Strong Organic Revenue And EBITDA Growth In 1Q12

AMSTERDAM, May 15, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- 

KEY RESULTS AND DEVELOPMENTS IN 1Q12*

• Organic Revenue growth of 6% YoY; revenues of USD 5.6 billion
• Organic EBITDA growth of 5% YoY; EBITDA of USD 2.3 billion
• Total mobile subscriber base increased 12% YoY to 209 million
• Organic EBITDA growth of 9% YoY in Russia, reversing previous negative trend
• Double-digit organic EBITDA growth in Africa & Asia; strong performance in Pakistan
• Net income of USD 318 million
• Net cash from operating activities of USD 1.6 billion

"VimpelCom Ltd" ("VimpelCom", "Company" or "Group") (NYSE: VIP), a leading global provider of telecommunications services, today announces operating and financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2012.

JO LUNDER, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER COMMENTS:

"We have delivered strong organic EBITDA and revenue growth leading to another quarter of good cash flows. The benefits of executing on our strategy can be seen across our businesses: in Russia, our focus on profitable growth has delivered a strong organic increase of 9% in EBITDA and 11% in revenues. In the Africa & Asia business unit organic revenues rose by 9%, with a particularly strong contribution from Pakistan. In Italy we again gained market share, outperforming our competitors and our Ukraine and our CIS business units delivered solid revenue increases. We will continue to review our portfolio of operations and we will remain focused on profitable growth and cash generation."

PRESENTATION OF FINANCIAL RESULTS

The Company believes pro forma comparisons provide the most meaningful comparison of financial performance and, unless otherwise stated, all comparisons in this press release are on a pro forma basis. The pro forma information presented in this press release reflects what the Company's results of operations would have looked like had the Company's transactions with Wind Telecom occurred on January 1, 2011. For further details about the adjustments and assumptions of our pro forma results, please refer to VimpelCom's press release issued on August 18, 2011 and available on our website.

VimpelCom Ltd. results presented in this earnings release are based on IFRS. The revised unaudited pro forma condensed combined financial information prepared in accordance with IFRS for 1Q11, 2Q11, 3Q11, 4Q11 and FY11 was published on May 14, 2012 and are available on the Company's website www.vimpelcom.com.

Certain amounts and percentages that appear in this earnings release have been subject to rounding adjustments. As a result, certain numerical figures shown as totals, including in tables, may not be exact arithmetic aggregations of the figures that precede or follow them.

The actual 1Q12 financial results in this earnings release have not been audited. As previously announced, the Company published its full year 2011 audited financial results under IFRS when it filed its annual report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2011 on April 30, 2012.

STRATEGIC UPDATE AND MAIN EVENTS

• VimpelCom's subsidiary OTH submitted formal notice of arbitration against Algerian Government
• Significant part of 2012 debt maturities refinanced by bonds issued in March and April
• Sale of controlling interest in GTEL Mobile Vietnam
• Final dividend to be paid before June 30th 2012  
• Maximo Ibarra appointed to lead Italy Business

VimpelCom continued its progress in the first quarter against its strategic priorities as defined by the Company's Value Agenda for 2012-2014, which was presented on November 15, 2011.

In March, the Company announced that an Algerian Court of first instance handed down a judgment against Orascom Telecom Algerie ("OTA") and a member of OTA's senior executive team. The judgment relates to a previously disclosed claim brought in 2010 by the Algerian authorities alleging breaches of foreign exchange regulations. The judgment consists of fines of 99 billion Algerian Dinar (approximately USD 1.3 billion) and a criminal sentence against a member of OTA's senior executive team. OTA has appealed and accordingly the judgment was provisionally suspended.

In April, VimpelCom's subsidiary Orascom Telecom Holding S.A.E. ("OTH"), submitted a formal Notice of Arbitration against the government of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria. The arbitration is in respect of actions taken by the Algerian government against Orascom Telecom Algerie ("OTA") and will be conducted in an international forum. OTA is 96.8% owned by OTH, which, in turn, is 51.9% owned by VimpelCom. VimpelCom continues to be open to finding an amicable resolution with the Algerian government that is mutually beneficial to both parties.

In March the Company issued non-convertible interest-bearing Russian Ruble-denominated bonds in an aggregate principal amount of RUB 35 billion (USD 1.2 billion) with a 10 year maturity and an 8.85% coupon. The proceeds of the offerings will be used for OJSC VimpelCom's general corporate purposes and refinancing of existing debt.

In early April, WIND prepaid its term loan A maturities for 2012 and 2013 for an amount of EUR 500 million. Concurrently, its subsidiary WAF SA issued a EUR 500 million equivalent tap of Senior Secured Notes due 2018 (EUR tranche is at 7.375% and the USD tranche is at 7.25%). The proceeds of the offering were used, in part, to repay EUR 250 million of indebtedness related to an outstanding bridge loan entered into in October 2011 in relation to the LTE spectrum purchase.

On April 23, 2012, VimpelCom announced the sale of its controlling 49% interest in GTEL Mobile in Vietnam. The Company continues its strategic portfolio analysis, focused on allocating capital to those markets where the Company sees the best opportunities to generate shareholder value.

