Management's responsibility for financial reporting
These financial statements form the basis for all of the financial information that appears in this report.
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.
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.
The board of directors has appointed an Audit Committee, which is 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.
(signed) Mirko Bibic
President and Chief Executive Officer
(signed) Glen LeBlanc
Executive Vice-President and Chief Financial Officer
(signed) Thierry Chaumont
Senior Vice-President, Controller and Tax
March 2, 2023
2
Report of independent registered public accounting firm
To the Shareholders and the Board of Directors of BCE Inc.
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We 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.
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.
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.
Critical Audit Matter
The critical audit matter communicated below is a matter arising from the 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.
Goodwill and Intangible Assets - Bell Media Group - Refer to Notes 2N, 8, 19 and 22 to the financial statements
Critical Audit Matter Description
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.
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
3
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.
How the Critical Audit Matter Was Addressed in the Audit
Our audit procedures related to the significant assumptions used by management to determine the recoverable amount for Bell Media included the following, among others:
•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 operating performance by comparing the forecasts to:
•Historical operating performance;
•Analyst and industry reports for the Company and certain of its peer companies, and other relevant publicly available information;
•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 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
Montréal, Canada
March 2, 2023
We have served as the Company's auditor since 1880.
4
Consolidated income statements
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS, EXCEPT SHARE AMOUNTS)
2022
2021
Operating revenues
3
24,174
23,449
Operating costs
3,
5
(13,975)
(13,556)
Severance, acquisition and other costs
6
(94)
(209)
Depreciation
17
(3,660)
(3,627)
Amortization
19
(1,063)
(982)
Finance costs
Interest expense
7
(1,146)
(1,082)
Net return (interest) on post-employment benefit plans
27
51
(20)
Impairment of assets
8,
17,
19
(279)
(197)
Other (expense) income
9
(115)
160
Income taxes
10
(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
36
58
52
Net earnings
2,926
2,892
Net earnings per common share - basic and diluted
11
2.98
2.99
Weighted average number of common shares outstanding - basic (millions)
911.5
906.3
5
Consolidated statements of comprehensive income
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31 (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
NOTE
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 of $118 million and ($23) million for 2022 and 2021, respectively
(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
27
415
1,780
Net change in value of publicly-traded and privately-held investments, net of income taxes of ($19) million and nil for 2022 and 2021, respectively
30
24
Net change in value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, net of income taxes of ($21) million and ($1) million for 2022 and 2021, respectively
58
4
Other comprehensive income
182
1,871
Total comprehensive income
3,108
4,763
Total comprehensive income attributable to:
Common shareholders
2,891
4,578
Preferred shareholders
152
131
Non-controlling interest
36
65
54
Total comprehensive income
3,108
4,763
6
Consolidated statements of financial position
(IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
NOTE
December 31, 2022
December 31, 2021
ASSETS
Current 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
LIABILITIES
Current 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
Other non-current liabilities
28
1,070
1,003
Total non-current liabilities
35,345
34,710
Total liabilities
46,814
43,823
Commitments and contingencies
34
EQUITY
Equity 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
7
Consolidated statements of changes in equity
ATTRIBUTABLE TO BCE SHAREHOLDERS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022 (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
NOTE
PREFERRED SHARES
COMMON SHARES
CONTRI-BUTED SURPLUS
ACCUM-ULATED OTHER COMPRE-HENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)
DEFICIT
TOTAL
NON-CONTR-OLLING INTEREST
TOTAL EQUITY
Balance at December 31, 2021
4,003
20,662
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
20,840
1,172
(55)
(3,649)
22,178
337
22,515
ATTRIBUTABLE TO BCE SHAREHOLDERS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021 (IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
NOTE
PREFERRED SHARES
COMMON SHARES
CONTRI-BUTED SURPLUS
ACCUMU-LATED OTHER COMPRE-HENSIVE INCOME
DEFICIT
TOTAL
NON-CONTR-OLLING INTEREST
TOTAL EQUITY
Balance at December 31, 2020
4,003
20,390
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
20,662
1,157
213
(3,400)
22,635
306
22,941
8
Consolidated statements of cash flows
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
(IN MILLIONS OF CANADIAN DOLLARS)
NOTE
2022
2021
Cash flows from operating activities
Net earnings
2,926
2,892
Adjustments to reconcile net earnings to cash flows from operating activities
Severance, acquisition and other costs
6
94
209
Depreciation and amortization
17,
19
4,723
4,609
Post-employment benefit plans cost
27
198
286
Net interest expense
1,124
1,063
Impairment of assets
8
279
197
(Gains) losses on investments
9
(24)
6
Income taxes
10
967
1,044
Contributions to post-employment benefit plans
27
(140)
(282)
Payments under other post-employment benefit plans
27
(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
14
(59)
278
Change in wireless device financing plan receivables
12
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
2
,
3
(5,133)
(4,852)
Business acquisitions
4
(429)
(12)
Business dispositions
9
,
16
52
—
Spectrum licences
19
(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
24
700
(150)
Issue of long-term debt
25
1,951
4,985
Repayment of long-term debt
25
(2,023)
(2,751)
Issue of common shares
30
171
261
Purchase of shares for settlement of share-based payments
31
(255)
(297)
Repurchase of preferred shares
30
(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)
Other financing activities
2
(31)
19
Cash flow used in financing activities
(2,988)
(925)
Net (decrease) increase in cash
(190)
65
Cash 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
—
9
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.
