Notes to the consolidated financial statements

1.General

Under the PUMA and Cobra Golf brand names, PUMA SE and its subsidiaries are engaged in the development and sale of a broad range of sports and sports lifestyle products, including footwear, apparel and accessories. The company is a European stock corporation (Societas Europaea/SE) and parent company of the PUMA Group; its registered office is on PUMA WAY 1, 91074 Herzogenaurach, Germany. The competent registry court is in Fürth (Bavaria), the register number is HRB 13085.

The consolidated financial statements of PUMA SE and its subsidiaries (hereinafter referred to in short as the "Group" or "PUMA") were prepared in accordance with the "International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS)" accounting standards issued by the International Accounting Standards Board (IASB), as they are to be applied in the EU, and the supplementary accounting principles to be applied in accordance with Section 315e(1) of the German Commercial Code (HGB). All of the IASB standards and interpretations, as they are to be applied in the EU, which are mandatory for financial years as of 1 January 2024, have been applied.

The items contained in the financial statements of the individual Group companies are measured based on the currency that corresponds to the currency of the primary economic environment in which the Company operates. The consolidated financial statements are prepared in euros (EUR or €). The presentation of amounts in millions of euros with one decimal place may lead to rounding differences since the calculation of individual items is based on figures presented in thousands.

The cost of sales method is used for the consolidated income statement.

The following new or amended standards and interpretations have been used for the first time in the current financial year:

The amendments to the standards and interpretations described below, which were to be initially adopted as of 1 January 2024, did not materially affect the PUMA consolidated financial statements.

The amendments to IFRS 16 incorporate regulations for the subsequent measurement of a lease liability in the event of a sale and leaseback transaction into the standard. The amendment of IFRS 16 requires that the lease liability be measured in such a way that no profit or loss arises upon its subsequent measurement in relation to the right of use that has been reacquired. This change has no material effect on PUMA’s consolidated financial statements.

The amendments to IAS 1 regarding the classification of liabilities as current or non-current only affect the presentation of liabilities as current or non-current in the balance sheet, but not the amount or the timing of the recognition of assets, liabilities, income or expenses or the information provided on these items. The amendments clarify that the classification of liabilities as current or non-current is based on rights existing at the end of the reporting period. The amendments stipulate that the classification is not affected by expectations as to whether an entity will exercise its right to defer settlement of a liability. The amendments explain that rights exist when the obligations are met at the end of the reporting period and introduce a definition of "fulfilment" to clarify that fulfilment relates to the transfer of cash, equity instruments, other assets or services to the counterparty. These amendments had no material effect on PUMA’s consolidated financial statements.

The amendments to IAS 1 relating to non-current liabilities with covenants determine that only those obligations that must be met by an entity on or before the reporting date affect the entity's right to defer settlement of a liability by at least twelve months after the reporting date and must therefore be taken into account in the assessment of the liability as current or non-current. Such obligations affect whether the right exists at the end of the reporting period, even where compliance with the obligation is not assessed until after the balance sheet date (e.g. an obligation based on the financial position of the entity as at the balance sheet date and its compliance is not assessed until after the balance sheet date). These amendments had no effect on PUMA’s consolidated financial statements.

The amendments to IAS 7 and IFRS 7 concern additional mandatory disclosures in the notes relating to supplier financing agreements. The additional disclosures in the notes are intended to increase the transparency of reverse factoring agreements and their impact on liabilities, cash flows and liquidity risk in the financial statements. These changes had no effect on PUMA's net assets, financial position or earning position, but led to an increase in the number of disclosures in the notes to the consolidated financial statements.

New, but not yet mandatory, standards and interpretations

The following standards and interpretations have been released but will only become effective in later reporting periods and are not applied earlier by the Group:

* Adjusted by EU endorsement, if applicable

With the exception of IFRS 18, PUMA does not expect that these amendments will have any significant effects on the net assets, financial position and results of operations.

IFRS 18 will replace the previous standard, IAS 1 Presentation of Financial Statements. Many IAS 1 requirements remain unchanged and have been supplemented with additional requirements. IFRS 18 aims to improve the presentation of financial information and to make financial statements more transparent and comparable. The main new features of IFRS 18 are that two mandatory subtotals have been introduced in the income statement: operating profit or loss and profit or loss before financing and income taxes. These subtotals are based on the classification of income and expenses in the following categories: the operating category, the investing category and the financing category. Furthermore, the income taxes category and the income from discontinued operations category are presented. The requirements of IFRS 18 also introduce additional notes disclosures, for example on management-defined performance measures (MPMs). These are key performance indicators publicly communicated by management separately from the consolidated financial statements that are not specified by IFRS accounting standards. In addition, IFRS 18 contains new guidelines aimed at improving the aggregation and disaggregation of items presented in the financial statements. PUMA assumes that the application of IFRS 18 may have an impact on the consolidated financial statements in future periods.