The shareholders of OTH in their meeting held on May 3, 2012 approved OTH entering into a five-year USD 2.5 billion uncommitted Credit Facility Agreement with VimpelCom Amsterdam B.V. Advances under this Facility, which will be drawn from time to time based on the business development needs of OTH agreed upon with VimpelCom, will bear an interest rate of 12.5% and accrued interest will be paid in kind (payable by automatic addition to the principal balance).

In April, VimpelCom and its subsidiary VimpelCom Holdings B.V., which together own 100% of the Group's Russian subsidiary OJSC VimpelCom, were named as third parties in a claim brought by the Russian Federal Anti-Monopoly Service ("FAS") in a Moscow Arbitration Court against two of VimpelCom's strategic shareholders, Telenor East Holding II AS ("Telenor") and Weather Investments II S.a.r.l. ("Weather II"). The FAS claim alleges that Telenor's February 15, 2012 purchase of 234 million VimpelCom preferred shares from Weather II violated relevant Russian law and seeks to, among other things, invalidate the purchase.  In connection with this claim, FAS obtained from the Moscow court an order for interim relief which prohibits VimpelCom and VimpelCom Holdings from voting their shares in OJSC VimpelCom at shareholder meetings of OJSC VimpelCom, to change the OJSC VimpelCom Board of Directors and approve major transactions and interested party transactions, as such terms are defined under Russian law. The order does not prohibit VimpelCom and VimpelCom Holdings from exercising their other rights as shareholders of OJSC VimpelCom, including, among other things, rights to approve OJSC VimpelCom's annual accounts, to appoint OJSC VimpelCom's external auditor, to approve dividend payments by OJSC VimpelCom and to re-elect the current OJSC VimpelCom Board members.  According to the order, the first hearing on the merits of the FAS claim is scheduled for October 17, 2012.

The payment of the previously announced final dividend of USD 0.35 per American depositary share ("ADS") in relation to its 2011 results will be paid before June 30, 2012.

Finally, VimpelCom announced the appointment of Maximo Ibarra as CEO of WIND Telecomunicazioni in Italy effective May 11, 2012. Mr. Ibarra will focus on the further development of the Company's operations in Italy, aligned with VimpelCom's Value Agenda.

 VIMPELCOM GROUP – FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS 1Q12

• Organic Revenue growth of 6% YoY; Revenues of USD 5.6 billion
• Organic EBITDA growth of 5% YoY; EBITDA of USD 2.3 billion
• Total mobile subscriber base increased 12% YoY to 209 million
• Net cash from operating activities was USD 1.6 billion
• CAPEX of USD 0.6 billion, with a CAPEX / Revenues of 11%
• Net debt / LTM EBITDA was 2.5x at the end of the first quarter

OPERATING PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW

The total mobile subscriber base increased 12% YoY to 209 million at the end of the first quarter. The largest absolute contribution came from accelerated growth in subscribers in the Africa & Asia Business Unit. The Company also achieved strong growth in fixed and mobile broadband subscribers in Russia, Italy and Ukraine.

In line with the strategy of targeting profitable growth and resetting the overall commercial model to achieve this goal, VimpelCom in Russia engaged in more targeted sales activities in the first quarter of 2012. As a result, overall subscribers declined in the first quarter 2012 compared to the fourth quarter of 2011, which benefited from extensive pre-holiday sales. Mobile broadband subscribers in Russia increased 12% YoY to 2.6 million, while the Fixed broadband subscriber base reached over 2 million, up 42% YoY. Overall, organic revenue growth in Russia was strong at 11% YoY.

The Company's Italian business continued to outperform the broader Italian telecom market in the first quarter despite the ongoing weak macroeconomic environment and unfavorable regulatory developments. VimpelCom strengthened its market position in Italy in both mobile and fixed-line, increasing its revenue share in both segments. The fixed broadband subscriber base increased 9% YoY to more than 2.2 million, with an increase in Fixed broadband revenues of 9% YoY, while Mobile internet revenues increased 40% YoY.      

In the Africa & Asia Business Unit, the Company achieved strong growth in its subscriber base across all countries of operation, exceeding 86 million in total. Solid performance across the main operations led to organic revenue growth of 9% YoY. In particular Pakistan and Bangladesh contributed strongly. Reported total operating revenues increased by 4% YoY, adversely impacted by local currency devaluation against the USD in the main operating countries of Algeria, Pakistan and Bangladesh.

The Ukraine Business Unit continued to deliver solid revenue growth in mobile and fixed data revenues and almost doubled its Fixed broadband subscribers. Mobile revenues were up 2% YoY driven by growth of voice and data traffic as a result of the strategy of transition to bundles. Fixed-line revenues increased by 16% YoY, mainly due to an 82% increase in fixed residential broadband revenues.

The CIS Business Unit delivered strong revenue growth and was able to maintain high quality subscriber growth despite a sharpening competitive environment also affected by certain governmental measures in key markets.

FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW

PRO FORMA 1Q12

Total operating revenues in the first quarter 2012 increased by 3% YoY, with a strong performance across most business units. Overall organic revenue growth was 6%.

EBITDA increased 1% YoY, impacted by unfavorable currency movements. Excluding these forex effects, EBITDA increased 5% compared to the same period last year. Strong organic EBITDA growth was seen in the markets of the business units of Russia and Africa & Asia, up 9% and 12% respectively, while the performance in CIS showed a 2% increase YoY. Overall growth was partly offset by the YoY organic EBITDA decline in Ukraine and Italy.

