Form 20-F
Table of Contents

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on April 18, 2011

 

 

 

UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

 

FORM 20-F

 

 

 

¨ REGISTRATION STATEMENT PURSUANT TO SECTION 12(b) OR (g) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

OR

 

x ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010

OR

 

¨ TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from              to

OR

 

¨ SHELL COMPANY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

Date of event requiring this shell company report                     

Commission File Number: 1-15092

 

 

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI A.S.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

TURKCELL

(Translation of Registrant’s Name Into English)

 

 

Republic of Turkey

(Jurisdiction of Incorporation or Organization)

Turkcell Plaza

Mesrutiyet Caddesi No: 71

34430 Tepebasi

Istanbul, Turkey

(Address of Principal Executive Offices)

Mr. Serkan Okandan

Telephone: +90 212 313 1201

Facsimile: +90 212 292 5390

Turkcell Plaza

Mesrutiyet Caddesi No: 71

34430 Tepebasi

Istanbul, Turkey

(Name, Telephone, E-mail and/or Facsimile number and Address of Company Contact Person)

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:

 

Title of each class

 

Name of each exchange on which registered

American Depositary Shares   New York Stock Exchange
Ordinary Shares, Nominal Value TRY 1.000*   New York Stock Exchange

 

* Not for trading on the NYSE, but only in connection with the registration of ADSs representing such ordinary shares pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.

 

 

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:

None

Securities for which there is a reporting obligation pursuant to Section 15(d) of the Act: None

 

 

Indicate the number of outstanding shares of each of the issuer’s classes of capital or common stock as of the close of the period covered by the annual report.

Ordinary Shares, Nominal Value TRY 1.000                                 2,200,000,000

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.    Yes  x    No  ¨

If this report is an annual or transition report, indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.    Yes  ¨    No  x

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.    Yes  x    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate Web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).    Yes  ¨    No  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, or a non-accelerated filer. See definition of “accelerated filer and large accelerated filer” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. (Check one):

Large Accelerated Filer  x                Accelerated Filer  ¨                Non-Accelerated Filer  ¨

Indicate by check mark which basis of accounting the registrant has used to prepare the financial statements included in this filing:

U.S. GAAP  ¨    International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board  x    Other  ¨

If “Other” has been checked in response to the previous question, indicate by check mark which financial statement item the registrant has elected to follow.    Item 17  ¨    Item 18  ¨

If this is an annual report, indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act).    Yes  ¨    No  x

 

 

 


Table of Contents

Table of Contents

 

ITEM 1

 

IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

     3   

ITEM 2

 

OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

     3   

ITEM 3

 

KEY INFORMATION

     3   
 

3.A SELECTED FINANCIAL DATA

     3   
 

3.B CAPITALIZATION AND INDEBTEDNESS

     8   
 

3.C REASONS FOR THE OFFER AND USE OF PROCEEDS

     8   
 

3.D RISK FACTORS

     9   

ITEM 4

 

INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

     27   
 

4.A HISTORY AND DEVELOPMENT OF THE COMPANY

     27   
 

4.B BUSINESS OVERVIEW

     28   
 

4.C ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

     80   
 

4.D PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

     80   

ITEM 5

 

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

     81   
 

5.A OPERATING RESULTS

     84   
 

5.B LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

     101   
 

5.C RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, PATENTS AND LICENSES, ETC.

     104   
 

5.D TREND INFORMATION

     105   
 

5.E OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS

     106   
 

5.F TABULAR DISCLOSURE OF CONTRACTUAL OBLIGATIONS

     107   
 

5.G SAFE HARBOR

     107   

ITEM 6

 

DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

     107   
 

6.A DIRECTORS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT

     107   
 

6.B COMPENSATION

     112   
 

6.C BOARD PRACTICES

     113   
 

6.D EMPLOYEES

     115   
 

6.E SHARE OWNERSHIP

     117   

ITEM 7

 

MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

     117   
 

7.A MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS

     117   
 

7.B RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

     119   
 

7.C INTERESTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

     119   

ITEM 8

 

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

     119   
 

8.A CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS AND OTHER FINANCIAL INFORMATION

     119   
 

8.B SIGNIFICANT CHANGES

     121   

ITEM 9

 

THE OFFER AND LISTING

     121   
 

9.A OFFER AND LISTING DETAILS

     121   
 

9.B PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION

     122   
 

9.C MARKETS

     122   
 

9.D SELLING SHAREHOLDERS

     123   
 

9.E DILUTION

     123   
 

9.F EXPENSES OF THE ISSUE

     123   

ITEM 10  

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

     123   
 

10.A SHARE CAPITAL

     123   
 

10.B MEMORANDUM AND ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION

     123   
 

10.C MATERIAL CONTRACTS

     131   
 

10.D EXCHANGE CONTROLS

     131   
 

10.E TAXATION

     131   
 

10.F DIVIDENDS AND PAYING AGENTS

     138   
 

10.G STATEMENT BY EXPERTS

     138   
 

10.H DOCUMENTS ON DISPLAY

     138   
 

10.I SUBSIDIARY INFORMATION

     138   

 


Table of Contents

ITEM 11

 

QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

     139   

ITEM 12

 

DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

     140   

ITEM 13

 

DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

     142   

ITEM 14

 

MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

     142   

ITEM 15

 

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

     142   

ITEM 16

 

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

     144   

ITEM 16B.

 

CODE OF ETHICS

     144   

ITEM 16C.

 

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

     144   

ITEM 16D.

 

EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

     145   

ITEM 16E.

 

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

     145   

ITEM 16F.

 

CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

     145   

ITEM 16G.  

 

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

     145   

ITEM 17

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     150   

ITEM 18

 

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     150   

ITEM 19

 

EXHIBITS

     150   

 


Table of Contents

INTRODUCTION

This is the 2010 annual report for Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. (“Turkcell”), a joint stock company organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of Turkey. The terms “we”, “us”, “our”, and similar ones refer to Turkcell, its predecessors, and its consolidated subsidiaries, except as the context otherwise requires.

Our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 included in this annual report have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (“IASB”).

The SEC has adopted rules accepting filings from foreign private issuers that include financial statements prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB without reconciliation to accounting principles generally accepted in the United States, or U.S. GAAP, as was previously required. As we believe that we meet the relevant criteria to avail ourselves of this SEC rule, we have ceased providing such reconciliation as part of our consolidated financial statements.

Certain figures included in this annual report have been subject to rounding adjustments. Accordingly, figures shown for the same category presented in different tables may vary slightly, and figures shown as totals in certain tables may not total exactly. In this annual report, references to “TL”, “TRY” and “Turkish Lira” are to the Turkish Lira, previously called the “New Turkish Lira” from 2005 through 2008; and references to “$”, “U.S. Dollars”, “USD”, “U.S. $” and “cents” are to U.S. Dollars and, except as otherwise noted, all interest rates are on a per annum basis. In this annual report, references to “Turkey” or the “Republic” are to the Republic of Turkey. “Counters” are the units we used with our subscribers until April 2010 to measure airtime. As of April 2010, we measure our airtime in TRY rather than counters.

Statements regarding our market share and total market size are based on the ICTA’s announcements, and statements regarding penetration are based on the Turkish Statistical Institute’s (“TUIK”) announcements pertaining to the Turkish population. Furthermore, statements regarding our 2G coverage are based on the Information and Communication Technologies Authority’s (“ICTA”) specifications as well as the TUIK’s announcements, and statements regarding our 3G coverage are based on the 3GPP TS 25.101 specifications for outdoor coverage.

References to the Information and Communication Technologies Authority or ICTA include its predecessor entity, the Telecommunications Authority.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This annual report includes forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, Section 21E of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and the Safe Harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. All statements other than statements of historical facts included in this annual report, 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 “may”, “will”, “expect”, “intend”, “estimate”, “anticipate”, “believe”, “continue”, or similar statements.

Although we believe that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable at this time, we 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. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from our expectations are contained in cautionary statements in this annual report, including, without limitation, in conjunction with the forward-looking statements listed below, and include, among others, the following:

 

   

competition in our main market;

 

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increased competition and/or the entrance of new direct and indirect competitors in the market due to regulatory changes in Turkey with respect to certain technologies;

 

   

developments in the Turkish telecommunications market that will impact the size and usage of our future subscriber base and which are affected by factors outside of our control;

 

   

failure to successfully integrate and manage the opportunities we pursue, particularly related to our current mobile communications business and new 3G business, new business models, new technologies and international activities;

 

   

changes in current and future Turkish telecommunications laws, regulations and regulatory orders which may impact our customers’ usage patterns;

 

   

regulations imposed by the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (hereinafter, the “ICTA”), that may require us to maintain certain prices for our services, notably by placing a floor on certain of our prices and a ceiling on certain of our interconnection prices;

 

   

legal and regulatory restrictions imposed by regulatory authorities in Turkey, in particular following the enactment of the Electronic Communications Law, which broadens the power of the ICTA;

 

   

adverse effects on our competitiveness due to our designation by the ICTA as an “operator holding significant market power” in the “mobile call termination services market” and as an “operator holding significant market power” in “access to GSM mobile networks and the call origination market”;

 

   

failure to abide by the requirements of our licenses or applicable regulations;

 

   

economic and political developments in Turkey and internationally;

 

   

exposure to certain risks through our interests in associated companies;

 

   

foreign exchange rate risks;

 

   

financial risks in the event that our majority owned subsidiaries fail to meet some of their obligations set forth in the agreements related to their financing arrangements;

 

   

our ability to deal with spectrum limitations;

 

   

zoning limitations related to our BTS;

 

   

potential liability and possible reduced usage of mobile phones as a result of alleged health risks related to base transmitter stations (“BTSs”) and the use of handsets;

 

   

our dependence on certain suppliers for network equipment and the provision of data services;

 

   

our current legal action against the Turkish Capital Markets Board (“CMB”);

 

   

the influence of our controlling shareholders and disputes between them;

 

   

our dependence on certain systems and suppliers for IT services and our exposure to potential natural disasters, regular or severe IT failures, human error, hacking and IT migration risk;

 

   

technological changes in the telecommunications market;

 

   

our dependence on third party providers to help us navigate the regulatory, security and business risks of industries where we traditionally do not compete;

 

   

our ability to retain key personnel and distributors;

 

   

The potential issuance and cancellation halt of American Depositary Shares (“ADSs”) by depositories in Turkey;

 

   

legal actions and claims to which we are a party; and

 

   

effective internal control over financial reporting.

All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to us are expressly qualified in their entirety by reference to these cautionary statements.

 

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ITEM 1 IDENTITY OF DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND ADVISERS

Not Applicable.

 

ITEM 2 OFFER STATISTICS AND EXPECTED TIMETABLE

Not Applicable.

 

ITEM 3 KEY INFORMATION

3.A Selected Financial Data

Our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 included in this annual report have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.

The Company has for 2010 revised the manner in which it accounts for the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates in its statement of cash flows and has revised its presentation of prior periods, resulting in a change in the allocation of the impact of foreign exchange rate changes among “Operating activities”, “Effects of foreign exchange on statement of financial position items” and “Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash” in the statement of cash flows. In this context, 2010 quarterly cash flow data will be revised accordingly in 2011. The change relates to the impact of re-translation of the underlying functional currency cash flows into the presentation currency, the U.S. Dollar. The Company believes that changes to prior periods are immaterial. The change in the statement of cash flows will not impact the Company’s previously reported statement of income, statement of comprehensive income, statement of financial positions or “Cash and cash equivalents” at the end of any period. See Note 2 to our consolidated financial statements in this Form 20-F.

The following information should be read in conjunction with “Item 5. Operating and Financial Review and Prospects,” our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, and the related notes appearing elsewhere in this annual report.

 

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The following table presents our selected consolidated statement of operations, balance sheet and cash flow data as of and for each of the years in the five-year period ended December 31, 2010, presented in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB which have been derived from our audited consolidated financial statements as of and for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006. The information appearing under the caption “Other Financial Data” is not derived from the audited financial statements.

 

     2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
     (Million $, except share data and other certain data)  

Selected Financial Data Prepared in Accordance with IFRS as Issued by the IASB

          

Consolidated Statement of Operations Data

          

Revenues

          

Communication fees

     5,670.2        5,557.3        6,576.9        5,976.9        4,406.7   

Commission fees on betting business

     31.2        42.7        176.2        181.3        172.4   

Monthly fixed fees

     75.4        42.5        65.1        54.8        57.6   

Simcard sales

     22.9        22.9        28.2        20.8        21.0   

Call center revenues

     25.2        17.4        16.6        12.9        10.2   

Other revenues

     157.2        107.2        107.4        81.9        32.4   

Total revenues

     5,982.1        5,790.0        6,970.4        6,328.6        4,700.3   

Direct cost of revenues(1)

     (3,349.0     (3,097.1     (3,409.0     (3,103.4     (2,627.9

Gross profit

     2,633.1        2,692.9        3,561.4        3,225.2        2,072.4   

Other income

     14.7        0.9        14.1        7.8        8.1   

Administrative expenses

     (347.3     (273.1     (309.3     (252.8     (154.9

Selling and marketing expenses

     (1,085.8     (1,085.1     (1,351.7     (1,138.2     (827.5

Other expenses

     (64.2     (111.2     (18.0     (22.5     (6.5

Results from operating activities

     1,150.5        1,224.4        1,896.5        1,819.5        1,091.6   

Finance income

     277.1        329.6        442.1        308.4        184.0   

Finance costs

     (102.6     (187.5     (136.8     (551.1     (108.0

Net finance income/(costs)

     174.5        142.1        305.3        (242.7     76.0   

Share of profit of equity accounted investees(2)

     122.8        78.4        103.0        64.9        78.6   

Profit before income taxes

     1,447.8        1,444.9        2,304.8        1,641.7        1,246.2   

Income tax expense

     (320.8     (340.1     (549.8     (322.4     (413.2

Profit for the period

     1,127.0        1,104.8        1,755.0        1,319.3        833.0   

Attributable to:

          

Equity holders of the Company

     1,170.2        1,094.0        1,836.8        1,350.2        875.5   

Non-controlling interest

     (43.2     10.8        (81.8     (30.9     (42.5

Profit for the period

     1,127.0        1,104.8        1,755.0        1,319.3        833.0   

Basic and diluted earnings per share(3)

     0.53        0.50        0.83        0.61        0.40   

Consolidated Balance Sheet Data (at period end)

          

Cash and cash equivalents

     3,302.2        3,095.5        3,259.8        3,095.3        1,598.6   

Total assets

     9,794.6        9,320.8        8,067.9        8,469.0        6,089.7   

Long-term debt(7)

     1,407.3        821.2        130.0        140.4        113.5   

Total debt(8)

     1,837.5        1,512.0        785.9        760.0        639.6   

Total liabilities

     3,561.0        3,424.6        2,624.3        2,537.8        1,971.8   

Share capital

     1,636.2        1,636.2        1,636.2        1,636.2        1,636.2   

Total equity/net assets

     6,233.6        5,896.2        5,443.6        5,931.2        4,117.9   

Weighted average number of shares(3)

     2,200,000,000        2,200,000,000        2,200,000,000        2,200,000,000        2,200,000,000   

Consolidated Cash Flow Data

          

Net cash from operating activities(11)

     1,262.6        1,316.6        1,746.3        1,986.9        1,850.7   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (704.9     (1,485.0     (695.2     (440.5     (632.5

Net cash used for financing activities

     (303.7     (5.4     (353.6     (255.0     (395.8

Other Financial Data

          

Dividends declared or proposed(4)(10)

     859.4        573.5        713.3        502.3        411.9   

Dividends per share (declared or proposed)(9)(10)

     0.39        0.26        0.32        0.23        0.19   

Gross margin(5)

     44     47     51     51     44

Adjusted EBITDA(6)

     1,957.4        1,925.4        2,580.3        2,627.1        1,820.0   

Capital expenditures

     1,078.6        1,769.3        808.2        783.1        604.8   

 

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(1) Direct cost of revenues includes payments for our treasury share (the amount paid to the government under our license) and universal service fund, transmission fees, base station rents, billing costs, depreciation and amortization charges, technical, repair and maintenance expenses, roaming charges, interconnection fees, costs of Simcards sold, handset costs offered as part of our loyalty programs and personnel expenses related to our technicians.
(2) Share of profit of equity accounted investees primarily includes the income (loss) related to our stake in Fintur Holdings B.V. (“Fintur”) and A-Tel Pazarlama ve Servis Hizmetleri A.S. (“A-Tel”), which is 41.45% and 50.00%, respectively. A-Tel’s operating results have been included in our consolidated financial statements since August 2006. Fintur currently holds all of our International mobile communications investments other than those related to our operations in Northern Cyprus, Ukraine and Belarus.
(3) Net income per share figures and the weighted average number of shares reflected in our historical financial statements have been restated retrospectively for stock splits and stock dividends.
(4) Our Board of Directors has proposed a dividend for the year ended December 31, 2010 of approximately TRY 1,328.7 million ($859.4 million computed using the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey’s (“CBRT”) TRY/U.S. Dollar exchange rate on December 31, 2010), which corresponds to 75% of our distributable net income for the year. This dividend proposal will be discussed and decided upon at our Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders that has been called for April 21, 2011.
(5) Gross margin is calculated as gross profit divided by total revenues.
(6) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure that equals profit for the period before finance income, finance costs, income tax expense, other income, other expense, share of profit of equity accounted investees and depreciation and amortization.
(7) Long-term debt consists of long-term loans and borrowings as well as long-term lease obligations.
(8) Total debt consists of long-term and short-term loans and borrowings as well as lease obligations.
(9) For the year ended December 31, 2006, we declared dividends of $411.9 million when 1,854,887,341 of our shares were outstanding; however, dividends per share for 2006 were computed over 2,200,000,000 shares to reflect the effects of certain stock splits and stock dividends. Dividends per share for the years ended December 31, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 were computed over 2,200,000,000 shares. For the year ended December 31, 2010, the proposed dividend per share in TRY was TRY 0.60. For the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006, the dividend per share in TRY was TRY 0.39, TRY 0.50, TRY 0.29 and TRY 0.26, respectively.
(10) The U.S. Dollar equivalent of the dividend for the year ended December 31, 2010 was computed by using the CBRT’s TRY/USD exchange rate on December 31, 2010 whereas the U.S. Dollar equivalents of the dividend for the years ended December 31, 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006 were computed by using the CBRT’s TRY/USD exchange rate on the dates that the General Assembly of Shareholders approved the dividend distribution.
(11) As detailed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements, beginning from 2010, the presentation of the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates in the statement of cash flows has been revised. Previously reported net cash from operating activities for financial years 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006 were $1,294.9 million, $1,674.4 million, $2,156.2 million and $1,854.9 million, respectively. With respect to aforementioned revision, revised net cash from operating activities for financial years 2009, 2008, 2007 and 2006 are $1,316.6 million, $1,746.3 million, $1,986.9 million and $1,850.7 million, respectively. The methodology applied for the presentation of non-cash transactions related to operating activities disclosed as “Profit for the year adjustments for” was changed subsequent to our press release of February 23, 2011. This presentation change does not have any effect on cash flows from operating, investing and financing activities.

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure that equals profit for the period before finance income, finance costs, income tax expense, other income, other expense, share of profit of equity accounted investees and depreciation and amortization. Our management reviews Adjusted EBITDA as a key indicator each month to monitor our cash generation ability and liquidity position. Net income is generally considered by our management as the main indicator for our operating performance. Adjusted EBITDA is not a measurement of liquidity under IFRS as issued by the IASB and should not be construed as a substitute for profit for the period as a measure of performance or cash flow from operations as a measure of liquidity.

 

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We believe Adjusted EBITDA, among other measures, facilitates liquidity comparisons from period to period and management decision making. It also facilitates liquidity comparisons from company to company. Adjusted EBITDA as a liquidity measure eliminates potential differences caused by variations in capital structures (affecting interest expense), tax positions (such as the impact of changes in effective tax rates on periods or companies) and the age and book depreciation of tangible assets (affecting relative depreciation expense). We also present Adjusted EBITDA because we believe it is frequently used by securities analysts, investors and other interested parties in evaluating the liquidity of other mobile operators in the telecommunications industry in Europe, many of which present Adjusted EBITDA when reporting their results.

Nevertheless, Adjusted EBITDA has limitations as an analytical tool, and you should not consider it in isolation from, or as a substitute for analysis of, our results of operations, as reported under IFRS as issued by the IASB.

Some of these limitations are:

 

   

it does not reflect our cash expenditures or future requirements for capital expenditures or contractual commitments;

 

   

it does not reflect changes in, or cash requirements for, our working capital needs;

 

   

it does not reflect the interest expense, or the cash requirements necessary to service interest or principal payments, on our debt;

 

   

although depreciation and amortization are non-cash charges, the assets being depreciated and amortized will often have to be replaced in the future, and Adjusted EBITDA does not reflect any cash requirements for such replacements;

 

   

it is not adjusted for all non-cash income or expense items that are reflected in our consolidated statement of cash flows; and

 

   

other companies in our industry may calculate this measure differently than we do, which may limit its usefulness as a comparative measure.

We compensate for these limitations by relying primarily on our results under IFRS as issued by the IASB and using Adjusted EBITDA measures only supplementally. See “Item 5—Operating and Financial Review and Prospects” and the consolidated financial statements contained elsewhere in this annual report.

The following table provides a reconciliation of Adjusted EBITDA, as calculated using financial data prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB, to net cash from operating activities, which we believe is the most directly comparable financial measure calculated and presented in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008     2007     2006  
     (Million $)  

Adjusted EBITDA

     1,957.4        1,925.4        2,580.3        2,627.1        1,820.0   

Income tax expense

     (320.8     (340.1     (549.8     (322.4     (413.2

Other operating income/(expense)

     (49.4     (85.2     (15.6     (10.8     0.3   

Finance income

     0.5        1.0        11.2        1.6        (46.4

Finance costs

     (100.4     (188.3     (80.2     (264.4     19.9   

Net (decrease)/increase in assets and liabilities(1)

     (224.7     3.8        (199.6     (44.2     470.1   

Net cash from operating activities

     1,262.6        1,316.6        1,746.3        1,986.9        1,850.7   

 

(1) As detailed in Note 2 to the Consolidated Financial Statements’ beginning from 2010, the presentation of the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates in the statement of cash flows has been revised. The revision on net cash from operating activities reflected in the above reconciliation results in a change in net (decrease)/increase in operational assets and liabilities.

 

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The following table presents selected operational data:

Operating Results

 

     Year ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  

Industry Data

      

Population of Turkey (in millions)(1)

     73.7        72.6        71.5   

Turkcell Data

      

Number of postpaid subscribers at end of period (in million)(2)

     10.1        9.4        7.5   

Number of prepaid subscribers at end of period (in millions)(2)

     23.3        26.0        29.5   

Total subscribers at end of period (in millions)(2)(7)

     33.5        35.4        37.0   

Average monthly revenue per user (in $)(3)(7)

     13.0        12.0        14.5   

Postpaid

     26.6        26.6        36.8   

Prepaid

     7.6        7.5        9.1   

Average monthly minutes of use per subscriber(4)

     179.1        134.3        95.9   

Churn(5)

     33.9     32.6     23.8

Number of Turkcell employees at end of period

     2,789        2,709        2,809   

Number of employees of consolidated subsidiaries at end of period(6)

     8,083        7,743        7,566   

 

(1) The population of Turkey for 2010, 2009 and 2008 is based on TUIK’s announcements.
(2) Subscriber numbers do not include subscribers in Ukraine, Belarus and Northern Cyprus or those of Fintur subsidiaries. During the third quarter of 2010, the definition of active subscriber was changed in both Ukraine and Belarus.
(3) We calculate average revenue per user, ARPU, using the weighted average number of our subscribers during the period. ARPU does not include the results of our operations in Ukraine, Belarus and Northern Cyprus or those of Fintur subsidiaries.
(4) Average monthly minutes of use per subscriber is calculated by dividing the total number of incoming and outgoing airtime minutes of use by the average monthly sum of postpaid and prepaid subscribers for the year divided by twelve. Our Minutes of Usage (“MoU”) calculation does not include our operations in Ukraine, Belarus and Northern Cyprus or those of Fintur subsidiaries.
(5) Churn rate is the percentage calculated by dividing the total number of subscriber disconnections during a certain period by the average number of subscribers for the same period. For these purposes, we define “average number of subscribers” as the number of subscribers at the beginning of the period plus one half of the total number of gross subscribers acquired during the period. Churn refers to subscribers that are both voluntarily and involuntarily disconnected from our network. Our churn calculations do not include our operations in Ukraine, Belarus and Northern Cyprus or those of Fintur subsidiaries. For the ICTA’s new definition concerning active and passive subscriptions, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.
(6) See “Item 6.D. Employees” for information concerning our consolidated subsidiaries.
(7) See “Item 4.B. Business Overview” for information concerning the operational figures of Limited Liability Company Astelit (“Astelit”).

Exchange Rate Data

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York does not report, and historically has not reported, a noon buying rate for the Turkish Lira, which was previously called the “New Turkish Lira” from 2005 through 2008. For the convenience of the reader, this annual report presents translations of certain Turkish Lira amounts into U.S. Dollars at the relevant Turkish Lira exchange rate for purchases of U.S. Dollars at the TRY/$ Exchange Rate announced by the CBRT. Prior to January 1, 2006, unless otherwise stated, any balance sheet data in U.S. Dollars derived from our consolidated financial statements were translated from Turkish Lira into

 

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U.S. Dollars at rates announced by the CBRT on the date of such balance sheet for monetary assets and liabilities and at historical rates for equity and non-monetary assets and liabilities. As of January 1, 2006, any balance sheet data (monetary or non-monetary), except for equity items in U.S Dollars derived from our consolidated financial statements, are translated from Turkish Lira into U.S Dollars at exchange rates at the balance sheet date. Income and expenses for each income statement (including comparatives) are translated to U.S. Dollars at monthly average exchange rates. Unless otherwise indicated, the TRY/$ exchange rate used in this annual report is the TRY/$ exchange rate in respect of the date of the financial information being referred to. As stated in the annual monetary and exchange rate policy announcements of the CBRT, which have been published since 2002, the foreign exchange rate is not a policy tool or target; it is determined by the supply and demand conditions in the market. Along with inflation targeting, the CBRT announced that it will continue the implementation of the floating exchange rate regime in 2011.

The following table sets forth, for the periods and the dates indicated, the CBRT’s buying rates for U.S. Dollars. These rates may differ from the actual rates used in preparation of our consolidated financial statements and other information appearing herein. The TRY/$ exchange rate on April 7, 2011 was TRY 1.516 = $1.00.

 

     2011(2)(3)      2010(2)      2009(2)      2008(2)      2007(2)      2006(2)  

High

     1.6092         1.598         1.796         1.696         1.450         1.693   

Low

     1.5157         1.388         1.437         1.145         1.163         1.297   

Average(1)

     1.567         1.500         1.547         1.293         1.303         1.431   

Period End

     1.516         1.546         1.506         1.512         1.165         1.406   

 

Source: CBRT

(1) Calculated based on the average of the daily exchange rates of each month during the relevant period.
(2) These columns set forth the CBRT’s buying rates for U.S. Dollars expressed in Turkish Lira.
(3) Through April 7, 2011.

 

     April
2011(1)
     March
2011
     February
2011
     January
2011
     December
2010
     November
2010
     October
2010
 

High

     1.5363         1.6092         1.6008         1.5833         1.5567         1.4863         1.4434   

Low

     1.5157         1.5433         1.5670         1.5263         1.4682         1.3884         1.3921   

 

Source: CBRT

(1) Through April 7, 2011.

No representation is made that Turkish Lira or the U.S. Dollar amounts as presented in this annual report could have been or could be converted into U.S. Dollars or Turkish Lira, as the case may be, at any particular rate. Changes in the exchange rate between Turkish Lira and U.S. Dollars could affect our financial results. For a discussion of the effects of fluctuating exchange rates on our business, see “Item 5A. Operating Results”.

3.B Capitalization and Indebtedness

Not applicable.

3.C Reasons for the Offer and Use of Proceeds

Not applicable.

 

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3.D Risk Factors

The following is a discussion of those risks that we believe are the principal material risks faced by our Company and its subsidiaries. No assurance can be given that risks that we do not believe to be material today will not prove to be material in the future. Consequently, the risks described below should not be considered to be exhaustive.

Our activity is concentrated in the Turkish telecommunications market, which is highly competitive. Developments in this market are likely to affect the growth of our business and our results of operations.

The majority of our revenue comes from our operations in Turkey and, thus, the growth and development of our business is dependent, to a large extent, on the development of the Turkish mobile telecommunications market. If the competition in the Turkish mobile telecommunications market intensifies, or if the market slows or develops in unexpected ways, this could harm our business and results of operations. Furthermore, continued price driven competition has, and will continue to, put pressure on our prices and margins, as well as our liquidity.

Actions by Turkey’s principal telecommunications regulator, the ICTA, have interfered, and will continue to interfere, with our ability to price our services and respond to competitive pressures. Regulatory actions such as the ICTA’s regulation of our retail pricing and the ICTA’s ongoing pressure on interconnection rates have also been, and will likely continue to be, a significant factor in shaping the development of the Turkish market and in our ability to respond to changes in the market.

We face intensifying competition in our main Turkish telecommunications market from other mobile providers and other telecommunications companies offering competing services, which could affect our ability to add new customers at current rates and lead to a decrease in the size of our market share. In the Turkish market, we currently face competition from two other mobile providers, Vodafone Telekomunikasyon A.S. (“Vodafone”) and Avea Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. (“Avea”), and from Turk Telekomunikasyon A.S. (“Turk Telekom”), the historic fixed-line telecommunications operator in Turkey. Competition has increased in recent years due, in part, to structural changes in the competitive environment. The Vodafone Group, a large multinational mobile operator, acquired all the shares of Telsim Mobil Telekomunikasyon Hizmetleri A.S. (“Telsim”), one of our Turkish mobile competitors, in 2006, establishing Vodafone as the new operating company for Telsim and rebranding Telsim as Vodafone. In addition, also in 2006, Turk Telekom increased its stake in Avea from approximately 40.5% to 81%. Turk Telekom is 55% owned by Oger Telecom, a multinational mobile operator in which Saudi Telecom Company owns a 35% stake. In 2008, 15% of Turk Telekom’s shares were sold to the public.

The competition has increasingly focused on the postpaid segment, which is where we derive the majority of our revenues, and also on price, leading to commoditization of the market, notably with lower prices and high incentives for subsidiaries to change operator and segmented offers along with more aggressive advertising practices. Recent regulatory interventions to decrease maximum prices and interconnection rates in the Turkish telecommunications market have increased the competition. The continuation of aggressive offers in the market has affected and is likely to continue to affect our revenues.

Our competitors’, and their subsidiaries’, use of new technologies such as Internet Protocol Television (“IPTV”) and Voice over Internet Protocol (“VoIP”) and fixed products as well as converged offers and those of such other providers, may provide an alternative to mobile for customers’ communications needs, for both voice and data transmission, and could result in a decrease in our revenues. Furthermore, any aggressive behavior from the fixed line business, which has a significant competitive power in its own market and tax advantages over the mobile business, and potential regulatory developments that may favor fixed line operators and the fixed line market, could create incremental value for fixed line businesses, to the detriment of mobile, and provide an advantage to our competitors.

 

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The intensifying competition from mobile operators, fixed line businesses and other telecommunications service providers offering integrated telecom services, may make it more difficult to attract and retain high value customers, leading to higher churn rates and more pressure on prices. This may, in particular, occur as consumers change carriers to take advantage of cheaper offers. Mobile number portability (“MNP”) in Turkey, introduced in 2008, has further increased pressure on mobile operators and has made it more difficult to retain customers. MNP has led, and may continue to lead, to increased churn rates, subscriber retention and acquisition costs, and may have a significant impact on both Turkcell and the market.

New licenses and authorizations have made it easier and/or more attractive for new direct and indirect competitors to enter the market. Operators that provide long distance telephony services are now authorized to cover local telephone services and have been renamed Fixed Telephony Service (“FTS”) operators. In addition, new Mobile Virtual Network Operator (“MVNO”) licenses have been, and will continue to be, granted. Furthermore, other technologies, such as wi-fi, wide band wireless access (i.e., WIMAX) and 3G are expected to increase the competition we face in the Turkish telecommunications market.

In addition to the competition in the Turkish telecommunications market, other developments in the market could harm our business and results of operations. The size and usage patterns of our future subscriber base will be affected by a number of factors outside of our control. While we cannot predict all of such factors, they include: general economic and political conditions; laws, regulations and other means of governmental intervention in the telecommunications sector that affect consumers’ usage behavior; development of, and changes to, the mobile market; further intense competition due to aggressive price offers; the availability, quality and cost to the subscriber of competing mobile services; and improvements in the quality and availability of fixed line telephone services in Turkey.

With regards to our terminal offers, we may increase our focus in this segment depending on market dynamics and global trends. There may be greater emphasis on terminal bundled offers and handset subsidies in the Turkish mobile market, which may influence us to increase the incentives we provide our customers. Furthermore, the competition in the terminal market may increase as more complex terminals become available at lower prices. Additionally, any regulatory developments that may impact operators’ offerings of contracted terminal campaigns, increases in certain taxes, supply chain difficulties faced by our vendors and delays resulting from higher demand for, and inadequate supply of, Turkcell branded devices or terminals we promote and user support allocations could adversely affect our business.

Our strategy for growth is partly dependent on new investment opportunities. These new investment opportunities could affect our business and results of operations, and the return on our investments cannot be guaranteed.

In addition to growing our existing business as a leading communications and technology company, our strategy for growth is to selectively seek and evaluate new investment opportunities. We are open to launching greenfield operations, as well as forming alliances, which may include management service agreements, and conducting mergers and/or acquisitions that will contribute to our economies of scale and create synergies, both inside and outside of Turkey. These opportunities may be in the area of mobile telecommunications and services, fixed line operation and services, convergence and in other areas, such as providing, as an MVNO under our Turkcell Europe brand, mobile voice and data services in Germany targeting the local Turkish population as well as other mobile users with close ties to Turkey. We may replicate this business model in other European countries with Turkish populations. In addition, we may consider new business opportunities such as the “games of chance business” currently operated by the National Lottery General Directorate of Turkey. In the context of our evaluation of potential investment opportunities within the regions we target for international expansion strategy, Turkcell has, from time to time, considered opportunities in countries in the Middle East and North Africa, and may consider such opportunities in the future. We may participate in additional public tenders for new licenses or the privatization of public telecom companies as well as in private sale transactions in emerging markets to pursue investment opportunities in line with our growth strategy.

 

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In pursuit of our growth strategy, our management may divert attention and/or cash resources away from other ongoing business concerns, which could harm our business and result of operations if our acquisitions are not successful or if we miss opportunities or threats in our existing businesses. Furthermore, we may miss entering new businesses by underestimating opportunities/overestimating threats, or may enter businesses that cause high value erosion in our core business by overestimating opportunities/threats.

In addition, investments may not provide expected returns or returns that are in line with those of our core business. In many of the markets and businesses in which we have invested or may invest, it may take several years and significant investments to achieve desired profitability, if at all.

The success of any new investment we make will depend upon a number of factors, including:

 

   

our ability to manage differences between the management and accounting systems and standards of the acquired business and our own (both those differences that are known and those that we may discover) and to successfully integrate these systems and standards;

 

   

our ability to manage technical differences between the network and operating systems of the acquired business and our own (both those differences that are known and those that we may discover) and to successfully integrate such systems;

 

   

our ability to manage and develop new technologies in the acquired business that are outside the scope of our traditional business;

 

   

the reaction of local subscribers and potential subscribers to our acquisition and to the new commercial strategies that we would introduce;

 

   

our ability to identify key trends in the local market and to respond to these in a timely and successful manner;

 

   

currency exchange rate fluctuations, notably between the Turkish Lira, the local currency and other relevant currencies of the acquired business;

 

   

the availability of financing for investments in the given country or business; and

 

   

the competitive and regulatory environment in the local telecommunications market, including the actions of current and future competitors, the dominant role often exercised by local governments and authorities and any actions taken by the regulators that may affect costs, pricing and competition levels.

Furthermore, for acquisitions outside of Turkey, current and future U.S. and international laws and regulations, as well as legal and regulatory actions, targeting the country and local companies and individuals may curtail our ability to do business in that country and may impede our exercise of control. Turkcell itself, as well as certain of its key employees (notably those who are U.S. citizens), could be subject to sanctions under such laws and regulations. Some of the countries and companies in which we have contemplated making investments and in which we may from time to time consider opportunities, such as Iran, Libya and Syria, and certain individuals involved in such companies, have been the specific targets of the aforementioned laws and regulations. Investors may be reticent to invest in a company doing business in such countries or other countries that may be at risk due to the political instability in the MENA region . These factors could have an adverse effect on the demand for our shares.

 

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Changes in current and future Turkish telecommunications laws, regulations and regulatory orders may have an impact on our customers’ usage patterns and the way we do business, and non-compliance with such laws and regulations could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

Risks arising from the Electronic Communications Law.

Electronic Communications Law No. 5809 (the “Electronic Communications Law”), which came into force on November 10, 2008, significantly expanded the regulatory powers, duties and authority of the Telecommunications Authority, renamed the Information and Communication Technologies Authority (the “ICTA”), effectively authorizing the ICTA to intervene in, and to audit, our activities more strictly, thereby limiting our ability to challenge such actions on the basis of lack of authority.

The Electronic Communications Law was published to correspond to the rapidly evolving Turkish telecommunications industry, and new regulations are in the process of being published. No assurance can be given that these new regulations will be clear and satisfactory to us. The duties of the ICTA, which may be exercised in a manner that is adverse to our operations and our financial results, include those described below. Several of these represent a codification of past practices that did not, in our view, have a clear legal basis.

Regulations affecting our prices

Actions by Turkey’s principal telecommunications regulator, the ICTA, have interfered, and may continue to interfere, with our ability to price our services, adversely affecting our business. We cannot predict the magnitude or scope of any such future action, particularly given the ICTA’s past actions, which have occurred with little or no prior notice.

Under Article 13 of the Electronic Communications Law, the ICTA may determine the upper and lower limits of operators’ tariffs if it considers such intervention necessary. The ICTA may also intervene in the prices we charge for roaming services. This raises a risk for Turkcell since Article 13 does not require the ICTA to justify how it determines such limits. The ICTA’s intervention in our voice, SMS and mobile data prices, as well as in the manner in which we measure airtime, has, and will continue to, negatively affect our ability to design and launch campaigns and offers and, consequently, has had and will continue to have a negative impact on our business.

The ICTA has intervened, and is likely to continue to intervene, in our retail tariffs. This has resulted in our adjusting the on-net and off-net prices of certain tariff packages, which has had, and will continue to have, adverse effects on our pricing ability. In addition, the ICTA has, and will most likely continue to, intervene in the interconnection rates that we charge. After a 33% reduction for Turkcell in 2008, the interconnection rates issued by the ICTA on March 25, 2009 for all mobile operators in Turkey provided for a further 29% decrease, on average, among all operators. On February 10, 2010, there was an additional 52% reduction in Turkcell’s interconnection rates. Further cuts will result in our having to redesign our tariffs and will impact our operational results, depending on pricing trends and marketing strategies in the Turkish mobile communications market. Following this decrease, average Mobile Termination Rates (“MTRs”) in the European Union (“EU”) are now up to 5 times above Turkcell’s MTRs.

For more information on the ICTA’s intervention in our prices and how they adversely impact our business, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.

The Access and Interconnection Regulation

The ICTA may intervene in the prices that operators charge for reference access and interconnection services. This, along with our designation as an “operator holding significant market power” in certain markets, has had the effect of reducing the rates we are able to charge for interconnection services, which has had and will continue to have a material adverse effect on our revenues, business and results of operations.

 

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For more information, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.

Regulation of Consumer Rights in the Electronic Communication Sector

The ICTA has the authority to regulate our activities with respect to consumer rights. Pursuant to this authority, the ICTA may regulate, for example, the maximum and minimum limits on billing, spam messaging and definition of personal data as it relates to directory services. In addition, the ICTA may restrict certain mobile internet and services that are provided by third parties. The ICTA’s regulation of these activities could have an adverse effect on our mobile telecommunications business and we may be fined if we do not comply. Furthermore, our compliance with the ICTA’s regulations may increase the costs of our doing business and could negatively impact our financial results. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.

Regulation on Co-Location and Facility Sharing

We may be required to share some of our facilities with our competitors, which could adversely affect our ability to maintain our competitive edge with regards to population and geographical coverage. In addition, the Ministry of Transportation may require us to provide coverage to areas having a population of 1-500. This could lead to additional investment requirements for our company. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.

Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector

In 2009, the ICTA published the “Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector”, which determines the principles and procedures for the authorization of the companies that seek to provide electronic communication services and/or to install or operate electronic communications networks or infrastructure.

Wireless Interoperability for Microwave Access (“WIMAX”) license

Regulatory changes in Turkey to introduce and promote WIMAX nationwide could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Specifically, they may result in increased competition and/or the entry of new direct or indirect competitors, which may have a negative impact on our ability to attract and retain customers, the competitiveness of our products and services, our distribution channels, our brand and visibility and our infrastructure investments.

Fixed line telephone services

The ICTA issued Fixed Telephony Service (“FTS”) licenses pursuant to the Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector, which enables existing long distance telephony services (“LDTS”) operators, such as our subsidiary Superonline Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. (“Superonline”), to provide call origination and termination. LDTS and, consequently, FTS providers have not yet had a significant effect on our operations. In the long term they could have the effect of driving down prices and shifting traffic patterns for in-city as well as long distance calls in Turkey, potentially having an adverse effect on our mobile telecommunications business.

Data Privacy Regulations

The ICTA is preparing to abolish the Regulation on Personal Information Processing and Protection of Privacy in the Telecommunications Sector, and is preparing to publish a new Regulation on Data Privacy in the Electronic Communications Sector. As a result, ICTA requested our Company’s opinions on the draft regulation. The purpose of this regulation is to define the procedures and principles that govern the operators and legal entities/individuals that provide/receive services in the electronic communication sector in an effort to process,

 

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store and protect the personal information of subscribers. In contrast to the current regulation, the draft regulation would require the consumer’s approval prior to a direct marketing SMS being sent. Therefore, if this regulation is approved, our methods of contacting customers about new tariff offers and services will be impeded unless we already have the subscriber’s permission. In addition, all of our subscribers’ traffic data, including those related to missed calls and data processing logs, would be required to be maintained by us for one year, which would result in additional expenses for the Company.

Market Power Regulations

In the Call Originating and Mobile Access Market, Turkcell is the only operator that has been designated a Significant Market Power (“SMP”). As a result, Access to Mobile Networks in this market is obligatory only for Turkcell. Furthermore, the ICTA can define the pricing schemes in MVNO deals according to the originating and terminating rates. We believe that this policy hinders our ability to compete in this market, as the other operators are allowed to set their wholesale prices freely.

Any regulation that might adversely affect our operations related to MVNO, fixed and broadband markets will be closely monitored for possible risks to our operations.

Certain legal and regulatory arrangements.

Certain actions by the Turkish government, the ICTA, the Ministry of Finance or other regulatory authorities in Turkey (such as the Competition Board) have in the past, and are likely to in the future, adversely affect our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. Such actions may include:

 

   

changes in laws, regulations or governmental policy, or their interpretation, including revisions to the interconnection and access regime or the imposition of price controls;

 

   

any unfavorable change in corporate and/or income tax legislation, or the imposition of additional consumption taxes or other taxes on subscribers or mobile operators;

 

   

changes in the Ministry of Finance’s interpretation of the taxation codes, in particular changes regarding consumption taxes (Value Added Tax and Special Communication Tax), which may adversely affect consumer prices. In addition to the prospective financial impact of such changes, unanticipated tax liabilities and fines may also be levied against our financial results for prior years since a Turkish company’s operations in the preceding five years may be subject to financial investigation;

 

   

the grant of additional mobile telephone licenses or other telephony licenses to new entrants and existing operators;

 

   

the establishment of limitations on our operations or restrictions on our ability to provide services to existing or new subscribers;

 

   

investigations, enforcement actions or other assessments of the Competition Board or other regulatory authorities;

 

   

denial of discretionary benefits that we may seek in expanding our network;

 

   

enforcement of competitors’ requests to use our network for national roaming, which could lead to regional network problems; and

 

   

the introduction of additional fees or charges by governmental authorities.

Additionally, in the case of war, general mobilization or when the ICTA considers it necessary for public safety or national defense, we may be required to surrender the control of our network wholly or partially to the ICTA for a limited or unlimited period.

 

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Finally, in some cases, the Company could be required by the ICTA and other regulatory bodies to comply with new requirements within a short period of time and non compliance could give rise to sanctions, investigations and penalties, or require the Company to pay refunds to customers. The time period given to the Company to comply may not be adequate to evaluate the applicability of, or to implement, such requirements.

Compliance with the requirements of our and our subsidiaries’ licenses or applicable regulations

We could face severe penalties, including limitation or revocation of our license in extreme cases, if applicable regulatory authorities determine that we are not in compliance with the requirements of our GSM license (“2G license”), our 3G license or applicable regulations.

The statutes, rules and regulations applicable to our activities and our 2G and 3G licenses are generally new, subject to change, in some cases, incomplete, and have been subject to limited governmental interpretation. Precedents for and experience with business and telecommunications regulations in Turkey are generally limited. In addition, there have been several changes to the relevant legal regime in recent years. There can be no assurance that the law or legal system will not change further or be interpreted in a manner that could materially and adversely affect our operations.

Our licenses contain a number of requirements, including requirements regarding operation, quality and coverage of the network; national security issues; maintenance of confidentiality; prohibitions on anti- competitive behavior; and compliance with international and national standards. If we fail to meet any requirement in our licenses or to comply with applicable regulations, or if unauthorized actions are taken by our employees that affect our license obligations, we could be subject to investigations and eventual penalties and sanctions, including the limitation or revocation of our licenses.

Furthermore, with regards to our licenses’ dispute resolution clauses, as we continue to develop our 3G services and the number of customers with 3G contracts increases, an increasing portion of the services that we provide will be considered to be rendered under our 3G license and disputes related thereto, will be under the jurisdiction of the Council of State.

Lack of clarity with respect to Turkish telecommunications law, the Turkish legal system, our licenses and/or the regulatory framework governing the Turkish telecommunications industry could impede our ability to operate effectively under our licenses and have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

For a description of our Turkish 2G and 3G licenses and the regulatory regime under which we operate in Turkey, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”. In addition to the foregoing, our indirectly owned subsidiary, Limited Liability Company Astelit (“Astelit”), majority owned subsidiary, Belarusian Telecom, and wholly owned subsidiary, Kibris Telekom, hold GSM licenses in Ukraine, Belarus and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, respectively, and some of them have obtained or will bid for 3G licenses. If Astelit, Belarusian Telecom and Kibris Telekom fail to comply with the terms and conditions of their license agreements, they may incur significant penalties, which could have a material adverse effect on our strategy for international expansion and our business and results of operations. In addition, our subsidiaries Kule Hizmet ve Isletmecilik A.S. (“Global Tower”), Superonline, Inteltek Internet Teknoloji Yatirim ve Danismanlik Ticaret A.S. (“Inteltek”) and Azerinteltek QSC (“Azerinteltek”) have licenses in order to be able to perform their business. Failure to comply with the terms of such licenses may lead to significant penalties and adversely affect their, as well as our, results of operations.

 

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Economic and political developments in Turkey and internationally have had, and may continue to have, a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

With a substantial portion of our revenues, assets and business derived from and located in Turkey, and denominated in Turkish Lira, adverse developments in the Turkish market are likely to have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition and results of operations. Additionally, potential changes in consumer behavior due to new business models and usage trends may adversely affect bad debt.

Turkey, Ukraine and Belarus, the principal countries in which we operate, enjoyed growth and lower inflation levels in 2010. 2011 is likely, in our view, to be another year of recovery; however, it may, in our view, be marked by uneven global growth led by emerging markets with developed countries lagging. The biggest threat to the global economy, including Turkey, in 2011, in our view, is rising oil prices due to oil supply shock as the revolutionary upheavals in Libya and Syria potentially spread to other countries in the Middle East and North Africa region (“MENA”). The earthquake and tsunami that ravaged Japan, the third largest economy in the world, will likely have a short term effect on the global economy but will not, in our view, derail the global economic recovery. Another concern in 2011 is the sovereign debt crisis, especially in the Eurozone, and the inflation risk in emerging markets due to rising food and energy prices.

The Turkish economy continues to distinguish itself from Europe with its strong growth recovery, healthy financial sector and robust public debt dynamics. It has maintained its trend of very strong performance, as evidenced by its growth level, which was 8.9% in 2010. However, stronger-than-expected growth, together with high oil prices, will accelerate the widening of the current account deficit.

The medium-term risks for the Turkish economy, in our view, relate to the widening current account deficit and inflation. Asymmetric growth drivers (i.e., too much domestic, and very little foreign, demand) have caused a very swift widening in Turkey’s external imbalance. If Turkey’s strong growth is to be sustainable, long-term, high quality financing will be required. CBRT has implemented a new monetary policy framework that combines a lower policy rate while tightening liquidity via non-interest tools. The most obvious risks associated with this new framework are weakness of the Turkish Lira and potential inflationary pressures as the output gap compresses rapidly. For 2011, CBRT is expected to keep rates on hold as long as inflation remains subdued. While there may be some moderation due to corrections in food prices and favorable base effects in the short term, a rapidly closing output gap and rising global commodity prices are giving off early warning signs of inflation. The latest CBRT expectation survey indicates that consumer inflation is likely to be 6.5% at the end of 2011, higher than the CBRT’s target of 5.5%.

There is a risk that the government may spend more than the budgeted appropriations in 2011 in light of the upcoming elections, thereby ending the year with a less favorable budget outcome. The government’s decision to drop the fiscal rule also raises doubts about its commitment to fiscal discipline prior to the election. In the absence of fiscal rule, which are basic parameters for fiscal discipline that determine the annual budget balance and public debt to GDP targets, the focus will be on the execution of the Medium-Term Plan in 2011.

Political divisions between moderate Islamists and secularists, including in the judiciary and military, are a constant source of political tension that has frequently delayed the policy making process. Security risks from Kurdish separatist militants and anti-government organizations remain a concern in Turkey, especially in the south-eastern part of the country. The general elections in mid-2011 are likely to be the main political risk unless a majority government is maintained. Turkey’s recent diplomatic foray into the Middle East, most notably in Iran, has raised concerns about Turkey’s EU membership process. Turkey, however, has continued to signal its commitment to the EU membership process by moving ahead with formal accession talks.

 

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We hold interests in several companies that may expose us to various economic, political, social, financial and liquidity risks and may not provide the benefits that we expect, and our pursuit of acquisition opportunities may increase these risks.

Our investments in subsidiaries and associated companies within Turkey and internationally could expose us to economic, political, social and financial risks. The Turkcell Group has investments in Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Moldova, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, Ukraine, Belarus and Germany and has operations or business activities that involve other emerging markets.

In addition to entering into new business areas in Turkey, we have also entered into and are exploring new investment opportunities, primarily in emerging markets such as the CIS region, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Balkans and North Africa. Along with Turkey, these countries are generally considered by international investors to be emerging markets. This includes countries in which we establish or operate mobile communications networks, as well as those through which we route cables or that we otherwise rely on for the transfer of data. Their legal systems, including telecommunications regulations, are relatively underdeveloped, their economies have only recently begun to open to market principles and their respective institutions and commercial practices are relatively weaker and less developed. Some of these countries also suffer from relatively high rates of fraud and corruption. The continuity and viability of our operations in these countries may be affected by a number of factors, including political, legal, economic, social or other actions or developments. Furthermore, some of the countries in which we have businesses or would consider investing, and the companies and individuals that we come into contact with, may be the target of U.S. and international sanctions. There can be no assurance that political, legal, economic, social or other actions or developments in these countries or involving such companies and individuals will not have an adverse impact on our investments and businesses in these countries.

Our international and Turkish subsidiaries may not benefit us in the way we expect for the reasons cited above, as well as other reasons, including general macroeconomic conditions, poor management and legal, regulatory or political obstacles. For many of these subsidiaries, we do not expect to achieve desired levels of profitability in the near or mid-term, and we may be required to record impairments.

Ukraine

We have been operating in Ukraine since the second half of 2004 through our subsidiary Astelit. Ukraine is enjoying a new period of political stability, as the conflict between the presidential administration, the government and the parliament seems to have subsided. The improving political landscape and the new $15 billion IMF program are expected to help slow inflation. In 2010, Ukraine’s GDP grew 4.2% with foreign demand, higher steel prices and accommodating fiscal and monetary policies. The banking system, meanwhile, remains in a delicate state, though foreign and state-owned banks are receiving needed support. Credit conditions and demand in the market remained tight in 2010. With regards to exchange rates, pressure on the currency has been muted by administrative controls since mid-2009. The Ukrainian currency was relatively stable against the U.S. dollar, which has made the situation in Ukraine more stable. A new parliamentary coalition and a new government were formed during 2010. However, the Hryvnia experienced some depreciation pressures in the last quarter of 2010 and ended the year with only 0.3% appreciation against the U.S. dollar. In July 2010, Standard and Poor’s increased Ukraine’s long-term and short-term ratings, both in local and international currencies after the IMF approved a new loan program for the country. Although there is no major short-term risk to political and economic stability, the risks are the sustainability of IMF program and longer growth outlook which depends on foreign direct investment and inflation pressure related to higher energy and domestic tariffs. The other risk for the Ukrainian economy is the widening current account deficit. Uncertain investment climate, accelerating inflation and high debt repayments could lead to negative surprises from capital flows.

The Ukrainian telecommunications market is regulated by the National Commission on Communications Regulation (“NCCR”), which is controlled by the President of Ukraine. NCCR’s authority is not ultimately defined by Ukrainian legislation due to the ongoing reform of public authority. There is no proper mechanism to

 

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regulate inter-operator activity. In addition, the landscape in the competitive Ukrainian telecommunications market is changing as the merger between two of our competitors, Beeline and Kyivstar, has been completed. Furthermore, the granting of a 3G license to Ukrtelecom and uncertainty relating to the National Roaming law amendment in 2010 has resulted in the introduction of an additional mobile operator in the market (Utel, Ukrtelecom’s subsidiary). Moreover, Ukrtelecom was sold to a private entity. Whether this entity is affiliated with any of Astelit’s competitors is not known. However the acquisition of control of Ukrtelecom by another operator could give that operator a significant competitive advantage.

In 2010, the first tender for a new 3G license was announced but later closed and it is not yet known when the new tender will happen. We expect that this process will be resumed and intend to submit a bid for a new 3G license. If successful, the payment of the license fee and associated network costs could increase our Ukrainian financings needs, which could in turn require us to consider new sources of funding or the extension of existing sources. If we are not successful in the pursuit of such a license, because, for example, the cost is prohibitive and/or the number of licenses available is limited, we could find ourselves at a competitive disadvantage in this market.

We indirectly hold our majority stake in Astelit with another shareholder, System Capital Management Ltd. (“SCM”). Should there be a disagreement between us in the future, the ability of Astelit’s management to move forward with its business plan may be affected. Furthermore, we, along with SCM, have guaranteed Astelit’s financing. If Astelit defaults on its debt, or if Astelit requires additional funding to continue operations and we and/or SCM are unable or unwilling to provide it, our results of operations will be adversely affected. In view of Astelit’s current projections, we believe that Astelit will require additional funding in the near term.

Ukrainian tax authorities are increasingly directing their attention to the business community and the local and national tax environment in Ukraine is constantly changing and subject to inconsistent application, interpretation and enforcement. Non-compliance with Ukrainian laws and regulations can lead to the imposition of severe penalties and interest. While Astelit’s management believes that Astelit has complied with Ukrainian tax legislation, there have been many new tax and foreign currency laws and related regulations introduced in recent years that have not always been clearly written.

These pressures and other difficulties in the development of our Ukrainian business may adversely affect our operations and the valuation of our Ukrainian assets in our financial statements.

Belarus

In 2008, we made an investment in Belarus, acquiring an 80% stake in the Belarusian Telecommunication Network (“Belarusian Telecom”) for consideration of $500 million. In 2009, Belarusian Telecom signed supply agreements with supplier firms ZTE and Huawei for products and services related to infrastructure investments in Belarus. In connection with these transactions, Turkcell gave guarantees of up to $35 million to ZTE and $29 million to Huawei in 2009, as well as an additional guarantee of $17 million to ZTE in 2010. $19 million of ZTE’s $35 million guarantee and all of ZTE’s $17 million guarantee remain to be paid. Huawei’s guarantee of $29 million expired on March 30, 2011. In addition to the aforementioned guarantees, we have also guaranteed Belarusian Telecom’s financing.

Despite the government’s commitment to economic reforms and the privatization of state assets, a poor business environment continues to impede the country’s overall potential to attract foreign interest. With a current account deficit of 16.0% of GDP in 2010, a low level of foreign currency reserves and the Belarusian Central Bank’s recent announcement about the widening currency corridor (by +/- 10% in the interbank market), the Belarusian ruble may further weaken in 2011. In the mid-term, Belarus may not be able to sustainably finance such large current account deficits, particularly if an additional IMF Stand-By Arrangement, to supplement the country’s existing $3.5 billion support facility, is not implemented. These pressures, as well as other difficulties in the development of our Belarusian business, may adversely affect our operations and the valuation of our Belarusian assets in our financial statements.

 

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Northern Cyprus

We have operated a mobile network in Northern Cyprus since July 1999. Any hostilities and/or political instability in Cyprus may have a material adverse effect on the Northern Cypriot economy as well as on the Turkish economy, the progress of Turkey’s accession talks with the EU and our investments and business in Northern Cyprus. Our business in Northern Cyprus may also be affected by regulatory actions in the telecom sector. In Northern Cyprus a draft Electronic Communications Law is currently in review. There are several items in the draft law that could adversely affect our revenues and operations, as well as some of our rights stemming from the license agreement.

Kazakhstan

We were recently made aware of allegations of improper payments relating to the operations of KCell, a mobile operator in Kazakhstan. The allegations concern transactions that may involve KCell, and certain of the employees and management of KCell, Fintur Holdings B.V., TeliaSonera and certain vendors of KCell. KCell is a subsidiary of Fintur Holdings B.V. where Turkcell is the minority owner with 41.45% shares while TeliaSonera is the majority owner with 58.55% shares.

The allegations were discussed by Turkcell’s Board of Directors. The Board members who represent Turkcell on Fintur Holdings B.V.’s Board of Directors have been assigned in an attempt to investigate the allegations. The assigned Turkcell representatives have requested the initiation of the necessary assessment and investigation regarding these allegations during a Board of Directors meeting of Fintur Holdings B.V.

Turkey

We own a number of subsidiaries in Turkey with operations outside of the mobile telecommunications market that are subject to certain risks that are different from those that we face in our Turkish mobile business.

Superonline

Our wholly owned indirect subsidiary, Superonline (formerly known as Tellcom Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S.) has begun investing in the creation of a fiber-optic network capable of wholesale, corporate and individual voice carrying services and data transmission.

Superonline’s broadband investment is not expected to yield positive returns on its investment in the near- or mid-term, if at all, due to high investment costs since the planned infrastructure covers a wide area (in-city, intercity and local loop). To develop this activity, we invest in our network by expanding intercity and in-city fiber-optic backbone and by establishing new fiber-based access points at selected residential and industrial areas for end-users and commercial account prospects. These efforts are heavily dependent upon our ability to obtain local permits and rights-of-way on satisfactory terms and in practice this has proven to be difficult. If we are unable to obtain the approvals or rights-of-way to connect new customers and enter new geographic areas in accordance with our plans, this will have a material adverse effect on the implementation of our business plan, on our operating results and on the valuation of our assets.

The risks of this investment are multi-faceted, as even though regulatory and procedural aspects of the implementation are in place, there are some delays with regards to certain applications, such as Naked DSL, due to the dominant operator. There is also an increasingly dynamic competitive environment. Superonline’s business plan is dependent upon expected new regulatory actions that are essential to the opening of fixed line and broadband services to competition.

The success of our fixed line activity in Turkey is subject to, among other things, the development of a clear and favorable regulatory environment, notably regarding fixed number portability, on a timely basis, succeeding in our competition and managing the development of our network. Although the ICTA has promulgated some regulations for fixed telephony services, this action often has not been taken in a timely manner, and no

 

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assurance can be given that remaining actions will be timely, clear or satisfactory for us. More generally, in this market we compete against a historically established network, with closer ties to governmental authorities and longer operating history, which allows it to have a competitive advantage over alternative telecom operators.

These pressures and other difficulties in the development of our Turkish fixed line business may adversely affect our operations and the valuation of our Turkish fixed line assets in our financial statements.

Inteltek

Inteltek, our 55% owned subsidiary, tendered for and signed a contract with the General Directorate of Youth and Sports in 2003 which authorized it to establish and operate a risk management center and become head agent for fixed odds betting. This activity became fully operational during 2004. Since then, the validity of this contract has been challenged by various lawsuits and by new laws reducing the commissions payable to Inteltek and requiring the fixed odds betting business to be subject to new tenders. In 2008, a tender was conducted which allowed private companies to organize fixed odds and paramutual betting in sports games. Inteltek won the tender and signed a contract to obtain the rights to run the sports betting business for ten years under a commission rate of 1.4%, applicable from March 2009. This commission rate, as it is substantially lower than the previous rate, has had, and may continue to have, a negative effect on Turkcell’s profitability and financial results. Furthermore, under this contract, Inteltek guaranteed an annual turnover of TRY 1.5 million (equivalent to $0.99 million as of April 7, 2011). If Inteltek’s turnover fails to reach the guaranteed level as a result of the nature of the betting business, it may record negative revenues, adversely impacting our financial results.

We are exposed to foreign exchange rate risks that could significantly affect our results of operation and financial position.

We are exposed to foreign exchange rate risks because our income, expenses, assets and liabilities are denominated in a number of different currencies, primarily Turkish Lira, U.S. Dollars, Euros, Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles. In particular, a substantial majority of our debt obligations and equipment expenses are currently, and are expected to continue to be, denominated in U.S. Dollars, while the revenues generated by our activities are denominated in other currencies, in particular the Turkish Lira, Ukrainian Hryvnia, Belarusian Ruble and Euro. Sudden increases in inflation or the devaluation of the Turkish Lira, the Ukrainian Hryvnia, the Belarusian Ruble or other currencies in which we generate revenue, have had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. For fiscal year 2010, the TRY weakened due to the CBRT’s new rate cut policy, depreciating 2.7% against the US dollar. The Belarusian Ruble also depreciated against the US dollar, by 4.8%, during 2010. The Ukrainian Hryvnia, however, ended the year with 0.3% appreciation against the US dollar.

The foreign exchange risks that our Turkish activities are exposed to as a result of purchases and borrowings in U.S. Dollars and Euros have to date been manageable, as there is a developed market enabling the hedging of such risk; however, in Ukraine and Belarus hedging is impossible due to restricted and undeveloped financial markets. In the current economic environment and considering the aforementioned political uncertainties, there is a possibility of further devaluations.

We use analytical techniques such as market valuation and sensitivity and volatility analysis to manage and monitor foreign exchange risk. We keep a portion of our financial assets in U.S. Dollars and Euros to reduce our foreign currency exposure. Fluctuations between Turkish Lira, Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles, on the one hand, and U.S. Dollars and Euros, on the other, may have an unfavorable impact on us.

In order to manage market volatility in the foreign exchange markets, we may enter into derivative transactions in line with our treasury policies. However, these derivative transactions have a cost and do not fully cover all of our risks, and any derivative transactions exercised that are either above or below market levels might result in unfavorable results to us.

 

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When we translate our results of operations and financial position into U.S. Dollars for the purpose of preparing our financial statements that are expressed in U.S. Dollars, the dollar amounts will vary in accordance with applicable exchange rates. We do not hedge this so-called “translation risk”.

Borrowing by Turkcell group companies exposes us to interest rate risk and possibly increased interest expense, obligates us to meet certain covenants and exposes us to financial risks if covenants are not satisfied or if additional financing is required, each of which could have a material adverse effect on our consolidated financial condition and results of operations. Continuing difficult market conditions and increased capital needs to finance our technological and geographic expansion have reduced our liquidity and may continue to do so, which may lead to an increase in our borrowing requirements.

We continue to experience difficult conditions in our markets and we are facing and may continue to face increased capital needs to finance our technological and geographic expansion. These pressures have reduced, and may continue to reduce, our liquidity. Reduced liquidity may lead to an increase in our borrowing requirements, which will increase our financing costs and will increase our exposure to the risks associated with borrowing. Furthermore, no assurance can be given that we will continue have access to financing on terms that are satisfactory to us.

As of December 31, 2010, our consolidated debt was $1,837.5 million.

$621.9 million of our debt portfolio consisted of financing obligations paying interest at fixed rates. The remainder of our debt portfolio pays interest at floating rates, which has been favorable in the current interest rate environment, but would expose us to increased costs if rates increase.

In 2010, we increased the weight of the fixed rate financing in our portfolio through long term financing and rescheduled our debt portfolio repayment schedules through a maturity extension. In 2011, we intend to continue to use fixed rate loans. Additionally, we closely monitor various hedging alternatives to hedge our interest rate risk. However, we are not presently party to any such arrangements due to their cost and the general market view of forward interest rates. Consequently, an increase in the Libor rates would cause an increase in the amount of our interest payments and could have a material adverse effect on our results of operations.

As the debt related to Astelit and Belarusian Telecom’s operations is denominated in U.S. Dollars, we are exposed to exchange rate risks to the extent that Astelit and Belarusian Telecom’s revenues are, respectively, in Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles. Moreover, we are also exposed to exchange rate risks since the debt of the group companies operating in Turkey are in U.S. Dollars and their revenues are in Turkish Lira.

Some of the borrowing agreements entered into or guaranteed by Turkcell have financial covenants that the borrower is required to observe. Although we are not presently concerned with Turkcell’s ability to observe its own financial covenants, no assurance can be given that the covenants in borrowings entered into or guaranteed by Turkcell will at all times be respected. In particular, Astelit has not been able to respect the financial covenants in its borrowings and has had to seek and obtain waivers from its creditors, and may be required to do so again in the near future. Furthermore, our borrowing agreements contain cross-default clauses that effectively link Turkcell’s borrowings to those of its subsidiaries. Under these clauses, a default by a subsidiary could constitute an event of default under certain of our borrowings.

Limitations on spectrum as a scarce resource in mobile telecommunication systems, alleged health risks with BTSs and dependence on suppliers for network equipments may adversely affect our ability to maintain operational excellence.

Spectrum limitations may adversely affect our ability to provide services to our subscribers.

The number of subscribers that can be accommodated on a mobile network is constrained by the amount of spectrum allocated to the operator of the network and is also affected by subscriber usage patterns and network

 

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infrastructure. The spectrum is a continuous range of frequencies within which the waves have certain specific characteristics. We now have 2x11 MHz of FDD spectrum in the 900 MHz band. As our subscriber base grows and we offer a greater number of services, we will require additional capacity for mobile voice and data; however, the currently available spectrum may be limited and we may face a bottleneck, especially in metropolitan areas.

In 2008, the ICTA initiated a tender for the reorganization of the existing GSM 900 frequency band (890 /960 MHz) and we added five frequency bands to our prior stock of 50. The related payment was made in February 2009. The ICTA also held a tender for the issuance of four separate 3G licenses to provide IMT 2000/UMTS services and infrastructure. Turkcell was granted an A Type license providing the widest frequency band (2x20 MHz; 20 MHz on uplink; 1920 – 1940 MHz and 20 MHz on downlink; 2110 – 2130 MHz, in total 40 MHz). There is no guarantee, however, that such additional capacity for mobile voice and data will relieve our current constraints and that our ability to provide services to our subscribers will not be adversely affected.

In January 2011, the ICTA requested our feedback regarding the use of UMTS services in 900 MHz, including the investment and operating costs related to offering UMTS services in 900 MHz rather than 2100 MHz. While we continue to evaluate this issue, the ICTA’s decision could adversely affect our ability to compete in the 3G market. Furthermore, the ICTA may decide to redistribute the frequencies, in order to balance the competitive strengths of operators operating at the GSM 900 MHz and 1800 MHz frequency bands, which may negatively impact our market share and ability to compete in this area.

Consistent with the nature of terminal technology development, traffic on the 2G network is expected to shift to the 3G network. However, 3G terminal penetration is the key factor in providing the expected shift in traffic from 2G to 3G. Penetration may stay low or our subscribers may choose to stay on the 2G network for reasons such as the 2G network’s lower battery power consumption. In addition, 3G coverage depends on the deployment of the 3G network, which will certainly take time to achieve, compared to the coverage level of the 2G network. As a result, Turkcell may not provide the MoU capacity needed for the 2G network in some regions for a limited period of time. Additionally, the data traffic on the 3G network increases. If we fail to offer appropriate campaigns and tariff schemes at the right pricing level, we may face overcapacity problems, which may in turn lead to a deterioration in our network’s quality and negatively impact our operational results.

There are alleged health risks associated with our Base Transceiver Stations (“BTS”), as well as zoning limitations, which make it difficult to build BTS.

We are aware of allegations that there may be health risks associated with the effects of electromagnetic signals from BTS and from mobile telephone handsets. While there is currently no substantiated link between exposure to electromagnetic signals at the level transmitted by our BTS and mobile telephone handsets and long- term damage to health, the actual or perceived health risks of mobile communications devices could adversely affect us through a reduction in subscribers, reduced usage per subscriber, increased difficulty in obtaining sites for base stations and exposure to potential liability. Furthermore, we may not be able to obtain insurance with respect to such liability on commercially reasonable terms. In recent years, legal proceedings have been brought against mobile operators seeking the removal of base station sites for health reasons. Such legal proceedings may make it more difficult for us to establish and maintain such sites. Furthermore, there are hundreds of conflicting and confusing reports in the media about the health effects of BTS. These reports have even caused local residents in certain regions to form large protests in strong objection to the BTS sites. Attempts made by the local authorities and, in particular, the municipality to intervene often worsen the situation. Such obstacles have made it increasingly more difficult to build new BTS sites and maintain our existing sites.

With regards to the health risks of BTS, local courts presented with the question decided that a base station had no negative effect on human health. However, the Turkish supreme court overruled the decisions of some local courts and decided that the base station in question could have negative effects on human health in the long term. If the number of those cases increases or if new regulations were to result, these could have a material adverse effect on our operations and financial results.

 

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Furthermore, there are zoning limitations related to our BTS that require operators to obtain construction permits and certificates which may have an adverse effect on our operating results. As supplemental Article 35 of Law No. 406, which exempts BTS from holding construction permits and certificates of occupancy in accordance with Zoning Law No. 3194, was cancelled by the Turkish constitutional court, the Company may need to obtain the aforementioned permits and certifications for its BTS. Moreover, following the State Council’s decision to annul a regulation entitled “Safety Certification Regulation”, it has become impossible for us to build new base stations or modify existing ones. ICTA is currently working to prepare a new regulation to replace the old one. Any difficulty in building BTS due to health concerns, inability to obtain the required permission and certificates, and/or delay in the issuance of a new “Safety Certification Regulation” may negatively impact the quality of our network, including our ability to expand and upgrade it, and our operational performance.

We are dependent on certain suppliers for network equipment and for the provision of data and services and the failure of any of our suppliers to supply equipment to us, and at the level of quality we require, could have a material adverse effect on our business, operations, and consolidated financial results and liquidity.

Like all operators, we purchase our mobile communications network equipment, including our switching system, base station controllers (“BSCs”), BTS, transmission equipment and the software required to operate such equipment from a limited number of major suppliers. Although we are not bound to purchase our equipment solely from any given supplier and we have already begun using two different vendors’ products on GSM BSS (“Base Station Subsystem”) and 3G UTRAN (“UMTS Radio Access Network”), there can be no assurance that we will be able to obtain equipment from one or more alternative suppliers on a timely basis in the event that any current supplier for any reason, including that the technological requirements for our increasingly advanced infrastructure are too complex, is unable or unwilling to satisfy our demands. This could occur if, for example, the growth in demand for more advanced network equipment exceeds the ability of suppliers of such equipment as a whole to meet such demands. This could also effect our competitive position, if our supplier stays behind technological development compared to the suppliers of our competitors.

The difficult economic environment has adversely affected our domestic and international suppliers, leading to a contraction in their business, which in turn may lead to a decrease in the quality of the services that they render to us and adversely affect timely delivery of such services, negatively impacting our business and operations. In recent years, adverse economic conditions have affected our suppliers’ revenues, which may lead to mergers in their industry. A potential merger between our vendors, and/or their acquisition by our competitors, could change the competitive landscape, which could have a material adverse effect on our business and expenditures.

In addition, equipment from alternative suppliers may not always be compatible with our existing equipment, and our employees may not be familiar with the technical specifications and maintenance requirements of equipment from alternative suppliers. These factors could also have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations.

According to our 3G license agreement, we must purchase at least 40% of our network equipment from suppliers that have R&D centers established in Turkey and these companies must fulfill certain requirements relating to the number of engineers working in their R&D or Technical Support Centers. If our suppliers fail to meet these requirements, we may end up violating the terms of our 3G license agreement and our business could be adversely affected.

The Turkish CMB has informed us that our appointment of one of our board members to the audit committee does not satisfy Turkish legal requirements with respect to audit committees.

Alexey Khudyakov was appointed to the audit committee on July 21, 2006. Alexey Khudyakov’s status on the audit committee is as an “observer member” because under the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 he is not considered an independent audit committee member due to his position with one of our affiliated shareholders.

 

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On January 26, 2007, the Turkish CMB informed Turkcell that Alexey Khudyakov’s status as an “observer member” on the audit committee does not satisfy the requirements of Article 25 of the CMB’s Rules pertaining to Audit Committees. The CMB has stated that steps must be taken so that our Company can comply with Article 25. We believe that Mr. Khudyakov does fully meet the requirements of Article 25 as he is a non-executive board member. We have initiated a lawsuit before an administrative court seeking to suspend the execution and to annul the decision of the CMB with respect to Mr. Khudyakov. The administrative court ultimately dismissed our lawsuit in January 2008. In March 2008, we appealed before the Council of State and on April 9, 2008, the Council of State rejected our request to suspend the decision. The Council of State also rejected the appeal. The Company applied for a correction of the decision. This process is still pending.

Pursuant to the CMB’s decision, the CMB imposed an administrative penalty of TRY 11,836 (equivalent to $7,809 as of April 7, 2011) on Turkcell for not complying with its decision regarding Mr. Khudyakov’s status as an “observer member” on the audit committee. The CMB also required Turkcell to inform its shareholders of the penalty at the following general assembly (held in January 2009). In November 2008, we commenced a lawsuit before the court seeking to suspend the execution of the administrative fine and to annul the CMB’s decision related thereto. The Court rejected the Company’s suspension request and our objection to this decision was rejected. This lawsuit is still pending.

If our position in this matter does not ultimately prevail over that of the CMB, we may have to change the composition of our audit committee and/or our compliance with the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and the continued listing of our ADRs on the NYSE could be jeopardized. Under the rules of the NYSE, we are exempted from compliance with certain NYSE corporate governance rules that are applicable to domestic issuers, but only to the extent that we comply with our home country corporate governance rules. If we do not prevail over the CMB and/or do not change the composition of our audit committee and are thus deemed not to be in compliance with our home country rules, we may lose the benefit of this exemption and the NYSE may require us to comply with domestic issuer rules. If we were not able or willing to take remedial action to comply with our home country rules, or if we were not able or willing to comply with the applicable NYSE rules, our ADRs could be delisted from the NYSE, in which case they would no longer be traded on the NYSE.

Turkcell’s complex ownership structure and Board composition could adversely impact our shareholders’ ability to achieve the consensus necessary to approve important matters relating to our business and operations, and ongoing legal disputes involving our shareholders may affect the ownership and control of our shares and our ability to manage our business.

We understand that Alfa Group, Cukorova and TeliaSonera together indirectly own in the aggregate approximately 65% of our shares. Additionally, according to public filings (a Schedule 13D filed in November 2009), Alfa Telecom and TeliaSonera are discussing a possible consolidation of their holdings in Turkcell in a new company.

We cannot predict whether this consolidation will go forward as planned or the form that it will take, and whether their actions will have an effect on our company or the market for our shares. Furthermore, in the case of a potential consolidation, no assurance can be given that their interests will be aligned with those of our other shareholders. Additionally, a potential consolidation of their shareholding could have the effect of preventing a change in control of Turkcell, may discourage bids for our ordinary shares or ADSs and may adversely affect the market price of our ordinary shares or ADSs.

Disputes have from time to time arisen, and may arise in the future, between our shareholders. Such disputes could have an adverse effect on the ability of our management to execute business decisions and other actions, to the extent that such decisions or actions require board or shareholder approval. Recently, one of our shareholders, TeliaSonera, publicly announced its intention to take legal action against the Chairman of our Board of Directors, who is also an independent member, alleging that he has not acted in an independent manner. Our Chairman has responded by saying that he has always fulfilled his duties as an independent board member and has reserved the right to initiate legal action.

 

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Our articles of incorporation contain a 51% quorum requirement for shareholder meetings. To the extent that the quorum requirement is not met when a general assembly is convened, the meeting shall be adjourned and should be reconvened at a later date. In addition, to amend our articles of incorporation, there is a 2/3 quorum requirement for the related shareholder meeting. Accordingly, until the relevant required quorum can be obtained, certain corporate actions, amendments to our articles of association and prior Board decisions that require shareholder approval will effectively be blocked.

There have been times when the Turkcell General Assembly meeting could not convene for reasons beyond our control, and this may occur in the future. Furthermore, if the AGM is convened, there may not be a resolution of the agenda items or a quorum during the meeting may not be attained.

Our complex shareholder structure and the related complexity in the composition of our Board of Directors could complicate our corporate decision making process and situations may arise where the interests of our majority shareholders are not aligned with those of our public shareholders. These factors could adversely affect our operations and financial results and the market for our shares.

We face risks related to the products and services we provide due to our dependence on certain systems and third party suppliers as well as our exposure to technological changes in the communications market, including in industries where we traditionally do not compete.

We are dependent on certain systems and suppliers for information technology (“IT”) services and our business continuity is at risk due to our exposure to potential natural disasters, regular or severe IT failures, human error, hacking and IT migration risk.

We are heavily dependent on IT systems, suppliers for IT services and our IT employees for the continuity of our business and we are continually upgrading and converting our IT systems. Although we devote significant resources to the development and improvement of IT and of security, back up and continuity systems, we could still experience IT failures and outages due to system deficiencies, human error, deliberate actions such as unauthorized data transfers, fraud, code breaking or hacking, natural disasters such as earthquakes and floods, unsuccessful migration to alternative or improved IT systems, or other factors. If we are not able to maintain adequate IT systems, or fully recover our IT systems in the event of an outage or disruption, the continuity of our operations could be affected, which could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial position and results of operations.

3G networks are migrating towards IP technology to transport information. These networks open up the possibility for IP-based services; however, once these services are introduced into the IP-domain, the 3G network may be harmed by potential attacks. The threats on the mobile network can originate from external sources, such as public internet, or internal sources, such as terminals connected to our 3G network. Despite our efforts in taking security issues very seriously, we could encounter attacks on our infrastructure, which could have an effect on our operations.

We may be unable to adapt to technological changes in the communications market, which could result in higher capital expenditures and a greater possibility of commercial failure .

The telecommunications industry is characterized by rapidly changing technology with related changes in customer demands for new products and services at competitive prices. Technological developments are also shortening product life cycles and facilitating convergence of various segments in the telecommunications industry, including in our core mobile communications business and the 3G business. Our future success will largely depend on our ability to anticipate, invest in and implement new convergent technologies with the levels of service and prices that customers demand. Technological advances may also affect our level of earnings and financial condition by shortening the useful life of some of our assets, requiring us to record asset impairments.

 

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The operation of our business depends in part upon the successful deployment of continually evolving mobile communications technologies, which requires significant capital expenditures. There can be no assurance that such technologies will be developed according to anticipated schedules, that they will perform according to expectations or that they will achieve commercial acceptance. We may be required to make more capital expenditures than we currently expect if suppliers fail to meet anticipated schedules, if performance of such technologies fall short of expectations or commercial success is not achieved.

The effects of technological changes on our business cannot be predicted. In addition, it is impossible to predict with any certainty whether the technology selected by us will be the most economical, efficient or capable of attracting customer usage. Even though there can be no assurance that we will be able to develop new products and services that will enable us to compete efficiently, we are following general technological trends in communications and technology in order to control our investment risks by using different vendors’ products, and competing in adjacent communication business areas.

We have become active in providing products and services for industries other than telecommunications, many of which are developed and/or maintained by third party providers. Our dependence on these third party providers to help us navigate the regulatory, security and business risks of industries where we traditionally do not compete adversely affects our business .

The operation of our business depends, in part, upon the successful deployment of continually evolving products and services, including for applications in industries other than telecommunications, such as Mobile Financial Services, Mobile Health and Mobile Education solutions, authentication solutions and Entertainment and Community services. We are reliant upon third party providers to help us navigate risks relating to security, regulations and business in the industries where we do not traditionally compete. Changes in such industries may impair our partners’ business and/or negatively impact the content we are developing, such as for entertainment, which, in turn, could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

Additionally, since our customers rely on our technological capabilities and high quality service levels, in cases where an IT failure, fraud, human error or hacking occurs, our revenues and reputation may be adversely affected and we may also be subject to regulatory penalties.

Our business, consolidated financial results and/or operational performance could be materially and adversely affected unless we retain our key personnel, our partners and their employees.

Our performance depends, to a significant extent, on the abilities and continued service of our key personnel. Competition for qualified telecommunications and information technology personnel in Turkey is intense. In addition, we are dependent on our dealers and distributors, as well as their ecosystem and personnel, in the growth and maintenance of our customer base. The loss of the services or loyalty of key personnel could adversely affect our financial condition or results of operations as well as breaches of confidentiality regarding our customer, operation and business plan details, particularly if a number of such persons were to join a competitor. Retention and development of high-caliber individuals in these positions is also key to our being able to deliver on our strategy.

Uncertainties regarding the application of the Turkish capital gains tax and the withholding related thereto may lead to a suspension of the cancellation of our ADSs and any increases in such taxes may adversely affect the liquidity and trading of our ADSs.

Uncertainties surrounding the application of the Turkish capital gains tax and the withholding related thereto, which is required upon the cancellation of ADSs, led our ADR depositary, JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A., consistent with the practice of all depositary banks for Turkish issuers, to halt the issuance and cancellation of ADRs. Although our ADR depositary has since reopened our ADS issuance books and, on a limited basis, our ADS cancellation books, cancellations are currently limited only to non-resident beneficiaries (i.e. beneficiaries not resident or incorporated in the Republic of Turkey) who have purchased ADSs on or after January 1, 2006.

 

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The closure of our ADR depositary’s issuance and cancellation books did not impact trading of our ADSs on the New York Stock Exchange. Given the halt of the cancellation of our ADSs, any sudden or significant increase in persons wishing to sell our ADSs, may adversely affect the liquidity of our ADSs and disrupt their trading.

Pursuant to a Turkish Constitutional Court decision, which annulled the income tax provision regulating the 0% withholding application on capital gains for non-resident individuals and corporations, the withholding tax regime has once again become subject to regulation pursuant to a law numbered 6009, which came into force on August 1, 2010. Pursuant to this new regulation, a 10% withholding on capital gains is applied to individual investors and a 0% withholding is applied to corporate investors, irrespective of their residency status. Non-resident corporate deposit receipt holders (depositaries of our ADR facility) are included within the scope of corporate investors. Non-resident investors of Turkcell ADRs will be subject to 0% withholding provided that the depositary of our ADR facility is a corporate body. The Turkish Council of Ministers has the authority to raise the aforementioned withholding rates by 5 percentage points.

We are involved in various claims and legal actions arising in the ordinary course of our business, which could have material effect on our financial results.

We are currently involved in various claims and legal actions with governmental authorities in Turkey, including the Competition Board, the ICTA, tax authorities and certain other parties. We have set aside provisions for ongoing disputes based on applicable accounting standards. However, no assurance can be given that the provisions we set aside will be sufficient to cover our actual losses under these matters, and that new disputes will not arise under which we would face additional liabilities. For a more detailed discussion of all of our significant disputes, see “Item 8.A. Financial Information” and Note 32 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in “Item 18. Financial Statements” of this annual report on Form 20-F.

We maintain and regularly review our internal controls over financial reporting, but these controls cannot eliminate the risk of errors or omission in such reporting.

We maintain and regularly review internal controls over our financial reporting. However, internal control over financial reporting has inherent limitations. It is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures. In addition, it can be circumvented by collusion or improper management override. Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal controls over financial reporting. It is possible to design safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk. Our latest review has revealed certain deficiencies in our controls, although none that we believe constitute “material weaknesses”. However, our controls have in the past suffered from these and lesser deficiencies in the past and no assurance can be given that others will not emerge in the future. A failure to detect or correct deficiencies and weaknesses in a timely manner could have an adverse effect on the accuracy of financial reporting. Failure to maintain effective internal control over financial reporting in accordance with Section 404 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 could also adversely impact investor confidence and the market price of our common shares or ADSs.

 

ITEM 4 INFORMATION ON THE COMPANY

4.A History and Development of the Company

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. (“Turkcell”), a joint stock company organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of Turkey, was formed in 1993 and commenced operations in 1994. Our principal shareholders are Sonera Holding and Turkcell Holding, which hold 13.07% and 51.00%, respectively, of Turkcell’s shares. Turkcell Holding is 52.91% owned by Cukurova Telecom Holdings Limited and 47.09% by Sonera Holding B.V. Cukurova Telecom Holdings Limited is 51% owned by Cukurova Finance International Limited and 49% by Alfa Telecom Turkey Limited. The address of our principal office is Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S., Turkcell Plaza, Mesrutiyet Caddesi, No. 71, 34430 Tepebasi, Istanbul, Turkey. Our telephone number is +90 (212) 313 10 00. Our website address is www.turkcell.com.tr.

 

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We operate under a 25-year GSM license, which we were granted in April 1998 upon payment of an upfront license fee of $500 million. Under our license, we pay the Undersecretariat of Treasury (the “Turkish Treasury”) a monthly treasury share equal to 15% of our gross revenue. Of such fee, 10% is paid to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications of Turkey (“Turkish Ministry”) as the universal services fund. We also operate under interconnection agreements with other operators that allow us to connect our networks with those operators to enable the transmission of calls to and from our GSM system. For example, we have an interconnection agreement with Turk Telekom that provides for the interconnection of our network with Turk Telekom’s fixed-line network.

In July 2000, we completed our initial public offering with the listing of our ordinary shares on the Istanbul Stock Exchange and our ADSs on NYSE.

In early 2009, we were granted the 20-year type A 3G license, which provides the widest frequency band, for a consideration of EUR 358 million (excluding VAT), and we signed the related 3G license agreement on April 30, 2009. The 3G license agreement has similar provisions as the aforementioned 2G license agreement.

Our subscriber base has grown substantially since we began operations in 1994. At year-end 1994, we had 63,500 subscribers. By year-end 2010, that number had grown to $33.5 million.

In 2010, we had total revenues of $5,982.1 million, our adjusted EBITDA totaled $1,957.4 million and we reported net income attributable to the owners of Turkcell amounting to $1,170.2 million.

For the year ended December 31, 2010, we spent approximately $1,078.6 million on capital expenditures, compared to $1,769.3 million and $808.2 million in 2009 and 2008, respectively.

In addition to our operations in Turkey, we have various international operations. For more information, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—International Operations”.

4.B Business Overview

Based on the ICTA’s announcements, we are the leading provider of mobile services in Turkey in terms of the number of subscribers, with 54% of the Turkish subscriber market as of December 31, 2010. We provide high-quality mobile voice, Internet & services over our mobile communications network and have developed the premier mobile brand in Turkey by differentiating ourselves from our competitors with our value offers, which include: superior technologies, more advantages, outstanding service quality throughout our extensive network, and being a leader in social responsibility. We maintain our strong position in the market due to our customer oriented approach and our ability to provide quick solutions to meet customers’ needs. We are in compliance with all of our license requirements in all material respects.

Through our state-of-the-art mobile communications network, we provide comprehensive coverage of an area that, as of December 31, 2010, included 100% of the population living in cities of 1,000 or more people and the majority of Turkey’s tourist areas and principal inter-city highways. As of December 31, 2010, we provided roaming service to our subscribers in 208 countries through commercial roaming agreements with 662 operators.

In 2010, we launched 3G Roaming services in many different locations in the world. As of December 31, 2010, our subscribers enjoyed high speed mobile internet connections with 205 operators in 109 destinations.

As of December 31, 2010, we covered 82% of the population with 3G technology.

Industry

Overview

GSM, one of the digital standards for mobile communications, was developed in 1987 to facilitate unification and integration of mobile communications worldwide.

 

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As a digital standard, GSM offers a wide range of services that include voice, circuit switched data, packet data and fax, in addition to standard service offerings such as call barring, call forwarding, call waiting and roaming into areas serviced by other GSM carriers. A key component of the GSM network is the Simcard, which enables the user of a mobile phone to be identified. Simcards, also known as “smart cards”, are placed inside each handset and function as its digital brain. Simcards’ digital memory allows for the storage of the subscribers’ personal information, such as the rate plan, phone number and service features. Both postpaid and prepaid subscribers are required to purchase a Simcard in order to use the telecommunications service offered by Turkcell.

GSM networks have traditionally been used exclusively as personal voice communications networks. The mobile telecommunications industry has increasingly provided mobile data services, and GSM, as a technology platform, is suitable for data transmission. Currently, many advanced technology platforms are being developed to enable the provision of more sophisticated data services.

Today, most GSM operators offer the standard data service of 9.6 kilobits per second and High Speed Circuit Switched Data (“HSCSD”) and General Packet Radio Service (“GPRS”), which provide network speeds of up to 57.6 kbps and 160 kbps, respectively, depending on radio network and mobile phone conditions. Enhanced Data rates for GSM Evolution (“EDGE”) and UMTS provide the means for making networks suitable for high-speed wireless data services. EDGE and UMTS platforms allow network speeds of up to 240 Kbps and 384 Kbps, respectively. By using new radio access technology, High Speed Downlink Packet Access (“HSDPA”) in UMTS networks, operators gain increased capacity and improved downlink speeds up to 14.4 Mbps. High Speed Packet Access Evolution (“HSPA+”) further enhances the mobile broadband experience and increases the voice and data capacity of HSPA. HSPA+ enhances mobile broadband with peak rates of 42 Mbps and more.

The Turkish Mobile Market

According to a TUIK announcement, the Turkish population is young, with an estimated median age of 29, which is lower than elsewhere in Western Europe, and the majority of the population lives in urban areas. In addition, there were 73.7 million people living in Turkey as of December 31, 2010.

