Akzo Nobel 6K Prepared and filed by Imprima

 

FORM 6-K


SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549


February 15, 2007

Report of Foreign issuer

Pursuant to Rule 13a-16 or 15d-16 of
The Securities Exchange Act of 1934


(Commission file number) 0 - 017444


Akzo Nobel N.V.
(Translation of registrant’s name into English)

76, Velperweg, 6824 BM Arnhem, the Netherlands
(Address of principal executive offices)


 



 



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 12 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf of the undersigned, thereto duly authorized.

Akzo Nobel N.V.

Name : R.J. Frohn Name : J.J.M. Derckx
Title : Chief Financial Officer Title : Director Financial Reporting
     



Dated : February 15, 2007


 

 

The following exhibit
is filed with this report
Akzo Nobel Report for the year 2006 and for the 4th quarter


  Report for the year 2006 and for the 4th quarter

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR 2006










 
Millions of euros (EUR)
   
2006
   
2005
 
Δ%
 

   
   
 
 
Revenues
    13,737     13,000   6  
                   
EBITDA before incidentals
    1,862     1,721      
                   
EBIT before incidentals
    1,310     1,152   14  
                   
EBIT (Operating income)
    1,462     1,486      
                   
Financing income and expenses
    (111 )   (156 )    
                   
Share in profit of associates
    89     6      
                   
Income taxes
    (258 )   (338 )    
                   
Net income
    1,153     961   20  
                   
Earnings per share
    4.02     3.36      
                   
Cash generated from operating activities
    1,899     1,358   40  
                   
Capital expenditures
    529     514      
                   
Depreciation and amortization
    552     569      
                   
Invested capital at year-end
    8,060     8,007      
                   
Net interest-bearing borrowings at year-end
    1,090     1,573      









 

Top-line up 6%; record net income of EUR 1.15 billion

Growth in all segments – revenues up 6%
Operational results up 14%
Record year – EUR 1.15 billion net income, up 20%
Incidentals – positive contribution of EUR 152 million (2005: EUR 334 million)
Strong cash flow – cash generated from operating activities up EUR 0.5 million
Dividend – EUR 1.20 per share proposed to shareholders
Akzo Nobel is “Fit for the Future”

 

1


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Top-line growth of 6%; record net income of EUR 1.15 billion
Revenues amounted to EUR 13.7 billion, up 6% on last year. This was mainly attributable to autonomous (especially volume) growth across all segments. Organon realized revenues growth of 8%, driven by strong sales of NuvaRing® and fertility products. Intervet performed well across all regions and product ranges, delivering 6% autonomous growth. Coatings showed a strong growth of 12%, of which 4% was obtained from recent acquisitions. Revenues of the ongoing operations of Chemicals achieved a robust growth of 5%, mostly from higher selling prices. On balance, currency translation had no impact on revenues for the full year.

Akzo Nobel’s 6% revenues growth can be broken down as follows:














 
 
               
Currency
 
Acquisitions/
 
In % versus 2005
  Total    
Volume
 
Price
 
translation
 
divestments
 


 
   
 
 
 
 
 
Organon
  8    
8
 
 
   
 
Intervet
  3    
6
 
 
  (3 )
 
Coatings
  12    
6
 
2
 
  4  
 
Chemicals
  (2 )  
1
 
4
 
  (7 )
 
       
 
 
     
 
Akzo Nobel
  6    
4
 
2
 
   













 

EBIT before incidentals was EUR 1,310 million, up EUR 158 million or 14% compared with 2005. EBIT margin was 9.5% (2005: 8.9%). Organon, up EUR 92 million or 34% and Coatings with an increase of EUR 95 million or 22% led the way. Intervet’s operating income was up EUR 4 million or 2%, while Chemicals maintained EBIT at the same level, in spite of divestments. EBIT for the year decreased 2% from EUR 1,486 million to EUR 1,462 million, with an EBIT margin of 10.6% (2005: 11.4%).

Incidentals, on balance, contributed EUR 152 million, which was EUR 182 million lower than the previous year. Special benefits of EUR 55 million were mainly attributable to a change in the U.S. postretirement healthcare plan and the transition to a defined contribution scheme for certain U.S. pension plans. The results on divestments of EUR 213 million were derived from the sale of a Coatings plant near Barcelona and the Chemicals divestment plan. The restructuring and impairment charges of EUR 112 million related to various restructuring activities at Coatings and Chemicals. Changes in the provisions for antitrust and environmental cases resulted, on balance, in a charge of EUR 4 million. In 2005, incidentals resulted in a gain of EUR 334 million, mainly due to the settlement of certain Organon cases, changes in the Dutch pension and other postretirement plans, and restructuring and impairment charges.

Financing income and expenses decreased from EUR 156 million in 2005 to EUR 111 million in 2006, due to lower interest charges for discounted provisions. Interest on net interest-bearing borrowings was also lower due to decreased net liabilities (2006: EUR 95 million; 2005: EUR 115 million). Interest coverage improved from 9.5 to 13.2. EBITDA coverage was 18.1 (2005: 13.2).

