Enhanced Investments - Financial Portal

Published: 2023-03-03

Consolidated financial statements
	Table of contentsManagement’s responsibility for financial reporting
		115
	Report of independent registered public accounting firm	116
	Consolidated income statements	118
	Consolidated statements of comprehensive income	118
	Consolidated statements of financial position	119
	Consolidated statements of changes in equity	120
	Consolidated statements of cash flows	121
	Notes to consolidated financial statements	122
	Note 1 Corporate information	122
	Note 2 Significant accounting policies	122
	Note 3 Segmented information	131
	Note 4 Business acquisitions and disposition	133
	Note 5 Operating costs	135
	Note 6 Severance, acquisition and other costs	135
	Note 7 Interest expense	135
	Note 8 Impairment of assets	136
	Note 9 Other (expense) income	136
	Note 10 Income taxes	137
	Note 11 Earnings per share	138
	Note 12 Trade and other receivables	139
	Note 13 Inventory	139
	Note 14 Contract assets and liabilities	140
	Note 15 Contract costs	140
	Note 16 Assets held for sale	140
	Note 17 Property, plant and equipment	141
	Note 18 Leases	142
	Note 19 Intangible assets	143
	Note 20 Investments in associates and joint ventures	144
	Note 21 Other non-current assets	145
	Note 22 Goodwill	145
	Note 23 Trade payables and other liabilities	146
	Note 24 Debt due within one year	146
	Note 25 Long-term debt	147
	Note 26 Provisions	149
	Note 27 Post-employment benefit plans	149
	Note 28 Other non-current liabilities	152
	Note 29 Financial and capital management	153
	Note 30 Share capital	157
nancial statements
	Note 31 Share-based payments	158
	Note 32 Additional cash flow information	160
	Note 33 Remaining performance obligations	161
	Note 34 Commitments and contingencies	161
Consolidated fi
	Note 35 Related party transactions	162
	Note 36 Significant partly-owned subsidiary	163
	Note 37 COVID-19	163

	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	114

	Management’s responsibility for financial reporting
	These financial statements form the basis for all of the financial	The board of directors has appointed an Audit Committee, which is
	information that appears in this report.	made up of unrelated and independent directors. The Audit Committee’s responsibilities include reviewing the financial statements and other information in this report, and recommending them to the board of directors for approval. You will find a description of the Audit Committee’s other responsibilities in this report. The internal auditors and the shareholders’ auditors have free and independent access to the Audit Committee.
	The financial statements and all of the information in this report are
	the responsibility of the management of BCE Inc. (BCE) and have been reviewed and approved by the board of directors. The board of directors is responsible for ensuring that management fulfills its financial reporting responsibilities. Deloitte LLP, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, have audited the financial statements.
	Management has prepared the financial statements in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board. Under these principles, management has made certain estimates and assumptions that are reflected in the financial statements and notes. Management believes that these financial statements fairly present BCE’s consolidated financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
		(signed) Mirko Bibic President and Chief Executive Officer
		(signed) Glen LeBlanc Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer
	Management has a system of internal controls designed to provide reasonable assurance that the financial statements are accurate and complete in all material respects. This is supported by an internal audit group that reports to the Audit Committee, and includes communication with employees about policies for ethical business conduct. Management believes that the internal controls provide reasonable assurance that our financial records are reliable and form a proper basis for preparing the financial statements, and that our assets are properly accounted for and safeguarded.
		(signed) Thierry Chaumont
		Senior Vice-President, Controller and Tax
		March 2, 2023
nancial statements
Consolidated fi


115

	Report of independent registered public accounting firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of BCE Inc.
	Opinion on the financial statementsWe have audited the accompanying consolidated statements of financial position of BCE Inc. and subsidiaries (the “Company”) as at December 31, 2022 and 2021, the related consolidated income statements, statements of comprehensive income, changes in equity, and cash flows, for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2022, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as at December 31, 2022 and 2021, and its financial performance and its cash flows for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 2022, in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards as issued by the International Accounting Standards Board.	Basis for opinion
		These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s
		management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Company’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the PCAOB and are required to be independent with respect to the Company in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the
		Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.
		We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
	We have also audited, in accordance with the standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (PCAOB), the Company’s internal control over financial reporting as of December 31,
	2022, based on criteria established in Internal Control – Integrated Framework (2013) issued by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations
	of the Treadway Commission and our report dated March 2, 2023, expressed an unqualified opinion on the Company’s internal control over financial reporting.
nancial statements
Consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	116

	Critical audit matter	How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
	The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the	Our audit procedures related to the significant assumptions used by management to determine the recoverable amount for Bell Media included the following, among others:
	current-period audit of the financial statements that was communicated or required to be communicated to the audit committee and that (1) relates to accounts or disclosures that are material to the financial statements and (2) involved our especially challenging, subjective, or complex judgments. The communication of critical audit matters does not alter in any way our opinion on the financial statements, taken as a whole, and we are not, by communicating the critical audit matter below, providing a separate opinion on the critical audit matter or on the accounts or disclosures to which it relates.
		• Evaluated the effectiveness of controls over the assessment of
		goodwill and intangible assets for impairment, including those over the significant assumptions.
		• Evaluated management’s ability to accurately forecast future operating
		performance by comparing actual results to management’s historical forecasts.
		• Evaluated the reasonableness of management’s forecasts of future
	Goodwill and intangible assets –	operating performance by comparing the forecasts to:
	Bell Media group – refer to notes 2n, 8, 19 and 22	• Historical operating performance;• Analyst and industry reports for the Company and certain of its
	to the financial statementsCritical Audit Matter Description
		peer companies, and other relevant publicly available information;
	Goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets (specifically broadcast licenses) for the Bell Media group of cash generating units (“Bell Media”) are tested annually or when there is an indication that the asset may be impaired. As a result of the annual assessment of impairment of goodwill and intangible assets for Bell Media, management has determined that there is no impairment of goodwill and there is an impairment for intangible assets relating to the French TV channels.	• Known changes in Bell Media’s operations or the industry in which
		it operates, including recovery from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and the current economic uncertainty from inflationary pressures, which are expected to impact future operating performance;
		• Internal communications to management and the Board of Directors.
		• With the assistance of fair value specialists, evaluated the
	When testing goodwill and intangible assets for Bell Media, while there are several assumptions that are required to determine the recoverable amount, the judgments with the highest degree of subjectivity and impact, are the forecasts of future operating performance, and the determination of earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (“EBITDA”) multiples, discount rates and perpetuity growth rates (“significant assumptions”). Changes in these significant assumptions could have a significant impact on the recoverable amount of Bell Media, resulting in an impairment charge to goodwill and/or intangible assets as required. Auditing the significant assumptions required a high degree of auditor judgment and an increased extent of audit effort, which included the involvement of fair value specialists.	reasonableness of the (1) EBITDA multiples, (2) discount rates, and (3) perpetuity growth rates by:
		• Testing the source information underlying the determination of the
		discount rates;
		• Reviewing relevant internal and external information, including
		analyst and industry reports, to assess the reasonability of the selected EBITDA multiples, discount rates and perpetuity growth rates;
		• Developing a range of independent estimates and comparing those
		to the EBITDA multiples, discount rates and perpetuity growth rates
		selected by management.
		/s/ Deloitte LLP
		Chartered Professional Accountants
nancial statements		Montréal, Canada March 2, 2023
		We have served as the Company’s auditor since 1880.
Consolidated fi


117

	Consolidated income statements
	for the year ended December 31
	(in millions of Canadian dollars, except share amounts)	2022	2021
	Operating revenues	24,174	23,449
	Operating costs	(13,975)	(13,556)
	Severance, acquisition and other costs	(94)	(209)
	Depreciation	(3,660)	(3,627)
	Amortization	(1,063)	(982)
	Finance costs
	Interest expense	(1,146)	(1,082)
	Net return (interest) on post-employment benefit plans	51	(20)
	Impairment of assets	(279)	(197)
	Other (expense) income	(115)	160
	Income taxes	(967)	(1,044)
	Net earnings		2,926	2,892
	Net earnings attributable to:
	Common shareholders		2,716	2,709
	Preferred shareholders		152	131
	Non-controlling interest	58	52
	Net earnings		2,926	2,892
	Net earnings per common share – basic and diluted	2.98	2.99
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic (millions)		911.5	906.3
	Consolidated statements of comprehensive income
	for the year ended December 31
	(in millions of Canadian dollars)	2022	2021
	Net earnings		2,926	2,892
	Other comprehensive income, net of income taxes
	Items that will be subsequently reclassified to net earnings
					Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, net of income taxes
					(321)	63
	Items that will not be reclassified to net earnings
					Actuarial gains on post-employment benefit plans, net of income taxes of ($151) million and
					($653) million for 2022 and 2021, respectively	415	1,780
					Net change in value of publicly-traded and privately-held investments, net of income taxes
					30	24
					Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, net of income taxes
					58	4
	Other comprehensive income		182	1,871
	Total comprehensive income		3,108	4,763
nancial statements
	Total comprehensive income attributable to:
	Common shareholders		2,891	4,578
	Preferred shareholders		152	131
	Non-controlling interest	65	54
Consolidated fi
	Total comprehensive income		3,108	4,763


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	118

	Consolidated statements of financial position
	(in millions of Canadian dollars)	December 31, 2022	December 31, 2021
	ASSETSCurrent assets
	Cash	2		99	289
	Cash equivalents			50	–
	Trade and other receivables	12				4,138	3,949
	Inventory	13				656	482
	Contract assets	14				436	414
	Contract costs	15				540	507
	Prepaid expenses					244	254
	Other current assets	2				324	253
	Assets held for sale	16		–	50
	Total current assets					6,487	6,198
	Non-current assets
	Contract assets	14				288	251
	Contract costs	15				603	387
	Property, plant and equipment	17				29,256	28,235
	Intangible assets	19				16,183	15,570
	Deferred tax assets	10		84	105
	Investments in associates and joint ventures	20				608	668
	Post-employment benefit assets	27				3,559	3,472
	Other non-current assets	21				1,355	1,306
	Goodwill	22				10,906	10,572
	Total non-current assets					62,842	60,566
	Total assets					69,329	66,764
	LIABILITIESCurrent liabilities
	Trade payables and other liabilities	23				5,221	4,455
	Contract liabilities	14				857	799
	Interest payable					281	247
	Dividends payable					867	811
	Current tax liabilities					106	141
	Debt due within one year	24				4,137	2,625
	Liabilities held for sale	16		–	35
	Total current liabilities					11,469	9,113
	Non-current liabilities
	Contract liabilities	14				228	246
	Long-term debt	25				27,783	27,048
	Deferred tax liabilities	10				4,953	4,679
	Post-employment benefit obligations	27				1,311	1,734
nancial statements	Other non-current liabilities	28				1,070	1,003
	Total non-current liabilities					35,345	34,710
	Total liabilities					46,814	43,823
Consolidated fiCommitments and contingencies	34
	EQUITYEquity attributable to BCE shareholders

	Preferred shares	30				3,870	4,003
	Common shares	30				20,840	20,662
	Contributed surplus	30				1,172	1,157
	Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income					(55)	213
	Deficit					(3,649)	(3,400)
	Total equity attributable to BCE shareholders					22,178	22,635
	Non-controlling interest	36				337	306
	Total equity					22,515	22,941
	Total liabilities and equity					69,329	66,764
119

	Consolidated statements of changes in equity
		Attributable to BCE shareholders
						Accumulated
						other com-	Non-
	for the year ended December 31, 2022			Preferred	Common	Contributed		prehensive			controlling
	(in millions of Canadian dollars)		shares	shares	surplus		income (loss)	Deficit	Total	interest	Total equity
	Balance at December 31, 2021			4,003				1,157	213	(3,400)	22,635	306	22,941
	Net earnings										–	–				–		–	2,868	2,868	58	2,926
	Other comprehensive (loss) income										–	–				–		(238)	413	175	7	182
	Total comprehensive (loss) income										–	–				–		(238)	3,281	3,043	65	3,108
	Common shares issued under
	employee stock option plan		30								–	177				(6)		–	–	171	–	171
	Other share-based compensation		30								–	1				13		–	(41)	(27)	–		(27)
	Repurchase of preferred shares		30	(133)	–		8						–	–	(125)	–	(125)
	Dividends declared on BCE common
	and preferred shares										–	–				–		–	(3,508)	(3,508)	–	(3,508)
	Dividends declared by subsidiaries
	to non-controlling interest										–	–				–		–	–	–	(39)		(39)
	Settlement of cash flow hedges
	transferred to the cost basis of hedged items
											–	–				–		(11)	–	(11)	–		(11)
	Other										–	–				–		(19)	19	–	5		5
	Balance at December 31, 2022			3,870				1,172	(55)	(3,649)	22,178	337	22,515
		Attributable to BCE shareholders
						Accumulated
						other com-	non-
	for the year ended December 31, 2021			preferred	Common	Contributed		prehensive			controlling
	(in millions of Canadian dollars)		shares	shares	surplus		income	Deficit	total	interest	total equity
	Balance at December 31, 2020			4,003				1,174	103	(4,681)	20,989	340	21,329
	Net earnings										–	–				–		–	2,840	2,840	52	2,892
	Other comprehensive income										–	–				–		90	1,779	1,869	2	1,871
	Total comprehensive income										–	–				–		90	4,619	4,709	54	4,763
	Common shares issued under
	employee stock option plan		30								–	272				(10)		–	–	262	–	262
	Other share-based compensation		30								–	–				(7)		–	(32)	(39)	–		(39)
	Dividends declared on BCE common
	and preferred shares										–	–				–		–	(3,306)	(3,306)	–	(3,306)
	Dividends declared by subsidiaries
	to non-controlling interest										–	–				–		–	–	–	(87)		(87)
	Settlement of cash flow hedges
	transferred to the cost basis of hedged items
											–	–				–		20	–	20	–		20
	Other										–	–				–		–	–	–	(1)		(1)
	Balance at December 31, 2021			4,003				1,157	213	(3,400)	22,635	306	22,941
nancial statements
Consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	120

	Consolidated statements of cash flows
	for the year ended December 31
	(in millions of Canadian dollars)	2022	2021
	Cash flows from operating activitiesNet earnings
			2,926	2,892
	Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash flows from operating activities
	Severance, acquisition and other costs	94	209
	Depreciation and amortization	4,723	4,609
	Post-employment benefit plans cost	198	286
	Net interest expense		1,124	1,063
	Impairment of assets	279	197
	(Gains) losses on investments	(24)	6
	Income taxes	967	1,044
	Contributions to post-employment benefit plans	(140)	(282)
	Payments under other post-employment benefit plans	(64)	(65)
	Severance and other costs paid		(129)	(208)
	Interest paid		(1,197)	(1,080)
	Income taxes paid (net of refunds)		(749)	(913)
	Acquisition and other costs paid		(10)	(35)
	Change in contract assets	(59)	278
	Change in wireless device financing plan receivables	22	(365)
	Net change in operating assets and liabilities		404	372
	Cash flows from operating activities		8,365	8,008
	Cash flows used in investing activities
	Capital expenditures	(5,133)	(4,852)
	Business acquisitions	(429)	(12)
	Business dispositions	52	–
	Spectrum licences	(3)	(2,082)
	Other investing activities		(4)	(72)
	Cash flows used in investing activities		(5,517)	(7,018)
	Cash flow used in financing activities
	Increase in notes payable		111	351
	Increase (decrease) in securitized receivables	700	(150)
	Issue of long-term debt	1,951	4,985
	Repayment of long-term debt	(2,023)	(2,751)
	Issue of common shares	171	261
	Purchase of shares for settlement of share-based payments	(255)	(297)
	Repurchase of preferred shares	(125)	–
	Cash dividends paid on common shares		(3,312)	(3,132)
	Cash dividends paid on preferred shares		(136)	(125)
	Cash dividends paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interest		(39)	(86)
nancial statements	Other financing activities		(31)	19
		2
	Cash flow used in financing activities		(2,988)	(925)
	Net (decrease) increase in cash		(190)	65
Consolidated fiCash at beginning of year		289	224
	Cash at end of year		99	289
	Net increase in cash equivalents		50	–
	Cash equivalents at beginning of year		–	–
	Cash equivalents at end of year		50	–
121

Notes to consolidated financial statements
	We, us, our, BCE and the company mean, as the context may require, either BCE Inc. or, collectively, BCE Inc., Bell Canada, their subsidiaries,
	joint arrangements and associates.
		Corporate information
notE 1
	BCE is incorporated and domiciled in Canada. BCE’s head office is located at 1, Carrefour Alexander-Graham-Bell, Verdun, Québec, Canada. BCE is a communications company providing wireless, wireline, Internet and television (TV) services to residential, business and wholesale customers in Canada. Our Bell Media segment provides conventional TV, specialty TV, pay TV, streaming services, digital media services, radio broadcasting services and out-of-home (OOH) advertising services to customers in Canada. The consolidated financial statements (financial statements) were approved by BCE’s board of directors on March 2, 2023.
		Significant accounting policies
notE 2
	A) Basis of presentation
The financial statements were prepared in accordance with International			All amounts are in millions of Canadian dollars, except where noted.
	Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International
			Functional currency
	Accounting Standards Board (IASB). The financial statements have
	been prepared on a historical cost basis, except for certain financial instruments that are measured at fair value as described in our accounting policies.		The financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, the
			company’s functional currency.
	B) Basis of consolidationWe consolidate the financial statements of all of our subsidiaries. Subsidiaries are entities we control, where control is achieved when
			acquired subsidiaries to conform their accounting policies to ours.
			All intercompany transactions, balances, income and expenses are
	the company is exposed or has the right to variable returns from its involvement with the investee and has the current ability to direct the activities of the investee that significantly affect the investee’s returns.		eliminated on consolidation.
			Changes in our ownership interest in a subsidiary that do not result in a loss of control are accounted for as equity transactions, with no effect on net earnings or on Other comprehensive income. Any difference between the change in the carrying amount of non-controlling interest (NCI) and the consideration paid or received is attributed to owner’s equity.
The results of subsidiaries acquired during the year are consolidated
	from the date of acquisition and the results of subsidiaries sold during the year are deconsolidated from the date of disposal. Where necessary, adjustments are made to the financial statements of
	C) Revenue from contracts with customersRevenue is measured based on the value of the expected consideration in
			margin approach to determine stand-alone selling prices. Products and services purchased by a customer in excess of those included in the bundled arrangement are accounted for separately.
	a contract with a customer and excludes sales taxes and other amounts we collect on behalf of third parties. We recognize revenue when control of a product or service is transferred to a customer. When our right to consideration from a customer corresponds directly with the value to the customer of the products and services transferred to date, we recognize revenue in the amount to which we have a right to invoice.
			We may enter into arrangements with subcontractors and others who provide services to our customers. When we act as the principal in these arrangements, we recognize revenues based on the amounts billed to our customers. Otherwise, we recognize the net amount that we retain as revenues.
nancial statements
	For bundled arrangements, we account for individual products and services when they are separately identifiable and the customer can benefit from the product or service on its own or with other readily available resources. The total arrangement consideration is allocated to each product or service included in the contract with the customer based on its stand-alone selling price. We generally determine stand-alone selling prices based on the observable prices at which we sell products separately without a service contract and prices for non-bundled service offers with the same range of services, adjusted for market conditions and other factors, as appropriate. When similar products and services are not sold separately, we use the expected cost plus
			A contract asset is recognized in the consolidated statements of
			financial position (statements of financial position) when our right to consideration from the transfer of products or services to a customer is conditional on our obligation to transfer other products or services. Contract assets are transferred to trade receivables when our right to consideration becomes conditional only as to the passage of time.
Notes to consolidated fi