EBIT, which increased by 12% YoY, was positively affected, as reported previously, by the declining amortization pattern applied to intangible assets associated with customer relationships as part of the Wind Telecom acquisition where amortization of later periods is lower than amortization in the year of acquisition.

Profit before tax was negatively impacted by the lower foreign exchange gain in 1Q12 compared to 1Q11, lower net gain realized in 1Q12 from investments in associated entities, mainly related to our investment in Euroset and fair value changes of embedded derivatives. In 1Q11 the foreign exchange gain was USD 168 million, while in 1Q12 the gain only amounted to USD 63 million, mainly due to the lower USD exposure in Russia.

Net income decreased by 29% YoY as a result of the increase in income tax expense of USD 54 million and USD 48 million change in profit for the period attributable to non-controlling interest, mainly resulting from a stronger performance in Orascom Telecom Holding.

CAPEX was USD 0.6 billion, excluding licenses, with investments in the further roll out of the mobile networks in Russia, Bangladesh and the CIS. In Italy, we continued to invest in the roll-out of HSDPA and in backbone capacity to support the growth in data.

ACTUAL 1Q12

On an actual basis, revenues more than doubled YoY and EBITDA and EBIT increased by 92% and 62% YoY respectively as a result of the combination with Wind Telecom in April 2011.

Profit before tax decreased by 9% YoY due to additional  finance costs as a result of the Wind Telecom acquisition; net losses from associated entities- mainly due to lower profits from Euroset and losses from the investment in Canada; as well as lower gains from foreign exchange rates movements, mainly attributable to the lower USD exposure in Russia.

The increase in the effective income tax rate, driven by higher non-deductible expenses and non-recognized losses in Wind Telecom entities as well as the effect of a reversal of tax provisions in Russia in 1Q11, has led to a decrease in net income of 36% to USD 318 million.

 

Total assets increased by 4% to USD 56.1 billion, primarily as a result of investments in the business, external financing and the appreciation of RUB and EUR against USD offset by the transfer of the spin-off assets to Weather II. Gross debt increased in the quarter from USD 26.9 billion to USD 28.6 billion, mainly due to the issuance of Ruble bonds for RUB 35 billion (approximately USD 1.2 billion) and FX movements. Net debt decreased to USD 24.3 billion, leading to a net debt to LTM EBITDA of 2.5x on a pro forma basis at the end of the first quarter.

Net cash from operating activities at the Group level was positively impacted by higher EBITDA, partially offset by higher interest and tax payments. Net cash used in investing activities was mainly impacted by a substantial movement from cash to deposits in 2011, partially offset by the higher investments in property, equipment and intangible assets in 2012 resulting from the consolidation of Wind Telecom.

Net cash from financing activities in 1Q12 was mainly the result of obtaining external financing (issuance of Ruble bonds), primarily in anticipation for repayment of maturing debt as scheduled.

BUSINESS UNITS PERFORMANCE IN 1Q12

• Russia
• Europe and North America
• Africa & Asia
• Ukraine
• CIS

BUSINESS UNIT RUSSIA – FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS

• Double-digit total Revenue growth of 11%
• Continued strong Revenue growth in Mobile and Fixed broadband
• EBITDA increase of 9% YoY; reversal of previously negative trend
• EBITDA margin of 41.3%
• Operational excellence program on track to deliver at least RUB 5 billion in annualized savings in 2012
  

In 1Q12 the Russian Business Unit was focused on clear actions to deliver sustainable and profitable growth in line with the announced new strategy as part of the Company's overall corporate Value Agenda.

The Russian Business Unit delivered double-digit revenue growth and a substantial improvement in EBITDA, reversing the EBITDA trend seen last year. The EBITDA margin in 1Q12 reached 41.3%, improving over the FY11 margin of 40.1%.

Mobile data continues to be one of the fastest growing revenue streams for VimpelCom in Russia. The Company continued to promote mobile data services to a wider audience, creating attractive bundled offerings and innovative tariffs with the main focus on small and medium screens. The total revenue growth of 11% YoY was accounted for by a 39% increase in mobile data growth.

In line with the strategy of targeting profitable growth and resetting the overall commercial model to achieve this goal, VimpelCom engaged in more targeted sales activities in the first quarter of 2012. As a result, overall subscribers declined in the first quarter 2012 compared to the fourth quarter of 2011, which also benefited from extensive pre-holiday sales, but was still 5% above 1Q11 level.

At the end of 2011, the Company launched a Customer Experience program focused on enhancing the Beeline brand and improving customer loyalty. Initiatives in this program are focused on improving the quality of services and increasing pricing transparency. As a result of these initiatives, in 1Q12 the Company received one of the highest ratings in the TRI*M Index, which is an indicator of increasing customer satisfaction across our products and services. This customer satisfaction indicator increased by approximately 7% YoY. Going forward, the Company will continue with the Customer Experience program in order to consistently improve the level of customer satisfaction with all Beeline brand products and services.

To optimize the expenses related to subscriber acquisition costs and to lower churn rates, the Company has also implemented a new dealer commission structure based on revenue sharing instead of upfront payments.

