Accessibility Statement Skip Navigation
  • Resources
  • Investor Relations
  • Journalists
  • Agencies
  • Client Login
  • Send a Release
Return to PR Newswire homepage
  • News
  • Products
  • Contact
When typing in this field, a list of search results will appear and be automatically updated as you type.

Searching for your content...

No results found. Please change your search terms and try again.
  • News in Focus
      • Browse News Releases

      • All News Releases
      • All Public Company
      • English-only
      • News Releases Overview

      • Multimedia Gallery

      • All Multimedia
      • All Photos
      • All Videos
      • Multimedia Gallery Overview

      • Trending Topics

      • All Trending Topics
  • Business & Money
      • Auto & Transportation

      • All Automotive & Transportation
      • Aerospace, Defense
      • Air Freight
      • Airlines & Aviation
      • Automotive
      • Maritime & Shipbuilding
      • Railroads and Intermodal Transportation
      • Supply Chain/Logistics
      • Transportation, Trucking & Railroad
      • Travel
      • Trucking and Road Transportation
      • Auto & Transportation Overview

      • View All Auto & Transportation

      • Business Technology

      • All Business Technology
      • Blockchain
      • Broadcast Tech
      • Computer & Electronics
      • Computer Hardware
      • Computer Software
      • Data Analytics
      • Electronic Commerce
      • Electronic Components
      • Electronic Design Automation
      • Financial Technology
      • High Tech Security
      • Internet Technology
      • Nanotechnology
      • Networks
      • Peripherals
      • Semiconductors
      • Business Technology Overview

      • View All Business Technology

      • Entertain­ment & Media

      • All Entertain­ment & Media
      • Advertising
      • Art
      • Books
      • Entertainment
      • Film and Motion Picture
      • Magazines
      • Music
      • Publishing & Information Services
      • Radio & Podcast
      • Television
      • Entertain­ment & Media Overview

      • View All Entertain­ment & Media

      • Financial Services & Investing

      • All Financial Services & Investing
      • Accounting News & Issues
      • Acquisitions, Mergers and Takeovers
      • Banking & Financial Services
      • Bankruptcy
      • Bond & Stock Ratings
      • Conference Call Announcements
      • Contracts
      • Cryptocurrency
      • Dividends
      • Earnings
      • Earnings Forecasts & Projections
      • Financing Agreements
      • Insurance
      • Investments Opinions
      • Joint Ventures
      • Mutual Funds
      • Private Placement
      • Real Estate
      • Restructuring & Recapitalization
      • Sales Reports
      • Shareholder Activism
      • Shareholder Meetings
      • Stock Offering
      • Stock Split
      • Venture Capital
      • Financial Services & Investing Overview

      • View All Financial Services & Investing

      • General Business

      • All General Business
      • Awards
      • Commercial Real Estate
      • Corporate Expansion
      • Earnings
      • Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG)
      • Human Resource & Workforce Management
      • Licensing
      • New Products & Services
      • Obituaries
      • Outsourcing Businesses
      • Overseas Real Estate (non-US)
      • Personnel Announcements
      • Real Estate Transactions
      • Residential Real Estate
      • Small Business Services
      • Socially Responsible Investing
      • Surveys, Polls and Research
      • Trade Show News
      • General Business Overview

      • View All General Business

  • Science & Tech
      • Consumer Technology

      • All Consumer Technology
      • Artificial Intelligence
      • Blockchain
      • Cloud Computing/Internet of Things
      • Computer Electronics
      • Computer Hardware
      • Computer Software
      • Consumer Electronics
      • Cryptocurrency
      • Data Analytics
      • Electronic Commerce
      • Electronic Gaming
      • Financial Technology
      • Mobile Entertainment
      • Multimedia & Internet
      • Peripherals
      • Social Media
      • STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)
      • Supply Chain/Logistics
      • Wireless Communications
      • Consumer Technology Overview

      • View All Consumer Technology

      • Energy & Natural Resources

      • All Energy
      • Alternative Energies
      • Chemical
      • Electrical Utilities
      • Gas
      • General Manufacturing
      • Mining
      • Mining & Metals
      • Oil & Energy
      • Oil and Gas Discoveries
      • Utilities
      • Water Utilities
      • Energy & Natural Resources Overview

      • View All Energy & Natural Resources

      • Environ­ment

      • All Environ­ment
      • Conservation & Recycling
      • Environmental Issues
      • Environmental Policy
      • Environmental Products & Services
      • Green Technology
      • Natural Disasters
      • Environ­ment Overview

      • View All Environ­ment

      • Heavy Industry & Manufacturing

      • All Heavy Industry & Manufacturing
      • Aerospace & Defense
      • Agriculture
      • Chemical
      • Construction & Building
      • General Manufacturing
      • HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air-Conditioning)
      • Machinery
      • Machine Tools, Metalworking and Metallurgy
      • Mining
      • Mining & Metals
      • Paper, Forest Products & Containers
      • Precious Metals
      • Textiles
      • Tobacco
      • Heavy Industry & Manufacturing Overview

      • View All Heavy Industry & Manufacturing

      • Telecomm­unications

      • All Telecomm­unications
      • Carriers and Services
      • Mobile Entertainment
      • Networks
      • Peripherals
      • Telecommunications Equipment
      • Telecommunications Industry
      • VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
      • Wireless Communications
      • Telecomm­unications Overview

      • View All Telecomm­unications

  • Lifestyle & Health
      • Consumer Products & Retail

      • All Consumer Products & Retail
      • Animals & Pets
      • Beers, Wines and Spirits
      • Beverages
      • Bridal Services
      • Cannabis
      • Cosmetics and Personal Care
      • Fashion
      • Food & Beverages
      • Furniture and Furnishings
      • Home Improvement
      • Household, Consumer & Cosmetics
      • Household Products
      • Jewelry
      • Non-Alcoholic Beverages
      • Office Products
      • Organic Food
      • Product Recalls
      • Restaurants
      • Retail
      • Supermarkets
      • Toys
      • Consumer Products & Retail Overview

