Transparency Report 2017

EY Latvia

Contents Message from the Country Managing Partner and the EY Baltics Assurance Leader ...... 3 About us ...... 5 Legal structure, ownership and governance ...... 5 Network arrangements ...... 6 Commitment to quality ...... 8 Infrastructure supporting quality ...... 8 Instilled professional values ...... 9 Internal quality control system ...... 10 Client acceptance and continuance ...... 11 Performance of audits ...... 11 Review and consultation ...... 13 Audit partner rotation ...... 14 Audit quality reviews ...... 14 External quality assurance review ...... 14 Compliance with legal requirements ...... 15 Independence practices...... 16 Continuing education of audit professionals ...... 18 Revenue and remuneration ...... 19 Financial information ...... 19 Partner remuneration ...... 19 Appendix 1 ...... 21 Appendix 2 ...... 22 Optional: broader audit quality discussion...... 23

More information about EY can be found at ey.com.

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Message from the EY Baltics Managing Partner and the Assurance Leader

Welcome to the 2017 Transparency Report of Ernst & Young Baltic SIA (EY Latvia. We appreciate that our stakeholders want to understand how we advance audit quality, manage risk and maintain our independence as auditors. Regular dialogue is important to us, and this report is one of the ways in which we advise our stakeholders on what we are doing in each of these areas. Executing high-quality audits continues to be our top priority and is at the heart of our commitment to serve the public interest. It enables us to grow the global EY network successfully and responsibly, while achieving our purpose of building a better working world. Auditors play a vital role in the functioning of capital markets by promoting transparency and supporting investor confidence. Companies, regulators and other stakeholders count on us to deliver excellence in every engagement.

We are focused on investing in tools to improve what we do, creating the highest-performing teams, and building trust and confidence in the audits we perform. EY Latvia’s reputation is based on and grounded in providing high-quality professional audit services objectively and ethically to every company we audit. We continue to embrace the transparency objectives of the European Union’s 8th Company Law Directive and the Law on Audit Services of the Republic of Latvia which require Latvia statutory auditors of public interest entities (PIEs) to publish annual transparency reports. The 2017 EY Latvia Transparency Report complies with the directive and the Law on Audit Services of the Republic of Latvia and covers the financial year ended 30 June 2017. In this report, you can learn more about our internal quality control system: how we instill professional values, how we perform an audit, our review and consultation processes, our approach to audit quality reviews, and our independence practices. EY Latvia is focused on enhancing audit quality and upholding our independence, informed by several matters including external and internal inspection results. Continuous improvement of audit quality requires us to challenge approaches to audit execution, and we focus on this by evaluating all inspection findings and taking responsive actions. We encourage all our stakeholders — including investors, audit committee members, companies and regulators — to continue to engage with us on our strategy as well as any of the matters covered in this report.

Jonas Akelis, EY Baltic Managing Partner Diāna Krišjane, EY Baltic Assurance Leader Riga, 31 October 2017

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EY’s purpose: building a better working world EY is committed to doing its part in building a better working world.

The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, our clients and our communities.

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About us

Legal structure, ownership and EY Latvia is part of the EMEIA Area, which comprises EYG member firms in 98 countries in Europe, the governance Middle East, India and Africa. Within the EMEIA Area, there were 12 Regions and from 1 July 2017 the number In Latvia, Ernst & Young Baltic SIA is a Limited liability has reduced to 11. company organized in Riga and is a member firm of Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee Ernst & Young (EMEIA) Limited (“EMEIA Limited”), an (EYG). In this report, we refer to ourselves as “EY Latvia,” English company limited by guarantee, is the principal “we,” “us” or “our.” EY refers collectively to the global coordinating entity for the EYG member firms in the EMEIA organization of the member firms of EYG. Area. EMEIA Limited facilitates the coordination of these firms and cooperation between them, but it does not EY Latvia is jointly owned by Ernst & Young Europe LLP (for control them. EMEIA Limited is a member firm of EYG, has details see “Ernst & Young Europe” below) and Baltic no financial operations and does not provide any Network OU, a limited liability company licensed to provide professional services. audit services in Estonia. Ernst & Young Europe holds over 90% of the share capital of Baltic Network OU. The Each Region elects a Regional Partner Forum (RPF), whose remainder of Baltic Network OU’s share capital is held by 18 representatives advise and act as a sounding board to EY Baltic partners. Details regarding the ownership of EY Regional leadership. The partner elected as Presiding Latvia are available in the public registry of the audit firms Partner of the RPF also serves as the Region’s maintained by the Latvian Association of the Certified representative on the Global Governance Council Auditors and can be found on its website: www.lzra.lv. (see page 6). EY Latvia has no branches or subsidiaries and its place of In Europe, a holding entity, Ernst & Young Europe LLP business is at Muitas St. 1A, LV-1010 Riga, Latvia. (“EY Europe”), was formed in conjunction with EMEIA Limited. EY Europe is an English limited liability partnership, The governance bodies of EY Latvia are: owned by partners of the EYG member firms operating in • The General Meeting – the supreme body; Europe. It is an audit firm registered with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW), but • The Board of the Company – the collegial management it does not carry out audits or provide any professional body of the Company; the Board is elected by the services. To the extent permitted by local legal and General Meeting for an indefinite period and consists of regulatory requirements, EY Europe has acquired or will 2 (two) members; the Board elects its chairman from acquire voting control of the EYG member firms operating among its members; in Europe. EY Europe is a member firm of both EYG and Details of the formal/legal governing bodies of EY Latvia EMEIA Limited. are available in the public registry of legal entities in Latvia EY Europe acquired voting control of EY Latvia as and can be found on its website: www.ur.gov.lv of 30 June 2009. EYG member firms are grouped into four geographic Areas: EY Europe’s principal governing bodies are: Americas; Asia-Pacific; Europe, Middle East, India and Africa (EMEIA); and Japan. The Areas comprise a number of Europe Operating Executive Regions, which consist of member firms or sections of The Europe Operating Executive (EOE) operates as the those firms. board of EY Europe. It has authority and accountability for strategy execution and management of EY Europe’s operations. The EOE comprises: the Europe Managing Partner; the leaders for Accounts, Talent and Risk

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Management; the service line leaders for Assurance, This integrated approach enables EY to develop and draw Advisory, Transaction Advisory Services and Tax; and all upon the range and depth of expertise required to deliver European Regional Managing Partners. such complex audits.