In 1Q12, the Russian Business Unit launched a number of initiatives aimed at increasing productivity through organizational structure optimization and through improving business process efficiency.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS 1Q12

• Mobile subscriber base grew 5% YoY to 55.6 million, but declined 3% as compared with 4Q11; mobile broadband subscribers increased 12% YoY to 2.6 million
• Total revenue in Russia grew by 11% YoY to RUB 67 billion primarily as a result of higher service revenues driven by growth in content and small screen internet activities.
• EBITDA increased by 9% YoY reversing the declining trend seen last year, as a result of revenue growth, improvement in service margins and cost control measures.
• EBITDA margin was 41.3% and declined compared to 1Q11, impacted primarily by a decrease in APPM driven by the competitive environment and growth in low-margin handset sales, as well as higher technical and IT costs and an increase in payroll tax.
• Mobile revenues increased 11% YoY driven by solid mobile data revenue growth and sales of devices.
• Mobile ARPU in Russia increased by 2% to RUB 314 from RUB 308 in 1Q11, stimulated by growing usage and VAS.
• Mobile data traffic grew 118% YoY in 1Q12, leading to revenues totaling RUB 6 billion, an increase of 39% from 1Q11.
• Fixed-line revenues increased 11% YoY due to continuing growth in fixed broadband revenues, up 48% YoY. The fixed broadband subscriber base reached over 2 million, up 42% YoY.
• CAPEX/Revenues was 9% in 1Q12, in line with our network construction planning. Capex/Revenues LTM stood at 20.7%. The Company will continue to invest in its 3G network development and aims to match its main competitors in terms of population coverage in main cities in 43 key regions by 2013. The Company expects Capex for the full year 2012 to be below 1Q12 LTM level.
  

BUSINESS UNIT EUROPE & NA - FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS ITALY

• Relative outperformance continues in Italy with 3% underlying Revenue growth, excl. MTR impact
• EBITDA declines 2% YoY with stable result in mobile offset by decrease in fixed
• Solid subscriber growth across all market segments:
  Mobile subscribers up 4%, fixed voice subscribers up 3% and fixed broadband subscribers up 9%
• Data revenue growth momentum strong:
  Mobile Internet Revenues up 40%, messaging Revenues up 14%, fixed broadband Revenues up 9%

In the first quarter of 2012 WIND continued to deliver a solid performance in a market that remained highly competitive. Service revenues in the period declined marginally with mobile service revenues flat, with an underlying growth rate, excluding the impact of MTR cuts, of 5%. Fixed-line service revenues were negatively affected by the reduced commercial push on the indirect market and lower pay-per-use traffic. The marginal reduction in the top line coupled with an increase in commercial Opex and increasing collection periods in fixed-line, led to a 2% reduction in EBITDA.

In line with the VimpelCom Value Agenda, WIND continued to focus on delivering profitable growth. In Data, performance remained strong with Mobile Internet revenues recording an impressive 40% growth, messaging revenues increasing by 14% and fixed broadband revenues up 9%. In Mobile, the Company continued to concentrate its commercial efforts on bundled offerings both in pre-paid and postpaid with the aim of increasing customer loyalty and stabilizing the revenue stream.

In Fixed-line the growth trend in 1Q12 remained positive with a 6% increase in higher value direct subscribers and a 9% growth in fixed broadband subscribers. From a revenue perspective the quarter was however impacted by the promotional period on WIND's mainstream dual-play offerings and by the aforementioned reduction of commercial focus on the lower margin indirect segment.

KEY DEVELOPMENTS 1Q12

• Total revenues were stable in 1Q12 at EUR 1,346 million with an underlying growth (excl. MTR cut) of 3%
• Mobile service revenues in 1Q12 were flat YoY, impacted by the MTR reduction, net of which service revenues would have increased 5%.
• Fixed-line service revenues in the quarter declined by 2% as a result of reduced commercial push on indirect, with a view to optimizing margins, and lower pay-per-use traffic driven by competitive pressure in the market.
• EBITDA in 1Q12 declined 2% YoY to EUR 487 million, delivering a solid overall margin of 36.2%. EBITDA decreased mainly as a result of a phasing of advertising expenditure in 1Q12 and higher bad debt provisioning for fixed-line customers.
• Capex in 1Q12 was EUR 193 million and was mainly invested in expanding coverage and capacity on the HSDPA mobile network and increasing the backhauling capacity to support the strong growth in data. The Capex amount also includes EUR 28 million of capitalized costs in relation to the LTE frequencies acquired. In the quarter the Company continued its site sharing initiatives.
• Mobile subscriber growth remained strong in 1Q12 with WIND increasing its customer base by 4% to over 21.1 million driven by the success of its bundle offerings and ongoing growth in Mobile broadband, which saw subscribers increase by 12% YoY. Mobile churn remained high mainly driven by the continued market focus on MNP promotions to acquire new subscribers. Actions to reduce the churn level have been implemented, including processes to detect the early signals of churn in the customer base as well as a more disciplined approach to dealer remuneration for customers acquired in MNP.
• In mobile, data ARPU grew 14% to EUR 3.8 representing 26% of the total mobile ARPU of EUR 14.7. Voice ARPU remained under pressure as a result of the cut in MTR, strong growth in data-only SIM cards, which do not generate voice revenues, and competitive intensity.
• The fixed-line business continued to perform strongly in 1Q12 with voice subscribers growing 3% to 3.18 million, of which an increasing proportion are higher value direct voice subscribers, up 6% to 2.45 million. The Broadband segment also posted a strong result with subscribers exceeding 2.2 million, an increase of 9% over 1Q11. Dual-play subscribers grew by 9% YoY reaching 1.81 million.
• Fixed-line ARPU decreased by 4% to EUR 32.3 in 1Q12 driven by the promotional activity resulting from competitive pressure. Broadband ARPU declined marginally to EUR 18.9.
• In early April WIND prepaid its term loan A maturities for 2012 and 2013 for an amount of EUR 500 million. Concurrently, its subsidiary WAF SA issued a EUR 500 million equivalent tap of Senior Secured Notes due 2018. The proceeds of the offering were used, in part, to repay EUR 250 million of indebtedness related to an outstanding bridge loan entered into October 2011.