Share in profit of associates was EUR 89 million, up EUR 83 million compared to 2005. Operational earnings of the associates increased to EUR 50 million (2005: EUR 43 million). In 2006, earnings included incidental gains of EUR 39 million, mainly related to Acordis, while in 2005 net incidental losses of EUR 37 million were recognized, primarily due to the impairment of Methanor.

 

2


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Income taxes included a one-time benefit of around EUR 125 million. This benefit was attributable to an agreement with tax authorities in several countries on transfer pricing issues related to the company’s corporate income tax filings covering a period of almost ten years. Excluding this benefit, the tax rate of 2006 amounted to 28%, which was higher than previous year (2005: 25%).

Net income was up EUR 192 million or 20% from EUR 961 million to EUR 1,153 million, which is EUR 4.02 per share (2005: EUR 3.36). Excluding incidentals, net income amounted to EUR 872 million, up 19% on 2005, when it was EUR 735 million.

Strong cash flow – cash generated from operating activities up EUR 0.5 billion
In 2006, cash increased EUR 0.4 billion, compared with an outflow of EUR 0.4 billion in 2005. This increase was generated by improved cash generated from operating activities, which was up EUR 0.5 billion to EUR 1.9 billion.

Capital expenditures amounted to EUR 529 million, EUR 15 million higher than the 2005 level. Capital expenditures were 106% of depreciation. Targeted investments were in the emerging markets, particularly China and Central and Eastern Europe, where growth continued at high rates and where we opened several new factories. Chemicals investments included projects in the Netherlands and Sweden.

Invested capital at December 31, 2006, amounted to EUR 8.1 billion, up EUR 0.1 billion from last year. Working capital declined with EUR 0.1 billion, despite the company’s revenues growth of 6%.

In 2006, net interest-bearing borrowings decreased EUR 0.5 billion to EUR 1.1 billion. Equity increased EUR 0.7 billion as a result of retained income. As a consequence, year-end gearing improved to 0.26 (December 31, 2005: 0.44).

Headcount expansion in emerging markets – restructuring in mature markets
At the end of 2006, the company had 61,880 employees, compared with 61,340 at year-end 2005. Growth of our business in emerging markets resulted in a workforce expansion of 1,220, while restructuring programs in Coatings, Chemicals, and Organon in the mature markets resulted in a decrease of 1,160. Acquisitions (2,000) and divestments (1,520) on balance added 480.

Dividend – EUR 1.20 per common share proposed
A dividend of EUR 1.20 per common share will be proposed at the Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on April 25, 2007. In October 2006, an interim dividend of EUR 0.30 was declared and paid. Adoption of this proposal will result in a dividend payment of EUR 344 million, representing a payout ratio of 39% relative to net income before incidentals, which is within the dividend policy range of 35-40%. Subject to shareholder approval of this dividend proposal, the Akzo Nobel share will trade ex-dividend from April 27, 2007 and the final dividend will be made payable on May 7, 2007.

Outlook
Akzo Nobel is well positioned for profitable growth, supported by favorable signs about the world economy. Provided that no major discontinuities occur, Akzo Nobel believes that it is well placed to outgrow its markets and further improve the financial returns in Coatings and Chemicals. Finally, Akzo Nobel is confident that the proposed separation of its pharmaceutical business will create further value for shareholders.

 

3


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Organon – volume growth of 8%; EBIT before incidentals up 34%

4th quarter
     
Millions of euros
January-December
 



 
 




 
2006
 
2005
Δ%      
2006
 
2005
Δ%  

 
 
     
 
 
 
                           
666   656   2   Revenues   2,611   2,425   8  
                           
74   84 (12 ) EBIT (Operating income)   354   415   (15 )
11.1   12.8       EBIT margin, in %   13.6   17.1      
            Return on invested capital, in %   21.1   24.3      













 
77   43   79   EBIT before incidentals   362   270   34  
11.6   6.6       EBIT margin, in %   13.9   11.1      
            Return on invested capital, in %   21.5   15.8      
                           
104   74   41   EBITDA before incidentals   483   396   22  
15.6   11.3       EBITDA margin, in %   18.5   16.3      













 
34.0   35.8       S&D expenses as % of revenues   32.2   32.9      
18.8   20.1       R&D expenses as % of revenues   18.6   17.9      
                           
40   37       Capital expenditures   103   95      
                           
            Invested capital at year-end   1,579   1,781      
            Capital turnover   1.55   1.42      
                           
           
Number of employees at year-end
  13,710   14,100      













 


Revenues – up 8% for the year
EBIT before incidentals up 34%, despite higher marketing and R&D expenditures
NuvaRing® – sales and market share steadily increasing
Record year for fertility product Puregon®/Follistim®
Anesthesia – Esmeron® and Anzemet® performing well
Asenapine – Organon continues with development

 

4


 
Report for the year 2006

 

In 2006 Organon showed a healthy improvement both in revenues–up 8% to EUR 2,611 million– and in operating income before incidentals, which increased 34% to EUR 362 million, despite increased marketing and R&D expenditures.

