Pursuant to Article 29.3 of the Rules of the Warsaw Stock Exchange, AB "Novaturas" presents information on Best Practice 2021 compliance
DISCLOSURE POLICY, INVESTOR COMMUNICATIONS
1.1. Companies maintain efficient communications with capital market participants and provide fair information about matters that concern them. For that purpose, companies use diverse tools and forms of communication, including in particular the corporate website where they publish all information relevant for investors.
The principle is applied.
1.2. Companies make available their financial results compiled in periodic reports as soon as possible after the end of each reporting period; should that not be feasible for substantial reasons, companies publish at least preliminary financial estimates as soon as possible.
The principle is applied.
1.3. Companies integrate ESG factors in their business strategy, including in particular:
1.3.1. environmental factors, including measures and risks relating to climate change and sustainable development;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formalized business strategy that takes into account ESG topics, including measures and risks related to climate change and sustainable development issues, however the Company uses latest Setra ComfortClass 500 HD coaches that have been officially recognised as the world‘s best tourist coach for its sightseeing tours. The coaches comply with the most advanced EURO 6 standard, therefore, all tours are safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly. Moreover, the Company begin to calculate and analyze the CO2 emission indicators. In the future, we will look for solutions how to reduce CO2 emissions or the ways how to compensate the impact of carbon dioxide emissions.
1.3.2. social and employee factors, including among others actions taken and planned to ensure equal treatment of women and men, decent working conditions, respect for employees’ rights, dialogue with local communities, customer relations.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formalized business strategy that takes into account the ESG subject matter, taking into account the issues described in rule 1.3.2., however Human resources policy pursued by the Company helps it to implement its strategic objectives through appropriate management and development of employees. We are always open and fair with both existing and potential employees: the policy provides for equal opportunities for employment, development and career irrespective of the employee‘s gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, political convictions, membership of trade unions, social position and/or other factors in accordance with the law. The Company applies a fair remuneration system including salaries and bonuses. We do not tolerate discrimination and disrespect; collaboration with the employees is based on respect and trust and open and transparent communication.
1.4. To ensure quality communications with stakeholders, as a part of the business strategy, companies publish on their website information concerning the framework of the strategy, measurable goals, including in particular long-term goals, planned activities and their status, defined by measures, both financial and non-financial. ESG information concerning the strategy should among others:
The principle is applied.
1.4.1. explain how the decision-making processes of the company and its group members integrate climate change, including the resulting risks;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formalized business strategy that takes into account the ESG subject matter, taking into account the issues described in rule 1.4.1.
1.4.2. present the equal pay index for employees, defined as the percentage difference between the average monthly pay (including bonuses, awards and other benefits) of women and men in the last year, and present information about actions taken to eliminate any pay gaps, including a presentation of related risks and the time horizon of the equality target.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company has not formally adopted a strategy that would contain information in the ESG area described in rule 1.4. - such statistics are not kept. However, the Company ensures equal remuneration paid to its employees through equal rates of basic remuneration for the same / similar positions and in the same departments.
1.5. Companies disclose at least on an annual basis the amounts expensed by the company and its group in support of culture, sports, charities, the media, social organisations, trade unions, etc. If the company or its group pay such expenses in the reporting year, the disclosure presents a list of such expenses.
The principle is applied.
1.6. Companies participating in the WIG20, mWIG40 or sWIG80 index hold on a quarterly basis and other companies hold at least on an annual basis a meeting with investors to which they invite in particular shareholders, analysts, industry experts and the media. At such meetings, the management board of the company presents and comments on the strategy and its implementation, the financial results of the company and its group, and the key events impacting the business of the company and its group, their results and outlook. At such meetings, the management board of the company publicly provides answers and explanations to questions raised.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Company does not belong to any of the abovementioned indexes. However, the Management Board of the Company answers the questions addressed to the Company by interested stakeholders on an ongoing basis. The scope of information mentioned in Rule 1.6 is published in periodic reports.
1.7. If an investor requests any information about a company, the company replies immediately and in any case no later than within 14 days.
The principle is applied.
MANAGEMENT BOARD, SUPERVISORY BOARD
2.1. Companies should have in place a diversity policy applicable to the management board and the supervisory board, approved by the supervisory board and the general meeting, respectively. The diversity policy defines diversity goals and criteria, among others including gender, education, expertise, age, professional experience, and specifies the target dates and the monitoring systems for such goals. With regard to gender diversity of corporate bodies, the participation of the minority group in each body should be at least 30%.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company has not adopted a diversity policy applicable to its Management Board. Even though there is no such policy established, it does not apply any limitations to the diversity of its Management Board and makes every effort to ensure diversity in Management Board in all areas, also in terms of gender. The selection criteria for performing functions in the Company's Management Board are the competences, experience, education as well as time and organizational capacity of the candidate for a given function.
2.2. Decisions to elect members of the management board or the supervisory board of companies should ensure that the composition of those bodies is diverse by appointing persons ensuring diversity, among others in order to achieve the target minimum participation of the minority group of at least 30% according to the goals of the established diversity policy referred to in principle 2.1.
The Company does not apply this principle.
As explained in rule 2.1. as at the date of this report, the Company does not have a diversity policy with regard to the Management Board of the Company. The most important selection criteria are the competences of the members of the Management Board. The Company is not able to appoint candidates for positions in governing bodies and to influence the decisions of the Shareholders of the Company.