2.Significant consolidation, accounting and valuation principles

Consolidation principles

The consolidated financial statements were prepared as of 31 December 2024, the reporting date of the annual financial statements of the PUMA SE parent company, on the basis of uniform accounting and valuation principles according to IFRS, as applied in the EU.

Group of consolidated companies

In addition to PUMA SE, the consolidated financial statements include all subsidiaries in which PUMA SE directly or indirectly holds existing rights that give it the current ability to direct the relevant activities. At present, control of all Group companies is based on a direct or indirect majority of voting rights.

Associated companies are generally accounted for in the Group using the equity method. As of 31 December 2024, however, the Group does not hold any investments in associated companies.

The changes in the number of Group companies (including the parent company PUMA SE) in the financial year 2024 were as follows:

The additions to the group of consolidated companies relate to the founding of PUMA Sports Vietnam Co Ltd, Vietnam, PUMA Central Europe GmbH, Germany, stichd sportmerchandising general trading L.L.C. – O.P.C., United Arab Emirates, and stichd sportmerchandising sports trading WLL, Qatar.

The disposals in the group of consolidated companies relate to the merger of PUMA SPORTS DISTRIBUTORS (PTY) LTD, South Africa within the group of consolidated companies and the liquidation of Puma Sport Israel Ltd. In Liq, Israel.

The changes in the group of consolidated companies did not have a significant effect on the net assets, financial position and results of operations.

The Group companies are allocated to regions as follows:

¹⁾ subsidiaries which are assigned to be economically 100% PUMA Group

²⁾ This list is part of PUMA's 2024 Sustainability Statement in accordance with ESRS 2 SBM-1

PUMA Mostro GmbH, PUMA Blue Sea GmbH, PUMA Sprint GmbH and PUMA Central Europe GmbH have made use of the exemption provision under Section 264(3) of the German Commercial Code (HGB). PUMA Europe GmbH and PUMA International Trading GmbH have also made use of the exemption provision under Section 264(3) HGB, but waive the exemption from the third subsection.

In accordance with Article 403 of the second book of the Dutch Civil Code (Article 2:403 BW), with effect from 1 January 2023, PUMA SE shall be jointly and severally liable for debts arising from legal transactions of the following Dutch subsidiaries with registered office in 's-Hertogenbosch (De Waterman 2, 5215 MX): stichd group B.V., stichd sport merchandising B.V., stichd licensing B.V., stichd international B.V., stichd logistics B.V. and stichd B.V.

Currency conversion

In general, monetary items in foreign currencies are converted in the individual financial statements of the Group companies at the exchange rate valid on the balance sheet date. Any resulting currency gains and losses are immediately recognised in the income statement. Non-monetary items are converted at historical acquisition and manufacturing cost.

The assets and liabilities of foreign subsidiaries, whose functional currency is not the euro, have been converted to euros at the exchange rates valid on the balance sheet date. Expenses and income have been converted at the annual average exchange rates. Any differences resulting from the currency conversion of net assets relative to exchange rates that had changed in comparison with the previous year were adjusted directly in other comprehensive income.

The significant conversion rates per euro are as follows:

* Due to the application of accounting for hyperinflationary economies in Argentina, all items in the financial statements are converted at the exchange rate applicable on the reporting date.

Argentina and Türkiye are in a hyperinflation environment. In 2022, the subsidiaries whose functional currency is the Argentine peso or the Turkish lira applied the accounting for hyperinflation economies in accordance with IAS 29 for the first time, with retroactive effect from 1 January 2022. The carrying amounts of non-monetary assets and liabilities, shareholders' equity and other comprehensive income are translated into the unit of measurement applicable at the balance sheet date and thus adjusted to reflect price changes. The financial statements are based on the concept of historical acquisition and/or production costs. The exchange rate as of 31 December 2024 was used for conversion into the reporting currency, the euro, for all items.

Gains and losses on the net monetary position are included in the financial result. In the financial year 2024, the net profit from the monetary items amounted to € 2.1 million (previous year: € 7.7 million). The amount also includes interest income from invested cash and cash equivalents in accordance with IAS 29.28.

The price index used for Türkiye as of 31 December 2024 was 2,684.6 (31 December 2023: 1,859.4) and is based on the consumer price index. The general price index used for Argentina as of 31 December 2024 was 7,686.2 (31 December 2023: 3,500.4).

Accounting and valuation principles

Financial instruments

Financial instruments are classified and recognised in accordance with IFRS 9. Acquisitions and disposals of financial assets, with the exception of trade receivables, are initially recognised on the settlement date and are recorded at fair value.