Revenues growth was driven by strong performances from Organon’s NuvaRing®, Puregon®, Implanon® and Esmeron® products. In all our major markets, sales of NuvaRing®–our contraceptive vaginal ring–grew by 25% or more. In the U.S., sales increased by more than 80%. Organon’s biotechnology fertility product, Puregon®/Follistim®, had another record year. Sales increased 8%, mainly through improvements in market share in the U.S. and several major European markets. It is Organon’s best-selling product. The product showed promising up-take results in Japan and China, where it was launched by the end of 2005. Livial® sales were stagnant during 2006. Furthermore, U.S. sales of Anzemet® (inlicensed from sanofi-aventis) and the final service payments from Ligand for Avinza® were added to the top-line. Risperdal® and Arixtra® royalties contributed to an increase in revenues in 2006. Due to growing generic competition in Europe, Remeron® sales decreased by 11% to EUR 253 million. Pharmaceutical ingredients revenues showed a slight increase compared to 2005.










 
   
Autonomous growth
             
   
on, %
             
Autonomous
 
4th quarter  


      Full year   growth on  
2006   Q-4 2005   Q-3 2006  
Millions of euros or %
  2006   2005, %  

 
 
 
 
 
 
180   23   12   Contraceptives   669   18  
64   63   18   - of which NuvaRing®   213   67  
96   9   10   Puregon®/Follistim®   384   8  
59   (9 ) (4 ) Remeron®   253   (11 )
58   14   (2 ) Anesthesia   242   28  
38   (3 ) 2   Livial®   151   (2 )
69   (6 ) 24   Pharmaceutical ingredients   255   2  











 

We increased our R&D expenses both in absolute terms (EUR 484 million versus EUR 433 million) and as a percentage of revenues (18.6% versus 17.9%). Organon’s hormonal contraceptive implant Implanon® was approved by the FDA and was launched in the U.S. in the fourth quarter. Livial® was deemed non-approvable by the FDA.

Three of our development compounds started their Phase III trial programs in the course of 2006. Our development product for fertility Org 38286, and our contraceptive pill containing natural estrogen NOMAC/E2, both entered into phase III by starting full clinical trials. In addition, our compound in development for insomnia, Org 50081, entered into Phase III in late 2006. We expect to file our anesthesia compound, sugammadex for registration in the course of 2007.

In our late stage development program, the initial phase III trial program for asenapine–a product in development for schizophrenia and acute mania in bipolar disorder– was concluded in the fourth quarter and showed what we believe overall promising results, although some endpoints were missed. Our partner in the program, Pfizer, decided to terminate the collaboration on the product for commercial reasons. Organon continues with further developing asenapine.

 

5


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Intervet – 6% autonomous growth powered across regions and franchises

4th quarter
     
Millions of euros
January – December
 



 
 




 
2006
 
2005
Δ%      
2006
 
2005
Δ%  

 
 
     
 
 
 
287   278   3   Revenues   1,125  
1,094
  3  
                   
     
50   48   4   EBIT (Operating income)   219  
238
  (8 )
17.4   17.3       EBIT margin, in %   19.5  
21.8
     
            Return on invested capital, in %   23.9  
28.3
     













 
50   46   9   EBIT before incidentals   213  
209
  2  
17.4   16.5       EBIT margin, in %   18.9  
19.1
     
            Return on invested capital, in %   23.3  
24.9
     
                   
     
65   59   10   EBITDA before incidentals   272  
263
  3  
22.6   21.2       EBITDA margin, in %   24.2  
24.0
     













 
25.5   25.2       S&D expenses as % of revenues   24.8  
24.2
     
9.5   10.4       R&D expenses as % of revenues   9.7  
10.3
     
                   
     
15   16       Capital expenditures   55  
54
     
                   
     
            Invested capital at year-end   949  
883
     
            Capital turnover   1.23  
1.30
     
                   
     
           
Number of employees at year-end
  5,370  
5,260
     













 


Revenues – 6% autonomous growth powered across regions and franchises
EBIT margin of 18.9%
Approvals received for Zilmax® and PreveNile®
Higher marketing cost and inventory for future product launches
Production costs up – IT and acquisition of a Foot & Mouth Disease vaccine plant
Feed additives divestment program completed

 

6


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Intervet realized strong autonomous growth during 2006 and outperformed overall market growth. Revenues increased by 3% to EUR 1,125 million. Divestments and acquisitions had a 3% negative impact on revenues. In 2006, marketing costs for future growth, write-off of inventories and restructuring costs at various sites were higher than in the previous year. Operating income before incidentals grew 2% to EUR 213 million, resulting in an EBIT margin of 18.9%.

In Europe–where Intervet generates about 55% of its turnover–autonomous growth was 5%, despite unfavourable business conditions triggered by the threat of avian influenza in early 2006. Continued and sustainable growth of long established brands combined with successful new product introductions further strengthened our market position in Europe, a market accounting for about one-third of the global animal health market. These include the Cobactan® line extension (innovative antibiotic); Chronogest® CR and Cyclix® (both fertility management); Porcilis® M.Hyo (mycoplasma vaccine to prevent pneumonia); and Equilis® Prequenza, the new equine influenza vaccine. With the emergence of avian influenza in Europe, Intervet has once again proved its ability to offer solutions for newly emerging diseases. This was underlined by a conditional license granted by the European authorities for our Nobilis® Influenza H5N2 vaccine, which protects birds against the highly pathogenic H5N1 field strain of avian flu.