The declining trend in multiple simcard use resulted in an 85% penetration level in 2010 (based on the ICTA’s announcements), which is lower than the level in 2009. There is good potential for growth opportunities in the Turkish mobile communications market in the areas of broadband and 3G services, as well as from Turkey’s youth segment due to the aforementioned demographics. According to the ICTA’s announcements, there are currently three mobile communications operators in Turkey—Turkcell, Vodafone and Avea—with a total of 61.8 million GSM lines as of December 31, 2010. Vodafone entered the Turkish GSM market by acquiring Telsim on May 24, 2006. Telsim, which had received a 25-year license at the same time as us and on what we believe to be identical terms, including the $500 million upfront license fee, had been put up for sale by the Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (“SDIF”) in August 2005. The auction for Telsim was held on December 13, 2005, with Vodafone submitting the winning bid of $4.55 billion. With regards to Avea, it is an operator owned 81% by Turk Telekom. Turk Telekom’s ownership interest in Avea was increased to its current stake following its purchase of Telecom Italia SpA’s 40.6% interest in Avea in September 2006 for $500 million. Turk Telekom is 55% owned by Oger Telecom, a multinational GSM operator owned 35% by Saudi Telecom Company, the Arab world’s largest telephone company.

Strategy

Our vision is to ease and enrich the lives of our customers with leading communication and technology solutions. We strive to build value for our customers, stakeholders, and employees.

We operate in nine different countries, reaching 60 million subscribers. Our operating environment continues to be challenging. In addition to the lingering effects global financial crisis, the regulatory and competitive pressures we face are mounting. Customer demand for converged and differentiated services as well as devices is growing. Furthermore, expansion into international markets and adjacent businesses continues to be important for sustainable growth. In order to sustain our operating margins, it has been crucial that we become more efficient in our delivery of services, so that we may continue to lead the market in this environment.

 

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As a leading communications and technology company, our strategy for growth is to continue our organic growth and to selectively seek and evaluate new investment opportunities. Building on our strength in brand, people, infrastructure and scale, we have identified six strategic priorities in which we intend to pursue opportunities for business growth:

 

   

To grow in our core mobile communication business through increased use of voice and data. Turkcell has a strong market position in Turkey, and we will continue to strengthen our well developed brand through the highest quality infrastructure, the best offers for customers and the best partnership structures.

 

   

To grow in the area of mobility, internet and convergence through new business opportunities. We will focus on creating value for our customers and will continue to drive mobility and enhance internet services with a customer-centric approach. Convergence has become crucial for businesses. We have already introduced total telecom business solutions to provide full support to our corporate clients so that they may compete better in their own markets.

 

   

To develop new mobile service platforms that will enrich our relationship with our customers. We believe that there is significant demand for such services in the Turkish market and Turkcell is the innovative forerunner in creating such technology platforms with the local talent pool.

 

   

To grow in the fixed broadband business by creating synergy among Turkcell Group companies with our fiber optic infrastructure. Investment in fiber optic infrastructure will also enable us to sustain our competitive advantage in our core mobile business.

 

   

To grow our existing international subsidiaries with a strong focus on profitability. In order to diversify revenue and cash flow risks, we intend to grow the contributions made to Turkcell Group from subsidiaries. We endlessly explore operational efficiencies, cost and product synergies with Turkcell Turkey.

 

   

To grow in domestic and international markets through opportunities in telecommunications, technology and new business areas. We are open to forming potential alliances and conducting mergers and/or acquisitions that will contribute to our economies of scale and create synergies. In our strategic screening process for international expansion activities, we consider both the business opportunity and the attractiveness of the market to determine feasible investment opportunities. We may also evaluate new business opportunities outside of the telecommunications industry, such as the National Lottery, if we see strong potential and believe that we can add value.

Services

We currently provide high-quality mobile voice, Internet and services to subscribers throughout Turkey. Subscribers can choose between our postpaid and prepaid services. Currently, postpaid subscribers sign a subscription contract and receive monthly bills for services. Prepaid subscribers must purchase a starter pack which consists of a Simcard. Prior to April 2010, the Simcard included airtime ranging from 20 to 100 counters and scratch cards could be purchased in increments of 25 to 1,000 counters. Pursuant to the ICTA’s decision regarding the counter to TRY transition, as of April 2010, starter packs include a Simcard with airtime of 5 TRY or 20 TRY, while the scratch cards can be purchased in the following amounts: 5 TRY, 10 TRY, 15 TRY, 20 TRY, 30 TRY, 50 TRY, 95 TRY and 180 TRY.

As of December 31, 2010, we had approximately 23.3 million prepaid subscribers and 10.1 million postpaid subscribers, compared to approximately 26.0 million prepaid subscribers and 9.4 million postpaid subscribers as of December 31, 2009.

Voice Services

Voice services are the main services we provide to our customers. Voice services consist of high quality wireless telephone services on a prepaid and postpaid basis.

 

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Product & Services Management

Product & Services Management (“PSM”) is focused on developing and managing products and services to address the diverse needs of both consumers and corporate customers, thereby enriching their lives. We provide an integrated service approach with a common vision to offer tailored solutions based on the specific needs and preferences of our targeted market segments. One of our principal goals is to increase revenues from our existing customers and to foster the acquisition of new customers by offering proprietary products and services.

We closely follow and analyze global trends and develop services to fit local market needs. Turkcell seeks to differentiate itself by providing innovative and pioneering solutions in collaboration with its strong solution providers and various partnerships.

Having a rich portfolio of various services helps us maintain our competitiveness. We believe that increasing customer satisfaction and ensuring customer loyalty through our provision of a unique user experience will also play an important role in our future retention efforts.

Mobile Internet & 3G

We commercially launched 3G simultaneously in 81 province centers and major cities in Turkey at the end of July 2009 and had reached 82% population coverage by December 31, 2010.

In addition, we have launched several innovative services like Videocall, Mobile TV, Video Surveillance, Video Chat and Video Messaging. We offer rich terminal campaigns (handset, smartphone, modem and netbook) to encourage 3G device penetration. There are approximately 6 million 3G enabled handsets in our network.

In 2010, the number of registered 3G subscribers reached 11.8 million people. A variety of data plans are available as part of our voice and terminal bundled offers.

After the launch of 3G, VINN 3G modem, netbook and notebook contracts were offered to customers to enhance mobile internet experience.

Throughout 2010, we sustained our position as leader of handset offerings through our domination of the iPhone and Blackberry business and we delivered attractive campaigns with “top of the class” models of brands in high demand such as Nokia, Samsung and HTC.

Turkcell has launched its first Turkcell branded handset, T10, the affordable Android Smartphone, to enhance the possibility of broader use of mobile internet. Records show that the mobile internet consumption of T10 users is 10 times above the previous levels.

In addition to constant communication emphasizing 3G’s coverage, penetration and speed, the turkcell-im content portal was restructured, redesigned and repositioned in 2009 as the gateway to mobile internet. Featuring partnerships with both global (i.e., Google, Facebook), and successful local brands (i.e., NTV, Yonja, Kariyer.net), turkcell-im now provides links to the most popular mobile sites in Turkey as well as serving as a one stop shop for mobile content. Turkcell subscribers can also use the “turkcell-im internet content adaptation” function which adapts standard web pages to the user’s handset, therefore providing a better and less expensive mobile internet experience.

Consumer Services

Turkcell focuses on the needs of consumers to enhance their daily experiences. By providing a wide range of services, Turkcell enables users to remain connected wherever they are, via their mobile devices. From basic telecommunications services to social community services, Turkcell responds to the diverse needs of consumers to help them connect to life. Turkcell also offers a “multiscreen experience”, allowing customers to enjoy the content of various products and services across multiple devices and multiple screens.

 

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Telco Services

‘Tikla Konus’ (Click-to-call) enables subscribers to initiate calls without displaying a phone number. Users click on a click-to-call button on partnering web sites, and a call is initiated between two parties without a need to dial a number.

Kim Aramis is a caller notification service that enables customers to identify any missed calls while their handset is either in off mode or otherwise disconnected from the network. Kim Aramis’ service sends an SMS containing the call time and phone number to the user once his or her handset is reconnected to the network. There is also a common address book feature that further enriches the service by matching the phone number to the address book name of the caller, if available.

TV & Video Services

By streaming technology at 3G speed, the Turkcell MobilTV service enables Turkcell subscribers to watch television channels and on-demand video content live on their mobile phones. Separately, the iPhone Turkcell MobilTV application enables Turkcell iPhone users to watch 19 national channels, and other premium TV channels, live, combining the experience of watching television on their cell phone with the iPhone experience.

Turkcell also provides on-demand video services on the turkcell-im wap page.

Music Services

GncPlay is a music platform designed by Turkcell. Enabling both web and mobile access, we envison GncPlay as being the go-to place for unlimited online music streaming. Although the platform can be used by everyone, the user interface is particularly designed for the youth segment. Users can create their own play lists. In 2010, Gncplay also enabled users to download mp3 files of selected music onto their phones and computers.

Infotainment Services

Turkcell provides a variety of sports services focusing on football, given the size of the fan base and popularity of the sport in Turkey. Partnering with a major national TV provider, Turkcell provides a social football platform, Footbo.com, in Turkish to consumers to create fan pages, forums and discussions. Also, Turkcell launched an online social game Footbocity in 2010, widely appreciated by football fans, which enable users to play interactive games and build their own virtual cities. Turkcell has cooperated with the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality to provide a “mobile solution” for traffic, a major problem in Istanbul. Subscribers can save time by accessing the İBB Cep Trafik (Traffic Density Map) and traffic camera images to check road conditions and select the best possible route. We also provide an iPhone traffic application, which we launched in 2009. Our mobile traffic service was downloaded more than one million times since its launch.

Turkcell Pusula enables users to locate point of interests (POIs) in a given area. Pusula uses location technology to provide to users the nearest POIs including police stations, gas stations, pharmacies and partnering merchant offers.

Turkcell Seyahat is a travel companion service, enabling users to buy tickets or make reservations with major airline companies and view live flight information as well as weather conditions at their destinations.

Social Community and Other Services

Gezenzi is a social microblogging service where users can share their status, reviews and photos. Users can also explore reviews about POIs, messages and photos around them.

Okul is an online educational platform for teachers, parents and students enabling them to exchange information and further enhance communication by providing social features as well as enriched educational content. Moreover, Okul aims to become a continuous learning platform for adults.

 

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Mobile Financial Services

Turkcell has been investing in mobile financial services for consumers since 2008 in order to make financial services easily accessible while enriching the “on-the-go” shopping experience.

Turkcell’s mobile payment service launched in August 2008, MobilÖdeme, allows Turkcell subscribers to make purchases of up to 35 Turkish Lira via their Turkcell invoice or prepaid TRY account. This service can be used for payments in many areas, such as subscription fees for online communities, e-commerce, parking tickets and online gaming, fast food and vending machine purchases. The service can be used at more than 470 merchants. In 2010, 1.8 million people used the Turkcell Mobile Payment platform.

Turkcell, Visa Europe and Yapi Kredi launched Europe’s first mobile contactless payment solution for Turkcell customers on the iPhone. Using the iCarte payment accessory, Yapi Kredi customers equipped with a Turkcell mobile plan will be the first to make contactless payments directly from their iPhones in Turkey.

Turkcell Enablers and Platforms

Turkcell enablers are the key technical infrastructure behind our proprietary products & services. For example Turkcell ID enabler is an authentication infrastructure that lets users login to systems with one common, secure and simple username and password for hassle free access to systems. Seven new enablers, including Turkcell ID, Recommendation Engine, Social Media Platform were launched in 2010. Recommendation Engine enhances the customer’s experience on Turkcell portals by providing customer -focused recommended features and offers. 3.2 million people were touched by our Recommendation Engine enabler. The Social Media Platform lets users to reuse their social graph on Turkcell products and services.

Turkcell invests in platforms that enhance the user experience and the discoverability of services. Turkcell App Store is a one stop localized application shop for users to download both free and paid mobile applications to their supported handsets with more than 3,000 applications and 1000+ supported devices.

CORPORATE (B2B) SERVICES

Another goal for PSM is to provide corporate customers with a competitive advantage by providing non-core industrial solutions, thereby delivering a new category of revenue sets for customers. Spanning from frozen-food chains to farming, many types of solutions are available to streamline customer processes and provide operational efficiency, new revenue streaming channels and better consumer reach and experience.

Corporate Telco Services

In July 2009, Turkcell launched new value added services on our new video IVR platform with introduction of 3G services. Our B2B clients can make use of “Video IVR” to establish face to face communication at their call centers while consumers are on the go.

Wireless PBX was launched in January 2010 and enables Turkcell corporate customers to have a call center service without any investment in hardware. Customers can activate the call center setting and manage calls easily via a web page. This service is especially beneficial to companies that have mobile employees that use GSM and the SMEs that do not have the resources to invest in a call center.

Authentication Services

Mobile Signature enables customers to sign electronic documents and transactions with a legally-accepted digital signature using GSM SIM cards. Mobile signature subscribers can easily verify their personal identity in a digital environment and complete transactions remotely, without the need for their physical presence. Mobile Signature was launched in February 2007. There are currently 50 application providers in the market, representing industries as diverse as banking, e-government, insurance, healthcare and e-commerce. The Banking Regulation and Supervision Agency (“BRSA”) enacted a decree in January 2010, which requires two-level authentication usage for online banking transactions and positively affected the number of Mobile Signature users.

 

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One Time Password is widely used by corporate customers for two-level authentication controls on transactions. The platform lets corporate customers send a password valid for one time only via SMS to consumers when providing authentication on transactions.

Location Based Services

Corporate customers can monitor and manage their sales force and fleets with Ekip Mobil. Ekip mobil provides a management console that allows customers to view their field teams/vehicles on a map, define alarms for specific regions and create direct communication channels to the field. Ekip mobil can be used on any mobile device. For companies, the investment costs are minimal.

Location Based Survey is the first SMS-based survey service with location features. Survey conductors can keep track of and analyze where votes are coming from on city based maps and lists allowing them to add a new dimension to their decision making process. Voters can also express themselves easily without needing to provide extra information and are able to express their thoughts at a micro local community level.

The Location Based Classified Ads (“LBCA”) system offers a new alternative and a better experience to users with features that do not exist in conventional methods. LBCA allows the user to diffuse his/her own personal ads via Web, WAP, SMS or MMS specifying the location of his/her service or product (or any message).

Mobile Marketing

Our Mobile Marketing team is a leader in the way it defines new media. 1,600 mobile marketing projects were completed with 353 different companies participating in 50 different industries.

Turkcell utilizes mobile marketing and advertising channels to create additional value for its customers. Currently, Turkcell has one of the largest customer permission databases in Europe geared towards mobile marketing and advertising activities. Through this permission database, advertisers can segment their potential focus groups, concentrate on their target market and send specific advertisements to end users.

In 2010, Turkcell was highly active in mobile advertising, as it launched several products, including Targeted IVR (Interactive Voice Response), Mobile Ticketing, Sponsored Info Packages and other location based applications. The Company also introduced Tone and Win, which was selected as the Best Mobile Advertising Service at the GSMA, Visiongain and Meffy Awards in 2009.

Mobile Billboard: Through this service brands can reach their targeted customers from permission databases via SMS, MMS and wap push when customers are instantaneously in the location selected by the brands. This is the perfect way for corporate customers to advertise their products at the right place where they can reach their targeted customers and combine the mobile world with concrete sales.

Machine-to-Machine (“M2M”) Communications

Since 2009, Turkcell has been focused on its M2M business, whose principal markets in Turkey are car telematics, team tracking, fleet management, POS terminals, security alarms, Smart metering and Sales Force automation’s applications.

MobilPOS enables corporate customers to make payment transactions where there is limited fixed line access for POS terminals. MobilPOS is a SIM card integrated POS device working on the GSM network enhancing usage territory for POS terminals. Customers benefit from the advantage of completing their transactions “location free” as well as from a more enriched customer experience.

 

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Turkcell also offers telemetry solutions for corporate customers. In partnership with specialized third parties, Turkcell telemetry solutions let customer to remotely access gauge and collect metering data without utilizing a field force. Some of examples of where telemetry services may be used are alarm systems, gauge metering, reactive energy, transformer station, pipeline metering controls, meteorology station etc.

Turkcell Partner Services

Since 2002, Turkcell has been developing new products and services with its partners. Since 2004, these partnerships have been executed through the Turkcell Partner Program. There were more than 2,500 partner applications on Turkcell App Store in 2010. Turkcell has enriched its customers’ lives through various partner mobile data and services. The Turkcell partner ecosystem has more than 3,000 employees, and the scope of their business covers not only Turkey but also many countries around the world, such as Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Dubai and countries in the Far East. The Partnership Development Department has leveraged various internal and external platforms in order to reach an innovative and rich service portfolio. Being aware of the importance of open innovation platforms, the Turkcell Partner Program runs a product and service idea evaluation platform via Partner Portal to solicit ideas from external bodies such as university students, individual developers, partners and customers. Turkcell launched an additional main open innovation platform called Turkcell LAB to attract students and developers and build a community around our product and services, as well as our technical capabilities. Turkcell LAB is one of the main components of our Partner Portal to help site visitors become familiar with our technical assets and create and test basic telecom services like location based services.

We are in contact with many different players ranging from companies to individuals with specific expertise or capabilities in order to identify new business opportunities and improve our current business. Under Turkcell’s Partner Program, we run different subprograms to provide various benefits to different types of entities such as the Gold & Silver program for companies, Univercell for universities and university students and the Incubation program for early stage and emerging companies.

Other Services

International Roaming

Our coverage extends to many countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and North and South America. As of December 31, 2010, we had further enhanced our position as the leading mobile operator of international roaming services by expanding our partnership in 208 destinations throughout the world, pursuant to commercial roaming agreements with 662 operators.

Since July 2002, we have provided roaming services for prepaid subscribers of foreign mobile operators visiting Turkey. We were the first operator to provide such a service in Turkey. This service, called Passive Customized Applications for Mobile Network Enhanced Logic (“passive CAMEL”), can only be enabled if both operators have installed the CAMEL system on their networks. As of December 31, 2010, we offered prepaid roaming to the prepaid subscribers of 246 operators in 118 destinations.

Since October 2004, we have offered roaming services for Turkcell prepaid subscribers traveling abroad. This service, called Active Customized Applications for Mobile Network Enhanced Logic (“active CAMEL”), can only be enabled if both operators have installed the CAMEL system on their networks. As of December 31, 2010, we offered prepaid roaming to Turkcell prepaid subscribers through 296 operators in 138 destinations.

Since October 2002, we have offered GPRS roaming. As of December 31, 2010, we allowed our subscribers to access the internet and reach their email accounts while traveling, through 466 GPRS roaming partners across 165 destinations.

In order to balance international SMS traffic, we began signing international SMS Interworking Agreements with other mobile operators in April 2002 and as of December 31, 2010, we had signed 148 International SMS Interworking Agreements. As of December 31, 2010, our subscribers can send SMS to more than 608 mobile operators located in 202 destinations, including North America and China.

 

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Since December 2005, our subscribers have been able to send and receive MMS to and from subscribers of foreign operators. As of December 31, 2010, our subscribers were able to send MMS to 137 mobile operators in 76 destinations.

On July 30, 2009, we became the first operator to launch 3G Roaming services in many different locations of the world. As of December 31, 2010, our subscribers enjoyed high speed mobile internet connections with 205 operators in 109 destinations.

We have entered into direct international roaming agreements with GSM operators around the world, including in Cuba, Iran, Sudan, Libya and Syria. These arrangements have been entered into in the ordinary course of business and on arms length terms that we believe to be in line with industry standards. Under the roaming arrangements in the listed countries, our net revenues for roaming on our Turkish network totaled less than $5.3 million and our net expense for our subscribers roaming on the Networks of operators on the listed countries was less than $4.4 million. In financial terms, we do not believe that our roaming arrangements with operators in Cuba, Iran, Sudan, Libya and Syria are material.

Tariffs

Our charges for voice, messaging and data consist of monthly fees, usage prices, bundles and volume discount schemes and options under various tariff schemes. Our license agreement regulates our tariffs for GSM services. The license agreement provides that, after consultation with us and consideration of tariffs applied abroad for similar services, the ICTA sets the initial maximum tariffs in Turkish Lira and U.S. Dollars. Thereafter, our license provides that the maximum tariffs shall be adjusted at least every six months. The license agreement provides a formula for adjusting the existing maximum tariffs. For the maximum tariffs established in Turkish Lira, the formula is: the Turkish Consumer Price Index announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade for Turkey minus 3% of the Turkish Consumer Price Index announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. For the maximum tariffs established in US Dollars, the same method is applied to the USA Consumer Price All Item Index Numbers.

Although the Concession Agreement includes a provision regarding the increase of the maximum tariffs, the ICTA has decreased the maximum tariff since 2007, which has negatively affected our tariff structure (the last decision being on September 1, 2010). The Company initiated lawsuits for the annulment of such decisions. The lawsuits are pending.

For more information on how our maximum and minimum price levels are established, see also “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.

Each customer subscribes to a voice tariff. There are various voice tariffs based on the subscriber segment (postpaid or prepaid, corporate or individual).

Main Tariffs

We have segmented tariffs plans that target specific subscriber groups. In the postpaid segment, pay as you go tariffs offer on-net (Turkcell subscriber to Turkcell subscriber) usage advantages. The packages include minutes for on-net and fixed line calls, intra-company calls or all national directions. Packages are widely preferred by our customers. In the prepaid segment, the main tariffs offering advantageous prices that are based on a refill amount are ‘Super Tariff’ and ‘Youth Tariff’. In addition, we provide fee-based optional minute packages/TRY cards for calls to OMO, PSTN and for calls within a specific time period, such as weekends and nights.

 

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The main tariffs listed below for postpaid and prepaid subscribers are as of April 13, 2011. Prices are given in TRY and include both 18% VAT and the 25% Special Communication Tax.

Consumer Tariffs and Loyalty Programs

 

    Postpaid (TRY)  
    Bizbize     Tarife
Saniye
    BizBize Hepimiz     Kamu     Haydi Gel     Gold  

Monthly Fee

    9.9        3.9        29-69        40        19-49        95-199   

Calls Out (per minute):

           

Turkcell to Turkcell

   
 
0.500 per
10 minutes
  
  
    0.4       
 
 
 
180-500 free minutes
included. Exceeding
minutes charged at
0.400 per minute
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
600 free minutes
included. Exceeding
minutes charged at
0.240 per minute
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
150-900 free minutes
included. Exceeding
minutes charged at
0.300 per minute
  
  
  
  
   
 
 
 
 
6500-7500 free
minutes included.
Exceeding minutes
charged at 0.400
per minute
  
  
  
  
  

Turkcell to PSTN(1)

    0.4        0.4           

 

 
 
 
 
 

 

1500-2500 free
minutes included.
Exceeding minutes
charged at 0.400
per minute

 

  
  
  
  
  

Turkcell to OMO(2)

    0.4        0.4           

SMS

       
 
0-500 free SMS
included
  
  
       
 
0-2500 free
SMS/MMS included.
  
  

Internet

       
 
0-500MB free
internet included
  
  
       
 
0-4GB free
internet included.
  
  

Other Benefits

       
 
 
 
 
Turkcell to Turkcell
unlimited from 6 am
to 6 pm free minutes
& free 2 days a
week included.
  
  
  
  
  
     
 
 
 
 
Turkcell to Turkcell
unlimited from 6 am
to 6 pm free minutes
& free 2 days a
week included.
  
  
  
  
  
 

SMS Per Message

    0.4        0.4        0.4        0.4        0.4        0.4   

 

(1) PSTN: Public Switched Telephone Network (landline).
(2) OMO: Other Mobile Operators.

Prices are given in Turkish Lira and include both 18% VAT and the 25% Special Communication Tax.

 

     Prepaid TRY*
     Süper Tariff    Genç Tariff    Bizbize Tariff

Refill Amount**

   Turkcell to
Turkcell
   Turkcell to
PSTN/
Turkcell to
OMO
   Turkcell to
Turkcell
   Turkcell to
PSTN
   Turkcell to
OMO
   Turkcell to
Turkcell/
Turkcell to
PSTN/
Turkcell to
OMO

50

   0.50 per 10 min    0.50 per 15 min    0.40 per min    0.40 per min    0.40 per min

30

   0.50 per 5 min    0.40 per min            

20

   0.40 per min            

Less than 20***

   0.40 per min            

SMS (Per message)

   0.415    0.415    0.415

 

* Prices are given in Turkish Lira and include both 18% VAT and the 25% Special Communication Tax.
** Prices vary depending on the refill amount and apply for 30 days following the first day of refill, except for Genç Tariff. Genç Tariff prices apply 31, 12 and 7 days if refill 20 TL and above, 12 TL and 7 TL, respectively.
*** The charged for a less-than 20 TL refill or no-refill except for Genç Tariff. Genç Tariff prices for less than 5 TL refill is 0.40 per min

 

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We have an all inclusive package (Gold+), which provides higher comfort and satisfaction specifically for high payers. We offer yearly-discounted and fixed-priced versions of our postpaid premium price plans to retain our current premium customer base and to induce mass customers to pay more for increased benefits.

In addition, we also have loyalty subscriber programs.

Through our new consumer approach, we group our customers by segments after taking into consideration their occupation and, with regards to the youth segment, their age.

Youth segment management, including the loyalty program called gnctrkcll, ensures customer retention by presenting campaigns and advantages that fit youngsters’ trends of life. Gnctrkcll aims to reinforce Turkcell brand recognition as a young, dynamic, popular, intimate brand.

In addition to the youth segment, we focus on “new segments” (such as farmers and housewives) with differentiated GSM and non-GSM offers, as well as campaigns and co-branded activities with selected companies from other sectors to create added values to targeted segments. All loyalty schemes are designed in line with the targeted segments’ lifestyles, needs, priorities, and expectations since new segments aim to increase to loyalty of current Turkcell customers as well as attract new customers.

Turkcell Platinum, a premium loyalty & customer experience management program which offers special GSM, and non-GSM/3rd party advantages to individual customers in order to ensure behavioral and emotional brand loyalty, via a seamless series of positive brand experience in all customer touch points

For our postpaid business, we have periodical free minute programs (campaigns) with which the customers gain different amounts of free usage based on their Turkcell tenure.

For our prepaid business, we offer prepaid customers monthly fee based packages that includes SMS and voice advantages. We promote such packages to increase retention of the prepaid subscribers and the revenue generated from them.

Data and Terminal offers

We have offers in which minutes and data services are bundled with handsets, which could lead to the use of 3G services and mobile internet. We also have many mobile internet offers based on different customer needs, such as:

Terminal bundled offers: Different terminal models including data packages which customers prefer. All of our blackberry offers include data packages.

Short term contracted VINN offers: 3 month VINN campaign for subscribers who are not looking for a long term contract (3 months for 39TL with a 4GB data package).

Tax campaign:19 TL for a campaign of 6 months for which we paid the taxes owed.

Segmented offers: KamuVINN, including 4GB for 29 TL with a 12 months contract. The VINN Modem is given for free (including tax).

Single VINN campaign: without a contract, including 4GB data for 39 TL, plus a 79 TL down payment. (including tax).

Internet from mobile offers: A monthly Facebook pack for 3 TL (including tax), a monthly 100 MB pack for 10 TL (with the first 3 months for 5 TL).

 

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Corporate Tariffs and Loyalty Programs

 

     Postpaid  
     IsteTarife      Şirketiçi      Paketcell  

Monthly Fee

     4.75 TL         14-19 TL         14-119 TL   

Calls Out (per minute):

        

MVPN (Company Network)

     —           6000 free minutes         500-5000 free minutes   

Turkcell to Turkcell

     0.40 TL         0.30 TL        
 
 
 
500-5000 free mins
included. Exceeding
minutes charged at
0.300 per minute
  
  
  
  

Turkcell to PSTN1

     0.40 TL         0.40 TL        
 
 
 
300-3000 free mins
included. Exceeding
minutes charged at
0.300 per minute
  
  
  
  

Turkcell to OMO2

     0.40 TL         0.40 TL        
 
 
 
300-3000 free mins
included. Exceeding
minutes charged at
0.300 per minute
  
  
  
  

SMS Per Message

     0.35 TL         0.35 TL         0.35 TL   

 

(1) PSTN: Public Switched Telephone Network (landline).
(2) OMO: Other Mobile Operators.

Prices are given in Turkish Lira and include both 18% VAT and 25% Special Communication Tax.

IsteTarife is a standard Turkcell tariff. Şirketiçi and Paketcell include special packages at discounted prices.

We launched our B2B loyalty program-IsteKazan- in March 2010 for Turkcell corporate customers—IsTcell customers. IsteKazan is the first loyalty program focused on the B2B segment where we are working with approximately 20 different brands country-wide.

The main focus of IsteKazan is to offer advantages to our corporate customers and provide them with cost advantages on their non-GSM costs. Depending on the customer preferences and requirements, the most appropriate solution package is modulated like discount bundles, cost level alternatives, etc. With this program, IsTcell customers get discounts in several areas such as market, gas, cargo, technology, car rentals, finance, etc.

In addition to the continuous basic loyalty programs, we have periodic volume-based campaigns that are designed for a specific time period for prepaid and postpaid subscribers. We offer tailored advantages and privileges to our premium customers to ensure their satisfaction and loyalty. We also have campaigns in which minutes and data services are bundled with handsets such as Blackberry, iPhone, HTC.

Roaming Tariffs

Turkcell intends to provide advantageous price schemes to its customers when they are abroad. With a customer oriented point of view, Turkcell offers a flat fee for roaming usage, dividing the world into zones, known as the “Turkcell World Tariff”. Whenever our subscribers go abroad, regardless of their domestic tariff, they are subject to the Turkcell World Tariff for their roaming usage. Additionally, Turkcell enables its customers to connect to loved ones with advantageous voice packages and campaigns.

Based on Turkcell’s roaming agreements, Turkcell hosts the subscribers of foreign operators on its network. When a subscriber of a foreign operator makes a call using within the Turkcell’s Network, that subscriber’s operator pays us our inter-operator tariff (“IOT”) for the specific call type. IOT is a wholesale tariff applied between mobile operators having roaming agreements.

 

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Churn

Churn rate is the percentage calculated by dividing the total number of subscriber disconnections during a period by the average number of subscribers for the same period. For these purposes, we define “average number of subscribers” as the number of subscribers at the beginning of the period plus one half of the total number of gross subscribers acquired during the period. Churn refers to subscribers that are both voluntarily and involuntarily disconnected from our network. Under our disconnection process, postpaid subscribers who do not pay their bills are disconnected and included in churn upon the commencement of a legal process to disconnect them, which commences approximately 180 days from the due date of the unpaid bill. Pending disconnection, non-paying subscribers are suspended from service (but are still considered subscribers) and receive a suspension warning, which in some cases results in payment and reinstatement of service. Prepaid subscribers who do not reload TRY for a period of 270 days are disconnected and cannot reuse their numbers (this was changed in 2010 from 210 days). Occasionally, we may offer campaigns and tariff schemes that may not comply with the churn policy.

The ICTA has announced that when prepaid subscribers load or receive TRY 10, the subscription should be renewed at least 6 months prior to the end of the contract. The board resolution has been in effect since October 1, 2010. As a result of this decision, the life cycle of prepaid customers has been lengthened; however, our churn rate was not impacted in 2010. We will observe a onetime impact as a decrease in involuntary prepaid churn in 2011. For more information, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry.

For the year ended December 31, 2010, our annual churn rate was 33.9%. We have what we believe to be an adequate allowance for doubtful receivables in our consolidated financial statements for non-payments and disconnections amounting to $376.8 million and $268.2 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. Due to our large subscriber base and intensified competition in the Turkish market throughout the year due to MNP, our churn rate increased 1.3 percentage points in line with our expectations.

Seasonality

The Turkish mobile communications market is affected by seasonal peaks and troughs. Historically, the effects of seasonality on mobile communications usage has positively influenced our results in the second and third quarters of the fiscal year and negatively influenced our results in the first and fourth quarters of the fiscal year. Recently, however, due to changing market dynamics, such as the ICTA’s intervention in our tariffs and increasing competition in the Turkish telecommunications market, the effects of seasonality from our prepaid customers’ mobile communications usage has decreased. Local and religious holidays in Turkey have also generally affected our operational results.

Network

Coverage

Statements regarding our market share and total market size are based on the ICTA’s announcements, and statements regarding penetration are based on TUIK’s announcements regarding the population. Furthermore, statements regarding our 2G coverage are based on the ICTA’s specifications as well as TUIK’s announcements regarding the population, and statements regarding our 3G coverage are based on the 3GPP TS 25.101 specifications for outdoor coverage.

Our mobile communications network is designed to provide high-quality coverage to the majority of the population of Turkey throughout the areas in which they live, work and travel. As of December 31, 2010, Turkcell covered 86.97% of all of Turkey and 99.07% of Turkey’s population, including 100% of cities with a population of 1,000 or more. Coverage also includes a substantial part of the Mediterranean and Aegean coastline and during 2010 we enhanced coverage in low populated areas (populations of less than 1,000 people) as well. We have significantly exceeded the minimum coverage requirements of our license.

 

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We have also expanded our mobile communications network to add capacity to existing service areas and to offer service to new areas, including the improvement of existing urban, suburban and intercity road coverage. During 2011, we plan to further expand our coverage in settlements with a population of 500 or more, intercity roads and railways, in addition to further enhancing coverage and capacity in populated areas.

We commercially launched 3G simultaneously in 81 province centers and major cities in Turkey in July 2009. As of December 31, 2010, we had reached 82% population coverage (based on 3GPP TS 25.101 specifications for outdoor coverage). We believe we will continue to have the best coverage and the highest quality network in Turkey.

Network Infrastructure

We have primarily employed experienced internal personnel for network engineering and other design activities while employing suppliers for our network infrastructure and as our partners in product/service development. Our suppliers install the base station cell site equipment and switches on a turn-key basis, while subcontractors employed by our suppliers perform the actual site preparation.

Our network consists of standalone Home Location Registers (“HLR”), combined Number Portability Switch Relay Function (“SRF”) and Number Portability Database and Signal Transfer Point (“STP”), Base Station Controllers (“BSC”), Radio Network Controllers (“RNC”), Core Network common for 2G and 3G radio network and carries voice over IP, combined Mobile Switch Centers/Visitor Location Registers (“MSC/VLR”), Service Control Points (“SCP”), BTS and Node-Bs. BTSs are the fixed transmitter and receiver equipment in each cell, or coverage area of a single antenna, of a mobile communications network that communicates by radio signal with mobile telephones in the cell. Each BTS is connected to a BSC via leased lines and/or radio relay links called “minilinks”. The BSC monitor and control the BTS. It is possible to cascade the BTSs to each other, thereby realizing considerable cost savings in transmission. In the same manner, Node-Bs are radio signal transmitter and receiver equipment in each 3G cell, connected to and controlled by RNC in order to realize 3G and HSPA+ coverage for 3G /HSPA equipped mobile phones. Our core packet switching network consists of SGSNs (Serving GPRS Support Node) and GGSNs (Gateway GPRS Support Node), providing GPRS/EDGE, and HSPA/HSPA+ (High Speed Packet Access) capability for mobile packet traffic.

Capacity

In 2010, we continued to develop and improve the quality and capacity of our network. In urban areas, we increased coverage and capacity by placing network infrastructure in commercial sites such as shopping malls, business complexes and entertainment centers. We achieved the highest coverage density in major urban areas, especially in Istanbul, Ankara and Izmir.

We believe that we have sufficient bandwidth to serve our current and projected short-term subscriber base and that we currently meet the capacity requirements of both our 2G and 3G licenses. Starting from 2009, we have created 3G/HSPA+ coverage to support 3G multimedia services and fast throughput for mobile data traffic, while achieving greater network capacity through improved spectral efficiency. To enhance our 2G network capacity where congestion is a possibility, we intend to construct additional network sub-infrastructure, or implement technological advances that will permit bandwidths to be used more efficiently. In 2010, the effective carrying capacity of the core network nodes was further enhanced by new nodes supporting new layered NGN (Next Generation Network) structure. The whole network is currently composed of new layered structure NGN nodes which (i) provides increased network functionality, (ii) enables further increases in our subscriber base and the accompanying call handling and traffic capacity demands, and (iii) supports 3G radio network connectivity. The entire NGN network also provides us with all of the IP network infrastructure, which optimizes transmission operational expenditures and improves network efficiency in order to better serve our customers.

 

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With the advantage of higher quality communication provided by the widest spectrum in 3G, Turkcell will continue to offer seamless communications services to its customers with by far the most extensive coverage amongst its peers.

We have also implemented EDGE technology in our entire network, as EDGE is a complementary technology to UMTS. EDGE is an evolution of the GSM technology which allows consumers to use cellular handsets, PC cards and other wireless devices at faster data rates up to 300 kbps, three times the data capacity of GSM/GPRS. We have also successfully tested EDGE Evolution technology in our network, consisting of downlink dual carrier feature, where the data rates reaches up to 600 kbps. Actual data rates vary depending on the access network load at the connection time and the terminal device features used by the customer. Today, all of our Base Stations are supporting EDGE technology.

Network Maintenance

We have entered into several system service agreements. Under these agreements, our mobile communications network, including hardware repair and replacement, software and system support services, consultation services and emergency services are serviced by local providers. Our subcontractors perform corrective and preventative maintenance on our radio network in the field, although providers repair all the network equipment.

We have regional operation units with qualified Turkcell staff that operate and maintain our network in sixteen main regions. In addition, the Turkcell Network Control Center located in Istanbul monitors our entire network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and ensures that necessary maintenance is performed in response to any problems.

Transport Network

Radio Access Network (“RAN”) transmission is provided with leased lines and microwave transmission. As of December 31, 2010, approximately 98% of our BTS transmission was provided with microwave radio-leased line combinations and 2% with the leased lines.

In order to expand network coverage, microwave transmission is preferred since they are owned and operated by Turkcell itself. When there is no line of sight, copper lines/fiber from transmission service providers are used. Inter-city connections are only carried through transmission service providers due to regulatory restrictions.

All of our switching equipment that forms part of our core network, including MGWs, MSCs, Gateway MSCs, Tandem switches and HLRs, are located within our own buildings. Transmission between these sites (backbone) is always achieved through Synchronous Digital Hierarchy (“SDH”) leased lines and Ethernet over Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing (“DWDM”). Interconnections with other Public Land Mobile Network (“PLMN”), Public Switched Telephone Network (“PSTN”), Long Distance Telephony Services (“LDTS”) and small operator companies are realized with leased lines. We lease all transmission lines from Turk Telekom and Superonline. We use two different infrastructure companies to provide more capacity and increase the availability and reliability of the lines. Furthermore, competition between providers decreases operational expenditures.

Turkcell has implemented an IP based 3G network and has established an IP/MPLS (Internet Protocol/MultiProtocol Label Switching) network in UTRAN (UMTS Terrestrial Radio Access Network) for aggregating 3G traffic and increasing the efficiency of leased line utilization. Turkcell has decreased transmission costs of 2G traffic by using Abis optimization, Abis over IP and converging 2G and 3G traffic transmission infrastructure.

 

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Site Leasing

Once a new coverage area has been identified, our technical staff determines the optimal base station location and the required coverage characteristics. The area is then surveyed to identify BTS sites. In urban areas, typical sites are building faces and rooftops. In rural areas, masts and towers are usually constructed. Our technical staff also identifies the best means of connecting the base station to the network. Once a preferred site has been identified and the exact equipment configuration for that site determined, we begin the process of site leasing and obtaining necessary regulatory permits. Construction of the masts or towers that we require in rural areas is performed by Global Tower, a company 100% indirectly owned by us. We lease antenna space and provide maintenance and management services from Global Tower at such towers.

Dropped Calls

Dropped calls are calls that are terminated involuntarily and are measured by using the ratio of total dropped calls during the most congested hour of network traffic during the relevant time period to the traffic intensity in that congested hour. Using such industry standard for dropped calls, our dropped call rate for our 2G network has further decreased to far below 1%.

Turkcell also provides high quality services through its 3G network. In a short time, we have succeeded in reducing the 3G dropped call rate to the same level as the 2G network. The rate of service quality is being enhanced all the time due to investments to our 2G and 3G network to improve the quality and capacity of the network.

Services and Platforms

We have an intelligent network and other service platforms enabling our services and we also provide secure and controlled access to the network for the content and service providers to give messaging and data services. This infrastructure is being improved to open up more capabilities of the network towards the application and content providers. New infrastructure also contains a portal where subscribers buy services, receive promotions and enroll for campaigns easily.

Business Continuity Management (“BCM”)

In 2000, Turkcell launched its Business Continuity Plan (“BCP”) that encompassed Technical Operations and made Ankara Plaza as the Business Recovery Center. In 2004, the BCP was widened to cover all of Turkcell’s business functions and renamed BCM. Its implementation was completed in 2005 and BCM was adopted as a full-time function.

In 2008, the BCM plan was tested with 17 different scenarios, including mission critical processes and building evacuations.

In 2009, the BCM plan was tested with 18 different scenarios, including mission critical processes, service continuity and building evacuations.

In 2010, the BCM plan was tested with 30 different scenarios, including mission critical processes, service continuity and building evacuations.

Evaluating scenarios that may affect Turkcell’s operations, the purpose of BCM is to prevent or overcome these situations; to develop recovery and crisis scenarios; to make sure Business Continuity planning continues and all key function staff are trained; and to raise awareness and understanding of Business Continuity.

To this end, we established a Crisis Management Team, a Business Recovery Team and several Emergency Response Teams. The Crisis Management Team is comprised of senior management who are responsible for managing all facets of the potential crisis. The Business Recovery Team and Emergency Response Teams are

 

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located at the Business Recovery Centers in Ankara and Istanbul as well as in several other locations throughout Turkey, including Izmir and Adana. If needed, these sites are ready to aid and assist various teams at 15 other sites. In the event that Turkcell’s operations are interrupted, in accordance with the area in which the crisis occurs, a chain alert call convenes the teams.

We believe that the BCM will be able cover the majority of Turkcell’s operations through potential environmental events and natural disasters.

Sales and Marketing

We design our sales and marketing strategy around subscriber needs and expectations. We try to ensure the loyalty of our subscribers by providing offers, campaigns and our advanced Service Delivery Platforms.

Our nationwide distribution channels are an important asset that help us differentiate ourselves from our competitors and achieve our sales targets. Our strong and extensive distribution network consists of distributors, Turkcell Distribution Centers (“TDC”), Corporate Solution Centers, non exclusive dealers, Turkcell Communication Centers (“TIMs”), Turkcell Stores and Consumer Electronic Chains as well as points of sale for prepaid airtime, including ATMs, POS, web, call centers, supermarkets and kiosks.

In Turkey, independent handset dealers serve as the primary point of mobile service sales. Subscribers generally must purchase a mobile phone from a dealer to activate services. We sell Simcards and starter packs to distributors, which are delivered to dealers and sales points. In addition, distributors purchase handsets directly from mobile phone importers and distribute them to dealers. Airtime scratch cards for Hazir Kart are sold through our exclusive and non-exclusive dealer networks, supermarket chains, gas stations, digital channels and other distribution points. Muhabbet Kart’s “Chat Card” branded scratch cards are sold through newspaper kiosks and dealers located throughout Turkey. Muhabbet Kart is only sold by A-Tel, a 50-50 joint venture between SDIF and Turkcell.

Prior to April 2010, 16K, 32K, 64K and 128K (128K cards were only used for spare Simcards) Simcards were in circulation in the market; 64K and 128K Simcard starter packs were sold with inclusive 20 and 100 counters. As of April 2010, starter packs include a simcard with airtime of 5 TRY or 20 TRY.

Turkcell Sales Efforts

We sell postpaid and prepaid services to subscribers through our distribution network, which is composed of distributors, TIMs, TDCs, Turkcell Stores, Consumer Electronic Chains, Corporate Solution Centers and exclusive and non-exclusive dealers. The number of exclusive and non-exclusive dealers totaled approximately 17,000 sales points as of December 31, 2010. We also sell scratch cards and digital prepaid airtime through consumer electronic chains, newspaper kiosks, supermarkets, gas stations, digital channels and ATMs.

Our Exclusive Retail Network consists of powerful retail dealers with good locations, modern designs and superior after-sales service. TIMs lead the market with user friendly atmosphere, new products and services and dedicated employees. In 2009, TIMs were relaunched with the motto “We aim to ease your life with technology” in order to enhance our customer service oriented image under “TIM” brand. In addition, the three flagship Turkcell Stores—fully operated by Turkcell—continue to enhance Turkcell’s brand image in the retail world by providing the best customer experience and introducing top of the line new products and services to our customers.

Our Non-Exclusive dealer network provides us with a high penetration of Turkcell products and services in Turkey. TDCs are aimed at enhancing our distribution effectiveness in the nonexclusive channel and ensure the timely and efficient distribution of Turkcell products and merchandising materials. They also facilitate the Turkcell brand and offer awareness in this competitive channel.

 

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In total, we have more than 94,000 sales points for prepaid airtime including digital channels, ATMs, POSs, kiosks, Call Centers, Internet, WAP, retail chains, SMS, Digital TV and USSD. Since 2008, we have also offered digital counter sales capabilities over POS machines in the traditional sales channel.

All dealers are paid compensation based on the number of new subscribers they sign up and the level of such subscribers’ usage, as well as additional incentives based on their performance.

Sales Management develops strong relationships with and promotes brand loyalty among dealers through a variety of support and incentive programs. Training programs aim to educate dealers’ personnel on the technical aspects of our products and services, as well as sales techniques to increase sales and enhance customer relations. The technological development projects commenced in 2007, and coupled with merchandising services, POP materials and channel specific campaigns, help to support the sales efforts in all of our sales channels.

We address strategic and large enterprises through account managers and small and medium businesses (“SMBs”) with indirect sales channels through corporate focused dealer organizations and through Telesales operations serving small SMBs. In 2010, with the objective of working closely with more customers and improving effectiveness and efficiency, we restructured our corporate segmentation and expanded the numbers of corporate customers handled by account managers. The main focus of this activity is to provide large and medium enterprises and SMBs with mobile services to meet their communication requirements and support these solutions with retention and acquisition programs and tariffs. We work closely with solution partners and application providers to integrate mobility into companies’ operations through tailor-made total solutions packages.

Advertising

We have worked continuously to bring the innovations in the mobile communications world to Turkey. Since our inception, we have helped the lives of our subscribers with time saving solutions and by providing products and services that ease and enrich their lives.

We are currently undergoing a comprehensive transformation that has been brought about by our new customer approach. Our goal is to become the strongest brand in Turkey. As Turkey’s leading mobile operator, we help our customers make the most of their lives. In 2010, we tailored our communications strategy to the concept of “Get more out of life with Turkcell”. The “Get more out of life with Turkcell” concept is reinforced by our value offers: more superior technologies, more advantages, outstanding and extensive service quality, and being a leader in social responsibility. With our renewed vision, we lend our power to our customers by enabling them to be more connected to life with simple communications solutions ready at their fingertips.

In 2011, we will evaluate our current brand architecture, naming strategy and brand expression in order to create a more powerful Turkcell brand. All sub-brands will be renewed to support one Turkcell brand. Our aim is to increase the brand equity of all of our products. Turkcell group companies’ branding principles will also be reviewed in order to a build clearer link with Turkcell and to create more powerful, unified Turkcell brand.

Turkcell brand communications will be coordinated in a more harmonic and synergetic way to strengthen our power in communications and to deliver more consistent messages through all media. In order to ensure that each of our messages effectively reach its targeted customer segment, we advertise extensively through traditional and alternative media such as television, outdoor events, cinema, radio, digital and social media and print. We aim to communicate “360°” with our customers. In 2011, our goal is to have the highest level of brand awareness among our competitors, as we did in 2010.

 

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Customer Services

The key part of our strategy is to provide basic and premium services by thinking and acting in a customer-focused manner. Our goal is to sustain a continuous relationship with the customer through customer satisfaction. We aim to achieve operational excellence throughout all customer touchpoints by continuously improving and correcting processes. We design our processes and service structure based on customer experiences.

We mainly work with two companies, Global Bilgi Pazarlama Danisma ve Cagri Servisi Hizmetleri A.S. (“Global Bilgi”) and Hobim Bilgi Islem Hizmetleri A.S (“Hobim”). Global Bilgi offers 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-a-week contact center services at several sites. Turkcell’s customer service strategies for contact centers are implemented by Global Bilgi and we make sure that customer services and customer satisfaction programs, which are also provided by Global Bilgi, are executed in line with Turkcell’s strategies. Hobim handles the printing of invoices and archives subscription documents for us.

In order to provide segmented customer service, we design and make improvements for all of the customer processes throughout all channels for different customer segments as well as monitor the quality of service provided.

In addition to the operational targets, we aim to achieve excellent customer satisfaction. We evaluate the performance of our service providers with the help of “mystery shoppers” and satisfaction surveys and make our service providers aware of any deficiencies and offer suggestions as to how to improve their service to our customers.

International Operations

A component of our strategy has been to grow or improve our business in international markets. International expansion and, in particular, continued strong operations in the countries in which we are currently present is important for us. We believe these operations will provide additional value to us in the future and will continue to serve an important role in our goal to be a leader in communications and technology.

While continued improvement of our current operations is a key priority, we may further expand and increase our presence in key emerging markets in the region, such as the C.I.S. region, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Balkans. Accordingly, we made investments in Ukraine in 2004 and in Belarus in 2008. We intend not only to transfer our technological know-how and marketing expertise, but also to maximize economies of scale and group synergy. As global competition increases in the telecommunications industry, companies need to evaluate opportunities for “intelligent expansion” within their geographic region to ensure development of new business lines and create synergies with existing ones.

In line with our business strategy, we have signed a five-year wholesale traffic purchase agreement to provide voice and data services in Germany targeting the local Turkish population and other mobile users with close ties to Turkey. The wholesale traffic purchased from a 2G/3G network was implemented in Germany, through an MVNO business model with Turkcell quality and know-how, in March 2011 under the Turkcell Europe brand.

Our international endeavors will continue in 2011. We will continue to work on building a fundamentally sound business in Ukraine and Belarus, and we will also continue to selectively seek and evaluate new international investment opportunities. These investment opportunities could include the purchase of licenses and/or acquisitions in markets outside Turkey where we currently do not operate, both in our main and adjacent communication and technology business areas.

 

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Ukraine—Life:)

We acquired our interest in our subsidiary Astelit on April 2, 2004 by purchasing the entire share capital of Astelit’s parent, CJSC Digital Cellular Communications (“DCC”), from its shareholders. Astelit, 99% owned by DCC, held a nationwide GSM1800 license. On April 4, 2006, Astelit announced a merger of DCC and Astelit, which was completed on August 1, 2006. Our interest in Astelit is held through our wholly-owned subsidiary, Turktell Uluslararasi Yatirim Holding A.S. (“Turktell Uluslararasi”), which holds 55.0% of Euroasia Telecommunications Holdings B.V. (“Euroasia”), which is the 100% owner of Astelit.

Astelit began its operations in the Ukrainian market in February 2005 with its new brand “life:)”. As of December 31, 2010, Astelit had 9.1 million subscribers, a 25.4% annual decrease from 12.2 million subscribers as of December 31, 2009. The majority of subscribers are prepaid subscribers as of December 31, 2010. During the third quarter of 2010, the definition of active subscriber was modified to churn out any subscriber whose only activity was the receipt of bulk SMSs or call forwarding.

The life:) brand has become one of the best in the country and reached 99% recognition in the market due to its strong differentiation from existing mobile brands and focus on innovation, transparency and youthful spirit. The company has been known in the market as one of the most dynamic and innovative ever since life:) as the first to introduce a number of new technologies and products that had previously been unavailable to Ukrainian subscribers. Among them are RBT, EDGE and Mobile internet. The company is highly targeted to keep its innovation leadership in marketing and sales. As a result, Astelit expands and improves its sales network to bring its products and services to the most remote parts of the country. By the end of 2010, Astelit had 26,949 non-exclusive sales points throughout Ukraine, 269 life:) exclusive sales points and customer service centers operating in 185 cities in the country. As of December 2010, Astelit provided roaming opportunities in 172 countries via 468 roaming partners.

As of December 31, 2010, Astelit operated in 100% of the cities of Ukraine with a population of more than 10,000 inhabitants and more than 29,165 settlements, and all principal inter-city highways and roads, which corresponds to coverage of approximately 96.6% of the whole population of Ukraine or 88.9% geographical coverage with more than 8,975 base stations. Cumulative capital expenditure for the development of Astelit’s coverage amounted to $1,291.8 million as of December 31, 2010. In 2011, Astelit will continue investing to increase capacity of its network.

Astelit is strongly dedicated to further developing innovations in the market and to apply for a 3G license when one becomes available (no timetable has been announced). Currently, there is only one 3G license that has been granted in Ukraine. This license has been granted, without tender, to the state owned company, Ukrtelecom.

On December 30, 2005, Astelit signed a 6-year, $390 million long-term senior syndicated facility. Of the total facility, $270 million was guaranteed by Export Credit Agency (“ECA”) and $120 million was not guaranteed. Based on Astelit’s financial statements for the periods ended March 2006, June 2006, September 2006, December 2006 and March 2007, Astelit was in breach of certain financial covenants. Astelit received the necessary waivers from the senior lenders related to the covenant breaches in part due to additional shareholder contributions to Astelit required by the lenders. On April 19, 2007, Astelit sent a letter accompanied by a term sheet to ING Bank, the Facility Agent.

With this term sheet Astelit proposed the restructuring of the senior syndicated facility and provided notice that if some or all of the finance parties did not consent to the proposed amendments, Turkcell would purchase the loans and commitments held by such non-consenting finance parties. As the majority of the financing parties did not consent or respond to the amendments proposed in the new facility agreement, Turkcell’s management decided to take over the entire loan amount. Turkcell and Astelit restructured the syndicated facility through Financell B.V. (“Financell”, a financing company which is 100% subsidiary of Turkcell) and finalized the amended loan agreement in the second quarter 2007. On June 25, 2007, Astelit together with Financell and Turkcell finalized the restructuring of $390 million syndicated long term financing.

 

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In connection with this restructuring, we guaranteed the principal amount, any accrued and unpaid interest on the principal amount of the loan and interest, payment of costs, expenses and any other sums payable in connection with the loan lent by Financell to Astelit. In addition to the senior syndicated facility, a long-term junior facility agreement up to $150 million (including interest accruals amounting to $24 million) was also finalized with Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS Luxemburg Branch and Akbank TAS Malta Branch in December 2005. According to the conditions of the facility agreement, interest costs will be added to the principal amount until total the principal amount reaches $150 million. This facility was fully utilized as of December 31, 2010. This junior facility is fully guaranteed by Turkcell.

In March 2007, Turkcell, through its subsidiary Turktell Uluslararasi, and SCM decided to contribute on a prorata basis an additional aggregate amount of $200 million to the capital stock of Euroasia in four equal installments of $50 million during 2007. The four installments were paid in March 2007, May 2007, July 2007 and September 2007. This contribution brought our effective interest in Euroasia to 55.04%.

In 2008, Turkcell through its subsidiary Turktell Uluslararasi, and SCM contributed to the share capital of Euroasia an aggregate amount of $200 million in three tranches, with two tranches each of $50 million, in January and March 2008, and one tranche of $100 million in May 2008 in exchange for shares in the capital of Euroasia. Turktell Uluslararasi and SCM made the contributions proportionate to their shareholding in Astelit at the time of each capital contribution.

In June and October 2009, Turkcell through its subsidiary Turktell Uluslararasi, and SCM contributed to the share capital of Euroasia an aggregate amount of $121 million in two tranches: $37 million in June and $84 million in October 2009 in exchange for shares in the capital of Euroasia. Turktell Uluslararasi and SCM made the contributions in proportion to their shareholding in Astelit at the time of each capital contribution.

On July 16, 2009, a new facility agreement with Financell was signed. The purpose of this agreement is the application of all of borrowed amounts for payments of goods and services delivered/rendered by Ericsson AB Sweden and its Ukrainian subsidiary.

As of December 31, 2010, Astelit’s loan principal was $56.6 million.

Astelit’s debts are denominated in foreign currencies which expose Astelit to foreign exchange and convertibility risks.

Since the acquisition of Astelit in the second quarter of 2004, the results of our operations in Ukraine have been consolidated in our consolidated financial statements.

Belarusian Telecom

On July 29, 2008, Beltel Telekomunikasyon Hizmetleri AS (“Beltel”) signed a share purchase agreement to acquire an 80% stake in Belarusian Telecom, which is specialized in providing services using GSM and UMTS technologies, for consideration of $500 million. On August 26, 2008, control of Belarusian Telecom was acquired from Belarus’ State Committee on Property and $300 million of the total consideration was paid. An additional $100 million was paid in December 2009 and another $100 million was paid in December 2010. An additional payment of $100 million will be made to the seller when Belarusian Telecom records full-year positive net income for the first time.

In 2009, Belarusian Telecom signed supply agreements with supplier firms ZTE and Huawei for products and services related to infrastructure investments in Belarus. In connection with these transactions, Turkcell gave guarantees of up to $35 million to ZTE and $29 million to Huawei in 2009. The $29 million guarantee given to Huawei expired in March 2011. As a result of an agreed early payment to ZTE in 2010, $19.1 million of the $35 million guarantee remains to be paid. In 2010, Turkcell gave an additional guarantee of $17 million to ZTE.

 

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At December 31, 2010, Belarusian Telecom had 1.5 million subscribers, the majority of whom were prepaid, and operated through 99 exclusive and 2,227 non-exclusive sales points. During the third quarter of 2010, the definition of active subscriber was modified to churn out those who had not refilled their account in more than six months.

At December 31, 2010, Belarusian Telecom operated 2G services in all, and 3G services in 68%, of the cities with a population of more than 10,000 and with more than 12,650 settlements, and 2G-services provided in 91.7% of all principal inter-city highways and roads of Republic of Belarus (total length of all Belarus highways and roads is 15,086 km), which corresponds to coverage of approximately 96.3% of the entire population of Belarus, or 76.2% of the geographical coverage.

Kibris Telekom

Kibris Mobile Telekomunikasyon Limited Sirketi, or Kuzey Kibris Turkcell (“Kibris Telekom”), a 100% owned subsidiary of Turkcell, was established in 1999. As of December 31, 2010, Kibris Telekom had 0.4 million subscribers.

On April 27, 2007, Kibris Telekom signed a license agreement for installation and operation of a digital, cellular and mobile telecommunication system with the Ministry of Communications and Works of the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. The license agreement became effective on August 1, 2007 and replaced the previous GSM-Mobile Telephony System Agreement dated March 25, 1999, which was based on revenue- sharing terms. The new license agreement granted a GSM 900, GSM 1800 and IMT 2000/UMTS license, for GSM 900 and GSM 1800 frequencies, while the usage of IMT 2000/UMTS frequency bands is subject to the fulfillment of certain conditions. The license agreement is valid for 18 years from the date of signing.

The license fee was set at $30 million including VAT and Kibris Telekom paid $15 million upon the signing of the license agreement and the remainder was paid in 5 equal monthly installments starting from August 2007 until January 2008. The license fee was financed by Kibris Telekom through internal and external funds.

On March 14, 2008, Kibris Telekom was awarded a 3G infrastructure license at a cost of $10 million including VAT, which was paid at the end of March 2008.

In the third quarter of 2010, Kibris Telekom completed and began operating the radio transmission (airlink) project providing direct international voice and data connection to the mainland. The project is the only direct connection in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, aside from the Telecommunication Authority.

Financell

Financell is incorporated under the laws of the Netherlands and has its registered address in the Netherlands. It is established as an intermediate financing company that is wholly owned by Turkcell. Financell will borrow funds from third party lenders with or without a Turkcell guarantee to fund other Turkcell’s subsidiaries.

Other Domestic Operations

We continuously monitor new business opportunities which we believe have positive return potential and/or are critical for sustaining our competitive advantage in our core business.

Global Bilgi

On October 1, 1999, we established Global Bilgi in order to provide telemarketing, telesales, directory assistance and call center services, particularly for us. In 2005, Global Bilgi completed its transition from call center to contact center as Global Bilgi started to manage customer contacts at every channel except face-to-face interaction. In November 2006, the face-to-face interaction channel was also transferred to Global Bilgi. As of December 31, 2010, Global Bilgi employed 4,565 employees, of which approximately 70% provide us with customer care and retention services, around 21% serve customers of other clients while the remainder work as administrative personnel. We own 100% of Global Bilgi.

 

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Inteltek

Inteltek was established on April 6, 2001 to explore business opportunities in the gaming industry.

Currently, Turkcell holds 55% of Inteltek through its wholly owned subsidiary Turktell Bilisim Servisleri A.S. (“Turktell”), while Intralot, a Greek gaming company, holds 20% and Intralot Iberia Holding, a Spanish company, holds 25%.

Following a successful tender, Inteltek signed a contract on July 30, 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 with a commission rate of 4.3%. The Central Betting System Contract was scheduled to expire on March 30, 2008. Following an additional successful tender, Inteltek signed a contract with the General Directorate of Youth and Sports on October 2, 2003, which authorized Inteltek to establish and operate a risk management center and become head agent for fixed odds betting with a commission rate of 12%. The company became fully operational during 2004. The Fixed Odds Betting contract was scheduled to expire in October 2011. Subsequently, there were three lawsuits filed, two of which requested the annulment of the Fixed Odds Betting tender and the other requested an annulment of the Fixed Odds Betting Tender contract. In January 2007, the Danistay, the highest administrative court, decided for a preliminary injunction of the tender and the tender transaction. As a result in March 2007, the General Directorate of Youth and Sports ceased the implementation of Fixed Odds Betting and terminated the Fixed Odds Betting contract dated October 2, 2003. Immediately after this occurred, a lawsuit was initiated by Inteltek against the said transaction. On February 28, 2007, the Turkish parliament passed a law (No. 5583) that allowed Spor Toto Teskilati A.S. (“Spor Toto”) to hold a new tender and sign a new contract that would be valid until March 1, 2008. Under the new conditions, the commission rate of Inteltek decreased from 12% to 7% while the commission rate for central betting system was maintained.

On February 27, 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 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 March 1, 2008. A lawsuit was filed requesting suspension of the execution and cancellation of the contract. At the same time, Inteltek signed a new Central Betting System contract with Spor Toto, which took effect on March 31, 2008. Spor Toto conducted the new tender on August 12, 2008, which Inteltek won with an offer of 1.4% on August 28, 2008. On August 29, 2008, Inteltek signed a new contract with Spor Toto to run the sport betting business, iddaa, for the next 10 years, which became effective as of March 1, 2009 and thereby terminated the Fixed Odds Betting and Central Betting Systems contracts that had been effective in March 2008. Other than the change in commission rate and the right to offer bets on other sports, there is no significant change in terms of Inteltek’s roles and responsibilities under the new agreement.

This new contract gives Inteltek rights to operate fixed odds betting and pool games on sports games, in accordance with conditions stated in the agreement. Under this contract, Inteltek guaranteed TRY 1,500 million (equivalent to $990 million as of April 7, 2011) turnover for the first year of the contract and has given similar guarantees for future years. The guaranteed turnover for the following years will be computed using producer price indices. Inteltek shall pay the guaranteed turnover difference (after deducting commission income) to Spor Toto if actual turnover is below guaranteed turnover. In 2009 and 2010, actual turnover of the contract had exceeded that amount. Moreover, Inteltek as the contractor, has to purchase 6,000 terminals and 1,000 mobile terminals within 6 months of the commencement of operations under new contract and is responsible for the installation of the terminals upon Spor Toto’s demand. The contractual obligations regarding the purchase of terminals and mobile terminals have been fulfilled by Inteltek. Inteltek signed mobile betting dealer agreement with Spor Toto on January 12, 2010 which gives the Company the right to operate 1,000 mobile terminals. Reconciliation with Spor Toto for the payout will be realized at the end of the contract.

 

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In the context of evaluating investment opportunities in neighboring countries, 55% owned subsidiary, Inteltek received authorization from Azerbaycan Azeridmanservis Limited Company to organize, operate, manage, and develop the fixed and paramutual sports betting business in Azerbaijan. In this context, Azerinteltek was incorporated on January 19, 2010 in Azerbaijan with 51% stake of Inteltek. Azerinteltek signed license agreement for the authorization of organization and operation of betting games in September 2010. Under the license agreement, Azerinteltek will operate on an exclusive basis for a period of 10 years.

On December 29, 2010, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Justice published Decree No.55 to regulate taxes to be levied from betting games. Following this development, AzerInteltek began officially conducting sports betting games on January 18, 2011.

Superonline

On May 21, 2008, Turktell, our 100% owned subsidiary, signed an agreement with Cukurova Group to acquire a 100% stake in Superonline, which provides internet and telecommunications services, in exchange for our 55% share in Bilyoner Interaktif Hizmetler AS (“Bilyoner”). Consequently, our subsidiary Tellcom, which was established in 2004 to provide non GSM telecommunications services, and Superonline merged on May 1, 2009. We own 100% of this company, which is called Superonline.

Superonline has a Long Distance Telephony Services (“LDTS”) right, which allows the company to provide long distance call origination and termination for consumers and corporations, as well as wholesale voice carrying services. It also has authorization to provide satellite communication services, infrastructure operating services, internet services and wired broadcasting services. Currently, the company carries some of Turkcell’s international traffic, previously carried by Turk Telekom.

Established as an alternate telecom service operator, Superonline offers its international and national clients wholesale voice carrying, international lease data lines (for corporate clients) and Internet access service with international connectivity. It is one of the main long distance service providers among alternative operators. Furthermore, Superonline is in the retail broadband market as it brings fiber optics to the homes of residential campuses and resells Turk Telekom’s ADSL services.

Superonline is an innovative telecommunications operator providing fast communication technology with its fiber optic infrastructure in Turkey as well as telecommunication solutions to individuals and corporations in the areas of voice, data and videos (triple play) and continues to invest quickly in its fiber optic infrastructure with a view to forming its dedicated IP backbone.

Superonline’s most distinctive feature, is its extensive product portfolio, from broadband connection to VoIP services to multimedia services, which allows it to reach a wider audience with different products. Among these are one-stop business solutions, such as IP telephony, hosted PBX, long distance telephony, corporate voice community, internet transport, hosting and co-location, security, net-sourcing areas on Wired &Wireless IP and TDM platforms. Additionally, Video-On-Demand, Remote Surveillance, Virtual Phone Number Allocation, Free-Phone Communities and Mobile VoIP access are among the value-added Broad-Band VoIP services provided by Superonline to the consumer market.

Superonline also provides corporate data solutions on its MPLS enabled network, including internet access services, point-to-point services based on MetroEthernet, Fiber and xDSL access technology. In addition to off-the-shelf products, tailor-made communication solutions for large corporations set Superonline apart from its competitors. Operating its own Next Generation Network, Superonline seamlessly combines technology, capacity and quality while offering premium services to its clients.

Another differentiating factor is Superonline’s steadfast commitment towards the quality of after-sale services utilized through a call center and an on-site support team. Superonline supplies corporations with industry-leading service level agreements utilizing its professional technical support personnel and highly qualified team of consultants.

 

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Superonline has been awarded the ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System Certificate. Superonline aims to become one of the “leading innovative TELECommunications Operators” in Turkey and it will continue to seize opportunities in the internet and telecommunications markets.

In 2010, Superonline continued to invest in its transmission network by expanding the intercity and in-city fiber-optic backbone along with establishing new fiber-based access points at selected residential and industrial areas for end users and commercial account holders. As of December 31, 2010, Superonline’s installed backbone was approximately 22,400 km and its services reached 73 cities in Turkey.

Furthermore, in December 2009, Superonline won a tender worth EUR 20.9 million to lease the fiber optic infrastructure network of BOTAS, Turkey’s State-owned pipeline company, for 15 years. According to this new contract, Superonline holds the right of way for a total of 11,280 kilometers from BOTAS, half of which has a pre-installed fiber readily available as well as the rights to invest in and renovate the remainder. Through this contract, it is expected that Superonline’s network quality and speed will improve while the size of its network will increase 2.5 times to 24,000 kilometers. Additionally, by integrating the BOTAS infrastructure network into its current network, it is expected that Superonline will establish alternative paths for its network and will be able to provide faster and higher quality service. Furthermore, it is expected that Superonline will expand to certain cities in the northern and eastern regions Turkey for the first time by providing fiber optic infrastructure in 38 new cities and will reach out to 74 cities in total, which adds up to 90% of the Turkish territory, while expanding its current international exit points by entering new markets in addition to Bulgaria and Greece.

In 2010, Superonline, together with Etisalat (UAE), Mobily (Saudi Arabia), Jordan Telecom, Mada-Zain Consortium (Jordan), and Syria Telecommunications Establishment (Syria) signed an agreement that will initiate the Regional Cable Network (“RCN”) Project. Starting from Fujairah (United Arab Emirates) and passing through Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Amman (Jordan), Tartous (Syria) and reaching Istanbul (Turkey), the RCN Project’s fiber optic cable line is expected to cover the entire Gulf region in the Middle East for the first time and be operating as of the second half of 2011. Totaling 7,750 km with its round trip routes, the RCN Project is expected to become the region’s longest terrestrial fiber infrastructure between Fujairah, one of the busiest nodes for submarine fiber cables, and the West. The RCN project offers the region an alternative internet infrastructure with a high-capacity and far more economical structure (compared to the submarine systems), which is diversified into two separate routes. This infrastructure, which will cross five countries and intersect in five cities has the ability to provide capacity of 12.8 Terabits per second. The RCN project is designed to reach Europe through more than 15 access points readily available on the Bulgarian border and to initially activate 2.4 Terabit per second capacity along the two different routes which the fiber optic cables will follow.

In addition, Superonline founded, with six other leading service providers, the Turkish Network Alliance Platform (“TNAP”) to improve the quality and reduce the access time by carrying Internet traffic of Internet service providers through a fiber backbone that is a safe and back-up route of access established by the service providers. TNAP is expected to increase the speed, safety and quality of Internet traffic and improve the load of domestic Internet traffic in addition to supporting a better infrastucture for Internet service providers.

Superonline aims to expand its own network and further utilize the group synergy created with Turkcell. The Company will continue to take advantage of business opportunities within the broadband industry in 2011.

Global Tower

Global Tower is a wholly owned subsidiary founded in 2006. Global Tower’s core business is to supply installation, leasing and maintenance services of tower, rooftop and indoor infrastructures for mobile operators, TV & radio broadcasters and operators of civilian/military wireless communication/monitoring systems. Global Tower’s site sharing business model eliminates the initial investment cost for its customers and also contributes to the reduction of adverse environmental impacts and the efficient use of resources in the countries in which it operates.

 

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Having begun operations in 2007, Global Tower serves its customers with a portfolio of more than 5,000 existing tower sites. Global Tower, Turkey’s first and only tower infrastructure service provider company, began operations in Ukraine in 2009 under the name LLC UkrTower (“UkrTower”).

Turkcell Teknoloji

Turkcell Teknoloji commenced operations in the TUBITAK Marmara Research Center Technological Free Zone in Gebze in 2007. Turkcell Teknoloji offers a wide variety of products and services within the categories of network platform, service platform, SIM and terminal solutions, as well as next generation technologies (mobile internet, mobile marketing, multimedia applications, business intelligence solutions and business support systems). Turkcell Teknoloji focuses on changing, transforming and facilitating human life with customer-oriented and innovative solutions in numerous fields. Many products that make a difference are developed in the company, where employees’ creative ideas are gathered.

Turkcell Teknoloji cooperates with business partners covering a network of national and international R&D companies, universities and research centers. New ideas are mutually nurtured and transformed into assets. Turkcell Teknoloji plays an active role in international R&D programs and works with the world’s leading R&D technology companies and universities.

Equity Accounted Investments

Fintur

We hold a 41.45% stake in Fintur, which holds interests in international mobile communications operations. Below is a description of the businesses currently held by Fintur.

Azercell

Fintur indirectly owns 51.3% of Azercell Telekom B.M. (“Azercell”), which offers GSM services on both a prepaid and a postpaid basis in Azerbaijan. As of December 31, 2010, Azercell had approximately 4.0 million subscribers, of which approximately 169,000 were postpaid and approximately 3.8 million were prepaid.

The agreement for the privatization of the Republic of Azerbaijan’s 35.7% ownership in Azercell was signed in February 2008 and Azertel A.S., the parent company of Azercell, acquired the Republic of Azerbaijan’s entire stake. Azertel’s ownership in Azercell increased to 100%; however, Fintur’s effective ownership in Azercell remains at 51.3%.

Geocell

At December 31, 2010, Fintur indirectly owned 100% of Geocell Ltd., (“Geocell”), which operates a GSM network and offers mobile telephony services in Georgia. As of December 31, 2010, Geocell had approximately 2.0 million subscribers, of which approximately 30,000 were postpaid, approximately 0.3 million were paid-in-advance subscribers that had postpaid services but paid in advance and approximately 1.7 million were prepaid.

Kcell

Fintur owns 51% of GSM Kazakhstan, (“Kcell”), along with Kazakhtelekom, the Kazakhstan monopoly fixed-line operator, which owns 49%. Kcell offers mobile telephony services in Kazakhstan and had approximately 8.9 million subscribers as of December 31, 2010, of which approximately 74,000 were postpaid, approximately 1.3 million were paid-in-advance subscribers and approximately 7.6 million were prepaid.

 

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Moldcell

At December 31, 2010, Fintur directly and indirectly owned 100% of Moldcell S.A., (“Moldcell”), which offers GSM services in Moldova. As of December 31, 2010, Moldcell had 0.9 million subscribers, of which approximately 76,000 were postpaid, approximately 0.3 million were paid-in-advance subscribers and approximately 0.6 million were prepaid.

Equity Accounted Joint Venture

A-Tel

On August 9, 2006, Turkcell acquired 50% of A-Tel’s shares. A-Tel is a joint venture and its remaining 50% shares are held by SDIF. A-Tel is involved in marketing, selling and distributing our prepaid systems. It acts as our only dealer 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, we have entered into several agreements with A-Tel for the sale of campaigns and for subscriber activations. Since 1999, the business cooperation between us and A-Tel has provided important support to our sales and marketing activities. With the brand name Muhabbet Kart, A-Tel’s success in such a competitive environment is partly due to its having well structured campaigns.

Potential Investments

Our efforts to selectively seek and evaluate new investment opportunities continue. These opportunities may include the purchase of licenses and acquisitions of interests in other operators in markets outside Turkey in which we currently do not operate, focusing on communications, technology and adjacent and new business opportunities. Our international expansion strategy focuses on key emerging markets, mainly in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the Balkans.

In line with our international expansion strategy, we submitted, via one of our wholly owned subsidiaries, a bid for the Fixed and Mobile Convergent License Tender held by the Libyan General Telecommunications Authority on July 15, 2009. The license was not awarded to any of the bidding companies, as none of the proposals was deemed satisfactory by the Libyan General Telecommunications Authority. Nevertheless, Libya remains one of the countries that we continuously monitor for opportunities.

We submitted a bid on April 15, 2009 for the first tender of the “games of chance business”, which was cancelled on May 7, 2009 due to the bidders not raising the bids for the amount set by the Privatization Administration Tender Commission. If the Turkish National Lottery General holds a tender for the privatization of the “games of chance business” in 2011, which presents an attractive opportunity for us and our subsidiaries, we will pursue it.

Our international endeavors will continue in 2011. We will continue to selectively seek and evaluate new international investment opportunities. In the context of our evaluation of potential investment opportunities within the regions we target for international expansion strategy, Turkcell has, from time to time, considered opportunities in countries in the Middle East and North Africa, and may consider such opportunities in the future. We may participate in additional public tenders for new licenses or the privatization of public telecom companies as well as in private sale transactions in emerging markets to pursue investment opportunities in line with our growth strategy.

Furthermore, following the launch of Turkcell Europe in Germany, we will evaluate expanding into other Western European countries where there is a sizeable Turkish community by becoming a wholesale partner with one of the existing mobile network operators.

 

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Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry

Overview

All telecommunications activity in Turkey is regulated by the ICTA. Electronic Communications Law no. 5809 (the “Electronic Communications Law”), which came into force on November 10, 2008 and replaced Law no. 406 and 2813, is the principal law governing telecommunications activity in Turkey. The Electronic Communications Law was published to correspond to the rapidly evolving Turkish telecommunications industry, and new regulations are in the process of being published. No assurance can be given that these new regulations will be clear and satisfactory to us. The duties of the ICTA, which may be exercised in a manner that is adverse to our operations and our financial results, include those described below.

ICTA

The ICTA has the authority to grant licenses and set fees in the electronic telecommunications industry. The duties of the ICTA are specified in Article 6 of the Electronic Communications Law. The duties and authorizations of the ICTA include, among others:

 

   

analyze the electronic telecommunications industry, determining the relevant markets as well as the operator(s) who have significant market power;

 

   

make necessary arrangements and perform audits relating to electronic communications as well as to the rights of the subscribers, users, consumers and end-users, in addition to processing personal information and protecting confidentiality;

 

   

maintain transparency in the board decision process related to the operators and consumers, including explanation of the legal reasoning used;

 

   

process the reconciliation procedure between the operators and, unless otherwise agreed by the parties, take necessary measures in the event of a failure of the parties to reach an agreement;

 

   

allocate frequency and satellite position, as well as plan numbering and its allocation;

 

   

determine operators’ trade secrets and the scope of the information to be explained to the public, while also securing such trade secrets, in addition to confidential investment information and working plans, to protect operators, per the request of judicial authorities;

 

   

determine the principles and procedures of access, including interconnection and national roaming;

 

   

determine the terms and conditions of the authorization to provide communications services, network and/or its infrastructure; audit its implementation and compatibility to the authorization;

 

   

audit (or be audited on) the legality of the companies that have operations in the electronic communications sector, in addition to determining the principles and procedures related thereto and applying sanctions where there is a contradiction; and

 

   

impose an administrative fine on operators of a maximum of 3% of the previous calendar year’s net sales in the event of infringement of the Electronic Communications Law.

According to Article 8 of the Electronic Communications Law, electronic communications services is rendered and/or established (as in the case of an electronic communications network or infrastructure) and operated following the authorization made by the ICTA. Authorization is granted either through notification made in accordance with the principles and procedures determined by the ICTA, in cases where scarce resource allocation is not necessary, or given of usage right, in cases where resource scarce allocation is necessary (allocation of frequency, satellite position, etc.). Under the Electronic Communications Law, usage rights may be granted for up to 25 years; however, there is no clause relating to the term of notification. According to the Electronic Communications Law, principles and procedures relating to the notification and granting of usage rights shall be determined by the regulation issued by the ICTA.

 

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On the other hand, in cases where the quantity of rights of use is limited, Section 9-6(a) of the Electronic Communication Law allows the Ministry of Transportation and Communication to determine the criteria, such as (i) the authorization policy regarding electronic communications services which cover the assignment of satellite position and frequency band on a national scale and which need be operated by a limited number of operators, (ii) the starting date of the service, (iii) the duration of the authorization and the number of operators to serve. While the criteria are determined by the Ministry of Transportation and Communication, the authorization is still granted by the Authority.

Under the Electronic Communications Law, the ICTA is authorized to determine the principles and procedures related to the process of personal information and protection of confidentiality.

The Electronic Communications Law establishes legal principles and broad policy lines that the ICTA must follow. They include:

 

   

Creation and protection of a free and efficient competitive environment.

 

   

Protection of consumer rights and interests.

 

   

Protection of the objectives of development plans and Government programs as well as the strategies and policies set by the Ministry.

 

   

Promotion of implementations that ensure that everyone can benefit from electronic communications networks and services in return for a reasonable charge.

 

   

Ensuring non-discrimination among subscribers, users and operators under fair conditions and ensuring that services are accessed by users of similar status under fair conditions, unless based on objective grounds or for the aim of facilitating the access of services with definite cover and certain limits specific for dependents.

 

   

Unless to the contrary as specified by this Law or based on objective grounds, promotion of qualitative and quantitative sustainability, regularity, reliability, efficiency, clarity, transparency and the efficient use of resources.

 

   

Ensuring the conformity of electronic communications systems to international norms.

 

   

Promotion of research and development activities and investments by introducing technological improvements.

 

   

Promotion of improved service quality.

 

   

Giving priority to the requirements of national security, public order and emergency situations.

 

   

Except as clearly established in this Law, in relevant legislation and the authorizations, allowing operators to freely determine tariffs in return for providing electronic communications services access charges including interconnection line and circuit rental fees including interconnections.

 

   

Taking into consideration the international norms, with a view of at least protecting human health, life and property, environment and the consumer while constructing, using and operating electronic communications equipment and systems.

 

   

Ensuring impartiality in the provision of electronic communications services and arrangements thereof.

 

   

Taking into consideration the specific needs, including the use of technological developments of disabled, elderly and those who are in need of social protection.

 

   

Protection of information safety and communication confidentiality.

The Electronic Communications Law also specifies general rules and principles relating to interconnection between operators. According to the law, for those who are subject to the obligation to provide access, such obligation shall be determined by the ICTA. When an operator does not allow other operators to have access within the provisions of the law or it sets forth unreasonable stipulations and periods for access in a manner that

 

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results in not allowing access, and, as a result, the ICTA decides that such behavior will prevent the formation of a competitive environment and the resulting situation will be against the interests of end users, the ICTA will be entitled to impose obligations on such operator to accept the access requests of other operators. Interconnection, including the tariffs for interconnection, is required to be provided on an equal, transparent and non-discriminatory basis with conditions agreed upon between the parties and on the basis of cost and reasonable profit. Agreements for interconnection are publicly available, but precautions are taken by the ICTA to protect commercial secrets of the parties.

Universal Services and Amending Some Laws, Law No. 5369, determines the procedures and principles governing the provision and execution of universal service and to determine procedures and the rules relating to fulfillment of universal services in the electronic communication sector, a universal public service that is financially difficult for operators to provide (and performance of universal service obligation in electronic communication sector). As per the provision of Law No. 5369, the scope of universal services is determined periodically by the Council of Ministers, which will not exceed three years.

The legislation designates the following as Universal Services:

 

   

fixed-line telephony services;

 

   

public pay telephones;

 

   

telephone directory services to be provided in printed or electronic environments;

 

   

emergency calls services;

 

   

Internet services;

 

   

Passenger services to residential areas where access is provided by sea; and

 

   

Sea communication and sailing safety communication services.

This law mandates that all authorized operators must provide Universal Services and the General Directorate of Communication can demand that operators provide Universal Services on a national and/or geographical area basis.

The legislation does not impose any new financial obligations for GSM operators. Turkcell may be designated as an operator obliged to provide Universal Services and therefore Turkcell may benefit from the fund.

The Electronic Communications Law also specifies general rules and principles relating to tariffs. Pursuant to the Electronic Communications Law, operators may freely determine the tariffs they apply in compliance with the relevant legislation and the ICTA arrangements. In the event of determination of the significant market power of the operator, the ICTA may determine the method of the approval, tracking and auditing of the tariffs. They may also determine the lower and upper limit of the tariffs and principles and procedures of the application of the same.

The Electronic Communications Law provides basic guidelines for price and thus leaves the detailed rules and enforcement to the ICTA. According to the law:

(1) the Tariff may be determined as one or more of subscription fee, fixed fee, call charge, line rental, and similar fee items.

(2) Tariffs to be imposed in return for providing any kind of electronic communications services shall be subject to the following provisions:

a) Operators shall freely determine the tariffs under their possession, provided that they comply with the regulations of the ICTA and the relevant legislation.

 

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b) If an operator is designated as having significant market power in the relevant market, the ICTA shall be entitled to determine the procedures regarding the approval, monitoring and supervision of tariffs as well as the highest and lowest limits of the tariffs and the procedures and principles for the implementation thereof.

c) If an operator is designated as having significant market power in the relevant market, the ICTA shall be entitled to make the necessary arrangements to prevent anti-competitive tariffs such as price squeezing and predatory pricing and to supervise the implementation thereof.

(3) Procedures and principles pertaining to the implementation of this article, submission of tariffs to the ICTA and publishing and announcing them to the public shall be determined by the ICTA.

The ICTA abolished “The Regulation On Quality of Service” (issued in 2005), and published a new “Regulation On Quality of Service in the Electronic Communication Sector” on September 12, 2010, to be effective as of December 31, 2011 which sets out the procedures and principles to control the conformity of the services of operators. According to the regulation, new and important obligations with respect to call centers will be applicable to all operators that provide service to end users. Furthermore, mobile telephone operators are required to meet new service quality requirements and submit a report based on these requirements every three months to the ICTA.

According to this regulation, the ICTA may intervene in the structure of our tariffs or may impose certain criteria relating to the revision of our tariffs. If it is determined that an operator has significant market power in the related market, the ICTA requires the operator to comply with its tariff regulations and may regulate the tariffs of the operator concerned by requiring that such tariffs be approved in advance or by applying lower and upper limits. Pursuant to its decision dated December 8, 2009, the ICTA determined Turkcell, individually, to be an operator holding a significant market power in the “Access to Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets” and, together with Avea and Vodafone, to be an operator holding significant market power in the “Mobile Call Termination Market”. As a result of the significant market power designation in the “Access to GSM Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets”, our company may be required to provide access and call origination services to other operators such as MVNOs and Directory Services Operators on a cost-based basis, while operators not designated as operators “holding significant market power” can set their prices more freely. For example, due to our status as an operator holding significant market power, we are required to provide access and call origination services to a certain MVNO operator. Being designated as an “operator holding significant market power” in the “Access to GSM Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets” is likely to have the effect of reducing the rates we can charge other operators, such as MVNOs, which would have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Furthermore, in addition to the negative pricing conditions, the uncertainty concerning the MVNO market has, and may in the future, negatively impact our business.

The ICTA published the Regulation on Processing Personal Information and Protecting Confidentiality in the Telecommunications Industry on February 6, 2004. This Regulation establishes general principles to secure personal information and protect confidentiality. The Regulation established the following principles: an operator’s technical or administrative precautions to secure its services and its network must be approved by the ICTA; operators must warn their consumers about risks and give them information to prevent such risks; except pursuant to a legal obligation or court decision, an operator may not listen to, observe, record, preserve or disconnect voice telecommunications without the permission of those communicating; and operators may not observe, record or preserve data traffic concerning telecommunications except for their services. The ICTA is preparing to abolish the Regulation on Personal Information Processing and Protection of Privacy in the Telecommunications Sector, and preparing to publish a new Regulation on Data Privacy in Electronic Communications Sector. As a result, the ICTA requested our Company’s opinions on the draft regulation. The purpose of this regulation is to define the procedures and principles that govern the operators and legal entities/individuals which provide/receive services in the electronic communication sector in an effort to process, store and protect the personal information of subscribers. In contrast to the current regulation, the draft regulation would require the consumer’s approval prior to a direct marketing SMS being sent. Therefore, if this regulation is

 

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approved, our methods of contacting customers about new tariff offers and services will be impeded unless we already have the subscriber’s permission. In addition, all of our subscribers’ traffic data, including those related to missed calls and data processing logs, would be required to be maintained by us for one year, which would result in additional expenses for the Company.

On September 5, 2004, the ICTA abolished the Regulation on Administrative Fines to be imposed on the Operators (published on August 1, 2002) and published the Regulation on Administrative Fines, Sanctions and Precautions to be imposed on the Operators. According to the amended Regulation the ICTA retains the right to impose fines in the event an operator: submits incorrect or misleading documents or fails to submit documents as requested by the ICTA; does not timely submit such documents; does not permit inspection or audits to be made by the ICTA; uses unpermitted equipment or equipment not complying with standards alters technical features of equipment; or, does not pay fees arising from its use of license and frequencies or does not comply with the provisions of license agreements, telecommunications licenses and general authorizations or the legislation. In addition, the amended Regulation authorizes the ICTA to impose sanctions and precautions as well as administrative fines.

Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector

In 2009, the ICTA published the “Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector”, which determines the principles and procedures for the authorization of the companies that seek to provide electronic communication services and/or to install or operate electronic communications networks or infrastructure.

Wireless Interoperability for Microwave Access (“WIMAX”) license

Regulatory changes in Turkey to introduce and promote WIMAX nationwide could have a material adverse effect on our business and results of operations. Specifically, they may result in increased competition and/or the entry of new direct or indirect competitors, which may have a negative impact on our ability to attract and retain customers, the competitiveness of our products and services, our distribution channels, our brand and visibility and our infrastructure investments.

Fixed line telephone services

The ICTA issued Fixed Telephony Service (“FTS”) licenses pursuant to the Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector, which enables existing long distance telephony services (“LDTS”) operators, such as our subsidiary Superonline Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. (“Superonline”), to provide call origination and termination. LDTS and, consequently, FTS providers have not yet had a significant effect on our operations. In the long term they could have the effect of driving down prices and shifting traffic patterns for in-city as well as long distance calls in Turkey, potentially having an adverse effect on our mobile telecommunications business.

As of March 11, 2011, there were 122 operators with authorization for Fixed Telecommunication Services: 70 for Infrastructure Operating Services; 121 for Internet Service Provision Authorization; 29 for Mobile Virtual Network Services Operators and 9 for Directory Service Operators.

On February 3, 2010, the ICTA published a new Regulation entitled “The Right of Way in Execution of the Electronic Communications Services” and abolished the Regulation entitled “The Right of Way in Execution of the Telecommunication Services”. This Regulation aims to determine the principles and procedures for the right of way for the establishment and usage of all kinds of electronic communications networks and/or infrastructure facilities; which is required for the execution of electronic communications services.

 

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Regulation on Mobile Number Portability (“MNP”)

Pursuant to Article 32 of the Electronic Communications Law, operators are required to supply operator number portability.

MNP allows subscribers to keep their existing telephone number when changing their telephone operator, their physical location or current service plan. These regulations, published in 2007, became operational in the fourth quarter of 2008. Since we believe the MNP regulations conflict with our rights under our license agreement, without due compensation, we initiated a lawsuit in 2007 for the annulment of the MNP regulations. While we do not object to the substance of mobile number portability, we do, however, believe that our rights under our license agreement should remain protected or, if they are violated, we should be justly compensated. The Court rejected the case and we appealed the decision. The appeal process is still pending. See “Item 8.A Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings”. In 2009, the ICTA issued a new regulation on MNP, abolishing the 2007 regulation. For new subscriptions, subscribers cannot port out to another operator in the first three months.

Turkish Competition Law and the Competition Authority

In 1997, the Competition Law (No. 4054) established a Competition Board. The Competition Board consists of 7 members who are appointed for a term of six years. It is an autonomous authority with administrative and financial independence established to ensure effective competition in markets for goods and services.

Powers and Functions of the Competition Board

The Competition Board can carry out investigations, evaluate requests for exemptions, monitor the market, assess mergers and acquisitions, submit views to the Ministry of Industry and Trade and perform other tasks stipulated by the Competition Law. The ICTA can apply to the Competition Board if it determines that agreements regarding access, network interconnection and roaming violate the Competition Law.

Furthermore, any real or legal entity may file a complaint with the Competition Board. Upon determination of any violation, the Competition Board can take necessary measures to prevent the violation and may impose fines on those who are liable for such prohibited practices. According to Competition Law, the Competition Board may impose fines up to 10% of the annual gross income of the operators, which is constituted by the end of the previous financial year and determined by the Competition Board. In September 2002, the ICTA and the Competition Board entered into a Protocol on Cooperation. The Protocol establishes a framework whereby the ICTA and the Competition Board can cooperate on legal actions and attitudes regarding measures, detections, regulations and inspections that affect competition conditions and the extension of competition in the telecommunications sector. The Protocol on Cooperation allows issues to be resolved more effectively and maintains a free and sound competition environment in the telecommunications sector. Furthermore, it prevents controversial and/or misleading statements by handling the complaints of the operators, and it harmonizes the interpretation of related legislation thus enabling mutual cooperation and information transfer.