For investments (equity instruments), IFRS 9 allows a measurement at fair value through other comprehensive income (FVOCI) under certain conditions. If these investments, however, are disposed of or adjusted in value, the gains and losses from these investments which were not realised up to this point are reclassified to retained earnings in accordance with IFRS 9.

Derivative financial instruments/hedge accounting

PUMA is applying the provisions of IFRS 9 for phase 3 hedge accounting for the first time as of 1 January 2024. Previously, the option of continuing to apply IAS 39 for hedge accounting was exercised. For reasons of materiality, PUMA does not restate comparative information for previous periods. Consequently, an adjustment was made to the opening balance sheet as of 1 January 2024. For existing cash flow hedge relationships, the hedging cost approach was applied retrospectively on a mandatory basis for options held as at the opening date and voluntarily for the components of forward exchange contracts excluded from the designation. This resulted in a correction of the opening balance sheet in a high single-digit million euro amount, with the amount being withdrawn from retained earnings and allocated to other comprehensive income.

Derivative financial instruments are recognised at fair value at the time a contract is entered into and thereafter. At the time a hedging instrument is concluded, PUMA classifies the derivatives as hedges of a planned transaction and hedging variable interest flows from the promissory note loans (cash flow hedge accounting).

At the time when the transaction is concluded, the hedging relationship between the hedging instrument and the underlying transaction as well as the purpose of risk management and the underlying strategy are documented. In addition, assessments as to whether the derivatives used in the hedge accounting compensate effectively for a change in the cash flow of the underlying transaction are documented at the beginning of the hedging relationship and continuously thereafter.

As under IAS 39, the PUMA Group now also generally designates the spot component of currency forwards and the intrinsic value of currency and interest rate options in a hedging relationship under IFRS 9. The effective cumulative changes in fair value resulting from the spot component or the intrinsic value are initially recognised directly in equity in the cash flow hedging reserve in other comprehensive income, taking into account deferred taxes.

When accounting for currency hedges as cash flow hedges, the time values of the option contracts as well as the forward components and the currency basis spreads of the forward exchange contracts are excluded from designation in a hedging relationship. For these components excluded from designation, the hedging cost approach is applied mandatorily for options and voluntarily for currency forwards.

When accounting for interest rate hedges as cash flow hedges, the time values of the option transactions are excluded from designation in a hedging relationship. The hedging cost approach is mandatory for these components excluded from designation. The effective cumulative changes in market value of the non-designated components are recognised as hedging costs in other comprehensive income as a separate item, taking into account deferred taxes.

In general, the changes in market value of the components designated in hedging relationships for foreign currency hedges accumulated in other comprehensive income are included in the acquisition costs when hedged non-financial assets are initially recognised or, in other cases, are reclassified to the income statement in the same period as the hedged item affects profit or loss. The adjustment of non-financial assets affects profit or loss in the same way and in the same periods as the affected non-financial items affect profit or loss. A corresponding disclosure is made both in the consolidated statement of comprehensive income and in the consolidated statement of changes in equity. In the case of interest rate hedges, the changes in market value accumulated in accumulated other equity are reclassified to interest expense. The components excluded from the designation are reclassified from other comprehensive income to the financial result.

In the unusual case for the PUMA Group that derivative financial instruments are not designated as hedging instruments, they continue to be classified and measured at fair value through profit or loss.

The Group documents the existence of an economic relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged underlying transaction on the basis of the key valuation parameters, such as the reference interest rate, the currency, the amount and the time of their respective cash flows (critical terms match method). The Group uses the cumulative dollar offset method to assess whether the derivative designated in each hedging relationship is expected to be prospectively effective and whether it was retrospectively effective in relation to offsetting changes in the cash flows of the hedged underlying transaction. All derivatives classified as hedging instruments are therefore linked to specific, committed and planned transactions. The economic relationship between the hedging instrument and the hedged underlying transaction can be determined qualitatively and quantitatively.

The main reason for ineffectiveness is the decline or loss of hedged transactions in these hedging relationships. A change in credit risk may also result in ineffectiveness.

The fair values of the derivative instruments are shown under Other current and non-current financial assets or liabilities.

PUMA as lessee

The leases for which PUMA acts as a lessee are identified at the individual contract level. For these leases, PUMA recognises a right-of-use asset and a respective lease liability, with the exception of short-term leases (defined as leases with a term of no more than 12 months) and low-value lease agreements (with a value of less than € 5,000 at contract conclusion). In the case of a short-term lease or low-value lease, the Group recognises the lease payments on a straight-line basis over the term of the lease agreement as other operating expense.