			A contract liability is recognized in the statements of financial position when we receive consideration in advance of the transfer of products
			or services to the customer. Contract assets and liabilities relating to the same contract are presented on a net basis.
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	122

	Incremental costs of obtaining a contract with a customer, principally comprised of sales commissions, and prepaid contract fulfillment costs are included in contract costs in the statements of financial position, except where the amortization period is one year or less, in which case costs of obtaining a contract are immediately expensed. Capitalized costs are amortized on a systematic basis that is consistent with the period and pattern of transfer to the customer of the related products or services.	Wireline segment revenuesOur Wireline segment principally generates revenue from providing data, including Internet access and Internet protocol television (IPTV), local telephone, long distance, satellite TV service and connectivity, as well as other communications services and products to residential and business customers. Our Wireline segment also includes revenues from our wholesale business, which buys and sells local telephone, long distance, data and other services from or to resellers and other carriers.
	Wireless segment revenuesOur Wireless segment principally generates revenue from providing integrated digital wireless voice and data communications products and services to residential and business customers.	We recognize product revenues from the sale of wireline equipment when a customer takes possession of the product. We recognize service revenues over time, as the services are provided. Revenues on certain long-term contracts are recognized using output methods based on products delivered, performance completed to date, time elapsed or milestones met. For bundled arrangements, stand-alone selling prices are determined using observable prices adjusted for market conditions and other factors, as appropriate, or the expected cost plus margin approach for customized business arrangements.
	We recognize product revenues from the sale of wireless handsets and devices when a customer takes possession of the product. We recognize wireless service revenues over time, as the services are provided. For bundled arrangements, stand-alone selling prices are determined using observable prices adjusted for market conditions and other factors, as appropriate.
		For wireline customers, products are usually paid in full at the point of sale. Services are paid for on a monthly basis except where a billing schedule has been established with certain business customers under long-term contracts that can generally extend up to seven years.
	For wireless products and services that are sold separately, customers usually pay in full at the point of sale for products and on a monthly basis for services. For wireless products and services sold in bundled arrangements, including device financing plans, customers pay monthly over a contract term of up to 24 months for residential customers and up to 36 months for business customers. If they include a significant financing component, device financing plan receivables are discounted at market rates and interest revenue is accreted over the contractual repayment period.
		Media segment revenuesOur Media segment principally generates revenue from conventional
		TV, specialty TV, digital media, radio broadcasting and OOH advertising
		and subscriber fees from specialty TV, pay TV and streaming services.
		We recognize advertising revenue when advertisements are aired on the radio or TV, posted on our websites or appear on our advertising panels and street furniture. Revenues relating to subscriber fees are recorded on a monthly basis as the services are provided. Customer payments are due monthly as the services are provided.
	D) Share-based paymentsOur share-based payment arrangements include an employee savings plan (ESP), restricted share units (RSUs) and performance share units (PSUs), deferred share units (DSUs) and stock options.
		or the value estimated using a Monte Carlo simulation for PSUs that include relative total shareholder return as a performance condition.
		Additional RSUs/PSUs are issued to reflect dividends declared on the
		common shares.
	ESPWe recognize our ESP contributions as compensation expense in Operating costs in the consolidated income statements (income statements). The value of an ESP at the grant date is equal to the value of one BCE common share. We credit contributed surplus for the ESP expense recognized over the two-year vesting period, based on management’s estimate of the accrued employer contributions that are expected to vest. Upon settlement of shares under the ESP, any difference between the cost of shares purchased on the open market and the amount credited to contributed surplus is reflected in the deficit.
		Compensation expense is adjusted for subsequent changes in management’s estimate of the number of RSUs/PSUs that are expected to vest. The effect of these changes is recognized in the period of the change. Upon settlement of the RSUs/PSUs, any difference between the cost of shares purchased on the open market and the amount credited to contributed surplus is reflected in the deficit. Vested RSUs/PSUs are settled in BCE common shares, DSUs, or a combination thereof.
nancial statements
		DSUsIf compensation is elected to be taken in DSUs, we issue DSUs equal to the fair value of the services received. Additional DSUs are issued to reflect dividends declared on the common shares. DSUs are settled in BCE common shares purchased on the open market following the cessation of employment or when a director leaves the board. We credit contributed surplus for the fair value of DSUs at the issue date. Upon settlement of the DSUs, any difference between the cost of shares purchased on the open market and the amount credited to contributed surplus is reflected in the deficit.
	RSUs/PSUsFor each RSU/PSU granted, we recognize compensation expense in Operating costs in the income statements based on the number of RSUs/PSUs expected to vest over the term of the vesting period, with a corresponding credit to contributed surplus. The value of a RSU at the grant date is equal to the value of one BCE common share. The value of a PSU at the grant date is equal to the value of one BCE common share
Notes to consolidated fi


123

	Stock optionsWe use a fair value-based method to measure the cost of our employee stock options. The fair value of options granted is determined using a variation of a binomial option pricing model that takes into account factors specific to the stock option plan. We recognize compensation expense in Operating costs in the income statements, based on the number of stock options that are expected to vest. Compensation
		expense is adjusted for subsequent changes in management’s estimate of the number of stock options that are expected to vest.
		We credit contributed surplus for stock option expense recognized over the vesting period. When stock options are exercised, we credit share capital for the amount received and the amounts previously credited to contributed surplus.
	E) Income and other taxesCurrent and deferred income tax expense is recognized in the income statements, except to the extent that the expense relates to items
		Deferred taxes are provided on temporary differences arising from investments in subsidiaries, joint arrangements and associates, except where we control the timing of the reversal of the temporary difference and it is probable that the temporary difference will not reverse in the foreseeable future.
	recognized in Other comprehensive income or directly in equity.
	A current or non-current tax asset (liability) is the estimated tax
	receivable (payable) on taxable earnings (loss) for the current or past periods.
		Tax liabilities are, where permitted, offset against tax assets within the
		same taxable entity and tax jurisdiction.
	We use the liability method to account for deferred tax assets and liabilities, which arise from:
		Investment tax credits (ITCs), other tax credits
• temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and		and government grantsWe recognize ITCs, other tax credits and government grants given on eligible expenditures when it is reasonably assured that they will be realized. They are presented as part of Trade and other receivables and Other current assets in the statements of financial position when they are expected to be utilized in the next year. We use the cost reduction method to account for ITCs and government grants, under which the credits are applied against the expense or asset to which the ITC or government grant relates.
	liabilities recognized in the statements of financial position and their corresponding tax bases
• the carryforward of unused tax losses and credits, to the extent they
	can be used in the future
	Deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated at the tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset or liability is recovered or settled. Both our current and deferred tax assets and liabilities are calculated using tax rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the reporting date.
	F) Cash equivalentsCash equivalents are comprised of highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less from the date of purchase and are
	measured at amortized cost.
	G) Securitization of receivablesProceeds on the securitization of receivables are recognized as a collateralized borrowing as we do not transfer control and substantially all
	the risks and rewards of ownership to another entity.
	H) InventoryWe measure inventory at the lower of cost and net realizable value. Inventory includes all costs to purchase, convert and bring the inventories
	to their present location and condition. We determine cost using specific identification for major equipment held for resale and the weighted average cost formula for all other inventory. We maintain inventory valuation reserves for inventory that is slow-moving or potentially obsolete, calculated using an inventory aging analysis.
nancial statements
	I) Property, plant and equipmentWe record property, plant and equipment at historical cost. Historical
		LeasesWe enter into leases for network infrastructure and equipment, land and buildings in the normal course of business. Lease contracts are typical y made for fixed periods but may include purchase, renewal or termination options. Leases are negotiated on an individual basis and contain a wide range of different terms and conditions.
Notes to consolidated fi	cost includes expenditures that are attributable directly to the acquisition or construction of the asset, including the purchase cost, and labour.

	Borrowing costs are capitalized for qualifying assets, if the time to build or develop is in excess of one year, at a rate that is based on our weighted average interest rate on outstanding long-term debt. Gains or losses on the sale or retirement of property, plant and equipment are recorded in Other (expense) income in the income statements.

		We adopted IFRS 16 – Leases as of January 1, 2019. Certain finance leases entered into prior to 2019 were initially measured under IAS 17 – Leases, as permitted by the transition provisions of IFRS 16.
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	124

	IfrS 16We assess whether a contract contains a lease at inception of the contract. A lease contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period in exchange for consideration. We recognize lease liabilities with corresponding right-of-use assets for all lease agreements, except for short-term leases and leases of low value assets, which are expensed on a straight-line basis over the lease term. Consideration in a contract is allocated to lease and non-lease components on a relative stand-alone value basis. We generally account for lease components and any associated non-lease components as a single lease component.	made at or before the commencement date and any initial direct costs.
		They are subsequently depreciated on a straight-line basis and reduced
		by impairment losses, if any. Right-of-use assets may also be adjusted to reflect the remeasurement of related lease liabilities. If we obtain ownership of the leased asset by the end of the lease term or the cost of the right-of-use asset reflects the exercise of a purchase option, we depreciate the right-of-use asset from the lease commencement date to the end of the useful life of the underlying asset. Otherwise, we depreciate the right-of-use asset from the commencement date to the earlier of the end of the useful life of the underlying asset or the end of the lease term.
		Variable lease payments that do not depend on an index or rate are not
	Lease liabilities are initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted using our incremental borrowing rate, unless the rate implicit in the lease is readily determinable. We apply a single incremental borrowing rate to a portfolio of leases with similar characteristics. Lease payments included in the measurement of the lease liability comprise:
		included in the measurement of lease liabilities and right-of-use assets.
		The related payments are expensed in Operating costs in the period
		in which the event or condition that triggers those payments occurs.
		IAS 17Under IAS 17, leases of property, plant and equipment are recognized as finance leases when we obtain substantially all the risks and rewards of ownership of the underlying assets. At the inception of the lease, we record an asset together with a corresponding long-term lease liability, at the lower of the fair value of the leased asset or the present value of the minimum future lease payments, excluding non-lease components.
	• fixed (and in-substance fixed) lease payments, less any lease incentives• variable lease payments that depend on an index or rate• payments expected under residual value guarantees and payments
	relating to purchase options and renewal option periods that are reasonably certain to be exercised (or periods subject to termination options that are not reasonably certain to be exercised)
		Asset retirement obligations (AROs)We initially measure and record AROs at management’s best estimate using a present value methodology, adjusted subsequently for any changes in the timing or amount of cash flows and changes in discount rates. We capitalize asset retirement costs as part of the related assets and amortize them into earnings over time. We also increase the ARO and record a corresponding amount in interest expense to reflect the passage of time.
	Lease liabilities are subsequently measured at amortized cost using the effective interest method. Lease liabilities are remeasured, with a corresponding adjustment to the related right-of-use assets, when there is a change in variable lease payments arising from a change in an index or rate, or when we change our assessment of whether purchase, renewal or termination options will be exercised.
	Right-of-use assets are measured at cost, and are comprised of the initial measurement of the corresponding lease liabilities, lease payments
	J) Intangible assets
	Finite-life intangible assetsFinite-life intangible assets are recorded at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any.	program and feature film rightsWe account for program and feature film rights as intangible assets when these assets are acquired for the purpose of distribution through broadcasting, digital media and streaming services. Program and feature film rights, which include producer advances and licence fees paid in advance of receipt of the program or film, are stated at acquisition cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any. Programs and feature films under licence agreements are recorded as assets for rights acquired and liabilities for obligations incurred when:
	SoftwareWe record internal-use software at historical cost. Cost includes expenditures that are attributable directly to the acquisition or development of the software, including the purchase cost and labour.
	Software development costs are capitalized when all the following
nancial statements
	conditions are met:	• we receive a broadcast master and the cost is known or reasonably
	• technical feasibility can be demonstrated• management has the intent and the ability to complete the asset for	determinable for new program and feature film licences; or
		• the licence term commences for licence period extensions or
	use or sale	syndicated programs
	• it is probable that economic benefits will be generated• costs attributable to the asset can be measured reliably	Related liabilities of programs and feature films are classified as current or non-current, based on the payment terms. Amortization of program and feature film rights is recorded in Operating costs in the income statements.
Notes to consolidated fi
	Customer relationshipsCustomer relationship assets are acquired through business combinations and are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition.


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	Indefinite-life intangible assetsBrand assets, mainly comprised of the Bell, Bell Media and Bell MTS brands, and broadcast licences are acquired through business combinations and are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition, less accumulated impairment losses, if any. Wireless spectrum licences are recorded at acquisition cost, including borrowing costs when the
		time to build or develop the related network is in excess of one year. Borrowing costs are calculated at a rate that is based on our weighted average interest rate on outstanding long-term debt.
		Currently, there are no legal, regulatory, competitive or other factors that limit the useful lives of our indefinite-life intangible assets.
	K) Depreciation and amortizationWe depreciate property, plant and equipment and amortize finite-life
			Estimated useful life
	intangible assets on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives. We review our estimates of useful lives on an annual basis and adjust depreciation and amortization on a prospective basis, as required. Land and assets under construction or development are not depreciated.	Property, plant and equipment
		Network infrastructure and equipment	2 to 50 years
		Buildings	5 to 50 years
		Finite-life intangible assets
		Software	2 to 12 years
		Customer relationships	2 to 26 years
		Program and feature film rights	Up to 5 years
	L) Investments in associates and joint arrangementsOur financial statements incorporate our share of the results of our
		Investments are reviewed for impairment at each reporting period and we compare their recoverable amount to their carrying amount when there is an indication of impairment.
	associates and joint ventures using the equity method of accounting, except when the investment is classified as held for sale. Equity income from investments is recorded in Other (expense) income in the income statements.
		We recognize our share of the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of joint operations in accordance with the related contractual agreements.
	Investments in associates and joint ventures are recognized initially at cost and adjusted thereafter to include the company’s share of income or loss and comprehensive income or loss on an after-tax basis.
	M) Business combinations and goodwilBusiness combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method.
		on remeasurement is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements. The excess of the purchase consideration and any previously-held equity interest over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired is recorded as Goodwill in the statements of financial position. If the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired exceeds the purchase consideration and any previously-held equity interest, the difference is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements immediately as a bargain purchase gain.
The consideration transferred in a business combination is measured
	at fair value at the date of acquisition. Acquisition-related transaction costs are expensed as incurred and recorded in Severance, acquisition and other costs in the income statements.
	Identifiable assets and liabilities, including intangible assets, of acquired businesses are recorded at their fair values at the date of acquisition. When we acquire control of a business, any previously-held equity interest is remeasured to fair value and any gain or loss
	N) Impairment of non-financial assetsGoodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets are tested for impairment
nancial statements		Goodwill impairment testingWe perform an annual test for goodwill impairment in the fourth quarter for each of our cash-generating units (CGUs) or groups of CGUs to which goodwill is allocated, and whenever there is an indication that goodwill might be impaired.
	annually or when there is an indication that the asset may be impaired. Property, plant and equipment and finite-life intangible assets are tested for impairment if events or changes in circumstances, assessed at each reporting period, indicate that their carrying amount may not be recoverable. For the purpose of impairment testing, assets other than goodwill are grouped at the lowest level for which there are separately identifiable cash inflows.
		A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash
Notes to consolidated fi
		inflows that are independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets.