CANADA

During 1Q 2012, WIND Mobile continued its "Value Plus" strategy execution adding primarily postpaid subscribers while carefully managing pre-paid economics for both voice and mobile broadband customers. WIND Mobile continued to grow its distribution, ending the quarter with 481 total points of sale including 215 branded locations. The company also continued expanding its network and improving its quality in existing networks.

On March 14, 2012, the Minister of Industry announced that the Canadian government has made key telecom decisions on foreign ownership restrictions and spectrum policy. Specifically, he announced:

• The Telecom Act will be amended to remove foreign investment restrictions for telecom companies that hold less than a 10% share of the total Canadian telecom market (i.e., all companies but Bell, Rogers and TELUS (the "Incumbents")).
• Companies that are successful in growing their market share to greater than 10% organically (i.e. other than by way of merger or acquisitions) will continue to be exempt from the restrictions.
• The government will be applying 2X5MHz caps in the upcoming 700MHz auction.
• The 2,500MHz auction with take place in early 2014.
• The government will improve and extend the existing policy on national roaming and tower sharing and will improve transparency and information sharing to facilitate agreements between companies.

WIND Mobile is assessing the 700 MHz spectrum auction rules and although clearly advantageous to wireless incumbents, there is a prime 2X5 MHz band available in certain regions that could be beneficial to WIND Mobile's long term strategy.

BUSINESS UNIT AFRICA & ASIA - FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS

• Organic Revenue growth of 9% YoY; Revenues of USD 927 million, with currency devaluation in local markets adversely impacting Revenues in USD
• Organic EBITDA growth of 12% YoY; EBITDA of USD 424 million
• EBITDA margin stood at 46% compared to 45% in 1Q11, as a result of successful OPEX reduction as part of operational excellence initiatives
• Subscriber base increased by 19% to over 86 million
• Impressive performance in Pakistan with organic increase in Revenue and EBITDA of 10% and 15% respectively
• Sale of controlling interest in GTEL Mobile in Vietnam

In the first quarter of 2012, total operating revenues in Africa and Asia increased by 4% YoY, adversely impacted by local currency devaluation against the USD in main operating countries - Algeria, Pakistan and Bangladesh. However, due to OPEX savings and cost management, EBITDA growth exceeded revenue growth for the quarter, increasing 5% YoY, leading to an improved EBITDA margin of 46%. Operational performance in local currency showed significant growth across the board. Total subscribers grew by 19% to over 86 million customers.

ALGERIA ("DJEZZY")

In Algeria, Djezzy's subscribers increased 14%, as a result of strong customer acquisitions coupled with successful loyalty campaigns aimed at customer retention. Revenues increased 7%, mainly due to a focus on high-value subscribers. EBITDA grew by 8%, supported by strong cost savings. ARPU for the 1Q12 declined 4%, showing some ARPU dilution partly due to lower MOU as a result of extreme weather conditions. CAPEX remained low due to the ongoing ban on foreign currency transfers preventing the payment of essential suppliers, as well as the import of equipment critical to network maintenance and necessary expansion.

PAKISTAN ("MOBILINK")

In Pakistan, despite heavy competition, subscriber acquisitions remained healthy for the quarter, due to Mobilink's focus on acquisition activities and promotions, as well as various retention initiatives, resulting in a 9% increase YoY. Revenues showed 10% growth in local currency terms YoY. The increase is a result of steady growth of the subscriber base, VAS and data uptake and higher administrative fees. EBITDA increased 15%, as a result of tariff optimization and improved cost control measures for cost of sales. Mobilink's ARPU showed an increase of 2%, mostly due to high uptake in VAS and data offerings. CAPEX has decreased by 47% as a result of a slowdown in capacity roll-out for the network before proceeding with network modernization.

BANGLADESH ("BANGLALINK")

In Bangladesh, subscribers grew by 23% compared to the first quarter last year, mostly driven by strong customer acquisitions following the reduction of the SIM Tax in June 2011. Revenues increased 19% in local currency terms YoY, boosted by effective subscriber acquisition strategy for the quarter, in addition to a higher level of VAS and data adoption. EBITDA increased 13%, mostly attributable to higher revenues for the quarter coupled with operational excellence initiatives with network OPEX focus. CAPEX grew by 123% in comparison to 1Q11 in order to accommodate banglalink's growing subscriber base.