In addition, right-of-use assets are not recognised for intangible assets. PUMA has made use of the option and decided not to apply IFRS 16 with regard to leases for intangible assets.

The lease liability at initial recognition is measured at the present value of the not yet paid lease payments at the beginning of the lease agreement. The present value is calculated using the incremental borrowing rate, as the interest rate implicit in the lease is usually not known.

A number of lease agreements, particularly for real estate properties, contain extension and termination options. When determining agreement terms, all facts and circumstances are taken into account that offer a financial incentive to exercise the extension option or not to exercise the termination option. The changes in the term of a lease due to the exercise or non-exercise of such options are only taken into account for the agreement term if they are sufficiently certain.

The lease liability is recognised as a separate line item on the consolidated balance sheet.

The right-of-use assets comprise the respective lease liability as part of initial valuation. Lease instalments that are paid before or at the beginning of the lease are added. Lease incentives received from the lessor are deducted and initial direct costs are included. If dismantling obligations exist with regard to the leased assets, they are included in the valuation of the right-of-use assets. The subsequent valuation of the right-of-use assets is at acquisition cost less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

The right-of-use assets are generally depreciated over the term of the lease. If the useful life of the asset underlying the lease is shorter, this limits the depreciation period accordingly. Depreciation starts with the commencement of the lease.

As part of the practical expedient, IFRS 16 permits dispensing with a separation between non-lease components and lease components. With regard to land and buildings, PUMA generally does not apply the practical expedient, meaning that the right-of-use assets relating to land and buildings only contain leasing components. With regard to other right-of-use assets (comprising technical equipment & machines and motor vehicles), the practical expedient is generally applied, the result of which is that the leasing components and non-leasing components are both recognised.

The right-of-use assets are recognised as a separate line item in the consolidated balance sheet.

The right-of-use assets are subject to the impairment regulations pursuant to IAS 36. As a general rule, the right-of-use assets are tested for impairment (impairment test) if there is any indication that the value of the asset could be impaired. The right-of-use assets, in particular in connection with the Group's own retail stores, are subjected to an impairment test if there are indicators or changes in planning assumptions that suggest that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. To this end, a triggering event test of all retail stores, each of which is a separate cash-generating unit, is carried out after preparation of the annual budget planning or on an ad-hoc basis.

For the purposes of the triggering event test, the recoverable amount of the respective retail stores is determined as a value in use using a simplified discounted cash flow method, taking partial account of cash flows attributable to other cash-generating units. The value in use is determined on the basis of the planned cash flows for the retail stores according to the budget, which is prepared on a bottom-up basis and approved by management. The forecast period is derived from the expected useful lives of the respective retail store and is reviewed annually. Following the bottom-up budget, revenue and cost developments are used as a basis for the remaining useful life, the growth rate of which is based on expected nominal retail growth. Growth rates in the single-digit percentage range are expected for all retail stores over the three-year detailed planning period. In calculating the value in use of retail stores, cash flows in non-inflationary countries were measured at a weighted cost of capital rate of between 8.1% and 33.0% (previous year: between 8.8% and 38.0%) and the cash flows of retail stores in the two hyperinflation countries with a weighted cost of capital between 35.8% and 54.4% (previous year: between 31.2% and 145.0%). This was based on a risk-free interest rate on equivalent term structures of 2.6% (previous year: 3.1%) and a market risk premium of 6.8% (previous year: 7.0%).

If, in the triggering event test, the carrying amount of the retail store assets exceeds the simplified value in use, the recoverable amount of this cash-generating unit is calculated with the discounted cash flow method using the above cost of capital rates. This is based on the individual planning of cash flows for the retail store. In some exceptional cases, the recoverable amount corresponds to a higher fair value less costs to sell, assuming alternative subletting, which is determined according to Level 3 of IFRS 13 "Fair value measurement". If an impairment arises, the right-of-use asset is impaired first.

If there are indications that retail stores for which impairment has been recorded in the past have been able to achieve a turnaround or that their fair value has increased and that their right-of-use assets are therefore recoverable, the impairment is reversed up to a maximum of the amount of amortised costs.

If there is an impairment loss or a reversal of an impairment loss, this is allocated to the central area in the segment reporting under IFRS 8. However, the impaired assets are reported in the relevant operating segments.

PUMA as lessor

If PUMA acts as a lessor, it is determined at the beginning of the lease whether it is a finance lease or an operating lease. In order to classify the lease agreement, PUMA makes an overall assessment of whether the lease essentially transfers all the risks and benefits associated with ownership of the underlying asset. If this is the case, it is classified as a finance lease. If not, it is classed as an operating lease. Various indicators are taken into account as part of this assessment, such as whether the lease agreement is for the majority of the economic useful life of the underlying asset. At our discretion, the leases in which PUMA acts as an intermediate lessor are in most cases finance leases, as subletting always covers most of the term of the main lease. If PUMA acts as an interim lessor, the shares in the main lease contract and the sub-lease contract are accounted for separately.

