of its allocated frequency ranges, and the penalties for such violations can include fines, loss of frequency rights, revocation of the license and confiscation of the network management centre, the gateway exchanges and central subscription system, including related technical equipment, immovables and installations essential for the operation of the network.

  Based on the enacted law on 3 July 2005 with respect to the regulation of privatization, gross revenue description based for the calculation of ongoing license fee and universal service fund has been changed. According to this new regulation, interest charges for late collections, and indirect taxes such as VAT, and other expenses are excluded from the description of gross revenue. Calculation of gross revenue for ongoing license fee and universal service fund according to the new regulation is effective after Danistay’s approval on 10 March 2006.

  Astelit:

  Astelit owns two GSM activity licenses, one is for GSM–900, one is for DCS–1800. As at 31 March 2008, Astelit owns eighteen GSM–900, DCS 1800 and Radiorelay frequency licenses which are regional or national licences. In addition to the above GSM licenses, Astelit owns four licenses for local fixed line phone connection with wireless access using D-AMPS standard.

  According to licenses, Astelit should adhere to state sanitary regulations to ensure that equipment used does not injure the population by means of harmful electro-magnetic emissions. Licenses require Astelit to inform authorities about start/end of operations in one month; about changes in incorporation address in 10 days. Also, Astelit must present all the required documents for inspection by Ukrainian Telecommunications Authority at their request. The Ukrainian Telecommunications Authority may suspend the operations of Astelit for a limited or an unlimited period if necessary because of the expiration of licenses, upon mutual consent, or in case of violation of terms of radio frequencies use. If such a violation is determined, Ukrainian Telecommunications Authority notifies Astelit of provisions violated and sets deadline for recovery. If the deadline is not met, licenses may be terminated.

  Tellcom:

  Tellcom acquired Long Distance Traffic Carrying Services License, Data Transmission Overland License, Infrastructure License and Internet Service Provider License. Long Distance Traffic Carrying Services License is valid for 15 years and the remaining licenses are valid for 25 years.

56




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Inteltek:

  Inteltek signed a contract on 30 July 2002 which provides for the installation, support and operation of an on-line central betting system as well as maintenance and support for the provision of football betting games. The Central Betting System Contract was scheduled to expire on 30 March 2008.

  Inteltek signed another contract with Genclik ve Spor Genel Mudurlugu (“GSGM”) on 2 October 2003 which authorized Inteltek to establish and operate a risk management center and become head agent for fixed odds betting. The Fixed Odds Betting contract was scheduled to expire in October 2011. However, in relation to the lawsuits related to the operations of Inteltek, GSGM ceased the implementation of the Fixed Odds Betting contract starting from March 2007. Following the annulment decision, on 28 February 2007, the Turkish parliament passed a new law that allowed Spor Toto Teskilat Mudurlugu (“Spor Toto”) to hold a new tender before 1 March 2008 and sign a contract which is valid until 1 March 2008. Spor Toto and Inteltek signed a new Fixed Odds Betting Contract on 15 March 2007, with less-advantageous conditions compared to previous contract signed in 2003, that expired on 1 March 2008.

  On 27 February 2008, the Turkish parliament passed a new law (No. 5738) that allowed Spor Toto to sign a new Fixed Odds Betting contract with Inteltek, having the same terms and conditions with the latest contracts signed with Spor Toto (contract signed as per Provisional Article 1 of Law No. 5583) and to be valid for up to one year, until operations start under the new tender which Spor Toto is allowed to hold in accordance with the same law. As per Provisional Article 1 of law No. 5738, Inteltek signed a new Fixed Odds Betting contract with Spor Toto, which took effect on 1 March 2008. At the same time, Inteltek signed a new Central Betting System contract with Spor Toto, which took effect on 31 March 2008 as having the same conditions with the current contract but to be valid for one year utmost until the operation started as a result of the new tender.

  Kibris Telekom:

  On 27 April 2007, Kibris Telekom signed the License Agreement for Installation and Operation of A Digital, Cellular, Mobile Telecommunication System (“Mobile Communication License Agreement”) with the Ministry of Communications and Works of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus which is effective from 1 August 2007, replacing the existing GSM-Mobile Telephony System Agreement dated 25 March 1999. In accordance with the Mobile Communication License Agreement, Kibris Telekom was granted an 18 year GSM 900, GSM 1800 and IMT 2000/UMTS license for GSM 900, GSM 1800 frequencies while the usage of IMT 2000/UMTS frequency bands is subject to the fulfilment of certain conditions.

  On 14 March 2008, Kibris Telekom was awarded a 3G infrastructure license at a cost of $10,000 including VAT, which was paid at the end of March 2008. Under the terms of the license, the system must be operational by mid-October 2008.

  Under the Mobile Communication License Agreement, Kibris Telekom will also pay the tax authorities of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus an ongoing license fee on monthly basis equal to 15% of gross revenues excluding accrued interest charges for the late payments, indirect taxes and accrued revenues for reporting purposes, payments made to third parties for value added services, interconnection revenues, roaming income from own subscribers after the related payment made to other operators.

57




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Interconnection Agreements

  The Company has entered into interconnection agreements with a number of operators in Turkey and overseas including Turk Telekom, Telsim Mobil Telekomunikasyon Hizmetleri AS (“Telsim”), Vodafone Telekomunikasyon AS (“Vodafone”), Avea Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (“Avea”), Milleni.com GMBH (“Milleni.com”) and Globalstar Avrasya Uydu Ses ve Data Iletisim AS (“Globalstar”). The Access and Interconnection Regulation (the “Regulation”) became effective when it was issued by the Telecommunications Authority on 23 May 2003.

  The Regulation is driven largely by a goal to improve the competitive environment. Under the Regulation, the Telecommunications Authority may compel all telecommunications operators to accept another operator’s request for use of and access to its network. All telecommunications operators in Turkey may be required to provide access to other operators on the same terms and qualifications provided to their shareholders, subsidiaries and affiliates.

  In accordance with the Regulation, the telecommunications providers in Turkey (including Turk Telekom), were obliged to renew their interconnection agreements within two months following the issuance of the Regulation. As a result of intervention by the Telecommunications Authority, the Company entered into supplemental agreements with Turk Telekom on 10 November 2003, Telsim on 21 November 2003, and Globalstar on 11 December 2003, with amended tariffs and tariff adoption procedures. The interconnection agreement with Avea (formerly TT&TIM) was last renewed on 20 January 2006. On 24 May 2006, shares of Telsim were transferred to Vodafone and a new interconnection agreement was signed between the Company and Vodafone at the end of July 2006.

  On 21 February 2005, Tellcom and Milleni.com have signed an agreement to provide telecommunications services to each other whereby Milleni.com may convey calls to the Company’s switch and the Company may convey calls to Milleni.com’s switch, in both cases, for onward transmission to their destinations. In addition, Telecommunications Authority has required operators holding significant market power, as well as Turk Telekom, to share certain facilities with other operators under certain conditions and to provide co-location on their premises for the equipment of other operators at a reasonable price. The Telecommunications Authority may also require telecommunications operators to provide number portability, which means allowing users to keep the same phone numbers even after they switch from one network to another.

  Under a typical interconnection agreement, each party agrees, among other things to permit the interconnection of its network with the Company’s network to enable calls to be transmitted to, and received from, the GSM system operated by each party in accordance with technical specifications set out in the interconnection agreement. Typical interconnection agreements also establish understandings between the parties relating to a number of key operational areas, including call traffic management, quality and performance standards, interconnection interfaces and other technical, operational and procedural aspects of interconnection.

58




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Interconnection Agreements (continued)

  The Company’s interconnection agreements usually provide that each party will assume responsibility for the safe operation of its own network. Each party is also typically responsible for ensuring that its network does not endanger the safety or health of employees, contractors, agents or customers of the other party or damage interfere with or cause any deterioration in the operation of the other party’s network.