2.3. At least two members of the supervisory board meet the criteria of being independent referred to in the Act of 11 May 2017 on Auditors, Audit Firms and Public Supervision, and have no actual and material relations with any shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total vote in the company.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed in the Company, however, according to the Law on Companies of the Republic of Lithuania, not less than 1/3 of Management Board members of the Company must be independent (as it is understood according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania). Thus, 2 of 5 members of the Management Board of the Company are independent. Moreover, more than a half members of the Management Board must not be related to the employment relations with the Company.
2.4. The supervisory board and the management board vote in an open ballot unless otherwise required by law.
The principle is applied.
2.5. Members of the supervisory board and members of the management board who vote against a resolution may have their dissenting vote recorded in the minutes.
The principle is applied.
2.6. Functions on the management board of a company are the main area of the professional activity of management board members. Management board members should not engage in additional professional activities if the time devoted to such activities prevents their proper performance in the company.
The principle is applied.
2.7. A company’s management board members may sit on corporate bodies of companies other than members of its group subject to the approval of the supervisory board.
The Company does not apply this principle.
Management Board members may work or hold a position which are compatible with member’s activity in the Board. Prior notification of the Board and prior consent of the Board is obligatory only in a case the other work or position holds a conflict of interest.
2.8. Supervisory board members should be able to devote the time necessary to perform their duties.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.9. The chair of the supervisory board should not combine this function with that of chair of the audit committee of the supervisory board.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.10. Companies allocate administrative and financial resources necessary to ensure efficient functioning of the supervisory board in a manner adequate to their size and financial standing.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.11. In addition to its responsibilities laid down in the legislation, the supervisory board prepares and presents an annual report to the annual general meeting once per year. Such report includes at least the following:
2.11.1. information about the members of the supervisory board and its committees, including indication of those supervisory board members who fulfil the criteria of being independent referred to in the Act of 11 May 2017 on Auditors, Audit Firms and Public Supervision and those supervisory board members who have no actual and material relations with any shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total vote in the company, and information about the members of the supervisory board in the context of diversity;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, information about the members of the Management Board and its committees (if appointed), including indication of those Management Board members who fulfil the criteria of being independent according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania are included in the annual report.
2.11.2. summary of the activity of the supervisory board and its committees;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: as the Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, analogical information is presented in the annual report about the Management Board.
2.11.3. assessment of the company’s standing on a consolidated basis, including assessment of the internal control, risk management and compliance systems and the internal audit function, and information about measures taken by the supervisory board to perform such assessment; such assessment should cover all significant controls, in particular reporting and operational controls;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.11.4. assessment of the company’s compliance with the corporate governance principles and the manner of compliance with the disclosure obligations concerning compliance with the corporate governance principles defined in the Exchange Rules and the regulations on current and periodic reports published by issuers of securities, and information about measures taken by the supervisory board to perform such assessment;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: Assessment of the Company’s compliance with the corporate governance principles and the manner of compliance with the disclosure obligations concerning compliance with the corporate governance principles is included in the annual report.
2.11.5. assessment of the rationality of expenses referred to in principle 1.5;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the aforementioned information is included in the annual report.
2.11.6. information regarding the degree of implementation of the diversity policy applicable to the management board and the supervisory board, including the achievement of goals referred to in principle 2.1.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formal diversity policy with respect to the Management Board.
INTERNAL SYSTEMS AND FUNCTIONS
3.1. Listed companies maintain efficient internal control, risk management and compliance systems and an efficient internal audit function adequate to the size of the company and the type and scale of its activity; the management board is responsible for their functioning.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
Comment: the position of internal auditor is established within the Company, however, the employee is on maternity leave at the moment. Due to responsibilities and reliability of this position, the Company decided not to appoint a temporary internal auditor for the leave term.
3.2. Companies’ organisation includes units responsible for the tasks of individual systems and functions unless it is not reasonable due to the size of the company or the type of its activity.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
Comments: The Company does not distinguish units responsible for the tasks of systems or functions from its structure due to the scale of its operations, the business model implemented and the size of the group. The functions of these units are performed by the Board of the Company, however, the internal auditor position is established within the Company.
3.3. Companies participating in the WIG20, mWIG40 or sWIG80 index appoint an internal auditor to head the internal audit function in compliance with generally accepted international standards for the professional practice of internal auditing. In other companies which do not appoint an internal auditor who meets such requirements, the audit committee (or the supervisory board if it performs the functions of the audit committee) assesses on an annual basis whether such person should be appointed.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
Comments: The Company does not belong to any of the abovementioned indexes, however, the internal auditor position is established within the Company.
3.4. The remuneration of persons responsible for risk and compliance management and of the head of internal audit should depend on the performance of delegated tasks rather than short-term results of the company.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
The principle is applied partially. Comments: The Company does not have separate units or persons responsible for this scope of tasks that would be remunerated on this account, however, the principle is applied in respect of the internal auditor.
3.5. Persons responsible for risk and compliance management report directly to the president or other member of the management board.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Company has no separate persons and no separate units responsible for the scope of tasks described in principle 3.5.
3.6. The head of internal audit reports organisationally to the president of the management board and functionally to the chair of the audit committee or the chair of the supervisory board if the supervisory board performs the functions of the audit committee.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Company has not introduced a function of internal auditor to date.
3.7. Principles 3.4 to 3.6 apply also to members of the company’s group which are material to its activity if they appoint persons to perform such tasks.
The principle not applicable.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: In the entities of the Company's group, no persons were appointed to perform the tasks referred to in principles 3.4. - 3.6.