In the case of finance leases, a net investment (receivable) equal to the discounted future rental payments to be received is recognised in the balance sheet and reported under other assets (without inclusion in working capital). The incremental borrowing rate is used to determine the discount rate, as the interest rate underlying the lease is generally unknown. Interest income from finance leases is reported in cash flow from investing activities.

If the lease is classified as an operating lease, the lease payments are immediately recognised in profit or loss as rental income.

Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents include cash and bank balances. This also includes free cash and cash equivalents that are invested as a fixed-term deposit with a term of up to three months. The total amount of cash and cash equivalents is consistent with the cash and cash equivalents stated in the cash flow statement.

Cash and cash equivalents are measured at amortised cost. They are subject to the impairment requirements in accordance with IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments”. PUMA monitors the credit risk of these financial instruments taking into account the economic situation, external credit rating and/or premiums for credit default swaps (CDS) of other financial institutions. The credit risk from cash and cash equivalents is classified as immaterial, due to the relatively short terms and the investment-grade credit rating of the counterparties, which signals a low probability of default for the financial instruments.

Inventories

The Group procures inventories primarily from third parties and these are reported as goods within inventories. To a small extent, footwear and golf clubs are produced in-house, which are reported as finished goods together with the goods within the inventories.

Inventories are measured at acquisition or manufacturing cost or at the lower net realisable values derived from the selling price at the balance sheet date. The acquisition cost of merchandise is determined using an averaging method. Value adjustments are adequately recorded, depending on age, seasonality and realisable market prices.

Trade receivables

Trade receivables are initially measured at the transaction price and subsequently at amortised cost with deduction of value adjustments, in the form of a provision for risks.

When determining the provision for risks for trade receivables, PUMA uniformly applies the simplified method in order to determine the expected credit losses over the remaining lifetime of the trade receivables (called "lifetime expected credit losses") in accordance with the provisions of IFRS 9 “Financial Instruments”. For this, trade receivables are classified by geographic region into suitable groups with shared credit risk characteristics. The expected credit losses are calculated using a matrix that presents the age structure of the receivables and depicts a likelihood of default for the individual maturity bands of the receivables on the basis of historic credit default events and future-based factors. The percentage rates for the probabilities of default are checked regularly to ensure they are up to date. If objective indications of a credit impairment are found regarding the trade receivables of a certain customer, a detailed analysis of this customer's specific credit risk is conducted and an individual provision for risks is established for the trade receivables with respect to this customer. If credit insurance is in place, it is taken into account when determining the amount of the risk provision.

The Group assumes that the default risk of a financial asset has increased significantly if it is more than 30 days overdue.

Other financial assets

Other financial assets are classified based on the business model for control and the cash flows of the financial assets. In the Group, financial assets are generally held under a business model that provides for "holding" the asset until maturity, in order to collect the contractual cash flows. The second condition is that the terms and conditions of the financial asset result in cash flows at specified times, which exclusively represent repayments and interest payments on the outstanding nominal amount.

The "trading" business model is used for financial assets in the form of derivatives without a hedging relationship. These are valued at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL).

Non-current financial assets include rental deposits and other assets. Non-interest-bearing non-current assets are discounted to the present value if the resulting effect is significant.

Investments

The investment recognised under non-current financial assets belongs to the category measured at "fair value through other comprehensive income" (FVOCI), since these investments are held over the long term for strategic reasons.

All purchases and disposals of investments are recorded on the settlement date. Investments are initially recognised at fair value plus transaction costs. They are also recognised at fair value in subsequent periods. Unrealised gains and losses are recognised in other comprehensive income, taking into account deferred taxes. The gain or loss on disposal of investments is transferred to retained earnings.

The category measured at "fair value through profit or loss" (FVPL) is not used with regard to investments.

Property, plant and equipment

Property, plant and equipment are measured at acquisition cost, net of accumulated depreciation. The depreciation period depends on the expected useful life of the respective item. The straight-line method of depreciation is applied. The useful life depends on the type of the assets involved. Buildings are subject to a useful life of between ten and fifty years, and a useful life of between three to ten years is assumed for movable assets.

Repair and maintenance costs are recorded as an expense as of the date on which they were incurred. Substantial improvements and upgrades are capitalised to the extent that the criteria for recognition of an asset item apply.

Investment property

Investment property is accounted for in the same way as property, plant and equipment in accordance with the cost model, with their acquisition or production costs less scheduled depreciation and any necessary impairment losses. Depreciation is carried out on a straight-line basis and the useful lives are generally equivalent to those of property, plant and equipment used in-house.