GSM Licensing in Turkey

A GSM license is subject to the ICTA’s right to suspend or terminate operations of the license on the grounds of security, public benefit, national defense or to comply with the law. However, suspension or takeover of facilities under these circumstances is subject to the payment of compensation to the operator. The ICTA can also inspect such licensee and nullify its license if the licensee has materially failed to comply with the terms of its license. The ICTA may also terminate licenses in cases of gross negligence or non-payment of the authorization fee.

The terms of license agreements are governed by the Authorization Regulation, and it provides that the ICTA approve the transfer of licenses to third parties, ensure continuation of services in the event of cancellation of a license and approve the investment plans submitted by licensees.

 

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The licensee is responsible for installing telecommunications equipment in conformance with international signalization systems and numbering plans. Furthermore, the licensee is obligated to make those investments which are necessary to offer the licensed service. These obligations include the design of the service, the making of financial investments and the installation and operation of the facility required for the service. Licensees are allowed to determine the prices for services, subject to the regulations of the ICTA. Upon the expiry of a license, including termination, the facilities and immovables of the licensee, in operating condition, will be transferred by the licensee in accordance with the license agreement.

Our License Agreement

General

Since April 1998, we have operated under a 25-year GSM license for which we paid an upfront license fee of $500 million. In 2002, we signed a renewed license agreement for our GSM license which provides that a monthly payment of 15% over our gross revenue paid to the Turkish Treasury shall be subject to the legal interest rate. If such payments are not duly paid twice in any given year, a penalty in an amount equal to triple the last monthly payment shall be payable to the Turkish Treasury. In addition, we must pay annual contributions in an amount equal to 0.35% of our gross revenue to ICTA’s expenses. Finally, an article concerning the protection of users’ (“subscribers’”) rights and an article concerning arbitration for the settlement of disputes are included in the renewed license agreement. After the tender relating to the allocation of additional GSM 900 frequency bands, made by the ICTA on in June 2008, the license agreement was amended to include the additional frequency band and was signed by Turkcell and the ICTA in February 2009, which made small additional changes in the articles of the license agreement entitled performance bond and allocated frequency bands.

Terms

Under the license agreement, we hold a licensed concession to provide telecommunications services in accordance with GSM-PAN European Mobile Telephone System standards in the 900 MHz frequency band. Our license covers 55 channels and allocates telephone numbers between the 530 and 539 area codes in the national numbering plan. Our license also permits us to establish customer service centers, sign contracts with subscribers and market our services to subscribers. Our license was issued with an effective date of April 27, 1998, for an initial term of 25 years. At the end of the initial term, we can renew our license, subject to the approval of ICTA, provided that we apply between 24 months and 6 months before the end of our license. Our license is not exclusive and is not transferable without the approval of the ICTA.

We paid a license fee of $500 million to the Turkish Treasury upon effectiveness of our license. As security for the performance of our obligations, we were required to deliver cash or a bank guarantee equal to 1% of our license fee as a performance bond. In addition to this performance bond, upon the execution of the license agreement dated February 25, 2009, we were also required to deliver cash or a bank guarantee in the amount of TRY 1,264,500 (approximately $ 834,268 as of April 7, 2011) which corresponds to 6% of the tender (relating to the allocation of GSM 900 additional frequency band) price, as a performance bond. On an ongoing basis, we must pay 15% of our gross revenue, defined as of March 2006 to exclude interest charges for late collections from subscribers and indirect taxes such as 18% VAT as well as other expenses and the accrued amounts that are recorded for reporting purposes to the Turkish Treasury.

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

Furthermore, under the Regulation on Authorization regarding the Electronic Communication Sector, all kinds of share transfers, acquisitions and actions of the operators which are authorized by a Concession Agreement must be communicated to the ICTA, and share transfer, acquisition and actions shall be made with

 

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the written approval of the ICTA if they result in a change of control component of such operators. The “control component” is defined as “the rights that allow for applying a decisive effect on an enterprise, either separately or jointly, de facto or legally”.

License Conditions

Our license subjects us to a number of conditions. While the license agreement provides that our license may be revoked in the event that we fail to meet any of these conditions, we believe that we are currently in compliance with all license conditions.

Coverage

Our license requires that we meet coverage and technical criteria. We must attain geographical coverage of 50% of the population of Turkey (living in cities or towns of 10,000 or more inhabitants) within three years of our license’s effective date and at least 90% of the population of Turkey (living in cities or towns of 10,000 or more inhabitants) within five years of the effective date of our license. This coverage requirement excludes coverage met through national roaming and installation sharing arrangements with other GSM systems and operators. Upon the request of ICTA, we may also be required, throughout the term of our license, to cover at most two additional areas each year. Except in the event of force majeure, we must pay a late performance penalty of 0.2% of the investment in the related coverage area per day for any delay of more than six months in fulfilling a coverage area obligation. As of today, we have met and surpassed all coverage obligations.

Service Offerings

Our license requires that we provide services that, in addition to general GSM phone services, include free emergency calls and technical assistance for customers, 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 three-party conference calls, billing information, and the barring of a range of outgoing and incoming calls.

Service Quality

Generally, we must meet all the technical standards of the GSM Association as determined and updated by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute and Secretariat of the GSM Association. Service quality requirements require that call blockage not exceed 5% and call drops not exceed 2% of the total calls. The ICTA has the right to monitor our service standards, compile information, and take action to guarantee customer rights. Additionally, as a guarantee of our service and coverage commitments, we must obtain all-risk insurance coverage at an adequate amount to provide for uninterrupted operation.

Tariffs

The license agreement regulates our ability to determine our tariff for GSM services. The license agreement provides that, after consultation with us and consideration of tariffs applied abroad for similar services, the ICTA sets the initial maximum tariffs in Turkish Lira and U.S. Dollars. Thereafter, our license provides that the maximum tariffs shall be adjusted at least every six months. The license agreement provides a formula for adjusting the existing maximum tariffs. For the adjustment of the maximum tariffs established in Turkish Lira, the formula is: the Turkish Consumer Price Index announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade for Turkey minus 3% of the Turkish Consumer Price Index announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade. For the maximum tariffs established in US Dollars, the same method is applied to the USA Consumer Price All Item Index Numbers.

Although the Concession Agreement includes a provision regarding only the increase of the maximum tariffs, the ICTA has decreased the maximum tariff since 2007, which has negatively affected our tariff structure (the last decision being on September 1, 2010). The Company initiated lawsuits for the annulment of such decisions. The lawsuits are pending.

 

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Pursuant to a board resolution dated September 22, 2010, the ICTA decided that Turkcell had to reimburse its subscribers in regards to a change in one of its tariff options (namely, BizBize Her Yöne Kamu 1500) and fined Turkcell an amount equal to 0.33% of Turkcell’s 2009 net sales. We initiated a lawsuit to suspend the execution of the decision, which the Regional Ankara Administrative Court did. We also requested the annulment of the ICTA’s decision. This process is still pending.

The maximum tariffs set by the ICTA constitute the highest rates we may charge for the services included in these customized service packages. Generally, the maximum tariffs set by the ICTA for particular services are set higher than the standard tariffs determined by the ICTA for those services. Therefore, in customizing our service packages to meet the needs of different customer segments, we may combine higher activation or monthly charges (or both) with lower airtime rates.

The standard tariffs and the maximum tariffs set by the ICTA have been established in Turkish Lira and ICTA’s schedule of standard tariffs and maximum rates are premised on the TRY/$ Exchange Rate in effect on the date they were approved by ICTA. Although we believe the tariff structure in our license will, in most instances, permit adjustments designed to offset devaluations of the Turkish Lira against the U.S. Dollar, any such devaluation that we are unable to offset will require us to use a larger portion of our revenue to service our non-Turkish Lira foreign currency obligations. Additionally, in the event that the ICTA were to establish maximum tariffs at levels below those that would enable us to adjust our rates to offset devaluations, this could have a material adverse effect on our business, consolidated financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.

As a result of certain applications made to it, on September 25, 2007 the ICTA decided to implement a new requirement that our on-net tariffs be no less than the lowest interconnection rate applicable to other GSM operators. However, in the relevant legislation, which was applicable at that time, no authority was given to the ICTA to set minimum barriers for the tariffs granted. For this reason, we believed that such intervention was contrary to the applicable legislation. The ICTA also decided to set a maximum price of TRY 0.66 (including VAT) (equivalent to $0.44 as of April 7, 2011) for GSM to GSM calls under general subscription packages. However, we believed that this intervention by the ICTA, which decreased the previous maximum tariffs, conflicted with the relevant provisions of the license agreement. The ICTA was empowered only to apply the formula set forth in the license agreement, as explained above. By setting minimum tariffs for our Company only, we believed that the Authority created unfair competition and violated provisions of the Law, which stipulated that prices for telecommunications services be cost-based. On the grounds explained above, we filed a lawsuit before the 13th Chamber of Counsel of State in relation to the annulment and suspension of the execution of the aforementioned decision. On May 26, 2008, the 13th Chamber of Counsel of State suspended the ICTA’s decision regarding the interconnection rate applicable for setting our minimum on-net tariffs. The ICTA objected to the decision but, the request was rejected. The ICTA requested the cancellation of the aforementioned suspension decision (with its petition submitted to the file); however, its request was rejected. On April 13, 2010, the 13th Chamber of the Counsel of State cancelled the ICTA’s decision regarding the interconnection rate applicable for setting our minimum on-net tariffs. The ICTA appealed the decision. The appeal process is still pending.

The ICTA, with its board resolution dated September 25, 2008, set the maximum price of TRY 0.66 (including VAT and SCT) (equivalent to $0.44 as of April 7, 2011) for off-net calls under general subscription packages. Thereafter, with the ICTA board resolution dated March 25, 2009, ICTA has set a lower limit to on-net retail tariffs of Turkcell only, for the term of June 2009 – December 2010, and decreases the level of price cap for all GSM operators.

The lower limit applies to each retail tariff package of Turkcell by mandating the weighted average on-net price of each and every subscription tariff package shall not be less than Turkcell’s weighted average call termination rate. This resolution has required Turkcell to report weighted average on-net price of each and every subscription package in three month periods. To comply with the board resolution, Turkcell has adjusted the on-net prices of various tariff packages as necessary.

 

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Subsequently, ICTA, with its decision dated December 21 2010, decided that this Resolution should be applied permanently, and the reporting should be monthly instead of quarterly.

The board resolution also reduces the current price cap from 0.80 TRY/min (equivalent to $0.53 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT), which pertains to general subscription packages (GSM-GSM), to 0.64 TRY/min (equivalent to $0.42 as of April 7, 2011). The Resolution has also set such price as an upper limit for special subscription packages. To comply with the board resolution, Turkcell adjusted on-net and off-net prices of some tariff packages.

Our Company filed a lawsuit before the Council of State in relation to the annulment and suspension of the execution of this decision of ICTA. The Council of State rejected our request of suspension of execution and our Company objected to this decision of the Council of State.

The ICTA, with its board resolution dated September 16, 2009, set the maximum price of TRY 0.65 (equivalent to $0.43 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for GSM to GSM calls under general subscription packages.

The ICTA with its board resolution dated February 10, 2010 further reduced down the current price cap to TRY 0.40 (equivalent to $0.26 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT, SCT) for GSM to PSTN as well as GSM to GSM. The same resolution has set the current price cap of Turk Telekom to TRY 0.37 (equivalent to $0.24 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT, SCT) for PSTN to GSM.

However, as per Article 13 of the Electronic Communications Law, in the event of determination of the significant market power of the operator, the ICTA may determine the lower and upper limit of the tariffs and principles and procedures of the application of the same. Based on such Article, the ICTA may take a similar decision which will have an effect on our future tariffs.

We believe that, pursuant to our license agreement, we can determine our tariffs freely, provided that they remain within the framework of the applicable maximum price limit. However, ICTA may intervene with our retail tariffs. With respect to our retail tariffs, in the fourth quarter of 2007, the ICTA intervened in the fixing of our retail prices. Although we challenged that action on the basis that it exceeded the ICTA’s authority under then-applicable law, such action nonetheless had an adverse effect on our operational flexibility and our results of operations. With the ICTA board resolution dated March 25, 2009, ICTA set a lower limit for solely Turkcell’s on-net retail tariffs, and decreased the price cap level for all mobile operators. The lower limit applies to each of Turkcell’s retail tariff packages by mandating that the weighted average of the on-net price of a tariff package not be less than Turkcell’s weighted average call termination rate. The board resolution also reduced the current price cap from 0.80 TRY/min (equivalent to $0.53 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT), pertaining to general subscription packages, to 0.64 TRY/min (equivalent to $0.42 as of April 7, 2011). The resolution also set such price as an upper limit for special subscription packages. The ICTA, with its board resolution dated September 16, 2009, set the maximum price of TRY 0.65 (equivalent to $0.43 as April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for GSM to GSM calls under general subscription packages. The ICTA, with its board resolution dated February 10, 2010, further reduced the current price cap to TRY 0.40 (equivalent to $0.26 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for GSM to PSTN as well as GSM to GSM. The same resolution set the current price cap of Turk Telekom to TRY 0.37 (equivalent to $0.24 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for PSTN to GSM. Finally, with its board resolution dated March 24, 2011, the ICTA set the current price cap as TRY 0.415 (including VAT and SCT) for GSM to PSTN and GSM to GSM (equivalent to$0.27 as of April 7, 2011). With the same board resolution, the ICTA made a distinction between national and international SMS rates. The National SMS rate was set as TRY 0.415 (equivalent to $0.27 as of April 7, 2011), and the international SMS rate was set as TRY 0.830 (equivalent to $0.55 as of April 7, 2011).

The ICTA has also had and may intervene with the charging period, impacting the prices we charge for our tariffs. For example, effective September 1, 2010, the ICTA requires all operators to apply a maximum price cap of 0.40 TRY during the first minute of all calls. The usage behaviour and our financial results will be adversely affected if the ICTA intervenes on charging periods.

 

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In addition, the ICTA may determine the standard periods for subscriber life-cycles and request changes how we maintain the outstanding balances. Currently, if prepaid subscribers load at least 10 TRY, we must keep them in an “active” state (i.e., having a balance in the account and the ability to send and receive calls/SMS) for at least six months from the loading period. Furthermore, the subscription period for subscribers in a “passive” state (i.e., having no balance in the account and with the ability to receive calls/SMS) cannot be less than three months before the termination of the contract. The ICTA has decided that, in the case of annulment of a prepaid subscriber’s account, any remaining balance should be reimbursed to the subscriber within 15 days of his/her request, which must be made within three months of the annulment. Any remaining balance must be kept by the operator for a period of 1 year, with the condition that, should the former subscriber so choose, he be allowed to reactivate his account. Furthermore, the ICTA decided that as of April 1, 2010 the “unit based tariff system” should be turned into “TRY based tariff system” for pre-paid subscriptions.

The ICTA, with its board resolution dated July 25, 2009, set an upper limit of 20 seconds to the charging periods for tariffs that are submitted/to be submitted by operators and Turk Telekom. While this decision, as of June 2010, was postponed, our financial results will be adversely affected if the ICTA decides to lift the suspension.

Moreover, the ICTA intervened to create a standard definition of active and passive subscription periods used by operators and announced a new definition of active subscription with a board resolution dated January 27, 2010. According to this resolution, if prepaid subscribers load or are transferred 20 units/TRY 5, the subscription should be renewed at least 3 months prior to the end of the contract. If they load 40 units/TRY 10, the active subscription period, which enables subscribers to send and receive calls/SMS etc, should be renewed at least 3 months prior to the end of the contract; and if they load or are transferred 40 units/TRY 10, the subscription should be renewed at least 6 months beforehand. In addition, the ICTA, in the aforementioned resolution, decided that the passive subscription period, in which it is only possible to send SMS and receive calls, should be determined, at least 3 months prior to the end of the contract. The effective date of this resolution has been postponed to October 1, 2010 from April 1, 2010 to avoid confusion with the conversion from “unit based tariff system” to “TRY based tariff system” and to prevent the potential dissatisfaction of consumers. Afterwards, the ICTA with its Board Resolution dated September 29, 2010 revised and changed its previous Resolution. According to the new Resolution if prepaid subscribers load or are transferred TRY 10, the active subscription period, in which to make and receive calls, send and receive SMS is possible, should be restarted at least 6 months beginning from the loading or transfer date and the passive subscription period, in which it is only possible to receive calls and SMSs, should be determined at least 3 months prior to the end of the contract. The ICTA with this Resolution decided that, in case of annulment of the remaining balance units should be reimbursed to the subscriber within 15 days upon his request within 3 months after the annulment. Moreover, in case the subscriber contract is annuled without request of a payment of the remaining balance, the operator should preserve the remaining balance units for 1 year with the condition that the annuled subscriber becomes a subscriber again.

The ICTA Board issued a decision on June 30, 2009, revised on August 20, 2009, to implement new rules on “melody & games services”. With this new ruling subscribers shall clearly be informed on the conditions and charges of particular services via a free SMS before actual use occurs. Subscribers shall acquire these services or subscribe by sending an SMS to a number defined only by the network operator. After the service is used, information on charges due or debited units shall also be sent to the subscriber by SMS. Pre-paid subscribers shall be informed by SMS whether they have sufficient units in their accounts before they use the particular service and, upon the approval of the subscriber, before the units can be used. The same ruling will also apply if a particular service is to be acquired via WAP or WEB facilities, with minor exceptions.

The ICTA Board issued a decision on November 24, 2009 concerning Value Added Services with “Live Chat” content. With this decision, these services will no longer be given over the numbers assigned from our allocated numbers by the Concession Agreement but from a new area code of 900. The new number group will be in the following format: 900 2XX XXXX. These numbers are to be applied by the operator and allocated by

 

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the ICTA. The ICTA will reserve 10,000 for each operator upon application. Current services have to switch to these numbers within two months. By default, all subscribers will be barred from using this service unless they have provided written consent.

Relationship with ICTA

The license agreement creates a mechanism for an ongoing relationship between us and ICTA. The ICTA and Turkcell coordinate their activities through a License Coordination Committee (“the Committee”). The Committee is comprised of five members, two appointed by ICTA, two by us and one by agreement of the ICTA and our members, or, if no agreement is reached, by the Chairman of the Information and Communication Technologies Board. The Committee is charged with the task of ensuring the proper and coordinated operation of the GSM network, assisting in the resolution of disputes under the license agreement and facilitating the exchange of information between the parties.

The Committee meets at least quarterly and establishes its own operating principles and procedures unless an extraordinary meeting is called by any party with a 7-day advance notice. Matters in dispute are expected to be submitted to the Committee for resolution. While not binding, the Committee may render consultative decisions. Either the ICTA or we may convene a special meeting to consider issues that arise under the license agreement.

License Suspension and Termination

The ICTA may suspend our operations for a limited or an unlimited period if necessary for the purpose of public security or national defense, including war and general mobilization. During suspension, the ICTA may operate our business, but we are entitled to any revenues collected during such suspension, and our license term will be extended by the period of any suspension.

Our license may be terminated under our license agreement:

 

   

upon a bankruptcy ruling against us by a competent court or a bankruptcy compromise decision, which is an agreement between creditors and a debtor to reschedule the debt of the debtor, if such ruling or compromise is not reversed or dismissed within 90 days after notice;

 

   

upon our failure to perform our obligations under the license agreement if such failure is not cured within 90 days after notice;

 

   

if we operate outside the allocated frequency ranges and fail to terminate such operations within 90 days after notice; or

 

   

if we fail to pay our treasury fee.

In the event of termination, we must deliver the entire GSM system to ICTA.

If our license is terminated for our failure to perform our obligations under our license, the performance guarantee given by us in an amount equal to 1% of the license fee may be called. The license agreement makes no provision for the payment of consideration to us for delivery of the system on such termination.

In the event of a termination of our license, our right to use allocated frequencies and to operate the GSM system ceases. Upon the expiration of the license agreement, initially scheduled to occur in 2023, without renewal, we must transfer to ICTA, or an institution designated by ICTA, without consideration, the network management center, the gateway exchanges, and the central subscription system, which are the central management units of the GSM network. These units include related technical equipment, immovables, and all other installations and assets used in the operation of the system. We may apply to the ICTA between 24 and 6 months before the end of the 25-year license term for the renewal of the license. The ICTA may renew the license, taking into account the legislation then currently in effect.

 

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Applicable Law and Dispute Resolution

Under our license agreement, any dispute arising from or under our license shall be brought before the License Coordination Committee. If the dispute is not settled within 30 days before the License Coordination Committee, it shall be referred to the parties. If the dispute is not resolved by the parties within 15 days, then it shall be settled by an arbitral tribunal in accordance with ICC Rules. The governing law of any arbitration is Turkish law and any such arbitration shall be conducted in English. Disputes relating to national security or public policy shall not be subject to arbitration proceedings.

Authorization of 3G Licenses

In 2008, the ICTA conducted a tender process to grant four separate licenses to provide IMT 2000/UMTS services and infrastructure. We were granted the A type license, which provides the widest frequency band, at a consideration of EUR 358 million (excluding VAT). We signed the license agreement relating to 3G authorization on April 30, 2009. The license agreement has a term of 20 years.

The 3G license agreement has provisions that are generally similar to those contained in our license agreement relating to 2G. However, with respect to dispute resolution, while our 2G license provides for arbitration for the settlement of disputes, under the 3G license agreement, disputes arising between the parties shall ultimately be settled by the Council of State of the Republic of Turkey.

With the 3G License Agreement, as opposed to the 2G License Agreement, the Company assumed an obligation related to its electronic communications network investments, such as the obligation to provide at least 40% of its electronic communications investments from suppliers that have a Research and Development Center in Turkey and the obligation to provide at least 10% of its electronic communications investments from suppliers that are Small and Medium Size Enterprises (“SME”) established in Turkey.

According to the Authorization Regulation, breaches by operators resulting in the termination of the GSM concession agreement for any reason shall also result in the termination of the operator’s concession agreement signed for IMT-2000/UMTS service. Also, if the GSM concession agreement is not renewed at the end of its natural expiration, the ICTA may continue to allow the utilization of the needed infrastructure by IMT-2000/UMTS services on terms and conditions to be set by the ICTA itself.

Access and Interconnection Regulation

The Access and Interconnection Regulation (the “Regulation”) became effective when it was issued by the ICTA on September 8, 2009 and abolished the Access and Interconnection Regulation which was published on May 23, 2003. The Regulation sets forth the rights and obligations of the operators relating to access and interconnection and establishes rules and procedures pertaining to their performance of such obligations. The Regulation primarily sets forth applicable principles, details of access and interconnection obligations, financial provisions, and policies and procedures regarding negotiations and contracts for access and interconnection.

The Regulation is driven largely by a goal to improve the competitive environment and ensure that users benefit from electronic communications services and infrastructure at a reasonable cost. Under the Electronic Communications Law, the ICTA may compel a telecommunications operator to accept another operator’s request for access to and use of its network. All telecommunications operators in Turkey may be required to provide access to other operators. The operators who are compelled to provide access to other operators may be obliged to provide service and information on the same terms and qualifications provided to their shareholders, subsidiaries, and affiliates by ICTA.

According to the Electronic Communications Law, access agreements and interconnection agreements can be executed with the mutual understanding of the parties. If the parties do not execute the access agreements within two months of the access request or the existence of any disagreement in the access contract, the Authority may intervene in the negotiations of the access contract, upon request of one of the parties.

 

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In accordance with Article 7 of the aforementioned Electronic Communications Law, the ICTA may determine the operators that have significant market powers in the relevant market as a result of market analyses. After determination of the operators who have significant market power, the ICTA may impose additional liabilities for such operators in order to protect the competitive environment. On December 15, 2005, the ICTA designated Turkcell, Vodafone, and Avea as “operators holding significant market power” in the “GSM Mobile Call Termination Services Market” and designated Turkcell individually as an “operator holding significant market power” in the “Access to GSM Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets”. According to the new regulation published in the Official Gazette dated September 1, 2009 and numbered 27336, unless otherwise agreed, any decision taken by the ICTA in the years 2005 and 2006 relating to market analysis were valid and effective until the end of calendar year 2009. Pursuant to its decision dated December 8, 2009, the ICTA determined Turkcell individually as an operator holding a significant market power in the “Access to Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets”. Finally, on December 8, 2009, the ICTA designated Turkcell, Vodafone and Avea as operators holding significant market power in the “Mobile Call Termination Market”.

On December 15, 2005, the ICTA designated Turkcell, Vodafone, and Avea as “operators holding significant market power” in the “GSM Mobile Call Termination Services Market” and designated Turkcell, individually, as an “operator holding significant market power” in the “Access to GSM Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets”.

The Access and Interconnection Regulation (the “Regulation”) became effective when it was issued by the ICTA on September 8, 2009. It abolished the Access and Interconnection Regulation published on May 23, 2003. The Regulation sets forth the rights and obligations of operators relating to access and interconnection and establishes the rules and procedures pertaining to the performance of such obligations. The Regulation primarily sets forth the applicable principles, details of access and interconnection obligations, financial provisions, and policies and procedures regarding negotiations and contracts for access and interconnection.

Pursuant to its decision dated December 8, 2009, the ICTA designated Turkcell individually as an operator holding a significant market power in the “Access to Mobile Networks and Call Originating Markets” and as operator holding significant market power in the “Mobile Call Termination Market”, along with Avea and Vodafone. As a result of the significant market power designation in the “GSM Mobile Call Termination Services Market”, our company, as well as Avea and Vodafone, is required to provide interconnection services on a cost-based basis. Consequently, according to the Electronic Telecommunications Law, the ICTA may oblige such operators to provide access and to submit their reference offers for access and interconnection to the ICTA for prior review, and may require amendments to the operators’ reference access and interconnection offers. Operators are obliged to make the amendments requested by the ICTA in a prescribed manner and period. In addition, the operators shall be obliged to publish their reference offers for access and interconnection, which have been approved by the ICTA, and to provide access under conditions specified in their reference offers and interconnection, which have been approved by the ICTA. On February 10, 2010 the ICTA published “Interconnection Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators, which became effective on April 1, 2010. The Interconnection Tariffs have been approved as the tariffs to be determined in the reference access offers. According to the Interconnection Tariffs, the revised rate for Turkcell is 0.0313 (equivalent to $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011).

Regulation on Co-Location and Facility Sharing.

In addition, the ICTA has required operators to share certain facilities with other operators under certain conditions specified in the Electronic Communications Law and to provide co-location on their premises for the equipment of other operators at a reasonable price. As mentioned in such Law, procedure and principle relating to the co-location and facility sharing shall be determined by ICTA.

Under the Regulation, operators holding significant market power are required to provide access and services to all operators on equal terms. Operators with significant market power are also required to perform

 

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unbundling of their services, which means that they have to provide separate service of and access to transmission, switching, and operation interfaces. Furthermore, the ICTA may establish rules applicable to the division of the costs of facilities among parties.

The ICTA published a Communiqué concerning “Co-Location and Facility Sharing” on December 2, 2010 (which abolished the regulation published on December 31, 2003). According to the new Communiqué, if an operator i) does not provide co-location or asks unreasonable demands for co-location, and ii) if the ICTA decides that situation is inhibiting the competition or if this situation is against the end-users, then the ICTA should determine such operator as co-location incumbent. According the Communiqué, the tariffs for Co-Layout will be determined on a cost basis. If the ICTA ascertains that the tariffs for Co-Location are not determined on a cost-basis, the ICTA could set the tariffs.

Furthermore, pursuant to the new Communiqué all the operators i) who locate their facilities over or under a land which belongs to the public or a third party, or ii) who could use such lands or iii) who could derive benefit from the process of expropriation, are incumbents for facility sharing. The Communiqué also states the items which must be considered for determining the Facility Sharing prices.

Subsequently, the provisions that regulate ICTA approval of the examination fee determined by the Co-Location and Facility Sharing incumbent has been removed, enabling the Co-Location and Facility Sharing process for negotiation. In addition, the Facility Sharing incumbent’s right to allocate a facility for its own network and investment plans has been reduced to 25% of the facility.

All access and interconnection contracts must be submitted to the ICTA within fifteen days of execution. The ICTA may request modifications to the contracts should they contain any provisions contrary to the legislation. The access and interconnection contracts will be publicly available, excluding trade secrets. All operators holding significant market power will also be required to prepare reference interconnection proposals and submit them to ICTA. Except where otherwise specified by ICTA, reference interconnection proposals will be renewed every year. The Company submitted its final reference access proposal regarding 2011 to the ICTA in the first quarter of 2011.

If two operators are unable to reach an interconnection agreement within two months of the date of the initial access request, either party may refer the dispute to the ICTA for resolution. After this request, the ICTA initiates a settlement procedure and establishes terms, conditions, and fees applicable to the agreement and binding on both parties.

Should a telecommunications operator violate any provisions of the Regulation, the ICTA may impose an administrative fine of a maximum of 3% of the operator’s turnover for the preceding calendar year.

As a result of the significant market power designation in the “GSM Mobile Call Termination Services Market”, our company, as well as Avea and Vodafone, is required to provide interconnection services on a cost-based basis.

According to the provision of the Electronic Telecommunications Law, the ICTA may impose obligation on operators, who are obliged by the ICTA to provide access, to submit their reference offers for access, and may request to make necessary amendments in their reference access offers. Operators shall be obliged to make the amendments requested by the ICTA in prescribed manner and period. On the other hand, the operators shall be obliged to publish their reference offers for access, which have been approved by the ICTA, and to provide access under conditions specified in their reference offers, which have been approved by the ICTA. On February 10, 2010 the ICTA published “Interconnection Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators, which became effective on April 1, 2010. The Interconnection Tariffs have been approved as the tariffs to be determined in the reference access offers. According to the Interconnection Tariffs the revised rate for Turkcell will be TRY 0.0313 (approximately $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011).

 

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Regulation on Consumer Rights in the Electronic Communication Sector

The ICTA published a “Regulation on Consumer Rights in the Electronic Communication Sector” on July 28, 2010 (which abolished the regulation published on December 22, 2004). This Regulation introduces some radical changes to the electronic communication sector. With this Regulation, the ICTA determined new procedures/changes regarding:

 

   

the process and timing of churn steps;

 

   

the obligation of the operators to keep subscribers informed of services, including, but not limited to:

 

   

services with special contents;

 

   

informing customers about amendments of the campaigns and tariffs;

 

   

consumer complaints solution mechanism;

 

   

billing processes;

 

   

the right to determine upper invoice limits;

 

   

Internet security;

 

   

conditions we set for customers to suspend or limit services;

 

   

visually-impaired subscribers;

 

   

the definition of personal data; and

 

   

spam messages and emails.

Pursuant to this authority, the ICTA may regulate, for example, the maximum and minimum limits on billing, spam messaging and definition of personal data as it relates to directory services. In addition, the ICTA may restrict certain mobile internet and services that are provided by third parties. The ICTA’s regulation of these activities could have an adverse effect on our mobile telecommunications business and we may be fined if we do not comply. Furthermore, our compliance with the ICTA’s regulations may increase the costs of our doing business and could negatively impact our financial results.

Ukraine License Agreement

Astelit owns two GSM activity licenses, one for GSM—900 and one for DCS—1800. As at December 31, 2010, Astelit owned 24 GSM—900, DCS—1800, D-AMPS and microwave Radiorelay frequency licenses, which are regional and national. In addition to the GSM licenses, Astelit owns licenses for fixed local phone connections and wireless access using the D-AMPS standard. According to the licenses, Astelit should adhere to state sanitary regulations to ensure that the equipment used is not hazardous to the population and does not emit harmful electro-magnetic emissions. Licenses require Astelit to inform authorities of the start/end of operations within three months and changes in the incorporation address within 30 days. Also, Astelit must present all the required documents for inspection by the 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 due to the expiration of the licenses, upon mutual consent, or in the case of a violation of the terms regarding the use of radio frequencies. If such a violation is determined, the Ukrainian Telecommunications Authority will notify Astelit of the violations and will set the deadline for recovery. If the deadline is not met, the licenses may be terminated.

Belarus License Agreement

Belarusian Telecom owns a license, issued on August 28, 2008, that is valid for 10 years. In addition, the license shall be extended for an additional ten years. State Property Committee of the Republic of Belarus, as the

 

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Seller, has fulfilled its obligations stated in Sale and Purchase Agreement and submitted the related official documents on December 18, 2009. According to the current legislation of the Republic of Belarus, license extension is made upon the expiration of its validity period. Consequently, Belarusian Telecom shall apply for such extension to the Ministry of Communications and Informatization in August 2018. Under the terms of its license, Belarusian Telecom is required to gradually increase its geographical coverage through 2018. However, Belarusian Telecom’s period of execution with regards to coverage requirements has been extended for three years starting from the acquisition date.

Turk Telekom, Vodafone and Avea Interconnection Agreements

General

We have interconnection agreements with Turk Telekom, Vodafone and Avea whereby they allow us to connect our networks with theirs to enable the transmission of calls to and from our mobile communications system through existing digital fixed telephone switches.

The interconnection agreements also establish understandings between the parties relating to various key operational areas, including call traffic management, and the agreements contemplate that we and the other parties will agree to the contents of various manuals that will set forth in detail additional specifications concerning matters which are not specifically covered in the interconnection agreement. These matters include quality and performance standards, interconnection interfaces and other technical, operational and procedural aspects of interconnection.

The interconnection agreements specify that the parties shall comply with relevant international standards, including standards adopted by the GSM Memorandum of Understanding, the Telecommunications Standards Bureau of the International Telecommunications Union, and the European Telecommunications Standards Institute. In the absence of applicable international standards, the interconnection agreements provide that the parties will establish written standards to govern between them.

The interconnection agreements outline the applicable interconnection principles and provide the technical basis and rationale for technical specifications and manuals to be agreed to by the parties. The interconnection agreements:

 

   

set forth agreements between the parties relating to the location of exchanges;

 

   

create obligations regarding network alterations;

 

   

establish routing principles to govern how call traffic will be routed within a network and between the networks of the parties, including interconnection routing rules;

 

   

provide for arrangements concerning capacity and expansion of capacity through new points of interconnection;

 

   

mandate arrangements concerning the use of numbering to transmit calls in accordance with national and international practices;

 

   

provide for periodic technical review meetings between the parties;

 

   

permit each party to engage in testing of interconnection exchanges;

 

   

address the consequences of transmission failures;

 

   

create an obligation to cooperate in order to maximize overall quality of transmission of calls in accordance with international standards;

 

   

deal with emergency calls, calling line identification and malicious call identification;

 

   

assure the ability of a party to have access to the other party’s premises where relevant equipment may be located (subject to appropriate protections);

 

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establish procedures to deal with network faults; and

 

   

address issues relating to the construction and installation of antennas, towers, and other elements of system infrastructure.

In addition, the parties agree to provide to the other party information which is necessary to enable performance of their interconnection obligations, the provision of services, or utilization of equipment and/or buildings as contemplated in the interconnection agreement.

Negotiations were held with Vodafone and Avea to provide electronic communication services within the scope of the IMT-2000/UMTS authorization; however, parties could not agree on the terms. The ICTA decision n°371 dated July 15, 2009 determined the fees to be applied for voice (as TRY 0.0655 (equivalent to $0.0432 as of April 7, 2011)) and video call (as TRY 0.0775 (equivalent to $0.0511 as of April 7, 2011)) termination within the scope of IMT-2000/UMTS services. Our company initiated a lawsuit before the Council of State to annul and suspend the entry into force of the said decision of ICTA. The Court overruled the suspension of execution request and the Company objected to this decision, but our objection was rejected. The lawsuit is still pending.

Turk Telekom

Pursuant to the interconnection agreement, Turk Telekom agrees to permit us to use its buildings, premises, and other infrastructure and to lease the means of communications transmission between our GSM exchanges, base stations, and base station control stations. We retain the right, however, to establish our own transmission network at our own expense in the event that such transmission network is not made available to us by Turk Telekom, subject to the consent of ICTA.

If Turk Telekom enters into interconnection agreements with other operators of mobile or similar telecommunications services, the conditions of such agreements must be the same as those in their interconnection agreement with us. If any such agreement does contain differing terms, we have the right to demand identical terms. If we desire to use the facilities and such use would impair the use of such facilities by others, our request will be given priority over potential users of the facilities that have not entered into license agreements with ICTA. Priority among operators which have entered into such license agreements will be given to the application that was first received by Turk Telekom.

The Turk Telekom interconnection agreement specifies that ownership of the GSM equipment and other materials, including those in existence on the date of the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement and those subsequently installed, belong to us. The agreement also provides that intellectual property rights will belong to the developer or owner.

Payments

The Turk Telekom interconnection agreement provides for the payment by us to Turk Telekom of fees for the interconnection services provided by Turk Telekom and for the lease of transmitting facilities linking base stations, mobile telephone exchanges and base station control stations. Turk Telekom is not entitled to any payment in respect of our use of our own transmission system. Turk Telekom also agrees to pay us for calls transmitted over our network.

The Turk Telekom interconnection agreement provides that Turk Telekom will pay the 1% Turkish communications tax, which is payable on the basis of communications fees collected by Turk Telekom from customers in connection with telephone, facsimile, telex and data excluding subscription fees. Turk Telekom is required to pay this tax to the relevant municipality pursuant to the Municipality Revenues Act. We would be liable in respect of any increase in the applicable rate of the communication tax. If a party fails to make payment when due, it shall pay default interest, to be calculated based on the commercial advance interest rate of the CBRT for the period between when the payment is due and when the payment shall be made, and it shall also pay a penalty for such delay at a rate of 10%.

 

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A number of the provisions of the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement address matters concerning billing and payment of bills for services rendered under the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement. Each party is required to record call information and to provide that information to the other party. Each party is responsible for invoicing the other party on a monthly basis.

Call Tariffs

In accordance with the September 26, 2008 decision of the ICTA, effective from April 1, 2008, Turk Telekom paid Turkcell TRY 0.091 (approximately $0.060 as of April 7, 2011) per minute and Turkcell paid to Turk Telekom a net amount of TRY 0.0171 (approximately equivalent to $0.0113 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for local traffic and a net amount of TRY 0.027 (approximately equivalent to $0.018 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for metropolitan and long-distance traffic routed from Turkcell to Turk Telekom, retroactively.

In 2009, the ICTA issued revised Interconnection Tariffs, after which Turk Telekom paid Turkcell TRY 0.0655 (approximately $0.0432 as of April 7, 2011) per minute and Turkcell paid Turk Telekom a net amount of TRY 0.0171 (approximately $0.0113 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for local traffic and a net amount of TRY 0.027 (approximately $0.018 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for metropolitan and long-distance traffic routed from Turkcell to Turk Telekom. Pursuant to this decision, the ICTA announced local interconnection rates for Turk Telekom for the first time. Accordingly, Turkcell paid Turk Telekom TRY 0.0139 (approximately $0.0092 as of April 7, 2011) for local interconnection per minute.

On February 10, 2010, the ICTA issued new Interconnection Tariffs. According to this decision, as of April 1, 2010, Turk Telekom pays Turkcell TRY 0.0313 (approximately $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011) per minute and Turkcell pays Turk Telekom a net amount of TRY 0.0139 (approximately $0.0092 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for local traffic and a net amount of TRY 0.0171 (approximately $0.0113 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for metropolitan and a net amount of TRY 0.0224 (approximately $0.0148 as of April 7, 2011) for long-distance traffic routed from Turkcell to Turk Telekom.

On April 10, 2009, Turk Telekom consulted the ICTA in determining the SMS termination fee and the ICTA with its decision dated September 9, 2009 set the SMS termination fee at TRY 0.017 (approximately $0.011 as of April 7, 2011) for SMS Services from Turk Telekom’s network per SMS, and TRY 0.017 (approximately $0.011 as of April 7, 2011) for SMS services from our net network to Turk Telekom’s network. Currently, for the SMS Services between Turk Telekom and Turkcell, the SMS termination fees that are set by the ICTA with its decision dated September 9, 2009 are being applied.

In accordance with the interconnection agreement between Turkcell and Turk Telekom, for international calls originating from Turkcell network and carried by Turk Telekom, Turkcell pays Turk Telekom 70% of the net amount of Turk Telekom’s retail international call charges. Pursuant to this agreement, Turk Telekom was obliged to pay us 45% of the international settlement charge (terminal rate) that is transferred by the international carrier operator to Turk Telekom for incoming international calls that are terminated on our network. For the termination service price of calls from international destinations to Turkcell network carried by Turk Telekom, Turkcell applied to the ICTA for reconciliation. As a result of that process, the ICTA decided Turk Telekom to pay Turkcell TRY 0.136 (approximately equivalent to $0.090 as of April 7, 2011) for termination of international calls. This call termination rate for international calls has been reduced in subsequent years by the ICTA in parallel with the reduction of national call termination rates. As of April 1 2010, Turk Telekom pays Turkcell TRY 0.0313 (approximately $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011) per minute. We and Turk Telekom have an ongoing dispute over this agreement. See “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings”.

We do not pay any charges to Turk Telekom for calls to special service numbers which are called free of charge according to Turk Telekom tariffs. For calls to special service numbers that are not free of charge, one party pays the other 72% of the other’s retail charge for that service, excluding VAT and SCT.

 

 

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Rental Rates

According to the Interconnection Agreement with Turk Telekom, the rental rates for Turk Telekom’s real estate, leased by us and located in residential areas, should be established according to an expert’s report prepared by the local real estate experts of Turkish Emlak Bank. If there is no Turkish Emlak Bank unit in the area, or if the Turkish Emlak Bank cannot prepare an expertise report, then the rental rate is based on the average rental prices determined by the relevant units of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry or, in cases where the above two units are not available, according to a report prepared by a valuation committee that will be established by the participation of three Turk Telekom personnel and one of our personnel.

Upon the expiry of a one-year rental period, rental price increases will be made according to rates issued in the annual state tenders report prepared by the Ministry of Finance, and 45% of the rental fee will be added for expenses, including personnel, lighting and water, among others, starting from the beginning of the lease period.

Charges for Energy at Switching Centers

We can subscribe to Turkish Electricity Distribution Co. (“TEDAS”) or another relevant electricity distribution company as a standalone customer and pay its energy usage charges. In such case, we will not pay any charges to Turk Telekom. We may also source energy by connecting a three phase electricity measuring gauge to Turk Telekom’s energy distribution panel. The expenses related to the connection of the measuring gauge will be borne by us. In addition, we may source energy by connecting an electricity measuring gauge to Turk Telekom’s generator, provided that all expenses related to the connection will be borne by us. The energy usage fee shall be calculated in accordance with a formula set forth in the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement. Under the Revenue Sharing Agreement, we were not required to pay Turk Telekom for these services.

Miscellaneous

A party may seek to modify the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement by serving the other party with a notice of request to review such agreement if:

 

   

our license is materially changed (whether by amendment or replacement);

 

   

a material change occurs in the laws or regulations governing telecommunications in Turkey;

 

   

the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement expressly provides for a review or makes express provision for a review or the parties agree in writing that there should be such a review;

 

   

a material change occurs which affects or could affect the commercial or technical basis of the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement; or

 

   

there is a general review pursuant to the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement.

Upon service of a review notice, the parties must negotiate in good faith toward a resolution of the subject matter of the review. If the parties fail to reach agreement within three months from the date of service of the review notice, either party may request that the ICTA determine the manner, if any, in which the Turk Telekom interconnection agreement should be modified. The Turk Telekom interconnection agreement will be modified in accordance with that determination, unless the determination is subject to a legal challenge. The Turk Telekom interconnection agreement can be assigned in accordance with our license agreement. The Turk Telekom interconnection agreement will terminate automatically upon the expiry of our license period or on termination of our license agreement by ICTA. Neither party may assign the businesses which are the subject matter of the interconnection agreement to any third party unless such assignment is required under the provisions of the Regulation and the License Agreement or the other party’s prior consent is obtained.

 

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Vodafone Interconnection Agreement

As a result of the acquisition of Telsim by Vodafone, all the liabilities of Telsim arising from the Interconnection Agreement signed with us were transferred to Vodafone as of May 24, 2006. In line with this, Turkcell and Vodafone signed an agreement in July 2006 to amend the present interconnection agreement through agreeing general principles of our collaboration as a result of the transfer.

In light of this transaction, the following discussion will only refer to Vodafone. It should be noted however, that agreements entered into before May 24, 2006 were entered into by Telsim, the acquired company.

The Vodafone interconnection agreement provides for the payment of fees by us to Vodafone for the interconnection services provided by Vodafone. A number of the provisions of the Vodafone interconnection agreement address matters concerning billing and payment of bills for services rendered under the Vodafone interconnection agreement. Each party is required to record certain call information and to provide that information to the other party. Each party is responsible for invoicing the other party on a monthly basis.

Call Tariffs

With respect to call tariffs in 2008, the parties applied to ICTA. On August 26, 2008, the ICTA concluded the reconciliation process and determined that the termination rates between Turkcell and Vodafone were valid and binding as from April 1, 2008, by applying its provisional termination tariffs. In accordance with this decision, Turkcell paid Vodafone TRY 0.095 per minute (approximately $0.063 as of April 7, 2011) and Vodafone paid Turkcell TRY 0.091 per minute (approximately $0.060 as of April 7, 2011) for call traffic.

On March 25, 2009, the ICTA issued “Interconnection Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators”. From May 1, 2009 through April 1, 2010, Turkcell paid Vodafone 0.0675 TRY per minute (approximately $0.0445 as of April 7, 2011) and Vodafone paid Turkcell 0.0655 TRY per minute (approximately $0.0432 as of April 7, 2011 for call traffic.

On February 10, 2010, the ICTA issued “Interconnection Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators”. Beginning April 1, 2010, Turkcell pays Vodafone TRY 0.0323 per minute (approximately $0.0213 as of April 7, 2011) and Vodafone pays Turkcell TRY 0.0313 per minute (approximately $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011) for call traffic. Turkcell shall pay Vodafone TRY 0.0775 (approximately $0.0511 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for video calls and vice versa. The fees for SMS services were determined by the ICTA on October 27, 2009, upon Vodafone’s request. For the SMS services the ICTA determined that as of July 1, 2009, Vodafone is to pay Turkcell TRY 0.017 (approximately $0.011 as of April 7, 2011) per SMS and Turkcell pays Vodafone the same amount per SMS.

Moreover, with respect to MMS Services, until November 1, 2010, Vodafone and Turkcell paid the other a net amount of TRY 0.094 (approximately $0.062 as of April 7, 2011) per MMS, in accordance with the MMS Termination Protocol signed by both parties in 2008. Due to the amendment of the MMS Termination Protocol, beginning from November 1 2010, Vodafone and Turkcell each pay the other a net amount of TRY 0.055 per MMS.

Both parties charge each other 10% higher priced than effective call termination tariffs per minute for accessing the other’s directory inquiry services.

A party may seek to modify the Vodafone interconnection agreement by serving the other party with a notice of request to review such agreement if:

 

   

its license is materially changed (whether by amendment or replacement);

 

   

a material change occurs in the law or regulations governing telecommunications in Turkey;

 

 

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the interconnection agreement expressly provides for a review or makes express provision for a review or the parties agree in writing that there should be such a review;

 

   

a material change occurs that affects or could affect the commercial or technical basis of the interconnection agreement; or

 

   

there is a general review pursuant to the interconnection agreement.

Upon service of a review notice, the parties must negotiate in good faith toward a resolution of the subject matter of the review. If the parties fail to reach agreement within three months from the date of service of the review notice, either party may request that the ICTA determine the manner, if any, in which the Vodafone interconnection agreement should be modified. The Vodafone interconnection agreement will be modified in accordance with that determination, unless the determination is subject to a legal challenge. The Vodafone interconnection agreement cannot be assigned or transferred by the parties without the other party’s prior written consent.

The Vodafone interconnection agreement will remain in force for the duration of the license period unless one of the parties serves a three month termination notice to the other party.

The Vodafone interconnection agreement will terminate:

 

   

automatically upon expiry of the parties’ respective license periods or on termination of the respective license agreements by the Turkish Ministry; or

 

   

save for events of force majeure, upon one month’s termination notice by the parties, due to failure to fulfill the obligations in the interconnection agreement for a period in excess of three months.

Even in the event of termination of the interconnection agreement, all services provided and the obligations of the parties during the term of this agreement will remain effective for a period of six months until interconnection can be established with Turk Telekom or another alternative network operator.

Any disputes between the parties shall first be subject to friendly settlement efforts. In the event that the parties fail to reach an amicable settlement, they then shall refer the matter to the ICTA for its recommended solution to the dispute in question. If the proposed solution recommended by the ICTA is not accepted by the parties, the parties are free to refer the matter to arbitration in accordance with the provisions of the Turkish Civil Procedural Law.

Avea Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. Interconnection Agreement

We and Avea, the entity incorporated as a result of the merger of Is-TIM and Aycell, signed a protocol canceling the interconnection agreement between Turkcell and Aycell and the parties agreed that the Is-Tim interconnection agreement will be applicable between the parties. References to the “Avea Interconnection Agreement” refer to the original Is-TIM interconnection agreement that now governs our interconnection relationship with Avea.

Payments

The Avea Interconnection Agreement provides for the payment of fees by us to Avea for the interconnection services provided by Avea. A number of the provisions of the interconnection agreement address matters concerning billing and payment of bills for services rendered under the interconnection agreement. Each party is required to record certain call information and to provide that information to the other party. Each party is responsible for invoicing the other party on a monthly basis.

 

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Call Tariffs

On August 26, 2008, the ICTA concluded the reconciliation process to be applied between Turkcell and Avea to be valid and binding as from April 1, 2008, by applying its provisional termination tariffs. In accordance with this decision, Turkcell pays Avea TRY 0.112 per minute (approximately $0.074 as of April 7, 2011) and Avea pays Turkcell TRY 0.091 per minute (approximately $0.060 as of April 7, 2011). On March 25, 2009, the ICTA issued “Interconnection Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM operators. As of May 1, 2009, Turkcell pays Avea 0.0775 TRY per minute (approximately $0.0511 as of April 7, 2011) and Avea pays Turkcell 0.0655 TRY per minute (approximately $0.0432 as of April 7, 2011) for call traffic.

On February 10, 2010, the ICTA issued “Interconnection Tariffs” for Turk Telekom and GSM Operators”. As of April 1, 2010, Turkcell pays Avea TRY 0.0370 per minute (approximately $0.0244 as of April 7, 2011) and Avea pays Turkcell TRY 0.0313 per minute (approximately $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011) for call traffic. In addition, Turkcell and Avea each pay the other TRY 0.0775 ($0.0511 as of April 7, 2011) per minute for video calls.

On January 16, 2009, the ICTA concluded the reconciliation process to be applied between Turkcell and Avea with regards to SMS termination fees. In accordance with this decision, Turkcell pays Avea TRY 0.0187 per SMS (approximately $0.0123 as of April 7, 2011) and Avea pays Turkcell TRY 0.0170 per SMS (approximately $0.0112 as of April 7, 2011).

Avea applied to the ICTA for MMS Services and the ICTA decided to enter into a MMS Termination Protocol that was signed with Avea on June 22, 2009. ICTA also determined the fees for MMS Services. Pursuant to the ICTA’s decision, Avea currently pays TRY 0.0340 (approximately $0.0224 as of April 7, 2011) to Turkcell and Turkcell pays TRY 0.0374 (approximately $0.0247 as of April 7, 2011) per MMS.

A party may seek to modify the interconnection agreement by serving the other party with a notice of request to review the agreement if:

 

   

its license is materially changed (whether by amendment or replacement);

 

   

a material change occurs in the law or regulations governing telecommunications in Turkey;

 

   

the interconnection agreement expressly provides for a review or makes express provision for a review or the parties agree in writing that there should be such a review;

 

   

a material change occurs which affects or could affect the commercial or technical basis of the interconnection agreement; or

 

   

there is a general review pursuant to the interconnection agreement.

Upon service of a review notice, the parties must negotiate in good faith toward a resolution of the subject matter of the review. If the parties fail to reach agreement within three months from the date of service of the review notice, either party may request that the ICTA determine the manner, if any, in which the interconnection agreement should be modified. The interconnection agreement will be modified in accordance with that determination, unless the determination is subject to a legal challenge. The interconnection agreement cannot be assigned or transferred by the parties without the other party’s prior written consent.

We and Avea have an on-going dispute over SMS termination fees. The relevant court accepted the request of Avea and we have appealed the decision. This lawsuit is still pending. See “Item 8A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings” of this annual report on Form 20-F.

The Avea interconnection agreement will remain in force for the duration of the license period unless one of the parties serves a three-month termination notice to the other party.

 

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The Avea interconnection agreement will terminate:

 

   

automatically upon expiry of the parties’ respective license periods or on termination of the respective license agreements by the Turkish Ministry; or

 

   

save for events of force majeure, upon one month’s termination notice by the parties, due to failure to fulfill the obligations in the interconnection agreement for a period in excess of three months.

Even in the event of termination of the interconnection agreement, all services provided and the obligations of the parties during the term of this agreement will continue to become effective for a period of six months until interconnection can be realized with Turk Telekom or another alternative network operator.

Any disputes between the parties shall first be subject to friendly settlement by the efforts of the parties. In the event that parties fail to reach an amicable settlement, then they shall refer the matter to the ICTA for its recommended solution to the dispute in question. If the proposed solution recommended by the ICTA is not accepted by the parties, the parties are free to refer the matter to arbitration in accordance with the provisions of the Turkish Civil Procedural Law.

Agreements Concluded with Operators Licensed to Provide Satellite Services

We have executed agreements with Globalstar Avrasya Uydu Ses ve Data Iletisim A.S. and Teknomobil Uydu Haberlesme A.S., operators licensed to provide satellite services. The scope of such agreements is the interconnection between the networks of the parties and the determination of the principal and procedures of the methods of network operating and clearance.

Agreements Concluded with the Operators (formerly) authorized as Fixed Telecommunication Services Operator

Call Termination Agreements

Turkcell, as an “operator holding significant market power”, entered into Call Termination Agreements with all operators licensed to provide Long-Distance Call Services. Under the Call Termination Agreements, Turkcell agreed, among other things, to terminate voice calls carried by the operators and rising from a national fixed telecommunication’s network and/or any international telecommunication’s network in accordance with technical specifications set out in the agreement.

These agreements are currently in effect, but as stated above with respect to the execution of the aforementioned regulation, operators having a license for Long Distance Telephony Service shall be counted as authorized by notification and, if necessary, by granting right of use of numbers from the Authority for Fixed Telephony Service.

International Transit Traffic Services Agreements

Turkcell entered into International Traffic Carrying Services Agreements with nine operators. Under these Agreements, we may carry calls to these operators’ switches for onward transmission to their destinations and these operators should provide the termination of these calls on the relevant network. These operators charge us at various prices identified within the scope of the agreement for the calls directed to numerous networks around the globe. The operators may modify their rates upon fifteen days advanced written notice and such rates will become applicable upon our approval.

Interconnection Agreements

Turkcell entered into interconnection agreements with two fixed telecommunication service operators (Superonline and Netgsm Iletisim ve Bilgi Teknolojileri A.S.) The interconnection agreement signed with

 

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Superonline on May 31, 2010 relates to the commercial decisions and choices of Turkcell. The interconnection agreement signed with Netgsm Iletisim ve Bilgi Teknolojileri A.S. on January 6, 2011 relates to the decisions of the ICTA.

MVNO Services

Negotiations to enter into agreements with MVNOs are pending. However, it should be noted that the ICTA with its decision, which was taken upon application of one MVNO, decided that Turkcell has to send a draft MVNO agreement to the MVNO which applied to ICTA. Furthermore, the ICTA with the same decision determined the call origination and termination fees for voice as TRY 0.0313 per minute (approximately $0.0207 as of April 7, 2011), for video call as TRY 0.0775 per minute (approximately $0.0511 as of April 7, 2011) and for SMS as TRY 0.0170 per SMS) to be applied to the MVNO which submitted an application to the ICTA.

Directory Services

Turkcell entered into agreements relating to the provision of directory services with Seven Directory Service Providers, which are licensed to provide directory services by the ICTA. The aforementioned agreements determine the principles and procedures related to the access of the companies to Turkcell data base, the provision of guidance services to the subscribers and clearing procedure of the parties. Such agreements are valid and binding for a term of one year. However, if neither party notifies the other party one month before the expiration of the agreement of its request to terminate, the agreement will automatically be renewed for another one year term.

Prospective Legislation and Regulations

Within the scope of the provisions of the Electronic Communications Law, current telecommunications legislation shall be revised and amended. The revision and amending processes are still ongoing. However, during this period, all regulations and communiqués that were effective prior to the publication of the Electronic Communications Law will still be valid and binding with the condition not being contrary to the provisions of the Electronic Communications Law. Therefore, subjects, which are explained below, have not yet been regulated by the ICTA.

Regulations

The ICTA is preparing to abolish Regulation on Personal Information Processing and preparing to publish a new Regulation on Data Secrecy in Electronic Communications Sector thus requested our Company’s opinions on the draft Regulation. The purpose of this regulation is to define the procedures and principles that the operators and legal entities/ individuals which provide/receive services in the electronic communication sector in an effort to process, store and protect personal information in the electronic communications sector. In contrast to the current regulation, the draft regulation would require the consumer’s approval prior to a direct marketing SMS being sent.

 

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4.C Organizational Structure

The following chart lists each of our key subsidiaries (including our ownership interest in Fintur) and our proportionate direct and indirect ownership interest as of April 7, 2011:

LOGO

 

Notes:

(1) KCell is 51% owned by Fintur and the remaining 49% is owned by Kazakhtelecom JSC, the Kazakh incumbent fixed-line telecom provider.
(2) Azertel is 51.3% owned by Fintur and the remaining 48.7% of the shares are owned by Cenay Group, a privately held Turkish group of companies. Azercell is 100% owned by Azertel. Fintur’s effective ownership in Azercell is 51.3%.
(3) Gurtel is 99.99% owned by Fintur and Geocell is 100% owned by Gurtel.
(4) Moldcell is 99% owned by Fintur and 1% owned by Molfintur SRL, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fintur.
(5) Merger of Tellcom and Superonline was completed on May 1, 2009. This company is now called “Superonline”.
(6) Turkcell Europe started its operations in March 2011 as an MVNO by providing mobile voice and data services in Germany.

For information on the country of incorporation of our key subsidiaries, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview”.

4.D Property, Plant and Equipment

Our principal property, plant and equipment consists of management offices, switching sites, network infrastructure sites, and network and office equipment.

The Group owns buildings in Istanbul Beyoglu (headquarters), Istanbul Maltepe, Istanbul Kartal, Istanbul Davutpasa, Ankara-Cinnah, Ankara-Sogutozu, Adana, Diyarbakir, Samsun, Izmir, Antalya, Trabzon and Bursa. In addition, we rented the following buildings in 2010: Academy, Sisli, Turkcell Head Quarters Plus (TMO+), Van, Kayseri and Maltepe Plus.

 

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In addition to the foregoing properties, we maintain two rented warehouses in Istanbul (Tuzla Omsan and Trio).

Switches

We have switches in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Corlu (Tekirdag), Bursa, Kocaeli, Mugla, Bodrum, Balikesir, Denizli, Aydin, Konya, Sakarya, Kayseri, Eskisehir, Samsun, Trabzon, Erzurum, Van, Diyarbakir, Adana, Antalya, Mersin, Manisa, Corum, Tokat, Hatay and Gaziantep. Additionally, we have Remote BSC (“RBSC”) locations at Artvin, Alanya, Malatya, Elazig, Sanliurfa, Sirnak, Ordu, Rize, Agri, Kutahya, Afyon, Kars and Adiyaman.

In addition, we own switch buildings in different cities of Turkey, such as Mahmutbey (Istanbul), Aydin, Balikesir, Denizli, Mugla, Bodrum, Izmit, Konya, Erzurum. Switch buildings are where the network switching equipment (such as Mobile Switching Center-servers (“MSC-s”), Media Gateways (“MGW”), BSCs and Radio Network Controllers (“RNC”) is located.

Base stations

At the end of December 2010, we owned over 24,000 base stations and leased the land underlying such base stations.

In 2009, the ICTA resolved that operators may transfer the right of use of their towers to third parties. In accordance with this resolution, we transferred the right of use of 2,914 towers to Global Tower, including the towers that are determined as suitable for right of use transfer, to be used by Global Tower for the provision of its services to the wireless broadcast and communications industry in Turkey, 30 of which were removed from the network in 2010. As of December 31, 2010, Global Tower provided services to the industry with 2,694 masts and towers built by Global Tower and 2,884 towers transferred from Turkcell that are located throughout Turkey.

 

ITEM 4.A UNRESOLVED STAFF COMMENTS

None.

 

ITEM 5 OPERATING AND FINANCIAL REVIEW AND PROSPECTS

The following discussion and analysis by our management of the financial condition and the results of our operations should be read together with the consolidated financial statements included in this annual report. In addition to historical information, the following discussion contains forward-looking statements based on current expectations that involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results and the timing of certain events may differ significantly from those projected in such forward-looking statements due to a number of factors, including those set forth in “Risk factors” and elsewhere in this annual report.

Overview of the Turkish Economy

The global economy is in recovery mode. Growth has reverted to pre-crisis levels in nearly all major economies and regions. Emerging markets continue to be the key driving force for global economic growth. In 2010, Turkey exited the recession with relatively strong rate of growth driven by domestic demand due to the low interest rate environment. In 2010, GDP growth was 8.9%, which was the highest level of growth since the 9.4% seen in 2004. However, in 2010 our revenues remained almost flat, improving slightly from TRY 8,936.4 million in 2009 to TRY 9,003.6 million, mainly due to 26.4% growth in Turkcell Turkey’s mobile internet and services revenues and a higher contribution from subsidiaries, despite the adverse effects of regulatory decisions.

 

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2011 is expected to be another year of recovery; however, marked by uneven global growth led by emerging markets with developed countries lagging. Global imbalances may remain high. The current monetary and fiscal responsibilities of the global economies may further hinder the path of recovery. Growth optimism for 2011, driven by emerging markets, may be adversely affected by the possibility of negative economic shocks from Europe, the United States and Japan, rising inflation in Emerging Markets due to rising food and energy prices and tension in the Middle East and Africa regions. The biggest threat to the global economy is rising oil prices due to oil supply shock if the revolutionary upheaval in the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region spreads. On the other hand, the earthquake and tsunami that ravaged Japan, the third largest economy in the world, will likely have a short term effect on the global economy and it will not derail the global economic recovery.

Since Turkey is an oil importer country, high oil prices might have a widening effect on current account deficit and put pressure on inflation in the medium term. And also the non-energy ties with MENA region can have an adverse effect on growth prospects in Turkey.

The medium-term risks for the Turkish economy relate to the widening current account deficit and inflation. Asymmetric growth drivers (i.e., too much domestic, and very little foreign, demand) have caused a very swift widening in Turkey’s external imbalance. Currently, the bulk of the current account deficit is financed by short-term portfolio inflows. However, if Turkey’s strong growth is to be sustainable over the long term, high quality financing will be required. Turkey’s current account deficit totaled $48.6 billion in 2010 compared to $14.0 billion in 2009. This deficit amounted to 6.5% and 2.3% of Gross Domestic Product (“GDP”) in 2010 and 2009, respectively. In 2010, net foreign direct investment amounted to $7.1 billion, an increase of 3.9% compared to 2009. Net foreign direct investment inflows represented an amount equal to 15% of the current account deficit, compared to approximately 49% in 2009.

CBRT has implemented a new monetary policy framework that combines a lower policy rate with tightening liquidity via non-interest tools. CBRT also believes that the rapid widening of the current account deficit and the fact that it is financed by short-term capital inflows present risks to future financial stability. The most obvious risks associated with this new framework are weakness of the Turkish Lira and potential inflationary pressures as the output gap compresses rapidly.

After much volatility, annual inflation was 6.40% at the end of 2010, below the CBRT’s target level of 6.50%. Attaining the 2010 inflation target is clearly an achievement and improves the CBRT’s track record for inflation targeting. CBRT is expected to keep rates on hold as long as it can in 2011 while inflation remains subdued. Inflationary pressures, however, are brewing. While there may be some moderation due to corrections in food prices and favorable base effects in the short term, a rapidly closing output gap and rising global commodity prices are providing early warning signs. The possibility of pre-election spending is also an important risk clouding the 2011 inflation outlook. The latest CBRT expectation survey indicates that consumer inflation is expected to be 6.5% at the end of 2011, above the CBRT target of 5.5% for 2011.

Turkish politics do not pose a severe risk since Turkey has had a strong single party government for over a decade. However, political divisions between moderate Islamists and secularists, including in the judiciary and military, are a constant source of political tension that has frequently delayed the policy making process. Security risks from Kurdish separatist militants and anti-government organizations remain a concern in Turkey, especially in the south-eastern part of the country. The general elections in mid-2011 are likely to be the main political risk unless a majority government is maintained. Turkey’s recent diplomatic foray into the Middle East, most notably in Iran, has raised concerns about Turkey’s EU membership process. There have been questions as to whether Turkey is moving away from its EU accession goals. Turkey, however, has continued to demonstrate its commitment to the EU membership process by moving ahead with formal accession talks.

It is likely that Turkey’s rating will be raised to investment grade by at least one of the rating agencies in the future due to its low level of indebtedness and favorable growth dynamics, which further improve its debt ratios.

 

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The agencies, however, may prefer to wait until after the June 2011 elections to make their decision regarding Turkey’s rating upgrades.

The TRY’s performance during the first 11 months of 2010 was parallel to other Emerging Market currencies. After the CBRT signaled a rate cut in early December, the TRY weakened and ended the year 2.7% depreciated against the U.S. dollar. In 2011, Emerging Market currencies may experience appreciation pressures compared to the G3 currencies following loose monetary policies in developed countries and stronger macroeconomic data in Emerging Markets. However, the large external financing needs and the CBRT’s risky strategy continue to keep TRY from appreciating.

Taxation Issues in Telecommunications Sector

Under current Turkish tax laws, there are several taxes imposed on the services provided by telecommunications operators in Turkey. These taxes are charged to subscribers by GSM operators and remitted to the relevant tax authorities. They may be charged upon subscription, on an annual basis or on an ad valorem basis on the service fees charged to subscribers.

The following are the most significant taxes imposed on our telecommunications services:

Special Communications Tax

The Turkish government imposed a special 25% communications tax on mobile telephone services as part of a series of new taxes levied to finance public works required to respond to the earthquakes that struck Turkey’s Marmara region in 1999. This tax is paid by mobile users and collected by GSM operators. The special communications tax on new subscriptions was TRY 31.78 (equivalent to $20.97 as of April 7, 2011) and TRY 31.10 (equivalent to $20.52 as of April 7, 2011) in 2010 and 2009, respectively. As of January 1, 2011, the special communications tax on new subscriptions levied is TRY 34.0 (equivalent to $22.4 as of April 7, 2011). The tax has had a correlative negative impact on mobile usage.

Under Law No. 5838, which became effective on March 1, 2009, wired, wireless and mobile internet service providers are subject to a special 5% communications tax (previously such tax was 25%). Other than mobile internet services, all mobile telecommunication services remain subject to a special 25% communications tax. The tax collected from subscribers in one calendar month is remitted to the tax authorities within the first 15 days of the following month.

Value Added Tax (“VAT”)

Like all services in Turkey, services provided by GSM operators are subject to VAT, which is 18% of the service fees charged to subscribers. We declare VAT to the Ministry of Finance within 24 days and remit VAT paid by our subscribers within the first 26 days of the month following when the tax was incurred, after the offset of input VAT incurred by us.

VAT for roaming services was, until November 3, 2009, calculated solely on the mark-up amount on subscribers’ invoices for roaming services. Following the Ministry of Finance’s declaration of a change in its position regarding roaming charges, we began imposing VAT and the special communications tax on the entire amount of roaming charges starting from November 3, 2009 to comply with this change in position.

Reverse charge VAT is calculated on the invoices issued by foreign GSM operators.

License and Annual Utilization Fees

According to Article number 46 of the Electronic Communications Law, subscribers registered in the system are subject to both license and annual utilization fees.

 

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The license fee is paid once on the subscription for wireless equipment. As of January 1, 2010, the license fee is TRY 12.26 (equivalent to $8.09 as of April 7, 2011). For postpaid subscribers, the license fee is divided into the number of months remaining in the year in which it is payable and charged to the subscriber in equal installments. As of January 1, 2011, the license fee is TRY 13.20 (equivalent to $8.71 as of April 7, 2011).

The amount of the annual utilization fee depends on whether a subscriber is postpaid or prepaid. For postpaid subscribers, the annual utilization fee is the same amount as the license fee, TRY 12.26 (equivalent to $8.09 as of April 7, 2011), and is charged to subscribers in 12 equal monthly installments. As of January 1, 2011, the annual utilization fee is TRY 13.20 (equivalent to $8.71 as of April 7, 2011). In addition, GSM operators pay monthly charges to the government. For prepaid subscribers, the annual utilization fee is calculated by multiplying the number of registered prepaid subscribers by the annual utilization fee. The calculated bulk annual utilization fee is paid by the GSM operators the following year on the last business day in February.

Special Consumption Tax

The special consumption tax is a tax on prescribed goods, which includes mobile phones. The special consumption tax is charged on mobile phones either when they are imported or when they are sold by Turkish manufacturers. The special consumption tax rate on mobile phones (mobile phones are legally defined as “transmitter/receiver cellular phones”) is currently 20%. Until December 31, 2013, the special consumption tax calculated in accordance with 20% rate shall not fall below TRY 40.00 (equivalent to $26.39 as of April 7, 2011) per cellular phone device (Temporary Article 6 of Special Consumption Tax Code).

For a description of various tax related disputes to which we are party, see “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings”.

Critical Accounting Policies

See Note 3 (Significant Accounting Policies) to our consolidated financial statements in this Form 20-F.

5.A Operating Results

Our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010 included in this annual report have been prepared in accordance with IFRS as issued by the IASB.

Overview of Business

Turkcell, a joint stock company organized and existing under the laws of the Republic of Turkey, was formed in 1993 and commenced operations in 1994. We operate under a 25-year GSM license (the “2G License”) and a 20-year GSM license (the “3G License”). We were granted the 2G License in April 1998 upon payment of an upfront license fee of $500 million. On April 30, 2009, we signed a license agreement with ICTA which provides authorization for providing IMT 2000/UMTS services and infrastructure. We have acquired the A type license providing the widest frequency band for a consideration of EUR 358 million (excluding VAT). The 3G License is effective for 20 years starting from April 30, 2009. Pursuant to the agreement, we have provided IMT 2000/UMTS services as of July 30, 2009.

Under our 2G License, we pay the Undersecretariat of Treasury (the “Turkish Treasury”) a monthly treasury share equal to 15% of our gross revenue. Of such fee, 10% is paid to the Ministry of Transportation and Communications of Turkey (“Turkish Ministry”) as the universal services fund. Based on a law enacted on July 3, 2005 concerning the regulation of privatization, the gross revenue description used for the calculation of the treasury share and universal service fund was changed. According to such regulation, accrued interest charged for late collections, indirect taxes, such as VAT, and other expenses are excluded from the description of

 

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gross revenue. In light of such changes, we applied to the ICTA to revise the related articles of the amended agreement and completed certain necessary procedures. Danistay, the highest administrative court, approved the agreement on March 10, 2006. The resulting definition of gross revenue for the treasury share has been effective since March 10, 2006.

We believe that the buildout of our network in Turkey is substantially completed. As of December 31, 2010, our network covered 100% of Turkish cities with a population of 1,000 or more and the majority of Turkey’s tourist areas and principal intercity highways. We currently meet the coverage requirements of our 2G license in all material respects.

In accordance with our 3G license agreement, we are required to cover 100% of the population within the borders of all metropolitan municipalities and borders of all cities and municipalities in three and six years, respectively. Moreover, we are required to cover 100% of the population in all settlement areas with a population higher than 5,000 and 1,000 in eight and ten years, respectively following the date of the agreement. As of December 31, 2010, we had reached a 82% population coverage (based on 3GPP TS 25.101 specifications for outdoor coverage).

Other than our 2G and 3G licenses, we also operate under interconnection agreements with other operators that allow us to connect our networks with those operators to enable the transmission of calls to and from our mobile communications system through existing digital fixed telephone switches. For example, we have an interconnection agreement with Turk Telekom that provides for the interconnection of our network with Turk Telekom’s fixed-line network. Under our agreement with Turk Telekom, as amended, we pay Turk Telekom an interconnection fee per call based on the type and length of the call for calls originating on our network and terminating on Turk Telekom’s fixed-line network, as well as fees for other services. We also collect an interconnection fee from Turk Telekom for calls originating on their fixed-line network and terminating on ours. We also have interconnection agreements with Vodafone and Avea pursuant to which we have agreed, among other things, to pay interconnection fees to them for calls originating on our network and terminating on theirs, and they have agreed to pay interconnection fees for calls originating on their networks and terminating on our networks.

Our subscriber base has grown substantially since we began operations in 1994. At year-end 1994, we had 63,500 subscribers. By year-end 2010, that number had grown to 33.5 million.

According to the ICTA’s announcements, there were 61.8 million GSM lines in the Turkish GSM market as of December 31, 2010. In addition, the penetration rate in such market was 85% as of December 31, 2010. Despite the increasingly competitive environment, we sustained our leading market position with a market share of 54% for the year ended December 31, 2010, according to the ICTA’s announcements. We increased our postpaid subscriber base from 27% in 2009 to 30% in 2010 due to our focus on value. On the channel front, we made revisions to our existing subdealer network and the commission structure to increase the availability of the Turkcell brand. As of December 31, 2010, we had 23.3 million prepaid and 10.1 million postpaid subscribers in our Turkish GSM network. Despite the negative macroeconomic indicators in Turkey, we recorded the highest usage levels since 2001. Our average MoU in Turkey increased by 33% to 179.1 minutes in 2010 from 134.3 minutes in 2009, as a result of our successful campaigns and attractive tariffs. Our average revenue per user in Turkey increased to $13.0 in 2010 from $12.0 in 2009. In TRY terms, ARPU increased to TRY 19.5 in 2010 compared to TRY 18.5 in 2009. Despite the intensifying challenges in the macroeconomic, competitive and regulatory environment, we have increased our average revenue per user metric in Turkey mainly due to rising mobile internet revenues and postpaid subscriber base.

Our revenues are generated in large part from interconnection fees and retail tariffs. Regulatory decisions have had and may continue to have the effect of decreasing interconnection rates and imposing price caps on our retail tariffs. For a more detailed discussion of these factors, please see “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry” and “Item 5.D. Trend Information”.

 

 

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Churn rate is the percentage calculated by dividing the total number of subscriber disconnections during a period by the average number of subscribers for the same period. For these purposes, we define “average number of subscribers” as the number of subscribers at the beginning of the period plus one half of the total number of gross subscribers acquired during the period. Churn refers to subscribers that are both voluntarily and involuntarily disconnected from our network. Our churn rate for operations in Turkey was 33.9% for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to 32.6% for the year ended December 31, 2009. Our churn rate increased 1.3 percentage points mainly due to declining multiple SIM card usage.

We have an allowance for doubtful receivable in our consolidated financial statements for non-payments and disconnections that amounted to $376.8 million and $268.2 million as of December 31, 2010 and December 31, 2009 respectively, which we believe is adequate. The main reason for the increase in allowance for doubtful receivable is the increase in the number of postpaid subscribers.

International and Other Domestic Operations

In addition to our businesses in Turkey, we have telecommunications operations in Ukraine, the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and Belarus. We also operate in other countries through our associate, Fintur. For a description of, and additional information regarding, our international and other domestic operations, see “Item 4.B. Business Overview”.

Revenues

In Turkey, we and other mobile communications operators have entered into interconnection agreements which set out the terms and conditions regarding the pricing terms as well as the periodical revision of such terms. See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry”.

In previous periods, disagreements existed between us and the other mobile communications operators regarding the revision of pricing terms of the interconnection agreements. In addition, there is a disagreement with Turk Telekom about international calls. See “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings” and Note 32 to our consolidated financial statements in this Form 20-F.

Operating Costs

Direct Cost of Revenues

Direct cost of revenues includes treasury shares, transmission fees, base station rents, billing costs, cost of simcards sold, depreciation and amortization charges, repair and maintenance expenses directly related to services rendered, roaming charges paid to foreign mobile communications operators for calls made by our subscribers while outside Turkey, interconnection fees mainly paid to Turk Telekom, Vodafone and Avea, handset costs offered as part of our loyalty programs and wages, salaries, and personnel expenses for technical personnel.

Administrative Expenses

Administrative expenses consist of fixed costs, including company cars, office rent, office maintenance, travel, insurance, consulting, collection charges, wages, salaries, and personnel expenses for non-technical, non-marketing, and non-sales employees and other overhead charges. Our administrative expenses also include bad debt expenses of our postpaid subscribers.

 

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Selling and Marketing

Selling and marketing expenses consist of customer relations, sales promotions, dealer activation fees, advertising, prepaid frequency usage fees, wages, salaries, and personnel expenses of sales and marketing related employees and other expenses, including travel expenses, office expenses, insurance, company car expenses, and training and communication expenses.

Results of Operations

The following table shows information concerning our consolidated statements of operations for the years indicated:

 

     For the years ended December 31,  
     2010     2009     2008  
(in $ millions)                   

Revenues

     5,982.1        5,790.0        6,970.4   

Direct Cost of Revenues

     (3,349.0     (3,097.1     (3,409.0

Gross Profit

     2,633.1        2,692.9        3,561.4   

Administrative expenses

     (347.3     (273.1     (309.3

Selling and Marketing expenses

     (1,085.8     (1,085.1     (1,351.7

Other income / (expense)

     (49.5     (110.3     (3.9

Results from operating activities

     1,150.5        1,224.4        1,896.5   

Finance costs

     (102.6     (187.5     (136.8

Finance income

     277.1        329.6        442.1   

Net finance income / (costs)

     174.5        142.1        305.3   

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     122.8        78.4        103.0   

Profit before income taxes

     1,447.8        1,444.9        2,304.8   

Income tax expense

     (320.8     (340.1     (549.8

Profit for the year

     1,127.0        1,104.8        1,755.0   

Attributable to:

      

Equity holders of the Company

     1,170.2        1,094.0        1,836.8   

Non-controlling interest

     (43.2     10.8        (81.8

Profit for the year

     1,127.0        1,104.8        1,755.0   

The following table shows certain items in our consolidated statement of operations as a percentage of revenue:

 

     For the years ended December 31,  
         2010             2009             2008      
(in $ millions)                   

Statement of Operations Data (% of revenue)

      

Revenues

      

Communication fees

     94.8        96.0        94.4   

Commission fees on betting business

     0.5        0.7        2.5   

Other revenue

     4.7        3.3        3.1   

Total revenue

     100.0        100.0        100.0   

Direct cost of revenues

     (56.0     (53.5     (48.9

Gross margin

     44.0        46.5        51.1   

Administrative expense

     (5.8     (4.7     (4.4

Selling and marketing expenses

     (18.2     (18.7     (19.4

Other operating income/(expense)

     (0.8     (1.9     (0.1

Results from operating activities

     19.2        21.1        27.2   

 

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Segment Overview

Segment information is presented in respect of our geographical segments. We have three reportable segments, as described below, which are based on the dominant source and nature of our risk and returns as well as our internal reporting structure. These strategic segments offer the same types of services, but they are managed separately because they operate in different geographical locations and are affected by different economic conditions.

We are comprised of the following main operating segments: Turkcell, Euroasia and Belarusian Telecom, all of which are GSM operators in their countries.

Other operations mainly include our companies operating in telecommunications and betting businesses and companies that provide internet and broadband services, call center and value added services.

 

     Turkcell     Euroasia     Belarusian
Telecom
    Other     Total  
     2010     2010     2010     2010     2010  
(in $ million)                               

Total external revenues

     5,294.1        334.0        48.9        305.1        5,982.1   

Intersegment revenue

     14.7        5.3        0.1        386.3        406.4   

Reportable segment adjusted EBITDA

     1,751.1        64.5        (32.6     213.6        1,996.6   

Finance income

     255.4        0.8        0.8        60.1        317.1   

Finance cost

     (34.6     (44.0     (28.5     (66.1     (173.2

Depreciation and amortization

     (474.7     (120.4     (80.8     (92.1     (768.0

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     —          —          —          122.8        122.8   

Other material non-cash items:

          

Impairment on goodwill

     —          —          23.5        —          23.5   
     Turkcell     Euroasia     Belarusian
Telecom
    Other     Total  
     2009     2009     2009     2009     2009  
(in $ million)                               

Total external revenues

     5,176.1        350.1        17.4        246.4        5,790.0   

Intersegment revenue

     22.8        1.0        0.1        304.1        328.0   

Reportable segment adjusted EBITDA

     1,819.3        20.2        (38.3     144.9        1,946.1   

Finance income

     304.3        2.1        1.4        75.8        383.6   

Finance cost

     (162.9     (54.9     (12.5     (33.0     (263.3

Depreciation and amortization

     (396.3     (79.9     (52.7     (67.9     (596.8

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     —          —          —          78.4        78.4   

Other material non-cash items:

Impairment on goodwill

     —          —          61.8        —          61.8   
     Turkcell     Euroasia     Belarusian
Telecom
    Other     Total  
     2008     2008     2008     2008     2008  
(in $ million)                               

Total external revenues

     6,170.4        436.7        0.4        362.9        6,970.4   

Intersegment revenue

     41.9        2.0        —          292.3        336.2   

Reportable segment adjusted EBITDA

     2,383.9        32.3        (5.8     181.7        2,592.1   

Finance income

     667.3        6.3        0.1        81.5        755.2   

Finance cost

     (100.7     (262.9     (1.3     (76.0     (440.9

Depreciation and amortization

     (528.5     (101.0     (8.9     (42.9     (681.3

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     —          —          —          103.0        103.0   

Other material non-cash items:

Impairment on goodwill

     —          —          —          —          —     

 

 

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Turkcell

2010 compared to 2009

Total revenues generated by Turkcell increased 2.1%, to $5,308.8 million in 2010 from $5,198.9 million in 2009, mainly due to the 2.9% appreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. However, on a constant dollar basis, which is a non-GAAP measure computed based on the assumption that the TRY/USD exchange rate remained constant for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, total revenues decreased 0.4%. We believe that this decrease was mainly a result of regulatory decisions that had the effect of decreasing interconnection rates and imposing price caps on our retail tariffs, which were partially offset by the growth in mobile internet and service revenues as well as the increasing postpaid subscriber base. Due to such regulatory decisions, we have redesigned our tariffs and offers and revenue per minute has declined to TRY 0.11 in 2010 from TRY0.14 in 2009. For a more detailed discussion of these factors, please See “Item 4.B. Business Overview—Regulation of the Turkish Telecommunications Industry” and “Item 5.D. Trend Information”.

Turkcell’s EBITDA deteriorated 3.7%, to $1,751.1 million in 2010 from $1,819.3 million in 2009. On a constant dollar basis, EBITDA deteriorated 4.8%, primarily due to an increase in administrative expenses. Our increase in administrative expenses mainly resulted from an increase in bad debt expenses as a result of an increase in the postpaid subscriber base, together with higher wages and salaries. The increase in the direct cost of revenues had an impact on the deterioration of EBITDA, primarily resulting from an increase in fixed network costs and wages and salaries expenses and partially netted off by a decrease in interconnect costs due to a lowering of interconnect rates, despite the increase in off-net traffic.

Net finance income increased 56.2%, from $141.4 million in 2009 to $220.8 million in 2010. On a constant dollar basis, net finance income also increased 49.8% mainly due to a decrease in interest expense resulting from the absence of provisions related to litigation late payment interest expenses in 2010, partially offset with an increase in loan interest expense due to an increase in outstanding debt balance and a decrease in interest income arising from lower interest rates. Change in translation gain/(loss) due to the 2.7% depreciation of the TRY against the USD in 2010, as opposed to the 0.4% appreciation of the TRY against the USD in 2009, also has a positive impact on improvement of net finance income since Turkcell has a long position.

Depreciation expense increased 19.8% from $396.3 million in 2009 to $474.7 million in 2010. On a constant dollar basis, depreciation expense also increased by 17.2%.

2009 compared to 2008

Total revenues generated in Turkcell decreased 16.3% to $5,198.9 million in 2009, from $6,212.3 million in 2008, mainly due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD; however, on a constant dollar basis, which is computed based on the assumption that the TRY/USD exchange rate remained constant for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, total revenues increased 1.9%, mainly as a result of our growth in the Turkish mobile business, reflected by a strong increase in usage, higher mobile internet and services (an increasing contribution from mobile internet and services revenue driven by 3G implementation) and higher interconnect revenues.

Turkcell’s EBITDA deteriorated 23.7%, to $1,819.3 million in 2009 from $2,383.9 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, EBITDA deteriorated 6.2% mainly as a result of the increase in the direct cost of revenues, which primarily resulted from higher interconnect costs due to the increase in off-net traffic partially netted off by the decrease in interconnection tariffs and a provision recorded due to Turkcell’s ongoing dispute regarding international voice traffic, and network related expenses.

Net finance income deteriorated 75.0%, to $141.4 million in 2009 from $566.6 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, net finance income also deteriorated 69.0% as a result of the negative impact of the change in translation gain/(loss) due to the 0.4% appreciation of the TRY against the USD in 2009, as opposed to the

 

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30% depreciation of the TRY against the USD in 2008, lower interest income due to the decrease in interest rates and provisions related to litigation late payment interest expenses in 2009.

Depreciation expense decreased 25.0% to $396.3 million in 2009 from $528.5 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, depreciation expense decreased 8.8% due to fully depreciated fixed assets.

Euroasia

2010 compared to 2009

Astelit, in which we hold a 55.0% stake through Euroasia, has operated in Ukraine since February 2005 under the brand “life:)”. Since its inception in February 2005, Astelit has worked on establishing network coverage to provide high quality services in Ukraine. As of December 31, 2010, Astelit had established 8,975 base stations to ensure a rapid roll-out of its infrastructure, which currently covers approximately 96.6% of the Ukrainian’s population. “life:)” was the first in the market to introduce EDGE and GPRS services, which provide the highest data transfer speed available in the GSM network. Astelit has also focused on establishing brand awareness and values as well as growing its subscriber base. Through its distribution channel of approximately 26,949 non-exclusive sales points throughout Ukraine, 269 life:) exclusive sales points and high brand recognition in the Ukrainian market, Astelit’s subscriber base decreased 25.4% from 12.2 million at the end of December 31, 2009 to 9.1 million at the end of December 31, 2010, mainly due to the change in subscriber definition and churn in 2010, which was designed to monitor value adding subscribers and their behavior more closely. In 2010, Euroasia’s segment revenue decreased 3.4%, from $351.1 million in 2009 to $339.3 million in 2010, while revenue decreased 1.8% on a constant dollar basis, mainly due to closing of our unprofitable carrier business line and reductions in interconnect rates during the year.

Euroasia’s EBITDA increased 219.3% to reach $64.5 million in 2010 from $20.2 million in 2009. As a percentage of revenues, EBITDA increased 13.3 percentage points to 19.0% in 2010 from 5.8% in 2009, within the context of the turnaround strategy and effective cost control initiatives. The main drivers of the increase in EBITDA were tariff redesigns, resulting in a decrease in interconnection cost, and cost cutting measures, which resulted in lower direct cost of revenues and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues.

Net finance cost decreased 18.2%, from a $52.8 million loss in 2009 to a $43.2 million loss in 2010, thanks to the absence of the foreign exchange losses incurred in 2009 as a result of the 3.7% depreciation of the Ukranian Hryvnia against the U.S. dollar in 2009, as opposed to 0.3% appreciation of the local currency against US dollar in 2010, since Eurasia has short position partially offset with the increase in interest expense.

2009 compared to 2008

Astelit’s subscriber base grew 8.9% to 12.2 million at the end of December 31, 2009 from 11.2 million at the end of December 31, 2008. In 2009, Euroasia’s segment revenue decreased 20.0% to $351.1 million from $438.7 million in 2008 mainly due to the 47.7% depreciation, on average, of the local currency against the US dollar. However, Euroasia increased its revenue 19.5% compared to 2008 on a constant dollar basis, mainly due to the increase in its customer base and higher usage.

Euroasia’s EBITDA deteriorated 37.5% to reach $20.2 million in 2009 from $32.3 million in 2008. As a percentage of revenues, EBITDA decreased 1.7 percentage points to 5.7% in 2009 from 7.4% in 2008 due to an increasing share of interconnection costs resulting from an increase in calls to other operators and in radio costs as a result of the increase in base stations as a percentage of revenue, partially offset with the decrease in selling and marketing expenses as a percentage of revenues.

Net finance cost decreased 79.4% to a $52.8 million loss in 2009 from a $256.6 million loss in 2008 due to the absence of the large foreign exchange losses incurred in 2008 stemming from the 52% depreciation of the Ukranian Hryvnia against the USD in 2008.

 

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Belarusian Telecom

2010 compared to 2009

In 2010, Belarusian Telecom’s subscriber base grew 25.0%, reaching 1.5 million people, compared to 1.2 million in 2009. As a result, Belarusian Telecom’s segment revenue increased 180.0% in 2010, reaching $49.0 million, from $17.5 million in 2009.

Belarusian Telecom’s EBITDA improved 14.9% from a $38.3 million loss in 2009 to a $32.6 million loss in 2010. The improvement in EBITDA resulted from the higher amount of revenue when compared to the increase in the direct cost of revenues, selling and marketing and general administrative expenses. The increase in direct cost of revenues mainly resulted from the increase in interconnection costs, handset costs given as part of loyalty campaigns and fixed network expenses, on a constant dollar basis.

Net finance cost increased 149.5% to $27.7 million loss in 2010 from $11.1 million loss in 2009 mainly as a result of higher interest expenses due to a larger amount of loans and borrowings.

As at December 31, 2010 and 2009, we had impaired goodwill of $23.5 million and $61.8 million, respectively, resulting from the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom and following adverse movements in the discount and growth rates, as well as an adverse performance against previous plans. We fully allocate the impairment loss to goodwill and include it in other expenses.

2009 compared to 2008

The results of Belarusian Telecom’s operations have been included in our consolidated financial statements since August 28, 2008, thus, its 2008 figures consist of its results of operations after that time. In 2009, Belarusian Telecom’s subscriber base grew 500%, reaching 1.2 million people, compared to 0.2 million in 2008. As a result, Belarusian Telecom’s segment revenue increased 4,250% in 2009, reaching $17.4 million, from $0.4 million in 2008.

Belarusian Telecom’s EBITDA decreased to a $38.3 million loss in 2009 from a $5.8 million loss in 2008. The deterioration in EBITDA also resulted from the worsening economic and political macro-environment, an increase in radio costs as a result of the increase in base station numbers and an increase in selling and marketing activities.

Net finance income/(cost) decreased to a $11.1 million loss in 2009 compared to a $1.2 million loss in 2008 as a result of higher interest expenses due to a larger amount of loans and borrowings and higher foreign exchange losses due to the short position of balance sheet.

Year Ended December 31, 2010 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2009

We had 33.5 million GSM subscribers in Turkey, including 23.3 million prepaid subscribers, as of December 31, 2010, compared to 35.4 million GSM subscribers in Turkey, with 26.0 million prepaid subscribers, as of December 31, 2009. During 2010, we lost approximately 1.9 million Turkish GSM subscribers.