Note 1
Corporate information
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.
Note 2
Significant accounting policies
A) Basis of presentation
The financial statements were prepared in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), as issued by the International 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.
All amounts are in millions of Canadian dollars, except where noted.
FUNCTIONAL CURRENCY
The financial statements are presented in Canadian dollars, the company’s functional currency.
B) Basis of consolidation
We consolidate the financial statements of all of our subsidiaries. Subsidiaries are entities we control, where control is achieved when 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.
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 acquired subsidiaries to conform their accounting policies to ours. All intercompany transactions, balances, income and expenses are 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.
C) Revenue from contracts with customers
Revenue is measured based on the value of the expected consideration in 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.
10
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 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
WIRELESS SEGMENT REVENUES
Our 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 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 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.
WIRELINE SEGMENT REVENUES
Our 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.
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
11
prices adjusted for market conditions and other factors, as appropriate, or the expected cost plus margin approach for customized business arrangements.
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.
MEDIA SEGMENT REVENUES
Our 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 payments
Our 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.
ESP
We 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.
RSUs/PSUs
For 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 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.
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.
DSUs
If 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.
12
STOCK OPTIONS
We 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 taxes
Current and deferred income tax expense is recognized in the income statements, except to the extent that the expense relates to items 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.
We use the liability method to account for deferred tax assets and liabilities, which arise from:
•temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and 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.
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.
Tax liabilities are, where permitted, offset against tax assets within the same taxable entity and tax jurisdiction.
INVESTMENT TAX CREDITS (ITCs), OTHER TAX CREDITS AND GOVERNMENT GRANTS
We 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.
F) Cash equivalents
Cash 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 receivables
Proceeds 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.
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H) Inventory
We 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.
I) Property, plant and equipment
We record property, plant and equipment at historical cost. Historical 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.
LEASES
We enter into leases for network infrastructure and equipment, land and buildings in the normal course of business. Lease contracts are typically 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.
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.
IFRS 16
We 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.
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:
•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)
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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 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 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 17
Under 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.
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.
J) Intangible assets
FINITE-LIFE INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Finite-life intangible assets are recorded at cost less accumulated amortization and accumulated impairment losses, if any.
SOFTWARE
We 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 conditions are met:
•technical feasibility can be demonstrated
•management has the intent and the ability to complete the asset for use or sale
•it is probable that economic benefits will be generated
•costs attributable to the asset can be measured reliably
CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIPS
Customer relationship assets are acquired through business combinations and are recorded at fair value at the date of acquisition.
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PROGRAM AND FEATURE FILM RIGHTS
We 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:
•we receive a broadcast master and the cost is known or reasonably determinable for new program and feature film licences; or
•the licence term commences for licence period extensions or syndicated programs
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.
INDEFINITE-LIFE INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Brand 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 amortization
We depreciate property, plant and equipment and amortize finite-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.
ESTIMATED USEFUL LIFE
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 arrangements
Our financial statements incorporate our share of the results of our 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.
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.
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.
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We recognize our share of the assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses of joint operations in accordance with the related contractual agreements.
M) Business combinations and goodwill
Business combinations are accounted for using the acquisition method. 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 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.
N) Impairment of non-financial assets
Goodwill and indefinite-life intangible assets are tested for impairment 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.
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.
GOODWILL IMPAIRMENT TESTING
We 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.
A CGU is the smallest identifiable group of assets that generates cash inflows that are independent of the cash inflows from other assets or groups of assets.
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 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. 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.
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, Segmented information.
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O) Financial instruments and contract assets
We measure trade and other receivables, including wireless device financing plan receivables, at amortized cost using the effective interest 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.
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.
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 instruments
We use derivative financial instruments to manage risks related to 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 payablesand 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.
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.
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.