      • View All Consumer Products & Retail

      • Entertain­ment & Media

      • All Entertain­ment & Media
      • Advertising
      • Art
      • Books
      • Entertainment
      • Film and Motion Picture
      • Magazines
      • Music
      • Publishing & Information Services
      • Radio & Podcast
      • Television
      • Entertain­ment & Media Overview

      • View All Entertain­ment & Media

      • Health

      • All Health
      • Biometrics
      • Biotechnology
      • Clinical Trials & Medical Discoveries
      • Dentistry
      • FDA Approval
      • Fitness/Wellness
      • Health Care & Hospitals
      • Health Insurance
      • Infection Control
      • International Medical Approval
      • Medical Equipment
      • Medical Pharmaceuticals
      • Mental Health
      • Pharmaceuticals
      • Supplementary Medicine
      • Health Overview

      • View All Health

      • Sports

      • All Sports
      • General Sports
      • Outdoors, Camping & Hiking
      • Sporting Events
      • Sports Equipment & Accessories
      • Sports Overview

      • View All Sports

      • Travel

      • All Travel
      • Amusement Parks and Tourist Attractions
      • Gambling & Casinos
      • Hotels and Resorts
      • Leisure & Tourism
      • Outdoors, Camping & Hiking
      • Passenger Aviation
      • Travel Industry
      • Travel Overview

      • View All Travel

  • Policy & Public Interest
      • Policy & Public Interest

      • All Policy & Public Interest
      • Advocacy Group Opinion
      • Animal Welfare
      • Congressional & Presidential Campaigns
      • Corporate Social Responsibility
      • Domestic Policy
      • Economic News, Trends, Analysis
      • Education
      • Environmental
      • European Government
      • FDA Approval
      • Federal and State Legislation
      • Federal Executive Branch & Agency
      • Foreign Policy & International Affairs
      • Homeland Security
      • Labor & Union
      • Legal Issues
      • Natural Disasters
      • Not For Profit
      • Patent Law
      • Public Safety
      • Trade Policy
      • U.S. State Policy
      • Policy & Public Interest Overview

      • View All Policy & Public Interest

  • People & Culture
      • People & Culture

      • All People & Culture
      • Aboriginal, First Nations & Native American
      • African American
      • Asian American
      • Children
      • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
      • Hispanic
      • Lesbian, Gay & Bisexual
      • Men's Interest
      • People with Disabilities
      • Religion
      • Senior Citizens
      • Veterans
      • Women
      • People & Culture Overview

      • View All People & Culture

      • In-Language News

      • Arabic
      • español
      • português
      • Česko
      • Danmark
      • Deutschland
      • España
      • France
      • Italia
      • Nederland
      • Norge
      • Polska
      • Portugal
      • Россия
      • Slovensko
      • Suomi
      • Sverige
  • Explore Our Platform
  • Plan Campaigns
  • Create with AI
  • Distribute Press Releases
  • Amplify Content
  • All Products
  • General Inquiries
  • Editorial Bureaus
  • Partnerships
  • Media Inquiries
  • Worldwide Offices
  • Hamburger menu
  • PR Newswire: news distribution, targeting and monitoring
  • Send a Release
    • ALL CONTACT INFO
    • Contact Us

      888-776-0942
      from 8 AM - 10 PM ET

  • Send a Release
  • Client Login
  • Resources
  • Blog
  • Journalists
  • RSS
  • News in Focus
    • Browse All News
    • Multimedia Gallery
    • Trending Topics
  • Business & Money
    • Auto & Transportation
    • Business Technology
    • Entertain­ment & Media
    • Financial Services & Investing
    • General Business
  • Science & Tech
    • Consumer Technology
    • Energy & Natural Resources
    • Environ­ment
    • Heavy Industry & Manufacturing
    • Telecomm­unications
  • Lifestyle & Health
    • Consumer Products & Retail
    • Entertain­ment & Media
    • Health
    • Sports
    • Travel
  • Policy & Public Interest
  • People & Culture
    • People & Culture
  • Send a Release
  • Client Login
  • Resources
  • Blog
  • Journalists
  • RSS
  • Explore Our Platform
  • Plan Campaigns
  • Create with AI
  • Distribute Press Releases
  • Amplify Content
  • All Products
  • Send a Release
  • Client Login
  • Resources
  • Blog
  • Journalists
  • RSS
  • General Inquiries
  • Editorial Bureaus
  • Partnerships
  • Media Inquiries
  • Worldwide Offices
  • Send a Release
  • Client Login
  • Resources
  • Blog
  • Journalists
  • RSS

Bezeq Group Reports First Quarter 2011 Financial Results

Bezeq Group Revenues for the First Quarter of 2011 Total NIS 2.9 Billion


News provided by

Bezeq

May 12, 2011, 03:10 ET

Share this article

Share toX

Share this article

Share toX

TEL AVIV, Israel, May 12, 2011 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ --

- Bezeq Chairman, Shaul Elovitch: "The Bezeq Group continued to demonstrate strong financial results in all operating segments in the first quarter of this year. These results are the product of a clear strategy of customer orientation, leadership and technological innovation, as well as operational streamlining."

- Alan Gelman, Chief Financial Officer and Deputy CEO of Bezeq: "The Group achieved stable revenues, despite the significant impact of the reduction in interconnect fees and growing competition in all markets in which the companies operate."

- Excluding the early retirement provision in Bezeq Fixed-Line of NIS 285 million, growth would have been recorded in all key profitability measures including operating profit, net profit, and EBITDA.

- The Company continues to generate shareholder value, and on May 19, 2011, will distribute a dividend of NIS 1.663 billion, which includes the regular semi-annual dividend of NIS 1.163 billion and NIS 500 million representing the first semi-annual payment of the 3 year distribution of the capital reduction.