In Ukraine, we had 9.1 million and 12.2 million subscribers as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively. During 2010, we lost approximately 3.1 million new Ukrainian GSM subscribers. This was primarily due to the change in subscriber definition and churn in 2010, which was designed to monitor value adding subscribers and their behavior more closely.

Revenues

Total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2010 increased 3.3% to reach $5,982.1 million, from $5,790.0 million in 2009, mainly due to the 2.9% appreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. On a

 

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constant dollar basis, our revenues increased 0.8% compared to 2009, mainly due to an increase in Turkcell’s mobile internet and services revenues, as well as a higher contribution from our subsidiaries, particularly through Superonline, despite regulatory decisions relating to the decrease in interconnection rates and a price cap. In 2010, our interconnect revenues decreased significantly, mainly due to cuts in interconnect rates, which led to a decline in the percentage of interconnection revenues in our revenues.

Revenues from communication fees for the year ended December 31, 2010 increased 2% to $5,670.2 million, from $5,557.3 million in 2009, mainly due to the 2.9% appreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. However, our revenues from communication fees decreased 0.5% on a constant dollar basis due to regulatory decisions leading to lower interconnect tariffs and price cap which were partially offset by the growth in mobile internet and service revenues together with the increasing postpaid subscriber base. Communication fees consist of revenues from postpaid and prepaid subscribers, interconnect revenues and roaming revenues. Although the total number of postpaid subscribers is significantly lower than the total number of prepaid subscribers, the contribution, in absolute terms, of postpaid revenues to total revenue growth is higher than the growth in prepaid revenues in Turkey. This is mainly due to higher average revenue per postpaid subscriber. Postpaid subscribers’ usage is generally higher than prepaid subscribers’. In Turkey, during 2010, we maintained our focus on the postpaid segment, with newly launched campaigns and offers, increased data lines and promotions to switch customers from the prepaid to postpaid segment. We focus on postpaid subscribers because there is, in general, a higher average revenue per postpaid subscriber. In 2010, postpaid average revenue per user was $26.6 whereas prepaid average revenue per user was $7.6. These figures indicate that postpaid average revenue per user is approximately 3.5 times the prepaid average revenue per user. Therefore, the increase in the number of postpaid subscribers has a positive effect on blended average revenue per user.

Commission revenues from our betting business decreased to $31.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, from $42.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, commission revenues decreased 29.3%. This decrease was primarily due to the lower commission rate we received as the head agent of the fixed odds betting games through 2010 (1.4% of gross takings compared to our previous arrangement, which ended in March 2009, of 7% of gross takings and a 4.3% commission).

Monthly fixed fees revenue increased 77.4% to reach $75.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $42.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, mainly due to an increase in our postpaid subscriber base and an increase in our monthly fixed fee per subscriber. On a constant dollar basis, monthly fixed fees revenue increased 72.0%.

Direct cost of revenues

Direct cost of revenues, including depreciation and amortization, increased 8.1% to $3,349.0 million in 2010 from $3,097.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, direct cost of revenues increased 5.7% compared to 2009, mainly due to an increase in depreciation and amortization expenses arising from certain fixed asset write-offs, the depreciation impact on asset retirement obligation and an increase in network related expenses, which were partially offset by lower interconnect costs as a result of the significant decrease in interconnect rates, despite the increase in off-net airtime.

Treasury shares and universal funds paid to the Turkish Treasury and Turkish Ministry increased 2.1%, from $809.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 to $826.7 million in 2010, primarily due to the 2.9% appreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD; however they decreased 0.5% on a constant dollar basis and remained almost the same as a percentage of revenues.

Depreciation and amortization charges increased 28.2%, from $590.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 to $757.4 million in 2010, while on a constant dollar basis depreciation and amortization charges increased 25.4%, mainly due to fixed asset write-offs related to our obsolete equipment owned by Turkcell and other group companies and the depreciation impact on asset retirement obligation. The amortization

 

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expense for our GSM license and other telecommunication operating licenses was $70.8 million and $50.4 million for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Interconnection and termination costs decreased 6.4% to $575.2 million in 2010 from $614.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. In addition, they decreased 8.0% on a constant dollar basis due to significant decreases in interconnection rates, despite the increase in off-net traffic.

Transmission costs, site costs and maintenance costs decreased approximately 7.3%, from $195.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 to $181.4 million in 2010. On a constant dollar basis, these costs decreased 9.5%, resulting from the significant decrease in the average unit rent of leased lines. Furthermore, uncapitalizable radio costs and expenses increased 18.1%, from $279.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 to $329.6 million in 2010. In addition, radio costs increased 15.2% on a constant dollar basis due to higher electricity prices and the increase in the number of radio base stations.

Wages, salaries and personnel expenses for technical personnel increased 15.7% to $264.7 million in 2010 from $228.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. They increased 12.9% on a constant dollar basis due to the increase in the number of employees and a periodic increase in wages and salaries.

Roaming expenses decreased 16.8% to $60.5 million in 2010, from $72.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis they decreased 18.7% due to a decrease in tariffs between international operators and Turkcell, partially netted off by an increase in roaming durations.

Billing costs increased 18.2% to $53.3 million in 2010 from $45.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis they increased 15.4%, primarily due to an increase in the number of postpaid subscribers and higher postage fees.

As a percentage of revenues, direct cost of revenues increased 2.5 percentage points to 56% in 2010, from 53.5% in 2009, mainly due to increases in network related expenses (0.4 pp), depreciation and amortization expenses (2.5 pp) and other items (0.6 pp) as a percentage of revenues, partially netted off by a decrease in interconnect costs (1.0 pp).

Gross profit margin decreased 2.5 percentage points to 44.0% in 2010 from 46.5% in 2009.

Administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses increased 27.2%, to $347.3 million in 2010 from $273.1 million in 2009. On a constant dollar basis, these expenses increased 23.9%, mainly due to a higher amount of bad debt expenses arising from the increase in our postpaid subscriber base and higher wages and salaries resulting from periodic increases in such figures and a higher number of personnel. As a percentage of revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 5.8% for the year ended December 31, 2010, from 4.7% in 2009.

Wages, salaries and personnel expenses for non-technical and non-marketing employees increased 22.0%, to $100.8 million in 2010 from $82.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, they increased 18.6%, primarily due to periodic increase in wages and salaries and an increase in the number of personnel.

Bad debt expenses increased 67.5% to $126.3 million in 2010 from $75.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, they increased 63.4% mainly due to an increase in the postpaid subscriber base. We provided an allowance of $376.8 million and $268.2 million for doubtful receivables for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively, depending on the likelihood of recoverability of trade and other receivables based on the aging of the balances, historical collection trends and general economic conditions.

 

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Other expenses, including collection and consulting expenses, increased 4.4% to $120.2 million in 2010 from $115.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, they increased 2.0% due to the increase in consultancy expenses.

Selling and marketing expenses

Selling and marketing expenses increased 0.1% to $1,085.8 million in 2010 from $1,085.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. However, on a constant dollar basis, they decreased 2.5% primarily due to lower selling expenses and frequency usage fees paid for prepaid subscribers, which were partially offset by higher wages and salaries. As a percentage of revenues, selling and marketing expenses decreased from 18.7% for the year ended December 31, 2009 to 18.2% for the year ended December 31, 2010.

Selling expenses, which consist of distributor support, dealer support, and other selling expenses, decreased 7.0%, to $420.3 million for 2010 from $451.7 million for 2009. On a constant dollar basis, selling expenses decreased 9.3%, mainly due to lower distributor and dealer support expenses in 2010 resulting from fewer subscriber acquisitions.

Total marketing expenses, which consist of advertising, market research, sponsorships expenses and customer relations expenses increased 3.5%, to $264.6 million in 2010 from $255.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, they increased 0.8% mainly due to an increase in the volume of advertisements in 2010 compared to 2009, partially netted off by a decrease in sponsorship expenses.

Prepaid subscribers’ frequency usage fee expenses decreased 7.9%, to $221.1 million in 2010 from $240.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, these expenses decreased 10.3% as a result of the decline in the prepaid subscriber base, which was partially netted off by an increase in the frequency usage fee per subscriber.

Wages, salaries and personnel expenses for selling and marketing employees increased 34.3%, to $135.8 million in 2010 from $101.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, these expenses increased 31.0% due to an increase in the number of employees and a periodic increase in wages and salaries.

Other operating income/(expense)

Other operating expense decreased to $49.5 million in 2010 from $110.3 million in 2009, mainly due to a decrease of $38.3 million in impairment recognized on goodwill arising from the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom (2010: $23.5 million, 2009: $61.8 million).

Other operating expenses in 2010 were comprised of: a $23.5 million impairment change recognized on goodwill which arose from the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom; a penalty imposed as a result of an ICTA investigation relating to tariff plans, VAS service subscriptions and charging applications of the Company, which amounted to $14.0 million, $5.0 million and $2.1 million, respectively; a Special Communication Tax (“SCT”) and VAT calculated on roaming services that had to be collected from subscribers as a result of a $12.9 million tax settlement; and a $5.8 million provision established for SCT on the discounts applied to distributors for prepaid scratch card sales between January 2005 and January 2007, which was based on the previous settlement gains. As of December 31, 2009, the provision set for SCT on the discounts applied to distributors for prepaid scratch card sales in 2003 and 2004 was $14.5 million. This matter, however, was settled at $2.8 million and the difference was reflected as income in “other operating expense”.

 

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Results from operating activities

Results from operating activities decreased to $1,150.5 million in 2010 from $1,224.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. As a percentage of revenues, results from operating activities decreased from 21.1% in 2009 to 19.2% in 2010 mainly due to an increase in the direct cost of revenues and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenues.

Net financial income/(costs)

Net financial income increased 22.8% in 2010, to $174.5 million from $142.1 million in 2009, due to a decrease in financial expenses from $187.5 million in 2009 to $102.6 million in 2010 arising from lower litigation late payment interest expenses, which were partially netted off by a decrease in finance income from $329.6 million in 2009 to $277.1 million in 2010. The latter was due to a decrease in interest income resulting from lower interest rates. On a constant dollar basis, net financial income increased 18.0%.

Finance income decreased 15.9%, to $277.1 million in 2010 from $329.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 18.3% due to lower interest rates.

Finance cost decreased 45.3%, to $102.6 million in 2010 from $187.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 46.6% mainly due to lower litigation late payment interest expenses arising from legal disputes, which were partially netted off by an increase in interest expenses on loans as a result of higher outstanding loan balances as well as higher translation losses, which increased from a $0.6 million loss in 2009 to a $13.8 million loss in 2010. Foreign exchange losses in 2010 and 2009 are mainly attributable to our net foreign exchange position.

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

Our share of profit of equity accounted investees increased 56.6% in 2010, to $122.8 million from $78.4 million for 2009. On a constant dollar basis, net profit of equity accounted investees also increased, by 55.5%, mainly due to a higher net income contribution from Fintur, particularly from its operations in Kazakhstan.

We have eliminated A-Tel’s revenue that is generated from services rendered to us to the extent of our share in A-Tel, with corresponding elimination from selling and marketing expenses in our consolidated financial statements. This consolidation elimination had a negative impact on the share of profit of equity accounted investees line.

Income tax expense

Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2010 was $320.8 million compared to $340.1 million in 2009. On a constant dollar basis, income tax expense decreased by 8.6% due to lower profit before tax.

The effective tax rate was 22.2% and 23.5% for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Our domestic tax rate is 20%. Differences between the effective tax rate and our domestic tax rate include, but are not limited to, the effect of allowance for deferred tax assets, tax rates in foreign jurisdictions, tax exempt income and non-deductible expenses.

Non-controlling interests

Non-controlling interests in the net profit of our consolidated subsidiaries is classified separately in the consolidated financial statements of operations under “non-controlling interests”. Non-controlling interests increased to a $43.2 million gain for the year ended December 31, 2010 compared to a $10.8 million loss for 2009.

 

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For the year ended December 31, 2009 Euroasia generated a net loss of $111.8 million and had negative equity. Therefore, non-controlling interest loss was not allocated from Euroasia’s net loss in 2009. Non-controlling interest gain allocated from Eurasia’s net loss amounting to $101.0 million in 2010 is $45.4 million. In addition, non-controlling interest gain recognized from our investment in Azerinteltek amounted to $2.7 million. However, net profit generated by Inteltek for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 resulted in a loss from non-controlling interests of approximately $4.9 million and $10.8 million, respectively.

The application of IAS 27 (2008) has resulted in changes in our accounting policies for changes in ownership interests in subsidiaries. Specifically, the revised standard has brought clarity to our accounting policies regarding changes in ownership interests in its subsidiaries that do not result in loss of control. Under IAS 27 (2008), all such increases or decreases are allocated in equity, with no impact on goodwill or profit or loss. When control of a subsidiary is lost as a result of a transaction, event or other circumstances, the revised standard requires us to derecognize all assets, liabilities and non-controlling interests at their carrying amount and to recognize the fair value of the consideration received. Any retained interest in the former subsidiary is recognized at its fair value at the date control is lost. The resulting difference is recognized as a gain or loss in profit or loss. These changes in accounting policies have been applied prospectively from January 1, 2010 in accordance with the relevant transitional provisions.

Profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the Company

Profit for the year attributable to equity holders of the Company increased from $1,094.0 million in 2009 to $1,170.2 million in 2010. Profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the Company also increased on a constant dollar basis by 3.7%. This was mainly due to an increase in net finance income, share of profit of equity accounted investees and non-controlling interests partially netted off by a decrease in the results of our operating activities.

Year Ended December 31, 2009 Compared to Year Ended December 31, 2008

We had 35.4 million GSM subscribers in Turkey, with 26.0 million prepaid subscribers as of December 31, 2009, compared to 37.0 million GSM subscribers in Turkey, with 29.5 million prepaid subscribers, as of December 31, 2008. During 2009, we lost approximately 1.6 million Turkish GSM subscribers.

In Ukraine, we had 12.2 million and 11.2 million subscribers as of December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively. During 2009, we added approximately 1 million new Ukrainian GSM subscribers.

Revenues

Total revenues for the year ended December 31, 2009 decreased 16.9% to $5,790.0 million from $6,970.4 million in 2008 mainly due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of TRY against USD. However, our revenues increased 1.0% compared to 2008 on a constant dollar basis mainly with the growth in our Turkish mobile business which is reflected by a strong increase in usage, higher mobile internet and service revenue (an increasing contribution from mobile internet and services revenue driven by 3G implementation) and higher interconnect revenues due to the increase in traffic despite the decrease in interconnect rates partially offset by the decrease in the contribution of our consolidated group subsidiaries, Euroasia in Ukraine and Inteltek in Turkey.

Revenues from communication fees for the year ended December 31, 2009 decreased 15.5% to $5,557.3 million from $6,576.9 million in 2008 mainly due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. However, our revenues from communication fees increased 2.9% on a constant dollar basis which resulted from improved usage, higher mobile internet and services revenue and higher interconnect revenues. Communication fees consist of revenues from postpaid and prepaid subscribers, interconnect revenues

 

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and roaming revenues. Although the total number of postpaid subscribers is significantly lower than the total number of prepaid subscribers, the contribution of postpaid revenues to total revenue growth in absolute terms is higher than the growth in prepaid revenues in Turkey. This is mainly due to higher average revenue per postpaid subscriber. Usage by postpaid subscribers is generally higher than that of prepaid subscribers. In Turkey, during 2009, we focused on postpaid subscribers through acquisition and retention campaigns and promoted switches from prepaid to postpaid subscriptions. The reason for focusing on postpaid subscribers is the generally higher average revenue per postpaid subscriber. In 2009, postpaid average revenue per user was $26.6 whereas prepaid average revenue per user was $7.5. These figures indicate that postpaid average revenue per user is approximately four times the prepaid average revenue per user. Therefore, the decrease in the number of prepaid subscribers has a positive effect on the blended average revenue per user and the increase in the number of postpaid subscribers has a positive effect on blended average revenue per user.

Commission revenues from our betting business decreased to $42.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $176.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 70.6%. This decrease was primarily the result of the lower commission rate we received as the head agent of the fixed odds betting games, 1.4% of gross takings from March 1, 2009 as opposed to 7% of gross takings and 4.3% commission from March 15, 2007 through March 1, 2009.

Direct cost of revenues

Direct cost of revenues including depreciation and amortization decreased 9.1% to $3,097.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $3,409.0 million in 2008, primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. However direct cost of revenues increased 10.1% compared to 2008 on a constant dollar basis mainly due to the increase in interconnect costs as a result of increasing off-net traffic partially offset with the decrease in interconnect rates, an increase in radio costs mainly arising from an increase in the number of radio base stations and an increase in depreciation and amortization expenses due to fixed asset write-offs related to our operations in Belarus.

Treasury shares and universal funds paid to the Turkish Treasury and Turkish Ministry decreased 17.0% to $809.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, from $975.7 million in 2008, primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD; however they increased 1.1% on a constant dollar basis with the increase in gross revenues and remained almost the same as a percentage of revenues.

Depreciation and amortization charges decreased 13.1% to $590.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $679.9 million in 2008, primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. However on a constant dollar basis depreciation and amortization charges increased 5.6% mainly due to fixed asset write-offs related to operations in Belarus. The amortization expense for our GSM license and other telecommunication operating licenses was $50.4 million and $57.0 million for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Interconnection and termination costs increased 23.9% to $614.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $496.1 million in 2008. It also increased 50.1% on a constant dollar basis due to an increase in calls terminated in other operators’ networks despite decreases in interconnection tariffs.

Transmission costs, site costs and maintenance costs decreased approximately 14.3% to $195.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $228.2 million in 2008, primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD; however they increased on a constant dollar basis 3.5% mainly as a result of the increase in the number of leased transmission lines in 2009 compared to 2008. In addition, uncapitalizable radio costs and expenses decreased 1.5% to $279.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $283.4 million in 2008; however, they increased on a constant dollar basis 18.9% due to the increase in the number of radio base stations, in addition to an increase in electricity prices and maintenance and rent expenses of radio base stations.

 

 

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Wages, salaries and personnel expenses for technical personnel decreased 15.5% to $228.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $270.6 million in 2008, primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. They increased 2.9% on a constant dollar basis due to the increase in the number of employees and a periodic increase in salaries.

Roaming expenses decreased 30.6% to $72.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $104.8 million in 2008, primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD. They decreased 16.2% on a constant dollar basis due to the decreased duration in more expensive zones in 2009.

Billing costs decreased 1.9% to $45.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $46.0 million in 2008. They increased 19.0% on a constant dollar basis primarily due to the increase in the number of postpaid subscribers and the increase in postage fees.

As a percentage of revenues, the direct cost of revenue increased 4.6 percentage points to 53.5% in 2009 from 48.9% in 2008 mainly due to higher interconnect costs (3.4 pp) and increases in network related expenses (0.8 pp) and depreciation and amortization expenses (0.4 pp) as a percentage of revenues.

Gross profit margin decreased 4.5 percentage points to 46.5% for the year ended December 31, 2009 from 51.1% for the year ended December 31, 2008.

Administrative expenses

General and administrative expenses decreased 11.7% to $273.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $309.3 million in 2008 primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD, however they increased 7.0% on a constant dollar basis due to an increase in bad debt expenses as a result of an increase in the postpaid subscriber base partially netted off by decrease in wages and salaries as a result of the decrease in the number of personnel. As a percentage of revenues, general and administrative expenses increased to 4.7% for the year ended December 31, 2009, from 4.4% in 2008, mainly as a result of the increase in bad debt expenses.

Wages, salaries and personnel expenses for non-technical and non-marketing employees decreased 26.1% to $82.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $111.7 million in 2008. It decreased 9.6% on a constant dollar basis primarily due to the decrease in the number of employees partially netted off by a periodic increase in salaries.

Bad debt expenses increased 14.8% to $75.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $65.7 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it increased 38.0% primarily due to an increase in the postpaid subscriber base, contracted terminal sales and port out figures. We provided an allowance of $268.2 million and $196.6 million for doubtful receivables for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively, based upon our past experience and estimates.

Other expenses, including collection and consulting expenses, decreased 12.7% to $115.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $131.9 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it increased 5.4% due to the increase in legal expenses as a result of an increase in the number of cases initiated for doubtful receivables from subscribers.

Selling and marketing expenses

Selling and marketing expenses decreased 19.7% to $1,085.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $1,351.7 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 2.7% primarily due to lower advertising and selling expenses that were partially offset by the higher frequency usage fee paid for prepaid subscribers. As a percentage of revenues, selling and marketing expenses decreased from 19.4% in 2008 to 18.7% for the year ended December 31, 2009.

 

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Selling expenses, which consist of distributor support, dealer support, and other selling expenses, decreased 24.5% to $451.7 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $598.4 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 8.4% mainly due to the decrease in distributor support expenses resulting from decrease in subscriber acquisitions.

Total marketing expenses which consist of advertising, market research, sponsorships expenses and customer relations expenses decreased 21.4% to $255.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $325.4 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 5.6% mainly due to a decrease in volume of advertisements in 2009 compared to 2008.

Prepaid subscribers’ frequency usage fee expenses decreased 3.8% to $240.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $249.5 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis it increased 17.3% due to the increase in the frequency usage fee per subscriber.

Wages, salaries and personnel expenses for selling and marketing employees decreased 22.9% to $101.1 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $131.2 million in 2008. It decreased 5.6% on a constant dollar basis mainly because of the payment of an indemnity provision to employees whose employment had been terminated in 2008.

Other operating income/(expense)

Other operating expense decreased to $110.3 million, from $3.9 million, mainly due to an impairment on goodwill arising from the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom, the Competition Authority’s penalty on mobile marketing activities and a penalty on the special communication tax, which amounted to $61.8 million, $18.1 million and $14.6 million, respectively, in 2009.

Results from operating activities

Results from operating activities decreased to $1,224.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009, from $1,896.5 million in 2008. As a percentage of revenues, results from operating activities decreased to 21.1% in 2009 from 27.2% in 2008 mainly due to an increase in the direct cost of revenues as a percentage of revenues as well as an increase in other expenses as a percentage of revenues.

Net financial income /(costs)

In 2009, we recorded net financial income of $142.1 million compared to net financial income of $305.3 million in 2008, due to a significant decrease in finance income from $442.1 million in 2008 to $329.6 million in 2009 resulting from the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD and the decrease in interest rates and the significant increase in finance expenses from $136.8 million in 2008 to $187.5 million in 2009, despite the depreciation of the TRY against the USD arising from higher interest expenses on borrowings and litigation late payment interest expenses partially netted off by the decrease in translation losses.

Finance income decreased 25.4% to $329.6 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $442.1 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it decreased 10.1% due to the decrease in interest rates.

Finance cost increased 37.1% to $187.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 from $136.8 million in 2008. On a constant dollar basis, it increased 30.8% mainly due to the increase in the discount interest expense related to the deferred payment and put option of Belarusian Telecom and the increase in litigation late payment interest expenses partially netted off by the decrease in translation losses compared to $44.5 million in 2008 to $0.6 million in 2009. Foreign exchange losses in 2009 and 2008 are mainly attributable to the net foreign exchange position.

 

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Share of profit of equity accounted investees

Our share of the profit of equity accounted investees was $78.4 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $103.0 million in 2008. The decrease in the net profit of equity accounted investees was primarily due to the 21.4% depreciation, on average, of the TRY against the USD and the deterioration in the performance of our unconsolidated investee Fintur.

We have eliminated A-Tel’s revenue that is generated from services rendered to us to the extent of our share in A-Tel, with corresponding elimination from the selling and marketing expenses in our consolidated financial statements. This consolidation elimination had a negative impact on the share of profit of equity accounted investees line.

Income tax expense

Income tax expense for the year ended December 31, 2009 was $340.1 million compared to $549.8 million in 2008. This decrease was mainly due to a decrease in profit before tax.

The effective tax rate was 23.5% and 23.9% for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Our domestic tax rate is 20%. Differences between the effective tax rate and our domestic tax rate include, but are not limited to, the effect of tax rates in foreign jurisdictions, tax exempt income and non-deductible expenses.

Non-controlling interests

Non-controlling interests in the net profit of our consolidated subsidiaries is classified separately in the consolidated statements of operations under “non-controlling interests”. Non-controlling interests decreased to a $10.8 million loss for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to a $81.8 million gain in 2008.

For the year ended December 31, 2009, Euroasia generated a net loss of $111.8 million and had negative equity, therefore non-controlling interest income is not recognized from Euroasia’s net loss. In 2008, the net loss of Euroasia amounted to $326.5 million and resulted in income from non-controlling interests of approximately $130.3 million. Euroasia generated lower losses for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to 2008 primarily due to the decrease in foreign exchange losses as a result of the 3.8% depreciation of the Ukranian Hryvnia against the USD in 2009 compared to the 52% depreciation of the Ukranian Hryvnia against the USD in 2008.

In addition, net profit generated by Inteltek for the years ended December 31, 2009 and 2008 resulted in expenses from non-controlling interests of approximately $10.8 million and $39.2 million, respectively.

Profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the Company

Profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the Company decreased to $1,094.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2009 compared to $1,836.8 million for the year ended December 31, 2008. Profit for the period attributable to equity holders of the Company also decreased on a constant dollar basis. This was mainly due to the negative impact of the increase in direct cost of revenues 10.1%, the negative effect of the increase in the general and administrative expenses 7.0%, the negative impact of decrease in net finance income/(cost) to 35.8%, which was partially netted off by the increase in revenues 1.0%. In addition, the negative impacts of one-off items such as legal provisions, the Belarus operation’s goodwill impairment and fixed asset write-offs should be considered.

 

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Effects of Inflation

The annual inflation rates in Turkey were 6.4%, 6.5% and 10.1% for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, based on the Turkish consumer price index. The global deflation process and strongly negative output gap were the primary contributors that allowed CBRT to achieve its inflation target of 6.5% for 2010. Inflation is expected to remain low in the near term. The favorable base effect created in the first quarter of 2010 is expected to lead some improvements in annual inflation rates for the first quarter of 2011. However, risks are increasing due to the rise in commodity prices, domestic/external demand conditions and an unfavorable base effect. The current inflation target set by the Central Bank is 5.5% with a confidence interval of between 3.5% and 7.5% for 2011. The most recent CBRT’s expectations survey indicates that consumer inflation will rise to around 6.5% by the end of 2011. For additional information, see “Item 3.A. Selected Financial Data-Exchange Rate Data” and “Item 3.D. Risk Factors”.

Foreign Currency Fluctuations

We conduct our business in several currencies other than functional currencies of each of our locations. As a result of our exposure to foreign currency, exchange rate fluctuations have a significant impact, in the form of both translation and transaction risks, on our consolidated financial statements.

Exchange rate movements impact our assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than TRY, Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles for our operations in Turkey, Ukraine and Belarus, respectively. We use forward exchange contracts and options to hedge our non-TRY denominated liabilities.

Our foreign currency risk management policy is focused on hedging foreign currency exposure arising from non-TRY denominated liabilities and purchase commitments. See “Item 11. Quantitative and Qualitative Disclosures about Market Risk-Exchange Rates and Foreign Currency Exposure”. We hedge our currency risks with forward exchange contracts and options.

New Accounting Standards Issued

See Note 3 of our Consolidated Financial Statements.

5.B Liquidity and Capital Resources

Liquidity

We require significant liquidity to finance capital expenditures for the expansion and improvement of our mobile communications network, for operational capital expenditures, for working capital, and to service our debt obligations. A summary of our consolidated cash flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008 is as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  
U.S.$ million                   

Net cash provided by operating activities

     1,262.6        1,316.6        1,746.3   

Net cash used for investing activities

     (704.9     (1,485.0     (695.2

Net cash used for financing activities

     (303.7     (5.4     (353.6

Net cash increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

     254.0        (173.9     697.5   

Effects of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents

     (48.0     8.7        (535.3

 

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Net cash provided by our operating activities for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 amounted to $1,262.6 million and $1,316.6 million, respectively.

Net cash from operating activities decreased in 2010, despite a $22.2 million increase in profit from operational activities compared to 2009. We consider the subtotal after the adjustments for profit for the period in order to analyze the increase in cash from operating activities. Since these line items are adjusted in nature, they are to be excluded from net cash from operating activities, as they either do not have any effect on net cash from operating activities or they have an offsetting effect on the changes in working capital. As a result, the trend in cash from operating activities should be correlated with the trend in results from operating activities and income tax expense. The corresponding subtotal, after adjustments, decreased from $1,913.7 million in 2009 to $1,879.2 million in 2010. The negative impact of the decrease in operational revenues, together with the increase in interest paid, was partially netted off with the decrease in income taxes paid ($322.8 million in 2010 from $395.0 million in 2009) and the increase in dividends received ($99.8 million in 2010 from $83.5 million in 2009) and resulted in a 4.1% decrease in net cash provided by our operating activities.

Net cash used for investing activities for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 amounted to $704.9 million and $1,485.0 million, respectively. The decrease in net cash used for investing activities is mainly due to a decrease in capital expenditures, an increase in net cash contribution from transactions involving available for sale securities, partially offset by the decrease in interest received due to a decrease in interest rates. For the year ended December 31, 2010, we spent approximately $1,078.6 million on capital expenditures compared to $1,769.3 million in 2009. For the $1,078.6 million in capital expenditures, approximately $506.1 million was related to capital expenditures made by Turkcell, mainly for our mobile communications network in Turkey whereas such amount was $1,210.8 million in 2009 and included our 3G license acquired in April 2009. The decrease in capital expenditures primarily arose from the absence of a 3G license acquisition. Total capital expenditures of Euroasia was $66.5 million for the year ended December 31, 2010, compared to $216.0 million for the year ended December 31, 2009.

Net cash used for financing activities for the years ended December 31, 2010 and 2009 amounted to $303.7 million and $5.4 million, respectively. The decrease is mainly attributable to lower proceeds from the issuance of loans and borrowings, partially netted off by the decrease in dividends paid. In 2010, proceeds from the issuance of loans and borrowings was $1,071.8 million, compared to $1,692.9 million in 2009. We repaid $772.9 million of our loans and borrowings in 2010, compared to $944.1 million in 2009, and we made a dividend payment totaling $590.5 million in 2010 compared to $744.4 million in 2009.

Source of liquidity

Our loans from financial institutions consist of local and international bank borrowings with either fixed or variable interest rates. A significant portion of our bank borrowings is utilized to finance our consolidated subsidiaries’ financing needs. All of our loans are denominated in U.S. Dollar, Belarusian Ruble (“BYR”), EUR or Azerbaijan Manat (“AZN”) denominated. The variable interest rates vary from Libor + 1.35% to Libor + 3.75% for the loans denominated in U.S. Dollars, refinancing rate of the National Bank of Belarus+2 for the loans denominated in BYR, variable Euro rate is Libor + 3.465%. The fixed interest rates vary from 2.24% to 5.00% for the loans denominated in U.S. dollars and 18% for the loans denominated in AZN. The loans are payable over the period 2011 to 2024.

The ratio of our loans and borrowings to equity was 29% as of December 31, 2010 compared to 26% as of December 31, 2009. We have been able to maintain our leverage at a satisfactory level and well in line with our targets. For more information, see Note 24 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

We are continuing our efforts to selectively seek out and evaluate new international investment opportunities. These opportunities could include the purchase of licenses and acquisitions in markets outside of Turkey in which we do not currently operate. In the future, we may reinitiate, as necessary, our efforts to create a financing arrangement, such as a term loan facility.

 

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On December 30, 2005, Euroasia, together with ING Bank N.V. (“ING Bank”) and Standard Bank London Ltd. (“Standard Bank”), finalized a long-term syndicated financing project of $390.0 million, of which $368.7 million had been used.

By the end of 2006, we decided to take over all or a portion of the rights and obligations of Euroasia’s senior creditors, who may decline to participate in the facilities following restructuring. On April 19, 2007, Euroasia sent a letter, accompanied by a term sheet, to ING Bank, the Facility Agent. With this term sheet, Euroasia proposed a restructuring of the senior syndicated facility and provided that in the event that some or all of the creditors did not consent to the proposed amendments, Turkcell would purchase the loans and commitments held by such non-consenting creditors. Since the creditors did not consent to the proposed amendments, Euroasia repaid the lenders under the long-term syndicated financing project on June 27, 2007, through borrowings from Financell, a wholly-owned subsidiary. As of December 31, 2010, the outstanding balance was $263.3 million.

In addition, as part of the project financing package, a long term junior facility of up to $150.0 million (including interest amounting to $24.0 million) was also finalized with Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS Luxemburg Branch and Akbank T.A.S. Malta Branch. The junior facility is fully guaranteed by Turkcell. This facility was fully utilized as at December 31, 2010.

Under the current assumptions and circumstances, we expect to generate adequate levels of cash to maintain a positive cash position in the future and to have positive cash flow related to our communications and technology activities in Turkey. According to our current business plan for the operations in Turkey, we believe that we will be able to finance our current operations, capital expenditures, and financing costs and maintain and enhance our network through our operating cash flow and our strong cash balance as of December 31, 2010. However, we continue to experience difficult pricing and competitive conditions in our markets, which have caused a decrease in our Net cash provided by operating activities, which we expect will continue. We are also facing increased capital needs to finance our technological and geographic expansion, which may increase our Net cash used for investing activities. These pressures have reduced, and may continue to reduce, our liquidity and may lead to an increase in borrowing needs and Net cash used by financing activities.

Our commitments through 2011 include dividend payments, quarterly corporate tax payment, and capital expenditures. In 2011, we expect our revenues to grow which will mainly be driven by increasing mobile internet revenues, as well as growing contributions from our subsidiaries.

We expect that our total capital expenditures in 2011 will be in line with 2010, reflecting in part continued outlays for 3G and new technology expenses. This is based on our current projects and activities, and does not include any new projects.

The forward-looking statements made here regarding our liquidity and any other financial results are not a guarantee of performance. They are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause future activities and results of operations to be different from those set forth in this Annual Report.

Important factors that may adversely affect our projections include general economic conditions, change in the competitive environment, developments in the domestic and international capital markets, increased investments, changes in telecommunication regulations and mismatches between the currencies in which we generate revenue and hold liquid assets and the currencies in which we incur liquid obligations and debt. See “Item 3.D. Risk Factors” for a discussion of these and other factors that may affect our projections.

Capital Transactions

All share amounts and per share figures reflected in our historical financial statements have been restated retrospectively for the aforementioned stock splits.

 

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Capital Transactions in Euroasia

In December 2007, we and SCM decided to contribute to the share capital of Euroasia in an aggregate amount of $200 million in three tranches, first two tranches of each $50 million to be paid on January 31, 2008 and March 31, 2008, and one tranche of $100 million to be paid on May 30, 2008 in exchange for shares in the capital of Euroasia, whereby we and SCM shall make such contribution proportionate to our shareholding in Euroasia at the time of each capital contribution. We paid our contribution portion as of December 31, 2008.

In February 2009, April 2009 and September 2009, we and SCM decided to contribute to the share capital of Euroasia in an aggregate amount of $20 million, $37 million and $150 million, respectively, in exchange for shares in the capital of Euroasia, whereby we and SCM shall make such contribution proportionate to our shareholding in Euroasia at the time of each capital contribution. We paid our contribution portion of amounting $11.0 million, $20.3 million and $46.2 million as of April 23, July 1 and October 9, 2009 respectively for the above stated capital contribution decisions.

In 2010 there were no capital transactions in Eurasia. For a description of and additional information regarding our funding and commitments in relation to Euroasia, see “Liquidity and Capital resources—Liquidity—Sources of Liquidity”.

General Economic Conditions

In 2010, Turkey differentiated itself by turning the prolonged global crisis into an opportunity with its strong fundamentals. In 2010, Turkey registered GDP growth of 8.9% and real economic growth for 2011 is expected to be around 5.0% mainly due to strong domestic demand. However, Turkey’s external borrowing needs and current account deficit result in concerns about its economic outlook.

Dividend Payments

For additional details regarding our dividend policy, see “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy”.

5.C Research and Development, Patents and Licenses, etc.

As of December 31, 2010, we had applied for the registration of 85 patents and 27 international patent applications. We owned 1 utility model under the applicable Turkish patent legislation. In addition, we had registered 457 trademarks and 136 trademark applications under the applicable Turkish trademark legislation. We had 31 international trademarks and 203 international trade mark applications. Furthermore, we had registered 13 industrial designs under the applicable Turkish legislation on the protection of industrial designs and we had 1 international industrial design application.

The activities of our technology center, which houses all of our R&D operations in a single location, include the following:

 

   

Partnership software development, customization and/or integration of software products of suppliers through the service and product development processes;

 

   

Developing network infrastructure strategies in a fast evolving information-communication technologies world; and

 

   

Designing short and long term technology road maps for our operations.

At February 28, 2011, our R&D Center had a staff of approximately 385 qualified people.

Internally developed software arising from our R&D partnership amounted to approximately $29.1 million, $25.6 million and $13.9 million in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Internally developed software does not include any costs relating to the research phase.

 

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5.D Trend Information

Changing Subscriber Base

The proportion of postpaid subscribers in our subscriber base was 30%, 27% and 20% in 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively, due to our value focus.

The majority of our subscriber base, however, consists of prepaid subscribers. Trends indicate that prepaid subscribers have more control over their usage patterns. As of April 1, 2010, the “unit based tariff system” changed into “TRY based tariff system with ICTA’s decision, which may have an impact on our subscribers’ usage behavior.

Regulations affecting our prices

The ICTA has on several occasions intervened to place caps on the tariffs that we charge in the Turkish market. The ICTA’s intervention in our retail voice, SMS and mobile data prices, has, and will continue to, negatively affect our ability to design and launch campaigns and offers and, consequently, has had and will continue to have a negative impact on our business. The ICTA has also intervened to place caps on our interconnection rates.

In the fourth quarter of 2007, the ICTA intervened in the fixing of our retail prices. With the ICTA board resolution dated March 25, 2009, ICTA set a lower limit for solely Turkcell’s on-net retail tariffs, and decreased the price cap level for all mobile operators. The lower limit applies to each of Turkcell’s retail tariff packages by mandating that the weighted average of the on-net price of a tariff package not be less than Turkcell’s weighted average call termination rate. The board resolution also reduced the current price cap from 0.80 TRY/min (equivalent to $0.53 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT), pertaining to general subscription packages, to 0.64 TRY/min (equivalent to $0.42 as of April 7, 2011). The resolution also set such price as an upper limit for special subscription packages.

The ICTA, with its board resolution dated September 16, 2009, set a maximum price of TRY 0.65 (equivalent to $0.43 as April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for GSM to GSM calls under general subscription packages. Finally the ICTA, with its board resolution dated February 10, 2010, further reduced the current price cap to TRY 0.40 (equivalent to $0.26 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for GSM to PSTN as well as GSM to GSM. The same resolution set the current price cap of Turk Telekom to TRY 0.37 (equivalent to $0.24 as of April 7, 2011) (including VAT and SCT) for PSTN to GSM. As a result, we have adjusted the on-net and off-net prices of certain tariff packages, which has had, and will continue to have, adverse effects on our pricing ability.

The ICTA may take additional action with respect to our tariff prices. We cannot predict the magnitude or scope of any such future action, particularly given the ICTA’s past actions that have imposed pricing limitations on the Turkish market with little or no prior notice. Any such actions may have a material adverse effect on our competitive position, our pricing and our results of operations.

With respect to the interconnection rates that we charge, after a 33% reduction for Turkcell in 2008, the interconnection rates issued by the ICTA on March 25, 2009 for all mobile operators in Turkey provided for a further 29% decrease, on average, among all operators. On February 10, 2010, there was an additional 52% reduction in Turkcell’s interconnection rates. Further cuts will result in our having to redesign our tariffs and will impact our operational results, depending on pricing trends and marketing strategies in the Turkish mobile communications market. Following this decrease, average Mobile Termination Rates (“MTRs”) in the European Union are now up to 5 times above Turkcell’s MTRs.

Given these factors, it is difficult to predict with any degree of certainty the growth and usage patterns of our subscribers and our ability to maintain or increase revenues or profitability. General economic conditions,

 

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competitive pressures and the trend in our retail and interconnection pricing have exerted and will continue to exert pressure on the level of our financial results.

Liquidity

Our activities have traditionally generated strong positive cash flow. According to our current business plan for the operations in Turkey, we believe that we will be able to finance our current operations, capital expenditures, and financing costs and maintain and enhance our network through our operating cash flow and our strong cash balance as of December 31, 2010. However, we continue to experience difficult pricing and competitive conditions in our markets, which have caused a decrease in our Net cash provided by operating activities, which we expect will continue. We are also facing increased capital needs to finance our technological and geographic expansion, which may increase our Net cash used for investing activities. These pressures have reduced, and may continue to reduce, our liquidity and may lead to an increase in borrowing needs and Net cash used by financing activities.

We expect that our total capital expenditures in 2011 will be in line with 2010, reflecting in part continued outlays for 3G and new technology expenses. This is based on our current projects and activities, and does not include any new projects.

5.E Off-Balance Sheet Arrangements

Off-balance sheet arrangements refer to any transaction, agreement, or other contractual arrangement involving an unconsolidated entity (other than contingent liabilities arising from litigation, arbitration or regulatory actions) under which a company has:

 

   

provided guarantee contracts;

 

   

retained or contingent interests in transferred assets;

 

   

any obligation under derivative instruments classified as equity; or

 

   

any obligation arising out of material variable interests in an unconsolidated entity that provides financing, liquidity, market risk or credit risk support to the company, or that engages in leasing, hedging, or research and development arrangements with the company.

We routinely enter into operating leases for property in the normal course of business. The future minimum operating lease payments under non-cancellable leases amount to $41.4 million and $ 33.4 million as of December 31, 2010 and 2009, respectively.

Contingent Liabilities

The following table illustrates our major contingent liabilities as of December 31, 2010.

 

     Total
amount
committed
     Amount of contingent liability expiration per period Remaining  commitment  
        At December 31,
2010
     Indefinite*      Less than
one year
     1-3
years
     3-5
years
     Over 5
years
 
U.S.$ Million                                                 

Bank Letters of Guarantee

     234.9         234.9         63.6         19.1         5.6         —           146.6   

 

* Bank letters of guarantee are not given for a specific period. Most of the guarantees will remain as long as the business relationship with the counterparty continues.

As of December 31, 2010, we are contingently liable in respect of bank letters of guarantee obtained from banks and given to custom authorities, private companies and other public organizations amounting to $234.9 million.

See “Item 5.B. Liquidity and Capital Resources—Sources of Liquidity”.

 

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5.F Tabular Disclosure of Contractual Obligations

The following tables illustrate our major contractual and commercial obligations and commitments as of December 31, 2010.

 

     Payments due by period  

Contractual Obligations

   Total      Less than
1 year
     1-3
years
     3-5
years
     After
5 years
 
(U.S.$ Million)                                   

Loans and borrowings(*)

     1,968.5         437.8         1,171.0         331.7         28.0   

Finance Lease Obligations

     29.3         5.2         3.8         3.7         16.6   

Payable in relation to the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom

     100.0         —           —           —           100.0   

Financial liability in relation to put option

     58.5         —           58.5         —           —     

Total Contractual Cash Obligations

     2,156.3         443.0         1,233.3         335.4         144.6   

 

* includes undiscounted interest

 

     Amount of Commitment  

Other Commercial Commitments

   Total      Less than 1
year
     1-3
years
     3-5
years
     After 5
years
 
(U.S.$ Million)                                   

Purchase Obligations

     594.9         304.6         274.8         15.5         0.0   

As at December 31, 2010, outstanding purchase commitments with respect to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, inventory and purchase of sponsorship and advertisement services amount to $594.9 million. Out of total purchase commitments, $135.2 million represents commitments with respect to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets.

5.G Safe Harbor

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 6 DIRECTORS, SENIOR MANAGEMENT AND EMPLOYEES

6.A Directors and Senior Management

Board Members

Under the Turkish Commercial Code and our Articles of Association, the Board of Directors is responsible for our management. Our Articles of Association mandates a Board of Directors containing seven members.

Each member of our Board of Directors is appointed for a term of three years. Our Articles of Association provide for a staggered Board of Directors. At our Annual General Assembly dated April 29, 2010, we removed our prior Board of Directors and appointed the following individuals as members: Colin J. Williams; Karin Eliasson; Mehmet Bulent Ergin; Tero Erkki Kivisaari; Alexey Khudyakov; Oleg Malis; and Gulsun Nazli Karamehmet Williams.

 

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In 2010, our Board of Directors had the following members:

 

Name

  

Date appointed to the Board of Directors

Colin J. Williams (Chairman)*

   April 29, 2010

Karin Eliasson

   April 29, 2010

Mehmet Bulent Ergin

   April 29, 2010

Aimo Eloholma**

   May 8, 2009

Mehmet Emin Karamehmet**

   May 8, 2009

Tero Erkki Kivisaari

   April 29, 2010

Alexey Khudyakov

   April 29, 2010

Oleg Malis

   April 29, 2010

Gulsun Nazli Karamehmet Williams

   April 29, 2010

 

* Following our April 29, 2010 General Assembly Meeting, the members of our Board of Directors elected Mr. Colin J. Williams as Chairman.
** Served on our Board of Directors until our Annual General Assembly held on April 29, 2010.

Executive Officers

We are managed on a day-to-day basis by the Corporate Executive Team with the guidance of the Board of Directors. Officers do not have fixed terms of office. The following table sets forth the name and office of each member of our Corporate Executive Team during fiscal year 2010.

 

Name

  

Office

Sureyya Ciliv

   Chief Executive Officer

Hulusi Acar

   Chief Consumer Sales Officer

Umit Akin1

   Chief Legal Affairs Officer

Cenk Bayrakdar

   Chief Product and Services Management Officer

Tayfun Cataltepe

   Chief Corporate Strategy and Regulations Officer

Meltem Kalender Ozturk2

   Chief Human Resources Officer

Ilker Kuruoz

   Chief Information and Communication Technologies Officer

Serkan Okandan

   Chief Financial Officer

Koray Ozturkler

   Chief Corporate Affairs Officer

Lale Saral Develioglu3

   Chief Turkcell Group Marketing Services Officer

Selen Kocabas4

   Chief Corporate Business Officer

Burak Sevilengul5

   Chief Consumer Business Officer

Ilter Terzioglu

   Chief Network Operations Officer

Ekrem Yener

   Chief International Expansion Officer

Emre Sayin

   Chief Consumer Strategic Projects

 

1 Mr. Akin was appointed Chief Legal Affairs Officer in February 2010.
2 Ms. Öztürk has been appointed Chief Human Resources Officer in March 2011.
3 Prior to being appointed Chief Turkcell Group Marketing Services Officer in August 2010, Ms. Develioglu was Chief Marketing Officer.
4 Prior to being appointed Chief Corporate Business Officer in March 2011, Ms. Kocabas was Chief Business Support Officer.
5 Mr. Sevilengul was appointed Chief Consumer Business Officer in August 2010.

 

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Biographies

Board Members

Colin J. Williams, age 69, was appointed as the Chairman of the Board of Directors on February 25, 2010 and re-appointed on April 29, 2010. He also serves as a Voting Member and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Turkcell’s Board of Directors. He is Chairman of Clondalkin and Chair of the Audit and Remuneration Committees of Clondalkin, a consumer and industrial packaging company. From January 2001 to December 2004, Mr. Williams served as President of SCA, North America, which is active in the packaging sector, personal care and paper tissue products. He was a long-term board member and Vice Chairman of ICCA, the International Corrugated Packaging Institution, the European Federation of Packaging and the Federation of Paper Producers (CEPI). Mr. Williams is the founding President of Propak Europe and was a board member of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce between 2002 and 2004. From 1988 to 2001, Mr. Williams was the President of SCA Packaging, prior to which he served as the Managing Director of Bowater, a corrugated packaging company, for four years. From 1978 to 1984, he was first the Sales Director and then the General Manager of Chicopee in the Netherlands, a non-woven fabrics company of Johnson & Johnson. Mr. Williams holds an MBA degree in finance from New York University, an M.Sc. degree in physical chemistry and an honorary doctorate from Lund University in Sweden.

Karin Eliasson, age 49, was appointed as a member of the Board of Directors on April 29, 2010. Ms. Eliasson has been Senior Vice President and Head of Group Human Resources at TeliaSonera since 2008. Prior to joining TeliaSonera, Ms. Eliasson was Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Svenska Cellulosa Aktiebolaget, SCA. From 2000 until 2003 she served as the CEO of Novare Human Capital AB. Ms. Eliasson is a member of the Board of Directors of Proffice AB and Insurance company PRI Pensionsgaranti mutual. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resources from Mid Sween University.

Mehmet Bulent Ergin, age 63, was first appointed as a member of the Turkcell Board of Directors on April 29, 2005 and was re-appointed on April 29, 2010. After taking responsibility in Hochtief AG’s First Bosphorus project and Tekfen A.S.’s Iraq-Turkey pipeline project, Mr. Ergin worked in various positions at Cukurova Group companies. He held a managerial position at Cukurova Ithalat ve Ihracat T.A.S. and was a managing director at Maysan A.S. and Baytur Trading S.A. Currently, Mr. Ergin is the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Genel Denizcilik Nakliyati A.S., Show TV, Aksam Gazetesi and Genel Enerji A.S., and he also holds the position of Board membership in Cukurova Holding. Mr. Ergin majored in Civil Engineering at Robert College, Turkey.

Tero Erkki Kivisaari, age 39, was appointed to the Board of Directors on May 14, 2007 and was re-appointed on April 29, 2010. Mr. Kivisaari has been the President of TeliaSonera in Eurasia since May 1, 2007 and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Fintur Holdings B.V. Previously, Mr. Kivisaari has served as the chief financial officer and vice president of TeliaSonera in Eurasia. Mr.Kivisaari is a member of the Board of Directors of Azercell, Moldcell, A.S OJSC Megafon and Nurminen Logistics Plc; and the Chairman of Fintur Holdings BV board. He served as CFO of Fintur Holding B.V from 2003. Mr.Kivisaari has been the CFO of SmartTrust AB, a mobile software company owned by Carlyle Group, GE Capital, Eqvitec and Sonera Group. Prior to that, Mr.Kivisaari held the position of Vice President of Sonera Group’s International Operations. Mr. Kivisaari served as an associate professor of finance at the Helsinki School of Economics and holds an MBA in finance.

Alexey Khudyakov, age 40, was appointed to the Board of Directors on May 22, 2006 and re-appointed on April 29, 2010. He is Vice President of Altimo, a leading investor in telecoms, and also serves as non-executive Chairman and Chair of the Audit Committees of High River Gold Mines, a gold mining company. Prior to his appointment to Altimo, Mr. Khudyakov held a Vice President position with Alfa Bank, managing the bank’s direct investments in the telecom sector. Before that, he was a management consultant with McKinsey & Co. Mr. Khudyakov holds a Master of Business Administration degree from INSEAD and a Master’s degree in Applied Mathematics and Physics from the Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology. He is a non-executive

 

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board member of Turkcell. He is also an Observer Member of the Audit Committee of Turkcell’s Board of Directors. Mr. Khudyakov was named to the Audit Committee in reliance on Rule 10A-3(b)(1)(iv)(D) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Oleg Malis, age 37, was appointed to the Board of Directors on May 22, 2006 and re-appointed on April 29, 2010. He is also Senior Vice President of Altimo. Mr. Malis began working for Altimo as Chief of the Current Project Management Unit in 2005. Between 2003 and 2005 Mr. Malis was Senior Vice President and M&A Director at Golden Telecom. Before joining Golden Telecom, Mr. Malis founded Investelectrosvyaz and Corbina Telecom. Mr. Malis holds a degree in Systems Engineering from Moscow State Aviation Technological University.

Gulsun Nazli Karamehmet Williams, age 33, was appointed to our Board of Directors on April 29, 2010. Since 2004, she has worked in different positions at Digiturk (Digital Platform Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S), where she currently holds the positon of Chief Content Officer and Executive Member of the Board. Prior to Digiturk, she worked at BSKYB UK. She studied at Sarah Lawrence College (USA) and Richmond University (UK) and has a B.A. in Communications.

Executive Officers

Sureyya Ciliv, age 53, was appointed the Chief Executive Officer of Turkcell on January 9, 2007. Having previously worked as Microsoft Turkey country manager between 1997-2000, he served in various management positions in Microsoft Global Sales, Marketing and Service Group in the USA between 2000 and 2007. Prior to 1997, Mr. Ciliv was the General Manager and Chairman of Novasoft Systems Inc., a company he established in Boston, USA. Sureyya Ciliv received his MBA degree from Harvard University in 1983 after successfully graduating with honors in Industry & Operations Engineering and Computer Engineering from the University of Michigan in 1981.

Hulusi Acar, age 40, joined Turkcell in 2000 and was appointed Chief Consumer Sales Officer on December 10, 2009. He graduated from Istanbul University’s Business Administration department in 1995. Mr. Acar worked in sales positions in THY and Koctas A.S. At Turkcell he worked as Area Sales Manager, Marmara Region Coordinator and Turkey Sales Manager between 2000-2004. Between March 2004 and November 2006 he was Sales and Customer Relationship Chief Executive Officer of Astelit. Prior to his current position as Chief Consumer Sales Officer, he worked as the Sales Management and Wholesale and Distribution Management Division Head.

Umit Akin, age 41, joined Turkcell in 2002 and was appointed Chief Legal Affairs Officer on February 1, 2010. Prior to his current position, he was the Division Head of Turkcell’s Regulatory Legal Affairs department. Mr. Akin began his professional life in 1996 at Ankara University’s Faculty of Law as a Research Assistant. He then worked as a Lawyer at Ericsson. Umit Akin graduated from Ankara University, Faculty of Law in 1995 and holds a master’s degree in Public Law.

Cenk Bayrakdar, age 43, joined Turkcell in 2000 and was appointed Chief Product and Services Management Officer on September 1, 2009. Having started his professional career at Arcelik, he held several managerial positions on the IT and Production Teams. He then worked at Corbuss as the Business Development Coordinator between 2001-2002 and served as the Partnership Development Division Head of Turkcell between 2002 and 2004. Prior to his current position at Turkcell as the Chief Product and Services Management Officer, Mr. Bayrakdar acted as the Chief Information and Communication Technologies Officer.

Tayfun Cataltepe, age 50, is the Chief Corporate Strategy & Regulations Officer. After graduating from the Electronic Engineering Department of Bosphorus University, Cataltepe received his MSc degree from Michigan Technology University and doctorate degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. From 1990 to 1998, he worked as a Research and Development Engineer in the Bell Laboratories. In 1998 he moved on to AT&T as

 

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the IP Network and Service Planning projects manager, where he worked until 2003. Following AT&T, he started to work at Aycell as the Deputy General Manager in charge of Technical Operations. He was then Deputy General Manager in charge of Network Operations at AVEA from 2004 to 2006. In 2007, Mr. Cataltepe served as the Europe Telecom Sector Expert in the Transaction Integration Services Department of Ernst & Young. Since 2007, he has been working at Turkcell as a Chief Officer.

Selen Kocabas, age 43, joined Turkcell in 2003 and she is the Chief Corporate Business Officer. Prior to this appointment, she was the Chief Business Support Officer in charge of human resources, corporate information systems, procurement and contract management, and administrative issues. Mrs. Kocabas started her professional career as a Management Trainee at Koc Holding, Mrs. Kocabas later worked as Human Resources Expert at Arcelik, then as a Human Resources Coordinator at Marshall, followed by Groupe Danone SA where she worked as Human Resources Director. Selen Kocabas is a graduate of Economics from Istanbul University. She also obtained a master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Marmara University.

Ilker Kuruoz, age 42, is Turkcell’s Chief Information and Communication Technologies Officer as of September 2009. He joined Turkcell in 2006. Kuruöz has started his professional career in 1994 in ABT. He then worked in NCR as a System Consultant, in Garanti Teknoloji as a Business Unit Manager and in Accenture as a Senior Manager. Prior to his current position at Turkcell, he was the Capability Management Division Head of Turkcell. Ilker Kuruoz graduated from Bilkent University Computer Engineering in 1992 and holds a Master’s degree from the same department.

Serkan Okandan, age 41, joined Turkcell in 2000. Since January 1, 2006, he has been the Chief Financial Officer of Turkcell. Prior to this appointment, he was the Financial Control and Reporting Division Head of Turkcell. Mr. Okandan started his professional career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in 1992. He then worked for DHL and Frito Lay as a Financial Controller. Serkan Okandan is a graduate in Economics from Bosphorus University.

Koray Ozturkler, age 48, joined Turkcell in 1998 and since April 9, 2008 he has been the Chief Corporate Affairs Officer in charge of corporate communications, investor relations and Corporate Citizenship. Prior to this appointment he had been the Investor Relations division head at Turkcell since 2002 and before that he was the division head of International Business Development. Mr. Ozturkler started his career in the USA at Accenture Consulting. He continued his career at Yapi Kredi Bank. Mr. Ozturkler is a graduate of Johnson C. Smith University Marketing Division and he received his MBA majoring in MIS from Mercer University.

Lale Saral Develioglu, age 43, joined Turkcell in 2003 and since August 2010 has been Chief Turkcell Group Marketing Services Officer. Prior to this position, she was the Chief Marketing Officer from 2006 to 2010 and the Individual Marketing Division Head of Turkcell between December 2003 and June 2006. Starting her career at Unilever, Lale Saral Develioglu served as Brand Manager for 5 years and Marketing Manager for 7 years in various product categories and markets between 1992 and 2003. She is a graduate from the department of Industrial Engineering of Bogazici University. She also holds a master’s degree in Management Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, New York.

Emre Sayin, age 44, is the Chief Consumer Strategic Projects Officer of Turkcell. Prior to his current position, he was performing as the Chief Corporate Business Officer and Chief Consumer Sales Officer of Turkcell. Sayin worked for Evyap Pazarlama ve Tic. A.S. as the Deputy General Manager in charge of Marketing in 2005-2006 and for Kodak A.S. as the General Manager in 2002-2005. Prior to that Emre Sayin was the Chief Marketing Officer for Microsoft Turkey between 1999-2002. Sayin worked as the Marketing and Category Manager of Unilever Turkey between 1992-1999. Emre Sayin is a graduate of Bosphorus University’s Department of Industrial Engineering and holds a Master’s degree in Systems and Industrial Engineering from Rutgers University.

Burak Sevilengul, age 38, joined Turkcell in 2001 and has been Chief Consumer Business Officer since August 2010. Prior to this appointment, he was the Division Head for the Consumer Business group and had

 

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various other managerial responsibilities within the Marketing Department. Burak Sevilengül is a graduate of Middle East Technical University’s Department of Business Administration and holds an MBA degree University Of Georgia, Terry College of Business.

Ilter Terzioglu, age 45, joined Turkcell in 2003 and since April 1, 2006 he has been the Chief Network Operations Officer. Mr. Terzioglu has worked in the communications sector since 1993 and served as Assistant General Manager at Ericsson, Superonline and Show TV. Mr. Terzioglu is a graduate of the Department of Econometrics at Istanbul University. Prior to his current position as Chief Network Operations Officer, he was Turkcell’s Head of Business Strategies, Regulation and Risk Consolidation.

Ekrem Yener, age 50, joined Turkcell in 2007, and has held positions as Chief Corporate Business Officer and Chief Special Projects Officer. Currently, he is acting as Turkcell’s Chief International Expansion Officer. He worked for Aysu Dis Tic. A.S. and Digital Equipment A.S. as a Sales Manager from 1991-1998. Yener worked as the Ankara Regional Manager of Microsoft Turkey in 1998. He was appointed Microsoft’s Deputy General Manager in Charge of Marketing in 2002 and was the Deputy General Manager in charge of Business and Strategy Development between 2004-2007. He graduated from the Istanbul Technical University’s Department of Metallurgical Engineering in 1982 and received a Master’s Degree in Material Sciences from the University of California at Berkley in 1986 and in High Level Marketing Management from Kellogg University.

Meltem Kalender Öztürk, age 37, joined Turkcell in 1998 and is our Chief Human Resources Officer. Between 2001 and 2011, she was the Division Head of Employee Relations Management in charge of training, performance and talent management, remuneration, employee relations, organizational development and quality management. Mrs. Öztürk also worked in various human resources functions at Logo Business Solutions and Işiklar Holding. Meltem Kalender Öztürk is a graduate of Business Administration from Marmara University.

6.B Compensation

The compensation of the Board of Directors is resolved by the shareholders at general assemblies. The Board, upon the recommendation of the Corporate Governance Committee, together with its own determinations, should decide on a proposal to the General Assembly whether board members will be remunerated and if such is the case, the form and amount of compensation to be paid to the board members. At our Annual General Assembly held on April 29, 2010, it was decided that our Chairman would receive a net sum of €250,000 per year and each Board member would receive a net sum of €100,000 per year for the period of their service, effective from February 25, 2010.

For the year ended December 31, 2010, we paid an aggregate of approximately $11.4 million to our executive officers including: indemnities, salaries, bonuses and other benefits. There was no deferred or contingent compensation accrued for the year payable to executive officers other than those already included in $11.4 million. In 2009, we paid an aggregate of approximately $8.0 million to our executive officers including: indemnities, salaries, bonuses and other benefits. Furthermore, we do not maintain any profit sharing, pension or similar plans. We have Directors and Officers Liability Insurance that covers our directors and officers from liabilities that arise in connection with performing their duties and our liabilities in connection with our directors’ and officers’ performance of their duties. The coverage amount is $80 million, and there are a number of insurers, each covering a different layer of the policy. The Directors and Officers Liability insurance is London based, but it is provided through Genel Sigorta A.S., an insurance company in Turkey. In 2010, we paid a premium amounting to approximately $384,128, and in 2009, we paid a premium of approximately $350,000. The policy will expire on September 1, 2011, and we will consider its renewal based on the terms and conditions offered.

 

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6.C Board Practices

Under the Turkish Commercial Code and our Articles of Association, our Board of Directors is responsible for our management. The Articles of Association provide for a Board of Directors consisting of seven members. The members each serve for a term of three years. None of the members of the Board of Directors has entered into a service agreement with us.

For more information on our directors and the period during which each director has served on the board, see “Item 6.A. Directors and Senior Management”.

Our Board of Directors has adopted the Turkcell Corporate Governance Guidelines, the Audit Committee Charter, the Corporate Governance Charter and the Corporate Governance Secretariat Terms of Reference. The principal provisions of the guidelines are available on our website, www.turkcell.com.tr.

Committees of the Board of Directors

The Audit Committee

We are required under Turkish laws and regulations, U.S. securities laws and regulations and the rules of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) to have an audit committee of the Board of Directors appointed from among the members of the Board of Directors. Our audit committee has two members: Mr. Colin J. Williams and Mr. Alexey Khudyakov (non-voting observer member). As required by the CMB Communiqué Serial:X No: 22 which is binding upon public companies in Turkey, Mr. Williams and Mr. Khudyakov are non-executive members of our Board of Directors. Mr. Williams chairs the audit committee and is considered independent under the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the rules promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the applicable rules of the NYSE and the CMB Corporate Governance Principles. Mr. Khudyakov is an “observer member” on the audit committee and is not considered independent under the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and rules promulgated thereunder. On January 26, 2007, the CMB informed Turkcell 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 so that our Company can comply with Article 25. We believe that Mr. Khudyakov does fully meet the requirements of Article 25 as he is a non-executive Board member and have initiated a lawsuit before an administrative court seeking to suspend the execution and to annul the decision of the CMB with respect to Mr. Khudyakov. The administrative court ultimately dismissed our lawsuit in January 2008. In March 2008, we appealed before the Council of State. However, on April 9, 2008, the Council of State rejected our request to suspend the decision. The Council of State also rejected the appeal. The Company applied for a correction of the decision. This process is still pending.

Pursuant to the decision we were notified of on October 23, 2008, the CMB gave Turkcell an administrative penalty amounting to TRY 11,836 (equivalent to USD 7,809 as of April 7, 2011) for not complying with its decision stating that Mr. 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 and required that Turkcell inform its shareholders of such penalty at the next General Assembly (which was held on January 30, 2009). In November 2008, we commenced a lawsuit before the court. The Court rejected the Company’s suspension request and we objected to this decision, but our objection was rejected. The lawsuit is still pending.

If our position in this matter does not ultimately prevail over that of the CMB, our compliance with the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and the continued listing of our ADRS on the NYSE could be jeopardized. Under the rules of the NYSE, we are exempted from compliance with certain NYSE corporate governance rules that are applicable to domestic issuers, but only to the extent that we comply with our home country corporate governance rules. If we do not prevail over the CMB and are thus deemed not to be in compliance with our home country rules, we may thus lose the benefit of this exemption and the NYSE may require us to comply with domestic issuer rules. If we were not able or willing to take remedial action to comply with our home country rules, or if we were not able or willing to comply with the applicable NYSE rules, our ADRs could be delisted from the NYSE, in which case they would no longer be traded on the NYSE.

 

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Under the provisions of the Turkish Commercial Code, the Board of Directors must be responsible, as a whole, for all decisions and cannot delegate responsibility to committees of the board. As a consequence, parallel to the Swiss Code, committees in Turkish law merely have a “decision-shaping”, rather than “decision-taking” role. Additionally, as per a decision of the Board of Directors, the responsibility of the audit committee members is also considered as a joint responsibility of all Board members.

The principal duties of the Audit Committee include the following:

 

   

assisting the board’s oversight of the quality and integrity of our financial statements and related disclosure;

 

   

overseeing the implementation and efficiency of our accounting system;

 

   

pre-approving the appointment of and services to be provided by our independent auditors;

 

   

preparing and monitoring the agreement between us and the independent auditor and overseeing the performance and efficiency of our independent audit system and internal audit mechanisms; and

 

   

establishing procedures for the receipt, retention and treatment of complaints regarding accounting, internal accounting control systems or auditing matters and establishing procedures for the confidential, anonymous submission by our employees of concerns regarding questionable accounting or auditing matters.

The Corporate Governance Committee

The Corporate Governance Committee mainly assists the Board of Directors with the development and implementation of our corporate governance principles and presents to the Board of Directors remedial proposals to that end. It establishes a transparent system for the determination, evaluation and training of Board member candidates. The Committee makes recommendations to the Board of Directors, where appropriate, regarding our compensation strategy both for the Board members and the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer and the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer succession plan. In the relations between the Company and our shareholders, the Committee assists the board. To that end, it oversees the investor relations activities.

The Chairman of our Corporate Governance Committee is Mr. Colin J. Williams and the members are Ms. Karin B. Eliasson, Mr. Mehmet Bulent Ergin and Mr. Oleg Malis. The Board of Directors does not have a remuneration committee; however, the Corporate Governance committee may give recommendations on remuneration, including the remuneration of our Chief Executive Officer. In accordance with Turkish law, the committee does not have the power to set remuneration independent of the Board of Directors.

 

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6.D Employees

From our formation in 1993, we have grown from approximately 90 employees to 10,872 employees as at December 31, 2010. Due to our customer growth and the increasing need for competent employees, we focus on the quality of our recruitment. The following table sets forth the number of employees by activity employed by us at December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008.

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Turkcell

        

Marketing1

     —           189         179   

Consumer Business

     102         —           —     

Group Marketing Services

     91         —           —     

Sales2

     —           523         520   

Consumer Sales

     243         —           —     

Corporate Business

     279         —           —     

Finance

     211         220         225   

Service & Product Development3

     —           —           532   

Information & Communication Technologies

     590         545         —     

Network Operations

     780         776         821   

Business Support

     232         211         298   

VAS Management4

     —           —           96   

Product & Services Management

     111         100         —     

CEO Office5

     3         3         138   

Corporate Affairs

     31         29         —     

Corporate Risk Management

     16         15         —     

Corporate Strategy & Regulations6

     35         37         —     

Legal Counseling

     58         59         —     

Special Projects7

     —           2         —     

International Expansion

     7         —           —     

International Investment Coordination8

     30         24         15   

Subtotal

     2,789         2,709         2,809   

Subsidiaries

        

Global Bilgi

     4,565         4,863         4,635   

Limited Liability Company Astelit

     1,065         1,132         1,284   

Belarusian Telecom

     406         445         434   

Global Bilgi LLC

     394         352         327   

Superonline.

     412         318         289   

Turkcell Teknoloji Arastirma ve Gelistirme A.S

     362         315         269   

Kibris Telekom

     172         171         174   

Kurumsal A.S.

     407         —           —     

Others9

     300         147         154   

Subtotal

     8,083         7,743         7,566   

Total

     10,872         10,452         10,375   

 

(1) As of August 2010, the Marketing organization has been restructured. As a part of this restructuring, two functional groups have been named “Group Marketing Services” and “Consumer Business”.
(2) As of May 2010, the Sales organization has been restructured. As a part of this restructuring, two Functional Groups have been named “Consumer Sales” and “Corporate Business”.
(3) As of September 2009, the Service & Product Development activity has been restructured and renamed Information & Communication Technologies.
(4) As of September 2008, the VAS Management function has been restructured to form Product and Services Management in order to focus on products and services.

 

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(5) As of 2009, the following groups are no longer reported as part of the CEO Office and are presented separately: Corporate Affairs, Corporate Risk Management, Corporate Strategy & Regulations, Legal Counseling and Special Projects
(6) To increase our business effectiveness and our adaptation to change and by taking regulation excellence principles into consideration, “Regulations” has been moved to Corporate Strategy as of July 1, 2008 in order to increase our business effectiveness and ability to respond more efficiently to changes as well as by taking into consideration regulation excellence principles.
(7) The “Special projects” role has been cancelled.
(8) International Investment Coordination includes experts and is not included in the subtotal.
(9) Others include the following subsidiaries: Inteltek Internet Teknoloji Yatirim ve Danismanlik Ticaret A.S., Global Tower, Global Bilgi FLLC, Ukrtower, Azerinteltek and Rehberlik A.S.

High levels of subscriber satisfaction can only be achieved if our employees are capable and competent professionals dedicated to subscriber service.

We are able to recruit highly qualified employees due to our position of leadership in the Turkish telecommunications market and our strong corporate identity. Stringent hiring and training standards have resulted in a professional organization with high-caliber employees within a challenging workplace.

With regard to employee compensation and benefits, the major principles of our policy are to preserve internal equity and external competitiveness and reflect individual performance in compensation packages.

Significant factors involved in the process of determining compensation and benefits for our employees are our grading structure (based on the Mercer IPE system), market movement data and individual performance. We make salary adjustments once yearly. Principal factors in salary adjustments are market movements and economic indicators (e.g. the rate of inflation). We pay performance bonuses annually to all our employees in accordance with individual and company performance results. Our performance evaluation system evaluates the whole year performance of our employees through two primary activities: target setting and 360-degree evaluation. Benefits packages are designed in line with the local market practice and linked to grade bands/levels where the benefits package improves as the grade band/level increases. We run a flexible benefits plan that allows our employees to select from a pool of choices that suit them such as several shopping & travel vouchers, allowance for children and payment to the Defined Contribution Plan (the “DCP”). The DCP is a voluntary pension system in which we and the employee make equal contributions. After a vesting period of three years, the employee gets ownership of the contribution we made. The DCP covers all employees who have been working with us for a minimum of six months.

Each of our employees undergoes an orientation program incorporating classroom training and e-learning training. The training provides employees with information concerning corporate culture and ethics, an introduction to our services, basic mobile communications knowledge and functions of departments. Each employee has the opportunity to participate in the individual, organizational, functional and managerial development programs after regular training needs analysis. In addition, each employee receives specific training for his or her particular job.

To further develop our employees we have created the Turkcell Academy. The Turkcell Academy is structured as a center of development for Turkcell Group employees. The Turkcell Academy was created as part of Turkcell’s philosophy of investing in people and is one of our proactive development solutions supporting group strategies and helping to improve Turkcell’s performance. With the Turkcell Academy’s branded long-term development programs, technical and non-technical courses, web-based training systems, e-learning and language teaching, Turkcell Group has become an environment in which employees get together to receive a broad variety of educational content and to share information.

The Turkcell Academy is also intended to improve the future society of Turkey and to reach out to young people through social responsibility projects. Together with strategic partnerships with universities and training

 

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consultancies and with Academy trainers’ experience and knowledge, the Turkcell Academy has become a valuable and important part of our company.

Our employees are not members of any union, and there is no collective bargaining agreement with our employees. We have not experienced any work stoppages.

6.E Share Ownership

Based on reporting made to us in February and March, 2011, we believe that the aggregate amount of shares owned by our Board members and senior officers at such time was approximately 1.431%. No individual Board member or senior officer owned 1% or more of our outstanding shares.

 

ITEM 7 MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS AND RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

7.A Major Shareholders

The following table sets forth our major shareholders’ ordinary share ownership representing approximately 65.31% of our company’s capital. This information is current as of January 31, 2011 based on the Company’s official share book. Our shareholders do not have different voting rights.

 

Name and Address of Owner

   Nominal TRY Value
of Shares Owned(1)
     Percent of
Class
 

Sonera Holding B.V.(2)

     287,632,179.557         13.07

P.O. Box 8675

     

NL 3009 AR Rotterdam

     

The Netherlands

     

Cukurova Holding A.S.

     995,509.429         0.05

Buyukdere Cad.

     

Yapi Kredi Plaza

     

A Blok Kat: 15,

     

34330, Levent, Istanbul, Turkey

     

Turkcell Holding A.S.(3)

     1,122,000,000.238         51.00

Buyukdere Cad.

     

Yapi Kredi Plaza

     

A Blok Kat: 15

     

34330, Levent, Istanbul, Turkey

     

Muflis Bilka Kaynak ve Iletisim San. ve Tic. A.S.

     137,199.575         0.01

Cumhuriyet Cad. No: 16 Kat: 2 Oda:2

     

Sisli, Istanbul, Turkey

     

M.V. Holding A.S.(4)

     26,021,712.590         1.18

K.V.K. Plaza Bayar Cad., Gulbahar Sok.

     

No: 14 34742 Kozyatagi, Istanbul, Turkey

     

Shares Publicly Held

(including the major shareholders listed below)

     763,213,398.611         34.69 %(7) 

Capital Research Global Investors(5)

     141,852,314.00         6.4

333 South Hope Street

     

Los Angeles, CA 90071, United States

     

Lazard Asset Management LLC(6)

     111,353,863         5.06

30 Rockefeller Plaza

New York, NY 10112, United States

     

Total

        100.00

 

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(1) On April 29, 2005, the General Assembly approved a revaluation of our ordinary shares from TL 1,000 to TRY 1. The revaluation resulted in the formation of fractional shares, which have not yet been merged into whole ordinary shares. Therefore, we give the nominal value of the ordinary shares owned rather than the units or fractional units thereof.
(2) Controlled by TeliaSonera. On September 11, 2009, Sonera Holding entered into a derivative transaction with Citibank, N.A. that was settled on October 30, 2009, resulting in Sonera Holding’s acquisition of 6,418,710 of Turkcell’s ADS (representing 16,046,775 Shares) at a price of $17.30 per ADS.
(3) Controlled indirectly by Cukurova Telecom Holdings and Alfa Telecom (through its Altimo subsidiary). As of the date of this annual report on Form 20-F, we understand that, TeliaSonera, Cukurova Holding, and Alfa Group currently own, directly or indirectly, of approximately 37.1%, 13.8%, and 13.2% respectively, of our share capital, the majority of which is held through Turkcell Holding A.S. TeliaSonera’s 37.1% does not include additional shares totalling approximately 0.94% that TeliaSonera have informed us that they own. For more information, see footnote 6 below and “Item 3—Risk Factors—Turkcell’s complex ownership structure and Board composition could adversely impact our shareholders’ ability to achieve the consensus necessary to approve important matters relating to our business and operations, and ongoing legal disputes involving our shareholders may affect the ownership and control of our shares and our ability to manage our business”.
(4) Controlled by Murat Vargi.
(5) On the basis of publicly available information (Form 13G filings) , Capital Research Global Investors (“CRMC”) is deemed to be the beneficial owner of 141,852,314 of our shares as a result of CRMC acting as investment adviser to various investment companies registered under Section 8 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.
(6) We calculate shares publicly held by deducting from total shares outstanding those shareholders named above. However, a different level of shares publicly held is arrived at when calculating according to Turkish regulations, see Free Float Definition Rules in “Item 10B Memorandum and Articles of Association-Capital Structure-Free Float Definition Rules”. Based on information received from TeliaSonera, we understand that approximately 0.94% of the shares they own in our Company is a part of float.

As of April 7, 2011, Turkcell had 80,652,345 ADRs outstanding held by 52 registered ADR holders. To the best of our knowledge, as of December 31, 2010, in accordance with the loan agreements signed between our shareholders and various banks, 0.01% of shares having a nominal value of TRY 137,199.575 have been pledged by our shareholders as security in favor of such banks.

As per a public announcement sent to the Istanbul Stock Exchange on April 28, 2008, and a letter sent to us by Cukurova, we understand that Cukurova has sold 90,200,000 shares to J.P. Morgan Securities Ltd. for sale to foreign investors. Accordingly, along with the circulation of such shares with a nominal value of TRY 90,200,000, our free float has increased from 29.38% to 33.48%.

On the basis of publicly available information (Form 13D filings), Alfa Group, which previously held, indirectly, 13.2% of our shares, reduced its stake to below 5% in 2008 as a result of litigation with Telenor Group. Alfa Group’s holdings in Turkcell were sold to Nadash and HSL.

On August 11, 2009, our Board of Directors approved a resolution for the blank endorsement of 16,800 shares, each having a nominal value of TRY 1, and held by Bilka Bilgi Kaynak ve Iletisim San. Ve Tic. A.S. for their transfer and assignment pursuant to paragraph “m” of Article 9 of the Istanbul Stock Exchange Quotation Regulation.

We understand that on September 11, 2009, Sonera Holding entered into a derivative transaction with Citibank, N.A. that was settled on October 30, 2009, resulting in Sonera Holding’s acquisition of 6,418,710 of Turkcell’s ADS (representing 16,046,775 Shares) at a price of $17.30 per ADS.

On October 27, 2010, our Board of Directors approved a resolution for the blank endorsement of 25,500,000 shares, each having a nominal value of TRY 1, and held by MV Holding A.S. for their transfer and assignment pursuant to paragraph “m” of Article 9 of the Istanbul Stock Exchange Quotation Regulation.

 

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Mapfre Genel Sigorta notified the sale of 1,558,447.590 of its shares in our Company to the Capital Markets Boards on January 21, 2010 and the sale of 0.009 of its shares in our Company on May 6, 2010. These shares are now classified as publicly held shares of the Company and Mapfre Genel Sigorta is therefore no longer listed as an ordinary shareholder. These shares are now classified as publicly held shares of the Company and Mapfre Genel Sigorta is therefore no longer listed as an ordinary shareholder.

7.B Related Party Transactions

We have entered into agreements with our executive officers and with several of our current and former shareholders or affiliates of shareholders. We believe that all of such agreements are on terms that are comparable to those that would be available in transactions with unrelated parties. Our policy is to seek price quotes for services and goods we purchase and select the most favorable price. For a discussion of our Related Party Transactions for fiscal year 2010, see Note 33 to our Consolidated Financial Statements.

7.C Interests of Experts and Counsel

Not Applicable.

 

ITEM 8 FINANCIAL INFORMATION

8.A Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information

Audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2010 and 2009 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, are included in “Item 18. Financial Statements”.

Legal Proceedings

For a discussion of the various claims and legal actions in which we are involved, see Note 32 (Commitments and Contingencies) to our consolidated financial statements in this Form 20-F.

Dividend Policy

We have adopted a dividend policy, which is included in our Corporate Governance Guidelines. As adopted, our general dividend policy is to pay dividends to shareholders with due regard to trends in our operating performance, financial condition and other factors. Since 2004, the Board of Directors has endeavored to distribute cash dividends of at least 50% of our distributable net profits per fiscal year, although the payment of dividends remains subject to our cash flow requirements, applicable Turkish laws and the approval of, or amendment by, the Board of Directors and the General Assembly of Shareholders.

In accordance with Turkish law, the distribution of profits and the payment of an annual dividend with respect to the preceding financial year are subject to a recommendation which may be made by the Board of Directors each year for approval by the shareholders at the annual general assembly. The Board may decide whether or not to recommend a distribution of profits together with the amount of dividend and the shareholders, through the general assembly, accept or reject such proposal, if any. Dividends are payable on a date proposed by the Board of Directors and determined at the general assembly of shareholders, which date, under the CMB requirements, must be earlier than the end of the fifth month following the end of the preceding financial year. However, the CMB is authorized to designate another deadline for distribution of dividends in any given year. The general assembly of shareholders in respect of 2010 has not yet been held.

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 share having a nominal value of TRY 1 shall be

 

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issued to represent such shares. Turkcell is currently 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. 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 approved by the CMB. Basic and diluted weighted average number of shares and net income per share as of December 31, 2004 are retrospectively changed to reflect each share having a nominal value of TRY 1.

On March 30, 2009, our Board of Directors proposed a dividend of approximately TRY 1,098.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2008 (equivalent to $710.3 million as at December 31, 2010) (which represents a net and gross cash dividend of TRY 0.50 (approximately $0.32 as at December 31, 2010) per ordinary share with a nominal value of TRY 1). This dividend proposal was approved at the Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders held on May 8, 2009. A cash dividend distribution began on May 18, 2009 and was completed by December 31, 2010.

On March 10, 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors proposed a dividend for the year ended December 31, 2009 of TRY 859.3 million (equivalent to $555.8 million at December 31, 2010), which represents 50% of distributable income and a net cash dividend of TRY 0.39 (equivalent to $0.25 at December 31, 2010) per share. This dividend proposal was approved at the Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders held on April 29, 2010. A cash dividend payment was distributed from May 17, 2010 for a period of 15 days.

On March 23, 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors proposed a dividend for the year ended December 31, 2010 of TRY 1,328.70 million (equivalent to $859.4 million at December 31, 2010), which corresponds to 75% of Turkcell’s distributable income and a net cash dividend of TRY 0.60 (equivalent to $0.39 at December 31, 2010) per share. This dividend proposal will be discussed at the Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders that has been called for April 21, 2011.

Annual profits are calculated and distributed in accordance with our articles of association after deduction from our annual revenues of all expenses, depreciation, taxes, required reserves and any losses from the previous years.

Pursuant to CMB regulations, dividend distributions of publicly held companies are regulated as follows:

From the distributable net dividend calculated as per the CMB’s regulations, the entire amount calculated according to the CMB regulations regarding the requirement of minimum dividend distribution shall be distributed in the event such amount can be covered by the distributable net dividend in the statutory records. In the event the entire amount cannot be covered by the distributable net dividend in the statutory records, the total distributable net dividend in the statutory records shall be distributed. In the event there is net loss in the financial statements prepared as per the CMB regulations or statutory records, there shall be no dividend distribution.

The CMB determined that for the accounting period ended December 31, 2008, the minimum dividend distribution rate should be at least 20% of the total distributable dividend. This distribution can be in cash or in the form of bonus share distribution, or both in cash and in the form of bonus share distribution, provided that it will not be less than 20% of the total distributable dividend. The amount of dividend to be distributed shall be resolved in the general assembly meetings of the companies. The CMB decided, with its decision dated January 27, 2010, to not to enforce a minimum dividend distribution ratio for the dividend distribution to be made relative to the profit generated in 2009. The CMB has taken no further decision to amend its decision dated January 27, 2010 regarding dividend distribution for the 2010 fiscal year.

To the extent we declare dividends in the future, we will pay those dividends in Turkish Lira. In the case of ordinary shares held in the form of ADSs, dividends will be converted into U.S. Dollars by the depositary for the ADSs, to the extent it can do so on a reasonable basis, and will be distributed to the holders of the ADSs.

 

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Because exchange rates between the Turkish Lira and the U.S. Dollar fluctuate continuously, a holder of ADSs will be subject to currency fluctuation generally, but particularly between the date on which dividends are declared and the date dividends are paid. Under current Turkish regulations, dividends or other distributions paid in respect of the ordinary shares or ADSs generally will be subject to withholding taxes. See “Item 10E. Taxation”.

8.B Significant Changes

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 9 THE OFFER AND LISTING

9.A Offer and Listing Details

Our capital consists of ordinary shares. Pursuant to an amendment in Turkish Capital Markets Law and a communiqué issued by the Turkish CMB, our shares traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange were dematerialized as of November 2005. For detailed information on the dematerialization of our shares, see “Item 10.B Transfer of Shares”.

Our ordinary shares are traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange under the symbol “TCELL” and our ADSs are traded on the NYSE under the symbol “TKC”. Currently two ADSs represent five of our ordinary shares. Our ADSs are evidenced by American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”), issued by Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York, as Depositary under a Deposit Agreement, executed in July 2000, among us, Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York and registered holders from time to time of ADRs. ADRs were first issued in July 2000. We are considering transferring our ADR program to another depositary bank and will provide details about the transfer if and when it occurs.

Beginning January 1, 2006, capital gains realized without meeting a one year holding period are subject to a withholding tax in Turkey. On July 7, 2006, a provision was added to article 1/a of Code 5527 stating that foreign-based taxpayers, natural persons and corporations are subject to 0% tax. See “Item 10.E. Taxation”.

 

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The table below sets forth, for the periods indicated, the reported high and low closing quotations (as extracted from Reuters) on the NYSE and the Istanbul Stock Exchange. All quotations have been adjusted to take into account all dividends we have issued in the form of shares and cash.

 

     New York
Stock Exchange

($ per ADS)
     Istanbul Stock
Exchange

(TRY  per
Ordinary
Share)
 
       High              Low              High              Low      

Annual information for the past five years

           

2010

     19.98         12.34         11.18         7.80   

2009

     18.65         11.15         10.32         6.86   

2008

     27.47         9.70         11.30         6.19   

2007

     29.73         12.70         12.09         5.59   

2006

     16.14         9.72         6.95         4.46   

Quarterly information for the past two years

           

2010

           

First Quarter

     19.98         14.54         11.18         8.60   

Second Quarter

     16.18         12.34         9.22         7.80   

Third Quarter

     16.92         12.81         10.10         7.95   

Fourth Quarter

     19.59         16.48         11.15         9.90   

Quarterly information for the past two years

           

2009

           

First Quarter

     15.33         11.15         8.39         6.91   

Second Quarter

     13.94         11.73         8.31         6.86   

Third Quarter

     17.87         13.35         10.13         7.83   

Fourth Quarter

     18.65         15.36         10.32         8.84   

Monthly information for most recent six months

           

October

     19.27         17.03         11.00         9.90   

November

     19.59         17.04         11.15         10.20   

December

     17.32         16.48         10.80         10.00   

January

     17.73         15.21         10.95         9.82   

February

     16.69         14.07         10.55         8.96   

March

     15.47         13.28         9.62         8.58   

April (as of April 7, 2011)

     15.60         15.42         9.60         9.48   

Fluctuations in the exchange rate between the Turkish Lira and the U.S. Dollar will affect any comparisons of ordinary share prices and ADS prices.

On April 7, 2011, the closing price per ordinary share on the Istanbul Stock Exchange was TRY 9.48 and per ADS on the NYSE was $15.43.

The Depositary confirmed that we had 80,028,203 ADRs outstanding as of the close of business December 31, 2010. We had 80,652,345 ADRs outstanding as of the close of business April 7, 2011.

9.B Plan of Distribution

Not applicable.

9.C Markets

Our ADSs are traded on the NYSE under the symbol “TKC” and our ordinary shares are traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange under the symbol “TCELL”.

 

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9.D Selling Shareholders

Not applicable.

9.E Dilution

Not applicable.

9.F Expenses of the Issue

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 10 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

10.A Share Capital

Not applicable.

10.B Memorandum and Articles of Association

General

We are registered in the Istanbul Trade Registry under number 304844. Pursuant to Article 3 of our Articles of Association, as amended January 30, 2009 at the Extraordinary General Assembly, we are incorporated primarily for the provision of any telephone, telecommunication and similar services in compliance with the Telegraph and Telephone Law number 406 and services stated in the GSM Pan Europe Mobile Telephone System bid that was signed with the Ministry of Transportation and to operate within the authorization regarding the IMT-2000/UMTS services and the infrastructure.

Board Members

General

The Board of Directors is comprised of seven members elected by the general assembly, all of whom must be individuals under Turkish law. An increase in the number of members of the Board of Directors must be approved by the general assembly. Directors are required to be shareholders of the Company unless they are representatives of legal entity shareholders. Shareholders that are legal entities cannot be elected as directors and can only nominate their representatives for election to the Board of Directors. Currently all of the directors on our Board are either representatives of shareholders that are legal entities or shareholders themselves. The Turkish Commercial Code, or the TCC, does not require a board member to be a Turkish citizen. There is no minimum age for the directors, provided that a board member has reached the age of majority, 18, and there is no mandatory retirement age under applicable law.

Board Members’ Interest

The TCC forbids a board member to enter into a transaction with us in any area relating to our business either on the board member’s own behalf or on behalf of someone else, thus preventing the abuse of duty by board members and protecting our interests (TCC Article 334). Our general assembly may, however, authorize our board members to enter into these types of transactions through a specific provision in our Articles of Association, or our general assembly may grant such a right on a yearly basis. On April 29, 2010, such authorization was granted by our general assembly.

Board members cannot participate in board meetings in which a matter related to themselves or their relatives is discussed (TCC Article 332). If any item of an agenda is related to one of the Board members, within the meaning of TCC Article 332, the board member concerned should inform the board of this and request the

 

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situation be recorded in the minutes of the meeting. Interested board members cannot participate in and sign such resolutions. If we suffer any loss because of a board member’s failure to raise such an issue, the board member shall be held liable to compensate us for the loss incurred due to such matter related to her/him or her/his relatives.

Under TCC Article 335, board members are barred from participating in similar commercial activities outside our company. Board members cannot become shareholders with unlimited liability or become board members of companies active in similar types of business. Our general assembly may, however, authorize our board members to enter into these types of transactions through a specific provision in our Articles of Association or our general assembly may grant such a right on a yearly basis. On May 8, 2009, such authorization was granted by our general assembly.

Compensation

Any remuneration payable to board members shall be determined by our general assembly. The Board of Directors has no authority to determine such remuneration. At our Annual General Assembly held on April 29, 2010, it was decided that our Chairman would receive a net sum of €250,000 per year and each Board member would receive a net sum of €100,000 per year for the period of their service, effective from February 25, 2010.

Borrowing Power

To the extent the relevant provisions of Turkish law allow, the board of directors of our company is the body entitled to, directly or through representatives authorized by the board of directors, resolve to exercise our powers to borrow money or give any form of guarantee or surety relating to our or any third party’s obligations. CMB adopted a new rule on September 9, 2009, which was announced in its weekly bulletin in connection with credit extensions, that public companies can provide guarantees or pledges, including mortgages, to third parties, provided such third party (i) is fully consolidated in the company’s financial statements, or (ii) the ordinary business operations of the company directly requires providing guarantees, pledges or mortgages. At the Ordinary General Assembly held on April 29, 2010, Article 3 entitled Purpose and Subject Matter of Turkcell’s Articles of Association was amended in line with CMB’s rule dated September 9, 2009. Under our Articles of Association, our Board of Directors is authorized to issue debentures and other securities subject to the TCC, Turkish Capital Markets Law and other relevant legislation. Under Turkish Capital Markets Law, the total value of capital market instruments shall not exceed the amount specified by the CMB, for each type of instrument. However, as a general rule, the total value of debentures and other debt instruments that a publicly held company may issue as capital market instruments may not exceed the balance remaining after deducting the losses, if any, from the total sum of the outstanding and paid up capital as shown on the latest independently audited financial statements submitted to the CMB, plus reserves and the revaluation fund stated in the latest financial statement approved by the general assembly. Pursuant to Article 3 of our Articles of Association, as amended on October 2, 2009 at the Extraordinary General Assembly, and as effective on October 7, 2009, we can extend credits to companies in which we have direct or indirect shareholding interest, both in Turkey and overseas, as well as to our main company and group companies, in Turkish Lira or other foreign currencies, on the condition that such extensions do not conflict with applicable laws and regulations.