Europe Governance Sub-Committee EYG coordinates the member firms and promotes cooperation among them. EYG does not provide services, EY Europe has the Europe Governance Sub-Committee, but its objectives include the promotion of exceptional high- which includes one representative from each Region in quality client service by member firms worldwide. Europe. It serves in an advisory role to the EOE on policies, strategies and other matters, and its approval is required Each member firm is a legally distinct entity. Their for a number of significant matters, such as the obligations and responsibilities as members of EYG are appointment of the Europe Managing Partner, approval of governed by the regulations of EYG and various other the financial reports of EY Europe and material agreements. transactions. The structure and principal bodies of the global organization during the year ended 30 June 2017 are Network arrangements described below. They reflect the principle that EY, as a global organization, has a common shared strategy. EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. Worldwide, 250,000 people in member The Executive includes the Global Executive (GE), its firms in more than 150 countries share a commitment to committees and teams, and the leadership of the four building a better working world, united by shared values and Areas. This streamlined structure allows EY to enhance its an unwavering commitment to quality, integrity and global scale and the delivery of consistent exceptional client professional skepticism. In today’s global market, the service worldwide, with the Executive responsible for integrated EY approach is particularly important in the coordinating a global approach to strategy, quality, risk delivery of high-quality multinational audits, which can span management business planning and priorities. multiple jurisdictions. At the same time, the network also operates on a Regional level. This operating model allows for greater stakeholder focus in the 28 Regions, permitting member firms to build stronger relationships with clients and others in each country, and be more responsive to local needs.

Global Governance Council The Global Governance Council (GGC) is the main oversight body of EYG. It comprises one or more representatives from each Region, other member firm partners as at-large representatives and up to six independent non-executives (INEs). The Regional representatives, who otherwise do not hold senior management roles, are elected by their RPFs for a three-year term, with provision for one successive reappointment. The GGC advises EYG on policies, strategies and the public interest aspects of its decision-making. The approval of the GGC is required for a number of significant matters that could affect EY.

Americas EMEIA Asia-Pacific Japan Regions 10 Regions 12 Regions 5 Regions 1 Countries 31 Countries 98 Countries 22 Countries 1

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Independent Non-Executives GE committees Up to six Independent Non-Executives (INEs) are appointed Established by the GE and bringing together representatives from outside EY. The INEs are senior leaders from both the from the four Areas, the GE committees are responsible for public and private sectors, and reflect diverse geographic making recommendations to the GE. In addition to the and professional backgrounds. They bring to the global Global Audit Committee, there are committees for Global organization, and the GGC, the significant benefit of their Markets and Investments, Global Accounts, Emerging varied perspectives and depth of knowledge. The INEs also Markets, Talent, Risk Management, Assurance, Advisory, form a majority of the Public Interest Sub-Committee of the Tax, and Transaction Advisory Services. GGC, which addresses public interest matters, including stakeholder dialogue. The INEs are nominated by a Global Practice Group dedicated committee. This group brings together the members of the GE, GE committees and Regional leaders. The Global Practice Global Executive Group seeks to promote a common understanding of EY’s The Global Executive (GE) brings together EY’s leadership strategic objectives and consistency of execution across the functions, services and geographies. It is chaired by the organization. Chairman and CEO of EYG, and includes its Global Managing Partners of Client Service and Business Enablement; the EYG member firms Area Managing Partners; the global functional leadership Under the regulations of EYG, member firms commit for Talent and Finance; the leaders of the global service themselves to pursue EY’s objectives, such as the provision lines — Assurance, Advisory, Tax and Transaction Advisory of high-quality service worldwide. To that end, the member Services; the Global Leader for Public Policy; and one EYG firms undertake the implementation of global strategies and member firm partner on rotation. plans, and to maintain the prescribed scope of service capability. They are required to comply with common The GE also includes the Chair of the Global Accounts standards, methodologies and policies, including those Committee and the Chair of the Emerging Markets regarding audit methodology, quality and risk management, Committee, as well as a representative from the Emerging independence, knowledge sharing, human resources, and Markets practices. technology. The GE and the GGC approve nominations for the Chairman Above all, EYG member firms commit to conducting their and CEO of EYG, and ratify appointments of the Global professional practices in accordance with applicable Managing Partners. The GE also approves appointments of professional and ethical standards, and all applicable Global Vice Chairs. The GGC ratifies the appointments of requirements of law. This commitment to integrity and any Global Vice Chair who serves as a member of the GE. doing the right thing is underpinned by the EY Global Code The GE’s responsibilities include the promotion of global of Conduct and EY values (see page 9). objectives and the development, approval, and, where Besides adopting the regulations of EYG, member firms relevant, implementation of: enter into several other agreements covering aspects of • Global strategies and plans their membership in the EY organization, such as the right • Common standards, methodologies and policies to be and obligation to use the EY name, and the sharing of promoted within member firms knowledge. • People initiatives, including criteria and processes for Member firms are subject to reviews that evaluate their admission, evaluation, development, reward and retirement of partners adherence to EYG requirements and policies governing issues such as independence, quality and risk management, • Quality improvement and protection programs audit methodology, and human resources. Member firms • Proposals regarding regulatory matters and unable to meet the quality commitments and other EYG public policy membership requirements may be subject to separation • Policies and guidance relating to member firms’ service from the EY organization. of international clients, business development, markets and branding • EY’s development funds and investment priorities • EYG’s annual financial reports and budgets • GGC recommendations The GE also has the power to mediate and adjudicate disputes between member firms.

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The Global PPD oversees development of the EY Global Commitment to quality Audit Methodology (EY GAM) and related technologies so that they are consistent with relevant professional Infrastructure supporting standards and regulatory requirements. The Global Professional Practice group also oversees the development quality of the guidance, training and monitoring programs and processes used by member firm professionals to execute Quality in our service lines audits consistently and effectively. The Global, Area and Vision 2020+, which sets out EY’s purpose, ambition and Region PPDs, together with other professionals who work strategy, calls for EYG member firms to provide exceptional with them in each member firm, are knowledgeable about client service worldwide. This is supported by an EY people, clients and processes, and they are readily unwavering commitment to quality and service that is accessible for consultation with audit engagement teams. professionally and globally consistent, and means service Additional resources often augment the Global Professional that is based on objectivity, professional skepticism, and Practice group, including networks of professionals adherence to EY and professional standards. focused on: EYG member firms and their service lines are accountable • Internal-control reporting and related aspects of the EY for delivering quality engagements. EY service lines audit methodology manage the overall process for quality reviews of completed • Accounting, auditing and risk issues for specific engagements and input for the quality of in-process industries and sectors engagements, which helps achieve compliance with • Event-specific issues involving areas of civil and professional standards and EY policies. political unrest; or sovereign debt and related accounting, auditing, reporting and disclosure Vision 2020+ has reinforced the ownership of quality implications by the service lines, including audit. It has also • General engagement issues and how to work effectively resulted in increased clarity around the role of risk with audit committees management in policies and practices that support and improve quality audit. Risk management The Global Vice Chair of Assurance coordinates member Responsibility for the delivery of high-quality service and firms’ compliance with EY policies and procedures for ownership of the risks associated with quality is placed with assurance services. the member firms. Among other things, the Global Risk Management Leader helps oversee the management of Professional Practice these risks by the member firms, as well as other risks The Global Vice Chair of Professional Practice, referred to across the organization as part of the broader Enterprise as the Global Professional Practice Director (PPD), is Risk Management framework. overseen by the Global Vice Chair of Assurance and works Member firm partners are appointed to lead risk to establish global audit quality control policies and management initiatives in both the service lines and procedures. Each of the Area PPDs is overseen by the member firms, supported by other staff and professionals. Global PPD and the related Area Assurance Leader. This The Global Risk Management Leader is responsible for helps provide greater assurance as to the objectivity of establishing globally consistent risk management execution audit quality and consultation processes. priorities and enterprise-wide risk management. These The Global PPD also leads and oversees the Global priorities cascade to member firms, and their execution is Professional Practice group. This is a global network of monitored through an Enterprise Risk Management technical subject matter specialists in accounting and program. auditing standards, who consult on accounting, auditing and financial reporting matters, and perform various practice monitoring and risk management activities.