FAIR VALUE HEDGES
We 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.
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CASH FLOW HEDGES
We 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.
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.
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.
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. 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 HEDGES
We 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.
Q) Post-employment benefit plans
DEFINED BENEFIT (DB) AND OTHER POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT (OPEB) PLANS
We 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.
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.
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
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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:
•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 fixed income investments with maturities that match the timing of benefits expected to be paid under the plans
•management’s best estimate of pay increases, retirement ages of employees, expected healthcare costs and life expectancy
We value post-employment benefit plan assets at fair value using current market values.
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.
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.
DEFINED CONTRIBUTION (DC) PENSION PLANS
We 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 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.
When eligible, new employees can only participate in the DC pension plans.
R) Provisions
Provisions are recognized when all the following conditions are met:
•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
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.
S) Estimates and key judgments
When preparing the financial statements, management makes estimates and judgments relating to:
•reported amounts of revenues and expenses
•reported amounts of assets and liabilities
•disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities
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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.
ESTIMATES
USEFUL LIVES OF PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT AND FINITE-LIFE INTANGIBLE ASSETS
Property, 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.
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 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 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.
REVENUE FROM CONTRACTS WITH CUSTOMERS
We 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.
IMPAIRMENT OF NON-FINANCIAL ASSETS
We 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.
DEFERRED TAXES
The amounts of deferred tax assets and liabilities are estimated with consideration given to the timing, sources and amounts of future taxable income.
LEASES
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.
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FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Certain 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.
CONTINGENCIES
In 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.
ONEROUS CONTRACTS
A 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.
JUDGMENTS
POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT PLANS
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.
INCOME TAXES
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.
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 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.
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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.
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 standards
As required, we adopted the following amendments and clarifications to accounting standards issued by the IASB.
STANDARD
DESCRIPTION
IMPACT
Onerous Contracts – Cost of Fulfilling a Contract, Amendments to IAS 37 – Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets
These amendments clarify which costs should be included in determining the cost of fulfilling a contract when assessing whether a contract is onerous.
These amendments were adopted effective January 1, 2022 and did not have a significant impact on our financial statements.
IFRIC Agenda Decision on Demand Deposits with Restrictions on Use arising from a Contract with a Third Party (IAS 7 – Statement of Cash Flows)
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 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.
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
Disclosure of Accounting Policies - Amendments to IAS 1 - Presentation of Financial Statements
These amendments require that entities disclose material accounting policies, as defined, instead of significant accounting policies.
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.
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Note 3
Segmented information
The accounting policies used in our segment reporting are the same 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.
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.
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 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.
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 nationally 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.
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.
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Segmented information
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022
NOTE
BELL WIRELESS
BELL WIRELINE
BELL MEDIA
INTER- SEGMENT ELIMINA- TIONS
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
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
Goodwill
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.
25
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021
NOTE
BELL WIRELESS
BELL WIRELINE
BELL MEDIA
INTER- SEGMENT ELIMINA- TIONS
BCE
Operating revenues
External service revenues
6,355
11,314
2,681
—
20,350
Inter-segment service revenues
45
358
355
(758)
—
Operating service revenues
6,400
11,672
3,036
(758)
20,350
External product revenues
2,593
506
—
—
3,099
Inter-segment product revenues
6
—
—
(6)
—
Operating product revenues
2,599
506
—
(6)
3,099
Total external revenues
8,948
11,820
2,681
—
23,449
Total inter-segment revenues
51
358
355
(764)
—
Total operating revenues
8,999
12,178
3,036
(764)
23,449
Operating costs
5
(5,146)
(6,863)
(2,311)
764
(13,556)
Adjusted EBITDA (1)
3,853
5,315
725
—
9,893
Severance, acquisition and other costs
6
(209)
Depreciation and amortization
17,
19
(4,609)
Finance costs
Interest expense
7
(1,082)
Net interest on post-employment benefit plans
27
(20)
Impairment of assets
8
(197)
Other income
9
160
Income taxes
10
(1,044)
Net earnings
2,892
Goodwill
22
3,046
4,580
2,946
—
10,572
Indefinite-life intangible assets
19
6,148
1,692
1,935
—
9,775
Capital expenditures
1,120
3,612
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.
26
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
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
(1) Our service revenues are generally recognized over time.
(2) Our product revenues are generally recognized at a point in time.
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.
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 CTS segment provides a wide range of communication products and services to consumers, businesses and government customers across Canada. Wireless products and services include mobile data and voice plans and devices and are available nationally. 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.
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.
