Financial position and cash flow

At the end of the interim period, the equity ratio stood at 40 percent (46). Equity per share totalled SEK 33.46 (16.73) and the return on equity at the end of the interim period was 28 percent (31). Return on working capital, P/WC (EBITA in relation to working capital) amounted to 105 percent (103). The increase is mainly due to the increased EBITA result but is but counteracted by the increased working capital, mainly trade payables. 

The Group’s interest-bearing net debt at the end of the interim period totalled SEK 3,998m (700), including pension liabilities of SEK 77m (81) and leasing liabilities of SEK 331m (233). The net debt/equity ratio, calculated on the basis of net debt including provisions for pensions and leasing liability, totalled 1.0 compared to 0.4 at the beginning of the financial period. In connection with the two acquisitions in the second quarter, new loans of SEK 2,250m were taken out. The credit agreement runs for 12 months with an extension option of up to a further 24 months.

Cash and cash equivalents, consisting of cash and bank balances, together with approved but non-utilised credit facilities, totalled SEK 525m (1,006) on 30 September 2021. The decrease is due to the financing of the acquisitions in the interim period. 

Cash flow from operating activities reached SEK 617m (391) during the interim period. The increase is due to the strong result but is counteracted by large payment of trade payables. Acquisitions of companies amounted to SEK 2,660m (74). Investments in non-current assets during the interim period amounted to SEK 99m (61). Disposals of non-current assets amounted to SEK 6m (6). Repurchase of treasury shares amounted to SEK 0m (31). Exercised, issued and repurchased call options amounted to SEK 12m (40). Dividend paid amounted to SEK 183m (0).