In North America, revenues from ongoing operations grew 12% as a result of important product innovations combined with investments in the sales and marketing infrastructure. Product introductions help to meet our ambitious goals in this important key animal health market, which accounts for more than one-third of the global market. In this respect, PreveNile®–the equine vaccine against West Nile virus–and Zilmax®, a product designed to improve production performance in beef cattle, were important additions to our portfolio.

Excluding divestments, growth in Latin America was 8%, once again boosted by a strong business performance in Brazil. Also encouraging was the growth performance in Asia Pacific, where markets have come to grips with avian flu and its economic consequences. Our Nobilis® Influenza vaccine range has been used successfully in selected governmental avian flu control programs.

The acquisition of the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) vaccine factory in Cologne, Germany, will strengthen our worldwide production and development capacity in that field and open up new business opportunities mainly in the Asian Pacific and the Middle East region.

With the divestments of the medicinal feed additive activities of Crina SA in May 2006 and Nuova ICC in November 2006, we have completed our divestment program. This enables us to focus further on our core business.

 

7


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Coatingsstrong revenues growth of 12%; operational EBIT up 22%

4th quarter
 
 
Millions of euros
January-December
 



 
 




 
2006
 
2005
 
Δ%
     
2006
 
2005
 
Δ%
 

 
 
     
 
 
 
       
  Revenues          
 
512   434  
  Decorative Coatings   2,287   2,038  
 
485   466  
  Industrial activities   1,959   1,740  
 
289   253  
  Marine & Protective Coatings   1,129   975  
 
225   222  
  Car Refinishes   922   886  
 
(17 ) (20 )
  Intragroup revenues/other   (88 ) (84 )
 

 
 
     
 
 
 
1,494   1,355  
10
Total   6,209   5,555  
12
 
       
             
 
78   42  
86
EBIT (Operating income)   604   384  
57
 
5.2   3.1  
  EBIT margin, in %   9.7   6.9  
 
       
  Return on invested capital, in %   24.6   17.8  
 













 
78   74  
5
EBIT before incidentals   518   423  
22
 
5.2   5.5  
  EBIT margin, in %   8.3   7.6  
 
       
  Return on invested capital, in %   21.1   19.6  
 
       
             
 
114   109  
5
EBITDA before incidentals   658   558  
18
 
7.6   8.0  
  EBITDA margin, in %   10.6   10.0  
 













 
58   42  
  Capital expenditures   135   112  
 
       
  Invested capital at year-end   2,653   2,259  
 
       
  Capital turnover   2.53   2.57  
 
                           
       
  Number of employees at year-end   31,660   29,200  
 













 


Revenues growth 12% – of which 4% from acquisitions
Strong EBIT margin of 8.3%, despite higher raw material prices
Industrial activities, Marine & Protective Coatings – strong performance
Car Refinishes – restructuring paid off, back on track
Decorative Coatings – margin pressure in mature markets
Savings from restructuring programs in mature markets increasing
Ongoing acquisitions and investments in emerging markets

 

8


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Coatings revenues rose 12% to EUR 6,209 million and operating income before incidentals was up 22% to EUR 518 million.

Car Refinishes continued the turnaround, which began in 2005 by producing strong results in all business segments and regions. Financial performance improved by restructuring, along with further technology improvements, especially in Asia. The restructuring initiatives and cost improvement measures that we launched several years ago are clearly paying off. Revenues rose 4% to EUR 922 million, with all businesses contributing.

Revenues of our Industrial activities were up 13%. Industrial Finishes generated substantial organic growth as a result of capacity expansion, value-added product offerings and the efforts of its dedicated workforce. Double-digit revenues growth was posted in the key emerging markets of China, Vietnam, India, Russia and Eastern Europe, while the predominantly West European-based business recovered well due to stronger demand in the industrial markets. Volatility in the cost and supply of petrochemical derivatives created relentless pressure on the operating performance throughout the year. However, the pressure on margins was more than offset by volume growth in emerging markets and prudent cost management in mature markets. Powder Coatings also posted double-digit revenues growth–far exceeding market growth–which was delivered despite higher raw materials prices. This was achieved by expanding capacity to meet growing demand in emerging markets, improving production efficiencies, boosting technological innovation, and aligning core business functions. In China, the capacity of our four powder factories was expanded in line with strong market growth. Steps were also taken towards establishing a fifth facility.

Marine & Protective Coatings enjoyed sustained revenues growth, as double-digit volume increased. Revenues were up 16%, exceeding the EUR 1 billion mark for the first time. The financial performance was strong despite price rises in key raw materials squeezing the Marine Coatings business in particular. Internal cost savings more than offset these high material prices. Costs were reduced by improving supply chain efficiency, especially in manufacturing and delivery. Each of the product areas–Marine Coatings, Protective Coatings, Yacht Paints and Aerospace Coatings–increased sales volumes in emerging markets, as well as in the mature markets, where productivity improvements were implemented.