27
Note 4
Business acquisitions and disposition
Acquisition of Distributel Communications Limited (Distributel)
On December 1, 2022, Bell acquired Distributel, a national independent 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 expected to support Bell’s strategy to grow residential and business customers. The results of Distributel are included in our Bell Wireline segment.
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
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)
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).
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.
28
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 $153 million ($139 million net of cash acquired). The acquisition of EBOX and other related companies is expected to accelerate growth in Bell’s 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 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.
29
Note 5
Operating costs
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
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)
27
(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.
Note 6
Severance, acquisition and other costs
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 costs
Severance costs consist of charges related to involuntary and voluntary employee terminations.
Acquisition and other costs
Acquisition 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.
Note 7
Interest expense
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)
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.
30
Note 8
Impairment of assets
2022
During the fourth quarter of 2022, we recognized $147 million of 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 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.
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.
2021
During the second quarter of 2021, we identified indicators of impairment 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 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.
There was no impairment of Bell Media goodwill. See Note 22, Goodwill, for further details.
31
Note 9
Other (expense) income
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)
Early debt redemption costs
25
(18)
(53)
Other
20
60
Total other (expense) income
(115)
160
Equity losses from investments in associates and joint ventures
We 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 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.
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.
Note 10
Income taxes
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)
32
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 and2021.
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
%
The following table shows aggregate current and deferred taxes relating to items recognized outside the income statements.
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2022
2021
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
DEFICIT
OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
DEFICIT
Current taxes
—
3
—
1
Deferred taxes
(73)
(7)
(677)
30
Total income taxes (expense) recovery
(73)
(4)
(677)
31
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.
NET DEFERRED TAX LIABILITY
NOTE
NON- CAPITAL LOSS CARRY- FORWARDS
POST- EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT PLANS
INDEFINITE- LIFE INTANGIBLE ASSETS
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT AND FINITE- LIFE INTANGIBLE 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)
33
At December 31, 2022, BCE had $251 million of non-capital loss carryforwards. We:
•recognized a deferred tax asset of $60 million for $231 million of the non-capital loss carryforwards. These non-capital loss carryforwards expire in varying annual amounts from 2025 to 2042.
•did not recognize a deferred tax asset for $20 million of non-capital loss carryforwards. This balance expires in varying annual amounts from 2023 to 2042.
At December 31, 2022, BCE had $67 million of unrecognized capital loss carryforwards, which can be carried forward indefinitely.
At December 31, 2021, BCE had $266 million of non-capital loss carryforwards. We:
•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 2024 to 2041.
•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 2041.
At December 31, 2021, BCE had $69 million of unrecognized capital loss carryforwards, which can be carried forward indefinitely.
Note 11
Earnings per share
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
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.
Note 12
Trade and other receivables
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
2022
2021
Trade receivables (1)
4,102
3,843
Allowance for revenue adjustments
(160)
(169)
Allowance for doubtful accounts
29
(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.
34
Wireless device financing plan receivables
Wireless device financing plan receivables represent amounts owed to us under financing agreements that have not yet been billed. 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
NOTE
2022
2021
Current
1,021
1,040
Non-current
21
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.
Note 13
Inventory
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.
35
Note 14
Contract assets and liabilities
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
NOTE
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
4
—
—
8
13
Contract terminations transferred to trade receivables
(50)
(89)
(1)
4
Reclassified to liabilities held for sale
16
—
—
—
(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.
Note 15
Contract costs
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.
36
Note 16
Assets held for sale
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.
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.
The assets and liabilities of Createch were presented as held for sale 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.
The following table summarizes the carrying value of the assets and liabilities that are classified as held for sale at December 31, 2021.
2021
Trade and other receivables
29
Contract costs
4
Prepaid expenses
1
Property, plant and equipment
2
Intangible assets
1
Other non-current assets
7
Goodwill
6
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
37
Note 17
Property, plant and equipment
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022
NOTE
NETWORK
INFRASTRUCTURE
AND EQUIPMENT (1)
LAND AND
BUILDINGS (1)
ASSETS UNDER 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
(28)
3
(14)
Transfers
1,180
51
(2,318)
(1,087)
Retirements and disposals
(3,063)
(35)
(3)
(3,101)
Impairment losses recognized in earnings
8
—
(132)
—
(132)
December 31, 2022
71,875
9,139
2,598
83,612
ACCUMULATED DEPRECIATION
January 1, 2022
49,122
4,696
—
53,818
Depreciation
3,195
465
—
3,660
Business disposition
(14)
(7)
—
(21)
Retirements and disposals
(3,025)
(28)
—
(3,053)
Transfers
2
(2)
—
—
Other
(44)
(4)
—
(48)
December 31, 2022
49,236
5,120
—
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.