3.8. The person responsible for internal audit or the management board if such function is not performed separately in the company reports to the supervisory board at least once per year with their assessment of the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1 and tables a relevant report.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the General Manager and the Management Board of the Company reports to general meeting at least once per year with their assessment of the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1.
3.9. The supervisory board monitors the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1 among others on the basis of reports provided periodically by the persons responsible for the functions and the company’s management board, and makes annual assessment of the efficiency of such systems and functions according to principle 2.11.3. Where the company has an audit committee, the audit committee monitors the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1, which however does not release the supervisory board from the annual assessment of the efficiency of such systems and functions.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the supervision and monitoring functions are vested in the Management Board of the Company.
3.10. Companies participating in the WIG20, mWIG40 or sWIG80 index have the internal audit function reviewed at least once every five years by an independent auditor appointed with the participation of the audit committee.
The principle not applicable.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The principle is not applicable to the Company. The Company does not belong to any of the abovementioned indexes.
GENERAL MEETING, SHAREHOLDER RELATIONS
4.1. Companies should enable their shareholders to participate in a general meeting by means of electronic communication (e-meeting) if justified by the expectations of shareholders notified to the company, provided that the company is in a position to provide the technical infrastructure necessary for such general meeting to proceed.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not provide the opportunity to attend and vote in the general meeting of shareholders by using electronic communication means, because in the opinion of the Company this is related to the threat to the fairness and efficiency of the general meeting of shareholders. In the opinion of the Company, there is a high risk of threat to such type of communication security and technical malfunctions. In addition, the Company does not have the appropriate technical and organizational measures to implement the above principle and the Company would incur significant additional costs as a result of implementation of this principle. However, the Company grants its shareholders the right to vote at the general meeting of shareholders either in person or through an authorized representative, or vote in advance in writing.
4.2. Companies set the place and date and the form of a general meeting so as to enable the participation of the highest possible number of shareholders. For that purpose, companies strive to ensure that the cancellation of a general meeting, change of its date or break in its proceedings take place only if justified and do not prevent or limit the exercising of the shareholders’ rights to participate in the general meeting.
The principle is applied.
4.3. Companies provide a public real-life broadcast of the general meeting.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not provide for the possibility of using electronic communication means during the general meeting, in particular the transmission of the general meeting and two-way communication in real time. In the opinion of the Company, the above is connected with the threats of correct and efficient conduct of the general meeting of the legal and technical nature. In the opinion of the Company there is a high risk of threatening the security of this type of communication as well as of occurring technical disruptions. In addition, the Company does not have appropriate organizational and technical facilities to implement the mentioned principle. What is more, the implementation of this rule would charge the Company with additional, high costs.
4.4. Presence of representatives of the media is allowed at general meetings.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The provisions of the Lithuanian law expressly state who may participate in the General Meeting. Such right is not granted to media representatives. In the opinion of the Company, generally binding legal regulations, sufficiently regulate the performance of public information obligations by public companies regarding the transparency of the General Meeting, as well as matters being its subject.
4.5. If the management board becomes aware a general meeting being convened pursuant to Article 399 § 2 – 4 of the Commercial Companies Code, the management board immediately takes steps which it is required to take in order to organise and conduct the general meeting. The foregoing applies also where a general meeting is convened under authority granted by the registration court according to Article 400 § 3 of the Commercial Companies Code.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The principle is not applicable to the Company. The Company is established in Lithuania and it follows Lithuanian law when convening a general meeting of shareholders.
4.6. To help shareholders participating in a general meeting to vote on resolutions with adequate understanding, draft resolutions of the general meeting concerning matters and decisions other than points of order should contain a justification, unless it follows from documentation tabled to the general meeting. If a matter is put on the agenda of the general meeting at the request of a shareholder or shareholders, the management board requests presentation of the justification of the proposed resolution, unless previously presented by such shareholder or shareholders.
The principle is applied.
4.7. The supervisory board issues opinions on draft resolutions put by the management board on the agenda of the general meeting.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: the Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
4.8. Draft resolutions of the general meeting on matters put on the agenda of the general meeting should be tabled by shareholders no later than three days before the general meeting.
The Company does not apply this principle.
according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania, the shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes at any time before the general meeting or during the meeting, have a right propose new draft decisions on issues on the agenda of the meeting, nominate additional candidates to members of the company’s bodies, the auditor or the audit firm.
4.9. If the general meeting is to appoint members of the supervisory board or members of the supervisory board for a new term of office:
4.9.1. candidates for members of the supervisory board should be nominated with a notice necessary for shareholders present at the general meeting to make an informed decision and in any case no later than three days before the general meeting; the names of candidates and all related documents should be immediately published on the company’s website;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania, candidates for members of the Supervisory Board or Management Board may be put forward by shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes at any time before the general meeting or during the meeting.
4.9.2. candidates for members of the supervisory board make a declaration concerning fulfilment of the requirements for members of the audit committee referred to in the Act of 11 May 2017 on Auditors, Audit Firms and Public Supervision and having actual and material relations with any shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total vote in the company.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however the Company is established in the Republic of Lithuania, and it follows Lithuanian law when concerning fulfilment of the independence requirements for members of the governing bodies of the Company.
4.10. Any exercise of the rights of shareholders or the way in which they exercise their rights must not hinder the proper functioning of the governing bodies of the company.
The principle is applied.