  Interconnection agreements also specify the amount of the payments that each party will make to the other for traffic originated on one network but switched to the other. These payments vary by contract, and in some cases, may require the Company to pay the counterparty less, the same amount, or a greater amount per minute, for traffic originating on the Company’s network but switching to the counterparty’s network, than it receives for a similar call originating on another network and switched to the Company’s network.

  There are no minimum payment obligations under the interconnection agreements; however, failure to carry the counterparty’s traffic may expose the Company to financial and other penalties or loss of interconnection privileges for its own traffic.

  On 16 January 2007, Telecommunications Authority published “Standard Interconnection Reference Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators. In accordance with the recommendation, the fee determined for the Company is full TRY 0.140/minute (equivalent to full $0.110/minute as at 31 March 2008) between 1 January 2007 and 28 February 2007. From 1 March 2007, the fee is full TRY 0.136/minute (equivalent to full $0.107/minute as at 31 March 2008). These “Standard Interconnection Reference Tariffs” were not necessarily directly applicable to the Company’s current or future interconnection agreements unless explicitly stated by the Telecommunications Authority at the end of the settlement procedure. However, full TRY 0.136/minute (equivalent to full $0.107/minute as at 31 March 2008) has been started to be applied between Turk Telekom and the Company starting from 1 March 2007.

59




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Interconnection Agreements (continued)

  On 1 April 2008, Telecommunications Authority published “Standard Interconnection Reference Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators. In accordance with the recommendation, the fee determined for the Company is full TRY 0.091/minute (equivalent to full $0.071/minute as at 31 March 2008) effective from 1 April 2008. These “Standard Interconnection Reference Tariffs” are not necessarily directly applicable to the Company’s current or future interconnection agreements unless explicitly stated by the Telecommunications Authority at the end of the settlement procedure.

  Legal Proceedings

  The Group is involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of business described below.

  Dispute on Turk Telekom Transmission Lines Leases

  Effective from 1 July 2000, Turk Telekom annulled the discount of 60% that it provided to the Company based on its regular ratio, which had been provided for several years, and, at the same time, Turk Telekom started to provide a discount of 25% being subject to certain conditions. The Company filed a lawsuit against Turk Telekom for the application of the agreed 60% discount. However, on 30 July 2001, the Company had been notified that the court of appeal upheld the decision made by the commercial court allowing Turk Telekom to terminate the 60% discount. Accordingly, the Company paid and continues to pay transmission fees to Turk Telekom based on the 25% discount. Although Turk Telekom did not charge any interest on late payments at the time of such payments, the Company recorded an accrual amounting to a nominal amount of TRY 3,023 (equivalent to $2,368 as at 31 March 2008) for possible interest charges as at 31 December 2000. On 9 May 2002, Turk Telekom requested an interest amounting to a nominal amount of TRY 30,068 (equivalent to $23,555 as at 31 March 2008).

  The Company did not agree with Turk Telekom’s interest calculation and, accordingly, obtained an injunction from the commercial court to prevent Turk Telekom from collecting any amounts relating to this interest charge. Also, the Company initiated a lawsuit against Turk Telekom on the legality of such interest. The case is still pending. As at 31 March 2008, the Company recorded a provision of TRY 13,296 (equivalent to $10,416 as at 31 March 2008) because its management and legal counsel believe that this is the most likely outcome.

60




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on National Roaming Agreement

  During the third quarter of 2001, the Company was approached by Is-Tim to negotiate a national roaming agreement. These negotiations did not result in a mutual agreement. Therefore, the discussions continuing under the supervision of the Telecommunications Authority have been subject to several lawsuits. On 26 November 2001, the Company initiated an arbitration suit in International Chamber of Commerce (“ICC”) against Turkish Ministry and Telecommunications Authority. On 25 November 2003, ICC rendered a decision stating that the case is not under its jurisdiction. The Company initiated a lawsuit for the annulment of this decision. The First Instance Court rejected the case and the Company appealed against said decision. The Supreme Court annulled the decision of the First Instance Court in favor of the Company. On 13 September 2006, local court decided to execute the Supreme Court’s decision. The Authority appealed the said decision.

  In a letter dated 14 March 2002, the Telecommunications Authority subjected Is-Tim’s request for national roaming to the condition that it be reasonable, economically proportional and technically possible. Nevertheless, the Telecommunications Authority declared that the Company is under an obligation to enter a national roaming agreement with Is-Tim within a 30 day period. The Company initiated a lawsuit against Telecommunications Authority. On 14 March 2006, Danistay decided to cancel the process dated 14 March 2002 but rejected the Company’s request for cancellation of the regulation on procedures and policies with respect to national roaming. Telecommunications Authority appealed the decision. The appeal process is still pending.

  Additionally, the Telecommunications Authority decided that the Company has not complied with its responsibility under Turkish regulations to provide national roaming and fined the Company by nominal amount of approximately TRY 21,822 (equivalent to $17,095 as at 31 March 2008). On 7 April 2004, the Company made the related payment. On 3 January 2005, with respect to the Danistay’s injunction, Telecommunications Authority paid back nominal amount of TRY 21,822 (equivalent to $17,095 as at 31 March 2008). On 13 December 2005, Danistay decided the cancellation of the administrative fine but rejected the Company’s request for cancellation of the regulation on procedures and policies with respect to national roaming. Telecommunications Authority appealed the decision. The case is still pending. Based on its management and legal counsel’s opinion, the Company has not recorded any accrual as at 31 March 2008.

  On 27 October 2006, Telecom Italia SPA and TIM International N.V. initiated a lawsuit against the Company and Telsim claiming that the Company violated competition law since demand of roaming has not been met. Telecom Italia SPA and TIM International N.V. requested $2,000 with respect to this claim. On 23 July 2007, the Court sent the file to expert examination. The case is still pending. Based on its management and legal counsel’s opinion, the Company has not recorded any accrual as at 31 March 2008.

61




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Investigation of the Competition Board

  The Competition Board commenced an investigation of business dealings between the Company and the mobile phone distributors in October 1999. The Competition Board decided that the Company disrupted the competitive environment through an abuse of dominant position in the Turkish mobile market and infringements of certain provisions of the Law on the Protection of Competition. As a result, the Company was fined by nominal amount of approximately TRY 6,973 (equivalent to $5,463 as at 31 March 2008) and was enjoined to cease these infringements. The Company initiated a lawsuit before Danistay for the injunction and cancellation of the decision. On 15 November 2005, Danistay cancelled the Competition Board’s decision on the ground that Competition Board infringed the procedural rules governing the investigation process.

  After the cancellation of the Competition Board’s decision, the Competition Board has given the same decision again on 29 December 2005. On 10 March 2006, the Company initiated a lawsuit before Danistay for the injunction and cancellation of the Competition Board’s decision dated 29 December 2005. Danistay rejected the injunction request of the Company. The Company has objected to this rejection decision. Danistay rejected the Company’s objection request. Based on the decision of Competition Board, Ankara Tax Office requested the Company to pay TRY 6,973 (equivalent to $5,463 as at 31 March 2008) through the payment order dated 4 August 2006. On 25 September 2006, the Company made the related payment and initiated a lawsuit for the injunction and cancellation of this payment order. The Court rejected the Company’s injunction request. The Company ceased to accrue for TRY 6,973 (equivalent to $5,463 as at 31 March 2008) on its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008 due to the aforesaid payment on 25 September 2006.

  Investigation of the Telecommunications Authority on International Voice Traffic

  In May 2003, the Company was informed that the Telecommunications Authority had initiated an investigation against the Company claiming that the Company has violated Turkish laws by carrying some of its international voice traffic through an operator other than Turk Telekom. The Company is disputing whether Turk Telekom should be the sole carrier of international voice traffic. On 5 March 2004, the Telecommunications Authority fined the Company by nominal amount of approximately TRY 31,731 (equivalent to $24,858 as at 31 March 2008). On 9 April 2004, the Company made the related payment. With respect to the Danistay’s injunction on 5 November 2004, Telecommunications Authority paid back the nominal amount. Telecommunications Authority appealed this decision. General Assembly of Administrative Courts of Danistay rejected the appeal request of Telecommunications Authority. On 26 December 2006, Danistay decided to accept the Company’s claim and annul the decision of and the penalty given by the Telecommunications Authority. Telecommunications Authority appealed the decision. Appeal process is pending.