SUB SAHARAN AFRICA ("TELECEL GLOBE")

Telecel Globe operations showed over 35% growth in their subscriber bases compared to the previous year. Customer retention and increased commercial activity in Burundi led to an increased share in the market. Meanwhile, successful rebranding in Zimbabwe aided in increasing the number of subscribers. Telecel Globe's EBITDA showed an organic growth of 29%, surpassing organic revenue growth of 25% for 1Q12. CAPEX for Telecel Globe decreased by 75% compared to the previous year's aggressive 3G roll-out and network expansion investments.

SOUTH EAST ASIA

The subscriber base exceeded 4 million customers, showing a 250% increase compared to last year. Laos saw a boost in VAS uptake after the launch of 3G services at the end of 4Q11, while Cambodia showed steady contribution to total subscribers in our South East Asia cluster. The Company sold its controlling, indirect 49% interest in GTEL Mobile in Vietnam in April 2012 for USD 45 million.

BUSINESS UNIT UKRAINE – FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS

• Total Revenue growth of 3% YoY to UAH 3.1 billion; growth in both mobile and fixed-line Revenue continued
• Mobile subscriber base increased 2% YoY to almost 25 million
• Fixed residential broadband subscriber base grew 96%
• EBITDA margin at 51.1%

The Ukraine Business Unit delivered solid results in the first quarter of 2012 with growth in all revenue streams mainly supported by continued transition to bundles in mobile and strong sales in fixed residential broadband. To maintain cost efficiencies, the Company has launched various operational excellence projects, including optimization of the infrastructure portfolio.

• Total revenues increased 3% YoY to UAH 3.1 billion due to growth in mobile and fixed-line revenues.
• Mobile revenues were up 2% YoY backed by growth of voice and data traffic within the continued strategy of transition to bundles. VimpelCom solidified its market position in 1Q12 and increased its active mobile subscriber base by 2% YoY to 24.9 million.
• Fixed-line revenues increased by 16% YoY, mainly due to a 82% increase in fixed residential broadband revenue driven by a significant increase in the fixed residential broadband subscriber base of 96% YoY to 461 thousand, resulting from increased buildings coverage and active sales in already connected buildings. 
• EBITDA declined YoY primarily due to higher interconnect costs, growth of network costs and other operational expenses as a result of higher traffic and inflation. EBITDA margin was healthy at 51.1%, though lower than in 1Q11. EBITDA margin in 1Q11 was 54.0% when the Company capitalized on realized OPEX savings from integration, mainly in areas of commercial, HR and administrative costs. In 1Q12 EBITDA margin was lower than the FY11 margin of 53.2%, but the Company expects this to be temporary and has measures in place to improve the margin going forward.
• Capex was 3% below 1Q11 in line with the infrastructure optimization program in the framework of the Value Agenda.

BUSINESS UNIT CIS – FINANCIAL AND OPERATING RESULTS

• Organic Revenue growth of 9% YoY; Revenue of USD 379 million
• Mobile data Revenue growth of 80% to USD 28 million
• Mobile subscribers up 28% to 20.7 million
• Fixed broadband subscribers more than doubled
• Organic EBITDA growth of 2% YoY; EBITDA of USD 161 million; EBITDA margin of 42.5%

The CIS markets continue to provide strong growth opportunities in an increasingly competitive environment which has also been affected by certain governmental measures in key markets. In Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, our key CIS markets, VimpelCom strengthened its market positions as a result of both strong product offerings and efficient sales and marketing efforts.

To secure profitable growth in the CIS, the Company launched an operational excellence program in all markets. The main projects, focused on continued data development, are on schedule and the network expansion continues to support traffic and revenue growth.

• In 1Q12, total revenues grew 9% organically YoY. However, reported revenues increased 8% YoY to USD 379 million due to unfavorable currency movements.
• Total mobile revenue increased by 10% YoY in 1Q12. The slowdown in voice growth was compensated by significant data growth with increasing data services consumption.
• In 1Q12, fixed-line revenue decreased 10% YoY, impacted mainly by voice and wholesale revenue declines in Armenia and Tajikistan.
• EBITDA increased 2% YoY organically and reported EBITDA increased by 0.9% to USD 161 million.
• EBITDA margin of 42.5% in 1Q12 was 2.8 p.p. lower than a year ago, primarily due to intensified competition in key markets, a new tax in Uzbekistan and increased network costs.
• Capex decreased by 16% YoY in 1Q12 in line with investment plans. Network construction is in progress and the Company continues to roll out both 2G and 3G networks.

KAZAKHSTAN

Kazakhstan, the largest market in the CIS, achieved organic revenue growth of 5% YoY in 1Q12, affected by the competitive environment and a limitation on tariffs introduced by the regulator, which resulted in an APPM decline. EBITDA in local currency declined by 6.8%, as a result of the mentioned impacts on revenue and of the consolidation of the lower margin FTTB business since April 2011. Consequently EBITDA margin declined by 5.8 p.p. YoY, but the Company expects this to be partially recovered throughout the rest of the year.

UZBEKISTAN

In Uzbekistan, the subscriber base continued to grow in all segments and revenue was up 33% YoY in 1Q12. The EBITDA margin was 44.6%, a slight decline YoY, as a result of increased competition and higher Opex due to a newly introduced tax on customer base. EBITDA increased 30% YoY.