Capital Structure

General

Our Board of Directors has adopted the authorized share capital system which, under Turkish law, allows us to increase our issued share capital up to the authorized share capital amount upon resolution by our board and without need for further shareholder approval. On January 23, 2008, the CMB amended its communiqué on principles regarding the registered capital system. According to this amendment, the registered capital ceiling authorization given by the CMB shall be valid for 5 years, including the year in which the authorization is granted. If the registered capital of the company does not reach this ceiling at the end of the 5 year term, the Board, in order to take

 

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a capital increase decision, will need to apply to the CMB for a new capital ceiling authorization and will need the General Assembly’s approval in order to get a new authorization period of up to 5 years.

Preemption Rights

We may increase our capital only through the issuance of new shares, and such issuances may come in the form of a rights offering or a bonus issue. Under Turkish law, existing shareholders are entitled to subscribe for new shares, also known as preemption rights, in proportion to their respective shareholdings each time we undertake a capital increase. Our Board of Directors will generally recommend that new shares be issued at prices equal to their nominal value, which entitles the existing shareholders to subscribe for shares at a significant discount from their current market price. The exercise of preemption rights by shareholders must be made within a subscription period which we announce, which may not be less than 15 days nor more than 60 days after the issuance of the preemption rights circular. Shareholders who do not wish to subscribe for new shares may sell their rights on the Istanbul Stock Exchange, or the ISE. Any shares not subscribed for by the existing shareholders or purchasers of the rights coupons are sold on the ISE at the current market price. Any differences between the rights issue price and the price realized for the shares on the ISE would accrue to our surplus account. Preemption rights of shareholders related to a rights offering may be restricted wholly or in part either by an affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares at an ordinary or extraordinary general assembly or a resolution adopted by the Board of Directors to such effect, provided that such authority is conferred upon the Board of Directors. CMB rules stipulate that such authority may be conferred upon the Board of Directors of companies that have received permission from the CMB to adopt the authorized capital system.

By the amendment to the Articles of Association, we have conferred such authority on our Board of Directors. The CMB further requires that the right of the Board of Directors to restrict the preemption rights of shareholders applies equally with respect to all shareholders. Under Turkish law, bonus issues may be undertaken in order to convert all or a portion of the revaluation fund and reserves of a company into share capital.

Dividend Distribution and Allocation of Profits

Our Board of Directors recommends annual dividends, which then must be approved by our shareholders at their annual general assembly. Dividends are payable on a date determined at the annual general meeting. Under current rules, the Board of Directors may decide whether or not to recommend a distribution of dividends and our shareholders at our annual general meeting may decide whether or not to distribute dividends in any year. Under the current CMB rules, the ratio of the first dividend must be specified in the Articles of Association and for the dividend distribution to be made with regard to the profit generated in year 2009, CMB decided not to enforce a minimum dividend distribution ratio. As per CMB rules, dividends may be distributed to shareholders in cash or bonus shares or, upon the general assembly’s decision, may be retained by the company. The CMB is entitled to request that a publicly held company distribute its dividends in cash, provided that such request is served before the agenda of the general assembly meeting is published. Under the CMB rules, if a public company decides not to distribute the first dividend, the corresponding amount shall be set aside as a special reserve. Accordingly, we may freely determine the amount of dividends to be distributed based on the Dividend Policy adopted by our Board of Directors in 2004, pursuant to applicable Turkish laws and upon the approval of, or amendment by, the Board of Directors and the General Assembly of Shareholders. The Board decides whether or not to recommend an allocation of profits, as well as the amount of the dividend, and the shareholders, through the general assembly, accept or reject such proposal, if any.

According to the CMB’s decision dated January 27, 2010 and numbered 02/51, regarding dividend distribution for the 2009 fiscal year, any cash dividend distribution must be completed by the end of the fifth month following the fiscal year. The CMB has taken no further decision to amend its decision dated January 27, 2010 regarding dividend distribution for the 2010 fiscal year. Dividends are payable in cash or by transfer to an account of the shareholder with a bank in Turkey against delivery to our office in Turkey of the relevant dividend coupon attached to the share certificate representing the relevant shares. If dividends are distributed in the form of bonus shares by means of a bonus issue, the registered value representing the bonus shares shall be transferred

 

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to the shareholders’ accounts no later than six months after the end of the fiscal year. Shareholders’ entitlement to cash dividends remains in effect for a period of five years following the date of the general assembly approving such distribution, after which time they are transferred to the Turkish government.

Part of our remaining net profit may be distributed to our shareholders as a second dividend or retained by us as retained earnings, all at the discretion of our general assembly. As per our Articles of Association and the TCC, we deduct 10% from the amount of any distributions made as a second dividend and add it to a contingency reserve fund.

For additional details regarding our dividend policy see “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Dividend Policy”.

Voting Rights

Shareholders are entitled to one vote per share on all matters submitted to a vote of our shareholders.

In 2003, the CMB published a “Communiqué on Principles of Cumulative Voting in the General Assemblies of Joint Stock Companies Subject to the Capital Markets Law” (Communique Serial IV, No:29) to govern principles and procedures regarding cumulative voting methods in publicly held companies. The cumulative voting designed thereby enables minority shareholders to elect representatives to the company’s Board of Directors and board of auditors. Each shareholder receives a number of votes equal to the number of voting shares he possesses multiplied by the number of seats to be elected in the Board of Directors or board of auditors. The shareholders may choose to concentrate their votes for one candidate or to divide their votes between or among a number of candidates. The number of cumulative votes shall be calculated separately for the Board of Directors and the board of auditors. Implementation of the cumulative voting method is optional, but requires that the articles of association of the company include provisions for it. Our Articles of Association do not currently provide for cumulative voting.

Transfer of Shares

Subject to the limitations described below, shares may be sold and transferred by endorsement and delivery.

In practice, shares in registered form traded on the ISE are represented by the share certificates endorsed in blank, enabling such shares to be transferred as if they were in bearer form. As per the amendment in the Capital Markets Law and a communiqué issued by the CMB in this respect, our Company’s shares traded at the Istanbul Stock Exchange were dematerialized as of November 2005.

Legal and actual dematerialization of the share certificates commenced on November 28, 2005. Beginning from November 28, 2005, it is prohibited for companies registered on the Istanbul Stock Exchange to issue new share certificates, in consideration of rights issues or bonus issues. The new shares arising out of capital increases shall be transferred to the accounts of the rightful owners by registration.

It was obligatory for share certificates that were not dematerialized and that were kept physically by their rightful owners to have been delivered to us or to an authorized stock broker for their registration with the “Central Registry Agency” that is under the control and supervision of the CMB, by December 31, 2007.

According to an announcement of the Central Registry Agency and the CMB in a letter dated January 30, 2008, the financial rights attached to share certificates, which were not delivered by December 31, 2007, shall be monitored in a dematerialized manner at the Central Registry Agency from that date onward and any rights related to management shall be exercised by the Central Registry Agency, in accordance with the Temporary 6th Article of the Turkish Securities Exchange Act. In case of delivery of the share certificates by the rightful owners to the Turkish Clearance House through us after December 31, 2007, the financial rights of such rightful owners, which are monitored in a dematerialized manner by the Central Registry Agency, shall be transferred to their accounts.

 

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According to the principles of the letter, financial rights that are formed after December 31, 2007 in respect of shares that remain in physical form shall be paid to the rightful owner after the shares are dematerialized. Furthermore, after December 31, 2007, such rights will not allow the holder to attend or vote at shareholders’ meetings. As of any meeting date, the voting rights associated with any shares that have not yet been dematerialized are held by the Central Registry Agency, and the power to attend or not will be exercised by the Central Registry Agency.

Our share certificate records will be kept by us and the Central Registry Agency in a computer system, which is formed by the Central Registry Agency.

Provisions regarding the nominal values of the share certificates of the Company are regulated in the temporary article of the Company’s Articles of Association and such article was approved at the Ordinary General Assembly Meeting on April 29, 2005. The temporary article reads as follows:

Decree 32 on the Protection of the Value of the Turkish Currency issued in August 1989, as amended from time to time, provides that persons not resident in Turkey may purchase and sell our shares, provided that such purchase is effected through a bank or broker authorized pursuant to applicable Turkish capital markets legislation. Turkish capital markets legislation requires that shares of a company quoted on a Turkish securities exchange be traded exclusively on such exchange. The CMB has indicated that this requirement applies only to intermediary institutions licensed for trading on the stock exchange and to trade orders placed with them by investors. Accordingly, our shareholders that are not resident in Turkey may transfer such shares only on the ISE. This requirement does not apply to transfers of ADSs.

Under Turkish law, in the event that one of our shareholders transfers shares to any other shareholder or to any other third party investor, either foreign or local, the Foreign Investment General Directorate (“FIGD”) must be notified within one month of the transfer of shares.

Under Article 8 of the Electronic Communications Law, electronic communications services is rendered and/or electronic communications network or infrastructure is established and operated following the authorization made by the ICTA. Authorization is granted through the notification made in accordance with the principles and procedures determined by the ICTA, in case the resource allocation is not necessary, or given of usage right, in case the resource allocation, which means allocation of frequency, satellite position etc., is necessary. Furthermore, under the Authorization Regulation Regarding Telecommunication Services and Infrastructure Regulation, the ICTA must be notified in case of any share transfers within one month of the transfer of shares at the latest and in the event that the share transfer results in change in control, such transfer of our shares by any of our shareholders should be realized with the written permission of the ICTA.

Under our Articles of Association, the Board of Directors is entitled to restrict the transfer of shares to foreigners in order to comply with the Turkish shareholding requirements under Turkish law.

Disclosure of Beneficial Interests in the Shares

The Turkish regulation on public disclosure of listed companies was changed by Communiqué Serial: VIII, No: 54 on Principles Regarding Public Disclosure of Material Events in February 2009 in harmonization with the relevant EU directives. In addition, the CMB issued a guideline concerning the scope and format of such disclosure. The new regulations do not specify every item or action to be disclosed but refer to this guideline and allow listed companies to decide whether such information is material for disclosure. Insider information, which means any non-public information that may possibly affect the value of capital market instruments and investors’ decisions, is required to be disclosed immediately by listed companies. Unlike the previous communiqué on public disclosures, minority shareholders who hold 5% or more of a company’s total share capital and have no management responsibility or power to intervene in the management decisions are not obligated to disclose all sale and purchase transactions relating to the securities. Their disclosure requirement would arise if they exceed the shareholding ratios established in the Communiqué Serial: VIII, No: 54 (5%, 10%, 15%, 20%, 25%, 33%,

 

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50%, 66% and 75%). Disclosure of insider information may be delayed to protect the legitimate interests of the company without causing market manipulation. For those that have administrative responsibilities in Turkcell (including board members and high-ranked executives), or are closely related persons, that purchase and sell Turkcell’s capital market instruments (including, but not limited to, Turkcell shares), such transactions will need to be declared to the Istanbul Stock Exchange; however, if the cumulative amount of the above mentioned Turkcell transactions does not exceed TL 10,000 during 2010, such declaration will not be needed. This upper limit represents the total amount of all transactions made by Board members/high-ranked executives and their closely related persons. “Closely related persons” means: Wives/husbands, children and individuals sharing the same location at the time of transaction and corporations, legal entities run by, directly/indirectly controlled by or whose economic interests are similar with that of Board members and high-ranked executives of the Company.

In addition, according to the new Communiqué on Voluntary and Mandatory Tender Offers (“Communiqué Serial: IV No.: 44”) issued by the CMB on September 2, 2009, the mandatory tender offer shall be triggered when, directly or indirectly, more than 50% of our Company’s shareholding is acquired or management control of a public company is taken over through acquiring (i) the necessary number of shares granting the right to elect, or (ii) privileged shares allowing the nomination of the majority of the board of directors. Communiqué Serial: IV No.: 44 also stipulates certain circumstances, that will not trigger a mandatory offer, such as management control changes of the company by a voluntary tender offer and share transfers by privileged shareholders with management control or persons acting together resulting in a possession of more than 50% of the capital or voting rights.

Free Float Definition Rules

While 34.69 % of our Company is listed on the stock exchange, the number of our Company’s free floating shares as of December 31, 2010 was 557,614,008.03, according to the “Report on Free Float Ratios” released by the Central Registry Agency in accordance with the Capital Markets Board’s decision 21/655 of July 23, 2010 as amended by its decision 24/729 of August 18, 2010, and its free float ratio was 25.34%. The difference between these rates results from the exclusion of shares which are “i. held by a public entity, ii. held by the company’s incorporators and its affiliates (companies subject to consolidation), iii. held by shareholders who may be a natural person or a corporate body and control at least 5% of the Company’s capital, iv. held by a) the members of the Company’s Board of Directors and the Board of Auditors, b) General Manager or executives who are equal to or superior to a general manager in terms of their powers and functions, c) senior executives who report to General Manager or executives who are equal to or superior to a general manager in terms of their powers and functions, v. owned by the savings funds or foundations of companies, vi. Provided as equity capital pursuant to regulations applicable to the capital markets legislation or as a collateral in respect of a margin trading or as a collateral except the ones which are given as a collateral only for Central Depository Bank markets, vii. Which are legally restricted and cannot be subject to purchase and sale, viii) prohibited , ix. Seized” in the definition of free float ratio. The difference may result from one or more situations described in the decision and it is not possible for our Company to know it.

New Trading Rules

The CMB amended the Istanbul Stock Exchange (ISE) Stock Market trading rules with its decision dated July 23, 2010 (the “Decision”). The Decision is based on detailed research and technical analysis completed in three months and aims at ensuring conditions that will prevent the formation of artificial prices and support efficient price discovery.

According to the Decision, all companies traded on the ISE will be classified into 3 groups (A, B or C). Some trading rules are differentiated based on this classification. For example, Group B and Group C companies cannot be subject to margin trading and short sale.

 

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The Decision defines:

 

   

Group A listed companies as companies that are not listed under Group B or Group C.

 

   

Group B companies as companies that meet the following criteria (1) the value of the publicly traded shares is under 10 million TRY and the number of shares in circulation is under 10 million or (2) the value of the publicly traded shares is under 45 million TRY and the percentage of actual shares in circulation is under 5%. Furthermore, an investment trust is classified as a Group B company if its stock price is 1.5 times higher than its net asset value (NAV) per share.

 

   

Group C companies as companies that meet the following criteria: (1) companies traded in the Watch List Companies Market or (2) actual number of shares in circulation is under 10 million. Furthermore, an investment trust is classified as a Group C company if its stock price is 2 times higher than its NAV per share (except for investment trusts with a market maker).

According to this CMB decision, Turkcell is listed under Group A companies.

Protection of Minority Shareholders

Under Turkish securities law, minority shareholders, defined as those who hold 5% or more of our share capital, have the right, among other things, to request our Board of Directors:

 

   

to invite the shareholders to an extraordinary general assembly;

 

   

to request that a matter be included on the agenda at both ordinary and extraordinary general assembly;

 

   

to request the appointment of special statutory auditors; and

 

   

to require that the company take action against board members who have violated the Turkish Commercial Code or the articles of association of a company or who have otherwise failed to perform their duties.

Liquidation

In the event of liquidation, our shareholders are entitled to participate in any surplus pro rata their shareholdings.

Changes in Capital Structure

Our Board of Directors is authorized to increase the issued paid-in share capital by means of issuing new shares up to the authorized share capital ceiling. Any increase above our ceiling requires an amendment to our Articles of Association and therefore shareholder approval through a general assembly. Such amendment is subject to the prior approval of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the CMB. Our Board of Directors may also restrict the rights of existing shareholders and offer new shares to third parties. Changes in the voting and dividend rights of our shareholders require an amendment to our Articles of Association and approval by the general assembly. Such amendment is also subject to the prior approval of the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the CMB. Furthermore, under the Turkish Commercial Code, during the general assembly meetings held to amend the articles of association of a joint stock company, each share shall be entitled to only one vote, even if otherwise is provided under its articles of association.

In addition, any decrease in our share capital requires an amendment to our Articles of Association. If we undertake to cancel our shares, we must notify any existing creditors, and within two months of notification, they may request payment or, if their receivables are not due and payable, we must create a security interest in their favor. Capital reduction is rarely applied in Turkey. Save for certain exceptions under Turkish law, companies are not allowed to buy back their own shares.

 

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General Assemblies

Our general assemblies are normally held at our head office in Istanbul. We generally hold our annual general assembly within four months of the end of each financial year, which in our case is the calendar year, in accordance with the CMB rules. Extraordinary general meetings may be convened by our Board of Directors, or upon the request of our shareholders representing at least 5% of our share capital, or upon the request of our statutory auditors.

The following matters are among the ones required by the TCC and our Articles of Association to be included on the agenda of ordinary general assembly meeting:

 

   

review of the annual reports of our Board of Directors and the auditors;

 

   

the approval, amendment or rejection of the balance sheet and profit and loss account prepared for the preceding financial year, the release of our Board of Directors and statutory auditors from liability in respect of actions taken by them in the preceding financial year, and the proposals of our Board of Directors for the allocation and distribution of any of our net profits;

 

   

the approval of the remuneration of the board members and the auditors if the general assembly so decides; and

 

   

the re-election or replacement of directors and/or auditors whose terms of office have expired.

Shareholders representing at least 5% of our share capital may, by written notice, require any additional matters to be included on the agenda for discussions at any of our general assemblies.

Notices covering general assemblies (including postponements and rescheduling), which include the agenda of any such general assembly, must be published in the Trade Registry Gazette and a leading Turkish newspaper published in Istanbul determined by us, at least two weeks before the date fixed for the meeting. The TCC requires us to send notice of any general assembly by registered mail to each person registered in our books as a holder of shares and to those shareholders who have deposited at least one share certificate representing shares with us and have indicated a notice address. Under the Capital Markets Law, such notice requirement does not apply to holders of registered shares, which are also traded in the stock market.

Any shareholder holding any of our shares and wishing to attend general assembly meetings to vote must hand in the blockage letters and other required documents to our Head Office not less than a week before the date of the meeting in order to obtain an entry permit for that meeting. Shareholders that hold the physical shares and that want to attend our general assemblies must complete the dematerialization of the share certificates. In accordance with the dematerialization procedures, a determined period is necessary for dematerialization transactions of the share certificates. Holders of the non-public registered shares in our share book of registered shares need not comply with such requirement to attend a general assembly. Any shareholder not wishing to attend any such general assembly in person may appoint another person as a proxy.

Except as set out by the provisions of the TCC and our Articles of Association, the required quorum at any general assembly is shareholders representing at least one-quarter of the share capital. If such quorum is not present when a general assembly is convened, the meeting shall be adjourned, in which event the meeting is reconvened within a month, with shareholders or their proxies present at such meeting. Resolutions of general assembly meetings must be passed by a majority of the shareholders or their proxies present at such.

According to the TCC, the quorum requirement at general assemblies convened to discuss changes in the purpose or legal status of a joint stock company is at least two-thirds of its share capital. If a quorum is not present when the meeting is convened, the meeting shall be adjourned and reconvened, in which case the required quorum is at least half of its share capital. Resolutions of general assemblies relating to changing its purpose or legal status must be passed with a majority of its shareholders or proxies present at such meeting. However, under the Capital Markets Law, such quorum requirements are decreased for publicly held companies,

 

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provided that higher quorums are not required under their articles of associations, and as the meeting quorum for general assemblies convened to discuss changes in its purpose or legal status, attendance of shareholders representing at least one-quarter of its share capital is sufficient. Under Capital Markets Law, if such quorum is not present when a general assembly is convened, the meeting shall be adjourned, in which event the meeting is reconvened with shareholders or their proxies present at such meeting. Resolutions of general assemblies must be passed by a majority of the shareholders or their proxies present at such meeting as per the Capital Markets Law.

According to our Articles of Association, the meeting quorum requirement at general assemblies is 51% of our share capital. Resolutions of our general assemblies must be passed by the shareholders (or their proxies) representing the majority of the votes of the shareholders present at that meeting.

The quorum requirement at general assemblies convened to increase our share capital ceiling is 51% of our share capital. Resolutions of general assemblies relating to capital increases must be passed by a majority of our shareholders or their proxies present at such meeting.

The meeting quorum requirement at general assemblies convened to amend our Articles of Association (excluding capital ceiling increase) is two-thirds of our share capital. Resolutions of our general assemblies to amend our Articles of Association (excluding capital ceiling increase) shall be passed by the shareholders (or their proxies) representing at least 2/3 of the votes of the shareholders present at that meeting.

Changing our jurisdiction or increasing the obligations of the shareholders requires unanimous shareholder approval.

10.C Material Contracts

We are not a party to any material contracts other than those entered into in the ordinary course of business, except with regard to the settlement of certain legal disputes. For information regarding these settlements, see “Item 8.A. Consolidated Statements and Other Financial Information—Legal Proceedings” and Note 31 (Guarantees and Purchase Obligations) to our consolidated financial statements in this Form 20-F.

10.D Exchange Controls

Banks in Turkey set their own foreign exchange rates independently of those announced by the Central Bank. Pursuant to Decree 32 on the Protection of the Value of the Turkish Currency, most recently amended in 2003, the government eased and ultimately abolished restrictions on the convertibility of the Turkish Lira for current account and nonresident capital account transactions by facilitating exchange of the proceeds of transactions in Turkish securities by foreign investors, which enabled Turkish citizens to purchase securities on foreign exchanges. These changes also permitted residents and nonresidents to buy foreign exchange without limitation and to transfer such foreign exchange abroad without ministerial approval.

Turkish citizens are permitted to buy unlimited amounts of foreign currency from banks and to hold foreign exchange in commercial banks. Capital transfers outside Turkey of more than $5 million still require approval of the Turkish government. Although we believe it is unlikely that exchange controls will be reintroduced in the near term, any such exchange controls may materially adversely affect our results of operations.

10.E Taxation

The following discussion is a summary of certain material Turkish and United States federal income tax considerations relating to the ownership and disposition of our shares or ADSs. The discussion is based on current law and is for general information only. The discussion does not address all possible tax consequences relating to the ownership and disposition of shares, or ADSs, and holders are urged to consult their tax advisors regarding the applicable tax consequences of holding and disposing of the shares or ADSs based on their particular circumstances.

 

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The discussion is based upon laws and relevant interpretations thereof in effect as of the date of this annual report, all of which are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect. This summary is also based in part on representations of the Depositary and assumes that each obligation provided for in or otherwise contemplated by the Deposit Agreement or any related document will be performed in accordance with the terms of such agreement.

Republic of Turkey Taxation

The following summary of Turkish tax law as in force on the date of this annual report describes the principal tax consequences for Turkish residents and U.S. holders (as defined below in “Taxation—United States Federal Income Taxation”) of the ownership and disposition of shares and ADSs. It is not a complete description of all the possible tax consequences of such ownership and disposition. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors concerning the Turkish and other tax consequences applicable in their particular situations.

Corporate Taxation

A corporation that has its legal and/or business center in Turkey (a “Resident Corporation”) is subject to a corporate tax, which is levied at 20% on such corporation’s taxable income. Resident Corporations are required to pay an “advance corporation tax”, also at 20%, on a quarterly basis.

Taxation of Dividends

In the event that a Resident Corporation distributes dividends to individual shareholders (resident or non-resident), or to non-resident corporations that do not have a permanent establishment (fixed place of business or permanent representative) in Turkey (and are not subject to rate-reducing provisions in applicable bilateral tax treaties), a 15% withholding tax is payable by the Resident Corporation on behalf of its shareholders. In the event that Resident Corporations distribute dividends to resident legal entities or to non-resident legal entities that have a permanent establishment in Turkey, such distributions are not subject to withholding tax.

Cash dividends received by Resident Corporations from other Resident Corporations are not subject to corporate tax. Dividends in cash received by resident individuals from Resident Corporations are subject to a withholding tax at the rate of 15% (as discussed above) and must file an annual income tax declaration. The withholding tax amount shall be deducted from the annual income tax. 50% of the dividend income received by resident individuals from Resident Corporations is exempt from the annual income declaration. The remaining 50% must be declared if it exceeded TRY 22,000 in 2010 (TRY 23,000 in 2011).

Under the Income Tax Treaty between the United States of America and the Republic of Turkey, signed March 28, 1996 (the “Treaty”), the withholding tax rate is limited to 20% (including the surcharges on dividends paid by a Turkish Resident Corporation) of the gross amount of the dividends unless the beneficial owner of shares is a company which owns at least 10% of the voting stock of the company paying the dividends (in which case the rate would be limited to 15%). Because the current withholding tax rate applicable to publicly traded corporations, such as Turkcell, is only 15%, the Treaty does not affect the current rate of Turkish withholding tax for U.S. holders. Cash dividends paid on ordinary shares or ADSs to a U.S. holder that does not have a permanent representative or place of business in Turkey will not be subject to taxation in Turkey, except in respect of the 15% income withholding tax discussed in the previous section. The distribution of dividends in kind (i.e. bonus shares) is not subject to a withholding tax and such dividends in kind are not subject to an income declaration.

 

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Taxation of Capital Gains

Gains realized by Residents

For shares acquired on or after January 1, 2006:

Gains realized by resident individuals on the sale of shares traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (such as Turkcell shares) or ADSs that represent shares traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (such as Turkcell ADSs) to residents or non-residents are exempt from income tax, provided that the holding period of such shares or ADSs exceeds one year. Where this holding period has not been met, there is a withholding tax from the gains derived from capital. The current rate for such withholding tax is 0%.

Gains realized by Resident Corporations on the sale of shares traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (such as Turkcell shares) or ADSs that represent shares traded on the Istanbul Stock Exchange (such as Turkcell ADSs) to residents or non-residents shall benefit from withholding exemption, if a one-year holding period is met. However, where this holding period has not been met, there is a withholding tax from the gains derived from capital gains. The current rate for such withholding tax is 0%.

Gains realized by Resident Corporations on the sale of shares or to residents or non-residents must be included in corporate income and are subject to the applicable corporate tax. Upon fulfillment of the stated conditions in Article 5 of the Corporate Tax Law, 75% of capital gains derived from the sale of the shares will be exempt from corporate income tax.

For shares acquired before January 1, 2006:

Capital gains derived from shares held by an investor (both individuals and corporations) for over 3 months are not subject to any withholding tax. Where this holding period has not been met, capital gains received by individuals are computed by deducting the original cost of the shares or ADSs, after the application of a “cost adjustment” (which uses the Producer Price Index determined by the Turkish Statistical Institute to eliminate gain arising solely from inflation), from the amount received upon the sale or disposition of the shares or ADSs. Total capital gains are subject to declaration on the income tax return if they exceeded TRY 18,000 in 2010 (TRY 19,000 in 2011).

Gains realized by Resident Corporations on the sale of shares are subject to the applicable corporate tax. Upon fulfillment of the stated conditions in Article 5 of the Corporate Tax Law, 75% of capital gains deriving from the sale of the shares will be exempt from corporate income tax.

Gains realized by U.S. holders

U.S. holders that do not have a permanent establishment in Turkey are exempt from Turkish tax on capital gains generated from the sale of shares quoted on an exchange, such as Turkcell shares, under Article 13 of the Treaty. U.S. resident legal entities having a permanent establishment (fixed place of business or permanent representative) in Turkey generally are subject to tax in Turkey on capital gains arising from the sale of such shares and should consult their own Turkish tax advisors as to the rules applicable to them. As of July 7, 2006, the withholding tax rate applicable to non resident holders of shares has been reduced to 0%.

U.S. holders who invest via ADSs will not have to comply with any procedures to avoid withholding tax, since gains derived from Turkcell ADSs are not generated in Turkey. However, U.S. holders who hold their shares directly in Turkey must comply with certain procedures to establish their exemption from Turkish capital gains withholding tax and are urged to consult their own tax advisors in this regard.

In addition, certain rules and procedures may need to be complied with in order to avoid Turkish withholding tax upon the conversion of ADSs to shares and from shares to ADSs in Turkey. U.S. holders are urged to consult their own tax advisors in this regard.

 

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Pursuant to a Turkish Constitutional Court decision, which annulled the income tax provision regulating the 0% withholding application on capital gains for non-resident individuals and corporations, the withholding tax regime has once again become subject to regulation pursuant to a law numbered 6009, which came into force on August 1, 2010. Pursuant to this new regulation, a 10% withholding on capital gains is applied to individual investors and a 0% withholding is applied to corporate investors, irrespective of the residency status. Non-resident corporate deposit receipt holders (depositaries of our ADR facility) are included within the scope of corporate investors. Non-resident investors of Turkcell ADR’s will be subject to 0% withholding provided that the depositary of our ADR facility is a corporate body. The Turkish Council of Ministers has the authority to raise the withholding levels for 5 percentage points.

Taxation of Investment and Mutual Funds

Taxation on the Fund Level:

The gains realized from portfolio investment activities by resident Investment and Mutual Funds are exempt from corporate tax but are subject to withholding tax for the gains of stocks held and bonds/bills issued before January 1, 2006. Withholding tax rates are as follows:

 

   

if the institutions maintain a minimum of 25% of their portfolios invested in Turkish equity shares on a monthly weighted average basis, the applicable rate of withholding tax is 0%; and

 

   

if the percentage of Turkish equity shares in the portfolios of such institutions is below 25% during any month during the year, the applicable rate of withholding tax is 10%.

Gains from stocks purchased after January 1, 2006 and/or bonds and bills issued after January 1, 2006 are subject to withholding of 0%.

A nonresident Investment or Mutual Fund may also qualify for this taxation regime if it appoints a permanent representative in Turkey, registers with the Turkish tax office, maintains legal books and meets the other tax requirements in Turkey.

Taxation on the Investor Level:

The gains realized by investors for participating within “FUND” are subject to taxation depending on the date of purchase of the “FUND” by the individual investors.

 

   

For “FUND” shares purchased before January 1, 2006, gains are not subject to income tax withholding. Capital gains received by individuals are computed by deducting the original cost of the shares after the application of a “cost adjustment” (which uses the Producer Price Index determined by the Turkish Statistical Institute to eliminate gains arising solely from inflation), from the amount received upon the sale or disposition of the shares. Total capital gains are subject to declaration on the income tax return if they exceeded TRY 18,000 in 2010 (TRY 19,000 in 2011) and are required to be declared in compliance with the Turkish Tax Regime.

 

   

For “FUND” shares purchased after January 1, 2006:

 

  1. If the “FUND” maintains at least 51% of the portfolio invested in the Istanbul Stock Exchange Market and is held for more than a year period, gains shall not be subjected to withholding. Such gains shall be declared in compliance with the Turkish Tax Regime.

 

  2. If the “FUND” does not meet the conditions above, gains shall be subject to withholding at 10% for resident investors. In cases where non-resident investors can certify their own residency status, 0% withholding shall be applied.

 

  3.

Pursuant to a Turkish Constitutional Court decision, which annulled the income tax provision regulating the 0% withholding application on capital gains for non-resident individuals and corporations, the withholding tax regime has once again become subject to regulation pursuant to a law numbered 6009, which came into force on August 1, 2010. Pursuant to this new regulation,

 

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a 10% withholding on capital gains is applied to individual investors and a 0% withholding is applied to corporate investors, irrespective of the residency status. Non-resident corporate deposit receipt holders (depositaries of our ADR facility) are included within the scope of corporate investors. Non-resident investors of Turkcell ADR’s will be subject to 0% withholding provided that the depositary of our ADR facility is a corporate body.

Stamp Taxes

According to the Turkish Stamp Tax Law (Law No. 488), all agreements and documents specified in the law with a monetary value indicated thereon are subject to a stamp tax with rates from 0.165% to 0.825%, which is calculated on the aggregate amount of such agreement or document. Stamp tax to be calculated for a particular “PAPER” was capped at a maximum of TRY 1,161,915.90 per original in 2010 and will be capped at a maximum of TRY 1,251,383.40 per original in 2011.

Certain additonal tax regulations

Changes in the Ministry of Finance’s interpretation of the taxation codes, especially changes regarding consumption taxes (Value Added Tax and Special Communication Tax), which may adversely affect consumer prices. In addition to the prospective financial impact of such changes, unanticipated tax liabilities and fines may also be levied against our financial results in prior years since a Turkish company’s operations in the previous five years may be subject to financial investigation. Regulation that became effective July 1, 2010, however, have strengthened our rights with regards to this risk, particularly with regards to the following:

 

   

Tax inspectors shall not issue tax audit reports that contradict Decrees, Public Acts, Statutory Rules, General Communiqués and Circulars promulgated;

 

   

In case that tax authority differentiates previous interpretation of taxation codes via promulgated General Communiqués and Circulars, new interpretation shall not be applied to previous transactions; and

 

   

Transactions that are compliant to rulings taken from Tax Office shall be relieved from both tax penalty and overdue interest. Mentioned shelter is valid only for the tax payer which had applied for the ruling.

United States Federal Income Taxation

The following discussion is a summary of certain material U.S. federal income tax considerations applicable to the ownership and disposition of shares or ADSs by you, if you are a U.S. holder. In general you will be a “U.S. holder” if:

 

   

you are the beneficial owner of our shares or ADSs;

 

   

you are either (i) an individual resident or citizen of the United States, (ii) a corporation (or other entity taxable as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes) created in or organized under the laws of the United States or any state thereof, (iii) an estate whose income is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source, or (iv) a trust if a U.S. court can exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S. persons are authorized to control all substantial decisions of the trust;

 

   

you own our shares or ADSs as capital assets;

 

   

you own directly, indirectly or by attribution less than 10% of our outstanding share capital or voting stock;

 

   

you are fully eligible for benefits under the Limitation on Benefits article of the Treaty; and

 

   

you are not also a resident of Turkey for Turkish tax purposes.

 

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The Treaty benefits discussed below generally are not available to holders who hold shares or ADSs in connection with the conduct of business through a permanent establishment, or the performance of personal services through a fixed base, in Turkey.

If a partnership (including for this purpose any entity or arrangement treated as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes) holds shares or ADSs, the tax treatment of a partner generally will depend upon the status of the partner and the activities of the partnership. A partner in a partnership that holds shares or ADSs is urged to consult its own tax advisor regarding the specific tax consequences of owning and disposing of its shares or ADSs.

The summary does not purport to be a comprehensive description of all of the tax considerations that may be relevant to any particular holder, including tax considerations that arise from rules of general application or that are generally assumed to be known by U.S. holders. This summary is based on provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), existing and proposed U.S. Treasury Regulations, rulings, administrative pronouncements, judicial decisions and the Treaty, all as of the date of this annual report. All of these authorities are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect, and to differing interpretations. In addition, this summary does not discuss all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be applicable to investors in light of their particular circumstances or to U.S. holders who are subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax law, including insurance companies, U.S. expatriates, dealers in stocks or securities, banks or financial institutions, tax-exempt organizations, regulated investment companies, retirement plans, traders in securities who elect to apply a mark-to-market method of accounting, persons who acquired their shares pursuant to the exercise of employee stock options or otherwise as compensation, persons holding shares as part of a straddle, hedging or conversion transaction, persons subject to the alternative minimum tax, and persons having a functional currency other than the U.S. Dollar.

U.S. holders are urged to consult with their own tax advisors regarding the tax consequences of the ownership or disposition of shares or ADSs, including the effects of federal, state, local, foreign and other tax laws with respect to their particular circumstances.

Dividends

If we make distributions to you (other than certain distributions of Turkcell shares), you generally will be required to include in gross income as dividend income the amount of the distributions paid on the shares (including the amount of any Turkish taxes withheld in respect of such dividend as described above in “Taxation—Republic of Turkey Taxation”). Dividends paid by us will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction applicable in some cases to U.S. corporations.

Any dividend paid in Turkish Lira, including the amount of any Turkish taxes withheld therefrom, will be includible in your gross income in an amount equal to the U.S. Dollar value of the Turkish Lira calculated by reference to the spot rate of exchange in effect on the date the dividend is received by you, in the case of shares, or by the Depositary, in the case of ADSs, regardless of whether the Turkish Lira are converted into U.S. Dollars. Any gain or loss resulting from currency exchange fluctuations during the period from the date the dividend is includible in your gross income to the date such payment is converted into U.S. Dollars generally will be treated as U.S. source ordinary income or loss. Special rules govern, and elections are available to, accrual method taxpayers to determine the U.S. Dollar amount includible in income in the case of taxes withheld in a foreign currency. Accrual basis taxpayers are urged to consult their own tax advisors regarding the requirements and elections applicable in this regard.

Any dividends paid by us to you with respect to shares or ADSs will be treated as foreign-source income and will be categorized as “passive category income” or, in the case of certain U.S. holders, “general category income” for foreign tax credit purposes.

 

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Subject to limitations, you may elect to claim a foreign tax credit against your U.S. federal income tax liability for Turkish income tax withheld from dividends received in respect of shares or ADSs. The rules relating to the determination of the foreign tax credit are complex. Accordingly, you should consult your own tax advisor to determine whether and to what extent you would be entitled to the credit. If you do not elect to claim a foreign tax credit, you may instead claim a deduction for Turkish income tax withheld, but only for a year in which you elect to do so with respect to all foreign income taxes. A deduction does not reduce tax on a dollar-for-dollar basis like a credit, but the deduction for foreign taxes is not subject to the same limitations applicable to foreign tax credits.

Certain U.S. holders (including individuals) are eligible for reduced rates of U.S. federal income tax (at a maximum rate of 15%) in respect of “qualified dividend income” received in taxable years beginning before January 1, 2013. For this purpose, qualified dividend income generally includes dividends paid by a non-U.S. corporation if, amongst other things, the U.S. holders meet certain minimum holding periods and the non-U.S. corporation satisfies certain requirements, including that either (i) the shares (or ADSs) with respect to which the dividend income has been paid are readily tradable on an established securities market in the United States or (ii) the non-U.S. corporation is eligible for the benefits of a comprehensive U.S. income tax treaty (such as the Treaty) which provides for the exchange of information. We currently believe that dividends paid with respect to our shares and ADSs should constitute qualified dividend income for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and we anticipate that our dividends will be reported as qualified dividends on Forms 1099-DIV delivered to U.S. holders. In computing foreign tax credit limitations, non-corporate U.S. holders may take into account only a portion of a qualified dividend to reflect the reduced U.S. tax rate applicable to such dividend. Each U.S. holder of shares or ADSs is urged to consult its own tax advisor regarding the availability to it of the reduced dividend tax rate in light of its own particular situation and regarding the computations of its foreign tax credit limitation with respect to any qualified dividend income paid by us, as applicable.

The U.S. Treasury has expressed concerns that parties to whom ADSs are released may be taking actions that are inconsistent with the claiming of foreign tax credits or reduced tax rates in respect of qualified dividends by U.S. holders of ADSs. Accordingly, the discussion above regarding the creditability of Turkish withholding tax on dividends or the availability of qualified dividend treatment could be affected by future actions that may be taken by the U.S. Treasury with respect to ADSs.

Sale, Exchange or other Disposition of Shares or ADSs

Upon the sale, exchange or other disposition of shares or ADSs, you generally will recognize capital gain or loss equal to the difference between the amount realized on the disposition and your adjusted tax basis in your shares or ADSs (as determined in U.S. Dollars). Gain or loss upon the disposition of shares or ADSs generally will be U.S.-source gain or loss, and will be treated as long-term capital gain or loss if, at the time of the disposition, the holding period for the shares or ADSs exceeds one year. If you are an individual, any capital gains generally will be subject to U.S. federal income tax at preferential rates if specified minimum holding periods are met. The deductibility of capital losses is subject to significant limitations.

Your basis in your shares or ADSs must be adjusted to take into account any bonus shares received in a qualifying nontaxable transaction. To determine your adjusted basis, you are required to allocate your adjusted tax basis in the shares or ADSs you held as of the date the bonus shares were distributed between (x) your shares or ADSs and (y) the bonus shares you receive, in proportion to their relative fair market values immediately after the distribution. The holding period for bonus shares received will begin with the date that the shares or ADSs with respect to which the bonus shares were distributed were acquired. U.S. holders of shares or ADSs are urged to consult their own tax advisors to determine the exact consequences to them of the receipt and sale of the bonus shares for U.S. and other applicable tax purposes.

The surrender of ADSs in exchange for shares pursuant to the Deposit Agreement governing the ADSs will not be a taxable event for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Accordingly, you will not recognize any gain or loss upon such surrender.

 

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Passive Foreign Investment Company Status

We currently believe that we were not a passive foreign investment company (a “PFIC”) for the taxable year ended December 31, 2010, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, this conclusion is a factual determination that must be made annually and thus may be subject to change. A non-U.S. corporation will be classified as a PFIC for any taxable year if at least 75% of its gross income consists of passive income (such as dividends, interest, rents, royalties, or gains on the disposition of certain minority interests), or at least 50% of the average value of its assets consists of assets that produce, or are held for the production of, passive income. If we were characterized as a PFIC for any taxable year, you would suffer adverse tax consequences. These consequences may include having gains realized on the disposition of shares or ADSs treated as ordinary income rather than capital gains, and being subject to punitive interest charges on certain dividends and on the proceeds of the sale or other disposition of the shares or ADSs. Furthermore, dividends paid by a PFIC would not be “qualified dividend income” (as discussed above) and would be taxed at the higher rates applicable to other items of ordinary income. You should consult your own tax advisor regarding the potential application of the PFIC rules to us and to your ownership of our shares and ADSs.

U.S. Information Reporting and Backup Withholding

Dividend payments with respect to shares or ADSs and proceeds from the sale, exchange, redemption or other disposition of shares or ADSs may be subject to information reporting to the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”) and possible U.S. backup withholding at a current rate of 28%. Certain exempt recipients (such as corporations) are not subject to these information reporting requirements. Backup withholding will not apply, however, to a holder who furnishes a correct taxpayer identification number or certificate of foreign status and makes any other required certification or who is otherwise exempt from backup withholding. U.S. persons who are required to establish their exempt status generally must provide IRS Form W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification). Non-U.S. holders generally will not be subject to U.S. information reporting or backup withholding. However, such holders may be required to provide certification of non-U.S. status (generally on IRS form W-8BEN) in connection with payments received in the United States or through certain U.S.-related financial intermediaries.

Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Amounts withheld as backup withholding may be credited against a holder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, and a holder may obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS and furnishing any required information.

10.F Dividends and Paying Agents

Not Applicable.

10.G Statement by Experts

Not Applicable.

10.H Documents on Display

Reports and other information of Turkcell can also be inspected without charge and copied at prescribed rates at the public reference facility maintained by the SEC in Room 1580, 100 F Street, N.E., Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of these materials are also available by mail from the Public Reference Section of the SEC, at 100 F Street, N.E., Washington D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates.

10.I Subsidiary Information

Not Applicable.

 

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ITEM 11 QUANTITATIVE AND QUALITATIVE DISCLOSURES ABOUT MARKET RISK

Overview

We are exposed to foreign exchange rate risks because our income, expenses, assets and liabilities are denominated in a number of different currencies, primarily Turkish Lira, U.S. Dollars, Euros, Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles. In particular, a substantial majority of our debt obligations and equipment expenses are currently, and are expected to continue to be, denominated in U.S. Dollars and Euros, while the revenues generated by the corresponding activities are denominated in other currencies, in particular the Turkish Lira, Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles. Similarly, we are subject to market risk deriving from changes in interest rates that may affect the cost of our financing. We provide a detailed analysis of our foreign exchange and interest rate risks in Note 29.

Foreign Exchange Risk Management

Our functional currency is the TRY for operations conducted in Turkey, but certain revenues, purchases, operating costs and expenses and resulting receivables and payables are denominated in a number of different currencies. In particular, a substantial majority of our debt obligations and equipment expenses are currently, and are expected to continue to be, denominated in U.S. Dollars, Euros, Ukranian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles, while the revenues generated by the corresponding activities are denominated in other currencies, in particular the Turkish Lira, Ukrainian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles. Transactions denominated in foreign currencies are recorded at the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are converted into TRY at the exchange rates prevailing at the balance sheet date, with the resulting exchange differences recognized in the determination of net income. In 2010, net foreign exchange losses amounted to $13.8 million, resulting from transactions related to foreign exchange effects.

Market risk sensitive instruments consist of loans and borrowings denominated in foreign currencies (substantially in U.S. Dollars) totaling $1,837.5 million, which represents the majority of total indebtedness as of December 31, 2010.

To manage our foreign exchange risk more effectively, we may enter into forward transactions and option contracts. In addition, in order to take advantage of market volatility in the foreign exchange markets and increase the yield on our free cash, we may enter into option transactions to buy or sell certain currencies, allowing us to mitigate our exposure to negative foreign exchange rate swings or collect premiums. As of December 31, 2010 we did not have any outstanding forward and option contracts to buy or sell U.S. Dollars against TRY. The basis for our sensitivity analysis to measure foreign exchange risk is an aggregate corporate-level currency exposure. The aggregate foreign exchange exposure is composed of all our assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies. This analysis excludes net foreign currency investments. It is estimated that a general increase of 10% in the value of TRY, Ukranian Hryvnia and Belarusian Rubles, against other foreign currencies would have increased our profit before income tax by approximately $53.9 million for the year ended December 31, 2010. These aforementioned assumptions are hypothetical and the actual results may differ substantially from the projected figures.

All hedging transactions have been authorized and executed pursuant to clearly defined policies and procedures, which provide that the transaction is entered into to protect us from fluctuations in currency values. Analytical techniques are used to manage and monitor foreign exchange risk which includes market valuation and sensitivity analysis. In addition, we keep a reasonable proportion of our monetary assets in U.S. Dollars to reduce our currency exposure. Furthermore, the maximum tariffs we may charge are adjusted periodically by the ICTA to account for, among other things, the devaluation of the TRY.

 

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Interest Rate Risk Management

We are exposed to variations in interest rates, primarily in Euros, U.S. Dollars and TRY denominated debt and investments, which may affect the amounts of future interest income or expenses (reinvestment risk or cash flow risk) and also cause changes in the values of our interest bearing assets, which have already been added to the balance sheet. We manage interest rate risk by financing non-current assets with long-term debt with variable interest rates and equity.

The following table sets forth the carrying amount and fair value of loans, maturities and average effective interest rates for bank loans.

 

    Effective
interest
rate
    Total
carrying
amount
    2011     2012     2013     2014
thereafter
    Fair
Value
    Effective
interest
rate
    Total
carrying
amount
    2010     2011     2012     2013
thereafter
    Fair
Value
 

December 31, 2010

                           

December 31, 2009

                           

Fixed rate instruments

                           

Finance lease obligations

                           

USD

    4.6     2.7        2.6        0.1        —          —          2.7        5.7     5.2        2.5        2.7        —          —          5.2   

EUR

    3.4     21.0        1.8        1.3        1.2        16.7        —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Secured bank loans

                           

USD fixed rate loans

    5.2     6.2        6.2        —          —          —          6.2        —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

AZN fixed rate loans

    22.5     0.2        0.2        —          —          —          0.2        —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Unsecured bank loans

                           

USD fixed rate loans

    4.2     591.5        208.5        109.7        164.0        109.3        591.5        3.7     452.9        178.7        125.8        58.8        89.6        452.9   

Variable rate instruments

                           

Secured bank loans

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

BYR floating rate loans

    10.9     26.2        4.4        4.4        3.7        13.7        26.2        12.3     25.3        —          4.5        4.4        16.4        25.3   

Unsecured bank loans

                           

USD floating rate loans

    3.6     1,175.0        205.1        387.1        405.3        177.5        1,175.0        3.8     1,026.5        507.5        32.9        467.1        19.0        1,026.5   

BYR floating rate loans

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          2.1     2.1        2.1        —          —          —          2.1   

EUR floating rate loans

    7.8     13.6        0.4        1.5        11.7          13.6        —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

AZN floating rate loans

    22.5     0.3        0.3        —          —          —          0.3        —          —          —          —          —          —          —     

Total

      1,836.7        429.5        504.1        585.9        317.2        1,836.7          1,512.0        690.8        165.9        530.3        125.0        1,512.0   

For contractual cash flows and nominal interest of bank loans, see Note 24 and Note 29 to our audited consolidated financial statements included in “Item 18. Financial Statements” of this annual report on Form 20-F.

As of December 31, 2010, we did not have Turkish government floating rate noteholdings; therefore, we were not exposed to interest rate risks on our financial assets.

We use sensitivity analysis techniques to measure and assess our interest rate risk. The basis for the sensitivity analysis is an aggregate corporate-level interest rate exposure composed of interest bearing investments and interest bearing debts. When we assume a 1% increase in interest rates for all maturities from their levels as of December 31, 2010, with all other variables held constant, our profit before income tax decreases by $9.3 million.

 

ITEM 12 DESCRIPTION OF SECURITIES OTHER THAN EQUITY SECURITIES

The Depositary may collect from (i) each person to whom ADSs are issued, including, without limitation, issuances against deposits of Shares, issuances in respect of Share Distributions, Rights and Other Distributions (as such terms are defined in the Form of ADR certificate), issuances pursuant to a stock dividend or stock split declared by the Company, or issuances pursuant to a merger, exchange of securities or any other transaction or event affecting the ADSs or the Deposited Securities, and (ii) each person surrendering ADSs for withdrawal of

 

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Deposited Securities or whose ADSs are cancelled or reduced for any other reason, U.S.$5.00 for each 100 ADSs (or portion thereof) issued, delivered, reduced, cancelled or surrendered (as the case may be). The Depositary may sell (by public or private sale) sufficient securities and property received in respect of Share Distributions, Rights and Other Distributions prior to such deposit to pay such charge. These terms are set forth in Paragraph 7 of the Form of ADR certificate.

As provided for in the American Depositary Receipt included as Exhibit A to the Deposit Agreement between J.P. Morgan Chase Bank, as depositary (the “Depositary”), Turkcell and holders of American Depositary Receipts, dated July 7, 2000, as amended, holders of American Depositary Shares may be charged, directly or indirectly, the following amounts in relation to the ownership of depositary receipts held in the Company’s ADR Program, which are payable to the Depositary:

 

Category

  

Depositary Actions

  

Associated Fee

(a) depositing or substituting the underlying shares    Each person to whom ADSs are issued against deposits of shares, including deposits in respect of share distributions, rights and other distributions    Up to USD 5.00 for each 100
ADSs (or portion thereof)
evidenced by the ADRs
delivered or surrendered
(b) receiving or distributing dividends    Distribution of dividends    USD 0.02 or less per ADS (or
portion thereof)
(c) selling or exercising rights    Distribution or sale of securities, the fee being in an amount equal to the fee for the execution and delivery of ADSs, which would have been charged as a result of the deposit of such securities    USD 5.00 for each 100 ADSs
(or portion thereof)
(d) withdrawing an underlying security    Acceptance of ADRs surrendered for withdrawal of deposited securities    Up to USD 5.00 for each 100
ADSs (or portion thereof)
evidenced by the ADRs
surrendered
(e) transferring, splitting or grouping receipts    Transfers, combination or grouping of depositary receipts    USD 1.50 per ADS
(f) general depositary services, particularly those charged on an annual basis    Administration of ADRs (to be charged only when there was no distribution of annual cash dividends)    An aggregate fee of USD 0.02
per ADS (or portion thereof)

Direct Payments made by J.P. Morgan to Turkcell

J.P. Morgan, as depositary, has agreed to reimburse certain reasonable expenses related to our ADR program and incurred by us in connection with such program. In 2010, the depositary reimbursed us $1,728,443. The amounts the depositary reimbursed are not necessarily related to the fees collected by the depositary from ADR holders. The table below sets forth the type of expenses that J.P. Morgan reimbursed in the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

Category of Expenses

   Amount Reimbursed  for
Year Ended December 31, 2010
 

Investor Relations(1)

   $ 1,728,443   

 

(1) This type of expense includes activities tailored to increase the company’s ADR program, including, but not limited to roadshows and training in the US, legal costs connected with 20-F filing and ongoing SEC compliance and legal requirements and listing fees.

 

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Indirect Payments made by J.P. Morgan to Turkcell

As part of its service to Turkcell, J.P. Morgan has agreed to waive fees for the standard costs associated with the administration of our ADR program and associated operating expenses estimated to total $50,000. The table below sets forth the fees that J.P. Morgan has agreed to waive and/or expenses that J.P. Morgan has agreed to pay in the year ended December 31, 2010.

 

Category of Expenses

   Amount Waived or Paid  for
Year Ended December 31, 2010
 

Third-party expenses paid directly

     None   

Fees waived

   $ 50,000   

 

ITEM 13 DEFAULTS, DIVIDEND ARREARAGES AND DELINQUENCIES

Not Applicable.

 

ITEM 14 MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS TO THE RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS AND USE OF PROCEEDS

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 15 CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

(a) Disclosure Controls and Procedures. The Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer, after evaluating the effectiveness of the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in U.S. Exchange Act Rule 13a-15(e)) as of the end of the period covered by this Form 20-F, have concluded that, as of such date, the Company’s disclosure controls and procedures were effective.

(b) Management’s Annual Report on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. The management of Turkcell is responsible for establishing and maintaining adequate internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rules 13a-15(f) and 15d-15(f) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934), and for performing an assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with applicable generally accepted accounting principles. The Company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that:

 

  1. Pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the Company;

 

  2. Provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with applicable generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the Company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the Company; and

 

  3. Provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the Company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Internal control over financial reporting has inherent limitations. It is a process that involves human diligence and compliance and is subject to lapses in judgment and breakdowns resulting from human failures. In addition, it can be circumvented by collusion or improper management override. Because of such limitations, there is a risk that material misstatements will not be prevented or detected on a timely basis by internal controls over financial reporting. However, these inherent limitations are known features of the financial reporting process. Therefore, it is possible to design safeguards to reduce, though not eliminate, this risk.

 

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Management assessed the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010 based on criteria established in the Internal Control –Integrated Framework, issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission (“COSO”). Based on its assessment and those criteria, management has concluded that the Company’s internal control over financial reporting was effective as of December 31, 2010.

The effectiveness of our internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010 has been audited by DRT Bagimsiz Denetim ve Serbest Muhasebeci Mali Musavirlik A.S. (“Deloitte”), our independent registered public accounting firm in Turkey, as stated in their attestation report which appears below under Item 15(c), Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.

(c) Attestation Report of the Independent Public Accounting Firm.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Turkcell İletişim Hizmetleri AŞ.

We have audited the internal control over financial reporting of Turkcell İletişim Hizmetleri AŞ. and its subsidiaries (together “the Group”) as of December 31, 2010 based on criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission. The Group’s management is responsible for maintaining effective internal control over financial reporting and for its assessment of the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting, included in the accompanying Management’s Report. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Group’s internal control over financial reporting based on our audit.

We conducted our audit in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether effective internal control over financial reporting was maintained in all material respects. Our audit included obtaining an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, assessing the risk that a material weakness exists, testing and evaluating the design and operating effectiveness of internal control based on the assessed risk, and performing such other procedures as we considered necessary in the circumstances. We believe that our audit provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

A company’s internal control over financial reporting is a process designed by, or under the supervision of, the company’s principal executive and principal financial officers, or persons performing similar functions, and effected by the company’s board of directors, management, and other personnel to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements for external purposes in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. A company’s internal control over financial reporting includes those policies and procedures that (1) pertain to the maintenance of records that, in reasonable detail, accurately and fairly reflect the transactions and dispositions of the assets of the company; (2) provide reasonable assurance that transactions are recorded as necessary to permit preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and that receipts and expenditures of the company are being made only in accordance with authorizations of management and directors of the company; and (3) provide reasonable assurance regarding prevention or timely detection of unauthorized acquisition, use, or disposition of the company’s assets that could have a material effect on the financial statements.

Because of the inherent limitations of internal control over financial reporting, including the possibility of collusion or improper management override of controls, material misstatements due to error or fraud may not be prevented or detected on a timely basis. Also, projections of any evaluation of the effectiveness of the internal control over financial reporting to future periods are subject to the risk that the controls may become inadequate because of changes in conditions, or that the degree of compliance with the policies or procedures may deteriorate.

 

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In our opinion, based on our audit, the Group maintained, in all material respects, effective internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010, based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended December 31, 2010 of the Group and our report dated April 18, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements based on our audit and the report of the other auditors.

Istanbul, Turkey

April 18, 2011

/s/ DRT BAĞIMSIZ DENETİM VE SERBEST MUHASEBECİ MALİ MÜŞAVİRLİK AŞ.

Member of DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU LIMITED

(d) Changes in Internal Control Over Financial Reporting. There were no changes in connection with the evaluation required by Rule 13a-15(d) and Rule 15d-15 in the Company’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the year ended December 31, 2010, that have materially affected, or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. This conclusion has been made at a reasonable assurance level.

 

ITEM 16 AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT

Currently no independent audit committee member is an “audit committee financial expert” as defined in Item 16A of Form 20-F because, after self-evaluation, our audit committee members did not consider themselves, individually, as an “audit committee financial expert”. However, both our audit committee members and our Board of Directors believe that our audit committee members are qualified to carry out their duties on the audit committee.

 

ITEM 16B. CODE OF ETHICS

We have adopted a code of ethics that applies to our Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, and other executive officers and financial officers. This code of ethics is posted on our website, www.turkcell.com.tr.

 

ITEM 16C. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES

Deloitte served as our independent registered public accountant for financial year 2010 ended December 31, 2010 and KPMG Akis Bagimsiz Denetim ve Serbest Muhasebeci Mali Musavirlik A.S. served as our independent registered public accountants in Turkey for financial years December 31, 2009 and 2008. Our audited financial statements for the three year period ended December 31, 2010 appear in this annual report on Form 20-F. At our 2010 annual general meeting of shareholders which occurred on April 29, 2010, Deloitte was appointed as our independent auditors for our 2010 and 2011 fiscal years.

The following table presents the aggregate fees for professional services and other services rendered by our auditors to us in 2010, 2009 and 2008.

 

     2010
$m
     2009
$m
     2008
$m
 

Audit Fees(1)

     1.6         2.4         2.4   

Audit-Related Fees(2)

     —           —           —     

Tax Fees

     —           —           —     

All Other Fees(3)

     —           —           —     

Total

     1.6         2.4         2.4   

 

(1) Audit Fees consist of fees billed for professional services pertaining to the audit of the Company’s annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the principal accountant in connection with statutory or regulatory filings or engagements.

 

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(2) Audit-Related Fees consist of fees billed for assurance and related services that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the Company’s financial statements.
(3) All Other Fees consist of fees billed for products and services other than services provided under Audit Fees, Audit-Related Fees and Tax Fees.

Audit Committee Pre-approval Policies and Procedures

Our audit committee has determined that all work performed by our external auditors for the year 2011 will be approved by our audit committee and, therefore, it has not adopted blanket pre-approval policies and procedures.

 

ITEM 16D. EXEMPTIONS FROM THE LISTING STANDARDS FOR AUDIT COMMITTEES

One of our audit committee members, Mr. Khudyakov, is a representative of Cukurova Telecom Holding Limited, one of our largest shareholders. Consequently, he is not considered independent under Rule 10A-3(b) of the Exchange Act. Mr. Khudyakov serves on our audit committee in reliance upon the exemption from independence standards contained in Rule 10A-3(b)(1)(iv)(D). We do not believe that such reliance would materially adversely affect the ability of the audit committee to act independently and to satisfy other requirements of Rule 10A-3.

 

ITEM 16E. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY THE ISSUER AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS

To our best knowledge and in accordance with the official Share Book of the Company, neither we nor any affiliated purchaser made any purchases of our ordinary shares during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2010.

 

ITEM 16F. CHANGE IN REGISTRANT’S CERTIFYING ACCOUNTANT

Incorporated by reference to our annual report on Form 20-F filed on April 27, 2010.

 

ITEM 16G. CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Significant Differences in Corporate Governance Practices

Matters related to corporate governance in Turkey are regulated by the Turkish Commercial Code (“TCC”) enacted in 1956 and the regulations and communiqués of the Capital Markets Board of Turkey (the “CMB”), the regulatory and supervisory authority, both of which are binding upon publicly held companies.

In addition, corporate governance practices in Turkey are also guided by the Corporate Governance Principles of the CMB (the “CMB Principles”), which took effect on a comply-or-explain basis on January 1, 2004. Effective from 2005, the CMB requires listed companies to incorporate in their annual reports a “Corporate Governance Compliance Report” which compares the CMB Principles to the Corporate Governance principles under which the Company operates. This report is posted on our website, www.turkcell.com.tr.

We believe that we have, in all cases, either followed the recommendations made in the CMB Principles or explained divergences in such principles and our own practices, and, thus, we believe that we are in compliance with the CMB Principles. As further explained below, the CMB Principles recommend that audit committee members be independent according to the criteria set forth therein. In Turkey, other than the CMB Principles, the composition of the audit committee for public companies is regulated by a CMB communiqué, which only requires that committee members be composed of non-executive board members. The CMB Principles function on a comply-or-explain basis. In accordance with these principles, we disclose in our Corporate Governance Compliance Report that our Board currently has one independent member.

 

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Below is a summary of the significant differences between our corporate governance practices and those that would apply to U.S. companies under the NYSE corporate governance rules:

 

NYSE Corporate Governance Rule for U.S. Issuers

  

Our Practice as a Foreign Private Issuer

Listed companies must have a majority of independent directors.

   Our Board currently has one member who is deemed to meet the independence standards of both the SEC and CMB Principles. Under the CMB Principles, it is recommended to have a board comprised of at least one-third independent members (or, in any event, two members). In accordance with the CMB Principles, we disclose our current status in our Corporate Governance Compliance Report and thus believe that we are in compliance with the CMB Principles.

The non-management directors of each company must meet at regularly scheduled executive sessions without management.

   Turkish law does not make any distinction between management and non-management directors. Members of the board who are not also members of management do not meet in regularly scheduled executive sessions.

Listed companies must have a nominating/corporate governance committee composed entirely of independent directors, with a written charter that provides for (i) minimum duties, which are to identify individuals qualified to become board members, consistent with criteria approved by the board, and to select, or to recommend that the board select, the director nominees for the next annual meeting of shareholders; develop and recommend to the board a set of corporate governance guidelines applicable to the corporation; and oversee the evaluation of the board and management; and (ii) an annual performance evaluation of the committee.

  

On June 23, 2004 our Board of Directors established a Corporate Governance Committee. Our Corporate Governance Committee has a written charter specifying its duties. According to the CMB Principles, which operate on a “comply or explain” basis, only committees’ chairs are required to be independent as defined by the Principles themselves. At the Board of Directors meeting on May 27, 2010, it was decided that Colin J. Williams, our independent board member, will serve as Chairman of the Corporate Governance Committee.

 

Although Turkish legislation does not require us to have one, our Corporate Governance Committee has a written charter specifying its duties. The charter substantially satisfies the minimum requirements of the NYSE corporate governance rules. The Corporate Governance committee also may make recommendations on remuneration, including the compensation of our Chief Executive Officer, but the committee does not have the power to set remuneration.

Listed companies must have a compensation committee composed entirely of independent directors, with a written charter that covers certain minimum specified duties.

   The CMB Principles do not require us to have a compensation committee. Our corporate governance committee may develop and recommend a compensation policy to our Board of Directors in respect of our directors, the Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer.

 

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NYSE Corporate Governance Rule for U.S. Issuers

  

Our Practice as a Foreign Private Issuer

Listed companies must have an audit committee that satisfies requirements set forth in Exchange Act Rule 10A-3 and additional requirements, including: (i) a minimum of three members; (ii) independence as defined in NYSE Rule 303A.02; (iii) a written charter that addresses minimum duties in addition to those required by Exchange Act Rule 10A-3.

   Our audit committee has two members, in accordance with Turkish practice: Mr. Colin J. Williams and Mr. Alexey Khudyakov. Mr. Williams chairs the committee and is considered independent under the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the rules promulgated thereunder by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, the applicable rules of NYSE and the Turkish CMB Corporate Governance Principles. Mr. Khudyakov is an observer on the audit committee and is not considered independent under the U.S. Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and rules promulgated thereunder. On January 26, 2007, the Turkish CMB informed Turkcell that Alexey Khudyakov’s current status, as an “observer member” on the audit committee does not satisfy the requirements under Article 25 of the CMB’s “Committees Responsible for Auditing”. The CMB
   has stated that steps must be taken so that our Company can comply with Article 25. We believe that Mr. Khudyakov does fully meet the requirements of Article 25 as he is a non-executive board member and have initiated a lawsuit before an administrative court seeking to suspend the execution and to annul the decision of the CMB with respect to Mr. Khudyakov. The administrative court ultimately dismissed our lawsuit in January 2008. In March 2008, we appealed before the Council of State and on April 9, 2008, the Council of State rejected our request to suspend the decision. The Council of State rejected the appeal. The Company applied for the correction of the decision. The correction of the decision process is still pending. If our position in this matter does not ultimately prevail over that of the CMB, our compliance with the listing requirements of the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) and the continued listing of our ADRS on the NYSE could be jeopardized. Under the rules of the NYSE, we are exempted from compliance with certain NYSE corporate governance rules that are applicable to domestic issuers, but only to the extent that we comply with our home country corporate governance rules. If we do not prevail over the CMB and are thus deemed not to be in compliance with our home country rules, we may thus lose the benefit of this exemption and the NYSE may require us to comply with domestic issuer rules. If we were not able or willing to take remedial action to comply with our home country rules, or if we were not able or willing to comply with the applicable NYSE rules, our ADRs could be delisted from the NYSE, in which case they would no longer be traded on the NYSE.

 

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NYSE Corporate Governance Rule for U.S. Issuers

  

Our Practice as a Foreign Private Issuer

   By a decision notified to us on October 23, 2008, the CMB penalized Turkcell TRY 11,836 (equivalent to $7,809 as of April 7, 2011) for not complying with its decision that stated that Mr. Khudyakov’s current status as an “observer member” on the audit committee did not satisfy the requirements under Article 25 of the CMB’s “Committees Responsible for Auditing.” The CMB also required Turkcell to inform its shareholders at the following General Assembly (which was held on January 30, 2009) of this administrative penalty. In November 2008, we commenced a lawsuit before the court seeking to suspend the execution of the administrative fine and to annul the CMB’s decision related thereto. The Court rejected the Company’s suspension request and our objection to this decision was rejected. This lawsuit is still pending.
  

Mr. Williams and Mr. Khudyakov are non-executive board members as required by the CMB Communiqué Serial:X No: 22 which is binding upon public companies in Turkey. Under Turkish law, our entire Board of Directors is responsible for all decisions; as a result the audit committee’s duties are advisory. Pursuant to Turkish law, our external auditor is nominated by the Board of Directors upon advice of the audit committee and approved by our general assembly of shareholders.

 

The audit committee has revised its charter, effective June 20, 2005 and reviewed both “Turkcell Common Values and Business Ethics Document” and “Implementation of Turkcell Common Values and Business Ethics Rules” in order to comply with the requirements of applicable CMB legislation and Exchange Act Rule 10A-3 and NYSE 303A.06.

 

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NYSE Corporate Governance Rule for U.S. Issuers

  

Our Practice as a Foreign Private Issuer

   There has been a second revision, effective July 21, 2006, to reconsider membership criteria. Our audit committee charter satisfies the requirements of the CMB. The charter does not provide for: an audit committee report to be included in Turkcell’s annual proxy statement as it is not subject to the SEC proxy requirements; a review with the independent auditor of problems or difficulties and management’s responses thereto, although such review is not prohibited by the charter; the discussion of policies with respect to risk assessment and risk management, although such discussion is not prohibited by the charter; the review by the committee of Turkcell’s earnings releases or financial information or earnings guidance provided to analysts and ratings agencies; or the setting of clear hiring policies for employees or former employees of the independent auditors, although it does provide that the audit committee shall ensure that the independent auditors remain independent and avoid any conflicts of interest while performing their duties.

Listed companies must adopt and disclose corporate governance guidelines that cover certain minimum specified subjects.

   We are not required specifically by the CMB Principles to adopt corporate governance guidelines. However, our Board of Directors has adopted Corporate Governance Guidelines and posted a summary on its official website www.turkcell.com.tr. Our corporate governance guidelines largely cover the subjects requested by the NYSE corporate governance standards except director qualification standards and director compensation.

 

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ITEM 17 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

We have responded to Item 18 in lieu of responding to this item.

 

ITEM 18 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Our audited consolidated financial statements as of December 31, 2010, and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31, 2010, are filed as part of this annual report, on pages F-4 through F-111.

 

ITEM 19 EXHIBITS

 

EXHIBIT
NUMBER

  

DESCRIPTION

  1.1    Articles of Association of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S.
  8.1    Subsidiaries of Turkcell.
12.1    Certification of Sureyya Ciliv, Chief Executive Officer of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S., pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
12.2    Certification of Serkan Okandan, Chief Financial Officer of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S., pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
13.1    Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes Oxley Act of 2002.
15.1    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
15.2    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
15.3    Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
15.4    Auditor Letter Pertaining to Item 16F (incorporated by reference to Form 20-F of Turkcell filed on April 27, 2010).

 

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SIGNATURES

The registrant hereby certifies that it meets all of the requirements for filing on Form 20-F and that it has duly caused and authorized the undersigned to sign this annual report on its behalf.

 

    TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI A.S.
Date: April 18, 2011     By:   /S/    SUREYYA CILIV        
      Sureyya Ciliv
      Chief Executive Officer
Date: April 18, 2011     By:   /S/    SERKAN OKANDAN        
      Serkan Okandan
      Chief Financial Officer

 

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Index to Consolidated Financial Statements

 

     Page  

Consolidated Financial Statements of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S.

  

Reports of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firms

     F-2   

Consolidated Statement of Financial Position as at December 31, 2010 and 2009

     F-4   

Consolidated Income Statement for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

     F-5   

Consolidated Statement of Comprehensive Income for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

     F-6   

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Equity for the year ended December 31, 2010

     F-7   

Consolidated Statement of Cash Flows for the years ended December 31, 2010, 2009 and 2008

     F-9   

Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

     F-10   

 

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LOGO   

DRT Bagimsiz Denetim ve Serbest

Muhasebeci Mali Müşavirlik A.Ş.

Sun Plaza, Bilim Sokak No: 5

34398 Maslak, Şişli

İstanbul, Türkiye

Tel: +90 212 366 6000

Fax: +90 212 366 6010

www.deloitte.com.tr

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Board of Directors and Shareholders of

Turkcell İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of financial position of Turkcell İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş (“the Company”) and its subsidiaries (together “the Group”) as of December 31, 2010 and the related consolidated statement of income, consolidated statement of comprehensive income, consolidated statement of changes in equity, and consolidated statement of cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2010. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Group’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the financial statements of Fintur Holdings B.V. (“Fintur”); a 41.45 percent owned equity accounted investee of the Group. The Group’s investment in Fintur as of December 31, 2010 was $304 million and its share in profit of Fintur was $153 million, for the year 2010. Those statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Fintur, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits and the report of the other auditors provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of the other auditors, such consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Group as of December 31, 2010 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the year ended December 31, 2010 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States), the Group’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31, 2010 based on the criteria established in Internal Control-Integrated Framework issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations of the Treadway Commission and our report dated April 18, 2011 expressed an unqualified opinion on the effectiveness of Group’s internal control over financial reporting.

Istanbul, Turkey

April 18, 2011

/s/    DRT BAĞIMSIZ DENETİM VE SERBEST MUHASEBECİ MALİ MÜŞAVİRLİK A.Ş.

Member of DELOITTE TOUCHE TOHMATSU LIMITED

 

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LOGO                                   

 

Akis Bagimsiz Denetim ve Serbest

Muhasebeci Mali Müşavirlik A.Ş.

Yapi Kredi Plaza C Blok Kat 17

Büyükdere Caddesi

Levent 34330 Istanbul

  

 

Telephone

Fax

Internet

 

 

+90 (212) 317 74 00

+90 (212) 317 73 00

www.kpmg.com

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

The Board of Directors and Shareholders

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S.:

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) as of December 31, 2009, and the related consolidated income statements, consolidated statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity and cash flows each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2009. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Group’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits. We did not audit the consolidated financial statements of Fintur Holdings B.V. (“Fintur”), a 41.45 percent owned equity accounted investee company. The Group’s investment in Fintur at December 31, 2009 was $286 million and its share of profit of Fintur was $120 million and $151 million for the years 2009, and 2008, respectively. Those consolidated financial statements were audited by other auditors whose report has been furnished to us, and our opinion, insofar as it relates to the amounts included for Fintur, is based solely on the report of the other auditors.

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, based on our audits and the report of the other auditors, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri A.S. and its subsidiaries as of December 31, 2009, and the results of their operations and their cash flows for each of the years in the two-year period ended December 31, 2009, in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

/s/ Akis Bagimsiz Denetim ve Serbest

Muhasebeci Mali Müsavirlik A.S.

Istanbul, Turkey

April 26, 2010

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at 31 December 2010

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

 

     Note      2010     2009  

Assets

       

Property, plant and equipment

     12         3,068,021        2,652,222   

Intangible assets

     13         1,709,311        1,897,981   

GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses

        955,703        1,058,098   

Computer software

        547,607        595,218   

Other intangible assets

        206,001        244,665   

Investments in equity accounted investees

     14         399,622        383,490   

Other investments

     15         33,849        34,755   

Due from related parties

     33         1,044        21,039   

Other non-current assets

     16         107,277        75,120   

Trade receivables

     18         35,024        —     

Deferred tax assets

     17         2,876        2,058   
                   

Total non-current assets

        5,357,024        5,066,665   
                   

Inventories

        24,386        28,205   

Other investments

     15         8,201        62,398   

Due from related parties

     33         88,897        108,843   

Trade receivables and accrued income

     18         816,151        783,752   

Other current assets

     19         197,740        175,417   

Cash and cash equivalents

     20         3,302,163        3,095,486   
                   

Total current assets

        4,437,538        4,254,101   
                   

Total assets

        9,794,562        9,320,766   
                   

Equity

       

Share capital

     21         1,636,204        1,636,204   

Share premium

     21         434        434   

Capital contributions

     21         22,772        22,772   

Reserves

     21         (660,121     (512,095

Retained earnings

     21         5,258,327        4,712,254   
                   

Total equity attributable to equity holders of
Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS

        6,257,616        5,859,569   
                   

Non-controlling interests

     21         (24,019     36,632   
                   

Total equity

        6,233,597        5,896,201   
                   

Liabilities

       

Loans and borrowings

     24         1,407,316        821,179   

Employee benefits

     25         29,742        27,776   

Provisions

     27         57,055        5,676   

Other non-current liabilities

     23         160,832        154,991   

Deferred tax liabilities

     17         93,105        118,432   
                   

Total non-current liabilities

        1,748,050        1,128,054   
                   

Bank overdraft

     20         5,896        5,244   

Loans and borrowings

     24         430,205        690,780   

Income taxes payable

     11         96,080        93,260   

Trade and other payables

     28         951,976        1,038,762   

Due to related parties

     33         10,760        14,780   

Deferred income

     26         164,186        248,518   

Provisions

     27         153,812        205,167   
                   

Total current liabilities

        1,812,915        2,296,511   
                   

Total liabilities

        3,560,965        3,424,565   
                   

Total equity and liabilities

        9,794,562        9,320,766   
                   

 

The notes on page F-10 to F-111 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME

For the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     Note      2010     2009     2008  

Revenue

     7         5,982,093        5,789,972        6,970,408   

Direct costs of revenue

        (3,349,035     (3,097,097     (3,409,013
                           

Gross profit

        2,633,058        2,692,875        3,561,395   
                           

Other income

        14,668        978        14,136   

Selling and marketing expenses

        (1,085,750     (1,085,081     (1,351,692

Administrative expenses

        (347,290     (273,139     (309,349

Other expenses

     8         (64,233     (111,220     (17,990
                           

Results from operating activities

        1,150,453        1,224,413        1,896,500   
                           

Finance income

     10         277,130        329,550        442,099   

Finance costs

     10         (102,662     (187,514     (136,769
                           

Net finance income

        174,468        142,036        305,330   
                           

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     14         122,839        78,448        102,990   
                           

Profit before income tax

        1,447,760        1,444,897        2,304,820   
                           

Income tax expense

     11         (320,799     (340,093     (549,758
                           

Profit for the year

        1,126,961        1,104,804        1,755,062   
                           

Profit attributable to:

         

Owners of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS

        1,170,176        1,093,992        1,836,824   

Non-controlling interest

        (43,215     10,812        (81,762
                           

Profit for the year

        1,126,961        1,104,804        1,755,062   
                           

Basic and diluted earnings per share (in full USD)

     22         0.53        0.50        0.83   

 

The notes on page F-10 to F-111 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

For the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Profit for the year

     1,126,961        1,104,804        1,755,062   

Other comprehensive income/(expense):

      

Foreign currency translation differences

     (184,352     53,046        (1,458,709

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

     (1,318     1,197        (6,385

Income tax on other comprehensive (expense)/income

     (754     (1,091     1,368   
                        

Other comprehensive income/(expense) for the year, net of income tax

     (186,424     53,152        (1,463,726
                        

Total comprehensive income for the year

     940,537        1,157,956        291,336   
                        

Total comprehensive income/(expense) attributable to:

      

Owners of Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS

     984,187        1,146,681        363,504   

Non-controlling interest

     (43,650     11,275        (72,168
                        

Total comprehensive income for the year

     940,537        1,157,956        291,336   
                        

 

The notes on page F-10 to F-111 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

For the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

    Attributable to equity holders of the Company              
    Share
Capital
    Capital
Contribution
    Share
Premium
    Legal
Reserves
    Fair
Value
Reserve
    Reserve for
Non-
Controlling
Interest Put
Option
    Translation
Reserve
    Retained
Earnings
    Total     Non-
Controlling
Interest
    Total
Equity
 

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   

Total comprehensive income

                     

Profit for the year

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          1,836,824        1,836,824        (81,762     1,755,062   

Other comprehensive income/(expense)

                     

Foreign currency translation differences, net of tax

    —          —          —          —          —          —          (1,467,960     —          (1,467,960     9,594        (1,458,366

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of tax

    —          —          —          —          (5,360     —          —          —          (5,360     —          (5,360
                                                                                       

Total other comprehensive income/(expense)

    —          —          —          —          (5,360     —          (1,467,960     —          (1,473,320     9,594        (1,463,726
                                                                                       

Total comprehensive income/(expense)

    —          —          —          —          (5,360     —          (1,467,960     1,836,824        363,504        (72,168     291,336   
                                                                                       

Increase in legal reserves

    —          —          —          121,945        —          —          —          (121,945     —          —          —     

Dividends paid

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (502,334     (502,334     (54,639     (556,973

Change in non-controlling interest

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          46,795        46,795   

Change in reserve for non-controlling interest put option

    —          —          —          —          —          (286,922     —          —          (286,922     —          (286,922

Capital contribution granted

    —          18,202        —          —          —          —          —          —          18,202        —          18,202   
                                                                                       

Balance at 31 December 2008

    1,636,204        18,202        434        378,779        121        (286,922     (798,362     4,437,071        5,385,527        58,116        5,443,643   
                                                                                       

Balance at 1 January 2009

    1,636,204        18,202        434        378,779        121        (286,922     (798,362     4,437,071        5,385,527        58,116        5,443,643   

Total comprehensive income

                     

Profit for the year

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          1,093,992        1,093,992        10,812        1,104,804   

Other comprehensive income/(expense)

                     

Foreign currency translation differences, net of tax

    —          —          —          —          —          —          51,492        —          51,492        463        51,955   

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of tax

    —          —          —          —          1,197        —          —          —          1,197        —          1,197   
                                                                                       

Total other comprehensive income/(expense)

    —          —          —          —          1,197        —          51,492        —          52,689        463        53,152   
                                                                                       

Total comprehensive income/(expense)

    —          —          —          —          1,197        —          51,492        1,093,992        1,146,681        11,275        1,157,956   
                                                                                       

Increase in legal reserves

    —          —          —          105,512        —          —          —          (105,512     —          —          —     

Dividends paid

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (713,297     (713,297     (31,083     (744,380

Change in non-controlling interest

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (1,676     (1,676

Change in reserve for non-controlling interest put option

    —          —          —          —          —          36,088        —          —          36,088        —          36,088   

Capital contribution granted

    —          4,570        —          —          —          —          —          —          4,570        —          4,570   
                                                                                       

Balance at 31 December 2009

    1,636,204        22,772        434        484,291        1,318        (250,834     (746,870     4,712,254        5,859,569        36,632        5,896,201   
                                                                                       

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY—(Continued)

For the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

    Attributable to equity holders of the Company              
    Share
Capital
    Capital
Contribution
    Share
Premium
    Legal
Reserves
    Fair
Value
Reserve
    Reserve for
Non-
Controlling
Interest Put
Option
    Translation
Reserve
    Retained
Earnings
    Total     Non-
Controlling
Interest
    Total
Equity
 

Balance at 1 January 2010

    1,636,204        22,772        434        484,291        1,318        (250,834     (746,870     4,712,254        5,859,569        36,632        5,896,201   

Total comprehensive income

                     

Profit for the year

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          1,170,176        1,170,176        (43,215     1,126,961   

Other comprehensive income/(expense)

                     

Foreign currency translation differences, net of tax

    —          —          —          —          —          (461     (184,210     —          (184,671     (435     (185,106

Net change in fair value of available-for-sale securities, net of tax

    —          —          —          —          (1,318     —          —          —          (1,318     —          (1,318
                                                                                       

Total other comprehensive income/(expense)

    —          —          —          —          (1,318     (461     (184,210     —          (185,989     (435     (186,424
                                                                                       

Total comprehensive income/(expense)

    —          —          —          —          (1,318     (461     (184,210     1,170,176        984,187        (43,650     940,537   
                                                                                       

Increase in legal reserves

    —          —          —          50,652        —          —          —          (50,652     —          —          —     

Dividends paid

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          (573,451     (573,451     (17,090     (590,541

Change in non-controlling interest

    —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          —          89        89   

Change in reserve for non-controlling interest put option

    —          —          —          —          —          (12,689     —          —          (12,689     —          (12,689
                                                                                       

Balance at 31 December 2010

    1,636,204        22,772        434        534,943        —          (263,984     (931,080     5,258,327        6,257,616        (24,019     6,233,597   
                                                                                       

The notes on page F-10 to F-111 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-8


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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS

For the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     Note      2010     2009     2008  

Cash flows from operating activities

         

Profit for the year

        1,126,961        1,104,804        1,755,062   

Adjustments for:

         

Depreciation and impairment of fixed assets

     12         515,515        384,257        433,942   

Amortization of intangible assets

     13         241,839        206,421        245,985   

Net finance (income)

     10         (237,628     (254,582     (393,671

Income tax expense

     11         320,799        340,093        549,758   

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

        (154,457     (115,240     (151,629

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

        101        25,150        (6,931

Gain on sale of subsidiary

        —          —          (4,727

Unrealized foreign exchange gain and loss on operating assets

        (5,847     88,572        (228,033

Impairment losses on goodwill

        23,499        61,835        —     

Provision for impairment of trade receivables

     18         126,257        75,379        68,550   

Deferred income

        (77,854     (2,966     (3,293
                           
        1,879,185        1,913,723        2,265,013   

Change in trade receivables

     18         (204,403     (269,360     (214,220

Change in due from related parties

     33         28,752        (20,312     2,124   

Change in inventories

        3,083        (8,662     (267

Change in other current assets

     19         (29,389     (37,099     (27,208

Change in other non-current assets

     16         (29,011     (21,272     (10,704

Change in due to related parties

     33         (3,775     (6,290     (6,541

Change in trade and other payables

        32,541        180,469        66,690   

Change in other current liabilities

        (96,118     (115,306     206,537   

Change in other non-current liabilities

     23         (14,051     (82,893     52,452   

Change in employee benefits

     25         2,690        942        5,773   

Change in provisions

     27         (45,102     123,644        29,704   
                           
        1,524,402        1,657,584        2,369,353   

Interest paid

        (38,829     (29,497     (25,050

Income tax paid

        (322,754     (395,024     (687,292

Dividends received

        99,759        83,543        89,235   
                           

Net cash generated by operating activities

        1,262,578        1,316,606        1,746,246   
                           

Cash flows from investing activities

         

Acquisition of property, plant and equipment

        (912,097     (1,044,165     (603,568

Acquisition of intangible assets

     12         (132,827     (723,507     (193,219

Proceeds from sale of property, plant and equipment

     13         8,506        4,471        16,693   

Proceeds from currency option contracts

        12,147        10,549        14,655   

Payment of currency option contracts premium

        (4,988     (1,150     (4,970

Acquisition of available-for-sale securities

        (16,762     (83,951     (47,549

Proceeds from sale of available-for-sale securities

        70,528        32,015        78,542   

Acquisition of subsidiary, net of cash acquired

        —          —          (309,967

Interest received

        270,602        320,697        354,211   
                           

Net cash used in investing activities

        (704,891     (1,485,041     (695,172
                           

Cash flows from financing activities

         

Proceeds from issuance of loans and borrowings

        1,071,777        1,692,866        601,000   

Loan transaction costs

        (12,100     (14,357     —     

Repayment of borrowings

        (772,892     (944,133     (487,999

Change in non-controlling interest

        89        —          72,199   

Proceeds from capital contribution

        —          4,570        18,202   

Dividends paid

        (590,541     (744,380     (556,973
                           

Net cash used in financing activities

        (303,667     (5,434     (353,571
                           

Net decrease/(increase) in cash and cash equivalents

        254,020        (173,869     697,503   

Cash and cash equivalents at 1 January

        3,090,242        3,255,420        3,093,175   

Effects of foreign exchange rate fluctuations on cash and cash equivalents

     20         (47,995     8,691        (535,258
                           

Cash and cash equivalents at 31 December

     20         3,296,267        3,090,242        3,255,420   
                           

 

The notes on page F-10 to F-111 are an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

F-9


Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

Notes to the consolidated financial statements

 

     Page  

1. Reporting entity

     F-11   

2. Basis of preparation

     F-12   

3. Significant accounting policies

     F-16   

4. Determination of fair values

     F-36   

5. Financial risk management

     F-37   

6. Operating segments

     F-40   

7. Revenue

     F-44   

8. Other expenses

     F-44   

9. Personnel expenses

     F-44   

10. Finance income and costs

     F-45   

11. Income tax expense

     F-46   

12. Property, plant and equipment

     F-48   

13. Intangible assets

     F-50   

14. Investments is equity accounted investees

     F-55   

15. Other investments

     F-56   

16. Other non-current assets

     F-57   

17. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

     F-57   

18. Trade receivables and accrued income

     F-60   

19. Other current assets

     F-60   

20. Cash and cash equivalents

     F-61   

21. Share capital and reserves

     F-61   

22. Earnings per share

     F-63   

23. Other non-current liabilities

     F-63   

24. Loans and borrowings

     F-64   

25. Employee benefits

     F-67   

26. Deferred income

     F-67   

27. Provisions

     F-67   

28. Trade and other payables

     F-69   

29. Financial instruments

     F-70   

30. Operating leases

     F-79   

31. Guarantees and purchase obligations

     F-79   

32. Commitments and Contingencies

     F-79   

33. Related parties

     F-104   

34. Group entities

     F-110   

35. Subsequent events

     F-111   

 

F-10


Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

(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 “2G 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 2G License. Under the 2G 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”) a treasury share 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. Following the 3G tender held by the Information Technologies and Communications Authority (“ICTA”) regarding the authorization for providing IMT-2000/UMTS services and infrastructure, the Company has been granted the A-Type license (the “3G License”) providing the widest frequency band, at a consideration of EUR 358,000 (excluding Value Added Tax (“VAT”)). Payment of the 3G license was made in cash, following the necessary approvals, on 30 April 2009.

On 25 June 2005, the Turkish Government declared that GSM operators are required to pay 10% of their existing monthly treasury share 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 treasury share 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.

As at 31 December 2010, two significant founding shareholders, Sonera Holding BV and Cukurova Group, directly and indirectly, own approximately 37.1% and 13.8%, respectively of the Company’s share capital and are ultimate counterparties to a number of transactions that are discussed in the related parties footnote. On the basis of publicly available information, Alfa Group, which previously held, indirectly through Cukurova Telecom Holdings Limited and Turkcell Holding AS, 13.2% of the Company’s shares, has reduced its stake to 4.99% following litigation with Telenor ASA (“Telenor Group”). On the basis of publicly available information, it is understood that Alfa Group sold 62.2% of its holdings in Alfa Telecom Turkey Limited (“ATTL”) to Visor Group affiliate Nadash International Holdings Inc. (“Nadash”) and Alexander Mamut’s Henri Services Limited (“HSL”) and in July 2010, redeemed these shares.

The consolidated financial statements of the Company as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 comprise the Company and its subsidiaries (together referred to as the “Group”) and the Group’s interest in one associate and one joint venture. Subsidiaries of the Company, their locations and their business are given in Note 34. The Company’s and each of its subsidiaries’, associate’s and joint venture’s financial statements are prepared as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

 

F-11


Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

2. Basis of preparation

 

(a) Statement of compliance

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

The Company selected the presentation form of “function of expense” for the statement of income in accordance with IAS 1 “Presentation of Financial Statements”.

The Company reports cash flows from operating activities by using the indirect method in accordance with IAS 7 “Statement of Cash Flows”, whereby profit or loss is adjusted for the effects of transactions of a non-cash nature, any deferrals or accruals of past or future operating cash receipts or payments, and items of income or expense associated with investing or financing cash flows.

The consolidated financial statements as of and for the year ended 31 December 2010 were authorized for issue on 23 February 2011 by the Board of Directors and updated by the management for any subsequent events up until 18 April 2011.

Authority for restatement and approval of consolidated financial statements belongs to the same Board. Consolidated financial statements are approved by the Board of Directors by the recommendation of Audit Committee of the Company.

 

(b) Basis of measurement

The accompanying consolidated 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: put option liability, 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 financial statements are presented in US Dollars (“USD” or “$”), rounded to the nearest thousand. Moreover, all financial information expressed in Turkish Lira (“TL”), Euro (“EUR”), Ukranian Hryvnia (“HRV”) and Swedish Krona (“SEK”) has 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 TL. The functional currency of Euroasia Telecommunications Holding BV (“Euroasia”) and Financell BV (“Financell”) is USD. The functional currency of East Asian Consortium BV (“Eastasia”), Beltur BV, Surtur BV and Turkcell Europe is EUR. The functional currency of LLC Astelit (“Astelit”), LLC Global Bilgi (“Global LLC”) and UkrTower LLC (“UkrTower”) is HRV. The functional currency of Belarusian Telecommunications Network (“Belarusian Telecom”) and FLLC Global Bilgi (“Global FLLC”) is Belarusian Roubles (“BYR”). The functional currency of Azerinteltek QSC (“AzerInteltek”) is Azerbaijan Manat.