Bezeq - The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Ltd. (TASE: BEZQ), Israel's leading telecommunications provider, announced today its financial results for the first quarter of 2011. Details regarding the investor conference call and webcast to be held today are included later in this press release.

Bezeq Group's first quarter 2011 financial highlights (as compared to first quarter 2010):

    - Revenues: NIS 2.9 billion, a decrease of 0.1%.
    - Operating profit: NIS 665 million, a decrease of 23.9%.
    - Net profit attributable to shareholders: NIS 407 million, down 36.6%.
    - Earnings per diluted share: NIS 0.15, down 37.5%.
    - EBITDA: NIS 1.0 billion, a decrease of 17.8%.
    - EBITDA margin: 34.3% of revenues, as compared to 41.7%.
    - Free cash flow: NIS 462 million, an increase of 2.2%.
    - Net debt-to-EBITDA: 1.00, as compared to 0.65.
    - Capex to sales: 17.3%, as compared to 12.3%.

Management Review

Shaul Elovitch, Bezeq Chairman, stated, "The Bezeq Group continued to demonstrate strong financial results in the first quarter of this year, in all its operating segments. These results are the product of a clear strategy of customer orientation, leadership and technological innovation, as well as operational streamlining. In the first quarter of 2011, the Bezeq Group companies faced challenges arising from regulatory decisions. These include the reduction in interconnect fees, which affected the activities of Pelephone and Bezeq Fixed-Line, and other regulatory decisions in the cellular market. The Bezeq Group is prepared for these changes and for the regulatory changes that are expected in the future, while developing our relative advantages in technology, services and other areas."

Alan Gelman, Chief Financial Officer and Deputy CEO of Bezeq, commented, "Group revenues remained stable despite the significant impact of the reduction in interconnect fees and growing competition in all markets in which the Bezeq companies operate. The Group's performance in the quarter was characterized by continued improvement in operating performance. The decline in profitability, versus the first quarter of 2010, is due to a provision of NIS 285 million for the early retirement of Bezeq Fixed-Line employees. The Group's financial strength is also reflected in its strong cash flow, which supports increased investment in infrastructure development across all Group segments."

The Company continues to generate shareholder value. In March 2011, the court approved the distribution of a capital reduction of NIS 3 billion to be paid in six equal semi-annual payments. On May 19, 2011, the Company will distribute a dividend of NIS 1.663 billion, which includes the regular dividend and the first payment of the capital reduction.

Bezeq Group Results (Consolidated)

Bezeq Group revenues for Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 2.9 billion, similar to the year ago quarter. Bezeq Fixed-Line revenues and Pelephone revenues from cellular services were negatively affected by the reduction in interconnect fees that came into effect on January 1, 2011. Conversely, the Group recorded an increase in revenues due to growth in revenues from Pelephone, primarily from handsets, and the consolidation of the results of Walla (from April 25, 2010).

Q1 2011 operating profit, net profit, and EBITDA for the Group, as well as the fixed line segment, were impacted by a NIS 285 million provision for employee early retirement.

Operating profit for the Group was NIS 665 million in Q1 2011, down 23.9% compared with the year ago quarter.

Net profit attributable to Bezeq shareholders in Q1 2011 was NIS 407 million, down 36.6% compared to the year ago quarter. EBITDA for Q1 2011 was NIS 1.0 billion (EBITDA margin of 34.3%), down NIS 217 million compared to the year ago quarter (EBITDA margin of 41.7%).

Excluding the early retirement provision, growth would have been recorded in all key profitability measures including operating profit, net profit, and EBITDA performance.

Cash flow from operating activities in Q1 2011 declined 3.8% compared to the year ago quarter, amounting to NIS 775 million, mainly due to changes in Pelephone's working capital.

Gross capital expenditures (CAPEX) in Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 503 million, an increase of 39.7% compared to the year ago quarter. This increase was mainly due to the ongoing rollout of NGN infrastructure in Bezeq's Fixed-Line segment. Q1 2011 consolidated capex-to-sales ratio was 17.3%, compared to 12.3% in the year ago quarter.

At March 31, 2011, the Group's consolidated net financial debt was NIS 4.9 billion, compared to NIS 2.9 billion at March 31, 2010. The increase in net financial debt compared to the year ago quarter was mainly due to new debt of NIS 2.6 billion raised by Bezeq in the second and third quarters of 2010, partially offset by the repayment of loans and debentures by Bezeq and Pelephone. At the end March 2011, the Company's net debt-to-EBITDA ratio was 1.00, compared to 0.65 at the end of March 2010.

    Bezeq Group (consolidated) [1,2]            Q1 2011  Q1 2010    Change
                                                   (NIS millions)

    Revenues                                      2,913    2,915     -0.1%
    Operating profit                                665      874    -23.9%
    EBITDA                                        1,000    1,217    -17.8%
    EBITDA margin                                  34.3%    41.7%
    Net profit attributable to Company
    shareholders                                    407      642    -36.6%
    Diluted EPS (NIS)                              0.15     0.24    -37.5%
    Cash flow from operating activities             775      806     -3.8%
    Capex payments, net [3]                         313      354    -11.6%
    Free cash flow [4]                              462      452      2.2%
    Net debt/EBITDA (end of period) [5]            1.00     0.65
    Net debt/shareholders' equity (end of period)  1.66     0.41


    [1] As of August 21, 2009, the Company ceased consolidating yes'
        financial statements and started accounting for its investment in
        yes according to the equity method.
    [2] Bezeq Group results reflect the consolidation of Walla! as of April
        25, 2010.
    [3] Capex data reflects payments related to capex and are based on the
        cash flow statements.
    [4] Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities
        less net capex payments.
    [5] EBITDA in this calculation refers to the trailing twelve months.


    Bezeq Fixed-Line Results
    - Internet average revenue per user (ARPU) increased 8.2% to NIS 79.