	Impairment losses are recognized and measured as the excess of the carrying value of the assets over their recoverable amount. An asset’s recoverable amount is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Previously recognized impairment losses, other than those attributable to goodwill, are reviewed for possible reversal at each reporting date and, if the asset’s recoverable amount has increased, all or a portion of the impairment is reversed.
		We identify any potential impairment by comparing the carrying value of a CGU or group of CGUs to its recoverable amount. The recoverable amount of a CGU or group of CGUs is the higher of its fair value less costs of disposal and its value in use. Both fair value less costs of disposal and value in use are based on estimates of discounted future cash flows or other valuation methods. Cash flows are projected based on past experience, actual operating results and business plans, including any
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	126

	impact from rising interest rates and inflation. When the recoverable amount of a CGU or group of CGUs is less than its carrying value, the recoverable amount is determined for its identifiable assets and liabilities.	An impairment charge is recognized in the income statements for any
		excess of the carrying value of goodwill over its recoverable amount. For purposes of impairment testing of goodwill, our CGUs or groups of CGUs correspond to our reporting segments as disclosed in Note 3,
	The excess of the recoverable amount of the CGU or group of CGUs
	over the total of the amounts assigned to its assets and liabilities is the recoverable amount of goodwill.	Segmented information.
	O) Financial instruments and contract assetsWe measure trade and other receivables, including wireless device financing plan receivables, at amortized cost using the effective interest
		Other financial liabilities, which include trade payables and accruals, compensation payable, obligations imposed by the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), interest payable and long-term debt, are recorded at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
	method, net of any allowance for doubtful accounts.
	Our portfolio investments in equity securities are classified as fair value through other comprehensive income and are presented in our statements of financial position as Other non-current assets. These securities are recorded at fair value on the date of acquisition, including related transaction costs, and are adjusted to fair value at each reporting date. The corresponding unrealized gains and losses are recorded in Other comprehensive income in the consolidated statements of comprehensive income (statements of comprehensive income) and are reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income to the deficit in the statements of financial position when realized.
		We measure the allowance for doubtful accounts and impairment of contract assets based on an expected credit loss (ECL) model, which takes into account current economic conditions, historical information, and forward-looking information, including higher interest rates and inflation. We use the simplified approach for measuring losses based on the lifetime ECL for trade and other receivables and contract assets.
		Amounts considered uncollectible are written off and recognized in Operating costs in the income statements.
		The cost of issuing debt is included as part of long-term debt and is
		accounted for at amortized cost using the effective interest method.
		The cost of issuing equity is reflected in the consolidated statements
		of changes in equity as a charge to the deficit.
	P) Derivative financial instrumentsWe use derivative financial instruments to manage risks related to
		fair value hedgesWe use cross currency interest rate swaps to manage foreign currency and interest rate risk on certain U.S. dollar long-term debt. We use interest rate swaps to manage the interest rate risk on certain Canadian dollar long-term debt. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives and the related debt are recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements and offset each other, except for any ineffective portion of the hedging relationship.
	changes in interest rates, foreign currency rates, commodity prices and cash flow exposures related to share-based payment plans, capital expenditures, long-term debt instruments and operating revenues and expenses. We do not use derivative financial instruments for speculative or trading purposes.
	Derivatives that mature within one year are included in Other current assets or Trade payables and other liabilities in the statements of financial position, whereas derivatives that have a maturity of more than one year are included in Other non-current assets or Other non-current liabilities.
		Cash flow hedgesWe use foreign currency forward contracts and options to manage foreign currency risk relating to anticipated purchases denominated in foreign currencies. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recognized in our statements of comprehensive income, except for any ineffective portion of the hedging relationship, which is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements. Realized gains and losses in Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income are reclassified to the income statements or to the initial cost of the non-financial asset in the same periods as the corresponding hedged transactions are recognized.
	Hedge accounting
	To qualify for hedge accounting, we document the relationship between
	the derivative and the related identified risk exposure, and our risk management objective and strategy. This includes associating each derivative to a specific asset or liability, commitment, or anticipated transaction.
nancial statements
	We assess the effectiveness of a derivative in managing an identified risk exposure when hedge accounting is initially applied, and on an ongoing basis thereafter. If a hedging relationship ceases to meet the qualifying criteria, we discontinue hedge accounting prospectively.
		We use foreign currency forward contracts to manage foreign currency risk relating to our U.S. dollar debt under our commercial paper program, securitization of receivables and committed credit facilities. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements and offset the foreign currency translation adjustment on the related debt, except for any portion of the hedging relationship which is ineffective.
Notes to consolidated fi


127

	We use cross currency interest rate swaps to manage foreign currency and interest rate risk related to certain U.S. dollar long-term debt. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recognized in our statements of comprehensive income, except for amounts recorded in Other (expense) income in the income statements to offset the foreign currency translation adjustment on the related debt and any portion of the hedging relationship which is ineffective.	Realized gains and losses in Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income are reclassified to Interest expense in the income statements over the term of the related debt.
		Derivatives used as economic hedgesWe use derivatives to manage cash flow exposures related to equity settled share-based payment plans and anticipated purchases in foreign currencies, interest rate risk related to preferred share dividend rate resets, interest rate risk related to anticipated debt issuances and commodity price risk related to the purchase cost of fuel. As these derivatives do not qualify for hedge accounting, the changes in their fair value are recorded in the income statements in Other (expense) income.
	We use forward starting interest rate swaps to manage interest rate risk related to certain future debt issuances. Changes in the fair value of these derivatives are recognized in our statements of comprehensive income, except for any ineffective portion of the hedging relationship, which is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements.
	Q) Post-employment benefit plans
	Defined benefit (DB) and other post-employment
		We value post-employment benefit plan assets at fair value using current market values.
	benefit (OPEB) plansWe maintain DB pension plans that provide pension benefits for certain employees and retirees. Benefits are based on the employee’s length of service and average rate of pay during the highest paid consecutive five years of service. Most employees are not required to contribute to the plans. Certain plans provide cost of living adjustments to help protect the income of retired employees against inflation.
		Post-employment benefit plans current service cost is included in Operating costs in the income statements. Interest on our post-employment benefit plan assets and obligations is recognized in Finance costs in the income statements and represents the accretion of interest on the assets and obligations under our post-employment benefit plans. The interest rate is based on market conditions that existed at the beginning of the year. Actuarial gains and losses for all post-employment benefit plans are recorded in Other comprehensive income in the statements of comprehensive income in the period in which they occur and are recognized immediately in the deficit.
	We are responsible for adequately funding our DB pension plans. We make contributions to them based on various actuarial cost methods permitted by pension regulatory bodies. Contributions reflect actuarial assumptions about future investment returns, salary projections, future service and life expectancy.
		December 31 is the measurement date for our significant post-employment benefit plans. Our actuaries perform a valuation based on management’s assumptions at least every three years to determine the actuarial present value of the accrued DB pension plans and OPEB obligations. The most recent actuarial valuation of our significant pension plans was as at December 31, 2021.
	We provide OPEBs to some of our employees, including:
• health care and life insurance benefits during retirement, which have
	been phased out for new retirees since December 31, 2016. Most of these OPEB plans are unfunded and benefits are paid when incurred.
• other benefits, including workers’ compensation and medical benefits
	to former or inactive employees, their beneficiaries and dependants, from the time their employment ends until their retirement starts, under certain circumstances	Defined contribution (DC) pension plansWe maintain DC pension plans that provide certain employees with benefits. Under these plans, we are responsible for contributing a predetermined amount to an employee’s retirement savings, based on a percentage of the employee’s salary.
	We accrue our obligations and related costs under post-employment benefit plans, net of the fair value of the benefit plan assets. Pension and OPEB costs are determined using:
		We recognize a post-employment benefit plans service cost for DC pension plans when the employee provides service to the company, essentially coinciding with our cash contributions.
• the projected unit credit method, prorated on years of service, which
	takes into account future pay levels
• a discount rate based on market interest rates of high-quality corporate
		When eligible, new employees can only participate in the DC pension plans.
	fixed income investments with maturities that match the timing of benefits expected to be paid under the plans
nancial statements
• management’s best estimate of pay increases, retirement ages of
	employees, expected healthcare costs and life expectancy
	R) ProvisionsProvisions are recognized when all the following conditions are met:
Notes to consolidated fi		Provisions are measured at the present value of the estimated expenditures expected to settle the obligation, if the effect of the time value of money is material. The present value is determined using current market assessments of the discount rate and risks specific to the obligation. The obligation increases as a result of the passage of time, resulting in interest expense which is recognized in Finance costs in the income statements.
	• the company has a present legal or constructive obligation based
	on past events

• it is probable that an outflow of economic resources will be required
	to settle the obligation
• the amount can be reasonably estimated
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	S) Estimates and key judgmentsWhen preparing the financial statements, management makes estimates
		Deferred taxes
	and judgments relating to:	The amounts of deferred tax assets and liabilities are estimated with
	• reported amounts of revenues and expenses• reported amounts of assets and liabilities• disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities	consideration given to the timing, sources and amounts of future taxable income.
		leases
	We base our estimates on a number of factors, including but not limited to historical experience, current events such as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, economic and financial market conditions such as higher interest rates and inflation, supply chain disruptions and the increasing risk of recession, and actions that the company may undertake in the future, as well as other assumptions that we believe are reasonable under the circumstances. A change in these assumptions may have an impact on our financial statements including but not limited to impairment testing, fair value determination, expected credit losses and discount rates used for the present value of cash flows. By their nature, these estimates and judgments are subject to measurement uncertainty and actual results could differ. Our more significant estimates and judgments are described below.	The application of IFRS 16 requires us to make estimates that affect the
		measurement of right-of-use assets and liabilities, including determining the appropriate discount rate used to measure lease liabilities. Lease liabilities are initially measured at the present value of the lease payments that are not paid at the commencement date, discounted using our incremental borrowing rate, unless the rate implicit in the lease is readily determinable. Our incremental borrowing rate is derived from publicly available risk-free interest rates, adjusted for applicable credit spreads and lease terms. We apply a single incremental borrowing rate to a portfolio of leases with similar characteristics.
		fair value of financial instrumentsCertain financial instruments, such as investments in equity securities, derivative financial instruments and certain elements of borrowings, are carried in the statements of financial position at fair value, with changes in fair value reflected in the income statements and the statements of comprehensive income. Fair values are estimated by reference to published price quotations or by using other valuation techniques that may include inputs that are not based on observable market data, such as discounted cash flows and earnings multiples.
	Estimatesuseful lives of property, plant and equipment
	and finite-life intangible assetsProperty, plant and equipment represent a significant proportion of our total assets. Changes in technology or our intended use of these assets, climate change and our environmental, social and corporate governance initiatives as well as changes in business prospects or economic and industry factors, may cause the estimated useful lives of these assets to change.
		ContingenciesIn the ordinary course of business, we become involved in various claims and legal proceedings seeking monetary damages and other relief. Pending claims and legal proceedings represent a potential cost to our business. We estimate the amount of a loss by analyzing potential outcomes and assuming various litigation and settlement strategies, based on information that is available at the time.
	post-employment benefit plans
	The amounts reported in the financial statements relating to DB pension
	plans and OPEBs are determined using actuarial calculations that are based on several assumptions.
	The actuarial valuation uses management’s assumptions for, among	onerous contractsA provision for onerous contracts is recognized when the unavoidable costs of meeting our obligations under a contract exceed the expected benefits to be received under the contract. The provision is measured at the present value of the lower of the expected cost of terminating the contract and the expected net cost of completing the contract.
	other things, the discount rate, life expectancy, the rate of compensation increase, cost of living indexation rate, trends in healthcare costs and expected average remaining years of service of employees.
	The most significant assumptions used to calculate the net post-
	employment benefit plans cost are the discount rate and life expectancy.
	The discount rate is based on the yield on long-term, high-quality	Judgmentspost-employment benefit plans
	corporate fixed income investments, with maturities matching the estimated cash flows of the post-employment benefit plans. Life expectancy is based on publicly available Canadian mortality tables and is adjusted for the company’s specific experience.
nancial statements
		The determination of the discount rate used to value our post-
		employment benefit obligations requires judgment. The rate is set by reference to market yields of long-term, high-quality corporate fixed income investments at the beginning of each fiscal year. Significant judgment is required when setting the criteria for fixed income investments to be included in the population from which the yield curve is derived. The most significant criteria considered for the selection of investments include the size of the issue and credit quality, along with the identification of outliers, which are excluded.
	revenue from contracts with customersWe are required to make estimates that affect the amount of revenue from contracts with customers, including estimating the stand-alone selling prices of products and services.
Notes to consolidated fi

	Impairment of non-financial assetsWe make a number of estimates when calculating recoverable amounts using discounted future cash flows or other valuation methods to test for impairment. These estimates include the assumed growth rates for future cash flows, the number of years used in the cash flow model and the discount rate.

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	Income taxes	those options. To assess if we are reasonably certain to exercise an option, we consider all facts and circumstances that create an economic incentive to exercise renewal options (or not exercise termination options). Economic incentives include the costs related to the termination of the lease, the significance of any leasehold improvements and the importance of the underlying assets to our operations.
The calculation of income taxes requires judgment in interpreting tax
	rules and regulations. There are transactions and calculations for which the ultimate tax determination is uncertain. Our tax filings are also subject to audits, the outcome of which could change the amount of current and deferred tax assets and liabilities.
	Management judgment is used to determine the amounts of deferred tax assets and liabilities to be recognized. In particular, judgment is required when assessing the timing of the reversal of temporary differences to which future income tax rates are applied.	revenue from contracts with customers
		The identification of performance obligations within a contract and
		the timing of satisfaction of performance obligations under long-term contracts requires judgment. Additionally, the determination of costs to obtain a contract, including the identification of incremental costs, also requires judgment.
	leases
The application of IFRS 16 requires us to make judgments that affect
	the measurement of right-of-use assets and liabilities. A lease contract conveys the right to control the use of an identified asset for a period of time in exchange for consideration. At inception of the contract, we assess whether the contract contains an identified asset, whether we have the right to obtain substantially all of the economic benefits from use of the asset and whether we have the right to direct how and for what purpose the asset is used. In determining the lease term, we include periods covered by renewal options when we are reasonably certain to exercise those options. Similarly, we include periods covered by termination options when we are reasonably certain not to exercise	CGus
		The determination of CGUs or groups of CGUs for the purpose of
		impairment testing requires judgment.
		Contingencies
		The determination of whether a loss is probable from claims and legal
		proceedings and whether an outflow of resources is likely requires judgment.
	T) Adoption of amended accounting standardsAs required, we adopted the following amendments and clarifications to accounting standards issued by the IASB.
	Standard		Description	Impact
	Onerous Contracts –		These amendments clarify which costs should	These amendments were adopted effective January 1, 2022 and did not have
	Cost of Fulfilling a		be included in determining the cost of fulfilling a contract when assessing whether a contract is onerous.	a significant impact on our financial statements.
	Contract, Amendments
	to IAS 37 – Provisions,
	Contingent Liabilities
	and Contingent Assets
	IFRIC Agenda Decision		In April 2022, the International Financial Reporting Interpretations Committee (IFRIC) issued an agenda decision clarifying that an entity should present a demand deposit with restrictions on use arising from a contract with a third party as cash and cash equivalents in the statements of financial position and cash flows, unless those restrictions change the nature of the deposit such that it no longer meets the definition of cash in IAS 7.	In 2022, we applied this agenda decision retrospectively to each prior period presented, the impact of which was limited to the classification of funding of $97 million received in Q1 2021 under a subsidy agreement with the Government of Québec. The application of this agenda decision resulted in the following:• an increase in Cash of $82 million with a corresponding decrease in Other
	on Demand Deposits
	with Restrictions on
	Use arising from a
	Contract with a Third
	Party (IAS 7 – Statement
	of Cash Flows)	current assets in the statement of financial position as at December 31, 2021
		• an increase in Capital expenditures and Other financing activities of ($15)
		million and $97 million, respectively, for the year ended December 31, 2021 in the statement of cash flows
		• no impact in the statement of financial position as at January 1, 2021 as the
		funding was received in Q1 2021.
nancial statements
	U) Future changes to accounting standards
The following amendments to standards issued by the IASB have an effective date after December 31, 2022 and have not yet been adopted by BCE.
	Standard		Description	Impact	Effective date
Notes to consolidated fi	Disclosure of Accounting		These amendments require that entities disclose	We are currently assessing the impact of these amendments on the disclosure of our accounting policies.	Effective for annual reporting periods beginning on or after January 1, 2023. Early application is permitted.
	Policies – Amendments		material accounting policies, as defined, instead of significant accounting policies.
	to IAS 1 – Presentation
	of Financial Statements

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		Segmented information
	notE 3
	The accounting policies used in our segment reporting are the same		retailer, The Source (Bell) Electronics Inc. (The Source). Wireless services are provided to our residential, small and medium-sized business and large enterprise customers across Canada.
	as those we describe in Note 2, Significant accounting policies. Our segments reflect how we manage our business and how we classify our operations for planning and measuring performance. Accordingly, we operate and manage our segments as strategic business units organized by products and services. Segments negotiate sales with each other as if they were unrelated parties.
			Bell Wireline includes data revenues (including Internet, IPTV, cloud-based services and business solutions), voice and other communication services revenues, and wireline product sales. These services are provided to our residential, small and medium-sized business and large enterprise customers primarily in Ontario, Québec, the Atlantic provinces and Manitoba, while satellite TV service and connectivity to business customers are available national y across Canada. In addition, this segment includes the results of our wholesale business, which buys and sells local telephone, long distance, data and other services from or to resellers and other carriers.
	We measure the performance of each segment based on adjusted EBITDA, which is equal to operating revenues less operating costs for the segment. Substantially all of our severance, acquisition and other costs, depreciation and amortization, finance costs and other (expense) income are managed on a corporate basis and, accordingly, are not reflected in segment results.
	Substantially all of our operations and assets are located in Canada.		Bell Media provides conventional TV, specialty TV, pay TV, streaming services, digital media services, radio broadcasting services and OOH advertising services to customers nationally across Canada. Revenues are derived primarily from advertising and subscriber fees.
	Our results are reported in three segments: Bell Wireless, Bell Wireline and Bell Media.
	Bell Wireless includes wireless service revenues and product sales as well as the results of operations of our national consumer electronics
	Segmented information
			Bell			Bell	Bell	Inter-segment
	for the year ended December 31, 2022			note	Wireless	Wireline	Media	eliminations	BCE
	Operating revenues
	External service revenues				6,821	11,231	2,904			–	20,956
	Inter-segment service revenues		44			412	350			(806)	–
	Operating service revenues				6,865	11,643	3,254			(806)	20,956
	External product revenues				2,714	504	–			–	3,218
	Inter-segment product revenues		9			1	–			(10)	–
	Operating product revenues				2,723	505	–			(10)	3,218
	Total external revenues				9,535	11,735	2,904			–	24,174
	Total inter-segment revenues		53			413	350			(816)	–
	Total operating revenues				9,588	12,148	3,254			(816)	24,174
	Operating costs			5	(5,451)	(6,831)	(2,509)			816	(13,975)
	Adjusted EBITDA (1)				4,137	5,317	745			–	10,199
	Severance, acquisition and other costs			6					(94)
	Depreciation and amortization			17, 19					(4,723)
	Finance costs
nancial statements	Interest expense			7					(1,146)
	Net return on post-employment benefit plans			27					51
	Impairment of assets			8					(279)
	Other expense			9					(115)
	Income taxes			10					(967)
	Net earnings								2,926
Notes to consolidated fiGoodwill			22	3,046	4,914	2,946			–	10,906
	Indefinite-life intangible assets			19	6,192	1,788	1,846			–	9,826

	Capital expenditures				1,084	3,887	162			–	5,133

	(1) The chief operating decision maker uses primarily one measure of profit to make decisions and assess performance, being operating revenues less operating costs.
131

			Bell	Bell	Bell	Inter-segment
	for the year ended December 31, 2021	Wireless	Wireline	Media	eliminations	BCE
	Operating revenues
	External service revenues		6,355	2,681			–	20,350
	Inter-segment service revenues		45	355			(758)	–
	Operating service revenues		6,400	3,036			(758)	20,350
	External product revenues		2,593	–			–	3,099
	Inter-segment product revenues		6	–			(6)	–
	Operating product revenues		2,599	–			(6)	3,099
	Total external revenues		8,948	2,681			–	23,449
	Total inter-segment revenues		51	355			(764)	–
	Total operating revenues		8,999	3,036			(764)	23,449
	Operating costs	5	(5,146)	(2,311)			764	(13,556)
	Adjusted EBITDA (1)		3,853	725			–	9,893
	Severance, acquisition and other costs					(209)
	Depreciation and amortization					(4,609)
	Finance costs
	Interest expense					(1,082)
	Net interest on post-employment benefit plans					(20)
	Impairment of assets					(197)
	Other income					160
	Income taxes					(1,044)
	Net earnings						2,892
	Goodwill	22	3,046	2,946			–	10,572
	Indefinite-life intangible assets	19	6,148	1,935			–	9,775
	Capital expenditures		1,120	120			–	4,852
	(1) The chief operating decision maker uses primarily one measure of profit to make decisions and assess performance, being operating revenues less operating costs.
	Revenues by services and products
The following table presents our revenues disaggregated by type of services and products.
	for the year ended December 31							2022	2021
	Services (1)
	Wireless							6,821	6,355
	Wireline data							7,920	7,871
	Wireline voice							3,002	3,154
	Media							2,904	2,681
	Other wireline services							309	289
	Total services					20,956	20,350
nancial statements	Products (2)
	Wireless							2,714	2,593
	Wireline data							459	463
	Wireline equipment and other							45	43
	Total products							3,218	3,099
	Total operating revenues					24,174	23,449
Notes to consolidated fi
	(1) Our service revenues are generally recognized over time.(2) Our product revenues are generally recognized at a point in time.