4.11. Members of the management board and members of the supervisory board participate in a general meeting, at the location of the meeting or via means of bilateral real-time electronic communication, as necessary to speak on matters discussed by the general meeting and answer questions asked at the general meeting. The management board presents to participants of an annual general meeting the financial results of the company and other relevant information, including non-financial information, contained in the financial statements to be approved by the general meeting. The management board presents key events of the last financial year, compares presented data with previous years, and presents the degree of implementation of the plans for the last year.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
The principle is applied partially. Comments: The Company does not provide for the possibility of using electronic communication means during the general meeting, in particular the transmission of the general meeting and two-way communication in real time. However, all the information mentioned above is presented in the General Meeting.
4.12. Resolutions of the general meeting concerning an issue of shares with subscription rights should specify the issue price or the mechanism of setting the price or authorise the competent body to set the price prior to the subscription right record date within a timeframe necessary for investors to make decisions.
The principle is applied.
4.13. Resolutions concerning a new issue of shares with the exclusion of subscription rights which grant pre-emptive rights for new issue shares to selected shareholders or other entities may pass subject at least to the following three criteria:
a) the company has a rational, economically justified need to urgently raise capital or the share issue is related to rational, economically justified transactions, among others such as a merger with or the take-over of another company, or the shares are to be taken up under an incentive scheme established by the company;
b) the persons granted the pre-emptive right are to be selected according to objective general criteria;
c) the purchase price of the shares is in a rational relation with the current share price of the company or is to be determined in book-building on the market.
The Company does not apply this principle.
As the Company is established under the Laws of the Republic of Lithuania, it follows the explicit requirements for this procedure stipulated in the Law on Companies and other legal acts of the Republic of Lithuania.
4.14. Companies should strive to distribute their profits by paying out dividends. Companies may retain all their earnings subject to any of the following criteria:
a) the earnings are minimal and consequently the dividend would be immaterial in relation to the value of the shares;
b) the company reports uncovered losses from previous years and the earnings are used to reduce such losses;
c) the company can demonstrate that investment of the earnings will generate tangible benefits for the shareholders;
d) the company generates insufficient cash flows to pay out dividends;
e) a dividend payment would substantially increase the risk to covenants under the company’s binding credit facilities or terms of bond issue;
f) retention of the company’s earnings follows recommendations of the authority which supervises the company by virtue of its business activity.
The principle is applied.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST, RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
5.1. Members of the management board and members of the supervisory board notify the management board or the supervisory board, respectively, of any conflict of interest which has arisen or may arise, and refrain from discussions on the issue which may give rise to such a conflict of interest in their case.
The principle is applied.
5.2. Where a member of the management board or a member of the supervisory board concludes that a decision of the management board or the supervisory board, respectively, is in conflict with the interest of the company, he or she should request that the minutes of the management board or supervisory board meeting show his or her dissenting opinion.
The principle is applied.
5.3. No shareholder should have preference over other shareholders in related party transactions. The foregoing also concerns transactions concluded by the company’s shareholders with members of the company’s group.
The principle is applied.
5.4. Companies may buy back their own shares only in a procedure which respects the rights of all shareholders.
The principle is applied.
5.5. If a transaction concluded by a company with its related party requires the consent of the supervisory board, before giving its consent the supervisory board assesses whether to ask a prior opinion of a third party which can provide valuation of the transaction and review its economic impact.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comment: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the Management Board before preparation of an opinion on conclusion of the transaction with the related party is not obligated to assess whether to ask a prior opinion of a third party.
5.6. If a related party transaction requires the consent of the general meeting, the supervisory board issues an opinion on the rationale of such transaction. In that case, the supervisory board assesses whether to ask a prior opinion of a third party referred to in principle 5.5.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, moreover, according to the Articles of Association of the Company, the consent of the General Meeting is not necessary to the transactions with the related party.
5.7. If a decision concerning the company’s significant transaction with a related party is made by the general meeting, the company should give all shareholders access to information necessary to assess the impact of the transaction on the interest of the company before the decision is made, including an opinion of the supervisory board referred to in principle 5.6.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, moreover, according to the Articles of Association of the Company, the consent of the General Meeting is not necessary to the transactions with the related party, however, the shareholders are always being informed about the Management’s Board decision and transactions with the related party.
REMUNERATION
6.1. The remuneration of members of the management board and members of the supervisory board and key managers should be sufficient to attract, retain and motivate persons with skills necessary for proper management and supervision of the company. The level of remuneration should be adequate to the tasks and responsibilities delegated to individuals and their resulting accountability.
The principle is applied.
6.2. Incentive schemes should be constructed in a way necessary among others to tie the level of remuneration of members of the company’s management board and key managers to the actual long-term standing of the company measured by its financial and non-financial results as well as long-term shareholder value creation, sustainable development and the company’s stability.
The principle is applied.
6.3. If companies’ incentive schemes include a stock option programme for managers, the implementation of the stock option programme should depend on the beneficiaries’ achievement, over a period of at least three years, of pre-defined, realistic financial and non-financial targets and sustainable development goals adequate to the company, and the share price or option exercise price for the beneficiaries cannot differ from the value of the shares at the time when such programme was approved.
The principle is applied.
6.4. As the supervisory board performs its responsibilities on a continuous basis, the remuneration of supervisory board members cannot depend on the number of meetings held. The remuneration of members of committees, in particular the audit committee, should take into account additional workload on the committee.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
6.5. The level of remuneration of supervisory board members should not depend on the company’s short-term results.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
DISCLOSURE POLICY, INVESTOR COMMUNICATIONS
1.1. Companies maintain efficient communications with capital market participants and provide fair information about matters that concern them. For that purpose, companies use diverse tools and forms of communication, including in particular the corporate website where they publish all information relevant for investors.