- Investment in infrastructure (CAPEX) increased 46.1%, reaching NIS 333 million, mainly due to the ongoing rollout of NGN infrastructure.

- Average Customer Internet bandwidths increased 60% compared to the year ago quarter, reaching 4.8 megabits per second (Mbps).

- Bezeq Fixed-Line recorded a provision of NIS 285 for employee early retirement in the first quarter.

Avi Gabbay, CEO of Bezeq, commented, "Bezeq Fixed-Line activities in the first quarter of 2011 were influenced by deployment of the NGN, which led to an increase of 60% in average customer internet bandwidths to 4.8 Mbps, higher Internet revenues and an increase in capital expenditures. "

Bezeq Fixed-Line reinforced its status as a leader in internet services in Israel, with 1.079 million broadband subscribers. The successful nationwide deployment of the NGN contributed to subscriber upgrades and average customer internet bandwidth increased by 60% compared to the year ago quarter, reaching 4.8 Mbps.

Internet ARPU continued to increase in the first quarter of 2011 at a rate of 8.2%, compared to the year ago quarter, reaching NIS 79 per month. Growth in ARPU was influenced by bandwidth upgrades. Average revenue per telephone line (APRL) in the first quarter of 2011 was NIS 80.

CAPEX in the Q1 2011 increased 46.1%, amounting to NIS 333 million, compared to NIS 228 million in the year ago quarter. The increase in CAPEX was mainly due to Bezeq's ongoing rollout of the NGN infrastructure.

Bezeq Fixed-Line revenues in Q1 2011 were NIS 1.18 billion, down 9.7% compared to the year ago quarter. The decline in revenues was influenced by the reduction in interconnect fees during the quarter. Higher revenues were recorded from Internet, data communications and transmission services, which offset lower revenues from telephony services. Excluding interconnect fees, fixed-line revenues increased 1% in the first quarter of 2011 as compared to the year ago quarter. Excluding the reduction in interconnect fees, this is the second consecutive quarter in which Bezeq Fixed-Line revenues increased.

Q1 2011 operating profit, net profit, and EBITDA in the fixed-line segment were significantly affected by a provision of NIS 285 million for the retirement of 260 employees. Operating profit amounted to NIS 211 million in Q1 2011, down 56.9% compared to the year ago quarter. EBITDA amounted to NIS 373 million, down 43.5% compared to the year ago quarter. Net profit was NIS 123 million in Q1 2011, down 65.8% compared to the year ago quarter.

Excluding the early retirement provision, growth in the fixed-line segment, would have been recorded in all key profitability measures including operating profit, net profit, and EBITDA performance.

              Bezeq Fixed-Line               Q1 2011    Q1 2010     Change
                                               (NIS millions)
    Revenues                                   1,178      1,304      -9.7%
    Operating profit                             211        490     -56.9%
    EBITDA                                       373        660     -43.5%
    EBITDA margin                               31.7%      50.6%
    Net profit [1]                               123        360     -65.8%
    Cash flows from operating activities         419        393       6.6%
    Capex payments, net [2]                      132        223     -40.8%
    Free cash flow [3]                           287        170      68.8%
    Number of active subscriber lines
    (end of period, in thousands) [4,7]        2,342      2,445      -4.2%
    Average monthly revenue per line
    (NIS) [5,7]                                   80         80       0.0%
    Number of outgoing usage minutes
    (millions) [7]                             2,521      2,732      -7.7%
    Number of incoming usage minutes
    (millions)                                 1,583      1,623      -2.5%
    Number of broadband internet
    subscribers (end of period, in
    thousands)                                 1,079      1,045       3.3%
    Average monthly revenue per broadband
    internet subscriber (NIS) [6]                 79         73       8.2%
    NGN subscribers as % of total
    internet subscribers covered by NGN
    network                                       37%        17%
    Average broadband speed per
    subscriber (end of period, Mbps)             4.8        3.0      60.0%


    [1] Excluding share in profits/losses of equity-accounted investees.
    [2] Capex data reflects payments related to capex and are based on
        the cash flow statements.
    [3] Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities
        less net capex payments.
    [4] Inactive subscribers are those whose lines have been physically
        disconnected (except for a subscriber in the first three months of
        collection proceedings). Based on average subscribers for the
        period.
    [5] Not including revenues from data communications and transmissions
        services, internet services, services to communications providers,
        and contract and other services.
    [6] Total revenue from Internet services excluding revenue from
        business directory services, divided by average internet
        subscribers. Until September 30, 2010, ARPU included revenue from
        business directory services. In view of the change in the
        definition of Internet services for calculating ARPU, the data in
        respect of Q1 2010 was recalculated and is shown in the table
        according to the new definition.
    [7] Retroactively adjusted to exclude public coin operated payphones.

Pelephone Results

- Net profit in Q1 2011 reached NIS 310 million, up 20% compared to the year ago quarter.

- Pelephone revenues in Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 1.45 billion, up 4.1% compared to the year ago quarter. Pelephone revenues from services amounted to NIS 949 million in the quarter. After adjustment for the reduction in interconnect fees, service revenues increased 3.3% compared to the year ago quarter.

- Increased consumer demand for mobile internet led to increased handset sales in general, and particularly smartphones with attractive service packages, which resulted in a sharp increase in equipment revenues amounting to NIS 501 million in Q1 2011, an increase of 74.6% as compared to the year ago quarter.

- EBITDA increased 14% in Q1 2011 as compared to the year ago quarter, and amounted to NIS 539 million. The EBITDA margin increased to 37.2%.

- The increase in Pelephone's HSPA subscribers and the increase in handset and smartphone sales resulted in enhanced business performance compared to the year ago quarter. Average monthly minutes of use (MOU) per customer increased by 23 minutes, amounting to 359 minutes in Q1 2011, compared to 336 minutes in the year ago quarter. Pelephone revenues from value added services increased 21% in the quarter as compared to the year ago quarter, and amounted to NIS 283 million, constituting approximately one third of Pelephone's revenues from cellular services.