62




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Investigation of the Telecommunications Authority on International Voice Traffic (continued)

  On 2 March 2005, Turk Telekom notified the Company that it has damaged Turk Telekom because of the interconnection agreement signed with Milleni.com. Accordingly, Turk Telekom requested the Company to pay nominal amount of TRY 219,149 (equivalent to $171,680 as at 31 March 2008) of principal and nominal amount of TRY 178,364 (equivalent to $139,729 as at 31 March 2008) of interest, which make a sum of nominal amount of TRY 397,513 (equivalent to $311,409 as at 31 March 2008) until 7 March 2005. In addition, Turk Telekom initiated a lawsuit against the Company with respect to the same issue requesting an amount of TRY 450,931 (equivalent to $353,256 as at 31 March 2008) of which TRY 219,149 (equivalent to $171,680 as at 31 March 2008) is principal and TRY 231,782 (equivalent to $181,576 as at 31 March 2008) is interest charged until 30 June 2005. The Court sent the file to expert examination. According to the expertise report filed in October 2007, interconnection agreement between the Company and Milleni.com damaged Turk Telekom TRY 288,400 (equivalent to $225,930 as at 31 March 2008) or TRY 279,227 (equivalent to $218,744 as at 31 March 2008). The Company objected to the expertise report. On 6 November 2007, the Court ruled to obtain an additional expertise report. Management and legal counsel believe that the aforementioned request has no legal basis. Moreover, the Company obtained an independent opinion dated 23 October 2007 which supports the management and legal counsel opinion from an expert who is not designated by the Court. The case is still pending.

  Based on its management and legal counsel’s opinion, the Company has not recorded any accruals with respect to this matter in its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

  Dispute on Special Communication Taxation Regarding Prepaid Card Sales

  On 18 September 2003, the Ministry of Finance issued a report stating that by applying discounts for prepaid card sales for the period between June - December 2002, the Company calculated the special communication tax on post-discounted amount. Pursuant to this report, the Tax Office delivered to the Company a notice, asserting deficiencies in special communication tax declarations and requesting a special communication tax payment amounting to nominal amount of TRY 6,992 (equivalent to $5,477 as at 31 March 2008) and a tax penalty of nominal amount of TRY 9,875 (equivalent to $7,736 as at 31 March 2008). Tax court accepted the Company’s request of cancellation of special communication tax declarations. Tax office appealed this decision. Danistay did not accept the Tax court decision. The Company applied for the correction of the decision. On 25 June 2007, Danistay rejected the correction of decision. On 28 September 2007, Local Court complied with Danistay’s decision and rejected the lawsuit for the principle tax amount and accepted the part of the case related to the tax penalty saying that the penalty was excessively applied than it was required. The Company appealed the decision.

  On 3 December 2007, Tax Office delivered a notice to the Company requesting a special communication tax payment amounting to nominal amount of TRY 6,992 (equivalent to $5,477 as at 31 March 2008), a tax penalty of nominal amount of TRY 6,992 (equivalent to $5,477 as at 31 March 2008) and accrued interest of nominal amount of TRY 16,813 (equivalent to $13,171 as at 31 March 2008). The Company made the related payment with respect to special communication tax and tax penalty totaling to nominal amount of TRY 13,984 (equivalent to $10,955 as at 31 March 2008) on 28 December 2007. Besides, the Company filed a lawsuit on 28 December 2007 for the cancellation of accrued interest amounting to nominal amount of TRY 16,813 (equivalent to $13,171 as at 31 March 2008) with respect to Local Court decision dated 28 September 2007. The Company recorded provision for accrued interest amounting to TRY 16,813 (equivalent to $13,171 as at 31 March 2008) in its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

63




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on Special Communication Taxation Regarding Prepaid Card Sales (continued)

  The Company filed a lawsuit on 12 February 2008 against the Tax Office for the cancellation of the payment orders issued by the Tax Office for the above mentioned tax payments and requested preliminary injunction. The Court decided to discuss the Company’s preliminary injunction request following the submission of Tax Office’s legal arguments.

  The Law on the Settlement Procedure and Collection of Certain Public Receivables numbered 5736 was put into force on 27 February 2008 following its approval by the Grand National Assembly General Committee. The law provides a new settlement opportunity and easy payment conditions for the tax debts of taxpayers. It has been stipulated that tax receivables assessed additionally, arbitrarily or by the administration, yet whose period allowed for settlement or initiating litigation has not ended as of the effective date of the Code, or for which settlement has been requested, and the settlement meeting has not been held yet or has been held but the period allowed for accepting the final offer has not ended, and receivables that have been subject to a litigation and not yet final; shall be subject to a new settlement and the settled amount shall be divided into installments under convenient conditions. On 26 March 2008, the Company submitted a written application to the Tax Offices for the dispute on special communication taxation regarding prepaid card sales.

  Disputes on annulment of fixed odds betting tender related to establishment and operation of risk management center head agency

  The tender on fixed odds betting tender related to establishment and operation of risk management center head agency held by GSGM and the Fixed Odds Betting Contract dated 2 October 2003 signed as a result of the said tender between GSGM and Inteltek were challenged by Reklam Departmani Basin Yayin Produksiyon Yapimcilik Danismanlik ve Ticaret Limited Sirketi (“Reklam Departmani”) and Gtech Avrasya Teknik Hizmet ve Musavirlik AS (“Gtech”) with the claim of suspension of execution and annulment.

  For the lawsuit initiated by Gtech, Council of State decided for the suspension of the tender. Following this decision, the Fixed Odds Betting Contract dated 2 October 2003 between GSGM and Inteltek was terminated by GSGM based on the said decision of Council of State and the Code numbered 5583 came into effect which allowed Spor Toto to hold a new tender and sign a new contract which would be valid until 1 March 2008. On 15 March 2007, GSGM held a new tender, at which Inteltek became the preferred bidder and reacquired the right to operate until 1 March 2008. On the other hand, Inteltek initiated two lawsuits against GSGM on the ground that the termination of the Fixed Odds Betting Contract dated 2 October 2003 was unjustified and to determine that the aforementioned contract is valid under law and is in force. The court decided to reject Inteltek’s claim on 10 July 2007. Inteltek appealed the court’s decision. Inteltek’s appeal was rejected by the Court on 5 February 2008 and Inteltek applied for correction of decision. The Court’s examination on correction of decision request is still pending.

  On 27 February 2008, the Turkish parliament passed a new law that allowed Spor Toto to sign a new Fixed Odds Betting contract with Inteltek, having the same terms and conditions with the latest contracts signed with Spor Toto and to be valid for up to one year, until operations start under the new tender which Spor Toto is allowed to hold in accordance with the same law. Inteltek signed a new Fixed Odds Betting contract with Spor Toto, which took effect on 1 March 2008. Inteltek intends to participate in the new tender.

  Based on its management and legal counsel’s opinion the Company has not recorded any accruals with respect to these matters in its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

64




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute with Spor Toto Teskilat Mudurlugu I

  On 9 November 2005, Spor Toto sent a notification letter to Inteltek claiming that Inteltek is obliged to pay nominal amount of TRY 3,292 (equivalent to $2,579 as at 31 March 2008) due to the difference in the reconciliation methods. Spor Toto claims that the reconciliation periods should be six-month independent periods whereas Inteltek management believes that those periods should be cumulative as stated in the agreement. Inteltek did not pay the requested amount.