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Global confidentiality policy and accountability. SAQ is implemented by each member Protecting confidential information is ingrained in the firm, and is coordinated and overseen globally. everyday activities of EYG member firms. Respect for We constantly reinforce the importance of the six intellectual capital and all other sensitive and restricted components, and discuss them with every Regional information is required by the Global Code of Conduct, Assurance leader and every partner. Audit quality and the which provides a clear set of principles to guide the key elements of SAQ are something every senior manager, behaviors expected of all EY people. The Global manager and team member must understand and be Confidentiality Policy further details this approach to committed to implementing locally. SAQ is essential to all protecting information and reflects the ever-increasing use our goals and ambitions. of restricted data. This policy provides added clarity for EY people and forms the fundamental element of broader We have made significant progress through SAQ. EY’s guidance that includes key policies on conflicts of interest, internal and external inspection findings globally are personal data privacy and records retention. Other showing improvement, and we are producing greater guidance includes: consistency in execution. • Social media guidance We have deployed world-class tools that enhance the • Information-handling requirements quality and value of our audits. Our ability to deliver consistency is based in part on the use of EY Canvas, our • Knowledge-sharing protocols online audit platform. EY Canvas was broadly deployed Components of the audit quality control program beginning in 2015 and is now used globally. It better supports audit execution, streamlines communications and In the following sections, we describe the principal enables us to provide a seamless audit. components of the EY Latvia audit quality control program: We recently launched the EY Canvas Client Portal, which • Instilled professional values adds to the leading-edge tools already offered to our • Internal quality control system auditors. In addition, we have deployed the 2017 Audit • Client acceptance and continuance Milestones Program globally, which establishes the use of • Performance of audits Milestones on selected PIE audits as one important step to • Review and consultation improving results and sustaining quality across • Audit partner rotation engagements. • Audit quality reviews In 2016, EY developed a network of Quality Enablement • External quality-assurance reviews Leaders (QELs) and created a Global Audit Quality Committee. • Compliance with legal requirements These and other SAQ initiatives have helped us to continue to drive quality improvements. They demonstrate that audit Instilled professional values quality is the single most important factor in our decision- making and the key measure on which our professional Sustainable Audit Quality reputation stands. Quality is the foundation for exceptional client service. It is Tone at the top what we pride ourselves on. It is integral to our work and central to our responsibility to provide confidence to the Senior EY and EY Latvia leadership are responsible for capital markets. Delivering quality is at the heart of all we setting the right tone at the top and demonstrating EY’s do and supports our purpose of building a better working commitment to building a better working world through world for our people, our clients and our communities. This behavior and actions. While the tone at the top is vital, our is reflected in the Sustainable Audit Quality (SAQ) program, people also understand that quality and professional which is the highest priority for our Assurance practice. responsibility start with them. Our shared values, which inspire our people and guide them to do the right thing, and Each member firm that makes up our global structure is our commitment to quality are embedded in who we are and committed to providing high-quality audits. In 2015, we in everything we do. launched the SAQ initiative throughout our Assurance practices. SAQ establishes a governance structure and is The EY approach to business ethics and integrity is focused on continuously improving our audit process. contained in the EY Global Code of Conduct and other policies, and is embedded in the EY culture of consultation, We use the word “sustainable” in SAQ to demonstrate that training programs and internal communications. Senior this is not a one-off short-term initiative, but an ongoing management regularly reinforces the importance of process of improvement. EY has had a common audit performing quality work, complying with professional methodology for some time; now we have a common standards, adhering to our policies, leading by example and language and processes regarding audit quality. through various communications. Also, EY’s quality review There are six components to SAQ: tone at the top, programs assess professional service as a key metric in strengthening people capabilities, simplification, audit evaluating and rewarding all professionals. technology and digital, enablement and quality support, The EY culture strongly supports collaboration and places special emphasis on the importance of consultation in

Transparency Report 2017: EY Latvia 9 dealing with complex or subjective accounting, auditing, Internal quality control system reporting, regulatory and independence matters. We believe it is important to determine that engagement teams and EY Latvia’s reputation for providing high-quality clients correctly follow consultation advice, and we professional audit services independently, objectively and emphasize this when necessary. ethically is fundamental to our success as independent auditors. We continue to invest in initiatives to promote The consistent stance of EY Latvia has been that no enhanced objectivity, independence and professional client is more important than our professional skepticism. These are fundamental attributes of a reputation — the reputation of EY Latvia and the high-quality audit. reputation of each of our professionals. At EY Latvia, our role as auditors is to provide assurance on the fair presentation of the financial statements of the Code of conduct companies we audit. We bring together qualified teams to We promote a culture of integrity among our professionals. provide our services, drawing on our proven experience The EY Global Code of Conduct provides a clear set of across industry sectors and services. We continually strive principles that guide our actions and our business conduct, to improve our quality and risk management processes so and are to be followed by all EY personnel. The Code of that the quality of our service is at a consistently high level. Conduct is divided into five categories: We recognize that in today’s environment — characterized • Working with one another by continuing globalization and the rapid movement of • Working with clients and others capital — the quality of our audit services has never been • Acting with professional integrity more important. As part of EY Vision 2020+, we continue to • Maintaining our objectivity and independence invest heavily in developing and maintaining our audit • Respecting intellectual capital methodology, tools and other resources needed to Through our procedures to monitor compliance with support quality service delivery. the EY Global Code of Conduct, and through frequent communications, we strive to create an environment that While the market and stakeholders continue to demand encourages all personnel to act responsibly, including high-quality audits, they also demand increasingly efficient reporting misconduct without fear of retaliation. and effective delivery of audit services. In addition to the investment mentioned, EY continues to seek ways to The EY Ethics Hotline provides our people, clients and improve the effectiveness and efficiency of its audit others outside of the organization with a means methodology and processes, while improving audit quality. confidentially to report activity that may involve unethical or improper behavior and that may be in violation of We work to understand where our audit quality may not be professional standards or otherwise inconsistent with the up to our own expectations and those of stakeholders, EY Global Code of Conduct. The hotline is operated by an including external audit firm regulators. We seek to learn external organization that provides confidential and, if from external and internal inspection activities and to desired, anonymous hotline reporting services for identify root causes of adverse quality occurrences to companies worldwide. enable us continually to improve audit quality, and we believe that taking effective and appropriate actions to When a report comes into the EY Ethics Hotline, either by improve quality is important. phone or internet, it receives prompt attention. Depending on the content of the report, appropriate individuals from Effectiveness of the quality control system Risk Management, Talent, Legal or other functions are EY has designed and implemented a comprehensive set of involved to address the report. The same procedures are global audit quality control policies and practices. These followed for matters that are reported outside of the EY policies and practices meet the requirements of the Ethics Hotline. International Standards on Quality Control issued by the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board Our values: who we are (IAASB). EY Latvia has adopted these global policies and People who demonstrate integrity, respect and teaming procedures, and has supplemented them as necessary to comply with local laws and professional guidelines, and to People with energy, enthusiasm and the courage to lead address specific business needs. We also execute the EY Audit Quality Review (AQR) program People who build relationships based on doing the to evaluate whether our system of audit quality control has right thing operated effectively so as to provide reasonable assurance that EY Latvia and our people comply with applicable professional and internal standards and with regulatory requirements.