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	132

	Segment reporting changes in 2023
	In 2022, we began modifying our internal and external reporting processes to align with organizational changes that were made to reflect an increasing strategic focus on multiproduct sales, the continually increasing technological convergence of our wireless and wireline telecommunications infrastructure and operations driven by the deployment of our Fifth Generation (5G) and fibre networks, and our digital transformation. These factors have made it increasingly difficult to distinguish between our wireless and wireline operations and will result in changes in Q1 2023 to the financial information that is regularly provided to our chief operating decision maker to measure performance and allocate resources.	across Canada. Wireless products and services include mobile data and voice plans and devices and are available national y. Wireline products and services comprise data (including Internet access, IPTV, cloud-based services and business solutions), voice, and other communication services and products, which are available to our residential, small and medium-sized business and large enterprise customers primarily in Ontario, Québec, the Atlantic provinces and Manitoba, while satellite TV service and connectivity to business customers are available nationally across Canada. In addition, this segment includes our wholesale business, which buys and sells local telephone, long distance, data and other services from or to resellers and other carriers, as well as the results of operations of our national consumer electronics retailer, The Source.
	Effective with our Q1 2023 results, our previous Bell Wireless and Bell Wireline operating segments are being combined to form a single reporting segment called Bell Communication and Technology Services (Bell CTS). Bell Media remains a distinct operating segment and is unaffected. As a result of our reporting changes, prior periods are being restated in 2023 for comparative purposes.
		Our Bell Media segment provides conventional TV, specialty TV, pay TV, streaming services, digital media services, radio broadcasting services and OOH and advanced advertising services to customers nationally across Canada.
		For purposes of impairment testing of goodwill in 2023, our CGUs or groups of CGUs will correspond to our new reporting segments, notably Bell CTS and Bell Media.
	Our Bel CTS segment provides a wide range of communication products and services to consumers, businesses and government customers
			Business acquisitions and disposition
	notE 4
	Acquisition of Distributel Communications Limited (Distributel)On December 1, 2022, Bell acquired Distributel, a national independent
		expected to support Bell’s strategy to grow residential and business customers. The results of Distributel are included in our Bell Wireline segment.
	communications provider offering a wide range of consumer, business and wholesale communications services for cash consideration of $303 million ($282 million net of cash acquired) and $39 million of estimated additional cash consideration contingent on the achievement of certain performance objectives. This contingent consideration is expected to be settled by 2026 and the maximum contingent consideration payable is $65 million. The acquisition of Distributel is
		The allocation of the purchase price includes provisional estimates, in
		particular for indefinite and finite-life intangibles. The following table summarizes the fair value of the consideration paid and the fair value assigned to each major class of assets and liabilities.
				Total
	Cash consideration			303
	Contingent consideration			39
	Total cost to be allocated			342
	Other non-cash working capital			14
	Property, plant and equipment			29
	Indefinite-life intangible assets (1)			84
	Finite-life intangibles (2)			52
nancial statements	Deferred tax assets			8
	Other long-term assets			4
	Trade payables and other liabilities			(28)
	Contract liabilities			(3)
	Deferred tax liabilities			(39)
	Other long-term liabilities			(6)
Notes to consolidated fi				115
	Cash and cash equivalents			21

	Fair value of net assets acquired			136

	Goodwill (3)			206
	(1) Consists mainly of brand and digital assets.(2) Consists mainly of customer relationships.(3) Goodwill arises principally from expected synergies and future growth and is not deductible for tax purposes. Goodwill was allocated to our Bell Wireline group of cash-generating
	units (CGUs).
133

	Operating revenues of $14 million from Distributel are included in the income statements from the date of acquisition. BCE’s consolidated operating revenues for the year ended December 31, 2022 would have been $24,309 million had the acquisition of Distributel occurred	on January 1, 2022. This proforma amount reflects the elimination of intercompany transactions and the purchase price allocation. The transaction did not have a significant impact on our net earnings for 2022.
	Acquisition of EBOX and other related companies
	In February 2022, Bell acquired EBOX and other related companies, which provide Internet, telephone and TV services to consumers and businesses in Québec and parts of Ontario, for cash consideration of	residential and small business customers. The results of EBOX and other related companies are included in our Bell Wireline segment.
		The following table summarizes the fair value of the consideration paid
	$153 million ($139 million net of cash acquired). The acquisition of EBOX and other related companies is expected to accelerate growth in Bell’s
		and the fair value assigned to each major class of assets and liabilities.
			Total
	Cash consideration		153
	Total cost to be allocated		153
	Other non-cash working capital		5
	Property, plant and equipment		5
	Indefinite-life intangible assets (1)		17
	Finite-life intangible and other assets (2)		15
	Trade payables and other liabilities		(17)
	Contract liabilities		(5)
	Deferred tax liabilities		(9)
			11
	Cash and cash equivalents		14
	Fair value of net assets acquired		25
	Goodwill (3)		128
	(1) Consists of brand and digital assets.(2) Consists mainly of customer relationships.(3) Goodwill arises principally from expected synergies and future growth and is not deductible for tax purposes. Goodwill was allocated to our Bell Wireline group of cash-generating
	units (CGUs).
	Operating revenues of $41 million from EBOX and other related parties are included in the income statements from the date of acquisition. The transaction did not have a significant impact on net earnings for 2022.
	Disposition of production studios
	In December 2022, we entered into an agreement to sell our 63% ownership in certain production studios and production studios currently under construction, which are included in our Bell Media segment. The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2023 once we achieve substantial completion of the construction of the production studios and subject to customary closing conditions. As at December 31, 2022,	construction of the production studios was ongoing and there remain significant construction activities which must be completed. We estimate we will receive cash proceeds of approximately $220 million from the sale transaction, which amount may vary primarily based on the actual cost incurred to complete the construction of the production studios.
nancial statements
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	134

		Operating costs
	notE 5
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Labour costs
	Wages, salaries and related taxes and benefits (1)			(4,250)	(4,233)
	Post-employment benefit plans service cost (net of capitalized amounts)		(249)	(266)
	Other labour costs (1) (2)			(1,054)	(1,016)
	Less:
	Capitalized labour			1,136	1,068
	Total labour costs			(4,417)	(4,447)
	Cost of revenues (1) (3)			(7,641)	(7,284)
	Other operating costs (1) (4)			(1,917)	(1,825)
	Total operating costs			(13,975)	(13,556)
	(1) We have reclassified amounts from the previous period to make them consistent with the presentation for the current period.(2) Other labour costs include contractor and outsourcing costs.(3) Cost of revenues includes costs of wireless devices and other equipment sold, network and content costs, and payments to other carriers.(4) Other operating costs include marketing, advertising and sales commission costs, bad debt expense, taxes other than income taxes, information technology costs, professional service
	fees and rent.
	Research and development expenses of $57 million are included in operating costs for 2022 and 2021.
		Severance, acquisition and other costs
	notE 6
	for the year ended December 31			2022	2021
	Severance			(83)	(171)
	Acquisition and other			(11)	(38)
	Total severance, acquisition and other costs			(94)	(209)
	Severance costsSeverance costs consist of charges related to involuntary and voluntary employee terminations.
	Acquisition and other costsAcquisition and other costs consist of transaction costs, such as legal and financial advisory fees, related to completed or potential acquisitions,
	employee severance costs related to the purchase of a business, the costs to integrate acquired companies into our operations, costs relating to litigation and regulatory decisions, when they are significant, and other costs.
		Interest expense
	notE 7
nancial statements	for the year ended December 31			2022	2021
	Interest expense on long-term debt			(1,148)	(1,088)
	Interest expense on other debt			(126)	(57)
	Capitalized interest			128	63
	Total interest expense			(1,146)	(1,082)
Notes to consolidated fi
	Included in interest expense on long-term debt is interest on lease liabilities of $165 million and $177 million for 2022 and 2021, respectively.					Capitalized interest was calculated using an average rate of 3.83% for 2022 and 2021, which represents the weighted average interest rate on our outstanding long-term debt.


135

		Impairment of assets
notE 8
	2022During the fourth quarter of 2022, we recognized $147 million of
			impairments, the carrying value of our impacted CGUs was $109 million. In previous years’ impairment analysis, the company’s French Pay and French TV channels were tested for recoverability as one French CGU. In 2022, the French Pay channels are now grouped with English Pay channels to form one CGU as a result of Bell Media launching a single bilingual premium pay product.
	impairment charges for French TV channels within our Bell Media
	segment. The impairment charges were the result of a reduction in advertising demand in the industry resulting from global economic uncertainties and unfavourable impacts to assumptions for discount rates. These charges included $94 million allocated to indefinite-life
	intangible assets for broadcast licences, and $53 million to finite-life intangible assets for program and feature film rights. The impairment was determined by comparing the carrying value of the CGUs to their fair value less cost of disposal. We estimated the fair value of the CGUs using the discounted cash flow valuation models, which include five-year cash flow projections derived from business plans reviewed by senior management for the period of October 1, 2022 to December 31, 2027, using a discount rate of 10.3% and a perpetuity growth rate of 0.5%. After
			There was no impairment of Bell Media goodwill. See Note 22, Goodwill,
			for further details.
			Additionally in 2022, we recorded impairment charges of $132 million
			related mainly to right-of-use assets for certain office spaces we ceased using as part of our real estate optimization strategy as a result of our hybrid work policy.
	2021During the second quarter of 2021, we identified indicators of impairment
			fair value less cost of disposal. We estimated the fair value of the CGUs using both discounted cash flows and market-based valuation models, which include five-year cash flow projections derived from business plans reviewed by senior management for the period of July 1, 2021 to December 31, 2026, using a discount rate of 8.5% and a perpetuity growth rate of (2.0%), as well as market multiple data from public companies and market transactions. After impairments, the carrying value of our group of radio CGUs was $235 million.
	for our Bell Media radio markets, notably a decline in advertising revenue and an increase in the discount rate resulting from the impact of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, impairment testing was required for our group of radio CGUs.
	During Q2 2021, we recognized $163 million of impairment charges for various radio markets within our Bell Media segment. These charges included $150 million allocated to indefinite-life intangible assets for broadcast licences, and $13 million to property, plant and equipment mainly for buildings and network infrastructure and equipment. They were determined by comparing the carrying value of the CGUs to their
			There was no impairment of Bell Media goodwill. See Note 22, Goodwill,
			for further details.
		Other (expense) income
notE 9
	for the year ended December 31			note	2022	2021
	Net mark-to-market (losses) gains on derivatives used to economically hedge equity settled
	share-based compensation plans				(53)	278
	Equity losses from investments in associates and joint ventures			20
	Loss on investment				(42)	(49)
	Operations				(19)	(46)
	Losses on retirements and disposals of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets				(27)	(24)
	Gains (losses) on investments			16	24	(6)
nancial statements
	Early debt redemption costs			25	(18)	(53)
	Other				20	60
	Total other (expense) income				(115)	160
	Equity losses from investments in associates and joint venturesWe recorded a loss on investment of $42 million and $49 million in 2022 and 2021, respectively, related to equity losses on our share of an
Notes to consolidated fi

	obligation to repurchase at fair value the minority interest in one of BCE’s joint ventures. The obligation is marked to market each reporting period and the gain or loss on investment is recorded as equity gains or losses from investments in associates and joint ventures.

	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	136

	Gains (losses) on investments
	In 2022, we completed the previously announced sale of our wholly-owned subsidiary 6362222 Canada Inc. (Createch) and recorded a gain on sale of $39 million. See Note 16, Assets held for sale, for additional details.
	Additionally, in 2022, we recorded a loss on investment of $13 million related to an obligation to repurchase at fair value the minority interest
	in one of our subsidiaries.
		Income taxes
	notE 10
	The following table shows the significant components of income taxes deducted from net earnings.
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Current taxes
	Current taxes		(878)	(872)
	Uncertain tax positions		91	12
	Change in estimate relating to prior periods		8	42
	Deferred taxes
	Deferred taxes relating to the origination and reversal of temporary differences		(176)	(184)
	Change in estimate relating to prior periods		(8)	(40)
	Recognition and utilization of loss carryforwards		(4)	(21)
	Previously unrecognized tax benefits		–	15
	Uncertain tax positions		–	4
	Total income taxes		(967)	(1,044)
	The following table reconciles the amount of reported income taxes in the income statements with income taxes calculated at a statutory income
	tax rate of 26.8% for 2022 and 2021.
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Net earnings		2,926	2,892
	Add back income taxes		967	1,044
	Earnings before income taxes		3,893	3,936
	Applicable statutory tax rate		26.8%	26.8%
	Income taxes computed at applicable statutory rates		(1,043)	(1,055)
	Non-taxable portion of gains (losses) on investments		4	(1)
	Uncertain tax positions		91	16
	Change in estimate relating to prior periods		–	2
	Non-taxable portion of equity losses		(18)	(26)
	Previously unrecognized tax benefits		–	15
	Other		(1)	5
	Total income taxes		(967)	(1,044)
	Average effective tax rate		24.8%	26.5%
nancial statements
	The following table shows aggregate current and deferred taxes relating to items recognized outside the income statements.
					2022	2021
					Other	other
						comprehensive		comprehensive
	for the year ended December 31				income		Deficit	income	Deficit
	Current taxes				–		3	–	1
	Deferred taxes				(73)		(7)	(677)	30
Notes to consolidated fi
	Total income taxes (expense) recovery				(73)		(4)	(677)	31


137

The following table shows deferred taxes resulting from temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities recognized
	in the statements of financial position and their corresponding tax basis, as well as tax loss carryforwards.
							property,
							plant and
				post-		Indefinite-	equipment
			non-capital		employment	life	and finite-life
			loss carry-	benefit		intangible	intangible
	net deferred tax liability	note	forwards	plans		assets	assets	other	total
	January 1, 2021				69	185		(1,717)	(2,175)	(66)	(3,704)
	Income statement				(10)	2		16	(253)	19	(226)
	Business acquisitions				4	–						–	(9)	1	(4)
	Other comprehensive income				–	(653)						–	–	(24)	(677)
	Deficit				–	–						–	16	14	30
	Reclassified to liabilities held for sale	16			–	–						–	4	1	5
	Other				–	–						–	–	2	2
	December 31, 2021				63	(466)		(1,701)	(2,417)	(53)	(4,574)
	Income statement				(4)	15		(40)	(307)	148	(188)
	Business acquisitions				1	–		(26)	(21)	3	(43)
	Other comprehensive (income) loss				–	(151)						–	–	78	(73)
	Deficit				–	–						–	–	(7)	(7)
	Other				–	–						–	–	16	16
	December 31, 2022				60	(602)		(1,767)	(2,745)	185	(4,869)
	At December 31, 2022, BCE had $251 million of non-capital loss		At December 31, 2021, BCE had $266 mil ion of non-capital loss
	carryforwards. We:		carryforwards. We:
• recognized a deferred tax asset of $60 million for $231 million of the			• recognized a deferred tax asset of $63 million for $249 million of the
	non-capital loss carryforwards. These non-capital loss carryforwards expire in varying annual amounts from 2025 to 2042.		non-capital loss carryforwards. These non-capital loss carryforwards expire in varying annual amounts from 2024 to 2041.
• did not recognize a deferred tax asset for $20 million of non-capital			• did not recognize a deferred tax asset for $17 million of non-capital
	loss carryforwards. This balance expires in varying annual amounts from 2023 to 2042.		loss carryforwards. This balance expires in varying annual amounts from 2023 to 2041.
	At December 31, 2022, BCE had $67 million of unrecognized capital loss		At December 31, 2021, BCE had $69 million of unrecognized capital loss
	carryforwards, which can be carried forward indefinitely.		carryforwards, which can be carried forward indefinitely.
												Earnings per share
notE 11
The following table shows the components used in the calculation of basic and diluted net earnings per common share for earnings attributable
	to common shareholders.
	for the year ended December 31							2022	2021
	Net earnings attributable to common shareholders – basic							2,716	2,709
	Dividends declared per common share (in dollars)							3.68	3.50
nancial statements
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding (in millions)
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – basic							911.5	906.3
	Assumed exercise of stock options (1)							0.5	0.4
	Weighted average number of common shares outstanding – diluted (in millions)							912.0	906.7
	(1) The calculation of the assumed exercise of stock options includes the effect of the average unrecognized future compensation cost of dilutive options. It excludes options for which the
	exercise price is higher than the average market value of a BCE common share. The number of excluded options was nil in 2022 and 3,302,850 in 2021.
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	138

		Trade and other receivables
	notE 12
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Trade receivables (1)			4,102	3,843
	Allowance for revenue adjustments			(160)	(169)
	Allowance for doubtful accounts		(129)	(136)
	Current tax receivable			48	121
	Commodity taxes receivable			11	102
	Other accounts receivable			266	188
	Total trade and other receivables			4,138	3,949
	(1) The details of securitized receivables are set out in Note 24, Debt due within one year.
	Wireless device financing plan receivablesWireless device financing plan receivables represent amounts owed to us under financing agreements that have not yet been bil ed. The current portion of these balances is included in Trade receivables within the Trade and other receivables line item on our statements of financial position
	and the long-term portion is included within the Other non-current assets line item on our statements of financial position.
	The following table summarizes our wireless device financing plan receivables.
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Current			1,021	1,040
	Non-current		386	387
	Total wireless device financing plan receivables (1)			1,407	1,427
	(1) Excludes allowance for doubtful accounts and allowance for revenue adjustments on the current portion of $46 million and $44 million at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021,
	respectively, and allowance for doubtful accounts and allowance for revenue adjustments on the non-current portion of $15 million at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021.
		Inventory
	notE 13
	for the year ended December 31			2022	2021
	Wireless devices and accessories			238	189
	Merchandise and other			418	293
	Total inventory			656	482
	The total amount of inventory subsequently recognized as an expense in cost of revenues was $3,184 million and $3,080 million for 2022 and
	2021, respectively.
nancial statements
Notes to consolidated fi