 

(d) Use of estimates and judgments

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements in conformity with IFRS 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.

 

F-12


Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 significant areas of estimation, uncertainty and critical judgments in applying accounting policies that have the most significant effect on the amounts recognized in the consolidated financial statements are described in Notes 4 and 32 and detailed analysis with respect to accounting estimates and critical judgments of allowance for doubtful receivables, useful lives or expected patterns of consumption of the future economic benefits embodied in depreciable assets, commission fees, revenue recognition and income taxes are provided below:

Key sources of estimation uncertainty

In Note 29, detailed analysis is provided for the foreign exchange exposure of the Group and risks in relation to foreign exchange movements.

Critical accounting judgments in applying the Group’s accounting policies

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

Allowance for doubtful receivables

During the current year, the Group has changed its accounting estimates regarding the determination of allowance for doubtful receivables. Formerly, the allowance for doubtful receivables was based on management’s evaluation of the volume of the receivables outstanding, historical collection trends and general economic conditions. With the new accounting estimate, the Group maintains an allowance for doubtful receivables for estimated losses resulting from the inability of the Group’s subscribers and customers to make required payments. The Group bases the allowance on the likelihood of recoverability of trade and other receivables based on the aging of the balances, historical collection trends and general economic conditions. The allowance is periodically reviewed. The allowance charged to expenses is determined in respect of receivable balances, calculated as a specified percentage of the outstanding balance in each aging group, with the percentage of the allowance increasing as the aging of the receivable becomes longer.

This change is accounted as a change in accounting estimates in accordance with IAS 8 “Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors”. Based on the evaluation performed, the change in the estimates regarding the determination of allowance for doubtful receivables caused the following impact on bad debt provision expense:

 

     Previous
accounting
estimate
     Current
accounting
estimate
     Impact  

Bad debt expense for the year ended 31 December 2010

     127,921         126,257         1,664   

Due to the impracticability, the Group has not disclosed the effect of the change for the future periods.

 

F-13


Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Useful lives of assets

The economic useful 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 lives of the licenses are based on the duration of the license agreements.

In accordance with IAS 16 “Property, Plant and Equipment” and IAS 38 “Intangible Assets”, the residual value and the useful life of an asset shall be reviewed at least at each financial year-end and, if expectations differ from previous estimates, the change(s) shall be accounted for as a change in an accounting estimate in accordance with IAS 8 “Accounting Policies, Changes in Accounting Estimates and Errors”. As part of yearly review of useful lives of assets, the Group made necessary evaluation by considering current technologic and economic conditions and recent business plans. Based on the evaluation performed, changes in the useful lives caused the following prospective impacts on depreciation and amortization charges;

 

     Previous
accounting
estimate
     Current
accounting
estimate
     Impact  

Depreciation and amortization charge for the year ended 31 December 2010

     765,280         757,354         7,926   

Due to the impracticability, the Group has not disclosed the effect of the change for the future periods.

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 April 2009, the IASB issued amendments to the illustrative guidance in the appendix to IAS 18 “Revenue” in respect of identifying an agent versus a principal in a revenue-generating transaction. Based on this guidance; management considered the following factors in distinguishing between an agent and a principal:

 

   

The Group does not take the responsibility for fulfillment 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 pre-determined percentage of the total turnover.

Revenue recognition

In arrangements which include multiple elements, the Group considers the elements to be separate units of accounting in the arrangement. Total arrangement consideration relating to the bundled contracts is allocated among the different units according the following criteria:

 

   

the component has standalone value to the customer and

 

   

the fair value of the component can be measured reliably.

The arrangement consideration is allocated to each deliverable in proportion to the fair value of the individual deliverables. If a delivered element of a transaction is not a separately identifiable component, then it is accounted for as an integrated part of the remaining components of the transaction.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Income taxes

The calculation of income taxes 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 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 Group 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.

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.

Changes in accounting policies

Changes to the accounting policies are applied retrospectively and the prior period’s financial statements are restated accordingly. The Group did not make any major changes to accounting policies during the current year.

Changes in accounting estimates

If the application of changes in the accounting estimates affects the financial results of a specific period, the changes in the accounting estimates are applied in that specific period, if they affect the financial results of current and following periods; the accounting estimate is applied prospectively in the period in which such change is made. A change in the measurement basis applied is a change in an accounting policy, and is not a change in an accounting estimate. When it is difficult to distinguish a change in an accounting policy from a change in an accounting estimate, the change is treated as a change in an accounting estimate.

The Group did not have any major changes in the accounting estimates during the current year except for the allowance for doubtful receivables and the useful lives of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets.

 

     Comparative information and revision of prior period financial statements

The consolidated financial statements of the Group have been prepared with the prior periods on a comparable basis in order to give consistent information about the financial position and performance. If the presentation or classification of the financial statements is changed, in order to maintain consistency, the financial statements of the prior periods are also reclassified in line with the related changes.

The Company has for 2010 revised the manner in which it accounts for the impact of changes in foreign exchange rates in its statement of cash flows and has revised its presentation of prior periods, resulting in a change in the allocation of the impact of foreign exchange rate changes among “Operating activities”, “Effects of foreign exchange on statement of financial position items” and “Effect of foreign exchange rate changes on cash” in the statement of cash flows. The change relates to the impact of re-translation of the

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

underlying functional currency cash flows into the presentation currency, the US Dollar. The Company believes that changes to prior periods are immaterial. The change in the statement of cash flows will not impact the Company’s previously reported statement of income, statement of comprehensive income, statement of financial positions or “Cash and cash equivalents” at the end of any period. The effect of the change on the statement of cash flows is as follows:

 

     For the year ended 31 December 2009  
     As
previously
reported
    Revisions     As Revised  

Net cash from operating activities

     1,294,935        21,671        1,316,606   

Effects of foreign exchange on statement of financial position items

     30,938        (30,938     —     

Effects of foreign exchange rate changes on cash

     (576     9,267        8,691   

Cash and cash equivalents

     3,090,242        —          3,090,242   

 

     For the year ended 31 December 2008  
     As
previously
reported
    Revisions     As Revised  

Net cash from operating activities

     1,674,385        71,861        1,746,246   

Effects of foreign exchange on statement of financial position items

     (418,945     418,945        —     

Effects of foreign exchange rate changes on cash

     (44,452     (490,806     (535,258

Cash and cash equivalents

     3,255,420        —          3,255,420   

 

3. Significant accounting policies

The accounting policies set out below have been applied consistently to all periods presented in these consolidated financial statements, and have been applied consistently by the 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 financial statements of subsidiaries are included in the consolidated 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 IFRS 3 “Business Combinations”. In business combinations under common control, assets and liabilities subject to business combination are accounted for at their carrying value in consolidated financial statements. Statements of income are

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

consolidated starting from the beginning of the financial year in which the business combination is realized. Financial statements of previous financial years are restated in the same manner in order to maintain consistency and comparability. Any positive or negative goodwill arising from such business combinations is not recognized in the consolidated financial statements. Residual balance calculated by netting off investment in subsidiary and the share acquired in subsidiary’s equity accounted for as equity transactions (i.e. transactions with owners in their capacity as owners).

 

(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 decisions. 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 recognized at cost. The Group’s investment includes goodwill identified on acquisition, net of any accumulated impairment losses. The consolidated 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 December 2010 are Fintur Holdings BV (“Fintur”) and A-Tel Pazarlama ve Servis Hizmetleri AS (“A-Tel”).

 

(iv) Transactions eliminated on consolidation

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

 

(v) Non-controlling interests

Where a put option is granted by the Group to the non-controlling interests shareholders in existing subsidiaries that provides for settlement in cash or in another financial asset, the Group recognizes a liability for the present value of the estimated exercise price of the option. The interests of the non-controlling shareholders that hold such put options are derecognized when the financial liability is recognized. The corresponding interests attributable to the holder of the puttable non-controlling interests are presented as attributable to the equity holders of the parent and not as attributable to those non-controlling interests’ shareholders. The difference between the put option liability recognized and the amount of non-controlling interests’ shareholders derecognized is recorded under equity. Subsequent changes in the fair value of the put options granted to the non-controlling shareholders in existing subsidiaries are also recognized in equity, except the imputed interest on the liability is recognized in the consolidated statement of income.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

(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 recognized in the statement of income. The foreign currency gain or loss on monetary items is the difference between amortized cost in the functional currency at the beginning of the period, adjusted for effective interest and payments during the period, and the amortized 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 recognized in the statement of income, except for differences arising on the retranslation of available-for-sale equity instruments, which are recognized directly in equity.

 

(ii) Foreign operations

The assets and liabilities of foreign operations, including goodwill and fair value adjustments arising on acquisition, are translated to USD from the functional currency of the foreign operation at foreign exchange rates ruling at the reporting date. The income and expenses of foreign operations are translated to USD at monthly average exchange rates.

Foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognized directly in the foreign currency translation reserve, as 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, partially or fully, the relevant amount in the foreign currency translation reserve is transferred to the statement of income.

Foreign exchange gains and losses arising from a monetary item receivable from or payable 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 recognized 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 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.

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

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Foreign currency differences arising on retranslation are recognized 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 the foreign currency translation reserve. They are transferred to the statement of income upon disposal of the foreign operations.

 

(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 which are not recognized or designated as financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are recognized initially at fair value plus 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 with original maturities of three months or less. 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.

Financial assets and liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the statement of financial position when, and only when, the Group has a legal right to offset the amounts and intends either to settle on a net basis or to realize the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Accounting for finance income and costs is discussed in Note 3(m).

 

   

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 recognized in the statement of income when incurred. Financial instruments at fair value through profit or loss are measured at fair value, and changes therein are recognized in the statement of income.

 

   

Held-to-maturity financial assets

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 financial assets are recognized initially at fair value plus any directly attributable transaction costs. Held-to-maturity financial assets are held-to-maturity investments that are measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method, less any impairment losses.

 

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Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Any sale or reclassification of a more than insignificant amount of held-to-maturity investments not close to their maturity would result in the reclassification of all held-to-maturity investments as available-for-sale, and prevent the Group from classifying investment securities as held-to-maturity for the current and the following two financial years.

 

   

Available-for-sale financial assets

Available-for-sale financial assets are non-derivative financial assets that are designated as available-for-sale and that are not classified in any of the previous categories.

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 recognized directly in equity. When an investment is derecognized, the cumulative gain or loss in equity is transferred to the statement of income.

 

   

Estimated exercise price of put options

Under the terms of certain agreements, the Group is committed to acquire the interests owned by non-controlling shareholders in consolidated subsidiaries, if these non-controlling interests wish to sell their share of interests.

As the Group has unconditional obligations to fulfil its liabilities under these agreements, IAS 32 “Financial instruments: Disclosure and Presentation”, requires the value of such put option to be presented as a financial liability on the statement of financial position for the present value of the estimated option redemption amount. The Group accounts for such transactions under the anticipated acquisition method and the interests of non-controlling shareholders that hold such put option are derecognized when the financial liability is recognized. The Group accounts for the difference between the amount recognized for the exercise price of the put option and the carrying amount of non-controlling interests in equity.

 

   

Other

Other non-derivative financial instruments are measured at amortized 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 derivatives.

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

Derivatives are recognized initially at fair value; attributable transaction costs are recognized in the statement of income when incurred. Subsequent to initial recognition, derivatives are measured at fair value and changes therein are recognized in the statement of income.

 

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Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

(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 capitalized as part of the cost of that asset.

Purchased software that is integral to the functionality of the related equipment is capitalized as part of that equipment.

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 the statement of income.

Changes in the obligation to dismantle, remove assets on sites and to restore sites on which they are located, other than changes deriving from the passing of time, are added or deducted from the cost of the assets in the period in which they occur. The amount deducted from the cost of the asset shall not exceed the balance of the carrying amount on the date of change, and any excess balance is recognized immediately in the statement of income.

 

(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 derecognized. The costs of the day-to-day servicing of property, plant and equipment are recognized in the statement of income as incurred.

 

(iii) Depreciation

Depreciation is recognized in the statement of income on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of each part of an item of property, plant and equipment since this most closely reflects the expected pattern of consumption of the future economic benefits embodied in the asset. Leased assets are depreciated over the shorter of the lease term or 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.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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

 

Buildings

     21–50 years   

Mobile network infrastructure

     6–8 years   

Fixed network infrastructure

     3–25 years   

Call center equipment

     5–8 years   

Equipment, fixtures and fittings

     4–5 years   

Motor vehicles

     4–5 years   

Central betting terminals

     10 years   

Leasehold improvements

     5 years   

Depreciation methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at least annually unless there is a triggering event.

 

(e) Intangible assets

 

(i) GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses

GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses that are acquired by the Group are measured at cost adjusted for the effects of inflation during the hyperinflationary period lasted by 31 December 2005 less accumulated amortization (see below).

Amortization

Amortization is recognized in the statement of income on a straight line basis primarily by reference to the unexpired license period. The useful lives for the GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses are as follows:

 

GSM and other telecommunications licenses

     3–25 years   

In accordance with the new legislation issued by ICTA, the infrastructure operator authorization right of the Company’s subsidiary, Superonline Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (“Superonline”), has become infinite. As a result, Superonline revised the expected useful lives of its operating license and related fixed network equipment from 15 years to 25 years.

 

(ii) Computer Software

Acquired computer software licenses are capitalized on the basis of the costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific software.

Costs associated with maintaining computer software programs are recognized as an expense as incurred. Costs that are directly associated with the development of identifiable and unique software products controlled by the Group, and that will probably generate economic benefits exceeding costs beyond one year, are recognized as intangible assets. Costs include the software development employee costs and an appropriate portion of relevant overheads.

 

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Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Amortization

Amortization is recognized in the statement of income on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives from the date the software is available for use. The useful lives for computer software are as follows:

 

Computer software

     3–8 years   

 

(iii) Other 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)(ii)).

Indefeasible Rights of Use (“IRU”) correspond to the right to use a portion of the capacity of an asset granted for a fixed period of time. IRUs are recognized as an intangible asset when the Group has specific indefeasible right to use an identified portion of the underlying asset and the duration of the right is the major part of the underlying asset’s economic life. IRUs are amortized over the shorter of the expected period of use and the life of the contract.

Subsequent expenditure

Subsequent expenditure is capitalized 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 recognized in the statement of income 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.

Amortization

Amortization is recognized in the statement of income on a straight line basis over the estimated useful lives of intangible assets unless such useful 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:

 

Transmission lines

     10 years   

Central betting system operating right

     10 years   

Customer base

     2–8 years   

Brand name

     10 years   

Customs duty and VAT exemption right

     4.4 years   

Amortization methods, useful lives and residual values are reviewed at least annually unless there is a triggering event.

Goodwill

From 1 January 2010 the Group has applied IFRS 3 (2008) “Business Combinations” in accounting for business combinations. The change in accounting policy has been applied prospectively and had no effect as there is no business combination in the current period.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

For acquisitions on or after 1 January 2010, the Group measures goodwill as the fair value of the consideration transferred (including the fair value of any previously-held equity interest in the acquiree) and the recognized amount of any non-controlling interests in the acquiree, less the net recognized amount (generally fair value) of the identifiable assets acquired and liabilities assumed, all measured as of the acquisition date.

When the excess is negative, a bargain purchase gain is recognized immediately in the statement of income.

Subsequent measurement

Goodwill is measured at cost less accumulated impairment losses. In respect of equity accounted investees, the carrying amount of goodwill is included in the carrying amount of the investment and an impairment loss on such an investment is not allocated to any asset including goodwill, that forms part of the carrying amount of the equity accounted investees.

 

(iv) Internally generated intangible assets—research and development expenditure

Expenditure on research activities is recognized as an expense in the period in which it is incurred.

An internally generated intangible asset arising from development (or from the development phase of an internal project) is recognized if, and only if, all of the following have been demonstrated:

 

   

The technical feasibility of completing the intangible asset so that it will be available for use or sale;

 

   

The intention to complete the intangible asset and use or sell it;

 

   

The ability to use or sell the intangible asset;

 

   

How the intangible asset will generate probable future economic benefits;

 

   

The availability of adequate technical, financial and other resources to complete the development and to use or sell the intangible asset; and

 

   

The ability to measure reliably the expenditure attributable to the intangible asset during its development.

The amount initially recognized for internally generated intangible assets is the sum of expenditure incurred from the date when the intangible asset first meets the recognition criteria listed above. Where no internally-generated intangible asset can be recognized, development expenditure is charged to the statement of income in the period in which it is incurred.

Subsequent to initial recognition, internally generated intangible assets are reported at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, on the same basis as intangible assets acquired separately.

 

(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 or 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.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Other leases are operating leases and the leased assets are not recognized on the Group’s statement of financial position.

 

(g) Inventories

Inventories are measured at the lower of cost or net realizable value. Net realizable 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 December 2010, inventories mainly consist of simcards, scratch cards, handsets and modems.

 

(h) Impairment

 

(i) Financial assets

A financial asset not carried at fair value through profit or loss is assessed at each reporting date to determine whether there is any objective evidence that it is impaired. A financial asset is impaired if objective evidence indicates that a loss event has occurred after the initial recognition of the asset, and the loss event had a negative effect on the estimated future cash flows of that asset that can be estimated reliably.

An impairment loss in respect of a financial asset measured at amortized 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 recognized in the statement of income. Any cumulative loss in respect of an available-for-sale financial asset recognized previously in equity is transferred to the statement of income.

An impairment loss is reversed if the reversal can be related objectively to an event occurring after the impairment loss was recognized. For financial assets measured at amortized cost and available-for-sale financial assets that are debt securities, the reversal is recognized in the statement of income. For available-for-sale financial assets that are equity securities, the reversal is recognized directly in other comprehensive income.

 

(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. For goodwill, the recoverable amount is estimated each year at the same time.

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”). 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 post-tax discount rate adjusted for the effects

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

of tax cash outflows that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the asset. The goodwill acquired in a business combination, for the purpose of impairment testing, is allocated to cash-generating units that are expected to benefit from the synergies of the combination.

The Group’s corporate assets do not generate separate cash inflows. If there is an indication that a corporate asset may be impaired, then the recoverable amount is determined from the cash-generating unit to which corporate asset belongs.

An impairment loss is recognized if the carrying amount of an asset or its cash-generating unit exceeds its estimated recoverable amount. Impairment losses are recognized in the statement of income. Impairment losses recognized 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 recognized 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 recognized.

Goodwill that forms part of the carrying amount of an investment in an associate is not recognized separately, therefore, is not tested for impairment separately. Instead, the entire amount of the investment in an associate is tested for impairment as a single asset when there is objective evidence that the investment in an associate may be impaired.

 

(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 TL 2,623 as at 31 December 2010 (equivalent to full $1,697 as at 31 December 2010), which is effective from 1 January 2011, 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 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.

 

(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 recognized as an employee benefit expense in the statement of income when they are due.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The assets of the plan are held separately from the consolidated 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 Group with respect to the retirement plan is to make the specified contributions.

 

(j) Provisions

A provision is recognized 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. The unwinding of the discount is recognized as finance cost.

Onerous contracts

Present obligations arising under onerous contracts are recognized and measured as a provision. An onerous contract is considered to exist where the Group has a contract under which the unavoidable costs of meeting the obligations under the contract exceed the economic benefits expected to be received under it. The Group did not recognize any provision for onerous contracts as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: nil).

Dismantling, removal and restoring sites obligation

The Group is required to incur certain costs in respect of a liability to dismantle and remove assets and to restore sites on which the assets were located. The dismantling costs are calculated according to best estimate of future expected payments discounted at a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

Bonus

Provision for bonus is provided when the bonus is a legal obligation, or past practice would make the bonus a constructive obligation and the Group makes a reliable estimate of the obligation.

 

(k) Revenue

Revenues are recognized as the fair value of the consideration received or receivable, net of returns, trade discounts and rebates. Communication fees include postpaid revenues from incoming and outgoing calls, additional services, prepaid revenues, interconnect revenues and roaming 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. Deferred income is recorded under current liabilities.

The Group offers free right of use to its subscribers, and recognizes any unused portion of these free granted right of use as at the balance sheet date as deferred revenue. The Group does not have any other customer loyalty program in the scope of IFRIC 13 “Customer Loyalty Programmes”.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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. Total arrangement considerations relating to the bundled contract are allocated among the different units according the following criteria:

 

   

the component has standalone value to the customer and

 

   

the fair value of the component can be measured reliably.

The arrangement consideration is allocated to each deliverable in proportion to the fair value of the individual deliverables.

If a delivered element of a transaction is not a separately identifiable component, then it is accounted for as an integral part of the remaining components of the transactions.

Revenues allocated to handsets given in connection with campaigns, which is included in other revenue, is recognized when the significant risks and rewards of ownership have been transferred to the buyer, collection is probable, the associated costs and possible return of goods can be estimated reliably, there is no continuing management involvement with the goods and the amount of revenue can be measured reliably.

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.

Commission fees mainly comprised of net takings earned to a maximum of 1.4% of gross takings, as a head agent of fixed odds betting games starting from 1 March 2009 (between 15 March 2007 and 1 March 2009, commission rate was 7% of gross takings and 4.3% commission was recognized based on the para-mutual and fixed odds betting games operated on Central Betting System).

Commission revenues are recognized at the time all the services related with the games are fully rendered. Under the agreement signed with Spor Toto Teskilat Mudurlugu AS (“Spor Toto”), Inteltek Internet Teknoloji Yatirim ve Danismanlik AS (“Inteltek”) is obliged to undertake any excess payout, which is presented on net basis with the commission fees.

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

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

The revenue recognition policy for other revenues is to recognize revenue as services are provided.

Volume rebates or discounts and other contractual changes in the prices of roaming and other services are anticipated, as both the payer and the recipient, if it is probable that they have been earned or will take effect. Thus, contractual rebates and discounts are anticipated, but discretionary rebates and discounts are not anticipated because the definitions of asset and liability would not be met.

 

(l) Lease payments

Payments made under operating leases are recognized in the statement of income 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.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Minimum lease payments made under finance leases are apportioned between the finance cost and the reduction of the outstanding liability. The finance cost 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.

Determining whether an arrangement contains a lease

At inception of an arrangement, the Group determines whether such an arrangement is or contains a lease. A specific asset is the subject of a lease if fulfillment of the arrangement is dependent on the use of that specified asset. An arrangement conveys the right to use the asset if the arrangement conveys to the Group the right to control the use of the underlying asset. At inception or upon reassessment of the arrangement, the Group separates payments and other consideration required by such an arrangement into those for the lease and those for other elements on the basis of their relative fair values.

 

(m) Finance income and costs

Finance income comprises interest income on funds invested (including available-for-sale financial assets), late payment interest income, interest income on contracted receivables, 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 derivative instruments that are recognized in the statement of income. Interest income is recognized as it accrues, using the effective interest method.

Finance costs comprise interest expense on borrowings, litigation late payment interest expense, unwinding of the discount on provisions, changes in the fair value of financial assets at fair value through profit or option premium expense.

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

Borrowing Costs

Borrowing costs directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of qualifying assets, which are assets that necessarily take considerable time to get ready for their intended use or sale, are added to the cost of those assets, until such time as the assets are substantially ready for their intended use or sale. Investment income earned by the temporary investment of the part of the borrowing not yet used is deducted against the borrowing costs eligible for capitalization.

All other borrowing costs are recognized in the statement of income in the period in which they are incurred.

 

(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, non-controlling shareholders at subsidiaries, 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 taxes

Income tax expense comprises current and deferred tax. Income tax expense is recognized in the statement of income except to the extent that it relates to items recognized directly in equity or in other comprehensive income.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 recognized in respect of 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 recognized 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 realized simultaneously.

A deferred tax asset is recognized to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profits will be available against which temporary difference can be utilized. 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 realized.

Interest and penalties assessed on income tax deficiencies are presented based on their nature.

 

(p) Earnings per share

The Group presents basic and diluted 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) Operating segment

An operating segment is a component of the Group that engages in business activities from which it may earn revenues and incur expenses including revenues and expenses that relate to transactions with any of the Group’s other components. All operating segments’ operating results are regularly reviewed by the Group management to make decisions about resources to be allocated to the segment and assess its performance, and for which discrete financial information is available.

The Group identified Turkcell, Euroasia and Belarusian Telecom as operating segments.

 

(r) Subscriber acquisition costs

The Group capitalizes directly attributable subscriber acquisition costs when the following conditions are met:

 

   

the capitalized costs can be measured reliably;

 

   

there is a contract binding the customer for a specific period of time; and

 

   

it is probable that the amount of the capitalized costs will be recovered through the revenues generated by the service contract, or, where the customer withdraws from the contract in advance, through the collection of the penalty.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Capitalized subscriber acquisition costs are amortized on a straight-line basis over the minimum period of the underlying contract. In all other cases, subscriber acquisition costs are expensed when incurred.

 

(s) Government grants

Grants from the government are recognized at their fair value where there is a reasonable assurance that the grant will be received and the Group will comply with all attached conditions.

Government grants relating to costs are deferred and recognized in the statement of income over the period necessary to match them with the costs that they are intended to compensate.

Government grants relating to property, plant and equipment are included in non-current liabilities as deferred government grants and are credited to the statement of income on a straight-line basis over the expected useful lives of the related assets.

 

(t) New standards and interpretations

The following new and revised Standards and Interpretations have been adopted in the current period and have affected the amounts reported and disclosures in these financial statements. Details of other standards and interpretations adopted in these financial statements but that have had no material impact on the financial statements are set out in this section.

 

(a) New and Revised IFRSs do not affect presentation and disclosures

Amendments to IFRS 5, Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations (as part of Improvements to IFRSs issued in 2009)

The amendments to IFRS 5 clarify that the disclosure requirements in IFRSs other than IFRS 5 do not apply to non-current assets (or disposal groups) classified as held for sale or discontinued operations unless those IFRSs require

 

  (i) specific disclosures in respect of non-current assets (or disposal groups) classified as held for sale or discontinued operations, or

 

  (ii) disclosures about measurement of assets and liabilities within a disposal group that are not within the scope of the measurement requirement of IFRS 5 and the disclosures are not already provided in the consolidated financial statements.

Since the Group does not have any assets in this context, disclosures in these consolidated financial statements have not been modified to reflect the above clarification.

Amendments to IAS 7, Statement of Cash Flows (as part of Improvements to IFRSs issued in 2009)

The amendments to IAS 7 specify that only expenditures that result in a recognized asset in the statement of financial position can be classified as investing activities in the statement of cash flows. The application of the amendments to IAS 7 has resulted in a change in the presentation of cash outflows in respect of development costs that do not meet the criteria in IAS 38, “Intangible Assets” for capitalization as part of an internally generated intangible asset. This change has been applied retrospectively.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Since, the development costs, which do not meet the criteria for capitalization, were included in cash flows from operating activities in the consolidated statement of cash flows of the previous periods, this amendment does not affect the consolidated financial statements.

 

(b) New and Revised IFRSs affecting the reported financial performance and / or financial position

IFRS 3 (revised in 2008), Business Combinations and IAS 27 (revised in 2008), Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements

IFRS 3 (revised), “Business Combinations” and consequential amendments to IAS 27, “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements”, IAS 28, “Investments in Associates” and IAS 31, “Interests in Joint Ventures” are effective prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after 1 July 2009. The main impact of the adoption is as follows:

 

  a) to allow a choice on a transaction-by-transaction basis for the measurement of non-controlling interests (previously referred to as “minority interests”) either at fair value or at the non-controlling interests’ share of the fair value of the identifiable net assets of the acquiree,

 

  b) to change the recognition and subsequent accounting requirements for contingent consideration,

 

  c) to require that acquisition-related costs be accounted for separately from the business combination, generally leading to those costs being recognized as an expense in the statement of income as incurred,

 

  d) in step acquisitions, previously held interests are to be remeasured to fair value at the date of the subsequent acquisition with the value included in goodwill calculation. Gain or loss arising from the re-measurement shall be recognized as part of statement of income.

The application of IAS 27 (2008) has resulted in changes in the Group’s accounting policies for changes in ownership interests in subsidiaries.

Specifically, the revised Standard has brought clarification to the Group’s accounting policies regarding changes in ownership interests in its subsidiaries that do not result in loss of control. Under IAS 27 (2008), all such increases or decreases are dealt with in equity, with no impact on goodwill or profit or loss.

When control of a subsidiary is lost as a result of a transaction, event or other circumstance, the revised Standard requires the Group to derecognize all assets, liabilities and non-controlling interests at their carrying amount and to recognize the fair value of the consideration received. Any retained interest in the former subsidiary is recognized at its fair value at the date control is lost. The resulting difference is recognized as a gain or loss in profit or loss.

These changes in accounting policies have been applied prospectively from 1 January 2010 in accordance with the relevant transitional provisions.

Since the non-controlling interests have a deficit balance, net loss amounting to $46,705 is accounted in non-controlling interests in accordance with IAS 27 (revised) in the current period. There have been no transactions whereby an interest in an entity is retained after the loss of control of that entity; there have been no transactions with non-controlling interests.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

IAS 28 (revised in 2008), “Investments in Associates”

The principle adopted under IAS 27 (2008) that a loss of control is recognized as a disposal and re-acquisition of any retained interest at fair value is extended by consequential amendments to IAS 28. Therefore, when significant influence over an associate is lost, the investor measures any investment retained in the former associate at fair value, with any consequential gain or loss recognized in profit or loss.

As part of Improvements to IFRSs issued in 2010, IAS 28 (2008) has been amended to clarify that the amendments to IAS 28 regarding transactions where the investor loses significant influence over an associate should be applied prospectively. The Group has applied the amendments to IAS 28 (2008) as part of Improvements to IFRSs issued in 2010 in advance of their effective dates (annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2010).

There have been no transactions whereby an interest in an entity is retained after the loss of significant influence in that entity; there have been no transactions to acquire or dispose of shares in associates.

IFRIC 18, “Transfers of Assets from Customers”, is effective for transfer of assets received on or after 1 July 2009. This interpretation is applied by the Group for the revenue recognition of assets transferred to its customers.

 

(c) New and Revised IFRSs applied with no material effect on the consolidated financial statements

The following new and revised IFRSs have also been adopted in these consolidated financial statements. The application of these new and revised IFRSs has not had any material impact on the amounts reported for the current and prior years but may affect the accounting for future transactions or arrangements.

IFRIC 17, “Distributions of non-cash assets to owners”, is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009. This is not currently applicable to the Group, as it has not made any non-cash distributions.

“Additional exemptions for first-time adopters” (Amendment to IFRS 1) was issued in July 2009. The amendments are required to be applied for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2010. This is not relevant to the Group, as it is an existing IFRS preparer.

IFRS 2, “Share-based Payments—Group Cash-settled Share Payment Arrangements” is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2010. This is not currently applicable to the Group, as the Group does not have share-based payment plans.

Amendments to IFRS 5, “Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations” (as part of Improvements to IFRSs issued in 2008) clarify that all the assets and liabilities of a subsidiary should be classified as held for sale when the Group is committed to a sale plan involving loss of control of that subsidiary, regardless of whether the Group will retain a non-controlling interest in the subsidiary after the sale.

Improvements to International Financial Reporting Standards 2009 were issued in April 2009. The improvements cover 12 main standards/interpretations as follows: IFRS 2, “Share-based Payments”, IFRS 5, “Non-current Assets Held for Sale and Discontinued Operations”, IFRS 8, “Operating Segments”, IAS 1, “Presentation of Financial Statements”, IAS 7, “Statement of Cash Flows”, IAS 17, “Leases”, IAS 18, “Revenue”, IAS 36, “Impairment of Assets”, IAS 38, “Intangible Assets”, IAS 39, “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”, IFRIC 9, “Reassessment of Embedded Derivatives”,

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

IFRIC 16, “Hedges of Net Investment in a Foreign Operation”. The effective dates vary standard by standard but most are effective 1 January 2010.

 

(d) New and Revised IFRSs in issue but not yet effective

IFRS 1 (amendments), “First-time Adoption of IFRS—Additional Exemptions”

Amendments to IFRS 1 which are effective for annual periods on or after 1 July 2010 provide limited exemption for first time adopters to present comparative IFRS 7 fair value disclosures.

On 20 December, IFRS 1 is amended to provide relief for first-time adopters of IFRSs from having to reconstruct transactions that occurred before their date of transition to IFRSs and to provide guidance for entities emerging from severe hyperinflation either to resume presenting IFRS financial statements or to present IFRS financial statements for the first time.

These amendments are not relevant to the Group, as it is an existing IFRS preparer.

IFRS 7, “Financial Instruments: Disclosures”

In October 2010, IFRS 7, “Financial Instruments: Disclosures” is amended by IASB as part of its comprehensive review of off balance sheet activities. The amendments will allow users of financial statements to improve their understanding of transfer transactions of financial assets (for example, securitizations), including understanding the possible effects of any risks that may remain with the entity that transferred the assets. The amendments also require additional disclosures if a disproportionate amount of transfer transactions are undertaken around the end of a reporting period. The amendment will be effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2011. The Group has not yet had an opportunity to consider the potential impact of the adoption of this revised standard.

IFRS 9, “Financial Instruments: Classification and Measurement”

In November 2009, the first part of IFRS 9 relating to the classification and measurement of financial assets was issued. IFRS 9 will ultimately replace IAS 39, “Financial Instruments: Recognition and Measurement”. The standard requires an entity to classify its financial assets on the basis of the entity’s business model for managing the financial assets and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the financial asset, and subsequently measure the financial assets as either at amortized cost or at fair value. The new standard is mandatory for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2013. The Group has not had an opportunity to consider the potential impact of the adoption of this standard.

IAS 24 (Revised 2009), “Related Party Disclosures”

In November 2009, IAS 24 Related Party Disclosures was revised. The revision to the standard provides government related entities with a partial exemption from the disclosure requirements of IAS 24. The revised standard is mandatory for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011. The Group does not expect any impact of the adoption of this amendment on the financial statements.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

IAS 32 (Amendments), “Financial Instruments: Presentation and IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements”

The amendments to IAS 32 and IAS 1 are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 February 2010. The amendments address the accounting for rights issues (rights, options or warrants) that are denominated in a currency other than the functional currency of the issuer. Previously, such rights issues were accounted for as derivative liabilities. However, the amendment requires that, provided certain conditions are met, such rights issues are classified as equity regardless of the currency in which the exercise price is denominated. The Group has not yet had an opportunity to consider the potential impact of the adoption of this amendment to the standard.

IFRIC 14 (Amendments), “Pre-payment of a Minimum Funding Requirement”

Amendments to IFRIC 14 are effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011. The amendments affect entities that are required to make minimum funding contributions to a defined benefit pension plan and choose to pre-pay those contributions. The amendment requires an asset to be recognized for any surplus arising from voluntary pre-payments made. The Group does not expect any impact of the adoption of this amendment on the financial statements.

IFRIC 19, “Extinguishing Financial Liabilities with Equity Instruments”

IFRIC 19 is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2010. IFRIC 19 addresses only the accounting by the entity that issues equity instruments in order to settle, in full or part, a financial liability. The Group has not yet had an opportunity to consider the potential impact of the adoption of this amendment to the standard.

IAS 12, “Income Taxes”

In December 2010, IAS 12 is amended. IAS 12 requires an entity to measure the deferred tax relating to an asset depending on whether the entity expects to recover the carrying amount of the asset through use or sale. It can be difficult and subjective to assess whether recovery will be through use or through sale when the asset is measured using the fair value model in IAS 40, “Investment Property”. The amendment provides a practical solution to the problem by introducing a presumption that recovery of the carrying amount will normally be through sale. The amendment will be effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 January 2012. The Group has not yet had an opportunity to consider the potential impact of the adoption of this revised standard.

Annual Improvements, May 2010

Further to the above amendments and revised standards, the IASB has issued Annual Improvements to IFRSs in May 2010 that cover 7 main standards/interpretations as follow: IFRS 1, “First-time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards”, IFRS 3, “Business Combinations,” IFRS 7, “Financial Instruments: Disclosures”, IAS 1, “Presentation of Financial Statements”, IAS 27, “Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements”, IAS 34, “Interim Financial Reporting” and IFRIC 13, “Customer Loyalty Programmes”. With the exception of amendments to IFRS 3 and IAS 27 which are effective on or after 1 July 2010, all other amendments are effective on or after 1 January 2011. Early adoption of these amendments is allowed. The Group has not yet had an opportunity to consider the potential impact of the adoption of these amendments to the standards.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 recognized 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, willingly. 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 the brand acquired in the Superonline Uluslararas1 Elektronik Bilgilendirme Telekomunikasyon ve Haberlesme Hizmetleri AS business combination is based on the discounted estimated royalty payments that have been avoided as a result of the brand being owned. The fair value of customer base acquired in the Superonline business combination are valued using the multi-period excess earnings method, whereby the subject asset is valued after deducting a fair return on all other assets that are part of creating the related cash flows.

The fair value of the custom duty and VAT exemption agreement in the Belarusian Telecom business combination is based on the incremental cash flows method (cost saving approach) and this was used for the valuation analysis.

The fair value of mobile telephony licenses (GSM&UMTS) in the Belarusian Telecom business combination is based on the Greenfield (build-out) method, which is estimated to be appropriate and commonly used for the valuation of licenses, and this was used for the valuation analysis.

The fair value of other 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 / due from related parties

The fair values of trade and other receivables and due from related parties are estimated as the present value of future cash flows, discounted at the market rate of interest at the reporting date.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

(v) Derivatives

The fair value of forward exchange contracts and option contracts are 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.

 

(vii) Exercise price of financial liability related to non-controlling share put option

The Group measures the estimated exercise price of the financial liability originating from put options granted to non-controlling interests as the present value of estimated option redemption amount. Present value of the estimated option redemption amount is based on the fair value of estimation for the company subject to the put option.

The Group has estimated a value based on multiple approaches in grant to share purchase agreement including income approach (discounted cash flows) and market approach (comparable market multiples). The average of the values determined as at 31 August 2013, which is the exercise date of the put option, is then discounted back to 31 December 2010.

 

5. Financial risk management

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

 

   

Credit risk

 

   

Liquidity risk

 

   

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. Further quantitative disclosures are included throughout these consolidated financial statements.

Risk management framework

The Board of Directors 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 analyze 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.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The Group Audit Committee oversees how management monitors compliance with the Group’s risk management policies and procedures, and reviews the adequacy of the risk management framework in relation to the risks faced by the Group. The Audit Committee is assisted in its oversight role by Internal Audit.

The exchange rates were very volatile in 2009 but with a generally positive trend due to developments in the global markets as well as Turkish politics. The improved perception of global risk helped emerging market currencies appreciate in the second half of 2009. TL appreciated against USD by 0.4% and depreciated against EUR by 0.9%, HRV depreciated against USD by 3.7% and BYR depreciated against USD by 30.1% as at 31 December 2009 when compared to the exchange rates as at 31 December 2008. As at 31 December 2010, TL depreciated against USD by 2.7% and appreciated against EUR by 5.1%, HRV appreciated against USD by 0.3% and BYR depreciated against USD by 4.8% when compared to the exchange rates as at 31 December 2009. Please refer to Note 29 for additional information on the Group’s exposure to this turmoil.

Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk of a 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, aging profile, maturity and existence of previous financial difficulties. Trade receivables and accrued service income are mainly related to the Group’s subscribers. The Group’s exposure to credit risk on trade receivables is influenced mainly by the individual payment characteristics of postpaid subscribers. The Group establishes an allowance for impairment that represents its estimate of incurred losses in respect of trade receivables.

Investments are preferred to be 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 rating of counterparties periodically to ensure credit worthiness.

Transactions involving derivatives are with counterparties with whom the Group has signed agreements and which have sound credit ratings.

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 statement of financial position.

The Group establishes an allowance for doubtful receivables that represents its estimate of incurred losses in respect of trade and other receivables. This allowance includes the specific loss component that relates to individual subscribers exposures, and adjusted for a general provision which is determined based on the age of the balances and historical collection trends.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The Group’s policy is to provide financial guarantees only to wholly-owned subsidiaries. At 31 December 2010, $1,324,604 guarantees were outstanding (31 December 2009: $1,102,672).

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 manage 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.

The Group buys and sells derivatives in order to manage market risks. All such transactions are carried at within the guidelines set by the Group treasury management.

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, borrowings, deferred payments related to the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom and financial liability in relation to put option for the acquisition of non-controlling shares of Belarusian Telecom that are denominated in a currency other than the respective functional currencies of Group entities, primarily TL 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.

The Group’s investments in its equity accounted investee Fintur and its subsidiaries in Ukraine, Republic of Belarus, Azerbaijan and Germany are not hedged with respect to the currency risk arising from the net assets as those net investments are considered to be long-term in nature.

Interest rate risk

The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk is related to its financial assets and liabilities. The Group’s financial liabilities mostly consist of floating interest rate borrowings. The use of financial derivatives is governed by the Group’s policies approved by the Board of Directors, which provide written principles on the use of financial derivatives consistent with the Group’s risk management strategy. In this respect, the Group has not entered into any type of derivative instrument in order to hedge interest rate risk as at 31 December 2010.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

6. Operating segments

The Group has three reportable segments, as described below, which are based on the dominant source and nature of the Group’s risk and returns as well as the Group’s internal reporting structure. These strategic segments offer the same types of services, however they are managed separately because they operate in different geographical locations and are affected by different economical conditions.

The Group comprises the following main operating segments: Turkcell, Euroasia and Belarusian Telecom, all of which are GSM operators in their countries.

Other operations mainly include companies operating in telecommunication and betting businesses and companies provide internet and broadband services, call center and value added services.

Information regarding the operations of each reportable segment is included below. Adjusted EBITDA is used to measure performance as management believes that such information is the most relevant in evaluating the results of certain segments relative to other entities that operate within these industries. Adjusted EBITDA definition includes revenue, direct cost of revenues excluding depreciation and amortization, selling and marketing expenses and administrative expenses. Adjusted EBITDA is not a financial measure defined by IFRS as a measurement of financial performance and may not be comparable to other similarly-titled indicators used by other companies.

The accounting policies of operating segments are the same as those described in the summary of significant accounting policies.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

 

     Turkcell     Euroasia     Belarusian Telecom     Other     Total  
     2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009  

Total external revenues

     5,294,104        5,176,105        334,006        350,045        48,918        17,356        305,065        246,466        5,982,093        5,789,972   

Intersegment revenue

     14,682        22,784        5,252        1,033        63        76        386,404        304,118        406,401        328,011   

Reportable segment adjusted EBITDA

     1,751,094        1,819,250        64,455        20,150        (32,564     (38,318     213,655        144,989        1,996,640        1,946,071   

Finance income

     255,417        304,321        763        2,093        753        1,411        60,213        75,783        317,146        383,608   

Finance costs

     (34,569     (162,939     (43,974     (54,921     (28,527     (12,513     (66,143     (32,975     (173,213     (263,348

Depreciation and amortization

     (474,703     (396,259     (120,407     (79,874     (80,826     (52,749     (92,034     (67,920     (767,970     (596,802

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     —          —          —          —          —          —          122,839        78,448        122,839        78,448   

Capital expenditure

     538,776        1,239,477        66,727        216,445        120,061        87,938        386,119        291,020        1,111,683        1,834,880   

Other material non-cash items:

                    

Impairment on goodwill

     —          —          —          —          23,499        61,835        —          —          23,499        61,835   
     Turkcell     Euroasia     Belarusian Telecom     Other     Total  
     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008     2009     2008  

Total external revenues

     5,176,105        6,170,419        350,045        436,716        17,356        380        246,466        362,893        5,789,972        6,970,408   

Intersegment revenue

     22,784        41,944        1,033        1,977        76        2        304,118        292,303        328,011        336,226   

Reportable segment adjusted EBITDA

     1,819,250        2,383,940        20,150        32,330        (38,318     (5,827     144,989        181,671        1,946,071        2,592,114   

Finance income

     304,321        667,318        2,093        6,344        1,411        100        75,783        81,423        383,608        755,185   

Finance cost

     (162,939     (100,710     (54,921     (262,917     (12,513     (1,250     (32,975     (76,006     (263,348     (440,883

Depreciation and amortization

     (396,259     (528,465     (79,874     (100,986     (52,749     (8,922     (67,920     (42,885     (596,802     (681,258

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     —          —          —          —          —          —          78,448        102,990        78,448        102,990   

Capital expenditure

     1,239,477        404,651        216,445        155,762        87,938        550,926        291,020        277,251        1,834,880        1,388,590   

Other material non-cash items:

                    

Impairment on goodwill

     —          —          —          —          61,835        —          —          —          61,835        —     
     As at 31 December 2010 and 2009  
     Turkcell     Euroasia     Belarusian Telecom     Other     Total  
     2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009  

Reportable segment assets

     3,860,173        3,730,420        616,375        702,847        517,312        517,718        1,045,535        773,103        6,039,395        5,724,088   

Investment in associates

     —          —          —          —          —          —          399,622        383,490        399,622        383,490   

Reportable segment liabilities

     1,092,496        1,305,206        153,927        189,875        83,161        56,982        198,780        143,607        1,528,364        1,695,670   

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Reconciliations of reportable segment revenues, adjusted EBITDA, assets and liabilities and other material items:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Revenues

      

Total revenue for reportable segments

     5,697,025        5,567,399        6,651,438   

Other revenue

     691,469        550,584        655,196   

Elimination of inter-segment revenue

     (406,401     (328,011     (336,226
                        

Consolidated revenue

     5,982,093        5,789,972        6,970,408   
                        
     2010     2009     2008  

Adjusted EBITDA

      

Total adjusted EBITDA for reportable segments

     1,782,985        1,801,082        2,410,443   

Other adjusted EBITDA

     213,655        144,989        181,671   

Elimination of inter-segment adjusted EBITDA

     (39,268     (20,738     (11,833
                        

Consolidated adjusted EBITDA

     1,957,372        1,925,333        2,580,281   
                        

Finance income

     277,130        329,550        442,099   

Finance costs

     (102,662     (187,514     (136,769

Other income

     14,668        978        14,136   

Other expense

     (64,233     (111,220     (17,990

Share of profit of equity accounted investees

     122,839        78,448        102,990   

Depreciation and amortization

     (757,354     (590,678     (679,927
                        

Consolidated profit before income tax

     1,447,760        1,444,897        2,304,820   
                        
     2010     2009     2008  

Finance income

      

Total finance income for reportable segments

     256,933        307,825        673,762   

Other finance income

     60,213        75,783        81,423   

Elimination of inter-segment finance income

     (40,016     (54,058     (313,086
                        

Consolidated finance income

     277,130        329,550        442,099   
                        
     2010     2009     2008  

Finance costs

      

Total finance costs for reportable segments

     107,070        230,373        364,877   

Other finance costs

     66,143        32,975        76,006   

Elimination of inter-segment finance costs

     (70,551     (75,834     (304,114
                        

Consolidated finance costs

     102,662        187,514        136,769   
                        

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Depreciation and amortization

      

Total depreciation and amortization for reportable segments

     675,936        528,882        638,373   

Other depreciation and amortization

     92,034        67,920        42,885   

Elimination of inter-segment depreciation and amortization

     (10,616     (6,124     (1,331
                        

Consolidated depreciation and amortization

     757,354        590,678        679,927   
                        
     2010     2009     2008  

Capital expenditure

      

Total capital expenditure for reportable segments

     725,564        1,543,860        1,111,339   

Other capital expenditure

     386,119        291,020        277,251   

Elimination of inter-segment capital expenditure

     (33,101     (65,606     (24,012
                        

Consolidated capital expenditure

     1,078,582        1,769,274        1,364,578   
                        

 

     2010      2009  

Assets

     

Total assets for reportable segments

     4,993,860         4,950,985   

Other assets

     1,045,535         773,103   

Investments in equity accounted investees

     399,622         383,490   

Other unallocated assets

     3,355,545         3,213,188   
                 

Consolidated total assets

     9,794,562         9,320,766   
                 
     2010      2009  

Liabilities

     

Total liabilities for reportable segments

     1,329,584         1,552,063   

Other liabilities

     198,780         143,607   

Other unallocated liabilities

     2,032,601         1,728,895   
                 

Consolidated total liabilities

     3,560,965         3,424,565   
                 

Geographical information

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

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Revenues

        

Turkey

     5,522,387         5,348,500         6,456,165   

Ukraine

     334,006         350,045         436,716   

Belarus

     48,918         17,356         380   

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

     76,782         74,071         77,147   
                          
     5,982,093         5,789,972         6,970,408   
                          

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     2010      2009  

Non-current assets

     

Turkey

     3,746,557         3,437,909   

Ukraine

     607,704         634,068   

Belarus

     497,798         507,729   

Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

     65,222         66,656   

Unallocated non-current assets

     439,743         420,303   
                 
     5,357,024         5,066,665   
                 

 

7. Revenue

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Communication fees

     5,670,215         5,557,335         6,576,857   

Monthly fixed fees

     75,420         42,493         65,081   

Commission fees on betting business

     31,195         42,652         176,237   

Call center revenues

     25,199         17,426         16,604   

Simcard sales

     22,900         22,855         28,189   

Other revenues

     157,164         107,211         107,440   
                          
     5,982,093         5,789,972         6,970,408   
                          

 

8. Other Expenses

Other expenses amount to $64,233, $111,220 and $17,990 for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

Other expenses comprises impairment change recognized on goodwill arising from the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom amounting to $23,499, penalty imposed as a result of investigation of ICTA on tariff plans, VAS service subscriptions and charging applications of the Company amounting to $13,987, $4,957 and $2,090, respectively, Special Communication Tax (“SCT”) and VAT calculated on roaming services that had to be collected from subscribers as a result of tax settlement amounting to $12,900 and provision set for SCT on the discounts applied to distributors for prepaid scratch card sales between January 2005 and January 2007 amounting to $5,825 based on the previous settlement gains. Besides, provision set for the SCT on the discounts applied to distributors for prepaid scratch card sales in 2003 and 2004 was $14,539 as of 31 December 2009. However, it has been settled at $2,765 and the difference is reflected to “other expense” as income.

 

9. Personnel expenses

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Wages and salaries(*)

     485,214         400,880         501,327   

Increase in employee benefits

     10,879         7,884         8,083   

Contributions to defined contribution plans

     5,243         3,694         4,182   
                          
     501,336         412,458         513,592   
                          

 

  (*) Wages and salaries include compulsory social security contributions and bonuses.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

10. Finance income and costs

Recognized in the statement of income:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Interest income on bank deposits

     196,418        224,160        359,408   

Late payment interest income

     42,064        49,037        43,479   

Interest income on contracted receivables

     12,345        31,178        —     

Premium income on option contracts

     12,147        10,549        14,655   

Interest income on available-for-sale financial assets

     1,121        6,308        8,328   

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

     1,318        2,084        6,494   

Discount interest income

     886        1,052        5,053   

Other interest income

     10,831        5,182        4,682   
                        

Finance income

     277,130        329,550        442,099   
                        

Litigation late payment interest expense

     (258     (97,016     (30,501

Interest expense on financial liabilities measured at amortized cost

     (66,086     (76,763     (51,448

Option premium expense

     (4,988     (1,150     (4,970

Net foreign exchange loss

     (13,778     (576     (44,452

Other

     (17,552     (12,009     (5,398
                        

Finance cost

     (102,662     (187,514     (136,769
                        

Net finance income

     174,468        142,036        305,330   
                        

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

Interest income on contracted receivables is recognized over the amount related to the handset campaigns throughout the contract period.

Litigation late payment interest expense is recognized in relation to legal disputes. Litigation late payment interest expense comprises accrued interest amounting to $10,235 calculated over SCT and VAT from roaming services that had to be collected from subscribers as a result of tax settlement and accrued interest amounting to $8,428 calculated over SCT on the discounts applied to distributors for prepaid scratch card sales between January 2005 and January 2007 which is calculated based on the previous settlement gains. Besides, accrued interests calculated over SCT on the discounts applied to distributors for prepaid scratch card sales in 2003 and 2004 was $28,400 as of 31 December 2009. However, after settlement, it has been calculated as $5,671 and the difference is reflected to “litigation late payment interest expense” as income. Detailed explanations are given in Note 32.

Borrowings costs capitalized on fixed assets are $11,127, $1,602 and $11,375 for the year ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively. Interest capitalization ratio is 17.6%, 5.6% and 26.1% for the year ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 respectively.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

11. Income tax expense

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Current tax expense

      

Current period

     (336,914     (353,389     (567,169
                        

Deferred tax benefit

     (336,914     (353,389     (567,169

Origination and reversal of temporary differences

     13,321        9,574        14,893   

Benefit of investment incentives recognized

     1,187        1,892        2,518   

Utilization of previously unrecognized tax losses

     1,607        1,830        —     
                        
     16,115        13,296        17,411   
                        

Total income tax expense

     (320,799     (340,093     (549,758
                        

Income tax recognized directly in equity

 

     Before tax     Tax (expense)/
benefit
    Net of tax  

2010

      

Foreign currency translation differences

     (184,352     (754     (185,106

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

     (1,318     —          (1,318
                        
     (185,670     (754     (186,424
                        

2009

      

Foreign currency translation differences

     53,046        (1,091     51,955   

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

     1,197        —          1,197   
                        
     54,243        (1,091     53,152   
                        

2008

      

Foreign currency translation differences

     (1,458,709     343        (1,458,366

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

     (6,385     1,025        (5,360
                        
     (1,465,094     1,368        (1,463,726
                        

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Reconciliation of effective tax rate

The reported income tax expense for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 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:

 

           2010           2009           2008  

Profit for the year

       1,126,961          1,104,804          1,755,062   

Total income tax expense

       320,799          340,093          549,758   
                              

Profit before income tax

       1,447,760          1,444,897          2,304,820   
                              

Income tax using the Company’s domestic tax rate

     20     (289,552     20     (288,979     20     (460,964

Effect of tax rates in foreign jurisdictions

     (1 )%      12,367        (1 )%      10,041        (1 )%      17,909   

Tax exempt income

     —          676        —          1,041        —          6,178   

Non-deductible expenses

     1     (19,300     2     (29,444     2     (42,206

Tax incentives

     —          1,187        —          1,892        —          2,518   

Utilization of previously unrecognized tax losses

     —          1,607        —          1,830        —          —     

Unrecognized deferred tax assets

     3     (47,623     3     (48,963     4     (83,841

Difference in effective tax rate of equity accounted investees

     (2 )%      22,893        (1 )%      17,602        (1 )%      22,937   

Other

     —          (3,054     —          (5,113     1     (12,289
                              

Total income tax expense

       (320,799       (340,093       (549,758
                              

The income taxes payable of $96,080 and $93,260 as at 31 December 2010 and 2009, respectively, represents the amount of income taxes payable in respect of related taxable profit for the years ended 31 December 2010 and 2009, respectively netted off with advance tax payments.

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 at 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.

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.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

12. Property, plant and equipment

 

     Balance at
1 January
2009
    Additions     Disposals     Transfers     Impairment     Effect of
movements
in exchange
rates
    Balance at
31 December
2009
 

Cost or deemed cost

             

Network infrastructure (All Operational)

    4,636,948        219,664        (344,581     704,608        —          17,901        5,234,540   

Land and buildings

    269,094        8,227        —          1,765        —          (6,342     272,744   

Equipment, fixtures and fittings

    280,986        7,831        (9,777     31,637        —          713        311,390   

Motor vehicles

    14,737        1,569        (1,067     —          —          (334     14,905   

Leasehold improvements

    132,628        4,232        (3,745     1,138        —          490        134,743   

Construction in progress

    436,107        804,244        —          (739,148     —          (50,153     451,050   
                                                       

Total

    5,770,500        1,045,767        (359,170     —          —          (37,725     6,419,372   
                                                       

Accumulated depreciation

             

Network infrastructure (All Operational)

    3,202,862        310,051        (316,821     —          39,298        38,013        3,273,403   

Land and buildings

    82,300        16,518        —          —          —          587        99,405   

Equipment, fixtures and fittings

    260,872        15,243        (9,031     —          —          (724     266,360   

Motor vehicles

    12,092        956        (1,029     —          —          8        12,027   

Leasehold improvements

    116,304        2,191        (3,047     —          —          507        115,955   
                                                       

Total

    3,674,430        344,959        (329,928     —          39,298        38,391        3,767,150   
                                                       

Total property, plant and equipment

    2,096,070        700,808        (29,242     —          (39,298     (76,116     2,652,222   
                                                       

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     Balance at
1 January
2010
    Additions     Disposals     Transfers     Impairment     Effect of
movements
in exchange
rates
    Balance at
31 December
2010
 

Cost or deemed cost

             

Network infrastructure (All operational) Operational)

    5,234,540        233,239        (694,108     986,357        —          (121,879     5,638,149   

Land and buildings

    272,744        15,711        —          —          —          (6,845     281,610   

Equipment, fixtures and fittings

    311,390        11,626        (2,205     (35,347     —          (6,755     278,709   

Motor vehicles

    14,905        3,763        (1,901     —          —          (426     16,341   

Leasehold improvements

    134,743        6,167        (968     —          —          (3,436     136,506   

Construction in progress

    451,050        703,191        (3,592     (936,992     (1,174     (10,083     202,400   
                                                       

Total

    6,419,372        973,697        (702,774     14,018        (1,174     (149,424     6,553,715   
                                                       

Accumulated depreciation

             

Network infrastructure (All operational)

    3,273,403        420,601        (690,051     18,229        63,673        (85,994     2,999,861   

Land and buildings

    99,405        10,124        —          —          —          (2,779     106,750   

Equipment, fixtures and fittings

    266,360        15,196        (1,709     (16,921     —          (10,742     252,184   

Motor vehicles

    12,027        1,841        (1,686     —          —          (355     11,827   

Leasehold improvements

    115,955        2,906        (721     —          —          (3,068     115,072   
                                                       

Total

    3,767,150        450,668        (694,167     1,308        63,673        (102,938     3,485,694   
                                                       

Total property, plant and equipment

    2,652,222        523,029        (8,607     12,710        (64,847     (46,486     3,068,021   
                                                       

Depreciation expenses for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are $515,515, $384,257 and $433,942, respectively including impairment losses and recognized in direct cost of revenues.

The impairment losses on property, plant and equipment for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are $64,847, $39,298 and $7,688, respectively and recognized in depreciation expense.

Leased assets

The Group leases equipment 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 December 2010, net carrying amount of fixed assets acquired under finance leases amounted to $82,944 (31 December 2009: $65,844).

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Property, plant and equipment under construction

Construction in progress mainly consisted of capital expenditures in GSM network of the Company, Astelit, Kibris Mobile Telekomunikasyon Limited Sirketi (“Kibris Telekom”) and Belarusian Telecom and non-operational items as at 31 December 2010 and 2009.

As at 31 December 2010, a mortgage is placed on Izmir building in favour of Yap1 ve Kredi Bankas1 A.S., Interbank A.S. and Pamukbank T.A.S founded at 25 August 1992 amounting to $970 (31 December 2009: $996) and also on Davutpasa building in favour of Pamukbank T.A.S founded at 11 December 1997 amounting to $323 (31 December 2009: $332) due to previous debts of BMC Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. Those buildings were sold to the Company with their mortgages. Since the debts of BMC Sanayi ve Ticaret A.S. were paid and the Company has no liability to Savings Deposit Insurance Fund (“SDIF”) related to Interbank A.S. and Pamukbank T.A.S., the Company asked for the release of mortgage on Izmir building on 13 March 2006. However, the mortgage is still valid due to the outstanding debts of Cukurova Group to SDIF.

 

13. 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 over 25 years with a carrying amount of $364,349 as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $404,636). The amortization period of the license will end in 2023.

On 30 April 2009, the Company signed a license agreement with ICTA which provides authorization for providing IMT 2000/UMTS services and infrastructure. The Company acquired the A type license providing the widest frequency band for a consideration of EUR 358,000 (excluding VAT). The license is effective for duration of 20 years starting from 30 April 2009. The carrying amount is $456,221 as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $493,982).

Impairment testing for long-lived assets

The carrying amounts of the Group’s non-financial 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. Long-lived assets are tested for impairment as at 31 December 2010. As the recoverable amounts of the assets or cash-generating unit are greater than the value in use, no impairment is recognized. For the purpose of impairment testing, assets that cannot be tested individually are grouped together into the smallest group of assets, cash generating units. As at 31 December 2010, impairment test for long-lived assets of Astelit and A-Tel, is made on the assumption that Astelit and A-Tel are the cash generating unit. As the recoverable amounts based on the value in use of cash generating units is higher than the carrying amount of cash-generating units of Astelit and A-Tel, no impairment is recognized. The assumptions used in value in use calculation of Astelit and A-Tel as at 31 December 2010 are:

Astelit: A 15.7% post-tax WACC rate and a 2.5% terminal growth rate were used to extrapolate cash flows beyond the 5-year forecasts based on the business plans. Independent appraisal is obtained for fair value to determine recoverable amounts for Astelit. The pre-tax rate for disclosure purposes is 18.9%

A-Tel: A 14.2% post-tax WACC rate and a 4.0% terminal growth rate were used to extrapolate cash flows beyond the 5-year forecasts based on the business plans. Independent appraisal is obtained for fair value to determine recoverable amounts for A-Tel. The pre-tax rate for disclosure purposes is 14.2%.

 

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Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

 

     Balance at
1 January
2009
     Additions      Disposals     Transfers     Impairment     Effects of
movements
in exchange
rates
    Balance at
31 December
2009
 

Cost

                

GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses

     986,447         17,027         (19,771     508,312        —          (26,117     1,465,898   

Computer software

     1,743,264         23,530         (2,319     185,000        —          1,585        1,951,060   

Transmission lines

     31,431         1,350         —          —          —          408        33,189   

Central betting system operating right

     5,476         28         —          —          —          23        5,527   

Brand name

     4,655         —           —          —          —          21        4,676   

Customer base

     6,370         —           —          —          —          28        6,398   

Customs duty and VAT exemption right

     51,101         —           —          —          —          224        51,325   

Goodwill

     244,642         —           —          —          (61,835     1,549        184,356   

Other

     1,718         1,062         —          —          —          (482     2,298   

Construction in progress

     22,506         680,510         —          (693,312     —          (4,142     5,562   
                                                          

Total

     3,097,610         723,507         (22,090     —          (61,835     (26,903     3,710,289   
                                                          

Accumulated amortization

                

GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses

     398,677         50,389         (19,771     —          —          (21,495     407,800   

Computer software

     1,212,943         140,964         (1,940     —          —          3,875        1,355,842   

Transmission lines

     23,585         2,301         —          —          —          154        26,040   

Central betting system operating right

     3,826         170         —          —          —          20        4,016   

Brand name

     116         458         —          —          —          10        584   

Customer base

     1,337         639         —          —          —          20        1,996   

Customs duty and VAT exemption right

     3,871         11,416         —          —          —          266        15,553   

Other

     360         84         —          —          —          33        477   
                                                          

Total

     1,644,715         206,421         (21,711     —          —          (17,117     1,812,308   
                                                          

Total intangible assets

     1,452,895         517,086         (379     —          (61,835     (9,786     1,897,981   
                                                          

 

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Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

 

      Balance at
1 January
2010
     Additions     Disposals      Transfers     Impairment     Effects of
movements in
exchange rates
    Balance at
31 December
2010
 

Cost

                

GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses

     1,465,898         400        —           2,815        —          (47,678     1,421,435   

Computer software

     1,951,060         36,831        —           79,617        —          (47,792     2,019,716   

Transmission lines

     33,189         284        —           —          —          (858     32,615   

Central betting system operating right

     5,527         339        —           —          —          (144     5,722   

Indefeasible right of usage

     —           22,531        —           —          —          —          22,531   

Brand name

     4,676         —          —           —          —          (122     4,554   

Customer base

     6,398         —          —           —          —          (167     6,231   

Customs duty and VAT exemption right

     51,325         —          —           —          —          (1,338     49,987   

Goodwill

     184,356         —          —           —          (23,499     (19,600     141,257   

Other

     2,298         532        —           —          —          (48     2,782   

Construction in progress

     5,562         94,441        —           (96,449     —          (928     2,626   
                                                          

Total

     3,710,289         155,358        —           (14,017     (23,499     (118,675     3,709,456   
                                                          

Accumulated amortization

                

GSM and other telecommunication operating licenses

     407,800         70,847        —           —          —          (12,915     465,732   

Computer software

     1,355,842         155,714        —           (1,307     —          (38,140     1,472,109   

Transmission lines

     26,040         1,734        —           —          —          (767     27,007   

Central betting system operating right

     4,016         210        —           —          —          (110     4,116   

Indefeasible right of usage

     —           1,543        —           —          —          —          1,543   

Brand name

     584         468        —           —          —          (28     1,024   

Customer base

     1,996         654        —           —          —          (69     2,581   

Customs duty and VAT exemption right

     15,553         10,595        —           —          —          (686     25,462   

Other

     477         74        —           —          —          20        571   
                                                          

Total

     1,812,308         241,839        —           (1,307     —          (52,695     2,000,145   
                                                          

Total intangible assets

     1,897,981         (86,481     —           (12,710     (23,499     (65,980     1,709,311   
                                                          

Amortization expenses on intangible assets other than goodwill for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are $241,839, $206,421 and $245,985 respectively including impairment losses and recognized in direct cost of revenues. The impairment losses on goodwill for the year ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are $23,499, $61,835 and nil respectively recognized in other expenses in the consolidated statement of income.

 

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Table of Contents

TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Computer software includes internally generated capitalized software development costs that meet the definition of an intangible asset. The amount of internally generated capitalized costs is $29,142 for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $24,987).

Superonline, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group, won the tender of BOTAS for indefeasible right to use the capacity of the fiber optic cables already installed by BOTAS for 15 years, including the right to install additional fiber optic cables and the right to use the capacity of these fiber optic cables for the same period. Superonline will pay EUR 20,900 to BOTAS for the right and this transaction has been considered as a finance lease as the lease term is for the major part of the remaining useful life of the fiber optic cables already installed by BOTAS and Superonline will make significant investment during the initial period of the lease agreement which is an indicator that the transaction is a finance lease. The Group recognized indefeasible right of use amounting to $22,531 which is calculated as the present value of payments to be made to BOTAS till the year 2024.

Impairment testing for cash-generating unit containing goodwill

Goodwill allocated to cash generating units and carrying values of all cash generating units are annually tested for impairment. The recoverable amounts (that is, higher of value in use and fair value less cost to sell) are normally determined on the basis of value in use, applying discounted cash flow calculation. Independent appraisals were obtained for fair values to determine recoverable amounts for Belarusian Telecom and Superonline as at 31 December 2010.

In calculating the net present value of the future cash flows, certain assumptions are required to be made in respect of highly uncertain matters including management’s expectations of growth in EBITDA, calculated as results from operating activities before depreciation and amortization and other income/(expenses), timing and quantum of future capital expenditure, long term growth rates, and the selection of discount rates to reflect the risks involved.

Belarusian Telecom

As at 31 December 2010, the aggregate carrying amount of goodwill allocated to Belarusian Telecom is $120,112 and goodwill arising from the acquisition of Belarusian Telecom was impaired by $23,499 following the adverse movements in the discount and growth rates and adverse performance against previous plans. The impairment loss was allocated fully to goodwill and is included in other expense. Value in use was determined by discounting the future cash flows generated from the continuing use of the unit. The calculation of the value in use was based on the following key assumptions:

The projection period for the purposes of goodwill impairment testing is taken as 7 years between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2017.

Cash flows for further periods (perpetuity) were extrapolated using a constant growth rate of 3.0% which does not exceed the estimated average growth rate for the country.

A post-tax discount rate WACC of 14.4% was applied in determining the recoverable amount of the unit. The post-tax rate was adjusted considering the tax cash outflows and other future tax cash flows and discrepancies between the cost of the assets and their tax bases. The pre-tax rate for disclosure purposes is 17.2%.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Superonline

As at 31 December 2010, the aggregate carrying amount of goodwill allocated to Superonline is $21,145. As the recoverable values based on the value in use of the cash generating units is estimated to be higher than carrying amount, no impairment was required for goodwill arising from the acquisition of Superonline as at 31 December 2010. The calculation of the value in use was based on the following key assumptions:

Values assigned to EBITDA for the periods forecasted include the expected synergies to be achieved from operating as a part of the Group. Values assigned to this key assumption reflect past experience except for efficiency improvements and synergies. Management believes that any reasonably possible change in the key assumptions on which Superonline recoverable amount is based would not cause Superonline’s carrying amount to exceed its recoverable amount.

The projection period for the purposes of goodwill impairment testing is taken as 8 years between 1 January 2011 and 31 December 2018.

Cash flows for further periods (perpetuity) were extrapolated using a constant growth rate of 2.5%. This growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the market in which Superonline operates.

A post-tax discount rate WACC of 15.8% was applied in determining the recoverable amount of the unit. Discounting post-tax cash flows at a post-tax discount rate and discounting pre tax cash flows at pre-tax discount rate give same results, since the pre-tax discount rate is the post-tax discount rate adjusted to reflect the specific amount and timing of the future tax cash flows. For disclosure purposes pre-tax discount rate is 18.3%.

After the acquisition of Superonline Uluslararasi Elektronik Bilgilendirme Telekomunikasyon ve Haberlesme Hizmetleri AS (“Superonline Uluslararasi”) in 2008, management merged Superonline Uluslararasi’s operations with its wholly owned subsidiary, Tellcom Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (“Tellcom”) in May 2009. With the merger, Superonline Uluslararasi and Tellcom seized to be separate cash generating units and merged as one cash generating unit under the brand name of Superonline. Therefore, the business plans used for the purpose of the impairment testing represents the merged entities operations. The registered name of the entity was changed from Tellcom Iletisim Hizmetleri AS to Superonline Iletisim Hizmetleri AS with General Assembly Meeting note dated 20 December 2010.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

 

14. Equity accounted investees

The Group’s share of profit in its equity accounted investees for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are $122,839, $78,448 and $102,990, respectively. Summary financial information for equity accounted investees adjusted for the accounting policy differences for the same events under similar circumstances and not adjusted for the percentage ownership held by the Group is as follows:

 

    Ownership     Current
assets
    Non-current
assets
    Total
assets
    Current
liabilities
    Non-current
liabilities
    Non-controlling
interest
    Equity
attributable
to parent
    Total
liabilities
and equity
 

31 December 2010

                 

Fintur (associate)

    41.45     451,598        1,578,669        2,030,267        289,785        811,749        439,495        489,238        2,030,267   

A-Tel (joint venture)*

    50.00     48,888        181,414        230,302        1,078        37,216        —          192,008        230,302   
                                                                 
      500,486        1,760,083        2,260,569        290,863        848,965        439,495        681,246        2,260,569   
                                                                 

31 December 2009

                 

Fintur (associate)

    41.45     423,754        1,491,371        1,915,125        250,133        804,271        405,846        454,875        1,915,125   

A-Tel (joint venture)*

    50.00     46,069        196,524        242,593        6,539        39,476        —          196,578        242,593   
                                                                 
      469,823        1,687,895        2,157,718        256,672        843,747        405,846        651,453        2,157,718   
                                                                 
    Revenues     Direct cost
of revenues
    Profit/Loss                                      

2010

                 

Fintur

    1,736,576        (692,757     369,516               

A-Tel

    63,235        (56,683     2,923               
                                   
    1,799,811        (749,440     372,439               
                                   

2009

                 

Fintur

    1,605,022        (665,749     310,945               

A-Tel

    73,897        (77,625     (8,529            
                                   
    1,678,919        (743,374     302,416               
                                   

2008

                 

Fintur

    1,823,095        (739,410     364,545               

A-Tel

    98,129        (83,128     1,888               
                                   
    1,921,224        (822,538     366,433               
                                   

 

* Figures mentioned in the above table includes fair value adjustments that arose during acquisition of A-Tel.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The Company’s investment in Fintur and A-Tel amounts to $303,618 and $96,004 respectively as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $285,597 and $97,893).

During 2009, Fintur distributed a total dividend of $200,000. The Group received its share of dividend in December 2009 at the amount of $82,900 and decreased its investment in Fintur by $82,900.

In 2010, Fintur has decided to distribute two dividends amounting to $70,000 and $190,000. The Company reduced the carrying value of its investments in Fintur by the cash collected dividend of $29,015 and $78,755 on 5 May 2010 and 7 December 2010, respectively.

In April 2008, the privatization of the Republic of Azerbaijan’s 35.7% ownership in Azercell Telecom B.M. (“Azercell”), a 51% owned consolidated subsidiary of Fintur, was completed. The non-controlling shareholders in Azercell acquired the 35.7% shares of Republic of Azerbaijan increasing their effective ownership in Azercell to 49%. One of the non-controlling shareholders was also granted a put option, giving the shareholder the right to sell its 42.2% stake to Fintur at fair value in certain deadlock situations regarding significant decisions at the General Assembly. Fintur has initially accounted for the present value of the estimated option redemption amount as a provision and derecognized the non-controlling interest. The difference between the present value of the estimated option redemption amount and the derecognized non-controlling interest amounting to $715,126 is accounted under equity, in accordance with the Group’s accounting policy.

During April 2010 and December 2009 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 investments in A-Tel by the dividends declared of TL 1,241 (equivalent to $803 as at 31 December 2010) and TL 7,248 (equivalent to $4,688 as at 31 December 2010) as at 31 December 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

15. Other investments

Non-current investments:

 

            2010      2009  
     Country of
incorporation
     Ownership
(%)
     Carrying
Amount
     Ownership
(%)
     Carrying
Amount
 

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

     Turkey         6.24         21,905         6.24         22,492   

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

     Turkey         4.52         11,944         10.03         12,263   
                          
           33,849            34,755   
                          

On 2 February 2010, SDIF notified that lien was laid on “priority right to purchase back” regarding the shares of Aks TV of which 6.24% were held by Turktell Bilişim Hizmetleri AS. In case that, those shares are sold to third parties other than Cukurova Group, SDIF has the right to exercise its priority right to purchase back and the purchase price will be determined within the context of the past agreements signed between previous owners and Cukurova Group.

On 19 July 2010, at T-Medya’s General Assembly Meeting, it has been decided to increase the share capital of T-Medya. However, the Group did not participate in the capital contribution, accordingly the ownership of the Group in T-Medya decreased to 4.52%.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

There is no active market available for investments Aks TV and T Medya. The Company measured these investments at cost. Based on the impairment analysis performed by considering the lower end limits of fair value calculations performed by an independent valuation firm, no impairment has been identified.

Current investments:

 

     2010      2009  

Available-for-sale financial assets

     

Government bonds, treasury bills

     —           62,398   

Time deposits

     

Deposits maturing after 3 months or more

     8,201         —     
                 
     8,201         62,398   
                 

There are no government bonds as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $62,398).

As at 31 December 2010, BYR denominated time deposits maturing after 3 months or more amounting to $201 have stated interest rate of 10.5% and USD denominated time deposits maturing after 3 months or more amounting to $8,000 have stated interest rate of 7.0%

The Group’s exposure to credit, currency and interest rate risks related to other investments is disclosed in Note 29.

 

16. Other non-current assets

 

     2010      2009  

VAT receivable

     62,167         37,628   

Prepaid expenses

     29,717         22,406   

Deposits and guarantees given

     9,560         9,597   

Advances given for fixed assets

     4,654         —     

Prepayment for subscriber acquisition cost

     —           2,867   

Others

     1,179         2,622   
                 
     107,277         75,120   
                 

Subscriber acquisition costs are subsidies paid to dealers for engaging a fixed term contract with the subscriber that require a minimum consideration.

 

17. Deferred tax assets and liabilities

Unrecognized deferred tax liabilities

At 31 December 2010, a deferred tax liability of $15,687 (31 December 2009: $18,669) for temporary differences of $78,433 (31 December 2009: $93,345) related to investments in subsidiaries was not recognized because the Company controls whether the liability will be incurred and it is satisfied that it will not be incurred in the foreseeable future.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Unrecognized deferred tax assets

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

 

     2010      2009  

Deductible temporary differences

     67,086         39,186   

Tax losses

     152,776         140,493   
                 

Total unrecognized deferred tax assets

     219,862         179,679   
                 

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 recognized 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 utilize the benefits therefrom.

As at 31 December 2010, expiration of tax losses is as follows:

 

Year Originated

   Amount      Expiration Date  

2006

     3,207         2011   

2007

     10,785         2012   

2008

     78,819         2013   

2009

     35,784         2014   

2010

     48,197         2015 thereafter   
           
     176,792      
           

As at 31 December 2010, tax losses which will be carried indefinitely are as follows:

 

Year Originated

   Amount  

2004

     15,910   

2005

     38,621   

2006

     63,408   

2007

     55,382   

2008

     239,575   

2009

     44,625   

2010

     12,150   

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Recognized deferred tax assets and liabilities

Deferred tax assets and liabilities as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are attributable to the following:

 

    Assets     Liabilities     Net  
    2010     2009     2010     2009     2010     2009  

Property, plant & equipment and intangible assets

    347        84        (152,193     (170,397     (151,846     (170,313

Investment

    —          —          (15,096     (13,833     (15,096     (13,833

Provisions

    28,423        27,474        —          —          28,423        27,474   

Trade and other payables

    23,460        39,271        (16     (38     23,444        39,233   

Other items

    25,940        2,104        (1,094     (1,039     24,846        1,065   
                                               

Tax assets / (liabilities)

    78,170        68,933        (168,399     (185,307     (90,229     (116,374
                                               

Net off of tax

    (75,294     (66,875     75,294        66,875        —          —     
                                               

Net tax assets / (liabilities)

    2,876        2,058        (93,105     (118,432     (90,229     (116,374
                                               

Movement in temporary differences as at 31 December 2010 and 2009

 

     Balance at
1 January
2009
    Recognized
in the
statement
of income
    Recognized
in other
comprehensive
income
    Effect of
movements in
exchange
rates
    Balance at
31 December
2009
 

Property, plant & equipment and intangible assets

     (168,636     (907     —          (770     (170,313

Investment

     (10,267     (2,353     (1,091     (122     (13,833

Provisions

     10,070        16,802        —          602        27,474   

Trade and other payables

     44,239        (5,033     —          27        39,233   

Other items

     (4,759     4,793        —          1,031        1,065   

Tax credit carry forwards

     6        (6     —          —          —     
                                        

Total

     (129,347     13,296        (1,091     768        (116,374
                                        
     Balance at
1 January
2010
    Recognized
in the
statement
of income
    Recognized
in other
comprehensive
income
    Effect of
movements in
exchange
rates
    Balance at
31 December
2010
 

Property, plant & equipment and intangible assets

     (170,313     6,131        —          12,336        (151,846

Investment

     (13,833     (882     (754     373        (15,096

Provisions

     27,474        1,689        —          (740     28,423   

Trade and other payables

     39,233        (14,984     —          (805     23,444   

Other items

     1,065        24,161        —          (380     24,846   
                                        

Total

     (116,374     16,115        (754     10,784        (90,229
                                        

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

18. Trade receivables and accrued income

 

     2010      2009  

Receivables from subscribers

     414,606         392,328   

Accrued service income

     348,135         318,526   

Accounts and checks receivable

     52,111         57,867   

Receivables from Turk Telekomunikasyon AS (“Turk Telekom”)

     1,299         15,031   
                 
     816,151         783,752   
                 

Trade receivables are shown net of allowance for doubtful debts amounting to $367,913 as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $268,157). The impairment loss recognized for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are $117,362, $75,379 and $65,678, respectively.

Letters of guarantee received with respect to the accounts and checks receivable are amounted to $181,366 and $164,958 as at 31 December 2010 and 2009, respectively.

The accrued service income represents revenues accrued for subscriber calls (air-time) and contracted receivables related to handset campaigns, which have not been billed and will be billed within one year. 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. Contracted receivables related to handset campaigns, which will be invoiced after one year is presented under non-current trade receivables amounting to $35,024.

Receivables from Turk Telekom 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.

The Group’s exposure to credit and currency risks and impairment losses related to trade receivables are disclosed in Note 29.

 

19. Other current assets

 

     2010      2009

Prepaid expenses

     83,680       69,559

Receivables from ICTA

     25,938       —  

VAT receivable

     25,702       48,760

Receivables from Tax Office

     15,736       —  

Advances to suppliers

     12,131       12,351

Interest income accruals

     8,311       17,727

Restricted cash

     6,150       —  

Receivables from personnel

     3,262       2,767

Prepayment for subscriber acquisition cost

     1,777       12,527

Other

     15,053       11,726
             
     197,740       175,417
             

Receivables from ICTA is related to the fine applied on tariffs above upper limits as a result of Court suspension of the execution decision. ICTA paid the related amount on 27 January 2011. In Note 32, under legal proceedings section, detailed explanations are given with respect to the receivable.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

As at 31 December 2010, restricted cash represents amounts deposited at banks as guarantees in connection with the loan utilized by Azerinteltek and mature in 12 months.

Subscriber acquisition costs are subsidies paid to dealers for engaging a fixed term contract with the subscriber that require a minimum consideration.

 

20. Cash and cash equivalents

 

     2010     2009  

Cash in hand

     7,957        157   

Cheques received

     172        1,154   

Banks

     3,293,257        3,093,889   

-Demand deposits

     193,358        199,764   

-Time deposits

     3,099,899        2,894,125   

Bonds and bills

     777        286   
                

Cash and cash equivalents

     3,302,163        3,095,486   

Bank overdrafts

     (5,896     (5,244
                

Cash and cash equivalents in the statement of cash flows

     3,296,267        3,090,242   
                

As at 31 December 2010, cash and cash equivalents deposited in banks that are owned and/or controlled by Cukurova Group, a significant shareholder of the Company is amounting to $90,000 (31 December 2009: nil).

As at 31 December 2010, average maturity of time deposits is 60 days (31 December 2009: 69 days)

The Group’s exposure to interest rate risk and a sensitivity analysis for financial assets and liabilities are disclosed in Note 29.

 

21. Capital and reserves

Share capital

As at 31 December 2010, common stock represented 2,200,000,000 (31 December 2009: 2,200,000,000) authorized, issued and fully paid shares with a par value of TL 1 each. In accordance with the Law No. 5083 with respect to TL, on 9 May 2005, par value of each share is registered to be one TL.

In connection with the redenomination of the TL and as per the related amendments of Turkish Commercial Code, in order to increase the nominal value of the shares to TL 1, 1,000 units of shares, each having a nominal value of TL 0.001 shall be merged and each unit of share having a nominal value of TL 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 TL 0.001 to one ordinary share having a nominal value of TL 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 TL 0.001 to TL 1, all shares will have a value of TL 1. Although the merger process has not been finalized, the practical application is to state each share having a nominal value of TL 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.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

As at 31 December 2010, total number of pledged shares hold by various institutions is 137,200 (31 December 2009: 137,200).

Capital contribution

Capital contribution comprises the contributed assets and certain liabilities that the government settled on behalf of the Group that do not meet the definition of a government grant which the government is acting in its capacity as a shareholder.

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.

Reserve for non-controlling interest put option liability

The reserve for non-controlling interest put option liability includes the difference between the put option liability granted to the non-controlling shareholders in existing subsidiaries recognized and the amount of non-controlling interest derecognized. Subsequent changes in the fair value of the put option liability are also recognized in this reserve.

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.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

On 10 March 2010, the Company’s Board of Directors has proposed a dividend distribution for the year ended 31 December 2009 amounting to TL 859,259 (equivalent to $555,795 and $573,451 as at 31 December 2010 and 29 April 2010, respectively), which represented 50% of distributable income. This represents a net cash dividend of full TL 0.3905723 (equivalent to full $0.2526341 and $0.2606596 as at 31 December 2010 and 29 April 2010, respectively) per share. This dividend proposal was discussed and approved at the Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders held on 29 April 2010. Dividend distribution started on 17 May 2010 and completed as at 31 December 2010.

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     TL      USD*      TL      USD*      TL      USD*  

Cash dividends

     859,259         573,451         1,098,193         713,297         648,714         502,334   

 

  * USD equivalents of dividends are computed by using the Central Bank of the Republic of Turkey’s TL/USD exchange rate on 29 April 2010, 8 May 2009 and 25 April 2008 which are the dates that the General Assembly of Shareholders approved the dividend distribution.

In the Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders Meeting of Inteltek held on 15 April 2010, it has been decided to distribute dividends amounting to TL 55,980 (equivalent to $36,210 as at 31 December 2010). The dividend was paid on 29 April 2010.

 

22. Earnings per share

The calculations of basic and diluted earnings per share as at 31 December 2010 were based on the profit attributable to ordinary shareholders for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 of $1,170,176, $1,093,992 and $1,836,824 respectively and a weighted average number of shares outstanding during the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 of 2,200,000,000 calculated as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Numerator:

        

Net profit for the period attributed to owners

     1,170,176         1,093,992         1,836,824   

Denominator:

        

Weighted average number of shares

     2,200,000,000         2,200,000,000         2,200,000,000   
                          

Basic and diluted earnings per share

     0.53         0.50         0.83   
                          

 

23. Other non-current liabilities

 

     2010      2009  

Consideration payable in relation to acquisition of BeST

     78,402         75,319   

Financial liability in relation to put option

     53,435         63,152   

Deposits and guarantees taken from agents

     16,310         13,951   

Payables to other suppliers

     7,391         —     

Other

     5,294         2,569   
                 
     160,832         154,991   
                 

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Consideration payable in relation to acquisition of Belarusian Telecom represents the present value of long-term deferred payment to the seller. Payment of $100,000 is contingent on financial performance of Belarusian Telecom, and based on management’s estimations, expected to be paid during the first quarter of 2016. The present value of the contingent consideration is $78,402 as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: $75,319).

Non-controlling shareholders in Belarusian Telecom were granted a put option, giving the shareholders the right to sell their entire stake to Beltel Telekomunikasyon Hizmetleri AS (“Beltel”) at fair value during a specified period. The Group accounted for the present value of the estimated option redemption amount as a provision and derecognized the non-controlling interest. The Company has estimated a value based on multiple approaches including income approach (discounted cash flows) and market approach (comparable market multiples). The average of the values determined as at 31 August 2013, which is the exercise date of the put option, is then discounted to 31 December 2010.

The difference between the present value of the estimated option redemption and derecognized non-controlling interests amounting to $32,382 has been presented as reserve for non-controlling interest put option under equity.

 

24. 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 29.

 

     2010      2009  

Non-current liabilities

     

Unsecured bank loans

     1,366,207         793,210   

Secured bank loans

     21,850         25,253   

Finance lease liabilities

     19,259         2,716   
                 
     1,407,316         821,179   
                 

Current liabilities

     

Current portion of unsecured bank loans

     357,637         226,463   

Current portion of secured bank loans

     4,378         —     

Unsecured bank facility

     57,355         461,788   

Secured bank facility

     6,399         —     

Current portion of finance lease liabilities

     4,436         2,529   
                 
     430,205         690,780   
                 

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Finance lease liabilities are payable as follows:

 

     31 December 2010      31 December 2009  
     Future minimum
lease payments
     Interest      Present value
of minimum
lease payments
     Future
minimum lease
payments
     Interest      Present value
of minimum
lease payments
 

Less than one year

     5,199         763         4,436         2,768         239         2,529   

More than one year

     24,107         4,848         19,259         2,815         99         2,716   
                                                     
     29,306         5,611         23,695         5,583         338         5,245   
                                                     

Superonline, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Group, acquired indefeasible right of use with BOTAS and will pay EUR 20,900 to BOTAS for the right. The Group recognized indefeasible right of use amounting to $22,531 which is calculated as the present value of payments to be made to BOTAS till the year 2024. As of 31 December 2010, the carrying amount of lease liability related to BOTAS agreement is $20,962.

Some of the Group’s borrowings are subject to covenant clauses, whereby the Group is required to meet certain key performance indicators. As of 31 December 2010, the Group is in compliance with all borrowing covenants.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Terms and conditions of outstanding loans are as follows:

 

                          2010      2009  
     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         2012         Floating         Libor+2.25%-3.75%         491,000         488,965         Libor+2.3%-3.75%         491,000         487,563   

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2011-2012         Floating         Libor+2.1%         263,250         264,674         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2015         Floating         Libor+2.9%-3.0%         188,500         188,730         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2011-2015         Fixed         2.37%         184,044         178,603         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2013         Floating         Libor+2.24%-2.45%         159,200         159,406         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2009-2014         Fixed         2.24%         148,726         144,078         2.24%         191,219         183,710   

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2013         Fixed         4.10%-8%         86,442         86,464         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2011         Fixed         %2.25-2.80%         95,193         96,998         2.80%         63,500         63,505   

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2010-2016         Fixed         2.81%         59,654         57,581         2.81%         69,856         66,051   

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2011         Floating         Libor+1.75%         24,500         24,602         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2009-2014         Floating         Libor+%1.35         50,236         48,672         Libor+%1.35         64,589         62,162   

Secured bank loans**

     BYR         2020         Floating         RR*+2%         21,389         26,228         RR*+2%         22,487         25,253   

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2010-2012         Fixed         2.97%         17,505         17,754         2.97%         25,958         26,236   

Unsecured bank loans

     EUR         2013         Floating         Libor+3.465%         13,280         13,627         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2011-2013         Fixed         2.97%         9,811         9,985         —           —           —     

Secured bank loans

     USD         2011         Fixed         5.00%         6,150         6,210         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2011         —           —           744         744         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     AZN         2011         Fixed         18.00%         250         316         —           —           —     

Secured bank loans

     AZN         2011         Fixed         18.00%         150         189         —           —           —     

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2010         Floating         Libor+2.0%-3.5%         —           —           Libor+2.0%-3.5%         476,000         476,754   

Unsecured bank loans

     USD         2010         Fixed         —           —           —           2.80%         113,387         113,395   

Unsecured bank loans

     BYR         2010         Floating         —           —           —            1/2 RR*         1,971         2,085   

Finance lease liabilities

     EUR         2011-2024         Fixed         3.35%         26,487         20,962         —           —           —     

Finance lease liabilities

     USD         2010-2011         Fixed         4.64%         2,819         2,733         5.7%         5,583         5,245   
                                                  
                 1,849,330         1,837,521            1,525,550         1,511,959   
                                                  

 

* Refinancing rate of the National Bank of the Republic of Belarus.
** Secured by Rebuplic of Belarus Government.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

25. 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 financial statements at its present value using a discount rate of 4.7%.

Movement in the reserve for employee termination benefits as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

Opening balance

     27,776        26,717   

Provision set/reversed during the period

     9,990        6,350   

Payments made during the period

     (8,114     (5,410

Unwind of discount

     889        1,534   

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

     (799     (1,415
                

Closing balance

     29,742        27,776   
                

Obligations for contributions to defined contribution plans are recognized as an expense in the consolidated statement of income as incurred. The Group incurred $5,243, $3,694 and $4,182 in relation to defined contribution retirement plan for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 respectively.

Total charge for the employee termination benefits is included in the statement of income.

The liability is not funded, as there is no funding requirement.

 

26. Deferred income

Deferred income primarily consists of right of use sold but not used by prepaid subscribers and it is classified as current as at 31 December 2010. The amount of deferred income is $164,186 and $248,518 as at 31 December 2010 and 2009, respectively.