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The results of the AQR program and external inspections Putting policy into practice are evaluated and communicated within EY Latvia to We use the EY Process for Acceptance of Clients and provide the basis for continual improvement in audit quality, Engagements (PACE), a new intranet-based system, for consistent with the highest standards in the profession. efficiently coordinating client and engagement acceptance The GE is responsible for implementing quality improvement and continuance activities in line with global, service line and protection programs across EY. As such, it reviews the and member firm policies. PACE takes users through the results of our internal AQR program and external regulatory acceptance and continuance requirements, and identifies reviews, as well as any key actions designed to address the policies and references to professional standards areas for improvement. needed to assess both business opportunities and associated risks. The recent results of such monitoring, together with the recent feedback from independent regulatory inspection As part of this process, we carefully consider the risk visits, provide EY Latvia with a basis to conclude that our characteristics of a prospective client or engagement and internal control systems are designed appropriately and are several due diligence procedures. Before we take on a new operating effectively. engagement or client, we determine whether we can commit sufficient resources to deliver quality service, especially in highly technical areas, and if the services the Client acceptance and client wants are appropriate for us to provide. The approval continuance process is rigorous, and no new audit engagement may be accepted without the approval of our PPD. EY policy In our annual client continuance process, we review our The EY Global Client Acceptance and Continuance Policy service delivery and ability to continue to provide quality sets out principles for member firms to determine whether service, and confirm that clients share EY Latvia’s to accept a new client or a new engagement, or to continue commitment to quality and transparency in financial with an existing client or engagement. These principles are reporting. The partner in charge of each audit, together fundamental to maintaining quality, managing risk, with our Assurance leadership, annually reviews our protecting our people and meeting regulatory relationship with the audit client to determine whether requirements. The objectives of the policy are to: continuance is appropriate. • Establish a rigorous process for evaluating risk and As a result of this review, certain audit engagements are making decisions to accept or continue clients or identified as requiring and are then subjected to additional engagements oversight procedures during the audit (close monitoring), • Meet applicable independence requirements and some audit clients are discontinued. As with the client • Identify and deal appropriately with any conflicts acceptance process, our Regional, where necessary, and of interest local PPDs are involved in the client continuance process • Identify and decline clients or engagements that pose and must agree with the continuance decisions. excessive risk Both client acceptance and client continuance decisions • Require consultation with designated professionals to consider the engagement team’s assessment of whether identify additional risk management procedures for the company’s management could pressure us to accept specific high-risk factors inappropriate accounting, auditing and reporting • Comply with legal, regulatory and professional conclusions to undermine quality. Considerations and requirements conclusions on the integrity of management are essential In addition, the EY Global Conflicts of Interest Policy defines to acceptance and continuance decisions. global standards for addressing categories of potential conflicts of interest and a process for identifying them. It also includes provisions for managing potential conflicts of Performance of audits interest as quickly and efficiently as possible through the As part of EY Vision 2020+, EY has invested significantly in use of appropriate safeguards. Such safeguards range from improving audit methodologies and tools, with the goal of obtaining a client’s consent for EYG member firms to act for performing the highest-quality audits in the profession. This two or more clients to declining an engagement to avoid an investment is consistent with EY’s goal to have the leading identified conflict. audit practices in the profession by 2020 and reflects the The EY Global Conflicts of Interest Policy and associated commitment to building trust and confidence in the capital guidance were updated in early 2015. The updates take into markets and in economies the world over. account the increasing complexity of engagements and client relationships, and the need for speed and accuracy in Audit methodology responding to clients. They also align with the latest EY GAM provides a global framework for delivering high- International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants quality audit services through the consistent application of (IESBA) standards. thought processes, judgments and procedures in all audit engagements.