- At March 31, 2011, Pelephone's active subscribers totaled 2.88 million (23,000 net subscriber additions), including 1.471 million HSPA subscribers, representing 51% of Pelephone's total subscribers.

Revenues for Pelephone increased 4.1% in Q1 2011 to NIS 1.45 billion, compared to the year ago quarter. The increase in revenues was mainly due to higher revenues from handsets.

Services revenues in Q1 2011 totaled NIS 949 million, down 14% due to the reduction in interconnect fees, compared to NIS 1.106 billion in the year ago quarter. Excluding the reduction of the interconnect fees, Pelephone's service revenues increased 3.3% compared to the year ago quarter. The growth was due to the continued increase in the number of subscribers and increased revenues from value added services.

Equipment revenues increased 75% in Q1 2011 to NIS 501 million, compared to the year ago quarter. The increase was due to higher handset sales in the quarter, particularly smartphones.

Pelephone's active subscribers totaled 2.880 million at March 31, 2011, compared to 2.789 million in the year ago quarter (23,000 net subscriber additions in the first quarter). The churn rate in Q1 2011 was 4.3% compared to 3.9% in the year ago quarter. At March 31, 2011, Pelephone's HSPA network had 1.471 million active subscribers, 51% of its total subscribers.

Pelephone's revenues from value added services increased 21% in Q1 2011 to NIS 283 million compared to the year ago quarter, representing 32% of Pelephone's revenues from cellular services.

Monthly average revenue per user (ARPU) in Q1 2011 was NIS 110, similar to the year ago quarter (after adjustment for the reduction in interconnect fees). Average monthly minutes of use (MOU) per customer increased by 23 minutes, amounting to 359 minutes in Q1 2011, compared to 336 minutes in the year ago quarter.

Pelephone's net profit in the quarter increased 20%, amounting to NIS 310 million, compared to the year ago quarter. Operating profit amounted to NIS 399 million in the quarter, up 24% compared to the year ago quarter. The increase in operating profit is mainly due to the increase in revenues from equipment sales and in the growth in value added services.

Pelephone recorded EBITDA of NIS 539 million in Q1 2011 (37.2% EBITDA margin), an increase of 14% compared to Q1 2010 (33.8% EBITDA margin).

Pelephone's cash flow from operating activities for Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 308 million, a decrease of 12% compared to the year ago quarter, mainly due to increased sales of equipment and smartphones payable in 36 installments as well as timing of tax payments.

          Pelephone                                  Q1 2011  Q1 2010  Change
                                                      (NIS millions)
    Total revenues                                     1,450    1,393    4.1%
    Service revenues                                     949    1,106  -14.2%
    Equipment revenues                                   501      287   74.6%
    Operating profit                                     399      322   23.9%
    EBITDA                                               539      471   14.4%
    EBITDA margin                                       37.2%    33.8%
    Net profit                                           310      259   19.7%
    Cash flows from operating activities                 308      350  -12.0%
    Capex payments, net [1]                              133       92   44.6%
    Free cash flow [2]                                   175      258  -32.2%
    Total subscribers (end of period, in thousands)[3] 2,880    2,789    3.3%
    HSPA subscribers (end of period, in thousands)     1,471      845   74.1%
    Average revenue per user (ARPU, NIS)[4]              110      110    0.0%
    Average monthly minutes of use per subscriber
    (MOU)[5]                                             359      336    6.8%
    VAS revenues as % of total cellular service
    revenues[6]                                         32.1%    22.6%
    Churn rate (%)[7]                                    4.3%     3.9%


    [1] Capex data reflects payments related to capex and are based on the
        cash flow statements.
    [2] Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating activities
        less net capex payments.
    [3] Subscriber data excludes inactive subscribers connected to Pelephone's
        services for six months or more. An inactive subscriber is one who in
        the past six months has not received or made at least one call or who
        has not paid for Pelephone's services.
    [4] Average monthly revenue per subscriber is calculated by dividing total
        revenue from cellular services (airtime, usage fees, call completion
        fees, roaming services, value added services and sundry), repair
        services and warranty in the period by average active subscribers in
        the same month. In light of the decrease in mobile termination rates
        as of 1.1.11, Q1-Q4 2010 ARPU data is presented based on reduced
        mobile termination rates in order to compare to Q1-11. For 2010
        unadjusted ARPU data, see section 1.5.4B of the 2010 Periodic Report.
    [5] Average monthly use per subscriber (in minutes) is calculated
        according to a monthly average of total outgoing and incoming minutes
        in the period, divided by the average total number of subscribers
        in the same period.
    [6] Based on interconnect fees in effect during each period.
    [7] Churn rate is calculated according to the proportion of subscribers
        who have disconnected from the Company's services and subscribers who
        have become inactive during the period, out of the total number of
        average active subscribers during the period.

Bezeq International Results

- Revenues of Bezeq International, Israel's leading supplier of broadband ISP services, amounted to NIS 329 million in the first quarter of 2011, down 4% compared to the year ago quarter. Lower revenues were due to the continued weakening of the international calls market in Israel together with a reduction in hubbing revenues between operators around the world.

- Record revenues were achieved in the quarter from Bezeq International's ISP services, resulting from its focus on high speed broadband as well as impressive growth in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) revenues.

- First quarter operating profit and net profit were NIS 61 million and NIS 46 million, respectively.

- EBITDA increased 1% to NIS 85 million as compared to the year ago quarter, with an EBITDA margin of 25.8%.

Isaac Benbenisti, CEO of Bezeq International, commented, "Bezeq International's considerable strength and its focus on broadband Internet and information technology solutions for enterprises led to growth in these sectors.

"Bezeq International's success is reflected in its continuing leadership in the broadband sector and its focus on the enterprise sector, with the highlight being winning the government tender to establish Israel's largest cloud computing network. In the first quarter, Bezeq International also advanced its project for deployment of a submarine cable from Israel to Europe."