Decorative Coatings revenues grew by 12% in 2006. This revenues growth could not be translated into similar growth in margins due to price pressure in mature markets. This is being addressed by already initiated efficiency improving programs. In addition to the organic growth, we realized several selective acquisitions in both mature and emerging markets, in Canada (Sico), the U.S. (Flood), the Czech Republic (Balakom), and Ukraine (Kimreserv). Our European Decorative business continued to further expand its commercial distribution network by acquiring a number of smaller companies.

Our two decorative businesses–Decorative Coatings Europe and Decorative Coatings International–were integrated per January 1, 2007. This will enable our company not only to benefit from the global reach of the combined organization in areas such as technology, marketing, and purchasing, but also to leverage its scale and strong brands across multiple markets.

 

9


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Chemicals autonomous growth of 5%; steady EBIT at high performance level

4th quarter
     
Millions of euros
January-December



 
 




2006
 
2005
 
Δ%
     
2006
 
2005
 
Δ%

 
 
     
 
 
            Revenues          
236   245       Pulp & Paper Chemicals   966   893  
185   200       Base Chemicals   767   787  
168   174       Functional Chemicals   740   703  
119   125       Surfactants   523   511  
125   123       Polymer Chemicals   516   471  
37   149       Activities (to be) divested   318   580  
9   (12 )     Intragroup revenues/other   (21 ) (55 )

 
         
 
 
879   1,004   (12 ) Total   3,809   3,890  
(2
)
                       
111   53   109   EBIT (Operating income)   362   312  
16
12.6   5.3       EBIT margin, in %   9.5   8.0  
            Return on invested capital, in %   17.0   14.4  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
74   99   (25 ) EBIT before incidentals   351   351  
8.4   9.9       EBIT margin, in %   9.2   9.0  
            Return on invested capital, in %   16.5   16.2  
                       
131   157   (17 ) EBITDA before incidentals   572   592  
(3
)
14.9   15.6       EBITDA margin, in %   15.0   15.2  

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                       
75   78       Capital expenditures   231   252  
                       
            Invested capital at year-end   1,960   2,291  
            Capital turnover   1.79   1.79  
                       
           
Number of employees at year-end
  9,680   11,430  















Revenues of ongoing operations up 5%
EBIT margin improved to 9.2%
Polymer, Base and Pulp & Paper Chemicals – strong performance
Functional Chemicals – start-up problems in production being addressed
Continued pressure from energy and raw material prices
Successful portfolio realignment; divestment program almost completed

 

10


 
Report for the year 2006

 

Revenues of the ongoing operations increased by 5% to EUR 3,502 million. Operating income before incidentals amounted to EUR 351 million, on a par with 2005, but slightly up for the ongoing operations. ROI before incidentals of 16.5% was close to our medium-term target of 17.5% The EBIT margin improved to 9.2%.

In 2006, results of Pulp & Paper Chemicals were significantly above 2005 due to higher volumes and lower costs. Results in Europe were under pressure due to high raw material and energy costs. This was more than offset by good results in the Americas and Asia. In the fourth quarter a new paper chemicals plant in China was opened to meet growing demand.

Base Chemicals turned in a record performance, driven by the Chlor-Alkali business enjoying strong demand and attractive prices. The new plant in Delfzijl (the Netherlands) was started up during the year, increasing our capacity and marking the end of the company’s regular Dutch chlorine transports by rail.

Revenues of Surfactants were 2% higher than in the previous year. Raw material costs continued to escalate, putting pressure on margins. The restructuring activities are well underway and Surfactants cost base should improve in 2007.

Polymer Chemicals showed an excellent performance in 2006. Revenues improved by almost 10% compared to 2005, driven by healthy demand for plastics in all regions and higher selling prices. Cost reduction measures clearly paid off in 2006.

Functional Chemicals had a difficult year due to continued high raw material costs and in particular start-up problems both at the new MCA plant in Delfzijl (the Netherlands) and the Ethylene Amines plant in Stenungsund (Sweden). These production problems are being addressed, but the performance of the fourth quarter unfortunately impacted the good results for the first nine months.

The strategic realignment of Akzo Nobel Chemicals was successfully concluded in 2006, two years after it was initiated. Per the end of 2006, 12 deals were signed and the two remaining projects are expected to be concluded shortly. This restructuring has transformed a relatively large and fragmented range of business segments into a focused, market driven portfolio. All five Chemicals units now have a clearly defined strategy for continued performance improvement and growth.