 

27. Provisions

Non-current provisions:

 

     Legal      Obligations for
dismantling,
removing and
site restoration
     Other      Total  

Balance at 1 January 2009

     —           4,490         —           4,490   

Provision made/used during the year

     95         590         467         1,152   

Unwind of discount

     —           —           —           —     

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

     —           34         —           34   
                                   

Balance at 31 December 2009

     95         5,114         467         5,676   
                                   

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

     Legal      Obligations for
dismantling,
removing and
site restoration
    Other      Total  

Balance at 1 January 2010

     95         5,114        467         5,676   

Provision made/used during the year

     627         50,473        223         51,323   

Unwind of discount

     —           266        —           266   

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

     —           (210     —           (210
                                  

Balance at 31 December 2010

     722         55,643        690         57,055   
                                  

Legal provisions are set for the probable cash outflows related to legal disputes.

The Group is required to incur certain costs in respect of a liability to dismantle and remove assets and to restore sites on which the assets were located. The dismantling costs are calculated according to best estimate of future expected payments discounted at a pre-tax discount rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the liability.

The above mentioned additions to obligations for dismantling, removing and site restoration during the period are non-cash transactions recorded against property, plant and equipment.

Current provisions:

 

     Legal     Bonus     Total  

Balance at 1 January 2009

     44,258        38,091        82,349   

Provision made during the year

     158,580        36,784        195,364   

Provisions used during the year

     (40,018     (37,996     (78,014

Unwind of discount

     —          235        235   

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

     5,098        135        5,233   
                        

Balance at 31 December 2009

     167,918        37,249        205,167   
                        
     Legal     Bonus     Total  

Balance at 1 January 2010

     167,918        37,249        205,167   

Provision made/(reversed) during the year

     59,303        45,617        104,920   

Provisions used during the year

     (115,004     (39,056     (154,060

Unwind of discount

     1,885        (53     1,832   

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

     (2,949     (1,098     (4,047
                        

Balance at 31 December 2010

     111,153        42,659        153,812   
                        

Legal provisions are set for the probable cash outflows related to legal disputes. In Note 32, under legal proceedings section, detailed explanations are given with respect to legal provisions.

The bonus provision totalling to $42,659 comprises mainly the provision for the year ended 31 December 2010 and is planned to be paid in March 2011.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

28. Trade and other payables

The breakdown of trade and other payables as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Payables to other suppliers

     414,911         354,057   

Taxes and withholdings payable

     221,872         215,375   

Payables to Ericsson companies

     98,415         115,980   

Selling and marketing expense accrual

     61,209         62,783   

License fee accrual

     53,474         38,289   

Roaming expense accrual

     21,032         61,783   

ICTA share accrual

     17,319         18,543   

Interconnection payables

     11,992         31,957   

Interconnection accrual

     4,415         5,343   

Payables to KKTC Tax Office

     789         1,046   

Consideration payable in relation to acquisition of Belarusian Telecom

     —           97,605   

Other

     46,548         36,001   
                 
     951,976         1,038,762   
                 

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

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

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

Turkcell is one of parties of two different signed agreements with Ericsson Turkey, namely Supply and Maintenance and Support Service Agreements. In fact, hardware and software responsibility within the scope of Supply Agreement belongs to Ericsson AB. Since, Turkcell signed the agreement with Ericsson Turkey, Ericsson Turkey transfer its supply responsibility to Ericsson AB with the signed protocol between Ericsson Turkey, Turkcell and Ericsson AB. Based on the Supply Agreement, Ericsson Turkey committed Turkcell to provide GSM network in operating condition, spare part, installation, training and documentation. Besides, this agreement provides Turkcell to non-exclusive, untransferable and perpetual software license for GSM software. According to Maintenance and Support Service Agreement, Ericsson Turkey provides Turkcell problem report processing service, consultancy service and emergency state service. Based on these two agreements, Ericsson AB is the guarantor for commitments of Ericsson Turkey to Turkcell. For agreements signed between Turkcell and Ericsson Turkey, of which Ericsson Sweden is the guarantor, parties signed a supplementary agreement on 1 January 2010 and extended the period of GSM service agreement until 31 December 2010. Tender process for the agreement of year 2011 has not been finalized yet.

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

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

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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

Interconnection accrual represents net balance of uninvoiced call termination services received from other operators and interconnection services rendered to other operators.

Consideration payable in relation to acquisition of Belarusian Telecom represents present value of short-term deferred payments to the seller. Deferred payment amounting to $100,000 was paid as of 31 December 2010. The remaining consideration is classified under other non-current liabilities section (Note 23).

The Group’s exposure to currency and liquidity risk related to trade and other payables is disclosed in Note 29.

 

29. 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:

 

     Note      2010      2009  

Due from related parties-non current

     33         1,044         21,039   

Other non-current assets*

     16         15,258         11,996   

Available-for-sale financial assets

     15         —           62,398   

Due from related parties-current

     33         88,897         108,843   

Trade receivables and accrued income

     18         851,175         783,752   

Other current assets*

     19         56,170         29,284   

Cash and cash equivalents**

     20         3,294,206         3,095,329   

Time deposits maturing in 3 months or more

     15         8,201         —     
                    
        4,314,951         4,112,641   
                    

 

  * Non-financial instruments such as prepaid expenses and advances given are excluded from other current assets and other non-current assets.
  ** Cash on hand is excluded from cash and cash equivalents.

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:

 

     2010      2009  

Receivable from subscribers

     798,404         710,747   

Receivables from distributors and other operators

     71,044         85,949   

Other

     3,199         1,312   
                 
     872,647         798,008   
                 

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The aging of trade receivables and due from related parties as at 31 December 2010 and 2009:

 

     2010      2009  

Not past due

     738,697         746,545   

1-30 days past due

     74,665         38,406   

1-3 months past due

     56,004         47,031   

3-12 months past due

     71,750         81,310   

1-5 years past due

     —           342   
                 
     941,116         913,634   
                 

Impairment losses

The movement in the allowance for impairment in respect of trade receivables and due from related parties as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

Opening balance

     268,157        196,637   

Impairment loss recognized

     126,257        75,379   

Write-off

     (9,976     (7,978

Effect of change in foreign exchange rate

     (7,630     4,119   
                

Closing balance

     376,808        268,157   
                

The impairment loss recognized of $126,257 for the period ended 31 December 2010 relates to its estimate of incurred losses in respect of trade receivables and due from related parties.

The allowance accounts in respect of trade receivables and due from related parties 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 and is written off against the trade receivables and due from related parties directly.

Liquidity risk

Current cash debt coverage ratio as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Cash and cash equivalents

     3,302,163         3,095,486   

Current liabilities

     1,812,915         2,296,511   

Current cash debt coverage ratio

     182%         135%   

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The following are the contractual maturities of financial liabilities, including estimated interest payments:

 

    31 December 2010     31 December 2009  
    Carrying
Amount
    Contractual
cash flows
    6 months
or less
    6-12
months
    1-2
years
    2-5
years
    More than  5
years
    Carrying
Amount
    Contractual
cash flows
    6 months
or less
    6-12
months
    1-2
years
    2-5
years
    More than  5
Years
 
                           

Non-derivative financial Liabilities

                           

Secured bank loans

    32,627        (48,327     (2,273     (9,165     (5,150     (13,852     (17,887     25,253        (46,659     —          —          (5,420     (16,767     (24,472

Unsecured bank loans

    1,781,199        (1,920,204     (208,363     (218,000     (523,026     (960,660     (10,155     1,481,461        (1,583,273     (267,683     (432,251     (166,987     (695,681     (20,671

Finance lease liabilities

    23,695        (29,306     (3,206     (1,993     (1,909     (5,576     (16,622     5,245        (5,583     (1,383     (1,385     (2,789     (26     —     

Trade and other payables*

    676,187        (681,669     (681,669     —          —          —          —          723,222        (728,795     (728,795     —          —          —          —     

Bank overdraft

    5,896        (5,896     (5,896     —          —          —          —          5,244        (5,244     (5,244     —          —          —          —     

Due to related parties

    10,760        (10,787     (10,787     —          —          —          —          14,780        (14,884     (14,884     —          —          —          —     

Consideration payable in relation to acquisition of Belarusian Telecom

    78,402        (100,000     —          —          —          —          (100,000     172,924        (200,000     —          (100,000     —          —          (100,000

Financial liability in relation to put option

    53,435        (58,541     —          —          —          (58,541     —          63,152        (75,155     —          —          —          (75,155     —     
                                                                                                               

TOTAL

    2,662,201        (2,854,730     (912,194     (229,158     (530,085     (1,038,629     (144,664     2,491,281        (2,659,593     (1,017,989     (533,636     (175,196     (787,629     (145,143
                                                                                                               

 

* Advances taken, taxes and withholding payable are excluded from trade and other payables.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Exposure to currency risk

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

 

     31 December 2009  
     USD     EUR     SEK  

Foreign currency denominated assets

      

Due from related parties-non current

     20,605        —          —     

Other non-current assets

     1        —          —     

Other investments

     —          201        —     

Due from related parties-current

     22,295        825        —     

Trade receivables and accrued income

     31,121        18,605        10   

Other current assets

     2,372        71        —     

Cash and cash equivalents

     1,324,795        99,734        1   
                        
     1,401,189        119,436        11   
                        

Foreign currency denominated liabilities

      

Loans and borrowings-non current

     (830,434)        —          —     

Other non-current liabilities

     (189,105)        —          —     

Loans and borrowings-current

     (514,439)        —          —     

Trade and other payables

     (366,279)        (65,562)        (722)   

Due to related parties

     (4,199)        (1,194)        —     
                        
     (1,904,456)        (66,756)        (722)   
                        

Net exposure

     (503,267     52,680        (711
                        
     31 December 2010  
     USD     EUR     SEK  

Foreign currency denominated assets

      

Due from related parties-non current

     —          —          —     

Other non-current assets

     1        —          —     

Other investments

     8,000        —          —     

Due from related parties-current

     17,969        148        —     

Trade receivables and accrued income

     33,566        20,482        —     

Other current assets

     4,579        1,086        10   

Cash and cash equivalents

     1,494,743        52,842        1   
                        
     1,558,858        74,558        11   
                        

Foreign currency denominated liabilities

      

Loans and borrowings-non current

     (1,405,907     (28,132     —     

Other non-current liabilities

     (179,865     —          —     

Loans and borrowings-current

     (350,172     (1,872     —     

Trade and other payables

     (161,901     (42,849     —     

Due to related parties

     (754     (808     —     
                        
     (2,098,599     (73,661     —     
                        

Net exposure

     (539,741     897        11   
                        

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The following significant exchange rates are applied during the period:

 

     Average Rate      Reporting Date
Closing Rate
 
     31 December
2010
     31 December
2009
     31 December
2010
     31 December
2009
 

TL/USD

     1.5050         1.5495         1.5460         1.5057   

TL/EUR

     1.9931         2.1527         2.0491         2.1603   

TL/SEK

     0.2074         0.2016         0.2262         0.2082   

BYR/USD

     2,978.8         2,780.9         3,000.0         2,863.0   

HRV/USD

     7.9325         7.7975         7.9617         7.9850   

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. The analysis excludes net foreign currency investments.

10% strengthening of the TL, HRV, BYR against the following currencies as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 would have increased/(decreased) profit or loss before tax by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain constant.

 

     Profit or loss  
     2010     2009  

USD

     53,974        50,327   

EUR

     (119     (7,558

SEK

     —          10   

10% weakening of the TL, HRV, BYR against the following currencies as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 would have increased/(decreased) profit or loss before tax by the amounts shown below. This analysis assumes that all other variables, in particular interest rates, remain constant.

 

     Profit or loss  
     2010     2009  

USD

     (53,974     (50,327

EUR

     119        7,558   

SEK

     —          (10

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December

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

 

Interest rate risk

As at 31 December 2010 and 2009 the interest rate profile of the Group’s interest-bearing financial instruments was:

 

            31 December 2010     31 December 2009  
     Note      Effective
Interest
Rate
    Carrying
Amount
    Effective
interest
rate
    Carrying
Amount
 

Fixed rate instruments

           

Time deposits

     20            

USD

        3.5     1,469,797        3.6     1,425,695   

EUR

        3.9     68,640        2.3     146,183   

TL

        9.1     1,561,282        10.1     1,318,614   

Other

        8.7     180        17.6     3,633   

Available-for-sale securities

     15            

Government bonds, treasury bills

           

TL

        —          —          14.8     62,109   

Time deposits maturing after 3 months or more

     15            

USD

        7.0     8,000        —          —     

BYR

        10.5     201        —          —     

Finance lease obligations

     24            

USD

        4.6     (2,733     5.7     (5,245

EUR

        3.4     (20,962     —          —     

Unsecured bank loans

     24            

USD fixed rate loans

        4.2     (591,463     3.7     (452,897

Secured bank loans

     24            

USD fixed rate loans

        5.2     (6,210     —          —     

AZN fixed rate loans

        22.5     (189     —          —     

Variable rate instruments

           

Available-for-sale securities

     15            

Government bonds, treasury bills

           

EUR

        —          —          5.1     289   

Secured bank loans

     24            

BYR floating rate loans

        10.9     (26,228     12.3     (25,253

Unsecured bank loans

     24            

USD floating rate loans

        3.6     (1,175,049     3.8     (1,026,479

EUR floating rate loans

        7.8     (13,627     —          —     

BYR floating rate loans

        —          —          2.1     (2,085

AZN fixed rate loans

        22.5     (316     —          —     

Sensitivity analysis

Fair value sensitivity analysis for fixed rate instruments:

A change of 1% in interest rates for available for sale financial assets would have increased/(decreased) equity by nil (31 December 2009: $186).

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

A change of 1% in interest rates for time deposits maturing after 3 months or more would have increased/(decreased) profit or loss by $65 (31 December 2009: nil).

Cash flow sensitivity analysis for variable rate instruments:

A change of 100 basis points in interest rates as at 31 December 2010 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 December 2010 and 2009.

 

     Profit or loss      Equity  
     100 bp
increase
    100 bp
decrease
     100 bp
increase
     100 bp
decrease
 

31 December 2010

          

Variable rate instruments

     (9,262     9,262         
                                  

Cash flow sensitivity (net)

     (9,262     9,262         
                                  

31 December 2009

          

Variable rate instruments

     (4,912     4,912         —           —     
                                  

Cash flow sensitivity (net)

     (4,912     4,912         —           —     
                                  

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Fair values

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

 

            31 December 2010     31 December 2009  
            Carrying     Fair     Carrying     Fair  
     Note      Amount     Value     Amount     Value  

Assets carried at fair value

           

Available for sale securities

     15         —          —          62,398        62,398   
                                   
        —          —          62,398        62,398   
                                   

Assets carried at amortized cost

           

Due from related parties-long term

     33         1,044        1,044        21,039        21,039   

Other non-current assets*

     16         15,258        15,258        11,996        11,996   

Due from related parties-short term

     33         88,897        88,897        108,843        108,843   

Trade receivables and accrued income***

     18         851,175        851,175        783,752        783,752   

Other current assets*

     19         56,170        56,170        29,284        29,284   

Cash and cash equivalents

     20         3,302,163        3,302,163        3,095,486        3,095,486   

Time deposits maturing after 3 months or more

     15         8,201        8,201        —          —     
                                   
        4,322,908        4,322,908        4,050,400        4,050,400   
                                   

Liabilities carried at fair value

           

Put option for Best acquisition

     23         (53,435     (53,435     (63,152     (63,152
                                   
        (53,435     (53,435     (63,152     (63,152
                                   

Liabilities carried at amortized cost

           

Loans and borrowings-long term

     24         (1,407,316     (1,407,316     (821,179     (821,179

Bank overdrafts

     20         (5,896     (5,896     (5,244     (5,244

Loans and borrowings-short term

     24         (430,205     (430,205     (690,780     (690,780

Trade and other payables**

     28         (676,187     (676,187     (723,222     (723,222

Due to related parties

     33         (10,760     (10,760     (14,780     (14,780

Deferred payments

     23-28         (78,402     (78,402     (172,924     (172,924
                                   
        (2,608,766     (2,608,766     (2,428,129     (2,428,129
                                   

 

  * Non-financial instruments such as prepaid expenses and advances given are excluded from other current assets and other non-current assets.
  ** Advances taken, taxes and withholdings payable are excluded from trade and other payables.
  *** Includes non-current trade receivables amounting to $35,024.

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

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Fair value hierarchy

The table below analyses financial instruments carried at fair value, by valuation method:

The different levels have been identified as follows:

Level 1: quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for identical assets and liabilities.

Level 2: inputs other than quoted prices included within Level 1 that are observable for the assets and liability, either directly or indirectly.

Level 3: inputs for the asset or liability that are not based on observable market.

 

     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

31 December 2010

           

Financial liability in relation to put option

     —           —           53,435         53,435   
                                   
     —           —           53,435         53,435   
                                   
     Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  

31 December 2009

           

Available-for sale financial assets

     62,109         —           289         62,398   
                                   
     62,109         —           289         62,398   
                                   

Financial liability in relation to put option

     —           —           63,152         63,152   
                                   
     —           —           63,152         63,152   
                                   

 

     Available-for
sale financial
assets
    Financial liability
in relation to put
option
    Total  

Balance as at 1 January 2010

     289        (63,152     (62,863

Total gains or losses:

      

in profit or loss

     —          (5,447     (5,447

in other comprehensive income

     (289     —          (289

Total recognition in equity

     —          15,164        15,164   
                        

Balance as at 31 December 2010

     —          (53,435     (53,435
                        

The table above shows a reconciliation from the beginning balances to the ending balances for fair value measurements in Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Total gains or losses included in profit or loss for the period in the following table are presented in the statement of comprehensive income as follows:

 

     Available-for
sale financial
assets
     Financial liability
in relation to put
option
    Total  

Total gains or losses included in profit or loss for the period:

       

Net financing costs

     —           (5,447     (5,447

Total gains or losses for the period included in profit or loss for asset and liabilities held at the end of the reporting period:

       

Net financing costs

     —           (5,447     (5,447

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

30. Operating leases

The Company entered into various operating lease agreements. For the years ended 31 December 2010 2009 and 2008, total rent expenses for operating leases were $301,309, $287,259 and $263,805 respectively.

The future minimum lease payments under non-cancellable leases are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Less than one year

     18,024         5,804   

Between one and five years

     16,107         19,167   

More than five years

     7,221         8,453   
                 
     41,352         33,424   
                 

 

31. Guarantees and purchase obligations

As at 31 December 2010, outstanding purchase commitments with respect to the acquisition of property, plant and equipment, inventory and purchase of sponsorship and advertisement services amount to $594,910 (31 December 2009: $245,088).

As at 31 December 2010, 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 and provided financial guarantees to subsidiaries totalling to TL 2,413,062 (equivalent to $1,560,842 as at 31 December 2010) (31 December 2009: TL 1,986,052 equivalent to $1,319,023 as at 31 December 2009).

 

32. Commitments and 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 a treasury share and universal service fund, respectively, equal to 15% of its gross revenues from Turkish GSM operations. On 25 June 2005, the Turkish government declared that GSM operators are required to pay 10% of their existing treasury share 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 treasury share to the Turkish Treasury and 10% to the Turkish Ministry as universal service fund. Moreover, the Company is obliged to pay 0.35% of its yearly gross revenue once a year as ICTA Fee. 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 ICTA, 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 behaviour 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

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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.

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.

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%.

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

Rights of the ICTA, Suspension and Termination:

The revised License is not transferable without the approval of the ICTA. In addition, the License Agreement gives the ICTA 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 ICTA.

The ICTA may suspend the Company’s operations for a limited or an unlimited period if necessary for the purpose of public security and national defence. During period of suspension, the ICTA 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 treasury share 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 treasury share and universal service fund according to the new regulation is effective after Council of State’s approval on 10 March 2006.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

3G License

On 30 April 2009, the Company signed a license agreement with ICTA which provides authorization for providing IMT 2000/UMTS services and infrastructure. Turkcell acquired the A type license providing the widest frequency band for a consideration of EUR 358,000 (excluding VAT). The license is effective for duration of 20 years starting from 30 April 2009. According to the agreement, operators have provided IMT 2000/UMTS services starting from 30 July 2009.

In accordance with the 3G License Agreement, the Company had to cover 100% of the population within the borders of all metropolitan municipalities and borders of all cities and municipalities in three and six years, respectively. Moreover, the Company had to cover 100% of the population in all settlement areas with a population higher than 5,000 and 1,000 within eight and ten years, respectively following the effective date of the agreement.

Belarusian Telecom:

Belarusian Telecom owns a license issued on 28 August 2008 for a period of 10 years and is valid till 28 August 2018. According to the Sale and Purchase Agreement signed, the State Property Committee of the Republic of Belarus committed to grant the license from the acquisition date of 26 August 2008 for a period of 10 years and such license shall be extended for an additional 10 years for an insignificant consideration. State Property Committee of the Republic of Belarus has fulfilled its obligations stated in Sale and Purchase Agreement and submitted the related official documents in December 2009. According to the current legislation of the Republic of Belarus, the license extension will be made upon the expiration of its validity period. Therefore, Belarusian Telecom shall apply for extension in August 2018. In the consolidated financial statements, amortization charge is recorded on the assumption that the license will be extended.

Under its license, Belarusian Telecom has several coverage requirements to increase its geographical coverage gradually starting from the date of the license until 2018. However, Belarusian Telecom’s period of execution in relation to coverage requirements are extended for three years starting from the acquisition date.

Astelit:

Astelit owns two GSM activity licenses, one is for GSM–900, the other is for DCS–1800. As at 31 December 2010, Astelit owns twenty four GSM–900, DCS 1800, D-AMPS and microwave Radiorelay frequency licenses which are regional or national. In addition to the above GSM licenses, Astelit owns three licenses for local fixed line phone connection with wireless access using D-AMPS standard, one license for international and long distance calls and eight PSTN licenses for seven regions of Ukraine. Also, Astelit holds number range—two NDC codes for mobile network and local ranges for PSTN and D-AMPS licenses.

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 three months; about changes in incorporation address in 30 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.

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 sport betting games. The Central Betting System Contract was scheduled to expire on 30 March 2008.

Inteltek signed another contract with General Directorate of Youth and Sports (“GDYS”) 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, GDYS ceased the implementation of the Fixed Odds Betting Contract starting from March 2007. Following this annulment decision, 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, which expired on 1 March 2008.

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 and both contracts were to be valid for one year atmost until the operation started as a result of the new tender.

On 12 August 2008, Spor Toto conducted a tender which allowed private companies to organize fixed odds and paramutual betting in sports games. Inteltek gave the best offer for the tender. On 29 August 2008, Inteltek signed a contract with Spor Toto, receiving the rights to run the sport betting business for the next ten years. New commission rate, which is 1.4% of gross takings (until 1 March 2009, commission rate was 7% of gross takings), is applicable starting from March 2009. Under the terms of this contract, Inteltek guaranteed TRY 1,500,000 (equivalent to $970,246 as of 31 December 2010) turnover for the first year of the contract, and has given similar guarantees for future years.

At 31 December 2010, the total amount of guarantee obtained from banks and provided to Spor Toto amounted to TRY 161,298 (equivalent to $63,353 as at 31 December 2010) (31 December 2009: TRY 159,752 equivalent to $106,098 as at 31 December 2009). The targeted payout is 50% of the turnover balance. The fact that the Company is obliged to pay the difference between the realized and the targeted payout balances, whenever the pool balance falls negative, creates an excess payment risk.

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 had to be operational by mid-October 2008. In 2010, Kibris Telekom has completed the radio transmision (airlink) project providing direct international voice and data connection with mainland and started using it from the third quarter of 2010. The Project is the only direct connection in Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus besides Telecommunication Authority.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Under the Mobile Communication License Agreement, Kibris Telekom also pays the tax authorities of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus a treasury share 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.

Superonline:

Superonline was authorized to Fixed Telephony, Satellite Communication Service, Infrastructure, Wired and Wireless Internet Service Provider and Mobile Virtual Network Operator.

Authorization By-Law for Telecommunication Services and Infrastructure published in Official Gazette on dated 26 August 2004 has been abrogated By-Law on Authorization for Electronic Communications Sector dated 28 May 2009. According to this abrogation, Superonline’s “License” on Fixed Authority Services, Infrastructure Operating Service, Internet Service Provision, Satellite Communication Service has been changed to “Authority” on Fixed Authority Services, Infrastructure Operating Service, Internet Service Provision, Satellite Communication Service, Cable Broadcast Service and Superonline’s “License” on Long Distance Traffic Carrying Services License has been changed to “Authority” relevant to the Fixed Telephony Services.

In accordance with the new legislation issued by ICTA, the infrastructure operator authorization right of Superonline has become infinite. As a result, Superonline revised the expected useful lives of its operating license and related fixed network equipment from 15 years to 25 years.

Azerinteltek:

Azerinteltek, in which Inteltek’s shareholding is 51%, was established on 19 January 2010, and authorized to organize, operate, manage and develop the fixed-odds and para-mutual sports betting games by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan for a period of 10 years. The agreement signed with Azeridmanservis which is founded by the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan is renewed with the same terms and conditions in accordance with the new legislation enforced in Azerbaijan regarding the betting games based on sports on 30 September 2010.

Azerinteltek officially commenced to conduct sports betting games on 18 January 2011.

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 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 ICTA on 23 May 2003.

The Regulation is driven largely by a goal to improve the competitive environment. Under the Regulation, the ICTA 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.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 ICTA, 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, Superonline and Milleni.com GMbH have signed an agreement to provide telecommunications services to each other whereby Milleni.com GMbH may convey calls to the Company’s switch and the Company may convey calls to Milleni.com GMbH’s switch, in both cases, for onward transmission to their destinations.

In addition, the ICTA 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 ICTA has also required 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 starting from 9 November 2008.

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.

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 10 February 2010, ICTA decreased “Standard Interconnection Tariffs” for the Company from full TL 0.0655 (equivalent to $0.0424 as at 31 December 2010) to full TL 0.0313 (equivalent to $0.0202 as at 31 December 2010) for voice calls and left the tariff unchanged at full TL 0.0775 (equivalent to full $0.0501 as at 31 December 2010) for video calls, effective from 1 April 2010. The Company started to recognize interconnection revenues and cost in accordance with “Standard Interconnection Reference Tariffs” starting from 1 April 2010.

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

As at 31 December 2010, the management believes that the Group is in compliance with the above mentioned license and interconnection agreements’ conditions and requirements in all material respects.

Legal Proceedings

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

Dispute with Turk Telekom with respect to call termination fees

Upon application of Turk Telekom, the ICTA has set temporary (and after final) call termination fees for calls to be applied between Turk Telekom and the Company 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 totalling to TL 11,970 (equivalent to $7,743 as at 31 December 2010) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment covering the period from August 2005 until October 2005. Expert reports and supplementary expert reports which are obtained for the lawsuit, affirm justification of the Company. The lawsuit 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 ICTA for the period between November 2005 and October 2006 amounting to TL 23,726 (equivalent to $15,347 as at 31 December 2010) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment. The Court decided to consolidate this lawsuit with the first lawsuit dated 22 December 2005.

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 ICTA for the period between November 2006 and 1 March 2007 amounting to TL 6,836 (equivalent to $4,422 as at 31 December 2010) including principal, interest and penalty on late payment. The Court also decided to consolidate this lawsuit with the first lawsuit dated 22 December 2005.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

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 TL 3,023 (equivalent to $1,955 as at 31 December 2010) for possible interest charges as at 31 December 2000. On 9 May 2002, Turk Telekom requested an interest amounting to a nominal amount of TL 30,068 (equivalent to $19,449 as at 31 December 2010).

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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. On 25 December 2008, the Court rejected the case. The Company appealed the decision. The Supreme Court rejected the appeal. The Company applied for the correction of the decision. The Supreme Court rejected the correction of the decision request and the decision is finalised.

Based on the management opinion, the Company accrued provision of TL 91,864 (equivalent to $59,420 as at 31 December 2010) and the Company netted off the whole amount from the receivables from Turk Telekom as at 31 December 2010.

Additionally, a lawsuit is commenced against Turk Telekom on 28 October 2010 to collect the receivable amounting to principal of TL 23,378 (equivalent to $15,122 as at 31 December 2010), overdue interest of TL 3,092 (equivalent to $2,000 as at 31 December 2010) and delay fee of TL 1,925 (equivalent to $1,245 as at 31 December 2010), with the contractual default interest until payment date on the ground that the above mentioned exercise is contrary to the term of the contract which is effective for the year 2000, Turk Telekom has already collected the whole amount which is subjected to the related court decision as of 31 October 2009 and Turk Telekom collected additional receivable.

Dispute regarding the Fine Applied by 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 a 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 a nominal amount of approximately TL 6,973 (equivalent to $4,510 as at 31 December 2010) and was enjoined to cease these infringements. The Company initiated a lawsuit before Council of State for the injunction and cancellation of the decision. On 15 November 2005, the Court cancelled the Competition Board’s decision.

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 Council of State for the injunction and cancellation of the Competition Board’s decision dated 29 December 2005. On 13 May 2008, Council of State dismissed the lawsuit. The Company appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending.

Based on the decision of Competition Board, Ankara Tax Office requested the Company to pay TL 6,973 (equivalent to $4,510 as at 31 December 2010) through the payment order dated 4 August 2006. On 25 September 2006, the Company made the related payment and initiated a lawsuit for the cancellation of this payment order. The court dismissed the lawsuit, and the Company appealed this decision. On 17 March 2009, Council of State reversed the judgement of the Local Court. Local Court decided in line with the decision of Council of State. On 18 December 2009, the Court rejected the case and the Company also appealed this decision. Council of State reversed the judgement of the Instance Court. The lawsuit is still pending.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute regarding the Fine Applied by the Competition Board regarding Mobile Marketing Activities

The Competition Board decided to initiate an investigation in order to identify whether the Company maintains exclusive activities on mobile marketing and their appropriateness with respect to competition rules. On 23 December 2009, Competition Board decided that the Company violates competition rules in GSM and mobile marketing services and fined the Company amounting to TL 36,072 (equivalent to $23,332 as at 31 December 2010). The payment was made within 1 month following the notification of the decision of the Competition Board. Therefore, 25% discount was applied and TL 27,054 (equivalent to $17,499 as at 31 December 2010) is paid as the monetary fine on 25 May 2010. The Company filed a legal case on 25 June 2010 for the suspension of execution and cancellation of the aforementioned decision. The Court rejected the Company’s suspension of execution request. The Company objected to the decision. The lawsuit is still pending.

Avea, depending on the Competition Board decision, initiated a lawsuit against the Company claiming a compensation from the Company for its damages amounting to TL 1,000 (equivalent to $647 as at 31 December 2010), with reservation of further claims, on the ground that the Company violated the competition. The lawsuit is still pending.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognised in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute on National Roaming Agreement

The Company conducted roaming negotiations in 2001 with İs-Tim Telekomunikasyon Hizmetleri A.S. (“İs-Tim”) which is a GSM operator, performing since March 2001. On 19 October 2001, upon unsuccessful negotiations, ICTA granted time for the Company until 15 November 2005 to sign the roaming agreement with the determined conditions and requested parties to come to an agreement until 15 November 2001. The Company initiated a lawsuit on the ground that ICTA has no power of intervention; its proposals are impossible from technical aspects and unacceptable from economic reasons. Council of State gave a decision on nonneccessity of a new decision on the ground that action which is subjected to the lawsuit is cancelled by another state council decision. This decision appealed by ICTA. Council of State, Plenary Session of the Chamber for Administrative Divisions decided to uphold the court decision.

In a letter dated 14 March 2002, the ICTA subjected Is-Tim’s request for national roaming to the condition that it is reasonable, economically proportional and technically possible. Nevertheless, the ICTA 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 ICTA. On 14 March 2006, Council of State 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. ICTA appealed the decision. Plenary Session of Administrative Law Divisions of the Council of State has decided to approve the decision of the Council of State.

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The ICTA 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 TL 21,822 (equivalent to $14,115 as at 31 December 2010). On 7 April 2004, the Company made the related payment with its accrued interest. On 27 May 2004, the Company filed a lawsuit. On 3 January 2005, with respect to the Council of State’s injunction, ICTA paid back nominal amount of TL 21,822 (equivalent to $14,115 as at 31 December 2010).

On 13 December 2005, Council of State 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. ICTA appealed the decision. The appeal process is still pending. Plenary Session of Administrative Law Divisions of the Council of State has decided to approve the decision of the Council of State. On 22 July 2010, the Company initiated a lawsuit against ICTA for the compensation of TL 7,111 (equivalent to $4,600 as at 31 December 2010), the total amount of the damage of the Company accrued interest between the period when the Company made the payment and ICTA returned the same to the Company as the result of the stay of order decision.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

On 27 October 2006, Telecom Italia SPA and TIM International N.V. initiated a lawsuit against the Company 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. The Court rejected the case. Such decision has been appealed by Telecom Italia SPA and TIM International N.V. The appeal process is still pending.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute regarding of the Fine Applied by ICTA on pricing applications of the Company

On 7 April 2010, ICTA decided to impose administrative fine to the Company amounting to TL 4,008 (equivalent to $2,592 as at 31 December 2010) for misinforming the Authority and TL 374 (equivalent to $242 as at 31 December 2010) for making some subscribers suffer. The payment was made within 1 month following the notification of the decision of the ICTA. Therefore, 25% discount was applied and TL 3,287 (equivalent to $2,126 as at 31 December 2010) is paid in total as the administrative fine on 9 June 2010. The Company filed two lawsuits on 9 July 2010 for the suspension of execution and cancellation of the aforementioned decision. The Court rejected the Company’s suspension of execution requests and the Company objected to the decisions but the objections are rejected. The lawsuits are still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no contingent asset is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Dispute regarding the Fine applied by ICTA on tariffs above upper limits

On 15 October 2009, ICTA decided to initiate an investigation stating that the Company applied tariffs above upper limits announced by ICTA. On 21 December 2009, the Company initiated a lawsuit for the cancellation of ICTA’s decision. The case is still pending.

On 21 April 2010, ICTA decided to impose administrative fine to the Company amounting to TL 53,467 (equivalent to $34,584 as at 31 December 2010) by claiming that the Company applied tariffs above the upper limits of GSM-GSM in GSM Upper Limits Table approved by ICTA. The payment was made within 1 month following the notification of the decision of the ICTA. Therefore, 25% discount was applied and TL 40,100 (equivalent to $25,938 as at 31 December 2010) is paid as the administrative fine on 3 June 2010. The Company filed a lawsuit on 28 June 2010, for the cancellation of the aforementioned decision. The Court overruled the suspension of execution claim, the Company objected to the decision and the Court accepted this objection and decided for the suspension of the execution. Accordingly, ICTA paid back TL 40,100 (equivalent to $25,938 as at 31 December 2010) on 27 January 2011. An income accrual of the same amount has been recognized in the consolidated financial statements as of 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Amount to be reimbursed to the subscribers is calculated as TL 46,228 (equivalent to $29,902 as at 31 December 2010) and deducted from revenues in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2009. Reimbursement to subscribers was made in January 2010.

Dispute on Deposits at Banks

The Company has disputes in connection with some accounts at two banks which are deemed to be raised as a result of irregularities in such banks and parties initiated lawsuits to each other regarding such disputes. It has been informed that a nominal of 3,814 TL (equivalent to $2,467 as at 31 December 2010) was blocked as of 31 December 2001. The Company has recorded that amount as expense to its consolidated financial statements. The bank claims a nominal amount of 3,785 TL (equivalent to $2,448 as at 31 December 2010), excluding interest, in addition to the aforementioned amount. The Company initiated a lawsuit in the total of the above mentioned amounts against the other bank. In the end of the jurisdiction, the Court, on 27 April 2004, decided the Company to pay $2,629 as principal and 40% of such amount as rejection of the execution compensation. Such decision became final on 11 October 2004. The Company made a payment of 7,615 TL (equivalent to $4,926 as at 31 December 2010) on 10 December 2004 to 14th Execution Office of Istanbul.

In the lawsuit initiated against the other bank, the Court decided in favour of the Company on 1 March 2005. The bank appealed the decision and the Company replied the same. On 3 April 2006, Supreme Court of Appeals decided the reversal of the Court’s decision in favour of the defendant. The Court abided by the decision of the Supreme Court of Appeals. The lawsuit is pending. The Company has not reflected any amount in connection with this matter in its consolidated financial statements prepared as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Dispute on Special Communication Taxation Regarding Prepaid Card Sales

Tax Office imposed tax penalty in the total amount of TL 47,130 (equivalent to $30,485 as at 31 December 2010) and TL 89,694 (equivalent to $58,017 as at 31 December 2010) based on the ground that the Company had to pay special communication tax over the discounts applied to the distributors for the

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

wholesales for the years 2003 and 2004, respectively. On 31 December 2008 and 18 December 2009, the Company initiated lawsuits before the court. The Company requested to await until the completion of settlement procedure in the lawsuit initiated on 31 December 2008. Since the Company and the Ministry of Finance Settlement Commission have settled on the amounts subjected to the lawsuits as explained in the following paragraph, the Company has withdrawn from the lawsuits.

According to the settlement made with the Ministry of Finance Settlement Commission on 1 June 2010, special communication tax and penalty was settled at TL 1,489 (equivalent to $963 as at 31 December 2010) and TL 2,834 (equivalent to $1,833 as at 31 December 2010) for the years 2003 and 2004, respectively. In addition, late payment interest was settled at TL 3,570 (equivalent to $2,309 as at 31 December 2010) and TL 5,295 (equivalent to $3,425 as at 31 December 2010) for the years 2003 and 2004, respectively. The aforementioned amounts were paid on 27 July 2010.

Provision set for the above mentioned special communication taxes, penalty and late payment interest was TL 64,653 (equivalent to $41,820 as at 31 December 2010) in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2009 and the difference between the provision amount and settled amount was recognized as income in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Tax Office imposed tax penalty, including actual tax and penalty for loss of tax, in the total amount of TL 133,617 (equivalent to $86,428 as at 31 December 2010) and TL 139,101 (equivalent to $89,975 as at 31 December 2010) based on the ground that the Company had to pay special communication tax over the discounts applied to the distributors for the wholesales for the years 2005 and 2006, respectively. The Company initiated lawsuits for the cancellation of assessments and penalties mentioned above. Lawsuits are still pending.

Company management decided to set provision for the special communication tax for the discounts applied to distributors for the wholesales between January 2005 and January 2007 amounting to TL 9,087 (equivalent to $5,878 as at 31 December 2010) and accrued interest amounting to TL 12,655 (equivalent to $8,186 as at 31 December 2010) in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 in line with the settlement gains with respect to same issue in June 2010.

On 28 February 2011, Tax Amnesty Law has been approved by the President of Republic of Turkey and; if applied until 2 May 2011, Turkish companies gained an alternative method for the settlement of previous disputes with the Tax Authorities related to the years prior to 2009. On 23 March 2011, Board of Directors of the Company convened and decided to authorize the management to apply to the Turkish Ministry of Finance in order to restructure the special communication tax imposition pertaining years 2005-2006 and to pursue related negotiations. As of the date of this report, the Company has not applied to the Tax Authorities related to the Tax Amnesty Law.

Carrying International Voice Traffic

In May 2003, the Company was informed that the ICTA 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, ICTA fined the Company a nominal amount of approximately TL 31,731 (equivalent to $20,525 as at 31 December 2010).

The Company has initiated a lawsuit with the claim of annulment of the related processes and decisions of ICTA, however, paid the administrative fine on 9 April 2004. On 5 November 2004, Council of State gave a

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

decision, which is served to the Company, for stay of execution. With respect to that decision, ICTA paid back TL 18,000 (equivalent to $11,643 as at 31 December 2010) on 26 January 2005 and deduct a sum of TL 13,731 (equivalent to $8,882 as at 31 December 2010) from the December frequency usage fee payment. On 26 December 2006, Council of State decided to accept the Company’s claim and annul the decision of and the fine imposed by the ICTA. ICTA appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending.

Turk Telekom initiated a lawsuit against the Company with respect to the same issue requesting an amount of TL 450,931 (equivalent to $291,676 as at 31 December 2010) of which TL 219,149 (equivalent to $141,752 as at 31 December 2010) is principal and TL 231,782 (equivalent to $149,924 as at 31 December 2010) is interest charged until 30 June 2005 and requesting a temporary injunction.

Considering the progresses at the court case, provision is set for the principal amounting to TL 51,942 (equivalent to $33,598 as at 31 December 2010) and accrued interest amounting to a nominal amount of TL 84,567 (equivalent to $54,701 as at 31 December 2010) in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

In deciding upon the amount of the provision taking, the Company has taken the Turkish law into consideration, not the amounts requested by Turk Telekom and reflected in the expert report. Specifically, under Turkish Law, a person who is alleging that he has suffered a loss cannot claim the whole of his possible revenues but only the damages may only be sought in respect of lost profit. For this reason, the provision set by the Company is calculated by taking Turk Telekom’s estimated loss of profit into consideration rather than the amounts requested by Turk Telekom and amounts reflected in the expert report. Moreover, the Company obtained an independent opinion dated 23 October 2007 which supports the management opinion from an expert who is not designated by the Court.

On 5 November 2009, the Court rejected the Turk Telekom’s request amounting to TL 171,704 (equivalent to $111,063 as at 31 December 2010) and accepted the request amounting to TL 279,227 (equivalent to $180,613 as at 31 December 2010). The Company appealed the decision. Also Turk Telekom appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending.

Dispute with Spor Toto

On 9 November 2005, Spor Toto sent a notification letter to Inteltek claiming that Inteltek is obliged to pay nominal amount of TL 3,292 (equivalent to $2,129 as at 31 December 2010) 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.

Spor Toto, on behalf of GDYS, initiated a declaratory lawsuit against Inteltek. On 22 February 2007, the Court rejected the case and decided that the collection risk is with GDYS and Inteltek is not responsible for the uncollected amount of TL 1,527 (equivalent to $988 as at 31 December 2010) and also rejected the demand that the reconciliation period should be six-month independent periods. GDYS appealed the Court’s decision. Supreme Court rejected the appeal request of GDYS. Following the Supreme Court’s decision, GDYS applied for the correction of the decision. GDYS’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 principal amount of TL 3,292 (equivalent to $2,129 as at 31 December 2010) and its overdue interest accrual amount of TL 1,894 (equivalent to $1,225 as at 31 December 2010). Furthermore, Inteltek reclaimed TL 2,345

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

(equivalent to $1,517 as at 31 December 2010) principal and TL 977 (equivalent to $632 as at 31 December 2010) accrued interest which was paid in the 1st and 3rd reconciliation periods. Inteltek has initiated a lawsuit on 21 February 2008 to collect this amount. On 19 March 2009, the court decided in favour of Inteltek. Spor Toto appealed the decision. The Supreme Court ruled to reverse the judgement of the local court. Inteltek applied for the correction of the decision. The correction of the decision process is still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute on over assessment following the settlement on VAT fine pertaining to International Roaming Agreements

On 9 February 2009, the Company initiated a lawsuit claiming cancellation of interest charges amounting TL 6,609 (equivalent to $4,275 as at 31 December 2010) which are erroneously calculated after settlement with the Tax Office regarding the VAT and tax penalties accrued due to roaming agreement for years 2000, 2001 and 2002. The Court rejected the Company’s injunction request. The Company objected to the decision. The Court rejected the objection of the Company. The lawsuit is pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute on Iranian GSM tender process

The Company has initiated an arbitration case against Islamic Republic of Iran for not abiding by the provisions of the Agreement on Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investments and demanded its sustained loss, on 11 January 2008 at the arbitration court which is established pursuant to the UNCITRAL arbitration rules. The arbitration process is still pending.

Besides, related with GSM tender process, Eastasia one of the partners of the consortium established to participate the tender and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, initiated an arbitration process against IEDC, another partner of the consortium, on 29 April 2008 claiming that IEDC violated the shareholder’s agreement and seeking compensation for damages for the aforementioned breach. The arbitration process is still pending.

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 a nominal amount of TL 8,136 (equivalent to $5,263 as at 31 December 2010) including interest. The expert report given to Court is in favor of the Company. The court ruled to obtain supplementary expert report. The case is still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Dispute on the decision of CMB regarding 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. On 21 March 2007, the Company commenced a lawsuit to suspend the execution and to annul the decision of the CMB.

On 18 January 2008, Ankara 14th Administrative Court rejected the case. The Company appealed the decision with an injunction request. However Council of State rejected the appeal request. The Company applied for the correction of the decision. The correction of the decision process is still pending.

On 15 October 2008, the CMB decided on an administrative fine amounting to TL 12 (equivalent to $8 as at 31 December 2010) since the Company did not fulfill the decision of CMB dated 26 January 2007 and required the Company to inform its shareholders at the next General Assembly Meeting. The Company commenced a lawsuit before the Administrative Court. The Court rejected the Company’s suspension request and the Company’s objection to this decision has been rejected. The case is still pending.

Dispute on Mobile Number Portability

On 29 March 2007, the Company initiated a lawsuit against the ICTA claiming stay of order for and the annulment of the Regulation on Mobile Number Portability issued by the ICTA on 1 February 2007 on the ground that vested rights of the Company arising out the concession agreement were violated by the said regulation. On 1 June 2009, the Court rejected the case. The Company appealed the decision. The appeal process is still pending.

Dispute on Turk Telekom Interconnection Costs

On 8 April 2009, Turk Telekom initiated a lawsuit for damages against the company claiming that the company is violating the legislation by applying higher call termination fees to operators than the fees applied to the Company’s subscribers for on-net calls and requesting for the time being TL 10 (equivalent to $6 as at 31 December 2010) with its accrued interest starting from 2001 and TL 10 (equivalent to $6 as at 31 December 2010) with its accrued interest starting from the lawsuit date for the sustained loss as a result of decreasing traffic volume of Turk Telekom and subscriber lost derived from this action. The case is still pending.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute on Avea Interconnection Costs

On 4 November 2010, Avea initiated a lawsuit on the ground that on-net tariffs of the Company are under the interconnection fees notwithstanding ICTA’s decision regarding, on-net tariffs of the Company cannot be under the interconnection fees which are applied by the Company to other operators and demanded TL 1,000 (equivalent to $647 as at 31 December 2010) material compensation by reserving its right for surpluses. The lawsuit is pending.

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

The Company has accrued provision amounting to TL 1,000 (equivalent to $647 as at 31 December 2010) which is the total amount of the legal case.

Dispute on Campaigns

On 21 May 2008, ICTA decided that the Company damaged the subscribers’ financial interests related to the campaigns in which free minutes or counters are given and requested TL 32,088 (equivalent to $20,755 as at 31 December 2010). On 10 July 2008, the Company filed a lawsuit for the injunction and cancellation of the ICTA’s decision. The lawsuit is still pending. However, the Company benefited from the early payment option and deserved a 25% discount and paid TL 24,066 (equivalent to $15,567 as at 31 December 2010) on 1 August 2008.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute on Payment Request of Savings Deposits Insurance Fund

On 26 July 2007, Savings Deposits Insurance Fund (“SDIF”) requested TL 15,149 (equivalent to $9,799 as at 31 December 2010) 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. Council of State accepted the injunction request of the Company. On 19 January 2010, the Court accepted the Company’s claim and cancelled the aforementioned request of SDIF. SDIF appealed the decision. Appeal process 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. On 6 February 2008, the Court accepted the Company’s injunction request. On 29 March 2010, the Court decided on the cancellation of the payment order. SDIF appealed such decision. The appeal process is pending.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute on the Discounts which are paid over the Treasury Share and ICTA Fee

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

Starting from 1 January 2007, the Company started to deduct discounts granted to distributors from gross revenue and present them on a net basis. Accordingly, the Company decided that, it has paid excess treasury share and universal service fund for the year 2006 totalling TL 51,254 (equivalent to $33,153 as at 31 December 2010).

Through the letter dated 23 February 2007, the Company requested treasury share amounting to TL 46,129 (equivalent to $29,838 as at 31 December 2010) and interest accrued amounting to TL 5,020 (equivalent to $3,247 as at 31 December 2010) from Turkish Treasury and universal service fund amounting to TL 5,125

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

(equivalent to $3,315 as at 31 December 2010) and interest accrued amounting to TL 558 (equivalent to $361 as at 31 December 2010) 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 ongoing monthly payments. As at 31 December 2007, the Company deducted TL 51,254 (equivalent to $33,153 as at 31 December 2010) from monthly treasury share and universal service fund payments.

Turkish Treasury sent a letter to the Company dated 17 July 2007 and objected the deduction of the discounts granted to the distributors from the treasury share payments. Accordingly, the Company is asked to return TL 2,960 (equivalent to $1,915 as at 31 December 2010) that is deducted from treasury share payment for May 2007. The Company has not made the related payment and continued to deduct such discounts treasury share and universal service fee amount related to discounts granted to distributors for the year 2006.

Management believes 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 financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

According to the 51st article which is headed “Applicable Law and Settlement of Disputes”, of the concession agreement of the Company, parties agreed on settling disputes by arbitration and three arbitrator which are selected within the scope of ICC. Pursuant to mentioned article, disputes on the scope, application or termination of the agreement, shall primarily resolved by negotiations at the License Coordination Commission; in case the dispute cannot be resolved within 30 days, one of the party shall notify other party regarding the arising dispute, structure and reasons of the dispute and intention for applying to the arbitration; if the dispute cannot be resolved within 15 days as from notification date, dispute shall be resolved by arbitration.

The Company filed two lawsuits before ICC claiming that the Company is not obliged to pay treasury share and ICTA Fee in accordance with the 8th and 9th Articles of the concession agreement, respectively, on discounts granted to distributors. On the both lawsuits, ICC have decided in favour of the Company. As stated in both of the Final Awards, the Company is not under obligation of paying Treasury Share and the Contribution to the expenses of Authority pursuant to Article of 8 and 9 of the Concession Agreement dated March 10, 2006. ICTA filed lawsuits for cancellation of these Final Awards. Both cases are still pending.

Dispute on payments of additional treasury share payment for the period between 1 June 2004 and 9 March 2006

Turkish Treasury, through a letter which is based on the Report of the Treasury Controller’s Board following the examinations covering the period between 1 June 2004 and 9 March 2006, requested additional treasury share payment regarding the mentioned period. The Company initiated a lawsuit before ICC on 18 December 2009 in order to obtain a declaratory judgment on the Company is not obliged to pay TL 3,320 (equivalent to $2,147 as at 31 December 2010) of the requested amount and treasury share over the exchange differences arising from roaming revenue. The case is still pending.

ICTA, through a letter dated 14 May 2010 which is based on the Report of the Treasury Controller’s Board following the examinations covering the period between 1 June 2004 to 9 March 2006, requested additional treasury share payment of TL 4,909 (equivalent to $3,175 as at 31 December 2010) together with the monetary fine of TL 12,171 (equivalent to $7,873 as at 31 December 2010) on the ground that the treasury share and treasury share over the exchange differences arising from roaming revenue are not paid entirely.

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

On 26 May 2010, the Company, in order to provide the suspension of the payment, requested a preliminary injunction from the Civil Court of First Instance based on the grounds that the payment of additional treasury share payment of TL 4,909 (equivalent to $3,175 as at 31 December 2010) together with the monetary fine of TL 12,171 (equivalent to $7,873 as at 31 December 2010) is a pending case before ICC Arbitration Court. The Civil Court of First Instance accepted the Company’s request. ICTA raised an objection to the preliminary injunction and this objection has been rejected. ICTA, through a letter dated 19 October 2010 which is based on the Report of the Treasury Controller’s Board following the examinations covering the period between 10 March 2010 and 31 December 2010, requested treasury share of TL 72,527 (equivalent to $46,913 as at 31 December 2010) and conventional penalty of TL 205,594 (equivalent to $132,984 as at 31 December 2010). The Company paid TL 1,535 (equivalent to $993 as at 31 December 2010) of the aforementioned amount.

On 13 December 2010, the Company, in order to provide the suspension of the payment, requested a preliminary injunction from the Civil Court of First Instance based on the grounds that the payment of treasury share of TL 70,992 (equivalent to $45,920 as at 31 December 2010) and conventional penalty of TL 205,594 (equivalent to $132,984 as at 31 December 2010) is a pending case before ICC Arbitration Court. The Court accepted the Company’s request. ICTA’s objection against the decision has been rejected.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

The company filed a lawsuit before ICC on 12 January 2011 regarding the part of treasury share which is not covered in the lawsuits previously finalized in favor of the Company and the conventional penalty of TL 205,594 (equivalent to $132,984 as at 31 December 2010). The lawsuit is still pending.

Dispute on treasury share amounts which are absorbed due to retrospective board decisions taken by ICTA

In consequence of collection of treasury share from the Company without considering its payments to the other operators and some subscribers due to the retrospective procedure amendments of ICTA on both interconnection fees and some tariffs; the Company commenced a lawsuit on 5 August 2010 before ICC on the ground that treasury share which collected from diminishing returns are unlawful and deductions committed by the Company between the years 2006 - 2010 from the treasury share are rightful and claimed payment of TL 1,600 (equivalent to $1,035 as at 31 December 2010) and its interest to the overpayment amount which is paid under the name of treasury share, against ICTA due to its administrative act leading to this case and against Turkish Treasury and Turkish Ministry due to making benefit from aforementioned amount. The lawsuit is still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements prepared as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute with the Ministry of Industry and Trade

Ministry of Industry and Trade notified the Company that the Company is not informing the subscribers properly before service subscriptions and content sales and charged administrative fine of TL 68,201 (equivalent to $44,114 as at 31 December 2010). On 24 August 2009, the Company initiated a lawsuit for

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

the cancellation of the payment order and related decision of the Ministry of Industry and Trade. The Court rejected the Company’s injunction request. The Court cancelled the payment order on 8 June 2010. Ministry of Industry and Trade appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending.

On 14 December 2009, the Company filed a lawsuit for the injunction and cancellation of the payment order of TL 68,201 (equivalent to $44,114 as at 31 December 2010) with respect to the decision of Ministry of Industry and Trade. The Court rejected the appeal request of the Company. The Company objected to the decision and Istanbul Regional Administrative Court accepted the objection of the Company and decided to suspend the order of payment.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Penalty of ICTA on Value Added Services

On 1 March 2010, ICTA decided to initiate an investigation against the Company upon administrative fine of 31,822 TL (equivalent to $20,583 as at 31 December 2010) is revoked by The Ministry of Industry and Trade on the ground that the Company did not refund the subscribers who are unsubscribed in the period and did not demand content and this is contrary to the article 11/A of the law numbered 4077. The investigation report has been sent to the Company and the Company has submitted its written defence to ICTA.

On 13 January 2011, ICTA decided to apply administrative fine of TL 748 (equivalent to $484 as at 31 December 2010). Since the administrative fine was paid within 1 month following the notification of the decision of ICTA, 25% discount was applied and provision amounting to TL 555 (equivalent to $359 as at 31 December 2010) is set in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Dispute of Astelit with its Distributor

Astelit and one of its distributors had an agreement for the sale of Astelit’s inventory to third parties. Under this agreement, the sale of products had to be performed within 30 days after delivery and proceeds from such sale had to be transferred to Astelit excluding commissions due to the distributor for performing the assignment. At a certain stage of the relationship under this agreement, the distributor began to violate its obligations for indebtedness for received, due but unpaid products.

Despite the distributor is factually a debtor under the agreement, the distributor filed a lawsuit against Astelit on recovery of HRV 106,443 (equivalent to $13,369 as at 31 December 2010), which is allegedly the sum of advance payment for undelivered goods. In the course of court proceedings, Astelit made a counterclaim on recovery of indebtedness in the amount of HRV 35,292 (equivalent to $4,433 as at 31 December 2010).

As a result of consideration of two claims, the Court of First Instance in Kiev dismissed the claim of the distributor and sustained the counterclaim of Astelit. Subsequently, The Kiev Economic Court of Appeal repealed the decision of the Court of First Instance and dismissed the claim of Astelit and sustained the claim of the distributor on recovery of HRV 106,443 (equivalent to $13,369 as at 31 December 2010). The resolution of The Higher Economic Court of Ukraine dated 20 October 2009 remained unaltered the

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

appellate court’s ruling. Thereafter, Astelit management has filed a lawsuit against this conclusion in the Supreme Court of Ukraine, which is the supreme and final degree of jurisdiction against the resolution of the Higher Economic Court of Ukraine.

In December 2009 the Supreme Court of Ukraine has revoked the previous court decisions and forwarded the court file to the Court of First Instance in Kiev to other judges for new legal proceedings. New legal proceedings have started in February 2010. It was decided by the court to conduct judicial expertise by specially authorized Kiev research institute of judicial expertise in order to define real indebtedness. The expertise was initiated in April 2010 and still is in process.

Management believes that such conclusion of the courts has no proper legal basis and does not conform to the facts of the case and evidences. Accordingly, the Company has not recorded any accruals with respect to this matter in its consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Dispute of Astelit related to Withholding Tax on Interest Expense

Ukranian Tax Administration sent a tax notice to Astelit stating that withholding tax rate on interest expense for the loan agreement with Euroasia should be 10% for the year 2009. According to Ukrainian legislation and Convention on avoiding double taxation, Astelit paid withholding tax at 2%. Astelit filed the suit to cancel tax notice, which imposed Astelit to pay additional HRV 11,651 (equivalent to $1,463 as at 31 December 2010). Administrative court of first instance decided in favour of Astelit on 30 November 2010. Tax Inspection appealed the case on 27 December 2010. Based on the management opinion, provision amounting to $2,635 is set for the risks belonging to years 2009 and 2010 in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Dispute on VAT and SCT on Roaming Services

On 21 October 2009, based on the Tax Investigation Reports dated 2 October 2009, Presidency of Large Taxpayers Office, Audit Group Management notified the Company that VAT and SCT should be calculated on charges paid to international GSM operators for the calls initiated by the Company’s subscribers abroad and collect from the subscribers and requested TL 255,298 (equivalent to $165,135 as at 31 December 2010) for the period from April 2005 to July 2009, and for an interest to be calculated until the payment date. The Company filed a lawsuit for the cancellation of the aforementioned request. Based on the settlement between the Company and Ministry of Finance, the Company has withdrawn from the lawsuits.

As a result of the settlement made with Ministry of Finance Settlement Commission on 1 June 2010, penalty fee has been settled at TL 20,163 (equivalent to $13,042 as at 31 December 2010) and late payment interest expense was settled at TL 15,998 (equivalent to $10,348 as at 31 December 2010) and related payment was made on 27 July 2010.

Dispute on VAT and SCT regarding Shell & Turcas Petrol A.S Campaign

Turkcell and Shell&Turcas Petrol A.S. signed an agreement on 27 November 2007 where eligible subscribers can get free counters and minutes from the Company or free oil from Shell&Turcas Petrol AS.

As a result of the tax investigation, Tax Controllers notified that VAT and special communication tax are not calculated over the free counters and minutes and imposed special communication tax amounting to TL 1,214 (equivalent to $785 as at 31 December 2010) and tax penalty of TL 1,822 (equivalent to $1,179 as at 31 December 2010) and VAT amounting to TL 874 (equivalent to $565 as at 31 December 2010) and tax

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

penalty of TL 1,315 (equivalent to $851 as at 31 December 2010). On 16 September 2009, the Company filed lawsuits for the cancellation of the tax penalty. The court decided to accept the case. Tax Administration appealed the decisions. Based on the management opinion, the Company has not recorded any accruals with respect to this matter in its consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Lawsuit initiated by Mep Iletisim AS

On 31 December 2008, Mep Iletisim AS, which is former distributor of the Company and whose agreement is no longer valid, initiated a lawsuit against the Company claiming that it has a loss of TL 64,000 (equivalent to $41,397 as at 31 December 2010) due to the applications of the Company and requested TL 1,000 (equivalent to $647 as at 31 December 2010) and remaining amount to be reserved. The case is still pending.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Investigation of ICTA on the wrongful declarations of the Company and the Company’s refrain from signing the minutes

ICTA decided to initiate an investigation based on the reason that the information provided by the Company within the frame of another investigation of ICTA is inconsistent and wrong, the Company is not in a helpful approach regarding the conduction of the investigation and refraining from signing the minutes drafted by the Audit Committee of ICTA. Investigation report has been sent to the Company. The Company submitted its defence within the due time. In accordance with the decision of ICTA dated 10 February 2011, no penalty has been charged for the Company.

Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is uncertain, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Decisions of ICTA on tariff plans

On 15 November 2009, ICTA notified that the Company has changed the conditions of a tariff plan after the launch and shall reimburse overcharged amounts to the subscribers. On 1 February 2010, the Company initiated a lawsuit for the cancellation of the decision of ICTA. The Court rejected the Company’s stay of execution request. The case is still pending.

Amount to be reimbursed to the subscribers is calculated as TL 15,660 (equivalent to $10,129 as at 31 December 2010) and deducted from revenues in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2009. Reimbursement to subscribers was made in January 2010.

On 17 May 2010, ICTA decided to impose TL 802 (equivalent to $519 as at 31 December 2010) administrative fine against Turkcell on the ground that one of the tariff option of Turkcell contradicts the board decision which sets lower limit to the on-net tariffs. The payment was made within 1 month following the notification of the decision of ICTA. Therefore, 25% discount was applied and TL 601 (equivalent to $389 as at 31 December 2010) as fine on 21 June 2010. Besides, the Company filed a lawsuit on 21 July

 

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As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

2010 in request for the cancellation of fine. The Court overruled the suspension of execution request and the Company objected to this decision. The Court rejected the objection request of the Company. The lawsuit is still pending.

On 8 March 2010, ICTA informed the Company that an investigation took place on another tariff plan. As a result of the investigation, ICTA decided to apply administrative penalty amounted TL 26,483 (equivalent to $17,130 as at 31 December 2010) to the Company on 22 September 2010. Administrative fine was paid within 1 month following the notification of the decision of ICTA. Therefore, 25% discount was applied and TL 19,862 (equivalent to $12,847 as at 31 December 2010) is paid as a fine on 7 December 2010. The Company initiated a lawsuit to suspend the execution of administrative fine and cancellation, on 10 December 2010. The Court overruled the suspension of execution request and the Company objected to this decision. On 17 February 2011, the Court decided to suspend the execution. On 1 March 2011, the Court accepted the Company’s request for full refund of the amount paid to ICTA. ICTA reimbursed the related amount on 30 March 2011.

Amount to be reimbursed to the subscribers is calculated as TL 13,432 (equivalent to $8,688 as at 31 December 2010) for the year 2010 and deducted from revenues in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010. Reimbursement to subscribers was made in February 2011.

Decision of ICTA regarding telephone directory and unknown numbers service

On 7 July 2010, ICTA decided to fine the Company by TL 401 (equivalent to $259 as at 31 December 2010) and transfer back all kinds of software, hardware, infrastructure and equipment which make available the telephone directory and unknown numbers service to the ownership of the Company from its wholly owned subsidiary on the ground that ownership of the whole system related to telephone directory and unknown number service is not pertain to the Company. Administrative fine was paid within 1 month following the notification of the decision of ICTA. Therefore, 25% discount was applied and TL 301 (equivalent to $195 as at 31 December 2010) as fine on 7 September 2010.

The Company filed a lawsuit on 22 September 2010 for the suspension and cancellation of the execution. The Court overruled the suspension of execution request of the Company and the Company objected to this decision however the court rejected the Company’s objection. The lawsuit is still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Investigation of the Competition Board regarding applications to the distributors

On 11 November 2009, Competition Board decided to initiate an investigation against the Company on the ground that the Company, through its applications to its distributors, violates the related clauses of the Competition Act numbered 4054. Within the context of the investigation, the Company submitted its statement of defence. The investigation took place as an on-site examination and inspection in March 2010. The Competition Board decided to examine the claims of Vodafone regarding this investigation within the context of this file. Besides, the Company’s action concerning abuse of dominant position in the wholesale or retail market of sim card, unit card, digital unit, activation and other subscriber services by obstructing the activity of Avea is examined in the context of this investigation and Avea is accepted as a complainant. Investigation report is submitted to the Company in August 2010 and the Company submitted its defence statement to Competition Board. Additional Written Opinion is submitted to the Company in February 2011 and the Company will submit its written defence to Additional Written Opinion within due date.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Investigation of ICTA based on the complaint of a subscriber

ICTA decided to initiate an investigation through its decision dated 12 May 2010 based on the complaint of Ozalp Insaat Pazarlama Tic. Ltd. Sti., and requested certain information and documents from the Company. The Company provided its response related to the matter to ICTA. Investigation report is notified to the Turkcell and Turkcell has submitted its defence statement to ICTA within the due date.

On 13 January 2011, ICTA decided to impose administrative fine to the Company amounting to TL 8,020 (equivalent to $ 5,188 as at 31 December 2010) for making some subscribers suffer and TL 2,005 (equivalent to $ 1,297 as at 31 December 2010) for misinforming the Authority. Since the administrative fine was paid within 1 month following the notification of the decision of ICTA, 25% discount was applied and provision totalling to TL 7,430 (equivalent to $4,806 as at 31 December 2010) is set in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010. The Company filed two lawsuits on 21 March 2011 for the suspension of execution and cancellation of the administrative fine.

Investigation on breaching confidentiality of personal data and relevant legislation which is launched by ICTA

ICTA decided to launch preliminary investigation on breaching confidentiality of personal data and relevant legislation, within the context of the news in the press regarding unlawful wiretapping. ICTA authorities made an on-site inspection in July 2010. On 22 September 2010, ICTA decided to launch an investigation against the Company for detailed examination of the matter. Information and documents demanded by ICTA were submitted to the ICTA. In January 2011, investigation report was sent to the Company. The Company submitted its written defence within due date.

Dispute on treasury share in accordance with 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 treasury share 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 treasury share 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 9 June 2008, the Company filed a lawsuit before Administrative Court for the difference between the aforementioned period amounting to TL 102,649 (equivalent to $66,397 as at 31 December 2010) and interest amounting to TL 68,276 (equivalent to $ 44,163 as at 31 December 2010) till to the date the case is filed. The Administrative Court rejected the case and the Company appealed the decision. The appeal process is still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Based on the 9th article of the license agreement dated 10 March 2006, the Company has been obliged to pay 0.35% of its yearly gross revenue once a year as ICTA Fee. However, in the previous license agreement, the Company was obliged to pay 0.35% of its yearly gross revenue after deducting treasury share, universal

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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. On 10 March 2009, the Court rejected the case. The Company appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending.

Dispute on ICTA fee payment based on the amended license agreement

On 21 June 2006, ICTA notified the Company that the ICTA 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, ICTA requested the Company to pay additional TL 4,011 (equivalent to $2,594 as at 31 December 2010) and its accrued interest. The Company made the payment and initiated a lawsuit for the injunction and cancellation of the aforesaid decision of ICTA on 28 August 2006. On 24 July 2009, the Court decided in favor of the Company and annulled additional payment request of ICTA. The ICTA appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending. The Company received the related principal amount of TL 4,011 (equivalent to $2,594 as at 31 December 2010) on 8 February 2010 and recorded income in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2009. On 17 March 2010, the Company initiated a lawsuit for the accrued interest amounting to TL 3,942 (equivalent to $2,550 as at 31 December 2010). The case is still pending.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise concerning the accrued interests, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Penalty issued to Superonline regarding trenching activities

On 13 January 2011 Ankara Municipality issued a penalty of TL 8,863 (equivalent to $5,733 as at 31 December 2010) to Superonline related to Superonline’s trenching activities. Based on the management opinion, the probability of an outflow of resources embodying economic benefits to settle the obligation is less than probable, thus, no provision is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010.

Dispute with Avea on SMS interconnection termination fees

On 22 December 2006, Avea initiated a lawsuit against the Company claiming that although there was 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 SMS 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 TL 6,480 (equivalent to $4,191 as at 31 December 2010) for the period between January 2006 and August 2006 with its accrued interest till payment. On 25 November 2008, the Court decided in favor of Avea. The Company has appealed the decision. Appeal process is still pending. The Company has paid the principal of TL 6,480 (equivalent to $4,191 as at 31 December 2010), late payment interest of TL 5,103 (equivalent to $3,301 as at 31 December 2010) and related fees of TL 524 (equivalent to $339 as at 31 December 2010) on 30 March 2009.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 23 March 2007.

Moreover, the Company applied to ICTA for the determination SMS interconnection termination fees and starting from 23 March 2007, the Company has applied the SMS interconnection termination fees announced by ICTA until January 2009. ICTA determined new SMS termination rate in January 2009 upon the application of Avea.

Since it is not virtually certain that an inflow of economic benefits will arise, no asset or related income is recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: None).

Dispute with T-Medya

Arbitration procedures regarding three real estates which are in the ownership of the Company in Izmir, Adana and Ankara, are commenced with the letter dated 13 August 2010 against T-Medya who is the lessee of the real estates and delinquent for the period between 2003-2010 rental period, to collect the unpaid rentals and its accrued interest in the amount of TL 8,914 (equivalent to $5,766 as at 31 December 2010). The arbitration processes are still pending.

A bad debt reserve for the receivable amount of 8,755 TL (equivalent to $5,663 as at 31 December 2010) for T-Medya has been recognized in the consolidated financial statements as at and for the year ended 31 December 2010 in accordance with the bad debt policy of the Company.

Investigation initiated by ICTA upon complaint of subscriber on international roaming campaigns

On 30 December 2010, ICTA decided to initiate an investigation against Turkcell upon a complaint of a consumer regarding the Company’s billing and pricing applications in order to investigate the billing and pricing problems arising from the international roaming campaigns within 2009 and 2010. ICTA requested some information about campaigns and the Company submitted its explanations on the issue to ICTA.

Investigation initiated by ICTA regarding Number Portability

On 26 January 2011 ICTA decided to initiate an investigation against the Company regarding refusal of number portability requests and reason of such refusal. ICTA carried out an inspection in the Company between 28 February and 2 March 2011.

Investigation initiated by ICTA upon complaint of subscriber of data tariffs’ charging

On 9 March 2011, ICTA decided to initiate an investigation against the Company upon a complaint of a consumer regarding the Company’s miss charging about data tariffs. An inspection was carried out between 30 March and 1 April in the Company by ICTA.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Investigation initiated by ICTA regarding the Company’s compatibility to ICTA’s regulations and decisions

On 26 January 2011, ICTA decided to initiate an investigation against the Company about its compatibility of “Terms and Conditions About Updating Subscribers Records and Subscription Processes of End Users” and ICTA’s decision about limitation of numbers of the subscriptions. On 23 March 2011, ICTA carried out an inspection in the Company.

Dispute with Turk Telekom with respect to numbers beginning with 444

The Company filed a lawsuit on 25 April 2008 against Türk Telekom to collect TL 1,777 (equivalent to $1,149 as at 31 December 2010) including principal, overdue interest and delay fee which has been collected by Turk Telekom within the period of March 2007-February 2008 by pricing the calls started from the Company’s network and terminated at the numbers in form of “444 XX XX” which are assigned to the Company’s subscribers in accordance with special service call termination tariff. The Court decided in favor of the Company on 23 March 2011. The Court has not prepared the written decision yet.

Investigation of ICTA related with application of an article of the Regulation on Consumer Rights in the Electronic Communications Sector

The ICTA decided to initiate an investigation related with application of an article of the Regulation on Consumer Rights in the Electronic Communications Sector through its decision dated 22 February 2011 and prepared an investigation report. The decision and investigation report is notified to the Company and the Company will submit its defense statement to ICTA within the due date.

 

33. Related parties

Transactions with key management personnel:

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

As at 31 December 2010 and 2009, none of the Group’s directors and executive officers has outstanding personnel loans from the Group.

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 $11,395, $8,044 and $7,912 for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008, respectively.

The Company has agreements or protocols with several of its shareholders, consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates of the shareholders.

Other related party transactions:

 

Due from related parties—long term

   31 December
2010
     31 December
2009
 

T-Medya

     1,044         5,539   

Digital Platform Iletisim Hizmetleri AS (“Digital Platform”)

     —           15,306   

Other

     —           194   
                 
     1,044         21,039   
                 

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Receivables from T-Medya consists of receivables based on rent agreements, accrued interests for outstanding balance and unpaid building expenses. Due from related parties long term is shown net of allowance for doubtful debts amounting to $5,897 as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: nil). The impairment loss recognized for the years ended 31 December 2010 is $5,897 (31 December 2009 and 2008: nil).

 

Due from related parties—short term

   31 December
2010
     31 December
2009
 

System Capital Management (“SCM”)

     38,202         63,311   

Digital Platform

     21,307         25,563   

A-Tel

     13,260         8,786   

KVK Teknoloji Urunleri AS (“KVK Teknoloji”)

     8,212         5,470   

ADD Production Media AS. (“ADD”)

     1,796         —     

Kyisvstar GSM JSC (“Kyivstar”)

     1,225         226   

Other

     4,895         5,487   
                 
     88,897         108,843   
                 

Due from related parties short term is shown net of allowance for doubtful debts amounting to $2,998 as at 31 December 2010 (31 December 2009: nil). The impairment loss recognized for the years ended 31 December 2010 is $2,998 (31 December 2009 and 2008: nil).

 

Due to related parties—short term

   31 December
2010
     31 December
2009
 

Hobim Bilgi Islem Hizmetleri AS (“Hobim”)

     2,766         7,069   

Intralot SA (“Intralot”)

     910         —     

KVK Teknoloji Urunleri AS (“KVK Teknoloji”)

     909         519   

Mapfre Genel Yasam Sigorta AS (“Mapfre”)

     473         81   

Kyisvstar GSM JSC (“Kyivstar”)

     44         2,457   

Other

     5,658         4,654   
                 
     10,760         14,780   
                 

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

Due from SCM, non-controlling shareholder of Euroasia, resulted from the loan that SCM utilized from Financell with maturity of 30 December 2011.

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.

Due from A-Tel, a 50-50 joint venture of the Company and SDIF mainly, resulted from simcard and scratch card sales to this company.

Due from KVK Teknoloji, a company whose majority shares are owned by Cukurova Group, mainly resulted from simcard and scratch card sales to this company.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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

Due from Kyivstar, whose shares are owned by one of the shareholders of the Company, mainly resulted from call termination and international traffic carriage services rendered to this company.

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 Intralot, a company incorporated under the laws of Greece and is the shareholder of Inteltek, a subsidiary of the Group. The Group purchases game software and maintenance services.

Due to KVK, a company whose majority shares are owned by Cukurova Group, resulted from the payables for sales commissions and terminal purchases.

Due to Mapfre, a company owned by one of the shareholders of the Group, provides insurance services to the Group.

Due to Kyivstar, whose shares are owned by one of the shareholders of the Company, mainly resulted from call termination and international traffic carriage services received.

The Group’s exposure to currency and liquidity risk related to due from/(due to) related parties is disclosed in Note 29.

Transactions with related parties

All intragroup transactions have been eliminated and are not presented as related party transactions in the following table:

 

Income from related parties

   2010      2009      2008  

Sales to KVK Teknoloji

        

Simcard and prepaid card sales

     507,963         640,312         860,711   

Sales to Kyivstar

        

Telecommunications services

     42,413         44,195         63,581   

Sales to A-Tel

        

Simcard and prepaid card sales

     30,838         67,558         132,594   

Sales to Digital Platform

        

Call center revenues and interest charges

     22,223         18,766         20,281   

Finance income from SCM

        

Interest income

     14,863         5,213         —     

Sales to Teliasonera International

        

Telecommunications services

     4,793         8,328         7,151   

Sales to Millenicom Telekomunikasyon AS (“Millenicom”)

        

Telecommunications services

     2,979         5,497         12,996   

Sales to CJSC Ukrainian Radiosystems

        

Telecommunications services

     2,321         3,388         8,390   

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Related party expenses

   2010      2009      2008  

Charges from ADD

        

Advertisement and sponsorship services

     65,957         127,014         165,250   

Charges from Kyivstar

        

Telecommunications services

     36,039         53,466         63,799   

Charges from A-Tel (*)

        

Dealer activation fees and others

     31,618         36,971         49,065   

Charges from KVK Teknoloji

        

Dealer activation fees and others

     27,706         41,360         103,386   

Charges from Hobim

        

Invoicing and archieving services

     19,446         21,985         20,865   

Charges from Teliasonera International

        

Telecommunications services

     9,162         12,261         11,300   

Charges from Millenicom

        

Telecommunications services

     3,194         5,171         8,501   

Charges from CJSC Ukrainian Radiosystems

        

Telecommunications services

     2,211         4,208         6,491   

 

  * Charges from A-Tel have been eliminated to the extent of the Company’s interest in A-Tel for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 amounting to $31,618, $36,971 and $49,065, respectively.

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.

The amount of handset sales to the subscribers of the Company performed by KVK Teknoloji for the period ended 31 December 2010 is TL 180,922 (equivalent to $117,026 as at 31 December 2010) which is paid to KVK Teknoloji in advance in accordance with certain commitment arrangements and collected from the subscribers throughout the campaign period.

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.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

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 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, 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” and supplemental sponsorship agreements was signed between Digital Platform and the Company. Within the framework of the agreement, Digital Platform will pay its liabilities to Company including interest accrued partially in cash and partially by providing sponsorship services until 15 July 2011. On 4 June 2010, Digital Platform notified the Company to annul Lig TV sponsorship agreement, one of the supplemental agreements within the framework of “Restructuring Framework Agreement” and declared that Digital Platform will pay its debt to the Company only in cash according to the payment schedule in “Restructuring Framework Agreement”. With the protocol dated 31 January 2011, the agreement dated 23 December 2005 is cancelled with the mutual agreement of the parties. The remaining receivable balance from Digital Platform will be paid in 2 equal installments in February 2011 and March 2011.

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 SCM:

SCM, non-controlling shareholder of Euroasia, obtained loan from Financell.

Agreements with Teliasonera International:

Teliasonera International is the mobile operator that provides telecommunication services in the Nordic and Baltic countries. Teliasonera International is rendering and receiving call termination and international traffic carriage services to and from the Astelit.

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.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

Agreements with CJSC Ukrainian Radiosystem:

CJSC Ukrainian Radiosystems owned by Vimpelcom provides mobile communications services is rendering and receiving call termination and international traffic carriage services to and from the Astelit.

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 was operating a media purchasing agreement with ADD, which was revised on 1 September 2009 and was effective until 31 August 2010. The purpose of this agreement was 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. However, the agreement was annulled effective from 2 August 2010 as a result of the notification dated 28 May 2010.

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.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

34. Group entities

The Group’s ultimate parent company is Turkcell. Subsidiaries of the Company as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

Subsidiaries

 

Name

 

Country of
incorporation

 

Business

  Effective Ownership Interest  
      31 December
2010 (%)
    31 December
2009 (%)
 

Kibris Telekom

  Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus   Telecommunications     100        100   

Global

  Turkey   Customer relations management     100        100   

Turktell Bilisim Servisleri AS

  Turkey   Information technology, value added GSM services investments     100        100   

Superonline

  Turkey   Telecommunications     100        100   

Turktell Uluslararasi Yatirim Holding AS

  Turkey   Telecommunications investments     100        100   

Turkcell Kurumsal Satis ve Dagitim Hizmetleri AS

  Turkey   Telecommunications     100        100   

Eastasia

  Netherlands   Telecommunications investments     100        100   

Turkcell Teknoloji Arastirma ve Gelistirme AS

  Turkey   Research and Development     100        100   

Kule Hizmet ve Isletmecilik AS*

  Turkey   Telecommunications infrastructure business     100        100   

Sans Oyunlari Yatirim Holding AS

  Turkey   Betting business investments     100        100   

Financell

  Netherlands   Financing business     100        100   

Rehberlik Hizmetleri AS

  Turkey   Telecommunications     100        100   

Beltur BV

  Netherlands   Telecommunications investments     100        100   

Surtur BV

  Netherlands   Telecommunications investments     100        100   

Beltel

  Turkey   Telecommunications investments     100        100   

Turkcell Gayrimenkul Hizmetleri AS

  Turkey   Property investments     100        100   

LLC Global

  Ukraine   Customer relations management     100        100   

FLLC Global

  Republic of Belarus   Customer relations management     100        100   

UkrTower

  Ukraine   Telecommunications infrastructure business     100        100   

Talih Kusu Altyapi Hizmetleri AS

  Turkey   Telecommunications investments     100        100   

Turkcell Europe GmbH

  Germany   Telecommunications     100        —     

Corbuss Kurumsal Telekom Servis Hizmetleri AS

  Turkey   GSM services     99        99   

Belarusian Telecom

  Republic of Belarus   Telecommunications     80        80   

Inteltek

  Turkey   Betting business     55        55   

Euroasia

  Netherlands   Telecommunications     55        55   

Astelit

  Ukraine   Telecommunications     55        55   

Azerinteltek

  Azerbaijan   Betting Business     28        —     

 

* Brandname of Kule Hizmet ve Isletmecilik AS is Global Tower.

 

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TURKCELL ILETISIM HIZMETLERI AS AND ITS SUBSIDIARIES

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

As at and for the year ended 31 December 2010

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

 

35. Subsequent events

On 23 March 2011, the Company’s Board of Directors has proposed a dividend distribution for the year ended 31 December 2010 amounting to TL 1,328,697 (equivalent to $859,442 as at 31 December 2010, respectively), which represented 75% of distributable income. This represents a net cash dividend of full TL 0.6039532 (equivalent to full $0.39 as at 31 December 2010) per share. This dividend proposal will be discussed at Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders to be held on 21 April 2011.

In the Ordinary General Assembly of Shareholders Meeting of Inteltek held on 6 April 2011, it has been decided to distribute dividends amounting to TL 16,744 (equivalent to $10,831 as at 31 December 2010).

In March 2011, Fintur decided to distribute dividend amounting to $50,000. The Company has received its portion on 7 April 2011.

In March 2011, A-Tel decided to distribute dividend amounting to TL 26,982 (equivalent to $17,453 as at 31 December 2010). The Company will receive its portion on 11 April 2011.

According to contract which was signed between Fizy Medya İnternet ve Bilişim Teknolojileri Limited Sirketi (“Fizy”) on 28 January 2011, the Company acquired 70% of the shares. Fizy’s operations consists of providing all kind of advertising and promotion services upon internet and e-trading, acquiring copyrights, broadcasting, music and video accessing as well as downloading from the internet. Fizy restarted its operations on 1 April 2011 which was previously held in 2010.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

TOGETHER WITH AUDITORS’ REPORT

 

 

 


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

    

Başaran Nas Bagimsiz Denetim ve

Serbest Muhasebeci Mali Müşavirlik A.Ş.

a member of

PricewaterhouseCoopers

BJK Plaza, Süleyman Seba Caddesi

No: 48 B Blok Kat 9 Akaretler

Beşiktaş 34357 İstanbul-Turkey

www.pwc.com/tr

Telephone +90 (212) 326 6060

   Facsimile +90 (212) 326 6050

FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

To the Shareholders and

Board of Directors of Fintur Holdings B.V.

We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Fintur Holdings B.V. and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 and consolidated statements of income, of comprehensive income, of changes in equity and of cash flows for the years ended 31 December 2010,2009 and 2008. These consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of the Group’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these consolidated financial statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits of these consolidated financial statements in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the consolidated financial statements are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Fintur Holdings B.V. and its subsidiaries as at 31 December 2010 and 2009 and the results of their operations and their cash flows for the years ended 31 December 2010,2009 and 2008 in conformity with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.

Başaran Nas Bagimsiz Denetim ve

Serbest Muhasebeci Mali Mtişavirlik AŞ.

a member of

PricewaterhouseCoopers

LOGO

Mert Tüten.SMMM Partner

Istanbul, 14 April 2011

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

 

CONTENTS

   PAGES  

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

     F-115-F-116   

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

     F-117   

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

     F-118   

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

     F-119   

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

     F-120   

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

     F-121-F-164   

NOTE 1

  

ORGANISATION AND NATURE OF OPERATIONS

     F-121   

NOTE 2

   BASIS OF PREPARATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT RELEVANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES      F-122   

NOTE 3

  

SEGMENT INFORMATION

     F-139   

NOTE 4

  

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     F-145   

NOTE 5

  

TRADE RECEIVABLES

     F-145   

NOTE 6

   TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES WITH SHAREHOLDERS AND OTHER RELATED COMPANIES      F-147   

NOTE 7

  

INVENTORIES

     F-149   

NOTE 8

  

OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

     F-149   

NOTE 9

  

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

     F-150   

NOTE 10

  

INTANGIBLE ASSETS—NET

     F-152   

NOTE 11

  

OTHER NON-CURRENT ASSETS

     F-154   

NOTE 12

  

TRADE PAYABLES

     F-154   

NOTE 13

  

TAXATION ON INCOME

     F-155   

NOTE 14

  

OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

     F-157   

NOTE 15

  

OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

     F-158   

NOTE 16

  

SHARE CAPITAL

     F-159   

NOTE 17

  

COST OF SERVICES

     F-159   

NOTE 18

  

GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

     F-160   

NOTE 19

  

SELLING AND MARKETING EXPENSES

     F-160   

NOTE 20

  

FINANCIAL INCOME AND EXPENSES

     F-160   

NOTE 21

  

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

     F-161   

NOTE 22

  

EMPLOYEE BENEFIT EXPENSES

     F-164   

NOTE 23

  

DEPRECIATION AND AMORTISATION EXPENSES

     F-164   

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010 AND 2009

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

     Note      2010      2009  

ASSETS

        

Current assets:

        

Cash and cash equivalents

     4         251,994         170,321   

Trade receivables

     5         113,102         106,745   

Due from related parties

     6         14,220         43,532   

Inventories

     7         13,208         9,052   

Other current assets

     8         59,074         94,104   
                    

Total current assets

        451,598         423,754   
                    

Non-current assets:

        

Property and equipment

     9         1,283,595         1,205,105   

Intangible assets

     10         963,756         950,154   

Other non-current assets

     11         5,339         12,075   

Deferred income tax assets

     13         10,979         9,037   
                    

Total non-current assets

        2,263,669         2,176,371   
                    

Total assets

        2,715,267         2,600,125   
                    

These consolidated financial statements were authorised for issue by the board of directors on 14 April 2011 and were signed on its behalf by Mr. Tero Kivisaari (“Chairman and Chief Executive Officer”) and Mr. Mats Salomonsson (“Chief Financial Officer”).

 

The notes on pages 119 to 162 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010 AND 2009

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

     Note      2010     2009  

LIABILITIES AND EQUITY

       

Current liabilities:

       

Trade payables

     12         116,860        68,671   

Due to related parties

     6         20,224        40,593   

Current income tax liabilities

        22,182        2,039   

Other current liabilities

     14         130,519        138,830   
                   

Total current liabilities

        289,785        250,133   
                   

Non-current liabilities:

       

Deferred income tax liabilities

     13         37,583        55,759   

Other non-current liabilities

     15         774,166        748,512   
                   

Total non—current liabilities

        811,749        804,271   
                   

Total liabilities

        1,101,534        1,054,404   
                   

Equity:

       

Share capital

     16         189,059        189,059   

Additional paid-in capital

     16         349,059        349,059   

Retained earnings

        719,928        677,608   

Cumulative translation adjustment

        (83,808     (75,851
                   

Equity attributable to the shareholders of Fintur Holdings B.V.

        1,174,238        1,139,875   
                   

Non-controlling interest

        439,495        405,846   
                   

Total equity

        1,613,733        1,545,721   
                   

Total equity and liabilities

        2,715,267        2,600,125   
                   

 

The notes on pages 119 to 162 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010, 2009 AND 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

     Notes      2010     2009     2008  

Revenues, net

     3         1,736,576        1,605,022        1,823,095   

Cost of services

     17         (692,757     (665,749     (739,410
                           

Gross profit

        1,043,819        939,273        1,083,685   

General and administrative expenses

     18         (141,061     (136,223     (141,749

Selling and marketing expenses

     19         (201,269     (177,939     (222,139

Other operating income/(expenses), net

        (62,320     13,955        19,753   
                           

Operating profit

        639,169        639,066        739,550   

Financial income/(expenses), net

     20         9,069        (12,297     18,481   
                           

Profit before taxation on income

        648,238        626,769        758,031   

Taxation on income

     13         (151,741     (154,449     (216,733
                           

Profit for the year

        496,497        472,320        541,298   
                           

Attributable to:

         

- equity holders of Fintur Holdings B.V.

        302,320        325,549        364,545   

- non-controlling interest

        194,177        146,771        176,753   
                           

Total

        496,497        472,320        541,298   
                           

 

The notes on pages 119 to 162 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME

FOR THE YEARS ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010, 2009 AND 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Profit for the year

     496,497        472,320        541,298   

Currency translation differences

     (22,854     (155,243     17,348   
                        

Total comprehensive income for the year

     473,643        317,077        558,646   
                        

Attributable to:

      

- equity holders of Fintur Holdings B.V.

     294,363        193,246        377,284   

- non-controlling interest

     179,280        123,831        181,362   
                        

Total

     473,643        317,077        558,646   
                        

 

The notes on pages 119 to 162 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN EQUITY

FOR THE YEARS ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010, 2009 AND 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

     Equity attributable to shareholders of
Fintur Holdings B.V.
                   
     Share
capital
     Additional
paid-in
capital
     Retained
earnings
    Cumulative
translation
adjustment
    Total     Non-controlling
interest
    Total
equity
 

Balances at 1 January 2008

     189,059         349,059         387,514        43,713        969,345        572,882        1,542,227   
                                                          

Total comprehensive income for the year

     —           —           364,545        12,739        377,284        181,362        558,646   

Dividends declared

     —           —           (200,000     —          (200,000     (104,315     (304,315

Transactions with non-controlling shareholders

     —           —           —          —          —          (238,874     (238,874
                                                          

Balances at 31 December 2008

     189,059         349,059         552,059        56,452        1,146,629        411,055        1,557,684   
                                                          

Balances at 1 January 2009

     189,059         349,059         552,059        56,452        1,146,629        411,055        1,557,684   
                                                          

Total comprehensive income for the year

     —           —           325,549        (132,303     193,246        123,831        317,077   

Dividend declared

     —           —           (200,000     —          (200,000     (125,785     (325,785

Change in ownership interest in subsidiary

     —           —           —          —          —          (3,255     (3,255
                                                          

Balances at 31 December 2009

     189,059         349,059         677,608        (75,851     1,139,875        405,846        1,545,721   
                                                          

Balances at 1 January 2010

     189,059         349,059         677,608        (75,851     1,139,875        405,846        1,545,721   
                                                          

Total comprehensive income for the year

     —           —           302,320        (7,957     294,363        179,280        473,643   

Dividend declared

     —           —           (260,000     —          (260,000     (145,631     (405,631
                                                          

Balances at 31 December 2010

     189,059         349,059         719,928        (83,808     1,174,238        439,495        1,613,733   
                                                          

The notes on pages 119 to 162 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2010, 2009 AND 2008

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

     Note      2010     2009     2008  

Profit before taxation on income

        648,238        626,769        758,031   

Adjustments to reconcile profit before taxation on income to net cash provided by operating activities:

         

Depreciation and amortisation

     9,10         254,333        239,482        238,992   

Interest expense

     20         399        84        212   

Change in deferred revenue

     14         41,971        (64,795     16,824   

Provision for impairment of receivables

     5         3,722        4,989        3,114   

Interest income

     20         (6,940     (5,933     (17,153

Change in the fair value of put option liability

     15         67,196        (14,604     (22,466

Other

        —          (144     (204
                           

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

         

Increase/(decrease) in inventories

        (4,156     7,509        2,366   

Decrease in trade receivables and due from related parties

        19,233        146,545        (57,122

Decrease/(increase) in other assets

        45,817        (26,097     (874

Increase in restricted cash

     4         (22     (27     (6

Decrease in trade payables and due to related parties

        (10,616     (105,631     127,175   

Decrease in other liabilities

        (41,863     (100,392     154,357   

Interest paid

        (2,065     (7,716     (10,842

Income taxes paid

        (146,808     (161,466     (186,349
                           

Net cash provided by operating activities

        868,439        538,573        1,006,055   
                           

Investing activities:

         

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

        5,728        3,081        184   

Purchase of property and equipment

     9         (295,626     (216,533     (344,354

Purchase of intangible assets

     10         (72,171     (64,957     (114,147

Interest received

        2,887        5,933        21,865   

Purchase of non-controlling shares of subsidiary

        —          (7,000     (213,000
                           

Net cash used in investing activities

        (359,182     (279,476     (649,452
                           

Financing activities:

         

Repayment of put option liability

     15         (48,295     (52,468     (94,790

Dividend paid to group companies

        (186,100     (200,000     (200,000

Dividend paid to non-controlling interest

        (181,095     (112,008     (40,786
                           

Net cash used in financing activities

        (415,490     (364,476     (335,576
                           

Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

        93,767        (105,379     21,027   

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of the period

        170,141        285,073        263,888   
                           

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents

        (12,072     (9,553     158   
                           

Cash and cash equivalents at end of the year

        251,836        170,141        285,073   
                           

 

The notes on pages 119 to 162 form an integral part of these consolidated financial statements.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

NOTE 1—ORGANISATION AND NATURE OF OPERATIONS

Fintur Holdings B.V. (“Fintur” or the “Company”), is a limited liability company incorporated and domiciled in the Netherlands. The address of its registered office is Rodezand 34k in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. Fintur’s primary activity is the participation and investment in various businesses in the telecommunications and high technology sectors.