Revenue amounted to NIS 329 million in Q1 2011, down 4% compared to the year ago quarter, which was affected by the decline in the international calls and hubbing markets. Bezeq International offset most of the decreases by increased revenues from Internet services on the "Private NGN" network, an increase in the number of customers, and growth in ICT solutions for enterprises compared to the year ago quarter.

Notwithstanding the contracting international calls market, profits were stable. Operating profit and net profit amounted to NIS 61 million and NIS 46 million respectively, both down 1% versus the year ago period, resulting primarily from the Company's growth in Internet operations and ICT solutions for enterprises as well as an adjustment in operating expenses.

Bezeq International's EBITDA increased 1%, to NIS 85 million (EBITDA margin of 25.8%) compared to Q1 2010 (EBITDA margin of 24.5%).

Bezeq International's investment in the deployment of the submarine cable from Israel to Europe affected free cash flow in the current quarter, which was negative NIS 4 million, compared to free cash flow of NIS 23 million in the year ago quarter.

            Bezeq International          Q1 2011  Q1 2010   Change
                                          (NIS millions)
    Revenues                                 329      343    -4.0%
    Operating profit                          61       62    -1.1%
    EBITDA                                    85       84     1.2%
    EBITDA margin                           25.8%    24.5%
    Net profit                                46       46    -1.1%
    Cash flows from operating activities      42       59   -29.3%
    Capex payments, net [1]                   46       37    24.7%
    Free cash flow [2]                        (4)      23


    [1] Capex data reflects payments related to capex and are
        based on the cash flow statements.
    [2] Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating
        activities less net capex payments.

yes Results

- Revenues increased 3.6% to NIS 406 million in Q1 2011, mainly due to an increase in revenues from advanced products, sales of premium channels and an increase in the number of subscribers.

- Sales of advanced services contributed to a 2.2% increase in ARPU in Q1 2011, to NIS 234.

- EBITDA increased 6.1% to NIS 130 million with an EBITDA margin of 32.0%, compared to 31.3% for the year ago quarter.

- The number of yes subscribers increased to 580,000.

Ron Eilon, CEO of yes, commented, "yes continued to prove its capabilities in the first quarter, with a further increase in subscribers, revenues of NIS 406 million and operating profit of NIS 61 million. We expect 2011 to be full of challenges, but also opportunities. I am confident that we will continue to prove our capabilities in all areas and provide our customers with the best and most advanced viewing experience."

As previously announced, the yes multi-channel pay-TV business ceased to be consolidated into the Bezeq Group's financial statements as of August 21, 2009. As a result, the Bezeq Group accounts for its investment in yes using the equity method.

Revenues in Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 406 million compared to NIS 391 in the year ago quarter, up 3.6%. The increase is due to an increase in revenues from advanced products, sales of premium channels and an increase in the number of subscribers.

Operating profit amounted to NIS 61 million compared to NIS 59 million in the year ago quarter. EBITDA in Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 130 million compared to NIS 122 million in the year ago quarter, up 6.1%.

Profit before finance expenses to shareholders and taxes amounted to NIS 20 million compared to NIS 35 million in the year ago quarter. The decrease is mainly due to an increase in finance expenses resulting from the higher Israel consumer price index (CPI) as compared to the year ago quarter.

Net loss after financing expenses to shareholders in Q1 2011 amounted to NIS 73 million compared to a loss of NIS 8 million in the year ago quarter.

The number of yes subscribers increased 1.6% in Q1 2011, reaching 580,000 subscribers at March 31, 2011, an addition of 9,000 subscribers compared to the year ago quarter.

    Segment ARPU increased 2.2% to NIS 234 in Q1 2011 compared to the year
ago quarter.

                      yes                   Q1 2011  Q1 2010  Change
                                             (NIS millions)
    Revenues                                    406      391    3.6%
    Operating profit                             61       59    4.6%
    EBITDA                                      130      122    6.1%
    EBITDA margin                              32.0%    31.3%
    Net loss                                    (73)      (8)
    Cash flows from operating activities        141      124   13.7%
    Capex payments, net [1]                      71       61   16.7%
    Free cash flow [2]                           70       63   10.9%
    Number of subscribers (end of period,
    in thousands) [3]                           580      571    1.6%
    Average revenue per user (ARPU, NIS) [4]    234      229    2.2%

    [1] Including subscriber acquisition costs. Capex data
        reflects payments related to capex and are based on the cash
        flow statements.
    [2] Free cash flow is defined as cash flows from operating
        activities less net capex payments.
    [3] Subscriber - one household or small business customer. For
        a business customer with numerous intake points or decoders
        (such as a hotel, kibbutz or gym), the number of subscribers
        is calculated by dividing the total payment received from
        the business customer by the average revenue from a small
        business customer.
    [4] ARPU includes total yes revenues (content and equipment,
        premium channels, technical services, advanced services,
        one-time sales of content, revenue from channels, internet
        and others) divided by average subscribers for the period.

2011 Outlook

The Bezeq Group reiterates its annual guidance, projecting that despite the expected decrease in Bezeq Group revenues resulting from the reduction of cellular interconnect rates, 2011 net profit and EBITDA are expected to be similar to 2010 levels, before the impact of a NIS 285 million provision for employee retirement, and an anticipated NIS 120 million expense resulting from the new employee stock option plan.

The Bezeq Group continues to invest in its Next Generation Network (NGN) and expects to expand its coverage to reach close to 85% of Israeli households by the end of 2011. Gross capital expenditures in 2011 are projected to be 5% to 10% higher than in 2010, primarily due to Bezeq International's deployment of a submarine cable that, upon its completion, is expected to significantly enhance the Group's Internet bandwidth capacity and connectivity to the worldwide web. The Bezeq Group is considering the possibility of purchasing real estate that will serve as the Group's headquarters, replacing leased properties. If the Group decides on this alternative, its gross capital expenditures in 2011 would increase by an additional 5% to 10%.