The principle is applied.
1.2. Companies make available their financial results compiled in periodic reports as soon as possible after the end of each reporting period; should that not be feasible for substantial reasons, companies publish at least preliminary financial estimates as soon as possible.
The principle is applied.
1.3. Companies integrate ESG factors in their business strategy, including in particular:
1.3.1. environmental factors, including measures and risks relating to climate change and sustainable development;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formalized business strategy that takes into account ESG topics, including measures and risks related to climate change and sustainable development issues, however the Company uses latest Setra ComfortClass 500 HD coaches that have been officially recognised as the world‘s best tourist coach for its sightseeing tours. The coaches comply with the most advanced EURO 6 standard, therefore, all tours are safe, comfortable, and environmentally friendly. Moreover, the Company begin to calculate and analyze the CO2 emission indicators. In the future, we will look for solutions how to reduce CO2 emissions or the ways how to compensate the impact of carbon dioxide emissions.
1.3.2. social and employee factors, including among others actions taken and planned to ensure equal treatment of women and men, decent working conditions, respect for employees’ rights, dialogue with local communities, customer relations.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formalized business strategy that takes into account the ESG subject matter, taking into account the issues described in rule 1.3.2., however Human resources policy pursued by the Company helps it to implement its strategic objectives through appropriate management and development of employees. We are always open and fair with both existing and potential employees: the policy provides for equal opportunities for employment, development and career irrespective of the employee‘s gender, race, ethnicity, religion, age, disability, sexual orientation, nationality, political convictions, membership of trade unions, social position and/or other factors in accordance with the law. The Company applies a fair remuneration system including salaries and bonuses. We do not tolerate discrimination and disrespect; collaboration with the employees is based on respect and trust and open and transparent communication.
1.4. To ensure quality communications with stakeholders, as a part of the business strategy, companies publish on their website information concerning the framework of the strategy, measurable goals, including in particular long-term goals, planned activities and their status, defined by measures, both financial and non-financial. ESG information concerning the strategy should among others:
The principle is applied.
1.4.1. explain how the decision-making processes of the company and its group members integrate climate change, including the resulting risks;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formalized business strategy that takes into account the ESG subject matter, taking into account the issues described in rule 1.4.1.
1.4.2. present the equal pay index for employees, defined as the percentage difference between the average monthly pay (including bonuses, awards and other benefits) of women and men in the last year, and present information about actions taken to eliminate any pay gaps, including a presentation of related risks and the time horizon of the equality target.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company has not formally adopted a strategy that would contain information in the ESG area described in rule 1.4. - such statistics are not kept. However, the Company ensures equal remuneration paid to its employees through equal rates of basic remuneration for the same / similar positions and in the same departments.
1.5. Companies disclose at least on an annual basis the amounts expensed by the company and its group in support of culture, sports, charities, the media, social organisations, trade unions, etc. If the company or its group pay such expenses in the reporting year, the disclosure presents a list of such expenses.
The principle is applied.
1.6. Companies participating in the WIG20, mWIG40 or sWIG80 index hold on a quarterly basis and other companies hold at least on an annual basis a meeting with investors to which they invite in particular shareholders, analysts, industry experts and the media. At such meetings, the management board of the company presents and comments on the strategy and its implementation, the financial results of the company and its group, and the key events impacting the business of the company and its group, their results and outlook. At such meetings, the management board of the company publicly provides answers and explanations to questions raised.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Company does not belong to any of the abovementioned indexes. However, the Management Board of the Company answers the questions addressed to the Company by interested stakeholders on an ongoing basis. The scope of information mentioned in Rule 1.6 is published in periodic reports.
1.7. If an investor requests any information about a company, the company replies immediately and in any case no later than within 14 days.
The principle is applied.
MANAGEMENT BOARD, SUPERVISORY BOARD
2.1. Companies should have in place a diversity policy applicable to the management board and the supervisory board, approved by the supervisory board and the general meeting, respectively. The diversity policy defines diversity goals and criteria, among others including gender, education, expertise, age, professional experience, and specifies the target dates and the monitoring systems for such goals. With regard to gender diversity of corporate bodies, the participation of the minority group in each body should be at least 30%.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company has not adopted a diversity policy applicable to its Management Board. Even though there is no such policy established, it does not apply any limitations to the diversity of its Management Board and makes every effort to ensure diversity in Management Board in all areas, also in terms of gender. The selection criteria for performing functions in the Company's Management Board are the competences, experience, education as well as time and organizational capacity of the candidate for a given function.
2.2. Decisions to elect members of the management board or the supervisory board of companies should ensure that the composition of those bodies is diverse by appointing persons ensuring diversity, among others in order to achieve the target minimum participation of the minority group of at least 30% according to the goals of the established diversity policy referred to in principle 2.1.
The Company does not apply this principle.
As explained in rule 2.1. as at the date of this report, the Company does not have a diversity policy with regard to the Management Board of the Company. The most important selection criteria are the competences of the members of the Management Board. The Company is not able to appoint candidates for positions in governing bodies and to influence the decisions of the Shareholders of the Company.
2.3. At least two members of the supervisory board meet the criteria of being independent referred to in the Act of 11 May 2017 on Auditors, Audit Firms and Public Supervision, and have no actual and material relations with any shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total vote in the company.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed in the Company, however, according to the Law on Companies of the Republic of Lithuania, not less than 1/3 of Management Board members of the Company must be independent (as it is understood according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania). Thus, 2 of 5 members of the Management Board of the Company are independent. Moreover, more than a half members of the Management Board must not be related to the employment relations with the Company.