Other intangible assets (not including goodwill)

Acquired intangible assets largely consist of concessions, intellectual property rights and similar rights. These are measured at acquisition cost, net of accumulated amortisation. The useful life of intangible assets is between three and ten years. Scheduled depreciation is done on a straight-line basis.

There are also trademark rights acquired for a fee in relation to Cobra Golf. Cobra Golf, founded in 1978, has a brand history spanning over 40 years in golf. The Cobra brand represents the core of the Golf business area and is continued through ongoing marketing investments by the PUMA Group in the Cobra brand. Due to the stability of the golf market and the continuation of the brand by PUMA, an indefinite useful life is assumed for the Cobra brand.

Impairment of assets

Intangible assets with an indefinite useful life are not amortised according to schedule but are subjected to an annual impairment test. Property, plant and equipment, right-of-use assets, and other intangible assets with finite useful lives are tested for impairment if there is any indication of impairment in the value of the asset concerned. In order to determine whether there is a requirement to record the impairment of an asset, the recoverable amount of the respective asset (the higher amount of the fair value less costs to sell and value in use) is compared with the carrying amount of the asset. If the recoverable amount is lower than the carrying amount, the difference is recorded as an impairment loss. The test for impairment is performed, if possible, at the level of the respective individual asset, otherwise at the level of the cash-generating unit. Goodwill, on the other hand, is tested for impairment only at the level of a group of cash-generating units. If it is determined within the scope of the impairment test that an asset needs to be impaired, then the goodwill, if any, of the group of cash-generating units is written down initially and, in a second step, the remaining amount is distributed proportionately over the remaining assets within the application scope of IAS 36. If the reason for the recorded impairment no longer applies, a reversal of impairment loss is recorded to the maximum amount of the amortised costs. There is no reversal of an impairment loss for goodwill.

The recoverable amount is primarily calculated using the discounted cash flow method. For determining the fair value less costs to sell and value in use, the expected cash flows are based on corporate planning data. Expected cash flows are discounted using an interest rate in line with market conditions. As part of the fair value determination less cost to sell, no special synergies of cash-generating units are taken into account, and corporate planning data is adjusted to the assumptions of market participants, if required. Moreover, there is a difference between the fair value less costs to sell and the value in use because the costs to sell are also taken into account.

Trademarks with an indefinite useful life are subjected to an impairment test based on the relief from royalty-method during the financial year or when the occasion arises. If there is evidence that the underlying Cobra business is insufficiently profitable, the trademark is not only valued individually using the relief-from-royalty method, but the recoverable amount of the cash-generating units to which the trademark is attributable is determined.

See Chapter 11 for further details, in particular regarding the assumptions used for the calculation.

Borrowings, other financial liabilities and other liabilities

In general, these items are recognised at fair value, taking into account transaction costs, and subsequently recognised at amortised cost. Non-interest or low-interest-bearing liabilities with a term of at least one year are recognised at present value, taking into account an interest rate in line with market conditions, and are compounded until their maturity at their repayment amount.

The "trading" business model is used for financial liabilities in the form of derivatives without a hedge relationship. These are valued at fair value through profit or loss (FVPL).

Current borrowings also include those long-term loans that have a maximum residual term of up to one year.

Provisions for pensions and similar obligations

In addition to defined benefit plans, some companies apply defined contribution plans, which do not result in any additional pension commitment other than the current contributions. The pension provision under defined benefit plans is generally calculated using the projected unit credit method. This method takes into account not only known pension benefits and pension rights accrued as of the reporting date, but also expected future salary and pension increases. The defined benefit obligation (DBO) is calculated by discounting expected future cash outflows at the rate of return on senior, fixed-rate corporate bonds. The currencies and maturity periods of the underlying corporate bonds are consistent with the currencies and maturity periods of the obligations to be satisfied. In some of the plans, the obligation is accompanied by a plan asset. In that case, the pension provision shown is reduced by the plan asset.

Details regarding the assumed life expectancy, the mortality tables used and other assumptions are shown in Chapter 15.

Other provisions

Provisions for the expected expenses from warranty obligations pursuant to the respective national sales contract laws are recognised at the time of sale of the relevant products, according to the best estimate in relation to the expenditure needed in order to fulfil the Group's obligation.

Provisions are also made to account for onerous contracts. An onerous contract is assumed to exist where the unavoidable costs for fulfilling the contract exceed the economic benefit arising from this contract.

Management incentive programmes

PUMA uses cash-settled share-based payments, share-based payments settled in cash or equities, and key performance indicator-based long-term incentive programmes. The share-based payments settled in cash or equities are accounted for in the same way as cash-settled share-based payments.