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Making risk assessments, reconsidering and modifying Through the use of profile questions, audit engagements in them as appropriate, and using these assessments to EY Canvas are automatically configured with information determine the nature, timing and extent of audit procedures relevant to the company’s listing requirements and industry. are fundamental to EY GAM. The methodology also This helps to keep our audit plans customized and up-to- emphasizes applying appropriate professional skepticism date, and provides direct linkage to our audit guidance, in the execution of audit procedures. EY GAM is based on professional standards and documentation templates. EY International Standards on Auditing (ISAs) and is Canvas is built with a fresh, clear design and user interface supplemented in Latvia to comply with the local that allows users to visualize risks and their relationship to regulatory or statutory requirements. our planned response and work performed in key areas. It also enables a linkage for our group audit teams to An EY auditor is presented with a version of EY GAM communicate inter-office risks and instructions so that the organized by topic and designed to focus the audit strategy primary audit team can direct execution and monitor on the financial statement risks, and the design and performance of the group audit. The predecessor audit execution of the appropriate audit response to those risks. support tool, GAMx, will be decommissioned in our 2018 EY GAM consists of two key components: requirements and fiscal year. guidance, and supporting forms and examples. The requirements and guidance reflect both audit standards and EY Canvas includes a Client Portal, released in April 2017, EY policies. The forms and examples include leading to assist teams in communicating with clients and practice illustrations, and assist in performing and streamline their client requests. Mobile applications, documenting audit procedures. integrated with EY Canvas, were released in fiscal year 2017 that assist our people in their audit work; for Using technology, EY GAM can be “profiled” or tailored to example, in monitoring the status of the audit, capturing present the relevant requirements and guidance, depending audit evidence securely and performing inventory on the nature of the entity being audited. For example, observations. there are profiles for listed entities and for those considered non-complex entities. Audit engagement teams use other software applications, forms and templates during various phases of an audit to Enhancements to the audit methodology are made regularly assist in executing procedures, making and documenting to address new standards, emerging auditing issues and audit conclusions, and performing analysis. matters, implementation experiences, and external and internal inspection results. In 2016, EY GAM was updated to EY Helix is our suite of data analytic tools for use in audits. include the new and revised ISAs dealing with auditor Analytics is transforming the audit by analyzing larger reporting, other information included in an annual report populations of audit-relevant data, identifying unseen and financial statement disclosures. EY GAM was also patterns and trends in that data, and helping to direct our enhanced by adding guidance to address common questions audit efforts. The use of analytics also allows us to obtain from audit teams and issues arising from inspections. better perspectives, richer insights and a deeper understanding of transactions and areas of risk. In addition, we monitor current and emerging developments continually, and issue timely audit planning and other We have developed analytics that cover our clients’ end-to- reminders. These reminders emphasize areas noted during end business operating cycles, supported by analytics- inspections as well as other key topics of interest to our based audit programs to aid their application. regulators, including the International Forum of Using our analytics, our engagement teams can enhance Independent Audit Regulators (IFIAR). These topics include their audit risk assessment, enabling the audit of higher-risk professional skepticism, group audits, revenue recognition transactions, and assisting our people in asking better and engagement quality reviews. questions about audit findings and evaluating the EY GAM requires compliance with relevant ethical outcomes. requirements, including independence from the company we audit. Formation of audit engagement teams EY Latvia policies require an annual review of partner Technology assignments by our Assurance leadership and PPD to make Our audit engagement teams use technology to assist in sure that the professionals leading listed-company audits executing and documenting the work performed in possess the appropriate competencies (i.e., the knowledge, accordance with EY GAM. skills and abilities) to fulfill their engagement responsibilities, and are in compliance with applicable Beginning in late fiscal year 2015, we launched EY Canvas, auditor rotation regulations. our global audit platform that lies at the heart of the audit and enables us to provide a high-quality audit. This was The assignment of professionals to an audit engagement is launched on a phased basis across EYG member firms also made under the direction of our Assurance leadership. globally, with deployment completed in 2017. EY Canvas is Factors considered when assigning people to audit teams built using HTML5, state-of-the-art technology for web include engagement size and complexity, specialized applications. This allows us to provide heightened data industry knowledge and experience, timing of work, security and to evolve our software to respond to changes continuity, and opportunities for on-the-job training. For in the accounting profession and regulatory environment. more complex engagements, consideration is given to

Transparency Report 2017: EY Latvia 12 whether specialized or additional expertise is needed to members of Professional Practice, Independence and supplement or enhance the audit engagement team. certain others to withdraw from a consultation if they currently serve, or have recently served, the client to which In many situations, internal specialists are assigned as part the consultation relates. of the audit engagement team to assist in performing audit procedures and obtaining appropriate audit evidence. These Our policies also require that we document all professionals are used in situations requiring special skills consultations, including written concurrence from the or knowledge, such as information systems, asset valuation person or persons consulted, in order to demonstrate their and actuarial analysis. understanding of the matter and its resolution. Review and consultation Engagement quality reviews Engagement quality reviews are performed by audit Reviews of audit work partners in compliance with professional standards for audits of all listed companies and those considered higher EY policies describe the requirements for timely and direct risk. Engagement quality reviewers are experienced senior professional participation, as well as the level of professionals with significant subject matter knowledge. review required for the work performed. Supervisory They are independent of the engagement team and able members of an audit engagement team perform a detailed to provide objective evaluation of significant accounting, review of the audit documentation for accuracy and auditing and reporting matters. In no circumstances may completeness. Senior audit executives and engagement the responsibility of the engagement quality reviewer be partners perform a second-level review to determine delegated to another individual. adequacy of the audit work as a whole, and the related accounting and financial statement presentation. A tax The engagement quality review spans the entire professional reviews the significant tax and other relevant engagement cycle, including planning, risk assessment, working papers. For listed and certain other companies, an audit strategy and execution. Policies and procedures for engagement quality reviewer (described below) reviews the performance and documentation of engagement quality important areas of accounting, financial reporting and audit reviews provide specific guidelines on the nature, timing execution, as well as the financial statements of the and extent of the procedures to be performed, and the company we audit and our audit report. required documentation evidencing their completion. Our PPD approves all engagement quality review assignments The nature, timing and extent of the reviews of audit work for listed companies and those considered higher risk. depend on many factors, including: • The risk, materiality, subjectivity and complexity of the Audit engagement team resolution process for subject matter differences of professional opinion • The ability and experience of the audit team members EY has a collaborative culture that encourages and expects preparing the audit documentation people to speak up, without fear of reprisal, if a difference • The level of the reviewer’s direct participation in the of professional opinion arises or if they are uncomfortable audit work about a matter relating to a client engagement. Policies • The extent of consultation employed and procedures are designed to empower members of an Our policies also describe the roles and responsibilities of audit engagement team to raise any disagreements relating each audit engagement team member for managing, to significant accounting, auditing or reporting matters. directing and supervising the audit, as well as the These policies are made clear to people as they join EY, and requirements for documenting their work and conclusions. we continue to promote a culture that reinforces a person’s responsibility and authority to make their own views heard, Consultation requirements and seek out the views of others. Our consultation policies are built upon a culture of Differences of professional opinion that arise during an collaboration, whereby audit professionals are encouraged audit are generally resolved at the audit engagement team to share perspectives on complex accounting, auditing and level. However, if any person involved in the discussion of an reporting issues. Consultation requirements and related issue is not satisfied with the decision, they refer it to the policies are designed to involve the right resources so that next level of authority until agreement is reached or a final audit teams reach appropriate conclusions. decision is made.