2.4. The supervisory board and the management board vote in an open ballot unless otherwise required by law.
The principle is applied.
2.5. Members of the supervisory board and members of the management board who vote against a resolution may have their dissenting vote recorded in the minutes.
The principle is applied.
2.6. Functions on the management board of a company are the main area of the professional activity of management board members. Management board members should not engage in additional professional activities if the time devoted to such activities prevents their proper performance in the company.
The principle is applied.
2.7. A company’s management board members may sit on corporate bodies of companies other than members of its group subject to the approval of the supervisory board.
The Company does not apply this principle.
Management Board members may work or hold a position which are compatible with member’s activity in the Board. Prior notification of the Board and prior consent of the Board is obligatory only in a case the other work or position holds a conflict of interest.
2.8. Supervisory board members should be able to devote the time necessary to perform their duties.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.9. The chair of the supervisory board should not combine this function with that of chair of the audit committee of the supervisory board.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.10. Companies allocate administrative and financial resources necessary to ensure efficient functioning of the supervisory board in a manner adequate to their size and financial standing.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.11. In addition to its responsibilities laid down in the legislation, the supervisory board prepares and presents an annual report to the annual general meeting once per year. Such report includes at least the following:
2.11.1. information about the members of the supervisory board and its committees, including indication of those supervisory board members who fulfil the criteria of being independent referred to in the Act of 11 May 2017 on Auditors, Audit Firms and Public Supervision and those supervisory board members who have no actual and material relations with any shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total vote in the company, and information about the members of the supervisory board in the context of diversity;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, information about the members of the Management Board and its committees (if appointed), including indication of those Management Board members who fulfil the criteria of being independent according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania are included in the annual report.
2.11.2. summary of the activity of the supervisory board and its committees;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: as the Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, analogical information is presented in the annual report about the Management Board.
2.11.3. assessment of the company’s standing on a consolidated basis, including assessment of the internal control, risk management and compliance systems and the internal audit function, and information about measures taken by the supervisory board to perform such assessment; such assessment should cover all significant controls, in particular reporting and operational controls;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
2.11.4. assessment of the company’s compliance with the corporate governance principles and the manner of compliance with the disclosure obligations concerning compliance with the corporate governance principles defined in the Exchange Rules and the regulations on current and periodic reports published by issuers of securities, and information about measures taken by the supervisory board to perform such assessment;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: Assessment of the Company’s compliance with the corporate governance principles and the manner of compliance with the disclosure obligations concerning compliance with the corporate governance principles is included in the annual report.
2.11.5. assessment of the rationality of expenses referred to in principle 1.5;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the aforementioned information is included in the annual report.
2.11.6. information regarding the degree of implementation of the diversity policy applicable to the management board and the supervisory board, including the achievement of goals referred to in principle 2.1.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not have a formal diversity policy with respect to the Management Board.
INTERNAL SYSTEMS AND FUNCTIONS
3.1. Listed companies maintain efficient internal control, risk management and compliance systems and an efficient internal audit function adequate to the size of the company and the type and scale of its activity; the management board is responsible for their functioning.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
Comment: the position of internal auditor is established within the Company, however, the employee is on maternity leave at the moment. Due to responsibilities and reliability of this position, the Company decided not to appoint a temporary internal auditor for the leave term.
3.2. Companies’ organisation includes units responsible for the tasks of individual systems and functions unless it is not reasonable due to the size of the company or the type of its activity.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
Comments: The Company does not distinguish units responsible for the tasks of systems or functions from its structure due to the scale of its operations, the business model implemented and the size of the group. The functions of these units are performed by the Board of the Company, however, the internal auditor position is established within the Company.
3.3. Companies participating in the WIG20, mWIG40 or sWIG80 index appoint an internal auditor to head the internal audit function in compliance with generally accepted international standards for the professional practice of internal auditing. In other companies which do not appoint an internal auditor who meets such requirements, the audit committee (or the supervisory board if it performs the functions of the audit committee) assesses on an annual basis whether such person should be appointed.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
Comments: The Company does not belong to any of the abovementioned indexes, however, the internal auditor position is established within the Company.
3.4. The remuneration of persons responsible for risk and compliance management and of the head of internal audit should depend on the performance of delegated tasks rather than short-term results of the company.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
The principle is applied partially. Comments: The Company does not have separate units or persons responsible for this scope of tasks that would be remunerated on this account, however, the principle is applied in respect of the internal auditor.
3.5. Persons responsible for risk and compliance management report directly to the president or other member of the management board.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Company has no separate persons and no separate units responsible for the scope of tasks described in principle 3.5.
3.6. The head of internal audit reports organisationally to the president of the management board and functionally to the chair of the audit committee or the chair of the supervisory board if the supervisory board performs the functions of the audit committee.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Company has not introduced a function of internal auditor to date.
3.7. Principles 3.4 to 3.6 apply also to members of the company’s group which are material to its activity if they appoint persons to perform such tasks.
The principle not applicable.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: In the entities of the Company's group, no persons were appointed to perform the tasks referred to in principles 3.4. - 3.6.
3.8. The person responsible for internal audit or the management board if such function is not performed separately in the company reports to the supervisory board at least once per year with their assessment of the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1 and tables a relevant report.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the General Manager and the Management Board of the Company reports to general meeting at least once per year with their assessment of the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1.