139

		Contract assets and liabilities
notE 14
The table below provides a reconciliation of the significant changes in the contract assets and the contract liabilities balances.
			Contract assets (1)	Contract liabilities
	for the year ended December 31				2022			2021	2022		2021
	Opening balance, January 1		665			943	1,045			959
	Revenue recognized included in contract liabilities at the beginning
	of the year		–			–	(736)			(678)
	Revenue recognized from contract liabilities included in contract assets
	at the beginning of the year		89			141	–			–
	Increase in contract liabilities during the year					–	794			752
	Increase in contract liabilities included in contract assets during the year		(83)			(115)	–			–
	Increase in contract assets from revenue recognized during the year		728			664	–			–
	Contract assets transferred to trade receivables		(586)			(859)	14			50
	Acquisitions				–			–	8		13
	Contract terminations transferred to trade receivables		(50)			(89)	(1)			4
	Reclassified to liabilities held for sale				–			–	–		(7)
	Other		(39)			(20)	(39)			(48)
	Ending balance, December 31		724			665	1,085			1,045
	(1) Net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $19 million and $20 million at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively. See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for
	additional details.
		Contract costs
notE 15
The table below provides a reconciliation of the contract costs balance.
	for the year ended December 31					note	2022			2021
	Opening balance, January 1			894			764
	Incremental costs of obtaining a contract and contract fulfillment costs			807			635
	Amortization included in operating costs			(558)			(504)
	Acquisitions			–			3
	Reclassified to assets held for sale					16	–			(4)
	Ending balance, December 31			1,143			894
	Contract costs are amortized over periods ranging from 12 to 84 months.
		Assets held for sale
notE 16
	On March 1, 2022, we completed the previously announced sale of our wholly-owned subsidiary Createch, a consulting business that specializes in the optimization of business processes and implementation of technological solutions, which was included in our Bell Wireline segment. We recorded cash proceeds of $54 million and a gain on sale of $39 million (before tax expense of $2 million) in Other (expense) income.				The following table summarizes the carrying value of the assets and
					liabilities that are classified as held for sale at December 31, 2021.
							2021
nancial statements
								Trade and other receivables	29
								Contract costs	4
								Prepaid expenses	1
	Our results for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 included Createch revenue of $10 million and $64 million and net earnings of nil and $5 million, respectively.
								Property, plant and equipment	2
								Intangible assets	1
								Other non-current assets	7
Notes to consolidated fi	The assets and liabilities of Createch were presented as held for sale
								Goodwill	6
	in our statement of financial position at December 31, 2021, measured at their carrying amount, which is lower than the estimated fair value less costs to sell. Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets included in assets held for sale were no longer depreciated or amortized effective December 2021.
					Total assets held for sale		50
								Trade payables and other liabilities	18
								Contract liabilities	7
								Deferred tax liabilities	5
								Other non-current liabilities	5
					Total liabilities held for sale		35
					Net assets held for sale		15
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	140

		Property, plant and equipment
	notE 17
				Network
				infrastructure	Land and	Assets under
	for the year ended December 31, 2022		and equipment (1)	buildings (1)	construction	Total
	Cost
	January 1, 2022			70,923	8,889	2,241	82,053
	Additions			2,824	394	2,675	5,893
	Business combinations/(business disposition)			11			3	(14)
	Transfers			1,180	51	(2,318)	(1,087)
	Retirements and disposals			(3,063)			(3)	(3,101)
	Impairment losses recognized in earnings		8	–			–	(132)
	December 31, 2022			71,875	9,139	2,598	83,612
	Accumulated depreciation
	January 1, 2022			49,122			–	53,818
	Depreciation			3,195			–	3,660
	Business disposition			(14)			–	(21)
	Retirements and disposals			(3,025)			–	(3,053)
	Transfers			2			–	–
	Other			(44)			–	(48)
	December 31, 2022			49,236			–	54,356
	Net carrying amount
	January 1, 2022			21,801	4,193	2,241	28,235
	December 31, 2022			22,639	4,019	2,598	29,256
	(1) Includes right-of-use assets. See Note 18, Leases, for additional details.
				network
				infrastructure	land and	Assets under
	for the year ended December 31, 2021		and equipment (1)	buildings (1)	construction	total
	Cost
	January 1, 2021			69,477	7,832	1,889	79,198
	Additions			2,643	326	2,515	5,484
	Business combinations			2			–	14
	Transfers			358	771	(2,163)	(1,034)
	Retirements and disposals			(1,550)			–	(1,587)
	Impairment losses recognized in earnings		8	(4)			–	(19)
	Reclassified to assets held for sale		16	(3)					–	–	(3)
	December 31, 2021			70,923	8,889	2,241	82,053
	Accumulated depreciation
	January 1, 2021			47,563			–	51,685
	Depreciation			3,220			–	3,627
	Retirements and disposals			(1,515)			–	(1,542)
nancial statements	Transfers			(95)			–	96
	Reclassified to assets held for sale		16	(1)					–	–	(1)
	Other			(50)					3	–	(47)
	December 31, 2021			49,122			–	53,818
	Net carrying amount
	January 1, 2021			21,914	3,710	1,889	27,513
Notes to consolidated fi
	December 31, 2021			21,801	4,193	2,241	28,235

	(1) Includes right-of-use assets. See Note 18, Leases, for additional details.

141

		Leases
notE 18
	Right-of-use assetsBCE’s significant right-of-use assets under leases are satellites, office premises, land, cellular tower sites, retail outlets and OOH advertising spaces. Right-of-use assets are presented in Property, plant and equipment in the statements of financial position.
				Network
				infrastructure	Land and
	for the year ended December 31, 2022		and equipment	buildings	Total
	Cost
	January 1, 2022			3,240	3,931	7,171
	Additions			681	336	1,017
	Transfers			(195)	(6)	(201)
	Business combinations/(business disposition)			2	(11)	(9)
	Lease terminations			(35)	(7)	(42)
	Impairment losses recognized in earnings		–	(124)	(124)
	December 31, 2022			3,693	4,119	7,812
	Accumulated depreciation
	January 1, 2022			1,554	1,538	3,092
	Depreciation			374	335	709
	Transfers			(112)	(5)	(117)
	Business disposition			–	(7)	(7)
	Lease terminations			(12)	(3)	(15)
	December 31, 2022			1,804	1,858	3,662
	Net carrying amount
	January 1, 2022			1,686	2,393	4,079
	December 31, 2022			1,889	2,261	4,150
				network
				infrastructure	land and
	for the year ended December 31, 2021		and equipment	buildings	total
	Cost
	January 1, 2021			3,690	2,995	6,685
	Additions			574	214	788
	Transfers			(977)	722	(255)
	Business combinations			–	12	12
	Lease terminations			(47)	(6)	(53)
	Impairment losses recognized in earnings		–	(6)	(6)
	December 31, 2021			3,240	3,931	7,171
	Accumulated depreciation
	January 1, 2021			1,473	1,086	2,559
	Depreciation			419	275	694
nancial statements
	Transfers			(310)	177	(133)
	Lease terminations			(28)			–	(28)
	December 31, 2021			1,554	1,538	3,092
	Net carrying amount
	January 1, 2021			2,217	1,909	4,126
Notes to consolidated fi	December 31, 2021			1,686	2,393	4,079


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	142

	Leases in net earnings
	The following table provides the expenses related to leases recognized in net earnings.
	for the year ended December 31	2022	2021
	Interest expense on lease liabilities	165	177
	Variable lease payment expenses not included in the measurement of lease liabilities	133	122
	Expenses for leases of low value assets	60	60
	Expenses for short-term leases	27	31
	Leases in the statements of cash flows
	Total cash outflow related to leases was $1,272 million and $1,202 million for the period ended December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively.
	Additional disclosuresSee Note 24, Debt due within one year, and Note 25, Long-term debt, for
				See Note 34, Commitments and contingencies, for leases committed
	lease liabilities balances included in the statements of financial position.			but not yet commenced as at December 31, 2022.
	See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for a maturity analysis
	of lease liabilities.
					Intangible assets
	notE 19
						Finite-life	Indefinite-life
										Customer	Program	Spectrum	Total
	for the year ended									relation-	and feature	and other				Broadcast	intangible
	December 31, 2022							note	Software	ships	film rights	Other					Total	Brands	licences						licences	Total	assets
	Cost
	January 1, 2022								9,565	1,736	631	404	12,336						2,409	5,786						1,580	9,775	22,111
	Additions								484	1	1,208	7					1,700	–	44	–												44	1,744
	Acquired through business
	combinations									6	65							–	3							74	26	75	–	101	175
	Transfers								1,087	–							–	–							1,087	–	–	–									–	1,087
	Retirements and disposals								(599)	–							–	(7)							(606)	–	–	–									–	(606)
	Impairment losses
	recognized in earnings							8		–	–	(53)	–					(53)	–	–	(94)												(94)	(147)
	Amortization included in
	operating costs									–	–	(1,183)	–					(1,183)	–	–	–												–	(1,183)
	December 31, 2022								10,543	1,802	603	407	13,355						2,435	5,905						1,486	9,826	23,181
	Accumulated amortization
	January 1, 2022								5,407	969				–	165						6,541	–	–	–											–	6,541
	Amortization								926	91							–	46							1,063	–	–	–									–	1,063
	Retirements and disposals								(599)	–							–	(7)							(606)	–	–	–									–	(606)
nancial statements	December 31, 2022								5,734	1,060				–	204						6,998	–	–	–											–	6,998
	Net carrying amount
	January 1, 2022								4,158	767	631	239					5,795	2,409	5,786						1,580	9,775	15,570
	December 31, 2022								4,809	742	603	203					6,357	2,435	5,905						1,486	9,826	16,183
Notes to consolidated fi


143

		finite-life	Indefinite-life
						Customer	program	Spectrum							total
	for the year ended					relation-	and feature	and other					Broadcast		intangible
	December 31, 2021			Software	ships	film rights			other	total	Brands	licences (1)							licences	total	assets
	Cost
	January 1, 2021				9,169	1,736	645			469	12,019	2,409	3,701							1,730	7,840	19,859
	Additions				361	–			19	1,414	–	2,085										–	2,085	3,499
	Acquired through business
	combinations					–	–										–	52	52	–	–										–	–	52
	Transfers				1,154	–										–	(125)	1,029	–	–										–	–	1,029
	Retirements and disposals				(1,089)	–										–	(11)	(1,100)	–	–										–	–	(1,100)
	Impairment losses
	recognized in earnings			8	(28)	–										–	–	(28)	–	–							(150)	(150)	(178)
	Amortization included in
	operating costs					–	–			–	(1,048)	–	–										–	–	(1,048)
	Reclassified to assets
	held for sale			16	(2)	–										–	–	(2)	–	–										–	–	(2)
	December 31, 2021				9,565	1,736	631			404	12,336	2,409	5,786							1,580	9,775	22,111
	Accumulated amortization
	January 1, 2021				5,644	878						–	235	6,757	–	–										–	–	6,757
	Amortization				851	91										–	40	982	–	–										–	–	982
	Retirements and disposals				(1,087)	–										–	(11)	(1,098)	–	–										–	–	(1,098)
	Transfers					–	–										–	(99)	(99)	–	–										–	–	(99)
	Reclassified to assets
	held for sale			16	(1)	–										–	–	(1)	–	–										–	–	(1)
	December 31, 2021				5,407	969						–	165	6,541	–	–										–	–	6,541
	Net carrying amount
	January 1, 2021				3,525	858	645			234	5,262	2,409	3,701							1,730	7,840	13,102
	December 31, 2021				4,158	767	631			239	5,795	2,409	5,786							1,580	9,775	15,570
	(1) On December 17, 2021, Bell Mobility Inc. (Bell Mobility) acquired 271 licences in a number of urban and rural markets for 678 million megahertz per population (MHz-Pop) of 3500 MHz
	spectrum for $2.07 billion.
													Investments in associates and joint ventures
notE 20
The following tables provide summarized financial information with respect to BCE’s associates and joint ventures. For more details on our
	associates and joint ventures, see Note 35, Related party transactions.
	Statements of financial position
	for the year ended December 31								2022	2021
	Assets										3,857	3,852
	Liabilities										(2,641)	(2,523)
nancial statements	Total net assets										1,216	1,329
	BCE’s share of net assets								608	668
	Income statements
	for the year ended December 31		note						2022	2021
Notes to consolidated fi
	Revenues										2,335	1,855
	Expenses										(2,456)	(2,047)
	Total net losses								(121)	(192)
	BCE’s share of net losses		9						(61)	(95)
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	144

		Other non-current assets
	notE 21
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Long-term wireless device financing plan receivables		386	387
	Long-term receivables			255	221
	Derivative assets		233	274
	Publicly-traded and privately-held investments		215	183
	Investments (1)		184	185
	Other			82	56
	Total other non-current assets			1,355	1,306
	(1) These amounts have been pledged as security related to obligations for certain employee benefits and are not available for general use.
		Goodwil
	notE 22
	The following table provides details about the changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021.
	BCE’s groups of CGUs for purposes of goodwill impairment testing correspond to our reporting segments.
							Bell	Bell
						note	Wireless	Media	BCE
	Balance at January 1, 2021						3,046	2,946	10,604
	Acquisitions and other						–	–	(26)
	Reclassified to assets held for sale					16	–	–	(6)
	Balance at December 31, 2021						3,046	2,946	10,572
	Acquisitions and other					4	–	–	334
	Balance at December 31, 2022						3,046	2,946	10,906
	Impairment testingAs described in Note 2, Significant accounting policies, goodwill is tested
						The discount rates are applied to the cash flow projections and are
	annually for impairment or when there is an indication that goodwill may be impaired, by comparing the carrying value of a CGU or group of CGUs to the recoverable amount, where the recoverable amount is the higher of fair value less costs of disposal or value in use.					derived from the weighted average cost of capital for each CGU or group of CGUs, including any impact from rising interest rates.
						The following table shows the key assumptions used to estimate the
						recoverable amounts of our groups of CGUs.
	Recoverable amount
				Assumptions used
	The recoverable amount for each of the Bell Wireless and Bell Wireline			perpetuity	Discount
						growth rate	rate
	group of CGUs is its value in use. The recoverable amount for the Bell Media group of CGUs is its fair value less costs of disposal.
						0.8%	9.1%
						1.0%	6.0%
	The recoverable amount for our groups of CGUs is determined by					0.9%	9.6%
	discounting five-year cash flow projections derived from business plans reviewed by senior management. The projections reflect management’s expectations of revenue, adjusted EBITDA, capital expenditures, working capital and operating cash flows, based on past experience and future expectations of operating performance, including any impact from rising interest rates and inflation. Revenue and cost projections for the Bell Media group of CGUs also reflect market participant assumptions.
nancial statements						The recoverable amounts determined in a prior year for the Bell Wireless
						and Bell Wireline groups of CGUs exceed their corresponding current carrying values by a substantial margin and have been carried forward and used in the impairment test for the current year. We believe that any reasonable possible change in the key assumptions on which the estimates of recoverable amounts of the Bell Wireless and Bell Wireline groups of CGUs are based would not cause their carrying amounts to exceed their recoverable amounts.
	Cash flows beyond the five-year period are extrapolated using perpetuity growth rates. None of the perpetuity growth rates exceeds the long-term historical growth rates for the markets in which we operate.
Notes to consolidated fi
						For the Bell Media group of CGUs, a decrease of (0.9%) in the perpetuity growth rate or an increase of 0.6% in the discount rate would have resulted in its recoverable amount being equal to its carrying value.

145

		Trade payables and other liabilities
notE 23
	for the year ended December 31		2022	2021
	Trade payables and accruals			3,602	2,931
	Compensation payable			607	622
	Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment Ltd. (MLSE) financial liability (1)		149	149
	Commodity taxes payable			108	31
	Derivative liabilities		106	40
	Provisions		74	81
	Other current liabilities (2)			575	601
	Total trade payables and other liabilities			5,221	4,455
	(1) Represents BCE’s obligation to repurchase the BCE Master Trust Fund’s (Master Trust Fund) 9% interest in MLSE at a price not less than an agreed minimum price should the Master Trust
	Fund exercise its put option. The obligation to repurchase is marked to market each reporting period and the gain or loss is recorded in Other (expense) income in the income statements.
	Subsequent to year end, BCE repurchased the Master Trust Fund’s interest for a cash consideration of $149 million.
	(2) Includes a $28 million and $82 million liability as at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, related to committed funding from the Government of Québec.
		Debt due within one year
notE 24
							Weighted average
							interest rate at
	for the year ended December 31					note	2022	2021
	Notes payable (1)					29	869	735
	Loans secured by receivables (2)					29	1,588	900
	Long-term debt due within one year (3)					25	1,680	990
	Total debt due within one year			4,137	2,625
	(1) Includes commercial paper of $627 million in U.S. dollars ($849 million in Canadian dollars) and $561 million in U.S. dollars ($711 million in Canadian dollars) as at December 31, 2022 and
	December 31, 2021, respectively, which were issued under our U.S. commercial paper program and have been hedged for foreign currency fluctuations through forward currency contracts.
	See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for additional details.
	(2) At December 31, 2022, loans secured by receivables totaled $1,173 million in U.S. dollars ($1,588 million in Canadian dollars) and have been hedged for foreign currency fluctuations through
	foreign currency forward contracts. At December 31, 2021, loans secured by receivables totaled $900 million in Canadian dollars. See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for
	additional details.
	(3) Included in long-term debt due within one year is the current portion of lease liabilities of $930 million and $864 million as at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively.
	Securitized receivables
	In 2022, we entered into a new securitization program which replaced our previous securitized trade receivables program and now includes wireless device financing plan receivables. As a result, the maximum amount available under our securitization program increased from									Similar to the previous program, the securitization program is recorded
										as a floating rate revolving loan secured by certain receivables. We continue to service trade receivables and wireless device financing plan receivables under the securitization program, which matures in July 2025 unless previously terminated. The lenders’ interest in the collection of these receivables ranks ahead of our interests, which means that we are exposed to certain risks of default on the amounts securitized.
	$1.3 billion at December 31, 2021 to $2.3 billion at December 31, 2022.
The following table provides further details on our securitized receivables
	programs during 2022 and 2021.
										We have provided various credit enhancements in the form of overcollateralization and subordination of our retained interests.
	for the year ended December 31							2022	2021
nancial statements	Average interest rate
	throughout the year							1.07%	The lenders have no further claim on our other assets if customers do
	Securitized receivables							1,701	not pay the amounts owed.
										In 2021, we terminated our other securitized trade receivables program and repaid the $150 million balance outstanding under the program.
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	146