Consultation is built into the decision-making process; Furthermore, if the engagement quality reviewer makes it is not just a process to provide advice. recommendations that the engagement partner does not accept or the matter is not resolved to the reviewer’s For complex and sensitive matters, we have a formal satisfaction, the audit report is not issued until the matter is process requiring consultation outside of the audit resolved. EY policies require documentation of engagement team with other personnel who have more disagreements and their resolution. experience or specialized knowledge, primarily Professional Practice and Independence personnel. In the interests of objectivity and professional skepticism, our policies require

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Audit partner rotation Implemented annually, the program is coordinated and monitored by representatives of the Global PPD network, EY supports mandatory audit partner rotation to help with oversight by Global Assurance leadership. strengthen auditor independence. EY Latvia complies with The engagements reviewed each year are selected on a risk- the audit partner rotation requirements of the code of the based approach, emphasizing audit engagements that are IESBA, “Regulation (EU) 537/2014 of the European large, complex or of significant public interest. The Global Parliament and of the Counsel of 16 April 2014 (EU AQR program includes detailed risk-focused file reviews 537/2014),” and the Law on Audit Services of the Republic covering a large sample of listed and non-listed audit of Latvia , as well as the U.S. Securities and Exchange engagements to measure compliance with internal policies Commission (SEC), where required. EY Latvia supports and procedures, EY GAM requirements, and relevant local audit partner rotation because it provides a fresh professional standards and regulatory requirements. It also perspective and promotes independence from company includes reviews of a sample of non-audit engagements. management, while retaining expertise and knowledge of These measure compliance with the relevant professional the business. Audit partner rotation, combined with standards and internal policies and procedures that should independence requirements, enhanced systems of internal be applied in executing non-audit services. In addition, quality controls and independent audit oversight, helps practice-level reviews are performed to assess compliance strengthen independence and objectivity, and are important with quality control policies and procedures in the safeguards of audit quality. functional areas set out in ISQC No. 1. The Global AQR For PIEs where rotation of the audit partner is not program complements external practice monitoring and mandated by local independence regulation or is less inspection activities, such as regulatory inspection restrictive than the IESBA or EU 537/2014 requirements, programs and external peer reviews. the EY Global Independence Policy requires the lead AQR reviewers and team leaders are selected for their skills engagement partner and the engagement quality reviewer and professional competence in accounting and auditing, as to be rotated after seven years. For a new PIE (including a well as their industry specialization; they often work in the newly listed company) client, the lead engagement partner Global AQR program for a number of years and are highly and the engagement quality reviewer may remain in place skilled in the execution of the program. Team leaders and for an additional two years before rotating off the team, if reviewers are assigned to inspections outside of their home they have served the client for six or more years prior to the location and are independent of the audit teams reviewed. listing. Following rotation, the partner may not resume the lead or engagement quality review role until at least two The results of the Global AQR program, external practice- years have elapsed. monitoring and inspection activities are evaluated and communicated to improve quality. Any quality We employ tools to track partner rotation that enable improvement plans describe the follow-up actions to be effective monitoring of compliance with requirements. taken, the people responsible, the timetable and deadlines, We have also implemented a process for partner rotation and sign-off on completed actions. Measures to resolve planning and decision-making that involves consultation audit quality matters noted from the Global AQR program, regulatory inspections and peer reviews are addressed by with, and approvals by, our Professional Practice and Assurance leadership and our PPD. The actions are Independence professionals. monitored by our PPD and Assurance leadership. These programs provide important practice monitoring feedback Audit quality reviews for our continuing quality improvement efforts.

The EY Global AQR program is the cornerstone of the EY process to monitor audit quality. EY Latvia executes the External quality Global AQR program, reports results and develops assurance review responsive actions plans. The primary goal of the program is to determine whether systems of quality controls, EY Latvia’s audit practice and our registered statutory including those of EY Latvia, are appropriately designed and auditors are subject to inspection by the Auditor Quality followed in the execution of audit engagements to provide Control Committee of the Latvian Association of Certified reasonable assurance of compliance with policies and Auditors under the oversight of the Ministry of Finance of procedures, professional standards, and regulatory the Republic of Latvia. As part of its inspections, the requirements. The Global AQR program complies with Latvian Association of Certified Auditors evaluates quality guidelines in the International Standard on Quality Control control systems and reviews selected engagements. No. 1 (ISQC No. 1), as amended, and is supplemented The last quality assurance inspection by Latvian Association where necessary to comply with Latvia professional of Certified Auditors took place in September 2016. The standards and regulatory requirements. It also aids EY final report on the inspection was issued on 22 September Latvia’s continual efforts to identify areas where we can 2016. improve our performance or enhance our policies and procedures. We respect and benefit from the Latvian Association of Certified Auditors inspection process. We thoroughly evaluate points raised during the inspection in order to identify areas where we can improve audit quality. Together

Transparency Report 2017: EY Latvia 14 with our AQR process, external inspections aid us in making Insider trading our audits and related control processes of the highest The EY Global Insider Trading Policy reaffirms the obligation quality in the interests of investors and other stakeholders. of our people not to trade in securities with insider Information on the above-mentioned regulator can be found information, provides detail on what constitutes insider at www.lzra.lv. information and identifies with whom our people should consult if they have questions regarding their Compliance with legal responsibilities. requirements Trade sanctions It is important that we are aware of the ever-changing The EY Global Code of Conduct provides a clear set of situation with respect to international trade sanctions. EY standards that guide our actions and business conduct. monitors sanctions issued in multiple geographies and EY Latvia complies with applicable laws and regulations, provides guidance to our people on impacted activities. and EY’s values underpin our commitment to doing the right thing. This important commitment is supported by a Data privacy number of policies and procedures, explained in the The EY Global Personal Data Privacy Policy sets out the paragraphs below. principles to be applied to the use and protection of personal data, including that relating to current, past and Anti-bribery prospective personnel, clients, suppliers, and business The EY Global Anti-bribery Policy provides EY people with associates. This policy is consistent with applicable laws and direction around certain unethical and illegal activities. It regulations concerning data protection and privacy for emphasizes the obligation to comply with anti-bribery laws maintaining and processing personal data. Furthermore, we and provides greater definition of what constitutes bribery. have a policy to address our specific Latvia data privacy It also identifies reporting responsibilities when bribery is requirements and business needs. discovered. In recognition of the growing global impact of Document retention bribery and corruption, efforts have been increased to EY Latvia’s record retention policy applies to all embed anti-bribery measures across EY. engagements and personnel. This policy addresses document preservation whenever any person becomes aware of any actual or reasonably anticipated claim, litigation, investigation, subpoena or other government proceeding involving us or one of our clients that may relate to our work. It also addresses Latvia legal requirements applicable to the creation and maintenance of working papers relevant to the work performed.