 

11


 
Report for the 4th quarter of 2006

 

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE 4th QUARTER 2006










 
Millions of euros
 
2006
   
2005
 
Δ%
 

   
   
 
 
                   
Revenues     3,322     3,306    
                   
EBITDA before incidentals     385     368      
                   
EBIT before incidentals     249     225   11  
                   
EBIT     274     446      
                   
Financing income and expenses     (13 )   (45 )    
                   
Share in profit of associates     46     (5 )    
                   
Income taxes     (73 )   (68 )    
                   
Net income     230     317   (27 )
                   
Earnings per share     0.80     1.11      
                   
Cash generated from operating activities     570     797   (28 )
                   
Capital expenditures     190     172      
                   
Depreciation and amortization     136     143      









 

Autonomous growth of 4%

Revenues – autonomous growth 4%; currency translation 3% negative
Operational results up 11%
Organon – volume growth of 7%; higher EBIT
Intervet – volumes up 8%
Coatings – strong top-line growth of 10%
Chemicals – start-up production issues at Functional Chemicals
Pressure of energy and raw material prices at Coatings and Chemicals
Incidentals – positive contribution of EUR 25 million (2005: EUR 221 million)

 

12


 
Report for the 4th quarter of 2006

 

Autonomous revenues growth of 4%; net income down due to lower incidentals in 2006

Fourth-quarter revenues amounted to EUR 3.3 billion. Autonomous growth was 4%, while currency translation had a negative impact of 3%. There was strong autonomous growth at Organon, Intervet, and Coatings, while Chemicals was on a par with last year. Chemicals revenues were, as expected, strongly influenced by the divestment program (-11%). Acquisitions at Coatings contributed 5%. Total revenues of Akzo Nobel in the fourth quarter developed as follows:












 
             
Currency
 
Acquisitions/
 
In % versus Q4 2005
 
Total
 
Volume
  Price   translation  
divestments
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Organon
  2   7   (2 ) (3 )  
Intervet
  3   8     (3 ) (2 )
Coatings
  10   6   2   (3 ) 5  
Chemicals
  (12 ) (3 ) 3   (1 ) (11 )
Akzo Nobel
    3   1   (3 ) (1 )











 

Before incidentals, EBIT increased 11% from EUR 225 million to EUR 249 million, with an EBIT margin of 7.5% (2005: 6.8%). Including incidentals fourth quarter operating income decreased from EUR 446 million to EUR 274 million, with an EBIT margin of 8.2%, compared with 13.5% in 2005.

Organon profited from 5% autonomous revenues growth, while marketing and R&D expenses were lower compared to the previous year, resulting in a significant increase of operating income before incidentals (up 79%). Intervet achieved 8% volume growth resulting in a 9% increase of operating income. Pre-marketing costs for product launches and higher production costs related to write-off of inventories had an impact on margins. Coatings EBIT before incidentals was up 5% driven by a strong revenues growth of 10%. Car Refinishes enjoyed a good quarter. Margins were under pressure at our Decorative business, particularly in the retail segment. Increased raw material prices impacted the margins of our industrial businesses and Marine & Protective Coatings, but higher volumes largely compensated for this. Chemicals’ EBIT before incidentals were down 25% due to higher energy prices and start-up production issues at Functional Chemicals, which are being addressed. Results of Polymer and Base Chemicals were robust.

 

13


 
Report for the 4th quarter of 2006

 

Fourth quarter incidentals resulted on balance in contribution of EUR 25 million. The results on divestment reflected book profit on the Chemicals divestment program. Restructuring and impairment charges were taken for several Coatings and Chemicals businesses. Changes in the provisions for antitrust and environmental resulted on balance in a gain. In 2005, incidentals on balance contributed EUR 221 million, mainly related to the settlement of certain Organon cases, changes in Dutch pension/healthcare plans and restructuring and impairment charges.

Financing income and expenses decreased from EUR 45 million in 2005 to EUR 13 million in 2006, mainly due to lower interest charges for discounted provisions and the improved net interest-bearing borrowings position.

The share in profit of associates was a gain of EUR 46 million, compared with a loss of EUR 5 million in 2005. In 2006, earnings included incidental gains, mainly from Acordis.

The average tax rate increased from 17% in 2005 to 28% in 2006. In 2005, the tax rate was relatively low due to favorable settlements of certain tax returns.

Net income in the fourth quarter was EUR 230 million, compared with EUR 317 million last year. Earnings per share was EUR 0.80 (2005: EUR 1.11). This decrease was mainly due to lower incidentals (2006: EUR 25 million; 2005: EUR 221 million). Before incidentals, net income amounted to EUR 172 million, which is 6% below 2005, when it was EUR 183 million.



Arnhem, February 15, 2007 The Board of Management

 

14


 
Report for the year 2006 and for the 4th quarter

 

Information on segment and incidentals

4th quarter
Millions of euros
 
January-December






 




2006
2005
Δ%
Segments
 
2006
2005
Δ%



 


 
Revenues
 
666
656
2
Organon
 
2,611
2,425
8
287
278
3
Intervet
 
1,125
1,094
3
1,494
1,355
10
Coatings
 
6,209
5,555
12
879
1,004
(12
)
Chemicals
 
3,809
3,890
(2
)
(4
)
13
Intercompany revenues/other
 
(17
)
36


 

3,322
3,306
Total
 
13,737
13,000
6


 

 
EBIT (Operating income) before
 
 
incidentals
 
77
43
79
Organon
 
362
270
34
50
46
9
Intervet
 
213
209
2
78
74
5
Coatings
 
518
423
22
74
99
(25
)
Chemicals
 
351
351
(30
)
(37
)
Other
 
(134
)
(101
)