Fintur has two primary shareholders, Turkcell İletişim Hizmetleri A.Ş. (“Turkcell”) and Sonera Holding B.V. (“Sonera”). The holdings of Sonera and Turkcell in Fintur are 58.55% and 41.45%, respectively. On 3 December 2002, Sonera and the Swedish telecommunication operator Telia AB finalised a merger and a new company was organized under the name TeliaSonera AB (“TeliaSonera”). TeliaSonera owns 100% of Sonera. The number of employees in 2010 is 2,988 (2009: 2,803).

At 31 December 2010, subsidiaries of Fintur (the “Subsidiaries”) and their locations are as follows:

 

     Location  

Azercell Telekom B.M. (“Azercell”)

     Azerbaijan   

Azeronline Ltd. (“Azeronline”)

     Azerbaijan   

Azertel Telekomünikasyon Yatirim Diş Ticaret A.Ş. (“Azertel”)

     Turkey   

Geocell LLC (“Geocell”)

     Georgia   

Gürtel Telekomünikasyon Yatirim ve Diş Ticaret A.Ş. (“Gürtel”)

     Turkey   

GSM Kazakhstan LLP OAO Kazakhtelecom (“Kcell”)

     Kazakhstan   

AR-Telecom LLP (“AR-Telecom”)

     Kazakhstan   

KT-Telecom LLP (“KT-Telecom”)

     Kazakhstan   

I.M.Moldcell S.A. (“Moldcell”)

     Moldova   

Molfintur S.R.L. (“Molfintur”)

     Moldova   

Azertel has a 100% share in Azercell. Azercell is a cellular phone carrier and operates in accordance with a non-exclusive Global System for Mobile Communications (“GSM”) licence agreement signed with the Ministry of Communication of the Azerbaijan Republic in December 1996 which allows operation throughout Azerbaijan for a twenty-year period. In 2006, Azercell obtained the right to use new 1800 GSM frequency license for a twenty-year period. Azercell has a 51% share in Azeronline, an Internet Service Provider.

Gürtel has a 100 % share in Geocell. Geocell is a cellular phone carrier, which operates in accordance with a non-exclusive GSM license. Geocell operates in accordance with the following non-exclusive licences issued by Georgian National Communications Commission:

 

   

GSM 1800 licence—issued on 2 June 2006 and expires on 13 August 2013;

 

   

WCFMA/UMTS license—issued on 14 June 2006 and expires on 9 June 2016;

 

   

GSM 900 licence—issued 2 April 2007 and expires on 2 April 2017;

 

   

GSM 900/1800 licence—issued on 3 August 2009 and expires on 3 August 2019.

The licences allow for operation throughout Georgia and management expects to renew the licenses upon their expiration. All licences allow for operation throughout Georgia for a ten-year period.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Kcell was formed to design, construct and operate a cellular telecommunications network in Kazakhstan. Kcell obtained a non-exclusive general license in June 1998 for 15 years to provide mobile telephone services in accordance with GSM Standards. On 20 June 2007, the Kcell entered into an agreement to acquire 100% in a company in Kazakhstan, AR-Telecom, which was dormant since establishment in 2003. KCell acquired KT-Telecom in 2008, which was dormant at acquisition date. The purpose of these acquisitions was to get WiMAX licenses held by KT-Telecom and AR-Telecom. In 2009, KT-Telecom and AR-Telecom commenced their operating activities.

On 1 December 2010, Kcell launched 3G services in Astana and Almaty based on the temporary permission. On 25 December 2010, the competent authority signed an addendum to the existing GSM license, which provides Kcell with a right to operate 3G network. The addendum requires Kcell to provide all locations with population over 10,000 people with mobile services using UMTS/WCDMA standards until 1 January 2015.

Moldcell was established to operate as one of the three GSM operators in the Republic of Moldova. Moldcell is licensed by the Ministry of Transport and Communications in November 1999 to provide both voice and data services over its mobile network in the 900 MHz frequency range for a period of 15 years.

NOTE 2—BASIS OF PREPARATION AND SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT RELEVANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

2.1 Basis of preparation

The consolidated financial statements of Fintur and its subsidiaries (the “Group”) at 31 December 2010 have been prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (“IFRS”) and IFRIC interpretations.

The policies set out below have been consistently applied to all periods presented, unless otherwise stated.

The Group maintain their accounting records in accordance with the laws and regulations in force in the countries where they are registered. These consolidated financial statements are prepared under the historical cost convention, adjusted, where required by IFRS, to measure certain items at fair value.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with IFRS requires the use of certain critical accounting estimates. It also requires management to exercise judgement in the process of applying the Company’s accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where assumptions and estimates are significant to the consolidated financial statements are disclosed in Note 2.6.

In management’s opinion all adjustments are normal, recurring and necessary for a fair presentation. The results of operations for the periods presented are not necessarily indicative of the results that may be expected for the future periods.

These consolidated financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis.

 

2.2 Foreign currency translation

 

(a) Functional and presentation currency

Items included in the financial statements of each of the Group’s entities are measured using the currency of the primary economic environment in which the entity operates (the “functional currency”).

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

The consolidated financial statements are presented in US dollars (“USD”), which is the Company’s functional and presentation currency.

 

(b) Transactions and balances

Foreign currency transactions are translated into the functional currency using the exchange rates prevailing at the dates of the transactions. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of such transactions and from the translation at period end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in the statement of income.

 

(c) Group companies

The results and financial position of all Group entities that have a functional currency different from the presentation currency are translated into the presentation currency as follows:

 

   

assets and liabilities for each balance sheet presented are translated at the closing rate at the date of that balance sheet;

 

   

income and expenses for each statement of income are translated at average exchange rates (unless this average is not a reasonable approximation of the cumulative effect of the rates prevailing on the transaction dates, in which case income and expenses are translated at the rate on the dates of the transactions); and

 

   

all resulting exchange differences are recognised in other comprehensive income.

The following tables summarizes the period end and average exchange rates of local currencies for Fintur and its subsidiaries for 1.00 US dollar at 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 and for the years then ended:

 

     2010      2009      2008  
     31 December      Average      31 December      Average      31 December      Average  

Kazakhstan Tenge

     147.50         147.35         150.39         147.22         120.77         120.30   

Azeri Manat

     0.80         0.80         0.81         0.81         0.80         0.82   

Georgian Lari

     1.77         1.78         1.71         1.67         1.67         1.49   

Turkish Lira

     1.55         1.56         1.51         1.56         1.51         1.29   

Moldovan Lei

     12.1         12.3         12.3         11.1         10.4         10.3   

EUR

     0.75         0.75         0.70         0.72         0.71         0.68   

At present, significant exchange restrictions and state controls exist in most jurisdictions in which the Group operates. The local currencies of Fintur subsidiaries in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Moldova are not convertible outside of respective countries. Future movements of exchange rates will affect the carrying values of the Group’s assets and liabilities. The translation of underlying local currency amounts into USD in these consolidated financial statements should not be construed as a representation that such local currency amounts have been, could be or will in the future be converted into USD at the exchange rates shown or at any other exchange rate.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

2.3 Principles of consolidation

 

(a) Subsidiaries

Subsidiaries are all entities over which the Group has the power to govern the financial and operating policies generally accompanying a shareholding of more than one half of the voting rights. Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date on which control is transferred to the Group. They are de-consolidated from the date that control ceases.

The purchase method of accounting is used to account for the acquisition of subsidiaries by the Group. The cost of an acquisition is measured as the fair value of the assets given and liabilities incurred or assumed at the date of exchange, plus costs directly attributable to the acquisition. Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and contingent liabilities assumed in a business combination are measured initially at their fair values at the acquisition date, irrespective of the extent of any non-controlling interest. The excess of the cost of acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as goodwill. If the cost of acquisition is less than the fair value of the net assets of the subsidiary acquired, the difference is recognised directly in the statement of comprehensive income.

Intercompany transactions, balances and unrealised gains on transactions between Group companies are eliminated in full. Unrealised losses are also eliminated but considered an impairment indicator of the asset transferred. Accounting policies of subsidiaries have been changed where necessary to ensure consistency with the policies adopted by the Group.

The table below sets forth Fintur’s ownership percentage in subsidiaries and their business segments at 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008:

 

Name

   Business segment      2010
%
     2009
%
     2008
%
 

Azercell

     GSM         51         51         51   

Azeronline

     Other         26         26         26   

Azertel

     Other         51         51         51   

Geocell

     GSM         100         100         98   

Gürtel

     Other         100         100         100   

Kcell

     GSM         51         51         51   

AR-Telecom

     Other         51         51         51   

KT-Telecom

     Other         51         51         51   

Moldcell

     GSM         100         100         100   

Molfintur

     Other         100         100         100   

Gürtel has a 100% (2009 and 2008: 100%) interest in Geocell, Azertel has a 100% (2009 and 2008: 100%) interest in Azercell and Kcell has 100% (2009 and 2008: 100%) interest in AR-Telecom and KT-Telecom. Azercell has a 51% (2009 and 2008: 51%) share in Azeronline. The business segment of Azercell and Geocell is GSM.

 

(b) Non-controlling interests

The Group treats transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions with equity owners of the group. For purchases from non-controlling interests, the difference between any consideration paid and the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary is recorded in equity. Gains or losses on disposals to non-controlling interests are also recorded in equity.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Prior to the amendments to IAS 27, ‘Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements’, which is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009, the Group had the following accounting policy regarding transactions with non-controlling interests:

The Group applies a policy of treating transactions with non-controlling interests as transactions with parties external to the Group. Disposals to non-controlling interests result in gains and losses for the Group that are recorded in the statement of income. Purchases from non-controlling interests result in goodwill, being the difference between any consideration paid and the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary. Commitments to purchase non-controlling interests and put options granted to non-controlling shareholders (including any subsequent capital contributions from non-controlling shareholders) are recognized as contingent consideration. Where the amount of the commitment exceeds the amount of the non-controlling interest, the difference is recorded as goodwill. Any changes in fair value of put options granted to non-controlling shareholders in existing subsidiaries are recognised in the statement of income, unless the changes are derived from dividend payments to other shareholders. Dividends paid to the non-controlling shareholders are treated as repayment of the put option liability (Note 15).

 

2.4 Summary of significant relevant accounting policies

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents consist of investments readily convertible into cash and have original maturities of three months or less.

Trade receivables

Trade receivables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method, less provision for impairment.

A provision for impairment of trade receivables is established when there is objective evidence that the Group will not be able to collect all amounts due according to the original terms of the receivables. The Group periodically assesses the adequacy of valuation allowances for uncollectible accounts receivable by evaluating the collectability of outstanding receivables and general factors such as length of time individual receivables are past due, historical collection experience, and the economic environment. The amount of the provision is the difference between the asset’s carrying amount and the present value of estimated future cash discounted at the original effective interest rate.

The carrying amount of the asset is reduced through the use of an allowance account, and the amount of the loss is recognised in the consolidated statement of income within cost of services. When a trade receivable is deemed as uncollectible, it is written off against the allowance account for trade receivables. Subsequent recoveries of amounts previously written off are credited against cost of services in the consolidated statement of income.

Related parties

For the purpose of these consolidated financial statements; shareholders, key management personnel, Board members and their close family members, in each case together with, companies controlled by or affiliated with them and investments are considered and referred to as related parties.

Inventories

Inventories primarily include SIM cards, scratch cards and spare parts.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Inventories are stated at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Cost is determined using the weighted-average method. The cost of inventories comprises all costs of purchase and other costs incurred in bringing the inventories to their present location and condition. It excludes borrowing costs. Net realisable value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary course of business, less applicable variable selling expenses.

Property and equipment and related depreciation

Property and equipment are recorded in the balance sheet at cost less accumulated depreciation, and impairment losses. The cost of property and equipment includes its purchase price, non-refundable taxes, and any costs directly attributable to bringing the asset to the location and condition necessary for it to be capable of operating in the manner intended by management. Borrowing costs that are directly attributable to the acquisition, construction or production of property and equipment are capitalised as part of the cost of that asset.

To the extent a legal or constructive obligation to a third party exists, the acquisition cost includes estimated costs of dismantling and removing the asset and restoring the site. A change in estimated expenditures for dismantling, removal and restoration is added to and/or deducted from the carrying value of the related asset.

Property and equipment consist of the following assets which are depreciated primarily on a straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives shown below:

 

     Years  

Buildings

     10-25   

Switches and transmission devices

     4-8   

Network equipment

     8   

Furniture and fixtures

     4   

Motor vehicles

     4   

Leasehold improvements

     5   

Computer equipment

     4   

Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s carrying amount or recognised as a separate asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable that future economic benefits associated with the item will flow to the Group and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. All other repairs and maintenance are charged to the statement of income during the financial period in which they are incurred.

The changes in telecommunications technology may have a significant impact on the activities of the Group. These changes may lead to the replacement of major items of equipment by new technology, which provide the same or superior service capacity at substantially lower costs. In reviewing the remaining useful lives, for the purposes of these consolidated financial statements, management took into account these circumstances and the environment in which the Group operates.

An asset’s carrying amount is written down immediately to its recoverable amount if the asset’s carrying amount is greater than its estimated recoverable amount. Gains and losses on disposals are determined by comparing proceeds with the carrying amount. These are included in the statement of income.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Intangible assets

 

  (a) Goodwill

Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired subsidiary at the date of acquisition. Prior to the amendments to IAS 27, which is effective for annual periods beginning on or after 1 July 2009, goodwill originating from purchases from non-controlling interest was calculated being the difference between any consideration paid and the relevant share acquired of the carrying value of net assets of the subsidiary. The difference between the fair value of the put option granted to non-controlling shareholders and derecognized non-controlling interest due to these put options was also accounted as goodwill (Note 10). Any changes in fair value of put options granted to non-controlling shareholders in existing subsidiaries are recognised in the statement of income, unless the changes are derived from dividend payments to other shareholders. Separately recognised goodwill is tested annually for impairment and whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable and carried at cost less accumulated impairment losses. Impairment losses on goodwill are not reversed. Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity include the carrying amount of goodwill relating to the entity sold.

Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. Each of those cash-generating units represents the Group’s investment in each country of operation by each primary reporting segment.

 

  (b) Licenses and rights to use frequency spectrums

Acquired licences and rights to use frequency spectrums are shown at historical cost. Licences and rights to use frequency spectrums have a finite useful life and are carried at cost less accumulated amortisation. Amortisation is calculated using the straight-line method to allocate the cost of licences and rights to use frequency spectrums over their useful lives of 9 to 20 years.

 

  (c) Computer software

Acquired computer software licenses are capitalised on the basis of costs incurred to acquire and bring to use the specific software. These costs are amortised over their estimated useful lives of 4 to 8 years.

Impairment of non-financial assets

Assets that are subject to amortisation are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount is the higher of an asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use. For the purposes of assessing impairment, assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash-generating units). Non-financial assets other than goodwill that suffered impairment are reviewed for possible reversal of the impairment at each reporting date.

Trade payables

Trade payables are recognised initially at fair value and subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Dividend distribution

Dividend distribution to the Company’s shareholders is recognised as a liability in the Group’s financial statements in the period in which the dividends are approved by the Company’s shareholders.

Provisions

Provisions are recognised when the Group has a present legal or constructive obligation as a result of past events; it is probable that an outflow of resources will be required to settle the obligation; and the amount has been reliably estimated. Provisions are not recognised for future operating losses.

Provisions are measured at the present value of management’s best estimate of the expenditures expected to be required to settle the obligation using a pre-tax rate that reflects current market assessments of the time value of money and the risks specific to the obligation. The increase in the provision due to passage of time is recognised as interest expense.

Leases

Leases in which a significant portion of the risks and rewards of ownership are retained by the lessor are classified as operating leases. Payments made under operating leases are charged to the statement of income, on a straight-line basis over the period of the lease.

Current and deferred income taxes

The tax expense for the year comprises current and deferred taxes. Taxes are recognised in the consolidated statement of income statement, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity. In these circumstances, taxes are also recognised in other comprehensive income or directly in equity, respectively.

The current income tax charge is calculated on the basis of the tax laws enacted or substantively enacted at the balance sheet date in the countries where the Company’s subsidiaries and associates operate and generate taxable income. Management periodically evaluates positions taken in tax returns with respect to situations in which applicable tax regulation is subject to interpretation. It establishes provisions where appropriate on the basis of amounts expected to be paid to the tax authorities.

Deferred income tax is recognised, using the liability method, on temporary differences arising between the tax bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying amounts in the consolidated financial statements. However, the deferred income tax is not accounted for if it arises from initial recognition of an asset or liability in a transaction other than a business combination that at the time of the transaction affects neither accounting nor taxable profit or loss. Deferred income tax is determined using tax rates (and laws) that have been enacted or substantially enacted by the balance sheet date and are expected to apply when the related deferred income tax asset is realised or the deferred income tax liability is settled.

Deferred income tax assets are recognised only to the extent that it is probable that future taxable profit will be available against which the temporary differences can be utilised.

Deferred income tax is provided on temporary differences arising on investments in subsidiaries and associates, except where the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference is controlled by the group and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when the deferred income taxes assets and liabilities relate to income taxes levied by the same taxation authority on either the taxable entity or different taxable entities where there is an intention to settle the balances on a net basis.

Revenue recognition

Revenues are recorded on an accrual basis at the sales value, adjusted for discounts granted and sales-related taxes. Revenues are measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Revenues are shown net of Value Added Taxes (“VAT”) and discounts and after eliminating sales within the Group.

The Group categorises subscribers as follows:

 

   

Prepaid subscribers, that use prepaid cards to access wireless network and

 

   

Post-paid subscribers that are billed each month for their access of wireless network.

Revenues are categorised as follows:

 

   

revenue from subscribers, including monthly fixed fees, call out revenue, prepaid card services;

 

   

roaming fees charged to other wireless operators for non-company subscribers using the Group’s network;

 

   

interconnect fees;

 

   

connection fees;

 

   

other—rentals of transmission lines and other services.

Revenue from prepaid card services

The Group sells prepaid phone cards to subscriber separately from the handset. These cards allow subscribers a predetermined allotment of wireless phone calls and /or take advantage of other services offered by the Group, such as short messages.

At the time that prepaid phone card is purchased by a subscriber, the Group records the receipts of cash as deferred revenue (Note 14). The Company recognizes revenues from the sale of the prepaid card in the period when the subscriber uses airtime under the prepaid card. Unused airtime on sold prepaid card is not recognized as revenue until the related service has been provided to the subscriber or the prepaid card has expired.

Call out revenue

Call out revenue is recognized based on the actual airtime used by the post-paid subscribers.

Interconnect revenues and costs

The Company charges interconnect per minute fees to other wireless and fixed line operators within the country which the subsidiaries of Fintur operates, for calls originated outside and terminated within Group’s network. The Group recognizes such revenues when the services are provided. The Group is charged interconnect per minute fees by other wireless and fixed line operators within the country which the subsidiaries of Fintur operates, for calls originated within the Group’s network and terminated outside of the network. The Group recognizes such costs when the services are provided.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Roaming revenues

The Group charges roaming per minute fees to other wireless operators for non-Group subscribers utilizing the Group’s network. The Group recognizes such revenues when the services are provided.

Connection fees

Connection fees consist of non-refundable charges received from subscribers at the time of initiation without fixed period of the contract between the Group and the subscriber. Connection fees are recognised as revenue immediately.

Monthly fixed fee

The Group recognises revenues related to the monthly network fees in the month that wireless service is provided to the subscriber.

Other revenues

The revenue recognition policy for other revenues (including SMS, MMS, GPRS and WAP) is to recognise revenue as services are provided.

Interest income is recognised on a time-proportion basis using the effective interest method.

Customer acquisition costs

The Group does not capitalise the costs of acquiring contracts as intangible assets. These costs represent commissions, bonuses and other rewards paid to distributors or dealers for connecting subscribers for service to the network. In accordance with IAS 38 “Intangible Assets”, an intangible asset should be recognised if it meets the criteria of being measurable, identifiable and controlled. Management believes that while these costs are measurable and identifiable, they are not controlled by the Group. Therefore, the Group expenses customer acquisition costs as incurred.

Payroll expenses and related contributions

Wages, salaries, contributions to pension funds, paid annual leave and sick leave, bonuses, and other benefits are accrued in the period in which the associated services are rendered by the employees of the Group.

Pension payments

The Group does not incur any expenses in relation to provision of pensions or other post-employment benefits to its employees. In accordance with the legal requirements of the countries where Fintur subsidiaries operate, the Group withholds pension contributions from employee salaries and transfers them into state or private pension funds. Once the contributions have been paid, the Group has no further pension obligations. Upon retirement of employees, all pension payments are administered by the pension funds directly.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Segment reporting

Operating segments are reported in a manner consistent with the internal reporting provided to the chief operating decision maker. The chief operating decision maker, who is responsible for allocating resources and assessing performance of the operating segments, has been identified as the Board of Directors that makes strategic decisions.

The operating segments of the Group are composed of the Group’s operations of its subsidiaries Kcell, Azercell, Geocell and Moldcell, which are domiciled in these respective countries. Other operating segment is composed of Azertel, Gürtel and Fintur (Note 3).

 

2.5 Financial risk management

The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of financial risks: market risk (including foreign exchange risk, fair value interest rate risk and cash flow interest rate risk), credit risk and liquidity risk. The Group’s overall risk management programme focuses on the unpredictability of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential adverse effects on the Group’s financial performance. The Group does not use derivative financial instruments to hedge certain risk exposures.

Risk management is carried out by management under policies approved by the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors provides written principles for overall risk management, as well as written policies covering specific areas, such as foreign exchange risk, interest rate risk, credit risk and investment of excess liquidity.

 

(i) Foreign exchange risk

The Group operates internationally and is exposed to foreign exchange risk arising from various currency exposures, primarily with respect to the USD. Foreign exchange risk arises from future commercial transactions, recognised assets and liabilities. These risks are monitored and limited by the analysis of foreign currency position. Due to undeveloped market of financial instruments in countries where the subsidiaries operate, the management does not hedge the Company’s foreign exchange risk.

At 31 December 2010, if the USD had weakened/strengthened by 10 percent against Kazakhstan Tenge with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year ended 31 December 2010 would have been USD 1,837 thousand (2009: USD 47 and 2008:USD 1,665) lower/higher, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains/losses on translation of USD denominated bank balances, trade receivables and trade payables.

At 31 December 2010, if the USD had strengthened/weakened by 10 percent against the Azeri Manat with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year ended 31 December 2010 would have been USD 667 (2009: USD 94 and 2008: USD 199) lower/higher, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains/losses on translation of USD denominated bank balances, trade receivables and payables.

At 31 December 2010, if the USD had strengthened/weakened by 10 percent against the Georgian Lari with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year ended 31 December 2010 would have been USD 176 (2009: USD 2,298 and 2008: USD 4,711) lower/higher, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains/losses on translation of USD denominated bank balances, trade receivables and payables.

At 31 December 2010, if the USD had weakened/strengthened by 10 percent against Moldovan Lei with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year ended 31 December 2010 would have been USD 5,256 (2009: USD 5,517 and 2008: USD 5,300) lower/higher, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains/losses on translation of USD denominated borrowings.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

At 31 December 2010, if the USD had weakened/strengthened by 10 percent against EUR with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year ended 31 December 2010 would have been USD 443 (2009: USD 1,189 and 2008: USD 1,794) lower/higher, mainly as a result of foreign exchange gains/losses on translation of USD denominated bank balances.

 

(ii) Cash flow and fair value interest rate risk

The Group is exposed to changes in market interest rates based on the existence of interest bearing assets.

The Group has significant interest-yielding assets (Note 4), therefore the Group’s income and operating cash flows are dependent on changes in market interest rates.

At 31 December 2010, if interest rate on bank time deposits had been 1 percent higher/lower with all other variables held constant, post-tax profit for the year ended 31 December 2010 would have been USD 1,024 (2009: USD 1,438 and 2008: USD 2,306) higher/lower, arising mainly as a result of decrease in the fair value of fixed rate financial assets.

The fixed rate exposure is managed by using natural hedges that arises from interest-bearing assets.

 

(iii) Credit risk

Ownership of financial assets involves the risk that counterparties may be unable to meet the terms of their agreements. Credit risk arises from cash and cash equivalents and deposits with banks, as well as credit exposures to customers, represented by corporate clients. These risks are managed by limiting the aggregate risk from any individual counter party and obtaining sufficient collateral where necessary. The Group’s investments in cash equivalents are limited to high-credit quality financial institutions. There are no policies that limit the amount of credit exposure to any financial institution. The Group has policies in place to ensure that sales of products and services are made to customers and distributors with an appropriate credit history. Customers that fail to settle their liabilities for mobile services provided are disconnected until the debt is paid. The carrying amount of accounts receivable, net of provision for impairment of receivables, represents the maximum amount exposed to credit risk. The Group has no significant concentrations of credit risk since the customers portfolio is diversified among a large number of customers, both private individuals and companies. Although collection of receivables could be influenced by economic factors, management believes that there is no significant risk of loss to the Group beyond the provisions already recorded.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

The table below shows the balances with the major banks at 31 December 2010 and 2009:

 

     2010      2009  

Garanti Bankasi A.S.

     61,583         84,111   

ING Bank

     51,114         33,841   

Bank Standard

     40,174         11,493   

International Bank of Azerbaijan

     27,871         765   

Kazkommertsbank

     27,623         6,548   

JSCB Victoriabank

     12,831         1,123   

Citibank

     5,272         249   

RabitaBank

     3,690         —     

Texnikabank

     3,127         10,593   

VTB Bank

     2,205         3,134   

UniBank

     1,689         70   

Kapitalbank

     1,553         357   

Avrasiya Bank

     1,445         54   

Respublika Bank

     1,269         215   

Bank of Georgia

     1,183         2,202   

Other

     8,786         10,414   
                 

Total

     251,415         165,169   
                 

 

(iv) Liquidity risk

Prudent liquidity risk management includes maintaining sufficient cash and marketable securities, the availability of funding from an adequate amount of committed credit facilities and the ability to close out market positions. Due to the dynamic nature of the underlying businesses, the Group maintains flexibility in funding by maintaining availability under committed credit lines.

 

(v) Capital risk management

The Group’s objectives when managing capital are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern in order to provide returns for shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders and to maintain an optimal capital structure to reduce the cost of capital. In order to maintain or adjust the capital structure, the Group may adjust the amount of dividends paid to shareholders, return capital to shareholders, issue new shares or sell assets to reduce debt.

 

(vi) Fair value estimations

Fair value is the amount at which a financial instrument could be exchanged in a current transaction between willing parties, other than in a forced sale or liquidation, and is best evidenced by an active quoted market price. The estimated fair values of financial instruments have been determined by the Group using available market information, where it exists, and appropriate valuation methodologies. However, judgement is necessarily required to interpret market data to determine the estimated fair value. The countries where the Group’s significant subsidiaries operate continue to display some characteristics of an emerging market and economic conditions continue to limit the volume of activity in the financial markets. Market quotations may be outdated or reflect distress sale transactions and therefore not represent fair values of financial instruments. Management has used all available market information in estimating the fair value of financial instruments.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Financial assets carried at amortised cost

The estimated fair value of fixed interest rate instruments is based on estimated future cash flows expected to be received discounted at current interest rates for new instruments with similar credit risk and remaining maturity. Discount rates used depend on credit risk of the counterparty. Carrying amounts of trade receivables and due from related parties approximate their fair values due to their short-term maturities.

Financial instruments carried at fair value

Available-for-sale investments are carried on the balance sheet at their fair values. Fair values are determined based on quoted market prices. Financial liability related to the put option granted to non-controlling shareholders are carried on the balance sheet at the present value of the estimated option redemption amount, which is estimated to approximate the fair value of the entity, whose shares are subject to the put option (Note 15).

Financial liabilities carried at amortised cost

The estimated fair value of fixed interest rate instruments with stated maturity, for which a quoted market price is not available, was estimated based on expected cash flows discounted at current interest rates for new instruments with similar credit risk and remaining maturity. Carrying amounts of trade payables and due to related parties approximate fair values due to their short-term maturities.

 

2.6 Critical accounting estimates and judgments

Estimates and judgments are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances.

The Group makes estimates and assumptions concerning the future. The resulting accounting estimates will, by definition, rarely equal the related actual results. The estimates and assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities within the next twelve months are outlined below.

 

(a) Income taxes

The tax legislation and practices in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Moldova are in a state of continuous development and therefore are subject to varying interpretations and frequent changes, which may be retroactive. Further, the interpretation of tax legislation by tax authorities as applied to the transactions and activities of the Group may not coincide with that of management. As a result, tax authorities may challenge transactions and the Group may be assessed additional taxes, penalties and fines. Tax periods remain open to review by the tax authorities for 3 to 5 years. Whereas the final tax outcome of these matters is different from the amounts that were initially recorded, such differences will impact the income tax and deferred tax provisions in the period in which such determination is made.

Were the actual final outcomes (on the judgment areas of dividend projections over unremitted earnings of subsidiaries) to differ by 10% from management’s estimates, the Group would need to:

 

  - increase the deferred income tax liability by USD 609, if unfavourable; or

 

  - decrease deferred income tax liability by USD 609, if favourable.

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

(b) Put options

The Group recognizes a financial liability originating from put options granted to non-controlling shareholders as the present value of the estimated option redemption amount. Present value of the estimated option redemption amount is estimated to approximate the fair value of the entity, whose shares are subject to the put option. The Group management determines such fair value of the entity by using discounted cash flow techniques based on estimated future cash flow projections of the entity.

 

(c) Allowance for doubtful accounts

The Group’s allowance for doubtful receivables reflects estimated losses that result from the inability of customers to make required payments (Note 2.5). Management determines the size of the allowance based on the likelihood of recoverability of accounts receivable taking into account actual losses in prior years and current collection trends. Should economic or specific industry trends worsen compared to management estimates, the allowance may have to be increased, negatively impacting earnings.

 

(d) Useful lives of property and equipment

Determination of the useful lives of asset classes involves taking into account historical trends and making assumptions related to future socioeconomic and technological development and expected changes in market behaviour. These assumptions are subject to review by management at least annually.

If management’s useful life estimates differed 10% from the actual trend of economic benefits inflow to the Group generated by related assets, the depreciation charge for the next twelve months would:

 

  - increase by USD 19,667 if unfavourable; or

 

  - decrease by USD 24,038 if favourable.

 

(e) Useful lives of intangible assets

Determination of useful lives of licenses and other rights is based on the period of contractual or legal rights. Determination of the useful lives of computer software and other intangible assets involves taking into account historical trends and making assumptions related to future socioeconomic and technological development and expected changes in market behaviour. These assumptions are subject to review by management at least annually.

If the management’s useful life estimates for computer software and other intangible assets differed 10% from the actual trend of economic benefits inflow to the Group generated by related assets, the amortization charge for the next twelve months would:

 

  - increase by USD 3,180, if unfavourable; or

 

  - decrease by USD 3,887 if favourable.

 

(f) Customer acquisition costs

The Group does not capitalise the costs of acquiring contracts as intangible assets. These costs represent commissions, bonuses and other rewards paid to distributors or dealers for connecting subscribers for service to the network. In accordance with IAS 38, Intangible Assets, an intangible asset should be recognised if it meets the criteria of being measurable, identifiable and controlled. Management believes that while these costs are measurable and identifiable, they are not controlled by the Group. Therefore, the Group recognizes the customer acquisition costs as expense when incurred.

 

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AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

(g) Legal proceedings and claims

The Group is subject to various legal proceedings and claims, the outcomes of which are subject to significant uncertainty. The Group evaluates, among other factors, the degree of probability of an unfavorable outcome and the ability to make a reasonable estimate of the amount of loss. Unanticipated events or changes in these factors may require the Group to increase or decrease the amount the Group has accrued for any matter or accrue for a matter that has not been previously accrued because it was not considered probable (Note 21).

 

(h) Annual impairment review

The Group tests annually whether goodwill has suffered any impairment, in accordance with the accounting policy stated in Note 2.4. The recoverable amounts of cash-generating units have been determined based on value-in-use calculations. These calculations require the use of estimates (Note 10).

If the budgeted gross margin, the estimated cost of capital and the growth rate used in the value-in-use calculation for the Azerbaijan CGU had been 3% lower (for example, 52% instead of 55%), 1% higher (for example, 18% instead of 17%) and 1% lower (for example, 3% instead of 4%), respectively than management’s estimates at 31 December 2010, the Group would have not recognized any impairment against goodwill.

If the budgeted gross margin, the estimated cost of capital and the growth rate used in the value-in-use calculation for the Georgia CGU had been 3% lower (for example, 41% instead of 44%), 1% higher (for example, 17% instead of 16%) and 1% lower (for example, 1% instead of 2%), respectively than management’s estimates at 31 December 2010, the Group would have recognized an impairment of USD 2,670 against goodwill.

If the budgeted gross margin, the estimated cost of capital and the growth rate used in the value-in-use calculation for the Moldova CGU had been 3% lower (for example, 30% instead of 33%), 1% higher (for example, 17% instead of 16%) and 1% lower (for example, 1% instead of 2%), respectively than management’s estimates at 31 December 2010, the Group would have not recognized any impairment against goodwill.

 

2.7 Recent accounting pronouncements

 

(i) Standards and interpretations effective for annual periods on or after 1 January 2010 that are not relevant for the Group’s operations.

 

  - IFRIC 17, ‘Distribution of non-cash assets to owners’ (effective on or after 1 July 2009). The interpretation was published in November 2008. This interpretation provides guidance on accounting for arrangements whereby an entity distributes non-cash assets to shareholders either as a distribution of reserves or as dividends. IFRS 5 has also been amended to require that assets are classified as held for distribution only when they are available for distribution in their present condition and the distribution is highly probable.

 

  -

IFRIC 18, ‘Transfers of assets from customers’, effective for transfer of assets received on or after 1 July 2009. This interpretation clarifies the requirements of IFRSs for agreements in which an entity receives from a customer an item of property, plant and equipment that the entity must then use either to connect the customer to a network or to provide the customer with ongoing access to a supply of

 

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AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

 

goods or services (such as a supply of electricity, gas or water). In some cases, the entity receives cash from a customer that must be used only to acquire or construct the item of property, plant, and equipment in order to connect the customer to a network or provide the customer with ongoing access to a supply of goods or services (or to do both).

 

  - IFRS 2 (amendments), ‘Group cash-settled share-based payment transactions’ (effective on or after 1 January 2010). In addition to incorporating IFRIC 8, ‘Scope of IFRS 2’, and IFRIC 11, ‘IFRS 2—Group and treasury share transactions’, the amendments expand on the guidance in IFRIC 11 to address the classification of group arrangements that were not covered by that interpretation.

 

  - IFRS 5 (amendment), ‘Non-current assets held for sale and discontinued operations’. The amendment clarifies that IFRS 5 specifies the disclosures required in respect of non-current assets (or disposal groups) classified as held for sale or discontinued operations. It also clarifies that the general requirement of IAS 1 still apply, in particular paragraph 15 (to achieve a fair presentation) and paragraph 125 (sources of estimation uncertainty) of IAS 1.

 

  - IFRIC 9, ‘Reassessment of embedded derivatives and IAS 39, Financial instruments: Recognition and measurement’, effective 1 July 2009. This amendment to IFRIC 9 requires an entity to assess whether an embedded derivative should be separated from a host contract when the entity reclassifies a hybrid financial asset out of the ‘fair value through profit or loss’ category. This assessment is to be made based on circumstances that existed on the later of the date the entity first became a party to the contract and the date of any contract amendments that significantly change the cash flows of the contract. If the entity is unable to make this assessment, the hybrid instrument must remains classified as at fair value through profit or loss in its entirety.

 

  - IFRIC 16, ‘Hedges of a net investment in a foreign operation’, effective 1 July 2009. This amendment states that, in a hedge of a net investment in a foreign operation, qualifying hedging instruments may be held by any entity or entities within the group, including the foreign operation itself, as long as the designation, documentation and effectiveness requirements of IAS 39 that relate to a net investment hedge are satisfied. In particular, the group should clearly document its hedging strategy because of the possibility of different designations at different levels of the group. IAS 38 (amendment), ‘Intangible assets’, effective 1 January 2010. The amendment clarifies guidance in measuring the fair value of an intangible asset acquired in a business combination and permits the grouping of intangible assets as a single asset if each asset has similar useful economic lives.

 

  - IFRS 3, ‘Business Combinations’ (revised January 2008; effective for business combinations for which the acquisition date is on or after the beginning of the first annual reporting period beginning on or after 1 July 2009).

The revised standard continues to apply the acquisition method to business combinations but with some significant changes compared with IFRS 3. For example, all payments to purchase a business are recorded at fair value at the acquisition date, with contingent payments classified as debt subsequently re-measured through the statement of comprehensive income. There is a choice on an acquisition-by-acquisition basis to measure the non-controlling interest in the acquiree either at fair value or at the non controlling interest’s proportionate share of the acquiree’s net assets. All acquisition-related costs are expensed.

 

(ii) Standards, amendments and interpretations that are not yet effective but relevant for the Group’s operations:

 

  -

IAS 1 (amendment), ‘Presentation of financial statements’, effective 1 January 2011. The amendment clarifies that the potential settlement of a liability by the issue of equity is not relevant to its

 

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AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

 

classification as current or non current. By amending the definition of current liability, the amendment permits a liability to be classified as non-current (provided that the entity has an unconditional right to defer settlement by transfer of cash or other assets for at least 12 months after the accounting period) notwithstanding the fact that the entity could be required by the counterparty to settle in shares at any time. The amendments will be applied retrospectively.

 

  - Revised IAS 24 (revised), ‘Related party disclosures’, issued in November 2009. It supersedes IAS 24, ‘Related party disclosures’, issued in 2003. IAS 24 (revised) is mandatory for periods beginning on or after 1 January 2011. Earlier application, in whole or in part, is permitted. The revised standard clarifies and simplifies the definition of a related party and removes the requirement for government-related entities to disclose details of all transactions with the government and other government-related entities.

 

  - IFRS 9, ‘Financial instruments’, issued in November 2009. This standard is the first step in the process to replace IAS 39, ‘Financial instruments: recognition and measurement’. IFRS 9 was issued in November 2009 and replaces those parts of IAS 39 relating to the classification and measurement of financial assets. Key features are as follows:

 

  a) Financial assets are required to be classified into two measurement categories: those to be measured subsequently at fair value, and those to be measured subsequently at amortised cost. The decision is to be made at initial recognition. The classification depends on the entity’s business model for managing its financial instruments and the contractual cash flow characteristics of the instrument.

 

  b) An instrument is subsequently measured at amortised cost only if it is a debt instrument and both (i) the objective of the entity’s business model is to hold the asset to collect the contractual cash flows, and (ii) the asset’s contractual cash flows represent only payments of principal and interest (that is, it has only “basic loan features”). All other debt instruments are to be measured at fair value through profit or loss.

 

  c) All equity instruments are to be measured subsequently at fair value. Equity instruments that are held for trading will be measured at fair value through profit or loss. For all other equity investments, an irrevocable election can be made at initial recognition, to recognise unrealised and realised fair value gains and losses through other comprehensive income rather than profit or loss. There is to be no recycling of fair value gains and losses to profit or loss. This election may be made on an instrument-by-instrument basis. Dividends are to be presented in profit or loss, as long as they represent a return on investment.

 

  d) Most of the requirements in IAS 39 for classification and measurement of financial liabilities were carried forward unchanged to IFRS 9. The key change is that an entity will be required to present the effects of changes in own credit risk of financial liabilities designated as at fair value through profit or loss in other comprehensive income.

While adoption of IFRS 9 is mandatory from 1 January 2013, earlier adoption is permitted.

The Group is considering the implications of the standards, the impacts on the Group and the timing of their adoption by the Group.

 

  -

IAS 27 (revised) requires the effects of all transactions with non-controlling interests to be recorded in equity if there is no change in control and these transactions will no longer result in goodwill or gains and losses. The standard also specifies the accounting when control is lost. Any remaining interest in

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

 

the entity is re-measured to fair value, and a gain or loss is recognised in profit or loss. IAS 27 (revised) has had no impact on the current period, as none of the non-controlling interests have a deficit balance; there have been no transactions whereby an interest in an entity is retained after the loss of control of that entity, and there have been no transactions with non-controlling interests.

 

  - IAS 36 (amendment), ‘Impairment of assets’, effective 1 January 2010. The amendment clarifies that the largest cash-generating unit (or group of units) to which goodwill should be allocated for the purposes of impairment testing is an operating segment, as defined by paragraph 5 of IFRS 8, ‘ Operating segments’.

 

(iv) Standards and interpretations that are not yet effective and not relevant for the Group’s operations.

 

  - ‘Prepayments of a minimum funding requirement’ (amendments to IFRIC 14)

 

  - IFRS 1, ‘First-time adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards’

 

  - ‘Classification of rights issues’ (amendment to IAS 32)

 

  - IFRIC 19, ‘Extinguishing financial liabilities with equity instruments’

NOTE 3—SEGMENT INFORMATION

The Group has identified four operating segments based on geographical areas, all of which operate under the GSM business. Accordingly, the geographical segmentation has been selected as the reportable segments.

A geographical segment is a distinguishable component of an enterprise that is engaged in providing products or services within a particular economic environment and that is subject to risks and returns that are different from those of components operating in other economic environments.

The operating segments of the Group are composed of the Group’s operations of its subsidiaries Kcell, Azercell, Geocell and Moldcell which are domiciled in these respective countries. “Other” operating segment is composed of Azertel, Gürtel and Fintur.

 

(a) Segment assets

Segment assets consist of primarily property and equipment, intangible assets including goodwill, inventories, trade and other receivables and are allocated based on where the assets are located. Unallocated assets comprise cash and cash equivalents, deferred income tax assets/liabilities.

The segment assets at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

Kazakhstan

     905,201        880,926   

Azerbaijan

     1,221,224        1,182,634   

Georgia

     212,125        224,413   

Moldova

     104,963        87,781   

Other

     164,909        313,944   
                

Segment assets

     2,608,422        2,689,698   
                

Unallocated assets

     262,973        179,358   

Less: inter-segment eliminations

     (156,128     (268,931
                

Total assets

     2,715,267        2,600,125   
                

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Capital expenditure comprises additions to property and equipment and intangible assets and is allocated based on where the assets are located. The capital expenditures for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Kazakhstan

     195,260         130,883         290,546   

Azerbaijan

     112,491         55,944         72,361   

Georgia

     33,815         50,687         43,226   

Moldova

     26,231         12,220         30,836   

Other

     —           40         399   
                          

Total

     367,797         249,774         437,368   
                          

 

(b) Segment liabilities

Segment liabilities comprise operating liabilities and are allocated based on where the assets are located. Unallocated liabilities comprise items such as taxation and borrowings.

The segment liabilities at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

Kazakhstan

     140,541        161,755   

Azerbaijan

     107,084        81,373   

Georgia

     10,988        44,181   

Moldova

     73,660        8,235   

Other(*)

     794,735        929,327   
                

Segment liabilities

     1,127,008        1,224,871   
                

Unallocated liabilities

     59,765        57,798   

Less: inter-segment eliminations

     (85,239     (228,265
                

Total liabilities

     1,101,534        1,054,404   
                

 

  (*) Segment liabilities of Other segment include put option liability among other relatively smaller items (Note 15).

 

(c) Depreciation and amortisation expense

Depreciation and amortisation expenses for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

1 January—31 December 2010

   Kazakhstan      Azerbaijan      Georgia      Moldova      Other      Total  

Depreciation

     113,528         67,715         26,001         9,646         36         216,926   

Amortisation

     19,349         4,100         10,752         3,184         22         37,407   
                                                     

Total

     132,877         71,815         36,753         12,830         58         254,333   
                                                     

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

1 January—31 December 2009

   Kazakhstan      Azerbaijan      Georgia      Moldova      Other      Total  

Depreciation

     97,457         67,784         27,525         9,972         45         202,783   

Amortisation

     20,909         3,655         8,584         3,472         79         36,699   
                                                     

Total

     118,366         71,439         36,109         13,444         124         239,482   
                                                     

 

1 January—31 December 2008

   Kazakhstan      Azerbaijan      Georgia      Moldova      Other      Total  

Depreciation

     97,920         68,454         29,969         10,288         57         206,688   

Amortisation

     18,129         2,572         8,383         3,139         81         32,304   
                                                     

Total

     116,049         71,026         38,352         13,427         138         238,992   
                                                     

 

(d) Provision for impairment of receivables

Impairment charge on receivables for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Kazakhstan

     2,180         1,087   

Azerbaijan

     1,418         3,211   

Georgia

     102         474   

Moldova

     22         217   
                 

Total

     3,722         4,989   
                 

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

(e) Segment results

The segment results for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

1 January—31 December 2010

   Kazakhstan     Azerbaijan     Georgia     Moldova     Other     Inter-segment
eliminations
    Total  

External revenue

     1,013,000        503,566        151,621        66,615        1,774        —          1,736,576   

Inter-segment revenue

     152        181        301        20        1,520        (2,174     —     
                                                        

Total segment revenue

     1,013,152        503,747        151,922        66,635        3,294        (2,174     1,736,576   

Operating expenses

     (551,335     (297,584     (115,317     (58,002     (13,524     1,986        (1,033,776

Other operating income/(expense), net

     981        —          150        1,993        (65,632     188        (62,320
                                                        

Segment result

     462,798        206,163        36,755        10,626        (75,862     —          640,480   
                                                        

Unallocated expenses

                 (1,311
                                                        

Operating profit

                 639,169   
                                                        

1 January—31 December 2009

   Kazakhstan     Azerbaijan     Georgia     Moldova     Other     Inter-segment
eliminations
    Total  

External revenue

     863,138        500,764        174,619        63,323        3,178        —          1,605,022   

Inter-segment revenue

     176        131        193        12        2,701        (3,213     —     
                                                        

Total segment revenue

     863,314        500,895        174,812        63,335        5,879        (3,213     1,605,022   

Operating expenses

     (502,984     (285,651     (118,769     (57,251     (11,373     3,270        (972,758

Other operating income/(expense), net

     —          —          (66     —          14,604        (583     13,955   
                                                        

Segment result

     360,330        215,244        55,977        6,084        9,110        (526     646,219   
                                                        

Unallocated expenses

                 (7,153
                                                        

Operating profit

                 639,066   
                                                        

1 January—31 December 2008

   Kazakhstan     Azerbaijan     Georgia     Moldova     Other     Inter-segment
eliminations
    Total  

External revenue

     1,010,812        537,210        209,703        63,016        2,354        —          1,823,095   

Inter-segment revenue

     321        193        306        22        1,535        (2,377     —     
                                                        

Total segment revenue

     1,011,133        537,403        210,009        63,038        3,889        (2,377     1,823,095   

Operating expenses

     (600,299     (295,291     (136,470     (58,365     (11,600     2,990        (1,099,035

Other operating income/(expense), net

     —          —          (1,395     80        22,468        (1,400     19,753   
                                                        

Segment result

     410,834        242,112        72,144        4,753        14,757        (787     743,813   
                                                        

Unallocated expenses

                 (4,263
                                                        

Operating profit

                 739,550   
                                                        

 

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NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

(f) Information about products and services at 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008

 

1 January—31 December 2010

   Kazakhstan      Azerbaijan      Georgia      Moldova      Other      Total  

Revenues from prepaid card services

     619,229         335,768         73,987         13,663         —           1,056,517   

Call out revenues

     204,924         67,093         21,951         13,870         —           293,968   

Interconnect revenues

     113,462         60,097         26,070         24,622         —           224,251   

Revenues from SMS

     25,902         26,205         13,863         2,603         —           68,573   

Revenues from MMS, GPRS, and WAP

     9,203         3,238         1,290         1,630         —           15,361   

Roaming revenues

     27,249         8,613         4,435         4,605         —           44,902   

Monthly fixed fees

     10,230         1,895         238         3,132         —           15,495   

Registration and connection fees

     825         —           153         713         —           1,691   

Transmission line in lease

     —           278         —           —           —           278   

Other service revenues

     1,976         379         9,634         1,777         1,774         15,540   
                                                     

External revenues

     1,013,000         503,566         151,621         66,615         1,774         1,736,576   
                                                     

1 January—31 December 2009

   Kazakhstan      Azerbaijan      Georgia      Moldova      Other      Total  

Revenues from prepaid card services

     469,776         302,169         86,580         13,251         —           871,776   

Call out revenues

     209,401         93,122         21,157         14,575         —           338,255   

Interconnect revenues

     105,680         59,821         34,314         21,622         —           221,437   

Revenues from SMS

     26,239         28,875         17,723         2,479         —           75,316   

Roaming revenues

     34,535         9,446         2,616         4,809         —           51,406   

Monthly fixed fees

     7,463         788         1,097         2,645         —           11,993   

Revenues from MMS, GPRS, and WAP

     7,280         2,783         1,178         1,458         —           12,699   

Registration and connection fees

     1,214         2,461         362         575         —           4,612   

Transmission line in lease

     —           771         —           —           —           771   

Other service revenues

     1,550         528         9,592         1,909         3,178         16,757   
                                                     

External revenues

     863,138         500,764         174,619         63,323         3,178         1,605,022   
                                                     

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

1 January—31 December 2008

   Kazakhstan      Azerbaijan      Georgia      Moldova      Other      Total  

Revenues from prepaid card services

     494,510         318,766         103,395         12,801         —           929,472   

Call out revenues

     293,386         99,471         26,019         16,437         —           435,313   

Interconnect revenues

     134,114         65,906         44,610         19,975         —           264,605   

Revenues from SMS

     28,354         30,410         18,530         2,924         —           80,218   

Roaming revenues

     40,539         11,611         3,444         5,930         —           61,524   

Monthly fixed fees

     9,051         1,913         1,469         2,449         —           14,882   

Revenues from MMS, GPRS, and WAP

     7,499         2,427         2,459         895         —           13,280   

Registration and connection fees

     2,514         4,030         477         666         —           7,687   

Transmission line in lease

     —           2,128         —           —           —           2,128   

Other service revenues

     845         548         9,300         939         2,354         13,986   
                                                     

External revenues

     1,010,812         537,210         209,703         63,016         2,354         1,823,095   
                                                     

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 4—CASH, CASH EQUIVALENTS AND RESTRICTED CASH

The analysis of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at 31 December 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Cash on hand

     421         4,972   

Banks

     

—demand deposits

     168,392         54,547   

—time deposits

     83,023         110,622   

Restricted cash

     158         180   
                 

Total

     251,994         170,321   
                 

Time deposits are all short-term with original maturities of less than three months. Effective interest rates for USD denominated time deposits in the amount of USD 83,023, is 3.5% p.a. at 31 December 2010. (Time deposits are all short-term with original maturities of less than three months. Effective interest rates for USD, EUR, Kazakhstan Tenge and Moldovan Lei denominated time deposits in the amount of USD 93,057, EUR 11,621, Kazakhstan Tenge 5,944 and Moldovan Lei 1,501 are 2% p.a., 3.75% p.a., 3.4% p.a. and 6% p.a. at 31 December 2009, respectively).

Restricted cash of USD 158 (2009: USD 180) represents the amount deposited in a special bank account in order to receive permission for expatriate personnel to work for Kcell in Kazakhstan.

Cash and cash equivalents included in the consolidated statements of cash flows are as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Cash and cash equivalents

     251,994        170,321        285,226   

Less: restricted cash

     (158     (180     (153
                        

Total

     251,836        170,141        285,073   
                        

NOTE 5—TRADE RECEIVABLES

The analysis of trade receivables at 31 December 2010 and 2009 is as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

Receivable from retailers

     63,985        43,734   

Receivable from subscribers

     32,666        35,498   

Interconnect receivable from local wireless and fixed line operators

     27,584        31,279   

Receivable from roaming operators

     5,671        9,201   

Other

     514        1,563   
                
     130,420        121,275   
                

Less: provision for impairment of trade receivables

     (17,318     (14,530
                

Trade receivables, net

     113,102        106,745   
                

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Movements on the provision for impairment of trade receivables for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

At 1 January

     3,722        4,989   

Collections during the year

     (155  

Receivables written-off during the year as uncollectible

     (808     (1,602

Exchange differences, net

     29        (866
                

At 31 December

     17,318        14,530   
                

Azercell has a significant dependency on operations with AzTelekom PU (“AzTelekom”), which is the national telecommunications operator. All local and international incoming, outgoing and transit traffic goes through AzTelekom, and additionally, the majority of transmission channels leased by the Group are rented from AzTelekom.

Trade receivables from interconnect as at 31 December 2010 contains net receivable from AzTelekom in the amount of USD 9,904 (2009: USD 2,772). The dispute concerning international and intercity tariffs on traffics between above mentioned operator and Azercell has started from August 2009 and is still ongoing. However Azercell management estimates to reach an agreement with AzTelekom to settle the disputed amount by the end of first quarter of 2011. Management has not provided any impairment provision for past due receivables as at 31 December 2010.

There is no concentration of credit risk with respect to trade receivables. Additionally, carrying amounts of trade receivables approximate their fair values.

The other classes within trade and other receivables do not contain impaired assets.

As of 31 December 2010, trade receivables amounting to USD 11,562 (2009: USD 7,091) were past due but not impaired. Majority of these receivables relate to the interconnect receivable from local wireless and fixed line operators and corporate subscribers where the inherent risk of default is considered low. Past due but not impaired balance also contained Azercell’s overdue receivables from AzTelekom. The Group does not have any collateral over trade receivables. The ageing analysis of these trade receivables is as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Less than 30 days

     —           1,024   

Between 30 and 60 days

     1,316         422   

Between 60 and 90 days

     933         218   

Between 90 and 180 days

     1,617         686   

More than 180 days

     7,696         4,741   
                 

Total

     11,562         7,091   
                 

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

As of 31 December 2010, trade receivables of USD 20,722 (2009: USD 19,144) were impaired. The amount of the provision was USD 17,318 as of 31 December 2010 (2009: USD 14,530). The provision provided is mainly in respect of individual subscribers with overdue balances for a long period of time. It was assessed that a portion of the receivables is expected to be recovered. The ageing of these receivables is as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Less than 30 days

     938         1,163   

Between 30 and 60 days

     656         1,617   

Between 60 and 90 days

     1,102         1,294   

Between 90 and 180 days

     7,251         2,343   

More than 180 days

     10,775         12,727   
                 

Total

     20,722         19,144   
                 

NOTE 6—TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES WITH SHAREHOLDERS AND OTHER RELATED COMPANIES

Amounts due from and due to related parties at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Due from related companies:

     

OAO Kazakhtelecom (“Kazakhtelecom”)

     8,825         —     

TeliaSonera UTA Holdings B.V.

     4,813         836   

TeliaSonera Finland Oyj

     215         209   

Turkcell

     153         328   

OJSC MegaFon (“MegaFon”)

     131         58   

Cenay İletişim Hizmetleri Ltd. Şti. (“Cenay İletişim”)

     —           41,969   

Other

     83         132   
                 

Total due from related companies

     14,220         43,532   
                 
     2010      2009  

Due to related companies:

     

Cenay İnşaat Ltd. Şti. (“Cenay İnşaat”)

     19,214         19,710   

Turkcell

     182         361   

MegaFon

     95         165   

Cenay İletişim

     —           350   

Kazakhtelecom

     —           19,740   

Other

     733         267   
                 

Total due to related companies

     20,224         40,593   
                 

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Sales and purchases made by the Group to and from related parties during the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Revenues from related parties:

        

Kazakhtelecom

     23,344         29,950         43,285   

Turkcell

     3,363         3,678         5,767   

Megafon

     638         723         1,316   

Other

     3,763         3,562         7,414   
                          

Total

     31,108         37,913         57,782   
                          
     2010      2009      2008  

Cost and expenses incurred with related parties:

        

Kazakhtelecom

     42,174         36,293         63,421   

Turkcell

     4,019         4,661         4,974   

Megafon

     1,534         150         1,216   

Other

     2,911         2,263         5,123   
                          

Total

     50,638         43,367         74,734   
                          

The carrying amount and fair value of amounts due from and due to related parties approximate each other.

Turkcell and TeliaSonera are shareholders of Fintur. Cenay İletişim and Cenay İnşaat are non-controlling shareholders of Azertel. Kazakhtelecom is non-controlling shareholder of Kcell. The remaining companies are controlled by/affiliated with the shareholders or Group companies.

At 31 December 2010, due from Kazakhtelecom amounting to USD 8,825 (2009: nil) represents charges of Kcell to Kazakhtelecom for all incoming calls to GSM networks from PSTN and international and local transit traffic through the equipment of Kazakhtelecom.

Due to Kazakhtelecom amounting to USD 19,740 at 31 December 2009 represents outstanding dividends payable and payable for outgoing local and international PSTN calls and traffic from Kcell’s networks. In addition to that, Kcell entered into transmission contracts with Kazakhtelecom, under which Kcell leases international digital communication channels and digital duplex communication channels in Kazakhstan.

At 31 December 2010, due from TeliaSonera UTA Holdings B.V. amounting to USD 4,813 (2009: USD 836) represents amounts receivable for management services provided.

Due from Cenay İletişim amounting to USD 41,969 at 31 December 2009 resulted from the sale of preemptive rights of Azertel to succeed in 42.2% shareholding of non-controlling interest in Azertel and the capital commitment to Azertel.

At 31 December 2010, due to Cenay İnşaat amounting to USD 19,214 (2009: USD 19,710) represents dividends payable.

Revenues from Turkcell resulted from roaming services provided. Cost and expenses incurred with Turkcell resulted from the purchase of technical and management support, GSM network equipment, purchase of property and equipment, roaming services rendered and other advances.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

At 31 December 2010, due to Turkcell amounting to USD 182 (2009: USD 361) represents amounts payable for the purchase of technical and management support, GSM network equipment, purchase of property and equipment, roaming services rendered and other advances.

Cost and expenses incurred with Megafon resulted from roaming operations.

Short-term employee benefits paid to key management personnel, defined as directors, for their services in full time executive management positions is made up of a contractual salary, performance bonus depending on financial performance of the Company and other compensation in form of reimbursement of apartment rent expenses. Short-term employee benefits paid to key management personnel included in general and administrative expenses for the year ended 31  December 2010 amount to USD 6,423 (2009: USD 8,681).

NOTE 7—INVENTORIES

The analysis of inventories at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Start packages

     4,259         1,910   

Scratch cards

     3,386         1,292   

SIM cards and packages

     1,720         2,716   

Edge cards

     1,204         557   

Marketing materials

     503         441   

Spare parts

     323         289   

Other

     1,813         1,847   
                 

Total

     13,208         9,052   
                 

There is no inventory carried at fair value less cost to sell at 31 December 2010 and 2009.

NOTE 8—OTHER CURRENT ASSETS

The analysis of other current assets at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Value added tax (“VAT”) receivable, and other prepaid taxes and funds

     22,372         39,334   

Advances given to suppliers

     14,930         22,712   

Prepaid expenses

     14,282         16,198   

Prepayment for customs duties

     2,489         3,709   

Prepayment for income tax

     —           10,611   

Other

     5,001         1,540   
                 

Total

     59,074         94,104   
                 

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 9—PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT, NET

The movements in property and equipment and related accumulated depreciation for the year ended 31 December 2010 are as follows:

 

At 1 January 2010

  Land and
buildings
    Machinery and
equipment(*)
    Furniture
and fixtures
    Motor
vehicles
    Leasehold
improvements
    Construction in
progress and
advances given
    Total  

Cost

    110,322        1,706,119        106,642        4,399        1,353        228,769        2,157,604   

Accumulated depreciation

    (20,128     (857,456     (70,669     (3,343     (903     —          (952,499
                                                       

Net book amount

    90,194        848,663        35,973        1,056        450        228,769        1,205,105   
                                                       

2010

             

Opening net book amount

    90,194        848,663        35,973        1,056        450        228,769        1,205,105   

Exchange differences

    863        2,020        1,712        48        35        (2,296     2,382   

Additions

    20,223        11,156        16,895        630        —          246,722        295,626   

Transfers

    5,316        146,336        6,549        (10     1,459        (159,650     —     

Disposals

    (122     (1,752     (591     (56     —          (71     (2,592

Depreciation

    (7,005     (192,254     (17,197     (458     (12     —          (216,926
                                                       

Closing net book amount

    109,469        814,169        43,341        1,210        1,932        313,474        1,283,595   
                                                       

At 31 December 2010

             

Cost

    138,254        1,847,121        132,813        5,010        5,132        313,474        2,441,804   

Accumulated depreciation

    (28,785     (1,032,952     (89,472     (3,800     (3,200     —          (1,158,209
                                                       

Net book amount

    109,469        814,169        43,341        1,210        1,932        313,474        1,283,595   
                                                       

No borrowing cost was capitalized in the costs of the property and equipment during the year.

At 31 December 2010 and 2009, the gross carrying value of property and equipment, which has been fully depreciated and still in use, was approximately USD 284,588 and USD 258,489, respectively.

Depreciation and amortisation expense of USD 228,519 (2009: USD 215,234) has been charged in ‘cost of services’ (Note 17), USD 24,601 (2009: USD 22,543) in ‘general administrative expenses’ (Note 18) and USD 1,213 (2009: USD 1,705) in ‘selling and marketing expenses’ (Note 19).

 

  (*) Machinery and equipment mainly comprises of switches and transmission devices, network and computer equipment.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

The movements in property and equipment and related accumulated depreciation for the year ended 31 December 2009 are as follows:

 

At 1 January 2009

   Land and
buildings
    Machinery and
equipment (*)
    Furniture
and fixtures
    Motor
vehicles
    Leasehold
improvements
    Construction
in progress and
advances given
    Total  

Cost

     82,812        1,752,193        104,810        3,965        4,029        217,801        2,165,610   

Accumulated depreciation

     (13,324     (748,767     (60,423     (2,756     (3,331     —          (828,601
                                                        

Net book amount

     69,488        1,003,426        44,387        1,209        698        217,801        1,337,009   
                                                        

2009

              

Opening net book amount

     69,488        1,003,426        44,387        1,209        698        217,801        1,337,009   

Exchange differences

     (7,864     (106,653     (7,751     (23     (4     11,681        (110,614

Additions

     3,729        14,824        12,708        567        —          152,782        184,610   

Transfers

     31,079        118,735        3,824        9        (152     (153,495     —     

Disposals

     (1,515     (1,187     (296     (119     —          —          (3,117

Depreciation

     (4,723     (180,482     (16,899     (587     (92     —          (202,783
                                                        

Closing net book amount

     90,194        848,663        35,973        1,056        450        228,769        1,205,105   
                                                        

At 31 December 2009

              

Cost

     110,322        1,706,119        106,642        4,399        1,353        228,769        2,157,604   

Accumulated depreciation

     (20,128     (857,456     (70,669     (3,343     (903     —          (952,499
                                                        

Net book amount

     90,194        848,663        35,973        1,056        450        228,769        1,205,105   
                                                        

No borrowing cost was capitalized in the costs of the property and equipment during the year.

 

  (*) Machinery and equipment mainly comprises of switches and transmission devices, network and computer equipment.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 10—INTANGIBLE ASSETS, NET

The movements in intangible assets and related accumulated amortisation for the year ended 31 December 2010 are as follows:

 

At 1 January 2010

   Goodwill      Licenses and
other rights
    Computer
software
    Other     Advances
given
    Total  

Cost

     713,566         258,316        136,231        23,470        12,736        1,144,319   

Accumulated amortisation

     —           (135,392     (55,325     (3,448     —          (194,165
                                                 

Net book amount

     713,566         122,924        80,906        20,022        12,736        950,154   
                                                 

2010

             

Opening net book amount

     713,566         122,924        80,906        20,022        12,736        950,154   

Exchange differences

     —           (10,529     (1,801     117        (5,813     (18,026

Additions

     —           33,960        36,205        —          2,006        72,171   

Transfers

     —           —          2,504        40        (2,544     —     

Disposals

     —           —          (50     —          (3,086     (3,136

Amortisation

     —           (16,000     (18,997     (2,410     —          (37,407
                                                 

Closing net book amount

     713,566         130,355        98,767        17,769        3,299        963,756   
                                                 

At 31 December 2010

             

Cost

     713,566         219,349        171,276        23,647        3,299        1,131,137   

Accumulated amortisation

     —           (88,994     (72,509     (5,878     —          (167,381
                                                 

Net book amount

     713,566         130,355        98,767        17,769        3,299        963,756   
                                                 

Goodwill is allocated to cash-generating units for the purpose of impairment testing. Each of those cash-generating units represents the Group’s investment in each country of operation by each primary reporting segment.

The movements in intangible assets and related accumulated amortisation for the year ended 31 December 2009 are as follows:

 

At 1 January 2009

   Goodwill      Licenses and
other rights
    Computer
software
    Other     Advances
given
    Total  

Cost

     709,821         253,478        117,794        28,609        4,022        1,113,724   

Accumulated amortisation

     —           (124,245     (45,330     (1,204     —          (170,779
                                                 

Net book amount

     709,821         129,233        72,464        27,405        4,022        942,945   
                                                 

2009

             

Opening net book amount

     709,821         129,233        72,464        27,405        4,022        942,945   

Exchange differences

     —           (10,913     (8,857     (5,015     (96     (24,881

Additions(*)

     3,745         24,848        27,927        25        12,364        68,909   

Transfers

     —           (1,267     4,650        171        (3,554     —     

Disposals

     —           —          —          (120     —          (120

Amortisation charge

     —           (18,977     (15,278     (2,444     —          (36,699
                                                 

Closing net book amount

     713,566         122,924        80,906        20,022        12,736        950,154   
                                                 

At 31 December 2009

             

Cost

     713,566         258,316        136,231        23,470        12,736        1,144,319   

Accumulated amortisation

     —           (135,392     (55,325     (3,448     —          (194,165
                                                 

Net book amount

     713,566         122,924        80,906        20,022        12,736        950,154   
                                                 

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

 

  (*) On 30 January 2009, Fintur acquired an additional 2.5% of Geocell shares for a purchase consideration of USD 7,000 which increases the effective ownership of Fintur in Geocell to 100%. The acquired shares were previously held by several local shareholders. The difference between the purchase consideration and the carrying amount of shares purchased from non-controlling interest (USD 3,255) is accounted as goodwill (USD 3,745).
  (**) In April 2008, the privatization of the Republic of Azerbaijan’s 35.7% ownership in Azercell was completed. Azertel acquired the entire stake from the Republic of Azerbaijan for a consideration of USD 180 million, increasing Azertel’s ownership in Azercell to 100%. At the same time, the non-controlling shareholders in Azertel increased their ownership to 49%. Fintur’s effective ownership in Azercell therefore remained at 51%. One of the non-controlling shareholders was also granted a put option, giving the shareholder the right to sell its 42.2% stake in Azertel to Fintur at fair value in certain deadlock situations regarding material decisions at the general assembly. Fintur has initially accounted for the present value of the estimated option redemption amount as a provision of USD 925 million and derecognized the non-controlling interest (USD 240 million) related to the grantee of the put option. The difference between the present value of the estimated option redemption amount and the derecognized non-controlling interest has been accounted as goodwill (USD 685 million).

A primary reporting segment-level summary of goodwill as of 31 December 2010 and 2009 is presented below:

 

     2010      2009  

Azerbaijan

     684,736         684,736   

Georgia

     24,859         24,859   

Moldova

     3,971         3,971   
                 

Total

     713,566         713,566   
                 

The recoverable amount of a CGU is determined based on discounted future cash flows. These calculations use post-tax cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a five-year period. Cash flows beyond the five-year period are extrapolated using the estimated growth rates stated below. The growth rate does not exceed the long-term average growth rate for the telecommunications business in which the CGU operates.

The key assumptions used in discounted future cash flows are as follows:

 

2010

   Azerbaijan     Georgia     Moldova  

EBITDA margin(*)

     55     44     33

Growth rate(**)

     4     2     2

Discount rate(***)

     17.4     16.2     16.5

2009

   Azerbaijan     Georgia     Moldova  

EBITDA margin(*)

     54     49     33

Growth rate(**)

     2     2     2

Discount rate(***)

     12.3     14.4     18.5

 

  (*) Budgeted average Earnings Before Interest Tax Depreciation and Amortization (“EBITDA”) margin for the 5 year projection period.
  (**) Weighted average growth rate used to extrapolate cash flows beyond the projection period.
  (***) Post-tax discount rate applied to the cash flow projections.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

These assumptions have been used for the analysis of each CGU in the primary reporting segment. Management determined budgeted EBITDA based on past performance and its expectations of market development. The weighted average growth rates used are consistent with the forecasts included in industry reports. The discount rates used are post-tax and reflect specific risks relating to the relevant primary reporting segments. The impact of changes in these parameters on goodwill impairment review has been presented in the sensitivity analysis in Note 2.6.

NOTE 11—OTHER NON-CURRENT ASSETS

The analysis of other non-current assets at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Long-term receivables under Kcell Express programme

     3,502         12,075   

Other

     1,837         —     
                 

Total

     5,339         12,075   
                 

In 2007, Kcell initiated a new marketing program with its dealers, Kcell Express. Under this program Kcell finances a complete branding of dealers’ selling outlets and gets exclusive right for distribution of its products. The branding costs are reimbursed by the dealer over the period of 5 years on a monthly basis. If the dealer terminates the contract prior to its expiry, the dealer is obliged to reimburse Kcell for the full amount of branding costs outstanding.

Carrying amounts of other non-current assets approximate fair values.

NOTE 12—TRADE PAYABLES

The analysis of trade payables at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Trade accounts payable

     92,990         64,525   

Payable due to property and equipment purchases

     23,870         4,146   
                 

Total

     116,860         68,671   
                 

The maturity analysis of trade payables and due to related parties at 31 December 2010 and 2009 is as follows;

 

At 31 December 2010

   Less than
3 months
     Between
3 months and
1 year
     Between
1 and 2 years
     Over
5 years
 

Trade payables

     98,437         5,715         12,708         —     

Due to related parties

     19,892         332         —           —     
                                   

Total future payments

     118,329         6,047         12,708         —     
                                   

At 31 December 2009

   Less than
3 months
     Between
3 months and
1 year
     Between
1 and 2 years
     Over
5 years
 

Trade payables

     57,553         5,107         6,011         —     

Due to related parties

     40,593         —           —           —     
                                   

Total future payments

     98,146         5,107         6,011         —     
                                   

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 13—TAXATION ON INCOME

The analysis of taxation on income for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Current income tax charge

     (166,951     (145,059     (195,972

Deferred income tax credit/(charge)

     15,210        (9,390     (20,761
                        

Taxation on income

     (151,741     (154,449     (216,733
                        

Dutch tax legislation does not permit a Dutch parent company and its foreign subsidiaries to file a consolidated Dutch tax return. Dutch resident companies are taxed on their worldwide income for corporate income tax purposes at a statutory rate of 25.5% (2009: 25.5% and 2008: 25.5%). No further taxes are payable on this profit unless the profit is distributed.

If certain conditions are met, income derived from foreign subsidiaries is tax exempt in the Netherlands under the rules of the Dutch participation exemption. However, certain costs such as acquisition costs are not deductible for Dutch corporate income tax purposes. Furthermore, in some cases the interest payable on loans to affiliated companies is non deductible.

When income derived by a Dutch company is subject to taxation in the Netherlands as well as in other countries, generally avoidance of double taxation can be obtained under the extensive Dutch tax treaty network or under Dutch domestic law.

Dividend distributions are subject to 15% Dutch withholding tax. However, under the Netherlands’ extensive tax treaty network, this rate can, in many cases, be significantly reduced if certain conditions are met.

Deferred income taxes

Fintur recognises deferred income tax assets and liabilities based upon temporary differences arising between their financial statements as reported under IFRS and their statutory tax financial statements. These differences usually result in the recognition of revenue and expenses in different reporting periods.

The breakdown of deferred income taxes at 31 December 2010 and 2009, using the enacted tax rates, were as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

Deferred income tax assets

    

Difference between the tax base and the carrying value of property and equipment and intangible assets

     9,651        8,029   

Deferred revenue

     10,926        7,604   

Trade payables and expense accruals

     5,674        7,283   

Impairment of receivables

     8,237        3,630   

Other

     2,720        817   
                

Deferred income tax assets

     37,208        27,363   
                

Deferred income tax liabilities

    

Difference between the tax base and the carrying value of property and equipment and intangible assets

     (57,719     (59,782

Unremitted earnings of foreign subsidiaries

     (6,093     (14,303
                

Deferred income tax liabilities

     (63,812     (74,085
                

Deferred income tax liability, net

     (26,604     (46,722
                

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Deferred income tax liabilities of USD 6,093 (2009: USD 14,303) have been recognised for the withholding tax and other taxes that would be payable on the unremitted earnings of the subsidiaries.

Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are offset when there is a legally enforceable right to offset current tax assets against current tax liabilities and when deferred income taxes relate to the same fiscal authority. The offset amounts at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Deferred income tax assets:

     

Deferred income tax assets to be recovered after more than 12 months

     9,083         6,608   

Deferred income tax assets to be recovered within 12 months

     1,896         2,429   
                 
     10,979         9,037   
                 

Deferred income tax liabilities:

     

Deferred income tax liabilities to be settled after more than 12 months

     31,277         31,692   

Deferred income tax liabilities to be settled within 12 months

     6,306         24,067   
                 
     37,583         55,759   
                 

The movements on the net deferred income tax liability for the years ended 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009  

At 1 January

     46,722        36,853   

Exchange differences

     (4,908     479   

(Credit)/charge to the consolidated statement of income

     (15,210     9,390   
                

At 31 December

     26,604        46,722   
                

The statutory tax rates applicable to the parent company and subsidiaries in the respective countries at 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Fintur Holdings B.V. (the Netherlands)(*)

     25.5     25.5     25.5

Kcell (Kazakhstan)

     20.0     20.0     30.0

Azercell (Azerbaijan)

     20.0     22.0     22.0

Geocell (Georgia)

     15.0     15.0     15.0

Moldcell (Moldova)(**)

     —          —          —     

Azertel and Gürtel (Turkey)(*)

     20.0     20.0     20.0

The weighted average applicable tax rate for the year ended 31 December 2010 was 21% (2009: 20,6% and 2008: 25%).

 

  (*) The main revenues of Fintur Holdings B.V., Azertel and Gürtel are dividend income which is exempt from income tax in the Netherlands and Turkey, respectively.
  (**) Beginning from 1 January 2008, Moldcell has a full tax payment exemption as long as it complies with certain condition.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

The tax on the Group’s profit before tax differs from the theoretical amount that would arise using the weighted average tax rate applicable to profits of the consolidated entities for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Profit before taxes on income

     648,238        626,769        758,031   

Tax calculated at domestic tax rates applicable to profits in the respective countries

     (140,319     (129,036     (188,848
                        

Withholding taxes on dividends and taxes over unremitted earnings of subsidiaries

     (8,765     (20,667     (38,762

Expenses not deductible for tax purposes

     (3,127     (4,928     (13,389

Adjustment of prior year income tax(*)

     1,626        8,461        —     

Effect of changes in tax rate(**)

     (887     (4,783     20,290   

Other, net

     (269     (3,496     3,976   
                        

Taxation on income

     (151,741     (154,449     (216,733
                        

 

  (*) In 2010, the differences between the accrual of income taxes for the year ended 31 December 2009 and actual income taxes which were reflected in income tax declarations of Azercell and Geocell presented as adjustment of prior year income tax.
       In 2008, Kcell resubmitted its corporate income tax returns for years 2006 and 2007. Kcell increased tax depreciation deductions for 2006 and 2007 by applying accelerated depreciation rates to newly acquired fixed assets. In accordance with the tax code of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Kcell can apply double depreciation rates for newly acquired fixed assets in the first year of its operation. The purpose of this exercise was to benefit from increased deductions in the periods with higher corporate income tax rates, before new tax code becomes effective on 1 January 2009. The adjustment for the year 2006 was properly recorded by Kcell in the financial statements prepared as of 31 December 2008 and for the year then ended when resubmission of tax returns was made. The adjustment for the year 2007 was recorded in the financial statements prepared as of 31 December 2009 and for the year then ended.
  (**) Effective from 1 January 2009, the statutory income tax rate of Kcell has been reduced from 30% to 20% in 2009 and to 17.5% in 2010. The effect of this change is USD 887 in 2010, USD 4,783 in 2009 and USD (20,290) in 2008.

NOTE 14—OTHER CURRENT LIABILITIES

The analysis of other current liabilities at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Deferred revenue(*)

     73,029         31,058   

Deposits received from subscribers

     25,607         24,054   

Payables to personnel

     18,804         12,522   

Taxes other than income taxes payable

     8,627         9,262   

Payable to the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan(**)

     —           47,400   

Other

     4,452         14,534   
                 

Total

     130,519         138,830   
                 

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

 

  (*) Deferred revenue mainly comprises the receipt of cash generated from the sale of prepaid phone cards to subscribers. Unused airtime or sold prepaid card is not recognised as revenue until the related service has been provided to the subscriber or the prepaid card has been expired.
  (**) The remaining portion of the payable to Goverment of the Republic of Azerbaijan, initial USD 180 million purchase consideration of Azercell, amounting to USD 47,400 has been paid in 2010.

NOTE 15—OTHER NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

The analysis of other non-current liabilities at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Financial liability(*)

     759,659         740,758   

Other

     14,507         7,754   
                 

Total

     774,166         748,512   
                 

 

  (*) In April 2008, the privatization of the Republic of Azerbaijan’s 35.7% ownership in Azercell was completed. Azertel acquired the entire stake from the Republic of Azerbaijan, increasing Azertel’s ownership in Azercell to 100%. At the same time, the non-controlling shareholders in Azertel increased their ownership to 49%, resulting in Fintur’s effective ownership in Azercell unchanged at 51%. One of the non-controlling shareholders was also granted a put option, giving the shareholder the right to sell its 42.2% stake in Azertel to Fintur at fair value in certain deadlock situations regarding material decisions at the general assembly. The valuation for initial recognition, based on discounted future cash flow model prepared in April 2008, revealed a fair value of USD 2.2 billion for Azercell, which approximate the fair value of Azertel as Azertel had been established as a holding company with no operations. The fair value of the 42.2% portion of Azercell shares subject to the put option is calculated as USD 925 million. As of 31 December 2010 and 2009, the Group re-measured the fair value of Azercell as USD 1.80 billion and USD 1.76 billion, respectively. The present value of the estimated option redemption amount corresponding to 42.2% of the fair value of Azercell as of 31 December 2010 is determined as USD 760 million (2009: USD 741 million). The dividend distribution of Azercell in respect of 42.2% shares has been accounted as a decrease of the liability whereas the fair value increase in excess of the allocated dividends has been included in the consolidated statement of income under other operating income.

Movements of financial liability for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010  

At 1 January

     740,758   

Dividend distribution to the non-controlling shareholder holding the put option

     (48,295

Charge to the consolidated statement of income

     67,196   
        

At 31 December

     759,659   
        
     2009  

At 1 January

     807,830   

Dividend distribution to the non-controlling shareholder holding the put option

     (52,468

Credit to the consolidated statement of income

     (14,604
        

At 31 December

     740,758   
        

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

Other non-current liabilities also includes payables amounting to USD 14,509 at 31 December 2010 (2009: USD 7,754) which represent obligations related to commissions, bonuses and other rewards (“pool system”) payable to dealers and distributors in six years time if necessary conditions of the pool system have been met by dealers and distributors. Effective interest rate used for non-current portion of trade and other payables within the pool system amounted to 8 percent per annum.

NOTE 16—SHARE CAPITAL

The composition of the share capital at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  
     Share %      USD      Share %      USD  

TeliaSonera

     59         110,694         59         110,694   

Turkcell

     41         78,365         41         78,365   
                                   

Paid-in share capital

     100         189,059         100         189,059   
                                   

Adjustment to share capital

        349,059            349,059   
                       

Total share capital

        538,118            538,118   
                       

Total number of shares authorized

              1,930,000,000   

Total number of shares issued and outstanding

              540,000,000   
                 

NOTE 17—COST OF SERVICES

The analysis of cost of services for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Depreciation and amortisation charges

     228,519         215,234         215,022   

Interconnect fees and expenses

     175,248         172,054         210,809   

Transmission links expenses

     53,657         51,553         64,822   

Radio and transmission network management and maintenance

     42,633         41,215         67,556   

Staff costs

     36,142         30,599         31,781   

Roaming expenses

     35,107         37,191         39,520   

System service maintenance

     29,958         27,920         31,345   

Costs of SIM card, scratch card and GSM hand-set sales

     22,984         23,012         28,060   

Other

     68,509         66,971         50,495   
                          

Total

     692,757         665,749         739,410   
                          

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 18—GENERAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPENSES

The analysis of general and administrative expenses for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Staff costs

     40,605         35,196         37,860   

Taxes and duties

     25,925         23,326         19,728   

Depreciation and amortisation charges

     24,601         22,543         23,473   

Consulting expenses and professional fees

     7,992         18,435         26,940   

Rent expenses

     6,312         6,004         5,612   

Utilities expenses

     4,179         3,207         4,778   

Repair and maintenance expenses

     2,400         3,641         5,678   

Representation expenses

     1,888         2,050         3,650   

Charity expenses

     1,447         1,961         2,416   

Other

     25,712         19,860         11,614   
                          

Total

     141,061         136,223         141,749   
                          

NOTE 19—SELLING AND MARKETING EXPENSES

The analysis of selling and marketing expenses for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Advertising and marketing expenses

     66,056         54,719         61,818   

Retailers’ commissions

     63,788         56,348         78,226   

Staff costs

     38,986         34,779         31,190   

Kcell express costs

     8,825         6,503         10,715   

Rent expenses

     3,382         2,175         7,683   

Sales promotion

     1,938         2,512         3,006   

Public relation expenses

     1,494         1,245         4,567   

Depreciation and amortisation charges

     1,213         1,705         7,185   

Other

     15,587         17,953         17,749   
                          

Total

     201,269         177,939         222,139   
                          

NOTE 20—FINANCIAL INCOME AND EXPENSES

The analysis of financial income and expenses for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 are as follows:

 

     2010     2009     2008  

Interest income on term deposits

     6,940        5,933        17,153   

Foreign currency transaction gain/(losses), net

     1,526        (17,272     4,712   

Bank commissions

     (741     (929     (2,769

Interest expense

     (399     (84     (212

Other, net

     1,743        55        (403
                        

Total financial income/(expenses)

     9,069        (12,297     18,481   
                        

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 21—COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES

Political and economic conditions

Whilst there have been improvements in the economic situations in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Moldova in recent years, the economies in these countries continue to display some characteristics of an emerging market. These characteristics include, but are not limited to, the existence of a currency that is not freely convertible outside of the country and a low level of liquidity of debt and equity securities in the markets.

Additionally, the telecommunication sector in Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Moldova are impacted by political, legislative, fiscal and regulatory developments. The prospects for future economic stability in these countries are largely dependent upon the effectiveness of economic measures undertaken by the governments, together with legal, regulatory and political developments, which are beyond the Group’s control.

The financial condition and future operations of the Group may be adversely affected by continued economic difficulties that are characteristic of an emerging market. Management is unable to predict the extent and duration of the economic difficulties, nor quantify the impact, if any, on the consolidated financial statements.

Taxation

The tax legislation and practice of the subsidiaries of Group is in a state of continuous development and therefore is subject to varying interpretations and frequent changes, which may be retroactive. Further, the interpretation of tax legislation by tax authorities as applied to the transactions and activities of the Group may not coincide with that of management.

As a result, transactions may be challenged by tax authorities and the Group may be assessed additional taxes, penalties and interest. Tax periods remain open to retroactive review by the tax authorities for three to five years.

Government investigations at Kcell

During 2010, Kcell was subject to a number of investigations by various government authorities aimed at reduction of Kcell’s roaming tariffs, elimination of roaming threshold, elimination of call connection charge, decrease of tariffs for outgoing on-net calls.

Roaming threshold investigation

In 2010, Kcell was subject to an investigation by the Agency of Competition Protection of the Republic of Kazakhstan (the “Agency”) related to alleged infringement of the antimonopoly legislation by GSM operators of CIS countries.

On 3 July 2010, the Agency filed a protocol based on respective conclusion to an administrative court charging Kcell with impingement of consumers’ rights by setting threshold for the subscribers’ minimum cash balance to access roaming services.

The claimed penalty amount was USD 107,007 calculated as 10% of the Company’s total revenues generated from 1 January 2009 to 31 March 2010.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

After several claims and counterclaims filed during 2010, Kcell was able to defend its position and conclusion of the Agency was cancelled by the judgment of court of cassation entered into legal force immediately.

In case the court decision is further appealed by the Agency, Kcell believes it will be able to defend its position as it believes that setting such threshold for prepaid subscribers was in line with market terms and is not considered to be expression of dominant position of Kcell. Kcell’s management believes that current legislation does not contain any restrictions on setting the thresholds for access to roaming services. Accordingly, no provision has been recorded in these consolidated financial statements as of 31 December 2010.

Roaming tariffs investigation

The Agency has also performed an examination of Kcell’s roaming tariffs for the period from 1 January 2009 to 31 March 2010. Based on the results of the examination, on 3 November 2010, the Agency issued a protocol on administrative violation alleging Kcell in misuse of its dominant position through setting overstated roaming tariffs for Russian subscribers. The Agency applied to administrative court to initiate an administrative case. In response, Kcell appealed the claim to the Astana Specialised Interregional Economical Court. The results of the appeal are pending.

The potential claim amount was assessed at USD 107,007, calculated as 10% of Kcell’s total revenues generated during the examined period, plus revenues from roaming services for the year 2009 of USD 17,322.

Kcell believes that it has not violated any laws and regulations with respect to roaming tariffs. Kcell has been consistently reducing its roaming tariffs recently and taking other measures in this respect. Management is confident that Kcell’s position will be fully sustained. Accordingly, no provisions have been recorded in these consolidated financial statements as of 31 December 2010.

Legal proceedings and disputes

Other legal proceedings and disputes

Some of the subsidiaries are party to certain legal proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. In management’s opinion, there are no current legal proceedings or other claims outstanding which upon final disposition will have a material adverse effect on the consolidated financial position, results of operation or liquidity of Fintur.

Operating leases

Fintur leases operational and non-operational property and equipment under various non-cancellable operating leases. Future minimum commitments under operating leases at 31 December 2010 and 2009 are as follows:

 

     2010      2009  

Less than 1 year

     28,125         590   

Over 1 year not later than 3 years

     54,857         390   
                 

Aggregate minimum future lease payments

     82,982         980   
                 

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

On 22 December 2010, Kcell signed a Telecommunication Services Agreement (the “Agreement”) with Kazakhtelecom. Based on this agreement the Kcell fixed the capacity and the annual costs of lease of digital transparent communication channels and IP VPN network except for the international channels and in-city channels till the year 2020. The Agreement implies the increase in capacity from 2.5 Gbps in 2011 to 92 Gbps in 2020 and respective increase in annual costs from 4 billion to 4.92 billion Tenge excluding VAT. The Agreement is noncancellable until 31 December 2013. In case one of the parties initiates the termination of the Agreement, it is obliged to pay another party penalty at the rate of 100% of the cost of the services calculated according to the terms of the Agreement for the period beginning from the date of termination hereof till 31 December 2013.

Capital expenditure commitments

Kcell has contractual capital expenditure commitments in relation to the property and equipment amounting to USD 51,657 (2009: USD 61). The commitment relates to telecommunication equipment and construction of buildings.

Moldcell has capital commitments in relation to the property and equipment amounting to USD 3,024 (2009: USD 363). The commitment relates to value added service platforms and equipment.

Commitments for future services

Moldcell had commitments of USD 2,334 (2009: USD 2,217), which includes commitments for service and maintenance of USD 1,825 (2009: USD 1,686) and advertising of USD 509 (2009: USD 531).

Complex tax audit

On 3 March 2009, the tax committee of the Ministry of Finance of Kazakhstan initiated a complex tax audit of Kcell for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008. The tax audit included audit of corporate income tax, withholding income tax and other applicable taxes.

On 22 June 2009, the tax committee completed its tax audit and issued a tax act. As a result of the tax audit, Kcell received additional tax assessment of USD 10,004, including fines and penalties of USD 4,538.

Management appealed the decision of the tax committee in the further instances. In July 2010, the Appellate Court of Almaty (the “Appellate Court”) issued a resolution, which upheld Kcell’s position and effectively dismissed additional accrual of withholding income tax and related penalty. Decision of the Appellate Court was confirmed by the Resolution of the 2nd level Appellate Court in August 2010. Kcell has appealed the administrative fine to the Almaty Administrative Court. In November 2010, the Almaty Administrative Court issued a resolution, which upheld Kcell’s position and effectively dismissed administrative fine.

While there is a possibility that the tax authorities may file a claim to higher court instances, management believes that Kcell will successfully defend its position and, accordingly, no provision has been recorded in these consolidated financial statements as of 31 December 2010.

 

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FINTUR HOLDINGS B.V.

NOTES TO THE CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS—(Continued)

AT 31 DECEMBER 2010

(Amounts expressed in thousands of USD unless otherwise indicated.)

 

NOTE 22—EMPLOYEE BENEFIT EXPENSES

The payroll costs for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Payroll costs

     115,733         100,574         100,831   

NOTE 23—DEPRECIATION AND AMORTISATION EXPENSES

The depreciation and amortisation expenses for the years ended 31 December 2010, 2009 and 2008 were as follows:

 

     2010      2009      2008  

Depreciation

     216,926         202,783         206,688   

Amortisation

     37,407         36,699         32,304   
                          

Total

     254,333         239,482         238,992   
                          

 

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