	Credit facilitiesBell Canada may issue notes under its Canadian and U.S. commercial paper programs up to the maximum aggregate principal amount of $3 billion in either Canadian or U.S. currency provided that at no time shall such maximum amount of notes exceed $3.5 billion in Canadian
	currency, which equals the aggregate amount available under Bell Canada’s committed supporting revolving and expansion credit facilities as at December 31, 2022. The total amount of the net available committed revolving and expansion credit facilities may be drawn at any time.
	The table below is a summary of our total bank credit facilities at December 31, 2022.
					Commercial
		Total		Letters of	paper	Net
		available	Drawn	credit	outstanding	available
	Committed credit facilitiesUnsecured revolving and expansion credit facilities (1) (2)
		3,500	–				–	849	2,651
	Unsecured non-revolving credit facilities (3)	647	–				–	–	647
	Other	106	–	96				–	10
	Total committed credit facilities	4,253	–	96	849	3,308
	Total non-committed credit facilities	1,939	–	808				–	1,131
	Total committed and non-committed credit facilities	6,192	–	904	849	4,439
	(1) Bell Canada’s $2.5 billion committed revolving credit facility expires in August 2027 and its $1 billion committed expansion credit facility expires in August 2025. In 2022, Bell Canada converted
	its committed credit facilities into a sustainability-linked loan. The amendment introduces a borrowing cost that varies based on Bell’s performance of certain sustainability performance
	targets.
	(2) As of December 31, 2022, Bell Canada’s outstanding commercial paper included $627 million in U.S. dollars ($849 million in Canadian dollars). All of Bell Canada’s commercial paper outstanding
	is included in Debt due within one year.
	(3) In 2022, Bell Canada entered into two 30-year senior unsecured non-revolving credit facilities in the aggregate principal amount of up to $647 million to partly fund the expansion of its
	broadband networks as part of government subsidy programs.
	RestrictionsSome of our credit agreements:
	• require us to meet specific financial ratios• require us to offer to repay and cancel the credit agreement upon a change of control of BCE or Bell Canada
	We are in compliance with all conditions and restrictions under such credit agreements.
									Long-term debt
	notE 25
										Weighted average
										interest rate at
	for the year ended December 31	note								December 31, 2022	Maturity	2022	2021
	Debt securities
	1997 trust indenture (1)		3.82%	2023–2051	16,747	16,750
	1976 trust indenture		9.38%	2027–2054	975	975
	2011 trust indenture		4.00%	2024	225	225
	2016 U.S. trust indenture (2)		3.32%	2024–2052	6,525	5,188
	1996 trust indenture (subordinated)		8.21%	2026–2031	275	275
	Lease liabilities		4.53%	2023–2068	4,402	4,309
nancial statements
	Other				449	438
	Total debt				29,598	28,160
	Net unamortized discount							(34)	(26)
	Unamortized debt issuance costs				(101)	(96)
	Less:
Notes to consolidated fiAmount due within one year	24			(1,680)	(990)
	Total long-term debt				27,783	27,048
	(1) At December 31, 2022, $500 million has been swapped from fixed to floating using interest rate swaps. See Note 29, Financial and capital management for additional details.(2) At December 31, 2022 and 2021, notes issued under the 2016 U.S. trust indenture totaled $4,850 million and $4,100 million in U.S. dollars, respectively, and have been hedged for foreign
	currency fluctuations through cross currency interest rate swaps, including $600 million in U.S. dollars which has been swapped from fixed to floating. See Note 29, Financial and capital
	management, for additional details.
	Bell Canada’s debt securities have been issued in Canadian dollars with the exception of debt securities issued under the 2016 U.S. trust indenture, which have been issued in U.S. dollars. All debt securities were issued at a fixed interest rate. We have entered into interest rate swaps and cross currency interest rate swaps as disclosed above.
147

	RestrictionsSome of our debt agreements:
• impose covenants and new issue tests• require us to make an offer to repurchase certain series of debt securities upon the occurrence of a change of control event as defined in the
	relevant debt agreements
	We are in compliance with all conditions and restrictions under such debt agreements.
	In Q4 2021, Bell Canada successfully completed a proxy solicitation and obtained the necessary approval from debenture holders to make certain amendments under its 1976 trust indenture, including the deletion of covenants that required Bell Canada to meet certain financial ratio tests when issuing long-term debt.
	All outstanding debt securities have been issued under trust indentures, are unsecured and have been guaranteed by BCE. All debt securities
	have been issued in series and certain series are redeemable at Bell Canada’s option prior to maturity at the prices, times and conditions specified for each series.
	2022On November 10, 2022, Bell Canada issued, under its 1997 trust indenture, 5.85% Series M-57 medium-term note (MTN) Debentures, with a principal
		On February 11, 2022, Bell Canada issued, under its 2016 trust indenture,
		3.65% Series US-7 Notes, with a principal amount of $750 million in U.S.
	amount of $1 billion, which mature on November 10, 2032.	dollars ($954 million in Canadian dollars), which mature on August 15,
		2052. The Series US-7 Notes have been hedged for foreign currency fluctuations through cross currency interest rate swaps. See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for additional details.
	On March 16, 2022, Bell Canada redeemed, prior to maturity, its 3.35% Series M-26 MTN debentures, having an outstanding principal amount of $1 billion, which were due on March 22, 2023. As a result, for the year ended December 31, 2022, we recognized early debt redemption charges of $18 million, which were recorded in Other (expense) income in the income statement.
		Subsequent to year end, on February 9, 2023, Bell Canada issued, under
		its 1997 trust indenture, 4.55% Series M-58 MTN debentures, with a principal amount of $1,050 million, which mature on February 9, 2030.
		Additionally, on the same date, Bell Canada issued, under its 1997 trust
		indenture, 5.15% Series M-59 MTN Debentures, with a principal amount of $450 million, which mature on February 9, 2053.
	2021On August 12, 2021, Bell Canada issued, under its 2016 trust indenture, 2.15% Series US-5 Notes, with a principal amount of $600 million
		On March 17, 2021, Bell Canada issued, under its 1997 trust indenture,
		3.00% Series M-54 MTN debentures, with a principal amount of $1 billion,
	in U.S. dollars ($755 million in Canadian dollars), which mature on February 15, 2032, and 3.20% Series US-6 Notes, with a principal amount of $650 million in U.S. dollars ($818 million in Canadian dollars), which mature on February 15, 2052.	which mature on March 17, 2031, and 4.05% Series M-55 MTN debentures, with a principal amount of $550 million, which mature on March 17, 2051.
		Additionally, on March 17, 2021, Bell Canada issued, under its 2016
		trust indenture, 0.75% Series US-3 Notes, with a principal amount of
	On May 28, 2021, Bell Canada issued, under its 1997 trust indenture, 2.20% Series M-56 MTN debentures, with a principal amount of $500 million, which mature on May 29, 2028. This issue constitutes Bell Canada’s first sustainability bond offering.	$600 million in U.S. dollars ($747 million in Canadian dollars), which mature on March 17, 2024, and 3.65% Series US-4 Notes, with a principal amount of $500 million in U.S. dollars ($623 million in Canadian dollars), which mature on March 17, 2051.
	On April 19, 2021, Bell Canada redeemed, prior to maturity, its 3.00% Series M-40 MTN debentures, having an outstanding principal amount of $1.7 billion, which were due on October 3, 2022.	The Series US-3, Series US-4, Series US-5 and Series US-6 Notes
		(collectively, the Notes) have been hedged for foreign currency fluctuations through cross currency interest rate swaps. See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for additional details.
nancial statements
		For the year ended December 31, 2021, we recognized early debt redemption costs of $53 million, which were recorded in Other (expense) income in the income statement.
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	148

		Provisions
	notE 26
	for the year ended December 31		AROs	Other (1)	Total
	January 1, 2022			182	226	408
	Additions			12	38	50
	Usage			(4)	(38)	(42)
	Reversals			(25)	(29)	(54)
	December 31, 2022			165	197	362
	Current		28	46	74
	Non-current		137	151	288
	December 31, 2022			165	197	362
	(1) Other includes environmental, legal, vacant space and other provisions.
	AROs reflect management’s best estimates of expected future costs to restore current leased premises to their original condition prior to lease
	inception. Cash outflows associated with our ARO liabilities are generally expected to occur at the restoration dates of the assets to which they relate, which are long-term in nature. The timing and extent of restoration work that will be ultimately required for these sites is uncertain.
		Post-employment benefit plans
	notE 27
	Post-employment benefit plans costWe provide pension and other benefits for most of our employees. These
							options offered to plan participants, lies with the Risk and Pension Fund Committee, a committee of our board of directors.
	include DB pension plans, DC pension plans and OPEBs.
	We operate our DB and DC pension plans under applicable Canadian and provincial pension legislation, which prescribes minimum and maximum DB funding requirements. Plan assets are held in trust, and the oversight of governance of the plans, including investment decisions, contributions to DB plans and the selection of the DC plans investment						The interest rate risk is managed using a liability matching approach,
							which reduces the exposure of the DB plans to a mismatch between investment growth and obligation growth.
							The longevity risk is managed using a longevity swap, which reduces
							the exposure of the DB plans to an increase in life expectancy.
	Components of post-employment benefit plans service cost
	for the year ended December 31				2022	2021
	DB pension				(193)	(223)
	DC pension				(118)	(113)
	OPEBs				(2)	(2)
	Less:
	Capitalized benefit plans cost				64	72
	Total post-employment benefit plans service cost				(249)	(266)
	Components of post-employment benefit plans financing income (cost)
nancial statements	for the year ended December 31				2022	2021
	DB pension				84	11
	OPEBs				(33)	(31)
	Total net return (interest) on post-employment benefit plans				51	(20)
	The statements of comprehensive income include the following amounts before income taxes.
Notes to consolidated fi
					2022	2021

	Cumulative gains (losses) recognized directly in equity, January 1				419	(2,014)
	Actuarial gains in other comprehensive income (1)				894	3,020
	Increase in the effect of the asset limit in other comprehensive income (2)				(328)	(587)
	Cumulative gains recognized directly in equity, December 31				985	419
	(1) The cumulative actuarial gains recognized in the statement of comprehensive income are $1,699 million at December 31, 2022.(2) The cumulative increase in the effect of the asset limit recognized in the statement of comprehensive income is $714 million at December 31, 2022.
149

	Components of post-employment benefit assets (obligations)
The following table shows the change in post-employment benefit obligations and the fair value of plan assets.
		DB pension plans	opEB plans	total
		2022			2021	2022	2021	2022			2021
	Post-employment benefit obligations, January 1	(24,544)			(27,149)	(1,457)	(1,600)		(26,001)	(28,749)
	Current service cost	(193)			(223)	(2)	(2)	(195)			(225)
	Interest on obligations	(770)			(697)	(44)	(39)	(814)			(736)
	Actuarial gains (1)	4,856			2,137	294	113	5,150			2,250
	Benefit payments	1,366			1,396	70	71	1,436			1,467
	Employee contributions	(9)			(9)	–	–	(9)			(9)
	Other	(1)			1	1	–	–			1
	Post-employment benefit obligations, December 31	(19,295)			(24,544)	(1,138)	(1,457)		(20,433)	(26,001)
	Fair value of plan assets, January 1	28,040			27,785	351	344	28,391			28,129
	Expected return on plan assets (2)	875			708	11	8	886			716
	Actuarial (losses) gains (1)	(4,227)			766	(29)	4	(4,256)			770
	Benefit payments	(1,366)			(1,396)	(70)	(71)	(1,436)			(1,467)
	Employer contributions	81			168	64	65	145			233
	Employee contributions	9			9	–	–	9			9
	Transfers to DC plans	(57)			–	–	–	(57)			–
	Other	–			–	–	1	–			1
	Fair value of plan assets, December 31	23,355			28,040	327	351	23,682			28,391
	Plan asset (deficit)	4,060			3,496	(811)	(1,106)	3,249			2,390
	Effect of asset limit	(980)			(652)	–	–	(980)			(652)
	Interest on effect of asset limit	(21)			–	–	–	(21)			–
	Post-employment benefit asset (liability), December 31	3,059			2,844	(811)	(1,106)	2,248			1,738
	Post-employment benefit assets	3,559			3,472	–	–	3,559			3,472
	Post-employment benefit obligations	(500)			(628)	(811)	(1,106)	(1,311)			(1,734)
	(1) Actuarial (losses) gains include experience losses of ($4,729) million in 2022 and gains of $907 million in 2021.(2) The actual (loss) return on plan assets was ($3,370) million or (11.6%) in 2022 and $1,486 million or 5.7% in 2021.
	Funded status of post-employment benefit plans
The following table shows the funded status of our post-employment benefit obligations.
							funded	partially funded (1)	unfunded (2)	total
	for the year ended December 31						2022	2021	2022			2021	2022	2021	2022			2021
	Present value of post-employment
	benefit obligations						(18,741)	(23,872)	(1,461)			(1,840)	(231)	(289)		(20,433)	(26,001)
	Fair value of plan assets						23,291	27,979	391			412	–	–	23,682			28,391
	Plan surplus (deficit)						4,550	4,107	(1,070)			(1,428)	(231)	(289)	3,249			2,390
	Effect of asset limit						(1,001)	(652)	–			–	–	–	(1,001)			(652)
nancial statements	Post-employment benefit asset (liability)						3,549	3,455	(1,070)			(1,428)	(231)	(289)	2,248			1,738
	(1) The partially funded plans consist of supplementary executive retirement plans (SERPs) for eligible employees and certain OPEBs. The company partially funds the SERPs through letters
	of credit and a retirement compensation arrangement account with Canada Revenue Agency. Certain paid-up life insurance benefits are funded through life insurance contracts.
	(2) Our unfunded plans consist of certain OPEBs, which are paid as claims are incurred.
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	150

Significant assumptionsWe used the following key assumptions to measure the post-employment benefit obligations and the net benefit plans cost for the DB pension plans and OPEB plans. These assumptions are long-term, which is consistent with the nature of post-employment benefit plans.

DB pension plans and opEB plans

for the year ended December 31

2022

2021

Post-employment benefit obligations

Discount rate

5.3%

3.2%

Rate of compensation increase

2.25%

Cost of living indexation rate (1)

1.6%

Life expectancy at age 65 (years)

23.3

(1) Cost of living indexation rate is only applicable to DB pension plans.

DB pension plans and opEB plans

for the year ended December 31

2022

2021

Net post-employment benefit plans cost

Discount rate

3.4%

2.9%

Rate of compensation increase

2.25%

Cost of living indexation rate (1)

1.6%

Life expectancy at age 65 (years)

23.3

23.2

(1) Cost of living indexation rate is only applicable to DB pension plans.

The weighted average duration of the post-employment benefit

Assumed trend rates in healthcare costs have a significant effect on

obligation is 11 years.

the amounts reported for the healthcare plans.

We assumed the following trend rates in healthcare costs:

The following table shows the effect of a 1% change in the assumed

• an annual increase in the cost of medication of 6.5% for 2022

trend rates in healthcare costs.

decreasing to 4.0% over 20 years

Effect on post-employment benefits –

• an annual increase in the cost of covered dental benefits of 4%• an annual increase in the cost of covered hospital benefits of 3.7%• an annual increase in the cost of other covered healthcare benefits

increase/(decrease)

1% increase

1% decrease

Total service and interest cost

(3)

Post-employment benefit obligations

(65)

of 4%

Sensitivity analysis

The following table shows a sensitivity analysis of key assumptions used to measure the net post-employment benefit obligations and the net

post-employment benefit plans cost for our DB pension plans and OPEB plans.

Impact on net post-employment

Impact on post-employment benefit

benefit plans cost for 2022 –

obligations at December 31, 2022 –

increase/(decrease)

Change in

Increase in

Decrease in

Increase in

Decrease in

assumption

Discount rate

0.5%

(83)

(1,022)

1,123

Cost of living indexation rate

0.5%

(38)

907

(752)

Life expectancy at age 65

1 year

(31)

612

(634)

nancial statements

Post-employment benefit plan assets

The investment strategy for the post-employment benefit plan assets is to maintain a diversified portfolio of assets invested in a prudent manner

to maintain the security of benefits.

The following table shows the target allocations for 2022 and the allocation of our post-employment benefit plan assets at December 31, 2022

and 2021.

Notes to consolidated fiWeighted average

target allocation

total plan assets fair value

Asset category

2022

December 31, 2022

December 31, 2021

Equity securities

0%–40%

15%

16%

Debt securities (1)

50%–100%

52%

61%

Alternative investments (1)

0%–50%

33%

23%

Total

100%

(1) We have reclassified amounts from the previous period to make them consistent with the presentation for the current period.

151

The following table shows the fair value of the DB pension plan assets for each category.
	for the year ended December 31	2022	2021
	Observable markets data
	Equity securities
				Canadian	824	952
				Foreign	2,555	3,436
	Debt securities
				Canadian	9,904	13,643
				Foreign (1)	1,537	2,033
				Money market	739	1,466
	Non-observable markets inputs
	Alternative investments
				Private equities (1)	1,017	976
				Hedge funds	1,374	1,208
				Real estate and infrastructure (1)	4,297	3,576
				Private debt (1)	1,048	695
				Other	60	55
	Total	23,355	28,040
	(1) We have reclassified amounts from the previous period to make them consistent with the presentation for the current period.
	Equity securities included approximately $11 million of BCE common shares, or 0.05% of total plan assets, at December 31, 2022 and $3 million of BCE common shares, or 0.01% of total plan assets, at December 31, 2021.				The Bell Canada pension plan has an investment arrangement which
					hedges part of its exposure to potential increases in longevity, which covers approximately $4 billion of post-employment benefit obligations.
					The fair value of the arrangement is included within other alternative
					investments.
	Debt securities included approximately $85 million of Bell Canada debentures, or 0.40% of total plan assets, at December 31, 2022 and approximately $85 million of Bell Canada debentures, or 0.30% of total plan assets, at December 31, 2021.
					Cash flowsWe are responsible for adequately funding our DB pension plans. We make contributions to them based on various actuarial cost methods that are permitted by pension regulatory authorities. Contributions reflect actuarial assumptions about future investment returns, salary projections and future service benefits. Changes in these factors could cause actual future contributions to differ from our current estimates and could require us to increase contributions to our post-employment benefit plans in the future, which could have a negative effect on our liquidity and financial performance.
	Alternative investments included an investment in MLSE of $149 million,
	or 0.64% of total plan assets, at December 31, 2022 and $149 million, or 0.53% of total plan assets, at December 31, 2021. Subsequent to year end, BCE repurchased the Master Trust Fund’s interest for a cash consideration of $149 million.
					We contribute to the DC pension plans as employees provide service.
The following table shows the amounts we contributed to the DB and DC pension plans and the payments made to beneficiaries under OPEB plans.
						DB plans	DC plans	opEB plans
	for the year ended December 31					2022	2021		2022	2021	2022	2021
	Contributions/payments					(81)	(168)		(59)	(114)	(64)	(65)
nancial statements
	We expect to contribute approximately $50 million to our DB pension plans in 2023, subject to actuarial valuations being completed. We expect to contribute approximately $10 million to the DC pension plans and to pay approximately $75 million to beneficiaries under OPEB plans in 2023.
									Other non-current liabilities
notE 28
Notes to consolidated fi
	for the year ended December 31							note	2022	2021

	Provisions							26	288	327
	Long-term disability benefits obligation	260	327
	Derivative liabilities							29	191	43
	Other	331	306
	Total other non-current liabilities	1,070	1,003
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	152

Financial and capital management

notE 29

Financial managementManagement’s objectives are to protect BCE and its subsidiaries on a

Certain fair value estimates are affected by assumptions we make about the amount and timing of future cash flows and discount rates, all of which reflect varying degrees of risk. Income taxes and other expenses that may be incurred on disposition of financial instruments are not reflected in the fair values. As a result, the fair values may not be the net amounts that would be realized if these instruments were settled.

consolidated basis against material economic exposures and variability of results from various financial risks, including credit risk, liquidity risk, foreign currency risk, interest rate risk, commodity price risk and equity price risk.