Conference Call & Web Cast Information

Bezeq will conduct a conference call hosted by Mr. Shaul Elovitch, Bezeq Chairman and Mr. Alan Gelman, Bezeq Chief Financial Officer and Deputy CEO, on Thursday, May 12, 2011, at 4:00 PM Israel Time / 9:00 AM Eastern Time. Participants are invited to join the live conference call by dialing:

International Phone Number: + 972-3-918-0609

Israel Phone Number: 03-918-0609

A live webcast of the conference call will be available on the investor relations section of the Bezeq corporate website at http://www.bezeq.co.il. Please visit the website at least 15 minutes early to register for the webcast and download any necessary audio software.

A webcast replay will be made available on the investor relations section of the Bezeq corporate website. An automated telephone replay will also be available approximately three hours after the completion of the live call through Wednesday, May 18, 2011. Participants are invited to listen to the conference call replay by dialing:

International Phone Number: + 972-3-925-5900

Israel Phone Number: 03-925-5900

About Bezeq The Israel Telecommunication Corp.

Bezeq is Israel's leading telecommunications service provider. Established in 1984, the Company has led Israel into the new era of communications, based on the most advanced technologies and services. Bezeq and its subsidiaries offer the full range of communications services including domestic, international and cellular phone services; broadband Internet, and other data communications; satellite-based multi-channel TV; and corporate networks. For more information about Bezeq please visit the corporate website at http://www.bezeq.co.il.

For more information about Bezeq please visit the corporate website at http://www.bezeq.co.il.

This press release contains general data and information as well as forward looking statements about Bezeq. Such statements include expressions of management's expectations about new and existing programs, opportunities, technology and market conditions. Although Bezeq believes its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, these statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties. These statements should not be regarded as a representation that anticipated events will occur or that expected objectives will be achieved. These forward-looking statements are made only as of the date hereof and the Company assumes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement In addition, the realization and/or otherwise of the forward-looking information will be affected by factors that cannot be assessed in advance, and which are not within the control of the Corporation, including the risk factors that are characteristic of its operations, and developments in the general environment, and external factors and the regulation that affects the Corporation's operations.

This press release contains partial information from the public reports of Bezeq under the Israeli Securities Law 5728-1968 (the "Securities Law"), which reports can be accessed at the Israeli Securities Authority's website, http://www.magna.isa.gov.il. A review of this presentation is not a substitute for a review of the detailed reports of Bezeq under the Securities Law and is not meant to replace or qualify them; rather, the presentation is prepared merely for the convenience of the reader, with the understanding that the detailed reports are being reviewed simultaneously. No representation is made as to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein.

This press release does not constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities, and neither this presentation nor anything contained herein shall form the basis of or be relied upon in connection with any contract or commitment whatsoever.

               "Bezeq" The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Limited

                    Condensed Consolidated Income Statements


                                        Three months ended        Year ended
                                             March 31             December 31
                                       2011           2010           2010
                                    (Unaudited)    (Unaudited)    (Audited)
                                   NIS millions   NIS millions   NIS millions
    Continuing operations
    Revenues                           2,913          2,915         11,987

    Costs and expenses
    Depreciation and amortization        335            343          1,409
    Salaries                             532            505          2,024
    General and operating expenses     1,131          1,218          5,026
    Other operating expenses
    (income), net                        250            (25)          (216)

                                       2,248          2,041          8,243

    Operating profit                     665            874          3,744

    Finance (income) expenses
    Finance expenses                     102             63            391
    Finance income                       (82)           (85)          (282)

    Finance expenses (income), net        20            (22)           109

    Profit after finance expenses
    (income), net                        645            896          3,635


    Share of losses of equity-accounted
    investees                             65             23            261

    Profit before income tax             580            873          3,374

    Income tax                           174            231            932

    Profit for the period                406            642          2,442

    Attributable to:
    Owners of the Company                407            642          2,443
    Non-controlling interests             (1)             -             (1)

    Profit for the period                406            642          2,442

    Earnings per share
    Basic earnings per share (NIS)      0.15           0.24           0.91

    Diluted earnings per share (NIS)    0.15           0.24           0.90



               "Bezeq" The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Limited

                           Consolidated Balance Sheets


                                         March 31,      March 31,  December
                                            2011          2010     31, 2010
                                        (Unaudited)    (Unaudited) (Audited)
                                        NIS millions       NIS        NIS
                                                        millions   millions
    Assets

    Cash and cash equivalents                   681         944       365
    Investments, including derivatives           20          12         7
    Trade receivables                         2,787       2,573     2,701
    Other receivables                           272         249       224
    Inventories                                 246         181       178
    Current tax assets                            2           -         3
    Assets classified as held for sale           20          33        29

    Total current assets                      4,028       3,992     3,507

    Investments, including derivatives          129         128       129
    Trade and other receivables               1,299         915     1,114
    Property, plant and equipment             5,773       5,444     5,610
    Intangible assets                         2,256       1,887     2,248
    Deferred and other expenses                 281         294       292
    Investments in equity-accounted investees
    (mainly loans)                            1,068       1,213     1,084
    Deferred tax assets                         299         361       254

    Total non-current assets                 11,105      10,242    10,731






    Total assets                             15,133      14,234    14,238



               "Bezeq" The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Limited

                     Consolidated Balance Sheets (Continued)


                                    March 31,        March 31,     December
                                       2011             2010       31, 2010
                                   (Unaudited)      (Unaudited)    (Audited)
                                   NIS millions     NIS millions      NIS
                                                                   millions
    Liabilities

    Debentures, loans and borrowings     1,013              753        949
    Trade payables                       1,032              908      1,061
    Other payables, including
    derivatives                          1,042              739        770
    Current tax liabilities                313              184        267
    Deferred income                         34               36         33
    Provisions                             260              375        251
    Employee benefits                      538              475        269
    Dividend payable                       984                -          -