  A lawsuit for determination of evidence has been initiated against Inteltek by Spor Toto on behalf of GSGM. In this lawsuit, Spor Toto has requested from the Court to determine that Inteltek was responsible for the revenue which was not transferred to the Spor Toto’s accounts in due time, and collection risk was belonging to Inteltek, Inteltek was responsible for the revenue in the amount of TRY 1,527 (equivalent to $1,196 as at 31 March 2008) which was not paid and not collected until the date of the lawsuit and final accounts should be resolved after every period of six-months for settlement, by accepting the periods of six-months for settlement as periods independent from each other. On 22 February 2007, the Court rejected the case and decided that the collection risk is with GSGM and Inteltek is not responsible for the uncollected amount of TRY 1,527 (equivalent to $1,196 as at 31 March 2008) and also rejected the demand of GSGM that reconciliation period should be six-month independent periods. GSGM appealed the Court’s decision. Supreme Court rejected the appeal request of GSGM. Following the Supreme Court’s decision, GSGM applied for the correction of the decision. GSGM’s correction of decision request was rejected by the Court and the decision was finalized.

  Based on the decision of Supreme Court, Inteltek reversed the previously accrued amount of TRY 3,292 (equivalent to $2,579 as at 31 March 2008) and its overdue interest accrual amount of total TRY 1,894 (equivalent to $1,484 as at 31 March 2008). Furthermore, Inteltek reclaimed the amount of TRY 2,344 (equivalent to $1,836 as at 31 March 2008) which was paid in the 1st and 3rd reconciliation periods. Inteltek has initiated a lawsuit at 21 February 2008 to collect this amount. The case is still pending. The Company has not recorded any income accruals with respect to latter lawsuit in its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

  Dispute with Spor Toto Teskilat Mudurlugu II

  On 29 January 2007, Spor Toto sent a letter to Inteltek claiming that duplicate payments have been made to Inteltek under the two separate agreements that Inteltek operates under and it would keep these duplicate payments in an escrow account until settlement of this issue. Following this letter, on 27 February 2007, Inteltek initiated a lawsuit against Spor Toto stating that all payments made with respect to the contracts between Inteltek and Spor Toto are valid under law. Supreme Court’s investigation report has resulted in favor of Inteltek and whereon as at 31 March 2008 Spor Toto released the deducted amount of TRY 2,494 (equivalent to $1,954 as at 31 March 2008) for the period between 26 December 2006 and 26 March 2007. Therefore, on 29 April 2008 the Court decided that there is no need to render a verdict on this case.

  Dispute on call termination fee

  Telsim has initiated a lawsuit claiming that the Company has not applied the reference interconnection rates determined by the Telecommunications Authority, and has charged interconnection fees exceeding the ceiling rates approved by Telecommunications Authority and requested an injunction to be applicable starting from 1 August 2005, to cease this practice and requested a payment of its damages totalling to nominal amount of TRY 26,109 (equivalent to $20,454 as at 31 March 2008) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment. On 6 April 2006, the case was rejected. Telsim appealed this decision. On 11 December 2007, Supreme Court approved the local court decision.

65




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on call termination fee (continued)

  There has been a disagreement between the Company and Avea with respect to interconnection rates applied between March 2005 and July 2006. Avea raised an objection on the invoices the Company had issued during the said period claiming that the Company had not applied the reference interconnection rates determined by the Telecommunications Authority, and had charged interconnection fees exceeding the ceiling rates approved by Telecommunications Authority. Between March 2005 and July 2006, Avea issued return invoices amounting to TRY 78,030 (equivalent to $61,128 as at 31 March 2008) which represents the amount exceeding the ceiling rates approved by Telecommunications Authority and the Company booked such invoices as a reduction of revenue. The Company management and legal council believe that the Interconnection Agreement signed between the Company and Avea on 9 March 2001 should be binding with respect to tarifing instead of the reference interconnection rates determined by the Telecommunications Authority. A similar case with Telsim, at which Telsim was claiming that the Company should have applied the reference interconnection rates determined by the Telecommunications Authority was rejected on 6 April 2007 and approved by Supreme Court on 11 December 2007. Therefore, in November 2007, the Company issued return invoices including taxes amounting to TRY 78,030 (equivalent to $61,128 as at 31 March 2008) and recognized revenue amounting to TRY 54,566 (equivalent to $42,747 as at 31 March 2008) in its consolidated financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2007.

  Dispute with Iranian Ministry in connection with the GSM tender process

  The Company believes the Iranian Ministry has not properly implemented the laws and regulations passed by the Iranian Parliament in connection with the GSM tender process, which was won by the Consortium. As a result, the Company has brought a claim in Iranian courts seeking to compel the Ministry to implement the laws and regulations passed by the Iranian Parliament in connection with the GSM tender process. Such injunction order was rejected in April 2006. The Company has initiated an arbitration process against Islamic Republic of Iran for not abiding by the provisions of the Agreement on Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments. The arbitration process is related to the dispute mentioned above.

  Dispute with the Telecommunications Authority with respect to temporary set call termination fees

  The interconnection agreement with Turk Telekom provided for a renegotiation of pricing terms on call termination fees after 31 December 2004, and in the event that the parties could not agree on new terms by 28 February 2005, for referral to the Telecommunications Authority for resolution. As the parties were unable to agree on new terms, Turk Telekom referred the matter to the Telecommunications Authority, which has set temporary call termination fees for calls terminating on each operator’s network starting from 10 August 2005.

66




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute with the Telecommunications Authority with respect to temporary set call termination fees (continued)

  On 7 October 2005, the Company filed a lawsuit against Telecommunications Authority for the injunction and cancellation of this decision, which has set temporary call termination fees for calls terminating on each operator’s network starting from 10 August 2005 and the Court rejected the Company’s preliminary injunction request. The Company has appealed this decision. The appeal request has been rejected. On 4 July 2007, the Court decided that the lawsuit is not under its jurisdiction. Danistay rejected injunction request of the Company and the Company objected to the decision. Besides, on 1 June 2006, Telecommunications Authority issued reference call termination fees for the Company and Turk Telekom. In addition, on 26 July 2006, Telecommunications Authority issued final call termination fees for the Company and Turk Telekom.

  On 10 July 2006 and 14 August 2006, the Company filed two lawsuits before Ankara Administrative Court for the injunction and cancellation of reference call termination fees together with the final termination fees set as full TRY 0.140/minute (equivalent to full $0.110/minute as at 31 March 2008) for calls terminating on Turk Telekom and the Company’s network through the decisions of Telecommunications Authority dated 1 June 2006 and 26 July 2006. On 9 October 2006, the Administrative Court rejected injunction request of the Company dated 10 July 2006. The Company objected to this decision. On 22 November 2006, Administrative Court has rejected the objection request. The Court decided that the lawsuit is not under its jurisdiction and transferred the file to Danistay. On 21 September 2007, Danistay rejected the injunction request of the Company dated 14 August 2006. The Company objected to the decision.

  On 12 September 2007, the Company filed another lawsuit on Danistay for the injuction and cancellation of call termination fees between the Company and Turk Telekom which have been set as TRY 0.140/minute (equivalent to full $0.110/minute as at 31 March 2008) between 1 January 2007 and 28 February 2007 and full TRY 0.136/minute (equivalent to full $0.107/minute as at 31 March 2008) starting from 1 March 2007. The Court rejected the injunction request of the Company. The Company objected to the decision and the objection was rejected by the Court.