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helping our people determine the type of services that can Independence practices be provided or other interests or relationships that can be entered into. EY Global Independence policies require EY Latvia and our people to comply with the independence standards Global Monitoring System (GMS) applicable to specific engagements, including, for example, The GMS is another important global tool that assists in the Code of Ethics of the IESBA and the Law on Audit identifying proscribed securities and other impermissible Services of the Republic of Latvia. financial interests. Professionals ranked as manager and We consider and evaluate independence from several above are required to enter details about all securities they perspectives, including our financial relationships and those hold, or those held by their immediate family, into the GMS. of our people; employment relationships; business When a proscribed security is entered or if a security they relationships; the permissibility of non-audit services we hold becomes proscribed, professionals receive a notice, provide to audit clients; applicable firm and partner rotation and are required to dispose of the security. Identified requirements; fee arrangements; audit committee pre- exceptions are reported through the Global Independence approval, where applicable; and partner remuneration and Incident Reporting System (GIIRS) for regulatory matters. compensation. GMS also facilitates annual and quarterly confirmation of compliance with independence policies, as described below. Failure to comply with applicable professional independence requirements will factor into decisions Independence compliance relating to a person’s promotion and compensation, and may lead to other disciplinary measures, including EY has established a number of processes and programs separation from EY Latvia. aimed at monitoring the compliance with independence requirements of EY member firms and their people. These EY Latvia has implemented EY’s global applications, tools include the following activities, programs and processes. and processes to support us, our professionals and other Independence confirmations employees in complying with independence policies. Annually, EY Latvia is included in an Area-wide process to EY Global Independence Policy confirm compliance with the EY Global Independence Policy and process requirements, and to report identified The EY Global Independence Policy contains the exceptions, if any. independence requirements for member firms, professionals and other personnel. It is a robust policy All EY professionals, and certain others, based on their role predicated on the IESBA Code of Ethics and supplemented or function, are required to confirm compliance with by more stringent requirements where prescribed by a independence policies and procedures at least once a year. given regulator. The policy also contains guidance to help All partners are required to confirm compliance quarterly. people apply the independence rules. The EY Global Global independence compliance reviews Independence Policy is readily accessible and easily searchable on the EY intranet. EY conducts internal procedures to assess member firm compliance with independence matters. These reviews Global Independence System (GIS) include aspects of compliance related to non-audit services, The GIS is an intranet-based tool that helps EY professionals business relationships with the companies we audit and identify the listed entities from which independence is financial relationships of member firms. required and the independence restrictions that apply. Most often, these are listed audit clients and their affiliates, but they can be other types of attest or assurance clients too. The tool includes family-tree data relating to affiliates of listed audit clients and is updated by client-serving engagement teams. The entity data includes notations that indicate the independence rules that apply to each entity,

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Personal independence compliance testing Service Offering Reference Tool (SORT) Each year, the EY Global Independence team establishes a We assess and monitor our portfolio of services on an program for testing compliance with personal independence ongoing basis to confirm that they are permitted by law and confirmation requirements and with reporting of professional standards, and to make sure that we have the information into GMS. right methodologies, procedures and processes in place as new service offerings are developed. We restrict services Non-audit services from being provided that could present undue We monitor compliance with professional standards independence or other risks. SORT provides EY people with governing the provision of non-audit services to audit information about EY service offerings. It includes guidance clients through a variety of mechanisms. These include the around which services can be delivered to audit and non- use of tools, such as PACE (see page 11) and Service audit clients, as well as independence and other risk Offering Reference Tool (see below), and training and management issues. required procedures completed during the performance of Business Relationship Evaluation Tool (BRET) audits and internal inspection processes. The BRET process helps to support compliance with Global independence learning independence requirements. Our people are required to use EY develops and deploys a variety of independence learning BRET in many circumstances to identify, evaluate and programs. All professionals and certain other personnel obtain advance approval of a potential business relationship are required to participate in annual independence learning with an audit client. to help maintain our independence from the companies we audit. Audit committees and oversight of independence We recognize the important role audit committees and The goal is to help EY people understand their similar corporate governance bodies undertake in the responsibility and to enable each of them, and their oversight of auditor independence. Empowered and member firms, to be free from interests that might be independent audit committees perform a vital role on behalf regarded as incompatible with objectivity, integrity and of shareholders in protecting independence and preventing impartiality in serving an audit client. conflicts of interest. We are committed to robust and regular communication with audit committees or those The annual independence learning program covers charged with governance. Through EY quality review independence requirements focusing on recent changes to programs, we monitor and test compliance with EY policy, as well as recurring themes and topics of standards for audit committee communications, as well as importance. Timely completion of annual independence the pre-approval of non-audit services, where applicable. learning is required and is monitored closely.

In addition to the annual learning program, independence awareness is promoted through a number of events and materials, including new-hire programs, milestone programs and core service line curricula.

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Continuing education of Knowledge and internal communications In addition to professional development and performance audit professionals management, we understand the importance of providing client engagement teams with up-to-date information to Professional development help them perform their professional responsibilities. EY makes significant investments in knowledge and The EY career development framework, EYU, provides our communication networks to enable the rapid dissemination people with opportunities for the right experiences, learning of information to help people collaborate and share best and coaching to help them grow and achieve their potential. practices. Examples include: The learning component of EYU is based on an extensive • EY Atlas, which includes local and international and globally consistent learning curriculum that helps all EY accounting and auditing standards, as well as people develop the right technical and personal leadership interpretive guidance; replacement for Global skills, wherever they are located around the world. Core Accounting and Auditing Information Tool (GAAIT) audit training courses are supplemented by learning since the fiscal year 2017 programs that are developed in response to changes in • Publications such as International GAAP, IFRS accounting and reporting standards, independence and developments and illustrative financial statements professional standards, and emerging practice issues. • Global Accounting and Auditing News, a weekly update covering assurance and independence policies, EY has redesigned its core audit training into “The Audit developments from standard setters and regulators, as Academy” — a curriculum for learning. This high-impact and well as internal commentary thereon award-winning learning combines interactive classroom- • Practice alerts and webcasts covering a range of global based simulations and “on-demand” e-learning modules and country-specific matters designed for continuous with relevant reinforcement and application support. improvement in member firms’ Assurance practices Where an EYG member firm audits and reviews International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) financial Performance management statements, relevant team members undertake learning to A comprehensive performance management process become IFRS-accredited. requires our people to set goals, have clear work expectations, receive feedback and talk about their EY Latvia requires our audit professionals to obtain at least performance. The Performance Management and 20 hours of continuing professional education each year Development Process (PMDP) is designed to help our people and at least 120 hours over a three-year period. Of these grow and succeed in their careers. hours, 40% (16 hours each year and 48 hours over a three- year period) must cover technical subjects related to Under the PMDP, periodic job performance reviews are accounting and auditing. combined with annual self-appraisal and reviews. As part of the annual review process, each professional, in conjunction In addition to formal learning, professional development with their counselor (an assigned, more experienced occurs through coaching and experiences our professionals professional), identifies opportunities for further receive on the job. Coaching helps to transform knowledge development. Professionals and their counselors are guided and experience into practice. by a set of expectations that articulate the knowledge, skills Experienced professionals are expected to coach and and behaviors that should be maintained and developed for develop less-experienced personnel to create a continual their respective ranks. These expectations are derived from, learning environment. We also manage the assignment of and align with, the EY Global strategy and values. our people to particular engagements in a systematic way that helps provide them exposure to a range of experiences as part of their own development.