DerivativesWe use derivative instruments to manage our exposure to foreign currency risk, interest rate risk, commodity price risk and changes in the price of BCE common shares.

The carrying values of our cash and cash equivalents, trade and

other receivables, dividends payable, trade payables and accruals, compensation payable, interest payable, notes payable and loans secured by receivables approximate fair value as they are short-term.

Fair valueFair value is the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

The carrying value of wireless device financing plan receivables

approximates fair value given that their average remaining duration is short and the carrying value is reduced by an allowance for doubtful accounts and an allowance for revenue adjustments.

The following table provides the fair value details of other financial instruments measured at amortized cost in the statements of financial position.

December 31, 2022

December 31, 2021

Carrying

Fair

Carrying

fair

Classification

fair value methodology

note

value

Debt securities and other debt

Debt due within one year and long-term debt

Quoted market price of debt

24, 25

25,061

23,026

23,729

26,354

The following table provides the fair value details of financial instruments measured at fair value in the statements of financial position.

fair value

Quoted prices in

active markets for

observable

non-observable

Carrying value of

identical assets

market data

market inputs

Classification

note

asset (liability)

(level 1)

(level 2) (1)

(level 3) (2)

December 31, 2022

Publicly-traded and privately-held investments (3)

Other non-current assets

215

–

206

Derivative financial instruments

Other current assets, trade payables and other liabilities, other non-current assets and liabilities

–

MLSE financial liability (4)

Trade payables and other liabilities

(149)

–

(149)

Other

Other non-current assets and liabilities

108

–

184

(76)

December 31, 2021

Publicly-traded and privately-held investments (3)

Other non-current assets

183

–

159

nancial statements

Derivative financial instruments

Other current assets, trade payables and other liabilities, other non-current assets and liabilities

279

–

279

–

MLSE financial liability (4)

Trade payables and other liabilities

(149)

–

(149)

Other

Other non-current assets and liabilities

122

–

185

(63)

Notes to consolidated fi

(1) Observable market data such as equity prices, interest rates, swap rate curves and foreign currency exchange rates.(2) Non-observable market inputs such as discounted cash flows and earnings multiples. A reasonable change in our assumptions would not result in a significant increase (decrease) to our

level 3 financial instruments.

(3) Unrealized gains and losses are recorded in Other comprehensive income in the statements of comprehensive income and are reclassified from Accumulated other comprehensive (loss)

income to the deficit in the statements of financial position when realized.

(4) Represents BCE’s obligation to repurchase the Master Trust Fund’s 9% interest in MLSE at a price not less than an agreed minimum price, should the Master Trust Fund exercise its put

option. The obligation to repurchase is marked to market each reporting period and the gain or loss is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements. Subsequent to year

end, BCE repurchased the Master Trust Fund’s interest for a cash consideration of $149 million.

153

	Credit riskWe are exposed to credit risk from operating activities and certain financing activities, the maximum exposure of which is represented by the carrying amounts reported in the statements of financial position.
		and diverse customer base. There was minimal credit risk relating to derivative instruments at December 31, 2022 and 2021. We deal with institutions that have investment-grade credit ratings and we expect that they will be able to meet their obligations. We regularly monitor our credit risk and credit exposure, and consider, among other factors, the effects of rising interest rates and inflation.
	We are exposed to credit risk if counterparties to our trade receivables, including wireless device financing plan receivables, and derivative instruments are unable to meet their obligations. The concentration of credit risk from our customers is minimized because we have a large
The following table provides the change in allowance for doubtful accounts for trade receivables, including the current portion of wireless
	device financing plan receivables.
			2022	2021
	Balance, January 1			(136)	(149)
	Additions			(109)	(83)
	Usage and reversals			116	96
	Balance, December 31		(129)	(136)
	In many instances, trade receivables are written off directly to bad debt expense if the account has not been collected after a predetermined period of time.
The following table provides further details on trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts.
	At December 31			2022	2021
	Trade receivables not past due			3,215	2,958
	Trade receivables past due
	Under 60 days			434	420
	60 to 120 days			253	284
	Over 120 days			71	45
	Trade receivables, net of allowance for doubtful accounts			3,973	3,707
The following table provides the change in allowance for doubtful accounts for contract assets.
			2022	2021
	Balance, January 1			(20)	(59)
	Additions			(20)	(9)
	Usage and reversals			21	48
	Balance, December 31			(19)	(20)
	Current			(7)	(6)
	Non-current			(12)	(14)
	Balance, December 31		(19)	(20)
nancial statements
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	154

	Liquidity riskOur cash and cash equivalents, cash flows from operations and possible capital markets financing are expected to be sufficient to fund our operations and fulfill our obligations as they become due. Should our cash requirements exceed the above sources of cash, we would expect to cover such a shortfall by drawing on existing committed bank facilities and new ones, to the extent available.
	The following table is a maturity analysis for recognized financial liabilities at December 31, 2022 for each of the next five years and thereafter.
	At December 31, 2022	2023	2024	2025	2026	2027	thereafter	total
	Long-term debt	750	2,103	2,174	1,582	1,724	16,863	25,196
	Notes payable	24	869	–	–	–			–	869
	Lease liabilities (1)	1,111	923	561	515	320	1,932	5,362
	Loan secured by receivables	24	1,588	–	–	–			–	1,588
	Interest payable on long-term debt, notes payable
	and loan secured by receivables		1,100	931	877	825	787	9,833	14,353
	Net payments (receipts) on cross currency
	interest rate swaps		36	(45)	5	4	4	(141)	(137)
	MLSE financial liability (2)	23	149	–	–	–			–	149
	Total		5,603	3,912	3,617	2,926	2,835	28,487	47,380
	(1) Includes imputed interest of $960 million.(2) Represents BCE’s obligation to repurchase the Master Trust Fund’s 9% interest in MLSE at a price not less than an agreed minimum price, should the Master Trust Fund exercise its put
	option. The obligation to repurchase is marked to market each reporting period and the gain or loss is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements. Subsequent to year
	end, BCE repurchased the Master Trust Fund’s interest for a cash consideration of $149 million.
	We are also exposed to liquidity risk for financial liabilities due within one year as shown in the statements of financial position.
	Market riskCurrency exposuresWe use forward contracts, options and cross currency interest rate swaps to manage foreign currency risk related to anticipated purchases and certain foreign currency debt.
				At December 31, 2021, we had entered into cross currency interest rate swaps with a total notional amount of $3,500 million in U.S. dollars
				($4,511 million in Canadian dollars) to hedge the U.S. currency exposure of our U.S. Notes maturing from 2032 to 2052. See Note 25, Long-term debt, for additional details.
	In 2022, we entered into cross currency interest rate swaps with a total notional amount of $750 million in U.S. dollars ($954 million in Canadian dol ars) to hedge the U.S. currency exposure of our US-7 Notes maturing in 2052. In connection with these swaps, we settled the forward starting interest rate swaps and cross currency basis rate swaps entered into in
				A 10% depreciation (appreciation) in the value of the Canadian dollar
				relative to the U.S. dollar would result in a loss of $10 million (loss of $17 million) recognized in net earnings at December 31, 2022 and a gain of $114 million (loss of $105 million) recognized in Other comprehensive income at December 31, 2022, with all other variables held constant.
	2021, each of which had a notional amount of $127 million. See Note 25, Long-term debt, for additional details.
				A 10% depreciation (appreciation) in the value of the Canadian dollar
				relative to the Philippine peso would result in a gain (loss) of $4 million recognized in Other comprehensive income at December 31, 2022, with all other variables held constant.
	The following table provides further details on our outstanding foreign currency forward contracts and options as at December 31, 2022.
	type of hedge										Buy currency	Amount to receive									Sell currency	Amount to pay	Maturity	Hedged item
	Cash flow (1)												USD		CAD	1,607		2023		Loans
	Cash flow												USD	632	CAD	852		2023	Commercial paper
nancial statements
	Cash flow												USD	796	CAD	989		2023	Anticipated purchases
	Cash flow												2,147		CAD		50	2023	Anticipated purchases
	Cash flow												USD	643	CAD	810		2024	Anticipated purchases
	Economic												USD	156	CAD	196		2023	Anticipated purchases
	Economic – call options												CAD	225	USD	156		2023	Anticipated purchases
	Economic – put options												USD	156	CAD	196		2023	Anticipated purchases
Notes to consolidated fi	Economic – call options												CAD	225	USD	156		2024	Anticipated purchases
	Economic – put options												USD	156	CAD	195		2024	Anticipated purchases
	Economic – options (2)												USD	120	CAD	153		2024	Anticipated purchases

	(1) Forward contracts to hedge loans secured by receivables under our securitization program. See Note 24, Debt due within one year, for additional information.(2) Foreign currency options with a leverage provision and a profit cap limitation.
155

	Interest rate exposuresIn 2022, we sold interest rate swaptions with a notional amount of $1,000 million for $9 million to hedge economically the fair value of our Series M-53 MTN debentures. Swaptions of a notional amount of $500 million were exercised at a loss of $7 million and the remaining swaptions matured unexercised. The resulting interest rate swaps of a notional amount of $500 million mature in 2027 and have been designated to hedge the fair value of our Series M-53 MTN debentures.	liabilities in the statements of financial position. A gain of $1 million and
		$15 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively, relating to these leveraged interest rate options is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements.
		A 1% increase (decrease) in interest rates would result in a loss of $24 million (gain of $23 million) recognized in net earnings at December 31, 2022, with all other variables held constant.
		A 0.1% increase (decrease) in cross currency basis swap rates would
The fair value of these interest rate swaps at December 31, 2022 is a
		result in a gain (loss) of $9 million recognized in net earnings at December 31, 2022, with all other variables held constant.
	liability of $14 million recognized in Trade payables and other liabilities and Other non-current liabilities in the statements of financial position.
		Equity price exposuresWe use equity forward contracts on BCE’s common shares to hedge economically the cash flow exposure related to the settlement of equity settled share-based compensation plans. See Note 31, Share-based payments, for details on our share-based payment arrangements.
	In 2022, we entered into cross currency basis rate swaps maturing in 2023 with a notional amount of $638 million to hedge economically the basis rate exposure on future debt issuances. The fair value of these cross currency basis rate swaps at December 31, 2022 is a liability of
	$33 million recognized in Trade payables and other liabilities in the statements of financial position.
		The fair value of our equity forward contracts at December 31, 2022
		and December 31, 2021 was a net liability of $48 million and a net asset of $130 million, respectively, recognized in Other current assets,
	In 2021, we entered into cross currency interest rate swaps with a notional amount of $600 million in U.S. dollars ($748 million in Canadian dollars) to hedge the interest exposure of our U.S. Notes maturing in
		Trade payables and other liabilities, Other non-current assets and
		Other non-current liabilities in the statements of financial position. A loss of $53 million and a gain of $278 million for the year ended December 31, 2022 and 2021, respectively, relating to these equity
	2024. See Note 25, Long-term debt, for additional details.
	We use leveraged interest rate options to hedge economically the dividend rate resets on $582 million of our preferred shares which had varying reset dates in 2021 for the periods ending in 2026. The fair value of these leveraged interest rate options at December 31, 2022 and December 31, 2021 was a liability of $1 million and $2 million, respectively, recognized in Trade payables and other liabilities and Other non-current
		forward contracts is recognized in Other (expense) income in the income statements.
		A 5% increase (decrease) in the market price of BCE’s common shares would result in a gain (loss) of $33 million recognized in net earnings at
		December 31, 2022, with all other variables held constant.
	Capital managementWe have various capital policies, procedures and processes which are
		The following table provides a summary of our key ratios.
	utilized to achieve our objectives for capital management. These include optimizing our cost of capital and maximizing shareholder return while balancing the interests of our stakeholders.
		At December 31	2022	2021
		Net debt leverage ratio	3.30	3.17
		Adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net
	Our definition of capital includes equity attributable to BCE shareholders, debt, and cash and cash equivalents.	interest expense ratio	8.50	8.77
The key ratios that we use to monitor and manage our capital structure		On February 1, 2023, the board of directors of BCE approved an increase of 5.2% in the annual dividend on BCE’s common shares, from $3.68 to $3.87 per common share.
	are a net debt leverage ratio (1) and an adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest expense ratio (2). In 2022 and 2021, our net debt leverage ratio target range was 2.0 to 2.5 times adjusted EBITDA and our adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest expense ratio target was greater than
		On February 2, 2022, the board of directors of BCE approved an increase of 5.1% in the annual dividend on BCE’s common shares, from $3.50 to $3.68 per common share.
7.5 times. At December 31, 2022, we had exceeded the limit of our internal
nancial statements	net debt leverage ratio target range by 0.80.
		In Q4 2022, BCE renewed its normal course issuer bid program (NCIB) with respect to its First Preferred Shares. See Note 30, Share capital, for additional details.
	We use, and believe that certain investors and analysts use, our net debt leverage ratio and adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest expense ratio as measures of financial leverage and health of the company.
Notes to consolidated fi


	(1) Our net debt leverage ratio represents net debt divided by adjusted EBITDA. We define net debt as debt due within one year plus long-term debt and 50% of preferred shares, less cash
	and cash equivalents, as shown in our statements of financial position. For the purposes of calculating our net debt leverage ratio, adjusted EBITDA is twelve-month trailing adjusted EBITDA.
	(2) Our adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest expense ratio represents adjusted EBITDA divided by adjusted net interest expense. We define adjusted net interest expense as twelve-month
	trailing net interest expense as shown in our statements of cash flows plus 50% of twelve-month trailing net earnings attributable to preferred shareholders as shown in our income
	statements. For the purposes of calculating our adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest expense ratio, adjusted EBITDA is twelve-month trailing adjusted EBITDA.
	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	156

Share capital

notE 30

Preferred sharesBCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended, provide for an unlimited number of First Preferred Shares and Second Preferred Shares, all without par value. The terms set out in the articles authorize BCE’s directors to issue the shares in one or more series and to set the number of shares

and the conditions for each series.

The following table provides a summary of the principal terms of BCE’s First Preferred Shares as at December 31, 2022. There were no Second

Preferred Shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2022. BCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended, describe the terms and conditions of these shares in detail.

Annual

number of shares

Stated capital

dividend

Convertible

redemption

issued and

Series

rate

into

Conversion date

redemption date

price

outstanding

December 31, 2022

December 31, 2021

floating

Series R

December 1, 2030

$25.50

–

R (1)

3.018%

Series Q

December 1, 2025

$25.00

7,992,000

200

floating

Series T

November 1, 2026

At any time

$25.50

2,125,067

T (1)

4.99%

Series S

November 1, 2026

$25.00

5,820,633

146

147

floating

Series Z

December 1, 2027

At any time

$25.50

7,009,252

175

202

Z (1)

5.346%

Series Y

December 1, 2027

$25.00

2,973,348

AA (1)

4.94%

Series AB

September 1, 2027

$25.00

12,254,761

312

291

floating

Series AA

September 1, 2027

At any time

$25.50

7,664,939

195

219

AC (1)

4.38%

Series AD

March 1, 2023

$25.00

10,007,791

255

256

floating

Series AC

March 1, 2023

At any time

$25.50

9,951,109

254

floating

Series AF

February 1, 2025

At any time

$25.50

6,460,913

162

163

AF (1)

3.865%

Series AE

February 1, 2025

$25.00

9,472,387

237

AG (1)

3.37%

Series AH

May 1, 2026

$25.00

8,921,530

223

224

floating

Series AG

May 1, 2026

At any time

$25.50

4,987,870

125

AI (1)

3.39%

Series AJ

August 1, 2026

$25.00

9,477,640

237

238

floating

Series AI

August 1, 2026

At any time

$25.50

4,454,760

111

112

AK (1)

3.306%

Series AL

December 31, 2026

$25.00

23,119,512

578

580

AL (2)

floating

Series AK

December 31, 2026

At any time

1,797,188

AM (1)

2.939%

Series AN

March 31, 2026

$25.00

10,422,778

239

AN (2)

floating

Series AM

March 31, 2026

At any time

1,052,822

AO (3)

fixed

Series AP

–

118

AP (3)

floating

Series AO

–

AQ (1)

4.812%

Series AR

September 30, 2023

$25.00

9,108,800

225

228

AR (4)

floating

Series AQ

September 30, 2028

–

3,870

4,003

(1) BCE may redeem each of these series of First Preferred Shares on the applicable redemption date and every five years thereafter.(2) BCE may redeem Series AL and AN First Preferred Shares at $25.00 per share on December 31, 2026 and March 31, 2026, respectively, and every five years thereafter (each, a Series

conversion date). Alternatively, BCE may redeem Series AL or AN First Preferred Shares at $25.50 per share on any date which is not a Series conversion date for the applicable series of

First Preferred Shares.

(3) On March 31, 2022, BCE redeemed its 4,600,000 issued and outstanding Series AO First Preferred Shares with a stated capital of $118 million for a total cost of $115 million. The remaining

$3 million was recorded to contributed surplus.

nancial statements

(4) If Series AR First Preferred Shares are issued on September 30, 2023, BCE may redeem such shares at $25.00 per share on September 30, 2028, and every five years thereafter (each,

a Series conversion date). Alternatively, BCE may redeem Series AR First Preferred Shares at $25.50 per share on any date which is not a Series conversion date for such series of First

Preferred Shares.

Normal course issuer bid for BCE

Subsequent to year end, BCE repurchased and canceled 1,090,400 First

First Preferred SharesOn November 3, 2022, BCE announced the renewal of its NCIB to purchase for cancellation up to 10% of the public float of each series of BCE’s outstanding First Preferred Shares that are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange. The NCIB will extend up to November 8, 2023, or an earlier date should BCE complete its purchases under the NCIB.

Preferred Shares with a stated capital of $27 million for a total cost of $20 million. The remaining $7 million was recorded to contributed surplus.