38
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021
NOTE
NETWORK
INFRASTRUCTURE
AND EQUIPMENT (1)
LAND AND
BUILDINGS (1)
ASSETS UNDER 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
12
—
14
Transfers
358
771
(2,163)
(1,034)
Retirements and disposals
(1,550)
(37)
—
(1,587)
Impairment losses recognized in earnings
8
(4)
(15)
—
(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
4,122
—
51,685
Depreciation
3,220
407
—
3,627
Retirements and disposals
(1,515)
(27)
—
(1,542)
Transfers
(95)
191
—
96
Reclassified to assets held for sale
16
(1)
—
—
(1)
Other
(50)
3
—
(47)
December 31, 2021
49,122
4,696
—
53,818
NET CARRYING AMOUNT
January 1, 2021
21,914
3,710
1,889
27,513
December 31, 2021
21,801
4,193
2,241
28,235
(1)Includes right-of-use assets. See Note 18, Leases, for additional details.
39
Note 18
Leases
Right-of-use assets
BCE’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.
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022
NOTE
NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT
LAND AND 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
8
—
(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
40
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021
NOTE
NETWORK INFRASTRUCTURE AND EQUIPMENT
LAND AND 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
8
—
(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
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
December 31, 2021
1,686
2,393
4,079
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 disclosures
See Note 24, Debt due within one year, and Note 25, Long-term debt, for lease liabilities balances included in the statements of financial position.
See Note 29, Financial and capital management, for a maturity analysis of lease liabilities.
See Note 34, Commitments and contingencies, for leases committed but not yet commenced as at December 31, 2022.
41
Note 19
Intangible assets
FINITE-LIFE
INDEFINITE-LIFE
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2022
NOTE
SOFTWARE
CUSTOMER RELATION- SHIPS
PROGRAM AND FEATURE FILM RIGHTS
OTHER
TOTAL
BRANDS
SPECTRUM AND OTHER LICENCES
BROADCAST LICENCES
TOTAL
TOTAL INTANGIBLE 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)
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
42
FINITE-LIFE
INDEFINITE-LIFE
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2021
NOTE
SOFTWARE
CUSTOMER RELATION- SHIPS
PROGRAM AND FEATURE FILM RIGHTS
OTHER
TOTAL
BRANDS
SPECTRUM
AND OTHER
LICENCES (1)
BROADCAST LICENCES
TOTAL
TOTAL INTANGIBLE 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
—
1,034
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)
—
—
—
—
(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.
43
Note 20
Investments in associates and joint ventures
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)
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
Revenues
2,335
1,855
Expenses
(2,456)
(2,047)
Total net losses
(121)
(192)
BCE’s share of net losses
9
(61)
(95)
Note 21
Other non-current assets
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
2022
2021
Long-term wireless device financing plan receivables
12
386
387
Long-term receivables
255
221
Derivative assets
29
233
274
Publicly-traded and privately-held investments
29
215
183
Investments(1)
29
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.
44
Note 22
Goodwill
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.
NOTE
BELL WIRELESS
BELL WIRELINE
BELL MEDIA
BCE
Balance at January 1, 2021
3,046
4,612
2,946
10,604
Acquisitions and other
—
(26)
—
(26)
Reclassified to assets held for sale
16
—
(6)
—
(6)
Balance at December 31, 2021
3,046
4,580
2,946
10,572
Acquisitions and other
4
—
334
—
334
Balance at December 31, 2022
3,046
4,914
2,946
10,906
Impairment testing
As described in Note 2, Significant accounting policies, goodwill is tested 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.
RECOVERABLE AMOUNT
The recoverable amount for each of the Bell Wireless and Bell Wireline 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.
The recoverable amount for our groups of CGUs is determined by 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.
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.
The discount rates are applied to the cash flow projections and are derived from the weighted average cost of capital for each CGU or group of CGUs, including any impact from rising interest rates.
45
The following table shows the key assumptions used to estimate the recoverable amounts of our groups of CGUs.
ASSUMPTIONS USED
PERPETUITY
DISCOUNT
GROUPS OF CGUs
GROWTH RATE
RATE
Bell Wireless
0.8
%
9.1
%
Bell Wireline
1.0
%
6.0
%
Bell Media
0.9
%
9.6
%
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.
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.
Note 23
Trade payables and other liabilities
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
2022
2021
Trade payables and accruals
3,602
2,931
Compensation payable
607
622
Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment Ltd. (MLSE) financial liability (1)
29
149
149
Commodity taxes payable
108
31
Derivative liabilities
29
106
40
Provisions
26
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.