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Revenue and Partner remuneration Quality is at the center of the EY strategy and is a key remuneration component of EY performance management systems. EY Latvia partners and other professionals are evaluated and Financial information compensated on the basis of criteria that include specific quality and risk management indicators, covering both Revenue represents combined, not consolidated, revenues actions and results. and includes expenses billed to clients and revenues related Global performance management processes cover partners to billings to other EYG member firms. Revenue amounts in EYG member firms around the world. They reinforce the disclosed in this report include revenues from both audit global business agenda by linking performance to wider and non-audit clients. goals and values. These ongoing cyclical processes include Revenue is presented in accordance with the Law on Audit goal setting, personal development planning and Services of the Republic of Latvia and included for: performance review, and are tied to partners’ recognition and reward. Documenting partners’ goals and performance 1. Revenues from the statutory audit of annual and consolidated financial statements of PIEs, and entities is the cornerstone of the evaluation process. A partner’s belonging to a group of undertakings whose parent goals are required to reflect various global priorities, one of undertaking is a PIE which is quality. 2. Revenues from the statutory audit of annual and EY prohibits evaluating and compensating lead audit consolidated financial statements of other entities engagement partners and other key audit partners on an 3. Revenues from permitted non-audit services to entities engagement based on the sale of non-Assurance services to that are audited by the statutory auditor or the audit their audit clients. This reinforces to our partners their firm professional obligation to maintain our independence and 4. Revenues from non-audit services to other entities objectivity. “For audits conducted in accordance with the requirements of Directive 2014/56/EU of the European Financial information for the period ended 30 June Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014, EY 2017 expressed in EUR prohibits evaluating and compensating any partner or professional involved in, or able to influence the carrying out of, an engagement based on the sale of non-Assurance Service Revenue Percent services to their audit clients.” This reinforces that Statutory audits and professionals are obligated to maintain independence and directly related services 907,238 8% objectivity. for PIEs Specific quality and risk performance measures have been Other audit services and developed to account for: directly related services 2 982,579 26% • Providing technical excellence for non-PIEs • Living the EY values as demonstrated by behaviors and Non-audit services 2 069,266 18% attitude provided to audit clients • Demonstrating knowledge of, and leadership in, quality Non-audit services and risk management 5 481,804 48% provided to other entities • Complying with policies and procedures • Complying with laws, regulations and professional Total revenue 11 440,887 100% duties

• Contributing to protecting and enhancing the EY brand The EY partner compensation philosophy calls for meaningfully differentiated rewards based on a partner’s

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level of performance, as measured by the Global Partner Performance Management (GPPM) process, which is our We operate under a system that requires quality to global evaluation process for partners in EYG member firms be a significant consideration in a partner’s overall year-end rating. around the world. Partners are assessed by their firms annually on their performance in delivering quality, exceptional client service and people engagement alongside To recognize different market values for different skills and financial and market metrics. In 2017, we have also begun roles, and to attract and retain high-performing individuals, our early adoption phase of the successor to GPPM, called the following factors are also considered when we Leadership Evaluation and Development (LEAD). This model determine our partners’ total reward: has been deployed in the Asia-Pacific and the Central US • Experience Region before full deployment in fiscal year 2018. • Role and responsibility • Long-term potential Instances of non-compliance with quality standards result in remedial actions, which may include compensation adjustment, additional training, additional supervision or reassignment. A pattern of non-compliance or particularly serious non-compliance may result in actions that include separation from EY Latvia.

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Appendix 1

EY Latvia PIE audit clients

In the fiscal year that ended on 30 June 2017, EY Latvia performed audits of the following PIEs:’

Ditton pievadķēžu rūpnīca AS

DNB Asset Management IPAS

DNB Banka AS

Elko grupa AS

HansaMatrix AS Latvenergo AS Olainfarm AS

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Appendix 2

As of 30 June 2017, the following EYG member firms are audit firms registered in an EU or EEA Member State

Member State Statutory auditor or audit firm Austria Ernst & Young Wirtschaftspruefungsgesellschaft mbH Belgium Ernst & Young Assurance Services BCVBA Ernst & Young Bedrijfsrevisoren B.C.V.B.A Bulgaria Ernst & Young Audit OOD Croatia Ernst & Young d.o.o. Cyprus Ernst & Young Cyprus Limited Czech Republic Ernst & Young Audit, s.r.o. Denmark Ernst & Young Godkendt Revisionspartnerselskab EY Grønland Statsautoriseret Revisionspartnerselskab Estonia Ernst & Young Baltic AS Finland Ernst & Young Oy Julkispalvelut EY Oy France Artois Audit Auditex Barbier Frinault & Associes Conseil Audit & Synthese Ernst & Young Atlantique Ernst & Young Audit Ernst & Young et Autres Picarle et Associes Germany Ernst & Young GmbH Wirtschaftsprufungsgesellschaft Greece Ernst & Young (Hellas) Certified Auditors Accountants SA

Grenland EY Limited

Hungary Ernst & Young Könyvvizsgáló Korlátolt Felelõsségû Társaság Iceland Ernst & Young ehf Ireland Ernst & Young Chartered Accountants Italy Ernst & Young S.p.A Latvia Ernst & Young Baltic SIA

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Member State Statutory auditor or audit firm Liechtenstein Ernst & Young AG Lithuania Ernst & Young Baltic UAB Luxembourg Compagnie de Revision S.A. Ernst & Young Luxembourg S.A. Ernst & Young S.A. Malta Ernst & Young Malta Limited Netherlands Ernst & Young Accountants LLP Norway Ernst & Young AS Poland Ernst & Young Audyt Polska sp. z o.o. Ernst & Young Audyt Polska Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością Finance spółka komandytowa Ernst & Young Audyt Polska Spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością JZP spółka komandytowa Ernst & Young Audyt Polska spółka z ograniczoną odpowiedzialnością sp. k. Ernst & Young Usługi Finansowe Audyt sp. z o.o. Portugal Ernst & Young Audit & Associados - SROC, S.A. Romania Ernst & Young Assurance Services S.r.l. Ernst & Young Support Services SRL Slovakia Ernst & Young Slovakia, spol. s r.o. Slovenia Ernst & Young d.o.o. Spain ATD Auditores Sector Público, S.L.U Ernst & Young, S.L. Sweden Ernst & Young AB United Kingdom Ernst & Young LLP Ernst & Young Europe LLP

Total turnover of these EYG member firms resulting from statutory audits of annual and consolidated financial statements was approximately Euros 2.6 billion.

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EY | Assurance | Tax | Transactions | Advisory

About EY EY is a global leader in assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services. The insights and quality services we deliver help build trust and confidence in the capital markets and in economies the world over. We develop outstanding leaders who team to deliver on our promises to all of our stakeholders. In so doing, we play a critical role in building a better working world for our people, for our clients and for our communities. EY refers to the global organization, and may refer to one or more, of the member firms of Ernst & Young Global Limited, each of which is a separate legal entity. Ernst & Young Global Limited, a UK company limited by guarantee, does not provide services to clients. For more information about our organization, please visit ey.com.

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