  In addition, call termination fees between the Company and Vodafone and the Company and Avea are set through ‘Reconciliation procedure’ and ‘Call termination fees’ issued on 1 June 2006 by Telecommunications Authority. These call termination fees are effective from March 2006, May 2006 and July 2006 for Telsim, Vodafone and Avea, respectively. On 14 August 2006, the Company filed a lawsuit on Ankara Administrative Court for the injunction and cancellation of call termination fees between the Company and Avea which have been set as full TRY 0.140/minute (equivalent to full $0.110/minute as at 31 March 2008) for calls terminating on the Company’s network. On 19 December 2006, Ankara Administrative Court dismissed the case, deciding that it does not have jurisdiction over the case. The case has been transferred to Danistay. On 21 September 2007, the Court rejected the injunction request of the Company. The Company objected to this decision. On 26 September 2007, the Company filed a lawsuit on Danistay for the injunction and cancellation of call termination fees between the Company and Avea which have been set as full TRY 0.136/minute (equivalent to full $0.107/minute as at 31 March 2008) for calls terminating on the Company’s network. The court rejected the Company’s injunction request and the Company objected to this decision. The case is still pending.

67




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute with the Telecommunications Authority with respect to temporary set call termination fees (continued)

  Additionally, on 23 August 2006, the Company also filed a lawsuit on Ankara Administrative Court for the injunction and cancellation of call and SMS termination fees between Turkcell and Vodafone (Telsim for the period between 1 March-24 May 2006) which have been set as full TRY 0.140/minute (equivalent to full $0.110/minute as at 31 March 2008) for calls terminating and full TRY 0.297/unit (equivalent to full $0.233/unit as at 31 March 2008) for SMS terminating on the Company’s network. The Ankara Administrative Court dismissed the case on 29 August 2006, deciding that it does not have jurisdiction over the case. The case has been transferred to Danistay. On 1 May 2007, the Court rejected the injunction request of the Company. The Company objected to this decision. The Court rejected this objection of the Company. The case is still pending.

  Dispute with the Turk Telekom with respect to call termination fees

  As mentioned above, Telecommunications Authority has set temporary call termination fees for calls terminating on each operator’s network starting from 10 August 2005. However, Turk Telekom did not apply these termination fees for the international calls.

  Therefore, on 22 December 2005, the Company filed a lawsuit against Turk Telekom to cease this practice and requested collection of its damages totaling to nominal amount of TRY 11,970 (equivalent to $9,377 as at 31 March 2008) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment covering the period from August 2005 until October 2005. The file is under expert examination. The case is still pending.

  On 19 December 2006, the Company initiated another lawsuit against Turk Telekom claiming that Turk Telekom has not applied call termination tariffs for international calls set by Telecommunications Authority for the period between November 2005 and October 2006 amounting to nominal amount of TRY 23,726 (equivalent to $18,587 as at 31 March 2008) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment. The file is under expert examination. The case is still pending. The Court decided to consolidate this lawsuit and the lawsuit explained in the foregoing paragraph.

  On 2 November 2007, the Company initiated another lawsuit against Turk Telekom claiming that Turk Telekom has not applied call termination tariffs for international calls set by Telecommunications Authority for the period between November 2006 and 1 March 2007 amounting to nominal amount of TRY 6,836 (equivalent to $5,355 as at 31 March 2008) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment. The case is still pending.

68




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute with Avea on SMS interconnection termination fees

  On 28 February 2006, Avea has initiated a lawsuit against the Company claiming that although there is an agreement between the Company and Avea stating that both parties would not charge any SMS interconnection termination fees, the Company has charged SMS interconnection fees for the messages terminating on its own network and also assumed liabilities for the messages terminating on Avea’s network and made interconnection payments to Avea after deducting the net balance of those SMS charges and accruals. Avea requested provisions of Interconnection Agreement regarding SMS pricing to be applied and requested collection of its losses amounting to nominal amount of TRY 12,275 (equivalent to $9,616 as at 31 March 2008) for the period between February 2005 and December 2005 with its accrued interest till payment. On 10 October 2006, the Court decided that charging SMS interconnection termination fees violates the agreement between the Company and Avea, and the Company should pay Avea’s losses amounting to nominal amount of TRY 12,275 (equivalent to $9,616 as at 31 March 2008) for the period between February 2005 and December 2005 with its accrued interest till payment. The Company appealed the decision. Supreme Court rejected the Company’s request and the Company applied for the correction of the decision.

  The Company made the principal and interest payment for the period between February 2005 and December 2005 on 6 November 2006 in order not to be under legal action for collection and additional interest charge.

  On 22 December 2006, Avea requested provisions of Interconnection Agreement regarding SMS pricing to be applied and requested collection of its losses amounting to nominal amount of TRY 6,480 (equivalent to $5,076 as at 31 March 2008) for the period between January 2006 and August 2006 with its accrued interest till payment. The case is still pending.

  In line with the court decision stating that charging SMS interconnection termination fees violates the agreement between the Company and Avea, neither SMS interconnection revenue nor SMS interconnection expense has been recognized from February 2005 to August 2006 for Avea’s losses in the Company’s consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2006. Also, interest has been accrued till 31 March 2008 amounting to nominal amount of TRY 3,249 (equivalent to $2,545 as at 31 March 2008) for Avea’s losses for the period between January 2006 and August 2006.

  The Company has also applied to the Telecommunications Authority to set SMS interconnection prices between the Company and Avea. On 7 March 2007, the Telecommunications Authority determined the SMS termination fees between the Company and Avea effective from 23 March 2007.

  Dispute on value added taxation with respect to roaming services

  Tax Office claimed that the Company should have paid VAT on the invoices issued by foreign GSM operators for the international calls originated by the Company’s subscribers and terminating on those foreign GSM operators’ networks during the year 2000. It has been notified that, based on the calculation made by the Tax Office, the Company should pay nominal amount of TRY 19,791 (equivalent to $15,504 as at 31 March 2008) for VAT and penalty fee. Moreover, Tax Office also claimed that the Company should have paid VAT on the invoices issued by foreign GSM operators for the international calls originated by the Company’s subscribers and terminating on those foreign GSM operators’ networks during the years 2001 and 2002 amounting to nominal amount of TRY 15,972 (equivalent to $12,512 as at 31 March 2008) and TRY 23,863 (equivalent to $18,694 as at 31 March 2008) for VAT and penalty fee, respectively.

69




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on value added taxation with respect to roaming services (continued)

  Management decided not to pay such amounts and initiated judicial processes on 6 April 2006 for VAT and penalty fee for the year 2000 and on 13 July 2006 for VAT and penalty fees for the years 2001 and 2002. On 28 June 2007, the Court rejected the case. The Company appealed this decision. Danistay accepted the Company’s injunction request on 17 January 2008. Appeal process is still pending.

  On the same subject, Tax Office issued the Company accrual notices; and the Company initiated lawsuits for cancellation of such notices. On 22 November 2007, the Court rejected such lawsuits and the Company appealed these decisions. Danistay rejected the Company’s injunction request. Appeal process is still pending.

  On 4 October 2007, the Company initiated a lawsuit requesting injunction and cancellation of payment requests for aforementioned VAT tax and tax penalty amounts. The injunction request of the Company has been rejected. The Company objected to the decision. Istanbul Regional Administrative Court rejected the Company’s objection. On 2 April 2008, the Court accepted the cancellation of payment requests. Management and legal counsel believe that the Company will prevail in this matter. Accordingly, the Company has not recorded any accruals with respect to this matter in its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

  The Law on the Settlement Procedure and Collection of Certain Public Receivables numbered 5736 was put into force on 27 February 2008 following its approval by the Grand National Assembly General Committee. The law provides a new settlement opportunity and easy payment conditions for the tax debts of taxpayers. It has been stipulated that tax receivables assessed additionally, arbitrarily or by the administration, yet whose period allowed for settlement or initiating litigation has not ended as of the effective date of the Code, or for which settlement has been requested, and the settlement meeting has not been held yet or has been held but the period allowed for accepting the final offer has not ended, and receivables that have been subject to a litigation and not yet final; shall be subject to a new settlement and the settled amount shall be divided into installments under convenient conditions. On 26 March 2008, the Company submitted a written application to the Tax Offices for the dispute on value added taxation with respect to roaming services.