Detailed information on the management incentive programmes is presented in Chapter 18.

Recognition of sales

The Group recognises sales from the sale of sporting goods. The sales are measured at fair value of the consideration to which the Group expects to be entitled from the contract with customers, taking into account returns, discounts and rebates. Amounts collected on behalf of third parties (such as VAT) are not included in sales. The Group records sales at the time when PUMA fulfils its performance obligation to customers and has transferred the right of disposal over the product to customers.

The Group sells footwear, apparel and accessories both to wholesalers and directly to customers through its own retail activities and online sales channels. Meanwhile, the sales-related warranty services cannot be purchased separately and do not lead to services that go beyond the assurance of the specifications at the time of the transfer of risk. Accordingly, the Group records warranties in the balance sheet in accordance with IAS 37 “Provisions, contingent liabilities and contingent assets”.

In the case of sales of products to wholesalers, the sales revenue is recorded at the date on which the right of disposal over the products is transferred to customers, in other words, when the products have been shipped to the specific location of the wholesaler (delivery). After delivery, the wholesaler bears the inventory risk and has full right of disposal over the manner and means of distribution and the selling price of the products. In the case of sales to end customers in the Group's own retail stores, the sales are recorded at the date when the right of disposal over the products is transferred to the end customer, in other words, the date on which the end customer buys the products in the retail store. The payment of the purchase price is due as soon as the customers purchase the products. In the case of sales of goods through our own online sales channels, sales are realised when the end customers have accepted the goods and the power of disposal over the goods has been passed to the end customer. The payment terms applied correspond to the standard industry payment terms for each country.

Under certain conditions and according to the contractual stipulations, customers have the option to exchange products or return them for a credit. The amount of the expected returns is estimated on the basis of past experience and is deducted from sales in the form of a liability based on refund obligations. The asset value of the right arising from the product return claim is recorded under inventories and leads to a corresponding reduction of cost of sales.

Royalty and commission income

The Group recognises license and commission income from the out-licensing of trademark rights to third parties in accordance with IFRS 15 Revenue from contracts with customers. Income from royalties is recognised in the income statement in accordance with the invoices to be submitted by the licensees. In certain cases, values must be estimated in order to permit accounting on an accrual basis. Commission income is invoiced if the underlying purchase transaction is classified as realised.

Advertising and promotional expenses

Advertising expenses are recognised in the income statement at the time they are incurred. In general, promotional expenses stretching over several years are recognised as an expense over the contractual term on an accrual basis. Any expenditure surplus exceeding the economic benefit that results from this allocation of expenses after the balance sheet date is recognised in the financial statements in the form of an impairment of assets and, if necessary, a provision for anticipated losses. If promotional and advertising contracts provide for additional payments when predefined targets are achieved (e.g. medals, championships), which cannot be predicted exactly in terms of time and amount, they are recognised in full in profit or loss at the relevant date.

Financial result

The financial result includes interest income from financial investments and interest expenses from loans, along with interest income and expenses in connection with derivative financial instruments. The financial result also includes interest expenses from lease liabilities as well as discounted, non-current liabilities associated with acquisitions and those arising from the valuation of pension commitments, in addition to interest income from finance leases.

Exchange rate effects that can be directly allocated to an underlying transaction are shown in the respective income statement item.

Income taxes

Current income taxes are determined in accordance with the tax regulations of the respective countries where the individual Group companies conduct their operations.

PUMA management regularly assesses individual tax issues to determine whether there is scope for interpretation in view of existing tax regulations. If appropriate, these issues are taken into account in income tax liabilities or deferred taxes. The income tax assessment is generally carried out at the level of the individual case, taking into account any possible interactions. Appropriate balance sheet provisions have been made for potential risks from uncertain tax positions, taking into account IFRIC 23.

Deferred taxes

Deferred taxes resulting from temporary valuation differences between the IFRS and tax balance sheets of individual Group companies and from consolidation procedures, which are levied by the same taxation authority and can be netted, are charged to each taxable entity and recognised either as deferred tax assets or deferred tax liabilities.

Deferred tax assets may also include claims for tax reductions that result from the expected utilisation of existing losses carried forward to subsequent years and which is likely to materialise. Deferred tax assets or liabilities may also result from accounting treatments that do not affect the income statement.

Deferred tax assets are recognised only to the extent that the respective tax advantage is likely to materialise.