3.9. The supervisory board monitors the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1 among others on the basis of reports provided periodically by the persons responsible for the functions and the company’s management board, and makes annual assessment of the efficiency of such systems and functions according to principle 2.11.3. Where the company has an audit committee, the audit committee monitors the efficiency of the systems and functions referred to in principle 3.1, which however does not release the supervisory board from the annual assessment of the efficiency of such systems and functions.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the supervision and monitoring functions are vested in the Management Board of the Company.
3.10. Companies participating in the WIG20, mWIG40 or sWIG80 index have the internal audit function reviewed at least once every five years by an independent auditor appointed with the participation of the audit committee.
The principle not applicable.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The principle is not applicable to the Company. The Company does not belong to any of the abovementioned indexes.
GENERAL MEETING, SHAREHOLDER RELATIONS
4.1. Companies should enable their shareholders to participate in a general meeting by means of electronic communication (e-meeting) if justified by the expectations of shareholders notified to the company, provided that the company is in a position to provide the technical infrastructure necessary for such general meeting to proceed.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not provide the opportunity to attend and vote in the general meeting of shareholders by using electronic communication means, because in the opinion of the Company this is related to the threat to the fairness and efficiency of the general meeting of shareholders. In the opinion of the Company, there is a high risk of threat to such type of communication security and technical malfunctions. In addition, the Company does not have the appropriate technical and organizational measures to implement the above principle and the Company would incur significant additional costs as a result of implementation of this principle. However, the Company grants its shareholders the right to vote at the general meeting of shareholders either in person or through an authorized representative, or vote in advance in writing.
4.2. Companies set the place and date and the form of a general meeting so as to enable the participation of the highest possible number of shareholders. For that purpose, companies strive to ensure that the cancellation of a general meeting, change of its date or break in its proceedings take place only if justified and do not prevent or limit the exercising of the shareholders’ rights to participate in the general meeting.
The principle is applied.
4.3. Companies provide a public real-life broadcast of the general meeting.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The Company does not provide for the possibility of using electronic communication means during the general meeting, in particular the transmission of the general meeting and two-way communication in real time. In the opinion of the Company, the above is connected with the threats of correct and efficient conduct of the general meeting of the legal and technical nature. In the opinion of the Company there is a high risk of threatening the security of this type of communication as well as of occurring technical disruptions. In addition, the Company does not have appropriate organizational and technical facilities to implement the mentioned principle. What is more, the implementation of this rule would charge the Company with additional, high costs.
4.4. Presence of representatives of the media is allowed at general meetings.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The provisions of the Lithuanian law expressly state who may participate in the General Meeting. Such right is not granted to media representatives. In the opinion of the Company, generally binding legal regulations, sufficiently regulate the performance of public information obligations by public companies regarding the transparency of the General Meeting, as well as matters being its subject.
4.5. If the management board becomes aware a general meeting being convened pursuant to Article 399 § 2 – 4 of the Commercial Companies Code, the management board immediately takes steps which it is required to take in order to organise and conduct the general meeting. The foregoing applies also where a general meeting is convened under authority granted by the registration court according to Article 400 § 3 of the Commercial Companies Code.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The principle is not applicable to the Company. The Company is established in Lithuania and it follows Lithuanian law when convening a general meeting of shareholders.
4.6. To help shareholders participating in a general meeting to vote on resolutions with adequate understanding, draft resolutions of the general meeting concerning matters and decisions other than points of order should contain a justification, unless it follows from documentation tabled to the general meeting. If a matter is put on the agenda of the general meeting at the request of a shareholder or shareholders, the management board requests presentation of the justification of the proposed resolution, unless previously presented by such shareholder or shareholders.
The principle is applied.
4.7. The supervisory board issues opinions on draft resolutions put by the management board on the agenda of the general meeting.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: the Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
4.8. Draft resolutions of the general meeting on matters put on the agenda of the general meeting should be tabled by shareholders no later than three days before the general meeting.
The Company does not apply this principle.
according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania, the shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes at any time before the general meeting or during the meeting, have a right propose new draft decisions on issues on the agenda of the meeting, nominate additional candidates to members of the company’s bodies, the auditor or the audit firm.
4.9. If the general meeting is to appoint members of the supervisory board or members of the supervisory board for a new term of office:
4.9.1. candidates for members of the supervisory board should be nominated with a notice necessary for shareholders present at the general meeting to make an informed decision and in any case no later than three days before the general meeting; the names of candidates and all related documents should be immediately published on the company’s website;
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, according to the laws of the Republic of Lithuania, candidates for members of the Supervisory Board or Management Board may be put forward by shareholders who hold shares carrying at least 1/20 of all the votes at any time before the general meeting or during the meeting.
4.9.2. candidates for members of the supervisory board make a declaration concerning fulfilment of the requirements for members of the audit committee referred to in the Act of 11 May 2017 on Auditors, Audit Firms and Public Supervision and having actual and material relations with any shareholder who holds at least 5% of the total vote in the company.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however the Company is established in the Republic of Lithuania, and it follows Lithuanian law when concerning fulfilment of the independence requirements for members of the governing bodies of the Company.
4.10. Any exercise of the rights of shareholders or the way in which they exercise their rights must not hinder the proper functioning of the governing bodies of the company.
The principle is applied.
4.11. Members of the management board and members of the supervisory board participate in a general meeting, at the location of the meeting or via means of bilateral real-time electronic communication, as necessary to speak on matters discussed by the general meeting and answer questions asked at the general meeting. The management board presents to participants of an annual general meeting the financial results of the company and other relevant information, including non-financial information, contained in the financial statements to be approved by the general meeting. The management board presents key events of the last financial year, compares presented data with previous years, and presents the degree of implementation of the plans for the last year.