  Dispute on ongoing license fee based on the amended license agreement

  Based on the law enacted on 3 July 2005 with respect to the regulation of privatization, gross revenue description used for the calculation of ongoing license fee has been changed. According to this new regulation, accrued interest charges for the late payments, taxes such as indirect taxes, and accrued revenues are excluded from the description of gross revenue. Calculation method of gross revenue for ongoing license fee stipulated in the law according to the new regulation shall be valid as of the application date of the Company with the claim of amendment of its license agreement in compliance with the said Law. In the meanwhile, the Company realized the payments including above-mentioned items between 21 July 2005 and 10 March 2006, when the amendment in license agreement was effective. On 21 April 2006, following the license agreement amended pursuant to the Law, the Company initiated a lawsuit against Turkish Treasury for the difference between the payments that were realized starting from 21 July 2005 until 10 March 2006 and the amount which will accrue in compliance with the Law totalling TRY 111,316 (equivalent to $87,204 as at 31 March 2008) including interest of TRY 8,667 (equivalent to $6,790 as at 31 March 2008). On 9 May 2007, the Court decided that the case is not under its jurisdiction and the Company appealed for this decision.

70




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on ongoing license fee based on the amended license agreement (continued)

  The above-mentioned enacted law dated 3 July 2005 also assigned Telecommunications Authority for the revision of license agreement according to new regulation. However, Telecommunications Authority did not finalize such revision in a timely manner. Therefore, on 5 May 2006, the Company has also initiated a lawsuit against the Telecommunications Authority before Administrative Court for the delay of the revision in license agreement preventing the new regulation to become effective until 10 March 2006. By this lawsuit, the Company has requested payment totalling TRY 102,649 (equivalent to $80,414 as at 31 March 2008). On 22 March 2007, the Court decided that the case is not under its jurisdiction. On 12 March 2008, the Company decided to withdraw from its appeal against the Telecommunications Authority regarding principal amounting to TRY 102,649 (equivalent to $80,414 as at 31 March 2008). On 21 March 2008, the Court decided to dismiss the case as a result of the Company’s withdrawal.

  Dispute on Telecommunications Authority fee payment based on the amended license agreement

  Based on the 9th article of the new license agreement dated 10 March 2006, the Company has been obliged to pay 0.35% of its yearly gross revenue once in a year as Telecommunications Authority Fee. However, in the previous license agreement, the Company was obliged to pay 0.35% of its yearly gross revenue after deducting ongoing license fee, universal service fund and other indirect taxes from the calculation base whereas in the new agreement, these aforementioned payments are not deducted from the base of the calculation. Therefore, on 12 April 2006, the Company has initiated a lawsuit for the cancellation of the 9th article of the new license agreement.

  However, the Court rejected the Company’s injunction request. The Company objected to the Court’s decision. The Court rejected the Company’s objection request.

  On 21 June 2006, Telecommunications Authority notified the Company that the Telecommunications Authority Fee for the year 2005 which had been already paid in April 2006 should have been calculated according to the new license agreement dated 10 March 2006 instead of the previous license agreement which was effective in the year 2005. Therefore, Telecommunications Authority requested the Company to pay additional TRY 4,011 (equivalent to $3,142 as at 31 March 2008). The Company made the payment and initiated a lawsuit for the injunction and cancellation of the aforesaid decision of Telecommunications Authority. On 30 May 2007, the Court rejected the Company’s injunction request. The Company objected to the decision. Ankara Regional Administrative Court rejected the objection request of the Company.

  On 2 October 2007, the Company filed a lawsuit claiming that Telecommunications Authority fee for the year 2006 which had been already paid in April 2007 should have been calculated according to the previous license agreement which was valid between 1 January 2006 and 9 March 2006. The Court rejected the Company’s injunction request. The case is still pending.

  Dispute on receivables from Avea regarding call termination fees

  Based on the 21st article of the Access and Interconnection Regulation, the operators may retrospectively apply the final call termination fees determined by Telecommunications Authority under the reconciliation procedure. Therefore, on 29 August 2006, the Company has initiated a lawsuit against Avea for the collection of its damages totaling to nominal amount of TRY 32,334 (equivalent to $25,330 as at 31 March 2008) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment covering the period from 30 June 2004 until 7 July 2006 which is the announcement date of the reference call termination fees issued by Telecommunications Authority on June 2006. On 20 February 2007, the court has dismissed the case. The Company appealed the said decision.

71




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on validity of the General Assembly Meeting

  On 21 August 2006, Sonera filed a lawsuit with an injunction request for the purpose of determination of the invalidity of the Company’s General Assembly Meeting with an ordinary agenda including dividend distribution and appointment of members of the Board of Directors, held on 22 May 2006 and the invalidity of all resolutions taken in this meeting.

  Dispute on Turk Telekom Transmission Tariffs

  On 19 January 2007, the Company initiated a lawsuit against Turk Telekom claiming that Turk Telekom charged transmission on erroneous tariffs between 1 June 2004 and 1 July 2005. The Company requested nominal amount of TRY 8,136 (equivalent to $6,374 as at 31 March 2008) including interest. The case is still pending.

  Dispute on Turk Telekom Interconnect Costs

  On 26 April 2007, Turk Telekom initiated a lawsuit against the Company claiming that interconnect costs declared by the Telecommunications Authority for the determination of Standard Reference Interconnection Tariffs do not reflect the actual costs. On 19 December 2007, the Court rejected the case. Turk Telekom appealed the decision. Appeal process is pending.

  Dispute on the Audit Committee Member

  On 21 July 2006, Alexey Khudyakov was appointed to the audit committee as an observer member. On 26 January 2007 the CMB informed the Company that Alexey Khudyakov’s current status, as an observer member on the audit committee does not satisfy the requirements under Article 25 “Committees Responsible for Auditing” of the CMB. The CMB has stated that steps must be taken urgently in order to comply with Article 25. In March 2007, the Company commenced a lawsuit to suspend the execution and to annul the decision of the CMB. The court rejected the Company’s suspension of execution request. The Company objected to the decision. On 15 August 2007, Local Ankara Administrative Court accepted the Company’s objection request and suspend the said decision of CMB. However, on 25 February 2008, Ankara 14th Administrative Court rejected the case. The Company appealed the decision. Appeal process is pending.

  Dispute on Mobile Number Portability

  On 29 March 2007, the Company initiated a lawsuit against the Telecommunications Authority claiming stay of order for and the annulment of the Regulation on Mobile Number Portability issued by the Telecommunications Authority on 1 February 2007 on the ground that vested rights of the Company arising out the concession agreement were violated by the said regulation. The Court rejected the Company’s injunction request and the Company objected to the decision. Avea and Vodafone requested to participate in the case as interveners. The case is still pending.

  Inquiry of Telecommunications Authority on Campaigns

  According to the decision of Telecommunications Board dated 15 March 2007, a pre-inquiry has been decided to start regarding the campaigns in which free minutes or counters are given to the new subscribers in the introduction sets in order to determine their conformity with telecommunications legislation. Telecommunications Authority decided to make an investigation on this issue. Investigation report has been notified to the Company and legal arguments of the Company have been requested. The Company submitted its legal arguments to the Telecommunications Authority on 20 October 2007.

72




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute on Payment Request of Savings Deposits Insurance Fund

  On 26 July 2007, SDIF requested TRY 15,149 (equivalent to $11,868 as at 31 March 2008) to be paid in one month period on the ground that the stated amount is recorded as receivable from the Company in the accounting records of Telsim, which is taken over by SDIF. On 20 September 2007, the Company filed a lawsuit for the injunction and cancellation of the SDIF’s request. Danistay accepted the injunction request of the Company. SDIF objected to injunction decision of Danistay. The case is still pending. SDIF issued payment orders for the above mentioned amount and, on 19 October 2007, the Company initiated a lawsuit for the cancellation of the payment request of SDIF. The Court accepted the injunction request of the Company. SDIF objected the decision. On 6 February 2008, the Court accepted the Company’s suspension of execution request. SDIF objected to this decision and such objection request was rejected by the Court.