46
Note 24
Debt due within one year
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
WEIGHTED AVERAGE INTEREST RATE AT DECEMBER 31, 2022
2022
2021
Notes payable(1)
29
4.27
%
869
735
Loans secured by receivables(2)
29
5.19
%
1,588
900
Long-term debt due within one year(3)
25
4.79
%
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 $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.
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
2022
2021
Average interest rate throughout the year
3.15
%
1.07
%
Securitized receivables
3,353
1,701
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.
We have provided various credit enhancements in the form of overcollateralization and subordination of our retained interests.
The lenders have no further claim on our other assets if customers do 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.
47
Credit facilities
Bell 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.
TOTAL AVAILABLE
DRAWN
LETTERS OF CREDIT
COMMERCIAL PAPER OUTSTANDING
NET AVAILABLE
Committed credit facilities
Unsecured 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.
Restrictions
Some 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.
48
Note 25
Long-term debt
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
WEIGHTED AVERAGE INTEREST RATE AT 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
Other
449
438
Total debt
29,598
28,160
Net unamortized discount
(34)
(26)
Unamortized debt issuance costs
(101)
(96)
Less:
Amount 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.
Restrictions
Some 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 its1976 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.
2022
On November 10, 2022, Bell Canada issued, under its 1997 trust indenture, 5.85% Series M-57 medium-term note (MTN) Debentures, with a principal amount of $1 billion, which mature on November 10, 2032.
49
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.
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. 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.
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.
2021
On August 12, 2021, Bell Canada issued, under its 2016 trust indenture, 2.15% Series US-5 Notes, with a principal amount of $600 million 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.
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.
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.
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, 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 $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.
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.
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.
50
Note 26
Provisions
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31
NOTE
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
23
28
46
74
Non-current
28
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.
Note 27
Post-employment benefit plans
POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT PLANS COST
We provide pension and other benefits for most of our employees. These 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 options offered to plan participants, lies with the Risk and Pension Fund Committee, a committee of our board of directors.
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)
51
COMPONENTS OF POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT PLANS FINANCING INCOME (COST)
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.
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.
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.
52
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)
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.
SIGNIFICANT ASSUMPTIONS
We 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
%
2.25
%
Cost of living indexation rate(1)
1.6
%
1.6
%
Life expectancy at age 65 (years)
23.3
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
%
2.25
%
Cost of living indexation rate(1)
1.6
%
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 obligation is 11 years.
We assumed the following trend rates in healthcare costs:
•an annual increase in the cost of medication of 6.5% for 2022 decreasing to 4.0% over 20 years
•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 of 4%
Assumed trend rates in healthcare costs have a significant effect on the amounts reported for the healthcare plans.
The following table shows the effect of a 1% change in the assumed trend rates in healthcare costs.
EFFECT ON POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFITS – INCREASE/(DECREASE)
1% INCREASE
1% DECREASE
Total service and interest cost
3
(3)
Post-employment benefit obligations
75
(65)
53
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 BENEFIT PLANS COST FOR 2022 – INCREASE/(DECREASE)
IMPACT ON POST-EMPLOYMENT BENEFIT OBLIGATIONS AT DECEMBER 31, 2022 – INCREASE/(DECREASE)
CHANGE IN ASSUMPTION
INCREASE IN ASSUMPTION
DECREASE IN ASSUMPTION
INCREASE IN ASSUMPTION
DECREASE IN ASSUMPTION
Discount rate
0.5
%
(83)
72
(1,022)
1,123
Cost of living indexation rate
0.5
%
46
(38)
907
(752)
Life expectancy at age 65
1 year
29
(31)
612
(634)
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.
WEIGHTED 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
%
100
%
(1)We have reclassified amounts from the previous period to make them consistent with the presentation for the current period.
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.
54
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.
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.
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.
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.
CASH FLOWS
We 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.
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)
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.
Note 28
Other non-current liabilities
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
55
Note 29
Financial and capital management
Financial management
Management’s objectives are to protect BCE and its subsidiaries on a 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.
DERIVATIVES
We 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.
FAIR VALUE
Fair 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.
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.
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. 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
CLASSIFICATION
FAIR VALUE METHODOLOGY
NOTE
CARRYING VALUE
FAIR VALUE
CARRYING VALUE
FAIR 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
56
The following table provides the fair value details of financial instruments measured at fair value in the statements of financial position.