ARMENIA

Revenues in Armenia declined organically by 11% YoY in 1Q12 as a result of stagnating voice revenues and a lower level of terminated traffic in the fixed-line segment. In the mobile revenue stream, the decrease of 9% was mainly due to lower sales of devices and lower interconnect revenues. Fixed and mobile data services, however, demonstrated strong growth both in revenue and subscribers. EBITDA grew organically by 1.3% YoY and EBITDA margin was up 4.5 p.p. YoY to 38.2%.

KYRGYZSTAN

Kyrgyzstan continues to show positive dynamics in subscriber base and revenue growth. EBITDA grew organically 10% YoY resulting in a stable EBITDA margin in local currency of 55.5%. APPM remained stable YoY in 1Q12, accompanied by growth in usage of both voice and data services. Mobile data usage translated into a significant mobile data revenue increase of 134% YoY.

TAJIKISTAN

In Tajikistan, revenues increased 3% YoY for 1Q12 impacted by a decline in the wholesale segment. EBITDA remained flat and EBITDA margin declined 3 p.p. YoY.

GEORGIA

Georgia demonstrated strong results with subscriber base growth of 43%, organic revenue growth of 26% and a 44% increase in EBITDA YoY in 1Q12, despite APPM erosion due to the competitive environment. EBITDA margin increased 2.9 p.p. YoY.

CONFERENCE CALL INFORMATION

On May 15, 2012, the Company will host an analyst & investor conference call on its first quarter 2012 results. The call and slide presentation may be accessed at http://www.vimpelcom.com.

The conference calls replay and the slide presentation webcasts will be available until May 22, 2012 and June 15, 2012, respectively. The slide presentations will also be available for download on the Company's website.

DISCLAIMER

This press release contains "forward-looking statements", as the phrase is defined in Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. These statements relate to the Company's financial performance objectives, development plans and anticipated performance, and include statements relating to the Company's revenue and EBITDA expectations. The forward-looking statements included in this release are based on management's best assessment of the Company's strategic and financial position and of future market conditions and trends. These discussions involve risks and uncertainties. The actual outcome may differ materially from these statements as a result of continued volatility in the economies in our markets, unforeseen developments from competition, governmental regulation of the telecommunications industries, general political uncertainties in our markets and/or litigation with third parties. In addition, there are risks related to the combination with Wind Telecom, including the possibility that the anticipated benefits of the combination may not materialize as expected, that we are unable to realize the synergies anticipated from the transaction and other risks and uncertainties that are beyond the Company's control. There can be no assurance that such risks and uncertainties will not have a material adverse effect on the Company. Certain factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those discussed in any forward-looking statements include the risk factors described in the Company's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended December 31, 2011 filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and other public filings made by the Company with the SEC, which risk factors are incorporated herein by reference. The Company disclaims any obligation to update developments of these risk factors or to announce publicly any revision to any of the forward-looking statements contained in this release, or to make corrections to reflect future events or developments.

ABOUT VIMPELCOM LTD

VimpelCom is one of the world's largest integrated telecommunications services operators providing voice and data services through a range of traditional and broadband mobile and fixed technologies in Russia, Italy, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Armenia, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Cambodia, Laos, Algeria, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Burundi, Zimbabwe, Central African Republic and Canada. VimpelCom's operations around the globe cover territory with a total population of approximately 782 million people. VimpelCom provides services under the "Beeline", "Kyivstar", "djuice", "Wind", "Infostrada" "Mobilink", "Leo", "banglalink", "Telecel", and "Djezzy" brands. As of March 31, 2012 VimpelCom had 209 million mobile subscribers on a combined basis. VimpelCom is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol (VIP). For more information visit: http://www.vimpelcom.com.

For more information on financial and operating data for specific countries, please refer to the supplementary file Factbook1Q2012.xls on our website at http://vimpelcom.com/ir/financials/results.wbp.

ATTACHMENT E: DEFINITIONS

EBITDA and EBITDA Margin are non-GAAP financial measures. VimpelCom calculates EBITDA as profit for the period before depreciation, amortization, impairment loss, finance costs, income tax expense and the other line items reflected in the reconciliation table above. Our Russia Business Unit excludes certain expenses from their EBITDA. EBITDA margin is calculated as EBITDA divided by total operating revenues. EBITDA and EBITDA margin should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for analyses of the results as reported under IFRS. Our management uses EBITDA and EBITDA margin as supplemental performance measures and believes that EBITDA and EBITDA margin provide useful information to investors because they are indicators of the strength and performance of the company's business operations, including its ability to fund discretionary spending, such as capital expenditures, acquisitions and other investments, as well as indicating its ability to incur and service debt. In addition, the components of EBITDA and EBITDA margin include the key revenue and expense items for which the company's operating managers are responsible and upon which their performance is evaluated. EBITDA and EBITDA margin also assist management and investors by increasing the comparability of the company's performance against the performance of other telecommunications companies that provide EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) or OIBDA (operating income before depreciation and amortization) information. This increased comparability is achieved by excluding the potentially inconsistent effects between periods or companies of depreciation, amortization and impairment losses, which items may significantly affect operating profit between periods. However, our EBITDA results may not be directly comparable to other companies' reported EBITDA or OIBDA results due to variances and adjustments in the components of EBITDA (including our calculation of EBITDA) or calculation measures. Additionally, a limitation of EBITDA's or EBITDA's use as a performance measure is that it does not reflect the periodic costs of certain capitalized tangible and intangible assets used in generating revenues or the need to replace capital equipment over time. Reconciliation of EBITDA to profit for the period, the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented in Attachment C.