  Based on its management and legal counsel’s opinion, the Company has not recorded any accruals with respect to this matter in its consolidated interim financial statements as at and for the three months ended 31 March 2008.

  Letter from Turkish Treasury Regarding Ongoing License Fee Deduction for 2006 Sales Discounts

  At the end of 2006, Tax Auditors of the Company claimed that gross revenue in the statutory accounts should include discounts given to distributors although the Company recorded these discounts in a separate line item as sales discounts.

  Starting from 2007, the Company started to deduct discounts given to distributors from gross revenue and present them on a net basis. Accordingly, the Company decided that, it has paid excess ongoing license fee and universal service fund for the year 2006 totalling TRY 51,254 (equivalent to $40,152 as at 31 March 2008). In a letter dated 23 February 2007, the Company requested ongoing license fee amounting to TRY 46,129 (equivalent to $36,137 as at 31 March 2008) and interest accrued amounting to TRY 5,020 (equivalent to $3,933 as at 31 March 2008) from Turkish Treasury and universal service fund amounting to TRY 5,125 (equivalent to $4,015 as at 31 March 2008) and interest accrued amounting to TRY 558 (equivalent to $437 as at 31 March 2008) from Turkish Ministry to be paid in 10 days. Since Turkish Treasury and Turkish Ministry have not made any payment, the Company started to deduct these amounts from existing ongoing monthly payments. As at 31 December 2007, the Company deducted TRY 51,254 (equivalent to $40,152 as at 31 March 2008) from existing monthly ongoing license fee and universal service fund payments.

  Turkish Treasury send a letter to the Company dated 17 July 2007 and rejected deducting ongoing licensee fees that relates to 2006 from current year payments. Accordingly, TRY 2,960 (equivalent to $2,319 as at 31 March 2008) that is deducted from ongoing license fee payment for May 2007 has been requested from the Company. The Company has not made the related payment and continued to deduct ongoing license fee and universal service fee amount related to discounts given to distributors for the year 2006.

  Besides, the Company filed a lawsuit on ICC in order to determine that the Company is not obliged to pay ongoing license fee and Telecommunications Authority Fee in accordance with the 8th and 9th Articles of the License, respectively, on discounts given to distributors.

  Management and legal counsel believe that the Company has the legal right to make deductions with respect to this issue. Accordingly, the Company has not recorded any provisions with respect to this matter in its consolidated interim financial statements.

73




 

 

30.   Contingencies (continued)

  Legal Proceedings (continued)

  Dispute with Telecommunications Authority on Tariffs

  Between October 2007 and February 2008, Telecommunications Authority made announcements about its decision to control retail pricing for mobile operators, setting a lower ceiling for off-net calling prices for all operators and asking the Company to set its on-net prices to be not lower than its lowest interconnect rate. The Company filed lawsuits before Danistay requesting the suspension and annulment of the aforementioned decision on the ground that said decision is violating Telecommunications Law, Competition Law and License Agreement between the Company and Telecommunications Authority.

  Telecommunications Authority’s new decision negatively affects the Company’s ability to design and launch new campaigns, offers and consequently has a negative impact on the business. If this issue is not resolved fairly and in compliance with laws, the Company may not be able to fully implement its pricing strategy and its competitive position and financial results may be adversely affected.

74




 

 

31.   Related parties

  Transactions with key management personnel:

  Key management personnel comprise of the Group’s directors and key management executive officers.

  As at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007, none of the Group’s directors and executive officers has outstanding personnel loans from the Company.

  In addition to their salaries, the Group also provides non-cash benefits to directors and executive officers and contributes to a post-employment defined plan on their behalf. The Group is required to contribute a specified percentage of payroll costs to the retirement benefit scheme to fund the benefits.

  Total compensation provided to key management personnel is $2,837 and $1,741 for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007, respectively.

  The Company has agreements or protocols with several of its shareholders, consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates of the shareholders. The Company’s management believes that all such agreements or protocols are on terms that are at least as advantageous to the Company as would be available in transactions with third parties and the transactions are consummated at their fair values. None of these balances is secured.

  Other related party transactions:

Due from related parties – long term

 

31 March

 

31 December

2008

2007

Digital Platform

 

58,488

 

64,220

Other

 

4,439

 

4,651

 

 

62,927

 

68,871

 

Due from related parties – short term

 

31 March

 

31 December

2008

2007

A-Tel

 

20,872

 

27,470

Digital Platform

 

10,249

 

6,960

Superonline Uluslararasi Elektronik Bilgilendirme
Telekomunikasyon ve Haberlesme Hiz. AS (“Superonline”)

 

9,013

 

7,078

ADD Production Medya AS (“ADD”)

 

2,840

 

-

KVK Teknoloji Urunleri AS (“KVK Teknoloji”)

 

-

 

5,612

Other

 

5,849

 

5,362

 

 

48,823

 

52,482

 

Due to related parties – short term

 

31 March

 

31 December

2008

2007

Intralot Iberta Holding

 

26,873

 

-

Intralot

 

21,499

 

-

Hobim Bilgi Islem Hizmetleri AS (“Hobim”)

 

4,238

 

5,876

Estore Elektronik Tic. ve Sanal Mag. Hiz. AS (“Estore”)

 

1,926

 

2,389

Betting Organization Operation and Promotion Company SA (“Betting SA”)

 

1,054

 

891

ADD

 

-

 

7,224

Other

 

2,982

 

1,598

 

 

58,572

 

17,978

 

75




 

 

31.   Related parties (continued)

  Other related party transactions: (continued)

  Substantially, all of the significant due from related party balances is from Cukurova Group companies.

  Due from Digital Platform, a company whose majority shares are owned by Cukurova Group, mainly resulted from receivables from call center revenues, financial support for borrowing repayments and advances given for current and planned sponsorships. On 23 December 2005, a “Restructuring Framework Agreement” was signed between Digital Platform and the Company. The agreement includes the restructuring of the Group’s receivables from Digital Platform amounting to $68,737 as at 31 March 2008 in exchange for sponsorship and the advertisement services that the Company will receive on Digital Platform’s infrastructure. Under the agreement, Digital Platform commits to pay amounts due to the Group through 15 July 2011 along with the interest in cash and advertisement services. $68,737 represents present value of future cash flows and services discounted using imputed interest rate. As at 31 March 2008, $58,488 of the balance is classified as long term due from related parties in accordance with the revised repayment schedule. Besides, the Company paid $2,655 to Digital Platform within the scope of the agreement during the three months ended 31 March 2008.

  Due from A-Tel, a 50-50 joint venture of the Company and SDIF, resulted from simcard and scratch card sales to this company and payables in relation to dealer activation fees and simcard subsidies for the sale of scratch cards.

  Due from Superonline, a company whose majority shares are owned by Cukurova Group, mainly resulted from interconnection and call center services provided by the Group.

  Due from ADD, a company whose shares are owned by Cukurova Group, resulted from advances given for advertisement and sponsorship services rendered by this company.

  Due to Intralot Iberta Holding and Intralot, which are minority shareholders of Inteltek, comprise of dividend payables.

  Due to Hobim, a company whose majority shares are owned by Cukurova Group, resulted from the invoice printing services rendered by this company.

  Due to Estore, a company whose majority shares are owned by Cukurova Group, resulted from handset purchases regarding campaigns.

  Due to Betting SA, whose majority shares are owned by one of the shareholders of Inteltek, resulted from the consultancy services received for the operations of Inteltek.

  The Group’s exposure to currency and liquidity risk related to due from/ (due to) related parties is disclosed in Note 27.

76




 

 

31.   Related parties (continued)

  Transactions with related parties

  Intragroup transactions that have been eliminated are not recognized as related party transaction in the following table.