 

249
225
11
Total
 
1,310
1,152
14


 

7.5
6.8
EBIT margin, in %
 
9.5
8.9
                           
 
EBIT (Operating income)
 
74
84
(12
)
Organon
 
354
415
(15
)
50
48
4
Intervet
 
219
238
(8
)
78
42
86
Coatings
 
604
384
57
111
53
109
Chemicals
 
362
312
16
(39
)
219
Other
 
(77
)
137


 

274
446
(39
)
Total
 
1,462
1,486
(2
)


 

8.2
13.5
EBIT margin, in %
 
10.6
11.4













 
Incidentals:
 
(13
)
394
Special benefits
 
55
571
37
9
Results on divestments
 
213
44
 
Restructuring and impairment
 
(41
)
(152
)
charges
 
(112
)
(169
)
 
Charges related to major legal,
 
42
(30
)
antitrust and environmental cases
 
(4
)
(112
)


 

25
221
Total incidentals
 
152
334













(10
)
IAS 39 fair value adjustments
 
(26
)
26













 

15


 
Report for the year 2006 and for the 4th quarter

 

C O N D E N S E D   C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   O F   I N C O M E

4th quarter
 
Millions of euros
 
January-December
 

 
 
 
2006
 
2005
 
Δ%
     
2006
 
2005
 
Δ%
 

 
 
     
 
 
 
3,322   3,306     Revenues   13,737   13,000   6  
(1,765 ) (1,806 )     Cost of sales   (7,394 ) (7,070 )    

 
         
 
     
1,557   1,500       Gross profit   6,343   5,930      
(898 ) (782 )     Selling expenses   (3,436 ) (3,214 )    
(227 ) (209 )     Research and development expenses   (885 ) (810 )    
(202 ) (164 )     General and administrative expenses   (749 ) (680 )    
44   101       Other operating income(expenses)   189   260      

 
         
 
     
274   446   (39 ) Operating income   1,462   1,486   (2 )
(13 ) (45 )     Financing income and expenses   (111 ) (156 )    

 
         
 
     
 
      Operating income less financing income              
261   401       and expenses   1,351   1,330      
46   (5 )     Share in profit of associates   89   6      

 
         
 
     
307   396       Profit before tax   1,440   1,336      
(73 ) (68 )     Income taxes   (258 ) (338 )    

 
         
 
     
234   328       Profit for the period   1,182   998      













 
            Attributable to:              
            Equity holders of the company              
230   317   (27 ) (Net income)   1,153   961   20  
4   11       Minority interest   29   37      

 
         
 
     
234   328       Profit for the period   1,182   998      
                           
            Income per share, in EUR              
0.80   1.11       – basic   4.02   3.36      
0.80   1.10       – diluted   4.00   3.35      













 
21.1   9.9      
Interest coverage
  13.2   9.5      













 

16


 
Report for the year 2006

 

C O N D E N S E D   C O N S O L I D A T E D   B A L A N C E   S H E E T






 
 
December 31,
 
December 31,
 
Millions of euros
 
2006
 
2005
 

 
 
 
Property, plant and equipment
  3,346   3,432  
Intangible assets
  682   488  
Financial noncurrent assets
  1,706   1,800  
 
 
 
Total noncurrent assets
  5,734   5,720  
         
Inventories
  2,042   1,987  
Receivables
  2,919   2,910  
Cash and cash equivalents
  1,871   1,486  
Assets held for sale
  219   322  
 
 
 
Total current assets
  7,051   6,705  
 
 
 
Total assets
  12,785   12,425  
 
 
 
           
Akzo Nobel N.V. shareholders' equity
  4,144   3,415  
Minority interest
  119   161  
 
 
 
Total equity
  4,263   3,576  
         
Provisions
  2,132   2,210  
Deferred income
  7   27  
Deferred tax liabilities
  174   156  
Long-term borrowings
  2,551   2,702  
 
 
 
Total noncurrent liabilities
  4,864   5,095  
         
Short-term borrowings
  410   357  
Current payables
  3,223   3,337  
Liabilities held for sale
  25   60  
 
 
 
Total current liabilities
  3,658   3,754  
 
 
 
Total equity and liabilities
  12,785   12,425  
 
 
 





 
Shareholders’ equity per share, in EUR
  14.44   11.95  
Number of shares outstanding, in millions
  287.0   285.8  
Gearing
  0.26   0.44  
Invested capital
  8,060   8,007  





 

 

17


 
Report for the year 2006

 

C O N D E N S E D   C O N S O L I D A T E D   S T A T E M E N T   O F   C A S H   F L O W S










 
Millions of euros
 
2006
     
20051
     

 


 


 
Profit for the period
  1,182       998      
Adjustments to reconcile earnings
                 
to cash generated from operating activities:
                 
Depreciation and amortization
  552       569      
Impairment losses
  29       132      
Financing income and expenses
  111       156      
Share in profit of associates
  (79 )     (17 )    
Income taxes
  258       338      
 