The principle is applied.
Comments of the Company on the mode of application of the principle.
The principle is applied partially. Comments: The Company does not provide for the possibility of using electronic communication means during the general meeting, in particular the transmission of the general meeting and two-way communication in real time. However, all the information mentioned above is presented in the General Meeting.
4.12. Resolutions of the general meeting concerning an issue of shares with subscription rights should specify the issue price or the mechanism of setting the price or authorise the competent body to set the price prior to the subscription right record date within a timeframe necessary for investors to make decisions.
The principle is applied.
4.13. Resolutions concerning a new issue of shares with the exclusion of subscription rights which grant pre-emptive rights for new issue shares to selected shareholders or other entities may pass subject at least to the following three criteria:
a) the company has a rational, economically justified need to urgently raise capital or the share issue is related to rational, economically justified transactions, among others such as a merger with or the take-over of another company, or the shares are to be taken up under an incentive scheme established by the company;
b) the persons granted the pre-emptive right are to be selected according to objective general criteria;
c) the purchase price of the shares is in a rational relation with the current share price of the company or is to be determined in book-building on the market.
The Company does not apply this principle.
As the Company is established under the Laws of the Republic of Lithuania, it follows the explicit requirements for this procedure stipulated in the Law on Companies and other legal acts of the Republic of Lithuania.
4.14. Companies should strive to distribute their profits by paying out dividends. Companies may retain all their earnings subject to any of the following criteria:
a) the earnings are minimal and consequently the dividend would be immaterial in relation to the value of the shares;
b) the company reports uncovered losses from previous years and the earnings are used to reduce such losses;
c) the company can demonstrate that investment of the earnings will generate tangible benefits for the shareholders;
d) the company generates insufficient cash flows to pay out dividends;
e) a dividend payment would substantially increase the risk to covenants under the company’s binding credit facilities or terms of bond issue;
f) retention of the company’s earnings follows recommendations of the authority which supervises the company by virtue of its business activity.
The principle is applied.
CONFLICT OF INTEREST, RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS
5.1. Members of the management board and members of the supervisory board notify the management board or the supervisory board, respectively, of any conflict of interest which has arisen or may arise, and refrain from discussions on the issue which may give rise to such a conflict of interest in their case.
The principle is applied.
5.2. Where a member of the management board or a member of the supervisory board concludes that a decision of the management board or the supervisory board, respectively, is in conflict with the interest of the company, he or she should request that the minutes of the management board or supervisory board meeting show his or her dissenting opinion.
The principle is applied.
5.3. No shareholder should have preference over other shareholders in related party transactions. The foregoing also concerns transactions concluded by the company’s shareholders with members of the company’s group.
The principle is applied.
5.4. Companies may buy back their own shares only in a procedure which respects the rights of all shareholders.
The principle is applied.
5.5. If a transaction concluded by a company with its related party requires the consent of the supervisory board, before giving its consent the supervisory board assesses whether to ask a prior opinion of a third party which can provide valuation of the transaction and review its economic impact.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comment: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, however, the Management Board before preparation of an opinion on conclusion of the transaction with the related party is not obligated to assess whether to ask a prior opinion of a third party.
5.6. If a related party transaction requires the consent of the general meeting, the supervisory board issues an opinion on the rationale of such transaction. In that case, the supervisory board assesses whether to ask a prior opinion of a third party referred to in principle 5.5.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, moreover, according to the Articles of Association of the Company, the consent of the General Meeting is not necessary to the transactions with the related party.
5.7. If a decision concerning the company’s significant transaction with a related party is made by the general meeting, the company should give all shareholders access to information necessary to assess the impact of the transaction on the interest of the company before the decision is made, including an opinion of the supervisory board referred to in principle 5.6.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company, moreover, according to the Articles of Association of the Company, the consent of the General Meeting is not necessary to the transactions with the related party, however, the shareholders are always being informed about the Management’s Board decision and transactions with the related party.
REMUNERATION
6.1. The remuneration of members of the management board and members of the supervisory board and key managers should be sufficient to attract, retain and motivate persons with skills necessary for proper management and supervision of the company. The level of remuneration should be adequate to the tasks and responsibilities delegated to individuals and their resulting accountability.
The principle is applied.
6.2. Incentive schemes should be constructed in a way necessary among others to tie the level of remuneration of members of the company’s management board and key managers to the actual long-term standing of the company measured by its financial and non-financial results as well as long-term shareholder value creation, sustainable development and the company’s stability.
The principle is applied.
6.3. If companies’ incentive schemes include a stock option programme for managers, the implementation of the stock option programme should depend on the beneficiaries’ achievement, over a period of at least three years, of pre-defined, realistic financial and non-financial targets and sustainable development goals adequate to the company, and the share price or option exercise price for the beneficiaries cannot differ from the value of the shares at the time when such programme was approved.
The principle is applied.
6.4. As the supervisory board performs its responsibilities on a continuous basis, the remuneration of supervisory board members cannot depend on the number of meetings held. The remuneration of members of committees, in particular the audit committee, should take into account additional workload on the committee.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
6.5. The level of remuneration of supervisory board members should not depend on the company’s short-term results.
The Company does not apply this principle.
The principle is not relevant. Comments: The Supervisory Board is not formed within the Company.
| Data | Imię i Nazwisko | Stanowisko | Podpis | ||
| 2021-10-20 20:26:23 | Giedrius Ribakovas | Head of Finance |