Revenues from related parties

 

Three moths ended 31 March

2008

 

2007

Sales to KVK Teknoloji

 

 

 

 

Simcard and prepaid card sales

 

165,305

 

108,806

Sales to A-Tel

 

 

 

 

Simcard and prepaid card sales

 

36,458

 

22,257

Sales to Kyivstar GSM JSC (“Kyivstar”)

 

 

 

 

Telecommunications services

 

11,985

 

3,520

Sales to Digital Platform

 

 

 

 

Call center revenues and interest charges

 

5,364

 

3,900

Sales to Millenicom Telekomunikasyon AS (“Millenicom”)

 

 

 

 

Telecommunications services

 

2,545

 

2,962

 

 

Related party expenses

 

Three months ended 31 March

2008

 

2007

Charges from ADD

 

 

 

 

Advertisement and sponsorship services

 

35,248

 

36,523

Charges from Kyivstar

 

 

 

 

Telecommunications services

 

11,540

 

4,740

Charges from A-Tel (*)

 

 

 

 

Dealer activation fees and others

 

11,048

 

8,870

Charges from KVK Teknoloji

 

 

 

 

Dealer activation fees and others

 

12,343

 

12,643

Charges from Betting SA

 

 

 

 

Consultancy services

 

2,893

 

1,956

Charges from Hobim

 

 

 

 

Invoicing and archieving services

 

4,897

 

3,987

Charges from Millenicom

 

 

 

 

Telecommunications services

 

2,066

 

1,982


*   Charges from A-Tel have been eliminated to the extent of the Company’s interest in A-Tel for the three months ended 31 March 2008 and 2007 amounting to $11,048 and $8,870, respectively.

77




 

 

31.   Related parties (continued)

  The significant agreements are as follows:

  Agreements with KVK Teknoloji:

  KVK Teknoloji, incorporated on 23 October 2002, one of the Company’s principal simcard distributors, is a Turkish company, which is affiliated with some of the Company’s shareholders. In addition to sales of simcards and scratch cards, the Company has entered into several agreements with KVK Teknoloji, in the form of advertisement support protocols, each lasting for different periods pursuant to which KVK Teknoloji must place advertisements for the Company’s services in newspapers. The objective of these agreements is to promote and increase handset sales with the Company’s prepaid and postpaid brand simcards, thereby supporting the protection of the Company’s market share in the prevailing market conditions. The prices of the contracts were determined according to the cost of advertising for KVK Teknoloji and the total advertisement benefit received, reflected in the Company’s market share in new subscriber acquisitions. Distributors’ campaign projects and market share also contributed to the budget allocation.

  Agreements with A-Tel:

  A-Tel is involved in the marketing, selling and distributing the Company’s prepaid systems. A-Tel is a 50-50 joint venture of the Company and SDIF. A-Tel acts as the only dealer of the Company for Muhabbet Kart (a prepaid card), and receives dealer activation fees and simcard subsidies for the sale of Muhabbet Kart. In addition to the sales of simcards and scratch cards through an extensive network of newspaper kiosks located throughout Turkey, the Company has entered into several agreements with A-Tel for sales campaigns and subscriber activations.

  Agreements with Kyivstar:

  Alfa Group,  a minor shareholder of the Company, holds the majority shares of Kyivstar. Astelit is receiving call termination and international traffic carriage services from Kyivstar.

  Agreements with Digital Platform:

  Digital Platform, a direct-to-home digital television service company under the Digiturk brand name, is a subsidiary of one of the Company’s principal shareholders, the Cukurova Group. Digital Platform acquired the broadcasting rights for Turkish Super Football League by the tender held on 15 July 2004, until 31 May 2008 and the broadcasting rights were extended until 31 May 2010 with a new agreement dated 5 May 2005. On 23 December 2005, “Restructuring Framework Agreement” was signed between Digital Platform and the Company. The Company also has an agreement related to the corporate group SMS services that the Company offers to Digital Platform, and an agreement for call center services provided by the Company’s subsidiary Global Bilgi Pazarlama Danisma ve Cagri Servisi Hizmetleri AS (“Global”).

  Agreements with Millenicom:

  European Telecommunications Holding AG (“ETH”), a subsidiary of Cukurova Group, holds the majority shares of Millenicom. Millenicom is rendering and receiving call termination and international traffic carriage services to and from the Company.

78




 

 

31.   Related parties (continued)

  Agreements with ADD:

  ADD, a media planning and marketing company, is a Turkish company owned by one of the Company’s principal shareholders, Cukurova Group. The Company entered into a media purchasing agreement with ADD on 23 January 2002, which expired on 31 December 2002 and further extended to 31 December 2003. In 2004 and 2005, the agreement was revised again with similar terms. On 1 September 2006, a revised agreement has been signed with ADD and the validity period of the agreement has been extended to 31 August 2008. The purpose of this agreement is to benefit from the expertise and bargaining power of ADD against third parties, regarding the formation of media purchasing strategies for both postpaid and prepaid brands. Additionally, ADD is a party of the sponsorship and advertisement agreements which are integral part of “Restructuring Framework Agreement” signed between the Company and Digital Platform.

  Agreements with Betting SA:

  Betting SA is incorporated under the laws of Greece, owned by one of the major shareholders of Inteltek. Inteltek signed a service agreement with Betting SA on 11 March 2004 to get consultancy services including monitoring operations, providing continuous evaluation of betting, maximizing game revenues of fixed odds betting, operating fixed odds betting games in the most efficient manner, with integrity and securely.

  Agreements with Hobim:

  Hobim, one of the leading data processing and application service provider companies in Turkey, is owned by Cukurova Group. The Company has entered into invoice printing and archiving agreements with Hobim under which Hobim provides the Company with scratch card printing services, monthly invoice printing services, manages archiving of invoices and subscription documents for an indefinite period of time. Prices of the agreements are determined as per unit cost plus profit margin.

79




 

 

32.   Group entities

  The Group’s ultimate parent company is Turkcell. Subsidiaries of the Company as at 31 March 2008 and 31 December 2007 are as follows:

  Subsidiaries

  Ownership interest
 
Name Country of
incorporation
31 March
2008(%)
31 December
2007(%)

Kibris Telekom      Turkish Republic of
Northern Cyprus
   100    100  
Global    Turkey    100    100  
Turktell Bilisim Servisleri AS    Turkey    100    100  
Tellcom    Turkey    100    100  
Turktell Uluslararasi Yatrm Holding AS    Turkey    100    100  
Turkcell Kurumsal Sats ve Dagtm Hizmetleri AS    Turkey    100    100  
Eastasia    Netherlands    100    100  
Turkcell Teknoloji    Turkey    100    100  
TurkKule    Turkey    100    100  
Sans Oyunlari Yatirim Holding AS    Turkey    100    100  
Financell    Netherlands    100      
Rehberlik Hizmetleri AS    Turkey    100      
Beltur BV    Netherlands    100      
Surtur BV    Netherlands    100      
Corbuss Kurumsal Telekom Servis  
Hizmetleri AS    Turkey    99    99  
Inteltek    Turkey    55    55  
Bilyoner    Turkey    55    55  
Euroasia    Netherlands    55    55  
Astelit    Ukraine    55    55  

 

33.   Subsequent events

  On 27 February 2008, Board of Directors of the Company decided to distribute dividends amounting to TRY 648,714 (equivalent to $508,197 and $502,334 as at 31 March 2008 and 25 April 2008, respectively), which represented 50% of distributable income. This represents a net cash dividend of full TRY 0.294870 (equivalent to full $0.230999 in full as at 31 March 2008). Dividend distribution was approved at ordinary General Assembly meeting dated 25 April 2008.

 

80




 

 

SIGNATURES

                    Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.



TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI A.S.


Date:  May 15, 2008 By:  /s/ Koray Ozturkler          
Name:  Koray Ozturkler
Title:    Chief Corporate Affairs Officer


TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI A.S.


Date:  May 15, 2008 By:  /s/ Ferda Atabek          
Name:  Ferda Atabek
Title:    Investor Relations Officer