     
     
Operating profit before changes in
                 
working capital and provisions
      2,053       2,176  
Changes in working capital
  90       (248 )    
Changes in provisions
  (262 )     (598 )    
Other
  18       28      
 
     
     
      (154 )     (818 )
     
     
 
Cash generated from operating activities
      1,899       1,358  
Interest paid
  (213 )     (220 )    
Income taxes paid
  (366 )     (391 )    
Pre-tax gain on divestments
  (213 )     (44 )    
 
     
     
      (792 )     (655 )
     
     
 
Net cash from operating activities
      1,107       703  
Capital expenditures
  (529 )     (514 )    
Investments in intangible assets
  (12 )     (67 )    
Interest received
  112       109      
Repayments from associates
        27      
Dividends from associates
  37       19      
Acquisition of consolidated companies2
  (326 )     (55 )    
Proceeds from sale of interests2
  371       64      
Loans to APF3
  19       (150 )    
Other changes in noncurrent assets
  20       53      
 
     
     
Net cash from investing activities
      (308 )     (514 )
Changes in borrowings
  (58 )     (188 )    
Issue of shares
  40              
Dividends
  (369 )     (366 )    
 
     
     
Net cash from financing activities
      (387 )     (554 )
     
     
 
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
      412       (365 )
Cash and cash equivalents at January 1
      1,486       1,811  
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and
                 
cash equivalents and impact IAS 32 and 39
      (27 )     40  
     
     
 
Cash and cash equivalents at December 31
      1,871       1,486  









 
1 Reclassified for comparative reasons 2 Net of cash acquired of disposed 3 Akzo Nobel Pension Fund in the Netherlands

 

18




 
Report for the year 2006

C H A N G E S   I N   E Q U I T Y














 
Millions of euros
      2006           2005      

 




 




 
  Share-           Share-          
  holders’   Minority       holders’   Minority      
  equity   interest  
Equity
  equity   interest  
Equity
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at beginning of year
  3,415   161   3,576   2,605   140   2,745  
Adoption of IAS 32 and 39
                         
for financial instruments
              (9 )     (9 )
Equity settled transactions
  16       16   28       28  
Changes in fair value ofderivatives
  (26 )     (26 ) 11       11  
Changes in exchange rates
                         
in respect of affiliated
                         
companies
  (110 ) (10 ) (120 ) 162   16   178  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Income directly recognized in
                         
equity
  (120 ) (10 ) (130 ) 192   16   208  
Profit for the period
  1,153   29   1,182   961   37   998  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Total income
  1,033   19   1,052   1,153   53   1,206  
Dividend paid
  (344 ) (25 ) (369 ) (343 ) (23 ) (366 )
Shares issued upon
                         
exercising of stock options
  40       40              
Changes minority interest in
                         
subsidiaries
      (36 ) (36 )     (9 ) (9 )
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Balance at December 31
  4,144   119   4,263   3,415   161   3,576  













 

 

19




 
Report for the year 2006 and for the 4th quarter

 

The 2006 Annual Report will be published on March 14, 2007, in print and as a PDF file on Akzo Nobel’s corporate website.

The Report for the first quarter of 2007 will be published on April 24, 2007.

Note
The data in this report are unaudited.

Definitions
Revenues consist of sales of goods and services, and royalty income.

Autonomous growth is defined as the change in revenues attributable to changed volumes and selling prices. It excludes currency, acquisition, and divestment effects.

Incidentals are special benefits, results on divestments, restructuring and impairment charges, charges related to major legal, antitrust, and environmental cases.

EBIT (operating income) before incidentals is one of the key figures management uses to assess the company’s performance, as this figure better reflects the underlying trends in the results of the activities.

EBIT margin is EBIT (Operating income) as percentage of revenues.

EBITDA is EBIT before depreciation and amortization.

Safe Harbor Statement*
This report contains statements which address such key issues as Akzo Nobel’s growth strategy, future financial results, market positions, product development, pharmaceutical products in the pipeline and product approvals. Such statements should be carefully considered, and it should be understood that many factors could cause forecasted and actual results to differ from these statements. These factors include, but are not limited to, price fluctuations, currency fluctuations, progress of drug development, clinical testing and regulatory approval, developments in raw material and personnel costs, pensions, physical and environmental risks, legal issues, and legislative, fiscal and other regulatory measures. Stated competitive positions are based on management estimates supported by information provided by specialized external agencies. For a more comprehensive discussion of the risk factors affecting our business please see our Annual Report on Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, a copy of which can be found on the company’s corporate website www.akzonobel.com. The 2006 Annual Report on Form 20-F will be available in the second quarter of 2007.

* Pursuant to the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act 1995.

Additional Information Akzo Nobel N.V.
The explanatory sheets used by the CEO during the Velperweg 76
press conference can be viewed on Akzo Nobel’s P.O. Box 9300
corporate website. 6800 SB Arnhem
  The Netherlands
  Tel.   + 31 26 366 4433
  Fax   + 31 26 366 3250
  E-mail ACC@akzonobel.com
  Internet www.akzonobel.com

 

20