Estimation uncertainty

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires some assumptions and estimates that have an impact on the measurement and presentation of the recognised assets and liabilities, income and expenses, and contingent liabilities. The assumptions and estimates are based on premises, which in turn are based on currently available information. In individual cases, the actual values may deviate from the assumptions and estimates made. Consequently, future periods involve a risk of adjustment to the carrying amount of the assets and liabilities concerned. If the actual development differs from the expectation, the premises and, if necessary, the carrying amounts of the relevant assets and liabilities are adjusted with an effect on profit or loss.

All assumptions and estimates are continuously reassessed. They are based on historical experiences and other factors, including expectations regarding future global and industry-related trends that appear reasonable under the current circumstances. Assumptions and estimates mainly relate to the valuation of goodwill and trademarks, inventories, liabilities from refund obligations, taxes and leases in which PUMA is the lessee. The most significant forward-looking assumptions and sources of estimation and uncertainty as of the reporting date concerning the above-mentioned items are discussed below.

Goodwill and brands

A review of the impairment of goodwill is based on the calculation of the value in use as a leading valuation concept. In order to calculate the value in use, the Group must estimate the future cash flows from those cash-generating units to which the goodwill is allocated. To this end, the data used were from the three-year plan, which is based on forecasts of the overall economic development and the resulting industry-specific consumer behaviour. Another key assumption concerns the determination of an appropriate interest rate for discounting the cash flow to the present value (discounted cash flow method). The relief-from-royalty method is used to value brands. See Chapter 11 for further details, in particular regarding the assumptions used for the calculation.

Inventories

Inventories are measured at acquisition or manufacturing cost or at the lower net realisable values derived from the selling price at the balance sheet date. Value adjustments are adequately recorded, depending on age, seasonality and realisable market prices. Further details on the inventory valuation are provided in Chapter 4.

Liabilities from refund obligations

The Group recognises sales from the sale of sporting goods. The sales are measured at fair value of the consideration to which the Group expects to be entitled from the contract with customers, taking into account returns, discounts and rebates. As customers have the opportunity to exchange goods under certain conditions and in accordance with the contractual agreements, the amount of expected return deliveries is estimated on the basis of experience. The accrual of sales takes place via the liability from refund obligations.

Taxes

Tax items are determined taking into account the various prevailing local tax laws and the relevant administrative opinions and, due to their complexity, may be subject to different interpretations by persons subject to tax on the one hand and the tax authorities on the other hand. Differing interpretations of tax laws may result in subsequent tax payments for past years; these are included based on the assessment of the management, using the most probable amount or the expected value for the individual case.

The recognition of deferred taxes requires that estimates and assumptions be made concerning future tax planning strategies as well as expected dates of occurrence and the amount of future taxable income. The taxable income from the relevant corporate planning is derived for this assessment. It takes into account the past financial position and the business development expected in the future. Deferred tax assets are recorded in the event of companies incurring a loss only if it is highly probable that future positive results will be achieved. See Chapter 8 for further information.

PUMA as lessee

The measurement of lease liabilities under leases in which PUMA is the lessee is based on assumptions for the discount rates used, the lease term and the determination of fixed lease payments. To determine the present value of future minimum lease payments, PUMA uses country- and currency-specific interest rates on borrowings with compatible terms. The fixed lease payments also include firmly agreed upon minimum amounts for agreements with a predominantly variable lease amount.

Significant assumptions are made in the subsequent valuation of rights of use for retail stores in the context of assessing the existence of an impairment and determining the impairment requirement. Among other things, assumptions are made about the duration of the lease, the future economic development and profitability of the retail stores, and also the underlying interest rate. See Chapter 10 for further information.

Discretionary decisions

The preparation of the consolidated financial statements requires discretionary decisions relating to the application of accounting methods and the amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses reported. Information on the application of accounting policies that have the most material impact on the amounts recorded in the financial statements can be found in the following notes:

Evaluation of the control of companies with non-controlling interests

The determination as to whether the Group controls the companies with non-controlling interests is presented in Chapter 28, Information on non-controlling interests.

PUMA as lessee

The accounting for leases in which PUMA is the lessee includes discretionary decisions, in particular in relation to the term of the lease agreements with regard to determining whether the exercise of extension options is sufficiently certain. In addition to the basic lease period, the Group includes extension options in the determination of the lease term if management is sufficiently certain that such options will be exercised after taking into account all facts and circumstances.

Some real estate leases contain extension options that can only be exercised by PUMA and not by the lessor. If possible, the Group seeks to include extension options when concluding new leases in order to ensure operational flexibility. On the date of provision, the Group assesses whether it is sufficiently certain that the extension options will be exercised. The assessment is carried out individually for each contract and takes into account the amount of the company's own investments and the possibility of changing macroeconomic conditions in the future. If significant events or significant changes occur during the term of the contract that are within PUMA's control, it will be reassessed as to whether it is sufficiently certain that the extension option will be exercised.