Notes to consolidated fi

Voting rightsAll of the issued and outstanding First Preferred Shares at December 31, 2022 are non-voting, except under special circumstances when the holders are entitled to one vote per share.

In 2022, BCE repurchased and canceled 584,300 First Preferred Shares with a stated capital of $15 million for a total cost of $10 million. The remaining $5 million was recorded to contributed surplus.

157

	Priority and entitlement to dividends	Conversion featuresAll of the issued and outstanding First Preferred Shares at December 31, 2022 are convertible at the holder’s option into another associated series of First Preferred Shares on a one-for-one basis according to the terms set out in BCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended.
The First Preferred Shares of all series rank at parity with each other
	and in priority to all other shares of BCE with respect to payment of dividends and with respect to distribution of assets in the event of liquidation, dissolution or winding up of BCE.
	Holders of Series R, T, Z, AA, AC, AF, AG, AI, AK, AM and AQ First Preferred
	Shares are entitled to fixed cumulative quarterly dividends. The dividend	Conversion and dividend rate reset
	rate on these shares is reset every five years, as set out in BCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended.	of First Preferred SharesSubsequent to year end, on March 1, 2023, 3,635,351 of BCE’s fixed rate Cumulative Redeemable First Preferred Shares, Series AC (Series AC Preferred Shares) were converted, on a one-for-one basis, into floating-rate Cumulative Redeemable First Preferred Shares, Series AD (Series AD Preferred Shares). In addition, on March 1, 2023,
	Holders of Series S, Y, AB, AD, AE, AH and AJ First Preferred Shares are entitled to floating adjustable cumulative monthly dividends. The floating dividend rate on these shares is calculated every month, as set out in BCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended.
	Holders of Series AL and AN First Preferred Shares are entitled to floating cumulative quarterly dividends. The floating dividend rate on these shares is calculated every quarter, as set out in BCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended.	351,634 of BCE’s Series AD Preferred Shares were converted, on a
		one-for-one basis, into Series AC Preferred Shares.
		The annual fixed dividend rate on BCE’s Series AC Preferred Shares
		was reset for the next five years, effective March 1, 2023, at 5.08%. The Series AD Preferred Shares wil continue to pay a monthly cash dividend.
	Dividends on all series of First Preferred Shares are paid as and when declared by the board of directors of BCE.
	Common shares and Class B sharesBCE’s articles of amalgamation provide for an unlimited number of voting common shares and non-voting Class B shares, all without par value.
The common shares and the Class B shares rank equally in the payment of dividends and in the distribution of assets if BCE is liquidated, dissolved
	or wound up, after payments due to the holders of preferred shares. No Class B shares were outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021.
The following table provides details about the outstanding common shares of BCE.
			2022	2021
					Number of	Stated	number of	Stated
		note	shares			capital	shares			capital
	Outstanding, January 1	909,018,871				20,662	904,415,010	20,390
	Shares issued under deferred share plan		11,003			1	–			–
	Shares issued under employee stock option plan	31			2,952,992	177	4,603,861	272
	Outstanding, December 31	911,982,866				20,840	909,018,871	20,662
	Contributed surplusContributed surplus in 2022 and 2021 includes premiums in excess of par value upon the issuance of BCE common shares and share-based compensation expense net of settlements.
									Share-based payments
notE 31
The following share-based payment amounts are included in the income statements as operating costs.
nancial statements
	for the year ended December 31			2022				2021
	ESP			(28)				(30)
	RSUs/PSUs			(69)				(59)
	Other (1)			(4)				(6)
	Total share-based payments			(101)				(95)
Notes to consolidated fi
	(1) Includes DSUs and stock options.


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	158

	Description of the plans
	ESP
		At December 31, 2022, 4,360,087 common shares were authorized for
	The ESP is designed to encourage employees of BCE and its participating	issuance from treasury under the ESP. At December 31, 2022 and 2021, there were 1,028,161 and 1,108,211 unvested employer ESP contributions, respectively.
	subsidiaries to own shares of BCE. Employees can choose to have up to
	12% of their eligible annual earnings withheld through regular payroll
	deductions for the purchase of BCE common shares. In some cases, the employer also contributes up to 2% of the employee’s eligible annual earnings to the plan. Dividends are credited to the participant’s account on each dividend payment date and are equivalent in value to the dividends paid on BCE common shares. Employer contributions to the ESP and related dividends are subject to employees holding their shares for a two-year vesting period.
		RSUs/PSUsRSUs/PSUs are granted to executives and other eligible employees. Dividends in the form of additional RSUs/PSUs are credited to the participant’s account on each dividend payment date and are equivalent in value to the dividends paid on BCE common shares. Executives and other eligible employees are granted a specific number of RSUs/PSUs for a given performance period based mainly on their level and position. RSUs/PSUs vest fully after three years of continuous employment from the date of grant and if performance objectives are met for certain PSUs, as determined by the board of directors.
	The trustee of the ESP buys BCE common shares for the participants on
	the open market, by private purchase or from treasury. BCE determines the method the trustee uses to buy the shares.
	The following table summarizes RSUs/PSUs outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021.
	number of rSus/pSus		2022	2021
	Outstanding, January 1		3,085,667	2,973,393
	Granted (1)		1,016,211	1,178,794
	Dividends credited		173,100	175,516
	Settled		(1,061,392)		(1,135,128)
	Forfeited		(89,399)	(106,908)
	Outstanding, December 31		3,124,187	3,085,667
	Vested, December 31 (2)		887,158	1,000,394
	(1) The weighted average fair value of the RSUs/PSUs granted was $66 in 2022 and $60 in 2021.(2) The RSUs/PSUs vested on December 31, 2022 were fully settled in February 2023 with BCE common shares and/or DSUs.
	DSUsEligible bonuses and RSUs/PSUs may be paid in the form of DSUs when executives or other eligible employees elect or are required to participate in the plan. The value of a DSU at the issuance date is equal to the value of one BCE common share. For non-management directors, compensation is paid in DSUs until the minimum share ownership requirement is met; thereafter, at least 50% of their compensation is paid in DSUs. There are no vesting requirements relating to DSUs. Dividends in the form of additional DSUs are credited to the participant’s account on each dividend payment date and are equivalent in value to the dividends paid on BCE common shares. DSUs are settled when the holder leaves the company.	Stock optionsUnder BCE’s long-term incentive plans, BCE may grant options to executives to buy BCE common shares. The subscription price of a grant is based on the higher of:
		• the volume-weighted average of the trading price on the trading day
		immediately prior to the effective date of the grant
		• the volume-weighted average of the trading price for the last five
		consecutive trading days ending on the trading day immediately prior to the effective date of the grant
		At December 31, 2022, in addition to the stock options outstanding,
		4,484,643 common shares were authorized for issuance under these
		plans. Options vest fully after three years of continuous employment from the date of grant. All options become exercisable when they vest and can be exercised for a period of seven years from the date of grant for options granted prior to 2019 and ten years from the date of grant for options granted since 2019.
	At December 31, 2022 and 2021, there were 3,321,167 and 3,365,433 DSUs
nancial statements	outstanding, respectively.
	The following table summarizes stock options outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021.
						2022	2021
Notes to consolidated fi						Weighted average	Weighted average
						Number		exercise price	number		exercise price
		note					of options		($)	of options	($)

	Outstanding, January 1						10,778,724		60	15,650,234	59
	Exercised (1)	30					(2,952,992)		58	(4,603,861)	57
	Forfeited or expired						(23,624)		65	(267,649)	60
	Outstanding, December 31						7,802,108		61	10,778,724	60
	Exercisable, December 31						4,539,188		58	4,316,424	58
	(1) The weighted average market share price for options exercised was $69 in 2022 and $64 in 2021.
159

The following table provides additional information about BCE’s stock option plans at December 31, 2022 and 2021.
		Stock options outstanding
			2022	2021
			Weighted average	Weighted average		Weighted average				Weighted average
			remaining life	exercise price		remaining life				exercise price
	range of exercise prices				Number	(years)			($)	number	(years)				($)
	$50–$59				4,510,298					4	58	7,442,442	4	58
	$60 & above				3,291,810					7	65	3,336,282	8	65
					7,802,108					5	61	10,778,724	6	60
											Additional cash flow information
notE 32
The following table provides a reconciliation of changes in liabilities arising from financing activities.
		Debt due					Derivative
		within one					to hedge
		year and					foreign
		long-term					currency	Dividends				Other
		note				debt	on debt (1)	payable				liabilities	Total
	January 1, 2022					29,673	79	811				82	30,645
	Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
	Increase in notes payable					42	69	–				–	111
	Issue of long-term debt					1,951	–	–				–	1,951
	Repayment of long-term debt					(2,023)	–	–				–	(2,023)
	Cash dividends paid on common and preferred shares					–	–	(3,448)				–	(3,448)
	Cash dividends paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests	36				–	–	(39)				–	(39)
	Increase in securitized receivables					700	–	–				–	700
	Other financing activities					(13)	–	–				(18)	(31)
	Total cash flows from (used in) financing activities excluding equity					657	69	(3,487)				(18)	(2,779)
	Non-cash changes arising from
	Increase in lease liabilities					1,008	–	–				–	1,008
	Dividends declared on common and preferred shares					–	–	3,508				–	3,508
	Dividends declared by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests					–	–	39				–	39
	Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates					437	(437)	–				–	–
	Business acquisition					8	–	–				–	8
	Business disposition					(14)	–	–				–	(14)
	Other					151	(18)	(4)				(36)	93
	Total non-cash changes					1,590	(455)	3,543				(36)	4,642
	December 31, 2022					31,920	(307)	867				28	32,508
	(1) Included in Other current assets, Trade payables and other liabilities and Other non-current liabilities in the statement of financial position.
nancial statements
Notes to consolidated fi


	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	160

		Debt due	Derivative
		within one	to hedge
		year and	foreign
		long-term	currency	Dividends	other
	debt	on debt (1)	payable	liabilities	total
						26,323	66	766	–	27,155
						Cash flows from (used in) financing activities
						Increase (decrease) in notes payable	378	(27)					–	–	351
						Issue of long-term debt	4,985		–				–	–	4,985
						Repayment of long-term debt	(2,751)		–				–	–	(2,751)
						Cash dividends paid on common and preferred shares		–	(3,257)	–	(3,257)
						Cash dividends paid by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests	36		–	(86)	–	(86)
						Decrease in securitized trade receivables	(150)		–				–	–	(150)
						Other financing activities	(36)	13					–	42	19
						2,426	(14)	(3,343)	42	(889)
						Non-cash changes arising from
						Increase in lease liabilities	787		–				–	–	787
						Dividends declared on common and preferred shares		–	3,306	–	3,306
						Dividends declared by subsidiaries to non-controlling interests		–	87	–	87
						Effect of changes in foreign exchange rates	(23)	23					–	–	–
						Business acquisitions	12		–				–	–	12
						Other	148		4				(5)	40	187
						924	27	3,388	40	4,379
						29,673	79	811	82	30,645
						(1) Included in Other current assets, Other non-current assets and Trade payables and other liabilities in the statement of financial position.
								Remaining performance obligations
						notE 33
						The following table shows revenues expected to be recognized in the future related to performance obligations that are unsatisfied (or partially
						unsatisfied) as at December 31, 2022.
									2023	2025	2026	2027	thereafter	total
						Wireline			1,343	739	461	181	472	4,286
						Wireless			1,482	647	40		1			–	–	2,170
						Total			2,825	779	462	181	472	6,456
						When estimating minimum transaction prices allocated to the remaining unfulfilled, or partially unfulfilled, performance obligations, BCE applied the practical expedient to not disclose information about remaining performance obligations that have an original expected duration of one year or less and for those contracts where we bill the same value as that which is transferred to the customer.
								Commitments and contingencies
						notE 34
nancial statements
						Commitments
						The following table is a summary of our contractual obligations at December 31, 2022 that are due in each of the next five years and thereafter.
									2023	2025	2026	2027	thereafter	total
						Commitments for property, plant and
						equipment and intangible assets			2,015	1,052	516	216	949	6,140
Notes to consolidated fi
						Purchase obligations			602	443	560	276	955	3,294
						Leases committed not yet commenced			14	16	16	17	96	180
						Total			2,631	1,511	1,092	509	2,000	9,614
						Our commitments for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets include program and feature film rights and investments to expand and update our networks to meet customer demand.	Purchase obligations consist of contractual obligations under service and product contracts for operating expenditures and other purchase obligations.
	Our commitments for leases not yet commenced include real estate, OOH advertising spaces and fibre use. These leases are non-cancellable.
161

	ContingenciesAs part of its ongoing review of wholesale Internet rates, on October 6, 2016, the CRTC significantly reduced, on an interim basis, some of the wholesale rates that Bell Canada and other major providers charge
		long-running review of wholesale Internet rates and ensures a better climate for much-needed investment in advanced networks. The largest reseller, TekSavvy Solutions Inc. (TekSavvy), obtained leave to appeal the CRTC’s decision of May 27, 2021 before the Federal Court of Appeal. The decision was also challenged in three petitions brought by TekSavvy, the Canadian Network Operators Consortium Inc. and National Capital Freenet before Cabinet, but on May 26, 2022, Cabinet announced it would not alter the decision.
	for access by third-party Internet resel ers to fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) or cable networks, as applicable. On August 15, 2019, the CRTC further reduced the wholesale rates that Internet resel ers pay to access network infrastructure built by facilities-based providers like Bell Canada, with retroactive effect back to March 2016.
The August 2019 decision was stayed, first by the Federal Court of		In the ordinary course of business, we become involved in various claims and legal proceedings seeking monetary damages and other relief. In particular, because of the nature of our consumer-facing business, we are exposed to class actions pursuant to which substantial monetary damages may be claimed. Due to the inherent risks and uncertainties of the litigation process, we cannot predict the final outcome or timing of claims and legal proceedings. Subject to the foregoing, and based on information currently available and management’s assessment of the merits of the claims and legal proceedings pending at March 2, 2023, management believes that the ultimate resolution of these claims and legal proceedings is unlikely to have a material and negative effect on our financial statements. We believe that we have strong defences and we intend to vigorously defend our positions.
	Appeal and then by the CRTC, with the result that it never came into
	effect. In response to review and vary applications filed by each of Bell Canada, five major cable carriers (Cogeco Communications Inc., Bragg Communications Inc. (Eastlink), Rogers Communications Canada Inc.,
	Shaw Communications Inc. and Videotron Ltée) and Telus Communications Inc., the CRTC issued Decision 2021-182 on May 27, 2021, which mostly reinstated the rates prevailing prior to August 2019 with some reductions to the Bell Canada rates with retroactive effect to
	March 2016. As a result, in Q2 2021, we recorded a reduction in revenue of $44 million in our income statement.
	While there remains a requirement to refund monies to third-party Internet resellers, the establishment of final wholesale rates that are similar to those prevailing since 2019 reduces the impact of the CRTC’s
			Related party transactions
notE 35
	Subsidiaries
The following table shows BCE’s significant subsidiaries at December 31, 2022. BCE has other subsidiaries which have not been included in the
	table as each represents less than 10% individually and less than 20% in aggregate of total consolidated revenues.
	Al of these significant subsidiaries are incorporated in Canada and provide services to each other in the normal course of operations. The value
	of these transactions is eliminated on consolidation.
				ownership percentage
	Subsidiary			2022	2021
	Bell Canada			100%	100%
	Bell Mobility Inc.			100%	100%
	Bell Media Inc.			100%	100%
	Transactions with joint arrangements and associatesDuring 2022 and 2021, BCE provided communication services and received programming content and other services in the normal course of
nancial statements	business on an arm’s length basis to and from its joint arrangements and associates. Our joint arrangements and associates include MLSE, Glentel Inc. and Dome Productions Partnership. From time to time, BCE may be required to make capital contributions in its investments.
	In 2022, BCE recognized revenues and incurred expenses with our joint arrangements and associates of $10 million (2021 – $10 million) and
	$187 million (2021 – $178 million), respectively.
	BCE Master Trust FundBimcor Inc. (Bimcor), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bell Canada, is the administrator of the Master Trust Fund. Bimcor recognized management
Notes to consolidated fi

	fees of $13 million from the Master Trust Fund for 2022 and 2021, respectively. The details of BCE’s post-employment benefit plans are set out in Note 27, Post-employment benefit plans.

	BCE InC. AnnuAl fInAnCIAl rEport 2022	162

	Compensation of key management personnel
	The following table includes compensation of key management personnel for the years ended December 31, 2022 and 2021 included in our
	income statements. Key management personnel have the authority and responsibility for overseeing, planning, directing and controlling our business activities and consists of our Board of Directors and our Executive Leadership Team.
	for the year ended December 31	2022	2021
	Wages, salaries, fees and related taxes and benefits	(28)	(23)
	Post-employment benefit plans and OPEBs cost	(4)	(3)
	Share-based compensation (1)	(38)	(31)
	Key management personnel compensation expense	(70)	(57)
	(1) We have updated amounts for the prior year to make them consistent with the presentation for the current year.
				Significant partly-owned subsidiary
	notE 36
	The following tables show summarized financial information for our subsidiary with significant NCI.
	Summarized statements of financial position
		CtV Specialty (1) (2)
	for the year ended December 31	2022	2021
	Current assets	400	329
	Non-current assets	958	1,010
	Total assets	1,358	1,339
	Current liabilities	140	220
	Non-current liabilities	246	226
	Total liabilities	386	446
	Total equity attributable to BCE shareholders	678	622
	NCI	294	271
	(1) At December 31, 2022 and 2021, the ownership interest held by NCI in CTV Specialty Television Inc. (CTV Specialty) was 29.9%. CTV Specialty was incorporated and operated in Canada as
	at such dates.
	(2) CTV Specialty’s net assets at December 31, 2022 and 2021 include $5 million, directly attributable to NCI.
	Selected income and cash flow information
		CtV Specialty (1)
	for the year ended December 31	2022	2021
	Operating revenues	986	879
	Net earnings	180	158
	Net earnings attributable to NCI	57	51
	Total comprehensive income	198	164
nancial statements	Total comprehensive income attributable to NCI	63	53
	Cash dividends paid to NCI	39	86
	(1) CTV Specialty’s net earnings and total comprehensive income include $4 million and $5 million directly attributable to NCI for 2022 and 2021, respectively.
				COVID-19
	notE 37
Notes to consolidated fi
	While the unfavourable effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on our financial and operating performance moderated in 2022, it is difficult to estimate the impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic could have in the future on our business and financial results due to uncertainties relating to the severity and duration of the COVID-19 pandemic and possible further resurgences in the number of COVID-19 cases, including as a result of the potential emergence of other variants, and various potential				outcomes. Our business and financial results could again, in future periods, become more significantly and negatively impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, including, among others, as a result of associated global supply chain challenges adversely affecting our wireless and wireline product revenues.

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