FAIR VALUE
CLASSIFICATION
NOTE
CARRYING VALUE OF ASSET (LIABILITY)
QUOTED PRICES IN ACTIVE MARKETS FOR IDENTICAL ASSETS (LEVEL 1)
OBSERVABLE MARKET DATA (LEVEL 2)(1)
NON-OBSERVABLE MARKET INPUTS (LEVEL 3)(2)
December 31, 2022
Publicly-traded and privately-held investments(3)
Other non-current assets
21
215
9
—
206
Derivative financial instruments
Other current assets, trade payables and other liabilities, other non-current assets and liabilities
72
—
72
—
MLSE financial liability(4)
Trade payables and other liabilities
23
(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
21
183
24
—
159
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
23
(149)
—
—
(149)
Other
Other non-current assets and liabilities
122
—
185
(63)
(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.
CREDIT RISK
We 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.
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 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.
57
The following table provides the change in allowance for doubtful accounts for trade receivables, including the current portion of wireless device financing plan receivables.
NOTE
2022
2021
Balance, January 1
(136)
(149)
Additions
(109)
(83)
Usage and reversals
116
96
Balance, December 31
12
(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.
NOTE
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
14
(19)
(20)
LIQUIDITY RISK
Our 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.
58
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
NOTE
2023
2024
2025
2026
2027
THERE- AFTER
TOTAL
Long-term debt
25
750
2,103
2,174
1,582
1,724
16,863
25,196
Notes payable
24
869
—
—
—
—
—
869
Lease liabilities (1)
25
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 RISK
CURRENCY EXPOSURES
We use forward contracts, options and cross currency interest rate swaps to manage foreign currency risk related to anticipated purchases and certain foreign currency debt.
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 dollars) 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 2021, each of which had a notional amount of $127 million. See Note 25, Long-term debt, for additional details.
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.
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.
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.
59
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
1,178
CAD
1,607
2023
Loans
Cash flow
USD
632
CAD
852
2023
Commercial paper
Cash flow
USD
796
CAD
989
2023
Anticipated purchases
Cash flow
PHP
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
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.
INTEREST RATE EXPOSURES
In 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. The fair value of these interest rate swaps at December 31, 2022 is a liability of $14 million recognized in Trade payables and other liabilities and Other non-current liabilities in the statements of financial position.
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.
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 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 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 result in a gain (loss) of $9 million recognized in net earnings at December 31, 2022, with all other variables held constant.
60
EQUITY PRICE EXPOSURES
We 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. 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, 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 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 management
We have various capital policies, procedures and processes which are 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.
Our definition of capital includes equity attributable to BCE shareholders, debt, and cash and cash equivalents.
The key ratios that we use to monitor and manage our capital structure 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 7.5 times. At December 31, 2022, we had exceeded the limit of our internal net debt leverage ratio target range by 0.80.
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.
The following table provides a summary of our key ratios.
AT DECEMBER 31
2022
2021
Net debt leverage ratio
3.30
3.17
Adjusted EBITDA to adjusted net interest expense ratio
8.50
8.77
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.
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.
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.
(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.
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Note 30
Share capital
Preferred shares
BCE’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 DIVIDEND RATE
STATED CAPITAL
SERIES
CONVERTIBLE INTO
CONVERSION DATE
REDEMPTION DATE
REDEMPTION PRICE
NUMBER OF SHARES ISSUED AND OUTSTANDING
DECEMBER 31, 2022
DECEMBER 31, 2021
Q
floating
Series R
December 1, 2030
$25.50
—
—
—
R(1)
3.018
%
Series Q
December 1, 2025
December 1, 2025
$25.00
7,992,000
200
200
S
floating
Series T
November 1, 2026
At any time
$25.50
2,125,067
53
53
T(1)
4.99
%
Series S
November 1, 2026
November 1, 2026
$25.00
5,820,633
146
147
Y
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
December 1, 2027
$25.00
2,973,348
74
48
AA(1)
4.94
%
Series AB
September 1, 2027
September 1, 2027
$25.00
12,254,761
312
291
AB
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
March 1, 2023
$25.00
10,007,791
255
256
AD
floating
Series AC
March 1, 2023
At any time
$25.50
9,951,109
254
254
AE
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
February 1, 2025
$25.00
9,472,387
237
237
AG(1)
3.37
%
Series AH
May 1, 2026
May 1, 2026
$25.00
8,921,530
223
224
AH
floating
Series AG
May 1, 2026
At any time
$25.50
4,987,870
125
125
AI(1)
3.39
%
Series AJ
August 1, 2026
August 1, 2026
$25.00
9,477,640
237
238
AJ
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
December 31, 2026
$25.00
23,119,512
578
580
AL(2)
floating
Series AK
December 31, 2026
At any time
1,797,188
45
45
AM(1)
2.939
%
Series AN
March 31, 2026
March 31, 2026
$25.00
10,422,778
239
239
AN(2)
floating
Series AM
March 31, 2026
At any time
1,052,822
24
24
AO(3)
fixed
Series AP
—
—
118
AP(3)
floating
Series AO
—
—
—
AQ(1)
4.812
%
Series AR
September 30, 2023
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.