    Total current
    liabilities                          5,216            3,470      3,600

    Debentures                           1,914            2,596      1,967
    Bank loans                           2,711              531      2,801
    Employee benefits                      267              301        305
    Deferred income and others              42                5         43
    Provisions                              69               72         69
    Deferred tax liabilities                75               59         83
    Dividend payable                     1,827                -          -

    Total non-current liabilities        6,905            3,564      5,268

    Total liabilities                   12,121            7,034      8,868

    Equity
    Total equity attributable to equity
    holders of the Company               2,970            7,206      5,327
    Non-controlling interests               42               (6)        43

    Total equity                         3,012            7,200      5,370

    Total liabilities and equity        15,133           14,234     14,238



               "Bezeq" The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Limited

                      Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows


                                               Three months          Year
                                                   ended             ended
                                                 March 31         December 31
                                             2011        2010        2010
                                          (Unaudited) (Unaudited)  (Audited)
                                              NIS         NIS         NIS
                                           millions    millions    millions
    Cash flows from operating activities
    Net profit for the period                  406         642       2,442
    Adjustments:
    Depreciation                               259         272       1,114
    Amortization of intangible assets           70          65         269
    Amortization of deferred and other
    expenses                                     6           6          26
    Profit from a controlling shareholder
    in an investee                               -           -         (57)
    Share of losses of equity-accounted
    investees                                   65          23         261
    Finance expenses (income), net              36          (6)        113
    Capital gain, net                          (44)        (27)       (171)
    Expenses (income) for derivatives, net      (2)          -          12
    Share-based payments                        43           6          35
    Income tax expenses                        174         231         932
    Proceeds (payment) of derivatives, net       2          (1)         (2)

    Change in inventory                        (70)         78          84
    Change in trade and other receivables     (321)       (171)       (300)
    Change in trade and other payables          95        (141)        (21)
    Change in provisions                         9          (4)       (136)
    Change in employee benefits                231         (22)       (215)

    Net income tax paid                       (184)       (145)       (690)

    Net cash from operating activities         775         806       3,696

    Cash flow used in investing activities
    Investment in intangible assets and
    deferred expenses                          (78)        (88)       (343)
    Proceeds from the sale of property,
    plant and equipment                        187          15         133
    Change in current investments, net          (8)        141         138
    Purchase of property, plant and
    equipment                                 (422)       (281)     (1,279)
    Proceeds from disposal of investments
    and long-term loans                          1           2          11
    Investments and long-term loans             (1)         (1)         (6)
    Payment for derivatives                    (11)          -          (2)
    Business combinations less cash acquired     -           -        (145)
    Interest received                            3           -           9

    Net cash used in investing activities     (329)       (212)     (1,484)



               "Bezeq" The Israel Telecommunication Corp., Limited

                Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Continued)

                                         Three months ended       Year ended
                                              March 31            December 31
                                         2011          2010          2010
                                      (Unaudited)   (Unaudited)    (Audited)
                                     NIS millions  NIS millions  NIS millions
     Cash flows used in financing
     activities
     Bank loans received                       -             -         2,670
     Repayment of debentures                 (92)         (206)         (697)
     Repayment of loans                       (9)           (9)         (448)
     Short-term borrowing, net                (1)            -            (6)
     Dividends paid                            -             -        (3,733)
     Interest paid                           (32)          (30)         (237)
     Net proceeds for derivatives              -             -            10
     Transfers by non-controlling
     interests, net                            -             -             2
     Increase in the rate of holding in a
     subsidiary                                -             -           (14)
     Proceeds from exercise of options         4            15            26

     Net cash used for financing activities (130)         (230)       (2,427)


     Net increase (decrease) in cash and
     cash equivalents                        316           364          (215)
     Cash and cash equivalents at
     beginning of year                       365           580           580

     Cash and cash equivalents at end of
     year                                    681           944           365



    Investor Relations Contact:      Media Relations Contact:

    Mr. Naftali Sternlicht           Mr. Guy Hadass
    Bezeq                            Bezeq
    Phone: +972-2-539-5441           Phone: +972-3-626-2600
    Email:  [email protected]           Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Bezeq

WANT YOUR COMPANY'S NEWS FEATURED ON PRNEWSWIRE.COM?

icon3
440k+
Newsrooms &
Influencers
icon1
9k+
Digital Media
Outlets
icon2
270k+
Journalists
Opted In
GET STARTED

Modal title

Contact PR Newswire

  • Call PR Newswire at 888-776-0942
    from 8 AM - 9 PM ET
  • Chat with an Expert
  • General Inquiries
  • Editorial Bureaus
  • Partnerships
  • Media Inquiries
  • Worldwide Offices

Products

  • For Marketers
  • For Public Relations
  • For IR & Compliance
  • For Agency
  • All Products

About

  • About PR Newswire
  • About Cision
  • Become a Publishing Partner
  • Become a Channel Partner
  • Careers
  • Accessibility Statement
  • APAC
  • APAC - Simplified Chinese
  • APAC - Traditional Chinese
  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • Czech
  • Denmark
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Israel
  • Italy
  • Japan
  • Korea
  • Mexico
  • Middle East
  • Middle East - Arabic
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Russia
  • Slovakia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • United Kingdom
  • Vietnam

My Services

  • All New Releases
  • Platform Login
  • ProfNet
  • Data Privacy

Do not sell or share my personal information:

  • Submit via [email protected] 
  • Call Privacy toll-free: 877-297-8921

Contact PR Newswire

Products

About

My Services
  • All News Releases
  • Platform Login
  • ProfNet
Call PR Newswire at
888-776-0942
  • Terms of Use
  • Privacy Policy
  • Information Security Policy
  • Site Map
  • RSS
  • Cookies
Copyright © 2025 Cision US Inc.