EBIT is a non-GAAP measure and is calculated as EBITDA plus depreciation, amortization, impairment loss and loss on disposals of non-current assets. Our management uses EBIT as a supplemental performance measure and believes that it provides useful information of earnings of the Company before making accruals for financial income and costs and Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others. Reconciliation of EBIT to profit for the period, the most directly comparable IFRS financial measure, is presented in Attachment C. EBIT equals operating profit.

Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others represents the sum of Net foreign exchange loss, Shares of loss/(profit) of associates and joint ventures accounted for using the equity method, and Other non-operating losses/(gains). Our management uses Net foreign exchange (loss)/gain and others as a supplemental performance measure and believes that it provides useful information about the impact of our debt denominated in foreign currencies on our results of operations due to fluctuations in exchange rates, the performance of our equity investees and other losses and gains the Company needs to manage to run the business.

Net income equals profit for the period attributable to the owners of the parent.

ARPU (Monthly Average Revenue per User) is calculated by dividing service revenue during the relevant period, including revenue from voice-, roaming-, interconnect-, and value added services (including mobile data, SMS, MMS), but excluding revenue from connection fees, sales of handsets and accessories and other non-service revenue, by the average number of subscribers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period. For business unit Africa & Asia (except SEA) visitors roaming revenue is excluded from service revenues.

APPM (Average Price Per Minute) is a measure used by management to assess the average price our mobile subscribers pay for using our mobile services.

MTR (Mobile Termination Rate) is a rate a mobile operator receives from other operators for terminating calls on its mobile network.

MNP (Mobile Number Portability) is an option for mobile subscribers to retain their mobile phone number when switching from one mobile operator to another.

Broadband subscribers are the customer contracts that served as a basis for revenue generating activity in the three months prior to the measurement date, as a result of activities including monthly internet access using FTTB and xDSL technologies as well as mobile internet access via WiFi and USB modems using 3G/HSDPA technologies. Italian subsidiary measures broadband subscribers based on the number of active contracts signed. Russian business unit includes IPTV activities.

Capital expenditures (Capex), purchases of new equipment, new construction, upgrades, software, other long lived assets and related reasonable costs incurred prior to intended use of the non-current asset, accounted at the earliest event of advance payment or delivery. Long-lived assets acquired in business combinations are not included in capital expenditures.

Households passed are households located within buildings, in which indoor installation of all the FTTB equipment necessary to install terminal residential equipment has been completed.

Mobile subscribers are SIM-cards registered in the system as of a measurement date, users of which generated revenue at any time during the three months prior to the measurement date. This includes revenue coming from any incoming and outgoing calls, subscription fee accruals, debits related to service, outgoing SMS, Multimedia Messaging Service (referred to as MMS), data transmission and receipt sessions, but does not include incoming SMS and MMS sent by VimpelCom or abandoned calls. VimpelCom's total number of mobile subscribers also includes SIM-cards for use of mobile Internet service via USB modems and subscribers for WiFi. The number for Italy is based on SIM-cards, users of which generated revenue at any time during the twelve months prior to the measurement date. For the purpose of this earnings release, we include all subscribers of Zimbabwe, which is accounted for as investment at cost, into business unit Africa & Asia and subscribers of all our Canada equity investee into business unit Europe and North America, both of which are included into total subscribers of VimpelCom.

MOU (Monthly Average Minutes of Use per User) is calculated by dividing the total number of minutes of usage for incoming and outgoing calls during the relevant period (excluding guest roamers) by the average number of mobile subscribers during the period and dividing by the number of months in that period.

Net debt is a non GAAP financial measure and is calculated as gross debt represented by principal amounts of interest bearing loans, bonds, equipment financing and loans from others minus cash and cash equivalents, as well as long-term and short-term deposits. The Company believes that net debt provides useful information to investors because it shows the amount of debt outstanding to be paid after using available cash and cash equivalent and long-term and short-term deposits. Net debt should not be considered in isolation or as an alternative to other financial liabilities, or any other measure of the company financial position. Reconciliation of net debt to other financial liabilities, the most directly comparable GAAP financial measure, is presented in Attachment C.

Reportable segments, the Company identified Russia, Europe and North America, Africa & Asia, CIS and Ukraine based on the business activities in different geographical areas. Although Georgia is no longer a member of the CIS, consistent with VimpelCom's historic reporting practice VimpelCom continues to include Georgia in its CIS reporting segment. Intersegment revenues are eliminated in consolidation.

Organic growth Revenue and EBITDA are non-GAAP financial measures that reflect changes in Revenue and EBITDA excluding foreign currency movements and other factors, such as business under liquidation, disposals, mergers and acquisitions. We believe investors should consider these measures as they are more indicative of our ongoing performance and management uses these measures to evaluate the Company's operational results and trends.

SOURCE VimpelCom Ltd