(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.
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NORMAL COURSE ISSUER BID FOR BCE FIRST PREFERRED SHARES
On 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.
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.
Subsequent to year end, BCE repurchased and canceled 1,090,400 First 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.
VOTING RIGHTS
All 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.
PRIORITY AND ENTITLEMENT TO DIVIDENDS
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 rate on these shares is reset every five years, as set out in BCE’s articles of amalgamation, as amended.
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.
Dividends on all series of First Preferred Shares are paid as and when declared by the board of directors of BCE.
CONVERSION FEATURES
All 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.
CONVERSION AND DIVIDEND RATE RESET OF FIRST PREFERRED SHARES
Subsequent 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, 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 will continue to pay a monthly cash dividend.
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Common shares and Class B shares
BCE’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
NOTE
NUMBER OF SHARES
STATED CAPITAL
NUMBER OF SHARES
STATED 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 SURPLUS
Contributed 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.
Note 31
Share-based payments
The following share-based payment amounts are included in the income statements as operating costs.
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)
(1) Includes DSUs and stock options.
Description of the plans
ESP
The ESP is designed to encourage employees of BCE and its participating 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.
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.
At December 31, 2022, 4,360,087 common shares were authorized for 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.
64
RSUs/PSUs
RSUs/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 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.
DSUs
Eligible 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.
At December 31, 2022 and 2021, there were 3,321,167 and 3,365,433 DSUs outstanding, respectively.
STOCK OPTIONS
Under 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.
65
The following table summarizes stock options outstanding at December 31, 2022 and 2021.
2022
2021
NOTE
NUMBER OF OPTIONS
WEIGHTED AVERAGE EXERCISE PRICE ($)
NUMBER OF OPTIONS
WEIGHTED AVERAGE EXERCISE PRICE ($)
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 $64 in 2021.
The following table provides additional information about BCE’s stock option plans at December 31, 2022 and 2021.
STOCK OPTIONS OUTSTANDING
2022
2021
RANGE OF EXERCISE PRICES
NUMBER
WEIGHTED AVERAGE REMAINING LIFE (YEARS)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE EXERCISE PRICE ($)
NUMBER
WEIGHTED AVERAGE REMAINING LIFE (YEARS)
WEIGHTED AVERAGE EXERCISE PRICE ($)
$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
66
Note 32
Additional cash flow information
The following table provides a reconciliation of changes in liabilities arising from financing activities.
NOTE
DEBT DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR AND LONG-TERM DEBT
DERIVATIVE TO HEDGE FOREIGN CURRENCY ON DEBT (1)
DIVIDENDS PAYABLE
OTHER 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.
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NOTE
DEBT DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR AND LONG-TERM DEBT
DERIVATIVE TO HEDGE FOREIGN CURRENCY ON DEBT (1)
DIVIDENDS PAYABLE
OTHER LIABILITIES
TOTAL
January 1, 2021
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
Total cash flows from (used in) financing activities excluding equity
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
Total non-cash changes
924
27
3,388
40
4,379
December 31, 2021
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.
Note 33
Remaining performance obligations
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
2024
2025
2026
2027
THEREAFTER
TOTAL
Wireline
1,343
1,090
739
461
181
472
4,286
Wireless
1,482
647
40
1
—
—
2,170
Total
2,825
1,737
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.
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Note 34
Commitments and contingencies
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
2024
2025
2026
2027
THERE- AFTER
TOTAL
Commitments for property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
2,015
1,392
1,052
516
216
949
6,140
Purchase obligations
602
458
443
560
276
955
3,294
Leases committed not yet commenced
14
21
16
16
17
96
180
Total
2,631
1,871
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.
Contingencies
As 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 for access by third-party Internet resellers to fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) or cable networks, as applicable. On August 15, 2019, the CRTC further reduced the wholesale rates that Internet resellers 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 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 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.
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.
69
Note 35
Related party transactions
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.
All 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 associates
During 2022 and 2021, BCE provided communication services and received programming content and other services in the normal course of 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 Fund
Bimcor Inc. (Bimcor), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bell Canada, is the administrator of the Master Trust Fund. Bimcor recognized management 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.
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.
70
Note 36
Significant partly-owned subsidiary
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
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.
Note 37
COVID-19
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.
